Post by: Flex on September 25, 2005, 04:38:16 AM
By: Nigel Simon (Guardian).[/size]
Andre Toussaint scored two well taken goals to steer two-time winners and current Cup holders VIBE CT W Connection to a 4-0 win over Defence Force in the semifinals of the First Citizens Bank Cup Tournament.
The results means that W Connection have reached the final for a fifth straight year. In the final to be played on Friday, the “Savonetta Boys” will come up against arch-rival CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh.
It will be the second meeting in a final this season for both clubs, with Jabloteh having already edging W Connection 1-0 in the Pro Bowl final on a Kerry Noray strike afew months ago.
Jabloteh blanked United Petrotrin 2-0 in the first match of Friday’s semifinal double-header played at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium, Marabella.
Heading into Friday’s quarterfinal, Jabloteh coach by Englishman Terry Fenwick said his players would not be taken the “Oilmen” lightly and would play the match like it was a final.
However his team did not showed the urgency needed but they created a few chances. However, it was two errors in the Petrotrin defence that made the goals for Whitley and Baptiste.
From early in the contest, it looked as though Jabloteh would be in for a horrid match, when midfielder Trent Noel, muffed a left footed chance inside the 18-yard-box.
At the other end, Jabloteh got a scare when former employee Jerol Forbes headed wide of goalkeeper Duarance Williams and the target, from a right sided cross in the 12th minute.
Forbes continued to probe the lethargic looking Jabloteh defence marshalled by Ian Gray and Keyeno Thomas. However, the work-load was too much for Forbes alone to bear against the experienced defensive duo.
Whitley had his first chance at goal in the 32nd minute when he was picked out by a Josh Johnson right sided cross, but his volleyed attempt bounced into the turf and wide of the right post.
Four minutes before the half-time whistle, the lively Trent Noel won the ball in Petrotrin’s half of the field, and made a pass to Whitley.
Confronted by defender Al Sinclair, Whitley made space for himself before bending the ball in a “David Beckham” like fashion into the far corner of the net to give Jabloteh a 1-0 lead from out-side the 18-yard-box.
Petrotrin had a right to feel hard-done by the goal, and just before the interval they fell further behind when another defensive blunder saw Jabloteh extended its lead.
Lee Haynes failed to stop a through ball, which fell to Whitley, who back-heel it to to an onrushing Baptiste, who kept his calm before he fired a shot under goalkeeper Perry Martin for a 2-0 lead.
On the resumption, Petrotrin, who defeated Caledonia AIA/Fire to book its semifinal place, lift the standard of their play with the introduction of Andre Charles and Kennedy Hinkson, which pushed Jabloteh on the defensive.
Hinkson came close to scoring when he beat Jabloteh goalkeeper Duarance Williams with a low left footed effort that missed its first post target in the 64th minute and Charles saw his scorching volley ricochet of the right post and back into play in the 77th minute.
It was the closest Petrotrin came, as Jabloteh held on and booked their place in the title match in an attempt to add the 2005 title to their 1999, 2000 & 2003 Cup triumphs, and the lucrative first prize of $35,000.
The clash between W Connection, the 2002 tournament winner and last year’s beaten finalist Defence Force, turned out to be a one-sided match.
Defence Force did not help its own cause as they allowed, W Connection too much space to play.
Andre Toussaint was the first to score when he capitalised on a poor back-pass in the sixth minute from Addison Belfon and curled a left footed shot past Army custodian Cleon John.
Twelve minutes later, Toussaint chased down a through ball from Gefferson Goulart on the left flank, eluded Defence Force captain Kelshall Alexander before he drilled a powerful left footed blast past John, who was covering the first post.
W Connection sealed the match with quick counter-attacking move with Seabra, who fed Earl Jean a pass on top the penalty-area. Jean dummied the ball for Goulart, who kicked the ball into the bottom corner of the goal in the 61st minute.
The fourth goal was almost identical, with Brazilian left back William De Silva Olliviera surging into his opponents half, before laying off to Goulart, who teed up fellow Brazilian Ronaldo Viana to hit pass John, six minutes from full-time.
Anton Joseph was unlucky to pick a straight red-card from referee Neil Brizan, with seconds left in the match. The final at the same venue will kick off at 8.30pm and will be preceded by the third place match from 6.15.
Friday’s FCB Cup Semifinal results:
SAN JUAN JABLOTEH 2 (Aurtis Whitley 41st, Kerry Baptiste 45th) vs UNITED PETROTRIN 0.
W CONNECTION 4 (Andre Toussaint 6th, 18th, Gefferson Goulart 61st, Ronaldo Viana 84th) vs DEFENCE FORCE 0.
Post by: Big Magician on September 25, 2005, 10:23:24 AM
Post by: Sam on September 25, 2005, 10:40:52 AM
Good luck to de Jab Jab posse. I wanted East to win, but NE Stars out so I was backing South, Petrotrin out now,,,, and W Connection have to much foreigners and I would love to see them foreign Connection get they ass kick because John Williams is a dam smart man,,,, so that leaves me with Jabloteh....
Ah say wha de Jab Jab posse they..... :devil:
Post by: Trini _2026 on September 25, 2005, 11:06:33 AM
Post by: Sam on September 25, 2005, 11:10:53 AM
Post by: Solo on September 25, 2005, 02:30:45 PM
As for the numbers of foreigners, it was ridiculous, Connection definitely had a lot more than 4 foreigners on de field a good mix of Brazilians, Jamaicans, St. Lucian etc, I doubt whether there were more than 3 or 4 Trinis on their team but ah could be wrong caause ah dont know dem dat well
Post by: Flex on September 25, 2005, 02:43:02 PM
I could be wrong... :-\
Post by: Ponnoxx on September 27, 2005, 05:39:03 AM
Post by: Flex on August 30, 2006, 02:44:56 AM
By: Nigel Simon (Guardian).[/size]
This year’s First Citizens Cup has been boosted by $20,000 to $150,000, by the sponsors, First Citizens Bank. Sharon Christopher, senior general manager, legal and corporate administration,made the announcement yesterday.
Two-time defending champions VIBE CT 105 W Connection and the nine other clubs will contest for a $50,000 first prize, $15,000 more than last year. Second place gets $30,000, third $20,000 and fourth $10,000. The four losing teams in the quarterfinals will each get $5,000.
Competition kicks off on Tuesday, with two qualifying matches for the bottom four teams in the league. W Connection, winners last year, will start its defence on September 15.
The Savonetta Boys, who have won the title three times, will meet Superstar Rangers. Jabloteh will tackle the winners of the first qualifying match between United Petrotrin and Tobago United.
Joe Public, current leaders of the Pro League, will also meet a qualifier- the winners of the Defence Force and Starworld Strikers match.
Dexter Skeene, chief executive officer of the T&T Pro League noted that the First Citizens Cup is the premier competition in the league’s programme.
“It is a cherished event,” he said.
“At the league, we are undaunted and resolute in the pursuit of our mission and vision, which is to ensure that talented local footballers have a constructive, productive and sustainable avenue to live their dream and passion for football.
“We are determined and dedicated to establishing the infrastructure that provides the opportunity for them to earn a decent living and be able to support their families, without having to resort to crime and other illegal and at risk activities.
“The Pro League is deeply appreciative of the support and partnership of First Citizens. They continue to walk the talk in understanding that this goes beyond just the kicking around of a ball.”
The hunt for the First Citizens Cup is on.
By: Joel Villafana.
The die has been cast—and everyone has drawn swords—the prestigious First Citizens Cup is once again up for grabs—Who will prevail is anyone’s guess.
One thing is for sure, every team in the TT Pro League, whether they are in the top half of the table or struggling in the doldrums below—all feel they have a shot at glory.
Respective team representatives all had their say on Tuesday morning at the launch of the tournament.
League leaders B Mobile Joe Public will love to get their hands on their first title this season—their confident head coach Michael Mc Commie says his players are ready for battle.
"Our team is a much stronger team today, as we continue to grow, we are on top of the table, the guys are confident, willing and ready for the challenge in this First Citizens Cup and we are eagerly looking forward to the competition—I believe we have a tough first game, because either one of Defence Force or Starworld Strikers can prove to be a force to be reckoned with on their day—but at the end of the day the ball is round and we are taking it one game at a time and as usual Joe Public will be going out to entertain the crowd and get the best results that we can and hope we can bring home the Cup."
The defending champion W Connection are determined to retain their crown—assistant coach Ben Davies said, "Footballers like to win trophies—and our players are hungry and want to defend their title, we are the Champions and we will be going out to give our best—the league games have shown how closely matched the teams are—but W Connection will be coming to put our best foot forward and retain the Cup."
Former First Citizens Cup winners San Juan Jabloteh are looking for more silverware this season to put on their shelves—Assistant Coach of the ‘San Juan Giants’ Michael Grayson boasted, "Having won one trophy this season already, we just want to continue winning trophies—we already have the Pro Bowl title this year and we take the First Citizens Cup very seriously, we lost on penalties last year and we don’t want any slip-ups this year—and come what may Jabloteh intends to be in the final and it does not matter who falls on the wayside."
The ‘Boys from Sangre Grande’ feel they have a point to prove having never won the First Citizens Cup title—their President Daryl Mahabir admitted, "The First Citizens cup has eluded us over the years—and we are hoping to correct that this year—our club is in a bit of transition, we have lost a couple key players but come the first game in the competition North East Stars will be ready to give a good account of ourselves and we feel we have what it takes to win the tournament."
Another former champion Defence Force is eager to get their hands back on the Cup—Coach Anthony Barrington is convinced despite the Army has been struggling for consistent form this season they will rise to the occasion and get the job done.
"So far this season Defence Force are playing good football—we just don’t seem to have luck on our side—however, we have won this Cup before and I led the Army to this title three years ago and I am determined to repeat the feat this year, we will be coming with all guns blazing"
Even the ‘Oilmen’ are hoping to slip through and cause a few problems.
United Petrotrin’s manager Larry Joseph, said "There are no favorites in Cup competitions—who plays the better football on the day comes out on top and our position in the table does not matter going into the this tournament—we are hoping that the magic associated with Cup competitions will benefit us."
"We need to score goals—we have not been scoring goals and if we can convert the chances, we continue to create, we will definitely have a chance going forward in the competition."
Starworld Strikers are another team hoping to have a long shot at the title—Assistant Coach of the San Fernando based outfit said, "We had a rough start to the season, but we have been intensifying our preparation — and we are also hoping to start converting our chances. We believe we can match any team in the league and we are hoping we can show what we believe, we are really capable of in this year’s First Citizens Cup."
And the ‘Men from Morvant’ are also fancying their chances—Manager of Caledonia AIA Fire Ayinde Abu Bakr, assured, "We are not worried about the clash with North East Stars—I am actually very pleased with the draw—its been a while since Caledonia have won anything in the League—and we believe this is our time, we have done well in the league games so far—and we are just striving for consistency—our main problem is getting our younger players to concentrate for 90 minutes—but we are going to be working hard at binging home the First Citizens Cup to Caledonia.
Post by: Flex on September 30, 2006, 07:12:43 AM
By: Vinod Narwani (ttproleague).
Connection crown First Citizens Cup champs, Starworld grabe third.
Vibe CT 105 W Connection proved they are a true powerhouse in local football when they beat North East Stars by a convincing 3-1 margin to clinch their third successive First Citizens Cup crown on Friday night at the Mannie Ramjohn Stadium, Marabella.
Andre Toussaint, voted most valuable player of the game was the thorn in the flesh of the Sangre Grande-based team, being both architect and scorer in the encounter that was watched by an appreciative and passionate crowd.
However, it was North East Stars that showed some flair early on, Howard Lowe sending the ball to Stokley Mason and his touch finding Kevin Jeffrey, whose header was off-target in the 7th minute.
Then Connection came close to scoring two minutes later, William Da Silva Oliveira sending his corner back towards the middle of the pitch, instead of looking for a floater across the goal, resulting in a powerful bullet from Ronaldo Viana that flew inches over the bar.
Oliveira then created a shot out of nothing, hitting the crossbar in the 17th minute to the dismay of Connection fans.
But Gally Cummings troops were not there just to sit back and relax; a cracking drive from Kern Thomas had to be parried away by Connection custodian Jan Michael Williams in the 20th minute.
There was another effort by North East Stars three minutes later when Mason sent one through to Jeffrey, but his shot from a difficult angle on the right was blocked once again by the Connection goalie.
As far as the Savonetta Boys were concerned, enough was enough, as they wanted to show the footballers from East Trinidad why they were favourites.
The men in green found the net on the half hour mark when a determined Hughton Hector made a run down the left flank, made a pass across the goal mouth for the speeding Toussaint to head in the opening item, bringing joy to coach Stuart Charles-Fevrier and company.
The insurance item came 12 minutes later when Toussaint dribbled his way inside the box, his flawless touch finding Oliveira who had the simple task of hitting the ball into the netConnection leading 2-0
North East Stars goalkeeper Shane Mattis was found wanting again in the 44th minute as a free-kick floated in by Oliveira was spilled, giving Hector the opportunity to pounce on the ball for a 3-0 W Connection lead.
The second half was comparatively slow, since the men from Grande were dealt heavy first-half blows, while the defending champs felt they could have eased their foot off the accelerator.
However, Kayode McKinnon had a never-say-die approach as he dribbled brilliantly inside the area, his pass across the goal finding the boot of Jeffrey to minus the lead in the 78th minute.
There was another scare for Connection in the 88th minute when a free-kick taken from outside by substitute Sean Mason landed in a manner that caused a scramble in the Connection box, before eventually being cleared out.
So too was the brilliant one-handed save by the Connection custodian Jan Michael Williams while taking a tumble to prevent McKinnon from finding the net in stoppage time.
The lifeline goal never came, but the men from the east could have held their heads up high for a spirited display, but the night belonged to W Connection, as they were the ones that deserved royal treatmentcoming away with their third consecutive First Citizens Cup and their fourth title overalland a grand prize of $50,000.00.
Teams
North East Stars:[/b] Shane Mattis; Charles Pollard (capt), Vernon Bailey, Akeno Morgan, Howard Lowe; Stokely Mason (Marc Leslie 51st), Kayode McKinnon, Walter Moore (John Stewart 51st), Kern Thomas (Sean Mason 56th), Jesse Martinez; Kevin Jeffrey.
CoachEverald Cummings
W Connection: Jan-Michael Williams; Elijah Joseph (capt), Christopher Harvey, Brenton De Leon, Nickcolson Thomas; Christian Viveros, William Da Silva Oliveira, Hughton Hector (Gefferson Goulart 73rd), Ronaldo Viana (Andrei Pacheco 77th); Matthew Bartholomew (Earl Jean 87th), Andre Toussaint.
CoachStuart Charles Fervier
W CONNECTION NORTH EAST STARS
3 GOALS 1
4 YELLOW CARDS 1
0 RED CARDS 0
4 SHOTS ON TARGET 5
13 FOULS 16
3 CORNERS 5
5 OFFSIDES 2
Gally still proud of North East.
By: James Saunders (ttproleague).[/size]
Former Strike squad coach Everald Gally Cummings is a proud man, after he successfully managed to take North East Stars to a cup final.
However as luck would have it, just as when he carried Starworld Strikers to the grand finale almost two years ago the national legend would have to wait another year before he can lay claim to his first major piece of silverware as a coach on the local circuit.
Reflecting on last Fridays 3-1 First Citizens Cup defeat at the hands of defending champions W Connection, Gally said that even though he was disappointed at the result he was satisfied by the improvements he has seen in his side since his arrival at the club one month ago.
"When I was asked to come here by the club president a month ago it was because he wanted me as an experienced coach to use my influence and know how to motivate a team that had lost their attitude to training and were losing interest in the competition", he said.
"So far from what Ive seen, a new spirit has been rekindled in the team and were heading for big things this year", Cummings hinted.
Speaking about the game the former national coach said that there was very little between the teams during the first-half of the match, "We were unlucky to concede some goals against the run of play and that caused the guys to get distracted from the game plan.
"I also felt that we lacked the enthusiasm of a final and that the guys gave up a bit too easily after they were scored against but Ive only been with them a month and it takes time for players to become accustomed to the coaches philosophy", Gally noted. Cummings however insists that the team is on an upward climb and intends to finish the season strongly.
Starworld Strikers take First Citizens Cup third place.
By: Randy Bando (ttproleague).
Striker Randolph Jerome held his nerve to beat goalkeeper Brian James after Starworld Strikers won a penalty in the second half to take home the First Citizens Cup third place and $20,000 in cash.
Starworld Strikers surprised the powerful CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh with a 1-0 win in the third place play off of the 2006 First Citizens Cup down at the Mannie Ramjohn Stadium, Marabella.
Coach Terry Fenwick fielded a somewhat youthful team, leaving the regular captain Kerry Baptiste, Nigel Daniel, Keyeno Thomas and first choice goalkeeper Durance Williams on the bench. World Cup players Aurtis Whitley and Cyd Gray along with speedy striker Kerry Noray and the Leagues top scorer Anthony Wolfe all were left out of Fenwicks team list.
Jabloteh created better shooting opportunities in the early period of play with players like Jason Marcano, Lester Peltier, and Akiel Guevara all putting their efforts well wide of the post not bothering goalkeeper Marvin Phillip.
It was the much composed Starworld Strikers that had the first and only shot on target in the first half. Andre Charles who branded the captains armband in this match collected a pass in the Jabloteh half and freely made his way to the top of the penalty area, before he fired at goal in the 11th minute second choice keeper Brian James did well to push it out for a corner.
Both teams took to the dressing rooms goalless after Starworld looked to have the better of ball possession and stringing some great passes in midfield.
The San Juan Kings came close after the interval when in the 46th minute Lester Peltier did well to get behind a Terry Elwin cross but headed over bar.
Starworld then had two easy chances messed up by striker Nigel Hart in the 49th and 55th minutes. The first was when Jablotehs Marcano made a bad back pass that went to Hart standing free in the penalty area and tapped a low ball to keeper James. Hart had a softer tap at goal on his second shot in a few minutes after when he was sent through with only the keeper to beat.
The San Fernando based team continued to look aggressive when in the 59th minute substitute Jason Charles saw his 20yard effort flash across the cross bar.
They continued their attack in the 60th minute when defender Dexter Franklyn sent one of his powerful throws in the penalty area and referee Goolcharan didnt hesitate in blowing his whistle for an infringement on one of the Starworld players and pointed at the penalty spot.
It took some time for protesting Jabloteh players to clear the spot and allow the penalty to be taken.
Randolph Jerome stepped to the task in the 62nd minute and powerfully placed the ball just inside the low part of the upright beating an outstretched goalkeeper James and giving Starworld the 1-0 lead.
With Terry Fenwick whistling and shouting orders across the field, Jabloteh tried desperately hard to get an equalizer.
Jablotehs substitute Peter Prosper came close in the 70th minute when he headed over bar from a Jason Marcanos cross.
Fenwicks men then had their only shot on target in the 86th minute from a free kick at the edge of the penalty area but keeper Marvin Phillip did well palming Nigel Daniels blast and then holding on to it.
When the final whistle was blown the Starworld players jumped and celebrated with their fans with the deserving win.
Starworld Strikers Jamal Ayres was voted player of the match after making outstanding runs on the flanks and his satisfactory contribution in defence.
Teams
Starworld Strikers[/b] Marvin Phillip (gk), Andre Charles (capt), Dexter Franklyn, Marlon Stoute, Ghmyo Harper, Jamal Ayres, O.Stanley Iyiaka (Jason Charles 57th), Errol Charles, Lindsie Sherwood, Randolph Jerome, Nigel Hart (Derron Matthews 75th).
Coach Michael Maurice
San Juan Jabloteh Brian James (gk), Ronald Primus (capt), Glenton Wolfe (Nigel Daniel 30th), Karlon Murray, Akiel Guevara (Peter Prosper 68th), Lester Peltier, Wendell Joseph, Michael Alexis, Jason Marcano, Marcelle Francois, Terry Elwin (Michael Brown 62nd).
Coach Terry Fenwick
Match Referee Jaggernath Goolcharan
STARWORLD STRIKERS v SAN JUAN JABLOTEH
1 GOALS 0
4 YELLOW CARDS 1
0 RED CARDS 0
2 SHOTS ON TARGET 1
17 FOULS 19
5 CORNERS 5
0 OFFSIDES 3
Post by: Trini _2026 on September 30, 2006, 07:45:31 AM
i see one ah we promising player biting the bench
Post by: Madd Ras#13 on September 30, 2006, 08:37:40 AM
congrats to W.Connection :wavetowel: :wavetowel: :applause:
Post by: saga pinto on September 30, 2006, 08:42:03 AM
W Connection: William Da Silva Oliveira, Elijah Joseph, Ronaldo Viana (Andrei Pacheco), Andre Toussaint, Christopher Harvey, Nickcolson Thomas, Brenton De Leon, Hughton Hector (Gefferson Goulart), Jan Michael Williams, Christian Viveros, Matthew Bartholomew (Earl Jean).
i see one ah we promising player biting the bench
Enlighten meh nah,who was on the bench.............
Post by: andre samuel on September 30, 2006, 09:09:14 AM
He should be playing outside, he was in a different class to the other players on the field today.
His control and technique was magnificent, he is quick, and he had excellent vision for the through ball.
Has he ever been on a trial abroad? It is hard for me to think of a manager not wanting a player like him in his squad.
Connection totally dominated this game and North East Stars only started to 'play' football in the 80th minute!
ah love it!!
Post by: Tallman on September 30, 2006, 09:51:55 AM
Has he ever been on a trial abroad? It is hard for me to think of a manager not wanting a player like him in his squad.
He was on trial at Oldham Athletic in February 2005.
Post by: Ponnoxx on September 30, 2006, 09:58:42 AM
Post by: NYtriniwhiteboy.. on September 30, 2006, 10:01:46 AM
congrats to hughton too...didnt realize he was playing PFL now
Post by: Trini _2026 on September 30, 2006, 10:37:48 AM
Hughton and Andre destroy North East...Connection have young promising players...Hughton will get a bligh soon enough...Deep South men making themselves known...
yeah no more conspiracy against them eh
Post by: Ponnoxx on September 30, 2006, 10:43:18 AM
Post by: Trini _2026 on September 30, 2006, 10:47:21 AM
triniman evething that was in the dark must come to light...We don't have a biased National coach again...We have a coach that had enough time to see everybody and make evaluations...He picking people on skill and talent and who knows who, where they from etc...I guess you could say the conspiracy done for Now...We have corruption in every single thing in T&T...
by the way how old is hugton hector ? is he eligible for our under 20 team? he name allways pops up!!
Post by: Ponnoxx on September 30, 2006, 10:52:36 AM
Post by: Trini _2026 on September 30, 2006, 11:05:54 AM
Post by: Flex on September 22, 2007, 06:09:53 AM
...edging Rangers for First Citizens Cup semifinal spot.
By: Mark Anthony Scott (ttproleague).[/size]
San Juan Jabloteh edged Superstar Rangers 2-1 to advance to the First Citizens Cup semifinals next Friday thanks to a second period strike by Jason Marcano after a 1-1 score at the half. Both Jabloteh and Rangers were reduced to ten men in the end while the San Juan based team also went without coach Terry Fenwick banished to the stands by Referee Rashby Mc Phie.
Revenge may have been on the minds of Jabloteh when they took the field against opposition who hammered them 4-0 in the League recently, so when defender Carlon Murray gave them the perfect start, after rising expertly to head home a corner after 3 minutes, it looked like they were well on their way.
Cornell Glen proved a constant torn in the Rangers rearguard but he constantly found himself in an offside position, as the San Juan Kings sought to double their advantage.
Glen was flagged no fewer than 4 occasions, but when he did beat the offside trap, goalkeeper Shane Mattis was alert to deny him.
Carlon Murray turned from hero to villain in the 19th minute, as Rangers attacked down the right through Abiola Clarence who whipped in a cross, and Murray inadvertently headed the ball past Duarance Williams to level the scores at 1-1.
Rangers started to come into their own and defender Cyd Gray had to use all his experience to hold off Shem Mc Farlane who tried to muscle his way toward goal.
Gray showed he could attack as well, from a well-worked free kick just outside the Rangers penalty area, Gray forced Mattis into a fine save in the 41st minute after he escaped the attention of the defence and fired at goal.
Jason Marcano should have restored Jabloteh's lead just before the interval after drifting away from Don Morris to meet a right sided cross but placed a weak header too close to Mattis who held on at the second attempt to leave the scores 1-1 at the half.
Nine minutes into the second period Jabloteh regained the lead, Cyd Gray popping up in midfield played a ball out left to Marcano who outpaced his marker and shot high into net past Mattis for a 2-1 Jabloteh advantage.
Two minutes later Cornell Glen missed the chance to score a third goal, after he was picked out by a superb pass by Marcano, Glen was denied by the brilliance of goalie Mattis.
Drama in the 74th minute, Referee Rashby Mc Phie reduced Jabloteh to 10 men as he issued a straight red card to Duarance Williams for foul and abusive language toward a match official after the keeper protested the awarding of a corner to Rangers.
Peter Byers would take over the goalkeeping responsibilities for the remaining 15 minutes plus stoppage time.
Jabloteh coach Terry Fenwick would soon follow Williams into the dressing room, Referee Mc Phie sending him from the sidelines for comments made to the match official in the 79th minute.
There would still be another twist, as Jason Marcano chased after defender Joseph Peters for the long ball, Peters appeared to connect with an elbow to the face of the Jabloteh player, at first the Referee waved play-on much to the annoyance of the Jabloteh bench, but after consulting with the fourth official, he gave Peters his marching orders in the 87th minute. The four minutes of time added-on produced no further goals, revenge complete for Fenwick and company, more importantly, a place in the semi-finals of the First Citizens Cup were they would tackle United Petrotrin.
Teams
San Juan Jabloteh:[/b] - Duarance Williams, Carlon Murray, Trent Noel, Khaleem Hyland, Gason Gregory, Elton John (Atullah Guerra-65th), Jason Marcano, Ian Gray, Cornell Glen (Peter Byers-66th), Cyd Gray, Jason Cudjoe.
Coach - Terry Fenwick
Superstar Rangers: - Shane Mattis, Ricardo Aleong, Devon Modeste, Arnold Ferguson, Marc Borde, Joseph Peters, Don Morris, Todd Ryan (Josimar Belgrave-58th), Elijah Belgrave, Abiola Clarence (Sayid Freitas-66th), Shem Mc Farlane (Christon Thomas-67th).
Coach - Anthony Streete
Man Of The Match - Carlon Murray ( San Juan Jabloteh)
Referee - Rashby Mc Phie
San Juan Jabloteh v Superstar Rangers
2 Goals 1
7 Shots on Target 3
5 Shots Wide 2
6 Corners 2
21 Fouls 13
8 Offsides 1
3 Yellow Cards 3
1 Red Cards 1
Moore double eases Caledonia through to semis.
By: Gordon Pierre (ttproleague).[/size]
League leaders Caledonia AIA needed a second half double by Guyanese wingback Walter Moore to get pass bottom of the table Tobago United in the first game of the First Citizens Cup quarterfinal double header at the Larry Gomes Stadium on Friday. Caledonia AIA now faces defending First Citizens Cup champions W Connection at south venue Mannie Ramjohn Stadium on Friday 28th September.
Having upset North East Stars on Tuesday the Tobago outfit looked a confident bunch and started the game quickly stringing together a number of passes early in the game.
Caledonia though would get the first real chance at goal when in the 3rd minute Hayden Tinto fired from on top the area but his shot was handled easily by Tobago United keeper Andrew Durant who replaced James Baird as the starting goalkeeper.
Both teams created little or no goal scoring opportunities for the next quarter of an hour but in the 16th minute Caledonias Anthony Abrams dispossessed Tobago Uniteds Warren Phillips to have a shot which was initially saved by Durant and follow-up by Marvin Oliver was headed back onto the goalie.
Two minutes later Sterling Arjoon missed an open goal after a beautiful onetime ball from Marvin Oliver freed Walter Moore down the left to cross to the unmarked defender but he delayed and struck wide under pressure from a retreating Tobago defender.
After that Tobago soaked up long periods of pressure from the rampaging Caledonia. In the 40th minute Tobago almost took a surprise lead but Collie Hercules well taken free kick was inches wide of the mark.
On the stroke of half time Caledonia got the ball into the back of the net through Howard Lowe but the item was ruled offside by the referees assistant to leave the scores tied at the half. Caledonia came out from the break looking to get the go ahead goal but Tobago was not prepared to roll over and die. In the 49th minute Tobago goalie Andrew Durant made an excellent save when he tipped a Radanfan Abu Bakr free kick overbar.
Tobago continued to fight and though they did not show much enterprise going forward, their ace striker Collie Hercules almost sneak an opening goal after a mix up between Caledonias defenders Dexter Franklyn and Sheldon Emmanuel saw the ball fall to him but his shot was pushed wide by an alert Richard Reynolds in the Caledonia goal.
Five minutes later Tobagos Andrew Durant had to pull off another important save as an errant back header had him back pedaling before a full length dive to scramble the ball to safety and keep his team in the game.
In the 61st Durant couldnt do much as Walter Moore volleyed home powerfully after a nice build up between Marvin Oliver and Hayden Tinto to give Caledonia a 1-0 lead. In the 67th minute a thunderous free kick by Tobago Uniteds Warren Phillip was inches wide of the upright.
Less than 20 minutes from time Marvin Oliver made the score 2-0, when tapped home from close range after Anthony Abrams perfect square pass. The game lost most of its flow however after the second item as both teams ringed out the changes but in the dieing stages of the game in virtually the last play of the game Moore registered his second for Caledonias 3-0 win over a plucky Tobago United team whose little Cinderella story came to an end.
Teams:
Caledonia AIA:[/b] - Richard Reynolds, Howard Lowe (Charles Pollard), Sheldon Emmanuel (capt), Dexter Franklyn, Radanfan Abu Bakr, Sterling Arjoon, Stephen David, Marvin Oliver, Walter Moore, Hayden Tinto (Abdallah Phillip), Anthony Abrams (Conrad Smith).
Tobago United: - Andrew Durant, Warren Phillips (capt), Garvin Mc Kenna, George Dublin, Jamal Jack, Kevin Adams, Collie Hercules, Garth Woodley, Marvin Phillips (Joel Harry), Javin Crawford, Quacy Johnson (Handel Manswell).
Caledonia AIA v Tobago United
3 Goals 0
8 Shots on Target 3
7 Corners 2
2 Offsides 1
16 Fouls 19
1 Yellow Cards 2
0 Red Cards 0
Post by: Flex on October 06, 2007, 04:21:04 AM
By: Randy Bando (ttproleague).[/size]
Two time champions San Juan Jabloteh were unfortunate not to feature in this years First Citizens Cup final on Friday and had to settle for third place playoff which they celebrated victorious.
The San Juan Kings defeated south based club United Petrotrin 1-0 at the Mannie Ramjohn Stadium to take home the third place purse of $20,000.00 courtesy title sponsors First Citizens.
A second half strike by midfielder Khaleem Hyland was enough to dump United Petrotrin who took home $10,000.00 for fourth place.
However the Oilmen had the better exchanges in the early period with striker Jerrol Forbes coming close to an opening item in the 4th minute, but he was denied by a low diving save by goalkeeper Cleon John.
Less than two minutes later, Forbes received the first booking of the match by referee Lee Davis.
In the 13th minute Jabloteh came close through what was an attempted cross by Elton John which crashed into goalkeeper Perry Martins side netting.
One minute later, Jabloteh ace forward Peter Byers wasted an opportunity from close range after he stabbed the ball on the wrong side of the upright.
Jabloteh head coach Terry Fenwick used the opportunity to expose a few reserve team players in knockout atmosphere, but that seemed a risk at times as Petrotrin with the likes of Keon Daniel and Jerrol Forbes kept on drilling forward in search of the opening item.
Jerrol Forbes had another go at goal in the 25th after tussling off defender Ronald Primus to punch a low shot from above the area but the strong built forward was again denied by goalkeeper John who easily handled.
On the other end Jablotehs Khaleem Hyland was gifted with an opportunity above the area unmarked but he too failed to convert, shooting high over bar in the 31st minute.
Shortly afterwards Petrotrin head coach Brian Williams surely would have been grinding his teeth at Forbes after the striker failed to capitalize on a poor back pass by defender Ronald Primus.
Jabloteh also had their goalscoring problems with Lester Peltier being denied by goalkeeper Perry Martin in the 38th minute after Byers played him goal bound.
Four minutes later Byers combined with Peltier and created an opportunity for winger Elton John but again goalkeeper Martin was on top of his game to gather the 20 yard attempt.
In the closing stages of the first period Jabloteh wasted two clear cut chances through Peter Byers and Lester Peltier. Byers did everything right muscling off his marker Devon Drayton but spiked the ball over bar in the end while Peltier with goalkeeper martin at his mercy, shot straight at the Petrotrin custodian.
The scoreline remained unchanged at the half, leaving fans impatient ahead of the restart.
Both coaches made early changes following the break, with Fenwick replacing Peltier with Gregory Geason upfront and Williams introducing Verlon Mills on for Jerrol Forbes and Belville Joseph for Simeon Augustus.
Belville took no time to get cracking as the attacking player crashed a shot into the Jabloteh upright less than two minutes on.
But Jabloteh grabbed the advantage in the 60th minute off a strike by Khaleem Hyland. Hylands item came following a brief scuffle with goalkeeper Martin after substitute Gregory Geason whipped a low cross into the Petrotrin area, 1-0 in favor of the San Juan based team.
Verlon Mills was close to leveling the scores for Petrotrin five minutes but not close enough as his attempt spilled just wide.
Jabloteh had a couple other close chances to extend the lead through Peter Byers and substitute Jamal Farrel inside the last 20 minutes but failed to hit the target.
Jablotehs Keeron Sutton, another second half introduction had the final attempt at goal after holding off two defenders to drill wide of the far post. In the end San Juan Jabloteh celebrated their success of not walking away without medals in this years First Citizens Cup.
Teams
San Juan Jabloteh:[/b] Cleon John, Wendell Joseph (capt), Ian Gray, Ronald Primus (Jamal Farrell 62nd), Kaashif Thomas (Keeron Sutton 78th), Julien Landeau, Kevin Villaroel, Elton John, Peter Byers, Lester Peltier (Gregory Geason 55th), Khaleem Hyland.
Goal ScorerKhaleem Hyland 60.
CoachTerry Fenwick
United Petrotrin: Perry Martin, Larry Bacchus, Simeon Augustus (Beville Joseph 55th), Devon Drayton, Brent Garcia, Keon Daniel, Marlon Lewis (Akeem Paris 64th), Sylvester Teesdale, Kennedy Hinkson, Al Sinclair, Jerrol Forbes (Vurlon Mills 53rd).
Coach Brian Williams
Match RefereeLee Davis
Player of the MatchElton John (San Juan Jabloteh)
San Juan Jabloteh v United Petrotrin
1 Goals 0
7 Shots on Target 4
6 Shots Wide 6
1 Offsides 4
1 Corners 4
19 Fouls 14
2 Yellow Cards 4
0 Red Cards 0
(http://www.ttproleague.com/images/stories/First%20Citizens%20Cup%202007/jabloteh_petrotrin2.jpg)
Post by: ZANDOLIE on October 06, 2007, 06:11:45 AM
Post by: Big Magician on October 06, 2007, 06:27:09 AM
Post by: ZANDOLIE on October 06, 2007, 06:53:04 AM
well done Jab....we go take 3rd....
Tue dat...congrats on winning the game.
Post by: dreamer on October 06, 2007, 08:29:01 AM
http://www.ttproleague.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1510&Itemid=2
Post by: Big Magician on October 06, 2007, 09:15:37 AM
Post by: Sam on October 06, 2007, 09:15:44 AM
San Juan Jabloteh: Cleon John, Wendell Joseph (capt), Ian Gray, Ronald Primus (Jamal Farrell 62nd), Kaashif Thomas (Keeron Sutton 78th), Julien Landeau, Kevin Villaroel, Elton John, Peter Byers, Lester Peltier (Gregory Geason 55th), Khaleem Hyland.
I see Jabloteh used alot of new players and still win.....
It seems Jabloteh import some French men here. Kevin Villaroel and Julien Landeau ??
Kaashif Thomas played for Malick last year, he skillful to bad...
Khaleem Hyland, Elton John and Carlon Murray could make the Olympic team with ease !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Post by: dreamer on October 06, 2007, 09:42:11 AM
Anybody has an idea of the numbers in attendance at the final. It apparently was impressive. Very encouraging. Ah sure Big Mag was dey watching all dem Moko jumbie like in de pictures below..
http://www.ttproleague.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1510&Itemid=2
Finally ah geh an anwer. 9800 according to Andre Samuel in the other thread. Nice
Post by: Jay10 on October 06, 2007, 12:05:08 PM
San Juan Jabloteh: Cleon John, Wendell Joseph (capt), Ian Gray, Ronald Primus (Jamal Farrell 62nd), Kaashif Thomas (Keeron Sutton 78th), Julien Landeau, Kevin Villaroel, Elton John, Peter Byers, Lester Peltier (Gregory Geason 55th), Khaleem Hyland.
I see Jabloteh used alot of new players and still win.....
It seems Jabloteh import some French men here. Kevin Villaroel and Julien Landeau ??
Kaashif Thomas played for Malick last year, he skillful to bad...
Khaleem Hyland, Elton John and Carlon Murray could make the Olympic team with ease !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kevin Villaroel play with Fatima , then St Anthony's last season
Julien Landeau play with Carapachaima about 2 yrs ago...
Post by: Flex on October 21, 2007, 07:18:07 AM
By: Lasana Liburd (Express).[/size]
Trinidad and Tobago Pro League leaders CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh handed out a severe lesson to Super League opponents Harlem Strikers on Friday night as Jabloteh romped to a 5-1 win at the Larry Gomes Stadium, Malabar, in the first round of the 2007 Toyota Classic.
"After the first 20 minutes in the game, my players were not really accustomed to playing to that level and that pace," said Harlem coach Ancil Elcock, a former Jabloteh and MLS standout and Trinidad and Tobago international.
The evening's opening fixture, which pitted Pro League outfits North East Stars and Tobago United against each other, was a closer event.
Twice, Tobago led though goals from Pierre Joseph and the elegant Collie Hercules only to be pegged back by Sangre Grande's Christian Okonwko and Kendall Velox.
But the boys from the Sister Isle held their nerve to win 3-1 via the penalty shootout.
Jabloteh and Tobago should play Defence Force and United Petrotrin, respectively, in the Toyota Classic quarterfinal round on Tuesday night, with the winners progressing to the semifinal stage on Friday in the gruelling knock-out format.
"We have not thrown in the sponge for this year as yet," said Peter Granville, the Tobago United technical director.
Granville might have fumbled in the delivery of his clich "par for the course after a scrappy encounter" but Tobago were arguably deserved winners if only for their better cutting edge up front.
Okonwko and Hercules both scored on Friday but there the similarity ended. Hercules, the gifted Guyanese, caressed the ball and beguiled opponents. Okonwko, a speedy Nigerian, was a willing outlet but annoyed with his trick of collapsing like a house of cards whenever a defender so much as glanced in his direction. He was thankfully booked for simulation midway though the first half.
The Larry Gomes Stadium was like an advert for foreign talent on Friday. All four scorers from the first encounter were imports-two from Guyana and one each from St Vincent and Nigeria-and there was a fifth example of the effective presence of the local league's visiting players, in the second fixture, as Antiguan Peter Byers rammed home an unstoppable header in the third minute after a whipped cross from Jabloteh right back Cyd Gray.
But Harlem's opening goal, less than two minutes later, showed there is still offensive talent to be discovered on these shores.
Gray, the 2006 World Cup player and Trinidad and Tobago veteran, allowed a long ball to drop behind him and Brent Antoine's low, left-footed strike in response must be at least as good as Gray has seen.
The scorching effort brought a loud cheer from supporters of the 2006 Central Zone champs and 2007 Super League knockout winners.
"Is pound for pound here!" yelled an exuberant Harlem supporter.
It proved to be misguided optimism. A speculative effort from Jabloteh's teenage homeboy Lester Peltier squeezed beneath the body of Harlem custodian Marlon Alfred in the 22nd minute, while another clinical Byers finish, 12 minutes later, effectively killed off the tie.
Jabloteh's fourth item highlighted the inevitable gulf in class between the country's best professional domestic team at present and the fourth best Super League squad.
A loose first touch from Harlem captain Randy Ramcharan, a tidy midfield organiser, was seized upon by Jabloteh captain Trent Noel who, just as quickly, threaded a pass for the alert Gayson Gregory to hook the ball across the face of the goal for Byers to calmly convert his third strike, six minutes into the second half.
Ramcharan almost found a stunning reply with a free kick that came off the bar but they were clearly up against a superior squad.
Jabloteh did not need another goal to confirm their superiority but they got one anyway in the 66th minute after a composed left-footed finish from substitute Atullah Guerra, another teenager with a Trinidad and Tobago passport.
"I thought (Guerra) was outstanding," said Jabloteh coach Terry Fenwick. So too were Jabloteh on the night.
San Juan Jabloteh: Duarance Williams, Cyd Gray, Ian Gray, Carlon Murray, Jason Cudjoe, Elton John, Trent Noel (Atullah Guerra-59th), Khaleem Hyland (Wendell Joseph-66th), Lester Peltier, Gason Gregory (Anthony Guppy-71st), Peter Byers.
CoachTerry Fenwick
GoalscorersPeter Byers 3, 34, 52, Lester Peltier 22, Atullah Guerra 66.
Harlem Strikers: Marvin Alfred, Robby Sookhai, Randy Ramcharan, Lorenzo King (Kordell Samuel-72nd), Leon Hutchinson, Bernard MC Call, Brent Antoine, Keston Jordan, Micah Andrews, Anthony Dass (Ronald Whisky-55th), Kwame Thomas (Saleem Ali-56th)
CoachAncil Elcock
Public pros cruise into Classic last eight.
By: Lasana Liburd (Express).
The Joe Public Pro League team became the eighth outfit to progress to the Toyota Classic 2007 quarterfinal stage yesterday with a comfortable 5-0 win over their own Super League squad at the Marvin Lee Stadium, Macoya.
Public will face Superstar Rangers on Tuesday, while Vibe CT 105 W Connection take on Neal & Massy Caledonia AIA in a replay of the 2007 First Citizens Cup final won by Connection.
In the other quarterfinal match-ups, United Petrotrin face Tobago United and CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh tackle Defence Force.
There was obviously only one possible winner from yesterday's showdown of Joe Public against Joe Public.
If the youthful reserves who comprise Public's Super League team had a case for promotion to the first team ranks, they did not present it yesterday.
Certainly not goalkeeper Leston Shade who was at fault for the Pro League team's opening two goals scored by Silas Spann and Larry Bacchus in the 20th and 36th minutes, respectively. A third strike by Arnold Dwarika ensured a comfortable halftime cushion.
The Public Super League outfit replaced Shade with Jevon Bourne at the interval but it did not stop the goal flow.
Trinidad and Tobago international Kerry Baptiste scored twice in the second half and substitute goalkeeper Shurland Awai saved a penalty as Public cruised in the fading light despite a gutsy but ineffective challenge from their namesakes.
The result completed a miserable time by the Super League outfits who were all eliminated in the first round of the knock out competition.
At least the likes of Harlem Strikers and the Defence Force Super League version got to test their mettle against the best of the domestic competition. For the Public reserves, it was just another training ground battering from their big brothers.
Joe Public FC (Pro League): Jacomeno Barrett (Shurland Awai 65th), Dale Saunders (capt), Terrance Mc Allister, Larry Bacchus (Shervon Jack 67th), Kerry Noray, Arnold Dwarika, Kerry Baptiste, Kendall Jagdeosingh, Gregory Richardson (Kendall Davis 65th), Keyeno Thomas, Silas Spann.
GoalscorersSilas Spann 20, Larry Bacchus 36, Arnold Dwarika 45, Kerry Baptiste 64, 89.
CoachMichael Mc Comie
Joe Public (Super League): Leston Shade (Jevon Bourne 46th), James Thomas (capt), Brent Edwards, Dominic Hutchinson, Ken Holder, Jamel Lewis, Dion Peters (Devon King 60th), Ricardo Peltier, Anthony Frank, Shevon Abraham, Dexter Thornhill.
CoachRalph Nelson.
Caledonia's Tinto hits hat-trick.
Super League clubs WASA, Harvard bite dust in Toyota Classic.
By: Ian Prescott (Express).
Hayden Tinto came of age as a goal-scorer, netting his first hat-trick at senior level, to lead Neal & Massy Caledonia AIA to a dull, but nevertheless comprehensive 5-1 victory over M&M Harvard in the opening match of Friday night's Toyota Classic double-header at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Coupled with Superstar Rangers' nail-biting 5-3 penalty-kicks defeat of Super League champions WASA FC in the second game, it means the National Super League teams did not fare well on the opening night of the 2007 Classic tournament.
In an interview just over a week ago, Jamaal Shabazz, technical director at Caledonia AIA, hinted that Tinto, a gifted dribbler at Malick Senior Comprehensive in the Secondary Schools Football League, had often been plagued with a lack of confidence. But, the Guyana men's national coach also said the Trinidad and Tobago under-23 striker was finally making good decisions on the field, without first seeking the approval of senior players Charles Pollard and captain Sheldon Emmanuel. Shabazz's feeling was that Tinto was growing up as a footballer. Caledonia were dull on Friday night and Harvard looked largely out-of depth. But the ball followed Tinto everywhere. Early on, the Super League stragglers shot themselves in the foot, setting up Carlyle Mitchell's sixth minute goal when Harvard goalkeeper Wilfred Bailey and a defender tangled, allowing lanky Mitchell to net in an open net.
Often isolated up front, Kareem Freitas was one of the better Harvard players on the night and he levelled the score at 1-1 in the 52nd minute, capitalising on a defensive mix-up and skilfully lifting the ball over Caledonia keeper Richard Reynolds.
Yes, a fortuitous goal, but nevertheless a sweet finish.
Harvard really did not deserve to be level and were down 2-1 in the 54th minute from Marvin Oliver's penalty.
Tinto then netted three times in 15 minutes. First, in the 65th, he rounded keeper Bailey and slid the ball in, before stabbing in a short pass from six yards in the 70th. The hat-trick came in the 80th minute. Picking up a rebound at the edge of the penalty area , Tinto side-footed a low shot first-time into the Harvard goal. A year ago, his first instinct would have been to dribble someone.
WASA played with confidence and made a fight of a competitive second match against Rangers which ended 3-3 before the T&T Pro League team advanced 5-3 on spot-kicks.
Unbeaten in the 2007 Super League, WASA were level 1-1 at the half and looking for a Toyota Classic quarter-final spot.
Rangers were ahead after just six minutes through Josimar Belgrave, who forced in Sayid Freitas' short pass from close up.
WASA's Darrin Lewis, Vernon Bailey, Fabien Garcia, Michael Celestine, Ochieng Abosi and Shurland David all have Pro League experience and after some dribbling, former Trinidad and Tobago striker Lewis's low, angled shot slipped through keeper Shane Mattis's grasp in the 14th minute, giving the East team a lucky equaliser.
Belgrave, who also struck a hat-trick on the night, put Rangers back ahead in the 63rd, before WASA looked to have won the match with goals from Kevon Stoute (85th) and Michael Celestine (88th). However, in the final minute, WASA's Jesse Reyes was red-carded for pulling down a Rangers player, allowing Belgrave to complete his treble in the 90th minute.
WASA F.C: Douglas Mc Neilly, Veron Bailey, Joel Daniel, Jerome Dickinson (Billydee Scantlebury), Fabien Garcia, Darin Lewis (Michael Celestine), Dexter Alleyne (Kevin Daniel), Mervyn Brooks, Stevon Stoute, Ochieng Abosi, Jesse Reyes.
CoachKen Elie
Superstar Rangers: Shane Mattis, Dean Pacheco, Ricardo Aleong (Abiola Clarence), Devon Modeste, Josimar Belgrave, Joseph Peters (Michael Brown), Sayid Freitas (Marc Borde), Coneal Thomas, Christon Thomas, Jevon Morris, Elijah Belgrave.
CoachAnthony Streete
Post by: rippin on October 21, 2007, 12:36:41 PM
Post by: Sam on October 22, 2007, 04:37:30 PM
Okonwko, a speedy Nigerian, was a willing outlet but annoyed with his trick of collapsing like a house of cards whenever a defender so much as glanced in his direction. He was thankfully booked for simulation midway though the first half.
:rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: .... what a piece of work.... he diving more than a blasted dolphin....
Ah notice some decent players in the Super League like, Randy Ramcharan, Lorenzo King, Cordell Samuel, Brent Antoine, Dexter Thornhill, Silas Spann, Dion Peters, Ricardo Peltier, Veron Bailey, Fabien Garcia, Michael Celestine, Billydee Scantlebury and Ochieng Abosi.
Ricardo Peltier playing for Joe Public now he might stand a better chance of getting into the TTFF good books than his brother Lester.
Ah notice that McComie trying and buying plently of the Olympic team players, now Larry Bacchus gone to Joe Public and I know he was trying to get Shane Calderon too. I surprise United Petrotrin sell Larry.
Post by: Sando on October 23, 2007, 06:43:39 PM
Defence Force 7 Jerwin Balthazar(5'), Devon Jorsling(25'),(76'), Anton Pierre(60'), Sherman Phillip (62'),(86'), Christon Baptiste(90') v Tbago United 1 Garvin Mc Kenna (44')
San Juan Jabloteh 1 (Trent Noel(15') v United Petrotrin 0
Joe Public 2 (Kendall Jagdeosingh (27'),(35') v Superstar Rangers 1 (Josimar Belgrave(54')
Still Active
Caledonia AIA 1 (Marvin Oliver(40' Pen) v W Connection 0
Post by: Flex on August 29, 2008, 07:05:48 AM
By: Ian Prescott (Express).
Brazilian Jose Luis Seabra strutted in, hugging the First Citizens Cup, as if unwilling to let it go. Seabra is vice-captain of defending champions W Connection FC, the most successful team in the competition's history.
The First Citizens Cup is undoubtedly the most popular football competition in Trinidad and Tobago, drawing a full house at every final. W Connection have contested all of them, lifting the Cup four times outright.
Winners in 2004, 2005 and 2006, W Connection completed the beaver-trick in 2007, beating Neal & Massy Caledonia AIA on a pair of Jonathan Frias goals.
The 2008 edition begins on Wednesday September 3 with two preliminary playoff matches between the four bottom teams in the T&T Pro League. However, the real action starts on September 12 when the quarter-finals will be played.
The defending champs begin this year's series with a quarter-final against the winners of the preliminary playoff between Defence Force and North East Stars.
At yesterday 's launch, W Connection captain Elijah Joseph warned all opponents that the champions will be digging in stoutly and it will be difficult to wrest the title from their grasp.
"We will make it difficult for teams," the St Lucian declared. "We will try to retain our title."
The eighth edition of the First Citizens Cup series is worth $200,000, of which sponsors First Citizens have guaranteed $65,000 to the winners.
Yesterday's launch took place at First Citizens headquarters on Queen's Park East, Port of Spain, where Pro League chief executive officer Dexter Skeene outlined the League's input in developing UK-based Trinidad and Tobago professionals such as Kenwyne Jones, Carlos Edwards, Dennis Lawrence and Jason Scotland.
Skeene added that with assistance of sponsors such as First Citizens, the T&T Pro League had also produced ten current national players in Cyd Gray, Aurtis Whitley, Keon Daniel, Clyde Leon, Marvin Phillip, Anthony Wolfe, Cornell Glen, Jan-Michael Williams, Densill Theobald, and Kerry Baptiste.
He added that the local professional league employs 1,000 people, giving young footballers a chance to develop their natural talent, and feed their families.
Post by: Sam on September 06, 2008, 08:49:59 AM
First Citizens Cup Qualifier
Tuesday
5:00pm, 02:09:08, Defence Force v North East Stars, Larry Gomes Stadium
7:00pm, 02:09:08, Tobago United v Ma Pau SC, Larry Gomes Stadium
Post by: Victor on September 06, 2008, 09:40:05 AM
Credit to Defence Force goalie Selwyn George on Wednesday night erasing what was a terrible afternoon for goalkeepers in the double header of the 2008 First Citizens Cup qualifiers at the Larry Gomes Stadium.
George, popularly known for his antics between the uprights, in the second qualifier against North East Stars pulled off two magnificent saves from the spot and doing enough for John Stewart to hit the upright in the first kick as Defence Force pulled a 3-0 penalty win to book their place in the quarterfinals of the First Citizens Cup.
Defence Force will meet defending champions and four time winners W Connection in their quarterfinal clash on Friday 12 September.
But just as the first qualifier played between Tobago United and Ma Pau SC, which the Tobagonians won 2-1 to book their quarterfinal spot against current League leaders CLICO San Juan Jabloteh, goalkeeping blunders were to blame.
Defence Force went 1-0 in the 50th minute when Devon Jorsling held off his marker to score into an open net after North East Stars goalie Tristan Charles was left beaten way outside the penalty area.
But ten minutes later George turned a routine gather into horror when Stars second half introduction Sylvester Teesdale blasted from outside the area and what should have been wrapped easily was spilled by the Defence Force number one and bobbled through his legs to cross the goal-line levelling the scores at 1-1.
George later made an acrobatic push over bar to guide a Kevin Jeffery free kick just outside the area for a corner as North East Stars never gave up on the very physical Army.
But Army shouldnt have found themselves in the 1-1 situation which lasted till the end of regulation time, if it hadnt been for first half marginal misses by Christon Baptiste and Kevon Carter.
And from the penalty shootout, Army proved to have the top marksmen led by team captain Anton Pierre, Devon Jorsling and Keston Williams all registering goals for the 3-0 penalty win over the Sangre Grande based North East Stars.
In the earlier match, kicked off at 5pm, Tobago United surfaced 2-1 winners over Ma Pau SC.
Following to good saves by Tobago United goalkeeper Richard Reynolds in the opening minutes, the Guyanese went from hero to zero in the 19th minute smashing an attempted dunk-out into the head of Ma Paus Keno Proctor standing just outside the areaonly to watch the ball make its way back into his net. Reynolds late challenge to reach the bobbling ball proved futile and as for Proctor who collapsed after being struck was surely delightedafter seeking medical attentionto play a part in his team 1-0 advantage and have the goal registered as his own.
Ma Pau, despite the loud cries by coach Ron La Forest on the sideline, failed on a number of attacks to make the best against the Tobago United defence and add to their advantage.
And horror struck Ma Pau in the 68th minute when Kelvin Hernandez right sided cross into the area was handled by defender Densyl James leaving no hesitation in referee Gordon Maloney to point to the spot. No other than Collie Hurcules stepped up and converted easily past Shannan Warner to level the scores at 1-1.
Hernandez later scored the winner in the 82nd minute for a 2-1 win after a hard fought run, muscling off defenders and sticking the extra inch to notch the ball past goalkeeper Shannan Warner. The former United Petrotrin player celebrated his winning item to the fullest.
First Citizens Cup qualifiers
Larry Gomes Stadium
Ma Pau 1 2 Tobago United
Keno Proctor 19 ; Collie Hurcules 68 pen, Kelvin Hernandez 82
North East Stars 1(0) 1(3) Defence Force
Sylvester Teesdale 60 ; Devon Jorsling 50
Penalty Kicks
North East Stars(0) Defence Force(3)
John Stewart(missed) Anton Pierre(scored)
Sean Cooper(saved) Devon Jorsling(scored)
Kevin Jeffery(saved) Keston Williams(scored)
Written By: Randy Bando
Post by: Flex on October 03, 2009, 04:45:04 AM
By: Randy Bando (ttproleague).
Defence Force became two-time winners of the First Citizens Cup on Friday night ending a six-year trophy drought when they defeated Bmobile Joe Public 1-0 in this year's Final at the Marvin Lee Stadium.
Striker Richard Roy miscued his shot from outside the area six minutes from regular time however it was enough to see it beat the entire Joe Public defence before bubbling past goalkeeper Alejandro Figueroa and inside the far upright to hand the Soldiers the 2009 First Citizens Cup.
But it wasn't easy road for Army starting the tournament with a 2-1 qualifier against Tobago United and without a title in the last six seasons. Their last title was the 2002 First Citizens Cup.
Two-time finalists Joe Public who suffered a 6-5 defeat in last year's competition against W Connection after a 2-2 draw threw everything at Defence Force, however couldn't get past goalkeeper Kevin Graham who was voted Player of the Tournament.
Public who started the match without a win against the Soldiers this season in three previous meetings showed promise from early on.
Hayden Tinto had a shot from outside the area in the 6th minute and Trent Noel unleashed another in the 15th minute, but it was too high to test Graham.
Defence Force's Richard Roy who finished the tournament as top goalscorer with three goals had a volley just wide of the in the 19th minute.
But it was back on the defence with Joe Public's mid-season Japanese import Yu Hoshide having the best early opening in the 25th minute but his half volley swooshed past goalkeeper Kevin Graham's far post after Gorean Highley left Corey Rivers beaten on to left to whip in a cross which Kerry Baptiste knocked down into Hoshide's path inside the area.
Highley was at his tricks again leaving Rivers beaten a second time in the 31st minute to play a low pass across the face of goal to find onrushing Trent Noel, however the Trinidad and Tobago midfielder's stretch under defender Keston Williams tackle only guided the ball just wide.
Joe Public continued to show their offensive strenghts with Highley again proving a handful disposessing Rivers to whip a pass across the area to find Hoshide who's first time cross found the head of Seon Power who finished just wide in the 40th minute.
Mere minutes inside the second period and Defence Force were on the defensive again.
Highley hooked a left footed shot on goal from just outside the area in the 48th minute only to see it deflect out for a corner and later on Graham had to pick out to balls inside his six yard area.
Graham pulled off a magnificent save in the 62nd minute equaling a superb strike from Trent Noel on a 20 yard free kick after Kerry Baptiste went down under Keston Williams' challenge.
Joe Public coach Derek King then made his first change replacing Highley with Micah Lewis in the 66th minute.
And less than two minutes after making his appearance Lewis was denied by Graham after unleashing a shot from inside the area on the right.
Meantime Defence Force too was having a miserable time with their finishing with Richard Roy hitting the side netting in the 65th and then poking a shot just wide of the upright in the 68th minute.
Joe Public had another set piece in the 75th minute and again Graham's gloves was in Trent Noel's way tipping the powerful effort behind for a corner.
King then boosted his offence with Conrod Smith replacing injured defender Seon Power in the 76th minute.
However in the 84th minute Richard Roy stunned Joe Public to score the winner in what seemed destined for penalty kicks.
Less than a minute earlier Joe Public was denied a goal by the brilliance of Graham who made an excellent reflex save to deny Hoshide after the ball took a deflection on its way to goal.
Kevon Carter pulled the trigger one last time for Defence Force in the 90th minute however Figueroa got legs to the blast to keep it out.
But that wasn't the end for Graham's night pulling off an injury time save against Trent Noel.
Graham's heroics on the night not only gave the Soldiers the $65,000 first prize money, but a piece of silverware-something that has evaded the Tetron based guys for a long time. And their strong support of fans, a Defence Force rhythm section and the presence of Chief of Staff Edmund Dillon at the Macoya venue surely provided the desired atmosphere.
Final Score
Joe Public 0-1 Defence Force;
- Richard Roy 84th
Bmobile Joe Public--Alejandro Figueroa; Keyeno Thomas (Teba McKnight 88th), Seon Power (Conrad Smith 76th), Carlyle Mitchell, Keon Goodridge; Hayden Tinto, Yu Hoshide, Trent Noel, Kareem Young; Gorian Highley (Micah Lewis 66th), Kerry Baptiste (capt).
Coach--Derek King.
Defence Force--Kevin Graham; Corey Rivers, Keston Williams, Devon Jordan, Anton Joseph (Balondemu Julius 72nd); Kevon Carter, Sean Narcis, Aklie Edwards, Ronald St Louis (Christian Baptiste 57th); Richard Roy, Devon Jorsling (Rawle Fletcher 89th).
Coach--Ross Russell.
Match Referee--Gregory Hospidales.
Yesterdays News
Big dreams for Army in Big Six.
By: Randy Bando (ttproleague).
Defence Force may have squeezed into the Big Six round of the Digicel Pro League at the expense of United Petrotrin, but the Tetron based men are aiming at a Big Bang in the Big Six round.
Defence Force earned their Big Six spot at the last stroke defeating Tobago United 3-1 in Round Two Match Day Eleven to hump United Petrotrin by two points after the Oilmen slipped 3-2 against Caledonia AIA of Morvant/Laventille in their final Round Two match.
Our hopes will surely be to finish high so that we can return to the CONCACAF club level, said head coach Ross Russell.
Defence Force were once recognized as the powerhouse of the Caribbean, and a very competent force in CONCACAF, having won the CONCACAF Champions Cup (now called the CONCACAF Champions League) in 1978 and 1985. They were also runners-up in 1987 and 1988.
Russell continued, I know that it will take a lot to accomplish such a task, but we are keeping our focus. It will mean that all the top clubs will have to drop points by either losing or drawing and we will need to win all our matches. So we will do our part by being focused and try to win all five matches in the Big Six.
Defence Force(32 points) are nine points away from leaders Bmobile Joe Public(41 points) and separated by Ma Pau SC in fifth with 34 points, W Connection fourth with 34 points, San Juan Jabloteh third with 39 points and Caledonia second with 40 points in the 2009 Digicel Pro League standings ahead of the Big Six round.
Russells side will kick off the Big Six round against San Juan Jabloteh from 5pm in the first match of a double header at the Ato Boldon Stadium on Sunday. Caledonia will host W Connection in the second clash from 7pm and Ma Pau SC and Joe Public will contest eachother from 6pm at the Marvin Lee Stadium.
We have already accomplished something we didnt in 2008 and thats to make the Big Six, added the Army coach. And there is no reason why we cant accomplish more.
Defence Force finished eight last season under coach Kerry Jamersonthe man Russell worked alongside as assistant coach.
Russell is equipped with two capable goalscorers in Devorn Jorsling and Kevon Carter who have 22 goals between them in the League, along with Balindumo Julius and Richard Roy. In defence Michael Edwards, Aklie Edwards, Keston Williams, veteran Anton Pierre and Rawle Flecther are available for the backing of goalkeeper Kevin Graham for the Big Six round.
But this Friday, Defence Forces focus will be on the Final of the 2009 First Citizens Cup from 8pm against Bmobile Joe Public at the Marvin Lee Stadium as they target their first piece of silverware in the six years.
2009 First Citizens Cup Final
Friday 02 October
Marvin Lee Stadium
Joe Public vs Defence Force8pm
Pro League Coaches vs Media Team6pm
Round Three Match Day One (Big Six)
Sunday 04 October
Marvin Lee Stadium
Ma Pau SC vs Joe Public6pm
Ato Boldon Stadium
San Juan Jabloteh vs Defence Force5pm
Caledonia AIA vs W Connection7pm
First Citizens Cup FinalLions, Soldiers both hungry.
By: Randy Bando (ttproleague).
Bmobile Joe Public and Defence Force will both think that their chances of capturing the 2009 First Citizens Cup is better than the other, for many different reasons. However its really down to who proves to be the hungriest on Friday night at the Marvin Lee Stadium from 8pm.
Joe Public may have new coach Derek King at the helm, but the club have had much better success than that of Defence Force in recent years.
Defence Force last won silverware in 2002, grabbing the First Citizens Cup that time.
Meantime since then Joe Public have won the 2006 League Championship, the 2007 Toyota Classic and FA Trophy. Also in 2007 the Lions made it into the final of the CFU Club Championships followed by the CONCACAF Champions League 2007-2008 edition.
With that in mind, and that they are the current Digicel Pro League leaders, Joe Public will definitely think that this is their time to pick up their first ever First Citizens Cup after a slim 6-5 penalty defeat against W Connection in last years edition following a 2-2 draw.
Defence Force will also be a confident bunch not only making it into their second final of the season after making it into the Lucozade Sport Goal Shield final against W Connection back in June which they lost 3-0. But on a good note, they are unbeaten against Joe Public after three meetings this season enjoying a 2:1:0 record.
Defence Force came from the bottom defeating Tobago United in the qualifier 2-1, then registered a superb 3-2 comeback victory from two goals down in the quarterfinals and finally secured their place in the Final with a 2-0 win over Ma Pau SCwho defeated defending champions W Connection in the quarterfinals.
To go on and win the title now will be a great triumph for the Tetron based guys.
Coach Ross Russell has the fire power in 2008 Pro League Golden Boot winner Devorn Jorsling, Kevon Carter and Richard Roy all with two-a-piece to their names. But their defence seems a bit slack having conceded three goals.
They will have to be on high alert against the Lions, with attacker Kerry Baptiste also having two goals to his name in the tournament after just two matches.
Baptiste who has 29 goals after 20 League matches helped the Lions to a 5-1 victory over St Anns Rangers in the quarterfinal round. Teammate Hayden Tinto also picked up a double in that match. In the semi-finals Joe Public ousted San Juan Jabloteh 2-0 thanks to goals by mid-season signing Trent Noel and defender Seon Power.
With Trent Noel, Kerry Baptiste, Hayden Tinto, Gorean Highley and Conrod Smith all available for selection in attack, Joe Public coach Derek King should be safe in offence.
But with strong attacking options on either side of the pitch, it would be a match of defences when the whistle for kickoff is blown at the Marvin Lee Stadium 8pm.
Two hours earlier, the Pro League Coaches will take on the MEDIA representative team in a highly anticipated re-match. Back in June the Pro League Coaches inclusive of Russell Latapy, Jose Luis Seabra, Peter Granville, Dexter Skeene, Michael McComie, Leonson Lewis and Earl Jean among their squad defeated the MEDIA team 4-0.
Post by: Coop's on October 03, 2009, 04:52:03 AM
Post by: Deeks on October 03, 2009, 06:40:08 AM
Post by: weary1969 on October 03, 2009, 07:37:53 AM
Congrats Coops!!!!!!!
Cosignnnnnnnnnnnnnn
Post by: Sam on October 04, 2009, 06:49:00 AM
Jack Warner must be vex, he spen nuff fifa dollars on Joe Public.
Derek King gone for sure.
Post by: WestCoast on October 04, 2009, 08:07:21 AM
Ah guess Kerry Jamerson was de problem with Army last season. Ross came in and made an instant success.fixed
Jack Warner must be vex, he spen nufffifaTnT Taxpayer dollars that should go to the Blacklisted players on Joe Public.
Derek King gone for sure.
Post by: Tallman on September 16, 2010, 08:00:21 AM
By Nigel Simon (T&T Guardian)
Defence Force was given a tricky path to the defence of its First Citizens Cup title it won by a 1-0 margin over bmobile Joe Public last year at the Marvin Lee Stadium, Macoya. The draw for the tournament was disclosed by T&T Pro League Chief Executive Officer, Dexter Skeene at the launch of this years $200,000 competition, the ninth overall, at First Citizens Corporate Centre, Queens Park East, Port-of-Spain, yesterday. The Ross Russell-coached Defence Force, also winner in 2002 was one of the six teams which qualified automatically for the quarterfinal round based on its position on the Digicel Pro League table at the end of the Round One, Match Day 11.
The other teams which qualified automatically were Joe Public, W Connection, Ma Pau, San Juan Jabloteh and Caledonia AIA in that order. Police and South End which were tenth and 11th on the table contested a qualifier on September 3, which was won by the latter 2-1. With the win, South End advanced to the qualifying round to meet DirecTV North East, seventh on the table, while St Anns Rangers and Tobago United, who occupy the eight and ninth spots on the standing, will clash in the other qualifying round match. Both qualifiers will take place on Saturday at the Marvin Lee Stadium. In the quarterfinal round, Defence Force will meet the winner of the Rangers/Tobago United duel.
Should the Teteron Boys get past that hurdle, they will then meet the winner of the Ma Pau and Jabloteh quarterfinal match in the semifinal round. Six-time tournament winner, W Connection, the only other club apart from Defence Force to capture the title also has a tough task in securing title number seven. In the other half of the draw, the Savonetta Boys as W Connection are known come up against Caledonia AIA in its quarterfinal match while Joe Public meets the winner of the other qualifying round match between, Stars and South End. Only the winner and runner-up will receive prize money in this years tournament. The champion team will collect $80,000, an increase of $15,000 from last year while the runner-up $20,000, $10,000 less than last year.
In addition, $1,000 each will be awarded to the tournaments winning coach, most valuable player and the top goalscorer. In his brief address, Damian Cooper, First Citizens Marketing Manager said his company was extremely proud to be aligned with such a great event.
Throughout time, football has proven to be a unifying activity that contributes to national solidarity, and through the efforts of T&T Pro League, this event has showcased talent and discipline which has been recognised nationwide and considered exemplary, said Cooper.
(http://guardian.co.tt/files/imagecache/article_main_image_stretched/articles/images/Skeene-Coopercheque.png)
Damian Cooper, right, First Citizens Marketing Manager presents the $200,000 sponsorship
cheque to and T&T Pro League Chief Executive Officer, Dexter Skeene at the launch of the
$200,000 First Citizens Cup competition, the ninth overall at First Citizens Corporate Centre,
Queens Park East, Port-of-Spain, yesterday. Photo: Anthony Harris
Post by: Football supporter on September 14, 2011, 01:04:01 PM
First prize this year is $80,000 with runners up receiving $20,000
Match times to be announced, but should be 5pm & 7pm. All matches, I believe, will be at Hasely Crawford Stadium. There will be giveaways for supporters. I believe the first 500 at group matches and first 1000 at semis and finals will receive giveaways. There will also be a fully stacked cooler for best group of supporters. More details to follow.
If two teams tie after group matches, position will be decided on a) goal average b)most goals scored c)least goals conceded d)head to head results e) coin toss
Group A
T&TEC vs St Anns Rangers Fri 16th September
Group B
W.Connection vs AIA Caledonia Fri 16th September
Group A
T&TEC vs Jabloteh Tues 20th September
Group B
W.Connection vs North East Stars Tues 20th September
Group A
St Anns Rangers vs Jabloteh Fri 23rd September
Group B
AIA Caledonia vs North East Stars Fri 23rd September
Semi Finals
Winner Group A vs Runners up Group B
Winner Group B vs Runners up Group A
Post by: davidephraim on September 14, 2011, 06:48:23 PM
Post by: Flex on September 14, 2011, 07:29:08 PM
ttproleague.com.
With last years winners Joe Public opting out of the TT Pro League this season and runners-up Defence Force unable to play during the current state of emergency, the 2011 First Citizens Cup is up for grabs.
At Wednesday mornings launch of the First Citizens Cup at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, TT Pro League in conjunction with title sponsor First Citizens revealed six clubs; Caledonia AIA, six-time winners W Connection, Adams Construction San Juan Jabloteh, DIRECTV North East Stars, St. Anns Rangers and newcomers T&TEC FC to challenge this seasons title and the $80,000.00 first place cash incentive.
The tournament is broken into two groups, A and B, with the latter labeled the group of death with Connection, Caledonia and North East Stars following a random draw during the launch.
While T&TEC, Rangers and Jabloteh make up Group A in the new format of a round robin into knockout.
Matches begin on Friday 16 September at the Hasely Crawford Stadium with T&TEC against Rangers from 5pm and Connection against Caledonia from 7pm in Quarter Final Day One.
Quarter Final Day Two will see T&TEC against Jabloteh from 5pm and Connection against North East Stars from 7pm at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Tuesday 20 September.
And Quarter Final Day Three, also at the Mucurapo venue on Friday 23 September, will see Rangers against Jabloteh from 5pm and Caledonia against North East Stars from 7pm.
Following the quarterfinal round robin format, the top two teams of each group will advance into the semifinal on Friday 30 September which will be played in a knockout system with only the winners advancing to the Final on Friday 14 October.
You are the fortunate few who are still here with the opportunity of representing your communities do not take this likely, advised Warren Sookdar, Chief Information Officer - First Citizens.
All the best in your quest for one of the most attractive Cups in local football, the First Citizens Cup and remember there is no room for losers.
Sookdar who boasts that his company invests heavily in sporting initiatives added, Indeed we are proud to be part of a League that has and continues to develop the raw talent of our nations youth. First Citizens applauds the TT Pro League for their efforts in the promotion of football in Trinidad and Tobago and their commitment to the production of well rounded footballers.
This season the competition is in its 12th season with the continued backing of First Citizens.
TT Pro League CEO Dexter Skeene said, The League acknowledges with significance gratitude and appreciation; not only for the fact that First Citizens is one of our most loyal, dedicated and committed partners but because they are role models.
Skeene thanked First Citizens CEO Larry Howai for understanding the importance of development of local talent and honing the skills of our youth.
Resilience and an unwavering commitment to the development of T&T are ingrained in the DNA of First Citizens. First Citizens grew out of the amalgamation of Workers Bank, National Commercial Bank and the Trinidad Co-operative Bank.
There is much that the TT pro League can learn from First Citizens. Not only learn but be inspired and motivated by.
Here in T&T many are afraid to fight for what they believe. These are indeed exciting times with life changing opportunities for many here in T&T. I can assure you that the TT Pro League will unveil new marketing and strategies. We will not allow ourselves to be shaped by circumstances. Just as First Citizens did, we will create our destiny, promised the League CEO.
2011 First Citizens Cup
Quarterfinal Day One
Friday 16 September
Hasely Crawford Stadium
T&TEC FC vs St. Anns Rangers5pm
W Connection vs Caledonia AIA7pm
Quarterfinal Day Two
Tuesday 20 September
Hasely Crawford Stadium
T&TEC FC vs San Juan Jabloteh5pm
Connection vs North East Stars7pm
Quarterfinal Day Three
Friday 23 September
Hasely Crawford Stadium
St. Anns Rangers vs San Juan Jabloteh5pm
Caledonia AIA vs North East Stars7pm
Semi Final Round
Friday 30 September
Final
Friday 14 October
Post by: SHOTTA on September 14, 2011, 08:36:26 PM
Post by: Star Child on September 14, 2011, 08:42:14 PM
Post by: Football supporter on September 14, 2011, 10:25:50 PM
I thought this was a knockout competition, how come teams playing twice ?
