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1

Football / Re: TTFA Presidency Polls; The countdown to election begins.

« on: Today at 06:59:44 AM »

New TTFA president knows what is required to lead football to a brighter future
By Brian Lewis (T&T Guardian)

“It is far better to be free to govern or misgovern yourself than to be governed by anybody else.” —Kwame Nkrumah

Kieron “Bo” Edwards is the new president of the T&T Football Association (TTFA). Edwards defeated Colin Wharfe at the Elective Congress 38-19 on Saturday at the Home of Football in Couva.

The TTFA last held elections for executive members in November 2019. William Wallace defeated David-John Williams to become TTFA president. FIFA removed the Wallace-led executive from office in March 2020 and appointed a normalisation committee to run the day-to-day affairs of the TTFA. It was alleged that FIFA’s pick in that race didn’t win. Yet again the perception is that FIFA’s preferred slate didn’t win on Saturday.

While there are those who with good cause will feel apprehensive about FIFA’s relationship with the newly minted TTFA president, his biggest challenge will emanate from within his own camp of supporters as he will have to manage their expectations and sense of entitlement given what they may consider as their contribution to his landslide win.

Many will seek to shape his agenda and fulfil their personal ambitions under the guise of being his closest and most trusted ally. Be wise president Edwards, you had the courage to take on the challenge. Be careful of those who aspired to be the leader but now fashion themselves as king-makers or the real power behind your throne. Temper your words. Give everyone a fair start, regardless of what you may have heard about them. Two wrongs never make a right. Nor can you right a wrong by committing another wrong.

The enormous potential of “Soca Warriors” football and its players need no repeating. Football globally is said to be the beautiful game and is acknowledged as the number one team sport in terms of participation. Here on the twin-island Republic, it’s no different. Football is numero uno (number one) in terms of participation. Track and field is the number one sport when it comes to international achievement be it World Championships and the Olympics. However, football captures the interest of the citizens every day. The Olympics gains wider public interest once every four years. Cricket some will argue generates similar interest as football. But it certainly will run second to football in terms of participation.

That being said, long story short, president Edwards has his work cut out for him. To my mind, it’s important that he has a successful tenure. His life experiences—good, bad and indifferent prepared him for his turn as leader of T&T football. The neutrals and all those who have the best interest of football will support him and give him a chance.

Like all local sports—football has to be entrepreneurial, future-thinking, marketing and brand development-oriented and innovative. In respect of good governance, transparency and accountability are non-negotiable with zero tolerance for corruption including illegal gambling. “Bo knows” what needs to be done. The strategy adopted over the many years that has led to this point in time, may not be an effective strategy in his new role. The first test he will face is stepping out from the shadows and ghosts of the way things were done.

The pendulum and momentum has swung in his direction.

T&T football is in for interesting and exciting times.

All eyes are on “Bo”, because Bo knows.

“I decided to step outside of my comfort zone and do things that I would never, ever do.”—Bo Jackson.

2

Football / Re: The Futsal Team Thread

« on: Yesterday at 02:49:06 PM »

Trinidad and Tobago mauled 11-1 by Dominican Republic, exit Concacaf Futsal Championship
By Roneil Walcott (T&T Newsday)

Trinidad and Tobago's men's futsal team fell to a humiliating 11-1 loss in their final group game at the 2024 Concacaf Futsal Championship in Managua, Nicaragua on April 15, as they were hammered by Dominican Republic to crash out of the group stage.

Having suffered respective 7-4 and 5-3 losses to the US and Guatemala in their first two games of the tournament, coach Paul Decle's team needed a victory in their final group game to give themselves a chance of advancing to the quarterfinals as one of the best third-placed teams.

T&T started the game on the back foot, as Che Benny, who scored three goals in the first two games, was not in the team for the must-win match.

Playing a Dominican Republic team which got a stunning 7-6 win over the US on April 14, T&T found themselves facing waves of attacks in the first half and they went into the break down 3-0 after goals by Jose Belliard, Marco Gomez and David Rondon.

With the Dominican Republic chasing goals to bolster their goal difference in a bid to top group C, the floodgates opened in the second half as they absolutely played the T&T team off the court with precise passing and clinical finishing.

The T&T team looked disjointed defensively, and they were unable to keep possession for sustained periods to pose any real threat to the opposition.

By the 29th minute in the 40-minute contest, T&T slipped to a 6-0 deficit. Jameel Neptune scored T&T's lone goal in the contest mere seconds after Dominican Republic got their sixth when he finished off a pass from his AC PoS teammate Michel Poon-Angeron.

There was precious little for T&T to celebrate thereafter, though, as Dominican Republic capitalised on poor defending in the final ten minutes to add a further five goals to their jaw-dropping tally.

The impressive Rondon scored three goals in the second half to complete a beaver-trick, taking his tally to seven for the tournament. Belliard also helped himself to a brace.

With the emphatic win, Dominican Republic jumped to six points and easily booked their spot in the quarterfinals, while they finished the group with a healthy +9 goal differential. T&T finished bottom of the group with no points.

The four semifinalists in the Concacaf tourney will advance to this year's Fifa Futsal World Cup in Uzbekistan.

3

Football / Re: 2023/24 TTPFL Thread

« on: Yesterday at 02:46:36 PM »

Police whip Rangers 4-1, extend TTPFL lead
By Roneil Walcott (T&T Newsday)

Miscellaneous Police FC (38 points) moved four points clear at the 2023/24 Trinidad and Tobago Premier Football League (TTPFL) summit on April 14, when they got a resounding 4-1 victory against the fifth-placed Terminix La Horquetta Rangers (25 points) at the St James Police Barracks.

With the second-placed AC PoS (34 points) inactive on the weekend, Police took full advantage to extend their lead on the 11-team table and they proved too strong for the unpredictable Rangers outfit.

AC PoS have played two games fewer than Police, but the pressure will be on the "Capital Boys" after they relinquished top spot in the TTPFL on the final day of the inaugural season last year. Police have two matches left, while fellow title-challengers AC PoS have four matches remaining.

The rampant Police team had their in-form striker Kareem Freitas to thank for their handsome win against Rangers, as he scored in either half to down the visiting team in a dominant display by the lawmen.

Police took the lead in the 29th minute when standout Soca Warriors defender Alvin Jones applied a clinical finish at the end of a swift counter-attack involving former T&T captain Khaleem Hyland. Seconds before, Rangers captain Kadeem Corbin spurned a glorious opportunity when he shot straight at goalkeeper Adrian Foncette with the goal at his mercy. The hosts didn't waste time in making Corbin and Rangers pay a heavy price.

Police dictated the pace of the game and had solid performances from several players, with Hyland and Simeon Bailey controlling the midfield and Joevin Jones and Freitas looking dangerous further afield.

The latter duo combined to devastating effect in the 39th minute to make it 2-0 when Freitas beat Jabari Brice with a neat finish after Police exploited Rangers' high back line.

In the 55th minute, Freitas shot past Brice from close range to give Police a 3-0 lead after receiving a deft touch from flanker Kadeem Hutchinson on the edge of the area. Freitas, who took his season's tally to five goals, had numerous opportunities to notch a hat-trick but he couldn't hit the back of the net.

In the 68th minute, the Police striker turned provider when he sent in a splendid low cross from the right for attacker Josiah Wilson to slam home from close range to give the hosts an unassailable 4-0 lead.

With the contest well and truly over, Corbin got on the scoresheet for Rangers in stoppage-time after cutting in from the left and rifling a shot into the bottom corner to grab his tenth goal of the season.

At the Dwight Yorke Stadium in Bacolet, Tobago, 1976 FC Phoenix (22 points) moved to seventh spot on the table when they got an impressive 2-0 win against the sixth-placed Heritage Petroleum Point Fortin Civic (23 points). Adriel George opened the scoring in the 13th minute, while Phoenix talisman Mickaeel "Jem" Gordon sealed the points when he bagged his ninth goal of the season in the 80th minute.

In the other TTPFL game on April 14, Eagles FC (formerly Cunupia FC) got the better of Central FC in a bottom-of-the-table clash at the Larry Gomes Stadium in Malabar when they came away with a 1-0 win. Pierre-Louis Peterson scored the lone goal of the game in the 79th minute to propel Eagles to 19 points.

