Topics

1

Football / Birchall NOT in Caribbean Cup Squad

« on: December 01, 2012, 05:29:57 PM »

I was just listening to an interview with Jamal Shaabaz on I-95.5fm and when asked, he said words to the effect that Birchall was not being considered "...at this stage of the competition" but "...the door remains open", and "given who they have now and getting tickets etc" ... when pressed to say whether this info was communicated to Birchall he said he was now getting into understanding how things are being done and wouldn't want to mislead the listening public...as far as a blacklist, he said "maybe not, but apparently there's still a blue list or a red list...
Leroy De Leon also called into the program and his son apparently feels slighted and is now weighing his options re T&T given as Leroy says, the current turmoil in T&T football"....and the sh#@! continues....

2

Football / T&T defeat Guyana 2-0 to qualify for next rounds of U-17 Qualifiers

« on: July 28, 2012, 08:06:57 PM »

A goal in each half - A header from Defender Josiah Trimmingham off a cross from Mathew Woo Ling and a drive from Captain Brendon Creed in the 2nd half was enough for the young Soca Warriors to top their Group with full 9 points. I like the looks of this team, good possession, pressure on the opposition and willing to take shots from outside are the positives, along with discipline in maintaining their positions... negatives would be that Guyana and Suriname players were able to knock them off the ball, so they need to toughen up when the opposition gets rougher eg Jamaica, and poor finishing from the players up front... but overall the team has great potential to go forward.

3

Other Sports / Best Sports Minister ever in Trinidad & Tobago...vote now

« on: July 05, 2012, 11:18:42 PM »

Dear All

 

 

This is your chance to vote for the – BEST SPORTS MINISTER EVER IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO ?-

 

Please visit : www.andrebaptiste.com

 

Best Regards

4

Football / VFFOTT Thread

« on: February 17, 2012, 09:43:29 AM »

VFFOTT Forum2 feat Secretary of the UK PFA Brendon Batson

Can any local-based attend? I am unable to:-

Veteran Footballers Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago
VFFOTT Forum 2
Thursday 23rd February 2012
Butcher’s Sports Plex, Barataria, 10.00am
GUEST SPEAKER: Brendon Batson, MBE
Secretary of the Professional Football Association of the United Kingdom
Brendon Batson was born in St. George's, Grenada and became one of the pioneer black football players in England.
His professional career began at Arsenal and went on to Cambridge United. However, it was at West Bromwich Albion that he made his mark on football, at a time when black players were subjected to extreme racism from football fans.
He was first signed as a semi professional player with Preston North End in 1886, as goalkeeper. His highpoint with Preston was to make it to the FA Cup semi finals in 1887 where they lost 3-1 to West Bromwich Albion. There was speculation at the time that Arthur was good enough to play for England, but he was never considered for the position by the FA, due in part to the racial prejudice of the time.
Along with his team-mates Cyrille Regis and the late Laurie Cunningham, he became a key figure at West Bromwich Albion in the late 1970s and early 1980s as members of The Three Degrees. After retiring from football following a terrible injury in October 1982, he established himself as one of the Professional Footballers Association (PFA) senior administrators, rising to the position of deputy chief executive, responsible for developing the organization into one of the most important trade unions.
In 2000 he was awarded the MBE for services to football, and in 2002 he became Managing Director of West Bromwich Albion, his old team.

5

Football / T&T Olympic Team Manager FIRED???

« on: January 15, 2012, 08:58:37 PM »

Fellow Forumites I think we can all agree that the current U-23/Olympic team has been the one shining light for our football in 2011 as evidenced by the fact that they are currently our only team preparing for any major tournament this year...they are also our next best hope for a 2nd senior World Cup appearance, as the nucleus of this team has played in both U-17 and U-20 World Cups, and should graduate to being our team for the "Road to Russia" campaign... one thing this group has displayed is a spirit of togetherness and tenacity sadly lacking in their senior counterparts... and one constant has been the presence of Team Manager Norris Ferguson... I have been told by a very reliable source that Mr Ferguson is soon to be replaced (read FIRED) even tho no reason for this has been forthcoming from the folks at the TTFF... but guess what? Norris Ferguson threw his support behind Keith Look Loy in the latter's recent (unsuccessfull) attempt to unseat current (Acting) TTFF President as then East Zone President, one, Lennox Watson! I myself found it strange that while the Coaches were named for the Senior and Olympic teams, followed quickly by the announcement of a "new" Technical Director, NO mention was made of Team Managers... so I (Foolishly as it turns out) assumed that the Manager who did his part in helping T&T get thru it's first two rounds of Olympic qualifiers, would have retained his position... and until someone in the TTFF can say WHY Mr Ferguson has been unceremoniously removed (word is that he has received NO corresspondence from his employers indicating that he has been replaced tho someone else is already lined up to take the reins when the team plays Finland in Tobago next week) I will look at this as yet another example of the vindinctive, nasty style of the characters running our football into the ground!!! So much for Mr Watson and his "NEW DAWN FOR T&T FOOTBALL"... yeah right!

6

Football / Football discussion on I-95.5 going on NOW

« on: October 01, 2011, 04:30:40 PM »

Guests include Keith Look Loy & Angus Eve

7

Football / PATRIOT Match Report for Barbados vs T&T

« on: September 07, 2011, 08:09:35 PM »

Ok so as I landed in Bim, my first interaction was with an Immigration officer who looking at my form, asked me "What SPORT you come to Barbados for?" well I nearly dead wid laugh  then I replied "YOU all are hosting us in a World Cup Qualifier this after noon"... her response... "Barbados does still play football???" So right away the vibes wasn't too good fuh the home team! As I meandered around Bridgetown, there was NOTHING to indicate the country had a game in under 7 hours time! THANKS to T&T Manager Peter Rampersad and Shaun Fuentes for my match ticket 

Skip to the afternoon and I swear the Maxi drivers in Barbados MUST have TRINI ROOTS!!! Man peeling thru "roads" as large as the Lanes in Belmont! The one taking me to the game was VERY efficient tho...when we hit some traffic, he managed to find some back-road in between an unpaved trace, a car-park and some fig trees in a yard that made sure I was able to comfortably arrive at the game 1/2 hour before kick-up..now I accustom travelling to see games and this is the FIRST time I ever walk into a grounds and with the match about to kick-off and the stadium EMPTY... and this is NO exaggeration eh.... besides the security, the media present, and the players on the field warmin up, there were appoximately 10-15 fans there... and the Barbados National stadium is VERY small with three stands on the southern side of the pitch... two uncovered on either side of the covered section I was in. The field had been cut ( I would later learn from the Manager that it was done AFTER we had our last trainng session... AND that we were only allowed ONE football to practice with)... their ATTEMPT at some gamesmanship!

Shaun Fuentes gave me the starting line-up and it came as no surprise given the selection from Friday Phillips in for Warner, Keon in for Hyland and Leon in for Stern... so I thought Roberts was startin up top with KJ, but as the match kicked off I realised Roberts was playing the same left-midfield role he was looking SO bad in vs Bermuda... so we were actually lined up as a 4-5-1  However in the first few minutes we began to push them back and the diffrence in quality was glaring... an errant back pass by the Bajan right-back was easily intercepted by Jones and he pushed, let fly and BOOM... overbar... now this occurred JUST AFTER an incident (unseen/unpunished by the ref) where KJ appeared to have been kicked in the face by his marker and stayed down for quite a while... THAT miss would be the start of a bad sequence of missed opportunites from the Captain! With T&T dominating tho, it seemed like only a matter of time, and sure enough it arrived in the form of a volley from Keon Daniel in emphatic style!!! Now the thing is, the way the shot hit under the bar, bounced and came out, I delayed my celebration because I remember T&T had a similar shot vs Bermuda disallowed when it looked a sure goal to me... but not this time.. we were up 1-0 and the Bajan heads dropped... they were there for the taking, but we squandered MANY an opportunity... KJ, again with a one on one with the keeper, over-pushed ad ran the ball out trying to rounds him...then again later on he chose to pass off the responsibilty to Keon, whose attempted chip of the keeper was easily caught...but props to Kenwyne!!! His feet might have been failing to deliver, but he had a brilliant header that had GOOOOOAL written all over it, when the lil Bajan keeper flung himself to his left and parried it for a corner. Tinto, Birchall and even an over-lapping Wolfe had shots either wide or over one after the other...Up to this point Marvin Phillips was pretty much a spectator...and we ended the half 1-0 but could easily have been ahead by 2 or 3 more.

In the second half, an interesting thing happened, the stadium filled up... some men even taking in the action for free, pirched on a hill just opposite the western side of the stadium...this also coincided with Barbados slowly beginning to creep their way back into the game, and even won their first CORNER... Birchall was lucky not to be booked as he was forced into some fouls and with our slender 1-0 lead I began to worry about dropped points on the road.. but Marvin Phillips made a few excellent saves and all credit to Julius and Power they really held the backline together!!! Carlos was also asserting himself much earlier on, as no captain's armband effect was needed this time around ... strangely Wolfe was NOT tested by the Bajans, but THAT might have more to do with Tinto's mazy runs keeping their  left-back "home" whereas Roberts was still looking out to sea wide left for us, resulting in more attacks by the Bajans on our left... with the work-load taking it's toll, Hyland who had been warming up for nearly 20 mins came on for Birchy and while he looked much sharper than against Bermuda, his contributions were few and far between..one of them would contribute to T&T's 2nd item, bringing the ball into the area, it was chipped onto the head of Jones who direced it into the path of Roberts who fighting off the Bajan keeper and 2 defenders eventually  scrambled the ball over the line.. 2-0 T&T... and a welcome relief for the small bunch of Trini fans present! Marvin would pull off a phenomenal reflex save from a powerful shot just inside the box, and preserve our clean sheet... next up... Enter Lester Peltier! He's what I would call an IMPACT player, and while not yet the finshed article, he always lights up the field with his speed and dribbling... but he's clearly second in line behind Tinto whom he replaced. But a useful weapon to have as a 2nd half sub. Other than one free kick which KJ took instead of Daniel (much to my dismay) that again was high and wide of the mark, and another from Keon himself which bended beautifully but lacked the pace to trouble the Bajan goalie there wasn't much else to talk about... EXCEPT the entrance of BLEEDER... who was laughing and chatting with the 4th official as he handed in his number ( wish I could read lips, but even without that gift, I suspect the conversation may have gone something like this "Buh de game goin an blow off now, tha coach is a real wicked fella to do you that maaan", with Denzil replying "Tha's OK, just by me stepping on the field it means I get a bigger pay packet ")... the match blew off less than a minute later with Denzil failing to touch a ball...

