121
Football / Haiti vs Guadalupe
« on: January 20, 2007, 03:18:35 PM »
Haiti had one good chance Guadalupe give up ball easy looks like Haiti will win this 0-0
April 25, 2024, 03:50:37 PM
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122
Football / W Connection goes down twice against Brazilian Clubs
« on: January 19, 2007, 02:50:41 PM »
W Connection goes down twice against Brazilian Clubs
Friday, 19 January 2007
By Randy Bando...
Pro League’s Vibe CT 105 W Connection lost two matches over the last week in Brazil against Oeste FC and Quinze De Novembero as they continue their pre-season preparations in the South American continent.
Based at the Igaracu Palace Hotel in the City of Beubauru, W Connection traveled to the City of
Itapolis on Wednesday of this week, where they lost 4-1 against Oeste FC. The lone item by the Pro League Club came from Elijah Joseph when he scored a penalty in the first period, making it 2-1 at the half.
The next day W Connection made a two and a half hour trip to the City of Jau where they faced Quinze De Novembero and fell to a 5-2 defeat. Both Connection goals came in the first period with midfielder William Da Silva Oliveira registering the first and Earl Jean netting the other from the penalty spot.
Overall the players believed it was a great learning experience. Elijah Joseph told ‘ttproleague.com’, “Both matches were really tough and it was a good overall experience for us. They had the better ball possession than us and that’s how there were able to beat us. The times they scored, it was due to mistakes made in our defence,” ended Joseph.
One of W Connection’s Brazilian players Gefferson Goulart added, “Football in Brazil is all about possession. It was good for our (W Connection) players, especially the younger ones to learn this type of football. Although we lost our matches this week, I still believe we gained a lot of experience,” ended Goulart.
W Connection is expected to play again on Saturday against Uniao Barbarense FC in the City of Santa Barbra Do Oeste they continue to prepare for their CFU Club Championship semifinal match against Harbour View FC of Jamaica carded for the January 26.
Spann surgery successful
On another issue Team Administrator Raymond Mc Lean confirmed that Silvio Spann’s surgery on Wednesday was a successful one, “Silvio is back with us at the hotel after spending one day at the Biuru Hospital after his operation for observation. He would be able to start rehabilitation on the shoulder in two weeks. He will return to Trinidad with the team on Tuesday,” said Mc Lean.
Coach Stuart Charles Fervier is celebrating his birthday today with a scouting trip in the City of Biuru and would rejoin the team later today in preparation for tomorrow’s match.
Friday, 19 January 2007
By Randy Bando...
Pro League’s Vibe CT 105 W Connection lost two matches over the last week in Brazil against Oeste FC and Quinze De Novembero as they continue their pre-season preparations in the South American continent.
Based at the Igaracu Palace Hotel in the City of Beubauru, W Connection traveled to the City of
Itapolis on Wednesday of this week, where they lost 4-1 against Oeste FC. The lone item by the Pro League Club came from Elijah Joseph when he scored a penalty in the first period, making it 2-1 at the half.
The next day W Connection made a two and a half hour trip to the City of Jau where they faced Quinze De Novembero and fell to a 5-2 defeat. Both Connection goals came in the first period with midfielder William Da Silva Oliveira registering the first and Earl Jean netting the other from the penalty spot.
Overall the players believed it was a great learning experience. Elijah Joseph told ‘ttproleague.com’, “Both matches were really tough and it was a good overall experience for us. They had the better ball possession than us and that’s how there were able to beat us. The times they scored, it was due to mistakes made in our defence,” ended Joseph.
One of W Connection’s Brazilian players Gefferson Goulart added, “Football in Brazil is all about possession. It was good for our (W Connection) players, especially the younger ones to learn this type of football. Although we lost our matches this week, I still believe we gained a lot of experience,” ended Goulart.
W Connection is expected to play again on Saturday against Uniao Barbarense FC in the City of Santa Barbra Do Oeste they continue to prepare for their CFU Club Championship semifinal match against Harbour View FC of Jamaica carded for the January 26.
Spann surgery successful
On another issue Team Administrator Raymond Mc Lean confirmed that Silvio Spann’s surgery on Wednesday was a successful one, “Silvio is back with us at the hotel after spending one day at the Biuru Hospital after his operation for observation. He would be able to start rehabilitation on the shoulder in two weeks. He will return to Trinidad with the team on Tuesday,” said Mc Lean.
Coach Stuart Charles Fervier is celebrating his birthday today with a scouting trip in the City of Biuru and would rejoin the team later today in preparation for tomorrow’s match.
123
Football / MARTINIQUE PAY EXTRA IN DIGICEL CUP
« on: January 17, 2007, 08:11:53 PM »
MARTINIQUE PAY EXTRA IN DIGICEL CUP
Further to a meeting of the Caribbean Football Union’s (Digicel Caribbean Cup) Disciplinary Committee, chairman of that committee Mr Chet Greene confirmed the following actions to be taken against TEAM Martinique following their second Sedley Joseph Group encounter against Trinidad and Tobago at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Monday.
1. Player #20, Steve Gustan is suspended from further participation in the
2007 Digicel Caribbean Cup Finals for throwing an object at Match Referee,
Roberto Moreno after the match Trinidad and Tobago vs Martinique, played on
15th January, 2007.
2. Consequent to the abusive, hostile, intimidating and unsporting behavior
of the players of TEAM Martinique prior to the commencement and at the end
of the above referred match in the 2007 Digicel Caribbean Cup, Ligue de
Football de Martinique is fined USD 5000.00, payable forthwith.
3. The management of TEAM Martinique is hereby directed to ensure total
conformity to tournament rules and traditional football protocols and is
hereby warned that any recurrence would result in stiffer penalties.