Its 2 x 3 team groups in a round robin to decide semi finalists. This has been done partly because Police & DF can't currently play and also to add some excitement and interest. It also means that every team gets at least two games. I think its a good format and should provide some good double headers. The final group matches should be exciting.
Post by: davidephraim on September 15, 2011, 06:06:07 AM
I thought this was a knockout competition, how come teams playing twice ?
Its 2 x 3 team groups in a round robin to decide semi finalists. This has been done partly because Police & DF can't currently play and also to add some excitement and interest. It also means that every team gets at least two games. I think its a good format and should provide some good double headers. The final group matches should be exciting.
Champions League style... bessness! (ah now bite dat word dey from Shotta)
Post by: soccerrama on September 16, 2011, 09:27:25 PM
T&TEC 0 St. Anns Rangers 0
W Connection 4 Caledonia AIA 2
Shahdon Winchester (27), Hughton Hector (30), (78), Jerrel Britto (33),
---------------------------------------------------------------
Jamal Gay (25), Trevin Caesar (90)
Post by: Flex on September 17, 2011, 04:00:36 AM
Post by: Football supporter on September 17, 2011, 07:14:36 AM
T&TEC look lost on a large pitch. They avoided the wings and really didn't have the same fluidity they showed against North East. Neither team really looked threatening and the match had few moments of excitement. St Anns problem is getting their midfield forward to support Errol McFarlane. St Anns recognised in the second half that T&TEC were deserting their wings and tried to penetrate down the sides, which they were successful with on several occasions. However, their winger's crosses completely bypassed McFarlane and were wasted. Both teams were taking too many touches and players were running with the ball into traffic so most attacks fizzled out. Kudos to St Anns for gaining a draw, but T&TEC have received a rude awakening after the euphoria following their win over North East. Jabloteh must be licking their lips in anticipation!
W.Connection 4 - 2 AIA Caledonia
Caledonia started well, and this game looked good from the start. W.Connections defenders looked comfortable on the ball and started most of the attacks, but I felt they looked flat when defending. Caledonia gave Connection too much time on the ball, which meant they put themselves under pressure. In contrast to the first game, there was some superb attacking football, with Connection playing some excellent fast passing football, while Caledonia looked lethal on the breaks with some beautiful diagonal balls, but struggled to find good finishing.
However, Caledonia scored first with a nice goal by Gay, only to see their lead reduced within a minute. Goalkeeper may be questioned on the first goal, but was definately at fault with the second.
Game looked over at 3-1 and Connection just needed to kill the game in the second half. However, Caledonia came out in the 2nd half to make a fight of it. Connection struggled to gain control of midfield and Cali had a nice 15 minute spell but could not capitalise on their possession. Connection relyed on a few fast breaks with Britto & Winchester always looking dangerous. W's 4th goal should have killed the game, but Cali didn't read the script and kept pushing and were rewarded in the 90th minute.
A very entertaining match. Connection will play good football if given space, but I'm not convinced they will be so successful if the opposition play further up the field and pressure the defence. At this stage of the tournament, Connection are looking favourites, but we've yet to see Jabloteh play.
Connection vs North East on tuesday will be a must see match and it will give us a good idea of each teams cup & league capabilities. If Jabloteh were still under the guidance of Fenwick I would expect them to beat T&TEC and St Anns, but, as yet, we have no idea what Carter has achieved with Jabloteh, so it will be an interesting barometer.
Post by: Sam on September 17, 2011, 08:26:15 AM
How was de crowd ?
Post by: Football supporter on September 17, 2011, 09:35:00 AM
Nice work on de reports man.
How was de crowd ?
Not good considering it was a friday double header and start of First Citizens Cup. I'd guess no more than 1,000
Post by: Jack Horner on September 17, 2011, 09:49:24 AM
Not good considering it was a friday double header and start of First Citizens Cup. I'd guess no more than 1,000
Part of the poor crowd support its because of Joe Public none participation in the league.
No one wants to see a North East Retired 11, a broke Rangers team or a T&TEC team who is no better than a Super League team.
Jack will raise again !!!!!!!!!!
Post by: Football supporter on September 17, 2011, 11:58:52 AM
Not good considering it was a friday double header and start of First Citizens Cup. I'd guess no more than 1,000
Part of the poor crowd support its because of Joe Public none participation in the league.
No one wants to see a North East Retired 11, a broke Rangers team or a T&TEC team who is no better than a Super League team.
Jack will raise again !!!!!!!!!!
Hey, I thought you was locked up in Guantanemo!! Guess you and your 20 friends were too busy pushing chocolaste uphill to keep up to date. You, of course, are correct in your assumptions....even those in Hasely Crawford last night were crying because the fantastic Joe Public weren't there. After all of their success last year, how will we all cope? Anyway, talking of the SuperLeague, hows it all going there? I mean, with a professional outfit like yours, I guess they're unbeaten, right? After all, you just admitted that SuperLeague is a lower quality than ProLeague, so surely by adding all your superstars, JP should be flying away with the league, yes?
Post by: King Deese on September 19, 2011, 10:41:48 AM
Post by: Tallman on September 19, 2011, 05:02:08 PM
http://www.youtube.com/v/lN_wlwUABqk
http://www.youtube.com/v/LUTnaPZDclA
Post by: Football supporter on September 19, 2011, 10:32:11 PM
Tuesdays 5pm match will see T&TEC take on Jabloteh. Entrance is $30, but ladies free before half time in the first match. There will also be the "Dash for Cash" during both halftimes when supporters can win $500.
Any team from this group still have a good chance of progressing, but realistically, T&TEC need at least a draw and hope Jabloteh beat Rangers on Friday. Alternatively, if Jabloteh lose, they must beat Rangers.
Post by: Tallman on September 20, 2011, 03:19:49 PM
Post by: soccerrama on September 20, 2011, 08:07:31 PM
T&TEC 4 Adams Construction San Juan Jabloteh 4
Kerlon Ferguson (12), (40), Andrei Pacheco (55), Kevin Modeste (59)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Willis Plaza (30), (79), Hector Sam (71), Luke Gullick (89)
W Connection 4 North East Stars 1
Shahdon Winchester (34), Mekeil Williams (37), Hughton Hector (53), Jerrel Britto (75)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Stern John (81)
Post by: FireBrand on September 20, 2011, 08:35:24 PM
http://www.youtube.com/v/TdNmPiMsouw
Hector 10!!!
Post by: weary1969 on September 20, 2011, 08:39:49 PM
Results for today's matches
T&TEC 4 Adams Construction San Juan Jabloteh 4
Kerlon Ferguson (12), (40), Andrei Pacheco (55), Kevin Modeste (59)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Willis Plaza (30), (79), Hector Sam (71), Luke Gullick (89)
W Connection 4 North East Stars 1
Shahdon Winchester (34), Mekeil Williams (37), Hughton Hector (53), Jerrel Britto (75)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Stern John (81)
Stern score on debut
Post by: FireBrand on September 20, 2011, 08:44:28 PM
Results for today's matches
T&TEC 4 Adams Construction San Juan Jabloteh 4
Kerlon Ferguson (12), (40), Andrei Pacheco (55), Kevin Modeste (59)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Willis Plaza (30), (79), Hector Sam (71), Luke Gullick (89)
W Connection 4 North East Stars 1
Shahdon Winchester (34), Mekeil Williams (37), Hughton Hector (53), Jerrel Britto (75)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Stern John (81)
Hard luck dey John 14 and Stars...hope we can kick into gear soon. Good to see de W Connection young guns blazing so early in the season though. Hope dey continue to shine and eventually ship out. I await de FS report.
Post by: Deeks on September 20, 2011, 09:29:10 PM
Post by: FF on September 20, 2011, 09:46:34 PM
somebody, tell me why Hector not on the national team. Atleast on the bench.
He play against India... so he only really miss two game ;D
Post by: Football supporter on September 21, 2011, 12:02:10 AM
Results for today's matches
T&TEC 4 Adams Construction San Juan Jabloteh 4
Kerlon Ferguson (12), (40), Andrei Pacheco (55), Kevin Modeste (59)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Willis Plaza (30), (79), Hector Sam (71), Luke Gullick (89)
W Connection 4 North East Stars 1
Shahdon Winchester (34), Mekeil Williams (37), Hughton Hector (53), Jerrel Britto (75)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Stern John (81)
Hard luck dey John 14 and Stars...hope we can kick into gear soon. Good to see de W Connection young guns blazing so early in the season though. Hope dey continue to shine and eventually ship out. I await de FS report.
Will send a report, but too gutted at moment. Real disapointed :cursing:
Post by: Jack Horner on September 21, 2011, 05:47:30 AM
W Connection 4 North East Stars 1
Shahdon Winchester (34), Mekeil Williams (37), Hughton Hector (53), Jerrel Britto (75)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Stern John (81)
This is where the goats are seperated from the sheeps.
Shurland David is a coach.... :rotfl:
Gordon, Cruickshank, Connell and Jagdeosingh are North East biggest problems.
Cruickshank and Connell are ok workers, they just play without any brains.
Durant, Glasgow, Pollard and Velox should retire, there are to many young good players in T&T to be ignored and North East does not have a good youth program so they will suffer.
Post by: andre samuel on September 21, 2011, 06:06:51 AM
Post by: Trini _2026 on September 21, 2011, 08:02:03 AM
Post by: Deeks on September 21, 2011, 11:12:24 AM
Post by: Trini _2026 on September 21, 2011, 12:32:25 PM
Post by: weary1969 on September 21, 2011, 02:30:01 PM
North East Stars still doing better than Joe Public, because they are in the Proleague.
ENTTTTTTTTTTT
Post by: FireBrand on September 21, 2011, 04:03:48 PM
http://www.youtube.com/v/mZ34kXEb794
Hector 10 yet again!!!
Post by: Football supporter on September 21, 2011, 10:48:05 PM
You would already have seen the highlights, so I won't bore you with the details. Stars preperation was affected by Gary Glasgow going down with Dengue and kudos to Kaydion "Drogba" Gabriel who played with high energy despite also suffering from dengue.
It was clear that North East were weak on the left hand side with Power constantly having to cover the left back position leaving Pollard and Cruickshank exposed. Combine this with the pace of the Connection attack and North East were punished 3 times.
However, I feel that the W Connection results may mislead people. They are hitting the net, but they are also missing chances. Once teams learn to deal with Hector and take the game to Connection, I feel these youngsters may get a wake up call. The Connection defence like to pass the ball and often this play leads to very fast moving breaks, however, in the first 30 minutes, North East played high up the pitch, denying Connection the chance to build. I also feel that teams can unsettle Connection with more aggressive physical play. It was interesting to note that Stars received no yellow cards, indicating that there was a lack of passion in tackling.
This was a good display by Connection, but it was as much due to Stars poor performances than Connections ability. North East left huge gaps which Connection took advantage of well. Stars seemed to play without any team work or passion for large tracts of this match. Stern John was disapointed that he didn't score early on and feels that had he connected better with his header and scored, the outcome would have been different. I disagree, as the same gaps would have been exploited by Connection. However, kudos for John playing his first competetive 90 minutes since his injury last year and he took his goal well, which should send out a warning.
North East now have to look to themselves to salvage something against Caledonia. Its simple...win or you're out! Even more interesting is that North East and Caledonia play each other again on Tuesday in the Pro League!
Disappointing for North East supporters, but they will be bringing even more "Estrellas" to Fridays game and hope, this time, they can influence the game a little more.
Post by: theworm2345 on September 22, 2011, 06:48:20 PM
Post by: FireBrand on September 22, 2011, 06:53:23 PM
OK, first, sorry I didn't supply match report sooner, but I was too vexed to write anything after the game!
You would already have seen the highlights, so I won't bore you with the details. Stars preperation was affected by Gary Glasgow going down with Dengue and kudos to Kaydion "Drogba" Gabriel who played with high energy despite also suffering from dengue.
It was clear that North East were weak on the left hand side with Power constantly having to cover the left back position leaving Pollard and Cruickshank exposed. Combine this with the pace of the Connection attack and North East were punished 3 times.
However, I feel that the W Connection results may mislead people. They are hitting the net, but they are also missing chances. Once teams learn to deal with Hector and take the game to Connection, I feel these youngsters may get a wake up call. The Connection defence like to pass the ball and often this play leads to very fast moving breaks, however, in the first 30 minutes, North East played high up the pitch, denying Connection the chance to build. I also feel that teams can unsettle Connection with more aggressive physical play. It was interesting to note that Stars received no yellow cards, indicating that there was a lack of passion in tackling.
This was a good display by Connection, but it was as much due to Stars poor performances than Connections ability. North East left huge gaps which Connection took advantage of well. Stars seemed to play without any team work or passion for large tracts of this match. Stern John was disapointed that he didn't score early on and feels that had he connected better with his header and scored, the outcome would have been different. I disagree, as the same gaps would have been exploited by Connection. However, kudos for John playing his first competetive 90 minutes since his injury last year and he took his goal well, which should send out a warning.
North East now have to look to themselves to salvage something against Caledonia. Its simple...win or you're out! Even more interesting is that North East and Caledonia play each other again on Tuesday in the Pro League!
Disappointing for North East supporters, but they will be bringing even more "Estrellas" to Fridays game and hope, this time, they can influence the game a little more.
Thanks FS. :beermug:
Post by: Deeks on September 22, 2011, 09:55:58 PM
Post by: elan on September 22, 2011, 10:23:08 PM
Post by: Football supporter on September 22, 2011, 11:05:42 PM
Who is NE goalkeeper? Was he a normal player from the field? At least 3 of those goals were routine saves. Not good.
LOL. It was Andrew Durrant. Although Stars can point to goalkeeping errors in both of their games so far, its worth remembering that keepers are entitled to some protection from their team mates! That said, we have seen a lot of goalkeeping errors in all games so far so its worth taking a speculative shot now and again.
Post by: Football supporter on September 23, 2011, 07:48:08 AM
St Anns vs Jabloteh will be interesting too. A draw would see Jabloteh going through on goals scored, so Rangers have to win. I really hope more folks from this site can get to the matches. St Anns vs Jab at 5pm, NES vs Cali at 7pm. $30 entry, ladies free before 5.45pm.
Post by: Sam on September 24, 2011, 08:23:28 AM
Post by: Football supporter on September 24, 2011, 09:34:03 AM
So heres a brief.
Jabloteh 2 - 1 St Anns Rangers
Caledonia 2 - 0 North East Stars
Before I began writing, I was pissed off, now I'm really vexed!! So all I will do is quote the great Bill Shankly:
"Some people believe football is a matter of life and death, I am very disappointed with that attitude. I can assure you it is much, much more important than that."
Post by: Jack Horner on September 24, 2011, 09:54:42 AM
North East Stars still doing better than Joe Public, because they are in the Proleague.
Let me finish that sentence for you Mr Andre.
North East Stars still doing better than Joe Public, because they are in the Proleague getting their butts kicked game after game.
Joe Public is already $50,000 richer and is aiming for the first price now.
If North East is better because they compete in the so called Pro league where no one gets prize money, so be it.
And if they continue playing the way they currently are by next season they will be playing in the Super League with a retired 11 who is over priced.
Pollard and Velox is already 40, what can they do, I am sure their legs are weary after 60 minutes ? they are even older than their coach Shurland David. :rotfl:
I hope they sign their CEO now Sancho, they need help in defence, even though Sancho is known for giving away penalties and scoring own goals.
They were counting on winning everything this year, now they are back peddling.
If anyone here knows the CEO for North East Stars please let them know I could arrange to have Derek King coach their team on my tab. Or maybe they should call back James McClean from Guyana, he did ok with them back in the days.
Shurland David is a coach :rotfl: :rotfl: Can he motivate the players to come back, I doubt that, he can't even talk properly.
T&TEC is a new team in the Pro League and they are UNBEATEN in 4 games, not bad.
Jack will raise again !!!!!
Post by: Football supporter on September 24, 2011, 11:11:48 AM
Joe Public were part of the board that voted to defer prize money distribution until the govt paid their money. But wait, isn't Jack Warner part of that govt? So, if I understand you correct, Mr Horner, you feel that Jack and his government are responsible for Joe Public leaving the Pro League?
Well, I sincerley hope you write to Mr Warner with your complaint and stop wasting our time here.
"Joe Public is already $50,000 richer and is aiming for the first price now." Congratulations...sincerely, I have a lot of friends at JP and I'm pleased for them. Not sure what the first "price" is...maybe you should get a keyboard with a "z" on it? However, I'm sure that teams like Nottingham Forest could winthe Championship in England if Tottenham run away from the Premiership and gave their players to Forest. Its easy to step down and beat teams that are below your standard.
Post by: Jack Horner on September 24, 2011, 11:23:02 AM
"If North East is better because they compete in the so called Pro league where no one gets prize money, so be it."
Joe Public were part of the board that voted to defer prize money distribution until the govt paid their money. But wait, isn't Jack Warner part of that govt? So, if I understand you correct, Mr Horner, you feel that Jack and his government are responsible for Joe Public leaving the Pro League?
Well, I sincerley hope you write to Mr Warner with your complaint and stop wasting our time here.
"Joe Public is already $50,000 richer and is aiming for the first price now." Congratulations...sincerely, I have a lot of friends at JP and I'm pleased for them. Not sure what the first "price" is...maybe you should get a keyboard with a "z" on it? However, I'm sure that teams like Nottingham Forest could winthe Championship in England if Tottenham run away from the Premiership and gave their players to Forest. Its easy to step down and beat teams that are below your standard.
You sound like you have a serious toothache Pal.
I sense that you are upset, however if you can read English, you will see that Joe Public only uses 2 players from their Pro League team.
Toussaint and Tinto, all the other players and coaches were sold or released, maybe North East Stars should have bought some, with the price tag of Stern John you could have gotten 2 maybe 3 Joe Public players.
Did you read this story as yet ?
Joe Public surge forward (http://www.socawarriors.net/league/league-news/national-super-league/9547-joe-public-surge-forward.html)
Post by: Football supporter on September 24, 2011, 01:28:27 PM
"If North East is better because they compete in the so called Pro league where no one gets prize money, so be it."
Joe Public were part of the board that voted to defer prize money distribution until the govt paid their money. But wait, isn't Jack Warner part of that govt? So, if I understand you correct, Mr Horner, you feel that Jack and his government are responsible for Joe Public leaving the Pro League?
Well, I sincerley hope you write to Mr Warner with your complaint and stop wasting our time here.
"Joe Public is already $50,000 richer and is aiming for the first price now." Congratulations...sincerely, I have a lot of friends at JP and I'm pleased for them. Not sure what the first "price" is...maybe you should get a keyboard with a "z" on it? However, I'm sure that teams like Nottingham Forest could winthe Championship in England if Tottenham run away from the Premiership and gave their players to Forest. Its easy to step down and beat teams that are below your standard.
You sound like you have a serious toothache Pal.
I sense that you are upset, however if you can read English, you will see that Joe Public only uses 2 players from their Pro League team.
Toussaint and Tinto, all the other players and coaches were sold or released, maybe North East Stars should have bought some, with the price tag of Stern John you could have gotten 2 maybe 3 Joe Public players.
Did you read this story as yet ?
Joe Public surge forward (http://www.socawarriors.net/league/league-news/national-super-league/9547-joe-public-surge-forward.html)
You're right. Stern John was free, so we could have had dozens of JP rejects. In fact we did actually reject some players who were panicked after being treated so disrespectfully by the Warners. Maybe you should take the $50k you crow about and hand it out to those people you made unemployed?
Post by: Jack Horner on September 24, 2011, 02:51:04 PM
You're right. Stern John was free, so we could have had dozens of JP rejects. In fact we did actually reject some players who were panicked after being treated so disrespectfully by the Warners. Maybe you should take the $50k you crow about and hand it out to those people you made unemployed?
I think you really need to go back to school Pal, maybe you went to a Junior Secondary in Toco. ?
I was never referring to a transfer fee, I was talking about his salary which I have sure its a heafty sum.
Like the national team these men do not come cheap, a next reason why Sancho's best friend Kelvin Jack refuse to sign with North East, its all about the green.
Post by: Football supporter on September 24, 2011, 04:57:31 PM
You're right. Stern John was free, so we could have had dozens of JP rejects. In fact we did actually reject some players who were panicked after being treated so disrespectfully by the Warners. Maybe you should take the $50k you crow about and hand it out to those people you made unemployed?
I think you really need to go back to school Pal, maybe you went to a Junior Secondary in Toco. ?
I was never referring to a transfer fee, I was talking about his salary which I have sure its a heafty sum.
Like the national team these men do not come cheap, a next reason why Sancho's best friend Kelvin Jack refuse to sign with North East, its all about the green.
Pal, you're the idiot that needs to go to school, or maybe it was your pal Jack who taught you incorrectly? You said: "the price tag of Stern John" If you meant salary, you should have said so. As for Kelvin Jack, you should speak about what you know, not what you guess.
Post by: Tallman on September 25, 2011, 05:57:00 PM
Post by: breezers on September 30, 2011, 07:42:18 PM
2011 First Citizens Cup
Quarterfinal Day One
Friday 16 September
Hasely Crawford Stadium
T&TEC FC vs St. Anns Rangers5pm
W Connection vs Caledonia AIA7pm
Quarterfinal Day Two
Tuesday 20 September
Hasely Crawford Stadium
T&TEC FC vs San Juan Jabloteh5pm
Connection vs North East Stars7pm
Quarterfinal Day Three
Friday 23 September
Hasely Crawford Stadium
St. Anns Rangers vs San Juan Jabloteh5pm
Caledonia AIA vs North East Stars7pm
Semi Final Round
Friday 30 September
Final
Friday 14 October
Semi final 1: Caledonia: 2 (Jamal Gay both) vs Jabloteh:1 (M. Oliver pen)
Semi Final 2: T&TEC:1 (R. Aguilera) vs W Conn: 1 (Britto) >>>> T&TEC adv 4-3 on pks
Friday 14th final: Caledonia vs T&TEC
Post by: soccerrama on September 30, 2011, 08:28:59 PM
Marvin Oliver (34)
Jamal Gay (47), (66)
W Connection 1 T&TEC 1
Jerrel Britto (70)
Romauld Aguillera (21)
(T&TEC won 4-3 on kicks from the penalty spot)
Post by: Sam on October 01, 2011, 04:59:33 AM
T&TEC is unbeaten and Clayton Imps didn't even play.
Post by: Tallman on October 02, 2011, 08:00:00 AM
ttproleague.com
W Connection may be sporting some of the brightest young talents in Trinidad and Tobago football, however former players Romauld Aguillera and Kelvin Modeste haunted the Stuart Charles Fevrier coached side on Friday night in the second semi-final of the 2011 First Citizens Cup.
T&TEC making its debut in tournament this season, shocked all with a 4-3 kicks from the penalty spot victory following a 1-1 draw over the six-time winners, with former Connection player Modeste burying the winning penalty against goalkeeper Aquilius Sylvester.
T&TEC will meet Caledonia AIA in the Final on Friday 14 October at the Hasely Crawford Stadium both with a chance to lift the title for the first time.
It was another former Connection player, Romauld Aguillera that gave T&TEC a 1-0 advantage in the 21st minute after bouncing a pass off teammate Sylvester Teesdale and slotting a low shot past Sylvester.
Both sides struggled to settle against each other in the opening period, but in the second period Connection dominated chances.
Teenaged substitute Jomol Williams was introduced by Fevrier on the hour mark and his first touch on the ball was a shot on goal which was foiled safely by goalkeeper Akini Adams.
Seconds later Williams picked up a yellow card for a useless foul, however his side leveled the scores 1-1 in the 70th minute through another teenager Jerrel Britto who executed a superb strike from inside the area after the T&TEC defence failed to clear a crossed ball by Shahdon Winchester.
It was Brittos fourth goal in as many games for his new club, netting in every game.
Hector who has four goals in the tournament and went on to smash in the first kick from the penalty spot had a decent shot from distance just overbar and seven minutes from regulation time his low whipped in cross which defeated the backline found substitute Neil Benjamin at the far post, but the 17 yearolds shot on goal was blocked out by goalkeeper Adams.
And in the final regular time minute yet another former Connection midfielder Andre Pacheco saw his free kick from the right crash onto the crossbar and onto goalkeeper Sylvester and back into play, in what was inches short of giving T&TEC a regulation time victory.
However 24 yearold goalkeeper Adams starting in his second game for T&TEC with first choice goalkeeper Clayton Ince still out with an injured shoukder made two saves from the penalty kicks, denying Connections third (Joevin Jones) and fifth (Jerrel Britto) kicks setting up his teammate Modeste for the winner, in which the midfielder converted with confidence.
In the earlier semi-final contest Caledonia registered a 2-1 comeback victory over rivals San Juan Jabloteh with striker Jamal Gay netting both items.
W Connection 3 T&TEC FC 4
Hughton Hector(scored) Romauld Aguillera(scored)
Mekeil Williams(scored) Coneal Thomas(saved)
Joevin Jones(saved) Anthony Noriega(scored)
Rennie Britto(scored) Sylvester Teesdale(scored)
Jerrel Britto(saved) Kelvin Modeste(scored)
Regular time result W Connection 11 T&TEC FC
Jerrel Britto 70 ; Romauld Aguillera 21
San Juan Jabloteh 12 Caledonia AIA
Marvin Oliver 34(pen) ; Jamal Gay 47, 66
W ConnectionAquilius Sylvester(gk), Hughton Hector(capt.), Mekeil Williams, Akeem Benjamin, Kenaz Williams, Joevin Jones, Kerron Cummings(Jomol Williams 60th)(Y), Shahdon Winchester, Andre Quashie(Neil Benjamin 46th), Jerrel Britto, Kern Cupid(Rennie Britto 29th)
CoachStuart Charles Fevrier
T&TEC FCAkini Adams(capt.), Kern Peters(capt.), Anthony Noriega, Coneal Thomas, Romauld Aguillera, Sylvester Teesdale, Vurlon Mills(Daniel Garcia 80th), Andrei Pacheco, Kerlon Furguson(Bevon Lewis 74th), Kevin Modeste, Akeem Adams
CoachDexter Cyrus
Post by: Tallman on October 03, 2011, 11:16:50 AM
http://www.youtube.com/v/Cojpj3z2s9s
Post by: Tallman on October 06, 2011, 07:54:08 PM
ttproleague.com
Its not all about winning, enlightened W Connection head coach Stuart Charles Fevrier in an interview with ttproleague.com this week.
Connection, six-time winner of the First Citizens Cup and eight-time finalist, went under 4-3 on penalty kicks against T&TEC FC on Friday night at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in the semi-final round following a 1-1 draw.
We always try and win everything that we play in, but winning is not everything. We want to win with quality and although we were defeated in the semi-finals we are playing quality football, Fevrier said.
So I was still quite pleased with our effort (against T&TEC), continued the St. Lucian.
He added, Our players have been together for twelve weeks. Its a very young team and we have been showing a lot of progress.
Connection conceded a first half goal scored by former player Romauld Aguillera in the 21st minute, but leveled the scores 1-1 in the 70th minute with a strike from 19 yearold Jerrel Britto who has scored in all four games played for the Fevrier coached side this season.
Britto a newcomer to Connection this season, is one of the many teenaged names in Fevriers squad made up of mostly U23 players with the likes of Shahdon Winchester, Kenaz Williams, Jomol Williams, Neil Benjamin, Akeem Benjamin, Mekeil Williams, goalkeeper Andre Marchan and 16 year-old Matthew Woo Ling.
I just thought on the day I was still satisfied with play, continued the Connection coach. A draw was a fair result. Both teams didnt create much scoring opportunities, and we just lost on penalties. It happens to a lot of good teams, so I put pressure on the players.
Although we had more control of the game, we didnt create many chances. T&TEC always played with numbers behind the ball and it made it difficult for us to penetrate them, said Fevrier.
When asked about his personal disappointment of not reaching this years Final, of the tournament he won in 2001, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, Fevrier responded, Personally I dont study these things when it comes to past records and so on. I just keep working hard and try my best to win everything. And that has always been the effort of W Connection. Try and win everything that we play in. We are back on the training pitch now and it remains the same that we are going to attempt to win everything left to play in.
Post by: Football supporter on September 19, 2012, 03:38:54 PM
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
Post by: Tallman on September 20, 2012, 01:38:07 PM
ttproleague.com
Last season's First Citizens Cup winner Caledonia AIA and runner-up T&TEC FC will meet eachother in the quarter-final round of this year's tournament on Friday 21 September.
The match-up was totally coincidental in Wednesday's random draw during the launch of the 2012 First Citizens Cup at the First Citizens Corporate Box at the Queens Park Oval, Port of Spain.
Caledonia's Kareem Joseph was the first to pull from eight secretly numbered cards respective to spots in the quarterfinal round. He was immediately followed by T&TEC midfielder Keeron Benito who to the delight of Caledonia coach, Jamaal Shabazz, pulled the card that pits the 'Electric Boys' against the defending champion.
Other quarter-final round clashes include six-time winner W Connection against Police FC from 6pm at the Mannie Ramjohn Stadium, and two hours later (8pm) at the Marabella venue, Defence Force are against debutant Central FC.
And prior to the T&TEC, Caledonia contest from 8pm at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, North East Stars and St. Ann's Rangers will challenge eachother from 6pm at the Port of Spain venue.
The semi-final round will follow on Friday 28 September and the Final on Friday 5 October. The winner of the tournament will lift the prestigious crystal trophy and $80,000.00 while $20,000.00 goes to the runner-up.
Warren Sookdar, Chief Information Officer at First Citizens, opened his remarks by quoting American football coach Anson Dorrance: The vision of a champion is someone who is bent over, drenched in sweat and at the point of exhaustion, when no one else is watching.
He told the audience, As we are about to start another thrilling First Citizens Cup, I am sure that all of this year's participating teams have had this experience in the months spent preparing to compete on the field in hopes of overthrowing defending champion, Caledonia. And for one team, their efforts will be realised on the Final day when there will be a cheque in one hand and a magnificent cup in the other.
First Citizens awarded the League $350,000.00 for this season's tournament which will also financially reward the tournaments Top Goalscorer, the Player of the Tournament and the Player of each Match.
The fans will also have a change at prizes themselves with the 'Biggest Cooler Crew' and 'Dash for Cash' promotions.
This eleven year partnership has promoted the development of raw talent and as the only truly local bank, we are committed to enhancing our youth through their development in education and sport, Sookdar continued.
I must commend the TT Pro League for their efforts of finding innovative ways to improve football and for grooming our youth, not just into professional athletes but well rounded individuals.
Sookdar told clubs that First Citizens recognise the hard work put into preparing athletes to vie for the ultimate title and went further to share a quote from Vince Lombardi who said if winning isn't everything, why do we keep score?
He concluded, So in the spirit of these words, I urge all teams to put their winning foot forward because in this tournament there is no room for losers!
Earlier League CEO Dexter Skeene applauded the financial institution for its commitment which spans over a decade.
I am delighted that First Citizens, one of the premier financial services groups in T&T and the best rated indigenous financial institutions in the English speaking Caribbean, continues to be our partner and title sponsor of the premier club knockout competition in Trinidad and Tobago, and more so, they have agreed to continue their association with us, said Skeene.
The former T&T international continued, The first citizens Cup is a coveted prize in local sport.
But more than just the Cup or the competition it is the act of faith whereby First Citizens is saying that our vision, mission, corporate image and attributes and the TT Pro League's values align, and as such First Citizens are willing to associate their brand with the TT Pro League.
Our association with First Citizens demands that we strive for excellence always. It demands that we continue to go the extra mile towards making the TT Pro League and the clubs viable and sustainable. Let us continue to strive to achieve this goal by making this edition of the First Citizens Cup the most memorable and exciting,
2012 First Citizens Cup Quarter Final Round
Friday 21 September
Hasely Crawford Stadium
North East Stars vs St. Ann's Rangers6pm
T&TEC FC vs Caledonia AIA8pm
Mannie Ramjohn Stadium
W Connection vs Police FC6pm
Defence Force vs Central FC8pm
Friday 28 September
Semi Final Round
Friday 5 October
Final
Post by: Tallman on September 20, 2012, 04:53:40 PM
ttproleague.com
Caledonia AIA Coach Jamaal Shabazz and North East Stars Coach Angus Eve were key players in friendly banter during the launch of the 2012 First Citizens Cup on Wednesday afternoon.
The duo among other coaches, players and even W Connection Marketing Manager Renee John-Williams joined in to add some flare to this seasons competition well before the kickoff on Friday in the quarter-final round.
It was a problem to get back the trophy from the supporters, and you know the people of Morvant/Laventille, joked Shabazz, who guided Caledonia to the title last season defeating T&TEC FC 2-1 in the Final.
The always charismatic Caledonia coach joked further saying he even tried getting the assistance of the Minister of National Security and Port of Spain Mayor to retrieve the trophy from his supporters.
Finally he said, I had to get two soldiers to go and get the trophy. So you see how tough it would be to part with the trophy. So we look forward to the semi-finals.
Coincidently by a random draw on Wednesday at the First Citizens Corporate Box at the Queens Park Oval on Wednesday, T&TEC and Caledonia will face eachother in the quarter-final round at the Hasely Crawford Stadium from 8pm, with North East Stars against St. Anns Rangers in the earlier match from 6pm at the Port of Spain venue.
Other quarter-final round clashes include six-time winner W Connection against Police FC from 6pm at the Mannie Ramjohn Stadium, and from 8pm, Defence Force takes on debutant Central FC.
The semi-final round will follow on Friday 28 September and the Final on Friday 5 October. The winner of the tournament will lift the prestigious trophy and $80,000.00 while $20,000.00 goes to the runner-up.
Firing back at Shabazzs confidence, T&TEC FC captain Keeron Benito said, Id just like to say first of all, [Mr. Shabazz] is a very entertaining kind of guy. But right now I want to say that our guys are really ready to play. I dont think T&TEC is under any pressure. I believe Cale is under all the pressure right now so thats a positive for us going into the game.
Meantime Eve who guided North East Stars to a 3-1 Digicel Pro League win over Caledonia last weekend is also looking ahead to the semi-final round.
He told quarter-final round opponents Rangers, All yuh gone already.
However Eve was quick to add, All competitions are tough. I think people dont give the Pro League the respect it should get.
Rangers defensive midfielder Mikhail Awai seemed down to business.
He said, With all the talk I have a lot of respect for people like Jamaal Shabazz and Angus Eve, but honestly what they say doesnt matter to me. We are coming here to play a football match, not talking in a conference.
While Police Head Coach Richard Hood, coming off a 2-1 win over T&TEC in the League, is hoping to capitalize on Connections 3-2 loss to Guatemalan club Xelaju on Tuesday night in the CONCACAF Champions League group stage.
He said, It would be really good for us to make a positive statement by beating them on Friday. I looked at their game (against Xelaju) and saw some areas that I feel we can exploit and just the fact that they played (Tuesday) they may be a little on the tired side. Also the fact that they lost; there may be a dip in confidence.
But John-Williams was quick to defend her club.
She warned, W Connection is no stranger to the first Citizens Cup and we have won this trophy time and time again. And this year would be no different. We would be coming at Police to win. Weve won the competition six times and been in the Final nine times and that alone speaks for itself. We are coming very motivated to regain the title. Try your best, but we dont go down very easily.
Defence Force also voiced confidence and seems ready to learn on the run against newcomers Central FC.
Not knowing about your opponent is a difficult thing, said the Soldiers assistant coach Marvin Gordon. Central FC is a new team in the League and we dont know much about them, so I think Ross (Russell) and I will have to learn on the run on Friday.
But in our camp we are confident and I think since weve put together the Defence Force team in previous seasons, I think this is the best we ever had. We are high in confidence and playing good football. So I have no doubt in my mind that on Friday we will have the right result.
Gordon said he is anxious to meet the loud talking North East Stars in the semi-final round.
You know the mouthers, he said. Those are the teams I want to play against.
(http://www.ttproleague.com/images/stories/jamaal.png)
Post by: Football supporter on September 20, 2012, 07:47:58 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FeAb-xq8oxg
Post by: TheLegend on September 20, 2012, 09:05:38 PM
Post by: Football supporter on September 20, 2012, 10:15:05 PM
Will be there and looking forward to getting my first look at Central FC in person this seasons.
:beermug:
Post by: amwood on September 21, 2012, 10:30:58 PM
Post by: Flex on September 23, 2012, 05:54:54 AM
ttproleague.com.
St. Anns Rangers surprised high flying North East Stars 2-1 in the first of a First Citizens Cup quarterfinal round double header at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Friday night.
Jason Marcano had Rangers ahead by the 28th minute, tapping in from close up to beat goalkeeper Cleon John for the 1-0 advantage, as teammate Jamal Jack remained slumped to the ground after hitting his head on the upright in an attempt to score.
Nevertheless Rangers celebrated; Jack returned to full action with little injury, and North East Stars had a game on.
Stars' centre forward Cornell Glen who packed in a solid shift for the Sangre Grande club, leveled the scores 1-1 in the 67th minute.
The former LA Galaxy striker made easy of a left side cross by Kevon Villarael to head past goalkeeper Zane Coker.
But three minutes later, the Stars dimmed.
Rangers midfielder Devon Modeste had the St. Ann's club in front again by the 70th minute with a 2-1 score.
Modeste raced in at the back post to meet Cameron Roget's header across goal and made no mistake as he flung in to get a shot past goalkeeper John.
Rangers moved into the semi-final round and will meet Defence Force on Friday 28 September. Defence Force rallied to a 3-0 win over Pro League debutants Central FC in their quarterfinal clash at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium with forward Richard Roy bagging two (48th and 70th minutes) and strike partner Devorn Jorlsing adding one in the 90th minute.
At the Hasely Crawford Stadium, North East Stars should have found the net in the 13th minute, however Coker was well poised to make a stop against Kerry Baptiste who latched onto a short pass forward by Glen.
A minute later Modeste unleashed an effort from the right of the box, thanks to a great diagonal ball by Marcano, however it was easily wrapped by John.
Modeste was denied again by John in the 18th minute, canceling out a shot from outside the area.
Modeste was involved again two minutes later, hustling the Stars defense, and somewhat creating an effort by Cameron Roget. But that too was taken easily by John.
Rangers centre back Elijah Belgrave also got on the statistics in the 25th minute with a strike from distance that flew a couple feet wide.
Glen stormed back for Stars, but was inches wide of the upright when he controlled a long forward pass and raced into the area.
The former T&T striker continued to prove too much for the Rangers defense and in the 33rd minute pulled off another effort but was blanked by Coker.
Coker, who helped Caledonia win the First Citizens Cup last season, was fortunate not to concede two minutes before the break as Glen blasted wide with the goalie at his mercy.
Coker's goal was under treat again eleven minutes into the second period when Baptiste's curling effort flew inches past the upper corner.
Baptiste tried his luck again in the 63rd minute, this time from distance, and Coker pulled off an excellent save pushing it behind.
In other results Caledonia scored an early double to defeat T&TEC FC 2-0 in the second quarterfinal at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, and W Connection finished 3-1 on kicks from the mark against Police FC following a goalless draw.
2012 First Citizens Cup
Quarter Final Round results
North East Stars 12 St. Ann's Rangers
Cornell Glen 67 ; Jason Marcano 28', Devon Modeste 70
W Connection (3) 0--0 (1) Police FC
W Connection won 3-1 on penalties
T&TEC FC 0--2 Caledonia AIA
Keyon Edwards 5, Sheldon Holder 9'
Defence Force 3--0 Central FC
Richard Roy 48', 70', Devorn Jorsling 90'
Teams
North East StarsCleon John, Seon Power (capt.), Cornell Glen, Jean-Luc Rochford (Kaydion Gabriel 46th), Kareem Moses, Kerry Baptiste, Elijah Manners, Jeromie Williams (Johan Peltier 72nd), Kevon Villarael, Jayson Joseph, Glenton Wolfe (Kennedy Hinkson 46th)
CoachAngus Eve
St. Ann's RangersZane Coker, Jamal Jack (Yellow Card), Devon Modeste, Elijah Belgrave, Jason Marcano (Yellow Card), Hector Sam (Yellow Card), Christon Thomas (Yellow Card), Cameron Roget, Kadeem Drayton, Andrew Smith (Nicholas Castellanos 80th), Mikhail Awai
CoachDean Pacheco
Post by: Flex on September 24, 2012, 05:30:00 AM
ttproleague.com.
Defending champion Caledonia AIA and six-time winner W Connection are into semi-final round of the First Citizens Cup and would face eachother on Friday 28 September.
While Defence Force, 3-0 winner over Central FC, and St. Ann's Rangers, 2-1 winner against North East Stars, will clash in the other semi-final.
Caledonia completed an early 2-0 win against last season's finalist T&TEC FC on Friday night at the Hasely Crawford Stadium with Keyon Edwards (5th minute) and Sheldon Holder (9th minute) the goalscorers.
Holder first set up the Edwards' goal after weaving his way around right-back Marc Hunte and his early cross was met perfectly by Edwards who volleyed past goalkeeper Akini Adams for a 1-0 score.
Holder made it 2-0 four minutes later when he guided in a miscued effort by Conrod Smith which flew across the face of goal.
Connection meantime, had to work overtime against Police FC for a 3-1 penalty win at the Mannie Ramjohn Stadium following a goalless match.
But should have wrapped a win in the 85th minute from the penalty spot. Connection were awarded a penalty following a handball inside the area off Rennie Britto free kick however Clyde Leon was denied by goalkeeper Emmanuel Nurse.
Despite celebrating Nurse's shutout, the Lawmen were down to ten men for the final few minutes after Trent Noel picked up a second yellow card during his protest against the penalty call.
Further north, Caledonia seemed settled by its early two-goal margin while T&TEC were fortunate not to concede another item in the 18th minute when Nathan Lewis headed wide after he was found free at the back post by Kareem Josephs cross.
T&TEC had rare looks at goal with Javed Mohammed hitting wide from distance in the 49th minute and substitute Kevon Neaves forcing a good save out of goalkeeper Glenroy Samuel in the 76th minute.
Jamaal Shabazz's side was blanked a third item in the 83rd minute when substitute Abdallah Phillips' well struck half volley was wrapped by a fully sprawled Adams.
And two minutes later, another substitute, Trevin Caesar curled an effort just wide after eluding defender Hunte.
The 'Electric Boys' then got their best opening during injury time when substitute Simeon Augustus controlled a Bevon Bass cross inside the area and hooked a shot at goal, however Samuel was well positioned to make a comfortable gather.
Soon afterwards Caledonia's healthy possession saw the Morvant/Laventille execute a smooth buildup which ended with Lewis' strike wide of the target.
Results
T&TEC FC 02 Caledonia AIA
Keyon Edwards 5, Sheldon Holder 9
Teams
T&TEC FCAkini Adams, Keeron Benito (capt.) (Simeon Augustus 80th), Cebastian Bailey, Javed Mohammed, Angus John, Eustace Darius, Desta Francis, Tigana Sparks (Kevon Neaves 46th) (Yellow Card), Bevon Bass, Brent Garcia, Marc Hunte (Kern Peters 60th)
Coach--Jefferson George
Caledonia AIA--Glenroy Samuel, Conrad Smith (capt.) (Yellow Card) (Stephan David 78th minute), Colin Nelson, Cornelius Stewart (Abdallah Phillips 73rd), Keyon Edwards, Kareem Joseph, Walter Moore, Densill Theobald, Kemron Purcell, Nathan Lewis, Sheldon Holder (Trevin Caesar 46th) (Yellow Card)
Coach--Jamaal Shabazz
Post by: Tallman on September 25, 2012, 02:57:25 PM
Post by: Tallman on September 26, 2012, 10:57:21 AM
Post by: Tallman on September 28, 2012, 06:20:53 AM
ttproleague.com
This is our time! hollered St. Anns Rangers veteran utility player Devon Modeste.
Modeste scored the winner against Digicel Pro League leaders North East Stars in a 2-1 quarterfinal win last Friday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium and is very confident that his team can defeat Defence Force in the semifinal round to reach the Final.
Rangers and two-time winner Defence Force will play in semi-final one on Friday 28 September at the Hasely Crawford Stadium from 6pm and at 8pm six-time winner W Connection and defending champion Caledonia AIA will tackle each other in semifinal two.
With the team we now have, Rangers can reach the Final and win it, added Modeste confidently.
It will be a hard game but weve done our preparations for them and will make it easy. Our entire team is ready for the match. We are all excited and are doing the right things. Its big time now, or no time and we are all aware of this. We cant say when we will reach another semi-final so we have to do our best now.
Modeste said the team received a boost knowing that they played the team (North East Stars) on top the League and beat them in the semifinal round.
If Rangers were to defeat Defence Force and reach the Final of the 2012 First Citizens Cup, it would be only the second Final reached in the clubs history since joining the TT Pro League in 2006.
It was in 2007, under then coach Anthony Streete that Rangers reached the Final of the (Courts) Pro Bowl but lost to W Connection on penalties following a 2-2 draw.
Today the St. Anns club is coached by former player Dean Pacheco, who was a member of the team in 2007, and he is equipped with a generally new squad.
Talented goalkeeper Zane Coker, sturdy defender Jamal Jack, Elijah Belgrave, youthful Kadeem Drayton, Christon Thomas, Modeste, experienced Hector Sam, T&T U23 forward Cameron Roget, rookie Andrew Smith, Mikhail Awai and opening goalscorer against North East Stars, Jason Marcano, makes up the nucleus of Pachecos squad.
Post by: Sam on September 28, 2012, 06:35:35 AM
http://www.youtube.com/v/7t5ZVRtSFzE
Ross Russell say "ah think" about 50 times, wha a f**king loser.....
Post by: Football supporter on September 28, 2012, 07:19:43 AM
Post by: SWF Reporter on September 28, 2012, 08:05:38 PM
By Lasana Liburd (Wired868).
Defence Force will play in the first knock out final of the 2012/13 season after a 2-1 win over St Anns Rangers this evening in the First Citizens Cup semifinal at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Port of Spain.
The army/coast guard combination would face the winner of tonights meeting between Caribbean champions Neal & Massy Caledonia AIA and runners-up DirecTV W Connection next Friday at the same venue.
Almost certainly, Defence Force coach Ross Russell would need an improved performance next week if he expects to get near the trophy.
The Teteron Boys met Rangers, two weeks ago, in the opening Digicel Pro League fixture and the final scoreline was identical. The pattern of play, however, could hardly have been more different.
In a scrappy affair, Rangers created enough chances to have won the match comfortably within the first hour and then enjoyed a numerical advantage for the final 30 minutes as opposing defender Rodell Elcock was ejected for a second yellow card.
Somehow, Rangers contrived to squander them all save a penalty decision and paid the price for this genorosity.
Overrun two weeks ago, the St Anns squad was more compact in the First Citizens Cup and would not be stretched by a Defence Force side missing adventurous left back Aklie Edwards. And responsible ball movement saw Rangers create several scoring opportunities too as a bewildered Defence Force team found itself on the ropes.
Hector Sam, who scored a brilliant goal when the two teams last met, might have had another today but for a fine save by army custodian Kevin Graham low to his right in the 13th minute.
Rangers captain Mikhail Awai threatened too with a volley from just outside the opposing penalty box that dipped just over the bar in the 20th minute
Seven minutes later, Graham could only look on and pray as a Sam cross eliminated the Defence Force backline and found Andrew Smith unmarked at the far post. Six yards from an open goalmouth, Smith leaned backwards and cushioned his header. Wide.
Remarkably, Rangers conjured up another sitter in the first half.
Read More (http://www.wired868.com/2012/09/28/defence-force-edges-rangers-to-first-citizens-cup-final/)
Post by: Sam on September 29, 2012, 02:51:19 AM
W Connection really disappointing this year sah.
Ah vex.
Post by: Deeks on September 29, 2012, 07:53:10 AM
Post by: Tallman on October 02, 2012, 06:01:35 PM
ttproleague.com
Each game brings its own situation.
Thats the viewpoint Caledonia AIA coach Jamaal Shabazz, and rightfully so.
Caledonia, the defending First Citizens Cup champ, reached its second consecutive FCC Final by defeating W Connection 1-0 in semi-final two last Friday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
And would meet two-time champion Defence Force2-1 semi-final winner against St. Anns Rangersfrom 8:30pm at the very same Port of Spain venue on Friday 5 October on the Final stage.
We are very happy that we are in the Final again, said the Caledonia coach. and we look forward to the encounter with Defence Force.
But for the charismatic Shabazz its always a little more than just a football match.
Shabazzs history against the Defence Force treks the memory back to 1990 when the Caledonia coach, a member of the Jamaat Al Muslimeen, was involved in a staged coup attempt which lasted six days before the group eventually surrendered to the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force.
With Defence Force, its since 1990 we battling them, said Shabazz in his regular dry humor personality. So its always a pleasure to meet them on the football field because off the field we have no chance.
But on the field we are the soldiers of the ghetto. We are the soldiers of the people in Morvant-Laventille, and against Defence Force its a pleasure.
Caledonia notched the semi-final winner in the 89th minute when a determined run by substitute Densil Theobald inside the area and cross was finished off by the boot of another substitute Keyon Edwards for the 1-0 result against Connection.
Caledonia only returned home on Thursday following a 2-1 defeat to Honduran club CD Marathon in the CONCACAF Champions League a day earlier, while Connection played to a 2-2 draw against Mexican giants Chivas Guadalajara at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
I thought we made the right decision to put (Theobald) on the bench with a couple other players who started in the Marathon game, explained Shabazz. I thought they all came on, Keyon Edwards Densil Theobald, and made a big difference for us. The discipline and understanding that he (Theobald) showed in knowing that this was a game to come off the bench, I thought that was admirable and I thought he did very well for us tonight.
We were exhausted because we had a long flight from Honduras with difficult games in the Champions League and against W Connection its always a difficult game.
I think the players from both teams worked very hard. We both came off tough Champions League matches. They played Chivas and we played CD Marathon. Good experience and it was shown in the intensity of the game. I thought both teams were a bit tired down to the end, but when W Connection and Caledonia play, its always good tactical games some method in the madness.
(http://www.ttproleague.com/images/stories/domestic-2012/jamaal.jpg)
Post by: Flex on October 07, 2012, 05:19:34 AM
ttproleague.com.
Caledonia AIA picked up its first trophy of the 2012-2013 season on Friday night by retaining the First Citizens Cup with a 2-1 win over Defence Force in the Final at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Teenaged Guyanese winger Trayon Bobb, who eventually picked up the tournament MVP award, was instrumental in the opening Caledonia item in the 22nd minute before netting what turned out the winner in the 49th minute.
Caledonia, which also won the Lucozade Sport Goal Shield, FA Trophy and Caribbean Club Championship last season, started the brighter of the two sides.
Keyon Edwards managed a tame shot under goalkeeper Kevin Graham before it was cleared away by defender Glynn Franklyn in the 5th minute and five minutes later Bobb forced the Defence Force goalie into action.
But twenty minutes into the match low power voltage caused a number of the stadium lights to go out forcing referee Neil Brizan to pause the match and consult both coaches over continuation. Eventually both teams were back out under the dim lighting.
That's when the real action started.
It wasn't long into the resumption when Bobb cross from the left was directed in goal by the lanky Jamal Gay to hand the Jamaal Shabazz coached outfit a 1-0 advantage.
The Soldiers then leveled the scores 1-1 in the 28th minute with a superb run and strike by Richard Roy snatching his third item of the tournament and later picked up the Most Goals Award with three items.
Roy later struck an effort from distance just wide, when he was picked out by a Russell Jr. pass some 26 yards out.
Bobb had Caledonia back in front just four minutes into the second period receiving a pass inside the left of the area and firing past Graham for a 2-1 score.
Caledonia substitute Nathan Lewis had another one in the back of the net a minute and a half later beating goalkeeper Graham through the legs after controlling a Walter Moore strike across the area, however the item was ruled offside.
The Morvant-Laventille club missed a third item in the 57th minute, which was clearly wasted wide by an unmarked Edwards who headed wide of the post off Lewis' right side cross.
Defence Force, winners of the First Citizens Cup in 2002 & 2009, had an opening to level the scores in the 64th minute when a long ball forward by Roy was controlled brilliantly by Carter between three defenders but when inside the area, the attacker fumbled.
Carter had another opening in the 70th minute, this time hitting into goalkeeper Samuel after he was slipped in a pass by Jorsling to put him one on one with the Caledonia goalie.
Caledonia took full control of the match near the end which was labeled "shooting practice" some supporters.
Lewis, Caledonia's liveliest of the second period, swung an effort wide of the far post in the 73rd minute and two minutes later Densil Theobald was denied by the glove of Graham.
Moments later Theobald stuck a low effort just wide.
Late substitute Ataullah Guerra joined in on the fun against a depleted Defence Force, but it was Lewis who forced Graham into action in the 84th and 90th minutes before the final whistle.
Defence Force 1--2 Caledonia AIA
Richard Roy 28' ; Jamal Gay 22', Trayon Bobb 49"
Teams
Defence Force--Kevin Graham, Corey Rivers (capt.), Marvin Jones, Glynn Franklyn (Keston Williams 55th), Devin Jordan, Curtis Gonzales (Michael Edwards 75th), Jerwyn Balthazar (Yellow Card), Richard Roy, Kevon Carter, Ross Russell Jr. (Sean Narcis 55th), Devorn Jorsling
Coach--Ross Russell
Caledonia AIA--Glenroy Samuel, Stephan David (capt.) (Yellow Card), Densill Theobald (Yellow Card), Nuru Abdallah Muhammad, Colin Nelson, Walter Moore, Kareem Joseph, Abdallah Phillips (Cornelius Stewart 24th), Trayon Bobb, Keyon Edwards (Conrad Smith 88th), Jamal Gay (Ataullah Guerra 72nd)
Coach--Jamaal Shabazz
Post by: SWF Reporter on October 07, 2012, 12:15:03 PM
By Lasana Liburd (Wired868.com)
Neal & Massy Caledonia AIA made its first significant deposit of the 2012/13 season on Friday night as the Eastern Stallions captured the First Citizens Cup at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Port of Spain after a 2-1 win over Defence Force.
If the outcome was predictable for the Caribbean champions, the game itself fluctuated wildly before Caledonia finally reaped dividends for a fairly steady performance.
It was scrappy at times and nerve racking for Caledonia supporters as the Morvant/Laventille team repeatedly failed to cash in on scoring opportunities. There was a glimmer of hope too for the overrun regiment as Defence Force winger Kevon Carter fluffed two straightforward chances and striker Devorn Jorsling, who played for Caledonia last term, skied a free kick from a promising area.
But the final score was probably fair if one judged from the volume of chances created.
Supporters, many of whom were surely first-timers, must have wondered what to make of it all. One thing it wasnt, though, was dull.
There were easily 3,000 supporters in the covered stands on Friday night, which is especially promising when one considers that the season is just a month old.
Trinidad Express columnist Fazeer Mohammed noted, in the quarterfinal round, that the Pro League administrative staff did not do enough to make newcomers feel welcomed with information on competing teams in scarce supply.
The League responded by printing leaflets with names and jersey numbers of the two squads, switching on the electronic scoreboard and attaching the team name to its respective bench.
So, the viewing public benefited from constructive criticism by the media and an administration that is mature and secure enough to digest disapproval and react appropriately. How often does one get to say that in Trinidad and Tobago?
A sizeable informed audience, stirred by a well-oiled rhythm section, led to a relatively festive atmosphere at kick off.
And then, just 19 minutes into the contest, the lights dimmed.
Even Murphy was at the Hasely Crawford, it seemed, and he had brought his Law with him.
Read More: http://www.wired868.com/2012/10/07/caledonias-first-citizens-cup-withdrawal/
Post by: Tallman on October 12, 2012, 12:55:28 PM
Post by: StarKid on October 16, 2012, 01:42:37 AM
Gay connected nice on that one timer shot to score.
Good cross by bobb.
Post by: Flex on September 26, 2013, 03:03:43 AM
By Ian Prescott (Express).
Mahaica Madness
A much-anticipated first South derby between Directv W Connection and Point Fortin Civic FC is on this Saturday in the form of First Citizens Cup quarter-final which kicks off from 3.30 p.m. at Mahaica Oval, Point Fortin.
Yesterday, the 2013 edition of Trinidad and Tobagos most popular cup competition was launched at the VIP Lounge, Hasely Crawford Stadium, where the mouth-watering quarter-final showdown was announced.
Both teams are also currently unbeaten and joint Pro League leaders and one of them is definitely going to lose their unbeaten tag, and go out of the competition early.
They (Point players) wanted this showdown, Point Fortin manager Ken McCrea declared yesterday. They are excited about it.
W Connection have provided high standards in the First Citizen Cup, winning six times and were also twice runners-up. Meanwhile, Pro League newcomers Civic FC have brought a new excitement to local football.
Point brings with them a crowd, music, flags, strong football and a generally good atmosphere. Mahaica is expected to be packed.
The match-up also has added ingredients, apart from both teams simply battling to be the best in South.
Civic Centre, former members of the old National Football League, are playing professional football for the first time and have assembled a team containing several recent W Connection members. But the Point Fortin manager insists that they have not raided their rivals. Instead, McCrea argues that Point Fortin talent had built W Connection over the years, and that some of these players have simply returned home to play for their village team.
W Connection got built with our players, McCrea said. So it will be a good match up.
Another attractive match-up is the quarter-final clash between defending champions Caledonia AIA and Pro League champions Defence Forcethe team they defeated in last years final.
Following 2-1 defeats of T&TEC and Defence Force respectively in 2011 and 2012, champs Neal & Massy Caledonia AIA will be looking to win the First Citizens Cup for a third straight year and also collect the $100,000 first prize.
There is also a competitive clash between North East Stars and Central FC, two teams known for hardworking blue collar football. This years tournament begins tomorrow with a double-header at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Speaking at yesterdays launch, First Citizen official Warren Sookdar confirmed the banks continued association with Pro League football, while T&T Pro League CEO Dexter Skeene described the bank as a long-term and faithful partner.
For the past 11 years, First Citizens has had the privilege of partnering with a League that continues to develop the raw talent of our nations youths and it is with great pride today I confirm our commitment for the 12th year, stated Sookdar, chief information officer, information technology desk, First Citizens.
We thank them for being the first partner and continuing with us throughout the year of professional football, Pro League CEO Skeene said. That they remain unwavering in their support of the Pro League is deeply appreciated and respected by all of us.
Post by: Flex on September 26, 2013, 03:21:53 AM
By Nigel Simon (Guardian).
Two-time defending champion Neal & Massy Caledonia AIA will begin its quest for a third straight lien on the First Citizens Cup when it faces fellow two-time winner Defence Force, in one of three mouth-watering quarterfinal clashes for the $100,000 winners cheque.
This was disclosed when the draw for the nine-team competition was made at the VIP Lounge, Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo, yesterday.
The meeting between Caledonia and the Teteron Boys, the reigning Digicel Pro League champions and also a four-time First Citizens Cup losing finalists is a repeat of last years final which was contested at the Mucurapo venue.
It will be the last quarterfinal to be played on Monday, the second match of a double-header at the Marvin Lee Stadium, Macoya from 8 pm.
Back then, Caledonia, beaten in the 2001 and 2007 final by W Connection made a successful defence of its crown with a 2-1 defeat of Defence Force with a goals from Jamal Gay in the 20th and Guyanas Trayon Bobb in the 49th, to cancel out a 26th minute effort from Richard Roy.
A year earlier, the Morvant/Laventille club won the competition now in its 14th year, and 12th of First Citizens-sponsorship by a similar 2-1 scoreline with Kareem Joseph scoring both goals in the 26th and 65th after the now defunct T&TEC had a taken a 15th minute advantage through, newly signed Pt Fortin Civic FC striker Sylvester Teesdale.
In the other quarterfinal matches determined, five-time First Citizens winner and two-time runner-up DirecTV W Connection and T&T Pro League newcomer, Pt Fortin Civic FC, joint leader of the league table with six points apiece from two matches clash at Mahaica Oval, Pt Fortin from 3.30 pm on Saturday while Central FC and North East, two teams yet to win the competition and quarterfinal losers last season do battle in the second match tomorrow at Mucurapo from 8 pm.
San Juan Jabloteh, winner of the title in 2000 and 2003 as well as runner-up in 2005, makes a return to the tournament after a years absence from the league due to financial difficulties.
However, it will have to wait until tomorrow night to know its quarterfinal opponent for Mondays first match at Macoya from 6pm, as Police and St Anns Rangers will meet in a qualifier at the Hasely Crawford Stadium from 6 pm tomorrow.
The quarterfinal winners will meet in the semifinals at a venue to be determined on October 4 for a place in the final on October 18, a week after the Fifa international date on which the Soca Warriors will be in action.
This years final will also see a change in that should both teams be tied at the end of the 90-minutes regulation time, a two 15 minutes half of extra-time will be played.
However, the golden goal rule will apply with the first team scoring during the extra-time period being declared champions.
As stated by Warren Sookdar, Chief Information Officer, Information Technology Department, First Citizens, the theme of the competition is There are no room for losers and this is clearly evident, with the runner-up prize being vastly less than the winners cheque, in the sum of $20,000 ensuring that all teams will no doubt have their eyes set on the top prize.
In addition, individual cash incentives of $1,000 will also be on offer to the top goalscorer and Most Valuable Player of the competition while the media was also encouraged to give off their best work with rewards of a similar $1,000 for the Best Photograph and Best Coverage.
Spectators were also not left out of the give-away frenzy from First Citizens as the $500 Dash for Cash will once again return along with a prize of a cooler of drinks at the semifinals and finals going towards the Biggest Cooler Crew along with other give aways.
Sookdar, during his brief speech noted that for the past 11 years First Citizens has had the privilege of partnering with a league that continues to develop the raw talent of our nations youth and it is with great pride he confirms his companys commitment for the 12th consecutive year.
He added, I applaud the Pro League for its successful efforts in the promotion of football in T&T and it commitment to the production of well rounded footballers as similarly First Citizens is committed to enhancing our youth through their development in education and sport.
In closing Sookdar noted that at First Citizens they firmly believe sport contributes to the individual progress and national solidarity while brining discipline to life.
It encourages dedication, team work and camaraderie amongst sports men and women and all the mention attributes are essential to our day-to-day living and contribute to our growth as well rounded individuals.
First Citizens Cup fixtures
Qualifier - Tomorrow:
Venue: Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo
Police vs St Anns Rangers, 6pm
Quarterfinal:
Venue: Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo
Central FC vs North East Stars, 8pm
Saturdays quarterfinal:
W Connection vs Pt Fortin Civic FC, Mahaica Oval, Pt Fortin, 3.30pm
Monday:
Venue: Marvin Lee Stadium, Macoya
Police/Rangers winner vs San Juan Jabloteh, 6pm
Caledonia vs Defence Force, 8pm
October 4 - Semifinals
October 18 - Final
Post by: Football supporter on September 27, 2013, 06:53:19 PM
Rangers 1 - 1 Police Rangers won 5-4 on pens
Post by: Banter Banton on September 27, 2013, 09:52:48 PM
Central won 2-1 vs North East Hector Sam scored the first with a shot that went in off the underside of the bar. Winchester scored the second from outside the box. Caesar got one back after 87 mins.
Rangers 1 - 1 Police Rangers won 5-4 on pens
good stuff FS...keep it up..Forza Central FC !
Post by: Football supporter on September 28, 2013, 06:01:51 AM
Central won 2-1 vs North East Hector Sam scored the first with a shot that went in off the underside of the bar. Winchester scored the second from outside the box. Caesar got one back after 87 mins.
Rangers 1 - 1 Police Rangers won 5-4 on pens
good stuff FS...keep it up..Forza Central FC !
Ah liking that!!
Post by: Flex on September 28, 2013, 06:31:43 AM
Rangers beat Police on penalties for quarterfinal place.
ttproleague.com.
Stunning first half goals by Hector Sam and Rundell Winchester paced Central FC to defeat rivals North East Stars 2-1 in the first quarterfinal match of the 2013 First Citizens Cup on Friday night at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
The Terry Fenwick coached-Central moves forward into the semi-final round on Friday 4 October against the winners of Saturday's highly anticipated quarterfinal meet between Point Fortin Civic and six-time winners DIRECTV W Connection from 3:30pm at the Mahaica Oval, Point Fortin.
On Monday the quarterfinal round continues with a double header at the Marvin Lee Stadium. St. Ann's Rangers, 5-4 penalty winners over Police FC following a 1-1 draw in the First Citizens Cup playoff on Friday night, will meet San Juan Jabloteh from 6pm at the Macoya venue and Defence Force against two-time defending champions Caledonia AIA from 8pm in a rematch of last season's final.
Police looked the better of the two sides in the opening moments and got the opening item in the 15th minute through a strike by captain and midfielder Todd Ryan.
Ryan was clinical in blasting past Rangers' goalie Terrence Lewis, for the 1-0 advantage, after a freekick by Trent Noel was rolled into the left of the area.
And two minutes later Ryan unleashed a left footed attempt which flew inches wide of the far upper corner.
But it was teammate Kareem Perry that had the first attempt of the match in the 6th minute striking just wide with a neat left footed effort to harass the side netting.
Kareem's brother, Jameel Perry had a chance to double the advantage on the hour mark after a break on the right, then shrugged off defender Caleb Sturge and wrong-footed defender Dwane James inside the area, but failed to find the back of the net.
Jameel's failure to find the target on that occasion gave coach Richard Hood no option but to continue with an immediate introduction of Elijah Belgrave for the position up front.
Rangers had a chance through Kennedy Isles to level the score in the 25 minutes inside the first half after showing good footwork against defenders Kemron Purcell and Anton Hutchinson, but after the ball ricocheted into his path around the six yard area, goalkeeper Adrian Foncette was excellent in thwarting the effort.
Rangers' Jemel Berot later unleashed a strike, in the 31st minute, from 20 yards to beat Foncette but denied by the upright.
But it was until the 63rd minute that winger Qian Grosvenor leveled the score 1-1.
Grosvenor welcomed a ball that fell to him on the left of the area and smashed it past Foncette.
Teammate and captain Clevon Mc Fee, who scored a hat-trick in a 6-5 giveaway loss last weekend against Jabloteh, drilled an effort wide in the 68th minute after a promising sequence of passes by Rangers.
Then in the 70th minute Ryan attempted to restore the "Lawmen's" advantage with a looping effort over goalkeeper Lewis, but defender James make an excellent clearance to keep the scores tied and later.
But there had to be a winner and on the final of Police's fifth kick from the penalty mark, veteran midfielder Trent Noel was denied by goalkeeper Lewis.
Conrad Smith, Kennedy Isles, Caleb Sturge, Kerron Cummings and Clevon Mc Fee were all on target for Rangers, while Todd Ryan, Kareem Perry, Elijah Belgrave and Anton Hutchinson found the back of the net for Police before Noel's shutout.
In the second match of the Friday double header, 35 year-old Sam, stunned the Stars in the 20th minute for a 1-0 Central advantage, when he blasted a right footer from 25 yards out, over goalkeeper Cleon John, the ball hitting the underside of the crossbar and bouncing into the net.
John was stunned again in the 32nd minute by a low Rundell Winchester strike from distance for a 2-0 Central cushion.
And in the final play of the half, John made a save against Darren Mitchell, in a play that the Tobagonian should have done much better near the six yard area after a combining with Jason Marcano.
The contest was a combative one, mirroring the personalities of Central's head coach Fenwick, and Stars' head coach Angus Eve, who once worked together as "teacher and student" at Jabloteh.
The second half was a bit scrappy, as Fenwick seemed comfortable in defending his 2-goal cushion, while Eve--backed by his noisy Sangre Grande supporters--pressed for goals.
It was not until the 87th minute that substitute Trevin Caesar pulled a goal back for the Stars, to reduce the deficit 1-2. However three minutes, plus three minutes of time added on wasn't enough for an equalizing North East Stars' item.
Results
Police FC 1(4) - (5)1 St. Ann's Rangers
Todd Ryan 15' ; Qian Grosvenor 63'
Kicks from the penalty mark
St. Ann's Rangers 5 - 4 Police FC
Conrad Smith (scored) Todd Ryan (scored)
Kennedy Isles (scored) Kareem Perry (scored)
Caleb Sturge (scored) Elijah Belgrave (scored)
Kerron Cummings (scored) Anton Hutchinson (scored)
Clevon McFee (scored) Trent Noel (saved)
Teams
Police FC18. Adrian Foncette, 21. Todd Ryan (C), 5. Anton Hutchinson, 2. Jasimar Ashers, 6. Kenaz Williams, 10. Trent Noel, 11. Kareem Perry, 1. Errol Charles, 15. Jameel Perry (20. Elijah Belgrave 60th), 39. Joel Kevin Lewis, 25. Kemron Purcell (8. Akiba Peters 36th).
Unused substitutes31. Theon Browne (G), 27. Dwayne Salazar, 19. Christon Thomas, 40. Jabari Williams, 9. Keon Quow.
CoachRichard Hood.
St. Ann's Rangers - 1. Terrence Lewis (G), 7. Clevon Mc Fee (C), 8. Joel Whiteman, 9. Conrad Smith, 13. Caleb Sturge, 14. Michael Yaw Darko (10. Kerron Cummings 46th), 16. Kennedy Isles (Yellow Card), 18. Jemel Berot (2. Marcus Roberts 75th), 19. Akim Ash (12. Tevin Gilkes 70th), 20. Qian Grosvenor, 23. Dwane James.
Unused substitutes - 22. Kern Caesar.
Coach - Gilbert Bateau.
Match Referee - Larry Lalchan.
Results
Central FC 2 - 1 North East Stars
Hector Sam 20', Rundell Winchester 32' ; Trevin Caesar 87'
Teams
Central FC - 21. Jan Michael Williams, 7. Jason Marcan (C) (6. Toric Robinson 82nd), 2. Elton John, 3. Keion Goodridge, 10. Marvin Oliver, 11. Darren Mitchell, 12. Jamal Jack, 13. Johan Peltier (Yellow Card), 17. Rundell Winchester, 23. Hector Sam (15. Kaydion Gabriel 85th), 24. Akeem Benjamin.
Unused substitutes - 16. Javon Sample (G), 4. Omar Charles, 14. Darryl Trim, 19. Dwight Pope, 20. Akil DeFreitus.
Coach - Terry Fenwick.
North East Stars - 22. Cleon John (C), 2. Kareem Moses, 4. Keithy Simpson (20. Trevin Caesar 46th), 5. Aquil Selby, 6. Jeromie Williams (Yellow Card) (8. Micah Lewis 77th), 7. Elijah Manners (12. Jayson Joseph 46th), 11. Anthony Wolfe, 19. Glenton Wolfe, 24. Marcus Gomez, 23. Kennedy Hinkson, 25. Keryn Navarro.
Unused substitutes - 1. Stephan Berkeley (G), 9. Akiel Guevara, 17. Andres Cabrero Gomez, 18. Kaashif Thomas.
Coach - Angus Eve.
Match Referee - Keon Young.
Saturday 28 September 2013
Quarter Final Round
Mahaica Oval, Point Fortin
W Connection vs Point Fortin Civic3:30pm
Monday 30 September 2013
Quarter Final Round
Marvin Lee Stadium
St. Ann's Rangers vs San Juan Jabloteh6pm
Defence Force vs Caledonia AIA8pm
Friday 4 October 2013
Semi Final Round
Friday 18 October 2013
Final
Post by: Sam on September 28, 2013, 08:52:35 AM
Mahaica Madness
A much-anticipated first South derby between Directv W Connection and Point Fortin Civic FC is on this Saturday in the form of First Citizens Cup quarter-final which kicks off from 3.30 p.m. at Mahaica Oval, Point Fortin.
Post by: soccerrama on September 28, 2013, 06:54:22 PM
Post by: weary1969 on September 28, 2013, 07:10:47 PM
Who won?
W on penalties
Post by: Madd Ras#13 on September 28, 2013, 07:38:26 PM
Who won?
W on penalties
Steups...hardluck dey civic
dey still don't have highlights of these games if not de whole game?
Post by: soccerrama on September 28, 2013, 07:45:05 PM
Who won?
W on penalties
Thanks!!!
Post by: Trini _2026 on September 29, 2013, 05:21:37 AM
Post by: Flex on September 29, 2013, 09:44:40 AM
Post by: Football supporter on September 29, 2013, 10:54:40 AM
I heard that Point v W Con game yesterday was totally disorganized...est 1500-2000 fans....no current for them (media), no vendors, couldnt even buy a bottle of water....what a circus and they know everything about marketing! Its a shame.....great situation but it appears they couldnt organize a one car parade. Point have something good to build (fan base) on and not making use of it....
I don't know much about Points set up. But with most clubs, their budget doesn't stretch to marketing, media, promotions staff. Usually the gate men etc are volunteers. Concessions would have to be rented out as a club wouldn't have enough funds to buy stock and equipment and pay staff. Even selling drinks would require purchasing of stock, obtaining coolers and ice and paying staff.
Now, there are ways around some of these things, but if you are running a business and a football team, it's hard to find the time to do these things too.
The venue should have the required media, washroom and minimum safety requirements. This is why many community fields aren't used for Pro League games. However, I would have hoped that the venue had been approved, but that doesn't explain why there was no current.
Post by: Insider on September 30, 2013, 03:22:26 PM
Point game: One gate open to let everyone in. Pure madness. Then later almost kick off time, they open a second gate.
Seating was placed behind the goal under tents, with just two temporary bleachers.
Man eh bringing children & women to games no toilet, no cover nothing.
No vendors, one nuts man come late in the game.
Saying that, Point people supporting their team & they have a fan based organized and willing to travel.
If I was Kamla I tell Point now, I will build a stands for 2000, with lights for the Mahica & that alone will bring nuff votes hahahahh
Game quality was okay, but slow and lack and imagination, plenty side to side possession.
pro League disorganized: Weekly schedules & inconsistent.
Overall at present in the pro league, it have very few individuals, people will pay to watch. Fans want to see stars and outside of Marcus Joseph & Rundell Winchester from Central (now Learning), it have very little quality.
Central look the most organized team, with a solid plan of attack & defense. Not pretty but effective.
W Connection & NE Stars have good organization defensively & show good possession, but don't know how to attack with penetration.
As for the Super League overall quality poor, not much different from pro league. The gap small.
Funny enough Siparia have a nice side doing good things, but need a real striker.