Central are rooted to the foot of the table with two points after 18 matches and are still searching for an elusive win this season.

TTFPL tier one standings:

Team*GP*W*D*L*GF*GA*GD*Pts

1.Police FC*18*11*5*2*39*17*22*38

2.AC PoS*16*10*4*2*39*18*21*34

3.Defence Force FC*17*9*4*4*31*18*13*31

4.Club Sando*17*9*4*4*28*19*9*31

5.La Horquetta Rangers*18*7*4*7*36*33*3*25

6.Point Fortin Civic*18*6*5*7*25*21*4*23

7.1976 FC Phoenix*16*7*1*8*25*29*-4*22

8.Prisons FC*18*7*0*11*23*34*-11*21

9.Caledonia*17*5*5*7*24*23*1*20

10.Eagles FC*17*5*4*8*21*26*-5*19

11.Central FC*18*0*2*16*12*65*-53*2

4

Football / Re: FIFA appoints normalisation committee for Trinidad and Tobago football

« on: Yesterday at 05:39:59 AM »

I Did My Job: ‘Very satisfied’ Hadad happy to move on after 4 years
By Ian Prescott (T&T Express)

ROBERT HADAD gives the impression that he cannot wait to hand over office to Kieron Edwards, who was elected the new Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) president on Saturday, when the Association held its elections and Extraordinary Congress at the Home of Football, Couva.

Citing financial concerns, on March 17, 2020, FIFA took over control of the TTFA and appointed Robert Hadad (Chairperson), the late Judy Daniel (Deputy Chairperson), Nigel L Romano (Member) and Trevor Gomez (Member) to serve as members of the Normalisation Committee (NC), which would manage the sport locally.

And having been in charge of T&T football for the past four years, Hadad does not expect to return to the sport.

“I have no intention of doing anything more,” the local businessman declared. “I am quite happy to move on with my personal life. I love fishing, I love the outdoors, and I’m going to continue in my quest for some personal, private time, without anything hanging over my head--like football.”

Hadad also indicated he would like to begin the transfer of power immediately. “I look forward to handing over to them on Monday morning,” Hadad stated at the end of the TTFA Congress, while also congratulating Edwards and his Team Progressive slate for winning the elections by a 38-19 margin.

He also lauded the large turnout of TTFA delegates on Saturday. “I’d like to congratulate the TTFA members. I think they were very professional coming out in their numbers, 100% attendance,” Hadad said.

Present at Saturday’s elections was Marco Leal, CONCACAF’s Head of Member Associations and Legal Affairs, who also serves as CONCACAF’s Acting General Secretary. Leal spoke glowingly about the work Hadad and members of his Normalisation Committee had done, before handing out tokens of appreciation to them.

“There are no words I can (use to) describe the appreciation we have for the work of the Normalisation Committee,” Leal said. “They really sacrificed their time, their efforts, their families, in the benefit of Trinidad football.”

Also sending kudos to Hadad and his team was new TTFA president Edwards. “The Normalisation Committee played a crucial role in Trinidad and Tobago football,” said Edwards. “We need to understand that, and we need to acknowledge the service they would have given to Trinidad and Tobago football.”

Meanwhile, Hadad hoped that the local game will now move forward. He noted the impact that football can have on decreasing crime, and believed that the men’s national team had the capacity to return to the top-50 in the FIFA World Rankings.

The major achievement in Hadad’s four years in charge was to oversee the liquidation of a multi-million TTFA debt that stood for decades. And Hadad stated: “The normalisation process is completed.” He further explained that debtors had been paid, with the exception of disputed matters involving Englishmen Terry Fenwick and Peter Miller, which are before the local courts.

“There are two matters before the court and those matters have to be resolved. The trustee Maria Daniel will continue working to bring those matters to a close,” noted Hadad.

Of his tenure, Hadad felt he had done reasonably well in four years and had completed the mandate given to him by FIFA. “I was very satisfied with what we were able to achieve,” said Hadad, adding. “I think that the last four years have brought us (to) a better place and I’m content with that. I don’t think I can please everybody, and I don’t think I will ever please everybody.

“The Association, I would think, they are in a pretty good place. The Association is debt free, save an except for the financial arrangement with FIFA which will be paid off over the next ten years. The rest of it is up to Mr Edwards now and the membership, to take football forward,” Hadad concluded.

5

Football / Re: The Futsal Team Thread

« on: Yesterday at 04:49:41 AM »

Benny shines but Trinidad and Tobago lose futsal thriller to Guatemala
By Roneil Walcott (T&T Newsday)

Despite another valiant effort, T&T men's futsal team fell to an agonising defeat in their second match at the Concacaf Futsal Championships in Managua, Nicaragua on Sunday, as they were beaten 5-3 by Guatemala in an eight-goal group C thriller.

On Saturday, coach Paul Decle's team battled hard and showed quality but they eventually succumbed to a 7-4 loss to the US. In their second game, T&T started impressively as they held the second-ranked Concacaf team scoreless in the first half and held a 2-0 lead by halftime.

T&T got their opening goal from AC PoS playmaker Che Benny, who slid in a shot from point-blank range after receiving a lovely pass from the left by Darius Ollivierra in the sixth minute. Ten minutes later, Benny turned provider as he laid the ball on a platter for Shane Hospedales to finish at the end of a rapid counter-attack.

T&T rode their luck throughout the first period, as goalkeeper and captain Andre Marchan made a number of jaw-dropping saves, while the Guatemalans were also guilty of poor finishing.

The second half proved to be a different ball game, and Guatemala were on level terms by the 26th minute after goals from Bryan Santizo and Alan Aguilar. The Guatemalans got their first lead of the game when Roberto Alvarado punished a woeful giveaway by Matthew Woo Ling, while they established a 4-2 lead before the half-hour mark when Marvin Sandoval beat Marchan with a powerful left-footed shot.

Benny gave T&T hope of a late comeback when he cut the deficit to 4-3 after displaying lovely close control to finish a pass from his AC PoS teammate Michel Poon-Angeron. However, Guatemala put the game to bed in the 35th minute when Patrick Ruiz scored to make it 5-3 after a well-worked corner.

With their second straight win, Guatemala moved to six points and pushed themselves to the group C summit. On the other hand, T&T are still searching for their first point of the tournament and they will aim to get a favourable result against Dominican Republic in their final group match from 12 noon on Monday.

The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will advance to the knockout stage. T&T will need to get a victory against Dominican Republic to give themselves a chance of advancing from the group and keeping their 2024 Fifa Futsal World Cup hopes alive. The semifinalists will qualify for the World Cup.

6

Football / Re: TTFA Presidency Polls; The countdown to election begins.

« on: April 14, 2024, 06:42:09 PM »

Edwards takes charge of TTFA: Hadad says association debt free apart from FIFA loan
By Nigel Simon (T&T Guardian)

Kieron Edwards has been given the responsibility along with his very experienced Team Progress slate to take T&T football into a new era.

This as Edwards, the Eastern Football Association (EFA) president, was elected as the new president of the TTFA by a vote count of 38-19 over Colin Wharfe and Team Transformation at the Home of Football in Balmain, Couva, on Saturday (April 13).

The voting delegates were required to register their vote, via secret ballot, at the Elective Congress for either one of the two slates – “Slate Edwards” or “Slate Wharfe”.

The appointment of Edwards who will serve as the head of local football for the next four years also brings to an end the tenure of the Robert Hadad-led FIFA-appointed normalisation committee after four years in charge of T&T football after the reign of then-newly elected president William Wallace was swiftly brought to a calamitous end several months into his tenure.

The other members of the new TTFA executive include sports commentator Colin Murray (first vice-president), former FIFA referee Osmond Downer (second vice-president), Jameson Rigues (third vice president) and ordinary members, Ryan Nunes, Andrew Boodhoo, Allan Logan, Alicia Austin, and Shelton Williams.

The other members of Wharfe's slate were Colonel Keston Charles (first vice-president), Renee John-Williams (second vice-president), Huey Cadette (third vice-president), and ordinary members Colm De Freitas, Riaz Ali, Lee Davis, Makan Hislop and Richard Mason.

Speaking following his Team Progress triumph in the election a beaming Edwards said he was happy, humbled and honoured to be the new president of the TTFA.

"After four years of normalisation committee, I think the members would have given me a bit of confidence with the vote and I am ready to work."