Issued on January 17, 2007.
taken from socawarriors.tt
Further to a meeting of the Caribbean Football Union’s (Digicel Caribbean Cup) Disciplinary Committee, chairman of that committee Mr Chet Greene confirmed the following actions to be taken against TEAM Martinique following their second Sedley Joseph Group encounter against Trinidad and Tobago at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Monday.
1. Player #20, Steve Gustan is suspended from further participation in the
2007 Digicel Caribbean Cup Finals for throwing an object at Match Referee,
Roberto Moreno after the match Trinidad and Tobago vs Martinique, played on
15th January, 2007.
2. Consequent to the abusive, hostile, intimidating and unsporting behavior
of the players of TEAM Martinique prior to the commencement and at the end
of the above referred match in the 2007 Digicel Caribbean Cup, Ligue de
Football de Martinique is fined USD 5000.00, payable forthwith.
3. The management of TEAM Martinique is hereby directed to ensure total
conformity to tournament rules and traditional football protocols and is
hereby warned that any recurrence would result in stiffer penalties.
Issued on January 17, 2007.
taken from socawarriors.tt
124
Football / St Johnstone beat Ayr United 2-1 in Scottish cup
« on: January 17, 2007, 04:54:55 PM »
St Johnstone beat Ayr United 2-1 in Scottish cup
AYR, Scotland, Jan 17 (Reuters) - Second division St Johnstone beat third-division Ayr United 2-1 in their Scottish FA Cup third round replay with an extra-time winner from Peter MacDonald on Wednesday.
Saints took an early lead when Trinidad and Tobago striker Jason Scotland lashed a 20-metre free-kick into the bottom left hand corner after five minutes. Ayr levelled through ex-St Johnstone midfielder Ryan Stevenson who cracked a 25-metre shot into the left side of the net after brilliantly controlling a high ball at the edge of the penalty area and lifting it over Kevin James .
The third round replay looked headed for penalties when MacDonald gathered the ball 30 metres out and launched a ferocious rising shot past keeper Mark McGeown after 116 minutes. Saints now meet Falkirk in the fourth round on Feb. 3.
Updated
AYR, Scotland, Jan 17 (Reuters) - Second division St Johnstone beat third-division Ayr United 2-1 in their Scottish FA Cup third round replay with an extra-time winner from Peter MacDonald on Wednesday.
Saints took an early lead when Trinidad and Tobago striker Jason Scotland lashed a 20-metre free-kick into the bottom left hand corner after five minutes. Ayr levelled through ex-St Johnstone midfielder Ryan Stevenson who cracked a 25-metre shot into the left side of the net after brilliantly controlling a high ball at the edge of the penalty area and lifting it over Kevin James .
The third round replay looked headed for penalties when MacDonald gathered the ball 30 metres out and launched a ferocious rising shot past keeper Mark McGeown after 116 minutes. Saints now meet Falkirk in the fourth round on Feb. 3.
Updated
125
Football / Why top international clubs stop coming to Trinidad and Tobago?
« on: January 17, 2007, 03:03:15 PM »
I have a question Why is it that top international clubs stop coming to Trinidad and Tobago? Is it because they get big money to go to the United States and Asia or we just stop inviting them to our island. With that said I meet the directors of Falkirk football club during the World Cup I ask him to bring his team to Trinidad he said that it would be too much money to travel all the way to Trinidad but it sound like a good idea
I say the Pro league should invite four international club during there summer brake for a mini tournament with four teams from the PFL that way some off our players could get some exposures. Let meh say this I had a lot off ideas before if some off you remember my ideas for the PFL 4 years ago they now starting to implement them hopefully this could be done in the next two years only because this summer will be the Gold Cup.
So know lets say the PFL loves this ideas and wants to run with what teams should they invite to generate excitement among the T&T pubic
I say the Pro league should invite four international club during there summer brake for a mini tournament with four teams from the PFL that way some off our players could get some exposures. Let meh say this I had a lot off ideas before if some off you remember my ideas for the PFL 4 years ago they now starting to implement them hopefully this could be done in the next two years only because this summer will be the Gold Cup.
So know lets say the PFL loves this ideas and wants to run with what teams should they invite to generate excitement among the T&T pubic
126
Football / Honduras coach Ortega serious after brain haemorrhage
« on: January 08, 2007, 11:26:24 PM »
Honduras coach Ortega serious after brain haemorrhage
TEGUCIGALPA, Jan 8 (Reuters) - Honduras coach Flavio Ortega was in a serious condition in hospital on Monday after suffering a brain haemorrhage, his doctors said.
"He is stable but in a serious condition," Carlos Orellana said in a radio interview. "His heart is working normally, as are his kidneys and lungs. He is under sedation and...breathing with the help of an apparatus."
Honduran media said that Ortega, 62, collapsed at his sister's house on Saturday.
ADVERTISEMENT
Ortega, a Brazilian who has lived in Honduras since the 1960s, had been due to take charge of Honduras's first training session of the year on Monday.
The 62-year-old was in charge of the side on an interim basis and had been due to lead the team in next month's CONCACAF Gold Cup qualifying tournament in El Salvador.
He took over last year and was unbeaten in four matches in charge, two wins over Guatemala, one win over El Salvador and a draw with Venezuela.
The Honduran federation has been negotiating for Colombian Reinaldo Rueda to take over the side on a long-term basis.
Ortega was also in charge of the national team in 1991 when he led them to the final of the Gold Cup, where they lost on penalties to the United States.
Ortega has coached several of the country's leading clubs and has also worked in Costa Rica and Guatemala.
(writing by Brian Homewood in Rio de Janeiro)
TEGUCIGALPA, Jan 8 (Reuters) - Honduras coach Flavio Ortega was in a serious condition in hospital on Monday after suffering a brain haemorrhage, his doctors said.