So here's my Player rankings:-

Marvin Phillip 8 - DEF our first choice, barring injury/suspension...he looked sharp and decisive, and with the Pro-league beginning this week, he will get his match-fitness up to speed... but I want to see him SERIOUSLY tested... perhaps table topping Guyana will provide that in November

Julius James 7 - I had my doubts about him, but he's looked VERY solid in his first two WCQ's - wins a lot of balls in the air, is confidant and reads the game well! Also comfortable with the ball at his feet.

Seon Power 6 - Is one of the most improved players on the team! BUT... still goes to ground TOO much, he got left out that way a few times and had to be bailed out by recovery runs from Julius, Keon (YES KEON!!!) and Leon...he's a fighter tho, but I can see him losing his spot to Primus/Cyrus when they return from injury.

Carlos Edwards 6.5 - Showed he is STILL a class act with grace, poise and control on the ball, however playing left-back and constantly having to switch the ball to his right to deliver a cross or pass limits his contributions... I expect he will revert to right-back once J Lloyd is back in the squad.

Anthony Wolfe 6 - Now I love this fella's PASSION, much like Power, he 's a fighter and having spoken to him one on one I know he always gives his all wherever he's asked to play, but IMHO he will NEVER be a right-back... and everytime he steps on the field in that role, I get flashbacks on the 3-0 in Nashville when he debuted in that position... hopefully SOMEBODY will remember this man was the PFL's LEADING GOAL SCORER 3-4 seasons ago and play him as a STRIKER...in THIS game tho, he made some over-lapping runs and even had a decent shot on goal, his versatility is an asset, one I think we are currently wasting/abusing.

Clyde Leon 7 - I was never a fan of his, but his time in Columbia is paying off, and it shows in his play! He played the role of defensive midfielder PERFECTLY, providing cover whenever our defenders went up for corners or wing-backs over-lapped, he never strayed and broke up several Bajan attacks, simply laying the ball off to Keon/Birchall, or spreading it to Tinto... I spoke to him briefly and he REALLY WANTS TO MAKE IT TO BRAZIL... another WARRIOR in the making!

Keon Daniel 7.5 -  He's a CHANGED man... while NOT having the kind of impact in central midfield as many felt he would, that being his  "natural" position, I saw him tackling back, and his overall work-rate that was lacking last time around is UP..WAAAY UP!!! With his free kick ability and the goal, MY MOTM!!!

Christopher Birchall 6.5 - STILL a fighter, STILL has a tremendous shot, but something is missing, he doesn't seem quite as sharp, but his passing has improved tremendously and given more freedom to make those surging runs from mid-field, he's a mainstay of this team! Also he delivers some decent dead-ball free kicks when given the oportunity.

Hayden Tinto 6.5 - Improves with every game but his height (or lack thereof) hinders him...still he has an excellent first touch and when on song can really terrorize a defence with his speed and dribbling. Tends to make errors in judgement where passing is concerned tho.

Darryl Roberts 6 - Ditto what I said for Wolfe above... he looks poor out on the left, and when he scored yesterday it was only AFTER he'd moved up to his natural striker position, but even so he was caught off-side more than 5 times in the game... needs to step up! Yet despite all this, he's just scored 3 goals over 3 matches...go figure!

Kenwyn Jones 6.5 - Assisted on the 2nd goal, had  that magnificent header attempt but on the ground his finishing was disappointing to say the least! I would want to believe the poor field conditions played a part since this is a FAR cry than the EPL grounds he's accustomed to week-in week out... he too needs to step up, and lead from in front...LITERALLY... the ability is there, but his HEART must be in it equally!!!

Overall, I'm willing to give Pfister a bly, and not call for his head like I heard Ken Butcher was doing. BUT, he seems set on staying with the formation and selection, based on these 2 games, and I have problems with some of the choices (Roberts/Wolfe) in the positions he's playing them, as I see them as disasters waiting to happen!!! But the team WILL get better as we progress, ad there are some positives:-

Keon is back taking free kicks

the line up is staying relatively the same, which makes the job of gelling easier as we move on

Based on selections so far, we will have a stronger bench down the road as players will have had experience playing in previously unfamiliar roles

I DO question the fact that Boucoud and Thompson never saw ANY playing time, as I would have liked to see what either could offer!!!

Finally,I bounced into Tony Warner this morning at the airport and told him about the forum... so he promised to visit...hope he survives the experience!!!

Until the next game...PATRIOT out!

8

Other Sports / SEEKING PEACE, HARMONY FOR SPORTS by Andre E. Baptiste

« on: August 18, 2011, 07:51:08 PM »

----- SEEKING PEACE, HARMONY FOR SPORTS -------

By Andre E Baptiste

 

( Trinidad guardian , Wednesday 17th August, 2011)

So we all want funding….yes every single sporting association in Trinidad and Tobago is in need of finance and without such their respective sports will suffer. Therefore with corporate Trinidad and Tobago suffering just like most of the leading corporations in the World, there is no alternative but to seek government assistance through the sporting institutions established for such.

However , while historically this was the normal medium and regular supplier of funding , changing times , changing management styles and changing personalities have all led to vast changes which have meant that the various national sporting organizations (NSO) have had to resort to some ground breaking techniques to find a way to survive without government funding. Unfortunately most of these techniques have failed to provide the necessary assistance and many have had to just “give up”.

It is simply the fault of those in authority who have ensured that there was in place a dependency syndrome. So now that it is not so easy to access this funding as it was in the past, many are struggling to come to terms with this added responsibility because of their lack of skills set.

There are  perhaps several good reasons for this change by those in authority  , among which is the fact that compared to ten years or fifteen years ago, there has been an increase in funding costs , through , price increases generally in the world for everything and also the fact that Trinidad and Tobago , now has more sporting organizations than previously.

Additionally , there is the fact , that given the need to be cautious with the limited allocation of funds , not only companies but now government authorities are being very  demanding on certain criteria being established before funding is affordable and honestly all of this is  both practical and commendable and even further is essential when you are spending taxpayers money. It is time for sporting organizations to realize that they cannot just be expecting easy handouts when they turn up days before an international event for funding. Proper budgeting and planning is essential together with honest communication.

With change , comes a lot of confusion and when both the NSO’s and the government authorities are reading from different pages , there will always be conflict , both parties need to meet and decide on a proper way forward and this is where – trust – is important.

Trust though must work both ways and in that regard, while we can all question the expertise and skill levels of those at the government level in charge of sports. We must be honest and ask what are the requisite skills of most of those involved in the national sporting organizations, other than an interest and care in the respective sports. Twenty years ago, that sort of well-intentioned individual was what was required and expected and in those days , there was a lot more trust in the relationships between sports and governments , but all of that has changed in a society where accountability and transparency have become correctly more relevant than friendship and faith.

It is not only that we are no longer a less trusting people. But also because of the numerous incidents of deceits and dishonestly in many international sports, we would be neophytes to think that this cannot touch Trinidad and Tobago. So we need to have more professionals involved in sporting organizations, we need men and women who understand economics and business management and if this can be combined with sporting knowledge, then the entire better. In fact some of the best organizations that run sports in this country have all of these ingredients in abundance and therefore it should not surprise us that it is easier for them to gain funding.

-Working for free- is a constant excuse of many of the most struggling sporting organizations in this country, and the main reason most persons no longer buy that statement is that in most of the sports that utter these words, it is regularly discovered   that their officers travel the most with their respective teams without any rationale for such expenditure other than length of service.

As to the government sporting institutions, the one area that needs to be identified under this new dispensation is what are the role of the Ministry of Sports and the function of the Sports Company of Trinidad and Tobago. As it stands currently, there is far too much uncertainty about the purpose of both. Initially when they were established, the concept to most of us (despite what was said by those in politics) was the Sports Company would ensure that funding was easily accessible to some of the major sports in this country instead of having to endure the bureaucracy of the Ministry of Sports and the slow procedural process, that is perceived as a standard requirement of most government offices.

Most Sporting persons were always faced with delays because of the slow level of interest and sometimes inactivity at the Ministry of Sports and therefore constant cries of late funding, led to many welcoming the Sports Company. It was generally felt at the time, that this was not very well accepted by those at the Ministry of Sports that felt their power and prestige was being eroded too quickly, and their importance was being diluted. It was an uncomfortable relationship despite the plaudits from both sides of a cool and calm atmosphere.

In time, the Sports Company was questioned about its allocation of funding and the whole question of the levels of approval for certain events.  In the past, persons from the Ministry of Sports were appointed on the Board of The Sports Company and this was supposed to have assisted in the general thought process behind the funding issue. However, this has not worked as well as many imagined, because the major differences and the respect between both parties was not adequately addressed by all concerned.

One of the problems being experienced by many in sports in all areas and all sectors is the entire question of too many personalities involved. Everyone wants to be the chief, whether they are from the Ministry of Sports or from the Sports Company or elsewhere, they constantly want to have the final say and  appear to care less about the athletes than their “ way” being the only way forward.

At this stage, there seems to be another change with more responsibility being handed back (or returned) to the Ministry of Sports, rightfully or wrongfully. We cannot say, if that is the will of the Minister of Sports Anil Roberts on his own or if he has been influenced by others around him. It must be noted that the Minister’s current reported special advisor for sport is one Carolye Kellar whose previous sporting incarnation was as an employee of the Ministry of Sports. It is all of these perceptions that lead to many questions and cause the lack of trust that is emanating between several of the sporting organizations and those in authority.

The way forward for the Ministry of Sports, the Sports Company of Trinidad and Tobago and all of the National Sporting Organizations must involve constructive discussion and fair play. There is too much animosity between some of the main players. It is almost to me, as if there is feeling from all sides that we must do our best to ensure “you do not succeed”, forgetting it appears the many sporting persons whose careers and futures are dependent on these persons. And in this, we are not merely discussing the fact, that athletes, from football, athletics, volleyball, netball and boxing are time and again still being denied a chance to utilize the facilities at the various stadiums in Trinidad and Tobago, despite the best intentions of the Minister.

We need for the Minister of Sports to take charge , as he promised and not be concerned with upsetting those who he believes have some influence.

I will say  this , I am disappointed by the Minister of Sports , because having known him for so long in sports, I honestly expected more and I also expected him to deliver for the athletes given his sporting background , but at the same time , I expected him to be stronger with both the Ministry of Sports and the Sports Company . Perhaps, I am expecting too much.

It is not only several sporting organizations that have their affairs in bad shape, but also it is strong and steady leadership that can help to educate them. The Role of the Ministry , should be more of a facilitator , rather than just seeking to be an implementer , the Ministry needs to guide people , the staff of the Ministry of Sports needs to seek to train persons and not just accept collecting a salary because they believe no one listens to them.