Commenting on the work done by his team in the build-up to the election, Edwards said, "Our slate would have done the work and left it in the hands of the membership and they made their decision. So, it was up to the members and they decided to give us the confidence and we are really humbled and honoured by it.

Looking ahead, Edwards said he will be having a relaxing "Sunday" (today) before he gets to work tomorrow (Monday).

He said, "The campaign has been hectic and I intend to hit the ground running on Monday, meet with the NC chairman, work on the handing over and meet with the members of staff to engage with the team."

Edwards said he intends to engage corporate T&T, and the Government in terms of their assistance to football and the assets that belong to the TTFA.

"So, it's going to be a collective approach we intend to deal with and it's one that we have been saying during our campaign as well.

"It's a members-first approach, one of inclusion and partnerships and it will continue during our tenure.

Asked to comment on senior men's coach Angus Eve's squad, Edwards said, "My vision is similar to that of T&T nationals in terms of ensuring that they qualify for the next World Cup not just for football but for T&T because it's a unifying and healing thing.

"We know the power of football throughout the world and we intend to utilise football to leave a positive mark on T&T.

Concerning Eve's position as coach, as well as general secretary of the TTFA, Edwards made it clear that he intends to honour all contracts of those employed currently and assured that coach Eve will be given all the support to qualify the team for the next World Cup.

He added, "It's not a situation of moving people, it's about giving the support for T&T and enhancing what we do and ensuring that we have the correct development and ensuring that we do qualify for tournaments and also that we do well in these tournaments.

Edwards was also full of praise for the Robert Hadad-led normalisation committee, saying, "The NC played a crucial role in T&T and we need to understand that and we need to acknowledge the service that they would have given to T&T football.

"It's not easy to give four years of your time to an organisation that you may not have wanted to in the initial stage, meaning that you didn't put yourself forward for the member to elect you.

"So, you first have to tip your hat to the NC and the chairman for the work that they would have done.

"We all have different views in terms of how we operate but in terms of the service given, you have to give credit to them for that.

"They would have done a tremendous job on consolidating our debt and having it there in one place now through FIFA and we have to give respect to that and you have to give to the NC as well and the team that would have worked on that and we now have the ability to lay a new foundation for football."

Beaten candidate and Team Transformation head, Colin Wharfe praised the voting process saying it was excellent.

However, said he was expecting somewhat of a different outcome.

He explained," You get commitment and understanding from individuals and it didn't pan out that way. So they may have changed their minds, I have no idea, but it is their democratic right to do as they wish."

"In the final analysis, they made a selection and we got to honour that solution," ended Wharfe.

Despite his loss, Wharfe the chief executive officer of the T&T Premier Football League said he will continue to do his job while awaiting the newly appointed TTFA executive to make their determinations.

Hadad also praised the election process saying that it was very professional and he was also delighted with the full turnout of the TTFA membership.

"It demonstrated the type of support T&T football has from within and the future is bright."

Hadad also thanked FIFA and Concacaf for their support and advice in getting local football to this point.

He added, "The NC process is completed but one outstanding matter is the BIA process which is still pending, as well as the two matters before the court, which will continue to be looked after the Trustee Maria Daniel, but other than that the TTFA is debt free apart from the FIFA loan which will be repaid in ten years."

New TTFA executive

President: Kieron Edwards

First vice-president: Colin Murray

Second vice-president: Osmond Downer

Third vice president: Jameson Rigues

Ordinary member: Ryan Nunes

Ordinary member: Andrew Boodhoo

Ordinary member: Allan Logan

Ordinary member: Alicia Austin

Ordinary member: Shelton Williams

7

Football / Re: TTFA Presidency Polls; The countdown to election begins.

« on: April 14, 2024, 06:37:03 PM »

Kieron Edwards Landslide: EFA president takes over TTFA reins
By Ian Prescott (T&T Express)

KIERON EDWARDS is the new Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) president.

Yesterday, Edwards’ Team Progressive won by a landslide (38-19) at the local football association’s election of officers, held at the Home of Football, Couva. There was a 100% turnout of TTFA delegates, accounting for 57 votes.

Also elected were former national cricketer and Secondary Schools football coach Colin Murray, first vice-president; T&T Football Referees Association (TTFRA) president Osmond Downer, second vice-president; and T&T Super League (TTSL) president Jameson Rigues, third vice-president).

Meanwhile, Alicia Austin, Andrew Boodoo, Allan Logan, Ryan Nunes and Shelton Williams completed Edwards’ slate as ordinary members.

Confident going into the poll, Eastern Football Association (EFA) president Edwards promised to work with all TTFA members. “I’m happy. I’m humbled. I’m honoured to be the new president of the TTFA,” said Edwards. “After four years of (the) Normalisation Committee (NC), the members would have given me a bit of confidence with the vote and the number (margin) of the vote. I’m really happy with it and I’m ready to work.”

Defeated candidate Colin Wharfe suggested that some persons may have reneged on their commitment to his Team Transformation slate, but nevertheless accepted the results.

“You get commitments and understandings from individuals and it didn’t pan out. So, they may have changed their minds, I have no idea,” reasoned Wharfe. “But it is their democratic right to do as they wish. They, in the final analysis, made a selection, and we want to honour that selection,” he added.

TTFA delegates shied away from divulging who they voted for, but there were those who were brave enough to comment on the process.

Everton Alfred, the Tobago Football Association (TFA) president, is hoping that the new president lives up to commitments that both election slates had made to Tobago football. “When we met with both camps, we expressed some requirements for Tobago, in terms of getting some more support, technical and financial. So, I expect that it would before coming from either side which would have won,” Alfred revealed.

Meanwhile, former national defender and Central FC owner Brent Sancho believes the process went smoothly. “It’s good to see a young, vibrant person being in charge of the football,” stated Sancho. “So, the hope is that moving forward not just the slate that has won here today moves football forward, but more importantly, the membership move away from the politics that we have had over the last couple of weeks and come together and start to move football forward..”

The former Sports Minster added: “I think it’s a very experienced team. I like the collection of individuals in it. It represents not just people in the (TTFA) membership, but people with different skills-set, that I think the TTFA currently needs. I think its good for democracy in the TTFA... We have come a long way.”

Following a hectic three-month campaign, Edwards will rest today with family, but expects to begin work as soon as tomorrow when he meets with Robert Hadad, who had been appointed by FIFA and charged with running local football for the past four years as chairman of the NC.

“Monday, hit the ground running,” said Edwards. “Meet with the chairman of the former Normalisation Committee and work on the handing over; meet the staff and really start to engage, in terms of what we plan to do from Monday. We want to do a strategic planning exercise and those are the steps within the first weeks,” he intimated.

Edwards hinted that he will learn from past mistakes from the former regime, led by William Wallace, and will honour those that have legitimate contracts with the TTFA. He said the aim is to give the national team all resources they need to aid in qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will be seeking both government and corporate support.

“When it comes to our senior men’s team, we intend to give coach Angus Eve and the boys all the support to qualify for the next World Cup,” Edwards emphasised, adding, “We will honour contracts that coaches are under. We will work with them. It’s not a situation of moving this one. It’s about giving support to T&T, enhancing what we do, ensuring the correct development and ensuring that we do qualify for tournaments and we do well in the tournaments.”

The new TTFA boss also declared that the status of all TTFA employees—including general secretary Amiel Mohammed, who was appointed under Hadad—will only be determined after perusal by a Financial and Remuneration Committee.

“He (Mohammed) is the general secretary of the TTFA currently and I will work with him until further notice.”

8

Football / Re: The Futsal Team Thread

« on: April 14, 2024, 09:17:42 AM »

Trinidad and Tobago lose 7-4 to US in Concacaf Futsal opener
By Andrew Gioannetti (T&T Newsday)

DEFENCE Force winger Darius Ollivierra scored two cleverly improvised efforts as T&T fought hard but went under 7-4 in their opening Group C match at the Concacaf Futsal Championships in Nicaragua on Saturday.

The result saw USA take an early lead in the standings, with a one-goal advantage in goal-difference over Guatemala, who also picked up three points after a 6-4 win over the Dominican Republic in the second fixture.

Ollivierra gave T&T an early, unexpected lead, dribbling the length of the court after intercepting a pass and rifling his effort into the top of the goal.