Post by: Football supporter on October 01, 2013, 09:46:28 AM
Ato Boldon Stadium
6pm Defence Force vs San Juan Jabloteh
8pm Central F.C. vs W.Connection
Post by: SWF Reporter on October 01, 2013, 10:56:51 AM
By Lasana Liburd (Wired868)
Last night, First Citizens Cup holders Caledonia AIA crashed out of the competition at the first hurdle as the Eastern Stallions slumped to a 1-0 quarterfinal loss to Defence Force at the Marvin Lee Stadium in Macoya.
The Eastern Stallions have now gone eight successive competitive games without a win and six of those results were defeats. If that is not a crisis, it will do until the real one gets here.
In yesterdays other quarterfinal fixture at Macoya, San Juan Jabloteh made it two wins from as many matches as the San Juan Kings downed St Anns Rangers 2-1 to book a semifinal clash with Defence Force on Friday.
Jabloteh only held its first training session in early September as the former Pro League founding member secured a late return to the top flight. Under such circumstances, coach Keith Jeffrey should have expected a tough time. Not when the fixture list keeps offering an opponent as pliable as Rangers, though.
In Jablotehs season opener, on September 20, Jeffreys men recovered from a 4-1 deficit to stun Rangers 6-5 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain. And, yesterday, Jabloteh outdid Rangers in more comfortable circumstances despite some late pressure from the St Anns team.
Midfielder Shane Hospedales opened the scoring as he completed a flowing Jabloteh attack in the 43rd minute for his second goal of the season. And Kerry Baptiste doubled their advantage from the penalty spot in the 70th minute for his fourth item in two matches after Rangers defender Akim Ash handled a Rennie Britto cross.
A torrential downpour in the second half seemed to lift Rangers spirits but an own goal from Jamal Spencer, who inadvertently beat the Jabloteh goalkeeper with a looping header, was as good as it got for new Rangers coach Gilbert Bateau.
At least Bateau can point to a win over Police FC last Friday. Shabazz would have to look a lot harder to find a ray of sunshine, even though the skies had cleared up by the time the Defence Force and Caledonia teams strode out on to the turf.
Caledonias last triumph came on 20 May 2013 when the Stallions edged Jamaicas Portmore United 1-0 in Port of Spain.
Shabazzs men started well enough but Defence Force custodian Kevin Graham was equal to the task with two key saves to deny Nathan Lewis and Tyrone Charles in the eighth and 14th minutes respectively.
And, not for the first time, Caledonia was left cursing its bad luck as the army/coast guard combination converted its first good scoring opportunity in the 53rd minute when right back Marvin Jones diverted a cross from left back Aklie Edwards into the roof of the net.
The sight of the oppositions two full backs combining to score might have been an extra kick in the teeth for Shabazz whose own wing backs, Noel Williams and Kareem Tiny Joseph, barely crossed the halfline and were unrecognizable from their usual buccaneering selves.
Josimar Belgrave should have given Defence Force an insurance item in the 70th minute too but failed to beat Caledonia custodian Shemel Louison after another raking left side Edwards cross.
By then, Caledonia had introduced lanky striker Jamal Gay and his headed flick-ons had troubled the Defence Force backline although fellow substitute Keyon Edwards and veteran midfielder Densill Theobald both failed to finish with conviction after Gays assists.
Lewis got the best opportunity of the second half after an incisive through pass from Keron Bethlemy but Graham was defiant as he flung out a right arm to divert the ball off his far post and out for a corner.
Match official Michael London signaled for a goal kick rather than a corner. Considering Caledonias luck at present, if Shabazz bought the winning lottery ticket he would probably lose it. But that is not to say that most of the Morvant/Laventille teams pain has not been self-inflicted.
The First Citizens Cup continues on Friday evening without them.
Defence Force and Jabloteh square off from 6 pm in the first semifinal at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva while, at 8 pm, DIRECTV W Connection meets Central FC in a fixture that might say much about the latters title aspirations this season.
Caledonias pain will mean sweet opportunity for one of that quartet.
(Teams)
Defence Force (4-2-3-1): 1.Kevin Graham (GK); 13.Marvin Jones, 8.Curtis Gonzales, 6.Rodell Elcock, 21.Aklie Edwards; 14.Cory Rivers (captain), 18.Sean Narcis (15.Jerwyn Balthazar 80); 23.Kerry Joseph (17.Ross Russell Jr 90), 10.Josimar Belgrave, 12.Jemel Sebro; 26.Richard Roy (9.Devorn Jorsling 86).
Unused substitutes: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK), 11.Kevon Carter, 65.Levi Serries.
Coach: Ross Russell
Caledonia AIA (4-2-3-1): 1.Shemel Louison (GK); 12.Kareem Joseph, 3.Nuru Muhammad (captain), 2.Aubrey David, 20.Noel Williams; 21.Densill Theobald, 25.Keron Bethlemy; 27.Nathan Lewis, 11.Abdallah Phillips (23.Jamal Gay 65), 16.Tyronne Charles (9.Keyon Edwards 46); 10.Kithson Bain (6.Marcus Ambrose 76).
Unused substitutes: 33.Glenroy Samuel (GK), 6.Marcus Ambrose, 7.Stephan David, 22.Miguel Romeo, 24.Kevaughn Connell.
Coach: Jamaal Shabazz
First Citizens Cup
(Mon 30 September)
San Juan Jabloteh 2 (Shane Hospedales 43, Kerry Baptiste 70 pen), St Anns Rangers 1 (Jamal Spencer 90+1 OG) at Marvin Lee Stadium,
Defence Force 1 (Marvin Jones 53), Caledonia AIA 0 at Marvin Lee Stadium
Semifinal Fixtures
(Fri 4 October)
Defence Force vs S/Juan Jabloteh, 6 pm, Ato Boldon Stadium,
DIRECTV W Connection vs Central FC, 8 pm, Ato Boldon Stadium.
Post by: Sam on October 01, 2013, 11:59:48 AM
Talk now.. talk nah !!!
Big belly taliban...
Post by: Sam on October 01, 2013, 12:01:18 PM
The Point game was a mess.
Point game: One gate open to let everyone in. Pure madness. Then later almost kick off time, they open a second gate.
Seating was placed behind the goal under tents, with just two temporary bleachers.
Man eh bringing children & women to games no toilet, no cover nothing.
No vendors, one nuts man come late in the game.
Saying that, Point people supporting their team & they have a fan based organized and willing to travel.
If I was Kamla I tell Point now, I will build a stands for 2000, with lights for the Mahica & that alone will bring nuff votes hahahahh
Game quality was okay, but slow and lack and imagination, plenty side to side possession.
pro League disorganized: Weekly schedules & inconsistent.
Overall at present in the pro league, it have very few individuals, people will pay to watch. Fans want to see stars and outside of Marcus Joseph & Rundell Winchester from Central (now Learning), it have very little quality.
Central look the most organized team, with a solid plan of attack & defense. Not pretty but effective.
W Connection & NE Stars have good organization defensively & show good possession, but don't know how to attack with penetration.
As for the Super League overall quality poor, not much different from pro league. The gap small.
Funny enough Siparia have a nice side doing good things, but need a real striker.
What a shame, Point have de biggest supports and de worst stadium..
No planning at all, they could reap benefits if they hire some marketing person.
Post by: Mad Scorpion a/k/a Big Bo$$ on October 01, 2013, 02:50:12 PM
Post by: Flex on October 04, 2013, 01:56:57 AM
By Nigel Simon (Guardian).
It will be a case of two derbies, one rich in history and the other relatively new in terms of the clubs, but not their coaches when the First Citizens Cup resumes with a semifinal double-header at the Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva from 6 pm today.
In the opener, two-time winner and six-time finalists Defence Force buoyed by their 1-0 quarterfinal defeat of Neal & Massy Caledonia AIA, come up against returning club, San Juan Jabloteh in a clash of North-based clubs.
Two hours later it will be the turn of a Central-based duo when, six-time champions and eight-time finalists, DirecTV W Connection continue their bid for a first hold on the crown when they face second-year club, Central FC.
Both matches are expected to provide a lot of excitment based on their quarterfinal displays, but it will be the nights second encounter between the Stuart Charles-Fevrier coached W Connection and Central FC, coached by his long-time rival, Englishman Terry Fenwick, that is sure to have the fans at the edge of their seats.
The Savonetta Boys as W Connection are called earned a spot in the last four, after a tense 6-5 sudden-death penalty kicks win over newcomer Pt Fortin Civic Centre on Saturday last after a 0-0 draw and being reduced to ten men due to two bookable offences by St Lucia Gerard Williams.
A night earlier at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo, Central FC used a dominant first-half display and well taken strikes from Hector Sam and Rundell Winchester to hold off North East Stars, who got a late reply from Trevin Caesar for some respectability to the score in their quarterfinal.
Both teams have also had impressive starts to their domestic campaigns with W Connection retaining the Digicel Charity Shield with a 4-2 thumping of Pro League champions which was followed by a 7-0 blowout of St Anns Rangers in their league opener and a 1-0 win over Police before dumping Pt Fortin.
Speaking on the eve of the contest, Charles-Fevrier who has been at the helm of the team for all their previous First Citizens Cup campaigns said his team will have to lift its game another level because Central is a good team and like W Connection they will want to win to get to the final.
While W Connection midfielder Gerard Williams will miss the match due to suspension, coach Charles-Fevrier will have the availability of national duo Joevin Jones and Daneil Cyrus after the pair missed the quarterfinal contest for breaching club rules and playing in minor league football.
Charles-Fevrier said, both players have gone before the clubs disciplinary committee and were handed their punishments, and its up to him now to select them against Central or not.
On debut last year, Central FC was blanked 3-0 by eventual runner-up Defence Force in last years quarterfinals, but having gotten past that hurdle after they trounced league holders Defence Force 3-1 in their league opener and then a 0-0 draw with Caledonia, the Shark are hungry to make another big bite as they seek their first title.
This after coming up short in last seasons T&TFA FA trophy final to Caledonia, 2-0 at Couva.
Fenwick, who led Jabloteh to the title in the ompetitions first year, 2000, via 1-0 win over Defence Force said his only headache going into the match was that he had a full squad to choose from.
We have had a great start to the season, unbeaten to date and the mood in the camp is very positive ahead of another important match for us. The guys are all pumped up to face W Connection as we want to make a statement for local talent.
The former England international also took a swipe at his rivals saying that it seemed that they were now desperate for success with the signing of so much foreigners during the off-season while his team was loaded with local talent, who are quite as capable.
In related news, despite just ending its two-match losing streak to start the season, Defence Force starts as favourtites against two-time First Citizens Cup winners San Juan Jabloteh for a place in the $120,000 final on October 18.
After the quarterfinal win, Defence Force coach Ross Russell who led his team to the title in 2009, seven years after their first triumph and was also on the losing end in the finals in 2010 and last year said he was looking foward to much more in the competition.
He said, You would always feel good with a win, but I'd be a little more comfortable when we get past the semifinal round, but a worrying sign is the lack of goals from his strikers, Josimar Belgrave and Richard Roy.
So far this season, Defence Force was beaten by W Connection 4-2 in the Digicel Charity Shield and in the Pro League round one contest, by Central FC, 3-1.
But those worries will be eased somewhat with the return of main striker and last seasons top goal scorer, Devorn Jorsling who had a little run out in the win over Caledonia.
It was his first bit of action for the new season following his successful promotional course towards the rank of Lance Corporal which he received during a graduation ceremony held earlier in the week, and he will be eager to boss his rivals tonight.
Jabloteh, won the title in 2000 with Fenwick in charge, 1-0 against Defence Force, and then three years later with another Englishman, Ricky Hill at the helm, but its last appearance in the final was 2005, something first year coach Keith Jeffrey hopes he can correct, even at the Teteron Boys expense.
Prior to its one year league absence last year, Jabloteh, which has two wins from two matches this season, 6-5 in the league over St Anns Rangers and the quarterfinal victory over the same club, has been to the final-four in 2008, 2009 and 2011 without going further, but with a first prize of $100,000 on offer club captain Kerry Baptiste and his team-mate will no doubt be up for the fight to ease the burden on their financiers.
Post by: Football supporter on October 04, 2013, 08:32:20 PM
Post by: Football supporter on October 04, 2013, 08:47:05 PM
Army won on pens
Final: Central F.C. vs Defence Force
Post by: King Deese on October 05, 2013, 12:26:27 AM
Wild celebrations as connections last kick is over the bar. WILLIAMS with 2 Brilliant saves. Central 3-2 Connection in the shootoutNot impress partner. You just played one of the poorest teams in the CCL tournament and you couldn't beat them in the field of play. How do you expect to win the CCL tournament if you can't even beat WConnection.
Right, you are going to that tournament to learn something. Right. I got it.
Not impressed.
Post by: Football supporter on October 05, 2013, 01:50:55 AM
Wild celebrations as connections last kick is over the bar. WILLIAMS with 2 Brilliant saves. Central 3-2 Connection in the shootoutNot impress partner. You just played one of the poorest teams in the CCL tournament and you couldn't beat them in the field of play. How do you expect to win the CCL tournament if you can't even beat WConnection.
Right, you are going to that tournament to learn something. Right. I got it.
Not impressed.
Well, we have at least 20 months to worry about that. Your concern should be with the teams that will represent T&T next summer, coz they ain't looking like world beaters at the moment!
Meanwhile, it's our 2nd cup final and as Andre would say: Ah lovin it :beermug:
Post by: Flex on October 05, 2013, 02:10:05 AM
T&T Newsday Reports.
CALEDONIA AIA are probably going through one of their most miserable periods in the clubs 34-year-old history but the teams founder and coach Jamaal Shabazz remains optimistic of a positive turn-around.
The team, formerly known as the Eastern Stallions, lost 1-0 defeat to Defence Force last Monday at the Marvin Lee Stadium, Mucurapo in the quarter-finals of the First Citizens Cup, and extended their win-less streak to seven matches.
It also meant that Caledonia AIA were forced to surrender the trophy they held after defeating, ironically, the Army-Coast Guard combination last year.
Dating back to their CONCACAF Champions League campaign, the Morvant/Laventille club conceded 16 goals while only scoring two in some uninspiring performances.
But, according to Shabazz, there is no need to panic since football is their livelihood.
In life you face difficulties sometimes, he said. This is a tough period for us but one that I hope will help shape our character.
Shabazz believes that his side needs to show a greater commitment to the clubs programme if they are to better their showing last season which saw them winning the FA and First Citizens Cups, finishing as the Pro Leagues runners-up second in the league (behind Defence Force) and qualifying for their second consecutive CONCACAF Champions League.
We refused to bow then (speaking about the Champions League) and again now we will commit ourselves to getting out of this slump with our performance, said Shabazz. We have got to re-examine our approach and some of the things we have been doing or not doing. We are confident that the season is a journey and we accept every aspect of its pathways.
He ended, how you start is important but where you finish at the end of the season is the real test. We accept this is a bad start but have been here before and ended well.
Post by: FF on October 05, 2013, 04:15:52 AM
Wild celebrations as connections last kick is over the bar. WILLIAMS with 2 Brilliant saves. Central 3-2 Connection in the shootoutNot impress partner. You just played one of the poorest teams in the CCL tournament and you couldn't beat them in the field of play. How do you expect to win the CCL tournament if you can't even beat WConnection.
Right, you are going to that tournament to learn something. Right. I got it.
Not impressed.
with 10 men...
ah notice you is a real pessimistic arsehole. You and Bitter should switch names. Why you can't just say congrats?
Central ent have one arse to do with CCL at this point and as a matter of fact, dey still building they club, brand and team. But you talking bout CCL and you ent impressed.. look go and fly a kite nah.
I never see you say one positive ting up to now. Yes sometimes you need a devil's advocate and somebody to remind you to keep standards high and keep pushing on... but you go be ah arsehole everytime?? steups
Post by: Sam on October 05, 2013, 05:34:37 AM
They may not play pretty but they playing effective.
They can only get better.
On de flip side, Terry Fenwick should try and play a lil more attacking football though, he have a boaring plan that kills the game and boar the supporters.
Big up to Central, I hope they can win a trophy or two this season and represent T&T at Concacaf level, I fed up with Caledonia embarrassing us.
Ah keeping a close eye on Central, they have some decent players and Fenwick will install some stiff discipline in they ass.
Post by: Football supporter on October 05, 2013, 05:38:08 AM
Big up to Central, de most organised team in de pro league right now.
They may not play pretty but they playing effective.
They can only get better.
On de flip side, Terry Fenwick should try and play a lil more attacking football though, he have a boaring plan that kills the game and boar the supporters.
Big up to Central, I hope they can win a trophy or two this season and represent T&T at Concacaf level, I fed up with Caledonia embarrassing us.
Ah keeping a close eye on Central, they have some decent players and Fenwick will install some stiff discipline in they ass.
:beermug: :beermug:
Post by: King Deese on October 05, 2013, 06:00:31 AM
Wild celebrations as connections last kick is over the bar. WILLIAMS with 2 Brilliant saves. Central 3-2 Connection in the shootoutNot impress partner. You just played one of the poorest teams in the CCL tournament and you couldn't beat them in the field of play. How do you expect to win the CCL tournament if you can't even beat WConnection.
Right, you are going to that tournament to learn something. Right. I got it.
Not impressed.
with 10 men...
ah notice you is a real pessimistic arsehole. You and Bitter should switch names. Why you can't just say congrats?
Central ent have one arse to do with CCL at this point and as a matter of fact, dey still building they club, brand and team. But you talking bout CCL and you ent impressed.. look go and fly a kite nah.
I never see you say one positive ting up to now. Yes sometimes you need a devil's advocate and somebody to remind you to keep standards high and keep pushing on... but you go be ah arsehole everytime?? steups
[Wild celebrations as connections last kick is over the bar. WILLIAMS with 2 Brilliant saves. Central 3-2 Connection in the shootoutNot impress partner. You just played one of the poorest teams in the CCL tournament and you couldn't beat them in the field of play. How do you expect to win the CCL tournament if you can't even beat WConnection.
Right, you are going to that tournament to learn something. Right. I got it.
Not impressed.
with 10 men...
ah notice you is a real pessimistic arsehole. You and Bitter should switch names. Why you can't just say congrats?
Central ent have one arse to do with CCL at this point and as a matter of fact, dey still building they club, brand and team. But you talking bout CCL and you ent impressed.. look go and fly a kite nah.
I never see you say one positive ting up to now. Yes sometimes you need a devil's advocate and somebody to remind you to keep standards high and keep pushing on... but you go be ah arsehole everytime?? steupsQuote
If I read you correctly. You waited until my 830th negative post to revert to disrespecting me. My post was directed at FS and he responding with respect and intelligence. You, on the other hand, decided to show your level of intelligence by calling me out my name. You are a very patient fella or woman. So, this is what I am going to do for you. I am going to keep on posting negative shit in hope that you read all of them and catch a stroke. Biatch.
Post by: FF on October 05, 2013, 06:39:48 AM
Wild celebrations as connections last kick is over the bar. WILLIAMS with 2 Brilliant saves. Central 3-2 Connection in the shootoutNot impress partner. You just played one of the poorest teams in the CCL tournament and you couldn't beat them in the field of play. How do you expect to win the CCL tournament if you can't even beat WConnection.
Right, you are going to that tournament to learn something. Right. I got it.
Not impressed.
with 10 men...
ah notice you is a real pessimistic arsehole. You and Bitter should switch names. Why you can't just say congrats?
Central ent have one arse to do with CCL at this point and as a matter of fact, dey still building they club, brand and team. But you talking bout CCL and you ent impressed.. look go and fly a kite nah.
I never see you say one positive ting up to now. Yes sometimes you need a devil's advocate and somebody to remind you to keep standards high and keep pushing on... but you go be ah arsehole everytime?? steups
If I read you correctly. You waited until my 830th negative post to revert to disrespecting me. My post was directed at FS and he responding with respect and intelligence. You, on the other hand, decided to show your level of intelligence by calling me out my name. You are a very patient fella or woman. So, this is what I am going to do for you. I am going to keep on posting negative shit in hope that you read all of them and catch a stroke. Biatch.
I will probably read all. I hope they won't de cause of my death or demise.
I done state my opinion and make my point. You is a passionate fan and you want the absolute best for T&T football but I find your posts terribly negative. This one particularly was arseholish. If you take my response as gross disrepect thais you.
cheerio
Post by: SWF Reporter on October 05, 2013, 03:55:33 PM
By Lasana Liburd (Wired868)
Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeper and former DIRECTV W Connection captain and MVP Jan-Michael Williams bit the hand that once fed him last night with a clean sheet and two penalty saves as he helped 10-man Central FC to a 3-2 shoot-out win over Connection 3-2 after a goalless draw in the First Citizens Cup semifinal at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.
Central will now face Defence Force in the First Citizens Cup final next Friday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. The army/coast guard combination also needed penalties yesterday to get past San Juan Jabloteh in Couva.
Twice, Jabloteh led though veteran marksman Kerry Baptiste who converted a penalty kick in the 20th minute and then knocked in a left side Lekion Elie cross in the 41st minute. Defence Force responded with a tidy Kerry Joseph finish in the 28th minute before Devorn Jorsling came off the bench to score a stoppage time free kick.
In the subsequent shootout, Jabloteh attacker Rennie Britto skied one effort and his teammate Jelani Felix hit the post with another as Defence Force prevailed. Captain Cory Rivers stroked home the winner for the Teteron Boys who marched into the first cup final of the 2013/14 Pro League season.
Defence Force will have its work cut out against a resurgent Central.
Last night was billed as a test of Centrals title credentials and over 800 patrons showed up to see the Couva Sharks tackle Pro League heavyweights, W Connection.
But, in the end, both teams were upstaged by a referee with a history of controversial red cards
Rodphin Harris is a soldier by profession. But, with the referees whistle, he can be as squeamish as a nun. And, last night, his records brought his personal tally of dismissals to five in his last three big cup matches; and four of those red cards were flashed for what Harris deemed abusive language.
In the Digicel Pro Bowl semifinal last season, North East Stars teenaged attacker Marcus Gomez appealed for a foul and voiced his displeasure when he did not get it.
He said f**k man referee, Harris told Wired868.
Harris showed Gomez a straight red card.
In the 2013 Lucozade Sport Goal Shield final, Connection winger Stefano Rijssel claimed that he had ordered his teammates: lift your f**king game!
Harris said the verbal blast was aimed at him and sent Rijssel off.
And, 13 minutes into last nights semifinal, Harris ordered Marcano off the field after warnings about his language were supposedly ignored.
I spoke to Marcano about his obscene language on the field of play earlier in the game, said Harris. Then, during the run of play, there was a shoulder to shoulder challenge in the middle of the field. (Marcano) wanted a foul.
I said play on and he said oh f**k man, Harris.
FIFAs rules on fouls and misconduct state that dissent by word or action is a cautionable offence. However, offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures is punishable by a red card.
Had Marcanos statement crossed that line? Or was Harris being overly fussy and fragile in an industry used to industrial language?
I warned the players before the game to behave themselves, said Harris. I try to deafen my ear because I know emotions can run high. But Marcano said it directly to me.
I am a fair man.
Williams was unimpressed.
I have never seen a man get a direct red card for dissent, especially in a big game like that, said Williams. Why not give him a yellow first? The match should not have been about the referee; it should have been about the players.
Central coach Terry Fenwick was careful not to use obscene language to Harris. But he too saw red for a series of withering remarks.
I told him on several occasions that I would be reporting him first thing in the morning, said Fenwick, and that he had made a disgusting call.
Harris accused the Central coach of abusive language.
He called me a fool and said the decision I made would haunt me, said Harris. He also called me a puta.
Fenwick denied the accusation.
I dont even know what puta means, said Fenwick.
The running battle between Fenwick and Harris seemed to reach farcical proportions in the second half when the Englishman went to the empty uncovered stand and tried to instruct his players through whistles, shouting and phone calls that were relayed to the bench by Marcano.
Harris temporarily stopped the game and alerted fourth official Neal Brizan. He explained he was trying to stop Fenwick from communicating with his bench so as to ensure that the ramifications of the dismissal were felt.
What the f**k does that have to do with him? asked a fuming Fenwick, who was arguably a spectator at that point.
Meanwhile, two teams were trying to win a tense affair.
Centrals ten players stayed compact and rarely played wider than the length of their penalty area. Connection only registered one shot on target for the entire match.
A positive for me was the resilience and discipline shown (by the Central defence) throughout 90 minutes of football, said Fenwick. We were like granite.
Fevrier saw positives too in Connections domination of ball possession.
I thought that we should have won the game in normal time, said the Connection coach. The penalty shoot-out is a lottery and Central got the better of us We are still working on integrating our players; the quality was there but in the offensive third we lacked that cutting edge.
We lost the game but people who saw the football that we were trying to play will come (to see us) again.
Joevin Jones and Daneil Cyrus made low-key returns to club duty after two match bans for playing minor league football. Jones played for 30 minutes while Cyrus did not feature at all.
They were late for the session the day before the game, said Fevrier, so I left them out the starting team.
In their place, teenaged midfielder and former national under-20 player Jomal Bebo Williams was Connections best player with an inventive, measured performance in front of the back four.
Another teenager, 19-year-old striker Rundell Winchester, was Centrals best player as he impressed again with his movement and eye for goal from any angle.
But neither player was decisive from open play and Harris eventually signalled for penalties
Jan knows the players well because they were his teammates for so long, said Fevrier. And Jan has always been good at penalty shoot outs I knew when we reached to penalties it would have been difficult.
The first two penalties from either team were successfully converted but Williams turned Jamal Clarences effort around the upright and then denied Kurt Williams with his legs. Connection custodian Julani Archibald kept out Winchesters spot kick but the game was up when substitute Neil Benjamin blasted his attempt over bar.
Im just looking forward to the final now and winning my first title with Central, said Williams. Last night would count for nothing if we dont win the title.
Last season, referee Neal Brizan officiated at the TTFF FA Trophy, First Citizens Cup and Digicel Pro Bowl finals; and all three ended with 11 players from each team on the field.
The Pro Leagues stakeholders can only hope that the standard of officiating at the final is not the main topic of discussion at the Hasely Crawford Stadium next Friday.
(Teams)
Central FC (4-1-2-1-2): 21.Jan-Michael Williams (GK); 2.Elton John, 24.Akeem Benjamin, 12.Jamal Jack, 3.Keion Goodridge, 10.Marvin Oliver (second vice-captain; 7.Jason Marcano (captain), 11.Darren Mitchell (9.Dwight Quintero 87); 23.Hector Sam (6.Toric Robinson 57); 13.Johan Peltier (16.Akil De Freitas 75), 17.Rundell Winchester.
Unused substitutes: 25.Javon Sample (GK), 4.Omar Charles, 15.Kaydion Gabriel, 19.Dwight Pope.
Coach: Terry Fenwick
W Connection (4-1-2-3): 18.Jelani Archibald (GK); 24.Joao Ananias, 19.Joel Russell (captain) 25.Christian Ocoro Viveros, 2.Kurt Frederick; 28.Yhon Reyes, 40.Jomal Williams, 27.Yefer Lozano (17.Jamal Clarence 65); 14.Hashim Arcia (65.Neil Benjamin Jr 79), 31.Jerrel Britto, 26.Stefano Rijssel (10.Joevin Jones 59).
Unused substitutes: 22.Aquelius Sylvester (GK), 4.Daneil Cyrus, 13.Devaughn Elliott, 15.Mekeil Williams.
Coach: Stuart Charles-Fevrier
Referee: Rodphin Harris
First Citizens Cup Semi-finals
San Juan Jabloteh 2 (Kerry Baptiste 20, 41 pen), Defence Force 2 (Kerry Joseph 28, Devorn Jorsling 90+2) at Couva
*Defence Force wins 4-3 on penalties
W Connection 0, Central FC 0 at Couva
*Central wins 3-2 on penalties
Post by: SWF Reporter on October 05, 2013, 05:19:56 PM
By Lasana Liburd (Wired868)
Central FC goalkeeper Jan-Michael Williams and coach Terry Fenwick continued the war of words with Couva rivals DIRECTV W Connection today as they accused one of the Pro Leagues most illustrious clubs of turning its back on local talent.
Connection coach Stuart Charles-Fevrier signed 14 non-Trinidad and Tobago nationals to his roster this season and only four locals were in Connections starting team last night. Williams claimed that motivated Central as the Couva Sharks edged Connection on penalties, despite playing most of the game with 10 players.
I dont see there was any way we would have let Connection beat us last night, Williams told Wired868. A lot of people had it as a way for me to get back at Connection or to make them feel it was a mistake not to re-sign me. But for me it was deeper than that.
Anytime you have so many foreign players on the field, youre saying that the players in Trinidad and Tobago arent good. For me, I was defending Trinidad (last night).
Our country qualified for a world cup, we finished second in a regional competition and we did well in the Gold Cup. So clearly we have talent here; and you can see that too because Fenwick has been doing it with local players.
Fenwick used just one foreign player, substitute and Jamaican midfielder Toric Robinson, in Centrals semi-final win last night. The English coach argued that local clubs must do more work on developing players and chided the Pro League for not taking action against Connection.
We have to be a developing country, said Fenwick, who was sent off in last nights semi-final match. I just think they are sending out the wrong message to the league. And it is damning for him as a coach because it shows he is not going youth development.
Trinis can get knocked out bottom of the table in the (CONCACAF) Champions League. What do we need foreigners to do that for?
The Savonetta Boys have pointed to the fact that they have 13 players within their squad who have represented Trinidad and Tobago at either youth or senior international football.
Last night, the club used two Trinidad and Tobago teenagers, Jomal Williams and substitute Neil Benjamin, while six of its foreign contingent are internationals players in their respective Caribbean homelands.
Fevrier refused to be drawn into a response to Centrals criticisms, though.
I dont believe in going to the media and trying to disrespect people, said the St Lucia-born Fevrier. You have never heard Connection in the media trying to attack a club, even if a club says negative things about us.
I always try to be mature.
Central will have a chance to secure its first top flight trophy next Friday when the Sharks play Defence Force in the First Citizens Cup final at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain.
Post by: asylumseeker on October 05, 2013, 05:37:04 PM
Post by: asylumseeker on October 05, 2013, 05:50:35 PM
Post by: soccerrama on October 05, 2013, 06:22:06 PM
Post by: Flex on October 05, 2013, 08:04:18 PM
Hashim Arcia - Trinidad and Tobago Senior International
Joevin Jones - Trinidad and Tobago Senior International
Aquelius Sylvester - Trinidad and Tobago
Jerrel Britto - Trinidad and Tobago U23 International
Jomal Williams - Trinidad and Tobago U23 International
Neil Benjamin - Trinidad and Tobago U20 International
Leslie Russell - Trinidad and Tobago U23 International
Clyde Leon - Trinidad and Tobago Senior International
Alvin Jones- Trinidad and Tobago U20 International
Daneil Cyrus- Trinidad and Tobago Senior International
Silvio Spann- Trinidad and Tobago Senior International
Mekeil Williams- Trinidad and Tobago Senior International
Andell Noray - Trinidadian (represented his country at u15/u17)
Jamal Clarence - Trinidad and Tobago Senior International
Gem Gordon- Trinidad and Tobago
Gerard Williams- St Kitts Senior International
Julani Archilbald- St Kitts Senior International
Davaughn Elliot- St Kitts Senior International
Celio Da Silva Santos Brazil Second Division player in Brazil (new signing 2013/4)
Joao Anania Jordao Jr- Brazil- First division player in Brazil (new signing 2013/4)
Mirko Delia Italy- played for Italy at U20 level and former Serie A Player (new signing 2013/4)
Christian F.O. Viveros- Colombia- Has played in the Pro league for 8 years
Camilo Ortega Diaz Colombia (new signing 2013/4)
Yhon Lopez- Colombia (new signing 2013/3)
Yefer Lozano- Colombia (new signing 2013/4)
Alejandro Figueroa- Colombia- Played in the league for over 10 years
Kurt Frederick- St Lucia Senior International
Tremain Paul St Lucia Senior International
Stefano Rijssel- Suriname Senior International
Post by: Bakes on October 05, 2013, 10:44:40 PM
Post by: shelly on October 07, 2013, 08:52:29 AM
Talk about double sword.
Joao, Frederick and Gerard are good players. I went to the game in Houston and saw a few other games and they looked good, the rest seems mediocre. They have a good few local players on their roster yet, 7 starters are foreign players. I hope the performance in the Champion League really open the eyes of W Connection managers.
I heard once that the foreign players in T&T sometimes cost less that some locals who demand a lot, so there might be a reason for this influx. Cyrus and Joevin are perfect examples when they were caught playing in the minor leagues for extra money.
Clearly, the W Connection team have a coaching problem. They play the same way T&T did before Mr Hart and Beenhakker came onboard. The simple things are missing and nothing is being done to fix the game plan during live games.
Post by: Mad Scorpion a/k/a Big Bo$$ on October 07, 2013, 11:16:19 AM
I heard once that the foreign players in T&T sometimes cost less that some locals who demand a lot, so there might be a reason for this influx.
Not much different than many other places and even in environments not sport related. Foreigners will be much more likely to accept less for the same job than a local.
Post by: Football supporter on October 07, 2013, 12:55:41 PM
Therefore, he could be TT$3,000 more expensive than the foreigner.
Post by: Football supporter on October 13, 2013, 06:50:31 PM
Central F.C. will be facing off against Defence Force in the finals of the First Citizens Cup on Friday 18th October 2013 at 8 pm. The atmosphere at the Hasley Crawford Stadium is expected to be electric as the "Army Men" will be keen to avenge the 3-1 loss that Central F.C. handed them in the league last month.
More.........
http://www.centralfctt.com/Articles/sharks-tackle-army-men.php
Post by: Football supporter on October 17, 2013, 03:06:49 PM
Army/Coastguard should fear Shark attack
Be afraid Thats the message coming out of the Central F.C. camp to the Defence Force footballers on the eve of the teams First Citizens Cup Final at Hasely Crawford Stadium. The game, which kicks off at 8pm this Friday, is a repeat of the Pro Leagues opening game of the season, which saw last seasons champions, Defence Force, lose 3-1 to The Sharks. Undoubtedly, Defence Force coach, Ross Russell, will be telling his servicemen that the result was just a one off, but the boys from Central, coached by Terry Fenwick, think differently.
more.....
https://www.facebook.com/groups/478681882226491/permalink/533177360110276/
Post by: Flex on October 17, 2013, 05:28:01 PM
Post by: Flex on October 17, 2013, 05:28:38 PM
ttproleague.com.
Defence Force head coach Russell Russell will lead his battalion to war on Friday against Central FC in the Final of the 2013 First Citizens Cup from 8pm at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. The mission: To lift the title that is very close to their hearts.
The enemy meanwhile, is attempting to lift its first ever title, and is led by three-time Pro League winning coach and former England international, Terry Fenwick.
The $100,000 winners cash prize can be very important to both clubs, but the crystal-designed trophy will hold much more significance in either clubs trophy cabinet.
Show me the money! exclaimed a laughing Fenwick who quickly retracted. The trophy of course, will be more important as the inaugural trophy in our clubs history. The money will also be welcomed it might help me get one or two players in the next transfer window.
As for his opponent, it was the First Citizens Cup that Russell first won, when he took over the coaching reigns from Kerry Jamerson in 2009. And prior to that, it was the last title that the soldiers won, back in 2002.
Russell is the Armys most successful coach in recent years, guiding Defence Force to a title in every season since taking up the postFirst Citizens Cup (2009), Digicel Pro League championship (2010/11), Digicel Pro Bowl (2011/12) and the Digicel Pro League championship (2012/13).
The First Citizens Cup is always a special to me, Russell told ttproleague.com on Thursday. Its the first title I won in my first season as head coach of Defence Force, and the first in my cabinet, to say, at this level. It was the hardest title to win as well, as the club hadnt won a title before that in many years. To win it again on Friday would be an honour.
Dependable forward Devorn Jorsling, speedy winger Kevon Carter, creative midfielder Jerwyn Balthazar, veterans Kerry Joseph and Keston Williams, goalkeeper Kevin Graham, team captain Corey Rivers are all likely starters on Friday. Trinidad and Tobago defensive midfielder Curtis Gonzales, defenders Rodell Elcock and Aklie Edwards, winger Jemel Sebro and attacking midfielder Josimar Belgrave are also possible starters.
Id play a winning team, added the Defence Force coach. A more attacking team and a little more speed in the game.
He said that Jorsling, Carter and Aklie Edwards have all shown improved fitness over the last few days and his teams and urged people to come out and support local football.
The former Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeper added, I think we play well, and so does Central, so its going to be a really good Final.
Defence Forces journey to this seasons First Citizens Cup Final included ousting two-time defending champions Caledonia AIA, with a neat Marvin Jones flick for a 1-0 win in the quarter-final round, and getting past San Juan Jabloteh 4-3 on penalties in the semi-final round after rescued by an extra-time Jorsling item for a 2-2 tie.
But the soldiers have been disappointing after two league matches, beaten 3-1 by Central in Round One Match Day One of the Digicel Pro League, and are coming off a 3-1 loss to North East Stars last week.
It will more boost us, knowing that they (Central) have one against us, said Russell. Our guys will take it more serious this time. We are the champions of the Pro League and we want to show that in the First Citizens Cup.
Fenwick told ttproleague.com this week, We cant underestimate Defence Force. We have beaten them already this season, but this is an entirely new situation. They are a very good footballing team and Ross Russell has been doing a lot of good things with the team over the years. They also have the experience of the Concacaf Champions League.
But on Friday its a good opportunity for us to win our clubs inaugural title, continued the former San Juan Jabloteh coach. Its obviously what we are trying to achieve.
In January of this year, Fenwick took over the coaching position left vacant by fellow countryman and former Arsenal footballer, Graham Rix, a month earlier, and during his charge for the remainder of last season, he led the club to the FA Trophy final, but suffered a slim 1-0 defeat against Caledonia AIA. Fenwick also finished the Sharks in a creditable fifth position their debut Digicel Pro League season.
This season Central are unbeaten thus far, and currently sits fourth on the league standings with 4 points from two matches, while defending champions Defence Force occupy eight position without a point.
Central journeyed to the Final of the First Citizens Cup after by defeating rivals North East Stars 2-1 in the quarter-final round with stunning strikes by Hector Sam and Rundell Winchester and defeating bitter town-rivals, DIRECTV W Connection, 3-2 on penalties following a goalless draw in the semi-final round with 10 men, all after losing team captain and midfielder Jason Marcano to a red card for obscene language in the 13th minute.
Jason is an excellent player and its very unfortunate not to have him in the Final, Fenwick said. He was unfairly dealt with by the referee and he will be missed. Weve had to reshape our team but thats ok.
The suspended Marcano will watch from the stands, while teammate Winchester is fresh from his cameo debut appearance in the Trinidad and Tobago Mens Senior Team last Tuesday in a 0-0 draw against New Zealand, at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
With attackers Winchester, Dwight Quintero and Sam; defenders Jamal Jack, Akeem Benjamin, Elton John and Keon Goodridge; midfielders Johan Peltier, Marvin Oliver and Darren Mitchell, and goalkeeper Jan Michael Williams are all available to Fenwick.
Last season Central, under Rixs charge, were ousted in the quarter-final round of the First Citizens Cup, 3-0, by Defence Force. Defence Force progressed further by defeating St. Anns Rangers 2-1 in the semi-final round, but fell 2-1 against Caledonia AIA in the Final.
The squad that Ive put together, and still looking to add one or two, is a squad of good footballers specialized players in all areas. We are unbeaten this season and we want to keep that focus and maintain that consistency, concluded Fenwick.
Post by: Football supporter on October 17, 2013, 08:39:23 PM
Be afraid Thats the message coming out of the Central F.C. camp to the Defence Force footballers on the eve of the teams First Citizens Cup Final at Hasely Crawford Stadium. The game, which kicks off at 8pm this Friday, is a repeat of the Pro Leagues opening game of the season, which saw last seasons champions, Defence Force, lose 3-1 to The Sharks. Undoubtedly, Defence Force coach, Ross Russell, will be telling his servicemen that the result was just a one off, but the boys from Central, coached by Terry Fenwick, think differently.
more.....
https://www.facebook.com/groups/478681882226491/permalink/533177360110276/
Post by: Sando on October 18, 2013, 08:51:52 AM
Post by: Football supporter on October 18, 2013, 09:40:38 AM
https://www.facebook.com/Tringlishkev/posts/611068868936922?notif_t=like
Post by: Tiresais on October 18, 2013, 09:54:32 AM
Post by: Football supporter on October 18, 2013, 10:05:52 AM
Cheering on Defence Force from London!
London? Best place for Defence Force tonight!!!
Post by: Star Child on October 18, 2013, 10:18:53 AM
Cant stand Ross Russell.
Any live links for the game today?
Post by: Big Magician on October 18, 2013, 03:17:05 PM
Post by: Tiresais on October 18, 2013, 03:25:03 PM
Cheering on Defence Force from London!
London? Best place for Defence Force tonight!!!
Hah I've seen them play - they'd do a better job than Charlton are doing right now :(
Post by: Flex on October 18, 2013, 06:20:58 PM
Substitutes From: 25.Javon Sample (GK), 4.Omar Charles, 6.Toric Robinson, 16.Akil De Freitas, 19.Dwight Pope, 22.Keon Trim, 23.Hector Sam.
Post by: Flex on October 18, 2013, 06:21:14 PM
Jorsling put Army in the lead - 9th.
Post by: jason23 on October 18, 2013, 06:23:09 PM
Post by: Flex on October 18, 2013, 06:26:51 PM
Post by: Flex on October 18, 2013, 06:28:18 PM
no live stream? :(
You can follow Lasana here...
http://wired868.com/2013/10/18/first-citizens-final-defence-force-versus-central-fc-live/
Post by: Tallman on October 18, 2013, 08:42:07 PM
Post by: Deeks on October 18, 2013, 08:56:37 PM
Post by: maxg on October 18, 2013, 09:14:25 PM
Central FC has won its first trophy after edging Defence Force 2-1 in tonight's First Citizens Cup Final. Defence Force opened the scoring via a 9th minute goal by Devorn Jorsling. Central answered through Dwight Quintero and Rundell Winchester.:wavetowel: :wavetowel: :party: :cheers:
Post by: FireBrand on October 18, 2013, 09:51:18 PM
Post by: rotatopoti3 on October 18, 2013, 10:21:20 PM
Post by: Football supporter on October 18, 2013, 10:57:18 PM
What FS!! You and your daughter real serious!!! Congrats!!Yuh don know!!
Post by: Football supporter on October 18, 2013, 11:01:40 PM
Thank you all for your good wishes. :beermug:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=611338668909942&set=pcb.611339578909851&type=1&theater
Post by: Football supporter on October 18, 2013, 11:10:06 PM
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151970888530330
I should elaborate a lttle. Army scored around 13 mins. Quintero equalised for Central on the cusp of half time. Winchester scored a great goal around 83 mins to clinch it for The Sharks.
Quinny & Winny = unstoppable!! And both under 20!!
Post by: Deeks on October 18, 2013, 11:11:56 PM
Post by: Banter Banton on October 18, 2013, 11:40:40 PM
Rundell Winchester is quite the athlete.... kid is massive and works so hard , he seems so composed with his running ability and on the ball quite capable.... set up the first goal and scored an absolute beauty to win it, left foot bullet into the V late in the game.... something special in the making
Post by: King Deese on October 18, 2013, 11:53:33 PM
Central FC has won its first trophy after edging Defence Force 2-1 in tonight's First Citizens Cup Final. Defence Force opened the scoring via a 9th minute goal by Devorn Jorsling. Central answered through Dwight Quintero and Rundell Winchester.Oh oh. Kicking ass, taking no prisoners. Congratulations to the entire Central FC football organization. This is a remarkable achievement considering the organization is only a year old. It is amazing that one young gun exits the league only for another young gun to enter to fire the shot heard around the league. Many rivers to cross for bigger and better things await. Keep on climbing.
One.
Post by: Football supporter on October 18, 2013, 11:59:02 PM
Central FC has won its first trophy after edging Defence Force 2-1 in tonight's First Citizens Cup Final. Defence Force opened the scoring via a 9th minute goal by Devorn Jorsling. Central answered through Dwight Quintero and Rundell Winchester.Oh oh. Kicking ass, taking no prisoners. Congratulations to the entire Central FC football organization. This is a remarkable achievement considering the organization is only a year old. It is amazing that one young gun exits the league only for another young gun to enter to fire the shot heard around the league. Many rivers to cross for bigger and better things await. Keep on climbing.
One.
Thanks bro :beermug:
Post by: Tiresais on October 19, 2013, 01:34:07 AM
Post by: Sam on October 19, 2013, 06:46:14 AM
Kevin, big up !!
Post by: ZANDOLIE on October 19, 2013, 07:35:35 AM
Its good to see Fenwick back in the winner's circle too. I think a national coaching assignment is past due for Terry. The TTFA can't ignore his accomplishments forever.
Post by: Big Magician on October 19, 2013, 07:45:56 AM
what a frigging winner from Winchester
details later
Post by: Football supporter on October 19, 2013, 08:59:31 AM
https://www.facebook.com/Tringlishkev/posts/611339578909851?notif_t=like
Post by: SWF Reporter on October 19, 2013, 12:06:26 PM
By Lasana LIBURD (Wired868)
It was about 20 minutes after the final whistle but Central FC striker Rundell Winchester was in no hurry to leave the Hasely Crawford Stadium and the scene of his most impressive triumph to date.
The 19-year-old Tobagonian set up Centrals equalising goal and then scored a superb winner as the Couva Sharks edged Defence Force 2-1 in the First Citizens Cup final. In the process, he helped Central secure its first domestic top flight crown after less than a year and a half in existence.
I just cant stop smiling, Winchester told Wired868. Im just so happy right now I want to thank my coach Terry Fenwick, and my teammates; and my mom for bringing me into this world
If it sounded like Winchester was accepting an Oscar; but there is a touch of Hollywood about the teenagers rise from obscurity, which was completed a stones throw away from Movie Towne.
A year ago, Winchester was a Stokely Vale player in the Super League and an unknown commodity outside Tobago. This week, he replaced Stoke City striker Kenwyne Jones late substitute in an international friendly against 2010 World Cup nation, New Zealand.
And, three days later, Winchester cut himself a slice of history for Central while winning the MVP award in a cup final to boot.
Defence Force coach Ross Russell might have been doubly distressed by the way the First Citizens Cup final unfolded.
Last November, Russell was national under-20 coach when the young Warriors finished dead last in a Caribbean group that included Haiti, Puerto Rico and Curacao. Winchester was not in his squad and, presumably, Russell had never heard of him.
It is farcical that scouting can be such an obvious problem in a country of well under two million inhabitants and in which one can drive from one end of the island to the next within three hours and Tobago is just a 15 minute plane ride away. But that is another issue.
The November 2012 Toyota Classic competition, which was a mixture of Pro League and Super League teams, alerted Central to the likes of Winchester, Darren Mitchell and Omar Charles and Sharks managing director Brent Sancho snapped them up in the January transfer window.
Yesterday, Central reaped the benefits although it was harsh on Russell and his soldiers.
We were apprehensive at the start tonight and Army bossed us, said Central coach Terry Fenwick. No one has done that to us so far this season.
Central whipped Defence Force 3-1 in their previous meeting this season but there was no sign of inferiority by the Pro League defending champion team as the Teteron Boys made a roaring start.
Devorn Jorsling did not feature when the two clubs met last month and he did not take long to make his mark last night.
In the sixth minute, he flicked through for winger Kevon Carter who was blocked by the legs of Central and Trinidad and Tobago custodian Jan-Michael Williams.
Three minutes later, Carter found Jorsling in space and the outcome was never in doubt when last seasons top scorer cocked his left boot inside the penalty area.
Jorsling celebrated his early strike with a typically creative celebration as his teammates lined up like bowling pins and the veteran striker rolled the ball to comically knock them all on their backs.
Fenwick changed tactics from a 4-4-2 to a 4-3-3 system, which gave his players more straightforward man to man duties. But still his young team struggled against the direct and incisive soldiers.
In the 37th minute, a dangerous Kerry Joseph cross provoked a ridiculous, blind backheeled attempted clearance by Central defender Akeem Benjamin, who was fortunate to see the ball bounce off Carter and roll out for a goal kick.
Two minutes later, Josimar Belgrave opened the Central defence as casually as if it was an automatic door but Williams denied Carter with a tremendous save with his legs.
And, just as it seemed that Central would be happy to end the half with a one-goal deficit, the Sharks pulled level.
Winchester, now deployed on the left flank, stepped inside and curled a cross into the box where fellow teenager Dwight Quintero rose to force a header past Defence Force keeper Kevin Graham. It was almost the last kick of the first half.
Both teams chose to strengthen defensively in the second half as the versatile Curtis Gonzales and man-mountain Keston Williams were introduced for Defence Force while Central brought on Jamaican midfield sentry Toric Robinson.
But neither team could find any rhythm offensively as the game trudged towards to extra time.
But Winchester had other ideas.
The Central build-up was sharp but not electric. Right back Elton John passed inside to Oliver who, under pressure, stabbed up the left flank where Peltier had swapped places with Winchester.
Peltier stepped in off the wing and played a crisp, low cross-field pass towards Winchester, who was in the inside right channel. And Winchester gave the ball a gentle tap to his left before absolutely hammering it with his left boot; and the sphere flew towards the near post vee and into the back of the net off the underside of the crossbar.
Defence Force could not find an answer to that strike.
That goal meant a lot to me, said Winchester. It is the first time Ive scored a goal in a final; and to score a goal like that!
And then I only just got a (national) call-up It is such a great achievement for me where I came from
It was Fenwicks first trophy since 2011, when he led Jabloteh to the TTFF FA Trophy before the San Juan club temporarily withdrew from the top flight due to financial problems.
The first (trophy) can be a bogey, said Fenwick. Now that we have won it, I think we can relax and enjoy our season a bit more. Hopefully we can grow from strength to strength after tonight.
Winchester was still walking around, grinning from ear to ear and clutching his MVP trophy.
I will just keep on working hard, he said. I know hard work brings success
Fenwick credited the Tobagonian for a brilliant and decisive goal. And then he made it clear that the teenager still had a lot to do to satisfy him.
I thought he was poor for most of the night, said Fenwick, a former Tottenham captain and England World Cup defender. He kept losing his footing and giving the ball away But then he can score goals like that; so you dont want to take him off.
About a dozen Tobagonians travelled to Port of Spain to see last nights final and they cooed proudly about Winchester winning goal. Perhaps they were here last Tuesday too when Winchester made his international debut and almost sniffed out a late winner against New Zealand.
At the rate the young Central striker is progressing, Tobago football fans will probably be making themselves comfortable in the Hasely Crawford Stadium for years to come.
(Teams)
Central FC (4-1-3-2): 21.Jan-Michael Williams (GK); 2.Elton John, 24.Akeem Benjamin, 12.Jamal Jack, 3.Keion Goodridge, 10.Marvin Oliver; 11.Darren Mitchell (22.Keon Trim 75), 15.Kaydion Gabriel (6.Toric Robinson 53), 13.Johan Peltier, 9.Dwight Quintero (19.Dwight Pope 87), 17.Rundell Winchester.
Unused substitutes: 25.Javon Sample (GK), 4.Omar Charles, 16.Akil De Freitas, 23.Hector Sam.
Coach: Terry Fenwick
Defence Force (4-4-1-1): 1.Kevin Graham (GK); 13.Marvin Jones, 5.Devin Jordan (8.Curtis Gonzales 46), 6.Rodell Elcock, 21.Aklie Edwards; 23.Kerry Joseph, 14.Cory Rivers (captain) (3.Keston Williams 58), 18.Sean Narcis, 11.Kevon Carter; 10.Josimar Belgrave (26.Richard Roy 77); 9.Devorn Jorsling
Unused substitutes: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK), 12.Jemel Sebro, 15.Jerwyn Balthazar, 17.Ross Russell Jr.
Coach: Ross Russell
Referee: Neal Brizan
First Citizens Cup final
(October 18)
Central FC 2 (Dwight Quintero 45, Rundell Winchester 85), Defence Force 1 (Devorn Jorsling 9) at Hasely Crawford Stadium
Post by: Football supporter on October 19, 2013, 08:59:07 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NhQso2tBnvg&feature=youtu.be
Post by: Brownsugar on October 20, 2013, 05:23:55 AM
Post by: Brownsugar on October 20, 2013, 05:38:30 AM
Post by: Trini _2026 on October 20, 2013, 05:55:43 AM
Post by: Deeks on October 21, 2013, 03:19:56 PM
Post by: Sam on October 24, 2013, 07:13:37 AM
See why I dont like local coach.
Ross Russell fail to pick de best players for de under 20 team and now Winchester came back and haunt him, same with Anton Corneal and Ricky Shakes.
Post by: dreamer on October 24, 2013, 08:00:37 PM
Post by: Tallman on October 30, 2013, 03:02:20 PM
http://www.youtube.com/v/E6QexqankPE
First Citizens Cup Semifinal: San Juan Jabloteh vs Defence Force
http://www.youtube.com/v/JNLe_kYuyD4
First Citizens Cup Final: Central FC vs Defence Force
http://www.youtube.com/v/oZOpo3m_uQA
Post by: ANC2 on October 30, 2013, 05:38:54 PM
Good point Lasana...
See why I dont like local coach.
Ross Russell fail to pick de best players for de under 20 team and now Winchester came back and haunt him, same with Anton Corneal and Ricky Shakes.
:timeout: Not defending anyone here, but Lasana full of shit here. This is how I remember it went down & Lasana for all is journalistic genius should know better.
Michael McCormie :clown: was the coach of the U20, he get the boot for some mad player abuse, two weeks before the tournament & Russ Russell stepped in as coach.
:thinking: Now reason would suggest that it was Anton & MCCormie who do the scouting & pick the squad. Russel only play the hand that was dealt.
But nah Lasana playing off people short memory to sensationalize his writing :shameonyou:
Post by: Flex on October 10, 2014, 01:53:56 AM
By Nigel Simon (Guardian).
Central FC will kick off defence of its First Citizen Cup title, one of two trophies captured in the 2013/2014 season, against Pt Fortin Civic Centre on October 17 in one of four quarterfinal matches.
This was determined when the draw for the nine-team tournament, now in its 12th year of First Citizens sponsorship was made yesterday at the VIP Lounge, Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo.
Last year, the Sharks (Central FC) are called edged out Defence Force 2-1 in the tournament decider at Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo.
And this year the Couva-based club, yet to play a Pro League match after losing to DirecTV W Connection 1-0 in the Digicel Community Shield, has a great chance to reach a second straight final based on its draw.
Should Central get past Pt Fortin in its quarterfinal, it will then face the winner of the Police and St Anns Rangers quarterfinal in the semifinal on Friday October 17 for a spot in the October 31 final.
However, in the other half of the draw its anybodys guess who will get to the title match with six-time winners W Connection, 2011 and 2012 champions Caledonia AIA, and 2002 and 2009 titlist Defence Force, beaten in three of the last four finals as well all in the fray.
The Teteron Boys will first have to get past their qualifier against San Juan Jabloteh next Tuesday at Marvin Lee Stadium, Macoya. The winner will have a date against W Connection.
North East Stars, one of three current Pro League clubs never to capture the crown will tackle Caledonia in the other.
Speaking at the launch, Warren Sookdar, First Citizens chief information officer, boasted that it was the twelfth year First Citizens has partnered with the T&T Pro League in producing the tournament and it thanks Dexter Skeene and the Pro League for their efforts and commitment as league administrators.
With regards to First Citizens commitment, Sookdar was quick to note that sponsorship goes beyond giving money and gaining brand awareness.
The value of sponsorship must lie in the lives that we change and in the growth of the initiative while the footballer, the sponsor and administrator must be unified by the desire to improve the state of football in all areas.
Reflecting on what the tournament has produced over the years, Sookdar said,First Citizens was proud of its investment when it looks at players like Shannon Gomez, Carlos Edwards and Densill Theobald, who have come through the First Citizens/BGTT Secondary Schools Football League to represent the national Under-20 team and play on the international scene respectively.
He added, First Citizens is pleased when players can express their heartfelt gratitude to the Group for seeking their interest at a personal level as they did during the Managing Your Finances seminar held earlier this year.
Skeene, Chief Executive Officer fo the T&T Pro League was in full praise of the tournament sponsors saying: First Citizens has led by example in moving to the top of the corporate rankings.
You have been here from the beginning and continue to understand the importance of the T&T Pro League to the development of football, the nations youth and sport industry.
As is customary, First Citizens will also provide incentives to the spectators with its annual Dash-for-Cash in which an increased prize of $800 at all quarterfinal and semifinal will be on offer, and $1,500 in the final.
The biggest cooler crew will also again be up for a winners prize as well with groups having the opportunity to win cooler of drinks at the semifinals and final.
First Citizens Cup Fixtures Qualifier:
October 14:
Defence Force vs San Juan Jabloteh, Marvin Lee Stadium, Macoya, 6 pm
Quarterfinals:
October 17:
Central FC vs Pt Fortin Civic
Police vs St Anns Rangers
Caledonia vs North East Stars
W Connection vs Defence Force/San Juan Jabloteh winner
Semifinals:
October 24:
Central FC/Pt Fortin Civic winner vs Caledonia/North East Stars & Defence Force/Jabloteh winner
Final:
October 31:
RELATED NEWS
Champs Central to face Civic in First Citizens Cup.
T&T Express Reports.
One Pro League football team will have a $100,000 pay day and earn a crystal statue.
At the launch of the 2014 First Citizens Cup yesterday at the VIP Lounge of the Hasely Crawford Stadium, the draw for the competition was announced.
Action will kick off next Tuesday when the Defence Force tackle San Juan Jabloteh in a qualifying match at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.
Defending champions Central FC oppose Point Fortin Civic Centre in the quarter-final round of matches on October 17.
Caledonia AIA go up against North East Stars, Police FC challenge St Anns Rangers and W Connection will play the winners of the Defence Force /Jabloteh encounter in the other quarter-final matches on October 17.
Last year, Central FC won the First Citizens Cup for the first time when they beat the Defence Force by a 2-1 margin.
Times and venues for the quarter-final round will be announced soon, Pro League CEO Dexter Skeene said
At yesterdays launch, it was revealed that the competitions winners will pocket $100,000, while the beaten finalists will win $20,000, all part of a First Citizens sponsorship package.
Speaking at the launch, Warren Sookdhar, Chief Information Officer at First Citizens, confirmed the financial organisations continued commitment to the competition.
The value of sponsorship must lie in the lives that we change and in the growth of the initiative. The footballer, administrator and the sponsor must be unified by their desire to improve the state of football in all areas, Sookdhar said, while urging competitors to play fair but fierce.
Skeene said First Citizens 12-year relationship was confirmation of the Banks commitment to the event.
FIRST CITIZENS CUP FIXTURES:
Quarter-finals
(A) Centra FC v Point Fortin Civic Centre
(B) Caledonia AIA v North East Stars
(C) Police FC v St Anns Rangers
(D) W Connection v Defence Force/San Juan Jabloteh
Post by: amielisadore on October 10, 2014, 07:10:21 AM
Central FC starts defence against Point Fortin CC.
By Nigel Simon (Guardian).
And this year the Couva-based club, yet to play a Pro League match after losing to DirecTV W Connection 1-0 in the Digicel Community Shield, has a great chance to reach a second straight final based on its draw.
??? ??? ??? Smh
Post by: Football supporter on October 10, 2014, 07:52:25 AM
Central FC starts defence against Point Fortin CC.
By Nigel Simon (Guardian).
And this year the Couva-based club, yet to play a Pro League match after losing to DirecTV W Connection 1-0 in the Digicel Community Shield, has a great chance to reach a second straight final based on its draw.
??? ??? ??? Smh
I guess the 7-0 victory over Rangers was kinda forgettable lol
Post by: Banter Banton on October 10, 2014, 08:10:22 AM
Post by: FF on October 10, 2014, 08:28:45 AM
Nigel Simon is a joke...stick to Hockey mate
He also had several errors in the Dominican Rep. match report, including saying we playing Antigua tonight (Friday)
Post by: Flex on October 15, 2014, 05:36:04 AM
ttproleague.com.
Marvin Lee Stadium, MACOYA Forward Devorn Jorsling missed a crucial first half penalty before witnessing - from the bench - a nail-biting end on Tuesday night as his side Defence Force went down 3-2 on penalties against San Juan Jabloteh following a 1-1 draw in their play-off match of the 2014 First Citizens Cup.
Richard Roy, a second half substitute at the expense of Jorsling, scored a late regular time equaliser after Jabloteh had the lead through a superb Andell Noray strike.
But it was Jablotehs goalie Shane Mattis that sprung into stardom during kicks from the penalty mark.
The 30-year-old Jamaican made two saves; denying Roy, then defender Rodell Elcock on the fifth to send his teammates and San Juan supporters alike into celebration.
With the win, Jabloteh, the 2000 and 2003 First Citizens Cup winners, advanced into Friday's quarterfinal round and will go up against six-time (2001, 2004, 2005, 2006. 2007 & 2008) winners W Connection from 6 pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
The Couva venue will also host defending champions Central FC against Point Fortin Civic from 8 pm on Friday.
The quarterfinal round will continue on Saturday 18 October at the Marvin Lee Stadium with Police FC against St. Anns Rangers from 5 pm and two-time (2011 & 2012) former winners Caledonia AIA against North East Stars from 7 pm.
I have a fair idea of what W Connection does, said Jabloteh head coach Keith Jeffrey following his teams hard-fought penalty win over Defence Force.
So (our) system will change for W Connection relative to the game on Friday.
We know the pinnacle is when we are against W Connection. We want to be victorious. All players must try to achieve against the best team in the land, and the best team in the land is W Connection. It is an opportunity for the (present Jabloteh) players to show if they can compete at (W Connections) level.
Jeffrey added that Jablotehs ambition is to be successful in the 2014-2015 and to return the club onto the pedestal as one of the top teams in Trinidad and Tobago.
Jeffreys emotions fluctuated as he supported his team from the edge of the technical area during the kicks from the penalty mark.
Jabloteh substitute Shaquille Bertrand was the first to step up but drilled his effort wide before Dillon Kirton smashed the clubs second hit into the roof of the net beating Army goalkeeper Andre Marchan.
Marchan then pulled off save to blank Calib Sturge on Jablotehs third kick before goal-scorer Noray comfortably sent a left-footer into the back of the net. Jamaican Adrian Reid later scored into the top corner for Jablotehs third goal from the spot, slightly bettering Defence Force in the end.
At first Mattis made a low stop to deny Roy then watched a fancy Dave Long chipped attempt crash off the upright.
Mattis was defeated comfortably by Ross Russell Jr. and although getting some glove to Curtis Gonzales strike he conceded again, but made a low diving save to his left to deny Elcock to grab victory.
(I am) disappointed in the loss, Defence Force head coach Ross Russell said. () but I think (our) guys gave their all tonight (Tuesday). We came back from 1 nil (down) to equalize late in the game.
Penalties go anywhere and normally we have a bad record with penalties. We continued the (poor) record (tonight).
After two early misses by attacking midfielders Jerwyn Balthazar and Josimar Belgrave in the 7th and 18th minutes respectively, the 2002 and 2009 winners and last seasons defeated finalists, Defence Force, had a great opportunity to grab the lead.
The Tetron Boys had won the favour of referee Crystal Sobers, who pointed to the penalty spot, in the 26th minute after ruling that defender Jevon Morris had fouled Ross Russell Jr inside the area.
But Jorsling, typically known to comfortably score from the spot, disappointingly dragged his hit wide of the base of keeper Mattis' upright.
It was unlike Jorsling in a game like this where it was tight, explained Russell. He (Jorsling) said it just hit the wrong part of his foot and went wide. I wont fault him much because he is really our number one penalty kicker.
Coach Russells son, Russell Jr., executed a number of telling crosses from the left on the night however his teammates failed to put them on target until the 88th minute.
Russell Jr. swung in a cross in the 51st minute but Kerry Joseph directed his volley wide after rushing in towards the back post.
Then on the 55th minute the left-side attacking midfielder, who can also occupy left-back, sent another ball into the area and after taking it down, Jorsling fired wide of the upper corner.
A minute later and another raid on the San Juan defense saw Jorsling's attempt to lob Mattis, after muscling off a couple Jabloteh shirts, lift the ball high over.
Roy, who replaced Jorsling in the 65th minute, was at the end of another excellent Russell Jr. cross in the 68th minute but volleyed wide.
Then on the 75th minute Jabloteh grabbed a 1-0 advantage against the run of play through Noray, who had a 41st minute free-kick just high of the upper corner.
But when the Tobagonian turned on his favoured left foot, after being picked out by Jamaican Newtown Sterling inside the area, he fired past Marchan and into the far netting for what seemed the likely winner.
But two minutes from the end of regular time substitute Roy leveled the score 1-1 when he controlled a Russell Jr. cross inside the area and sent a left-footed strike past eventual penalty kicks hero, Mattis.
It was a great game, added Russell Sr. I think Jabloteh fought very hard to the end they really put in the work. We had a lot of chances that went a begging and that hurt us.
Jeffrey meanwhile said, Defence Force have always been a team that competes whether it be a Cup, League, or FA and we knew that we were in for a fight against them.
But we were ready. We played them in a pre-season practice match and had a very good idea of what they wanted to do. So we just adjusted to suit and at the end of the day it worked out.
It was a mistake that they equalised from but at the end we showed our strength and that we are an improving team from last season. And anytime you can go up against the Defence Force and win whether it is penalties or within the ninety minutes, its always a good thing, concluded the Jabloteh coach.
2014 First Citizens Cup play-off
Defence Force 1 (2)1 (3) San Juan Jabloteh
Richard Roy 88' ; Andell Noray 75'
Kicks from the penalty mark
San Juan Jabloteh (3) Defence Force (2)
Shaquille Bertrand (missed) Richard Roy (saved)
Dillon Kirton (scored) Dave Long (missed)
Calib Sturge (saved) Ross Russell (scored)
Andell Noray (scored) Curtis Gonzales (scored)
Adrian Reid (scored) Rodell Elcock (saved)
Teams
Defence Force: 28. Andre Marchan, 4. Dave Long, 6. Rodell Elcock, 8. Curtis Gonzales, 9. Devorn Jorsling (C) (26. Richard Roy 65th), 10. Josimar Belgrave (18. Sean Narcis 65th minute), 13. Marvin Jones, 17. Ross Russell Jr., 21. Aklie Edwards, 23. Kerry Joseph (16. Kellon Serrette 77th), 15. Jerwyn Balthazar
Unused substitutes: 5. Devin Jordan, 12. Jemel Sebro, 22. Jamali Garcia, 25. Sheldon Clarke (GK)
Coach: Ross Russell
San Juan Jabloteh: 30. Shane Mattis, 18. Jevon Morris, 22. Calib Sturge, 12. Brendon Boucaud (16. Nyron Jones 85th), 6. Dario Holmes, 19. Dillon Kirton, 24. Adrian Reid, 7. Andell Noray, 17. Fabian Reid, 8. Newtown Sterling (15. Duran Dilworth 76th), 9. Johan Peltier (14. Shaquille Bertrand 63rd)
Unused substitutes: 36. Raheem Belgrave (GK), 10. Kerry Baptiste, 25. Troy Moses
Coach: Keith Jeffrey
First Citizens Cup 2014 Quarter Final Round
Friday 17 October
W Connection vs San Juan Jabloteh (D)6 pm, Ato Boldon Stadium
Central FC vs Point Fortin Civic (A)8pm, Ato Boldon Stadium
Saturday 18 October
Police FC vs St. Ann's Rangers (C)5pm, Marvin Lee Stadium
Caledonia AIA vs North East Stars (B)7pm, Marvin Lee Stadium
Semi-Final Round
Friday 24 October
A. vs C. (M) B. vs D. (N)
Final
Friday 31 October
M vs N
Post by: weary1969 on October 15, 2014, 07:59:13 AM
Nigel Simon is a joke...stick to Hockey mate
A FRAUD
Post by: Sam on October 15, 2014, 08:38:05 AM
Nigel Simon is a joke...stick to Hockey mate
Nigel Simon is not a joke, he is a big fat, wet pussy c00nt.
Post by: Flex on October 18, 2014, 08:27:47 AM
ttproleague.com.
Ato Boldon Stadium, COUVA Goalkeeper Jan-Michael Williams produced three saves on kicks from the spot to guide defending champions Central FC to a 3-2 penalty win over Point Fortin Civic following a hard-fought 1-1 draw in their quarterfinal round clash of the 2014 First Citizens Cup on Friday night.
We practiced penalties because we expected a tough game [that could have reached] penalties, Central FC head coach Zoran Vranes revealed following the match. (So) we are very glad that it paid off.
The Couva Sharks advances into the semi-final round which does not included six-time winners W Connection, after the Savonnetta Boys were defeated 2-0 by San Juan Jabloteh in the earlier quarterfinal at the Couva venue.
Connection, winners in 2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, were stunned by the two-time winners Jabloteh and had only themselves to blame after going under twice in the first half.
Connection defensive St Lucian signing Jamil Joseph was the wrongdoer on both occasions in which Jabloteh capitalised on.
A giveaway by Joseph, the last defender, 25-yards out allowed Jabloteh's Newtown Sterling a free run towards goal and upon entering the 18-yard area the Jamaican forward hit past goalkeeper Julani Archibald for a 1-0 lead.
That lead was doubled for a 2-0 cushion by the 35th minute when another Jamaican, Adrian Reid, converted from the penalty spot against Archibald.
Referee Gyasi Mc Donald had awarded the kick after Joseph, a St Lucian national team defender, tripped Jamaican Fabian Reid in the box.
Jabloteh, winners in 2000 and 2003, had defeated two-time (2002 and 2009)winners and last seasons defeated finalists Defence Force 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 tie in last Tuesdays play-off at the Marvin Lee Stadium to advance into the quarterfinal round, and the San Juan Kings were on their way to another high profile scalp.
I have a very idea of what all the top teams in the league does, Jabloteh head coach Keith Jeffrey explained. Twelve months ago we were at the bottom and this is the season we hope to set good standards. W Connection, Defence Force and Jabloteh are three teams with a lot of history and it is an honour that after we beat Defence Force (we) beat W Connection. Not that we are underestimating the other teams but with these two victories we should go all the way. It brings a level of expectancy and we dont want to disappoint San Juan.
Jabloteh took a defensive approach from their second goal but had two good scoring opportunities which were quelled by Archibald; denying Andell Noray and substitute Shaquille Bertrand in the 50th and 83rd minutes respectively.
Connection meanwhile had a better share of the chances but failed to capitalise and when they did get on target, another Jamaican, goalkeeper Shane Mattis stood in their way.
Mattis pulled off two low saves in the second half while Connections best efforts that were out of the Jamaicans reach, flew inches wide of the target from forward Hashim Arcia on either side of the half.
In the second match Central trailed from as early as the 2nd minute after Andre Toussaint, alert near the back post, guided in a low Steven Joseph cross from the right for a 1-0 lead.
But like their two previous matches in the Digicel Pro League this season, against Caledonia AIA (1-2) and North East Stars (1-3), Civic went on to lose after taking the advantage.
Three minutes before the break Central leveled the score 1-1 when midfielder Ataullah Guerra converted from the spot.
Midfielder Sean De Silva had unleashed a left footed strike that brought an excellent block-out by goalkeeper Marvin Phillip but on the follow-up De Silva was upended by defender Andre Ettienne forcing referee Neil Brizan to point to the spot.
Ettienne was booked and Phillip was later beaten by a low penalty kick from Guerra.
De Silva, who was denied by Phillip in the 13th minute, had another attempt in the 77th minute but his early half-volley, following a string of Central passes, whisked just wide of the upright.
Civic's star forward and last season's Digicel Pro League top scorer Marcus Joseph was restricted from goal with his only effort on target coming from a 70th minute free-kick which lacked power but called a save out of Williams.
Williams, Trinidad and Tobagos first choice goalie, went on to better his national goalkeeping teammate and Civic 'keeper, Phillip, by denying Andre Toussaint (first), Matthew Bartholomew (fourth) and Weslie John (fifth) on kicks from the penalty spot before teammate Marvin Oliver scored the winning Central kick.
Credit to Point Fortin Civic and Phillip for making some good saves to keep his team in it but all that was going through my mind was keeping my team in the game, said goalkeeper Williams.
They (Civic) are a good team and we have a lot of respect for them but they have never defeated us so we wanted to keep that intact.
We discussed before the game that the First Citizens Cup is something that we own; we are the defending champions and we want to maintain that even into next season.
Phillip produced one save from the spot to deny Centrals second kicker Jean-Luc Rochford and although De Silva struck overbar on the third kick, it still wasn't enough to steer Civic into the semi-final round.
In the end a relieved Vranes said, We expected a tough game and we got it. They have a very good team; very experienced guys, good players indeed. They put everything that they could. It was a close game and I am very happy that we won. It could have gone both ways but tonight our goalkeeper did well.
The quarterfinal round continues on Saturday 18 October at the Marvin Lee Stadium when Police FC tackle St. Ann's Rangers from 5 pm and two-time (2011 & 2012) winners Caledonia AIA against North East Stars from 7 pm.
The semi-final round is carded for Friday 24 October with the winner between Police and Rangers against Central FC and the winner between Caledonia and North East Stars against Jabloteh.