"He is stable but in a serious condition," Carlos Orellana said in a radio interview. "His heart is working normally, as are his kidneys and lungs. He is under sedation and...breathing with the help of an apparatus."
Honduran media said that Ortega, 62, collapsed at his sister's house on Saturday.
ADVERTISEMENT
Ortega, a Brazilian who has lived in Honduras since the 1960s, had been due to take charge of Honduras's first training session of the year on Monday.
The 62-year-old was in charge of the side on an interim basis and had been due to lead the team in next month's CONCACAF Gold Cup qualifying tournament in El Salvador.
He took over last year and was unbeaten in four matches in charge, two wins over Guatemala, one win over El Salvador and a draw with Venezuela.
The Honduran federation has been negotiating for Colombian Reinaldo Rueda to take over the side on a long-term basis.
Ortega was also in charge of the national team in 1991 when he led them to the final of the Gold Cup, where they lost on penalties to the United States.
Ortega has coached several of the country's leading clubs and has also worked in Costa Rica and Guatemala.
(writing by Brian Homewood in Rio de Janeiro)
127
Football / Jan promising safe hands for Digicel Cup.
« on: January 08, 2007, 04:35:51 PM »
Jan promising safe hands for Digicel Cup.
By: Randy Bando (ttproleague.com).[/size]
Trinidad and Tobago and Vibe CT 105 W Connection goalkeeper Jan Michael Williams is promising to take the new look ‘Soca Warriors’ through to the Digicel Cup finals as he looks forward to putting on a good show between the uprights.
Williams has occupied the number one spot in goal for the ‘Warriors’ since after the 2006 World Cup in Germany. The W Connection custodian played four international friendly matches, his last being against Austria.
Speaking with ‘ttproleague.com’ ahead of Trinidad and Tobago’s Digicel Cup matches Williams said, “I have played four matches in a row for the national team, I think that I can take this team to the finals of the Digicel Cup, and hopefully go on to win the competition. The experience and skill that I have gained so far, my aim is to try and keep a clean sheet throughout the tournament.” said the confident W Connection goalkeeper.
Williams also expressed satisfaction with the squad of players chosen by national coach Wim Rijsbergen, even without players from Pro League giants CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh, “I have to admit that Jabloteh has a lot of quality players, and they will be missed, but Trinidad and Tobago on a whole has a number of good players.”
“I have seen quality players over the last month who I have trained with, both the US based and local guys. I believe the coach has selected the best players in the camp, who can do well at this tournament. It is now a good opportunity for the new guys to impress and earn themselves solid positions on the team.”
“As for me I am going all out to put in a solid performance in the Digicel Cup and help the team to a place in the CONCACAF Gold Cup where I hope to be the number one choice in goal as well,” added the goalkeeper.
As for who will wear the Captain’s armband for T&T, Williams said, “It is obvious we only have a few senior players. We have World Cup player Densill Theobald who could be first choice and then we have the likes of Kerwyn Jemmott and Gary Glasgow who are very experienced players, but I don’t believe there would be a problem with who wears the armband. We are all going to do our part,” ended Williams. Trinidad and Tobago will face Barbados in the opening match of the Sedley Joseph Group at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Friday 12th January.
By: Randy Bando (ttproleague.com).[/size]
Trinidad and Tobago and Vibe CT 105 W Connection goalkeeper Jan Michael Williams is promising to take the new look ‘Soca Warriors’ through to the Digicel Cup finals as he looks forward to putting on a good show between the uprights.
Williams has occupied the number one spot in goal for the ‘Warriors’ since after the 2006 World Cup in Germany. The W Connection custodian played four international friendly matches, his last being against Austria.
Speaking with ‘ttproleague.com’ ahead of Trinidad and Tobago’s Digicel Cup matches Williams said, “I have played four matches in a row for the national team, I think that I can take this team to the finals of the Digicel Cup, and hopefully go on to win the competition. The experience and skill that I have gained so far, my aim is to try and keep a clean sheet throughout the tournament.” said the confident W Connection goalkeeper.
Williams also expressed satisfaction with the squad of players chosen by national coach Wim Rijsbergen, even without players from Pro League giants CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh, “I have to admit that Jabloteh has a lot of quality players, and they will be missed, but Trinidad and Tobago on a whole has a number of good players.”
“I have seen quality players over the last month who I have trained with, both the US based and local guys. I believe the coach has selected the best players in the camp, who can do well at this tournament. It is now a good opportunity for the new guys to impress and earn themselves solid positions on the team.”
“As for me I am going all out to put in a solid performance in the Digicel Cup and help the team to a place in the CONCACAF Gold Cup where I hope to be the number one choice in goal as well,” added the goalkeeper.
As for who will wear the Captain’s armband for T&T, Williams said, “It is obvious we only have a few senior players. We have World Cup player Densill Theobald who could be first choice and then we have the likes of Kerwyn Jemmott and Gary Glasgow who are very experienced players, but I don’t believe there would be a problem with who wears the armband. We are all going to do our part,” ended Williams. Trinidad and Tobago will face Barbados in the opening match of the Sedley Joseph Group at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Friday 12th January.
128
Football / Liverpool 1-3 Arsenal
« on: January 06, 2007, 04:17:04 PM »
Liverpool 1-3 Arsenal
By Mandeep Sanghera
Rosicky showed his lethal side to bag a brace for Arsenal
Arsenal produced three stylish goals as they dumped FA Cup holders Liverpool out of the competition with a stubborn and resilient third round performance.
Tomas Rosicky curled a sublime strike and squeezed in a shot from the edge of the box to put the visitors 2-0 ahead.