If the Minister of Sports is not careful, he could very well find that persons believe some at the Ministry of Sports control the future and development of sports in this country more than him. I do not feel that is so, but while we all wish the best, there are always one or two persons that seek other alternatives. To be involved in sports, this must not be a job, it must be a love and therefore if you love something, you need to put your heart and soul into it at all times. There will always be good days and bad days, but the test will be to persevere amidst all that is happening.

The Minister also needs to be wary about making promises , which are not his to entirely keep , because then many in sport become disillusioned and lose trust in his words , even though matters may be out of his control. The experience of the National cricketers and those involved at the Pro League level are but some examples of situations where a lot was expected and not yet delivered. Motor Sport is also having similar problems, as too swimming with the Goodwill Meeting almost cancelled but for the intervention of a few corporate citizens. This is not the legacy any Minister would like to leave, much less one who has vocally said so much on the sport in the past.

As Minister , he needs to review and assess certain contracts , even if it means involving outside experts for advice , no one man, no one person knows it all , that is why collective responsibility needs to be employed , as a  positive step forward. Also a properly coordinated awareness of the elite funding programme would be a step in the right direction.

Sports is the way forward for society to be at peace with each other and the sooner everyone understands this , the better for all of us.

:: AB

9

Football / TODAY 21st May on I-95.5fm I'll be a guest on Andre Baptiste show...

« on: May 21, 2011, 04:55:43 AM »

from about 6:15pm EST as part of a panel discussion previewing next week's Champions League Final
Links online:-

 http://www.citadel.co.tt/istream/index.php?station=2 or http://www.i955fm.com/watch-i955-fm-studio-live.html

... and then on Saturday 28th:-


MANY TEAMS CAME TO THE PARTY…..BUT IN THE END ONLY TWO MADE THE “ FINAL DANCE “

 

ON SATURDAY 28TH MAY , 2011 , BARCELONA PLAY MANCHESTER UNITED AT WEMBLEY --- WITH BOTH TEAMS SEEKING GLORY AS THE CHAMPION TEAM OF EUROPE…

 

ONLY ONE TEAM HAS BEATEN BARCELONA IN THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE ( Insert Arshavin scoring winning goal for arsenal)

 

BUT MANCHESTER UNITED WERE ABLE TO DISPATCH CHELSEA EASILY ( Insert Rooney scoring on Chelsea)

 

SO ON SATURDAY , FOLLOW ALL THE LIVE ACTION , BEFORE …DURING AND AFTER THE MATCH WITH A SPECIAL – CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DAY ON I95,5FM , HOSTED BY ANDRE ERROL BAPTISTE FROM 2.45PM .

 

CAN LIONEL MESSI DO TO MANCHESTER UNITED WHAT HE DID TO REAL MADRID  NOT ONCE ( INSERT GOAL FROM MESSI ) , BUT TWICE ( INSERT GOAL FROM MESSI AGAIN)

 

OR WILL ALXE FERGUSON FIND A WAY TO STOP THE BARCELONA DREAM MACHINE …….

 

LISTEN AND HAVE A CHANCE TO WIN FABULOUS GIVEWAYS, AS WE TALK WITH FANS FROM BOTH MANCHESTER UNITED AND BARCELONA BEFORE AND AFTER THE GAME….

 

SO WHO WILL BE LEFT IN TEARS….DON LEE…WEEKESS  OR JOEL LEE APPING AND ANTHONY…

 

I95.5FM THE MOST INFLUENTIAL NAME IN SPORTS

 

THIS PROGRAMME IS SPONSORED BY SPORTSMAX AND HEINEKEN

 

10

Football / -------- IRON-PFISTER TO RULE ( FOOTBALL)----

« on: March 31, 2011, 05:28:14 AM »

Iron-Pfister to rile (Football)
By Andre E Baptiste (Dancing Brave Column).
Wednesday 30th March, Trinidad Guardian).
  
Is Otto Pfister, the right man for the job of coach of the Trinidad and Tobago National Football Team?

No….Yes…No …Yes…Yes. No….Yes …No ….Who? ….Is Football still important in this country?....And what are you saying …Isn’t Jack Warner the Football Coach? Is he leaving Football?

These are just a few of the answers; I received from a group of spectators at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Friday night while watching some Pro League Football.

But while the questions will persist about Pfister’s  impact on the footballing landscape that is Trinidad and Tobago, many are still not aware of his qualifications.
  
So here it is according to the internet website Wikipedia –

Otto Pfister (born November 24, 1937 in Cologne) is a German football manager, and one of Germany's most successful coaching exports, voted Africa's Manager of the Year in 1992.

[1] He has been to four African Cup of Nations competitions with Upper Volta (now: Burkina Faso), Zaire, Cameroon and Ghana) and reached the African Cup of Nations final twice, with Cameroon and Ghana. Pfister has won the FIFA U-17 World Cup with Ghana.

He has also won the U19 African Cup of Nations with Cote d'Ivoire and led Togo in the 2006 World Cup. Pfister also qualified for 1998 FIFA World Cup with Saudi Arabia.

Pfister has won the League Title in two different Countries (Egypt and Lebanon). He has also won domestic cups in four different Countries (Tunisia, Egypt, Lebanon and Sudan-
  
Given the above, it is easy to presume, that Pfister has been given this job on the basis of his experience with Eight (8] African Nations and Two (2) Asian nations, so that culturally the mixture of our football should not present any problems to him.

However a closer examination of his  footballing background over a sixty year period will reveal that Pfister has only ever qualified one team to reach a World Cup Final , and that was Saudi Arabia for the 1998 World Cup in France.

However he never actually was the coach at the France World Cup because it was reported that “he was crudely released just before the tournament, as he requested the Saudi Princes to interfere less in team affairs”.

Interestingly he returned to coach Saudi Arabia after they had performed poorly in the World Cup. This strong will of Pfister is very commendable, although that was in 1998, some 13 years ago and whether at the age of 74, Pfister still has that fighting spirit in him, is not known, but we can almost certainly guarantee that it will be put to the test, as the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation  (TTFF) and many of those close to them, have a penchant for interference  in most footballing matters whether they are invited or not.
  
Pfister’s solitary appearance at a World Cup Finals was in 2006 when he inherited the Togo coaching job mere months before the team arrived in Germany.

There are signs that he has a tough exterior and will not stand for nonsense , in fact , while he was coach of the Ghana team,  it was reported that a slang was developed along the lines : “ He rules with an Iron-Pfister “, which has often been used to refer to Pfister’s coaching style.

Critical in Pfister’s success will be what role he will play in Trinidad and Tobago’s future. Will he be employed as only the coach of the senior national team, or will his role be enhanced to include the development of football in this country.

Unlike Leo Beenhaker who was only engaged to help Trinidad and Tobago qualify for the World Cup, Pfister’s role will probably encompass more than that, because his term appears to be longer.

Therefore while many of the players may have tolerated the leadership style of been haker, because they knew it was temporary and they all wanted to go to the World Cup, it remains to be seen if the current bunch of prospective players will do so.

Otherwise, I am expecting that Pfister will have to rebuild a completely new team with young players. Too many of the older players are too set in their bad ways and very indiscipline. This change in Leadership in terms of coaching will be welcomed once; Pfister is given the necessary parameters to perform.
  
Given the problems experienced with Francisco Maturana: his lack of  an English vocabulary and his advisors at the time on football matters and players, one hopes these two areas will be efficiently examined and the Footballing authorities will ensure that Pfister does not claim a lack of English as an excuse not to talk to the people of Trinidad and Tobago through the media, this would be unfortunate and only help to accelerate his departure ( even if there was a chance for some success).
  
As to the advisors for Pfister, this is most critical, as he needs honest and trustworthy persons around him, because by the time he arrives in this country, the Pro League season would have been completed, so Pfister would not have any opportunity to assess any player’s performance during the course of a match.

One of the greatest criticisms of Russel Latapy by some was that he did not watch enough of the local football matches or even travel abroad to watch some of the overseas based players plying their trade outside of the UK based players.

It is a failing which is unheard of in developed footballing nations, as most coaches want to ensure a players progress during a season and either go to watch the matches themselves or send an assistant.

Let us hope that there is adequate funding for that from the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs, providing it was budgeted for by the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation..
  
On the question of assistants to Pfister, the football authorities in this country have stated openly that they will be insisting that locals are given the role as his assistants, but I am not certain that this will work with Pfister, as he like most coaches have their own team of professionals they trust (very important) and are accustomed to working with.

So whether or not the TTFF will get their way is a matter for serious consideration and will possibly set the tone for Pfister’s tenure as National Coach in this country.
  
The payment of his salary will also need to be properly finalized so as not to politicize this matter in the future and ensure that this problem with payment does not rear its head again.

In checking the background of Pfister, there is clear evidence to suggest that he has supported the players on more than one occasion when they have encountered problems with their respective associations over the payment of salaries, with Pfister’s resigning on at least two occasions for such.

If one did not know better, one could surmise that those given the purvey to select a national football coach, attempted to ensure that they would find someone who would stand up to an interfering Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation.
  
Another area of concern, has to be the fact , that the last recorded coaching stint for Pfister was with Cameroon, where he left that job on the 26th May, 2009.

This would mean that he has been inactive from the sport almost two years which could mean he has lost touch with some of the developments from a technological basis and could therefore be at a disadvantage.

This needs to be carefully discussed with Pfister to ensure this country is not being second changed by someone who just wants a pension cheque every month.
  
Let us all be honest, football’s future is critical to the happy feelings in this country and whatever can be done to ensure that returns should be ensured.

There is too much showmanship in sports at the moment in most levels, and not enough thought is given to the people of this country. So let us hope that Otto Pfister has it in him to overcome the many evils in football in this country and succeed.

11

Football / I-Sports discussing CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FOOTBALL this Saturday 11th December

« on: December 10, 2010, 04:35:50 PM »

The FINAL sixteen teams are now known for the CHAMPIONS LEAGUE ……. In  2011
 
And all of the big guns are there headed by SPANISH GIANTS – Barcelona and Real Madrid
 
English hopes rest with – Manchester United , Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspurs
 
The Germans are not to be outdone with – Bayern Munich and Schalke
 
And the Italians will be represented by Defending Champions –Inter Milan – and AC Milan
 
THIS SATURDAY ON ISPORTS , we talk Champions League Football and Premiership Football.
 