2014 First Citizens Cup Quarter Final Round Fridays Results
W Connection 02 San Juan Jabloteh
Newtown Sterling 14, Adrian Reid 35 (pen)
Central FC 11 Point Fortin Civic
Ataullah Guerra 42 (pen) ; Andre Toussaint 2
Kicks from the penalty spot
Point Fortin Civic 2 Central FC 3
Andre Toussaint (saved) Ataullah Guerra (scored)
Marcus Joseph (scored) Jean-Luc Rochford (saved)
Andre Ettienne (scored) Sean de Silva (overbar)
Matthew Bartholomew (saved) Akeem Benjamin (scored)
Weslie John (saved) Marvin Oliver (scored)
Teams
W Connection18. Julani Archibald, 3. Gerard Williams (C), 2. Kurt Frederick, 4. Jamil Joseph (26. Maurice Ford 46th), 5. Mekeil Williams, 10. Yefer Steven Lozano, 11. Tremain Shayn Paul, 14. Hashim Arcia, 29. Akeem Garcia (65. Neil Benjamin Jr. 73rd), 32. Dimitrie Apai, 39. Alvin Jones (28. Akim Andrews 70th)
Unused substitutes13. Devaughn Elliott, 17. Jamal Clarence, 22. Aquelius Sylvester (GK), 36. Triston Hodge
CoachStuart Charles Fevrier
San Juan Jabloteh30. Shane Mattis, 18. Jevon Morris (C), 22. Calib Sturge (4. Garth Thomas 58th), 12. Brendon Boucaud (14. Shaquille Bertrand 72nd), 6. Dario Holmes, 19. Dillon Kirton, 24. Adrian Reid, 7. Andell Noray, 17. Fabian Reid, 8. Newtown Sterling, 9. Johan Peltier (15. Duran Dilworth 67th)
Unused substitutes36. Raheem Belgrave (GK), 16. Nyron Jones, 10. Kerry Baptiste, 23. Brendon Figuera
CoachKeith Jeffrey
Match RefereeGyasi Mc Donald
Teams
Central FC21. Jan-Michael Williams, 6. Leston Paul (C) (7. Jason Marcano 58th), 5. Akeem Benjamin, 45. Ataullah Guerra, 11. Darren Mitchell, 99. Dwight Quintero (19. Nathaniel Garcia 78th), 14. Jean-Luc Rochford, 15. Kaydion Gabriel (23. Denzil Daniel 90th), 17. Marcelle Francois, 10. Marvin Oliver, 8. Sean de Silva
Unused substitutes30. Akel Clarke, 18. Kevon Goddard, 27. Shaquille Williams, 13. Seon Thomas
CoachZoran Vranes
Point Fortin Civic1. Marvin Phillip, 5. Andre Ettienne (C), 3. Steven Joseph, 4. Weslie John, 12. Glen Sutton, 18. Trent Lougheed (7. Kelvin Modeste 78th), 2. Garyl Doldron, 6. Akeem Redhead, 19. Andrei Pacheco (9. Matthew Bartholomew 62nd), 11. Andre Toussaint, 10. Marcus Joseph
Unused substitutes52. Akini Adams (GK), 14. Kariym Balthazar, 13. Tevin Belfor, 23. Kevin Rouse, 15. Ronell Paul
CoachReynold Carrington
Match RefereeReynold Carrington
Post by: Football supporter on October 18, 2014, 08:39:50 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ip7mdm8Yzz4&feature=youtu.be
Post by: Flex on October 19, 2014, 04:41:50 PM
ttproleague.com.
Marvin Lee Stadium, MACOYA Police FC and North East Stars became the latest teams to advance into the semi-final round of the 2014 First Citizens Cup after hard-fought wins over St. Anns Rangers and 10-man Caledonia AIA respectively on Saturday.
Police were gifted an early goal but needed a stoppage time Elijah Belgrave goal in their quarter-final clash to overcome a gutsy Rangers 2-1 before Sangre Grande based-North East Stars topped Caledonia 4-1 on kicks from the penalty spot following a keenly contested 1-1 draw.
The Angus Eve coached-Stars went ahead 1-0 in the 24th minute but surrendered the advantage before the break against a side lifted by a classy Densill Theobald performance.
A glancing header former Caledonia player Tyrone Charles off Kennedy Hinksons free-kick from the right had left goalkeeper Shemel Louison and the Morvant/Laventille side beaten.
But on the 44th minute a crack from distance by attacker Pernell Schultz took a wicked deflection to beat Stars goalie Cleon John for a 1-1 score-line before the break.
Caledonia head coach Jamaal Shabazz introduced Keyon Edwards on the restart for freshness in attack at the expense of Julian Wade but only got 11 minutes out of the forward.
A clearly shocked and dismayed Edwards, who had gone to ground following a pull by Stars defender Dwane James during an attack, was shown a direct red card for abusive language towards referee match referee Meville Wallace, who determined the Caledonia players fate.
Stars however failed to capitalise on the one-man advantage and were limited to an 84th minute curling Charles effort, as their best second half effort, which Louison dived to his left to keep out.
However Louison, Grenadas national team goalie, failed to keep his side alive on kicks from the penalty spot and so did teammates Taylor Benjamin (hitting the post) and Kareem Joseph (high overbar) in Caledonias first and second kicks before Schultz netted on the third.
But after Keron Cummings, Charles, and Aquil Selby converted the Stars first three kicks it was down to Hinkson, and the energetic attacker made no mistake netting the winner to down Caledonia 4-1.
The Stars will next go up against two-time winners San Juan Jabloteh, 2-0 quarter-final winners over six-time winners W Connection, in the semi-final round on Friday 24 October while Police will meet defending champions Central FC, 3-2 penalty winners over Point Fortin Civic following a 1-1 draw, as all four teams chase a place in the Final on Friday 31 October towards the title and $100,000 winners prize.
Police grabbed the earliest goal of the 2014 First Citizens Cup to date for a 1-0 lead when captain and midfielder Todd Ryans penalty kick in the 3rd minute was unmatched by Rangers goalie Christopher Biggette.
A handball was called against Rangers captain Jelani Peters, after intercepting a Micah Lewis attempt, resulting in referee Keilon Bacchus pointing to the spot.
Ryan, a former Rangers player, was clinical against his past employers when he sent the ball out of Biggettes reach from the spot.
However it was not until the 79th minute that Police had a great scoring opportunity but the attempt from inside the area by talented attacker Marcus Chandool was cleared off the line.
Rangers later leveled the score 1-1 with a superb right-footed strike from 24-yards out by substitute Kennedy Isles in the 81st minute which flew over goalkeeper Adrian Foncette and down into the back of the net.
But near the end of stoppage time another former Rangers player, Elijah Belgrave, popped up to powerfully head in a Chandool corner for a 2-1 Police win, ending a gutsy performance by the St. Anns club.
Biggette had made a save; putting behind a Joseph effort, but from the resulting corner there was little he could have done with the ball into the upper corner.
Four days before the semi-final round, the advancing teams will have the opportunity to sharpen their game in Round One Match Day Three of the Digicel Pro League on Tuesday 21 October.
At the Marvin Lee Stadium Jabloteh will take on Point Fortin Civic from 6 pm followed by Rangers against Police from 8 pm in a rematch of their First Citizens Cup quarter-final clash.
And simultaneously at the Ato Boldon Stadium defending league champions W Connection will commence its defense against North East Stars from 6 pm followed by Central against Caledonia.
First Citizens Cup 2014 Quarter Final Round Fridays results
W Connection 02 San Juan Jabloteh
Newtown Sterling 14, Adrian Reid 35 (pen)
Central FC 11 Point Fortin Civic
Ataullah Guerra 42 (pen) ; Andre Toussaint 2
Kicks from the penalty spot
Point Fortin Civic 2 Central FC 3
Andre Toussaint (saved) Ataullah Guerra (scored)
Marcus Joseph (scored) Jean-Luc Rochford (saved)
Andre Ettienne (scored) Sean de Silva (overbar)
Matthew Bartholomew (saved) Akeem Benjamin (scored)
Weslie John (saved) Marvin Oliver (scored)
Saturdays results.
Police FC 21 St. Anns Rangers
Todd Ryan 3 (pen), Elijah Belgrave 90+ ; 81
Caledonia AIA 11 North East Stars
Pernell Schultz 44 ; Tyrone Charles 24
Kicks from the penalty spot
North East Stars (4) Caledonia AIA (1)
Keron Cummings (scored) Taylor Benjamin (missed)
Tyrone Charles (scored) Kareem Joseph (missed)
Aquil Selby (scored) Pernell Schultz (scored)
Kennedy Hinkson (scored)
Teams
Police FC18. Adrian Foncette, 4. Karlon Murray (Yellow Card), 8. Kurdell Brathwaite (Yellow Card), 12. Micah Lewis, 15. Jameel Perry (9. Hector Sam 65th), 19. Christon Thomas, 20. Elijah Belgrave, 21. Todd Ryan (C), 24. Jibri Mc David (29. Clevon Mc Fee 60th), 25. Noel Williams, 30. Marcus Chandool
Unused substitutes2. Jasimar Ashers, 7. Brendon Christopher, 17. Dexter Alleyne, 34. Keston Mata (GK), 36. Tafari Williams
CoachRichard Hood
St. Anns Rangers22. Christopher Biggette, 3. Al Davidson, 4. Jelani Peters (C) (Yellow Card), 5. Chad Clinton, 6. Shaquille Moses, 7. Trevin Latapy (8. Sedale Mc Lean 46th), 9. Keron Cornwall, 11. Josh Toussaint (Yellow Card), 17. Keron Alexander (28. Jared Bennett 72nd), 18. Emmanuel Joseph (10. Kennedy Isles 46th), 23. Craig Wilson
Unused substitutes1. Junior Granger (GK), 14. Shabaka Mahluli, 19. Shomari Antoine, 24. Kasheem Webb
CoachJason Spence
Match RefereeKeilon Bacchus
Teams
Caledonia AIA1. Shemel Louison, 2. Taylor Benjamin (Yellow Card), 5. Cristoper Mejia, 8. Keron Bethelmy (4. Conrad Smith 82nd) (Yellow Card), 10. Hayden Tinto (27. Nathan Lewis 63rd), 12. Kareem Joseph, 13. Julian Wade (9. Keyon Edwards 46th) (Red Card 57th), 16. Pierre Hitner, 21. Densill Theobald (C), 22. Jameel Neptune, 28. Pernell Schultz
Unused substitutes14. Keon Russell, 15. Franz Husbands, 32. Kyle Bartholomew, 33. Zane Coker
CoachJamaal Shabazz
North East Stars22. Cleon John (C), 3. Kareem Richardson, 5. Aquil Selby, 6. Jeromie Williams (Yellow Card) (42. Taryk Sampson 63rd), 9. Tyrone Charles, 10. Keron Cummings, 12. Jayson Joseph (35. Jordan Devonish 77th), 14. Dwane James, 23. Kennedy Hinkson, 25. Keryn Navarro, 44. Kion Joseph
Unused substitutes1. Stefan Berkeley (GK), 8. Adrian Noel, 36. Anthony Diaz, 40. Jomoul Francois, 43. Reon Moore
CoachAngus Eve
Match RefereeMerville Wallace
Post by: Football supporter on October 24, 2014, 09:38:16 PM
Central won 3-1 on PKs
North East Stars 0 - 0 San Juan Jabloteh
North East won 4-3 on PKs
Final:
Friday 31st October 8.15pm Ato Boldon
preceded by Harlem Strikers vs Cunupia at 6pm
Post by: Flex on October 25, 2014, 10:24:06 AM
ttproleague.com.
Defending champions Central FC are one match away from successfully defending the title that has more worth to the Couva Sharks than the $100,000 winners prize but must overcome North East Stars, a club hungry for their first taste of the First Citizens Cup, when both sides meet in the Final on Friday 31 October from 8.15 pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Both Central FC and North East Stars advanced out of the semi-final round last Friday via kicks from the penalty spot, defeating Police FC 3-1 and San Juan Jabloteh 4-3 respectively, following goalless draws at the Couva venue.
Trinidad and Tobago national team goalkeeper Jan-Michael Williams, made three saves, mirroring that of his kicks from the penalty spot performance against Point Fortin Civic in the quarterfinal round, to secure Centrals place in the Final in an attempt to defend the first domestic title achieved by the young and ambitious Pro League club.
The Central keeper denied Trent Noel, Hector Sam and Elijah Belgrave and only conceded against Noel Williams, while teammates Ataullah Guerra, Jean-Luc Rochford and substitute Akeem Benjamin found the back of the Police net guarded by goalkeeper Adrian Foncette.
Jan is definitely number one keeper in the country; very experienced and very good, said Central FC head coach Zoran Vranes after his teams win against Police. I was very confident that we were going to win. We constantly practice penalties and the guys were ready to score.
Central dominated chances on Friday night but failed to find the back of the net. The only time Vranes side was able to get past Foncette in regulation time, the crossbar got in the way to keep out a 63rd minute Guerra effort.
We played very well, Vranes explained. We dominated ball possession and combination but too many chances (we didnt score). To have a winning team in the right way we have to solve our finishing (problems). They (Police) surprised me but if we scored just once they would have been down.
Meanwhile Police FC head coach Richard Hood highlighted that his side wasnt up to full strength without the likes of team captain and midfielder Todd Ryan, and defenders Anton Hutchinson and Jasimar Ashers due to illness.
However he complemented the performance of his players, giving special mention to defender Elijah Belgrave, who complained of illness before kick-off but braved the semi-final contest for his team.
Commenting on the semi-final exit Hood said, When you reach a (penalty) shootout its basically a raffle and it just didnt go our way.
I told the guys that (our performance against Central) is what we need to drive us forward. I have no doubt in my mind that this team is capable of winning titles; we just need to come out and work consistently, concluded the Police coach.
North East Stars, in the second semi-final, secured their place in the Final by slightly bettering the kickers of Jabloteh against the San Juan clubs second choice goalie Raheem Belgrave.
Jabloteh had a setback midway through the first half when a collision between Dario Holmes and first choice keeper Jamaican Shane Mattis collided just inside the box.
Mattis, who produced two saves on kicks from the penalty spot in the play-off to defeat Defence Force 3-2 and was instrumental in his teams 2-0 quarter-final win against six-time winners W Connection, picked up a head injury and was withdrawn from the match before he was later whisked off to the hospital for further checks.
Rookie Belgrave was called into action a few times but he was never really tested as both Jabloteh and North East Stars cancelled out each other.
San Juan Jabloteh head coach Keith Jeffrey said, They (North East Stars) sat back and soaked it in. They tried to sit back and play on the counter-attack but at the end of the day we got good chances to eliminate them and we didnt.
But Jeffrey, unbeaten in all competitions prior to kickoff, added, We are having a good run and competing better this season. We can only grow from strength to strength and we will be there in the league and knockouts to give trouble.
It was a really good game, Stars head coach Angus Eve said. I thought both teams played hard. Jabloteh really came out. They have a lot of Jamaicans in their ranks and it seems they gelled really well with the local boys.
They play a very combative style and we didnt really get into our passing style tonight until later down in the second half. But I thought going into (kicks from the penalty mark) was a fair reflection of how the game went. Weve been practicing penalties religiously and we are seeing the fruits of that.
Tobagonian attacker Andell Noray gave Jabloteh an undesirable start on kicks when his attempt flew high overbar before kicks by teammates Adrian Reid (scored), Fabian Reid (saved by Cleon John), Kerry Baptiste (scored) and Newton Sterling (scored).
While Keron Cummings, Tyrone Charles, Aquil Selby and Kion Joseph defeated Belgrave, who denied substitute Kennedy Hinkson on the Sangre Grande clubs fourth kick.
It feels great to be in a Final, added an elated Eve, who also led his side to kicks from the penalty spot win against Caledonia AIA 4-1 in the quarterfinal round following a 1-1 draw. We havent been in a Final since [the 2012-2013 season when we won the Toyota Classic] and it feels good to be in the first Final of this season against Central, a very tough team. We now have to do our homework and come back for that game.
We are really hungry. We havent won anything since the first season I took over at North East Stars and last season we left with nothing although having a respectable 2013-2014. The goal this season is to win at least two Cups and qualify for the Concacaf Champions League, so this is definitely where we want to be today.
North East Stars will have the coming week to prepare for next Fridays Final, while Centrals week will include rescheduled Digicel Pro League Round One Match Day Two clash against rivals W Connection on Tuesday from 7 pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Vanes said he is disappointed at the timing of the rescheduled league fixture but as defending champions of the First Citizens Cup, he will do his best to balance both.
We have tough games and we dont have too many players to choose from. I have to calculate my decisions well. It would be good if we get a good result against W Connection and at same time get ready to play in the Final (of the First Citizens Cup), ended the Central FC coach.
First Citizens Cup 2014 Semi-Final Round Results - Friday 24 October
Central FC 0 vs Police FC 0
(Central won the match 3-1 on kicks from the penalty spot)
Kicks from the penalty spot
Police FC 1 Central FC 3
Trent Noel (saved) Ataullah Guerra (scored)
Noel Williams (scored) Jean-Luc Rochford (scored)
Hector Sam (saved) Akeem Benjamin (scored)
Elijah Belgrave (saved)
North East Stars 0 vs San Juan Jabloteh 0
(North East won the match 4-3 on kicks from the penalty spot)
Kicks from the penalty spot
San Juan Jabloteh 3 North East Stars 4
Andell Noray (overbar) Keron Cummings (scored)
Adrian Reid (scored) Tyrone Charles (scored)
Fabian Reid (saved) Aquil Selby (scored)
Kerry Baptiste (scored) Kennedy Hinkson (saved)
Newton Sterling (scored) Kion Joseph (scored)
Teams
Central FC: 30. Akel Clarke, 6. Leston Paul (C) (19. Nathaniel Garcia 77th), 5. Akeem Benjamin, 45. Ataullah Guerra (99. Dwight Quintero 61st), 11. Darren Mitchell, 7. Jason Marcano, 14. Jean-Luc Rochford, 15. Kaydion Gabriel, 17. Marcelle Francois, 10. Marvin Oliver, 8. Sean de Silva (18. Kevon Goddard 88th)
Unused substitutes: 23. Denzil Daniel, 1. Javon Sample (GK), 27. Shaquille Williams, 13. Seon Thomas
Coach: Zoran Vranes
Police FC18. Adrian Foncette, 4. Karlon Murray (Yellow Card), 8. Kurdell Brathwaite (Yellow Card), 12. Micah Lewis, 15. Jameel Perry (9. Hector Sam 65th), 19. Christon Thomas, 20. Elijah Belgrave, 21. Todd Ryan (C), 24. Jibri Mc David (29. Clevon Mc Fee 60th), 25. Noel Williams, 30. Marcus Chandool
Unused substitutes2. Jasimar Ashers, 7. Brendon Christopher, 17. Dexter Alleyne, 34. Keston Mata (GK), 36. Tafari Williams
CoachRichard Hood
Teams
North East Stars: 22. Cleon John (C), 5. Aquil Selby, 8. Adrian Noel (6. Jeromie Williams 79th), 9. Tyrone Charles, 12. Jayson Joseph, 14. Dwane James, 15. Glenton Wolfe, 25. Keryn Navarro, 35. Jordan Devonish (10. Keron Cummings 55th), 36. Anthony Diaz (3. Kareem Richardson 65th), 44. Kion Joseph
Unused substitutes: 1. Stefan Berkeley (GK), 40. Jomoul Francois, 42. Taryk Sampson, 43. Reon Moore
Coach: Angus Eve
San Juan Jabloteh: 30. Shane Mattis, 18. Jevon Morris, 22. Calib Sturge, 12. Brendon Boucaud (16. Nyron Jones 85th), 6. Dario Holmes, 19. Dillon Kirton, 24. Adrian Reid, 7. Andell Noray, 17. Fabian Reid, 8. Newtown Sterling (15. Duran Dilworth 76th), 9. Johan Peltier (14. Shaquille Bertrand 63rd)
Unused substitutes: 36. Raheem Belgrave (GK), 10. Kerry Baptiste, 15. Duran Dilworth, 25. Troy Moses
Coach: Keith Jeffrey
Post by: JRtheWriter on October 26, 2014, 04:33:21 PM
Post by: amielisadore on October 26, 2014, 05:21:48 PM
Central FC are into the finals of the First Citizens Cup 2015, leaving them well poised to defend their crown. In the 2014 edition, a breathtaking strike from Rundell Winchester in the dying minutes, earned the Couva Sharks their first ever piece of silverware. Comments from the Central FC players within recent weeks all suggest that they firmly believe that the trophy is theirs and they are not going to allow it to be taken away without a fight. Fight is exactly what they had to do to reach the finals. Games versus Point Fortin Civic FC and Police FC were both decided on penalties.
1) WOULD THE REAL GOALSCORER PLEASE STAND UP
Over 25 shots taken, 1 goal scored. Numbers do not lie. Central FC have created a host of scoring opportunities in the games versus Point Fortin Civic FC and Police FC but simply have not put those chances away. These statistics are a serious indictment of the teams profligacy in front of goal. The team's 3-5-2 formation allows for the creation of numerous scoring opportunities. However, the finishing of the front players, Jason Marcano, Ataulla Guerra and Dwight Quintero require improvement. Guerra himself could have had a hat trick in both games easily. Guerra is a class player though, and North East Stars will be well aware that they have to be on their toes when "Tulla" is on the ball in the finals.
2) RETURN OF THE WINGBACKS?
Kaydion Gabriel has arguably been Central FC's player of the season thus far. After seeing himself being in and out of the team in his debut season with the Sharks, he has now firmly cemented a spot on Vranes' team sheet. The former wide forward is finding a new lease of life as the right wingback in the manager's preferred 3-5-2 system. He announced himself with a stunning strike in the 7-0 demolition of St. Ann's Rangers a few weeks ago and has only grown in stature since then. His work rate and stamina allow him to seamlessly make the entire right wing his own. His tactical understanding and awareness have drastically improved and most of Central's best play this season have Gabriel involved in the build up.
Anything good that Gabriel was not involved in though, had the touch of Darren "Chucky" Mitchell to thank. Mitchell, playing in a left wingback role has a different style to Gabriel on the opposite flank but is nevertheless very effective. Mitchell, a central midfielder by trade, prefers to cut inside and run aggressively at the opposing defence. He will be hoping that he can transfer his good league form into a Cup Finals triumph.
Vranes will be pleased that a key component to his preferred formation has been working well and shows great promise. Antonio Conte's Juventus team were the last team to consistently use this formation to great effect and it's no surprise that the game play of wingbacks Lichtsteiner and Asamoah was crucial. Wingbacks allow the team to add width and fluidity to the front line by stretching the opposing defence. Vranes will hope that his Couva based team can emulate Conte's Juventus for a few seasons to come.
3) EXPERIENCE STILL CRUCIAL
In the transfer window, the club made numerous signings with an eye towards the future. The older heads in the dressing may have felt that their time at the club was coming to an end but early season performances have indicated anything but that. Marvin Oliver has been a rock at the back and adopted the calm and authoritative role that Yohance Marshall dominated with last season. Oliver continues to use his decades of playing experience to snuff out danger playing in a sweeper role. Jan-Michael Williams has been a bit more in the headlines though. The T&T National Team #1 has come up with 6 penalty saves in the two penalty shoot outs that the Sharks have used to reach to the First Citizens Cup Final. During the matches, Williams has also been very difficult to beat and exudes confidence. His presence between the posts allows the evolving defence a sense of security and comfort. In a dog fight of a match that the Finals may very well be, these "older dogs" are exactly the sort of characters that are required to lift the trophy.
http://centralfctt.com/Articles/article.php?r=57 (http://centralfctt.com/Articles/article.php?r=57)
Post by: King Deese on October 26, 2014, 06:02:54 PM
Post by: amielisadore on October 30, 2014, 02:51:26 PM
The cup was The Sharks first trophy win when they defeated Defence Force 2-1 last season. Now the California based club are keen to take the trophy back to Central for another year.
The First Citizens Cup will always be special to Central F.C. as it was our first trophy said Managing Director, Brent Sancho. So, yes, we will be giving 100% to win it again this year
The clubs desire to win the glass trophy was clear on Tuesday when Head Coach, Zoran Vranes, rested several players for the Pro League clash with local rivals, W.Connection.
I guess that shows where our focus has been this week said Sancho. Im sure that W.Connection were surprised not to see Ataulla Guerra, Sean De Silva, Marcelle Francois and Jason Marcano in the starting line up.
Vraness gamble nearly cost The Sharks three points as Connection held a 1-0 lead when Kurt Frederick pounced on a rebound from Sharks Jan-Michael Williams penalty save. Central F.C. substitute, Ataulla Guerra equalised with an 83rd minute penalty.
It was close said Sancho Jan-Michael was very unlucky. He has saved six penalties in the First Citizens Cup and did well to get to Hashim Arcias spot kick. Frederick reacted quicker than our boys and scored the rebound. But the draw still leaves us on top of the league. We were always concerned that North East were enjoying a full weeks rest while we had to face last years league champions, but we have a decent depth to our squad so well be at full strength on Friday
Sancho, together with Operations Director, Kevin Harrison and Team Manager, Kevin Jeffrey, began their management careers at North East Stars, but Sancho said there is no bitterness between the two clubs.
We had good times at North East and I think we always like to see them do well against our competitors. Of course, on Friday night we wont feel so generous!
However, Sancho said that the California club were disappointed with North East coach Angus Eve.
We are two players short because they breached their contracts by returning to school football. Both of them would have been in our squad for Fridays Cup Final. One of the players, Nicholas Dillon, is playing for Angus Eve in his capacity as coach of Naparima College. Im not saying that Dillon is only at Naps because of Angus, but there is definitely a conflict of interest when one of your players is being coached by the guy who youre facing in a cup final.
Sancho said that the Secondary Schools Football League, TT Pro League and the TTFA need to get together to resolve certain issues. How can you have a player registered in two competitions with two different teams? asked Sancho. If Naps qualify for the F.A.Trophy and are drawn against North East Stars, the integrity of the whole competition will be tarnished. And what if Naps play Central F.C.? How can Nicholas Dillon play against the club he has a contract with?
Sancho said that he has written to the Pro League enclosing several proposals to help resolve such issues. While we firmly believe that young players have the right to continue their education, once they have registered with the Pro League and entered into a contract with a club, they should no longer be allowed to play school football. You cant have it both ways. You either want to play professionally or stay at school. Its no coincidence that the current top school teams contain players who have played professional football. It cant be fair to those students who have focused on their academic studies instead of joining a Pro League club.
Sancho also stated that his letter included a complaint concerning the North East Stars coach. In our opinion, Angus broke Pro League rules. A coach is forbidden to induce another clubs player to breach his contract. Angus knew that Dillon was contracted to Central F.C. and by allowing him to play for Naparima, he was encouraging Dillon to breach his contract.
Central F.C. will be hoping to prevent the trophy travelling up to Sangre Grande at the end of the game and feel confident that should the game go to penalties, they will have the advantage. Jan-Michael has a great reputation for saving penalties and our players have been solid with their spot kicks, but, of course, we will be hoping to win the trophy in the 90 minutes. added Sancho.
The First Citizens Cup Final takes place on Friday 31st October at Ato Boldon Stadium with a kick off time of 8.15 p.m. Harlem Strikers vs Cunupia kicks off at 6p.m. at the same venue.
http://centralfctt.com/Articles/article.php?r=58 (http://centralfctt.com/Articles/article.php?r=58)
Post by: Football supporter on October 31, 2014, 09:36:58 PM
Despite the usual resilient North East defending, Central hit the net with a Leston Paul drive from outside of the box which hit the post, flew across the goal, into the net.
On balance, Central had more attacking play, but the story of their season so far has been the inability to turn pressure into goals.
The game was keenly contested and the atmosphere was fired up by 3 rhythm sections!
Two people won $1,500 prizes in the dash for cash competitions and another winner won two flights to Tobago. There was free corn soup and nuts and give aways for everyone as well.
Well done to Pro League and First Citizens for providing lots of extras.
Post by: Deeks on October 31, 2014, 10:00:46 PM
Post by: weary1969 on October 31, 2014, 10:52:21 PM
Post by: dreamer on November 01, 2014, 07:26:57 AM
Horner, I hear, sent his congrats too.
Post by: FireBrand on November 01, 2014, 07:43:38 AM
Post by: dreamer on November 01, 2014, 08:10:05 AM
http://ttproleague.com/index.php/tt-pro-league-news/domestics-news-2014/central-fc
Post by: Flex on November 01, 2014, 08:28:14 AM
ttproleague.com.
The first is usually special but so was the second after Central FC, led by season-new coach Zoran Vranes, retained its meaningful First Citizens Cup (FCC) title on Friday night by edging North East Stars 1-0 in the 2014 Final.
The Couva Sharks captain and midfielder Leston Paul grabbed what turned out the winner in the 65th minute, for Vranes' first title in charge, in a Final that could have gone either way at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.
Following a move by Ataullah Guerra in midfield, Paul was played in by the Soca Warriors midfielder, and with time and space above the area the Central FC captain sent a low right-footer past a fully sprawled Stars goalkeeper Cleon John, hitting the inside of the far upright before the ball made its way into the back of the net.
Paul, a former Trinidad and Tobago Under 17 and Under 20 World Cup captain, had earlier struck wide of the target in the 49th minute and in a stoppage-time counterattack the midfielder sent an effort inches wide of completing a double on the night.
Last season under the then charge of coach Terry Fenwick, Central defeated Defence Force 2-1 to hoist the illustrious title, and in the process the second-season-old clubs first top flight domestic title.
And prior to the start of the 2014 FCC tournament, earlier this month, Central midfielder Sean de Silva said, We are definitely very eager to defend this title especially being the first one; being very meaningful and very important to the club.
Central journeyed to the 2014 Final via kicks from the spot, defeating Point Fortin Civic 3-2 on penalties in the quarter-final round following a 1-1 draw before overcoming Police FC 3-1 on penalties following a 0-0 draw in the semi-final round.
Talented and experienced Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeper Jan-Michael Williams, who was superb in both penalty shootouts with three saves on both occasions, was eventually named the 2014 FCC Player of the Tournament while new Central head coach Zoran Vranes was named Coach of the Tournament as Central captured the personal accolades including the $100,000 winners prize, while North East Stars walked away with the $20,000 runners-up prize.
Vranes side had a couple first half free kicks but failed to really trouble Stars goalkeeper John, who made a comfortable take on a De Silva kick early on before veteran midfielder-turned-defender Marvin Oliver struck over bar on his dead-ball effort in the 34th minute.
Three minutes later the Couva Sharks looked good on a counterattack with forward Dwight Quintero but his attempt to get Paul involved, only forced the momentum into a u-turn allowing the Angus Eve coach-North East Stars to recover.
Central finally forced a save out of John in the 59th minute when a cheeky Oliver flick off a De Silva corner had to be kept out by the Stars goalie at near post.
Central had another set piece moments later when defender Marcelle Francois struck wide before the Leston Paul goal finally came just over the hour mark.
Following the match Central FC goal-scorer, Paul, said his team will celebrate on the night but start over fresh by Saturday, with the season long from over for the defending Lucozade Sport Goal Shield champions and last seasons Digicel Pro League runners-up, having qualified along with league winners W Connection to compete in next years Caribbean Club Championship, which also serves as the qualifying stage towards the Concacaf Champions League.
It was a team effort although I scored the winning goal, said Paul. Props to the team. We are deserving of the title.
I think it was even throughout the game, said North East Stars head coach Angus Eve during his post-match comments. It was a very competitive and tactical game. The difference in the game is that the one chance they (Central) got, they took it, and we had several chances which we didnt take.
The Grande Stars, backed by their travelling posse and rhythm section nestled among the hundreds of spectators, including Central supporters and rhythm section, that turned up for the event, had an great opening in the 63rd minute however forward Tyrone Charles, with Kennedy Hinkson available inside the area, opted to go for goal himself and was denied by Williams.
Williams goal was under threat again in the 76th minute but midfielder Keron Cummings spilled his effort high over bar after slipping in the Central area.
And in the final minute of regular time, hardworking Hinkson miscued inside the six-yard area as he too failed to rescue the Sangre Grande club with a late equaliser.
Hinkson was involved again in the dying moments when his dangerous cross from the right forced a push behind by Williams and following the resulting corner, Central were lucky to see Hinkson's deflected effort fly wide.
I am disappointed by the final result and not winning the title because we prepared well for the Final, continued Eve. We matched them (Central) and I dont think Cleon John had three saves to make in the entire game. I thought we had the better chances. The play on the pitch was probably even but we created better chances. The difference in the game was we lacked composure in front of goal.
Eve, a former T&T international, said, had his team won the First Citizens Cup, it might have done a lot for the confidence of the younger players in his squad, which is made up of both youth and experience, towards the rest of the season.
North East Stars and Central FC will both return to action in the 2014-2015 Digicel Pro League on Tuesday 4 November in Round One Match Day Four.
Central will face Police FC from 8 pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium following a 6 pm clash between defending league champions W Connection and last seasons table propping St. Anns Rangers.
North East Stars will take on San Juan Jabloteh from 8 pm at the Marvin Lee Stadium following a 6 pm meet between Defence Force and Caledonia at the Macoya venue, while Point Fortin Civic sits out on the bye.
First Citizens Cup 2014 Final
Central FC 1 (Leston Paul 65') vs North East Stars 0
Coach of the tournament
Zoran Vranes (Central FC)
Player of the tournament
Jan-Michael Williams (Central FC)
Teams
Central FC: 21. Jan-Michael Williams, 6. Leston Paul (C), 5. Akeem Benjamin, 45. Ataullah Guerra (13. Seon Thomas 90th), 99. Dwight Quintero (7. Jason Marcano 76th), 11. Darren Mitchell (Yellow Card), 14. Jean-Luc Rochford, 17. Marcelle Francois, 10. Marvin Oliver, 8. Sean de Silva (28. Miguel Romeo 87th), 23. Denzil Daniel (Yellow Card)
Unused substitutes: 19. Nathaniel Garcia, 30. Akel Clarke (GK), 18. Kevon Goddard, 27. Shaquille Williams
Coach: Zoran Vranes
North East Stars: 22. Cleon John (C), 3. Kareem Richardson (8. Adrian Noel 74th), 5. Aquil Selby, 9. Tyrone Charles, 12. Jayson Joseph, 14. Dwane James (Yellow Card), 25. Keryn Navarro (Yellow Card), 10. Keron Cummings, 44. Kion Joseph (40. Jomoul Francois 89th), 18. Kaashif Thomas (42. Taryk Sampson 74th), 23. Kennedy Hinkson
Unused substitutes: 6. Jeromie Williams, 1. Stefan Berkeley (GK), 43. Reon Moore, 35. Jordan Devonish
Coach: Angus Eve
Match Referee: Neal Brizan
Post by: amielisadore on November 01, 2014, 12:25:19 PM
Central F.C. retained the First Citizens Cup trophy in what was a cagey affair between two well organized teams. Both Zoran Vranes and Angus Eve were clearly very prepared for each other as it showed in an extremely tight first half. Eventually a moment of brilliance came from Atualla Guerra. He made a run from midfield, surged towards the penalty area, drawing the North East defence towards him and intelligently passed the ball off for Leston Paul to finish clinically and seal the victory for Central F.C. North East Stars admirably gave it their all in an attempt to snatch an equaliser and came close several times but the goal never came.
WilliamsFrancoisOliverBenjaminMitchellDe SilvaRochfordPaulDanielGuerraQuinteroBoth teams started off cautiously prodding pragmatically for openings; the symptomatic behaviour of a final where both teams clearly want to win the trophy. It was hard to even attempt to ignore the excitement building up to this game. Zoran Vranes, having just come off a tough fixture with DirecTV W Connection, fielded a strong line-up, with notable changes to the starting eleven that played on Tuesday night. Sean De Silva and Atualla Guerra returned to the starting line-up. Vranes, using the 3-5-2 system that has brought him consistency so far, tried to take initiative against a well-organised North East Stars set up. Both teams had difficulties finding fluidity and the intensity flared up a few times with several fouls and not many chances being created for either team. There were several occasions when play broke down for Central F.C. and North East Stars were very swift on the counter.The Sharks had to ensure that they worked hard and admirably, so as to track back and neutralise the attacks. Perhaps a bit of nerves showed in the first half with Jan Michael Williams, who uncharacteristically had a poor clearance which almost resulted in a goal and Akeem Benjamin showing his fiery side in some debatable decisions.
In the second half, the game opened up with The Sharks showing a bit more energy in retaining possession and attacking. Eventually the initiative paid off with some ingenuity from Atualla Guerra in the 66th minute, making a darting run exhibiting skill and awareness to lay the ball off to Leston Paul whose shot went in off the post. The intensity of the game picked up, as the goal seemed to awaken North East Stars who pushed aggressively to get the equaliser. In the 81st minute Central could have made it 2-0 with well worked play out wide to Sean De Silva, who sent in a tantalising cross to the far post in which Denzil Daniel. Daniel though mistimed his header and let North East Stars off the hook. Sean De Silva was replaced by Argentine Romeo in the 85th minute, clearly with the intention of tightening up the midfield to see out the game.
North East Stars were almost rewarded for their efforts in the 88th minute but wasted a golden chance when, with a goal at his mercy, Kennedy Hinkson fluffed at what should have been a goal for North East Stars. Then instantly at the other end, Leston Paul once again displayed some impressive skill, working his way easily past 2 players to have his effort go narrowly wide. The last 10 minutes of drama and intensity ended with Central F.C. sealing what was a very competitive fixture and going home with the trophy. Fans and players alike celebrated the victory and the intense faces transformed into smiles for all those involved with Central F.C.
To cap off the victory, Zoran Vranes was awarded the First Citizens Cup 2015 Best Coach. Vranes indicated before the match that fixture congestion is a challenge, with games every two days before the final. Needless to say, the hard work he has done was validated when receiving such an award.
Central FC (3-5-2): 21.Jan-Michael Williams (GK); 5.Akeem Benjamin, 10.Marvin Oliver 17.Marcelle Francois; 23.Denzil Daniel, 6.Leston Paul (Captain), 14.Jean-Luc Rochford, 8.Sean De Silva (28.Miguel Romeo 87), 11.Darren Mitchell; 45.Ataulla Guerra (13.Seon Thomas 90), 99.Dwight Quintero (7.Jason Marcano 75).
Unused substitutes: 30.Akel Clarke (GK), 18.Kevon Goddard, 19.Nathaniel Garcia, 27.Shaquille Williams.
Coach: Zoran Vranes
North East Stars (3-5-2): 22.Cleon John (GK); 14.Dwane James, 5.Aquil Selby, 25.Keryn Navarro; 3.Kareem Richardson (8.Adrian Noel 73), 18.Kaashif Thomas (42.Taryk Sampson 73), 44.Kion Joseph, 10.Keron Cummings, 12.Jayson Joseph; 23.Kennedy Hinkson, 9.Tyrone Charles.
Unused substitutes: 1.Stefan Berkeley (GK), 6.Jeromie Williams, 35.Jordan Devonish, 40.Jomoul Francois, 43.Reon Moore.
Coach: Angus Eve
Post by: Football supporter on November 01, 2014, 12:33:33 PM
Congrats it was a nice evening. People leave their FCB bottle so peeps went home wit bout 4. FS u were correct find some scoring boots.:beermug: Was good to see you there!!
Post by: Football supporter on November 01, 2014, 12:33:55 PM
Well done. Winning is dollars.
Horner, I hear, sent his congrats too.
:rotfl:
Post by: elan on November 01, 2014, 12:47:24 PM
:beermug:
Post by: asylumseeker on November 01, 2014, 01:08:49 PM
Post by: weary1969 on November 01, 2014, 04:55:32 PM
Congrats it was a nice evening. People leave their FCB bottle so peeps went home wit bout 4. FS u were correct find some scoring boots.:beermug: Was good to see you there!!
8 on Friday doable so will try 2b there more often.
Post by: Flex on September 28, 2015, 06:12:43 PM
Wednesday 30 September 2015
San Juan Jabloteh vs Defence Force6 pm
North East Stars vs Central FC8 pm
Quarter Final Round
Friday 16 October 2015
St. Anns Rangers vs Club Sando
W Connection vs Point Fortin Civic
Police FC vs Winner of North East Stars/Central FC
Morvant Caledonia United vs Winner of San Juan Jabloteh/Defence Force
Semi Final Round
Friday 23 October 2015
Final
Friday 30 October 2015
Post by: Flex on September 28, 2015, 06:14:11 PM
ttproleague.com.
Good sense tells that the 2015 First Citizens Cup will definitely be a thrill for everyone, including the spectators.
Launched on Monday 28 September at the VIP Lounge of the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, the 2015 First Citizens Cup will get underway on Wednesday 30 September with two match-ups in the qualifying round.
Based on a random draw overseen by TT Pro League Chief Executive Officer Dexter Skeene, four (4) of the ten (10) Pro League teams will try to claw their way out of the qualifying round towards the ultimate prize of $110,000 a ten thousand dollar increase from last seasons amount to the champions and $20,000 for the runners-up.
Two-time (2013 & 2014) defending champions Central FC and last seasons 1-0 defeated finalists North East Stars must face each other in Qualifier Two from 8 pm on Wednesday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in a repeat of the 2014 final.
Two hours earlier (6 pm) at the same venue, it will be a clash of former winners San Juan Jabloteh (2000 & 2003) and Defence Force (2002 & 2009) in Qualifier One.
New Central coach Ross Russell said he is under no pressure to succeed, having won the title back in 2009 as coach of Defence Force.
English coach Terry Fenwick led Central to the clubs overall inaugural title with the 2013 First Citizens Cup and in 2014 Serbia-born coach Zoran Vranes led the Couva Sharks to the title defence.
Speaking during Mondays launch, Russell insisted, Its no pressure for me; Ive already won it. It have my name on it already.
Instead, Russell believes his teams qualifying round opponents, North East Stars, should be the ones worried, saying that he is the new coach at Central.
Its way down in the qualifying round and we are looking to stay on top as a club, said Russell who, in pre-season, took over last seasons seven-title winning Central, inclusive of the Digicel Pro League (DPL) and Caribbean Club championship.
Im going all guns for it, dont matter where we play or who we play, continued the two-time DPL winning coach with Defence Force.
Its difficult having to play from the qualifying round. But its (how) the draw went and we have to accept it. We as a club have represented ourselves well and we are entitled for any challenge.
The quarterfinal round, scheduled for Friday 16 October, pits six-time (2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 & 2008) winners W Connection versus Point Fortin Civic; St. Anns Rangers versus newcomers Club Sando; Police FC versus the winners of the North East Stars/Central FC clash; and two-time (2011 & 2012) winners Morvant Caledonia United versus the winners of the San Juan Jabloteh/Defence Force clash.
The semi-final and final rounds are scheduled for October 23 and 30, respectively.
The defunct Joe Public remains the only other team in the history of the tournament to have won the First Citizens Cup, capturing the title in 2010.
Meanwhile, six years have passed since W Connection have lifted the First Citizens Cup, once nicknamed The W Connection Cup having won the title five times consecutively.
Now this time around assistant coach Earl Jean said the Savonetta Boys are looking forward to victory over Point Fortin Civic in the quarter-final round towards going all the way in returning the crystal trophy back to their cabinet.
When quizzed about his teams motivation this time around, the former Connection and St. Lucia striker exclaimed, Thats a lot of money!
First Citizens has pumped $230,000 into the running of this seasons edition. Apart from the $110,000 and $20,000 to the champions and runners-up, respectively, the First Citizens Cup will also see the Most Valuable Player and Top Goal Scorer receive, for the first time, crystal boot awards along with $1,000 each.
Spectators werent left out, as flat screen televisions are among door prizes during the semi-final and final rounds while other giveaways will happen throughout the tournament.
A cheerleading competition will also take place on the final day as First Citizens, now in their centennial year, continues to lift the bar.
This is us (First Citizens) continuing to support, said deputy chief executive officer of business generation at First Citizens, Jason Julien, during his remarks at Mondays launch. ()but we want you (the clubs/players) to deliver; deliver in terms of talent, fair play, and give everyone a notch up in terms of bringing football to the level of development.
In aligning with the philosophy of one of his favourite managers in world football, former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, Julien advocated that the focus must be on building a club and not just a team.
Julien added, His (Ferguson) objective was building a club and he defined that club as having a production line and it starts with what happens in the reserves, what happens in the academy, what happens on the training field, what happens in the back office and what happens on the field in the senior team in terms of performance.
Julien also told Mondays gathering to not only develop in the First Citizens Cup tournament but in the league as a whole, the national teams and in the generations of football to come.
That is critical. That is why First Citizens is here. It is why we have put our money where our mouth is and have invested in the Pro League for the past 13 years. We truly believe this is the way to develop the future talent of our country. If we didnt have the Pro League and if we didnt continue to put our money where our mouth is, we wouldnt see the fruits that we are seeing today, concluded Julien, who stated that a key part of our society has to be sport and the development of sport.
Skeene, who again applauded the success of First Citizens as the first indigenous bank, said, We at the Pro League are pleased to have you (First Citizens) as a partner, as an example, as a forerunner to look at, model ourselves after and take a page out of your book, that we, as well, if we believe, plan wisely, employ the right people, execute our ideas effectively, can deliver the same results eventually.
We thank you (First Citizens) for your vision in seeing the prospects and possibility in a professional league. Thanks for believing that we can also be like you and have a successful business using our local and indigenous talent.
The First Citizens Cup is a premier tournament in the football calendar. It is designed to create and challenge our coaches and players to continually produce a quality football product. It requires our teams to keep the intensity throughout due to the high stakes on offer and their being something to always compete for.
Echoing the words of Celtic FC Chief Executive, Peter Lawwell, Skeene said: in any successful league you need to have that something to play for feeling for supporters in a domestic situation and there is a direct correlation between winning, entertaining football and commercial success.
The Pro League CEO went further to add, The First Citizens Cup incorporates these two statements in that it is designed to give stakeholders the something to play for feeling and also produce winning entertaining football.
I encourage the clubs to play high level, attractive football, encourage your communities to support you while you compete for the monies and prizes at stake in this years First Citizens Cup.
First Citizens Cup Qualifier Round
Wednesday 30 September 2015
San Juan Jabloteh vs Defence Force6 pm
North East Stars vs Central FC8 pm
Quarter Final Round
Friday 16 October 2015
St. Anns Rangers vs Club Sando
W Connection vs Point Fortin Civic
Police FC vs Winner of North East Stars/Central FC
Morvant Caledonia United vs Winner of San Juan Jabloteh/Defence Force
Semi Final Round
Friday 23 October 2015
Final
Friday 30 October 2015
Post by: Tallman on October 01, 2015, 11:46:14 AM
ttpeoleague.com.
Defence Force and two-time defending champions Central FC marched into quarter-final round of the 2015 First Citizens Cup with contrasting wins over San Juan Jabloteh and North East Stars, respectively, on Wednesday night at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
A second half double by defender Glynn Franklyn and a scorcher from veteran midfielder and team captain Jerwyn Balthazar gave Defence Force just enough to overcome Jabloteh 3-2 and exact revenge in a repeat of last seasons qualifier, which the San Juan side had won 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw.
While early goals from Marvin Oliver and Sean De Silva, and a second half double from Willis Plaza saw Central cruise to a 4-1 win over North East Stars, in a repeat of last seasons final which the Couva Sharks won 1-0 courtesy a second half Leston Paul goal.
Central, First Citizens Cup champions in 2013 and 2014, advances to meet Police FC in the quarter-final round on October 16 while Defence Force, champions in 2002 and 2009, must tackle Morvant Caledonia United, champions of 2011 and 2012.
Other quarter-final round match-ups includes St. Ann's Rangers against newcomers Club Sando and six-time (2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 & 2008) winners W Connection against Point Fortin Civic.
With the champions prize set at $110,000 and $20,000 to the runners-up, the First Citizens Cup lived up to expectations on the opening night with a total of 10 goals, some of which were as entertaining as anyone could imagine.
Following a goalless first half, Franklyn handed Defence Force a 1-0 lead in the 53 minute when he headed in an Aklie Edwards cross following a free-kick into the area.
Five minutes later Jabloteh's Charles, with a stunning free-kick from 26 yards out to hit the base of goalkeeper Sheldon Clarkes top corner before the ball landed inside, levelled the scores 1-1.
But Franklyn got to his double in the 66th minute, restoring the soldiers lead 2-1 after getting just the perfect amount of touch to a right side Kerry Joseph cross to beat Jabloteh goalkeeper Shemel Louison a second time.
Louison, a Grenada national team goalie, was beaten again in the 80th minute when Balthazar unleashed a rocket from 35 yards out to improve Defence Forces lead 3-1.
The soldiers, coached by Marvin Gordon, had a couple late chances to add to the scoring with the second half introduction of Richard Roy, who replaced an injured Devorn Jorsling at the start of the second period.
However, despite finishing on the wrong end of a 3-2 score, it was 2000 and 2003 champions, Jabloteh, coached by Keith Jeffrey, that enjoyed the final goal of the match.
Jamaican Rickcardo Harriott finished a rebound past goalkeeper Clarke from an angle after the Defence Force goalie had blocked out a bicycle attempt from Harriotts countryman and second half substitute Fabian Reid in the 90th minute.
In the Qualifier Two, Central, the reigning Digicel Pro League and Caribbean champions, now led by former Defence Force coach Ross Russell, spared no mercy against a new-look North East Stars.
Veteran playmaker and a former North East Stars star, Oliver, had Central in front 1-0 within the 2nd minute of play when he headed into goalkeeper Cleon Johns net after Jamal Jack headed a De Silva free-kick back across the area.
The trouble doubled by the 18th minute for North East Stars and new head coach Roland Clarke when De Silva made it 2-0 in favour of the Couva Sharks.
De Silva, coming off a double scored at Point Fortin Civic in a 3-0 league win on Saturday, controlled a return pass over the defence by Oliver and stuck past the glove of a hapless John.
But a wonder goal by former Central midfielder, Keron Cummings, trimmed the defending champions lead in half (2-1) five minutes before the break while grabbing what could inspire a Goal of the Season award.
The 27-year-old Trinidad and Tobago international, from 30 yards out, unleashed a left-footed volley that sunk into the bottom corner of his international teammate and Central goalkeeper, Jan-Michael Williams, net.
However a second half double by another T&T international, Willis Plaza, put the match out of North East Stars reach.
De Silva, involved again, played a deep pass into the area and Plaza showed good strength and determination to elude two defenders before rounding goalkeeper John to hit into the net for a 3-1 Central lead.
The talented Central forward showed forte again when he circled the North East Stars defence inside the box before hitting past John in stoppage time to complete the 4-1 win and extend his sides unbeaten run to five matches in all competition.
Results
San Juan Jabloteh 2 (Tyrone Charles 58, Rickcardo Harriott 90) vs Defence Force 3 (Glynn Franklyn 53, 66, Jerwyn Balthazar 80)
North East Stars 1 (Keron Cummings 40) vs Central FC 4 (Marvin Oliver 2, Sean De Silva 18, Willis Plaza 69, 90+2)
Teams
San Juan Jabloteh: 30.Shemel Louison; 10.Tyrone Charles, 8.Keyon Edwards, 7.Jamal Gay (12.Jordan Devonish 70th), 23.Kennedy Hinkson, 27.Nathan Lewis, 18.Jevon Morris (13. Fabian Reid 70th), 24.Adrian Reid, 21.Aquil Selby, 11.Damian Williams, 22.Caleb Sturge (5.Rickcardo Harriott)
Unused substitutes: 36.Raheem Belgrave (GK), 6.Ramone Mc Gregor, 16.Kaashif Thomas, 15.Jerome Isaiah Mc Intyre,
Coach: Keith Jeffrey
Defence Force: 25.Sheldon Clarke; 2.Glynn Franklyn, 4.Dave Long (52.Stephan Campbell 87th), 7.Jelani felix, 8.Curtis Gonzales, 9.Devorn Jorsling (26.Richard Roy 46th), 13.Marvin Jones, 18.Sean Narcis (12. Jemel Sebro 64th), 21.Aklie Edwards, 23.Kerry Joseph, 99.Jerwyn Balthazar (capt.)
Unused substitutes: 6.Rodell Elcock, 17. Ross Russell Jr., 30.Kishun Seecharan, 80.Aaron Enil (GK)
Coach: Marvin Gordon
Match Referee: Dave Daniel.
Teams
North East Stars: 22.Cleon John; 3.Acassio De Oliveira (27.Quincy Charles 64th), 4.Jesus Perez, 5.Alanzo Adlam, 8.Neveal Hackshaw, 9.Gorean Highley (6.Duane Muckette 60th), 10.Keron Cummings, 21.Neil Mitchell (40.Jomoul Francois 33rd), 24.Adrian Noel, 25.Keryn Navarro, 26.Carey Brown
Unused substitutes: 1.Shane Mattis (GK), , Fernando Lomes, 28.Dillon Jagasar, 39.Taryk Sampson
Coach: Roland Clarke
Central FC: 21.Jan-Michael Williams (capt.); 2.Elton John, 8.Sean De Silva, 10.Marvin Oliver (26.Mickaeel Jem Gordon 84th), 11.Darren Mitchell (7.Jason Marcano 58th), 12.Jamal Jack, 15.Kaydion Gabriel, 17.Marcelle Francois, 24.Kevon Villaroel, 33.Willis Plaza, 28.Ataullah Guerra (50.Leston Paul 74th)
Unused substitutes: 6.Kerry Baptiste, 30.Akel Clarke (GK), 19.Nathaniel Garcia, 25.Elijah Manners
Coach: Ross Russell
Match Referee: Rodphin Harris
Post by: Deeks on October 01, 2015, 12:57:55 PM
Post by: dreamer on October 01, 2015, 04:05:09 PM
Post by: Tallman on October 02, 2015, 05:01:17 AM
http://www.tv6tnt.com/sevenpm-news/-FIRST-CITIZENS-CUP-QUALIFIERS-7501---330352021.html
Post by: Deeks on October 02, 2015, 06:50:49 AM
Post by: soccerman on October 02, 2015, 09:12:10 AM
Post by: FireBrand on October 02, 2015, 10:19:25 AM
Post by: Sando prince on October 02, 2015, 01:47:34 PM
WATCH: Highlights of First Citizens Cup Qualifiers. San Juan Jabloteh 2-3 Defence Force; North East Stars 1-4 Central FC. CHECK OUT the brilliant goal by Keron Cummings. Even though its early days, its definitely a contender for goal of the season.
http://www.tv6tnt.com/sevenpm-news/-FIRST-CITIZENS-CUP-QUALIFIERS-7501---330352021.html
Nice goal from Cummings.
Some of dem goals in both games were due to basic defending errors from the opposing teams.
Post by: Flex on October 06, 2015, 03:18:29 PM
ttproleague.com.
In an on-going effort to assist players in their personal development, the TT Pro League will be hosting its first Player Development Seminar for the 2015/16 Season entitled "Managing Your Finance".
The seminar will be held in partnership with First Citizens as part of the First Citizens Cup initiative and will take place on Tuesday 6 October 2015 at the VIP Lounge of the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
The previous "Managing Your Finance" was in April 2014 at the Digicel IMAX Theatre in Port of Spain, which also hosted the Knowing Your Contract seminar one month earlier.
The 2014 "Managing Your Finance" was facilitated by a team of First Citizens money management officials and topics included Financial Planning, the Importance of Personal Savings, and Beneficial Accounts.
Back then, Central FC goalkeeper Jan-Michael Williams praised the initiative.
The Trinidad and Tobago international said, "Seminars like these are really needed to enhance the knowledge of the younger players in the league, even with [seasoned players like me].
"I learned a lot about investing, saving, and the importance of using money wisely, added the former W Connection (T&T), White Star Woluw FC (Belgium) and Ferencvarosi TC (Hungary) player.
"The society in which we live in today is hard, so it's really important for young people to know the importance of saving. I think (the First Citizens) team did a tremendous job in bringing the point across.
"I know players domestically that have made a significant amount of money, even abroad, [during their careers] and have absolutely nothing to show for it. So seminars like these are important. It really helped us to understand the need and importance to save and invest money.
"I wont call names but we have seen some players not use their money wisely. Regardless if you work for $10 or $200, it is important to save and invest," concluded Williams.
The TT Pro League also plans to host further seminars including 'Nutrition', 'Injury Care and Prevention', and 'Professional Development' during this season.
In March 2014, Tobago-born Attorney-at-Law, Dave Williams, facilitator of the 'Knowing Your Contract' seminar, told players, "(Seminars like these are) preparing the foundation for you, to improve your skill, not only at your feet."
Williams, who spoke on various aspects of a contract, such as negotiations of a contract, contractual obligations and termination of contracts, also told players to enhance their careers on and off the field, and use the opportunity presented to them in the local league as a platform to the bigger leagues outside of T&T.
Post by: Tallman on October 16, 2015, 07:36:49 PM
ttproleague.com
Hashim Arcia has turned to a new chapter in his life, one which looks promising for his new employers, Defence Force.
The 27-year-old former W Connection star attacker, who can occupy attacking midfield or the false 9 role, made the switch in enrolling with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force at the end of last season.
According to Arcia, his move to the Defence Force, last seasons third place Digicel Pro League finishers, provides him with a new challenge in his footballing career. The father of one, 2 year-old daughter Stylar Arcia, also stated that while his move to Defence Force provides job security, it wasnt the main reason for his decision.
Arcia told www.ttproleague.com, After five years at W Connection I thought it was time for a new challenge. Ive won many titles including the (Digicel Pro) league and had great times at Connection but now its about trying it with another team. My aim now is to win the league and every other title available with Defence Force.
Defence Force head coach Marvin Gordon won't have the full availability of Arcia just yet, along with midfielders Levi Serries and Tevon Eve; defenders Kevin Carter, Brandon Fountain and Jamali Garcia; and former T&T youth and Under-23 goalkeeper Andre Marchan, who all underwent recruitment training over the past few months.
However Gordon isnt ruling out the possibility of naming Arcia to his squad for Sundays 2015 First Citizens Cup quarter-finals clash against Morvant Caledonia United when both two-time champions meet from 4 pm at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
We had just one (football) training session with Arcia on Tuesday morning because of his work commitments, but he is looking very sharp, said Gordon. We are hoping to have him available for another session before we can make a decision if he can fit into the system for Sundays game. But we cant say for sure.
Arcia, who had stints at Ma Pau SC (now defunct) and St. Anns Rangers before joining Connection in 2010 said he had memorable times at the Savonetta Boys, winning titles and representing the club and country at the CONCACAF Champions League. He praised the development he gained at Connection and the commitment of the staff but said it wasnt possible without his commitment as a player.
Arcia is also viewed by in his Trou Macaque, Laventille hometown as a talented basketball player, but opted for the game he has a bigger love for and has no regrets. The former Success Laventille student also said that while he has a lot of passion for the sport of basketball, there isnt the opportunity to make it a profession like football has with the TT Pro League.
His smooth passing, intelligent runs off the ball and ability to score important goals have won him many personal accolades as well as club titles (two Digicel Pro League crowns; the 2013 Caribbean Club Championship; two FA Trophies; two Digicel Pro Bowls; the Lucozade Sport Goal Shield; and three Digicel Charity Shields) with Connection along the way.
He (Arcia) is a great asset to any team to any team in Trinidad, continued Gordon. He is a player with great ability and shows excellent discipline. After just one session with him already I can also say he is a very coachable player. I used to watch him at W Connection and I can tell you he was a very difficult player to counterattack. Now its a pleasure to have him to add to the Devorn Jorslings, the Richard Roys, and the other quality players in our squad.
The door is still open for him to represent the national team and if he has the opportunity for a better move abroad. We didnt pursue Arcia. It was a decision he made on his own to join the Defence Force and with a player like that coming in, you can only welcome him as a coach.
Arcia, who has 3 full caps with the Trinidad and Tobago Mens Senior Team, shared, I havent had much time with the players (at Defence Force) yet but I already feel settled in. The players all welcomed me with open hearts. They all know me and what I am capable of as a player.
Gordon, who also added Trinidad and Tobago 2007 Youth World Cup U17 member and former Orlando City player, 25-year-old Stephan Campbell, along with T&T U23 goalkeeper, 20-year-old Aaron Enil, and T&T U20 midfielder, 19-year-old Kishun Seecharan to his roster, said he has begun the rebuilding process for the next few seasons, with a few senior players expected to be out of the squad in 2016.
Weve added players who we believe can develop and add to the team as we focus on continuing to be a force in the league, Gordon stated.
We are challenging for the league title this season but because of the great squad we have, we are very confident of the knockouts as well. The mood in the camp is excellent and the understanding is great among the players.
Looking ahead to Sundays First Citizens Cup (FCC) clash against Morvant Caledonia United (MCU), the army coach said, Cale versus Defence Force is always a big rivalry. And from all indications Caledonia will present a good challenge like any other team because of the level of competitiveness thats present in all clubs in the league. Densill Theobald is back with them (MCU) as well as Guyana (internationals) Trayon Bobb and Pernell Schultz. They also have one of ours, Akeem Roach.
But we are confident in our team for Sunday. Although we want to play good attractive football they key is getting the result that will take us into the semi-final round (of the FCC).
Also on Sunday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in the FCC quarter-finals, two-time defending champions (2013 & 2014) Central FC will meet Police FC from 6 pm.
But the FCC quarter-finals weekend action kicks off on Saturday at the Mahaica Oval in Point Fortin with St. Anns Rangers against tournament-debuting Club Sando from 4 pm, before six-time champions (2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 & 2008) W Connection tackle Point Fortin Civic from 6:30 pm.
First Citizens Cup 2015
Quarter Final Round
Saturday 17 October 2015
Mahaica Oval, Point Fortin
St. Anns Rangers vs Club Sando4 pm (QF 1)
W Connection vs Point Fortin Civic6:30 pm (QF 2)
Sunday 18 October 2015
Hasely Crawford Stadium, Port of Spain
Morvant Caledonia United vs Defence Force4 pm (QF 3)
Police FC vs Central FC6 pm (QF 4)
Semi Final Round
Friday 23 October 2015
Winners QF 1 vs Winners QF 4
Winners QF 2 vs Winners QF 3
Final
Friday 30 October 2015
Qualifying Round results
Wednesday 30 September 2015 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium
San Juan Jabloteh 2 (Tyrone Charles 58, Rickcardo Harriott 90) vs Defence Force 3 (Glynn Franklyn 53, 66, Jerwyn Balthazar 80)
North East Stars 1 (Keron Cummings 40) vs Central FC 4 (Marvin Oliver 2, Sean De Silva 18, Willis Plaza 69, 90+2)
Post by: Deeks on October 16, 2015, 09:53:57 PM
Post by: Flex on October 18, 2015, 02:08:33 AM
By Nigel Simon (Guardian).
Kevin Woodley got a second-half hat trick as debutants Club Sando earned the first semifinal spot in this years First Citizens Cup with a 3-1 defeat of St Anns Rangers at the Mahaica Oval in Point Fortin, yesterday.
Woodley opened the scoring two minutes into the second-half but Rasheed Simon hit back for Rangers three minutes to level the match at 1-1.
However, with ten minutes left in the contest, Woodley grabbed his second for a 2-1 lead and a minute into time added on, he completed his treble to set up a semifinal with the winner of todays match between two-time defending champion Central FC and Police, on Friday.
The clash between Central FC and Police FC, the feature match of a quarterfinal double-header takes place at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo from 6 pm today. Two hours earlier, Defence Force and Morvant Caledonia United, both former two-time winners, square off a spot in the semifinals as well.
For Central FC and Defence Force, it will be their second matches in the tournament this season after coming through their qualifying round encounters against Japs North East Stars (4-1) and Play Whe San Juan Jabloteh (3-2), respectively.
Former England international Terry Fenwick led Central FC to the clubs first ever title, the 2013 First Citizens Cup, and Serbia-born coach Zoran Vranes successfully defended the crystal trophy in 2014. Now all eyes are on T&T coach Ross Russell, as he attempts to navigate the Couva Sharks to a third consecutive hold of the title.
Russell, who won the Cup on his debut season as coach of Defence Force, the side he later led to two Digicel Pro League (DPL) championship, oozed in confidence at the launch of this seasons Cup. Its no pressure for me. Ive already won it, Russell said. We are looking to stay on top as a club, and Im going all guns for it, dont matter where we play or who we play.
With $110,000 accompanying the crystal trophy to the eventual champions on October 30, Police is also confident of its chances and coach Richard Hood said his teams aim is to knock Central out.
Our ambition is to win titles this season and we want to start with the First Citizens Cup. It wont be easy for Central. Weve had a good pre-season with an all-round strong squad, and we are quite capable of doing well this season.
Two-time champions Morvant Caledonia United (MCU) has issued a rallying cry for home support for his team and coach Jerry Moe believes that while the Hasely Crawford Stadium isnt situated within the communities of Morvant and Laventille, its still relatively close to home. These are the same people who will go to the Hasely Crawford Stadium for a Carnival fete, Moe said.
Obviously we cant bring the stadium to them because pleading to have a venue in our community upgraded (for professional play) seems never ending.
Despite losing its opening Digicel Pro league match, 2-1 to Jabloteh and his team being in a rebuilding stage, Moe isnt dismissing his team's chances at this seasons First Citizens Cup. He said, Its a trophy thats there for us. We won it in the past. It carries $110,000 as the champions prize, so thats 110 reasons why we should want to win it.
The task will not be an easy one for Moe and his team as Defence Force has bolstered its ranks with a few new faces, inclusive of former W Connection standout Hashim Arcia, Levi Serries, Tevon Eve, Kevin Carter, Brandon Fountain, Jamali Garcia and former T&T youth players Andre Marchan, Stephan Campbell, Aaron Enil, and Kishun Seecharan who all underwent recruitment training over the past few months into the team.
Looking ahead to todays match, Gordon said, Caledonia versus Defence Force is always a big rivalry, and from all indications Caledonia will present a good challenge like any other team because of the level of competitiveness thats present in all clubs in the league. Densill Theobald is back with them as well as Guyana (internationals) Trayon Bobb and Pernell Schultz, while they also have one of ours, Akeem Roach.
But we are confident in our team for Sunday (today). Although we want to play good attractive football they key is getting the result that will take us into the semi-final round (of the FCC).
The winner of the Defence Force and Morvant Caledonia United gets the winner of last nights second quarterfinal at Mahaica Oval, between six-time winners W Connection and Pt Fortin Civic.
Results
St. Anns Rangers 1 (Rasheed Simon 60') vs Club Sando 3 (Kevon Woodley 46', 80', 90+3') (QF 1)
W Connection 3 (Jomal Williams 5', Alvin Jones 9', Shahdon Winchester 56') vs Point Fortin Civic 1 (Glen Sutton 76') (QF 2)
Post by: Flex on October 18, 2015, 02:10:41 AM
T&T Newsday Reports.
TWO-TIME champions Morvant Caledonia United have issued a rallying cry for home support, and not just for todays First Citizens Cup 2015 quarter-final clash with Defence Force from 4 pm at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Morvant Caledonia United coach Jerry Moe believes that while the Stadium isnt situated within the communities of Morvant and Laventille, its still relatively close to home.
These are the same people who will go to the (Stadium) for a Carnival fete, Moe said. Obviously we cant bring the stadium to them because pleading to have a venue in our community upgraded (for professional play) seems never ending. Moe conceded that the club havent been fulfilling the responsibility of connecting with the Morvant/Laventille communities but assured that new steps are in planning as part of the rebuilding process on and off the field of play.
In the rebranding and rebuilding process its our responsibility to get connected with our communities, the committed Moe said.
We plan to begin charity work along with other social activities in the community from next week to try and form a bond with the people. A name change from Caledonia AIA and rebranded logo to better identify with Morvant-Caledonia, as well as a revamped squad for 2015-16, all under the leadership of club boss and technical director Jamaal Shabazz, Morvant Caledonia United are focused on improvement on and off the field.
Last season saw the team finish at an all-time low, second off the bottom in the Digicel Pro League after once occupying third before the Christmas break.
This season we have brought in some younger players, some of them from different Caribbean islands, and the plan is to try to guide them and mould them into playing in the Cale way and shape with the help of some of the remaining senior players. But also being more result oriented.
Despite being in a rebuilding stage, Moe isnt dismissing the teams chances at this seasons First Citizens Cup. He said, Its a trophy thats there for us. We won it in the past. It carries $110,000 as the champions prize, so thats 110 reasons why we should want to win it.
Post by: Sando prince on October 18, 2015, 06:00:59 PM
GAME HIGHLIGHTS; https://www.facebook.com/CNC3Television/videos/10153707472672996/
Quote
FCB CUP QUARTER FINALS
Club Sando vs St Anns Rangers
The quarter finals of the First Citizens Cup took place last evening.
Kevon "Showtime" Woodley lived up to his nickname at the Mahaica Oval when he netted a second half hat-trick to send Club Sando into next Fridays First Citizens Cup Semi-Finals with a 3-1 win over St Ann's Rangers.
Post by: Flex on October 19, 2015, 11:50:52 AM
ttproleague.com.
Central outlasts Police on P/kicks and Cale edge Army to set semi-final dates with Sando and Connection, respectively
Twenty-five open play goals were tallied by the end of the quarter-final round tonight (Sunday) in the 2015 First Citizens Cup which also included two qualifier matches this season, while setting up interesting semi-final round clashes for Friday.
And, as if things couldnt get juicier, a penalty shootout between the two-time defending champions Central FC and Police FC in the final QF took the excitement into overtime.
Central were in alarm mode twice tonight before eventually advancing into next Friday's semi-final round with a 4-3 penalty kicks win over Police.
Police had equalised on the 90th minute through substitute attacker Keon Wilson for a 2-2 score, forcing the match into kicks from the spot after the Couva Sharks rebounded from a goal down to take 2-1 lead.
But the 2013 and 2014 FCC champions were clinical from the spot to advance into the semis against tournament debutants, Club Sando, who were 3-1 winners over St. Ann's Rangers on Saturday.
Open play scorers Marvin Oliver and Willis Plaza, and midfielders Leston Paul and Sean De Silva were all successful in putting the ball past Police goalkeeper Adrian Foncette from the spot.
While a fourth kick missed effort by Polices Jasimar Ashers and a fifth kick save by Central goalkeeper Jan-Michael Williams to deny Kareem Freitas saw the Lawmen bow out after clinical strikes by open play scorer and team captain Todd Ryan, and Jibri Mc David and Clevon Mc Fee from the spot.
In the earlier match of the quarter-final double header at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Morvant Caledonia United advanced with a 2-1 win over Defence Force, an exciting clash between the two-time champions.
MCU advances into semi-final day against six-time champions W Connection, who defeated Point Fortin Civic 3-1 in the second match of the Saturdays QF double-header at Mahaica Oval.
MCU scored first when Antiguan Eugine Kirwan bundled a Jamaal Harvey cross over the line at the back post in the 37th minute. And to add insult to injury, Akeem Roach made it 2-0 five minutes before the half.
Roach, who joined MCU during the offseason after making his Pro League debut with Defence Force last season, rifled the ball into the back of goalkeeper Sheldon Clarkes netting following a right side move involving Kirwan and Jameel Neptune.
MCU were unfortunate not to score even earlier in a half they dominated when Harveys sliced attempt crashed off the upright in the 34th minute. The Guyanese midfielder also caused Clarke some trouble from distance in the 50th minute but the Defence Force goalies full stretch managed to put the ball wide.
Defence Force, 3-2 winners over San Juan Jabloteh in the qualifier round, had themselves to blame from early on, while MCU goalkeeper Marvin Phillip deserved the bulk of credit although he was beaten in the 90th minute.
Defence Force forward Richard Roy, who wasted an excellent scoring chance in the 19th minute, glanced a header beyond the reach of Phillip after the Trinidad and Tobago national team shot-stopper had initially kept out an attempt by the forward before Marvin Jones swung rebound back across goal.
However Phillips heroics between the uprights with saves against Sean Narcis and Jerwyn Balthazar and substitutes Devorn Jorsling and Kishon Seecharan proved vital.
Later on, Phillips national goalkeeping teammate Jan-Michael Williams was unfortunate three minutes before the half in the second QF on Sunday.
A powerfully struck Todd Ryan free-kick from 30 yards out cannoned off the base of the upright before hitting the body of Williams and entering the net for a 1-0 Police lead.
But a headed goal by Marvin Oliver, beating Foncette in the 48th minute, pulled Central level, 1-1. The 40-year-old Central star elevated himself ahead of the Police defence to meet a Marcus Joseph free-kick swung in from the right for his second goal of the tournament.
Much earlier, Foncette was forced into an acrobatic save just four minutes into the match by his own forward, Jameel Perry, who misdirected a clearance. Then on the 37th minute the T&T third choice goalie pulled off a superb one-handed save to deny Oliver.
Foncette had little support again in the 79th minute when Plaza grabbed his third goal of the tournament, tying level with Club Sandos hat-trick scorer, Kevon Showtime Woodley.
Plaza, who netted a double in a 4-1 win over North East Stars in the qualifier round, smashed a rebound past Foncette for a 2-1 Central lead. Plaza was brilliantly on the left to evade his markers before slipping a pass to De Silva inside the area, and after the midfielders attempt crashed off the far upright, the T&T forward was alive in the box to take full advantage.
The Couva Sharks, however, failed to hold on till the final whistle. After a couple late overbar attempts from Police players Kurdell Brathwaite and Christon Thomas, Keon Wilson grabbed the Lawmen equaliser in stoppage time after Thomas sliced an effort across the crowded box to send the contest into kicks from the penalty mark.
All teams will shift their focus to the Digicel Pro League 2015-16 championship on Tuesday in Round One Match Day Two.
Defending DPL champions Central FC will take on Defence Force from 6 pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium and simultaneously at the Mahaica Oval, Point Fortin Civic will host San Juan Jabloteh.
Also from 6 pm, St. Anns Rangers and Club Sando will meet at the Hasely Crawford Stadium prior to an 8 pm clash between Morvant Caledonia United and W Connection, in a preview of Fridays FCC semi-final clash. While North East Stars and Police FC must kick off the DPL fixtures on Tuesday from 4 pm at the Larry Gomes Stadium.