Liverpool hit back when Dirk Kuyt glanced in from point-blank range.
But Thierry Henry ended hopes of a Reds comeback when he robbed Jamie Carragher and slotted home to book Arsenal's place in Monday's fourth round draw.
Report: Liverpool 1-3 Arsenal
Interview: Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger
Interview: Arsenal's Thierry Henry
Liverpool had plenty of possession early on but Arsenal had kept them at arm's length while waiting for the chance to counter-attack.
The home side were being denied the space and time to create a chance and had only a long range Steven Gerrard strike, which went comfortably wide, to show for their early efforts.
606: DEBATE
Liverpool had all the play, got tired, and we picked them off with three beautiful counter attacks
SW
606: Have your say
Arsenal's ploy almost reaped reward when a clever pass by Robin van Persie was slid into the piercing run of Rosicky, who lacked the bravery to try and squeeze the ball past on-rushing keeper Jerzy Dudek.
The match started to develop into a fractious affair as rash challenges, stray arms and simulation saw play interrupted on a regular basis.
Reds midfielder Xabi Alonso thought he should have had a penalty when he went over after minimal contact by Gilberto Silva tackle but only ended up getting booked for diving.
In amongst the set-pieces, Reds striker Peter Crouch ballooned a volley over and Alonso went close from 20-yards.
Arsenal had a strength to their play which critics have accused them of lacking and they blended that with the kind of flair they are famed for to take a 2-0 lead.
Dutch striker Kuyt's goal gave Liverpool brief hope
The visitors won possession in their own half and Rosicky exchanged a number of passes with Alexander Hleb down Arsenal's right flank.
The final act of the goal saw Hleb pull a low cross back to the near edge of the box and Rosicky curled a shot into the far side of the Reds goal.
The Czech Republic attacking midfielder added a second when Liverpool's defence stood off him and shot low into the corner.
An urgency in Liverpool's play after the break put Arsenal under relentless pressure.
And, while the visitors threatened on the counter-attack, they started to become overrun by the waves of attacks from the Reds.
The home side's efforts finally told when Kuyt flicked in a header and Aurelio sent an angled volley just wide as Liverpool's dominance was almost rewarded with an equaliser.
But Henry dispossessed Carragher on the left touchline and ran towards goal before cutting inside and sidefooting in to secure Arsenal's win.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez:
"It is a bad day for us. It was a difficult game but we were doing well and controlling the match in the first half but conceded two goals.
"It could have been a penalty but for me it is rather the game as a whole.
"We made mistakes and when you play against a good team they punish you. Now we have to think about the next game and keep going."
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger:
"I felt we have shown character and good discipline. We were organised under pressure.
"We had two or three good chances on the break and scored one - then it was all over.
"They have an unbelievable crowd and the team gave everything. It takes a good team to beat them and we were that team."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Liverpool: Dudek, Finnan, Carragher, Agger, Riise (Aurelio 60), Pennant, Alonso, Gerrard, Luis Garcia, Kuyt, Crouch.
Subs Not Used: Reina, Hyypia, Gonzalez, Bellamy.
Booked: Alonso.
Goals: Kuyt 71.
Arsenal: Almunia, Eboue (Hoyte 66), Toure, Senderos, Clichy, Hleb, Silva, Flamini, Rosicky, Henry (Walcott 88), Van Persie (Julio Baptista 72).
Subs Not Used: Poom, Djourou.
Booked: Senderos, Clichy, Eboue.
Goals: Rosicky 37, 45, Henry 84.
Att: 43,619
Ref: S Bennett (Kent).
By Mandeep Sanghera
Rosicky showed his lethal side to bag a brace for Arsenal
Arsenal produced three stylish goals as they dumped FA Cup holders Liverpool out of the competition with a stubborn and resilient third round performance.
Tomas Rosicky curled a sublime strike and squeezed in a shot from the edge of the box to put the visitors 2-0 ahead.
Liverpool hit back when Dirk Kuyt glanced in from point-blank range.
But Thierry Henry ended hopes of a Reds comeback when he robbed Jamie Carragher and slotted home to book Arsenal's place in Monday's fourth round draw.
Report: Liverpool 1-3 Arsenal
Interview: Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger
Interview: Arsenal's Thierry Henry
Liverpool had plenty of possession early on but Arsenal had kept them at arm's length while waiting for the chance to counter-attack.
The home side were being denied the space and time to create a chance and had only a long range Steven Gerrard strike, which went comfortably wide, to show for their early efforts.
606: DEBATE
Liverpool had all the play, got tired, and we picked them off with three beautiful counter attacks
SW
606: Have your say
Arsenal's ploy almost reaped reward when a clever pass by Robin van Persie was slid into the piercing run of Rosicky, who lacked the bravery to try and squeeze the ball past on-rushing keeper Jerzy Dudek.
The match started to develop into a fractious affair as rash challenges, stray arms and simulation saw play interrupted on a regular basis.
Reds midfielder Xabi Alonso thought he should have had a penalty when he went over after minimal contact by Gilberto Silva tackle but only ended up getting booked for diving.
In amongst the set-pieces, Reds striker Peter Crouch ballooned a volley over and Alonso went close from 20-yards.
Arsenal had a strength to their play which critics have accused them of lacking and they blended that with the kind of flair they are famed for to take a 2-0 lead.
Dutch striker Kuyt's goal gave Liverpool brief hope
The visitors won possession in their own half and Rosicky exchanged a number of passes with Alexander Hleb down Arsenal's right flank.
The final act of the goal saw Hleb pull a low cross back to the near edge of the box and Rosicky curled a shot into the far side of the Reds goal.
The Czech Republic attacking midfielder added a second when Liverpool's defence stood off him and shot low into the corner.