T&T’s defence tried to protect the lead but they were breached after ten minutes when David Ortiz capitalised on a loose ball from a scramble in front of the goal to finish beyond goalkeeper Andre Marchan.

Nilton De Andrade put USA ahead about three minutes later, finishing a clean strike after beating his opposite number-three, national senior men’s football team midfielder Michel Poon-Angeron, with some stepovers.

USA struck again just seconds before the end of the first period, with Ortiz finishing neatly from a low cross for his second goal.

But just as they had done in the first half, T&T enjoyed the upper hand in the opening stages of the second. Ollivierra cut the deficit for T&T to 3-2 with an even more spectacular effort, when he beat a defender and sidestepped the goalkeeper, finishing with a deft touch.

Yet T&T would concede only moments later when Marchan and his defenders appeared distracted, appealing for a USA hand-ball during an attempted defensive clearance.

Diego Burato cheekily lobbed his effort over a diving Marchan, who unsuccessfully hounded the assistant referee, hoping for a delayed call.

T&T pulled another goal back when AC Port of Spain midfielder Che Benny converted a penalty kick with a powerful strike beyond a helpless USA goalkeeper.

The Americans scored three more, but T&T still closed on a high, scoring a consolation goal, which could be crucial if the advancing teams are to be determined on goal difference.

Matthew Woo Ling, one of five Defence Force players on the squad, came out of nowhere to connect and score from close range, after a cleverly executed Benny free kick.

The futsal team will return to action on Sunday morning to face Guatemala, before taking on the Dominican Republic in the final group match on Monday. Both matches will kick off at noon (T&T time).

The top two teams will automatically qualify for the knockout round, together with the two best third-placed teams from the three groups. The top four teams will represent Concacaf at the FIFA Futsal World Cup Uzbekistan 2024.

9

Football / Re: Bringing football back to Skinner Park

« on: April 12, 2024, 01:16:29 PM »

Under-20s win San Fernando Mayor’s Cup
T&T Express

ANDELL FRASER was named Man-of-the-Match as the Trinidad and Tobago national Under-20 football team rallied from two goals down to defeat Samba Youths 4-3, on the way to winning the inaugural San Fernando Mayor’s Cup.

The junior Soca Warriors played unbeaten over the three days of the competition at Skinner Park, but suffered a scare when they were down 3-1 to 2023 South Football Association (SFA) league runners-up Samba Youth, before scoring three goals in the final quarter-hour.

Likewise, a Tobago X1 also had to come from a goal down against reigning South champions Pitchmen to win 3-1 and finish second overall, when scoring their second win in three matches. The Tobagonians’ only loss came 2-1 against the national youths on Sunday, while the two South teams finished with a single point each, from a 1-1 draw against each other on Sunday.

SAN FERNANDO MAYOR’S CUP RESULTS

Tuesday

T&T U20 4 (Levi Jones, J’Lon Matthews, Theo Crovador, Andell Fraser)
Samba Youths 3 (Nikel Rawlins, Rayon Alleyne, Stevon Thomas)

Tobago Rep. 3 (Zyon Makoul, Kaieem Lewis, Nave Roach) Pitchmen F.C. 1 (Shaquille John)

AWARDS

Most Goals: Andell Fraser (T&T U20), Shaquille John (Pitchmen F.C.)

MVP: Andell Fraser – T&T U20

2024 SAN FERNANDO MAYOR’S CUP STANDINGS

TEAMS P W D L GF GA GD PTS

T&T U-20 3 3 0 0 7 4 +3 9

Tobago Rep. XI 3 2 0 1 8 4 +4 6

Pitchmen F.C. 3 0 1 2 2 5 -3 1

Moruga/Tableland Samba Youths 3 0 1 2 5 9 -4 1

10

Gols Galore Trinbago Style / Re: Dantaye Gilbert

« on: April 10, 2024, 11:58:23 AM »

West Ham U-21 vs Jong PSV (April 9, 2024)

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/v/EvOStQv6A8Q?start=242" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="bbc_link bbc_flash_disabled new_win">https://www.youtube.com/v/EvOStQv6A8Q?start=242</a>

11

Football / Re: Dantaye Gilbert Thread

« on: April 10, 2024, 11:57:34 AM »

Dantaye Gilbert scored the equalizer with a clever improvised back heel finish in Jong PSV's 3-2 come-from-behind win against West Ham U-21 in the Premier League International Cup Semifinal.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/v/EvOStQv6A8Q?start=242" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="bbc_link bbc_flash_disabled new_win">https://www.youtube.com/v/EvOStQv6A8Q?start=242</a>

12

Football / 2024 First Citizens Cup Thread

« on: April 10, 2024, 07:12:29 AM »

Defence Force kicks off First Citizens Cup defence in last-16.
T&T Guardian Reports.,

Reigning T&T Football Association (TTFA) Premier League champions, Defence Force will kick off the defence of their knockout title, the First Citizens Knockout Cup in the round-of-16 on April 27 against the winners of the first-round clash between Cunupia Eagles of Tier II, and Terminix La Horquetta Rangers.

This was determined during the draw that involved all 11 participating teams in the TTFA Tier I and 15 clubs in Tier II when the draw was conducted by Amiel Mohammed, general secretray of the TTFA and Devorn Jorsling, a former national and Defence Force striker, and current head coach of Tier II club Harlem Strikers at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo, Tuesday.

In his address, Mohammed said he was pleased to welcome First Citizens back into the top levels of local football as a major sponsor to the sum of $200,000 with $150,000 going towards the prize money for the finalists of the competition.

For the draw, the top three teams on the standings in both the Tier I and Tier II Divisions as of Monday, April 8, 2024, were given byes into the round-of-16 with Miscellaneous Police FC, AC Port-of-Spain, and Defence Force the beneficiaries in Tier I, and the trio of Guaya United, MIC Maura ReUnited and Harlem Strikers, from Tier II.

Among the mouth-watering round-of-32 match-ups set for April 20 are a meeting between Tier II rivals, Defence Force and Police FC, Caledonia AIA (Tier I) against Tier II’s Queen’s Park Cricket Club, and the University of T&T Patriots versus Prison Service FC.

Last season, Defence Force completed the double in the T&TPFL when they won the Knockout Cup, after battling past Terminix La Horquetta Rangers in a hotly-contested final 5-3 at the Diego Martin Sports Complex, Diego Martin. The quarterfinals are carded for May 4 and 5 while the dates for the semifinals and final are yet to be finalised.

First Citizens Knockout Cup

April 20 - Round-of-32

#1 - Defence Force FC (Tier II) vs Police FC (Tier II)

#2 - Cunupia Eagles (Tier II) vs La Horquetta Rangers

#3 - Caledonia AIA vs QPCC FC

#4 - Cunupia Eagles (Tier I) vs 1976 FC Phoenix

#5 - Club Sando (Tier II) vs Central FC

#6 - UTT Patriots vs Prison Service FC
#7 - San Fernando Giants vs Bethel FC

#8 - Point Fortin Civic vs Central Soccer World

#9 - Petit Valley/Diego Martin Utd vs Misc. Laventille Utd

#10 - Club Sando (Tier I) vs RSSR FC

Round-of-16 - April 27

Defence Force (Tier I) vs Cunupia Eagles (Tier II)/La Horquetta Rangers winner

Club Sando (Tier I)/RSSR FC winner vs Police FC (Tier 1)

San Fernando Giants/Bethel FC winner vs Harlem Strikers

Cunupia Eagles (Tier I)/1976 FC Phoenix winner vs Caledonia AIA/QPCC FC winner

AC Port-of-Spain vs Defence Force FC (Tier II)/Police FC (Tier II) winner

Guaya United vs Matura ReUnited

Point Fortin Civic/Central Soccer World winner vs UTT Patriots/Prison Service FC winner

Quarterfinals: May 4 and 5

Semifinals and Final: Dates to be determined

13

Football / Re: 2024 SSFL Thread

« on: April 10, 2024, 06:32:17 AM »

St Benedict's U14s win Lascaris Barbados Cup
By Enrique Rupert (T&T Newsday)

ST Benedict’s College under-14 football team were crowned champions of the Lascaris Barbados U-15 Cup on April 5. The Trinidad and Tobago team defeated Eden Stars of Jamaica 1-0.

It was St Benedict's first time participating in the tournament.