Results
Morvant Caledonia United 2 (Eugine Kirwan 37, Akeem Roach 40) vs Defence Force 1 (Richard Roy 90) (QF 3)
Police FC 2 (Todd Ryan 42, Keon Wilson 90+) vs Central FC 2 (Marvin Oliver 48, Willis Plaza 79) (QF 4)
Central won the match 4-3 on kicks from the penalty mark
Police FC 3 v Central FC 4
Todd Ryan (scored) - Marvin Oliver (scored)
Jibri Mc David (scored) - Willis Plaza (scored)
Clevon Mc Fee (scored) - Leston Paul (scored)
Jasimar Ashers (off target) - Sean De Silva (scored)
Kareem Freitas (saved)
Teams
Morvant Caledonia United: 1.Marvin Phillip; 4.Ordell Flemming, 9.Eugine Kirwan (23.Shaquille Edwards 76th), 12.Kareem Joseph, 13.Kyle Bartholomew, 14.Kennedy Isles (29.Kareem Knights 82nd), 15.Otev Lawrence, 18.Akeem Roach, 20.Jamal Harvey (11.Abdallah Phillips 71st), 21.Densill Theobald, 22.Jameel Neptune
Unused substitutes: 3.Ranaldo Bailey, 10.Sheldon Holder, 24.Gregory President, 30.Anthony Whyte
Coach: Jerry Moe
Defence Force: 25.Sheldon Clarke; 2.Glynn Franklyn, 4.Dave Long, 7.Jelani Felix (30.Kishon Seecharan 67th), 8.Curtis Gonzales, 13.Marvin Jones, 17.Ross Russell Jr., 18.Sean Narcis (52.Stephen Campbell 46th), 23.Kerry Joseph (9.Devorn Jorsling 46th), 26.Richard Roy, 99.Jerwyn Balthazar
Unused substitutes: 6.Rodell Elcock, 12.Jemel Sebro, 16.Kellon Serette, 80.Aaron Enil (GK)
Coach: Marvin Gordon
Match Referee: Gordon Maloney
Teams
Police FC: 18.Adrian Foncette; 5.Anton Hutchinson, 6.Jibri Mc David, 8.Kurdell Brathwaite (2.Jasimar Ashers 90th), 9.Makasi Lewis (39.Keon Wilson 82nd), 11.Shaquille Nesbit (10.Kareem Freitas 70th), 15.Jameel Perry, 19.Christon Thomas, 20.Elijah Belgrave, 21.Todd Ryan (Capt.), 29.Clevon Mc Fee
Unused substitutes: 1.Akeemo Williams (GK), 23.Kevin Joel Lewis, 36.Dylon King, 38.Kadeem Boyce
Coach: Richard Hood
Central FC: 21.Jan-Michael Williams (Capt.); 12.Jamal Jack, 24.Kevon Villaroel, 17.Marcelle Francois, 2.Elton John, 10.Marvin Oliver, 8.Sean De Silva, 22.Leston Paul, 99.Marcus Joseph (33.Willis Plaza 55th), 5.Akeem Benjamin, 7.Jason Marcano (11.Darren Mitchell 70th)
Unused substitutes: 15.Kaydion Gabriel, 6.Kerry Baptiste, 19.Nathaniel Garcia, 26.Mickaeel Gem Gordon
Coach: Ross Russell
Referee: Keilon Bacchus
Post by: Tallman on October 19, 2015, 08:19:36 PM
Post by: Flex on October 24, 2015, 04:06:20 PM
ttproleague.com.
Morvant Caledonia United and Club Sando bow out at semis stage despite brave efforts
Willis Plaza scored on either side of the break, taking his First Citizens Cup (FCC) 2015 tally to five goals, while steering two-time defending champions Central FC to a 4-0 triumph over tournament debutants Club Sando and a place in next Fridays final against Couva-rivals W Connection.
Plaza, who nicknamed himself the Great White, relative to his clubs nickname Couva Sharks, scored in the 22nd and 64th minutes during last nights second game of the semi-final round double header at the Ato Boldon Stadium, while teammates Jason Marcano and substitute Kerry Baptiste grabbed a goal each.
The score-line eclipsed that of a 3-0 win achieved by six-time former First Citizens Cup champions W Connection over two-time former Morvant Caledonia United (MCU) in the earlier semi-final at the Couva venue.
The last time out, Connection and MCU played to a 1-1 draw in the Digicel Pro League on Tuesday, but last night the Savonetta Boys proved the better on the knockout stage.
They (Connection) showed a little more desire coming off the draw we had against them [earlier this week], said MCU veteran midfielder Abdallah Phillips after the defeat. When we finally decided to play it was already too late.
Shahdon Winchester and Jomal Williams scored a goal each in a space of two minutes to take a two-goal cushion at the break before an added-on-time stunner from Andre Toussaint sealed the 3-0 W Connection win.
Winchester put Connection ahead 1-0 in the 27th minute when he headed past goalkeeper Marvin Phillip off a right side corner swung in by teenager Aikim Andrews.
And one minute later Phillip was beaten again after his defence hung him out to dry.
Phillips had, seconds earlier, blanked a strike from Neil Benjamin Jr., but when the W Connection winger whipped a low ball across the six-yard area, the Cal goalie stood without guard and Williams (J) made it 2-0 from close range.
The Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeper followed up with decent saves in the closing stages of the first half, denying Alvin Jones and Benjamin, however there was little he could do over the 90th minute mark against a superb Toussaint strike.
In the third of five minutes stoppage time, Toussaint completed a counterattack, which started from defending a MCU corner kick, when he unleashed a low left-footed strike into the into the bottom corner of Phillips goal for a 3-0 score after breezing past a last-ditch-effort from Kyle Bartholomew.
I had fun today, admitted the 34-year-old Toussaint, who re-joined Connection prior to the start of the season. But its all down to hard work and professionalism which starts from (the training field). It motivates a player once he is professional [about the game] and makes up his mind to play his best. And to have teammates with such quality that I am around also motivates a player.
Jomal Williams, who also scored against MCU earlier this week, said, The game started very intense tonight. Caledonia are a very good team, they put down the ball and play a passing game and so do we. But we passed the ball faster, more intense, and took our chances when we got them and came out on top.
MCUs chances were rare, and the best came prior to Toussaints goal when a stoppage-time Kareem Joseph free-kick forced goalkeeper Julani Archibald into a great save to put the ball behind for a corner.
It was a learning experience for our team [with a number of new players to the Pro League], continued MCUs Phillips. Too much individual errors cost us the game. Our new players realise now that W Connection (are) a tough team to face back to back. I thought our mentality wasnt right for the game. A semi-final is like a final and from the start we didnt show that desire and effort. They (W Connection) won the first half and we did well in the second half but didnt put the ball in the back of the net.
As Club Sando and Central made their way through the players tunnel for the start of the second semi-final, Jomal Williams told ttproleague.com he would like to meet Central in the final on Friday 30 October.
Its a rivalry, added the Connection midfielder. and in the previous two seasons we were head-to-head. It will also do well for the (FCC) tournament.
The efforts of Plaza, Marcano, Marvin Oliver, Jamal Jack and company, unknowingly, granted the W Connection players wish in setting up the Couva Clasico, the second this season after Central edged the Savonetta Boys for the Charity Shield on September 11.
However the FCC final will definitely have more bite to it with the crystal trophy and $110,000 going to the champions, while the defeated finalists must settle for the much lesser $20,000 runners-up take.
The second semi-final had final written all over it, entertaining an estimated 1200 spectators from kick-off to the game-ending tweet-tweet of referee Rodphin Harris whistle.
It was the clash of the two giants in their own rights: the reigning Digicel Pro League champions, Central FC, and last seasons Super League champions Club Sando.
Plaza had said Club Sando would be a walkover. He was wrong. Club Sando played their hearts out, especially in defence, and created a number of scares for the Couva Sharks.
But Plaza also said, prior to last nights semi-final, Sando are new and havent faced the best yet and that he always view Central as the best. It turned out he was right.
The Trinidad and Tobago international forward backed up his remarks with goals in either half, and looked the part of a player full in confidence and ability throughout the encounter.
Plaza made it 1-0 by rifling a left footed strike past a fully sprawled Sando goalkeeper Kelvin Henry, who had denied him earlier, after controlling a Kevon Villaroel pass into the left of the area.
But it was midfielder Sean De Silva who should have opened the scoring from as early as the 15th minute when Plaza fed a neat return pass into the area. However the midfielder took a touch too much allowing Henry to avert danger.
Jason Marcano, who struck inches wide of the target four minutes earlier, cushioned Central 2-0 in the 30th minute when he hooked a left-footed strike past Henry after a solo run which clearly confused the Sando defence.
In the second half following two wasted scoring opportunities, Plaza made it 3-0, hitting past Henry from above the six yard area following quick exchanges between Oliver and Marcano from a corner.
It was Plazas eight goal in six games, in all competitions, while Central later celebrated an 8-game unbeaten streak in all competitions.
The resistance of Sando, however, wasnt flattened, and of course the rowdy fan support, Lets go! Lets go! Sando! didnt die.
Central and Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeper Jan-Michael Williams was twice forced into world-class saves, denying Akeem Humphrey in the 18th minute and Anthony Parris in the 78th minute, while teammate and hat-trick scorer against St. Anns Rangers in the quarter-finals, Kevon Showtime Woodley, despite a good fight, should have at least found the back of the net once.
Plaza was denied a third in the 71st minute before being replaced by veteran forward Kerry Baptiste two minutes later.
Baptiste then completed the 4-0 victory with a goal in the fourth minute of added-on time when he lifted a strike over Henry following a perfectly-timed defence-splitting Marcano pass from midfield.
Marcano, with a goal and two assists, was brilliant throughout.
Sando and Central will meet again as early as Tuesday (27 October) in Round One Match Day Three of the Digicel Pro League 2015-16 from 6 pm at the Mahaica Oval, following which W Connection are against home side Civic at the Point Fortin venue.
Also in Tuesdays DPL fixtures, North East Stars will host St. Anns Rangers from 4 pm at the Larry Gomes Stadium; and at the Ato Boldon Stadium, Morvant Caledonia United are against Police FC from 6 pm before Defence Force meet San Juan Jabloteh from 8 pm.
Results
W Connection 3 (Shahdon Winchester 27, Jomal Williams 28, Andre Toussaint 90+3) vs Morvant Caledonia United 0
Club Sando 0 vs Central FC 4 (Willis Plaza 22, 64, Jason Marcano 30, Kerry Baptiste 90+4)
Teams
W Connection: 18.Julani Archibald; 2.Kurt Frederick, 3.Gerard Williams, 4.Maurice Ford, 5.Triston Hodge, 9.Shahdon Winchester (Yellow Card) (19.Dwight Quintero 63rd), 10.Jomal Williams (8.Briel Thomas 70th) (Yellow Card), 11.Neil Benjamin Jr., 14.Andre Toussaint (Yellow Card), 16.Alvin Jones (Capt.) (Yellow Card), 17.Aikim Andrews (21.Shannon Gomez 77th).
Unused substitutes: 1.Terrence Lewis (GK), 34.Jabari Mitchell, 25.Christian Filipe Ocoro Viveros, 48.Stiven Lopez Concha
Coach: Stuart Charles Fevrier
Morvant Caledonia United: 1.Marvin Phillip; 4.Ordell Flemming, 9.Eugine Kirwan (10.Sheldon Holder 70th), 12.Kareem Joseph (Yellow Card), 13.Kyle Bartholomew, 14.Kennedy Isles, 15.Otev Lawrence (3.Ranaldo Bailey 46th), 18.Akeem Roach, 20.Jamal Harvey (11.Abdallah Phillips 44th), 21.Densill Theobald, 22.Jameel Neptune
Unused substitutes: 23.Shaquille Edwards, 24.Gregory President, 30.Anthony Whyte, 29.Kareem Knights
Coach: Jerry Moe
Match Referee: Gyasi Mc Donald
Teams
Club Sando: 34.Kelvin Henry; 4.Anthony Parris (Capt.) (Yellow Card), 5.Devon Drayton, 6.Kemuel Rivers, 7.Akeem Humphrey, 9.Jesse Downing (10.Kevon Neaves 65th), 11.Teba Mc Knight, 26.Kevon Woodley, 17.Jared London (15.Amrit Gildharry 80th), 22.Corneal Thomas, 24.Devon Modeste
Substitutes: 8.Jeromie Williams, 18.Shane Hospidales, 20.Keith Williams, 21.Kerron Mitchell, 33.Alexei Julien (GK),
Coach: Anthony Streete
Central FC: 21.Jan-Michael Williams (Capt.); 7.Jason Marcano, 8.Sean De Silva (25.Elijah Manners 78th), 10.Marvin Oliver (23.Jean-Luc Rochford 83rd), 11.Darren Mitchell, 12.Jamal Jack, 15.Kaydion Gabriel, 17.Marcelle Francois, 24.Kevon Villaroel, 33.Willis Plaza (Yellow Card) (6.Kerry Baptiste 73rd), 22.Leston Paul (Yellow Card)
Unused substitutes: 30.Akel Clarke, 14.Nicholas Dillon, 99.Marcus Joseph, 26.Mickaeel Jem Gordon,
Coach: Ross Russell
Referee: Rodphin Harris
Post by: Tallman on October 26, 2015, 06:26:02 PM
Post by: Flex on October 31, 2015, 11:12:52 AM
ttproleague.com.
Jomals winner and assist steer Savonetta Boys to First Citizens Cup glory after 7 years; Club Sando takes third as captain Anthony Parris shines on emotional farewell.
Jomal Williams tucked away a gorgeous winner after setting up an equaliser to help W Connection rally from a goal down to dethrone rivals Central FC as First Citizens Cup champions on Friday night.
Its an unbelievable feeling, said Jomal. Im really happy to be the one to set up the first goal then the winner in a game like this.
Jomal said his teams performance had a lot to with winning confidence and revenge after being second to Central for most of recent times.
Our attitude and professionalism in this game along with the drive to be champions for the first time in a very long time had everything to do with it.
During the half time break and a goal down we realised the only chance is to give everything. It was a final. In the second half we worked harder as a team.
Before a crowd of two thousand that packed the covered section of the Ato Boldon Stadium, a lifted pass by Jomal in the 69th minute had set Shahdon Winchester free, and although sandwiched between two defenders the forward slipped the ball through the legs of an advancing goalkeeper Jan-Michael Williams for a 1-1 score.
It was a treat for fans, although trying to remain devoted to their respective sides as the two-time defending champions, Central FC, and six-time former champions, W Connection, battled it out fiercely in the latest Couva-Clsico.
Central had taken a 1-0 lead five minutes before the break, as spectators erupted into excitement at the Couva venue when midfielder Sean De Silva ran onto a cheeky Willis Plaza heeled pass inside the area and smashed the ball past Connection goalkeeper Julani Archibald and into the far netting.
That goal came as spectators were just settling back into their seats after a Winchester strike had rattled the Central crossbar two minutes earlier.
Spectators were off seats again during the break, this time for tasty corn soup and doubles distributed free, thanks to title sponsor, First Citizens, who also did giveaways and prizes for spectators during the night, with body boards for kids, two flat screen television sets as door prizes, appliances, and an entertaining cheerleading showdown. First Citizens setting the bar in local football entertainment and the tournament lived up to the hype, producing an average of 4.1 goals per game (41 goals from 10 games), some of them spectacular strikes.
Winchester, who finished with three goals along with teammate Jomal, was denied a second time by the crossbar in the 79th minute as both sides continued on missed opportunities.
However Connection had taken the lead 2-1 three minutes earlier when crafty midfielder Jomal executed a perfectly placed curling right-footer into the far netting of Jan-Michaels netting, signalling an end to the Centrals two-year rule of the First Citizens Cup, one of seven honours achieved last season, including the Digicel Pro League and Caribbean Club Championship.
Central FC head coach Ross Russell reacted by dispatching three more forwards, Nicholas Dillon, Marcus Joseph and Mickaeel Jem Gordon, but 2-1 it stood at the end.
Connection, who added insult to injury by giving striker Dwight Quintero a late run at his former side, did just enough, with a couple defensive changes, to hold off Central and in the process, snapped the Couva Sharks nine-game unbeaten run in all competitions.
In the previous six meetings, Central had defeated Connection three times, including the 2015 Caribbean Club Championship final and the 2015-16 season-opening Digicel Charity Shield, and had two drawn matches. While the Savonetta Boys previous victory was 13 months ago in the 2014 Charity Shield.
When the curtain finally came down on Friday night, Central forward Willis Plaza finished as the First Citizens Cup 2015 Top Scorer with 5 goals, but the Couva Sharks, champions of 2013 and 2014, had to settle for runners-up medals and the accompanying $20,000 while W Connection, winners in 2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, etched their name in 2015.
Its a great feeling, said Jomal as he beamed with pride. The atmosphere is great as you can see. Its something we really wanted for our president (David John-Williams) and coach (Stuart Charles-Fevrier) and the rest of the staff. This means a lot for the club.
Yes, Connection finally had grip on the crystal trophy after seven long years and received the $110,000 champions prize.
A final is a final but because Central were the most dominant team last year, it really satisfying to show that we can defeat them when it matters most, W Connection head coach Stuart Charles-Fevrier said of his teams victory.
We have a very young squad and tonight I am very pleased that we were able to dethrone Central, who are also the champions of the league last season. It says a lot to defeat the champions in a final.
It was a keenly contested game but we showed that we deserved the win. We created much more goalscoring opportunities and at the end we won the game. We definitely showed that we were fitting champions.
Its a nice feeling because last year we didnt win any [major] competition, only the (Digicel) Charity Shield.
Charles-Fevrier also said that he is quite pleased in the progress shown by his young players. He said that while his job is a challenge in trying to develop his players as professionals, its a challenge he welcomes.
Charles-Fevrier, the eventual Coach of the Tournament, added, Today is a step in the right direction. It will also give us confidence for the rest of the season. We want to try to win everything this season. Its always our goal to win everything we compete in, and it wont be different this season.
Jomal picked up the final MVP award while Club Sando, tournament newcomers, also joined winners-row as third place medal receivers and the accompanying $10,000 after defeating Morvant Caledonia United (MCU) 4-2 in the earlier match at the Couva venue.
Club Sando captain Anthony Parris shined on an emotional farewell while teammate Akeem Humphrey netted a double.
Parris said goodbye in style on Friday night with a goal and two assists to pace Club Sando for a 4-2 win over MCU.
The 24-year-old Sando captain, less than two months into his first season at the Pro League, said goodbye to his club after agreeing on a move to Super League outfit Prisons FC, where he is expected to later join the Trinidad and Tobago Prisons Service.
It was an honour to be the first captain of the young men at Club Sando in the Pro League, Parris told ttproleague.com after Fridays third place play-off of the First Citizens Cup.
Parris said he had sleepless nights after receiving the call from Prisons on Monday, deliberating whether or not to leave Sando.
I thought about my future in terms of employment and I decided to join Prisons. My heart is with Club Sando but my head is with Prisons.
Parris is expected to begin training with Prisons FC today (Saturday) and is hoping to be part of his new teams squad against Cunupia on Tuesday.
Commenting on Sandos third place finish in the FCC, the outgoing captain said, This is our first participation at the First Citizens Cup and third place isnt bad.
It was off Parris strike which rebounded off MCUs Canadian-born goalkeeper Anthony Whyte to allow forward Kevon Woodley a simple task of tapping in his fourth goal of the tournament.
Parris was involved again in the 26th minute when his perfect cross allowed Akeem Humphrey to control beyond defender Shaquille Holder and rifle past Whyte, restoring Sandos one-goal lead after MCU forward Eugine Kirwan had tied the scores on the 20th minute.
Humphrey was credited with Sandos third item and his second on the night after Woodleys attempt in the 34th minute cannoned off the far upright and off the midfielder to enter the MCU net.
Parris then made it 4-1 on the stroke of half-time when he pounced on a spill by goalkeeper Whyte on a Woodley attempt.
Sando goalkeeper Alexei Julien was brilliant on the night but there was little he could do when MCU substitutes Kareem Joseph and Kennedy Isles combined in the 66th minute for the latter to score a rocket, for a 2-4 deficit but thats how the score-line stood in the end.
Following the match Club Sando head coach Anthony Streete, said, It was important for Club Sando to do well because we have a support base and we want it to grow. It was important for us to step up to the task. The players understood that, although they were a bit complacent in the second half. They felt they had the game covered 4-1 at half-time. I keep talking about the bringing the fans back out to the football and thats our main objective at Sando. I always tell my players stop blaming the people for not coming out if youre not raising the standard of play.
First Citizens Cup 2015 Final
W Connection 2 (Shahdon Winchester 69, Jomal Williams 76) vs Central FC 1 (Sean De Silva 40)
Third Place Play-Off
Morvant Caledonia United 2 (Eugine Kirwan 20, Kennedy Isles 66) vs Club Sando 4 (Kevon Woodley 16, Akeem Humphrey 26, 34, Anthony Parris 45+1)
Teams
W Connection: 18.Julani Archibald; 2.Kurt Frederick, 3.Gerard Williams, 5.Triston Hodge, 9.Shahdon Winchester, 10.Jomal Williams, 11.Neil Benjamin Jr., 14.Andre Toussaint (19.Dwight Quintero 80th), 16.Alvin Jones (Capt.), 17.Aikim Andrews (21.Shannon Gomez 58th), 25.Christian Ocoro Viveros (8.Briel Thomas 46th)
Unused substitutes: 1.Terrence Lewis (GK), 4.Maurice Ford, 34.Jabari Mitchell, 48.Stiven Lopez Concha
Coach: Stuart Charles Fevrier
Central FC: 21.Jan-Michael Williams (Capt.); 7.Jason Marcano (14.Nicholas Dillon 70th), 8.Sean De Silva, 10.Marvin Oliver (99.Marcus Joseph 73rd), 11.Darren Mitchell (26.Mickaeel Jem Gordon 80th), 12.Jamal Jack, 15.Kaydion Gabriel, 17.Marcelle Francois, 24.Kevon Villaroel, 33.Willis Plaza, 22.Leston Paul
Unused substitutes: 30.Akel Clarke, 6.Kerry Baptiste, 23.Jean-Luc Rochford, 25.Elijah Manners
Coach: Ross Russell
Match Referee: Rodphin Harris
Teams
Morvant Caledonia United: 30.Anthony Whyte; 2.Shomari Antione (14.Kennedy Isles 57th), 3.Ranaldo Bailey, 4.Ordell Flemming, 5.Daniel Whyte, 9.Eugine Kirwan, 10.Sheldon Holder, 18.Akeem Roach, 20.Jamal Harvey (11.Abdallah Phillips 30th), 23.Shaquille Edwards, 24.Gregory President (12.Kareem Joseph 57th)
Unused substitutes: 1.Marvin Phillip (GK), 13.Kyle Bartholomew, 21.Densill Theobald, 26.Jamal Roach
Coach: Jerry Moe
Club Sando: 33.Alexei Julien; 4.Anthony Parris (Capt.) (24.Devon Modeste 67th); 5.Devon Drayton, 6.Kemuel Rivers, 7.Akeem Humphrey, 8.Jeromie Williams (20.Keith Williams 75th), 11.Teba Mc Knight, 15.Amrit Gildharry, 16.Kevon Woodley, 17.Jared London, 22.Corneal Thomas.
Unused substitutes: 18.Shane Hospidales, 19.Ryan Frederick, 21.Kerron Mitchell, 34.Kelvin Henry (GK), 26.Shaquille Holder
Coach: Anthony Streete
Match Referee: Mervyn Wallace
Post by: Tallman on November 02, 2015, 12:50:53 PM
Post by: Sando prince on November 02, 2015, 04:44:33 PM
WATCH: Highlights of W-Connection's 2-1 victory over Central FC (https://www.facebook.com/socawarriors.net/posts/10153744973499314) in the final of the 2015 First Citizens Cup.:beermug:
Post by: Tallman on November 03, 2016, 08:29:16 PM
ttproleague.com
The champions of this seasons First Citizens Cup can walk away with a maximum of TT$125,000 twenty-five thousand more than previous editions due to a new prize money scheme installed by Trinidad and Tobago professional leagues governing body, the TT Pro League.
For the first time in the tournaments 17-year history, all teams will be rewarded with cash bonuses courtesy of First Citizens for each win throughout the tournament. In the semi-final round, winners are to receive TT$7,000 while in the quarter-final and play-off rounds, winners are to receive TT$5,000 and TT$3,000 respectively. The overall champions will receive TT$110,000 and TT$20,000 to the runners-up.
Formerly No room for losers, the First Citizens Cup will now run under the new theme Winners will reign.
All this, along with the match-ups for the 2016 First Citizens Cup, were revealed during the launch of the 2016 edition on Thursday morning at the VIP Lounge of the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port-of-Spain.
Reigning champions W Connection, and former champions Central FC and Morvant Caledonia United all avoided the play-offs along with St. Anns Rangers, Police and Point Fortin Civic during a random draw supervised by Pro League (PL) CEO Dexter Skeene.
To trim the 10 league clubs for the quarter-final round of eight, the random draw pitted Club Sando against Defence Force (6pm) and San Juan Jabloteh against Ma Pau Stars (8pm) in the play-offs on Tuesday Nov. 8 at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Jabloteh head coach, Keith Jeffrey, welcomed the play-off match-up with Ma Pau Starswho boasts the likes of T&T World Cup 2006 members Carlos Edwards, Jason Scotland and Anthony Wolfesaying that the Sangre Grande outfit which his side edged 1-0 in the league competition two weeks ago is easy to beat.
In the quarter-final round, thanks to their placements in the random draw, Police FC will tackle Point Fortin Civic and Central FC are against Morvant Caledonia United, while St. Anns Rangers and W Connection must take on the play-off winners between Club Sando/Defence Force and Ma Pau Stars/San Juan Jabloteh, respectively.
The quarter-final round is scheduled for the weekend of Nov. 12-13 and the semi-finals on Nov. 22, before the tournament culminates on Dec. 2 with the final.
I am confident that this year's First Citizens Cup will be the most exciting one ever, said Skeene during his opening remarks at Thursdays launch.
The PL boss added, Its going to be awesome. Winners will reign. Communities will win. The players and coaches will feel the excitement and raise their standards. (And) I will be asking all the teams regardless of the results to after every game acknowledge and thank the spectators.
Skeene also revealed that added to TT$1,000 incentives for the 2016 First Citizens Cups leading goal scorer, player of the tournament and coach of the tournament, there will also be a prize for the team with the best support Posse (in terms of numbers, voice, uniformity, and creativity) while two TVs are among spectator giveaways.
First Citizens understand and epitomize the value, power, spirit and vision of what can be achieved when there is collective focus on living the big picture according to Skeene. He added, [First Citizens], the flag bearer for the ingenuity, indomitable will, entrepreneurship and the full potential of us as a nation and people the indigenous true blue Trinbagonian financial institution giant, has shared the vision over the years through thick and thin, tough times, standing with us (League) hand in hand. Communities win. Unity, peace, sustainable progress and growth can be achieved.
The PL also hopes to schedule at least two quarter-final fixtures of one of its most prestigious tournamentsthe First Citizens Cup into the communities, an enterprise applauded by coaches and club managers present, and Kurt Headley, Head of Retail at First Citizens.
now is the time to show all what you have got! Headley told players and coaches during his remarks. Football, like many other sports in Trinidad and Tobago, evokes a wealth of support from fans. The encouragement helps to keep you the players inspired on the field, yielding camaraderie and sportsmanship amongst team members.
This year we hope to attract even more of this support with appropriately scheduled matches as well as fantastic prizes and promotional giveaways, added Headley, who applauded the PL for its continued energy into finding innovative ways to improve the standard of local football while mentoring young people, not just into professional athletes, but well-rounded individuals.
The Morvant Recreation Ground, which will host its second ever PL fixture this Sunday in the Digicel Pro League when home team Morvant Caledonia United welcome Defence Force from 3:45pm (see full Round One Match Day Six DPL fixtures below), is one of the community venues air marked to host quarter-final fixtures in the First Citizens Cup.
Sport can make a huge, tangible and powerful difference to our country, Skeene believes. If communities win; unity and peace will win. The TT Pro Leagues DNA is in the communities. Until this year we havent been able to show that in a definitive way. On Sunday October 16 we created TT Pro League history when the first ever Pro League game was played at the Morvant Recreation Ground the response was awesome.
Estimates ranged between 17oo and 2000 when Morvant Caledonia hosted Jabloteh at the Park Street venue in Morvant. The hosts fell to a 4-2 defeat but the turnout of supporters that flocked the Morvant Recreation Ground restored a high level of pride in the community.
The Pro League in the communities is a dream and goal we have worked on relentlessly and tirelessly for over a decade, continued Skeene. It was an annual rite of passage that I would have a meeting with the Ministry of Sport and Sport Company every year.
Skeene thanked the Honourable Minister of Sport, Mr. Darryl Smith, the Ministry of Sport, the Sport Company, and in particular Mr. Anthony Blake of the Sport Company for their sterling efforts which are ongoing, together with the regional corporation. He said, We must continue to work with the regional corporations, the Sport Company and the ministry to roll out a venue for each club represented in the TT Pro League.
Action in the Digicel Pro League continues this weekend with a double-header at the Ato Boldon Stadium on Friday Nov. 4 with leaders Central against Police FC from 6pm and W Connection against St. Anns Rangers in a top-of-the-table clash from 8pm.
The Couva venue will host another DPL double-header on Sunday Nov. 6 with Jabloteh against Civic from 4pm and Club Sando against Ma Pau Stars from 6pm, while Morvant Caledonia United tackle Defence Force from 3:45pm at the Morvant Recreation Ground.
First Citizens Cup 2016
Play-off Round
Tuesday, November 8, 2016
Ato Boldon Stadium
Club Sando vs Defence Force6pm
Ma Pau Stars vs San Juan Jabloteh8pm
Quarter Final Round
(November 12-13)
Semi Final Round
(November 22)
Final
(December 2)
Digicel Pro League 2016
Round One Match Day Six
(Friday, November 04, 2016)
Ato Boldon Stadium
Central FC vs Police FC6pm
W Connection vs St. Anns Rangers8pm
(Sunday, November 06, 2016)
Morvant Recreation Ground
Morvant Caledonia United vs Defence Force3:45pm
Ato Boldon Stadium
San Juan Jabloteh vs Point Fortin Civic4pm
Club Sando vs Ma Pau Stars6pm
https://www.youtube.com/v/1K-snrx86uU
Post by: Flex on November 09, 2016, 01:16:39 PM
ttproleague.com.
10-man D/Force and Ma Pau Stars advance into First Citizens Cup after trumping Sando and Jabloteh, respectively
Former Trinidad and Tobago Youth World Cup goalkeeper Glenroy Samuel was in remarkable form on Tuesday night with three saves in a penalty shootout to send Ma Pau Stars into the quarter-finals of the 2016 First Citizens Cup.
Ma Pau finished 3-1 winners over San Juan Jabloteh thanks to the brilliance of their goalkeeper on kicks from the spot following a 1-1 draw in the second game of a play-off double-header at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.
Defence Force, in the earlier play-off, thanks to a second half Hashim Arcia strike, edged Club Sando 1-0 despite losing attacker Darryl Trim to a direct red card moments before the break.
Two-time former champions Defence Force advances into the quarter-final play on Saturday against St. Anns Rangers from 4pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium followed by Ma Pau Stars against First Citizens Cup holders and seven-time champions W Connection from 6pm, all determined by a random draw.
And as part of an increased prize money scheme in the First Citizens Cup, which will see bonuses for each win throughout the tournament, both play-off winners walked away $3,000 richer.
Quarter-final action continues on Sunday with two-time champions Central FC against Morvant Caledonia United from 3:30pm at the Morvant Recreation Ground, and on Monday, Police FC and Point Fortin Civic will tackle each other from 6pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Jabloteh, who tied the game nine minutes from time through substitute Kennedy Hinkson, had a solid start in the shootout. Goalkeeper Andrew Durant had denied Stars midfielder Elton John before defender Josiah Trimmingham powered the San Juan clubs first kick past Samuel.
But Samuel, who was unlucky to concede the equaliser after getting glove to Hinksons headeronly to see it crash off the upright before entering at the opposite endwent on to deny Tyrone Charles, who curled an attempt inches wide during regular time, Nathan Lewis and Kion Joseph in the shootout.
Neil Mitchell, Keryn Navarro and Haydon Tinto were clinical from the spot for Ma Pau Stars who had led the game on 57 minutes through Kerry Daniel.
Daniel rounded off a wonderful team move by firing past Durant on a rebound after the former Guyana shot-stopper had flung himself to keep out a crack from Hayden Tinto.
Kareem Baptiste had initiated the attack from the Stars half after escaping two challenges before finding Kerry Baptiste, who slipped a pass wide to Jerrel Britto. Britto then provided the telling cross for Tinto to create the initial scoring opportunity.
Britto, who failed to put the Stars ahead after 10 minutes, had a breakaway ten minutes from time with Jabloteh captain Damian Williams and defender Jevon Morris in chase but anxiously guided left-footed attempt wide of Durants far upright.
Soon after Ma Pau were made to pay when Hinkson equalised with a low header after Jabloteh increased the tempo through the arrival of speedy winger Nathan Lewis off the bench for his first appearance this season since being shot in the shoulder during a drive-by shooting in his Maloney hometown last September.
Jabloteh head coach Keith Jeffrey had summoned Lewis soon after conceding.
However, with Samuel keen on making a statement intended for Trinidad and Tobago head coach Stephen Hart ahead of two upcoming World Cup 2018 qualifying matches against Costa Rica (November 11, home) and Honduras (November 15, away), it just wasnt Jablotehs night after all.
I just wanted to show coach Hart that a good goalkeeper in Trinidad isnt selected [for the qualifiers] and I hope he would take a closer look at me, said Samuel, T&Ts goalkeeper at both the 2007 FIFA Under-17 and 2009 FIFA Under-20 World Cups.
Samuel was selected as a third choice goalie behind regulars Jan-Michael Williams and Marvin Phillip by Hart for a four-nation Cup in Saudi Arabia in Sep. 2013.
The 26-year-old former Joe Public and Caledonia AIA goalie was also selected as third choice behind Phillip and Adrian Foncette for a three-game Soca Warriors friendly tour against Uruguay, Peru and China between May 23 and June 3 this year and back then Hart was quoted as saying, ()its a good for him (Glenroy) to push for selection.
For now, though, Samuel said he is committed on improving as a goalkeeper and credits the support of his mother, Donna Samuel, his Ma Pau teammates, coaching staff, and supporters of the Sangre Grande based club.
Earlier at the Couva venue on Tuesday night, Arcias second half strike made the difference for Defence Force as coach Marvin Gordons side progressed to next weekends quarter-final play at the expense of Sando.
Defence Force had finally made use of their possession advantage eight minutes inside the second period when Arcia, who had earlier attempts on either side of the break, steered home a Jemel Sebro cross past Sando goalkeeper Stefan Berkeley.
The game got even more exciting when we went down a player, said Defence Force hard-man Curtis Gonzales. Thats the sort of challenge Defence Force rise to. It brought out the soldier in us knowing we had to work extra hard. It was a plus for us and we came away with the result we wanted.
Trim, only on his second appearance for Defence Force, was given his marching orders by referee Gyasi Mc Donald two minutes from the break with a direct red card for a challenge on Sandos defensive midfielder Jared London.
Less than two minutes into the second half Sandos Sharkeel Donatien was lucky, only seeing yellow out of Mc Donalds pocket after a rash challenge on Gonzales.
Sando coach Angus Eve had responded immediately after conceding, by replacing forward Anthony Guppy with former Defence Force attacker Akeem Roachand the 20-year-old along with forwards Kevon Piper and Keron Cornwall, both also off the bench, did give Sando the needed lift, but not the required goals.
Defence Force were resolute in their defending, while Devorn Jorsling was enough to cause problems at the back for Sando as the lone man up front.
Results
First Citizens Cup 2016
Play-off Round
(Tuesday, November 8, 2016)
Club Sando 0 vs Defence Force 1 (Hashim Arcia 53), at the Ato Boldon Stadium;
San Juan Jabloteh 1 (Kennedy Hinkson 81) vs Ma Pau Stars 1 (Kerry Daniel 57)
Ma Pau Stars won the game 3-1 on kicks from the penalty mark, at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Kicks from the penalty spot
Ma Pau Stars 3 San Juan Jabloteh 1
Elton John (saved) Josiah Trimmingham (scored)
Neil Mitchell (scored) Tyrone Charles (saved)
Keryn Navarro (scored) Nathan Lewis (saved)
Hayden Tinto (scored) Kion Joseph (saved)
Teams
Club Sando: 1.Stefan Berkeley (GK), 7.Akeem Humphrey (Capt.), 10.Shaquille Holder, 14.Anthony Guppy (13.Akeem Roach 54th minute), 15.Kaashif Thomas (8.Kevon Piper 64th minute), 16.Anderson Toussaint (Yellow Card), 17.Jared London (9.Keron Cornwall 68th minute), 19.Leslie Joel Russell, 21.Sharkeel Donatien (Yellow Card), 23.Nicholas Thomas, 29.Keithy Simpson.
Unused substitutes: 34.Kelvin Henry (GK), 11.Joel Kevin Lewis, 12.Michael Basdeo.
Coach: Angus Eve
Defence Force: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK), 3.Jamali Garcia, 9.Devorn Jorsling (2.Glynn Franklyn 93rd minute), 10.Hashim Arcia (37.Cassim Kellar 79th minute), 12.Jemel Sebro (19.Thurlani George 71st minute), 13.Marvin Jones, 14.Darryl Trim (Red Card), 17.Curtis Gonzales, 21.Aklie Edwards, 26.Justin Garcia, 99.Jerwyn Balthazar (Capt.).
Unused substitutes: 1.Andre Marchan (GK), 15.Brandon Fountain, 22.Anthony Charles, 35.Tirek George
Coach: Marvin Gordon
Referee: Gyasi Mc Donald
Teams
San Juan Jabloteh: 35.Andrew Durant (GK), 5.Elijah Manners (27.Nathan Lewis 62nd minute), 7.Jamal Gay, 8.Keyon Edwards (12.Kion Joseph 62nd minute), 10.Tyrone Charles, 11.Damian Williams (Capt.), 16.Brent Sam (23.Kennedy Hinkson 74th minute), 17.Josiah Trimmingham, 18.Jevon Morris, 19.Noel Williams, 21.Aquil Selby (Yellow Card).
Unused substitutes: 36.Raheem Belgrave (GK), 6.Akeem Benjamin, 15.Jerome Mc Intyre.
Coach: Keith Jeffrey
Ma Pau Stars: 22.Glenroy Samuel (GK), 2.Carlos Edwards (Capt.), 4.Kerry Baptiste (6.Neil Mitchell 64th minute), 7.Kerry Daniel, 10.Jerrel Britto, 11.Elton John, 16.Kareem Eastman, 17.Haydon Tinto, 19.Glenton Wolffe, 21.Neil Mitchell (14.Chike Sullivan 64th minute), 25.Keryn Navarro.
Unused substitutes: 1.Shane Mattis (GK), 5.Taryk Sampson, 8.Adrian Noel, 9.Jason Scotland, 12.Sayid Freitas.
Coach: Ross Russell
Referee: Gordon Maloney
Quarter Final Round
(Saturday, November 12, 2016)
Defence Force vs St. Anns Rangers4pm (C) - Ato Boldon Stadium
W Connection vs Ma Pau Stars6pm (D) - Ato Boldon Stadium
(Sunday, November 13, 2016)
Central FC vs Morvant Caledonia United3:30pm (B) - Morvant Recreation Ground
(Monday, November 14, 2016)
Police FC vs Point Fortin Civic6pm (A) - Ato Boldon Stadium
Semi Final Round
(November 22)
A vs D
B vs C
Final
(December 2)
Post by: Tallman on November 10, 2016, 07:48:19 AM
https://www.youtube.com/v/D2b8O4JzsAo
Post by: Flex on November 11, 2016, 02:48:37 PM
ttproleague.com.
Defence Force head coach Marvin Gordon has issued a stern warning to his First Citizens Cup quarter-final opponents, St. Anns Rangers, who had stunned the Army/Coast Guard combination in their opening Digicel Pro League clash this season.
I dont know the margin [we will beat them by] but I know if Rangers come cocky, they are going to concede a couple well, Gordon told ttproleague.com on Tuesday night, following his teams 1-0 win over Club Sando in the First Citizens Cup play-off round at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Hashim Arcias second-half strike made sure the two-time (2002 & 2009) former First Citizens Cup champions, Defence Force, despite losing attacker Darryl Trim to a red card, progressed to meet Rangers, who are into the quarter-finals by virtue of the 2016 random draw.
On Saturday Nov. 12, Defence Force and Rangers will take on each other from 4pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium, then from 6pm, First Citizens Cup holders and seven-time champions, W Connection, will clast with Ma Pau Stars, who progressed from Tuesdays play-off double-header in Couva with a 3-1 penalty win over San Juan Jabloteh following a 1-1 draw.
Quarter-final action continues on Sunday Nov. 13 with two two-time former First Citizens Cup champions, Central FC and Morvant Caledonia United, against each other from 3:30pm at the Morvant Recreation Ground.
And on Monday Nov. 14, Police FC and Point Fortin Civic will tackle each other from 6pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium to decide the final semi-final berth.
Im glad we played Club Sando and now we have Rangers these are two clubs that have defeated us in the league [this season], continued Gordon. We are struggling in the league and we know that in the knockouts we have to throw everything at it. We are all working on it and I have no doubt that on Saturday we are going to progress into the semi-finals.
Defence Force are currently second from bottom on the 10-team league standings after opening with a 2-0 loss against Rangers and conceding three more defeats after six league games, including being on the wrong side of the 3-2 result against Sando on Oct. 21.
Every game is a tough game in the Pro League, added the Defence Force coach on Tuesday night. The coaches have good standards and like to play good football. But Sando had beaten us a few weeks ago after coming back from two goals down. I think my (Defence Force) players had that in their minds tonight.
I thought the first half we possessed a lot of the ball but werent assertive enough in the attacking third [against Sando]. I had a good go at my players in the dressing room at half time, especially Hashim and [Devorn Jorsling] Droggy.
But we showed a lot of heart and grit after being down to ten men for so many minutes after the red card, and the goal from Hashim was brilliant, concluded Gordon.
Defence Force defensive midfielder Curtis Gonzales said, They (Rangers) beat us in the first [league] game and might be coming on a high. But we know what to expect. We wont be making the mistakes we made in the first game and if we can add the effort like we did today (Tuesday against Sando), hopefully we would be in the semi-finals.
Meanwhile, Rangers, coached by former solider Anthony Streete, are fifth on the DPL standings with three wins and a draw from their six league games so far. And despite coming off a loss against W Connection in their most recent league game, team administrator and former coach Jason Spence would like to see the St. Anns club transfer their Cinderella run into the First Citizens Cup.
Spence admitted the knockouts are always a tougher challenge but believes that Rangers a side usually known for occupying bottom of the league standings and underdog status are on the upswing.
While all teams are hoping to advance one step closer to the Dec. 2 final, holders W Connection are hoping to go all the way in securing their eighth First Citizens Cup.
However the Savonetta Boys first challenge is against a star-studded Ma Pau, who are coached by Ross Russell, a former First Citizens Cup-winning coach at Defence Force.
Russell, during the launch of this seasons First Citizens Cup, reminded that the Cup is very close to his heart being the first ever title he won when he debuted as coach of Defence Forces top flight team back in 2009.
But Connection assistant coach and former First Citizens Cup winner as a player, Earl Jean, said his team are very excited and hungry to liftfor an eighth timea title thats very special to the Savonetta Boys.
Jean, though, believes the 2016 edition will be one of the toughest tournaments due to increased level of competitiveness among Pro League clubs.
Quarter Final Round
(Saturday, November 12, 2016)
Defence Force vs St. Anns Rangers4pm (C), Ato Boldon Stadium
W Connection vs Ma Pau Stars6pm (D), Ato Boldon Stadium
(Sunday, November 13, 2016)
Central FC vs Morvant Caledonia United3:30pm (B), Morvant Recreation Ground
(Monday, November 14, 2016)
Police FC vs Point Fortin Civic6pm (A), Ato Boldon Stadium
Post by: Flex on November 13, 2016, 09:24:53 AM
ttproleague.com.
Defence Force forward Devorn Jorsling unleashed all his fury, netting all four goals in his sides 4-2 win over St. Anns Rangers on Saturday as the Army/Coast Guard combination marched into the semi-finals of the 2016 First Citizens Cup.
Jorsling opened his account from the penalty spot before ending with two goals on either side of the half, while Dylon King and substitute Marvin Lee each had a goal in the second period for Rangers, who had stunned the soldiers 2-0 in their opening Digicel Pro League clash this season on Oct. 2.
Ma Pau Stars also progressed to the Nov. 22 semi-finals by ousting First Citizens Cup holders W Connection 3-0 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw in the second game of the quarter-final round double-header at the Couva venue.
Defence Force, champions in 2002 and 2009, must await the outcome of Sundays quarter-final clash between Central FC and Morvant Caledonia United from 3:30pm at the Morvant Recreation Ground to know their semi-final opponents, while Ma Pau Stars advances to face the winners between Point Fortin Civic and Police, who face each other in the final quarter-final contest on Monday from 6pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Jorsling handed Defence Force a 1-0 lead from the penalty spot on 11 minutes when he sent Rangers goalkeeper Cleon John the wrong way after referee Cecile Hinds ruled a handball against Sedale Mc Lean inside the area.
Jorsling, a former Pro League Player of the Year and multiple-time Golden Boot winner, made it 2-0 in the 19th minute with a sweet left-footed volley off a right side Curtis Gonzales cross, and increased his sides lead to 3-0 five minutes inside the second after he was picked out in the area by a short Gonzales pass.
Rangers, who were lucky not to concede when Thurlani George rattled Johns crossbar on the half hour mark, managed to pull back two goals in the second half following improved play with King hitting past goalkeeper Sheldon Clarke from above the area in the 53rd minute and substitute Lee -- less than a minute on -- hammering his effort into the roof of the Army net on 72 minutes from a corner.
But Jorsling quelled Rangers comeback attempt six minutes. After collecting a pass inside the area, Jorsling steered the ball past keeper John for his fourth and a 4-2 finish in favour of Defence Force, who had edged Club Sando 1-0 last Tuesday in the play-offs.
Its a great feeling every time I score, more so to score four, Jorsling told ttproleague.com after the game. We had something personal against Rangers [having lost to them in our previous meeting].
Defence Force are without a win in their last four league games and both Jorsling and head coach Marvin Gordon believe it was important that their side also use the First Citizens Cup to build in confidence and performances as they attempt to climb out of the bottom half of the DPL table.
Gordon praised the performance of Jorsling, saying, He (Jorsling) is really a big player. He was brilliant tonight in the 18-yard box and when we really needed the fourth goal he got it for the team. A lot of times people criticise him saying he is too slow but as coach I have all confidence in him. Year in, year out you will see he is a top striker and I will continue to believe in him.
But Gordon added that although his team enjoyed the better start by moving the ball well and creating chances for the two early goals, he believes complacency and poor defending by his players allowed Rangers a chance to build in their performance and grow in belief.
But to the end we were brilliant, pulling ourselves back in with the fourth goal to really widen the gap, Gordon continued. I thought we should have scored more goals tonight and I thought defensively we were bad. As a team it is something we have to work on because we wont get an easier game in the semi-finals and the rest of the competition.
W Connection, in the second quarter-final on the night, were a well-gelled unit, led by experienced attacking midfielders Andre Toussaint and Hughtun Hector, but poor finishing saw the seven-time former First Citizens Cup champions bow out.
Literally, Connection had camped in the Ma Pau Stars half in the first period and had clear-cut second half misses from Kevon Goddard, Jabari Mitchell and Toussaint, while the Stars had left it for late, really flaring up near the end following the arrival of Anthony Wolfe, Kerry Baptiste and Carlos Edwards off the bench to compliment former Connection forward Jerrel Britto.
But after both sides failed to find a winner in regular time, it was down to the penalty shootout in which Connection were still unable to find their scoring boots.
Meanwhile Stars goalkeeper Glenroy Samuel, picking up where he left off with three saves in a 3-1 penalty shootout win over San Juan Jabloteh in the play-offs last Tuesday, gave Ma Pau the early advantage by denying Hector on the first kick.
Connections miseries grew by every kick from the spot with Baptiste, Edwards and Hayden Tinto, in that order, all clinical against Savonetta Boysgoalkeeper Terrence Lewis, whose teammates Alvin Jones and Kurt Frederick struck the post from the spot.
Its a norm for me, explained Samuel, a former Trinidad and Tobago Under-17 and Under-20 World Cup player. It has to do with hard work and the encouragement from the coaching staff, my parents, family and others. It gives me the vibe to come out and do it for the club. I had no fear facing W Connection, it was just about keeping my focus and doing what the coach thought me. Its my job to help the team.
Its hard coming out of the First Citizens Cup, said a disappointed W Connection assistant coach and former player Earl Jean. Its a Cup we cherish a lot. I dont want to be too hard on our players because they had a good game. Its just that they had to take the chancesgoals win matches.
Connection were without a number of players including first choice goalie Julani Archibald, who along with St. Kitts/Nevis teammate Gerard Williams and Trinidad and Tobago defender Daneil Cyrus are on international duty.
We were missing some players tonight but still we had a strong squad. We are just disappointed in our finishing. Our game was good and our players are doing what we want and dominating the game and creating chances. Its just for them to put the ball into the back of the net, concluded Jean.
Results.
St. Anns Rangers 2 (Dylon King 53, Marvin Lee 72) vs Defence Force 4 (Devorn Jorsling 11 pen, 19, 50, 84), at the Ato Boldon Stadium;
W Connection 0 vs Ma Pau Stars 0, at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Ma Pau Stars won 3-0 on kicks from the penalty spot after a 0-0 draw.
W Connection 0 Ma Pau Stars 3
Hughtun Hector (saved) Kerry Baptiste (scored)
Alvin Jones (post) Carlos Edwards (scored)
Kurt Frederick (post) Hayden Tinto (scored)
Teams
Defence Force: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK), 3.Jamali Garcia, 8.Christopher Durity (23.Kerry Joseph 65th minute), 9.Devorn Jorsling (2.Glynn Franklyn 89th minute), 10.Hashim Arcia (35.Tirek George 81st minute), 13.Marvin Jones, 17.Curtis Gonzales, 19.Thurlani George, 21.Aklie Edwards (Yellow Card), 26.Justin Garcia, 99.Jerwyn Balthazar (Capt.).
Unused substitutes: 1.Andre Marchan (GK), 5.Devin Jordan, 15.Brandon Fountain, 22.Anthony Charles.
Coach: Marvin Gordon
St. Anns Rangers: 1.Cleon John (GK), 5.Devon Drayton, 6.Dylon King, 7.Sedale Mc Lean, 8.Jameel Antoine, 10.Devon Modeste, 11.Kazim Donald (9.Jomoul Francois 55th minute), 16.Richard Williams, 21.Josh Toussaint (32.Marvin Lee 71st minute), 28.Shakiyl Phillip (Capt.), 33.Osaze Springer.
Unused substitutes: 19.Tafari Williams, 20.Kareem Baptiste, 22.Christopher Biggette (GK), 30.Lester Durham.
Coach: Anthony Streete
Referee: Cecile Hinds
Teams
W Connection: 1.Terrence Lewis (GK), 2.Kurt Frederick, 4.Maurice Ford, 13.Hughtun Hector (Capt.), 14.Andre Toussaint (Yellow Card), 16.Alvin Jones (Yellow Card), 17.Aikim Andrews (20.Jamal Charles 70th minute), 21.Rondell Paul (Yellow Card), 23.Kevon Goddard, 34.Jabari Mitchell (43.Malik St. Prix 79th minute), 35.Jesus Perez.
Unused substitutes: 26.Shaquille Bertrand, 30.Shaquille John, 33.Aquelius Sylvester (GK), 40.Isaisah Garcia, 46.Anfernee Frederick.
Coach: Stuart Charles Fevrier
Ma Pau Stars: 22.Glenroy Samuel (GK), 5.Taryk Sampson, 7.Kerry Daniel (Yellow Card), 9.Jason Scotland (23.Anthony Wolfe 56th minute) (Yellow Card), 10.Jerrel Britto, 11.Elton John, 16.Kareem Eastman (2.Carlos Edwards 77th minute), 17.Hayden Tinto, 19.Glenton Wolffe, 21.Neil Mitchell (4.Kerry Baptiste 75th minute), 25.Keryn Navarro (Capt.).
Unused substitutes: 1.Shane Mattis (GK), 6.Neil Mitchell, 8.Adrian Noel, 12.Sayid Freitas.
Coach: Ross Russell
Referee: Rodphin Harris
Post by: Tallman on November 14, 2016, 01:16:33 PM
ttproleague.com
Morvant Caledonia United are into the semi-finals of the 2016 First Citizens Cup. The two-time former champions edged Central FC 3-2 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw in their quarter-final clash on Sunday in Morvant.
Morvant Caledonia, back-to-back champions in 2011 and 2012 under their previous name Caledonia AIA, advances into the Nov. 22 semi-finals against Defence Force, who climbed from the play-offs with a 1-0 win over Club Sando last Tuesday then defeated St. Anns Rangers 4-2 courtesy a Devorn Jorsling beaver-trick in their QF clash on Friday.
Central FC, current Digicel Pro League leaders and First Citizens Cup champions of 2013 and 2014, were unable to hold their nerves from the spot after slugging it out to a stalemate and paid the ultimate price of defeattheir first in all domestic competitions this seasonin front of thousands at the Morvant Recreation Ground.
Stephon Seepersads opening save in the shootout to deny Centrals Jason Marcano, coupled with clinical finishing from the spot by teammates Kareem Joseph, Lester Joseph and Jameel Neptune against Couva Sharks goalkeeper Javon Sample earned Morvant Caledonia their first ever win in front of home supporters after three attempts.
Central midfielders Darren Mitchell and Leston Paul beat the glove of Seepersad on the second and third kicks and keeper Javon Sample denied Morvant Caledonias Akim Armstrong.
But it wasnt enough to avoid defeat with after Keron Cummings had skied his kick overbar and Sean De Silva, who had rocked the Morvant Caledonia crossbar on the half hour mark, followed suit in the visitors fourth and fifth kicks, respectively to set off the Morvant after-party which included a performance by local dancehall sensation and Morvant resident, Pternsky (Ronny Boyce), whose hits include None Stop, Bubble and F.A.X..
Its a tremendous joy to reward the people of Morvant, Morvant Caledonia United head coach Rajesh Latchoo told www.ttproleague.com. In the game before when we scored [at the death] to draw 1-1 with Defence Force in the league [on Nov. 6], we saw the reaction of the people. They were jumping together, the rastas were hugging bald heads and the indo-Trinidadians and afro-Trinidadians were celebrating together. It was clear the people of Morvant finally have something to support.
Our players understand now what it is to represent a community -- not just their family and friends -- and today the support here in Morvant was our 12th man.
This was the dream of our owner (Jamaal Shabazz) for many years, to truly represent the community in which he and the club belongs. Now the dream is to have a stadium in Morvant where our players can train, have video sessions, and somewhere to fully call home.
Central were left ruing their missed chances which included two point blank openings which fell to Kadeem Corbin and Marcano within the first seven minutes following right side moves involving Cummings.
Mitchell admitted it was a tough contest, but dismissed the notion that his teammates were intimidated by the huge Morvant crowd, which by far surpassed averages ranging between 2,500 and 3,000 in two previous turnouts.
We are accustomed to playing against teams with thousands of supporters like we did in the Concacaf Champions League, said the Central FC captain. The crowd is tremendous here [in Morvant] but I think it was just a situation where we lacked concentration on the kicks. During the game it was very tough because they (Morvant Caledonia) sat deep and tried to play on the break.
I was really confident, said the 20-year-old rookie Seepersad, who started in goal in absence of keeper Marvin Phillip, who, like Central first choice goalie Jan-Michael Williams and forward Marcus Joseph are with the Trinidad and Tobago national team for Tuesdays World Cup 2018 qualifier away to Honduras.
Seepersad, whose grandparents are from Morvant, had also done well in tracking Mitchell and Pauls efforts despite conceding.
I work hard in training and it was my time when called upon in the penalties, Seepersad added. I also had confidence in my teammates to do their part on the kicks and together we rewarded the people of Morvant for their support. The ambition is to go all the way to the title.
Quarter-final action continues today (Monday Nov. 14) with Police FC against Point Fortin Civic from 6pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium to decide the final semi-final berth. The winners will meet Ma Pau Stars, who ousted former champions San Juan Jabloteh 3-1 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in the play-offs then outshined holders and seven-time champions W Connection 3-0 in another penalty shootout following a goalless draw in their QF clash.
First Citizens Cup 2016
Play-off Round
(Tuesday, November 8, 2016)
Club Sando 0 vs Defence Force 1 (Hashim Arcia 53), at the Ato Boldon Stadium;
San Juan Jabloteh 1 (Kennedy Hinkson 81) vs Ma Pau Stars 1 (Kerry Daniel 57)
Ma Pau Stars won the game 3-1 on kicks from the penalty mark at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Kicks from the penalty spot
Ma Pau Stars 3 San Juan Jabloteh 1
Elton John (saved) Josiah Trimmingham (scored)
Neil Mitchell (scored) Tyrone Charles (saved)
Keryn Navarro (scored) Nathan Lewis (saved)
Hayden Tinto (scored) Kion Joseph (saved)
Quarter Final Round
(Saturday, November 12, 2016)
St. Anns Rangers 2 (Dylon King 53, Marvin Lee 72) vs Defence Force 4 (Devorn Jorsling 11 pen, 19, 50, 84), at the Ato Boldon Stadium;
W Connection 0 vs Ma Pau Stars 0
Ma Pau Stars won 3-0 on kicks from the penalty mark at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Kicks from the penalty spot
W Connection 0 Ma Pau Stars 3
Hughtun Hector (saved) Kerry Baptiste (scored)
Alvin Jones (post) Carlos Edwards (scored)
Kurt Frederick (post) Hayden Tinto (scored)
(Sunday, November 13, 2016)
Central FC 0 vs Morvant Caledonia United 0
Morvant Caledonia won 3-2 on kicks from the penalty spot at the Morvant Recreation Ground.
Kicks from the penalty spot
Central FC 2 Morvant Caledonia United 3
Jason Marcano (saved) Kareem Joseph (scored)
Leston Paul (scored) Lester Joseph (scored)
Darren Mitchell (scored) Jameel Neptune (scored)
Keron Cummings (overbar) Akim Armstrong (saved)
Sean De Silva (overbar)
(Monday, November 14, 2016)
Ato Boldon Stadium
Police FC vs Point Fortin Civic6pm (A)
Semi Final Round
(November 22)
A vs Ma Pau Stars
Morvant Caledonia United vs Defence Force
Final
(December 2)
Teams at the Morvant Recreation Ground on Sunday
Central FC: 1.Javon Sample (GK), 3.Keion Goodridge, 4.Andre Ettienne, 6.Leston Paul, 7.Jason Marcano, 8.Sean De Silva, 10.Keron Cummings, 11.Darren Mitchell (Capt.), 16.Kadeem Corbin (17.Johan Peltier 67th minute), 19.Nathan Garcia (Yellow Card), 26.Mickaeel Jem Gordon.
Unused substitutes: 1.Javon Sample (GK), 5.Keston George, 14.Nicholas Dillon, 18.Rondell Gibson, 24.Kevon Villaroel.
Coach: Dale Saunders
Morvant Caledonia United: 30.Stephon Seepersad (GK), 4.Ordell Flemming, 5.Seon Thomas, 6.Taje Commissiong, 7.Kordell Samuel (23.Lester Joseph 83rd minute), 12.Kareem Joseph, 13.Jordan Devonish (9.Jair Edwards 60th minute), 14.Keron Bethelmy, 17.Akim Armstrong, 21.Densill Theobald, 22.Jameel Neptune.
Unused substitutes: 8.Anthony Charles, 11.Dominic Douglas, 15.Otev Lawrence, 18.Maestro Mensah, 31.Hakeem Lukas (GK).
Coach: Rajesh Latchoo
Referee: Gyasi Mc Donald
Assistant Referee 1: Glen Kevin Charles
Assistant Referee 2: Kyle Carabon
Fourth Official: Marlon Peruse
Post by: Tallman on November 15, 2016, 10:44:38 AM
https://www.youtube.com/v/B_oZIhuV9D8
Post by: Tallman on November 15, 2016, 10:47:52 AM
ttproleague.com
Kadeem Riley scored on either side of the break as Police FC cruised into the semi-finals of the 2016 First Citizens Cup with a 4-1 hammering of Point Fortin Civic on Monday.
Riley, featuring in attack for coach Richard Hoods side dented by injuries, scored early and late for the Lawmen, who also had a goal each from winger Micah Lewis and utility player Christon Thomas for the quarter-final win at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Police grabbed a 1-0 advantage in just the third minute through Riley. The lanky attacker, free inside the Civic area, was picked out by a left side Joshua Leach cross and made no mistake in beating goalkeeper Miles Goodman from point blank range.
Lewis then handed Police a 2-0 cushion on 23 minutes with a solo goal from inside the area, but Civic pulled one back three minutes from the half.
Boatswain headed in an Akeem Redhead cross at the back post to beat Police goalie Theon Browne and make it 2-1.
However Police could have gone into the half with a healthier lead had Hoods mensporting a new sky blue kit resembling that of the colour of England Premier Leagues Manchester City home stripmade better use of an indirect free kick in the area and had referee Keilon Bacchus awarded a penalty after Leach was hacked down in the area by Civic defender Kurfi Pierre on the half hour mark.
Left full-back Dexter Alleyne also had a wonderful gift with the Civic goal and Goodman at his mercy just before the half-time whistle but failed to control a right side cross hit into the area by team captain Todd Ryan.
Police finally restored their two-goal lead in the 84th minute when Riley stabbed home another Leach cross to complete his double and put Police in the clear with a 3-1 score against a side that have not yet registered a win in all competitions this season.
Then three minutes from time, Thomas, who was denied by the upright on the hour mark, rounded off the 4-1 rout with a low finish past Goodman after latching onto a pass inside the area from substitute Kareem Freitas asPolice, who are winless in five games in the Digicel Pro League since defeating Ma Pau Stars 5-1 on Oct. 4, recorded their second win of the season in all competitions.
Police are now into the First Citizens Cup semi-finals, tentatively set for Nov. 27, where the Lawmen must face Ma Pau Stars, while Morvant Caledonia United are against Defence Force, in a clash of two two-time former champions.
Morvant Caledonia, champions in 2011 and 2012, ousted 2013 and 2014 champions Central FC 3-2 on penalties in their quarter-final meeting following a 0-0 stalemate on Sunday in Morvant.
Other quarter-final results include Defence Forces 4-2 win over St. Anns Rangers on Saturday, and on the same day Ma Pau Stars, who, like Defence Force advanced out of the play-offs, outshined seven-time champions and holders W Connection 3-0 from the penalty spot following a goalless draw.
Action in the Digicel Pro League will resume this weekend (Nov. 18-20) with two-time defending champions and current leaders Central FC versus Civic, W Connection versus Morvant Caledonia United, Jabloteh versus Rangers, Ma Pau Stars versus Defence Force, and Club Sando versus Police.
First Citizens Cup 2016 (results)
Play-off Round
(Tuesday, November 8, 2016)
Club Sando 0 vs Defence Force 1 (Hashim Arcia 53), at the Ato Boldon Stadium;
San Juan Jabloteh 1 (Kennedy Hinkson 81) vs Ma Pau Stars 1 (Kerry Daniel 57)
Ma Pau Stars won the game 3-1 on kicks from the penalty mark at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Kicks from the penalty spot
Ma Pau Stars 3 San Juan Jabloteh 1
Elton John (saved) Josiah Trimmingham (scored)
Neil Mitchell (scored) Tyrone Charles (saved)
Keryn Navarro (scored) Nathan Lewis (saved)
Hayden Tinto (scored) Kion Joseph (saved)
Quarter Final Round
(Saturday, November 12, 2016)
St. Anns Rangers 2 (Dylon King 53, Marvin Lee 72) vs Defence Force 4(Devorn Jorsling 11 pen, 19, 50, 84), at the Ato Boldon Stadium;
W Connection 0 vs Ma Pau Stars 0
Ma Pau Stars won 3-0 on kicks from the penalty mark at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Kicks from the penalty spot
W Connection 0 Ma Pau Stars 3
Hughtun Hector (saved) Kerry Baptiste (scored)
Alvin Jones (post) Carlos Edwards (scored)
Kurt Frederick (post) Hayden Tinto (scored)
(Sunday, November 13, 2016)
Central FC 0 vs Morvant Caledonia United 0
Morvant Caledonia won 3-2 on kicks from the penalty spot at the Morvant Recreation Ground.
Kicks from the penalty spot
Central FC 2 Morvant Caledonia United 3
Jason Marcano (saved) Kareem Joseph (scored)
Leston Paul (scored) Lester Joseph (scored)
Darren Mitchell (scored) Jameel Neptune (scored)
Keron Cummings (overbar) Akim Armstrong (saved)
Sean De Silva (overbar)
(Monday, November 14, 2016)
Ato Boldon Stadium
Police FC 4 (Kadeem Riley 3, 84 Micah Lewis 23, Christon Thomas 87) vs Point Fortin Civic 1 (Jamille Boatswain 42)
Semi Final Round
(November 27)
Police FC vs Ma Pau Stars
Morvant Caledonia United vs Defence Force
Final
(December 2)
Teams at the Ato Boldon Stadium on Monday
Police FC: 22.Theon Browne (GK), 6.Jibri Mc David (2.Akiel Thomas 84th minute), 12.Kadeem Riley (Yellow Card), 17.Dexter Alleyne, 19.Christon Thomas, 20.Elijah Belgrave, 21.Todd Ryan (Capt.), 23.Micah Lewis (29.Kadeem Hutchinson 82nd minute), 25.Kenaz Williams, 38.Nequan Caruth, 39.Joshua Leach (10.Kareem Freitas 69th minute) (Yellow Card).
Unused substitutes: 8.Kurdell Brathwaite, 13.Dillon Kirton, 32.Kemron Purcell.
Coach: Richard Hood
Point Fortin Civic: 22.Miles Goodman (GK), 2.Ancil Wells, 3.Kurfi Pierre (30.Mario Jose Romeo Marin 69th minute), 6.Shane Garraway, 8.Akeem Redhead (9.Sylvester Teesdale 58th minute) (Yellow Card), 7.Nickcolson Thomas, 11.Shaquille Dublin (Yellow Card), 12.Rondell Phillip, 13.Shevon Abraham, 20.Jamille Boatswain, 23.Shaquille Stewart.
Unused substitutes: 16.Tyrell Johnson, 17.Kestwin Goolie, 32.Nestor Miguel Ruiz Salazar, 40.Tevin Moore (GK), 99.Tereek Joseph.
Coach: Dick Furlonge
Referee: Keilon Bacchus
Assistant Referee 1: Oladele Thomas
Assistant Referee 2: Johann Corneille
Fourth Official: Kevin Smart
Post by: Flex on November 28, 2016, 05:29:36 AM
ttproleague.com.
Defence Force are one win away from a third First Citizens Cup crowning thanks to a comprehensive hat-trick by striker Devorn Jorsling, taking his tally to an astounding seven goals in 2016 edition, to dispatch Courts Morvant Caledonia United 3-0 in Sundays semi-final double-header at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
But the Army/Coast Guard combination are against former recruit Glenroy Samuela goalie determined to prove his worth to the Trinidad and Tobago national team selectorsand Ma Pau Stars in the 2016 final on 2 December.
This after Ma Pau Stars booked their place in the final with a 3-2 penalty shoot-out win over Police FC following an enthralling 3-3 draw in semi-final two at the Couva venue.
Samuel, for a third time consecutive time in the tournament after penalty wins over San Juan Jabloteh and last seasons champions W Connection, in the playoff and quarter-finals, respectively, had rescued Ma Pau Stars in a shoot-out.
The 26-year-old former T&T Youth World Cup goalie went one better than current Soca Warriors third choice keeper Adrian Foncette by denying Police kickers Christon Thomas and Elijah Belgrave on the second and final kicks, respectively, all after proving too big for Todd Ryan who struck the crossbar on the Lawmens first kick.
Hayden Tinto was denied by Foncette and Neil Gerard Mitchell struck over, in the third and fourth Ma Pau kicks, respectively, but Kerry Baptiste, Carlos Edwards and Keryn Navarro, in that order, were clinical from the spot for coach Ross Russells side.
Defenders Ryan ONeil and goal scorer Jibri Mc David were solid from the spot for Police who had first taken the lead in open play.
Mc David had struck past Samuel from close up for a 1-0 lead on 34 minutes from a headed-on Christon Thomas free-kick.
Ma Pau, though, were back on level terms three minutes later when Police defender Nequan Caruth handled a Jason Scotland cross into his own net to put the scores at 1-1.
But Belgrave, occupying an attacking role, restored coach Richard Hoods sides advantage 2-1 into the break. The ox-built utility player towered in the Ma Pau area to powerfully head past Samuel off a Thomas corner.
The entertaining contest was far from over and Police surrendered the lead seven minutes into the second half after allowing Scotland to swooped in and bury the ball past Foncette, who spilled an effort from Tinto.
Police were guilty of poor marking again in the 79th minute when Jerrel Britto headed into space before Scotland coolly lobbed a hapless Foncette to complete his double and put Ma Pau in front the first time, 3-2.
Police were determined to find a way back, and after forcing no less than five superb saves out of Samuel in the second half, the Lawmen finally equalised for a 3-3 score five minutes from time when Belgrave headed into the far netting from a Kareem Freitas cross.
Belgrave, however, was unable to beat Samuel on his sides fifth and final kick of the shoot-out and Ma Pau, who were lucky not to concede in the 84th minute when Freitas spilled wide at the goalmouth, burst into celebrations.
For Defence Force, though, the semi-final stage seemed simpler with a herculean Jorsling performance against his Morvant hometown club, he once represented.
The 32-year-old ex-T&T international broke the deadlock with a superb free-kick that entered the top corner, beating goalkeeper Marvin Phillip, who was at full stretch on the stroke of half-time.
Jorsling, who scored a beaver-trick in his teams 4-2 quarter-final win over St. Anns Rangers a week ago, made it 2-0 less than a minute into the second half by rolling a shot past the Morvant Caledonia number one and Soca Warriors second choice keeper after holding off defender Taje Commissiong inside the area.
Jorsling, who was denied a third by Phillip just before the hour mark, completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot in the 68th minute. The all-time leading Pro League scorer put his effort out of Phillips full stretch and into the top corner for a 3-0 score after a handball was ruled against Morvant Caledonia defender Seon Thomas.
Moments later Morvant Caledonias vocal assistant coach Abdallah Phillips was no longer on the touch line. The former Caledonia player was ejected from the technical area by referee Gyasi Mc Donald over his protest following a crunching tackle on forward Kordell Samuel by Justin Garcia in the middle of the field.
But by then there was little head coach Rajesh Latchoo could have done in his sides schooling.
Luckily for Morvant Caledonia, champions in 2011 and 2012, the end result could have been crueller.
Hashim Arcia had two excellent openings on either side of the break for the soldiers, one of which was cleared at the goalmouth midway through the first half. And team leader Jerwyn Balthazar saw his attempt cleared off the line by Morvant Caledonia substitute Dominic Douglas in the 83rd minute before Phillip produced an excellent save on the midfielders second attempt after a mesmerizing Jamali Garcia run kept the attack alive.
Defence Force, First Citizens Cup champions of 2002 and 2009, and later victors Ma Pau Stars both walked away $7,000 richer following their semi-final round wins due to, new this season, cash bonuses courtesy of title sponsors First Citizens for each win throughout the tournament, which saw winners in the quarter-final and playoff rounds earn $5,000 and $3,000 respectively.
The real withdrawal, though, happens on Friday 2 December when the champions receive $110,000 while $20,000 goes to the runners-up.
Results
Morvant Caledonia United 0 vs Defence Force 3 (Devorn Jorsling 45, 46, 68 pen.), at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Police FC 3 (Jibri Mc David 34, Elijah Belgrave 45+. 85) vs Ma Pau Stars 3 (Nequan Caruth 37 Own Goal, Jason Scotland 52, 79)
Ma Pau Stars won the game 3-2 on kicks from the penalty spot, at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
Kicks from the spot
Ma Pau Stars 3 Police FC 2
Kerry Baptiste (scored) Todd Ryan (crossbar)
Carlos Edwards (scored) Christon Thomas (saved)
Hayden Tinto (saved) Ryan ONeil (scored)
Neil Gerard Mitchell (overbar) Jibri Mc David (scored)
Keryn Navarro (scored) Elijah Belgrave (saved)
Teams
Morvant Caledonia United: 1.Marvin Phillip (GK), 4.Ordell Flemming, 5.Seon Thomas, 6.Taje Commissiong, 7.Kordell Samuel (11.Dominic Douglas 82nd minute), 10.Sheldon Holder, 12.Kareem Joseph, 14.Keron Bethelmy (23.Lester Joseph 74th minute), 17.Akim Armstrong, 21.Densill Theobald, 22.Jameel Neptune.
Unused substitutes: 13.Jordan Devonish, 15.Otev Lawrence, 16.Amos Ramsay, 18.Maestro Mensah, 30.Stephon Seepersad (GK).
Coach: Rajesh Latchoo
Defence Force: 1.Andre Marchan (GK), 3.Jamali Garcia, 8.Christopher Durity, 9.Devorn Jorsling (14.Darryl Trim 85th minute), 10.Hashim Arcia (37.Cassim Kellar 78th minute), 13.Marvin Jones, 17.Curtis Gonzales, 19.Thurlani George (6.Rodell Elcock 37th minute) (Yellow Card), 21.Aklie Edwards, 26.Justin Garcia (Yellow Card), 99.Jerwyn Balthazar (Capt.).
Unused substitutes: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK), 5.Devin Jordan, 22.Anthony Charles, 35.Tirek George.
Coach: Marvin Gordon
Referee: Gyasi Mc Donald
Teams
Police FC: 18.Adrian Foncette (GK), 3.Ryan ONeil, 6.Jibri Mc David, 10.Kareem Freitas (Yellow Card), 16.Keion Wilson (23.Micah Lewis 75th minute), 17.Dexter Alleyne, 19.Christon Thomas, 20.Elijah Belgrave, 21.Todd Ryan (Capt.), 25.Kenaz Williams (14.Kaaron Foster 80th minute), 38.Nequan Caruth.
Unused substitutes: 2.Akeil Thomas, 12.Kareem Riley, 13.Dillon Kirton, 22.Theon Browne (GK), 39.Joshua Leach.
Coach: Richard Hood
Ma Pau Stars: 22.Glenroy Samuel (GK), 2.Carlos Edwards (Capt.), 5.Taryk Sampson, 7.Kerry Daniel (4.Kerry Baptiste 65th minute), 9.Jason Scotland, 10.Jerrel Britto (Yellow Card) (12.Sayid Freitas 90th minute), 11.Elton John, 17.Hayden Tinto, 19.Glenton Wolffe, 21.Neil Gibson Mitchell (6.Neil Gerard Mitchell 54th minute), 25.Keryn Navarro.