An urgency in Liverpool's play after the break put Arsenal under relentless pressure.
And, while the visitors threatened on the counter-attack, they started to become overrun by the waves of attacks from the Reds.
The home side's efforts finally told when Kuyt flicked in a header and Aurelio sent an angled volley just wide as Liverpool's dominance was almost rewarded with an equaliser.
But Henry dispossessed Carragher on the left touchline and ran towards goal before cutting inside and sidefooting in to secure Arsenal's win.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez:
"It is a bad day for us. It was a difficult game but we were doing well and controlling the match in the first half but conceded two goals.
"It could have been a penalty but for me it is rather the game as a whole.
"We made mistakes and when you play against a good team they punish you. Now we have to think about the next game and keep going."
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger:
"I felt we have shown character and good discipline. We were organised under pressure.
"We had two or three good chances on the break and scored one - then it was all over.
"They have an unbelievable crowd and the team gave everything. It takes a good team to beat them and we were that team."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Liverpool: Dudek, Finnan, Carragher, Agger, Riise (Aurelio 60), Pennant, Alonso, Gerrard, Luis Garcia, Kuyt, Crouch.
Subs Not Used: Reina, Hyypia, Gonzalez, Bellamy.
Booked: Alonso.
Goals: Kuyt 71.
Arsenal: Almunia, Eboue (Hoyte 66), Toure, Senderos, Clichy, Hleb, Silva, Flamini, Rosicky, Henry (Walcott 88), Van Persie (Julio Baptista 72).
Subs Not Used: Poom, Djourou.
Booked: Senderos, Clichy, Eboue.
Goals: Rosicky 37, 45, Henry 84.
Att: 43,619
Ref: S Bennett (Kent).
129
Football / Spann to miss Digicel Cup with shoulder injury.
« on: December 27, 2006, 04:14:31 PM »
Spann to miss Digicel Cup with shoulder injury.
By: Shaun Fuentes (TTFF).
National team head coach Wim Rijsbergen faces the possibility of contesting the Digicel Caribbean Cup without the services of midfielder Silvio Spann.
The former Japan-based midfielder rejoined the national team for training earlier this month upon a recall but a reoccurring shoulder problem is back and has forced him out of the last few sessions. According to assistant coach Anton Corneal, it is likely that the player will have to undergo operation and will not be available for selection.
US-based player Joel Bailey also attempted to make a full recovery comeback in training at the Ato Boldon Stadium on Wednesday after damaging his ankle in a scrimmage last week. However, once again he pulled up.
“He (Bailey) tried to make it back out after being cleared by the medics but again he had a problem and had to cut short,” Corneal said. “Spann’s case is unfortunate. He needs to operate on it and time is not on his side because we are less than two weeks away from the start of the competition.”
Corneal conducted the session on Wednesday as Rijsbergen is out of the country until next week. Initially the squad was expected to be named this week but that has now been pushed back until early next month as the team continues to prepare for the January 12 opener against Barbados at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
“The preparation continues and there are certain aspects of it that we are currently undergoing and of course more will happen as the first game approaches. The final squad will be decided as we continue to work with the players available to us. Obviously everyone wants to give their best showing because the squad has to be cut and there will be playing who will be left out.” Corneal told TTFF Media.
There has been an absence of CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh players after the club relayed to Rijsbergen late last week that it needed its players from January 10 for training ahead of the Caribbean Club Championship final round later in the month. That matter is currently being discussed with aim of a resolution in the not too distant future.
Meantime, Haiti arrived in the country on Wednesday to contest Group J of the qualifying phase for the final spot in the Finals.
With Bermuda, Haiti and the Dominican Republic all qualifying as third placed teams in the three second round groups of the Digicel Cup played in November, the winning side will be the eight and final team to qualify.
All games will take place at the Hasley Crawford Stadium.
Group H qualifiers The Dominican Republic will be first to play against Haiti at 5pm) on January 5th.
Having impressed in their opening Group D and topping ahead of St Vincent and Grenadines and eliminating Jamaica , Haiti were favorites to qualify automatically to the Digicel finals but in the end had to rely on a last minute equalizer against Suriname in their second round Group I to qualify in third position.
The Dominican Republic will play two days later against Group G qualifiers Bermuda on Sunday January 7th with a 4pm (16.00) kick off. Both of these sides have met already this tournament in their Group C qualifying game where Bermuda took the honors winning on a 3-1 scoreline.
W Connection's Silvio Spann to miss Digicel Cup.
By: Randy Bando (ttproleague.com).[/size]
W Connection and national midfielder Silvio Spann has hit another bump in his career, as he will miss the forthcoming Digicel Caribbean Cup due to a persistent shoulder injury.
Spann rejoined the Trinidad and Tobago national team for training earlier this month, but the injury has forced him out of the last few sessions, and could prove to a be a big loss for Trinidad and Tobago in this tournament.
Silvio is now scheduled for a MRI Scan on Friday at the MRI Centre P.O.S. to determine whether or not surgery has to be done on his shoulder and would most likely be out of action for the next six weeks.
Silvio admitted this is a huge disappointment, and told ‘ttproleague.com’, “It’s a serious blow to my personal preparations. I am disappointed, but if surgery has to be done for the better, then so be it. I was just looking forward to building my confidence in the Digicel Cup ahead of the CONCACAF Gold Cup.”
“Coach Wim Rijsbergen is the one who advised me on surgery. Once your shoulder comes out of place three times you need to have surgery and in the last three years my shoulder came out of place about twenty-five times. I would always bare the pain and continue my football not taking it seriously but now I believe it is time for surgery,” admitted the Soca Warrior.