St Benedict's coach Sean Eastman said, “It was the first time actually reaching there (Barbados). We had everything prepared (in 2020) but covid came and destroyed everything.”

The trip took heavy planning and a committee comprised mostly of parents took that responsibility.

The Office of the Prime Minister Sports and Culture Fund helped fund the trip.

Parent Crystal Chan, one of the committee members, said, “The process generally takes three months, however, there’s a check-list of items you need to provide to the ministry. There was a lot of back and forth trying to satisfy the requirements and eventually it took us two months to get it all done.”

And while some private sponsors came on board, the funding accessed covered three-quarters of all the expenses: airfare, accommodation, ground transport, catering, uniforms and equipment.

Going into the tournament, the players thought it would be a breeze.

Eastman said, “They realised really quickly that it was not (easy). They were all capable teams; even though it wasn’t overly challenging, it was still good competition.”

Eastman appreciated the way the St Benedict's contingent were treated in Barbados.

“Accommodation at Time Out Hotel; the staff was quite hospitable and really friendly. We even got more time at the pool when we won the tournament. Even when we checked out, they gave us three rooms to co-ordinate ourselves.”

In recent years, the school has changed its football programme, a move which has seen them win multiple titles in the secondary school’s football league at various levels.

“We are trying to make the programme a little more dynamic and lengthy outside of the school period. Football in Trinidad is now a year-round thing, so with that we had to make changes – having tours during the holiday periods.”

St Benedict's player Michaei Esdelle said, “It was an eye-opening experience, seeing how differently regional teams play and facing different adversities on the pitch. The experience of Barbados was also exciting – the culture, the dialect was unique, and it was just refreshing.”

With this win and the positive experiences of Barbados, both the footballers, parent and staff were pleased.

Chan said, “This was a priceless experience. At 14, seeing what football looks like regionally and with the boys thinking the challenge would be easy, they learned valuable life lessons to never judge a book by its cover. This experience wasn’t just about the football. It was able to bring the boys closer and give them a greater appreciation for each other.”

14

Football / Re: TTFA Presidency Polls; The countdown to election begins.

« on: April 08, 2024, 12:03:23 PM »

Meet TTFA Election candidates: Team Progressive, Kieron Edwards and Jameson Rigues

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/v/6bi3TYrLbqg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="bbc_link bbc_flash_disabled new_win">https://www.youtube.com/v/6bi3TYrLbqg</a>

15

Football / Re: TTFA Presidency Polls; The countdown to election begins.

« on: April 08, 2024, 12:02:55 PM »

Meet TTFA Election candidates: Team Transformation, Colin Wharfe and Colm de Freitas

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/v/R3aKgGHqFMg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="bbc_link bbc_flash_disabled new_win">https://www.youtube.com/v/R3aKgGHqFMg</a>

16

Football / Re: 2023/24 TTPFL Thread

« on: April 08, 2024, 06:14:18 AM »

Police draw AC PoS to maintain slim TTPFL lead
By Andrew Gioannetti (T&T Newsday)

Kareem Freitas notched his fourth and perhaps most crucial goal of his T&T Premier Football League campaign, on April 7, scoring for leaders Police in their 1-1 draw with title rivals AC Port of Spain.

The result left the top of the standings unchanged from the start of the weekend, with Police maintaining top spot on 35 points, one point ahead of AC Port of Spain, who played 15 matches, one fewer than Police.

At the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo, Police had early opportunities and found the target in the 20th minute when Freitas played a quick one-two pass with Josiah Wilson, who returned for Freitas to score.

Police’s goal saw a sudden change in AC Port of Spain’s approach, with national midfielder Duane Muckette crafting half-chances for the team and himself.

AC Port of Spain were aggrieved not to have had a goal of their own by half-time, after referee Nikolai Nyron ignored a shout for hand-ball when Police defender Elijah Belgrave appeared to have outstretched his arm to prevent a cross field free-kick by Rochford from reaching an onrushing Radanfah Abu Bakr near to the goalline.Abu Bakr challenged assistant referee Kurt Charles who waved off the appeals.AC Port of Spain defender Maurice Ford had an effort on goal from another outstanding Rochford cross before halftime, but T&T and Police shot-stopper Adrian Foncette made a comfortable save.

Phillip was the busier of the two keepers in the second half as he kept AC Port of Spain in the match.

The “Capital Boys” would find their equaliser from Muckette midway through the second half.

Rochford met a deep pass on the right flank and passed neatly in front of the goal for Sedale McLean, who was clattered by a pair of Police defenders.Muckette picked up the loose ball from the scramble and scored from close range.

Muckette came nearest to sealing a match winner in the 76th minute after connecting with another clever Rochford pass, but he hit the crossbar with a lunging shot directly in front of the goal.Earlier on Sunday, former Police defender Gabriel Nanton notched the lone goal – his fourth of the campaign – a first-half penalty for Caledonia in their win over Prison Service. Caledonia maintained their spot in eighth and Prison Service in seventh.

On Saturday, 1976 FC Phoenix defeated Central FC 3-0 to overtake FC Eagles.Defence Force remained in third place after drawing 1-1 against Terminix La Horquetta Rangers.

17

Football / Re: 2023/24 TTPFL Thread

« on: April 08, 2024, 05:51:04 AM »

Army letting title slip...champs Defence Force drop point against Rangers
By Ian Prescott (T&T Express)

With just three matches left in their season, the Trinidad and Tobago Premier League (TTPFL) title slipped a little bit further out of the grasp of defending champions Defence Force, when they suffered a late setback and drew 1-1 away to Terminix La Horquetta Rangers on Saturday.

Last season’s winners Defence Force (31 points) could well find themselves further adrift, as leaders Police FC (34 points) and second-placed AC Port of Spain (33 points) were due to meet in a season defining match last evening.

At La Horquetta, substitute Isaiah Lee struck late when roofing the ball at the far post after an interchange of passes in the 82nd minute, to pull Rangers level. The Army had led since the 23rd minute when defender Caleb Sturge sliced the ball past goalkeeper Jabari Brice for an unfortunate own goal, when trying to cut out a pass from busy winger Kendell Hitlal.

A game of much excitement and also contentious moments, it could have gone either way, but having equalised, Rangers were terrors on their Phase 2 ground at the end, threatening to take full points.

Tensions also threatened to boil over, after referee Crystal Sobers awarded a controversial 60th minute penalty, when burly Ranger’s stopper Jevon Morris went in hard, clearly got to the ball first, but collided with Defence Force midfielder Shaquille Bertrand.

The penalty presented Defence Force a chance to take a two-goal advantage. What resulted was a fracas, as both camps became ‘hot’ before Sobers rescinded her decision on the advice of an official on the sidelines.

Much earlier, there was an early first-half chance for Defence Force, with La Horquetta-based central defender Justin Garcia heading over Bertrand’s cross.

The Army dominated the first half, with Hitlal particularly causing no end of trouble up the left flank.

Rangers came alive in the second half and, having equalised, scorer Lee had several chances to get a winner, the same as striker Brent Sam, who on the other end, produced a point-black header which goalie Brice blocked with his body. Keeper Christopher Biggette was also busy in the Army goal, as Lee, Akido Weeks and Tyrese Bailey each threatened his goal with shots.

18

Football / Re: 2023/24 TTPFL Thread

« on: April 07, 2024, 07:34:50 PM »

Phoenix rises to 3-0 win over Central FC
By Jovan Ravello (T&T Guardian)

Tobago's 1976 FC Phoenix shut out Central FC 3-0 to take a valuable three points in the early kick-off of T&T Premier Football League (TTPFL) Matchweek 19 at the Phase 2 Recreation Ground in La Horquetta, Saturday.

In week 18 at the same venue, Central took a 4-4 draw from their match against Terminix La Horquetta Rangers and looked in a similar mood early on, as Dominic Davis was just wide of the target with the game's first shot at goal.

Saleem Henry and Dacian John were also full of running for the Sharks as they hunted for their first win this season.

Chasing a recovery from the 5-2 lashing at home to Club Sando, 2023 TTPFL Tier II "Most Valuable Player" (MVP) Mickaeel Jem Gordon was the usual instigator for Phoenix in an attritional first-half midfield battle.

His best efforts of the opening 45 seemed to come to naught but in the final minute of first-half additional time, Gordon slipped past his defensive marking to once again bear down on the box.