We will also have some giveways on offer on the night , as well
 
So Tell us  your thoughts on the BEAUTIFUL GAME OF football  as we will be joined by the OWNERS OF THE FAN CLUB STORE IN MOVIETOWNE, which offers the only authentic Champions League APPAREL in the country for CHRISTMAS 2010 and Beyond. Find out MORE by tuning in to I-Sports Saturdays at


http://www.i955fm.com/newlive/player.html

from approximately 6:25pm T&T time (5:25pm EST)

12

Football / The 2010 BOO BOO SPORTS AWARDS

« on: November 17, 2010, 01:45:15 PM »

Hi Everyone
 
 
It is that time AGAIN, the 2010 BOO BOO SPORTS AWARDS is Back……
 
And this , the 10th Year of these AWARDS , there is a new section of voting required.
 
1)       You can now vote for the – BIGGEST BOO BOO in Sports
2)       As well as the Sports Administration , that has performed the WORST in sports.
 
There are two ways to vote – a) if you want to win a Hamper worth $1,000.00 TT , just call i95.5fm at 628-4955 and give your name and your selection for the Biggest Boo Award to the Operator
OR
b) If you want to just be part of the voting , please visit : www.andrebaptiste.com and vote online
 
Remember , this is your chance to send a message to those in sports , that you CARE .
 
Thank you for your time and voting in advance
 
Andre Baptiste

13

Football / REPEAT of Andre Baptiste's interview with Anil Roberts Min of Sports on NOW

« on: November 13, 2010, 04:40:11 PM »

on I-95.5fm...for those who may have missed it last week... foreign-based can listen at:-

http://www.i955fm.com/newlive/player.html

14

Football / DANCING BRAVE COLUMN FOR WEDNESDAY 13TH OCTOBER, 2010 By Andre E Baptiste

« on: October 13, 2010, 08:01:58 AM »

SPORTS: DANCING BRAVE COLUMN FOR WEDNESDAY 13TH OCTOBER, 2010
By Andre E Baptiste
 
    ------ FOOTBALL CONSCIOUS …… OR COINCIDENCE? -----
 
 
The Truth is, we do not know what we want in Football.
And this is not only relevant to the administrators that run football in this country, but as well to the public.
While we can safely draw the conclusion that football administrators in this country, depend on Fifa Vice-President and Concacaf President, Austin “Jack” Warner to give the seal of approval to every decision. If it is not so, then someone needs to tell us and of course provide us with enough examples to prove otherwise.
As for the public, herein lies a conundrum, we have a bunch of armchair critics (who do not venture out of their sofas at home to pay and watch football), but yet still demand so much from the coach and players. But in this case, I have to say, they are correct, because, after all, we (the citizens) are members of the public and whether we attend a match or not, we can safely voice our opinions (even if no one listens). After all, we supposedly pay their salaries.
My first question is very simple, what was the task given to Russell Latapy and what were the expectations? If these have not been specified in his list of duties and requirements and instead some simple “word of mouth” offering made (as is normal with the current football administration), then there cannot be grounds for complaint, except for natural dissatisfaction with the results since his second tenure in charge began (after the 2010 World Cup qualification ended).
It appears that there are too many coincidences in football in the last three weeks, which can lead a cynical mind to speculate.
1) The Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs- Anil Roberts – (my friend), deciding to “call out” Latapy (his friend) in public on Latapy’s under par performance as a coach ( based on results) and suggesting that Latapy could get the sack if the losses continue. All of this coming before a crucially difficult away match to Jamaica, which we eventually lost on Sunday by 1-0. All this “friend” talk may just be a smokescreen to a more devastating plan to ensure Latapy’s speedy removal in the not too distant future. But then, this may just be friends talking about friends, among friends (the people) and there is nothing sinister in that, after all, we are all “friends”. Austin Jack Warner is Anil Roberts’s Friend and Anil Roberts is Russell Latapy’s friend and Russell Latapy was once a great friend of all us. Which is quite a lot of friendship, it is not hard therefore to understand, just how problematic, football in this country is, because with friends like these, who needs enemies.
Therefore, when Jack Warner says there are changes coming soon in national football, we could all be forgiven to thinking that Anil (Warner’s friend) was just acting out (loudly), the words still in the membrane of Warner. Of course, this could all be plain coincidence and really inconsequential to the overall perception, that this is a well coordinated plan to ensure “doubt and mistrust “is placed in front of Latapy’s future tenure. After all, no Hatchet job could be so perfect. Or could it?
The other interesting news was the revelation on the salary being paid to Latapy and his team of assistants. Thought provoking information, that needed to be aired, but one wonders why only on Latapy as coach? And Why Now? Again, perhaps, it is my great St Mary’s College upbringing, where we question everything and anything, once we believe it is wrong. Or perhaps it could be coincidence, just a matter of time and timing, words not necessarily associated with Trinidad and Tobago Football (both on and off the field, even before Latapy’s tenure as coach).
On the other side ( not political ), there is a few things that Latapy has not done himself any favours in; his team selection and particularly  his non selection of certain players , I understand that he has stated some players were not available and he had to find replacements. A few persons are crying out for Chris Birchall and deservedly so at that, given the guys currently starting in that strong holding midfield role. But perhaps, we need to examine the level of coaching at the Professional League which is producing such inept and poor quality players, who cannot even control a ball for any long periods. How can we seriously expect any coach in the world to teach players how to trap a ball and pass, when they are at practice for the national team? Something has to be wrong with this. This is no joke; I believe that the top four teams in the recently concluded Fifa Women’s Under 17 tournament would beat all our Pro League teams.
As to the public, many of us want success immediately and are not willing to invest for the long term, so that when we lose or draw with teams in the region, that we use to defeat in the past, there is a problem. Unfortunately for Trinidad and Tobago, world Football has not stood still and remained stagnated, while our best footballers travel abroad and we are left to watch the rest. But are we being unfair to the locally based players (particularly the younger ones, who need more exposure)? Here is a case in point that Trinidad and Tobago is struggling to find a competent locally based left or right back, despite all the Pro League teams. Unless, we all believe in coincidence, it is hard to comprehend all the antics both in and outside of the Football Federation, where it seems there was pre occupation with a General (then local) Elections followed by the Fifa Under 17 Women’s World Cup, so much so, that Latapy was allowed a free rein to do as he pleased until the time was right for change. And that is another point, why is it, that the President of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation Oliver Camps is silent on this issue and we have to be hearing from others? This too cannot be coincidence, unless of course Camps is seeking re election come November 2010 (if the date has not changed again) and is looking for support. Something has to be seriously wrong with any constitution that does not establish a fixed date for annual general meeting and for the election of officers. All of this makes a mockery of good governance and suggests the real answer to this conundrum, which is: How can we expect anything in football to be right, when we cannot even commit to a day for election of officers and where the person who runs the organization is not allowed to voice their opinion freely without some trepidation. But this could all be in my imagination and in fact, there may have been a football election already and there are no changes to the hierarchy in football, and all of us are worrying about nothing, because the truth is – we cannot do anything to improve football in this country, given the current administration-. If you are confused, just imagine the players and the coach of this country.
Only recently on my Isports Saturday show on i95.5fm (6.15pm to 8pm), one young lady told me she was giving up on our football, primarily because of the administration and the way, they rule the sport. The truth is ,she is not alone , the majority of this country believe so as well, but as I told her on the night, -Trinidad and Tobago- is ours and we have to support the players and football in spite of the Federation and hope ( and pray) that one day , there will be change for the better. But we must not relinquish our objective to question and enquire all the time, when matters appear strange or make no sense.
For the moment, let us all please Leave Russell Latapy alone to do a perilous job, it would appear. Any by the way, forget about this coincidence thing, I do not believe in it.
 
:: AB

15

Football / Russell Latapy Football Discussion on I-95.5fm on Saturday 2nd October

« on: October 01, 2010, 03:20:32 PM »

Andre Baptiste will be discussing the Russell Latapy Coaching Situation on his I-Sports programme tomorrow along with some Football experts, beginning around 6:15pm on I-95.5fm... foreign-based can listen Live at

http://www.i955fm.com/newlive/player.html

16

Football / Just heard on CNC 3 that Tobago Utd was booted out of the Pro-League

« on: September 17, 2010, 05:36:32 PM »

due to being unable to provide evidence that they could meet their Financial obligations! Sad to see the sole represenatative from the Sister Isle have to go, but maybe now there can be a TRULY UNITED TOBAGO team born from the ashes of this team that I always felt UNDER-achieved every year!

17

Football / Leo Beenhakker coming back to Trinidad and Tobago next week...

« on: September 16, 2010, 08:10:26 AM »

along with a couple other Dutch greats like Ruud Gullit and Aaron Winter to lobby Jack Warner to support the Holland WC2018 bid, hold some clinics etc...

Personally I'd luv to see him also discuss coming back to COACH T&T... in fact... he could take over the job from December, because by then the Digicel Cup would be OVER and we will be looking towards Gold Cup (HOPEFULLY) participation and World Cup 2014 preparation, AND FIFA would have announced the winners of the 2018 and 2022 bids to Host the World Cups in those years... and let ONE of his Assistants be DWIGHT YORKE, who will be given SPECIFIC Responsibility for FITNESS. Thoughts anyone?

18

Football / IMHO, Russell Latapy Could learn a LOT from this man...

« on: August 31, 2010, 10:09:02 PM »

Van Marwijk: Belief is crucial(FIFA.com) Monday 30 August 2010
His players describe him as being close to them and ready to listen, and after spending half an hour in the presence of Bert van Marwijk at the Dutch Football Association (KNVB) headquarters, it is easy to see why. “I like to be surrounded by people who want to improve,” the Netherlands coach told FIFA.com less than two months after leading his side to the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ Final.

Before taking the Oranje reins, Van Marwijk carved out a solid reputation in his homeland. His first coaching experience came at Maastricht in 1982, and after spending four years there he took on another five posts before being appointed by Feyenoord in the summer of 2000. The Rotterdam side provided him with an excellent platform and in 2002 he masterminded their UEFA Cup triumph, earning himself a move to Borussia Dortmund two years later. Van Marwijk failed to clinch any trophies with the Ruhr outfit but the experience proved invaluable, and after returning to Feyenoord he claimed the Dutch Cup in 2008 in his final campaign before replacing Marco van Basten.

With his charges soon to begin their UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying campaign against San Marino, Van Marwijk sat down with FIFA.com to discuss his philosophy on the game and coaching work, South Africa 2010 as well as the upcoming qualifiers.

FIFA.com: Bert, you are about to contest two important EURO 2012 qualifiers soon after losing the FIFA World Cup Final. How do you switch from one tournament to the next?
Bert van Marwijk: I've been feeling it out. When you get knocked out of a World Cup in the group stage or the last 16, the players want to play as quickly as possible again so they can move on. It’s a different situation when you lose in the Final. We had a friendly against Ukraine two weeks ago, which came too soon. The players had only had three weeks of holidays. They’d only had a week of training and the World Cup was still on their minds, so I played a B team. I told the players it wasn’t a preparation game but a chance to prove themselves. The motivation will start to come, though. It was too early before. It’s impossible to be motivated so soon after losing a World Cup Final, but the moment is right now and my players will be focused on the EURO.