Assistant coach Anton Corneal who took charge of the training sessions this week, since head coach Wim Rijsbergen is scheduled to return next week said in a news release, “Spann’s case is unfortunate. He needs to operate on it and time is not on his side because we are less than two weeks away from the start of the competition,” said the assistant national coach.
Silvio was delighted by the support of his current club Vibe CT 105 W Connection saying, “My club W Connection is being very patient with me and is willing to go as far as it takes to get me back into action. They are the ones responsible for me getting the MRI Scan and if I have to get surgery, they too will also see to it. I am very grateful for all that they are doing for me, they have certainly stuck by my side.”
Spann, who also unfortunately missed Trinidad and Tobago’s historic world cup appearance in Germany due to a last minute injury, will now have to watch from the sidelines as Trinidad and Tobago battle for Caribbean supremacy in the 2007 Digicel Cup beginning on the 12th January with the Soca Warriors facing off against Barbados at the Hasley Crawford Stadium.
By: Shaun Fuentes (TTFF).
National team head coach Wim Rijsbergen faces the possibility of contesting the Digicel Caribbean Cup without the services of midfielder Silvio Spann.
The former Japan-based midfielder rejoined the national team for training earlier this month upon a recall but a reoccurring shoulder problem is back and has forced him out of the last few sessions. According to assistant coach Anton Corneal, it is likely that the player will have to undergo operation and will not be available for selection.
US-based player Joel Bailey also attempted to make a full recovery comeback in training at the Ato Boldon Stadium on Wednesday after damaging his ankle in a scrimmage last week. However, once again he pulled up.
“He (Bailey) tried to make it back out after being cleared by the medics but again he had a problem and had to cut short,” Corneal said. “Spann’s case is unfortunate. He needs to operate on it and time is not on his side because we are less than two weeks away from the start of the competition.”
Corneal conducted the session on Wednesday as Rijsbergen is out of the country until next week. Initially the squad was expected to be named this week but that has now been pushed back until early next month as the team continues to prepare for the January 12 opener against Barbados at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
“The preparation continues and there are certain aspects of it that we are currently undergoing and of course more will happen as the first game approaches. The final squad will be decided as we continue to work with the players available to us. Obviously everyone wants to give their best showing because the squad has to be cut and there will be playing who will be left out.” Corneal told TTFF Media.
There has been an absence of CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh players after the club relayed to Rijsbergen late last week that it needed its players from January 10 for training ahead of the Caribbean Club Championship final round later in the month. That matter is currently being discussed with aim of a resolution in the not too distant future.
Meantime, Haiti arrived in the country on Wednesday to contest Group J of the qualifying phase for the final spot in the Finals.
With Bermuda, Haiti and the Dominican Republic all qualifying as third placed teams in the three second round groups of the Digicel Cup played in November, the winning side will be the eight and final team to qualify.
All games will take place at the Hasley Crawford Stadium.
Group H qualifiers The Dominican Republic will be first to play against Haiti at 5pm) on January 5th.
Having impressed in their opening Group D and topping ahead of St Vincent and Grenadines and eliminating Jamaica , Haiti were favorites to qualify automatically to the Digicel finals but in the end had to rely on a last minute equalizer against Suriname in their second round Group I to qualify in third position.
The Dominican Republic will play two days later against Group G qualifiers Bermuda on Sunday January 7th with a 4pm (16.00) kick off. Both of these sides have met already this tournament in their Group C qualifying game where Bermuda took the honors winning on a 3-1 scoreline.
W Connection's Silvio Spann to miss Digicel Cup.
By: Randy Bando (ttproleague.com).[/size]
W Connection and national midfielder Silvio Spann has hit another bump in his career, as he will miss the forthcoming Digicel Caribbean Cup due to a persistent shoulder injury.
Spann rejoined the Trinidad and Tobago national team for training earlier this month, but the injury has forced him out of the last few sessions, and could prove to a be a big loss for Trinidad and Tobago in this tournament.
Silvio is now scheduled for a MRI Scan on Friday at the MRI Centre P.O.S. to determine whether or not surgery has to be done on his shoulder and would most likely be out of action for the next six weeks.
Silvio admitted this is a huge disappointment, and told ‘ttproleague.com’, “It’s a serious blow to my personal preparations. I am disappointed, but if surgery has to be done for the better, then so be it. I was just looking forward to building my confidence in the Digicel Cup ahead of the CONCACAF Gold Cup.”
“Coach Wim Rijsbergen is the one who advised me on surgery. Once your shoulder comes out of place three times you need to have surgery and in the last three years my shoulder came out of place about twenty-five times. I would always bare the pain and continue my football not taking it seriously but now I believe it is time for surgery,” admitted the Soca Warrior.
Assistant coach Anton Corneal who took charge of the training sessions this week, since head coach Wim Rijsbergen is scheduled to return next week said in a news release, “Spann’s case is unfortunate. He needs to operate on it and time is not on his side because we are less than two weeks away from the start of the competition,” said the assistant national coach.
Silvio was delighted by the support of his current club Vibe CT 105 W Connection saying, “My club W Connection is being very patient with me and is willing to go as far as it takes to get me back into action. They are the ones responsible for me getting the MRI Scan and if I have to get surgery, they too will also see to it. I am very grateful for all that they are doing for me, they have certainly stuck by my side.”
Spann, who also unfortunately missed Trinidad and Tobago’s historic world cup appearance in Germany due to a last minute injury, will now have to watch from the sidelines as Trinidad and Tobago battle for Caribbean supremacy in the 2007 Digicel Cup beginning on the 12th January with the Soca Warriors facing off against Barbados at the Hasley Crawford Stadium.
130
Football / Joe Public off to shining start in Guyana.
« on: December 24, 2006, 08:01:58 AM »
Joe Public off to shining start in Guyana.