Unused substitutes: 1.Shane Mattis (GK), 8.Adrian Noel, 16.Kareem Eastman, 20.Quincy Charles.
Coach: Ross Russell
Referee: Rashby Mc Phie
(http://www.ttproleague.com/images/stories/news-2016/Police-FC-double-scorer-Elijah-Belgrave.jpg)
Police FC double-scorer Elijah Belgrave, furthest right, goes airborne after scoring his first goal against Ma Pau Stars during their semi-final clash of the First Citizens Cup on Nov. 27, 2016 at the Ato Boldon Stadium. Ma Pau won the game 3-2 on penalty kicks following a 3-3 draw. (Photo: ttproleague.com / Allan V. Crane/Caribbean Action Images)
Post by: Tallman on November 28, 2016, 09:20:55 PM
https://www.youtube.com/v/-7sObOlS-NY
WATCH: Jason Scotlands brace and Glenroy Samuels two saves in the penalty shootout propel Ma Pau Stars to victory over Police FC and a place in the 2016 First Citizens Cup final.
https://www.youtube.com/v/oXl5JLl8gfI
Post by: Flex on December 01, 2016, 01:18:31 PM
ttproleague.com.
Devorn Jorsling envisions his Defence Force side lifting the First Citizens Cup on Friday night at the Hasely Crawford Stadium when the Army/Coast Guard combination tackle Ma Pau Stars from 8pm in the 2016 final.
Jorsling, rolled back the years, netting a beaver-trick in a 4-2 quarter-final win over St. Anns Rangers and all goals in a 3-0 win over Morvant Caledonia United in the semi-finals, but promises a team effort from Defence Force against Ma Pau Stars.
Defence Force, champions in 2002 and 2009, are after a third First Citizens Cup crowning in the 17-year history of the tournament, but first under coach Marvin Gordon, who like many of his players are against close friend and former head coach, Ross Russell, who heads Ma Pau.
Last season, Gordon celebrated his first title in charge of the soldiers by winning the 2016 season-ending Digicel Pro Bowl title.
Defence Force had also won the Pro Bowl in 2012 under Russell, who also guided the Army/Coast Guard combination to the Digicel Pro League crown in 2010-11 and 2012-13, and before that he had ended an eight-year drought by leading team to the 2009 First Citizens Cup in his debut season as head coach of the top-flight team.
It is important for me and current teammates who were part of the team in 2009 to go all the way in winning the trophy again, Jorsling told ttproleague.com.
It (First Citizens Cup) means a lot to us. It was the first trophy Defence Force won after a long time. It was also special being the first year that Ross Russell took charge of us back in 2009.
Also, things arent the way we would like it to be in the league, so this is a great opportunity for us to win silverware this season not that we are not giving it our best in the league.
On his goal-scoring exploits, the 32-year-old former Trinidad and Tobago international said he is always confident in my goal-scoring ability.
Jorsling must now face in-form goalkeeper Glenroy Samuel, who has been brilliant throughout the 2016 First Citizens Cup for Ma Pau Stars.
Both players squared off once before this season with Jorslings second half strike earning Defence Force a 1-0 win against Russells men in the league on Nov. 19.
But the former T&T Under-17 and Under-20 Youth World Cup goalies heroics proved crucial in helping the Sangre Grande club overcome San Juan Jabloteh, seven-time champions W Connection and Police FC, all on kicks from the penalty mark to reach the final.
Ma Pau Stars have never won the First Citizens Cup, although reaching the title match in 2006 and 2014 under past coaches and their previous name, North East Stars. But will look to a change in fortune under Russell and his experienced side that includes former Soca Warriors and 2006 World Cup members Carlos Edwards and Jason Scotland, former T&T youth standout Jerrel Britto, and former T&T internationals Kerry Baptiste, Hayden Tinto and Glenton Wolffe.
Central FC and San Juan Jabloteh will provide the appetiser to the final on Friday when the contest each other from 6pm in a league fixture at the Port-of-Spain venue.
Post by: Flex on December 04, 2016, 06:44:46 AM
T&T Guardian Reports.
Veteran defender Aklie Edwards was in the perfect spot to head home a rebound as Defence Force captured its third First Citizens Cup title with an entertaining 1-0 win over Ma Pau Stars at the Hasely Craw-ford Stadium, Mucurapo on Friday night.
Edwards decisive strike came as early as the 14th minute from inside the 18-yard-box when he headed home from close range. He was first to react to a rebound after striker Devorn Jorsling beat goalkeeper Glenroy Samuel only to see his shot crashed onto the cross-bar and back into play to provide Edwards with a golden opportunity which he made count.
Defence Force then created a number of chances which fell to the out-of-sync lanky Hashim Arcia, who on another night could have had a hat-trick to his name, but was kept off the scoresheet by an alert Samuel, while at the other end of the field, Defence Force goalkeeper Andre Marchan was also at his best to keep out any Stars many threats mainly through, former Scotland-based and T&T World Cup striker, Jason Scotland.
With the win, Defence Force added to its previous First Citizens Cup triumphs in 2002 and 2009 and also walked away $110,000 richer, while also sweeping all the individual awards. Meanwhile, Ma Pau Stars, had to settle for the runner-up spot for the third time and $20,000.
Defence Force, which has reached the final seven times in all, is now the second winningest club in the competition behind seven-time champions W Connection (2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 & 2015).
The trio of San Juan Jabloteh (2000 & 2003), Morvant Caledonia United (2011 & 2012) and Central FC (2013 & 2014) have all won the First Citizens Cup twice with the now defunct Joe Public (2010), the only other winner. Stars were also beaten in the 2006 and 2014 finals, while its coach Ross Russell, was at the helm of the Defence Force team which lifted the title in 2009.
Fridays Result
Defence Force 1 (Aklie Edwards 14th) vs Ma Pau Stars 0
Individual awards
Most Goals: Devorn Jorsling (Defence Force) - 7
Most Valuable Player: Devorn Jorsling (Defence Force)
Coach of the Tournament: Marvin Gordon (Defence Force)
Teams
Defence Force: 1.Andre Marchan (GK); 13.Marvin Jones (14.Darryl Trim 90+1), 3.Jamali Garcia, 26.Justin Garcia, 21.Aklie Edwards; 8.Chris Durity; 17.Curtis Gonzales, 10.Hashim Arcia (37.Cassim Kellar 85), 99.Jerwyn Balthazar (capt), 12.Jemel Sebro (6.Rodell Elcock 77); 9.Devorn Jorsling.
Unused substitutes: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK), 5.Devin Jordan, 22.Anthony Charles, 35.Tirek George,
Coach: Marvin Gordon
Ma Pau Stars: 22.Glenroy Samuel (GK); 25.Keryn Navarro, 5.Taryk Sampson, 19.Glenton Wolfe, 2.Carlos Edwards (capt); 6.Neil Mitchell (23.Anthony Wolfe 53), 11.Elton John; 7.Kerry Daniel (4.Kerry Baptiste 70), 10.Jerrel Britto, 17.Hayden Tinto; 9.Jason Scotland.
Unused substitutes: 1.Shane Mattis (GK), 8.Adrian Noel, 12.Sayid Freitas, 14.Chike Sullivan, 20.Quincy Charles,
Coach: Ross Russell
Referee: Crystal Sobers
RELATED NEWS
Defence Force complete First Citizens Cup triumph.
By Joel Bailey (Newsday).
DEFENCE FORCE completed a successful campaign in the 2016 First Citizens Cup with a narrow 1-0 win over Ma Pau Stars in Fridays final at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo.
Former Trinidad and Tobago wing-back Aklie Edwards was the goal-getter, in the 14th minute, as Defence Force (who won the title in 2002 and 2009) took home the $110,000 jackpot.
Striker Devorn Jorsling walked away with the competitions Most Valuable Player (MVP) and the Golden Boot (leading goal-scorer) trophies, for a tally of seven goals, while Marvin Gordon was named as the Coach of the Tournament.
Fridays game saw a pair of former national youth team goalkeepers Andre Marchan (Defence Force) and Glenroy Samuel (Ma Pau Stars) hold centre-stage with outstanding performances.
However, it was the Stars defence who failed to deal with a short corner, involving Curtis Gonzales and captain Jerwyn Balthazar, that proved costly.
From the set-piece, midfielder Christopher Durity saw his shot crash off the crossbar and an alert Edwards was quickest to the rebound as he bundled home his effort from inside the six-yard box.
Stars striker Jerrel Britto could have done better when he was set up by his captain, the evergreen Carlos Edwards, but his right footer was blocked by the Defence Force goalie.
On the opposite end, winger Jemel Sebro did well to chase a long ball from Durity and his header was magnificently cleared off his line by a retreating Samuel.
Both teams went toe-to-toe at each other in the second half.
Britto narrowly missed with a right-footed shot in the 53rd while Gonzales, on an overlapping run, picked out Hashim Arcia whose sliced volley was magnificently saved by Samuel.
Referee Crystal Sobers allowed play to continue though Arcias shirt was being held by Glenton Wolfe in the 60th minute. However, Arcia met a return ball from Jorsling, shook off Wolfe but saw his effort blocked by Samuel.
Four minutes later, Arcia got a ball from Gonzales but banged his shot off the crossbar while ex- TT and Defence Force forward Jason Scotland had two efforts (in the 65th and 76th) expertly saved by Marchan.
Balthazar had an opportunity to put the game beyond Stars reach in the 79th, after a give and- go with Jorsling, but his left-footed effort went sky-high.
Post by: Flex on December 05, 2016, 05:53:48 AM
By JOEL BAILEY (Newsday).
DEVORN JORSLING and Marvin Gordon, ace striker and coach of Defence Force, were noticeably pleased on Friday night, after their team registered a 1-0 win over Ma Pau Stars to capture the 2016 First Citizens Cup.
Aklie Edwards netted in the 14th minute to guarantee Defence Force the win, and the $110,000 jackpot, at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo.
Jorsling, who notched seven goals in three matches, copped both the Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Most Goals trophies.
Its the greatest joy, to achieve the MVP and the Most Goals title is a great joy, said Jorsling.
Gordon, who was voted as the Coach of the Tournament, stated, its a great feeling because the season hasnt been going so well for us in the League. I think we (committed) to winning the trophy and to see everything fall into place, its a great feeling. Gordon was facing his former coach Ross Russell, who is now at the helm of Stars.
Concerning the game plan, Gordon related, I was playing the waiting game for a bit because I wanted to see what Ross wouldve offered.
Exactly what I thought is what he did. Referring to the Stars strike pair of Jerrel Britto and Jason Scotland, Gordon noted, he (Russell) tried to play off of Brittos pace a bit, Scotty holding up the ball and Britto moving. I think we should have scored more goals but they had some great chances.
I thought my goalkeeper (Andre Marchan) was brilliant, and also (Stars goalie) Glenroy Samuel. To me, the two goalkeepers (stood) out in the game. Jorsling, the 33-yearold former Trinidad and Tobago striker, scored all but one goal for the Army-Coast Guard combination in this competition.
Asked how he copes with the pressure of being the leading striker in the team, Jorsling replied, thats nothing strange to me.
Since Ive entered the Defence Force, this pressure has been on my shoulders and I welcome it. The guys believe in me. They work hard for me and I just try to repay them with goals. With the season set to end in early February, Jorsling commented, obviously were trying to make some ground in the League.
We have been struggling in the League but hopefully this (title) gives us some confidence to go on and do well in the League. Gordon, on the other hand, pointed out, Im looking to win the Digicel Pro Bowl, to defend it, and also to try to come up to the top three in the League. I dont think its beyond us, I still think we can come in the top three in the League.
Post by: Tallman on December 05, 2016, 10:21:08 PM
https://www.youtube.com/v/QwlZwllNdM8
Post by: Flex on October 04, 2017, 02:56:53 PM
ttproleague.com.
Defence Force head coach Marvin Gordon says he welcomes the 2017 First Citizens Cup seeded draw unveiled during Wednesdays launch, which pits his defending champions against San Juan Jabloteh in the quarterfinal round later this month.
watching the side of the draw that [my team] are on, playing Jabloteh from the quarterfinal round () I think we can go all the way back to the final and defend this title, said the Defence Force coach.
North East Stars, W Connection, Club Sando, Defence Force, Jabloteh and Morvant Caledonia United, due to their positions 1-6 respectively on the Pro League standings after Round Two Match Day Two earned automatic places in the quarterfinal round to be contested on the weekend of October 13-14.
While Central FC, the two-time former champions, Police FC, Point Fortin Civic and MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers, due to their placements in descending order at the bottom of the 10-team PL standings, must contest the play-offs on Wednesday 11 October.
Central must tackle Rangers, with the winners advancing to face record seven-time former First Citizens Cup champions W Connection in the quarterfinals, while Police are against Civic, with the winners meeting current PL leaders North East Stars.
Club Sando will take on Morvant Caledonia and Defence Force are against Jabloteh in already determined quarterfinal match-ups. The semi-finals are carded for October 20 before the competition culminates on November 3 with the final and third-place matches.
(But) it (First Citizens Cup 2017) will be a difficult challenge [because] all teams are being prepared well and any [team] can beat any [team] on any given day, continued Gordon during Wednesdays launch at First Citizens Corporate Headquarters located at Queens Park East, Port of Spain.
Gordon said the First Citizens Cup is very close to Defence Force as well as himself having won it as Defence Force player in 2002, then assistant coach of the Army/Coast Guard combination in 2009, then in 2016 as head coach.
Belief was the key to winning the First Citizens Cup last season, said Gordon. The guys believing that we can go all the way. The main thing is always belief in yourself [and] believing what we can do. Believing in what we do on the training park and going out on game day and executing it.
Gordon said the current mood of the Army/Coast Guard combination is great. We have been on a good run in the last few games. The youngsters and the seniors are blending together and we are now starting to come to the top. The guys [also] understand what is at stake with the First Citizens Cup.
New this season, the First Citizens Cup prize money structure has been adjusted in aligning with the competitions new tagline Where Winners Reign, with the champions, runners-up, third and fourth-placed finishers receiving TT$60,000, TT$40,000, TT$15,000 and TT$10,000 respectively, whereas past champions collected the Winner Takes All TT$100,000.
The Most Valuable Player and Top Scorer will each receive TT$1,000, and new this season the Best Goalkeeper, Best Defender, Best Midfielder and Best Striker will each receive TT$500 while the Dash For Cash returns for the semi-final and final where supporters can win TT$500 and TT$1,000 respectively among other giveaways.
Exciting football awaits us, predicts Pro League CEO Dexter Skeene. as we have one of the most competitive seasons ever with the results being very unpredictable which makes for an exciting and entertaining tournament.
First Citizens Cup 2017 - Play-off Round
(Wednesday 11 October 2017)
Central FC vs MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers
Police FC vs Point Fortin Civic
Quarter Final Round
(October 13 & 14, 2017)
North East Stars vs Police FC/Point Fortin Civic (A)
W Connection vs Central FC/St. Anns Rangers (B)
Club Sando vs Morvant Caledonia United (C)
Defence Force vs San Juan Jabloteh (D)
Semi-Final Round
(Friday 20 October 2017)
A vs D = M
B vs C = N
Final
(Friday 3 November 2017)
Third-place
Loser M vs N
Final
M vs N
Post by: Flex on October 13, 2017, 03:54:50 AM
ttproleague.com.
Two-time former champions Central FC are into the quarter-final round of the 2017 First Citizens Cup where they will tackle bitter Couva rivals W Connection on Sunday from 3:30pm at the Mannie Ramjohn Stadium.
Tyrik John, the son of legendary Trinidad and Tobago striker and current Central FC coach Stern John, grabbed a stoppage-time winner to lift the Couva Sharks to a 2-1 win against an entertaining MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers bunch in the first of two play-offs on Wednesday night at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
John (T) saw red, after receiving his second yellow card of the game for pulling his shirt over his head in celebration of his debut Central goal which also snapped the Couva Sharks ten-game winless spell in all competitions.
But luckily, the 21-year-old utility player will be available for selection as cards attained during the play-offs will not transfer to the quarter-finals.
Point Fortin Civic in the second play-off dispatched Police FC 4-1 on penalties after a goalless draw which including some incredible regular-time goalkeeping from Trinidad and Tobago international Adrian Foncette, who, unfortunately, was unable to rescue the Lawmen on the shootout.
Civic advances to face North East Stars on Saturday from 3:30pm at the Larry Gomes Stadium but quarterfinal action kicks off on Friday with a double-header at the Ato Boldon Stadium with Club Sando set to tackle Morvant Caledonia United from 6pm and title holders Defence Force against San Juan Jabloteh from 8pm.
The semi-finals are carded for October 20 before the competition culminates on November 3 with the final and third-place matches.
But the action kicked off in entertaining style and saw veteran midfielder Jason Marcano head the 2013 and 2014 champions Central in front on the hour markless than two minutes after Neil Mitchell had struck the Couva Sharks upright on the other end.
Rangers goalkeeper Cleon John had initially done well to keep out a solo attempt by Sean De Silva but Marcano, the most dangerous Central player on the night, arrived at the right time to bury the rebound.
Rangers levelled the scores 1-1 nine minutes later through substitute Josh Toussaint, who only a minute earlier had replaced Omari Lezama and it proved a masterstroke by coach Adrian Romain.
But Rangers would surrender late to Tyrik Johns strike -- exactly two minutes into the four awarded extra by referee Kwinsi Williams -- and Central, although the taste of victory soured by a red card, booked their place into the quarterfinals.
It wasnt the best performance, acknowledged John (S). () but I think the team showed a lot of character. We [found] ourselves and we went one-nil. [We were] more or less bossing the game after that but against the run of play they came and score [from what] was a fifty-fifty offside call. I havent seen [the replay] yet but it looked like offside to me.
John (S), whose side sits on the bottom half of the Pro League standings and desperate to salvage pride as last seasons historic three-peat league champions, said advancing to the quarterfinal presents a good opportunity for his side to try and rebound.
(A) good opportunity for us [heading into the next round against W Connection], said the ex-Columbus Crew, Birmingham City and Sunderland striker. We (Central) struggle for numbers, we barely making an 11. We are down to bare bones [and] a couple injuries around.
But I think its a great opportunity for the guys to go on and win some more games and to turn our season around. Weve been struggling its a fact weve been struggling around the league. Everyone knows we are struggling for players so hopefully we can have a good run in the [First Citizens] Cup and when we get back to the league hopefully we can do the same.
In the latter contest, Foncette, fresh from his brilliance in a historic 2-1 Trinidad and Tobago World Cup Qualifying win over the United States 24 hours earlier, made a hat-trick of point blank saves to deny Civic forward Nion Lammy on all three occasions with the latest as close up as four metres.
The Police custodian also put behind put behind a low powerful drive from Civic substitute Shackiel Henry six minutes from time after Stephan Campbell had miraculously headed behind a powerful strike from Jameel Perry midway through the second half on the other end.
Civic, however, were clinical from the spot with Jabari Mitchell, new signing Nathaniel Garcia from Central, Shakiel Henry and Nickcolson Ice Thomas all scoring while Police veteran midfielder Todd Ryan stood the only Lawman to find the back of the net on kicks before teammates Clevon Mc Fee saw his effort crash off the bar and Dillion Kirton hitting overbar on the third.
Results
Central FC 2 (Jason Marcano 60, Tyrik John 90+2) vs MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 1 (Josh Toussaint 69), at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Police FC 0 (1) vs Point Fortin Civic 0 (4), at Ato Boldon Stadium
Civic won 4-1 on kicks from the penalty spot.
Kicks from the penalty spot
Point Fortin Civic 4 v Police FC 1
Jabari Mitchell (scored) Todd Ryan (scored)
Nathaniel Garcia (scored) Clevon Mc Fee (missed)
Shackiel Henry (scored) Dillon Kirton (missed)
Nickcolson Thomas (scored)
Teams
Central FC: 30.Kern Caesar (GK); 7.Jason Marcano (Capt.), 8.Sean De Silva, 10.Paul Sirjoo, 12.Taryk Sampson, 13.Rhondell Gibson, 17.Jesse Joseph (Yellow Card), 18.Tyrik John (Yellow Card+Yellow Card=Red Card), 24.Jules Lee (Yellow Card), 28.Jiron Francis (15.Kaydion Gabriel 46th minute), 40.Sean Bateau.
Unused substitutes: 1.Stephon Seepersad (GK); 44.Kerville Jeremiah.
Coach: Stern John
St. Anns Rangers: 1.Cleon John (GK) (Capt.); 3.Kareem Eastman, 4.Shane Sandy, 6.Omari Lezama (10.Josh Toussaint 68th minute), 7.Neil Gerard Mitchell (Yellow Card) (18.Kristian Meloney 88th minute), 9.Jair Edwards (23.Kathon St. Hillaire 52nd minute), 14.Xae-Pierre De Fou, 15.Keshawn Hutchinson, 17.Hakim Baird, 20.Aaquil Selby (Yellow Card), 21.Micah Lansiquot.
Unused substitutes: 5.Gerald Meloney, 11.Kazim Donald, 31.Maliq Gumbs, 44.Tyreke Moore.
Coach: Adrian Romain
Referee: Kwinsi Williams
Teams
Police FC: 18.Adrian Foncette (GK) (Capt.), 3.Ryan ONeil (6.Jibri Mc David 51st minute), 9.Jameel Perry, 10.Kareem Freitas, 13.Dillon Kirton, 16.Joshua Leach (7.Kareem Perry 65th minute) (Yellow Card), 17.Dexter Alleyne, 20.Elijah Belgrave, 21.Todd Ryan, 25.Kaashif Thomas, 29.Clevon Mc Fee.
Unused substitutes: 22.Theon Browne (GK); 4.Kadeem Boyce, 5.Kenaz Williams, 24.Keeron Benito.
Coach: Richard Hood
Point Fortin Civic: 1.Marvin Phillip (GK) (Capt.); 10.Jabari Mitchell, 12.Nathaniel Garcia, 13.Nickcolson Thomas, 16.Kelvin Modeste (8.Jamal John 46th minute), 18.Trent Lougheed, 26.Jeremiah Kesar, 30.Nion Lammy, 33.Justin Sadoo (20.Bevon Bass 65th minute), 53.Stephan Campbell, 99.Kevin Moodie (45.Shackiel Henry 46th minute).
Unused substitutes: 52.Akini Adams (GK); 25.Shaquille Dublin, 28.Aelon Minors, 90.Jared Bennett.
Coach: Reynold Carrington
Referee: Nicholai Nyron
Post by: Flex on October 15, 2017, 01:40:04 AM
ttproleague.com
Kadeem Hutchinson last night scored what could arguably stand the most spectacular double in the history of the First Citizens Cup but his San Juan Jabloteh side finished on the losing end after an electrifying quarter-final clash against 10-men defending champions Defence Force.
Club Sando had earlier dispatched Morvant Caledonia United with a 3-1 come-from-behind win in the first game of the quarter-final double-header at the Ato Boldon Stadium to advance to next Fridays semi-final round where the Oranges will meet the winners of Sundays quarter-final clash (3:30pm, Mannie Ramjohn Stadium) between record seven-time champions W Connection and two-time former champions Central FC.
Then in the second game of the night, Devorn Jorsling, the veteran Defence Force talisman and last seasons First Citizens Cup MVP, delivered at the death to level the game at 3-3 before leading the Army/Coast Guard outfit into the semi-finals with a 4-2 win on kicks over Jabloteh.
Defence Force will meet todays (Saturday, 3:30pm, Larry Gomes Stadium) winners between North East Stars and Point Fortin Civic in the semis.
We continued to believe and I thought the guys were brilliant tonight, said Defence Force head coach Marvin Gordon after the final whistle. I also want to commend Jabloteh because I thought both teams gave supporters a great game tonight.
The Army/Coast Guard combination had taken a 1-0 lead on 26 minutes when winger Reon Moore completed a wonderful team move with a low drive past Jabloteh number one, Javon Sample.
But Defence Force were reduced to 10 men on the stroke of the half when centre-back Jamali Garcia received his second yellow of the game for upending Keithy Simpson on the edge of the penalty arc.
I think we started stronger than (Jabloteh), added Gordon, who described the contest a classic game.
I think calls were going one wayagainst us. We got some early cards [and] ended up with a red card.
Jabloteh, he added. () lifted the tempo a bit (in the second half) and we were down a (player). They gained momentum and scored two great goals. But we continued to believe and dig deep as defending champions.
Hutchinson lifted Jabloteh in front in the second half with a top-drawer brace both spectacular volleys within a space of three minutes after dragging an effort miserably wide from eight yards out, two minutes after replacing Panama midfielder Jairo Lombardo on the hour mark.
Hutchinson, arriving at the back post, thumped a left side Kennedy Hinkson cross past Defence Force goalie Andre Marchan to level the scores at 1-1 in the 69th minute.
Then in the 72nd minute the winger put to shade his earlier strike with an acrobatic scissor-kick to send a right side Jevon Morris cross past Marchan and Jabloteh were in front 2-1.
That lead, however, lasted until the 80th minute when Hashim Arcia, with a composed finish, found the bottom right corner of Samples goal to make it 2-2 after being picked out by Jorsling inside the area.
Defence Force then faced the exit when Jablotehs Jamaican midfielder Keithy Simpson coolly rolled the ball into the soldiers net following a spill by keeper Marchan with four minutes left.
But in the second of four minutes stoppage-time, Jorsling controlled an Arcia pass inside the box and fired past the legs of Sample to level it 3-3 and sending the game into the shootout.
We got back in the game at two-all then gave away on a blunder, continued Gordon, whose brave substitutions saw his formation end with three strikers and three defenders despite being a player short.
We never gave up, said the Defence Force coach. I went with another striker and ended up with three strikers, three defenders and then we got the equalizing goal and then we were brilliant from the spot.
It was either you win or you lose. I couldnt study defence and Im down a goal. I believe in [the players] I have going forward.
Defence Force were the better side on the shootout with Jorsling, Arcia, Curtis Gonzales and late forward substitute Dylon King clinical from the spot.
Elijah Manners and Kennedy Hinkson had kept Jabloteh level until misses by Akeem Benjamin and Nkosi David on the third and fourth kicks respectively, meant First Citizens Cup exit for the San Juan side--like their neighbours Morvant Caledonia.
Caledonia, had taken the lead through veteran playmaker Kerry Daniel, but former captain Akim Armstrong scored twice and set up another scored by Josiah Trimmingham to lift his current employers, Club Sando, into the semis.
Morvant Caledonia, managed by assistant coach Abdallah Phillips on the night in absence with Jamaal Shabazz currently away on international duty with the Trinidad and Tobago U17 Girls Team, broke the deadlock on 33 minutes when Daniel, who capitalised on a giveaway by Sando, escaped his challenger inside the box before firing past goalkeeper Kelvin Henry.
But three minutes later Armstrong wrong-sided opposite goalkeeper Glenroy Samuel from the penalty spot to level the scores 1-1 after referee Cecile Hinds ruled a handball against Joshua Alexander who had attempted to avert danger in the box.
Then Trimmingham, who was denied by the upright less than a minute into play, celebrated three minutes from the half after another surging run forward and exchange with Armstrong to curl a comfortable finish past Samuel to give Sando a 2-1 lead at the interval.
Trimmingham had another effort ten minutes into the second half but sailed his header over Samuels crossbar after towering the box to meet a left side corner swung in by Tyrone Charles.
Samuel was brilliant just over the hour mark to deny Armstrong a second from the penalty spot, but Armstrong would celebrate his second goal two minutes from time after swooping in the area to bury a rebound to complete the 3-1 victory.
It feels good to come away with the win today and advance to the (semi-finals), said Armstrong who admitted his second penalty attempt wasnt the best.
On scoring twice and assisting in another, Armstrong, who occupies the false nine role, explained, Thats part of my job. The coach believe me [being] further up the field could contribute better to the team.
He added, Against Caledonia is always a difficult task because they are well-prepared, well-coached team. They know how to possess the ball well. So against Caledonia is always challenge. Its also good to face my old team and come away with a victory.
Sando coach Angus Eve echoed that Morvant Caledonia are a strong unit but praised his side for keeping shape and professionalism for the victory in the end despite being a bit rusty and short match fitness.
Eves side will return to action against W Connection, his potential First Citizens Cup semi-final opponents, in one of three rescheduled Pro League fixtures on Tuesday. San Juan Jabloteh will host Central FC from 4pm at the Barataria Oval; while the Ato Boldon Stadium will come alive again with a double-header when MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers take on Police FC from 6pm before Club Sando and Connection battle from 8pm.
We are playing W Connection a league game on Tuesday; so we need to take care of that game first, Eve said. We are still in the fightwe in third place in the (Pro) League so we want to do well in that tournament.
As for the First Citizens Cup semis, the Sando coach said, We have to wait and see who would win that game [between Connection and Central].
Results
Club Sando 3 (Akim Armstrong 36 pen., 88, Josiah Trimmingham 42) vs Morvant Caledonia United 1 (Kerry Daniel 33), (C), at the Ato Boldon Stadium;
Defence Force 3 (4) (Reon Moore 26, Hashim Arcia 80, Devorn Jorsling 90+1) vs San Juan Jabloteh 3 (2) (Kadeem Hutchinson 69, 72, Keithy Simpson 86), (D), 8pm, Ato Boldon Stadium;
(Defence Force won the game 4-2 on kicks from the penalty mark).
Kicks from the penalty mark
Defence Force 4 v San Juan Jabloteh 2
Devorn Jorsling (scored) - Elijah Manners (scored)
Hashim Arcia (scored) - Kennedy Hinkson (scored)
Curtis Gonzales (scored) - Akeem Benjamin (overbar)
Dylon King (scored) - Nkosi David (overbar)
Upcoming Quarter Final Round matches
(Saturday 14 October 2017)
North East Stars vs Point Fortin Civic, (A), 3:30pm, Larry Gomes Stadium.
(Sunday 15 October 2017)
W Connection vs Central FC, (B), 3:30pm, Mannie Ramjohn Stadium.
Game 1
Club Sando: 34.Kelvin Henry (GK); 6.Kemuel Rivers, 10.Keron Cornwall (66th minute), 11.Akim Armstrong (5.Nical Stephens 89th minute), 12.Michael Basdeo, 13.Tyrone Charles (Yellow Card) (35.Adan Noel 75th minute), 16.Leslie Joel Russell (27.Jay-son Joseph 63rd minute), 17.Jarod London, 18.Trevin Latapy, 23.Nicholas Thomas, 38.Josiah Trimmingham.
Unused substitutes: 1.Stefan Berkeley (GK); 9.Akeem Redhead, 15.Keyon Edwards, 21.Malique Quow.
Coach: Angus Eve
Morvant Caledonia United: 1.Glenroy Samuel (GK); 5.Joshua Sylvester, 8.Anthony Charles (23.Lester Joseph 70th minute), 10.Sheldon Holder, 11.Quincy Ballah, 12.Kareem Joseph (Capt.), 13.Rufuson Pierre Louis, 15.Otev Lawrence, 17.Kerry Daniel (28.Renaldo Francois 70th minute), 18.Masetro Mensah, 22.Joshua Alexander (Yellow Card) (3.Richard Williams 79th minute).
Unused substitutes: 31.De Journ Charles (GK); 6.Taje Commissiong, 9.Sedale Mc Lean, 29.Kelsey Benjamin.
Coach: Abdallah Phillips
Referee: Cecile Hinds
Game 2
Defence Force FC: 1.Andre Marchan (GK); 3.Jamali Garcia (Yellow Card+Yellow Card=Red Card), 4.Dave Long (39.Akil Morris 77th minute), 5.Jerome Mc Intyre, 9.Devorn Jorsling, 10.Hashim Arcia, 13.Marvin Jones, 17.Curtis Gonzales, 18.Reon Moore (16.Kellon Serrette 78th minute), 26.Justin Garcia (Yellow Card) (45.Dylon King 90th minute), 99.Jerwyn Balthazar (Capt.).
Unused substitutes: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK); 2.Glynn Franklyn, 19.Thurlani George, 32.Jameel Cooper.
San Juan Jabloteh: 1.Javon Sample (GK); 3.DeJon Waldropt (6.Akeem Benjamin 50th minute), 4.Nkosi David, 7.Elijah Manners (Capt.) (Yellow Card), 9.Keithy Simpson, 12.Keron Bethelmy, 15.Jesus Perez, 16.Jairo Lombardo (22.Kadeem Hutchinson 60th minute), 17.Sean Bonval (13.Julio Noel 68th minute), 18.Jevon Morris, 23.Kennedy Hinkson.
Unused substitutes: 30.Shemel Louison (GK); 8.Elijah Downy, 19.Shawndel Augustus.
Coach: Keith Jeffrey
Referee: Rashby Mc Phie
Post by: Flex on October 16, 2017, 01:42:31 AM
ttproleague.com.
Point Fortin Civic improved their status as the bogey side of North East Stars since an opening loss to their 2017 Pro League campaign last June against the Stars at the Arima Velodrome.
Civic, the only team to defeat North East Stars this season, yesterday edged the current Pro League leaders 1-0 for a second consecutive time in all competitionstheir latest win earning coach Reynold Carringtons men a First Citizens Cup semi-final meeting with defending champions Defence Force next Friday.
Jabari Mitchell produced the winner for the First Citizens Cup underdogs four minutes into the second half after a wasteful first period by both sides at the Larry Gomes Stadium on Arima.
Mitchell, the former Trinidad and Tobago youth midfielder who joined Civic from W Connection this season, sent a 25-yard free-kick over a poorly-placed North East wall and past a motionless goalkeeper Akel Clarke to break the deadlock with the eventual winner.
Ironically, it was on a spill by Clarke at the death on August 11 that Kevin Moodie snatched his debut Civic goal at the Mahaica Oval as the hosts, 1-0 league winners then, exacted revenge for their opening loss of the season by the same score-line, while snapping the Stars six-game undefeated league start to the 2017 campaign.
W Connection, the former club of Civics latest hero, Mitchell, will take on Central FC from 3:30pm today (Sunday) at the Mannie Ramjohn Stadium to complete the quarter-final round for a place in Fridays semi-finals against Club Sando.
Sando defeated Morvant Caledonia United 3-1 last Friday in a quarter-final double-header at the Ato Boldon Stadium which included Defence Force escaping San Juan Jabloteh 4-2 on penalties following a nail-biting 3-3 draw.
Central, like Civic, advanced from last Wednesdays play-off round. Tyrik Johns late winner gave the Couva Sharks a 2-1 win over MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers before Civic escaped Police FC with a 4-1 penalty shootout following a goalless draw.
Results
North East Stars 0 vs Point Fortin Civic 1 (Jabari Mitchell 49), (A), at Larry Gomes Stadium.
Teams
North East Stars: 30.Akel Clarke (GK); 2.Keston George, 5.Julius James, 6.Anslem Jackson (4.Kerry Baptiste 69th minute), 7.Kishun Seecharan (3.Kevon Villaroel 46th minute), 11.Rundell Winchester, 18.Densill Theobald, 19.Jalani Felix, 20.Yohance Marshall, 21.Kevon Goddard, 22.Jameel Neptune.
Unused substitutes: 1.Jesse Peters (GK); 12.Elton John, 13.Kyle Bartholomew, 14.Jomoul Francois, 15.Seon Thomas.
Coach: Derek King
Point Fortin Civic: 1.Marvin Phillip (GK) (Capt.); 8.Jamal John (16.Kelvin Modeste 69th minute), 10.Jabari Mitchell, 12.Nathaniel Garcia, 13.Nickcolson Thomas, 20.Bevon Bass, 26.Jeremiah Kesar, 30.Nion Lammy, 33.Justin Sadoo, 45.Shackiel Henry (90.Jared Bennett 81st minute), 53.Stephan Campbell.
Unused substitutes: 52.Akini Adams (GK); 7.Steven Joseph, 24.Akinola Gregory, 25.Shaquille Dublin, 99.Kevin Moodie.
Coach: Reynold Carrington
Referee: Crystal Sobers
Post by: Flex on October 17, 2017, 04:34:09 AM
ttproleague.com.
Neil Benjamin Jr. struck an opening goal and assist to steer record seven-time former champions W Connection into the semi-finals of the 2017 First Citizens Cup with a 3-1 quarter-final win over Couva rivals Central FC on Sunday at the Mannie Ramjohn Stadium.
Connection advances to face Club Sando in semi-final two from 8pm on Friday at the Ato Boldon Stadium, but the Savonetta Boys must first tackle the Angus Eve-coached side on Tuesday from 3:30pm at the Mannie Ramjohn Stadium in a crucial rescheduled top-of-the-table Pro League clash.
Point Fortin Civic will take on defending First Citizens Cup champions Defence Force in semi-final one from 6pm on Friday.
Mickaeel Jem Gordon had levelled Central on the stroke of the half but second-half goals by Brazilian forward Euller Eduardo Couto and substitute Daniel Diaz saw the Savonetta Boys comfortably secure the final semi-final spot.
[Our guys] were focused, said Benjamin whose side celebrated their sixth straight win in all competitions and are seven games unbeaten.
The 23-year-old Connection star added that Central are three-time Pro League holders and we knew it [would not have been] an easy game, and we would have to put out in order to win the gameI think we gave our all today.
Benjamin, who leads this seasons Pro League scorers list with 9 goals, took his tally to 12 goals in all competitions by firing past Central goalie Kern Caesar on 37 minutes at the Marabella venue after rounding defender Sean Bateau to give the Savonetta Boys a 1-0 lead.
But Gordon, picked out by a neat Jesse Joseph pass, levelled the two-time former First Citizens Cup champions, Central, 1-1 in stoppage-time of the first half with a blast into the top corner of goalkeeper Julani Archibalds net after evading two Connection shirts at the edge of the box.
Archibald had earlier made light work of two long-range efforts by Sean De Silva and Tyrik John, but the St. Kitts and Nevis international was unable to match Gordons strikealthough at full stretch.
Couto, however, restored Connections one-goal advantage in the 59th-minute. The Brazilian executed a solid first-time finish past a hapless Caesar to put the score at 2-1 off a precise low feed from Benjamin who had, with great ease, escaped Central left-back Tyrik John.
I always try to contribute to my team in every way that I can [whether it be] attack, score goals, defend; I give my all, added Benjamin. We had one or two errors but we bounced back and kept going, and got the result.
Caesar kept down the Central deficit in the 79th-minute with a brilliant save to keep out a deflected strike from Connection left-back Frank Padilla Gil, who showed excellent footwork against defender Taryk Sampson to create shooting room for himself.
Soon after on the other end, Caesars teammate and midfielder Jason Marcanos hammered attempt from eight yards out miraculously cannoned off the Connection upright before the rebounded attempt by another Central shirt deflected overbar.
Connection, though, put the match out of Centrals reach in the first of three minutes stoppage-time with substitutes Daniel Diaz and Shaquille John combining brilliantly at the end. John whipped a low right side cross through the Central area and Diaz, who earlier attempted to beat Caesar from distance, finished confidently at the back post to complete the 3-1 win.
It was a reasonably good game, said Connection head coach Stuart Charles Fevrier. Central also were not that bad although from their point of view they would feel they could have done better. The game at one point in time could have gone either way. But I always thought we had a little more control than they had because our team currently are a little more experienced than they are.
First half we made too many simple errors, especially conceding on the whistle which I thought it was a goal we should not have conceded. The second half [however] I must give our guys credit, they came out with more purpose and the substitutes we brought on, they had a positive effect in giving us the 3-1 victory.
Fevrier looks to another victory on Tuesday when Connection tackle Sando in league competition. But the Savonetta Boys coach says his side are at a disadvantage with Sando, 3-1 First Citizens Cup quarter-final winners over Morvant Caledonia United last Friday, having three days to recover.
Its unfair from my personal point of view because we are playing for a championship, said Fevrier. At least there must fairness because all of us would like to win. You cannot give an unfair advantage. But having said that we will go out and give our best.
Connection (23 points) and Sando (18 points) are second and third respectively on the League standings with Tuesdays game in hand while North East Stars (27 points) lead the table by four points.
Also on Tuesday in two other rescheduled league fixtures, Central FC must visit San Juan Jabloteh from 4pm at the Barataria Oval and MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers will host Police FC from 3:30pm at St. Augustine Secondary School Ground.
Results
W Connection 3 (Neil Benjamin Jr. 37, Euller Eduardo Couto 59, Daniel Diaz 90+1) vs Central FC 1 (Mickaeel Jem Gordon 45+1), at Mannie Ramjohn Stadium.
Teams
W Connection: 18.Julani Archibald (GK); 2.Frank Padilla Gil, 3.Gerard Williams (Capt.), 4.Maurice Ford, 7.Neil Benjamin Jr. (30.Shaquille John 90th minute), 10.Dimitri Apai (20.Daniel Diaz 78th minute), 11.Shirvone Malik St. Prix (16.Alvin Jones 60th minute), 14.Euller Eduardo Couto, 19.Briel Thomas (Yellow Card), 24.Jameel Antoine, 26.Isaiah Garcia.
Unused substitutes: 33.Jason Belfon (GK); 21.Ronell Paul.
Coach: Stuart Charles-Fevrier,
Central FC: 30.Kern Caesar (GK); 7.Jason Marcano (Capt.), 8.Sean De Silva, 10.Paul Sirjoo (Yellow Card), 12.Taryk Sampson, 15.Kaydion Gabriel (46.Caleb Folan 61st minute), 17.Jesse Joseph (6.Shem Clausel 80th minute), 18.Tyrik John, 24.Jules Lee, 26.Mickaeel Jem Gordon, 40.Sean Bateau.
Unused substitutes: 1.Stephon Seepersad (GK); 13.Rhondell Gibson, 28.Jiron Francis.
Coach: Stern John
Referee: Kwinsi Williams
Post by: Flex on November 05, 2017, 02:37:52 AM
ttproleague.com.
Goalkeeper Andre Marchan epitomised the true heart-of-a-soldier when, limping through injury, he made three saves in a nail-biting penalty shootout against Point Fortin Civic on Friday night to put Defence Force one win away from successfully defending the First Citizens Cup.
But the three-time champions must produce that victory against record seven-time champions W Connection in the 2017 finaltentatively set for November 17 due to upcoming Trinidad and Tobago international friendlies against Grenada and Guyana on Nov. 11 and 14 respectively at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.
In a scintillating contest fit for a final, Defence Force surfaced 4-3 penalty winners over Civic following a dramatic 3-3 draw in semi-final one at the Ato Boldon Stadium, before Connection left it late to dispatch 10-men Club Sando 2-0 in semi-final two with a goal each from Neil Benjamin Jr. and substitute Daniel Diaz.
Earlier, veteran forward and last seasons First Citizens Cup MVP, Devorn Jorsling, twice pulled the Army/Coast Guard combination level, annulling strikes by Civic forwards Shackiel Henry and Akinola Gregory.
But a missed penalty by Jorsling which rolled inches wide of goalkeeper Marvin Phillips right upright midway through the first half would later haunt coach Marvin Gordons side when early in the second half Jabari Mitchell, who assisted in both earlier Civic goals, converted a penalty when he wrong-sided Marchan for the lead a third time.
However, just as the game looked over for Defence Force, team captain Jerwyn Balthazar levelled the soldiers in stoppage-time to send the decider on kicks from the penalty mark.
And Marchan, who injured his right knee late with a crucial diving block to deny Civic a scoring chance, went on -- with bandages to deny Nathaniel Garcia and Kevon Rouse during the penalty shootout then finally Bevon Bass in sudden death.
Jorsling had the opportunity to complete the penalty win in regulation kicks but was denied by Phillip, who he had headed past off a Marvin Jones corner in the 17th minute and beaten again in the 40th minute thanks to a low cross from Reon Moore.
Gordon has hailed the impact of his younger players this season and one of them, Moore, was particularly fired up against Civic, producing many dazzling gallops down the left which included the goal assist and the penalty which Jorsling, unlike himself, would fail to convert in the 23rd minute.
But Moore, like Jorsling, failed to score on penalties, hitting overbar on the third kick. However with Hashim Arcia, Curtis Gonzales, substitute Dylon King and Jerome Mc Intyre clinical from the spot, intertwined with Marchans heroics between the sticks, Defence Force, 2-0 winners over Connection in the 2002 final but losers to the Savonetta Boys on penalties following a 2-2 draw in the 2004 final, are into a ninth First Citizens Cup final.
Connection, champions in 2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2015, are into their tenth final this season in the competitions 18-year history, while Civic have only themselves to blame for failing to reach their first ever First Citizens Cup final.
Civic, with one of their most combative displays this season, had taken the lead three times, first with Henry heading powerfully into the back of the Defence Force net in the 11th minute off a free kick swung in from the right by Mitchell.
But Reynold Carringtons side should have been two goals up at that time. Instead Gregory had headed overbar from close range four minutes earlier after he was picked out by a Mitchell cross.
Gregory later redeem himself by beating Marchan in the 37 minute after combining brilliantly with Mitchell to move into the left of the Defence Force area, then won penalty which was converted by Mitchell in the 53rd minute after he was brought down by Gonzales.
But Gregory lost his composure just over the hour mark when he hit high overbar after getting past Gonzales in the box, then struck the upright a couple minutes later after Henry had done the heap of the work down the right flank following a quick exchange with Garcia to provide the cross into the areatwo of three failed chances and a penalty shout that Civic were left to rue in the end.
Civics and their supporters celebration of another penalty after Henry looked to have been brought down in the box by Defence Force substitute defender Glynn Franklyn in the 74th minute quickly turned sour when referee Rashby Mc Phie instead awarded a free kick against the Point Fortin club.
In the second semi-final referee Nicholai Nyron was forced eject Jayson Joseph on a direct red card for dangerous play in only the eight minute after the Club Sando midfielders stamp on Connections defensive midfielder Briel Thomas.
It was one of two blows for Angus Eves side within the first quarter-of-an-hour after also having to replace defensive hard-man Trevin Latapy with Leslie Joel Russell through injury.
But the Oranges never looked a side down to ten men, matching Connection stride for stride in the first half and came closest to breaking the deadlock five minutes from the break when Jared Londons powerful shot from the top of the box brought the best out of the Savonetta Boys second choice goalie Jason Belfon who did well to put behind the deflected strike.
Opting to sit back defensively and try play on the counterattack in the second half, however, eventually benefit a Connection side that later introduced the return of forward Marcus Joseph, who had been on a month-long lay-off due to a shoulder injury, and diminutive attacker Daniel Diaz.
Benjamin fired Stuart Charles Fevriers side ahead with his fourteenth goal in all competitions this season in the 69th minute from close up after the outstretched arm of Sando goalkeeper Kelvin Henry wasnt enough to divert Josephs powerful feed from the left away from goal.
Henry had earlier kept Sando in the game with two top-drawer saves to deny Dimitrie Apai and Triston Hodge, but couldnt avoid his side conceding another in the 82nd minute when Diaz, who a minute earlier replaced Benjamin, volleyed home from the centre of the area for a 2-0 Connection win.
Connection will now shift their focus to Wednesdays FA Trophy clash against Super Leagues Guaya United from 6:15pm in the second game of a second quarterfinal double-header at the Hasely Crawford Stadium Training Field. Point Fortin Civic and 1976 FC Phoenix will kick off Wednesdays action from 4pm.
However quarterfinal action kicks off on Tuesday with the first double-header at the HCS Training Field when Club Sando Moruga face Morvant Caledonia United from 4pm, then Police FC and Defence Force will lock horns in a battle of the forces from 6:15pm.
Police must however, first tackle San Juan Jabloteh on Sunday from 3:30pm in a rescheduled Pro League fixture at the Hasely Crawford Stadium Main Field.
Results
Point Fortin Civic 3 (Skackiel Henry 11, Akinola Gregory 37, Jabari Mitchell 53 pen.) vs Defence Force 3 (Devorn Jorsling 17, 40, Jerwyn Balthazar 90+3), at the Ato Boldon Stadium,
Defence Force won 4-3 on kicks from the penalty mark
Kicks from the penalty mark
Defence Force 4 v Point Fortin Civic 3
Hashin Arcia (scored) Jabari Mitchell (scored)
Curtis Gonzales (scored) Nathaniel Garcia (saved)
Reon Moore (overbar) Shackiel Henry (scored)
Dylon King (scored) Kevon Rouse (saved)
Devorn Jorsling (saved) Stephan Campbell (scored)
Jerome Mc Intyre (scored) Bevon Bass (saved)
W Connection 2 (Neil Benjamin Jr. 69, Daniel Diaz 82) vs Club Sando 0, at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Teams
Semi Final One
Point Fortin Civic: 1.Marvin Phillip (GK) (Capt.); 8.Jamal John, 10.Jabari Mitchell, 12.Nathaniel Garcia, 13.Nickcolson Thomas (23.Kevon Rouse 61st minute), 20.Bevon Bass, 24.Akinola Gregory (30.Nion Lammy 84th minute), 26.Jeremiah Kesar, 33.Justin Sadoo (25.Shaquille Dublin 88th minute), 45.Shackiel Henry, 53.Stephan Campbell (Yellow Card).
Unused substitutes: 52.Akini Adams (GK); 16.Kelvin Modeste, 28.Aelon Minors, 99.Kevin Moodie.
Coach: Reynold Carrington
Defence Force FC: 1.Andre Marchan (GK); 5.Jerome Mc Intyre, 9.Devorn Jorsling, 10.Hashim Arcia, 13.Marvin Jones (Yellow Card) (15.Shaquille Bertrand 74th minute), 17.Curtis Gonzales (Yellow Card), 18.Reon Moore, 26.Justin Garcia (2.Glynn Franklyn 30th minute), 37.Cassim Keller (Yellow Card) (45.Dylon King 56th minute), 39.Akil Morris, 99.Jerwyn Balthazar.
Unused substitutes: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK); 12.Jemel Sebro, 16.Kellon Serrette, 32.Jameel Cooper.
Coach: Marvin Gordon
Referee: Rashby Mc Phie
Semi Final Two
W Connection: 33.Jason Belfon (GK); 3.Gerard Williams (Yellow Card), 5.Triston Hodge (Yellow Card), 7.Neil Benjamin Jr. (20.Daniel Diaz 81st minute), 10.Dimitri Apai, 13.Hughtun Hector (Yellow Card), 14.Euller Eduardo Couto (99.Marcus Joseph 46th minute), 16.Alvin Jones, 19.Briel Thomas (Yellow Card), 23.Weslie John, 30.Shaquille John (24.Jameel Antoine 21st minute) (Yellow Card).
Unused substitutes: 18.Julani Archibald (GK); 11.Shirvone Malik St. Prix, 21.Ronell Paul, 26.Isaiah Garcia.
Coach: Stuart Charles Fevrier
Club Sando: 34.Kelvin Henry (GK); 5.Nical Stephens (Yellow Card), 6.Kemuel Rivers, 10.Keron Cornwall, 11.Akim Armstrong (Capt.) (13.Tyrone Charles 73rd minute), 12.Michael Basdeo, 15.Keyon Edwards (23.Nicholas Thomas 73rd minute) (Yellow Card), 17.Jarod London, 18.Trevin Latapy (16.Leslie Joel Russell 15th minute), 27.Jayson Joseph (Red Card), 38.Josiah Trimmingham.
Unused substitutes: 1.Stefan Berkeley (GK); 8.Kevon Piper, 9.Akeem Redhead, 35.Adan Noel.
Coach: Angus Eve
Referee: Nicholai Nyron
Post by: Tallman on November 15, 2017, 03:50:38 PM
ttproleague.com
W Connection assistant coach Earl Jean wants his players to demonstrate loyalty as the Savonetta Boys look to an unprecedented eighth First Citizens Cup, which ultimately means dethroning holders Defence Force when the two sides lock horns from 8pm on Friday in the 2017 final at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
However action kicks off from 6pm at the Couva venue with defeated semi-finalists Point Fortin Civic and Club Sando against each other in the third-place match.
Connection, First Citizens Cup champions of 2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, last hoisted the title in 2015 but the Pro League powerhouse have gone without a major trophy since then.
I am confident we can lift the First Citizens Cup again, said Jean, a multiple-time First Citizens Cup winner during his playing time at Connection.
It feels a long time since we last won the First Citizens Cup and getting our hands on the title an eighth time would be an inspiration to the club, added the ex-St. Lucia international striker.
This (First Citizens Cup) is one of our trophies that is really close to us and it has also been a long time since we won a major title.
Our players now have to show their loyalty and importance to the club, insisted the Connection assistant coach.
We are confident in our squad and the work we have done with our players. Its now for our players to show up. Its about how much desire you have as a player because after your playing career you can only look back on the titles you have won.
Connection defeated former champions Central FC (3-1) and Club Sando (2-0) in the quarter-final and semi-final rounds, respectively, to book an unprecedented 11th First Citizens Cup final and third against Defence Force, a side that have defeated them 4-1 when both sides last met in Pro League action in July.
We have been in transitions over the last few years with our best players moving on to clubs abroad every year to every two years, explained Jean, who has been a long-serving assistant to head coach Stuart Charles Fevrier along with countryman Eligah Joseph.
But we have still shown progress over the years and always in a final because of the belief we have in the squad. Our squad is younger, smaller, and still getting into finalscredit to our players and it augurs well for the club.
We are in the final of the First Citizens Cup and it also presents the opportunity for our new players to win a title and for the club to earn prize money especially with the financial situation faced by clubs.
Connection, last seasons Pro League runners-up behind three-peat champions Central FC by a point, are currently second on the 2017 league standings with a game in hand and three regular matches left, but nine points adrift of leaders North East Stars and closely followed by third-positioned Club Sando who are two points behind and also with a game in hand in the chase for a top-two finish which earn teams CONCACAF qualifying spots.
Sando and Connection will resume league play on Sunday when they visit Police FC (3:30pm at Hasely Crawford Stadium) and San Juan Jabloteh (4pm at Barataria Oval), respectively, in two of three rescheduled matches. Point Fortin Civic will host Central FC from 5pm at the Mahaica Oval in the other rescheduled league clash.
First Citizens Cup 2017
(Friday 17 November 2017)
Third-place
Point Fortin Civic vs Club Sando, 6pm, at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Final
Defence Force vs W Connection, 8pm, Ato Boldon Stadium.
Trinidad and Tobago Pro League 2017
(Sunday 19 November 2017)
Rescheduled Round Two Match Day Six fixtures
Police FC vs Club Sando, 3:30pm, at Hasely Crawford Stadium;
San Juan Jabloteh vs W Connection, 4pm, Barataria Oval.
Rescheduled Round Two Match Day Three fixture
Point Fortin Civic vs Central FC, 5pm, at Mahaica Oval.
Post by: Deeks on November 15, 2017, 04:53:45 PM
Post by: amielisadore on November 15, 2017, 08:45:22 PM
It is so sad that hardly anyone is interested in local football. Not even a live stream that we in foreign could show some support. :(
LOL the Super League Cup final and league matches are streamed this weekend. ;D
Post by: Deeks on November 15, 2017, 08:46:21 PM
Post by: Tallman on November 17, 2017, 07:02:59 AM
ttproleague.com
Can reigning champions Defence Force defend the title for the first time for a fourth First Citizens Cup? Or will W Connection lift an unprecedented eighth First Citizens Cup after both sides battle in the 2017 final from 8pm on Friday night at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.
Surely a contest worthy of both sides having previously been on the First Citizens Cup earlier known as the League Cup final stage a combined 18 times in the prestigious knockout tournament which dates back to 1999.
Fridays final should produce an intriguing final for football fans who, once early, will be treated to what should also turn out an electric third-place match between Point Fortin Civic and Club Sando from 6pm.
Add that to the Kick for Cash and other giveaways courtesy title sponsor First Citizens on celebration nighttruly, Where Winners Reign.
Connection, who defeated Central FC (3-1) and Club Sando (2-0) to reach this seasons final, have won the First Citizens Cup seven times while Defence Force are joint second with San Juan Jabloteh on three.
Defence Force defeated Jabloteh and Point Fortin Civic via the penalty spot to march into their ninth First Citizens Cup final following 3-3 draws in the quarter-final and semi-final rounds respectively.
Winning on penalties havent dented our confidence a bit, said Defence Force winger Reon Moore. [In fact], both matches were great moral boosters for us. It showed great work by our team coming back late in both games to go on to win (from the penalty spot).
The confidence in our team is pretty high without a doubt. We have been growing in confidence over the past months. The togetherness in the team is a lot stronger than in the beginning of the season and there is no stopping us now.
The Army/Coast Guard combinations ten wins from their last twelve games in all competitions attests to coach Marvin Gordon transitioning sides improvement following a rocky start to the truncated Pro League season.
And, although Connection boasts a slightly better record with 10 wins, one draw and just one loss in their last twelve games in all competitions, in comparison to Defence Forces 10 wins and two losses, Gordons sides 4-1 league win last July in the first and only meeting between the two powerhouses proved their capability.
Connection would look to put to sleep the misery of that whooping by dethroning the current First Citizens Cup holders.
We expect the same Connection: a team that likes to possess the ball a lot, added Moore, who celebrated a double the last time both sides met. Our plan is to take them out of their comfort zone and once we are able to [execute] our [game plan] the win will be ours.
We are highly motivated for this game. It is a final and a lot is at stake. This is a rivalry for us. We are not just representing our team when we take the field on Friday, we are representing the entire Defence Force.
Gordon, ahead of the start of this seasons First Citizens Cup, vowed to defend the title he won as a player in 2002, again in 2009 as assistant coach, then last season (2016) as head coachall with the Defence Force.
I think we can go all the way back to the final and defend this title, said the Defence Force coach back then. He added that belief was the key to his side winning the First Citizens Cup last season.
The Army/Coast Guard combination are now one win away from successfully defending the First Citizens Cup while veteran talisman Devorn Jorsling, last seasons First Citizens Cup MVP and Most Goals winner, leads the scoring with three goals, one more than Club Sandos Akim Armstrong ahead of the final day.
Post by: Flex on November 18, 2017, 06:43:28 AM
ttproleague.com
Suriname international Dimitrie Apai picked up the Finals MVP and Best Forward honours while his side W Connection celebrated a record-extending eighth First Citizens Cup by dethroning Defence Force 3-1 on Friday night at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.
Apai scored on either side of the break after the Savonetta Boys had fallen behind early to finish with a double while Defence Forces Devorn Jorsling, who, understandably, had disappointment written all over his face at the final whistle despite finishing with a consecutive First Citizens Cup Most Goals award.
Jorslings failure to beat Connection shot-stopper and eventual Best Goalkeeper Julani Archibald early in the second half later haunted the Army/Coast Guard combination in front of an almost packed covered stand at the Home of Football which witnessed second-string Club Sando coming from behind to hold Civic to a 1-1 draw earlier then defeating the Point Fortin side 4-3 in a penalty shootout thanks to two saves from Stefan Berkeley to take a third-place finish.
In contrast, Archibald, who also denied the Defence Force veteran talisman on four set pieces from above the box and a flying save from open play on half hour, boasted the widest smile while he and his teammates, including Best Defender Maurice Ford, and Connection supporters and staff, including Coach of the Tournament Stuart Charles Fevrier, anxiously awaited the presentation of the 2017 First Citizens Cup.
Defence Force were propped against gloom with their second-placed medals hanging almost motionless from their necks after dominating the game and possession.
Connection, however, had made their chances count.
Hashim Arcia, who was later awarded Best Midfielder honour, looked to have put Defence Force on their way to a fourth First Citizens Cup when he bundled the ball over the line for 1-0 lead against his former side on fourteen minutes off a flicked Jorsling feed moments after Marcus Joseph had rattled the soldiers upright on the other end.
Connection, though, responded with two goals in a space of five minutes through Apai and Hughtun Hector for a 2-1 which they took all the way into the break despite Defence Forces dominance.
Apai headed past Clarke from close up on nineteen minutes when he connected to Weslie Johns headed feed across the six yard area off a Hector free kick.
Then Hector put the Savonetta Boys in front in the 24th minute with a wonderful solo goal after a pass through the centre by Joseph.
I knew it would have been a tough [match], Hector said after the final. They (Defence Force) have a mentality to put out everything in the game. They have descent players like [Trinidad and Tobago national team players Arcia and Gonzales]. Thank God we put away our chances early and kept fighting till the end.
Defence Force had continued their control in the second half but failed to find a way back although creating a number of chances which included Archibald brilliantly deny Jorsling from the spot after Shaquille Bertrand was pulled down in the penalty area by Triston Hodge.
The St. Kitts and Nevis international goalie was also equal to a bullet strike from Curtis Gonzales in a play off a resulting after Connection cleared behind on a Jamali Garcia header which came off the bar ten minutes from time.
But Apai would put to sleep any chance of a comeback by Defence Force in the 85th minute after beating the offside trap to fire past Clarke for the 3-1 victory.
I had a good mental preparation, explained Apai. I organized myself early and told myself we have to win something for the year.
Apai said with his side virtually out of the Pro League title challenge it was important to capture the First Citizens Cup.
Fevrier meanwhile played down the pride of winning a record-extending eighth First Citizens Cup but said he was happy for the club and players.
The longstanding Connection coach said, All of them are special. We are a club that always pride ourselves on winning silverware.
Today we had to dig deep because Defence Force played very well but in the end we were tactically solid, especially defensively and we got the goals at critical times.
With Connection set to tackle 1976 FC Phoenix on November 26 in the semi-finals of the FA Trophy which will also include Civic against Police FC, Fevrier hopes the First Citizens Cup success will help the Savonetta Boys to more silverware before the season ends.
The Connection coach is now bracing for a busy schedule in the coming week which will include facing San Juan Jabloteh and Central FC in league fixtures on Monday and Wednesday respectively. See upcoming fixtures below.
Results
First Citizens Cup 2017 - Final
Defence Force 1 (Hashim Arcia 14) vs W Connection 3 (Dimitrie Apai 19, 85, Hughtun Hector 24), at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Third-place match
Point Fortin Civic 1 (Nathaniel Garcia 44) vs Club Sando 1 (Akeem Redhead 85), at Ato Boldon Stadium,
Club Sando won 4-3 on penalties.
Point Fortin Civic 3 v Club Sando 4
Jabari Mitchell (scored) - Nical Stephens (saved)
Nathaniel Garcia (scored) - Kemuel Rivers (scored)
Justin Sadoo (saved) - Leslie Joel Russell (scored)
Stephan Campbell (scored) - Josiah Trimmingham (scored)
Steven Joseph (saved) - Tyrone Charles (scored)
First Citizens Cup 2017
MVP Dimitrie Apai (W Connection)
Most Goals Devorn Jorsling (Defence Force) (3 goals)
Best Goalkeeper Julani Archibald (W Connection)
Best Defender Maurice Ford (W Connection)
Best Midfielder Hashim Arcia (Defence Force)
Best Forward Dimitrie Apai (W Connection)
Best Coach Stuart Charles Fevrier (W Connection)
Teams
Final
Defence Force FC: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK); 3.Jamali Garcia, 5.Jerome Mc Intyre (16.Kellon Serrette 78th minute), 9.Devorn Jorsling, 10.Hashim Arcia, 15.Shaquille Bertrand (23.Kerry Joseph 86th minute), 17.Curtis Gonzales (Yellow Card) (6.Rodell Elcock 89th minute), 18.Reon Moore, 26.Justin Garcia, 37.Cassim Keller, 99.Jerwyn Balthazar.
Unused substitutes: 4.Dave Long, 8.Christopher Durity, 12.Jemel Sebro, 80.Aaron Enil.
Coach: Marvin Gordon
W Connection: 18.Julani Archibald (GK); 3.Gerard Williams, 4.Maurice Ford, 5.Triston Hodge (Yellow Card), 10.Dimitri Apai, 13.Hughtun Hector (Capt.), 20.Daniel Diaz (7.Neil Benjamin Jr. 57th minute), 23.Weslie John, 24.Jameel Antoine, 26.Isaiah Garcia (16.Alvin Jones minute) (Yellow Card), 99.Marcus Joseph (11.Shirvone Malik St. Prix 81st minute)
Unused substitutes: 33.Jason Belfon (GK); 2.Frank Padilla Gil, 14.Euller Eduardo Couto, 21.Ronell Paul.
Coach: Stuart Charles Fevrier
Referee: Rashby Mc Phie
Third-Place Match
Point Fortin Civic: 1.Marvin Phillip (GK) (Capt.); 7.Steven Joseph (Yellow Card), 16.Kelvin Modeste, 10.Jabari Mitchell, 12.Nathaniel Garcia, 24.Akinola Gregory (11.Keron Neptune 78th minute), 25.Shaquille Dublin, 26.Jeremiah Kesar, 28.Aelon Minors (53.Stephan Campbell 63rd minute), 30.Nion Lammy (21.Juma Clarence 63rd minute), 33.Justin Sadoo.
Unused substitutes: 52.Akini Adams (GK); 17.Kestwin Goolie, 90.Jared Bennett, 99.Kevin Moodie.
Coach: Reynold Carrington
Club Sando: 1.Stefan Berkeley (GK); 5.Nical Stephens, 6.Kemuel Rivers, 8.Kevon Piper (17.Jarod London 89th minute), 9.Akeem Redhead, 12.Michael Basdeo (10.Keron Cornwall 70th minute), 13.Tyrone Charles, 16.Leslie Joel Russell (Capt.) (Yellow Card), 23.Nicholas Thomas, 35.Adan Noel, 38.Josiah Trimmingham (Yellow Card).
Unused substitutes: 34.Kelvin Henry (GK); 11.Akim Armstrong, 15.Keyon Edwards, 18.Trevin Latapy, 37.Raygun Jawahir.
Coach: Angus Eve
Referee: Keilon Bacchus
Post by: Deeks on November 18, 2017, 11:32:40 AM
Post by: Tallman on November 18, 2017, 08:32:50 PM
https://www.youtube.com/v/9RgHEYnEKk0
Post by: Flex on June 07, 2018, 12:30:49 AM
ttproleague.com.
We are ready since our last game (last Fridays 7-1 Charity Shield win over Pro League championship holders North East Stars), W Connection assistant coach Earl Jean told todays (Wednesday) gathering during the launch of the 2018 First Citizens Cup at the VIP Lounge of the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port-of-Spain.
Eight-time winners Connection, two-time former winners Morvant Caledonia United, Point Fortin Civic, North East Stars and Police FC were drawn into Abercrombie Group, while former winners San Juan Jabloteh, Defence Force FC and Central FC, and Police FC and MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers will contest Paria Group.
This, for the first time in the tournaments almost two-decade history, clubs will contest each other in a round-robin format to determine the semi-finalists.
The top two finishers from each group at the end of group play will advance to the semi-final round on 13 July with the Abercrombie winners facing Paria runners-up and Paria winners against Abercrombie runners-up for a place in the final on 20 July.
Connection, who defeated three-time former winners Defence Force in last seasons final, will begin their title defence against Point Fortin Civic on Friday from 8:30pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium in the second game of the opening Abercrombie double-header after North East Stars and Police FC clash from 6:30pm.
Match Day One Group play will continue on Sunday with a Paria double-header at the same Ato Boldon Stadium with MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers taking on Central FC from 4pm and San Juan Jabloteh against Defence Force from 6pm.
Jean said the new format will benefit clubs and fans with more games. The former St. Lucia international also said it will give teams the opportunity to face each other ahead of the League championship which will begin in July.
The Connection assistant coach and ex-star forward also praised First Citizens commitment to the competition, which dates back to 2001, as resilient.
Larry Olton, head brand and marketing at First Citizens, said, In the face of these (economic) challenges it is our fervent belief in and understanding of the value of sport to our youth, and more broadly, to national and social development, that First Citizens Group remains committed to its role as a stakeholder in the development of sport in Trinidad and Tobago and in particular football.
Olton added, Like all great teams, the First Citizens Group values collaboration. Our partnership with the Pro League has strengthened community sport and national development through football programmes for adults and youths across the country.
It is also the first time that the Pro League calendar will begin with a Cup tournament and League CEO Julia Baptiste questioned, () who can think of a better sponsor to do it with than First Citizens?
First Citizens has been sharing the vision of the Pro League since the Leagues inception, Baptiste continued. Through thick and thin, through tough times, through those lean times they have remained resilient, steadfast standing with us bearing the flag of indomitable will and the power to survive despite the economic climate.
First Citizens epitomizes the value, power, spirit and vision of what can be achieved when there is collective focus.
The First Citizens Cup 2018 promises to be one of the most exciting editions, especially with the new format and eight clubs after W Connection and North East Stars eager to get their campaign off and running.
First Citizens Cup 2018
Groups
Paria:
Club Sando, San Juan Jabloteh, MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers, Central FC and Defence Force FC;
Abercrombie:
Morvant Caledonia United, Point Fortin Civic, North East Stars, Police FC and W Connection.
First Citizens Cup 2018 - Group Play
(Friday 8 June 2018)
North East Stars vs Police FC, 6:30pm, at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Point Fortin Civic vs W Connection, 8:30pm, at Ato Boldon Stadium.
(Sunday 10 June 2018)
MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers vs Central FC, 4pm, at Ato Boldon Stadium;
San Juan Jabloteh vs Defence Force FC, 6pm, at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Morvant Caledonia United & Club Sando (Bye)
Match Day Two
(Date, venue and time to be determined)
Defence Force FC v MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers
Club Sando v San Juan Jabloteh
W Connection v North East Stars
Morvant Caledonia United v Point Fortin Civic
Police FC & Central FC (Bye)
Match Day Three
(Date, venue and time to be determined)
North East Stars v Morvant Caledonia United
Police FC v W Connection
MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers v Club Sando
Central FC v Defence Force FC
Point Fortin Civic & San Juan Jabloteh (Bye)
Match Day Four
(Date, venue and time to be determined)
Morvant Caledonia United v 7
Point Fortin Civic v North East Stars
Club Sando v Central FC
San Juan Jabloteh v MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers
W Connection & Defence Force FC (Bye)
Match Day Five
(Date, venue and time to be determined)
Police FC v Point Fortin Civic
W Connection vs Morvant Caledonia United
Central FC v San Juan Jabloteh
Defence Force FC v Club Sando
North East Stars & 6 (Bye)
Semi-Final Round
(Friday 13 July 2018)
Final
(Friday 20 July 2018)
Post by: Flex on June 08, 2018, 01:45:54 AM
ttproleague.com.
Defence Force FC head coach Marvin Gordon wants to reunite with the First Citizens Cup, a trophy he holds dear to his heart, and his beefed up squad with forwards Brent Sam and Dwight Quintero and 20-year-old Trinidad and Tobago international Kathon St. Hillaire among recent acquisitions, gives him added confidence.
The Soldiers must face two-time former winners San Juan Jabloteh from 6pm on Sunday at Ato Boldon Stadium in the second game of a Paria Group double-header after MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers and two-time former winners Central FC battle from 4pm.
But competition in, arguably the most prestigious Cup, kicks off on tomorrow (Friday) with an Abercrombie Group double-header at the same Ato Boldon Stadium with reigning Pro League champions North East Stars taking on Police FC from 6:30pm and Point Fortin Civic against First Citizens Cup holders and recent Charity Shield winners W Connection from 8:30pm.
We have a much better squad with new players like Dwight Quintero, Brent Sam, Tyrik (John) and Kathon St. Hillaire [plus] we still have guys like [all-time Pro League top scorer] Devorn Jorsling, Gordon told the gathering during the 2018 First Citizens Cup launch yesterday in the VIP Lounge of the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port-of-Spain.
Ex-Jabloteh prodigy Sam, 22, who had a stint last season in Portugal with lower division side Dezembro, and former North East Stars player Quintero, 24, are both former T&T youth forwards.
While Tyrik John, 22, is the son 0f legendary Trinidad and Tobago forward Stern John and joined from Central FC, the side currently coached by his father.
Hillaire, a former Rangers attacker, and Shaquille Holder, 24, also bolsters Gordons offence along with Jelani Felix, 24, who returns following last seasons Pro League-winning stint at North East Stars.
We want to go one step further [this season], continued the Defence Force coach whose side lost last seasons final 3-1 to W Connection, who celebrated a record-extending eighth First Citizens Cup.
This time we [are] going one more to win the final. [And based on the round-robin groupings] it looks in our favour.
The First Citizens Cup is very special to Gordon, having won it as a Defence Force player in 2002, as assistant coach to his predecessor Ross Russell in 2009, and as coach in 2016.
Gordon wants to start the season strong and the First Citizens Cup will be fitting in honour of his father and all-time best supporter Bernard Gordon who passed away a fortnight ago.
Gordon barked warnings to his opening opponents Jabloteh, saying he defeated the Keith Jeffrey-coached side whole pre-season.
Thats motivation to change the script, Jeffrey responded.
Club Sando coach Angus Eve meanwhile would watch on from the stands over the weekend with a keen eye as his side and two-time former champions Morvant Caledonia United receive a bye on the opening weekend.
It gives us (Sando) the opportunity to assess future opponents since no (Pro League) team wanted to play us a practice match all pre-season, said Eve, who, along with Connection assistant coach Earl Jean, welcome the new round-robin format.
For the first time in the First Citizens Cups almost two-decade history, clubs will contest each other in a round-robin format to determine the semi-finalists.
Connection, two-time former winners Morvant Caledonia, Civic, North East Stars and Police were drawn into Abercrombie Group, while Sando, Jabloteh, Rangers, Central and Defence Force will contest Paria Group.
The top two finishers from each group at the end of group play will advance to the semi-final round on 13 July with the Abercrombie winners facing Paria runners-up and Paria winners against Abercrombie runners-up for a place in the final on 20 July.
Defence Force FC 2018 roster
Goalkeepers: Andre Marchan, Sheldon Clarke and Jameel Enill;
Defenders: Curtis Gonzales, Jamali Garcia, Rodell Elcock, Aklie Edwards, Jemel Sebro, Thurlani George, Jerome Mc Intyre, Justin Garcia.
Midfielders: Hashim Arcia, Dave Long, Jerwyn Balthazar, Kerry Joseph, Levi Serries, Cassim Kellar, Dillon King.
Forwards: Devorn Jorsling, Akil Morris, Kellon Serrette, Shaquille Bertrand, Jameel Cooper, Reon Moore, Dwight Quintero, Tyrik John, Kathon St. Hillaire, Jelani Felix, Brent Sam and Shaquille Holder.