When your opponents say afterwards that they felt you were almost unbeatable, I take that as a huge compliment.Bert van Marwijk on the Netherlands' 1-0 defeat by Spain in the South Africa 2010 Final


What is the secret to your approach, given that you have turned this team into a machine for securing wins?
There are two factors in football: the technical and tactical side, and then the mental side. The question you have to ask yourself is if you believe in something. From the very first day, I tried to instil the feeling that we had to believe in our chances of winning the title in South Africa, and that when you believe it, you can do it. I told my players we had a mission. The Netherlands have always been able to beat anyone in a one-off match, but there we had to do it over six weeks.

What methods did you use to reach that goal?
A good team is one in which everyone is able to tell the truth. The players don’t need to all be friends - they need to accept that while respecting everyone else’s qualities. You need to have the guts to be honest. From the start, I spoke about stability. I love creative and attacking football, but the first step was to defend as a team. When you manage that, you allow your opponents fewer chances and that gives everyone on the team more confidence, as well as belief in their team-mates. The players understood my message from the very first day and they showed that in my first match on the bench. That was against the same Russia side that beat us at EURO 2008 and we played a very solid game. There was plenty of discipline and I saw our obvious potential that evening.

Looking back, do you think the Netherlands really showed their true selves in the Final against Spain on 11 July?
My team was different in the Final, it’s true. We weren’t ourselves in the first half, but you have to understand that it was the first time all of them had played in a World Cup Final. They were very nervous and that explains the very physical style and the fouls, because we were coming late into tackles. Spain had already won a EURO with pretty much the same team, so they were more used to this kind of occasion. We played more freely in the second half, as happened against Brazil in the quarter-finals. My regret is that we had to wait so long.

Did you still believe you could win towards the end?
After the match, the Spanish players told us that, in the second half, they were really afraid they were going to lose the Final. That says a lot about our strength. I was 100 per cent sure we were going to penalties because, after the red card, I felt that something had clicked in our minds and that Maarten Stekelenburg was having a great night. So I was optimistic. Spain deserved their triumph and they’re a fabulous team to watch, but we could have won it. We missed two one-on-one chances through Arjen Robben, and just lacked a finishing touch.

Was it frustrating to see your players struggle in the first half without being able to intervene?
We spoke about the pressure in our preparations for the match, but despite that it weighed heavily on us. That’s the beauty of top-level sport: you can’t control emotions like that, even when you try to anticipate them.

Would you agree that you have made the Netherlands more direct and pragmatic?
You have to take into account that this sport is changing, that the ingredients of the game are better, the players are faster, the play too, and that there’s less space on the pitch. During our preparations, we played three warm-up matches and scored 13 goals while conceding two. Our football was attractive. Then, in the World Cup, we came up against opponents who waited for us to make mistakes without really attacking. It’s more difficult to be constantly creative when space is very tight and you have much less time to execute things. You have to look at football differently and develop a different notion of creativity. You need more patience and you need to wait for the right moment, because your opponents are on the lookout for the slightest error. You have to adapt to the changes in football. In the semi-final, we won 3-2 but we could have scored five. Everyone praised our attacking play then. When your opponents say afterwards that they felt you were almost unbeatable, I take that as a huge compliment.


I teach the players to never feel satisfied with what they’ve achieved and to never feel like they’ve already made it. You lose when you become arrogant like that.Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk


You spoke earlier about stability being an essential factor. Will we see the same team with the same strengths during the qualifiers for EURO 2012?
Stability on the pitch is the key. The players have to know each other 100 per cent. My philosophy is to get the ball to feet and be creative. In addition to that, however, I also teach the players to win, to never feel satisfied with what they’ve achieved and to never feel like they’ve already made it. You lose when you become arrogant like that. I had to instil that attitude: to stay focused on our mission and see only the next step to climb. That mustn’t change during the qualifiers, but I’m aware that it won’t be easy.

During the FIFA World Cup, you explained that you were using methods learnt in the Bundesliga. What did you mean by that?
My style of play has been my philosophy since the start. My beliefs haven’t changed. After that, you always learn from your different experiences. In Germany, I learnt how to win a match even when you’re not playing well or how to get a draw on an off-day, knowing that going after victory could result in defeat. But the Germans could also learn from the Netherlands. You know, the difference between Spain, Germany, England and ourselves is that in the three other teams, almost all the players play in their national championship. They have the same calendar and the same training styles. In my case, I have to deal with players from Italy, Spain, England, Scotland and so on – and I have to do it our way, with our own philosophy.

19

Football / Warrior Nation Women on I-Sports this evening, Thursday 1st July

« on: July 01, 2010, 03:45:58 PM »

Yes folks, Weary, BrownSugar and WarriorQueen will be guests on the I-Sports Thursday program this evening on I-95.5fm between 6:30pm EST and 8:00pm EST. Foreign-based can listen live at http://www.i955fm.com/newlive/player.html

20

Football / The Road to Italy... Available again

« on: June 11, 2010, 08:11:43 AM »

Peeps, I was talkin to Marlon Morris at a recent Pro-league match and he wanted people to know that he has just released a new edition of his "Road to Italy" book.  Interested parties can send me a PM and I'll put you in contact with him to get copies.

21

Football / SPORTS: DANCING BRAVE COLUMN FOR WEDNESDAY 9TH JUNE, 2010 By Andre E Baptiste

« on: June 09, 2010, 12:49:23 PM »

SPORTS: DANCING BRAVE COLUMN FOR WEDNESDAY 9TH JUNE, 2010
By Andre E Baptiste ( isports@andrebaptiste.com)
 
 
                        -------    WHO WILL WIN THE 2010 WORLD CUP -------
 
 
 
 
The 2010 World Cup in South Africa starts on Friday amidst a lot of anticipation and some trepidation, depending on which team you are supporting. Unlike four years ago in Germany when Trinidad and Tobago was among the list of 32 teams that participated, we now find ourselves mere spectators to this great event. And while we can all lament the many situations that occurred that led to this. Let me remind those who may have forgotten:
1)      The decision to Black lists several of the players from the 2006 World Cup Campaign over money.
2)      The chopping and changing of coaches from the Dutch style to a Colombian with language problems , finally to Russell Latapy when it was all but over
3)      A decision by Captain Dwight Yorke, with Trinidad and Tobago leading El Salvador 2-0 away from home and with 35 minutes remaining, and having been awarded a penalty. Yorke decided to give Stern John, his friend the chance to take the penalty against the obvious and expressed orders of the coach. Stern John ….missed.
 
However , as we examine this World Cup , it has become clearer with every day , that the South African obeah men and women  have set about working on clearing the way forward for some major upsets , with many leading players either out of the World Cup, or forced to play with one injury or another.
England has perhaps been hardest hit; with know David Beckham and Rio Ferdinand.
Germany has lost their captain and talisman in Michael Ballack.
Ghana has lost Michael Essien.
Nigeria have lost John Obi MIkel
There are several players as well with injuries including Arjen Robben of Holland and Didier Drobga of the Ivory Coast, Andrea  Pirlo of Italy.
 
So Let us look at the Groups:
In Group A – I expect France under 57 year old coach, Raymond Domenech to qualify at the top of the group, based on their pedigree and their skill level. Hosts Country – South Africa under Brazilian Carlos Alberto Parreira should captured second spot especially if Everton’s Steven Piennar has a good first round of matches. Uruguay will be dangerous but one expects that 30 year old Diego Forlan may be drained after his great exploits with UEFA Cup Champions Athletico Madrid.
 
Group B – Diego Maradona’s Argentina is favoured to win this group easily especially if Lionel Messi decides to showcase his talent on the world scene. The Eagles of Nigeria under the guidance of the wily Swede Lars Lagerback and with 25 year old Obafemi Martins in form will be the challenger. Former European Champions – Greece – have the veteran, 71 year old Otto Rehhagel at the helm and he may have plans to stifle both Argentina and Nigeria.
 
Group C – England were once hailed as the team to beat in this World Cup, but a steady diet of problems both on and off the field involving the manager Fabio Capello (and his players index) and several of the players (notably John Terry’s dismissal as captain over an alleged affair with Wayne Bridge’s ex- girlfriend (who is Bridge’s child mother). Injuries to Beckham and recently Rio Ferdinand (who was installed as Captain after Terry’s removal) will have hurt the team. There is no doubt that new captain Steven Gerrard is a weak and ineffective captain (just ask Liverpool players). However they can still possibly win this group. The United States of America will challenge them strongly though, given their discipline and growing world cup experience. Coach Bob Bradley will be expecting that Tim Howard ( Goalkeeper) , Landon Donovan ( Midfielder) and Clint Dempsey ( Forward) will be able to use their experience of the English Premier League to surprise England on June 12 th. Of the others, Algeria with utility player Nadir Balhadg can be a spoiler if allowed too much space,
 
Group D- At the last World Cup, Germany were the hosts and did not win. This Time around, they will have to play without influential playmaker and Captain Michael Ballack; however Coach Joachim Low will look to Bastian Schweinsteigert to inspire his team. Ghana missing the other Michael, Essien will be a tough under Coach Milovan Rajevac.
Australia have shown signs of improvement, but whether they can have that little bit of luck that is needed in these group stages, will be the question. Tim Cahill of Everton is a poacher and if presented with goal scoring opportunities could hurt Germany and Ghana.
 
Group E – Holland (or Netherlands) have always played some of the prettiest football in the world, but yet still have not won the World Cup. Many have suggested that yet again they seem heading in that very direction, with imposing victories in their two warm up matches. Have they peaked too early? In Wesley Snieyder, Robin Van Persie and Arjen Robben, they have potent forwards. But with no Edwin Van De Sar in goal, they will be weak defensively .Arsenal ‘s Nicklas Bendtner will lead Denmark’s attacking force , and the experience of former great Danish captain , now coach Morten Olsen will be critical if Denmark is to advance to Knockout stages.  
Cameroon will be placing all of their hopes of success at this tournament in 28 year old Samuel Eto, who just won another Champions League title with Inter Milan. Former star of Cameroon football Roger Milla has angered some including Eto by suggesting that Eto does not give his all for Cameroon, as he does when he plays club football. This sort of criticism can either inspire or deflate Eto, only time will tell.
 
Group F – Defending Champions Italy on paper has the easiest group in terms of qualification and may not need to break into a sweat to win this. Coach Marcello Lippi returns after Donadoni’s failure and his team has looked below par in the build up. Daniele De Rossi  is expected to be the mainstay of the team, especially if Pirlo remains under the weather. South American team Paraguay has played very attractive football under Argentine Geraldo Martino and with the tricky Roque Santa Cruz can cause an upset. Slovakia has a young talented midfielder in 21 year old Marek Hamsik who can create chances for teammates and score goals.
 