By: Randy Bando (ttproleague).
A pair of first half goals by striker Devon Mitchell eased Pro League Club, B Mobile Joe Public past Guyanese club Blue Berry Hill 4-0 in their first match of the Kashif & Shanghai tournament on Friday at the Guyana Football Club Ground, Guyana.
Devon Mitchell who recently made the move the Macoya based team just a few months ago broke the deadlock in the 27th minute after Blue Berry Hill’s goalkeeper had denied him at least four times earlier.
Striker Mitchell slotted the ball past Blue Berry Hill’s goalkeeper from 18yards out after receiving a neat pass from Lyndon ‘Chubby’ Andrews for the 1-0 lead at the packed Guyana Football Club Ground.
Joe Public then doubled their lead in the 35th minute as the Blue Berry Hill team seemed to have losed the steam they started off with. Wolry Wolfe tapped the ball past the goalkeeper after a couple of touches into the area from a corner for the 2-0 advantage.
And three minutes from the half striker Mitchell registered his second when he slammed the ball into the net from close range from a rebound shot by Lyndon Diaz to take to the half at 3-0.
The second period went into slow motion as both teams struggled on a less than favored heavy ground due to the weather conditions to double Blue Berry Hill’s worries.
Joe Public added the final nail on the coffin in the 66th minute when Kendell Davis netted his team’s fourth goal on the night. Davis lashed on to a Michael Celestine through pass 25 yards from goal to dribble his way into Blue Berry’s penalty area before lashing a shot into the back of the net putting the score at 4-0.
Joe Public finished the match with the highest score margin so far in the tournament basically made up of Guyanese teams.
Goal Scorers—Devon Mitchell 27th, 42nd, Wolry Wolfe 35th, Kendell Davis 66th.
After the match coach of the winning TT Pro League club Michael Mc Comie told ‘ttproleague.com’ that he was pleased with the score due to the ground conditions saying, “The conditions were heavy which I think was the cause of us not having a bigger score, but I am pleased with the results. Blue Berry Hill wasn’t a bad team but they struggled due to the conditions and broke down basically after the first 25 minutes showing that they are below our fitness level.”
“These Guyanese teams want to prove something against us and Blue Berry proved it by really hyping-up to play us. The match was pushed back an hour for some of the water to run off the ground but during this time they were out warming-up to face us.”
“But for us players like Sean Cooper, Lyndon Andrews and Devon Mitchell have all had great performances for us and this is why we had the type of finish we had. Guyanese national Abbssi Mc Pherson who plays for us in defence had an excellent match playing at home and was a crowd favorite. I must also give credit to Blue Berry Hill’s goalkeeper for doing a good enough job and denying us a 9-0 score,” said Mc Comie.
The TT Pro League Club will now meet PELE in their quarterfinal match at the Blairmont Ground, Guyana and Mc Comie promises to entertain, “We are here to entertain the crowd in the best way we can. I would believe Blairmont Ground is better than the Guyana Football Club Ground under the unpredictable weather conditions and we can be able to have a much better game.”
“I have seen PELE play a bit against Victoria Kings and they are a good team with one or two players to watch out for. So I would definitely expect a tougher match in the quaterfinals,” ended the Joe Public coach.
Kasif & Shanghai
Quarterfinal match—Monday 25th December 2006.
Blairmont Ground, Guyana.
B Mobile Joe Public vs PELE—8pm
By: Randy Bando (ttproleague).
A pair of first half goals by striker Devon Mitchell eased Pro League Club, B Mobile Joe Public past Guyanese club Blue Berry Hill 4-0 in their first match of the Kashif & Shanghai tournament on Friday at the Guyana Football Club Ground, Guyana.
Devon Mitchell who recently made the move the Macoya based team just a few months ago broke the deadlock in the 27th minute after Blue Berry Hill’s goalkeeper had denied him at least four times earlier.
Striker Mitchell slotted the ball past Blue Berry Hill’s goalkeeper from 18yards out after receiving a neat pass from Lyndon ‘Chubby’ Andrews for the 1-0 lead at the packed Guyana Football Club Ground.
Joe Public then doubled their lead in the 35th minute as the Blue Berry Hill team seemed to have losed the steam they started off with. Wolry Wolfe tapped the ball past the goalkeeper after a couple of touches into the area from a corner for the 2-0 advantage.
And three minutes from the half striker Mitchell registered his second when he slammed the ball into the net from close range from a rebound shot by Lyndon Diaz to take to the half at 3-0.
The second period went into slow motion as both teams struggled on a less than favored heavy ground due to the weather conditions to double Blue Berry Hill’s worries.
Joe Public added the final nail on the coffin in the 66th minute when Kendell Davis netted his team’s fourth goal on the night. Davis lashed on to a Michael Celestine through pass 25 yards from goal to dribble his way into Blue Berry’s penalty area before lashing a shot into the back of the net putting the score at 4-0.
Joe Public finished the match with the highest score margin so far in the tournament basically made up of Guyanese teams.
Goal Scorers—Devon Mitchell 27th, 42nd, Wolry Wolfe 35th, Kendell Davis 66th.
After the match coach of the winning TT Pro League club Michael Mc Comie told ‘ttproleague.com’ that he was pleased with the score due to the ground conditions saying, “The conditions were heavy which I think was the cause of us not having a bigger score, but I am pleased with the results. Blue Berry Hill wasn’t a bad team but they struggled due to the conditions and broke down basically after the first 25 minutes showing that they are below our fitness level.”
“These Guyanese teams want to prove something against us and Blue Berry proved it by really hyping-up to play us. The match was pushed back an hour for some of the water to run off the ground but during this time they were out warming-up to face us.”