A comedy of errors by goalkeeper Kitwana Manning and his attendant defenders allowed Trevon James his moment and he knocked in the loose ball to put Central on the back foot, Phoenix leading 1-0 with the last kick of the half.

Despite the goal the league's bottom two clubs continued to toil on a humid evening in East Trinidad.

The heat appeared to get to Henry whose reckless tackle after losing possession saw him to an early shower courtesy of a 68th-minute second yellow.

Things opened up a bit but remained tight until the 80th.

Then, Gordon was again the creative force, picking the right pass on the counter to send Trevin Caesar clear on goal, and he tucked it away into the left corner of the Central goal for a 2-0 Phoenix lead.

In the 86th, Gordon had a gilt-edged chance but was a whisker away from the third.

He eventually got his just desserts in the second minute of second-half time added on, sharpest to a loose central pass, nutmegging his defender before slotting his eighth goal of the season.

The 3-0 win saw Phoenix improve to 19 points.

Result

Central FC 0 vs 1976 FC Phoenix 3 (Trevon James 45+3, Trevin Caesar 80th, Mickaeel Jem Gordon 90+2)

Sunday's matches:

Venue: Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo:

Caledonia FC vs Prison Service FC, 4 pm

AC PoS vs Police FC, 6.10 pm

Point Fortin Civic vs Club Sando, Mahaica Sports Complex, Point Fortin, 6 pm

19

Football / Re: TTFA News Thread.

« on: April 07, 2024, 06:06:17 PM »

Opportunity to reset local, Caribbean football
By Selby Browne (T&T Express)

The TTFA Election 2024 is the opportunity for the re-engineering of football and all sport in communities throughout Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean.

Trinidad and Tobago is one of four Caribbean countries that have participated in the FIFA World Cup Finals competition; the other three being Cuba in 1938, Haiti in 1974, and Jamaica in 1998. T&T participated in 2006.

The greatest opportunity for another T&T participation is in the FIFA WC 2026, for which six-and-a-half places are on offer to the CONCACAF region, which has moved upward from one place in 1974, to three-and-a-half places in 2006.

The big picture of the Caribbean today is reminiscent of the struggles for independence in the 1960s and the efforts to bring about the formation of the Caricom, all similar to that of accepting the Caribbean Court of Justice by countries in the region.

I contend that football is the catalyst for re-engineering the national socio-structure and delivering economic benefits by creating jobs in sport throughout all communities, with the establishment of a sport industry, both in T&T and the wider Caribbean.

It was a privilege to attend the many lectures and consultations by Dr William Demas around the Caribbean to encourage countries to become members of Caricom; to have the challenges common to various countries addressed on a unified front. I am grateful he agreed eventually to the establishment of a Caricom Desk for sport, which must be revived and equipped to facilitate the Caribbean sport sector which as an Industry, would be only second to the energy sector of the region; and will have the capacity to be linked to the entertainment sector for major job creation.

Back at home, the stage is now set for the TTFA membership to duly elect from two slates, the president for the new four-year term 2024-28.

I must first congratulate Kieron Edwards and Dennis Latiff for the successful outcome of our meeting held on March 26, to ensure the necessary compromise to have the election conducted between two slates. My reasons for so insisting, were based on the facts that after the retirement of former TTFA President Ollie Camps, the stage was set for the first election for president in 20 years and with the withdrawal of one candidate, Raymond Tim Kee was automatically installed in November 2012, as the sole candidate for president. At both elections in 2015 and 2019, the two major candidates were separated by not more than six votes.

It is my view this election is two years later than the ideal time required to successfully prepare for the largest football competition, the FIFA World Cup 2026, to be hosted in the CONCACAF for the first time since 1994.

The TTFA election to be held on April 13, will determine the Executive to restructure and develop football in Trinidad and Tobago, while urgently redoubling much required initiatives to ensure qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Restructuring by a new TTFA is needed in order to develop the best possible product on the football field, creating wider participation, training and development, from grassroots upwards. Highly competitive community leagues, strong well-structured and supported community league teams competing within the zonal level are also necessary so as to provide attractive inter-zonal competitions, all providing the base for the establishment of a privately-owned Trinidad and Tobago national professional league at the top of the football pyramid.

The goal is derived from forums, a Government of T&T zero employment symposium, seminars and public consultations, with football stakeholders making significant contributions, the last of which was held in 2019, throughout the country, for which neither the report, strategic plan or recommendations have been reviewed or considered to date for implementation. In addition to the manifesto and 100-day plan, there are two critical recommendations for the new TTFA Executive:

1. The appointment of an independent Constitution Committee to review the Articles forwarded by the TTFA Constitution Committee.

2. Hosting a member and stakeholder consultation to review and contribute to the further development of the strategic plan.

For those of us committed to the development of football in Trinidad and Tobago, we fully understand the need to secure the unequivocal support of the unified TTFA membership to achieve the desired goal. For while the goal is quite easily outlined, there is no short cut, quick fix, or magic wand. Only dedicated can address the large task to be undertaken, which will demand all hands-on-deck in the new TTFA.

Welcome on board, join the movement to restructure and develop the TTFA, football, all sport disciplines, and the entire entertainment sector, in T&T and the entire Caribbean.

—Selby Browne is president of the Veteran Footballers Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago and was at one time in the running to contest the upcoming TTFA elections.

20

Football / Re: Youth Football Thread

« on: April 07, 2024, 07:52:49 AM »

Jaric Titans return but 11-year-old player stuck in London
By Corey Connelly (T&T Newsday)

MINISTER of Foreign and Caricom Affairs Dr Amery Browne has confirmed a report that a young player who travelled to England with the Jaric Titans Sports Development Club did not return on Friday with the rest of the club.

According to an online article, the 11-year-old boy, who plays for the Signal Hill-based Brother Ry Football Academy, lost his passport and was unable to travel with the members of the club.

The contingent, who had travelled to the UK to participate in the Manchester International Easter Cup from March 29-31, returned to Tobago around 5pm on a British Airways flight from London’s Gatwick Airport to the ANR Robinson International Airport.

The article said the TT High Commission in London is arranging documents so that the boy, who travelled as an unaccompanied minor, could return to TT.

Jaric Titans manager Tracey Coldeira, the article said, has remained in London with the child. However, it is uncertain whether the child will be back in Tobago for the start of the school term on Monday.

In a brief Sunday Newsday interview via WhatsApp, Browne said, “Just about every aspect of that expedition has been unfortunate and regrettable. The saga has continued, with an ongoing circumstance involving a particular child who is receiving assistance from the TT High Commission team in London with respect to the provision of emergency travel documentation. We are giving this our determined attention.”

The club, led by managing director and head coach Brian Browne, came under heavy criticism after it was revealed that the trip had been arranged without adequate funding for accommodation for some 100 players.

As a result, the group, which included about 55 adults, had to scramble for accommodation when they arrived in the UK to compete in the tournament. So grave was the situation, a GoFundMe page was set up to raise money to provide shelter for the group while in Manchester. The group was later temporarily accommodated at the Hilton Garden Inn, connected to the city’s Old Trafford Stadium.

On March 30, THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine described the situation as regrettable, adding he was particularly concerned about the children. He said the THA had made contact with the organisers of the event to determine what was owed by way of accommodation, meals and other incidentals.

“So we are awaiting that sort of information. When we get that information, I will engage the executive council in a responsible conversation about the matter to see how we can ensure that we protect the children – notice I am not saying the adults – and ensure that we can return the children who are there safely to Tobago. So we are going about this in the most responsible way possible,” Augustine said at a function to commemorate Spiritual/Shouter Baptist Liberation Day in Signal Hill.

On that occasion, he also said in future, groups wanting to leave Tobago to participate in any overseas engagement must have the necessary funding to cover all their expenses.

“I should say this to everyone. You are to leave Tobago – whether you are a cultural group, a sport group, a school group, a church group – you are leaving Tobago, I will suggest you have all your ducks in a row before leaving.

“If it is that you reach out to the THA and the help was not forthcoming on time, or the answer is no from the THA, or the answer from the THA is that you can’t get all that is required – once you know that you have to leave Tobago and you don’t have that which is sufficient to manage while you are away from home, my advice would be to postpone to a time that you can meet those demands.”