Staff: Marvin Gordon (Head Coach), Devin Elcock (Assistant Coach), Stephon Webster (Trainer), Mc Allister Estrada (Medic), Keron Dookie (Club Manager), Keston Greene (Equipment Manager) and Akini Wilson (Photographer).
Post by: Deeks on June 08, 2018, 01:22:33 PM
Post by: Flex on June 09, 2018, 01:56:56 AM
ttproleague.com
Kareem Freitas struck two goals and an assist scored by another double-scorer Jameel Perry as Police FC kicked off their 2018 campaign with a fashionable 5-1 over North East Stars to lead the 2018 First Citizens Cup Abercrombie Group after yesterdays day one double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium.
The Lawmen (3 points), however, are only ahead of W Connection by goal-difference after the defending champions escaped with full points courtesy a late Kurt Frederick strike against a stubborn Point Fortin Civic outfit which relinquished an early two-goal cushion and ended on the wrong side of a 3-2 loss.
Civic are coming to run us hard, a female staff member of Connection said before kick-off. Spanish (referring to Trinidad and Tobago national team midfielder Nathaniel Garcia) and they talking it all evening.
Defender Ronell Paul stunned his former employers, Connection, to mark his return to Civic with a well-taken header past goalkeeper Jason Belfon on two minutes, and seven minutes later another former Connection player, Jabari Mitchell, converted from the penalty spot to make it 2-0.
But ex-Civic star Marcus Joseph fired back for Connection against his hometown club with an uninterrupted doublealmost identical strikes to beat goalkeeper Miles Goodman twice in a space of ten minutes to subdue the Point Fortin sides aggressive start and put coach Stuart Charles-Fevriers Savonetta Boys back on level terms 2-2.
Earlier Goodman had earlier produced a fine save to put behind a low Joseph attempt. But the talented forward, who had sent another effort inches wide, first redeemed himself by sending a composed left-footed shot into the far bottom corner of Goodmans net from the right on 22 minutes. Then, off the right boot found the same spot in the 32nd minute to put his tally at five goals in two games after last weeks hat-trick in a 7-1 Charity Shield win over Pro League championship holders North East Stars.
Its a good start for his confidence because if he has to be on the (Trinidad and Tobago) national team he has to continue scoring, said Connection assistant coach Earl Jean following the win. He has been working a lot on his finishing and tonight he had a good game. He was all over. The ball was coming to him.
Three excellent chances had followed the Connection star in the second half but it was left-back Frederick who would snatch the 3-2 winner with four minutes left (and a man short after Dimitri Apai was stretchered off injured) in a rare move forward and a barrage of chances including a shot from substitute Adan Noel which cannoned off the upright.
Jean explained, We are always trying to get more out of Frederick because he is an exceptional player and has the ability to score goals.
It was a good game for the fans, for football; two good teams going against each other tactically. (Civic coach Reynold) Carrington knows our systems, knows how we play (because) he had been part of us. It was a very difficult game but what was good is that we scored when we had just ten men. It showed the fight of the team, the spirit. I like the attitude of the players they give everything.
Goal scorer Frederick meanwhile said he was happy to redeem himself after giving away a free kick that led to Civics opening goal.
In the earlier contest, an almost lopsided one, Police stormed to a 3-0 lead within the first half hour against a North East Stars side that are said to be rebuilding for the future under new coach Zoran Vranes.
Freitas fired the Lawmen in front in the 16th minute with a close up volley past goalkeeper Glenroy Samuel, who conceded another a minute later as Kadeem Riley raced off near the touchline to celebrate with teammates in similar fashion.
Both players combined for the Richard Hood-coached sides third item in the 29th minute when Freitas completed his double by heading past Samuel off a right side corner swung in by Riley.
Freitas then turned provider for Perry (J) to celebrate his first on the night on the hour mark for a 4-0 score before Kyle Bartholomew pulled a goal back for North East Stars by beating his challenger in the air to head past T&T national team and Police keeper Adrian Foncette.
Perry (J), though, made it a 5-1 finish when he got to his double in the 85th minute with a diving header on a cross from younger brother Kareem Perry to beat, once more, Samuel who had denied him moments earlier with a world-class save.
First Citizens Cup 2018 - Match Day One results
Abercrombie Group
North East Stars 1 (Kyle Bartholomew 66th minute) vs Police FC 5 (Kareem Freitas 16, 29, Kadeem Riley 17, Jameel Perry 53, 85), at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Point Fortin Civic 2 (Ronell Paul 2, Jabari Mitchell 9 pen.) vs W Connection 3 (Marcus Joseph 22, 32, Kurt Frederick 86), at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Abercrombie Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Police FC 1 1 0 0 5 1 4 3
2 W Connection 1 1 0 0 3 2 1 3
3 Morvant Caledonia United 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
4 Point Fortin Civic 1 0 0 1 2 3 -1 0
5 North East Stars 1 0 0 1 1 5 -4 0
Upcoming matches - (Sunday 10 June 2018)
Immortelle Group
MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers vs Central FC, 4pm, at Ato Boldon Stadium;
San Juan Jabloteh vs Defence Force FC, 6pm, at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Immortelle Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
0 Central FC 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 Club Sando 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 Defence Force FC 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 San Juan Jabloteh 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Teams
Point Fortin Civic: 22.Miles Goodman (GK); 7.Hughtun Hector (Capt.), 8.Jamal John (30.Nion Lammy 74th minute), 10.Jabari Mitchell, 11.Akeem Redhead, 19.Nathaniel Garcia, 20.Bevon Bass, 21.Ronell Paul, 26.Jeremiah Kesar (6.Judah Garcia 58th minute), 27.Darnell Hospedales, 33.Justin Sadoo.
Unused substitutes: 1.Jasse Aguilera (GK); 5.Justin Cornwall, 14.Shaquille John, 17.Kestwin Goolie, 25.Shaquille Dublin.
Coach: Reynold Carrington
W Connection: 33.Jason Belfon (GK), 2.Kurt Frederick, 3.Gerard Williams, 5.Triston Hodge, 6.Kevon Goddard, 9.Kadeem Corbin (27.Kierron Mason 67th minute), 10.Dimitri Apai, 19.Briel Thomas (8.Jameel Antoine 80th minute), 20.Daniel Diaz (11.Adan Noel 53rd minute), 26.Isaiah Garcia, 99.Marcus Joseph.
Unused substitutes: 18.Julani Archibald (GK); 15.Otev Lawrence 23.Kennedy Hinkson, 24.Yohannes Richardson.
Coach: Stuart Charles-Fevrier
Referee: Rodphin Harris
Teams
North East Stars: 1.Glenroy Samuel (GK); 2.Jabari Brathwaite, 4.Sean Bateau (Capt.), 7.Hayden Tinto, 11.Kyle Bartholomew, 12.Tyrell Jobe, 15.Lashawn Roberts, 16.Daniel La Croix (6.Adrian Noel 29th minute), 17.Shaqkeem Joseph, 18.Josiah Daniel (23.Sherwyn Williams 53rd minute), 20.Jaden Prowell.
Unused substitutes: 21.Javon Sample (GK).
Coach: Zoran Vranes
Police FC: 18.Adrian Foncette (GK) (Capt.); 3.Ryan ONeil, 5.Kenaz Williams, 8.Kurdell Brathwaite, 9.Jameel Perry, 10.Kareem Freitas, 14.Caleb Sturge, 21.Todd Ryan (25.Kaashif Thomas 68th minute), 26.Travis Joseph (7Kareem Perry 15th minute), 29.Clevon Mc Fee, 36.Kadeem Riley (16.Joshua Leach 60th minute).
Unused substitutes: 22.Theon Browne (GK); 4.Kadeem Boyce, 13.Dillon Kirton, 33.Kemron Purcell.
Coach: Richard Hood
Referee: Keilon Bacchus
Post by: Flex on June 11, 2018, 04:38:13 AM
ttproleague.com
Last seasons defeated finalists and three-time former winners Defence Force FC made their 2018 First Citizens Cup intensions clear with an opening 4-0 win over San Juan Jabloteh in the second game of an Immortelle Group double-header at the Ato Boldon Stadium yesterday.
Dylon King bagged two goals separated by a Reon Moore item and the break before debutant Brent Sam arrived off the bench to slap home the soldiers fourth item against his ex-club.
Earlier, Akim Armstrong scored twice on his domestic debut for two-time former champions Central FC to give the Stern John-coached Couva Sharks a 2-0 win over MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers who must next face the fury of Defence Force on June 18.
Central, boasting the likes of Densill Theobald, Anthony Wolfe, goalkeeper Marvin Phillip, Jared London and Duane Muckette, were the more experienced of the two sides but for the opening moments looked nothing of a team keen on shaking off disappointments of the 2018 Caribbean Club Championship finals in Jamaica last month when they failed to qualifyafter three chancesfor this seasons Concacaf League.
It was not until the stroke of the half-hour mark that Muckette and Keron Cummings tested Rangers number one Cleon John who made two excellent saves.
John, though, was unable to rescue coach Adrian Romains side four minutes from the half when as Central grabbed a 1-0 lead. Armstrongs angled a shot (which flew into the far bottom corner) came at the end of a Couva Sharks move that involved no less than a dozen passes as they ran circles around Rangers.
Rangers, five minutes earlier, had created an excellent scoring opportunity through an ambitious move down the right by Kristian Meloney whose low cross across the six yard box should have been met by forward Jamal Gay.
Meloney, one of a handful of Pro League debutants in the Rangers side, later had a chance himself on the hour mark but goalkeeper Phillip was quick to smother the midfielders effort.
Eight minutes later on the other end Armstrong, who two months ago moved to Central from Club Sando, was celebrating a double after he got the better of defender Holan Joseph to lift the ball over John and into the back of the Rangers net to put the score at 2-0.
Armstrong was denied a third from point blank range with fifteen minutes left when John pushed the Central forwards half volley behind.
But Johns younger brother, Christopher Biggette, had to fetch the ball out of the Jabloteh net twice in quick succession early on and four times in total in the second game against Defence Force.
King led the Defence Force rout with the opening goal on 12 minutes when he climbed in the Jabloteh box to meet a floated right side cross from debutant Kathon St. Hillaire after veteran forward Devorn Jorsling failed to make contact to a low feed from the left by Moore.
Moore then quickly cushioned the Marvin Gordon coached-soldiers 2-0 two minutes later after he dispossessed defender Jamal Spencer of the ball and made a solo run into the box before sending a shot into the Jabloteh net.
King, who flashed an effort just wide before the break, would finally get to his double in the 67th minute to make it 3-0, burying the ball past Biggette who had denied Hashim Arcia a second time on the night, but the latter attempt only landed the ball as far as the eventual double scorer.
Substitute Sam made it 4-0 in the 73rd minute, blasting the ball past a hapless Biggette after picking up a short feed from Arcia. Sam however failed to complete a double against his ex-club when he rolled a shot onto the upright in the final minute of regular time.
If you remember [during] the (First Citizens Cup) launch I talked about playing Jabloteh in the pre-season and dominating them and it was just a matter of coming tonight and getting the business [done], Gordon said after his sides win.
[The result] wasnt strange for me, added the Defence Force coach. I know what I have in my dressing room and I thought [my] players were brilliant tonight.
I thought we could have scored some more goals but Jabloteh didnt come and lie down. They have a young squad, they tried to work hard and be competitive, but tonight you saw the quality that I have in my dressing room and the work me and my staff have been doing over the last two months.
Next Saturday the First Citizens Cup action will resume when defending champions W Connection meet North East Stars, the side they crushed 7-1 in the Charity Shield, for a second time in three weeks from 4pm, and Morvant Caledonia United kicking off their 2018 campaign against Point Fortin Civic from 6pm in an Abercrombie Group double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium.
The Couva venue will come alive again on Monday 18 June with an Immortelle Group double-header with Club Sando taking on Jabloteh from 8:30pm following the Defence Force versus Rangers clash from 6:30pm.
First Citizens Cup 2018 - Match Day One results
North East Stars 1 ( Kyle Bartholomew 66) vs Police FC 5 (Kareem Freitas 16, 29, Kadeem Riley 17, Jameel Perry 53, 85), at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Point Fortin Civic 2 (Ronell Paul 2, Jabari Mitchell 9 pen.) vs W Connection 3 (Marcus Joseph 22, 32, Kurt Frederick 86), at Ato Boldon Stadium.
(Sunday 10 June 2018)
MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 0 vs Central FC 2 (Akim Armstrong 41, 68), at Ato Boldon Stadium;
San Juan Jabloteh 0 vs Defence Force FC 4 (Dylon King 12, 67, Reon Moore 14, Brent Sam 73), 6pm, at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Morvant Caledonia United & Club Sando (Bye).
Abercrombie Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Police FC 1 1 0 0 5 1 4 3
2 W Connection 1 1 0 0 3 2 1 3
3 Morvant Caledonia United 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
4 Point Fortin Civic 1 0 0 1 2 3 -1 0
5 North East Stars 1 0 0 1 1 5 -4 0
Immortelle Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Defence Force FC 1 1 0 0 4 0 4 3
2 Central FC 1 1 0 0 2 0 2 3
3 Club Sando 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
4 MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 1 0 0 1 0 2 -2 0
5 San Juan Jabloteh 1 0 0 1 0 4 -4 0
Teams
St. Anns Rangers: 1.Cleon John (GK) (Capt.); 2.Lukeman Brooks (9.Keon Peters 78th minute), 3.Andel Brown, 6.Saleem Henry, 7.Jamal Gay (21.Jerome Cyrus 62nd minute), 8.Shem Alexander, 10.Kristian Meloney, 14.Jabari Mayers, 19.Rushawn Murphy, 28.Marvin Springer (27.Collin Wheeler 58th minute), 29.Holan Joseph.
Unused substitutes: 22.Jabari St. Hillaire (GK), 11.Gerald Meloney, 16.Maliq Gumbs, 24.Ethan Bonaparte.
Central FC: 1.Marvin Phillip (GK); 5.Dwight Pope, 8.Akim Armstrong, 10.Keron Cummings (9.Tyrone Charles 69th minute), 11.Duane Muckette (7.Hakim Baird 89th minute), 12.Tyrik Sampson, 15.Kaydion Gabriel (13.Rhondel Gibson 82nd minute), 17.Anthony Wolfe, 18.Densill Theobald (Capt.), 19.Jared London, 22.Jameel Neptune.
Unused substitutes: 30.Keinol Paul (GK); 29.Kerry Baptiste, 27.Anthony Charles.
Coach: Stern John
Referee: Kwinsi Williams
Teams
San Juan Jabloteh: 1.Christopher Biggette (GK); 4.Nical Stephens (13.Kristoff John 62nd minute), 7.Elijah Manners (Capt.), 10.Jomoul Francois, 11.Kadeem Hutchinson, 15.Dellon Jagessar (12.Keron Bethelmy 58th minute), 16.Jamal Spencer, 17.Sean Bonval, 18.Jevon Morris, 19.Shane Sandy, 20.Kareem Baptiste (14.Tyrese Bailey 70th minute).
Unused substitutes: 30.Shemel Louison (GK); 5.Raymond Alleyne, 8.Xae-Pierre De Fou, 24.Kareem Eastman.
Coach: Keith Jeffrey
Defence Force FC: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK); 3.Jamali Garcia, 4.Dave Long (99.Jerwyn Balthazar 70th minute), 9.Devorn Jorsling (Capt.) (16.Kellon Serrette 76th minute), 10.Hashim Arcia, 12.Jemel Sebro, 14.Kathon St. Hillaire, 18.Reon Moore (8.Brent Sam 66th minute), 21.Aklie Edwards, 26.Justin Garcia, 45.Dylon King.
Unused substitutes: 1.Andre Marchan (GK); 6.Rodell Elcock, 11.Dwight Quintero, 15.Shaquille Bertrand.
Coach: Marvin Gordon
Referee: Nicholai Nyron
Upcoming matches - Match Day Two
(Saturday 16 June 2018)
W Connection v North East Stars, 4pm at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Morvant Caledonia United v Point Fortin Civic, 6pm at Ato Boldon Stadium.
(Monday 18 June 2018)
Defence Force FC v MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers, 6:30pm at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Club Sando v San Juan Jabloteh, 8:30pm at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Police FC & Central FC (Bye).
Match Day Three
(Friday 22 June 2018)
Central FC v Defence Force FC, 6:30pm at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Police FC v W Connection, 8:30pm at Ato Boldon Stadium.
(Saturday 23 June 2018)
North East Stars v Morvant Caledonia United, 5pm at Arima Velodrome.
(Sunday 24 June 2018)
MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers v Club Sando, 4pm at St. Augustine Secondary.
Point Fortin Civic & San Juan Jabloteh (Bye).
Match Day Four
(Friday 29 June 2018)
San Juan Jabloteh v MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers, 6pm at Baraataria Oval;
Point Fortin Civic v North East Stars, 6pm at Mahaica Oval.
(Sunday 01 July 2018)
Morvant Caledonia United v Police FC, 4pm at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Club Sando v Central FC, 6pm at Ato Boldon Stadium.
W Connection & Defence Force FC (Bye).
Match Day Five
(Friday 6 July 2018)
Central FC v San Juan Jabloteh, 6:30pm at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Defence Force FC v Club Sando, 8:30pm at Ato Boldon Stadium.
(Sunday 8 July 2018)
Police FC v Point Fortin Civic, 4pm at Ato Boldon Stadium;
W Connection vs Morvant Caledonia United, 6pm at Ato Boldon Stadium.
North East Stars & MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers (Bye).
Semi-Final Round
(Friday 13 July 2018)
Final
(Friday 20 July 2018)
Post by: Flex on June 18, 2018, 02:19:41 AM
ttproleague.com.
W Connection took command of Abercrombie Group in the 2018 First Citizens Cup on Saturday evening with six points but had to settle for a 2-0 Match Day Two win over North East Stars, a side the Savonetta Boys had humiliated 7-1 a fortnight ago in the season-opening Charity Shield.
Kennedy Hinkson fired the eighth-time champions and current holders in front in the first half with his first Connection goal on domestic debut for the Savonetta Boys before team-mate Marcus Lobo Joseph struck his sixth goal in three games in all competitions this season with a sublime chip seven minutes from the end to complete the 2-0 win in the first game of a double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium.
It was however an improved First Citizens Cup result after needing to come from behind for a 3-2 win over Point Fortin Civic who had led with two early goals two Fridays ago on Match Day One.
Civic, in the second game on Saturday, rebounded with a 2-1 win over Morvant Caledonia United to go level on three points with Police FC who sat out on a bye and will resume play against Connection in a top-of-the-table clash on Friday 22 June.
Judah Garcia, 18, scored only his second top-flight goal for Civic in the second half and 20-year-old playmaker Justin Sadoo capped off arguably his best performance to date for the Point Fortin outfit with his first professional goal to cushion coach Reynold Carringtons side before substitute Kareem Joseph pulled back a goal for Morvant Caledonia from the spot in injury time.
Jabari Mitchell had the bulk of Civics chancesat least five of them in the first halfbefore turning provider in the 66th minute when he controlled Sadoos lifted pass in the area, skipped a couple challenges and rolled a feed across the box for Garcia (J) to drive home Civics go-ahead goal past new Morvant Caledonia goalkeeper Terrence Lewis.
Sadoo then unleashed a cracker from just inside the box which clipped the underside of the bar before finding the back of Lewis net in the 75th minute to cushion Civic 2-0 after weaving past two defenders.
Morvant Caledonia, a side coached by returning head coach Jerry More and technical director Jamaal Shabazz and on their first competitive outing of the year, found their consolation item deep in injury time when Joseph beat goalkeeper Miles Goodman from the spot after referee Rodphin Harris ruled a handball against Civic.
Earlier on the day, Hinkson, who joined Connection from Jabloteh at the beginning of the year and featured for the Savonetta Boys in the 2018 Caribbean Club Championship, blasted coach Stuart Charles-Fevriers men in front on 25 minutes after goalkeeper Glenroy Samuel had made a superb double-save. Samuel had first kept out a laser from Marcus Joseph and reacted elastically on the rebound effort from Hinkson, who finally punished the hapless North East Stars goalie on his second bite from close range.
But North East Stars, a virtually new side from the team that won last seasons Pro League championship, proved that they are an improving bunch despite opening humiliations when they faced Connection (1-7 in the Charity Shield) and Police FC (1-5 in their opening First Citizens Cup match).
Head coach Zoran Vranes handed top-flight debuts to Raheim Jawahir, Rakim Cabie and 17-year-old former San Juan Jabloteh youth prodigy Rivaldo Coryat who produced a solid performance in the role of holding midfielder with his accuracy in passing and movement off the ball.
Cabie, meanwhile, had kept North East Stars clean on 15 minutes when he made a stop on the line to deny an acrobatic attempt on goal by Connections Adan Noel, who, like Hinkson, had started in place of injured attackers Dimitrie Apai and Daniel Diaz.
Connection did however find a second item in the 83rd minute through Joseph who lifted the ball over an advancing Samuel to hit the back of the North East Stars net after a Kadeem Corbin pass broke the backline.
Samuel, though, was determined to deny Connection a third and two minutes later produced a diving save to blank Corbin.
First Citizens Cup action will continue on Monday 18 June with an Immortelle Group double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium with Defence Force FC taking on MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers from 6:30pm and Club Sando against San Juan Jabloteh from 8:30pm.
Results
W Connection 2 (Kennedy Hinkson 25, Marcus Joseph 83) v North East Stars 0, at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Morvant Caledonia United 1 (Kareem Joseph 90+3 pen.) v Point Fortin Civic 2 (Judah Garcia 66, Justin Sadoo 75), 6pm at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Upcoming Match Day Two fixtures
(Monday 18 June 2018)
Defence Force FC v MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers, 6:30pmat Ato Boldon Stadium;
Club Sando v San Juan Jabloteh, 8:30pm at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Immortelle Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Defence Force FC 1 1 0 0 4 0 4 3
2 Central FC 1 1 0 0 2 0 2 3
3 Club Sando 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
4 MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 1 0 0 1 0 2 -2 0
5 San Juan Jabloteh 1 0 0 1 0 4 -4 0
Abercrombie Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 W Connection 2 2 0 0 5 2 3 6
2 Police FC 1 1 0 0 5 1 4 3
3 Point Fortin Civic 2 1 0 1 4 4 0 3
4 Morvant Caledonia United 1 0 0 1 1 2 -1 0
5 North East Stars 2 0 0 2 1 7 -6 0
Game 1
W Connection: 18.Julani Archibald (GK), 2.Kurt Frederick, 3.Gerard Williams, 5.Triston Hodge, 6.Kevon Goddard, 9.Kadeem Corbin, 11.Adan Noel, 23.Kennedy Hinkson (17.Jevaughn Humphrey 87th minute), 26.Isaiah Garcia, 27.Kierron Mason, 99.Marcus Joseph.
Unused substitutes: 33.Jason Belfon (GK); 4.Maurice Ford, 8.Jameel Antoine, 15.Otev Lawrence, 24.Yohannes Richardson, 34.Cephas St. Rose.
Coach: Stuart Charles-Fevrier
North East Stars: 1.Glenroy Samuel (GK); 2.Jabari Brathwaite, 3.Raheim Jawahir, 4.Sean Bateau (Capt.), 7.Hayden Tinto (23.Sherwyn Williams 63rd minute), 10.Rivaldo Coryat, 11.Kyle Bartholomew (5.Sowande Preito 74th minute), 17.Shaqkeem Joseph, 18.Josiah Daniel (6.Adrian Noel 55th minute), 20.Jaden Prowell, 24.Rakim Cabie.
Unused substitutes: 31.Jabari Bryce (GK); 15.Lashawn Roberts, 16.Daniel La Croix, 19.Kerdell Sween.
Coach: Zoran Vranes
Referee: Crystal Sobers
Game 2
Morvant Caledonia United: 1.Terrence Lewis (GK) (Capt.); 3.Richard Williams (20.Dwight Yorke 76th minute), 5.Joshua Sylvester, 9.Sedale Mc Lean, 11.Quincy Ballah (19.Renaldo Francois 71st minute), 15.Malik Mieres, 17.Kerry Daniel, 22.Joshua Alexander, 23.Osaze Springer (12.Kareem Joseph 60th minute), 26.Jair Edwards, 28.Jomokie Cassimy,
Unused substitutes: 30.Dejourn Charles (GK).
Coach: Jerry Moe
Point Fortin Civic: 22.Miles Goodman (GK); 6.Judah Garcia, 7.Hughtun Hector (Capt.), 8.Jamal John (32.Jerren Jackie 87th minute), 10.Jabari Mitchell, 11.Akeem Redhead (24.Akinola Gregory 65th minute), 19.Nathaniel Garcia (25.Shaquille Dublin 81st minute), 20.Bevon Bass, 21.Ronell Paul, 27.Darnell Hospedales, 33.Justin Sadoo.
Unused substitutes: 1.Jasse Aguillerra (GK); 3.Dyllon Joseph, 5.Justin Cornwall, 16.Akeel Jacob.
Coach: Reynold Carrington
Referee: Randolph Harris
Post by: Flex on June 20, 2018, 01:41:11 AM
ttproleague.com.
Former Trinidad and Tobago youth player Dwight Quintero arrived off the bench to score twice on his Defence Force FC debut to complete a 7-2 romp over MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers in the first game of Mondays First Citizens Cup 2018 double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium.
The win improved coach Marvin Gordons Tetron Boys grip at the top of Immortelle Group with six points after two games, three points ahead of Central FC (3 points, 1 game) who they face next Friday.
Club Sando (1 game) and San Juan Jabloteh (2 games) are with one point each after a keenly contested but 0-0 stalemate the second game of Mondays double-header.
The top two teams at the end of group play advances to the semi-finals on 13 July. The final will be contested on 20 July.
Jabari Mayers had cancelled out a Dylon King goal to level the bottom-positioned Rangers (0 points, 2 games) in the first half, but not even a wonderful second-half Saleem Henry finish was enough to avoid the Adrian Romain coached-side a heavy defeat on a cold wet night in Couva.
Justin Garcia, Brent Sam, Devorn Jorsling, and Reon Moore, who ended with a goal and three assists, all hit the back of the Rangers net in the second half before substitute Quintero, a 24-year-old ex-Central, W Connection and North East Stars forward, ensured a comfortable win with a double separated by Henrys goal.
It was the sort of performance Gordon had anticipated of his bolstered squad, with the exception of allowing two goals at the back.
Im looking forward to more goals [against Rangers] than tonight [against Jabloteh], Gordon had said after his Tetron Boys trashed the San Juan club 4-0 on 10 June. I took a look at them (Rangers) () and I dont think they have much to offer. I think we should get some more goals against Rangers.
King took his tally to three goals in the tournament by making up for two early wasted chances when he curled a right-footer beyond Rangers goalkeeper Cleon John on 20 minutes to give Defence Force a 1-0 lead after skipping a challenge from defender Renaldo Alexander, one of five changes made by Romain from his starting line-up in their 2-0 loss to Central on 10 June.
But attacking midfielder King was blanked on another two scoring chances by some brilliant goalkeeping from John before Mayers levelled Rangers 1-1 seven minutes from the half, beating goalkeeper Sheldon Clarke after a giveaway at the back by defender Justin Garcia.
King spilled yet another chance a minute into the second half, putting a low Sam cross overbar with John at his mercy and at a time he should have had at least a hat-trick to his name before being replaced by veteran playmaker Jerwyn Balthazar.
Justin Garcia, though, had redeemed himself on 52 minutes by heading a right side Jorsling corner past John at the near post to break the floodgates wide open by putting the three-time First Citizens Cup winners back in front 2-1.
Four minutes later Sam, too, redeemed himself at the end of a move involving Balthazar, Jorsling and Moore to cushion the Tetron Boys 3-1 with a left footed blast moments after dragging a shot wide with the goal at his mercy.
Jorsling then made it 4-1 when he flung himself to direct a short feed from Moore past John in the 59th minute before being replaced by Quintero, who less than a minute on and on his first touch, made it 6-1 in the 63rd minute off another assist from Moore who had scored his teams fifth goal a minute earlier.
Defence Forces excitement of four goals in a space of 11 minutes saw a lapse in concentration at the back and Rangers utility player Henry punished the opportunity with a low drive past Clarke to reduce the deficit 2-6 at the end of a quick move by Isiah Mc Lean in the 65th minute.
But Quintero, who five years ago on Oct. 18, 2013 equalised against Defence Force in the final of the First Citizens Cup and Central FC went on celebrate their maiden trophy, would get to his double on the other end to complete a 7-2 rout when he flicked a wonderfully-worked Sam cross into the back of the Rangers net with seven minutes left.
Defence Force will resume play on Friday against Central in the first game of another double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium from 6:30pm before Police FC and W Connection battle each other in a top-of-the-table Abercrombie Group clash from 8:30pm.
First Citizens Cup Results
Defence Force FC 7 (Dylon King 20, Justin Garcia 52, Brent Sam 56, Devorn Jorsling 59, Reon Moore 62, Dwight Quintero 63, 83) v St. Anns Rangers 2 (Jabari Mayers 38, Saleem Henry 65), at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Club Sando 0 v San Juan Jabloteh 0, at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Immortelle Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Defence Force FC 2 2 0 0 11 2 9 6
2 Central FC 1 1 0 0 2 0 2 3
3 Club Sando 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
4 San Juan Jabloteh 2 0 1 1 0 4 -4 1
5 MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 2 0 0 2 2 9 -7 0
Abercrombie Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 W Connection 2 2 0 0 5 2 3 6
2 Police FC 1 1 0 0 5 1 4 3
3 Point Fortin Civic 2 1 0 1 4 4 0 3
4 Morvant Caledonia United 1 0 0 1 1 2 -1 0
5 North East Stars 2 0 0 2 1 7 -6 0
Game 1
Defence Force FC: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK); 3.Jamali Garcia, 4.Dave Long, 8.Brent Sam, 9.Devorn Jorsling (Capt.) (11.Dwight Quintero 63rd minute), 10.Hashim Arcia, 12.Jemel Sebro, 18.Reon Moore, 21.Aklie Edwards (7.Jelani Felix 66th minute), 26.Justin Garcia, 45.Dylon King (99.Jerwyn Balthazar 55th minute).
Unused substitutes: 1.Andre Marchan (GK); 6.Rodell Elcock, 15.Shaquille Bertrand, 16.Kellon Serrette.
Coach: Marvin Gordon
St. Anns Rangers: 1.Cleon John (GK) (Capt.); 3.Andel Brown, 6.Saleem Henry, 9.Keon Peters (13.Tyrell Cameron 84th minute), 10.Kristian Meloney (8.Shem Alexander 50th minute), 14.Jabari Mayers, 15.Renaldo Alexander (11.Gerald Meloney 67th minute), 16.Maliq Gumbs, 24.Ethan Bonaparte, 26.Isiah McLean, 29.Holan Joseph.
Unused substitutes: 22.Jabari St. Hillaire (GK), 12.Kwame Hazel, 21.Jerome Cyrus, 23.Jeremiah Vidale.
Coach: Adrian Romain
Referee: Rashby McPhie
Game 2
Club Sando: 34.Kelvin Henry (GK); 5.Trevin Latapy, 6.Kemuel Rivers, 7.Akeem Humphrey, 8.Kevon Piper (12.Michael Basdeo 68th minute), 9.Quinn Rodney (4.Shawndell Augustus 90th minute), 10.Keron Cornwall (11.Russell Alfred 74th minute), 13.Shakiyl Phillip, 16.Micah Lansiquot, 23.Nicholas Thomas, 27.Jayson Joseph (Capt.).
Unused substitutes: 1.Stefan Berkeley (GK); 14.Kadeem Gittens, 18.Aaron Kennedy, 40.Dillon Yearwood.
Coach: Angus Eve
San Juan Jabloteh: 1.Christopher Biggette (GK) (30.Shemel Louison 41st minute); 4.Nical Stephens, 5.Raymond Alleyne, 8.Xae-Pierre De Fou, 10.Jomoul Francois (14.Tyrese Bailey 60th minute), 13.Kristoff John, 16.Jamal Spencer, 17.Sean Bonval, 18.Jevon Morris (Capt) (6.Josiah Baird 77th minute), 19.Shane Sandy, 20.Kareem Baptiste.
Unused substitutes: 7.Elijah Manners, 12.Keron Bethelmy, 15.Dellon Jagessar, 24.Kareem Eastman.
Coach: Keith Jeffrey
Referee: Keilon Bacchus
Post by: Flex on June 23, 2018, 12:52:17 AM
ttproleague.com.
Last night the First Citizens Cup produced a thrilling double-header at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva, including the fastest goal of the 2018 edition at 30 seconds, scored by Central FC winger Tyrone Charles, whose brace secured a 2-1 win for the Couva Sharks over Defence Force FC, before a remarkable Kareem Freitas strike saw Police FC edge defending champions W Connection 1-0 in the second game.
Central, with the result, joined Defence Force on 6 points at the top of the Immortelle Group and despite occupying second position with a lesser goal-difference, the Couva Sharks should fancy their chances of advancing to the semi-finals with a top-two finish with two group matches left against Club Sando (1 July) and San Juan Jabloteh (6 July) while the Tetron Boys have one against Sando (6 July).
Club Sando (1 point, 1 game) must first tackle MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers (0 point, 2 games) from 4pm on Sunday 24 June at St. Augustine Secondary while fourth-placed Jabloteh (1 point, 2 games) are on the bye.
In the Abercrombie Group, the Richard Hood-coached Police (6 points, 2 games) moved to the top, but only ahead of Connection (6 points, 3 games) by goal difference after Freitas 71st-minute strike separated both sides for a rare win for the Lawmen over the Savonetta Boys.
Freitas executed great skill and composure to control off his chest to turn and thump a shot off the underside of bar and into the back of goalkeeper Julani Archibalds net after Connection had failed to clear on a Clevon Mc Fee corner on three attempts.
In the end coach Stuart Charles-Fevriers Connection had paid the ultimate price of defeat after failing to convert a barrage of chances in the second halfmost notably a 68th-minute miss by former T&T youth star Kadeem Corbin with national team goalkeeper Adrian Foncette at his mercy.
And it was no fault of a magnitude 5.3 earthquake that was felt across the island moments earlier.
But! Tyrone Charles had the supporters off their seats after only half a minute in the earlier game when he lifted a brilliantly-timed Duane Muckette feed over Defence Force goalie Sheldon Clarke to stun a side that had defeated Jabloteh 4-0 and Rangers 7-2 in their previous group matches.
Dj vu! And bang. The Marvin Gordon-coached Tetron Boys were hit a second timeexactly the same 30 secondsthis time inside the second half when Charles latched onto a long pass on the right and smashed the ball past Clarke and into the far netting for a 2-0 Central cushion.
Central were an organized and brilliant bunch especially defensivelythe best they have looked all yearthough Defence Force veteran forward Devorn Jorsling was denied by the crossbar on either side of the half.
Muckette too was denied by the bar before Brent Sam on the opposite end took his tally to three-in-three when pulled a goal back for Defence Force in injury time.
The item, however, wasnt enough for a Defence Force comeback.
Preparations all week was about nullifying them (Defence Force) and playing on the counter, said Central FC assistant coach Walt Noreiga who served as caretaker in absence of Stern John. John is currently in Scotland for his UEFA B licence.
We know their strong points and we simply tried to play their 4-3-3 system to counter attack their style of play.
It wasnt part of the plan [to score that early on either side of the half] but it is one of the ways that we were trying to get forward as quick as possible. We know all teams start slow and thats what we took advantage of at the start, and at the restart.
Noriega praised his players including veterans Densill Theobald, Anthony Wolfe and goalkeeper Marvin Phillip for being professional.
It was all part of the training. We asked [our players] to do a job (tonight) which was put in place since before the gaffer (Stern John) left. He asked me to keep working on the system and it paid dividends tonight.
First Citizens Cup action continues today (Saturday) with North East Stars and Morvant Caledonia United clashing from 4pm at Larry Gomes Stadium in search of their opening point/s.
First Citizens Cup 2018 Results
Central FC 2 (Tyrone Charles 1, 46) v Defence Force FC 1 (Brent Sam 90+2), at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Police FC 1 (Kareem Freitas 71) v W Connection 0, at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Game 1
Central FC: 1.Marvin Phillip (GK); 5.Dwight Pope (10.Keron Cummings 46th minute), 8.Akim Armstrong (29.Kerry Baptiste 88th minute), 9.Tyrone Charles (13.Rhondel Gibson 84th minute), 12.Taryk Sampson, 15.Kaydion Gabriel, 17.Anthony Wolfe, 18.Densill Theobald (Capt.), 19.Jared London, 22.Jameel Neptune. 24.Duane Muckette.
Unused substitutes: 30.Keinol Paul (GK); 7.Hakim Baird, 11.Anthony Charles.
Coach: Walt Noreiga
Defence Force FC: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK); 3.Jamali Garcia, 4.Dave Long, 7.Jelani Felix (15.Shaquille Bertrand 61st minute), 8.Brent Sam, 9.Devorn Jorsling (Capt.) (11.Dwight Quintero 61st minute), 10.Hashim Arcia, 12.Jemel Sebro (16.Kellon Serrette 69th minute), 18.Reon Moore, 21.Aklie Edwards, 26.Justin Garcia.
Unused substitutes: 1.Andre Marchan (GK); 6.Rodell Elcock, 23.Kerry Joseph, 32.Jameel Cooper.
Coach: Marvin Gordon
Referee: Nicholai Nylon
Game 2
Police FC: 18.Adrian Foncette (GK) (Capt.); 3.Ryan ONeil, 5.Kenaz Williams, 7.Kareem Perry (32.Keion Wilson 67th minute), 8.Kurdell Brathwaite, 9.Jameel Perry, 10.Kareem Freitas, 14.Caleb Sturge, 21.Todd Ryan (25.Kaashif Thomas 82nd minute), 29.Clevon Mc Fee, 36.Kadeem Riley (15.Christian Thomas 56th minute).
Unused substitutes: 22.Theon Browne (GK); 12.Nequan Caruth, 16.Joshua Leach, 33.Kemron Purcell.
Coach: Richard Hood
W Connection: 18.Julani Archibald (GK), 2.Kurt Frederick, 3.Gerard Williams, 5.Triston Hodge, 6.Kevon Goddard, 8.Jameel Antoine (27.Kierron Mason 64th minute), 9.Kadeem Corbin, 11.Adan Noel, 23.Kennedy Hinkson, 26.Isaiah Garcia, 99.Marcus Joseph.
Unused substitutes: 33.Jason Belfon (GK); 4.Maurice Ford, 15.Otev Lawrence, 24.Yohannes Richardson, 34.Cephas St. Rose.
Coach: Stuart Charles-Fevrier
Referee: Keilon Bacchus
Immortelle Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Defence Force FC 3 2 0 1 12 4 8 6
2 Central FC 2 2 0 0 4 1 3 6
3 Club Sando 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
4 San Juan Jabloteh 2 0 1 1 0 4 -4 1
5 MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 2 0 0 2 2 9 -7 0
Abercrombie Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Police FC 2 2 0 0 6 1 5 6
2 W Connection 3 2 0 1 5 3 2 6
3 Point Fortin Civic 2 1 0 1 4 4 0 3
4 Morvant Caledonia United 1 0 0 1 1 2 -1 0
5 North East Stars 2 0 0 2 1 7 -6 0
Post by: Flex on June 24, 2018, 01:49:22 AM
ttproleague.com.
Quincy Ballah and Osaze Springer celebrated their first Morvant Caledonia United goals on Saturday to earn the Eastern Stallions their first points of the 2018 First Citizens Cup by driving the proverbial nail in North East Stars coffin with a 2-0 score at the Larry Gomes Stadium.
The win kept alive Morvant Caledonias mathematical chance of advance to the semi-finals on 13 July but the 2011 and 2012 champions are third on the Abercrombie Group standings with 3 points and only ahead of Point Fortin Civic by a narrow goal difference (+1) while Police FC and defending champions W Connection both lead the pack with 6 points.
Morvant Caledonia face a tall order with remaining group matches against the unbeaten Police FC on 1 July before rounding off group play a week later (8 July) against W Connection.
Meanwhile North East Stars (0 points), now on a fourth straight loss in all competitions this season, will only play for pride in their final group match against Civic on 29 June.
Ballah lifted Morvant Caledonia in front on 12 minutes from 15 yards on a rebound after Quincy Ballahlike veteran Kareem Joseph made the starting line-up after last weeks 2-1 opening loss to Civic a week agostruck the upright.
Diminutive winger Springer doubled North East Stars troubles in the 24th minute to cushion Morvant Caledonia 2-0 when former goalkeeper Glenroy Samuel spilled a shot from Jomokie Cassimy.
Joseph came alive ten minutes into the second half, forcing two brilliant saves out of his former teammate, Samuel.
But Movant Caledonia, despite the effort by the coaching staff, which includes a joint effort by technical director Jamaal Shabazz and returning coach Jerry Moe, to maintain tempo with forward Sedale Mc Lean, attacking midfielder Kerry Daniel and 17-year-old Dwight Yorke replacing Springer, Joshua Alexander and Ballah respectively beyond the hour mark, failed to stretch the win margin.
Today (Sunday 24 June) Club Sando (1 point) will look to keep alive their mathematical chance in the Immortelle Group when they face bottom-placed MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers (0 points) from 4pm at St. Augustine Secondary ground.
Defence Force FC and Central FC lead the Immortelle Group with six points each while San Juan Jabloteh are fourth with a point.
Results
North East Stars 0 v Morvant Caledonia United 2 (Quincy Ballah 12, Osaze Springer 24), at Larry Gomes Stadium.
Teams
North East Stars: 1.Glenroy Samuel (GK); 2.Jabari Brathwaite (32.Keithen Carter 66th minute), 3.Raheim Jawahir, 4.Sean Bateau (Capt.), 6.Adrian Noel, 7.Hayden Tinto (16.Daniel La Croix 46th minute), 10.Rivaldo Coryat, 11.Kyle Bartholomew, 17.Shaqkeem Joseph, 18.Josiah Daniel (15.Lashawn Roberts 77th minute), 24.Rakim Cabie.
Unused substitutes: 21.Javon Sample (GK); 5.Sowande Preito, 23.Sherwyn Williams.
Coach: Zoran Vranes
Morvant Caledonia United: 1.Terrence Lewis (GK) (Capt.); 3.Richard Williams, 5.Joshua Sylvester, 11.Quincy Ballah (20.Dwight Yorke 77th minute), 12.Kareem Joseph, 15.Malik Mieres, 19.Renaldo Francois, 22.Joshua Alexander (17.Kerry Daniel 66th minute), 23.Osaze Springer (9.Sedale Mc Lean 66th minute), 26.Jair Edwards, 28.Jomokie Cassimy.
Unused substitutes: 30.Dejourn Charles (GK), 8.Andrew Murray, 16.Travell Edwards, 20.Dwight Yorke, 24.Simeon Bailey.
Coach: Jerry Moe
Referee: Rashby McPhie
Immortelle Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Defence Force FC 3 2 0 1 12 4 8 6
2 Central FC 2 2 0 0 4 1 3 6
3 Club Sando 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
4 San Juan Jabloteh 2 0 1 1 0 4 -4 1
5 MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 2 0 0 2 2 9 -7 0
Abercrombie Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Police FC 2 2 0 0 6 1 5 6
2 W Connection 3 2 0 1 5 3 2 6
3 Morvant Caledonia United 2 1 0 1 3 2 1 3
4 Point Fortin Civic 2 1 0 1 4 4 0 3
5 North East Stars 3 0 0 3 1 9 -8 0
Post by: Flex on June 25, 2018, 03:34:43 AM
ttproleague.com.
Russel Alfred starred off the bench with a goal and assist to help earn Club Sando a critical 2-0 win over MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers on Sunday in the 2018 First Citizens Cup at St. Augustine Secondary Ground.
The win put the Oranges push for a semi-final spotas the top two teams will advanceback on track following an opening goalless draw against San Juan Jabloteh on 18 June. A loss or draw against Rangers, however, would have virtually put the Angus Eve coached-side out.
Club Sando (4 points) have six points to play for in the Immortelle Group, but must seek them against joint leaders Central FC and Defence Force FC (6 points), on July 1 and 6 respectively, while Rangers (0 point) will only play for pride in their final game against fourth-positioned Jabloteh (1 point) on 1 July.
Russels arrival at the expense of teenager Quinn Rodney on 63 minutes later proved a masterstroke by Eve after both sides failed to conjure up any real attempt.
Two minutes on and the 25-year-old Russel, who joined from Guaya United, played a low cross that evaded Rangers defence for Kevon Piper to break the deadlock from close range against goalkeeper Cleon John.
Russel then exercised his strength and goal-scoring capability when he sealed the Club Sando win in the 79th minute as Rangers crashed out to their third straight defeat.
First Citizens Cup 2018 Results
St. Anns Rangers 0 v Club Sando 2 (Kevon Piper 65, Russel Alfred 79), at St. Augustine Secondary.
Teams
MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers: 1.Cleon John (GK) (Capt.); 3.Andel Brown, 4.Lukeman Brooks (30.Marvin Springer), 6.Saleem Henry, 7.Jamal Gay, 8.Shem Alexander (9.Keon Peters 53rd minute), 12.Kwame Hazel, 14.Jabari Mayers (13.Tyrell Cameron 35th minute), 24.Ethan Bonaparte, 26.Isiah Mc Lean, 38.Kyle Thomas.
Unused substitutes: 22.Jabari St. Hillaire, 10.Kristian Meloney, 20.Alister Bernard, 23.Jeremiah Vidale, 28.Marvin Springer.
Coach: Adrian Romain
Club Sando: 34.Kelvin Henry (GK); 5.Trevin Latapy, 6.Kemuel Rivers, 8.Kevon Piper (14.Kadeem Gittens 88th minute), 10.Keron Cornwall, 12.Michael Basdeo (4.Shawndell Augustus 85th minute), 13.Shakiyl Phillip, 18.Aaron Kennedy, 19.Quinn Rodney (11.Russell Alfred 63rd minute), 23.Nicholas Thomas, 27.Jayson Joseph (Capt.).
Unused substitutes: 1.Stefan Berkeley (GK); 9.Tigana Sparks, 15.Shadeon Arthur, 33.Enrique Changiah.
Coach: Angus Eve
Referee: Cecile Hinds
Immortelle Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Defence Force FC 3 2 0 1 12 4 8 6
2 Central FC 2 2 0 0 4 1 3 6
3 Club Sando 2 1 1 0 2 0 2 4
4 San Juan Jabloteh 2 0 1 1 0 4 -4 1
5 MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 3 0 0 3 2 11 -9 0
Abercrombie Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Police FC 2 2 0 0 6 1 5 6
2 W Connection 3 2 0 1 5 3 2 6
3 Morvant Caledonia United 2 1 0 1 3 2 1 3
4 Point Fortin Civic 2 1 0 1 4 4 0 3
5 North East Stars 3 0 0 3 1 9 -8 0
Post by: Flex on July 05, 2018, 05:16:51 AM
ttproleague.com.
Saleem Henry scored his second top-flight goal and Allister Bernard his first to cushion MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 2-0 against San Juan Jabloteh before torrential showers forced the suspension of Sundays First Citizens Cup double-header at Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Rangers, playing for pride in their final match of Immortelle Group looked on their way to a first win until match referees were forced to suspended play on the hour mark with the ground conditions at the national stadium affected by the rainfall which also produced flash flooding across the capital, Port-of-Spain.
The remaining 30 minutes will be played at a later date to be fixed by the Pro League, and also the highly anticipated Abercrombie Group clash between Morvant Caledonia United and Police FC which was suspended altogether due to the rain fall.
Henry, a 19-year-old energetic utility player, put Rangers ahead from the penalty spot after, beating Jabloteh custodian and ex-Rangers man Christopher Biggette in the 40th minute after he was brought down in the box by defender Jamal Spencer.
Two minutes later 20-year-old substitute Bernard, coolly rolled the ball through the legs of an advancing Biggette to make it 2-0 following a quick burst on the left and into the penalty area.
Rangers had turned the game on its head after Jabloteh got close in the opening moments when St. Vincent midfielder Nical Stephens, from 30 yards out, forced a brilliant save out of debut keeper Jabari St. Hillaire before defender Kwame Hazel had to clear at the goalmouth following a diving header from Keron Bethelmy.
Jabloteh are with one point and must rebound against Rangers in the rescheduled 30 minutes if they are to improve their mathematical chance of advancing into the semi-finals with a top-two group finish.
Defence Force FC and Central FC are tied on 6 points while Club Sando are third with four points. Central and Sando will clash from 6:30pm on Tuesday in the first game of a double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Results
San Juan Jabloteh 0 v St. Anns Rangers 2 (Saleem Henry 40 pen., Allister Bernard 42), (30 minutes to be rescheduled after torrential rainfall suspended play at Hasely Crawford Stadium).
Morvant Caledonia United v Police FC (to be rescheduled after torrential rainfall suspended play at Hasely Crawford Stadium).
Game 1
San Juan Jabloteh: 1.Christopher Biggette (GK); 4.Nical Stephens, 5.Raymond Alleyne, 10.Jomoul Francois, 12.Keron Bethelmy (8.Xae-Pierre De Fou 50th minute), 14.Tyrese Bailey, 15.Dellon Jagessar, 16.Jamal Spencer, 17.Sean Bonval, 18.Jevon Morris (Capt), 24.Kareem Baptiste.
Unused substitutes: 30.Shemel Louison (GK); 2.Nicholai Orr, 6.Josiah Baird, 22.Adrian Martyr, 13.Kristoff John.
Coach: Keith Jeffrey
MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers: 22.Jabari St. Hillaire (GK); 3.Andel Brown, 6.Saleem Henry, 7.Jamal Gay (Capt.), 12.Kwame Hazel, 14.Jabari Mayers, 16.Maliq Gumbs, 24.Ethan Bonaparte, 26.Isiah Mc Lean, 28.Holan Joseph (20.Allister Bernard 33rd minute), 31.Tyrell Cameron.
Unused substitutes: 1.Cleon John (GK), 2.Kevin Pilgrim, 11.Gerald Meloney, 15.Renaldo Alexander, 23.Jeremiah Vidale, 34.Lukeman Brooks.
Coach: Adrian Romain
Referee: Quincy Williams
Upcoming Games.
(Tuesday 3 July 2018)
Club Sando FC v Central FC, 6:30pm at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Point Fortin Civic F.C v North East Stars, 8:30pm at Ato Boldon Stadium.
W Connection & Defence Force FC (Bye).
(Friday 6 July 2018)
Central FC v San Juan Jabloteh, 6pm at Hasely Crawford Stadium;
Defence Force FC v Club Sando, 8pm at Hasely Crawford Stadium.
(Saturday 7 July 2018)
Police FC v Point Fortin Civic, 4pm at Ato Boldon Stadium;
W Connection Football Club Ltd. vs Morvant Caledonia United, 6pm at Ato Boldon Stadium.
North East Stars & MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers (Bye).
Semi-Final Round
(Friday 13 July 2018)
Abercrombie winners vs Immortelle runners-up
Immortelle winners vs Abercrombie runners-up
Immortelle Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Defence Force FC 3 2 0 1 12 4 8 6
2 Central FC 2 2 0 0 4 1 3 6
3 Club Sando 2 1 1 0 2 0 2 4
4 San Juan Jabloteh 2 0 1 1 0 4 -4 1
5 MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 3 0 0 3 2 11 -9 0
Abercrombie Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Police FC 2 2 0 0 6 1 5 6
2 W Connection 3 2 0 1 5 3 2 6
3 Morvant Caledonia United 2 1 0 1 3 2 1 3
4 Point Fortin Civic 2 1 0 1 4 4 0 3
5 North East Stars 3 0 0 3 1 9 -8 0
Post by: Flex on July 05, 2018, 05:24:33 AM
ttproleague.com.
Club Sando came from behind to stun two-time former champions Central FC 2-1 to take lead of Immortelle Group in the first match of a 2018 First Citizens Cup Match Day Four double-header on Tuesday night at Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.
Point Fortin Civic in the second game of the entertaining double hammered North East Stars 4-1 to climb two spots into second on Abercrombie Group where the Reynold Carrington coached-side joins Police FC and W Connection on 6 points with one round of matches left.
Justin Sadoo and Shaquille John cushioned Civic before the break and substitute Nion Lammy and Nathaniel Garcia, with a scorching free kick from 30 yards out, completed the comfortable victory in the second half after teenager Rivaldo Coryat netted his first top-flight goal from the penalty spot for North East Stars.
The top two teams from each group will advance into the semi-finals on July 13 with Abercrombie winners facing Immortelle runners-up and vice versa. The final is carded for July 20.
Tuesday nights entertainment began with Rhondel Gibson putting Central ahead on the half-hour mark, but Kevon Piper levelled the Angus Eve coached-Sando with his second goal of the tournament coming seconds into the second half before Michael Basdeo snatched the Oranges winner with seven minutes from the end of regular time.
When you think of the type of players we were playing against [tonight] and probably a whole national team staff, Im very proud of the guys, said Eve after the win. They really fought.
Eve said the Couva Sharks coached by Trinidad and Tobago senior team assistant coach Stern John were outplayed by Sandos tactical changes in the second half and it showed in the result.
The win lifted Sando top of Immortelle Group with 7 points with Defence Force FC and Central in second and third respectively on 6 points, while San Juan Jabloteh and MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers are below with one and zero point respectively.
Rangers, despite being unable to progress, have 30 minutes of action left and a 2-0 cushion over Jabloteh scheduled for July 10 along with a crucial clash between Police FC and Morvant Caledonia United after torrential rainfall last Sunday forced match officials to suspend play at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
But first Jabloteh must face Central on Friday from 6pm at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in a must-win situation for both sides before Defence Force and Sando lock horns in their final group clash from 8pm at the same venue.
[For now] we (Sando) have a final basically to play against Defence Force, added Eve.
Russell Alfred forced his way into Sandos starting line-up following a match-winning performancea goal and an assistoff the bench two Sundays ago against Rangers in a 2-0 result and twice got close to putting his name on the scoresheet against Central in the opening twenty-five minutes.
But it was the Couva Sharks that took a 1-0 lead on 30 minuteswith virtually their only attempt of the halfwhen defender Gibson sent a shot beyond goalkeeper Kelvin Henry and into the back of the net.
Piper however levelled Sando 1-1 eighteen seconds into the second half, beating goalkeeper Marvin Phillip from close range after Quinn Rodney, who replaced Alfred at the break, pulled back a pass to the diminutive forward.
Basdeo would later celebrate the eventual winner in the 83rd minute when he found the top right corner of Phillips net against a side that had fielded three former Sando players: Akim Armstrong, Tyrone Charles and T&T national defender Jared London.
Later on, another T&T national, Nathaniel Garcia, sealed an important win for Civic who must complete their group play against Police FC from 4pm on Saturday at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
It was the fourth time on the night goalkeeper Javon Sample had to fetch the ball out of his net on a night it could have been five had substitute Jared Bennett not been denied by the post, as the Zoran Vranes coached-North East Stars suffered a fifth straight loss in all competitions this term.
Sadoo put Civic ahead after 20 minutes with his second goal of the competition when he rolled a shot into the far bottom corner of Samples net after being allowed free passage on goal by North Easts defence.
Sample, who had denied Hughtun Hector, Akeem Redhead and Akinola Gregory early on and kept out another Sadoo attempt in the second half, made a heroic save in the 27th minute to keep out a powerful Ronell Paul header, but North East keeper was beaten at full stretch by a 30-yard strike from Shaquille John who cushioned Civic 2-0 five minutes from the half.
Coryat, who joined North East from Jabloteh where he served through the youth ranks, sliced the deficit from the penalty spot in the 68th minute by wrong-siding goalkeeper Miles Goodman after a handball was ruled against veteran utility player Bevon Bass.
But substitute Lammy restored Civics two-goal cushion by hitting beyond a hapless Sample on a second bite in the 83rd minute before Garcia (N) ended the 4-1 win in spectacular fashion.
Results
Club Sando 2 (Kevon Piper 46, Michael Basdeo 83) v Central FC 1 (Rhondel Gibson 30), at Ato Boldon Stadium;
Point Fortin Civic 4 (Justin Sadoo 20, Shaquille John 40, Nion Lammy 83, Nathaniel Garcia 87) v North East Stars 1 (Rivaldo Coryat 68 pen.), 8:30pm at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Game 1
Club Sando: 34.Kelvin Henry (GK); 5.Trevin Latapy, 6.Kemuel Rivers, 8.Kevon Piper, 10.Keron Cornwall, 11.Russell Alfred (19.Quinn Rodney 46th minute), 12.Michael Basdeo, 13.Shakiyl Phillip (4.Shawndell Augustus 72nd minute), 18.Aaron Kennedy (7.Akeem Humphrey 46th minute), 23.Nicholas Thomas, 27.Jayson Joseph (Capt.).
Unused substitutes: 1.Stefan Berkeley (GK); 21.Derron John, 39.Renaldo Mc Intosh, 40.Isa Bramble.
Coach: Angus Eve
Central FC: 1.Marvin Phillip (GK); 5.Dwight Pope, 8.Akim Armstrong, 9.Tyrone Charles (15.Kaydion Gabriel 79th minute), 10.Keron Cummings (24.Duane Muckette 71st minute), 12.Taryk Sampson, 13.Rhondel Gibson, 17.Anthony Wolfe, 18.Densill Theobald (Capt.), 22.Jameel Neptune. 27.Anthony Charles (19.Jared London 56th minute)
Unused substitutes: 29.Kerry Baptiste.
Coach: Stern John
Referee: Crystal Sobers
Game 2
Point Fortin Civic: 22.Miles Goodman (GK); 7.Hughtun Hector (Capt.), 11.Akeem Redhead (6.Judah Garcia 77th minute), 14.Shaquille John, 19.Nathaniel Garcia, 20.Bevon Bass, 21.Ronell Paul, 24.Akinola Gregory (9.Jared Bennett 71th minute), 27.Darnell Hospedales, 32.Jerren Jackie (30.Nion Lammy 58th minute), 33.Justin Sadoo.
Unused substitutes: 1.Jasse Aguillerra (GK); 8.Jamal John, 17.Kestwin Goolie, 25.Shaquille Dublin.
Coach: Reynold Carrington
North East Stars: 21.Javon Sample (GK); 2.Jabari Brathwaite (19.Kerdell Sween 17th minute), 3.Raheim Jawahir (16.Daniel La Croix 59th minute), 4.Sean Bateau (Capt.), 7.Hayden Tinto, 10.Rivaldo Coryat, 11.Kyle Bartholomew, 17.Shaqkeem Joseph (15.Lashawn Roberts 46th minute), 18.Josiah Daniel, 32.Keithen Carter, 24.Rakim Cabie.
Unused substitutes: 1.Glenroy Samuel (GK); 5.Sowande Preito, 20.Jaydon Prowel, 23.Sherwyn Williams.
Coach: Zoran Vranes
Referee: Keilon Bacchus
Immortelle Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Club Sando 3 2 1 0 4 1 3 7
2 Defence Force FC 3 2 0 1 12 4 8 6
3 Central FC 3 2 0 1 5 3 2 6
4 San Juan Jabloteh 2 0 1 1 0 4 -4 1
5 MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 3 0 0 3 2 11 -9 0
Abercrombie Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Police FC 2 2 0 0 6 1 5 6
2 Point Fortin Civic 3 2 0 1 8 5 3 6
3 W Connection 3 2 0 1 5 3 2 6
4 Morvant Caledonia United 2 1 0 1 3 2 1 3
5 North East Stars 4 0 0 4 2 13 -11 0
Upcoming Games
(Friday 6 July 2018)
Central FC v San Juan Jabloteh, 6pm at Hasely Crawford Stadium;
Defence Force FC v Club Sando, 8pm at Hasely Crawford Stadium.
(Saturday 7 July 2018)
Police FC v Point Fortin Civic, 4pm at Ato Boldon Stadium;
W Connection vs Morvant Caledonia United, 6pm at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Rescheduled Match Day 4 of 5 fixtures
(Tuesday 10 July 2018)
San Juan Jabloteh 0 v MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 2 (Saleem Henry 40 pen., Allister Bernard 42), (30 minutes left to play) at Hasely Crawford Stadium;
Morvant Caledonia United v Police FC, at Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Post by: Flex on July 08, 2018, 02:57:15 AM
ttproleague.com.
Defence Force FC and Central FC - The Sharks are through to the semi-finals of the 2018 First Citizens Cup carded for July 13 after finishing Immortelle Group winners and runners-up, respectively, during Friday nights double-header at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain.
However Defence Force and Trinidad and Tobago defender Jamali Garcia will play no further path in the Tetron Boys (9 points) attempt of a fourth First Citizens Cup after suffering a broken leg early on during his teams 3-0 win over Club Sando FC to top the group with on a superior goal difference.
Two-time former winners Central (9 points) defeated San Juan Jabloteh (1 point) 2-1 in the opening game of the night to overtake Club Sando (7 points) for top spot in the group and mounted the pressure on last seasons defeated finalists Defence Force who sat third with 6 points before kickoff against the Oranges.
But the Marvin Gordon-coached Defence Force, despite having Garcia whisked off by ambulance on 15 minutes and in a must-win situation, produced the comfortable win through goals from versatile attacker Dylon King, Hashim Harlim Arcia from the spot, and a sublime finish from substitute Reon Moore against a Sando side that needed just a draw to progress.
The Angus Eve-coached Sando fell behind on the half-hour mark when King, with what is becoming his trademark strike, curled a shot into the far netting from the top left side of the box for his fourth goal of the competition after goalkeeper Kelvin Henry had made a brilliant stop to blank Arica from point-blank range.
Arica, however, redeemed himself from the penalty spot when he wrong-sided Henry to cushion Defence Force in the 78th minute after veteran forward Devorn Jorsling was brought down in the box by Sando hard man Trevin Latapy.
Brent Sam had moments before skied a wonderful opportunity overbar after creating space for himself in the Sando penalty area, before Jorsling troubled the glove of Henry who dropped low to spoon the ball out.
Moore, who replaced King just over the hour mark, then sealed the 3-0 result six minutes from time with an audacious finishhitting from the end lineto beat Henry who had, perhaps in anticipation that the speedy attacker would feed a short cross, rushed off his line.
Much earlier on the night, Duane Muckette and Keron Cummings had done enough to cushion two-time former champions Central before Jomoul Overcome Francois scored a consolation item for Jabloteh, who must contest 30 remaining minutes against MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers (who lead 2-0 before torrential rain fall suspended play last Tuesday) from 6pm next Tuesday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Muckette broke a deadlock from a free kick which beat Jabloteh keeper Shemel Louison on 56 minutes after he was brought down on top the box.
Cummings then cushioned the Stern John-coached Couva Sharks six minutes later with a rasping finish from the right before Francois pulled a goal back for Jabloteh with a low drive past goalkeeper Marvin Phillipillip in the 76th minute on the other end.
But Phillip, a former Trinidad and Tobago shot-stopper, produced a brilliant stoppage-time save, putting Raymond Alleynes header over bar to guarantee Central a place in the semi-finals by the final whistle.
The semi-final opponents of Defence Force and Central can be determined by todays (Saturday) Abercrombie Group double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium with Police FC taking on Point Fortin Civic from 4pm and eight-time champions W Connection against Morvant Caledonia United from 6pm.
The Abercrombie Group winners will meet the Immortelle Group runners-up and vice versa for a place in the final on July 20.
Police, Civic and Connection are all tied on 6 points, while Morvant Caledonia (3 points) can also progress, but must start with a win against the Savonetta Boys today before facing the Lawmen in their rescheduled game on Tuesday from 7pm at Hasely Crawford Stadium.
First Citizens Cup 2018 Results
Central FC 2 (Duane Muckette 56, Keron Cummings 62) vs San Juan Jabloteh 1 (Jomoul Francois 76), at Hasely Crawford Stadium;
Defence Force FC 3 (Dylon King 30, Hashim Arica 78 pen., Reon Moore 84), vs Club Sando 0, at Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Teams
Game 1
Central FC: 1.Marvin Phillip (GK), 5.Dwight Pope, 7.Kirston Baird (8.Akim Armstrong 62nd minute), 10.Keron Cummings, 12.Taryk Sampson, 13.Rhondel Gibson, 15.Kaydion Gabriel (27.Anthony Charles 79th minute), 22.Jameel Neptune, 19.Jared London, 24.Duane Muckette, 29.Kerry Baptiste (26.Dominic Douglas 79th minute).
Coach: Stern John
San Juan Jabloteh: 30.Shemel Louison (GK); 4.Nical Stephens (14.Tyrese Bailey 60th minute), 5.Raymond Alleyne, 10.Jomoul Francois, 12.Keron Bethelmy (13.Kristoff John 67th minute), 15.Dellon Jagessar (6.Josiah Baird 74th minute), 16.Jamal Spencer, 17.Sean Bonval, 18.Jevon Morris, 20.Kareem Baptiste, 24.Kareem Eastman.
Unused substitutes: 1.Christopher Biggette (GK); 6.Josiah Baird, 8.Xae-Pierre Defou, 22.Adrian Martyr.
Coach: Keith Jeffrey
Game 2
Defence Force FC: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK); 3.Jamali Garcia (5.Jerome Mc Intyre 16th minute), 4.Dave Long (20.Levi Serries 74th minute), 8.Brent Sam, 9.Devorn Jorsling, 10.Hashim Arica, 17.Curtis Gonzales, 21.Aklie Edwards, 45.Dylon King (18.Reon Moore 66th minute), 99.Jerwyn Balthazar.
Unused substitutes: 1.Andre Marchan (GK); 11.Dwight Quintero, 16.Kellon Serrette, 24.Shaquille Holder.
Club Sando: 34.Kelvin Henry (GK); 5.Trevin Latapy, 6.Kemuel Rivers, 7.Akeem Humphrey (40.Isa Bramble 84th minute), 8.Kevon Piper (18.Aaron Kennedy 79th minute), 10.Keron Cornwall, 11.Russell Alfred (19.Quinn Rodney 53rd minute), 12.Michael Basdeo, 13.Shakiyl Phillip, 23.Nicholas Thomas, 27.Jayson Joseph (Capt.).
Unused substitutes: 1.Stefan Berkley (GK); 14.Kadeem Gittens, 38.Declan Marcelle, 39.Renaldo Mc Intosh.
Coach: Angus Eve
Immortelle Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Defence Force FC 4 3 0 1 15 4 11 9
2 Central FC 4 3 0 1 7 4 3 9
3 Club Sando 4 2 1 1 4 4 0 7
4 San Juan Jabloteh 3 0 1 2 1 6 -5 1
5 MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 3 0 0 3 2 11 -9 0
Abercrombie Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Police FC 2 2 0 0 6 1 5 6
2 Point Fortin Civic 3 2 0 1 8 5 3 6
3 W Connection 3 2 0 1 5 3 2 6
4 Morvant Caledonia United 2 1 0 1 3 2 1 3
5 North East Stars 4 0 0 4 2 13 -11 0
Post by: Flex on July 08, 2018, 02:57:36 AM
ttproleague.com.
Defence Force FC and Trinidad and Tobago defender Jamali Garcia is likely to miss the rest of the 2018 Pro League season after suffering a fractured tibia and dislocated ankle to his left leg during Fridays First Citizens Cup group clash with Club Sando at Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Garcia, who went to ground on 13 minutes, had to be whisked off by ambulance before his team went on to defeat Club Sando 3-0 to advance into the semi-finals as Immortelle Group winners ahead of runners-up Central by a superior goal difference.
My [immediate] thought was my ankle is broken, the 26-year-old Garcia recalls. I heard the crack. Im not sure who tackled me but my foot was planted when it happened.
From the ground I looked down to my ankle and saw it was in an unusual shape. Even more I thought, its broken.
X-rays done at St. James Medical Complex later revealed Garcias ankle was dislocated but his tibia was fractured and not broken as previously reported, but the defender could be out for six months, bringing a premature end to his 2018 season.
Garcia was later transferred to the Port of Spain General Hospital where his bones were moved back into place in the ankle area without surgery and an orthopaedic cast was done on his leg. He remains warded at the hospital awaiting further prognosis.
I was told the doctor will be in tomorrow (Sunday) morning. So Im waiting to have a better idea of how long I might be out (of action).
This is a downer for me because as a footballer you want to always be playing. But I am confident I will do whats necessary to return stronger.
Defence Force have three wins from four games this season and Garcia believes his teammates can do the necessary to continue the great start to the season.
The Tetron Boys, coached by Marvin Gordon, are two wins away from a fourth First Citizens Cup and could know their semi-final opponents after todays (Saturday) Abercrombie Group double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium with Police FC taking on Point Fortin Civic from 4pm and W Connection against Morvant Caledonia United from 6pm.
Post by: Flex on July 09, 2018, 03:24:07 AM
ttproleague.com.
First-half goals by Kareem Joseph and Jair Edwards lifted Morvant Caledonia United within a draw of progressing to the semi-finals of the 2018 First Citizens Cup after defeating holders and eight-time champions W Connection 2-1 in the second game of an Abercrombie Group double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium on Saturday.
Morvant Caledonias faith however lies in their own hands, as a loss against leaders Police FC in their rescheduled clash from 7pm on Tuesday at Hasely Crawford Stadium will introduce the tiebreaker to determine which team will advance against Immortelle Group winners Defence Force FC on July 13, with Connection tied on 6 points.
Point Fortin Civic are also on six points but Reynold Carringtons sides chances of progressing were dashed by a 3-0 defeat against Police in the first game of Saturdays double-header in Couva. The result reduced Civics goal difference to 0, while Morvant Caledonia and Connection are ahead with +2 and +1 respectively.
Police, as it stands, with maximum nine points and a superior goal difference (+8), will progress as Abercrombie Group winners to face Immortelle Group runners-up Central FC in the semis.
Todd Ryan and Christian Thomas cushioned the Richard Hood-coached Police early in the first half before Kareem Freitas completed the third straight win with a late penalty.
Civics custodian Miles Goodman was left beaten by a deflected Ryan strike after just five minutes against the Lawmen.
Thomas then doubled the Polices lead with his first top-flight goal for the Lawmen on 19 minutes after Goodman had made a clearance to his feet above the box.
Thomas, a wide attacker who joined from Malvern, was denied a second by the post as Police squandered further chances in the half.
Civic forward Nion Lammy was also denied by the upright seven minutes into the second half as his side gave everything in search of a comeback.
But Freitas, for his fourth goal of the tournament, put the match out of the Point Fortin clubs reach three minutes from the end when he hit down the middle from the spot to beat Goodman after referee Nicholai Nyron gave a penalty for handball in the box by Jamal John.
Moments earlier, Hughtun Hector had stepped up to the spot on the opposite end after Akinola Gregory was brought down in the area by Police defender Ryan ONeil, but the former Trinidad and Tobago midfielder skied his attempt overbar with current national goalkeeper Adrian Foncette between the sticks for Police.
In the second game of the afternoon referee Cecile Hinds was also forced to award a penalty to either side, but it was some fine goalkeeping and possible man-of-the-match performance by Morvant Caledonias Terrence Lewis that stood out against his former club, Connection.
Joseph (K), Morvant Caledonias veteran utility player and captain, took advantage of his teams chance from the spot when he fired sharply beyond Connection goalkeeper Julani Archibald for a 1-0 lead on 26 minutes after lightening-paced attacker Quincy Ballah was bundled to ground in the box by two defenders.
Edwards doubled Morvant Caledonias lead 2-0 two minutes from the break when he struck past Archibald from close up after a Ballah effort was kept out.
Morvant Caledonia with their fierce attacking could have gone in with at the half with an even bigger advantage had it not been for the intervention of Archibald who had done brilliantly to deny Sedale Mc Lean twice in the first half.
Connection however sliced the deficit six minutes into the second half through Marcus Joseph who entered play at the restart and had been denied by the post less than a minute on the pitch.
Lewis, who had denied Connection forward Adan Noel in the 40th minute, was unable to stop Joseph (M) from celebrating his fourth goal of the tournament with a powerful strike. But the Morvant Caledonia keeper matched a penalty strike by Connection captain Gerard Williams four minutes later and preserved his teams 2-1 result with a crucial save near the final whistle.
First Citizens Cup 2018 Results
Police FC 3 (Todd Ryan 5, Christian Thomas 19, Kareem Freitas 87 pen.) v Point Fortin Civic 0, at Ato Boldon Stadium;
W Connection 1 (Marcus Joseph 51) vs Morvant Caledonia United 2 (Kareem Joseph 26 pen., Jair Edwards 43), at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Teams
Game 1
Police FC: 18.Adrian Foncette (GK) (Capt.); 3.Ryan ONeil, 5.Kenaz Williams, 7.Kareem Perry (33.Kemron Purcell 59th minute), 8.Kurdell Brathwaite, 9.Jameel Perry (32.Keion Wilson 71st minute), 10.Kareem Freitas, 12.Nequan Caruth, 15.Christian Thomas, 21.Todd Ryan (25.Kaashif Thomas 65th minute), 29.Clevon Mc Fee.
Unused substitutes: 22.Theon Browne (GK); 4.Kadeem Boyce, 11.Micah Lewis, 36.Kadeem Riley.
Coach: Richard Hood
Point Fortin Civic: 22.Miles Goodman (GK); 7.Hughtun Hector (Capt.), 8.Jamal John, 11.Akeem Redhead (25.Shaquille Dublin 69th minute), 14.Shaquille John (24.Akinola Gregory 30th minute), 19.Nathaniel Garcia, 20.Bevon Bass, 21.Ronell Paul, 30.Nion Lammy, 33.Justin Sadoo, 99.Steven Joseph (9.Jared Bennett 84th minute).
Unused substitutes: 1.Jasse Aguillerra (GK); 5.Justin Cornwall, 15.Nideon Noel, 26.Jeremiah Kesar.
Coach: Reynold Carrington
Referee: Nicholai Nyron
Game 2
W Connection: 18.Julani Archibald (GK), 2.Kurt Frederick, 3.Gerard Williams, 4.Maurice Ford, 6.Kevon Goddard (8.Jameel Antoine 69th minute), 9.Kadeem Corbin, 11.Adan Noel (99.Marcus Joseph 46th minute), 15.Otev Lawrence, 19.Briel Thomas, 20.Daniel Diaz, 23.Kennedy Hinkson.