Group G – South American Champions Brazil, who are aiming for their sixth World Cup Title have a less skillful team than usual this time around, and this might actually work in their favours with Coach Dunga instilling some steel into the team. There are none of the great superstars of the past , but in Kaka ( forward) , Julio Cesar ( Goalkeeper) , Maicon ( Attacking defender)  and Robinho ( Forward), they have the armoury to unlock any safe. The Ivory Coast will be hurt if Didier Drogba’s unfortunate injury prevents their imposing striker from giving of his best .New Coach Sven Goran Erickson will be hopeful that some of his players with English Premiership experience will step up to the plate. Portugal an ageing team will hope that Cristiano Ronaldo can rekindle his form of early years and carry Portugal on his back to the knockout stages.
 
Group H – European Champions Spain, arrive in South Africa as the favourites among all of the leading bookmakers in the world (as low as 4-1 in some quarters). Coach Vincente Del Bosque most difficult decision will be, which players to leave out. Spain has possibly at least 6 or 7 of the best players in the world and numerous quality reserves in nearly every position. Names such as Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Xabi Alonso, Fernando Torres and Cesc Fabregas stand out.
Chile under the guidance of Argentine Marcelo Biesla cannot be underestimated and 22 year old Carlos Cormona will be a player to watch.  Switzerland did not lose a game in the last World Cup, but still went open early; they will need to score goals and win matches this time around and will hope that 30 year old Alexander Frei will deliver.
 
In my opinion if all of the fancy teams win their respective groups –
Group A – ( France ) , Group B – ( Argentina ) , Group C – ( England) , Group D – ( Germany) , Group E -( Holland) , Group F – ( Italy) , Group G – ( Brazil ) and Group H – ( Spain_)  and subsequently win their respective matches in the knockout stage ( the last 16). Then this will be the quarterfinal line ups
 
Quarter Final 1 – Holland versus Brazil
Quarter Final 2 – France versus England
Quarter Final 3 – Germany versus Argentina
Quarter Final 4 – Italy versus Spain
 
These matches make for mouthwatering expectation and will have many glued to their televisions, as we will witness some of the most exciting football ever.
 
For me, I expect the semi finals to be between
 
Semi Final 1 – Brazil versus England
Semi Final 2 – Argentina versus Spain
 
Naturally in most World Cup, there are upsets and outsiders, and this is where we can expect Holland and France to be dangerous if they reach the quarterfinal stage. And Let us not forget the African teams such as Nigeria, Ghana and Cameroon.
As to who will win the World Cup , I know the entire country wants to know – Who I select – both on radio and TV , I have been inundated by requests . So Here goes, …… will win the World Cup.
 
One more time …… will win the 2010 World Cup.
 
:: AB

22

2010 World Cup - South Africa / SPORTS: DANCING BRAVE COLUMN FOR WEDNESDAY 9TH JUNE, 2010 By Andre E Baptiste

« on: June 09, 2010, 10:18:11 AM »

SPORTS: DANCING BRAVE COLUMN FOR WEDNESDAY 9TH JUNE, 2010
By Andre E Baptiste ( isports@andrebaptiste.com)
 
 
                        -------    WHO WILL WIN THE 2010 WORLD CUP -------
 
 
 
 
The 2010 World Cup in South Africa starts on Friday amidst a lot of anticipation and some trepidation, depending on which team you are supporting. Unlike four years ago in Germany when Trinidad and Tobago was among the list of 32 teams that participated, we now find ourselves mere spectators to this great event. And while we can all lament the many situations that occurred that led to this. Let me remind those who may have forgotten:
1)      The decision to Black lists several of the players from the 2006 World Cup Campaign over money.
2)      The chopping and changing of coaches from the Dutch style to a Colombian with language problems , finally to Russell Latapy when it was all but over
3)      A decision by Captain Dwight Yorke, with Trinidad and Tobago leading El Salvador 2-0 away from home and with 35 minutes remaining, and having been awarded a penalty. Yorke decided to give Stern John, his friend the chance to take the penalty against the obvious and expressed orders of the coach. Stern John ….missed.
 
However , as we examine this World Cup , it has become clearer with every day , that the South African obeah men and women  have set about working on clearing the way forward for some major upsets , with many leading players either out of the World Cup, or forced to play with one injury or another.
England has perhaps been hardest hit; with know David Beckham and Rio Ferdinand.
Germany has lost their captain and talisman in Michael Ballack.
Ghana has lost Michael Essien.
Nigeria have lost John Obi MIkel
There are several players as well with injuries including Arjen Robben of Holland and Didier Drobga of the Ivory Coast, Andrea  Pirlo of Italy.
 
So Let us look at the Groups:
In Group A – I expect France under 57 year old coach, Raymond Domenech to qualify at the top of the group, based on their pedigree and their skill level. Hosts Country – South Africa under Brazilian Carlos Alberto Parreira should captured second spot especially if Everton’s Steven Piennar has a good first round of matches. Uruguay will be dangerous but one expects that 30 year old Diego Forlan may be drained after his great exploits with UEFA Cup Champions Athletico Madrid.
 
Group B – Diego Maradona’s Argentina is favoured to win this group easily especially if Lionel Messi decides to showcase his talent on the world scene. The Eagles of Nigeria under the guidance of the wily Swede Lars Lagerback and with 25 year old Obafemi Martins in form will be the challenger. Former European Champions – Greece – have the veteran, 71 year old Otto Rehhagel at the helm and he may have plans to stifle both Argentina and Nigeria.
 
Group C – England were once hailed as the team to beat in this World Cup, but a steady diet of problems both on and off the field involving the manager Fabio Capello (and his players index) and several of the players (notably John Terry’s dismissal as captain over an alleged affair with Wayne Bridge’s ex- girlfriend (who is Bridge’s child mother). Injuries to Beckham and recently Rio Ferdinand (who was installed as Captain after Terry’s removal) will have hurt the team. There is no doubt that new captain Steven Gerrard is a weak and ineffective captain (just ask Liverpool players). However they can still possibly win this group. The United States of America will challenge them strongly though, given their discipline and growing world cup experience. Coach Bob Bradley will be expecting that Tim Howard ( Goalkeeper) , Landon Donovan ( Midfielder) and Clint Dempsey ( Forward) will be able to use their experience of the English Premier League to surprise England on June 12 th. Of the others, Algeria with utility player Nadir Balhadg can be a spoiler if allowed too much space,
 
Group D- At the last World Cup, Germany were the hosts and did not win. This Time around, they will have to play without influential playmaker and Captain Michael Ballack; however Coach Joachim Low will look to Bastian Schweinsteigert to inspire his team. Ghana missing the other Michael, Essien will be a tough under Coach Milovan Rajevac.
Australia have shown signs of improvement, but whether they can have that little bit of luck that is needed in these group stages, will be the question. Tim Cahill of Everton is a poacher and if presented with goal scoring opportunities could hurt Germany and Ghana.
 
Group E – Holland (or Netherlands) have always played some of the prettiest football in the world, but yet still have not won the World Cup. Many have suggested that yet again they seem heading in that very direction, with imposing victories in their two warm up matches. Have they peaked too early? In Wesley Snieyder, Robin Van Persie and Arjen Robben, they have potent forwards. But with no Edwin Van De Sar in goal, they will be weak defensively .Arsenal ‘s Nicklas Bendtner will lead Denmark’s attacking force , and the experience of former great Danish captain , now coach Morten Olsen will be critical if Denmark is to advance to Knockout stages.  
Cameroon will be placing all of their hopes of success at this tournament in 28 year old Samuel Eto, who just won another Champions League title with Inter Milan. Former star of Cameroon football Roger Milla has angered some including Eto by suggesting that Eto does not give his all for Cameroon, as he does when he plays club football. This sort of criticism can either inspire or deflate Eto, only time will tell.
 
Group F – Defending Champions Italy on paper has the easiest group in terms of qualification and may not need to break into a sweat to win this. Coach Marcello Lippi returns after Donadoni’s failure and his team has looked below par in the build up. Daniele De Rossi  is expected to be the mainstay of the team, especially if Pirlo remains under the weather. South American team Paraguay has played very attractive football under Argentine Geraldo Martino and with the tricky Roque Santa Cruz can cause an upset. Slovakia has a young talented midfielder in 21 year old Marek Hamsik who can create chances for teammates and score goals.
 
Group G – South American Champions Brazil, who are aiming for their sixth World Cup Title have a less skillful team than usual this time around, and this might actually work in their favours with Coach Dunga instilling some steel into the team. There are none of the great superstars of the past , but in Kaka ( forward) , Julio Cesar ( Goalkeeper) , Maicon ( Attacking defender)  and Robinho ( Forward), they have the armoury to unlock any safe. The Ivory Coast will be hurt if Didier Drogba’s unfortunate injury prevents their imposing striker from giving of his best .New Coach Sven Goran Erickson will be hopeful that some of his players with English Premiership experience will step up to the plate. Portugal an ageing team will hope that Cristiano Ronaldo can rekindle his form of early years and carry Portugal on his back to the knockout stages.
 
Group H – European Champions Spain, arrive in South Africa as the favourites among all of the leading bookmakers in the world (as low as 4-1 in some quarters). Coach Vincente Del Bosque most difficult decision will be, which players to leave out. Spain has possibly at least 6 or 7 of the best players in the world and numerous quality reserves in nearly every position. Names such as Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Xabi Alonso, Fernando Torres and Cesc Fabregas stand out.
Chile under the guidance of Argentine Marcelo Biesla cannot be underestimated and 22 year old Carlos Cormona will be a player to watch.  Switzerland did not lose a game in the last World Cup, but still went open early; they will need to score goals and win matches this time around and will hope that 30 year old Alexander Frei will deliver.
 
In my opinion if all of the fancy teams win their respective groups –
Group A – ( France ) , Group B – ( Argentina ) , Group C – ( England) , Group D – ( Germany) , Group E -( Holland) , Group F – ( Italy) , Group G – ( Brazil ) and Group H – ( Spain_)  and subsequently win their respective matches in the knockout stage ( the last 16). Then this will be the quarterfinal line ups
 
Quarter Final 1 – Holland versus Brazil
Quarter Final 2 – France versus England
Quarter Final 3 – Germany versus Argentina
Quarter Final 4 – Italy versus Spain
 
These matches make for mouthwatering expectation and will have many glued to their televisions, as we will witness some of the most exciting football ever.
 