21

Football / Re: Bringing football back to Skinner Park

« on: April 07, 2024, 07:50:34 AM »

Opening Mayor’s Cup win for Tobago, National U-20s
T&T Express

The National Under-20 men’s football team and a Tobago X1 both emerged winners on Friday’s opening night of the San Fernando Mayor’s Cup at Skinner Park.

The Tobago representative team were 4-1 winners over Morgua Samba Youths, while a lone Abayomi George goal gave the National Under-20 team a 1-0 win over South champions Pitchmen of La Brea. Careless defending saw George strip the last defender of the ball and score from close-up in just the 15th minute for the only goal of the match.

Meanwhile, Samba Youths led 1-0 from Emmanuel Bain’s 26th minute back post tap-in, but were level at 1-1 in the 33rd minute Darreon Moses headed in Miguel George’s in-curling corner-kick for the Tobago side.

Tobago were ahead at 2-1 three minutes into first half added-on time, with Keanu Boatswain tapping in a gift at the far post. A Samba Youths defensive mix-up saw both defender and goalkeeper leaving the ball for each other, allowing an opponent to gather and find Boatswain free on the far post.

Moses Bernard shot low across the penalty area, wrong-footing the goalkeeper for 3-1 in the 70th minute, and Omar Daniel got a fourth in the 87th minute, running into the left side of the penalty area under pressure, but finishing with a straight, low shot.

The competition continues this afternoon with first round winners Tobago and the National Under-20s clashing at Skinner Park from 6 p.m., followed by a South derby between Pitchmen and Samba Youths. These two teams ended the 2023 SFA season Big Six tied on points, before Pitchmen were declared back-to-back champions on goal-difference.

RESULTS:

Tobago 4 (Darreon Moses, Keanu Boatswain, Moses Bernard, Omar Daniel) Moruga Samba Youths 1 (Emmanuel Bain 26th)

T&T U20 (Abayomi George) Pitchmen F.C. 0

SAN FERNANDO MAYOR’S CUP STANDINGS:

TEAMS P W D L GF GA GD PTS

Tobago Rep. 1 1 1 0 0 4 1 +3

T&T U20 1 1 0 0 1 0 +1 3

Pitchmen F.C. 1 0 0 1 0 1 -1 0

Mor/Tab Samba Youths 1 0 0 1 1 4 -3 0

22

Gols Galore Trinbago Style / Re: Dantaye Gilbert

« on: April 06, 2024, 02:59:42 PM »

SC Telstar vs Jong PSV (April 5, 2024)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwgXTpkuBR8&t=139s

23

Football / Re: Dantaye Gilbert Thread

« on: April 06, 2024, 02:58:22 PM »

Dantaye Gilbert with his fifth goal of the season, during Jong PSV's 3-1 loss to SC Telstar.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwgXTpkuBR8&t=139s

24

Football / Re: Malcolm Shaw Thread

« on: April 04, 2024, 07:54:18 PM »

Cavalry FC signs Malcolm Shaw to 2024 roster
cavalryfc.canpl.ca

Cavalry FC of the Canadian Premier League (CPL) today announced the club has signed 28-year-old forward Malcolm Shaw to a one-year contract with a one-year option ahead of the 2024 CPL season.

Shaw spent the last three seasons with Atlético Ottawa, where he made 83 appearances across all competitions and contributed 24 goal involvements. Born in Pickering, Ontario, Shaw represents Trinidad and Tobago internationally because of his mother’s heritage. He has earned five caps for the Soca Warriors since June 2023, scoring one goal.

“Malcolm is a proven forward in this league that has scored big goals and has experienced being a key part of a league winning side,” said Tommy Wheeldon Jr., Head Coach and General Manager, Cavalry FC. “He has a great blend of power and finesse within his attacking play, whilst also being an excellent contributor to defensive moments and duals for his team.”

Shaw is one of several attacking options Cavalry has added to bolster its front line this season, joining fellow newcomers Tobias Warschewski, Lleyton Brooks, Lucas Dias and Diego Gutierrez.

“I’m thrilled to embark on this new chapter with Cavalry FC,” said Shaw. “I’m looking forward to embracing the challenges, camaraderie, and victories that lay ahead.”

The club will commence the 2024 CPL campaign as they travel to Hamilton, Ont. to face Forge FC on Saturday, April 13.

Cavalry will then return to ATCO Field at Spruce Meadows for the first time in 2024 to host Vancouver FC in the preliminary round of the TELUS Canadian Championship on Tuesday, April 23. The winner of the single-elimination match will advance to a quarterfinal tilt against Major League Soccer (MLS) side Vancouver Whitecaps FC.

The team will close a busy month of April when it hosts its CPL home opener on Sunday, April 28, welcoming Pacific FC to ATCO Field.

25

Gols Galore Trinbago Style / Wayne Frederick

« on: April 04, 2024, 05:54:46 AM »

Colorado Rapids 2 vs Northern Colorado Hailstorm (April 3, 2024)

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/v/u5MNkMbIm00?start=202" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="bbc_link bbc_flash_disabled new_win">https://www.youtube.com/v/u5MNkMbIm00?start=202</a>

26

Football / Re: Malcolm Shaw Thread

« on: April 03, 2024, 07:35:00 PM »

Atlético Ottawa Confirms Departure Of Club Original Malcolm Shaw
By John Jacques (Northern Tribune)

Atlético Ottawa club original Malcolm Shaw has officially left the Canadian Premier League side following four years in the nation’s capital.

The 28-year-old striker had been with the side through every season, tallying 83 appearances for the side throughout all competitions. The striker produced 19 goals and five assists during his time with the red-and-white, fittingly scoring the club’s first-ever home playoff goal in a feisty semi-final against Pacific.

Shaw’s last campaign for Ottleti was a quiet one, with the striker scoring just one goal in 22 league appearances, prompting the side to move on from the veteran striker as it seeks to regain its position as a playoff contender.

“It’s been an incredible journey being part of this club since day one,” wrote the striker online. “You all have shown love from the jump and I’m humbly grateful for that.”

Last season proved brighter on the national team stage for the centre-forward, who made his debut for the Trinidad and Tobago national team. He’d go on to make seven appearances for the Soca Warriors, scoring his first international goal against El Salvador in Nations League action.

Following the departure of Miguel Acosta, the out-of-contract Shaw had been been the highest active Ottleti player for appearances with 83. Now, Ollie Bassett leads the charge at 60.

The Pickering, Ontario native had previously played for Swedish third division side Assyriska IK, prior to which he scored thirteen goals in one season for fourth division side Raslatts SK.

He was also fairly prolific for his NCAA Division II soccer days, scoring 27 goals across four seasons for Roberts Wesleyan College.

Shaw’s now-former side has undergone quite a roster rebuild this offseason, with Ballou Tabla rejoining the attacking line while players like Manny Aparicio, Kevin Dos Santos, and Aboubacar Sissoko look like hefty reinforcements, with Amer Didic possibly set to land there too.

“Atlético Ottawa would like to thank Shaw for his commitment and professionalism during his time in the nation’s capital and wish him all the best in his next move,” reads a statement from the club itself.

“Though I’m moving on, the memories and experience will always be cherished. Until next time,” concludes Shaw himself.

27

Football / Re: Youth Football Thread

« on: April 01, 2024, 12:59:14 PM »

Chief Secretary to clamp down on worrying trend — ‘In future we’ll leave people stranded’
By Stephon Nicholas (T&T Newsday)

CHIEF SECRETARY Farley Augustine said he is concerned by the trend of Tobago groups leaving these shores on private trips without the required funding and then going online to beg for assistance.

He said the THA will be forced to make tough decisions in the future to put an end to this practice. Augustine was speaking to Newsday on Sunday, four days after the Scarborough-based Jaric Titans football club left for England to compete in the Manchester International Easter Cup.

Not long after landing, Jaric Titans coach Brian Browne posted a video on social media appealing for donations to help the group – which includes over 100 children. “We are struggling for the cost of accommodation, so we are appealing to the public for assistance – any kind of assistance. However large or small you can give, we will appreciate,” Browne said.

Two years ago, the Roxborough Folk Performers left Tobago on a cultural tour to New York and ended up in a similar dilemma. Then Deputy Chief Secretary, Watson Duke, called on Augustine to help the group as he said they were “hungry” and left to sleep in basements and on the streets of New York.