Unused substitutes: 33.Jason Belfon (GK); 34.Cephas St. Rose.
Technical Director/Head Coach: Stuart Charles-Fevrier
Morvant Caledonia United: 1.Terrence Lewis (GK); 3.Richard Williams, 5.Joshua Sylvester, 9.Sedale Mc Lean (10.Sheldon Holder 84th minute), 11.Quincy Ballah (16.Travell Edwards 71st minute), 12.Kareem Joseph (Capt.), 15.Malik Mieres, 17.Kerry Daniel, 22.Joshua Alexander, 26.Jair Edwards (19.Ronaldo Francois 77th minute), 28.Jomokie Cassimy.
Unused substitutes: 30.Dejourn Charles (GK); 23.Osaze Springer, 25.Joshua Martin.
Coach: Jerry Moe
Referee: Cecile Hinds
Immortelle Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Defence Force FC 4 3 0 1 15 4 11 9
2 Central FC 4 3 0 1 7 4 3 9
3 Club Sando 4 2 1 1 4 4 0 7
4 San Juan Jabloteh 3 0 1 2 1 6 -5 1
5 MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 3 0 0 3 2 11 -9 0
Abercrombie Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Police FC 3 3 0 0 9 1 8 9
2 Morvant Caledonia United 3 2 0 1 5 3 2 6
3 W Connection 4 2 0 2 6 5 1 6
4 Point Fortin Civic 4 2 0 2 8 8 0 6
5 North East Stars 4 0 0 4 2 13 -11 0
Post by: Flex on July 12, 2018, 12:43:10 AM
ttproleague.com.
Sedale Mc Lean scored one and set up another turned in by Renaldo Francois to earn two-time former First Citizens Cup champions Morvant Caledonia United a 2-0 win over a second-string Police FC outfit on Tuesday night to reach the 2018 semi-finals against last seasons defeated finalists Defence Force FC.
Francois put the 2011 and 2012 champions, Morvant Caledonia, in front on 13 minutes in the rescheduled fixture at the Hasely Crawford Stadium when he turned Mc Leans right side cross past Theon Browne before Mc Lean drilled a low shot beyond the Police second choice keeper and into the far netting in the 35th minute for a 2-0 cushion which lasted to the final whistle.
Morvant Caledonia (9 points), who virtually knocked out W Connection last Saturday after edging the holders and eight-time champions 2-1, finished second behind Abercrombie Group winners Police FC only by goal difference.
The Jerry Moe-coached Morvant Caledonia must now face Immortelle Group winners and 2002, 2009 and 2016 champions Defence Force in the first match of a semi-final double-header at the Hasely Crawford Stadium from 6pm on Friday before Police FC and Immortelle Group runners-up Central FC, champions of 2013 and 2014, lock horns from 8pm.
Police head coach Richard Hood, certain his team will progress as group winners due to their superior goal difference, used the Morvant Caledonia contest to field a number of non-starters, among them, Travis Joseph, Keion Wilson and Kemron Purcell and the return of left-back Dexter Alleyne and former Pro League top scorer Makesi Lewis.
Lewis, who missed the last two seasons as a result of a broken leg, was used off the bench, but it was forward Wilson, toting the captaincy on the night, who failed to fire the Lawmen in front after just five minutes.
Morvant Caledonia goalkeeper Terrence Lewis was brilliant, getting glove to the forwards point blank effort before defender Malik Mieres charged down the rebound effort by Kadeem Riley.
The Morvant Caledonia shot-stopper was on top of his game whenever called upon, even producing a superb reflex-save on the half-hour mark before Mc Lean doubled the lead on the other end.
Francois, however, could have ended the night with a double to his name but was denied by the upright in the 78th minute following a neat feed by substitute Sheldon Holder before a rebound effort by substitute Joshua Alexander was blocked out by the Police defence.
Another chance fell to Francois two minutes later but smashed a left-footed strike overbar from just inside the penalty area.
Earlier on the night, MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers celebrated a 2-1 win over San Juan Jabloteh after contesting the remaining 30 minutes of their contest which was suspended on the hour mark due to torrential rain in the capital city on July 1.
The contest only stood a matter of formality as both sides were unable to avoid a bottom-two finish.
Sean Bonval pulled a goal back for Jabloteh in the 70th minute but the Adrian Romain coached-Rangers, despite a failed penalty strike by Jamal Gay two minutes later, held on for their first win of the season after four attempts thanks to first half goals by Saleem Henry (40) and Allister Bernard (42) on July 1.
First Citizens Cup 2018 Results
San Juan Jabloteh 1 (Sean Bonval 70) vs MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 2 (Saleem Henry 40 pen., Allister Bernard 42), at Hasely Crawford Stadium;
Morvant Caledonia United 2 (Renaldo Francois 13, Sedale Mc Lean 35) v Police FC 0, at Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Semi-Final Round Upcoming Games.
(Friday 13 July 2018)
Defence Force vs Morvant Caledonia United, 6pm at Hasely Crawford Stadium;
Police FC vs Central FC, 8pm at Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Teams
Morvant Caledonia United: 1.Terrence Lewis (GK) (Capt.); 3.Richard Williams, 5.Joshua Sylvester, 9.Sedale Mc Lean (10.Sheldon Holder 74th minute), 11.Quincy Ballah (23.Osaze Springer 66th minute), 12.Kareem Joseph (22.Joshua Alexander 66th minute), 15.Malik Mieres, 16.Travell Edwards, 17.Kerry Daniel, 19.Renaldo Francois, 28.Jomokie Cassimy.
Unused substitutes: 30.Dejourn Charles (GK); 25.Joshua Martin, 26.Jair Edwards.
Coach: Jerry Moe
Police FC: 22.Theon Browne (GK); 2.Jasimar Ashers, 4.Kadeem Boyce, 11.Micah Lewis (38.Makesi Lewis 69th minute), 17.Dexter Alleyne, 19.Christon Thomas (23.Shakuile Williams 63rd minute), 25.Kaashif Thomas, 26.Travis Joseph, 32.Keion Wilson (Capt.), 33.Kemron Purcell, 36.Kadeem Riley (13.Dillon Kirton 53rd minute).
Unused substitutes: 18.Adrian Foncette (GK); 15.Christian Thomas, 24.Xavier Wheeler, 27.Brandon Charles.
Coach: Richard Hood
Referee: Cecile Hinds
Immortelle Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Defence Force FC 4 3 0 1 15 4 11 9
2 Central FC 4 3 0 1 7 4 3 9
3 Club Sando 4 2 1 1 4 4 0 7
4 MIC-IT St. Anns Rangers 4 1 0 3 4 12 -8 3
5 San Juan Jabloteh 4 0 1 3 2 8 -6 1
Abercrombie Group
Rank Team MP W D L GF GA GD Pts.
1 Police FC 4 3 0 1 9 3 6 9
2 Morvant Caledonia United 4 3 0 1 7 3 4 9
3 W Connection 4 2 0 2 6 5 1 6
4 Point Fortin Civic 4 2 0 2 8 8 0 6
5 North East Stars 4 0 0 4 2 13 -11 0
Post by: Flex on July 15, 2018, 12:47:14 AM
ttproleague.com.
Central FC - The Sharks trashed the idea of an all-servicemen final of the 2018 First Citizens Cup, but did so via a marathon penalty shootout with Police FC to win 7-6 following a 1-1 draw on Friday night.
Marvin Phillip proved one better than his Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeping teammate Adrian Foncette when his second save of the shootout to deny Police winger Kareem Perry in sudden death sent the Couva Sharks into the final against Defence Force FC, who had earlier clobbered Morvant Caledonia United 4-0 in the first game of the semi-final double-header at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Brent Sam scored twice for three-time (2002, 2009 & 2016) champions Defence Force, separated by the half and goal from team captain Jerwyn Balthazar goal, after Hashim Arcia had first put the Tetron Boys in front against the two-time (2011 & 2012) former champions Morvant Caledonia.
But for Central, the 2013 and 2014 champions, booking a place in 2018 final which kicks off from 7pm at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Friday 20 July required a gritty performance, a handful of yellow cards conceded, a Duane Muckette equaliser, and the heroics of Phillip between the sticks in the deciding penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw.
Police, coached by Richard Hood, had taken the lead through Kareem Freitas after 12 minutes when he put a right side Kareem Perry cross past Phillip, to go level with Defence Forces Sam on five goals as the 2018 editions joint leading scorers.
That lead lasted till the 70th minute when Muckette, free in the heart of the Police penalty area, levelled the Stern John-coached Central with a solid finish past Foncette off a hard-worked Anthony Wolfe cross from the left.
Police, however, tossed victory to the wind when substitute Keion Wilson lifted a low Nequan Caruth crosswhich had goal written all over itover bar from inside the six-yard area and the goal at his mercy in stoppage time.
The Lawmen paid the price of defeat in the deciding penalty shootout although Todd Ryan, Kurdell Brathwaite, Ryan ONeil, Kareem Freitas, Dexter Alleyne and Wilson were clinical from the spot.
Clevon Mc Fee and Kareem Perry were denied by Centrals Phillip during the marathon kicks while Foncette only managed to deny Muckette.
Kerry Baptiste, Wolfe, Keron Cummings, Akim Armstrong, Taryk Sampson, Dwight Pope and Jared London all hit the back of the target for Central, who face an even bigger challenge against Defence Force in the title match.
The Marvin Gordon-coached Defence Force took a 1-0 lead against Morvant Caledonia in the 29th minute through Arcia, who from inside the right of the box, drilled a low shot past the frame of goalkeeper Terrence Lewis and into the far bottom corner.
Lewis later acrobatically put behind a strike from Sam who had held off two challenges in the box before letting off the left-footed shot.
But Sam celebrated his first on the night three minutes from the break with low drive into Lewis far bottom corner. The lanky forward completed his double and his teams 4-0 win from close up in the 83rd minute after Balthazar had turned in a short feed from substitute Kellon Serrette two minutes earlier.
The win means First Citizens Cup final number 10 for the Army/Coast Guard combination.
First Citizens Cup 2018 Semi-Final Round Results
Defence Force FC 4 (Hashim Arcia 29, Brent Sam 42, 83, Jerwyn Balthazar 81) vs Morvant Caledonia United 0, at Hasely Crawford Stadium;
Police FC 1 (Kareem Freitas 12) vs Central FC 1 (Duane Muckette 70), at Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Central won 7-6 on penalties
Central FC 7 v Police FC 6
Kerry Baptiste (scored) - Todd Ryan (scored)
Anthony Wolfe (scored) - Kerdell Brathwaite (scored)
Keron Cummings (scored) - Ryan ONeil (scored)
Akim Armstrong (scored) - Clevon Mc Fee (saved)
Duane Muckette (saved) - Kareem Freitas (scored)
Taryk Sampson (scored) - Dexter Alleyne (scored)
Dwight Pope (scored) - Keion Wilson (scored)
Jared London (scored) - Kareem Perry (saved)
First Citizens Cup Final
(Friday 20 July 2018)
Defence Force FC vs Central FC, 7pm, Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Teams
Semi-Final One
Defence Force FC: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK); 4.Dave Long (20.Levi Serries 69th minute), 5.Jerome Mc Intyre, 6.Rodell Elcock, 8.Brent Sam, 9.Devorn Jorsling (16.Kellon Serrette 78th minute), 10.Hashim Arcia, 17.Curtis Gonzales, 21.Aklie Edwards, 45.Dylon King (18.Reon Moore 56th minute), 99.Jerwyn Balthazar (Capt.).
Unused substitutes: 1.Andre Marchan (GK); 11.Dwight Quintero, 12.Jemel Sebro, 32.Jameel Cooper.
Coach: Marvin Gordon
Morvant Caledonia United: 1.Terrence Lewis (GK); 3.Richard Williams, 5.Joshua Sylvester, 9.Sedale Mc Lean (26.Jair Edwards 61st minute), 11.Quincy Ballah (10.Sheldon Holder 70th minute), 12.Kareem Joseph (Capt.), 15.Malik Mieres, 16.Travell Edwards (22.Joshua Alexander 46th minute), 17.Kerry Daniel, 19.Renaldo Francois, 28.Jomokie Cassimy.
Unused substitutes: 30.Dejourn Charles (GK); 23.Osaze Springer, 25.Joshua Martin.
Coach: Jerry Moe
Referee: Crystal Sobers
Semi-Final Two
Police FC: 18.Adrian Foncette (GK) (Capt.), 3.Ryan ONeil, 5.Kenaz Williams, 7.Kareem Perry (32.Keion Wilson 80th minute), 8.Kurdell Brathwaite, 9.Jameel Perry, 10.Kareem Perry, 12.Nequan Caruth, 15.Christian Thomas (17.Dexter Alleyne 60th minute), 21.Todd Ryan, 29.Clevon Mc Fee.
Unused substitutes: 22.Theon Browne (GK); 4.Kadeem Boyce, 23.Shakuile Williams, 25.Kaashif Thomas, 38.Mekesi Lewis.
Coach: Richard Hood
Central FC: 1.Marvin Phillip (GK); 5.Dwight Pope, 8.Akim Armstrong, 12.Taryk Sampson, 13.Rhondel Gibson (26.Dominic Douglas 75th minute), 15.Kaydion Gabriel (29.Kerry Baptiste 93rd minute), 17.Anthony Wolfe, 18.Densill Theobald (Capt.) (10.Keron Cummings 44th minute), 22.Jameel Neptune, 19.Jared London, 24.Duane Muckette.
Unused substitutes: 27.Anthony Charles.
Coach: Stern John
Referee: Rodphin Harris
Post by: Flex on July 18, 2018, 12:48:11 AM
By Joel Bailey (Newsday).
CENTRAL FC coach Stern John is anticipating a difficult final against Defence Force on Friday in the TT Pro Leagues First Citizens Cup but has urged his players to believe in themselves. The final will be staged at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo, starting at 7 pm.
In the semi-final round last Friday at the Mucurapo venue, Central FC needed kicks from the penalty spot to defeat Police 7-6, after a 1-1 scoreline at the end of regulation time. Defence Force, in the earlier semi, breezed past Morvant Caledonia United 4-0.
John, the highest goal-scorer in TT football history with 70 goals from 115 international matches, is in his first full season as Central FC coach, after Dale Saunders resigned midway during the 2017 season.
In a telephone interview on Monday, John said, I think for us, we just have to believe. I (told) the players they have a lot of ability. We just need to believe in what we can do and be patient.
The ex-Columbus Crew, Nottingham Forest and Coventry City striker noted, We couldnt ask for any better of them.
Theyve carried out instructions really well and if we continue, I think we have a good chance of winning the final.
Itll be a difficult final but we have a chance once we apply ourselves and do what we have to do, and not worry about what the opponents (are) doing.
Looking back at last Fridays semi-final, John acknowledged, Police were playing to their strength, playing the ball long to (Jameel) Perry and its a difficult ball to deal with.
John noted that his team worked in training on dealing with Polices long-ball strategy, and they were able to combat that plan by maintaining possession of the ball, especially in the second half.
He added, We stuck to the plan really well and got ourselves back into the game. It was an even game in the end.
I saw the guys kick penalties the day before and I wasnt panicking. I know they would do a good job and I know Marvin (Phillip) wouldve come up with some good saves as well. Were in the final on Friday so we look forward to it.
John has commended his players for their efforts thus far this season, despite the clubs financial struggles.
It has been difficult, especially as a young manager in the business, said the current TT mens team assistant coach. We all know the financial problem we have in the league.
As a young manager who is preparing as (best) possible the night before, when he shows up expecting to have 18 players, sometimes we have (about) 10 players, because of the fact that the players have no money to come to training and we have no money to pay them.
John said the club has implemented a few fund-raising measures to assist the players.
Post by: Tallman on July 21, 2018, 07:37:29 AM
T&T Pro League Media
Central FC on Friday night defeated Defence Force FC 4-2 on penalties following a gripping 2-2 contest which included extra time in the 2018 First Citizens Cup final at the Hasely Crawford Stadium to reunite with the trophy they won back-to-back in 2013 and 2014.
Discarded Trinidad and Tobago midfielder Keron Cummings scored two skilfully executed goals and displayed brilliant individual skill, most notably a nutmeg and scoop to evade two defenders midway through the second half of extra time, before T&T goalkeeper and eventual tournament MVP Marvin Phillip proved huge between the sticks on the deciding penalty kicks.
Phillips presence in goal saw two rising talents of T&T football, Dylon King and Reon Moore, fail to hit the back of the net on Defence Forces second and third kick respectively, while Kerry Baptiste, Akim Armstrong and Cummings were on target for Central before Duane Muckette celebrated the winning kick.
Hashim Arcia and Brent Sam scored for Defence Force in the shootout while teammate and goalkeeper Sheldon Clarke made a save to deny Couva Sharks defender Taryk Sampson on the fourth, but even that wasnt enough to avoid the three-time champions a second consecutive runners-up finish after losing to W Connection in last years final.
They (Defence Force) thought they could have just showed up and beat us, said Central FC coach Stern John afterwards. [But] we came and we fought tooth and nail. All (our) boys worked their socks off and we won the game. At the end of the night we were the better team and we deserved the win.
Football is not a game of talking. You have to walk the walk and talk the talk. You cant just talk it, you have to play the football.
John praised his players for showing character through the clubs financial difficulties and after the disappointment of failing to qualify out of the Caribbean Club Championship earlier this year for the Concacaf League.
Cummings fired Central in front 1-0 three minutes from the end of the first half, breaking the deadlock with a left-footed strike to find Clarkes bottom right corner after collecting a squared Armstrong pass inside the box and shaking off two challengers.
But with champagne on ice, Defence Force stormed back in the second half with two quick goals just over the hour mark.
King beat a fully stretched Phillip from inside the box off a short Devorn Jorsling feed in the 64th minute to level Defence Force 1-1 with his fifth goal of the tournament to finish joint top scorer with teammate Sam and Police FC forward Kareem Freitas.
Two minutes later Jorsling led another goal celebration after bundling substitute Moores cross over the line to put the Marvin Gordon coached-Tetron Boys in front 2-1 and the crowded Port of Spain venue exploded once more on the backdrop of the rhythm section.
Jorsling was cheered off moments later after Gordons decision to replace the legs of the veteran and all-time Pro League top scorer with Dwight Quintero.
But Cummings, who had first sent his calling card on the half-hour mark with a free kick that flew inches wide of Clarkes far top corner, levelled Central 2-2 with his second goal on the night a beauty of a volley from distance in the 84th minute, seconds after T&T national defender Curtis Gonzales had to make a dramatic clearance at the Defence Force goalmouth.
Cummings, ahead of the awards ceremony, said his display was to signal to T&T senior team coach Dennis Lawrence that he is fully fit and ready for a national recall.
() knowing coming out and putting a good performance against this [Defence Force team], people [will] see that I am not [still] injured and I am working hard to get back on the national team, added the 30-year-old midfielder, who was shot in the leg in December 2015 at the prime of his career and at a time he had interests from clubs in the United States.
This (First Citizens Cup final) was the ideal game to come and work to try and get a good result and it happened.
Cummings, who played for North East Stars and second-tier club Diego Martin/Petit Valley United before returning to Central this year, said he wants to build on his First Citizens Cup performance. He said his confidence will grow with more games.
Cummings also rocked the crossbar in the first minute of extra time before Phillips 109th-minute save to deny Moore was vital in sending the decider into kicks from the spot, which eventually favoured the Couva Sharks.
Phillip, one of the heroes of the final, had also made a diving save two minutes from the end to keep out a strike from King to deny Defence Force victory at the death of regular time in what will be remembered as one of the most exciting First Citizens Cup finals which had loads of giveaways including a TT$5,000 kick-for-cash, a flat screen television, a security camera system, and a closing performance from new artiste Sejoux Leo Star.
First Citizens Cup 2018 Final
Defence Force FC 2 (Dylon King 64, Devorn Jorsling 66) vs Central FC 2 (Keron Cummings 42, 84), at Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Central won 4-2 on kicks from the penalty mark
Central FC 4 Defence Force FC 2
Kerry Baptiste (scored) Hashim Harlim Arcia (scored)
Akim Armstrong (scored) Dylon King (missed)
Keron Cummings (scored) Reon Moore (hit the bar)
Taryk Sampson (saved) Brent Sam (scored)
Duane Muckette (scored)
Teams
Defence Force FC: 25.Sheldon Clarke (GK); 4.Dave Long (18.Reon Moore 17th minute), 5.Jerome Mc Intyre, 6.Rodell Elcock, 8.Brent Sam, 9.Devorn Jorsling (11.Dwight Quintero 76th minute), 10.Hashim Arcia, 17.Curtis Gonzales, 21.Aklie Edwards, 45.Dylon King, 99.Jerwyn Balthazar (Capt.).
Unused substitutes: 1.Andre Marchan (GK); 12.Jemel Sebro, 16.Kellon Serrette, 20.Levi Serries, 32.Jameel Cooper.
Coach: Marvin Gordon.
Central FC: 1.Marvin Phillip (GK); 5.Dwight Pope, 8.Akim Armstrong, 10.Keron Cummings, 12.Taryk Sampson, 13.Rhondel Gibson (29.Kerry Baptiste 68th minute), 15.Kaydion Gabriel, 19.Jared London (27.Anthony Charles 114th minute), 22.Jameel Neptune, 24.Duane Muckette (Capt.), 26.Dominic Douglas (7.Kirston Baird 58th minute).
Unused substitutes: 18.Densill Theobald.
Coach: Stern John.
Match Officials
Referee: Cecile Hinds
Assistant Referee 1: Caleb Wales
Assistant Referee 2: Kevin Lewis
Fourth Official: Nicholai Nyron
Referees Assessor: Boni Bishop
Match Commissioner: Natasha Hinkson
Post by: Flex on July 23, 2018, 04:26:43 AM
By Joel Bailey (Newsday).
VICTORIOUS coach of 2018 First Citizens Cup winners Central FC, Stern John, is hungry for more silverware in his new role on the sidelines. The legendary 40-year-old ex-national striker is the all-time leading TT international scorer with 70 goals from 115 appearances.
John is in his first full season as Central FC coach, having replaced ex-national teammate Dale Saunders midway into the 2017 campaign. And he won his first title as coach on Friday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo, as Central FC defeated Defence Force 4-2 via kicks from the penalty spot. The scores were locked at 2-2 at the end of 120 minutes of regulation and injury time.
Im feeling good, said John. Im hungry for success. I want to do well.
Hopefully I can continue my trade and apply (it) well because Im passionate about (TT) football and getting (it) back where its supposed to be, he added. Im one of the young coaches, Im going to make mistakes along the way but thats part of it. Im willing to learn.
Keron Cummings scored both goals for Central FC, in the 42nd and 83rd minutes. The goal-getters for Defence Force were Dylon King (64th) and Devorn Jorsling (65th).
John praised the mentality of the players, as they have been dealing with financial struggles for the past year.The last couple of years weve always been able to field some of the best in Trinidad and Tobago, he said. With the financial problem were having now, were at a rebuilding stage. I think for the team, theyve been working under real difficult conditions. We have to give the players a lot of credit.
Central FC were only able to field 15 players with no back-up goalkeeper to Marvin Phillip.
We have to grind it out, John said. If Marvin went down in the game, we wouldve been struggling. For what we had to work with and what weve done, I have to give credit to the boys.
He added, Army was talking about how 13 men cant beat them. These boys showed resilience, they showed passion and I say they deserve this 100 per cent.
Regular captain Densill Theobald was an unused sub and ex-national utility player Anthony Wolfe left for a contact in India.
According to John, Theobald, give credit to him. Hes one of the older players around and hes steadied the ship. He makes my job a lot easier. We have (youngsters) Rhondel (Gibson) and (Taryk) Sampson theyre really hungry for success and Im willing to work with them.
Post by: Flex on July 24, 2018, 03:23:45 AM
By Joel Bailey (Newsday).
CENTRAL FC goalkeeper Marvin Phillip said Fridays victory in the First Citizens Cup could not have been possible without the inspirational leadership of their captain Densill Theobald.
The club has been navigating through difficult times due to the economic downturn which has seen a mass exodus of players in the last couple years. Phillip praised captain Densill Theobald, who missed the final through injury, for lifting the spirits of players who have stuck around.
I got to thank Densill, the skipper, for holding the team, Phillip noted. (Myself) as well, but not as much as Densill. He says once we come onto the training pitch, once we decide to cross that white line, put everything besides us. Once we get back behind the white line, whatever problems we face well have to deal with it.
Central FC defeated Defence Force 4-2 courtesy kicks from the penalty spot, after a 2-2 scoreline at the end of regulation and extra time, to secure the First Citizens Cup title, in a tense final at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo.
Keron Cummings scored twice for Central FC on Frday in the 42nd and 83rd minutes. Dylon King (64th) and Devorn Jorsling (65th) replied for Defence Force.
Looking back at Fridays match, Phillip said, We lapsed for a couple minutes and thats when we conceded two goals. We buckled down as a team and said weve got to fight till the end. We kept on fighting and we got the equaliser. We stepped up in the penalties which we were confident in.
He is hopeful that this result can boost the team, ahead of the 2018 Pro League season which kicks off in August.
I want this to be a stepping stone for the club. We want to continue our hard work and try our best to win the league title, Phillip said.
Phillip said their cup victory compensated for the teams poor showing at the Caribbean Club Championships final stage two months ago in Jamaica.
At the Caribbean Club Championships, Central FC were beaten in all three matches 2-0 to Arnett Gardens in the semi-final, 2-1 to another Jamaican team Portmore United in the third-place match and, 2-1 to Martinique club Club Franciscain in a play-off.
Phillip, who rejoined Central FC after a stint with fellow Pro League team Point Fortin Civic, said, Its a great feeling for a player to win any title.
We, as a team, had buckled down after a horrendous trip to Jamaica. We had disappointed ourselves (and) our nation. So, we said, we definitely need to rebound.
Phillip added, We (were) working hard to come out and win this tournament. All the hard work paid off.
The 33-year-old has featured with various Pro League teams, including Starworld Strikers, North East Stars, W Connection, Joe Public, TTEC and Morvant Caledonia United. He is back at the club where he spent the 2012-2013 season.
Post by: g on July 24, 2018, 06:21:29 PM
Post by: Cocorite on July 24, 2018, 08:44:59 PM
Ballpest looked really good in the final, fitter, faster and high in confidence.
Good to hear. Would love to see him rebound and revamp his international career.
Post by: Flex on October 19, 2019, 12:42:23 AM
By Joel Bailey (Newsday).
INTERIM CHAIRMAN of the TT Pro League, Brent Sancho, said that the First Citizens Cup will kickstart the 2019-2020 Ascension Football League.
The tournament will be sponsored by Terminix Trinidad director Richard Ferguson and sport clothing brand Ascension.
Concerning the status of the league, which was due to kick off today, Sancho said yesterday, We plan to make an official announcement (today) as well as a launch next week of the First Citizens Cup.
Sancho, who is also the owner of former Pro League champions Central FC, said talks are still ongoing with the local governing body TT Football Association (TTFA) regarding the structure of the league, as well as its relationship with both Ascension and regional sports cable channel SportsMax.
Were still in discussions with the TTFA re the proposed Tier One and Tier Two, and we also have the contractual agreements with ourselves, Ascension and SportsMax being put together by our lawyers.
The former Sports Minister continued, Things are in stream. We (wouldnt) start as planned this weekend. We have put together a game to be played, the final of the (First Citizens) Cup in lieu of the deceased Jason Marcano.
The 35-year-old Marcano, the former St Anns Rangers, San Juan Jabloteh and Central FC midfielder/striker, died in a vehicular accident on May 30.
Asked when exactly the league would kick off, Sancho responded, We have the launch of the Cup and that will give all the indications as to what is the next step. All the information will be given subsequently as it relates to when the league will start etcetera.
Were excited to know that First Citizens has shown interest in partnering with us, Sancho added. We hope to have one or two pleasant surprises for spectators and fans alike.
Post by: Flex on October 24, 2019, 12:30:32 AM
By Walter Alibey (Guardian).
At long last, there will be professional football in T&T after almost a year of inactivity. The T&T Pro League will kick off with the First Citizens Cup tomorrow night at the Diego Martin Sports Complex in Bagatelle.
Twelve teams, including newcomers 1976 Tobago Phoenix, which the league sought as a representative team from the sister-isle, as well as Cunupia FC, the T&T Super League campaigners, will battle for a $75,000 cash prize, a trophy and bragging rights, which are currently being held by 2018 winners Central FC.
At a launch on Wednesday, Pro League Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Julia Baptiste said the teams - W Connection, North East Stars, Defence Force, Morvant Caledonia United, Police FC, Terminix La Horquetta Rangers, Tiger Tanks Club Sando, Point Fortin Civic, San Juan Jabloteh, Cunupia FC, 1976 Phoenix and Central FC, have been drawn in two groups - Immortelle and Abercrombie - of six teams each and they will play in a round-robin format, from which the top two teams will advance to the semifinals.
Baptiste noted that the seven-week First Citizens tournament will see all the Friday night matches being played at the Complex. Other matches, however, will be played at different venues across T&T.
According to Baptiste, the decision to take the Friday matches to the Diego Martin venue was to impact the many communities that exist there.
"These communities were being targeted for a while now, so we have decided to use this opportunity. We are taking top-flight football to the people who are interested in supporting their players and the sport," Baptiste explained.
A clash between Morvant Caledonia and Cunupia FC will get the tournament underway at 6 pm, following which the Defence Force and defending champions Central FC will meet at 8 pm.
The Cup tournament is scheduled to finish on December 7, after which the start of the Pro League will take place six days later (December 13). Baptiste said the restart of the Pro League has been a welcome one for the many players who are raring and ready to go.
It will run for seven rounds, ending on May 31, 2020 and it is expected to feature a high level of competition. Baptiste yesterday paid special tribute to First Citizens, noting they have been extremely supportive to them amid the financially difficult times.
The Pro League boss told the audience it was a long hard ride for top-flight football in T&T but they are finally here to start back the league.
2019 T&T Pro League Teams
W Connection, North East Stars, Defence Force, Morvant Caledonia United, Police FC, Terminix La Horquetta Rangers, Tiger Tanks Club Sando, Point Fortin Civic, San Juan Jabloteh, Cunupia FC, 1976 Phoenix and Central FC.
Post by: Tallman on October 27, 2019, 09:04:11 AM
By Nigel Simon (T&T Guardian)
Three-time winners Defence Force and Cunupia FC registered narrow 1-0 wins as the battle for the T&T Pro Leagues 2019 First Citizens Cup kicked off at the Diego Martin Sports Complex in Bagatelle, Diego Martin, on Friday night.
It was the first time that professional football was played in the Diego Martin community and the event was hailed as a step in the right direction towards guiding local clubs to wards a path of self-sustainability in the future. The fact that spectators were treated to two closely fought matches also helped that cause.
In the nights opener, Cunupia FC got a 53rd-minute strike from Ajani Clarence as they stunned two-time winners Morvant Caledonia AIA 1-0 in their Immortelle Group curtain-raiser.
And in the second match-up, last years beaten finalist Defence Force edged title-holders Central FC 1-0 courtesy a 25th-minute effort from Jameel Cooper in the Abercrombie group.
The tournament is being contested via a round-robin format with two groups of six teams each. At the end of the round-robin phase, the top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-final in which the winners of that round will earn the right to contest the $75,000 winners prize, while the runners-up with pocket $25,000.
Matches will resume tomorrow with double-headers at both the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo and Diego Martin Sporting Complex, both from 4 pm.
At Mucurapo, record eight-time winners W Connection plays Point Fortin Civic from 4 pm followed by Police against Terminix La Horquetta Rangers, while at Diego Martin, two-time winners San Juan Jabloteh battles 1976 Fc Tobago Phoenix from 4 pm followed by AC Port-of-Spain (formerly North East Stars) and Tiger Tanks Club Sando.
Meanwhile, the league competition will officially kick-off after close to a year of inactivity on December 13 and will eventually be called the Ascension Pro League, as member clubs and the Pro League board of directors have agreed to have Ascension sponsor the league this year, while discussions are still ongoing with SportsMax and the T&T Football Association to join.
Pro League officials are also considering a call to have the second-tier competition organised in time for the official start of the Pro League on December 13.
Scores:
Cunupia FC 1 (Ajani Clarence 53rd) v Morvant Caledonia AIA 0
Defence Force 1 (Jameel Cooper 25th) v Central FC 0
Immortelle Group: Tiger Tank Club Sando, Morvant Caledonia United, Cunupia FC, Athletic Club AC Port-of-Spain, San Juan Jabloteh, 1976 Phoenix,
Abercrombie Group: W Connection, Defence Force, Police FC, Terminix La Horquetta Rangers, Point Fortin Civic and Central FC
Upcoming matches:
Monday, October 28:
Venue: Diego Martin Sporting Complex, Diego Martin:
San Juan Jabloteh v 1976 FC Tobago Phoenix, 4pm
AC Port-of-Spain v Tiger Tanks Club Sando, 6pm
Venue: Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo:
W Connection v Pt Fortin Civic, 4pm
Police FC v Terminix La Horquetta Rangers, 6pm
Post by: Flex on October 30, 2019, 12:37:43 AM
By Nigel Simon (Guardian).
Record eight-time winners, W Connection and two-time champions San Juan Jabloteh both registered 3-0 win in their respective opening group campaigns when the 2019 First Citizens Cup of the T&T Pro League which continued with two double-headers on Monday.
At the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo, W Connection, winners of the last of their Cup titles in 2017, 3-1 over Defence Force, trounced Pt Fortin Civic 3-0 led by a goal each from national striker Shahdon Winchester (32nd), Mickaeel Gem Gordon (36th), and Neil Benjamin Jr (47th) to go top of the six-club round-robin Abercrombie Group, ahead of three-time winners Defence Force and Terminix La Horquetta Rangers, on goal-difference with all three clubs on three points each.
Terminix La Horquetta Rangers got the 50th-minute item from Jomoul Francois to beat Police FC, 1-0.
Down at the Diego Martin Sports Complex in Bagatelle, Diego Martin which hosted Friday's opening double-header, Jabloteh, who last won the competition in 2003 kicked off their tournament versus 1976 FC Phoenix with goals from national defender Carlyle Mitchell in the 37th, Under-20 national striker Jodel Brown in the 40th and Kadeem Hutchinson, in the 72nd.
The victory left Jabloteh as sole leaders of the Immortelle Group with three points after AC Port-of-Spain (formerly North East Stars), and Tiger Tanks Club Sando battled to a 1-1 draw in the night's second match.
John-Paul Rochford fired AC Port-of-Spain into a 72nd-minute lead, but Kemuel Rivers snatched an 89th-minute equaliser for Club Sando.
When the competition began on Friday, Cunupia FC got a 53rd-minute strike from Ajani Clarence to stun two-time winners Morvant Caledonia AIA 1-0 in their Immortelle Group curtain-raiser, and last year's beaten finalist Defence Force edged title-holders Central FC 1-0 courtesy a 25th-minute effort from Jameel Cooper in the Abercrombie group.
The tournament is being contested via a round-robin format with two groups of six teams each.
At the end of the round-robin phase, the top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-final in which the winners of that round will earn the right to contest the $75,000 winners' prize, while the runners-up with pocket $25,000.
Meanwhile, the league competition will officially kick-off the league after close to a year of inactivity on December 13, and will eventually be called the 'Ascension Pro League' as member clubs and the Board of Directors of the Pro League, have agreed to have Ascension sponsor it this year while discussions are still on-going with SportsMax and the T&T Football Association to join.
Pro League officials are also listening to the football association to have the Second Tier competition organised in time for the official start of the pro league on December 13.
MONDAY'S RESULTS
San Juan Jabloteh 3 (Carlyle Mitchell 37th, Jodel Brown 40th, Kadeem Hutchinson 72nd) vs 1976 FC Tobago Phoenix 0
AC Port-of-Spain 1 (John-Paul Rochford 72nd) vs Tiger Tanks Club Sando 1 (Kemuel Rivers 89th pen)
W Connection 3 (Shahdon Winchester 32nd, Mickaeel Gem Gordon 36th, Neil Benjamin 47th.) vs Pt Fortin Civic 0
Terminix La Horquetta Rangers 1 (Jomoul Francois 50th) vs Police FC 0
Latest Group Standings
Abercrombie Group
Teams*P*W*D*L*F*A*Pts
1. W Connection*1*1*0*0*3*0*3
2. Defence Force*1*1*0*0*1*0*3
3. L.H Rangers*1*1*0*0*1*0*3
4. Central FC*1*0*0*1*0*1*0
5. Police FC*1*0*0*1*0*1*0
6. Pt Fortin Civic*1*0*0*1*0*3*0
Immortelle Group
Teams*P*W*D*L*F*A*Pts
1. San Juan Jabloteh*1*1*0*0*3*0*3
2. Cunupia FC*1*1*0*0*1*0*1
3. AC PoS*1*0*1*0*1*1*1
4. Club Sando*1*0*1*0*1*1*1
5. Morvant Caledonia*1*0*0*1*0*1*0
6. Tobago Phoenix*1*0*0*1*0*3*0
Post by: Deeks on October 30, 2019, 01:22:48 AM
Are they playing in POS ?
Post by: asylumseeker on October 30, 2019, 05:59:11 AM
AC Port-of-Spain (formerly North East Stars)
Are they playing in POS ?
Who is the coach?
Post by: Tallman on October 30, 2019, 11:35:46 AM
AC Port-of-Spain (formerly North East Stars)
Are they playing in POS ?
Yes.
(https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/69947441_106848880695761_761832099144531968_o.jpg?_nc_cat=102&_nc_eui2=AeHRe9WVifpmpLRgvibPFXcuVHV4jbgakB9-hN_of-duN0cckCImoydXcOl7_1kMGO9Gg8IJU7PQFysKMBty_OCj43nCZqNf3Z2b81xu4wiQEw&_nc_oc=AQnzhFb4p9eYpH21Q-YsYrP1PZ710W0Gp8YpXsuX5mQj0gR4qRhZf8YxtZ7ALl3smbA&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=aec8fae9c330d14bbbc2413ec6df1c49&oe=5E656F47)
Post by: Flex on November 01, 2019, 01:42:01 AM
By Nigel Simon (Guardian).
Three-time champions and finalists in the last three instalments of the First Citizens Cup, Defence Force will resume its quest for a fourth straight finals appearance when they entertain Police FC in the feature match of a double-header at Diego Martin Sporting Complex, Bagatelle Road, Diego Martin from 8 pm on Friday night.
A week ago at the same venue, the "Teteron Men" competition winners in 2002, 2002 and 2016 and beaten finalist the last two years edged defending champion and fellow three-time winners, and five-time finalists Central FC 1-0 in their competition courtesy Jameel Cooper in the Abercrombie group and will be fancied to get full points again.
Police FC, meanwhile fell to a 1-0 to Terminix La Horquetta FC and will need to start picking up points if they are secure a top-two finish in the six-team round-robin group to book a semifinal spot.
Two hours earlier, AC Port-of-Spain (formerly North East Stars) and Morvant Caledonia AIA, two-time tournament winners (2011 & 2012) and four-time finalist will both be out to pick up their win of the competition in the Immortelle Group.
This after Morvant Caledonia went under to Cunupia FC 1-0 a week ago at the same venue, while AC Port-of-Spain and 1976 FC Tobago Phoenix battled to a 1-1 draw on Saturday last also at Diego Martin.
On Saturday, eighth-time winners, W Connection, winners of the last of their Cup titles in 2017, 3-1 over Defence Force, will be hoping to add to their 3-0 thumping of Pt Fortin Civic when the tackle Terminix La Horquetta Rangers in the second match of a double-header at Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva from 6 pm.
In the opener at Couva, Central FC will battle Pt Fortin Civic from 4 pm.
And on Sunday, Tobago Phoenix meets Club Sando from 4 pm in the opening match at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo followed by San Juan Jabloteh and Cunupia FC.
The tournament is being contested via a round-robin format with two groups of six teams each.
At the end of the round-robin phase, the top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-final in which the winners of that round will earn the right to contest the $75,000 winners' prize, while the runners-up with pocket $25,000.
Meanwhile, the league competition will officially kick-off the league after close to a year of inactivity on December 13, and will eventually be called the 'Ascension Pro League' as member clubs and the Board of Directors of the Pro League, have agreed to have Ascension sponsor it this year while discussions are still on-going with SportsMax and the T&T Football Association to join.
Pro League officials are also listening to the football association to have the Second Tier competition organised in time for the official start of the pro league on December 13.
Post by: Deeks on November 01, 2019, 11:23:14 AM
AC Port-of-Spain (formerly North East Stars)
Are they playing in POS ?
Yes.
(https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/69947441_106848880695761_761832099144531968_o.jpg?_nc_cat=102&_nc_eui2=AeHRe9WVifpmpLRgvibPFXcuVHV4jbgakB9-hN_of-duN0cckCImoydXcOl7_1kMGO9Gg8IJU7PQFysKMBty_OCj43nCZqNf3Z2b81xu4wiQEw&_nc_oc=AQnzhFb4p9eYpH21Q-YsYrP1PZ710W0Gp8YpXsuX5mQj0gR4qRhZf8YxtZ7ALl3smbA&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=aec8fae9c330d14bbbc2413ec6df1c49&oe=5E656F47)
So Tallman, just so this happen. Ah mean no news write up of the change. Why they moved to POS? Is Darryl M. still the owner. When Ferguson took Rangers to the Arima area, there was a comprehensive write up on the reason for the move. And it appears that the La Horquetta community has embraced the team. And the way he renovated the venue give a sense of permanence. The club wants to be in the area for the long haul. It is nice to see AC move in to fill the void left by Rangers. But will the POS embrace this team. What has the AC organization done to make east and west PoS come and support them. To me it looking like a vaps move. Mind you, I wish them all the success. I want the fans to go and support them. I may be in TT in Feb. I would love to see them play. But what are they going to do for the PoS fans. Do they want to be there for generations? Or take the road of Futgof, Mau Pau, ASL, etc and all the clubs that have folded or struggling in NFA. Where are they playing their games ?
Post by: Flex on November 04, 2019, 01:33:56 AM
By Walter Alibey (Guardian).
Police FC got a single strike from Christian Thomas to pull-off a 1-0 win over Defence Force in the Abercrombie Group of the First Citizens Cup play-off at the Diego Martin Sports Complex on Friday night.
However, a rising powerhouse in local football Terminix La Horquetta Rangers has assumed the top position in the group by beating W Connection, the multi-times pro league champions in the feature match of a double header at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Balmain Couva 2-0.
Aikim Andrews scored a brace in the 64th and 83rd to hand the team belonging to T&T Football Association's president candidate Richard Ferguson the three points, and their second win in as many matches.
The result took Terminix to six points from two games with W Connection three points behind.
The Savonetta Boys (W Connection) were hoping to build on their victory last week, but Andrews' spoil their plans.
Teams are required to be among the top two in each group to advance to the semifinal and then final.
Meanwhile, in the Immortelle Group AC Port-of-Spain, previously North East Stars, played to a 2-2 tie with Morvant Caledonia United. Rashad Hyacenth got a brace for the Port-of-Spain men in the 11th and 63rd. However, goals from Kerry Daniel in the 32nd and Jevick Mc Farlane in the 43rd ensure the teams shared the points.
In another game struggling Central FC finally got off the mark with a 2-0 triumph of Point Fortin Civic in the earlier match at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva on Saturday.
Josiah Trimmingham and Che Benny were the ones on target to secure victory for their first win of the group.
First Citizens Cup results
(Friday 1 November)
AC POS 2 (Rashad Hyacenth 11, 83), Morvant Caledonia Utd 2 (Kerry Daniel 32, Jevick Mac Farlane 43) at Diego Martin Sporting Complex;
Police FC 1 (Christian Thomas 78), Defence Force 0 at Diego Martin Sporting Complex;
(Saturday 2 November)
Central FC 2 (Josiah Trimmingham 25, Che Benny 33), Point Fortin Civic 0 at Ato Boldon Stadium;
W Connection 0, Terminix La Horquetta Rangers 2 (Aikim Andrews 64, 83) at Ato Boldon Stadium.
Upcoming fixtures
(Sunday 3 November)
Tobago Phoenix FC vs Tiger Tanks Club Sando, 4pm, Hasely Crawford Stadium;
San Juan Jabloteh vs Cunupia FC, 6pm, at Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Post by: asylumseeker on November 04, 2019, 05:12:43 AM
https://youtube.com/v/gvp9bCIkeJ8
Post by: Flex on November 05, 2019, 01:29:00 AM
By Nigel Simon (Guardian).
Kevon 'Showtime" Woodley scored a penalty in the 82nd-minute that helped Cunupia FC salvaged a 2-2 draw with San Juan Jobloteh in the First Citizens Cup at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo on Sunday.
Cunupia FC led 1-0 at the half-time whistle after former national youth player, Xavie Rajpual scored in the 36th, but in the second half, Jair Edwards drew Jabloteh level in the 48th minute while Josiah Baird fired in the decisive item in the 55th.
However, with eight minutes left in the match, Woodley converted from the penalty spot to earn his team a deserved point.
The draw left Jabloteh top of the six-team round-robin Immortelle Group standing with four points from two matches, two more than AC Port-of-Spain and Tiger Tanks Club Sando.
In the opening match at Mucurapo, 1976 Tobago Phoenix and Tiger Tanks Club Sando drew goalless.
The tournament is being contested via a round-robin format with two groups of six teams each.
At the end of the round-robin phase, the top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-final in which the winners of that round will earn the right to contest the $75,000 winners' prize, while the runners-up with pocket $25,000.
Meanwhile, the league competition will officially kick-off the league after close to a year of inactivity on December 13, and will eventually be called the 'Ascension Pro League' as member clubs and the Board of Directors of the Pro League, have agreed to have Ascension sponsor it this year while discussions are still on-going with SportsMax and the T&T Football Association to join.
Pro League officials are also listening to the football association to have the Second Tier competition organised in time for the official start of the pro league on December 13.
RESULTS
Yesterday
1976 Tobago Phoenix 0 vs Club Sando 0
San Juan Jabloteh 2 (Jair Edwards 48th, Josiah Baird 55th) vs Cunupia FC 1 (Xavier Rajpaul 36th, Kevon Woodley 82nd pen)
On Friday
AC Port-of-Spain 2 (Rashad Hyacenth 11th, 83rd) vs Morvant Caledonia AIA 2 (Kerry Daniel 32nd, Jevick Mc Farlane 43d)
Police FC 1 (Christian Thomas 78th) vs Defence Force 0
Saturday
Central FC 2 (Josiah Trimmingham 25th, Che benny 33rd) vs Pt Fortin Civic 0
La Horquetta Rangers 2 (Aikim Andrews 64th, 83rd) vs W Connection
Latest Group Standings
Abercrombie Group
Teams*P*W*D*L*F*A*Pts
1. L.H Rangers*2*2*0*0*3*0*6
2. W Connection*2*1*0*1*3*2*3
3. Central FC*2*1*0*1*2*1*3
4. Defence Force*2*1*0*1*1*1*3
5. Police FC*2*1*0*1*1*1*3
6. Pt Fortin Civic*2*0*0*2*0*5*0
Immortelle Group
Teams*P*W*D*L*F*A*Pts
1. Jabloteh*2*1*1*0*5*2*4
2. Cunupia FC*2*1*1*0*3*2*4
3. AC PoS*2*0*2*0*3*3*2
4. Club Sando*2*0*2*0*1*1*2
5. Morvant Caledonia*2*0*1*1*2*3*1
6. Tobago Phoenix*2*0*1*1*0*3*1
Post by: asylumseeker on November 06, 2019, 02:29:18 PM
https://www.youtube.com/v/LgCvX81zJno
Post by: Flex on November 13, 2019, 02:40:15 AM
By Joel Bailey (Newsday).
TERMINIX LA Horquetta Rangers notched their third straight win, in the Abercrombie Group, of the First Citizens Cup.
In a Match Day Three encounter on Saturday, at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva, Rangers cruised past the cellar-placed Point Fortin Civic 5-2.
Tyrone Charles scored a double, in the 48th and 67th minutes, with Jomoul Francois (13th), Akim Andrews (46th) and Ross Russell jnr (77th) chipping in with one apiece.
There were two other matches in the Abercrombie Group, at the Diego Martin Sporting Complex, on Friday.
Central FC and Police played to a 2-2 draw in the first encounter. Shakiel Henry put Central FC in front after four minutes but Police fought back with goals from Christian Thomas (26th) and Kemron Purcell (42nd).
However, Sean Bonval netted for Central, three minutes into the second half, to ensure a share of the points.
The second game at Diego Martin also ended with a 2-2 draw, featuring Defence Force and W Connection.
Brent Sam (ninth) and Shaquille Bertrand (26th) were the goal-getters for Defence Force, while Briel Thomas (12th) and Adan Noel (50th) responding for Connection.
Three games were contested in the Immortelle Group.
In the latter of back-to-back matches, on Saturday, Tiger Tanks Club Sando earned a come-from-behind 3-2 victory over San Juan Jabloteh.
Bevon Bass scored an own goal, at the stroke of half-time, to give Jabloteh a 1-0 half-time lead, but Nion Lammy (53rd) and Kemuel Rivers (55th penalty) replied as Club Sando went 2-1 up.
Jabloteh equalised in the 56th courtesy of Renaldo Francois, but Kareem Blake-Williams recorded the winner, in the 86th.
In an Immortelle Group double-header at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo on Sunday, Cunupia FC and AC Port of Spain (formerly North East Stars) drew 0-0 while Morvant/Caledonia United and 1976 FC Tobago Phoenix battled to a 2-2 draw.
Lejandro Williams (eighth) and Sherwin Lovell (16th) gave Phoenix the lead, but Caledonia fought back with goals from Kerry Daniel (66th) and Tev Lawrence (89th).
Post by: Tallman on November 15, 2019, 10:59:56 AM
By Joel Bailey (T&T Newsday)
TERMINIX La Horquetta Rangers will be aiming for a fourth straight win, in the Abercrombie Group of the First Cup, when they face Defence Force in the latter game of a double-header today.
This game is set for 8 pm at the Diego Martin Sporting Complex, and features Rangers, who have a 100-per cent record, and Defence Force, who are fourth on the six-team group with four points.
Earlier, at 6 pm, San Juan Jabloteh and AC Port of Spain will face off in an Immortelle Group contest.
Tomorrow, in the Abercrombie Group, Point Fortin Civic and Police are set to meet at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium, Marabella from 3.15 pm and, 24 hours later, Cunupia FC and 1976 FC Phoenix will oppose each other at the Larry Gomes Stadium, Arima.
A double-header is carded for Wednesday, at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo. Morvant Caledonia AIA will meet Tiger Tanks Club Sando from 6 pm and, two hours later, W Connection will square off against Central FC.
Post by: Flex on November 17, 2019, 02:35:12 AM
By Rachael Thompson-King (Guardian).
Kadeem Corbin's double and goals from Isaiah Lee and Jamaal Crieghton earned Terminix La Horquetta Rangers a 4-1 win against Defence Force on Matchday four in the First Citizen's Cup Football tournament at the Diego Martin Sporting Complex on Friday night.
Rangers, who conceded a late goal scored by Devorn Jorsling, have 12 points from four matches to lead the Abercrombie Group six-team standings with an unblemished record. Defence Force is in fifth place, on four points.
Play in the first half was balanced with neither sides finding the back of the net with the match seemed heading for a first-half goalless conclusion before Isaiah Lee scored the opener in the 45th, gifting the La Horquetta-based team with a 1-0 lead on the stroke of the interval.
Corbin doubled the tally, a minute into the second half with an item in the 46th. He was at it again some 16 minutes later returning in the 62nd to net his second item and put Rangers further ahead, 3-0.
Crieghton joined his teammates on the scoresheet, scoring Rangers' fourth and final goal in the 80th.
The army/coastguard team grabbed a consolation goal in the 83rd thanks to Jorsling in the second match of a double-header.
Earlier, San Juan Jabloteh fought back from two goals down against AC Port of Spain to draw 2-2 in the Immortelle Group of the Cup but remains ahead on their six-team table with five points tied with second-placed Tiger Tanks Club Sando and third-placed Cunupia FC but leads on goal difference.
AC Port-of-Spain, which was hoping to earn its first win of the season, went ahead when Sedale McLean opened the scoring in the 14th. His teammate Kerdell Samuel then scored in the 20th to put their team up 2-0.
Jabloteh's Kendall Hitlal (39th) pulled one back some six munites before halftime to make it 2-1.
On the resumption, the San Juan unit and leader of the group regained some composure and put pressure on AC Port of Spains backline in the second half. It was Shakeil John, who got the equalizer in the 69th.
The result leaves AC Port of Spain in fourth place in the Immortelle Group with four points, coincidentally from four draws from as many matches.
FRIDAY'S RESULTS
At Diego Martin Sporting Complex
San Juan Jabloteh 2 (Kendall Hitlal 39th, Shakeil John 69th) vs AC Port of Spain 2 (Sedale McLean 14th, Kerdell Samuel 20th)
Terminix La Horquetta Rangers 4 (Isaiah Lee 45th, Kadeem Corbin 46th, 62nd, Jamaal Crieghton 80th) vs Defence Force 1 (Devorn Jorsling 83rd)
STANDINGS
ABERCROMBIE GROUP
Pl Teams P W D L GF GA GD Points
1 Terminix/La Horquetta Rangers 4 4 0 0 12 3 9 12
2 W Connection FC 3 1 1 1 5 4 1 4
3 Central FC 3 1 1 1 4 3 1 4
4 Police FC 3 1 1 1 3 3 0 4
5 Defence Force FC 4 1 1 2 4 7 -3 4
6 Point Fortin Civic FC 3 0 0 3 2 10 -8 0
IMMORTELLE GROUP
Pl Teams P W D L GF GA GD Points
1 San Juan Jabloteh 4 1 2 1 9 7 2 5
2 Tiger Tanks Club Sando 3 1 2 0 4 3 1 5
3 Cunupia FC 3 1 2 0 3 2 1 5
4 AC Port-of-Spain 4 0 4 0 5 5 0 4
5 Morvant/Caledonia United 3 0 2 1 4 5 -1 2
6 1976 FC Tobago Phoenix 3 0 2 1 2 5 -3 2
Post by: asylumseeker on November 19, 2019, 05:39:58 PM
https://youtube.com/v/VNxwP7Tvdf8
Post by: Tallman on November 22, 2019, 05:29:31 PM
By Walter Alibey (T&T Guardian)
Tiger Tank Club Sando has moved within touching distance of securing a place in the semifinal round of the First Citizens Cup.
Needing to be among the top two teams to advance out of the Immortelle Group, the southerners whipped Morvant Caledonia United 4-2 Wednesday night to move to eight points, and draw level with leaders Cunupia FC which enjoy a superior goal difference for the top spot.
Keron Cornwall's hat-trick in the 49th, 85th and 92nd minutes, coupled with another item by Kevon Williams in the 35th sealed the Club Sando victory.
Now with just one more round of matches to go, both Club Sando and Cunupia need a point each to advance to the final four.
Third-place San Juan Jabloteh, with five points is the only team that can move to eight with a victory over Caledonia United tomorrow at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva from 4 pm.
In the Abercrombie Group, Central FC has also made a strong bid for one of two top positions by beating W Connection 2-1 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo. Shirio Johnson and Niel Williams found the nets to secure full points for the winners.
The result took the central men to seven points in the third position but still in need of a victory in their final game to advance, as second-place Police are also on seven.
Terminix La Horquetta Ranger has already sealed the top spot in the group with 12 points, which means that they cannot be caught.
WEDNESDAY'S RESULTS
Tiger Tanks Club Sando 4 (Kevon Williams 35th, Keron Cornwall 49th, 85th, 90+2) vs Morvant Caledonia United 2 (Joshua Alexander 78th, Raphael Joseph 87th).
Central FC 2 (Shirio Johnson 32nd, Noel Williams 70th) vs W Connection 1 (Adan Noel 45th)
TODAY'S MATCHES
AC Port of Spain vs 1976 Tobago Phoenix, 6 pm @ Diego Martin Complex
Police FC vs W Connection, 8pm @ Diego Martin Complex
SATURDAY
Caledonia United vs San Juan Jabloteh, 4 pm @ Ato Boldon
Central FC vs Terminix La Horquetta Rangers, 6 pm @ Ato Boldon
MONDAY
Defence Force vs Point Fortin Civic, 6 pm @ Hasely Crawford
Cunupia FC vs Tiger Tank Club Sando, 8 pm @ Hasely Crawford
LATEST STANDINGS
Abercrombie Group Standings
POS*Teams*P*W*D*L*GF*GA*GD*Points
1*Terminix La Horquetta Rangers*4*4*0*0*12*3*9*12
2*Police FC*4*2*1*1*8*3*5*7
3*Central FC*4*2*1*1*6*4*2*7
4*W Connection FC*4*1*1*2*6*6*0*4
5*Defence Force FC*4*1*1*2*4*7*-3*4
6*Point Fortin Civic FC*4*0*0*4*2*15*-13*0
Immortelle Group Standings
POS*Teams*P*W*D*L*GF*GA*GD*Points
1*Cunupia FC*4*2*2*0*6*2*4*8
2*Tiger Tanks Club Sando*4*2*2*0*8*5*3*8
3* San Juan Jabloteh*4*1*2*1*9*7*2*5
4*AC Port of Spain*4*0*4*0*5*5*0*4
5*Morvant/Caledonia United*4*0*2*2*6*9*-3*2
6*1976 FC Tobago Phoenix*4*0*2*2*2*8*-6*2
Post by: Flex on November 24, 2019, 02:56:40 AM
By Nigel Simon (Guardian).
Christian Thomas fired in the lone goal as Police FC strengthened their claim for a spot in this years First Citizens Cup semifinals with a 1-0 triumph over record eight-time winners W Connection at the Diego Martin Sporting Complex, Bagatelle, Diego Martin, on Friday night.
Thomas got the decisive item in the 39th minute to carry the Lawmen to ten points from their five matches in the six-club Abercrombie Group, two behind the already qualified Terminix La Horquetta Rangers, who faced Central FC in their final round-robin match last night at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.
To qualify for the semifinals ahead of Police, the Couva Sharks, as Central FC are more popularly known to their fans, needed a win by five clear goals over Rangers. With the defeat, W Connection ended with four points and are out of the title race now unable to add to their string of titles in the competition, the last of which came in 2017.
Defence Force also have four points from four matches ahead of their final match against pointless Pt Fortin Civic on Monday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo, with both teams out of contention as well.
In the opening match on Friday, Kordell Samuel and Rivaldo Coryat were both on target to lead AC Port-of-Spain to a come-from-behind 2-1 win against 1976 FC Tobago Phoenix in the Immortelle Group.
Levi Trim had given Tobago Phoenix a fourth-minute lead only for Samuel (40th) and Coryat (82nd) to hit back as AC Port-of-Spain took all three points to go third on the table with seven points from their five matches, one behind Cunupia FC and Tiger Tanks Club Sando.
Third-placed Jabloteh with five points are the only team who can deny either Cunupia or Club Sando their places in the semifinal, but must beat Morvant Caledonia AIA in their final match by a comfortable margin and hope either Cunupia or Club Sando win when they face off on Monday in the second match at Mucurapo from 8 pm.
Scores:
Friday
AC PORT-OF-SPAIN 2 (Kordell Samuel 40th, Rivaldo Coryat 82nd) v 1976 FC TOBAGO PHOENIX 1 (Levi Trim 4th)
POLICE FC 1 (Christian Thomas 39th) v W CONNECTION FC 0
Upcoming matches:
(November 25)
Venue: Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo
Defence Force v Pt Fortin Civic, 6 pm
Cunupia FC v Tiger Tank Club Sando, 8 pm
Post by: Flex on November 24, 2019, 03:00:51 AM
By Sherdon Pierre (Newsday).
SHELDON HOLDER'S 70th minute header sealed a narrow 1-0 victory for Morvant Caledonia United over neighbours San Juan Jabloteh on Saturday at the Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva as First Citizens Cup action continued.
The both teams had even exchanges in the early stages of the match with neither teams having any real clear-cut chances.
In the 40th minute, Jodel Brown squandered a perfect chance to send Jabloteh in front but his left-foot shot passed inches wide of the goal post and that was the last set of action during the goalless first half.
In the first minute after the restart, Jabloteh's Shaquille John attempted lob shot sailed over goalkeeper Alex Murray's post. John had several chances in a ten-minute period but failed to get on the scoresheet.
At the hour mark, Cale captain and Guyanese striker Holder was denied by goalkeeper Jesse Peters.
However, ten minutes later, Holder scored a glancing header from a superb assist from Joshua Alexander which proved to be the winning goal.
Despite several Jabloteh chances, Morvant Caledonia United held their composure for the 1-nil victory.
Friday Results
AC Port of Spain 2 (Kordell Samuel 40, Rivaldo Coryat 82) v 1976 FC Tobago Phoenix 1 (Levi Trim 4)
Police FC 1 (Christian Thomas 39) v W Connection 0
Yesterday's Results
Morvant Caledonia United 1 (Sheldon Holder 69) v San Juan Jabloteh 0
Central FC 2 (Shakiel Henry 8, Che Benny 90+3) v La Horquetta Rangers 4 (Kadeem Corbin 21, 84, Anslem Jackson 31, Jamal Creighton 87)
Post by: asylumseeker on November 24, 2019, 09:11:08 AM
Caledonia pip Jabloteh in First Citizens Cup.
By Sherdon Pierre (Newsday).
SHELDON HOLDER'S 70th minute header sealed a narrow 1-0 victory for Morvant Caledonia United over neighbours San Juan Jabloteh on Saturday at the Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva as First Citizens Cup action continued.
The both teams had even exchanges in the early stages of the match with neither teams having any real clear-cut chances.
In the 40th minute, Jodel Brown squandered a perfect chance to send Jabloteh in front but his left-foot shot passed inches wide of the goal post and that was the last set of action during the goalless first half.
In the first minute after the restart, Jabloteh's Shaquille John attempted lob shot sailed over goalkeeper Alex Murray's post. John had several chances in a ten-minute period but failed to get on the scoresheet.
At the hour mark, Cale captain and Guyanese striker Holder was denied by goalkeeper Jesse Peters.
However, ten minutes later, Holder scored a glancing header from a superb assist from Joshua Alexander which proved to be the winning goal.
Despite several Jabloteh chances, Morvant Caledonia United held their composure for the 1-nil victory.
How much does Newsday cost?
Post by: Deeks on November 24, 2019, 12:22:08 PM
Post by: Flex on November 27, 2019, 01:01:31 AM
By Nigel Simon (Guardian).
Shaqkeem Joseph netted a hat-trick as Tiger Tanks Club Sando outgunned Cunupia FC 5-3 in their First Citizens Cup Immortelle Group decider in the feature match of a double-header at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo on Monday night.
With both clubs already assured of a semifinal spot, the battle was on to avoid tournament favourites and Abercrombie Group winner, Terminix La Horquetta Rangers in the semifinals.
Cunupia started brightly with Kevon "Showtime" Woodley opening the scoring in the 31st minute, but that lead only lasted until the 38th minute when Joseph got his first of the night to get Club Sando level going into the half-time interval.
Nine minutes into the second-half Tekay Hoyce put Club Sando ahead for the first time on the night from the penalty spot, while Joseph then fired in a quick double in the 60th, and 67th minutes to complete his treble and give his team a commanding 4-1 advantage.
With 15 minutes left to play, Keron Cornwall all but sealed the victory for Club at 5-1, only for Xavier Rajpaul (85th), and Woodley (87th), the latter with his second on the night to get Cunupia FC within two goals.
But in the end it proved too little to late as Club Sando held on for the final whistle to end the six-team round-robin group stage with 11 points from five matches, and will face Abercrombie Group runner-up Police FC in the semifinal, while Cunupia FC who ended second in the group will meet Rangers' in the other semifinal.
All four clubs making it to this year's semifinals have never lifted the title, much less even made the final-four before this season.
Results
Defence Force 2 (Hashim Arcia 37th, Devorn Jorsling 41st) vs Pt Fortin Civic 0
Club Sando 5 (Shaqkeem Joseph 38th, 60th, 67th, Tekay Hoyce 54th pen, Keron Cornwall 75th) vs Cunupia FC 3 (Kevon Woodley 31st, 87th, Xavier Rajpaul 85th)
On Saturday
Morvant Caledonia United 1 (Sheldon Holder 69th) vs San Juan Jabloteh 0
L.H Rangers 5 (Kadeem Corbin 21st, 84th, Anslem Jackson 31st, Jamal Creighton 87th) vs Central FC 2 (Shackiel Henry 8th, Che Benny 90+3)
On Friday
AC Port-of-Spain 2 (Kordell Samuel 40th, Rivaldo Coryat 82nd) vs 1976 FC Tobago Phoenix 1 (Levi Trim 4th)
Police FC 1 (Christian Thomas 39th) vs W Connection FC 0
Final Group standings
Abercrombie
Teams*P*W*D*L*F*A*Pts
La Horquetta Rangers*5*5*0*16*5*15
Police FC*5*3*1*1*9*3*10
Central FC*5*2*1*2*8*8*7
Defence Force*5*2*1*2*6*7*7
W Connection*5*1*1*3*6*7*4
Pt Fortin Civic*5*0*0*5*2*17*0
Immortelle
Teams*P*W*D*L*F*A*Pts
Club Sando*5*3*2*0*13*8*11
Cunupia FC*5*2*2*1*9*7*8
AC Port-of-Spain*5*1*4*0*7*6*7
San Juan Jabloteh*5*1*2*2*9*8*5
Morvant Caledonia*5*1*2*2*7*9*5
1976 Tobago Phoenix*5*0*2*3*3*10*2
Friday's Matches (Diego Martin Sporting Complex)
Police FC vs Tiger Tank Club Sando, 6 pm
Cunupia FC vs Terminix La Horquetta Rangers, 8 pm
RELATED NEWS
Club Sando rout Cunupia FC 5-3.
By Sherdon Pierre (Newsday).
TIGER Tanks Club Sando whipped Cunupia FC 5-3 in a showdown that yielded six second half goals and an impressive hat-trick from Shaqkeem Joseph, on Monday evening, at the First Citizens Cup match held at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo. The semi-final matchups were also decided as Club Sando will now face Police FC in the semi-final on Friday while, Cunupia FC will do battle against Terminix La Horquetta Rangers on the same night.
The game started in blistering pace with both teams vying for the top spot in the Immortelle Group. However, the tempo of the match was dented when referee Nickolai Nyron red carded Cunupias Kadeem Graham and Club Sandos Darnell Hospedales in the18th minute for an off the ball incident.
Nevertheless, it was the team based in Central that opened the scoring in the 32nd minute through Kevon Showtime Woodleys superb right-footed strike from on top the box beating a helpless goalkeeper Alexel Julien.
Seven minutes later, Club Sando were level through the unquestionable man of the match and speedy striker Shaqkeem Joseph who skipped passed Cunupias Dwane James and squeezed it through goalie Keston Malchan from an acute angle. Moments later, Joseph should have given his team the lead but his shot was inches wide of the far-post.
Nine minutes after the resumption, Club Sando were awarded a penalty after a tricky run from Tigana Sparks while team-mate Tekay Hoyce stepped up and slotted it to the left of the keeper Malchan for a 2-1 lead. The go-ahead goal boosted Club Sandos confidence as they began controlling possession and dominating the game. They were rewarded for their efforts on the hour mark when Joseph gathered the ball from 40 yards out and rounded two defenders before slipping it home for the 3-1 lead. The lanky striker completed his well-deserved hat-trick in the 67th minute when he switched gears on his defender to calmly finish for the 4-1 score-line.
Substitute Keron Cornwalls initial shot came off the post but Anthony Charles was in a perfect position for the rebound as he gathered and chipped a pass to Cornwall, who scored an open header in the 75th minute his teams fifth and last goal of the evening. After that goal, Club Sando seemed to have shut down much to the disgust of their coach Angus Eve as Cunupias Kaleb Douglas scored in the 85th and Showtime bagged his double two minutes later from a freekick.
In the earlier match between Defence Force and Point Fortin Civic FC wast in essence a stalemate as both teams were out of contention to qualify for the semi-final round.
For the majority of the encounter it was Defence Force controlling the ball in the first half but had nothing to show. However, in the 37th minute Armys Hashim Arcia slipped a ball into Devorn Jorsling and he flicked it first time to Jerwyn Balthazar who then fired in a powerful, low cross that Arcia connected with his left boot, beating goalkeeper Stephon Seepersad.
Three minutes later, veteran striker and TT Pro League leading goal-scorer, Jorsling doubled the lead after volleying home a smart and accurate cross from Darius Ollivierra on the left flank. The two-nil cushion stood until half-time. In the second period, Point Fortin improved their showing especially after former youth national player Tyrell Emmanuel came on in the 55th minute.
However, Army erased any doubt in the 66th minute when winger Jelani Felix dribbled passed his defender and served up a right-footed cross that Arcia slapped unto the crossbar and rolled in for the three-goal lead. The south team, Point Fortin squandered several opportunities in the dying minutes to get on the scoresheet but the Teteron Boys stood their grounds to seal the consolation victory.
Post by: asylumseeker on November 27, 2019, 03:21:52 PM
https://www.youtube.com/v/P3MDbJ-LUhM
Post by: Tallman on December 01, 2019, 08:55:42 AM
By Walter Alibey (T&T Guardian)
Unbeaten Terminix La Horquetta Rangers could be on their way to a first First Citizens Cup title on Friday when they face Police FC in the final at the Diego Martin Sporting Complex in Bagatelle, Diego Martin.
This after the team booked their place in the final on Friday night with a 3-0 shutout of Cunupia FC at the same venue.
In the second of two semifinal matches at the Diego Martin venue, Isaiah Lee fired the La Horquetta men into the lead in the 37th minute, after which Jamal Creighton (41st) and Aikim Andrews (47th) added the others to ensure a berth in the final as Cunupia offered very little resistance.
Yesterday, however, Rangers boss Richard Ferguson said feels his team will have to sharpen up on their goal-scoring if they are to take the title. In fact, Ferguson said he believed the Lawmen may have a better chance of copping the title due to their solid defensive structure and potent offensive abilities.
The Police team is very good. They have a very good defensive record and have been playing great football generally. In fact, I think they would have the upper hand in the match, Ferguson told the Sunday Guardian.
I think Richard Hood is also an excellent coach who has been doing a great job with his team and he would, therefore, want to cash in on the big prize come Friday.
He added As for my team, we have to make full use of the opportunities when they come. We have not been scoring the opportunities and as far as I am concerned, we should be scoring at least five goals a game because we have been creating the chances but not converting.
Although we have been winning, I think we need to return to the training pitch and work on our goal-scoring for this final contest because it will not be an easy one. Police will be coming to win the game. I believe we are in the right place mentally but I feel we need to be scoring goals, come Friday.
Earlier, Police got a single item from the boot of Jameel Perry in the 28th minute to earn their passage through to the match for silverware at the expense of Tiger Tanks Club Sando.
Scores:
LA HORQUETTA RANGERS 3 (Isaiah Lee 37th, Jamal Creighton 41st, Aikim Andrews 47th) v CUNUPIA FC 0
POLICE FC 1 (Jameel Perry 28th) v TIGER TANKS CLUB SANDO 0
Post by: Flex on December 08, 2019, 01:19:57 AM
T&T Guardian Reports.
Police FC's goalkeeper and captain Adrian Foncette, sports the winner's trophy which was presented to him by Larry Olton, head brand and marketing at First Citizens after his team defeated Terminix La Horquatta Rangers 4-1 during the 2019 First Citizens Cup Final at the Diego Martin Sporting Complex in Bagatelle, Diego Martin on Friday night.
Police got goals from Christian Thomas (27th and 87th), Jamel Perry (43rd) and Kareem Freitas 81st) after Tyrone Charles scored for Rangers in the ninth to give his team the early lead but Thomas even-up the contest and then give the lawmen the goal ahead goal for good.
Julia Baptiste, left, the Pro League CEO and Patrice Charles the Director of Sports in the Ministry of Sports were on hand to witness the presentation.
(Teams - by Wired868.com)
Terminix La Horquetta Rangers (4-4-2): 1.Glenroy Samuel (GK); 99.Anslem Jackson, 18.Jevon Morris, 12.Caleb Sturge (15.Keron Cummings 77), 17.Ross Russell Jr; 7.Aikim Andrews, 24.Kishon Hackshaw, 8.Jamal Creighton (captain), 45.Kadeem Corbin (9.Kishun Seecharan 46); 10.Tyrone Charles, 27.Isaiah Lee (11.Jomoul Francois 72).
Unused Substitutes: 5.Leslie Joel Russell, 23.Kennedy Hinkson, 26.Jesus Perez, 28.Johnny Noriega Britto.
Coach: Dave Quamina
Police FC (4-1-4-1): 18.Adrian Foncette (GK) (captain); 27.Kaydion Gabriel, 33.Kemron Purcell, 20.Elijah Belgrave, 29.Clevon McFee; 16.Stephan Campbell (6.Jdeem Parris 75); 15.Christian Thomas, 5.Kenaz Williams, 7.Jabari Mitchell (19.Christon Thomas 70), 10.Kareem Freitas; 9.Jameel Perry (32.Keion Wilson 80).
Unused Substitutes: 1.Terrence Lewis (GK), 21.Todd Ryan, 24.Xavier Wheeler, 30.Joshua Leach.
Coach: Richard Hood
Referee: Rodphin Harris
Wired868 Man of the Match: Jameel Perry (Police FC)
First Citizens Cup Final
(Friday 6 December)
Terminix La Horquetta Rangers 1 (Tyrone Charles 9), Police FC 4 (Christian Thomas 27, 88, Jameel Perry 43, Kareem Freitas 81) at Diego Martin Sporting Complex;
FCB Cup MVP: Aikim Andrews (Terminix La Horquetta Rangers)
Most Goals (6): Christian Thomas (Police FC)
Post by: asylumseeker on December 11, 2019, 09:40:42 AM
1. Johnny Noriega Britto has moved from Morvant to Rangers
2. Glenroy Samuel was the starting GK in the final.