For me, I expect the semi finals to be between
 
Semi Final 1 – Brazil versus England
Semi Final 2 – Argentina versus Spain
 
Naturally in most World Cup, there are upsets and outsiders, and this is where we can expect Holland and France to be dangerous if they reach the quarterfinal stage. And Let us not forget the African teams such as Nigeria, Ghana and Cameroon.
As to who will win the World Cup , I know the entire country wants to know – Who I select – both on radio and TV , I have been inundated by requests . So Here goes, …… will win the World Cup.
 
One more time …… will win the 2010 World Cup.
 
:: AB

23

Football / Press Conference Re 2006 Soca Warriors players Dispute...UPDATE as at Friday 21s

« on: May 21, 2010, 01:58:30 PM »

First off, as I arrived, I must commend the organizers as their signage, giving directions, was EXCELLENT, particularly as I'd arrived at 5 mins before the proposed 10:00am start of the Press Conference, and had never been to the President Box West before (Since being refurbished some years ago, the administrative part of the Oval building is one giant maze, where one wrong turn can take you FAR away from your intended destination!)
Upon enterin the room, I recognised Otis Whitley, Kelvin Jack, Cyd Gray, Kenwyne Jones, Brent Sancho and David Attiba Charles (Anthony Wolfe would join the Press Conference later). Also present was Mike Townley the British attorney and Kevin Harrison (who did NOT take part in the proceedings but sat among us the Audience).  I was immediately surprised by the ABSENCE of MEDIA Personnel tho! In fact it was the media who delayed the start of the Press Conference until about 10:15am. And even then other than a few faces familiar to me, and the station ID mikes at the podium, I can say that the media (Print/Radio/Television) was extremely UNDER-represented! One of the players even remarked that "...iz election time, allyuh fellas only have all them lil cottage meetings to study now eh"

Once the Press Conference started, Mike Townley traced the origins of the conflict and immediately sought to distance the TIMING of the PC from the General Elections on Monday. In fact he said that the MAIN reason, besides updating the Public, was that the group of players felt they needed to RESPOND to Jack Warner's claim on an election platform that the issue was settled, and the players ALL paid, which in fact is untrue. To support this, he read JW's Press Release on the matter, from 2 years ago, stating same. He then read copies of letters written by him, in his capacity of legal representative of the 13 players (TECHNICALLY STILL 16, as there was NO proof of payment to the other 3 who have since distanced themseles from the legal action) to the TTFF and the Chief Justice of T&T/Ministry of Legal Affairs regarding the length of time the matter has been seemingly stalled in the T&T legal system. He also indicated that the Ministry of Sports had provided appox 82 million TT$ to the 2006 campaign, while the PRIVATE sector added a further TT$88 million (companies such as ADIDAS,Atlantic LNG,CARIB and BG/BP) Townley then clarified that the players were NOT even adddressing their claims to the Ministry's contribution, but rather 50% of the PRIVATE SPONSORS. contributions. Then it was time for Q&A.

While I don't remember all the questions asked, I will fill you in on the ones I think are MOST relevant. I asked about the most recent correspondence received from the local Courts..and was told, NONE has ever been received, tho the case is pending since October 2009 when a judgement was promised! One reporter then asked if the possibility of Jack Warner getting into the next Gov't was a concern to the players... the response was that given the fact that Jack has a former Judge now campaigning with him, it raises questions in their (the players) minds as to whether or not this has contributed to the unusual delay in the local courts and going forward, whether they can expect fair treatment should the People's partnership win. Another journalist asked whether the timing of the Press Conference 3 days before the General elections wouldn't be seen as Politically motivated...which I felt was already addressed by the players' attorney already, but Kelvin Jack replied that even at the airport coming in Mike Townly when questioned by Immigration authorities as to his reason for coming to T&T, told the officer for the Soca Warriors presence, the officer replied "Ent they get pay already?"...further proof that a lot of people in the country are  or had been misled, AND the guys needed to bring it up at a time when they would get noticed, as it has been almost 4 years now (and he pointed to a sign on the wall behind which had printed on it "$ years later and STill the Soca Warriors have not yet been paid". On the question as to whether it could be seen as a sign of dwindling fortunes on their part that of the 23 players who went to the World Cup, it's now down to 13 who are actively pusuing the matter, Brent Sancho said that if even only ONE continues the struggle, it's STILL a worthy cause. Another question came as to the lack of support from SENIOR players (ie Dwight Yorke and Russell Latapy), and K. Jack threw it back at the media and asked them to go ask Latapy WHY he never supported the cause... and diito go find Dwight Yorke and ask him too, in fact Dwight got special mention, hear Kelvin Jack "As someone who I looked up to as both a player and my Captain, I was very disappointed in him having written a book last year, and NOT ONE WORD about this issue, but only talking about his various escapades, it's almost laughable...". When asked what is the players last option, as it's been 4 years wih seemingly no end in sight, didn't the players feel that they were jeopardizing their International careers and chance of ever representig T&T again, brent Sancho said that their situation was NOT a unique one, but dated back years, even decades as players and the TTFA/TTFF have had numerous run-ins, but THIS group of players marked the FIRST time a UNIT has banded and stayed together. The issue of FPATT was also raised and again the lack of support by guys like Russell and Dwight was mentioned. Sancho claimed that young players now getting into the National team, were being threatened by their Club managers if they joined! Another question related to this was the blacklisting of players and it's impact on the failed 2010 WC campaign, and Sancho, Jack and Kenwyne Jones all shared their own feelings on how disappointed they were, Brent Sancho especially since he noted that his LAST game for T&T was actually against Paraguay in the World Cup four years ago! He said he didn't want future players to go through what they were experiencing and was taking a stand for the future of football in T&T. there were some other issues raised, but thats basically what I can recall, so there you have it...nothing NEW per se, but for me it was an opportunity to be among some of the guys who contributed to two of the HAPPIEST days of my life... November 16th 2005 and June 10th 2006.

24

Football / Football discussion on I-95.5fm TODAY at 6:15pm

« on: April 17, 2010, 12:49:08 PM »

Topics include player of the year (Internationally) and who is most likely to win this year's WC in South Africa. I will be one of the guest panellists

Link for foreign-based:-

http://www.i955fm.com/newlive/player.html

25

Football / Terry Fenwick being interviewed right now on I-95.5fm

« on: March 20, 2010, 05:01:17 PM »

http://www.i955fm.com/newlive/player.html

26

Football / Little magician needs full cast

« on: March 17, 2010, 08:33:26 PM »

By Andre Baptiste
Published: 17 Mar 2010 Trinidad Guardian
 
Coach Russell Latapy...back in action with the national team.
Andre Baptiste
I am ashamed of the officials who run football in this country.
Two weeks ago, after tremendous pressure and discussions all over this country, the godfather of our football revealed, what many believed should have been confirmed since November 2009, that Russell Latapy would be the national coach. For a while, T&T did not seem to care that we had no football coach with politics and Carnival in the air. We were so pre-occupied with the disappointment of not qualifying for the 2010 World Cup, that we dismissed football, and those in charge were given the opportunity to do nothing fast.
If we were a mature football nation, we would have already moved on and looked for the positives and started planning for the future. This would have meant that the Football Federation would have been professionally maintained by intelligent, forward thinking persons, and not by slaves to a particular servant. Why did it take so long? Is it because no-one was able to stand-up to Austin Jack Warner and tell him: “We need to either re-appoint Latapy or find a successor immediately.” It is for this reason I am not happy. If these are the individuals who run the sport, how can Latapy depend on them for support. Can he trust what they tell him? Will they give him support in action and not only words?
Latapy needs to be allowed time to build a team. He needs to have competent people around him, and this appears to rule out current members of the Federation. We must not fool ourselves into believing that the Little Magician can wave a wand and dismiss these people. They enjoy some key positions and can do things that may not be in his best interest. At the moment, Latapy needs, not only matches of consequences, but a technical group of people to help in improving particular skills of our players, from goalkeeping to scoring goals. He also needs to get an understanding of how these players think. Too many are allowed to earn reasonable income ($6,000-$8,000) without knowing how to spend their money, and end up wasting away their careers on the thrills of life.
 
This sort of responsibility has to be engendered from early if the young players are to be of value to Latapy. They need education and not large contracts without advice and mentorship. Not everyone can handle a million dollars. I hope the Federation is not trying to set up Latapy to fail by not supplying him with the necessary tools to succeed. I also want to know when will Latapy be spending the six months with Arsenal and Arsene Wenger.  So far I have not seen any indication on the Arsenal Web site of this impending stint. I welcome this move since this is the best training Latapy could acquire because Arsenal plays beautiful football and he would be able to identify with Arsenal’s flair, touch and tenacity. In the past, we have heard several false promises from football authorities and when questioned, they always point fingers at Government’s failure to fund football.
I hope none of the promises made to Latapy are dependent on government funding. As to those who should assist Latapy, he must choose people he can trust. With the Pro League due to start on April 9, and with it, a new beginning, as there will now be a 12 month season, with two breaks, this should ideally allow Latapy a chance to observe the development of the locally based players. This is where he needs to draw his line. Having watched and played in the 2009 Pro League season, Latapy must have an opinion on the ability of several of the players and he needs to assemble a squad of 25-30 players, and, if he can arrange some matches and serious sessions around the season, that would be beneficial. Every Trinbagonian believes he/she knows football and can pick the best team. But we must not pressure Latapy, it is his decision to select his own squad.
Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs Gary Hunt, must forget politics and help Latapy to grow and succeed in any way he can. The road ahead will be tricky but if he is given a fair chance, the Magician will succeed and this will mean our football is on the road to achieving some stability by the time qualifications start for World Cup 2014. Pro League coaches also need to co-operate with the national coach. There will be those, whether owners or agents, who will want their player selected for the national team so that he can obtain the necessary international caps, that will grant him a rewarding contract abroad. This selfishness must not be encouraged. Let us support the new coach with sincerity and honesty. We must give him a chance to experiment while attempting to find the right formula and flavour for our national team.

27

Football / I passed by this morning's training session

« on: March 11, 2010, 11:29:07 AM »

just for a little while...and first off I spoke to LP about why no ADVANCE list of the 29 National selectees was released to the media, and he said that in his opinion this was because Latapy was just SCREENING players to have a look at where they were at, and this week is to be the first of such sessions, so faces will come and go, as Latapy gathers info on just what level the locals are at and how much work he has to do etc. And he stressed that again that this was NOT a Natonal team training session, but rather screening FOR National selection. When i arrived, the players were doing a passing drill, which I was told was to focus on KEEPING POSSESSION... after a brief break, Latas handed out green and blue bibs and the passing drill was repeated with at a higher intensity..here are some of the players who I recognised:-

Akile Edwards
Keon Daniel
Clyde Leon
Kendall Jagdeosingh
Hughton Hector
Robert Primus
Atullah Guerra
Shaddon Winchester (who has clearly been hitting the weight-room - he looked MUCH bigger)
Lincoln Phillips and "Brow" were on the southern side of the filed working with Jan m. Williams and Glenroy Samuel.