Asked if he is worried about a trend developing, Augustine said, “Yes, I am concerned, and I am concerned because it involves children and young people....We have to ensure the children are safe where they are. Some of them are there without their parents or guardians.”

The Parlatuvier/L’anse Fourmi/Speyside representative said several parents have reached out to him asking for his intervention. Despite reports that the THA has agreed to foot the bill for the trip, Augustine said no such commitment has been made. However, he acknowledged the THA is liaising with tournament organisers, EuroWorld Sports Ltd, about the costs associated with the group’s stay in Manchester.

“We are awaiting info before the THA can make a commitment, E-mails are going back and forth with EuroWorld Sports – how many rooms, who are the individuals there, the cost of meals. We can’t just grant money based on a figure. We need details before the Executive Council could commit to save the day. But we need to find a way to secure the children – the adults could see about themselves.”

Asked how the THA intends to clamp down on this trend, Augustine said, “The THA in future will have to take a hard decision and leave people stranded wherever they are.”

Augustine said he was highly surprised to see the situation Jaric Titans found themselves in as the THA had previously told the group – barely a week before they intended to leave – that they asked for funding too late. “The timeline was too short,” Augustine said.

He said a meeting was held and he told the group that he did not want a situation where they left TT and were unable to meet their financial commitments. “Exactly what I said I did not want to happen is what happened.”

He said if he was in charge of the group, the trip would have been postponed. “I understand that airline tickets were already booked, but I would have done a cancellation and reroute the tickets to next year.”

He said the THA intends to host a sensitization session to inform people about what they need to do to apply for funding and why they need to apply within a certain time period. “After this issue is settled, we will have a public conversation with Tobago.”

Augustine said he was informed that other adults and players left Tobago on Friday to join the group, but said, as far as he was aware, the THA was not involved.

He appealed for calm in the matter, especially online, and urged people not to castigate those in charge. “I don’t know Mr. Browne to be a bad person. I don’t know Mr. Browne to be untrustworthy. That is not the Mr. Browne I know. This might be the result of poor planning or poor logistics. Not everybody is good with these things.”

28

Gols Galore Trinbago Style / Re: Jomal Williams

« on: April 01, 2024, 10:06:32 AM »

CD FAS vs LA Firpo (March 30, 2024)

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/v/gIWMnpS7bNA?start=254" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="bbc_link bbc_flash_disabled new_win">https://www.youtube.com/v/gIWMnpS7bNA?start=254</a>

29

Football / Re: Jomal Williams Thread.

« on: April 01, 2024, 10:05:22 AM »

Jomal Williams rounds off the scoring in LA Firpo's 4-0 win over CD FAS

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/v/gIWMnpS7bNA?start=254" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="bbc_link bbc_flash_disabled new_win">https://www.youtube.com/v/gIWMnpS7bNA?start=254</a>

30

Football / Re: Men's U-20 Football Team Thread.

« on: March 31, 2024, 08:43:05 PM »

Hindsight versus foresight: A review of T&T’s Concacaf U-20 performance
By Hannibal Najjar (T&T Express)

Here are some facts, and a possible explanation why Trinidad and Tobago failed to show better in our three games during the February 23-March 4 Under-20 CONCACAF Championships.

First, I share that I have known coach Brian Haynes for many decades, having played against him in the ‘70’s while I played for both Maple and Essex. My recall is that he played for Caroni. He was a fine player and was and still is a very fine human being.

From my research, Mr Haynes entered the T&T football coaching picture in early November 2023, “a come through dream of his whether for the male or women’s programme.”

However, his Under-20 run saw the collapse of his and T&T’s dreams when we underperformed in our decisive third game against Canada, losing 3-0 to a far superior side. But the truth be, we did not show well in our first game versus St Vincent and the Grenadines where we eked out a late winner after our 0-2 start.

A 5-0 drubbing of Dominica left T&T feeling ready for the final game with Canada, who demolished the Dominicans 8-0 in their opener.

Let me open with a few key questions.

Why was Coach Haynes chosen? What was the picture in the minds of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association/Normalisation Committee? Basis for these questions!: I was in T&T during the months of November and early December 2023. I made it my duty to watch several Secondary Schools Football League games ranging, from Premier Division, second eleven, Under-16, and the Under-14 levels where my God-daughter’s son plays for Queen’s Royal College.

Following my visit to T&T, I wrote two articles in the Trinidad Express, on December 26, 2023, and January 14, 2024. I outlined many of my observations of an improved level of football that I witnessed. Overall, the observations were very promising and filled with hope, largely because of the talent pool size and calculated and improved coaching injections that the players were receiving. In Part One, we discussed the roles of the next-in-line stakeholders. I opined that until the TTFA picks up the momentum by hiring full-time proven officials and shows itself to be the “rising tide that lifts all boats”, we will continue to labour through future generations. In any event, I encouraged the coach-player duo to continue to assume the responsibility of “flying the flag” as we all wait.

I also pointed out that “our players possess certain new attributes, whose likes have not been seen at any one time in my lifetime. Especially with the SSFL Premier and second eleven levels, they displayed mesmerising speed, strength, power and aerobic and anaerobic fitness. Critical too, is that the “fire in the belly” mindset is at an impressive level. I also found that players showed gains in tactical acuity, often being sharp-eyed in their search to attack as the crow flies. This ability appeared less in the defensive department. Questions are still out there about nutrition, diet, rest, and relaxation, and other difficult-to-assess, non-physical, emotional, and psychological qualities.

Back to the question: Why was Coach Haynes chosen? Why wasn’t the job given to any or a combination of Hutson Charles, Kenwyne Jones, Sean Cooper, Travis Mulraine, Wayne Sheppard, Jerry Moe, Randolph Boyce? Who better to take charge than these coming on the heels of a very competitive and exhilarating 2023 SSFL season, since these men have knowledge of these players! With the help and guidance of technical director Anton Corneal and men’s senior team coach Angus Eve, it seems clear that we could have evaluated a larger pool of competing players eager for selection. I understand that Charles was approached but his Defence Force (DF) duties removed that option. I still refuse to accept this as a plausible reason, especially when Hutson is an assistant with the DF. Country first, club after.

I have no further info on the others, although I see that Shawn Cooper had his input in the team. That decision not to go after two or three of these SSFL coaches was a huge mistake. I know all these coaches save the latter two (to my recollection), who have all been youth and national players under my supervision. And their playing and coaching experiences and exposures tell deep and promising tales, especially in the case of Charles, who also gained significantly as an assistant to Stephen Hart. Study their playing and coaching histories, assess their teams’ performances. See the picture!

To add insult to injury, didn’t Coach Haynes leave mid-stream to return to the US for three weeks during the preparation time? And did he not think he was risking having to say in the post-game media briefing,

“I think I, personally, could have prepared the team better and I didn’t have enough time to do that. It was just like coaching on the run”, Coach Haynes said, adding that, “the players were here before I got here, I didn’t do that. But I trusted Anton Corneal and his staff to do that before I got here.” What, Brian! You, the “General” hired to take the team forward and you neglected to inspect each chosen member? What of a coach’s inner instincts and the spoken-about extra benefits that you vowed you would bring to the game! I hope your second, and understandable reason for wanting to return home did materialise and produced all the blessings you hoped for.

A further observation was made, and it begs the question about the ruling of play for three games in five days, with double headers each day. I tried to contact CONCACAF and the USSF (United States Soccer Federation), both to no avail and the TTFA (no definitive answer). If permitted, would one not try to seize every home team’s advantage by playing the first match of the double-headers? Whatever the crowds, the aim is to win and not have the crowds witnessing curtailing performances.

Contrary to Haynes’ statement, the benefits are sizeable. If permitted, we would play first at 5 p.m., causing obstruction to the opposition from seeing our games since they would be focusing on their later 8 p.m. encounter. In turn, our coaches could fully scout the later games without the need to review the next morning, via video and the implicated logistics. With this option, we would go straight to training with a practice plan in mind. Other earlier-game benefits would include returning to the hotel for an early-enough dinner, shower, and maximum rest time.

Indeed Coach, you “could have prepared the team better!” Indeed, too, we could have selected a more, “on-top-of-things”, coaching staff. Indeed, hindsight is, 20-20. But foresight?

Question...what of the Hicks brothers, Elijah and Ezra?