The Manager, David Muhammed was informed me that the night before, Denzil (Theobald) and Randafar Abu Bakr were present, but it was more or less the same group of players here today...I saw a lot of NEW faces (to ME anyway), so it looks as though the coach ihas begun the right way, mixing a blend of youth and experience and initially looking at the 20-25 age group for the most part. I couldn't stay very long, but from the time I spent there, Latas was very focussed on his charges, and stopping every so often to offer advice and instruct players on what he wanted.

28

Football / Latas is back

« on: March 02, 2010, 01:09:11 PM »

'Latas' is back...TTFF offer two-year contract as national coach
By Kern De Freitas (T&T Express)

Russell Latapy will get a second chance to prove himself as head coach of the Trinidad and Tobago national team after being re-signed to a two-year contract by the T&T Football Federation (TTFF).

The announcement was made by TTFF special adviser Jack Warner yesterday during a press conference at the President’s Box, Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain.

Latapy replaced Colombian Francisco Maturana during the final round of CONCACAF qualifying for the South Africa 2010 World Cup in April last year and his tenure ended with T&T’s failure to qualify in September.

Now, Latapy is being given more decision-making leeway, including the freedom to choose his assistant coaches ’within the constraints of our budget’, according to Warner.

The national team will retain their entire technical staff, including manager David Mohammed.

TTFF technical director Lincoln ’Tiger’ Phillips, himself a former national goalkeeper, will work with the T&T keepers to get them ’up to standard’, Warner revealed.

Latapy said he has yet to discuss the assistant coach position with longtime friend and T&T teammate Dwight Yorke, but hinted that he would like to have Yorke as part of the technical team.

Warner was on the TTFF panel that selected the T&T management team, that panel including technical adviser Keith Look Loy and general secretary Richard Groden and chaired by TTFF president Oliver Camps.

In addition, Warner said, the TTFF have accepted an invitation by the English Football Association to have Latapy serve an ’apprenticeship’ with Arsenal Football Club of the English Premier League, ’so he can work with (Arsenal manager) Arsene Wenger’.

Latapy, in his statement, said he accepted the offer to return as coach with ’pride and honour’.

He immediately stated his desire to work with a core of ’about 32 players’ between the ages of 20-26. Any other players, he said, would be accepted on his team if they impress him.

’...I’ve always said,’ Latapy related, ’if you’re good enough, you’re old enough to play for the national team.’

Latapy will give priority to the ’best XI’ at his disposal, he said, and is hoping to get his team to gel enough, before exposing them to international fixtures.

’We want to play the best opponents we can play. That’s the only way we’re going to improve,’ the former T&T midfielder said.

Latapy is targeting the 24-team 2010 Digicel Cup and qualification for the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup to assess where his team is before qualifying for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Former national coach Zoran Vranes, Warner also announced yesterday, will add the Olympic (Under-23) team to his duties as national Under-20 coach.

Vranes can have his pick of local assistants, while he has Michelle Abrams as Under-20 manager.

Before Warner made the big announcement, though, Phillips gave a brief synopsis of the technical issues the national team faces and their intended solutions.

Phillips highlighted the speed of T&T’s game, ’predictability’, and the ability to think on their feet among their problems, along with ’passing, dribbling, ball control, possession, penetration, crossing...’.

’We play a very static game,’ he said, adding: ’...the game is not fluid anymore.’

Phillips put that responsibility squarely on the shoulders of coaches and pointed to the licensing of coaching as one solution on which the TTFF are currently working, in conjunction with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Sport.

The TTFF have been offering coaching courses, varying from Levels A-F, and are hoping to have all football coaches licensed to a mininum Level D, a ’prepartory level’ and eventually to Level C.

The use of technology is also crucial to the development of the modern footballer, Phillips said, and added that the TTFF have also introduced international exchange programmes to further help prepare coaches to work with players.


Folks, I've been informed by Weary that Latapy has been re-appointed as Senior National Coach, with the freedom to choose his Assistant, Vranes same thing with the Under 23/20 team and LP is still T.D. with emphasis on Goal-keeping...

...so we goin "Back to the Future"... I guess iz true what the Old people say yes, when better cyah be done, let worse continue

29

Football / Reminder, TODAY, Andre Baptiste discussing FOOTBALL on I-95.5fm

« on: February 17, 2010, 01:59:05 PM »

Program will be Thursday 18th beginning at 6:25pm T&T time (5:25pm EST)

Topics up for discussion include - the Latas as Head Coach debate/Corneals's comments and Is Jack Warner "irreplaceable"... and of course Gary Hunte and the Sports Ministry's involvement/Funding

Foreign-based can tune in to:-

http://www.i955fm.com/nowplaying.aspx

I will not be able to listen tho, so represent those of you who CAN... the number for call-in comments is 1-868-622-3937

30

Football / T&T Fail to Heed Warning Signs

« on: September 16, 2009, 10:30:09 AM »

SPORTS: DANCING BRAVE COLUMN FOR TUESDAY  15TH SEPTEMBER, 2009
By Andre E Baptiste
 
 --------      T&T FAIL TO HEED WARNING SIGNS------
                     
 
Perhaps, we should have expected this.
The signs were available from very early on in our campaign.
Perhaps, it is just our misguided belief, that Trinidad and Tobago is a blessed Country and can survive and overcome any problem, even those self inflicted.
When our Soca Warriors lost to Bermuda at the Marvin Lee Stadium that should have been the signal that this 2010 South Africa Campaign was in serious danger.  Unfortunately nobody really believed this, and the incumbent coach at the time, Francisco Maturana kept his job, when he should have been summarily dismissed.  We then struggled but won in Bermuda, and Trinidad and Tobago as a people believed all was now okay, and South Africa was a certainty in 2010.
Some indifferent performances, in a group including the U.S.A. and Guatemala, meant, that changes in team selection policy had to be made, and several so called “black listed” players had to be recalled, much to the joy of most of the knowledgeable football supporters in this Country.
Despite our indifferent performances, we progressed to the final round of qualification on the back of two goals by the two (2) oldest men on the field against the U.S.A., in Dwight Yorke (36 years) and Russell Latapy (41 years)
It proved a point, which some of us have been afraid to say in the past, that even though Yorke and Latapy may be “too old” in some people’s eyes and their legs not as mobile as before, they are still quality wise ahead of most of the other players from this Country.
In my opinion, the major problem lies here, from the moment, persons in this Country convinced themselves and obviously at the time convinced the Coach Maturana, that Russell Latapy was too “old” there was always going to be a sad fall “out”.
We all know about the missed penalty in El Salvador and the poor performances against Honduras and the U.S.A., and on each occasion, Latapy was on the bench and never utilized. This was the major flaw in decision making which lead to our continual lack of ingenuity and insight.  There was just no “leader” on the field, as Yorke was suspended for two matches.
I will maintain that Russell Latapy as a player was worth 4 to 6 points for Trinidad and Tobago and the fact, that this was not implemented or enforced was our major problem.
Russel, himself, when he became coach of the team seem to be reluctant to utilize his own ability, when he knew in his heart, that there was no equal player for his position in the Trinidad and Tobago Team.
Should Latapy remain as Coach?  Yes, because with only two matches to be played, we need to ensure that we finish this “failed” campaign with some respectability and that our football name is not further damaged.
Costa Rica (October 10th) will already be difficult away from home and if we travel there with a lost mindset, the result could even be worst than Honduras. And while our last match against Mexico (October 14th) may appear to be academic for a lot of other reasons it may be crucial to our future in the sport.
The only way for Russell Latapy to hold on to this job as National Coach after this World Cup Campaign is to record back to back wins and thereby improve his record from the current  World Cup qualification record  of 1-0-4 , after five matches in charge to 3-0-4 after seven matches.
In our remaining matches, if I was in Latapy’s position, I would first look at the striking partnership and relegate Kenywne Jones to the bench or just not include him for the next two matches, we need to send a signal to this forward, that days of an automatic place are no more on this Trinidad and Tobago Team. There are others such as Marvin Andrews,Jason Scotland, Keon Daniel and Silvio Spann who should be excluded as well .
One of the major criticisms about the coaching style of Latapy has been his on the field decisions, a basic premise of any quality coach. On more than one occasion, his starting eleven has left many puzzled and his positional play for the said eleven left 9 out of 10 persons  bemused.
Team selection is never an easy task and it is always easier to second guess a coach after a match, but there are obvious selections in most cases and also favoured positions for players. One such case in point surrounds the use of Hayden Tinto and Carlos Edwards, both players are better on the flanks and both work better when both are on the field together and sometimes interchanging their positions from left to right, causing doubt and confusion among the opposition.
Dennis Lawrence and young Radanfah Abu Bakr looked composed and compact in our defense for the majority of the game.
Clayton Ince is clearly playing with an injury, but he is still our best goalkeeper. There may be a theory that we should  start to  blood the younger Marvin Phillip for the future.
However it is our midfield that needs attention and we need a star in the future to shine through from our Under 20 team in Egypt as we move forward.
What though of Dwight Yorke? Will he remain as Assistant Coach of the National Football team or will he move on?
Honestly, how many of us can expect Dwight Yorke to return to this country and remain as an assistant coach, it would appear to be asking too much. Some are even speculating that should Latapy resign or be terminated after the Mexico match (depending on results), then Dwight Yorke will assume the role of Coach. But does that make any sense.
This killing of the – Dream – to South Africa , has done this country more harm than many expected , there was so much expectation that this team would be in South Africa , after Germany 2006 , that one felt the disappointment and disillusionment by many supporters .
Yes we can call them fly by night or armchair supporters, because they were not at the Hasely Crawford Stadium to support our team on Wednesday, but whether they were in liming spots, homes or on the road, they also felt the loss. Many persons I know, believe the increased pricing on the tickets for that USA match was too much and preferred to stat at home and make a lime with friends and family. Wherever you were on Wednesday when the El Salvador referee Joel Chicas Aguilar blew the final whistle, there was a sense of real doom and sadness. It is the value of sport, which so many of us fall prey to either ignoring or forgetting.
Those who believe that FIFA vice President Jack Warner would work some magic and we would be in South Africa were proven wrong , as this time even he could not help this team. They needed to help themselves first.
So, the Dream is now over and South Africa will forever be elusive. But as a sporting country , we must learn from the many mistakes we have made on this long , winding road and try not to repeat them in the future.
 
:: AB