“But for us players like Sean Cooper, Lyndon Andrews and Devon Mitchell have all had great performances for us and this is why we had the type of finish we had. Guyanese national Abbssi Mc Pherson who plays for us in defence had an excellent match playing at home and was a crowd favorite. I must also give credit to Blue Berry Hill’s goalkeeper for doing a good enough job and denying us a 9-0 score,” said Mc Comie.
The TT Pro League Club will now meet PELE in their quarterfinal match at the Blairmont Ground, Guyana and Mc Comie promises to entertain, “We are here to entertain the crowd in the best way we can. I would believe Blairmont Ground is better than the Guyana Football Club Ground under the unpredictable weather conditions and we can be able to have a much better game.”
“I have seen PELE play a bit against Victoria Kings and they are a good team with one or two players to watch out for. So I would definitely expect a tougher match in the quaterfinals,” ended the Joe Public coach.
Kasif & Shanghai
Quarterfinal match—Monday 25th December 2006.
Blairmont Ground, Guyana.
B Mobile Joe Public vs PELE—8pm
131
Football / WASA takes the 2006 FA Trophy.
« on: December 14, 2006, 05:19:10 PM »
WASA takes the 2006 FA Trophy.
By: Joel Villafana (ttproleague.com).[/size]
WASA FC defied all the odds to capture their first ever FA Trophy crown on Wednesday night as they defeated North East Stars 4-2 on penalty kicks after a 3-3 extra time result in the grand final at the Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva.
The Super League campaigners showed all the quality of FA winners as they grabbed a third minute lead and never seemed intimidated by the higher Professional League outfit as they battled for the $40,00 first prize.
WASA goalie Douglas McNeilly, though conceding a couple soft goals in regulation time, two to headers by Guyanese Charles Pollard, turned hero for the “Water Boys” with a couple penalty.
Before that period, WASA had earlier shocked the Gally Cummings coached team with a 3rd minute goal against the run of play by Mervyn Brooks. But it was only a matter of time before North East settled and they maintained much of the possession, leaving WASA on the backfoot for long periods. But WASA’s tank never ran out.
“Winger Walter Moore had a 20 yard shot easily saved by goal keeper Mc Neilly in the 14th minute as striker Randolph Jerome and young Jesse Martinez troubled WASA’s defenders Anthony Dhandolal, Mervyn Brooks and Kien Hernandez on many occasions.
Striker Kenwin Matthew failed to capitalize on a bad pass by WASA’s Wesly Noriega in the 19th minute when he shot wide of the post from just above the penalty area.
And seconds later Marc Leslie equalized for the ‘Sangre Grande Boys’ when he blasted a volley past goal keeper Mc Neilly from Walter Moore’s crossball for a 1-1 score.
North East was close to adding another in the 22nd minute when Randolph Jerome missed by a whisker at near post.
While WASA had a couple of good buildups themselves forcing a save by goal keeper Granger in the 35th minute on one occasion when Darin Lewis and Alvris Faura combined play created the chance for Keston Thomas,” ttproleague.com wrote.
Lewis in particular, a former US-based player who only joined the WASA team less than a month ago, was the dangerman for his team with some deceptive runs. He eventually added his name to the scoresheet in the second half with a clinical finish and also struck home his penalty during the kicks.
His goal came in the 64th minute with a volley following Alvis Faura’s left side ball.
Pollard then came to North East rescue in the 74th minute heading in from close range a rebound after goal keeper Mc Neilly saved the initial attempt by Walter Moore to tie the scores at 2-2.
In extra time, substitute Vernon Bailey stepped up for a penalty kick for North East and scored the first try but had the kick reordered after a player made his way into the box before time. Second time was unlucky for Bailey as the goalie saved to the delight of the WASA fans.
They went into higher energy when Billydee Scantlebury rocketed home for a 3-2 led in the 7th minute of extra time.
But North East fought back and got their equalizer from Pollard, another header from close range.
The match progressed to kicks with WASA’s goalkeeper ending the evening as hero with a timely save to Stars’ third kick while their fourth effort came off the post. A much deserved win for the WASA team coached by Ken Elie and celebrated by hundreds of their fans on the evening in Couva.
Penalties
North East Stars v WASA FC[/b]
Vernon Bailey (scored) / Darin Lewis (scored)
Kevin Jeffrey (scored) / Wesley Noriega (scored)
Kendall Velox (missed) / Mervyn Brooks (scored)
Marc Leslie (missed) / Billydee Scantlebury (scored)
Teams
WASA FC: – Douglas Mc Neilly (GK), Kien Hernandez (Akil Harley 61st), Billydee Scantlebury Anthony Dhanoolal, Kevon Henry, Jesse Reyes, Alvris Faura (Dwayne Thomas 107th), Wesley Noriega, Mervyn Brooks, Darin Lewis, Keston Thomas (Adrian Nunez 68th).
North East Stars: – Curtis Granger (GK), Akeno Morgan (John Stewart 109th), Jesse Martinez (Oneke Ford, 75th), Kendall Velox, Charles Pollard, Kenwin Matthew (Vernon Bailey 62nd), Kevin Jeffrey, Howard Lowe, Randolph Jerome, Marc Leslie, Walter Moore.
Billy Dee sizzles WASA playmaker dreams big.
By: Lasana Liburd (Express).
Billy Dee Scantlebury limped around WASA's St Joseph Headquarters with a sheepish grin yesterday.
He still felt the effects of Wednesday's FA Trophy clash with North East Stars although he was not recovering from a rough tackle or his heavy workload.
"I injured my knee in our (goal) celebrations," Scantlebury told the Express. "I came down on it wrong and then everyone just jumped on me."
If Scantlebury's performances in WASA's historic 2006 TTFF FA Trophy conquest are any guide, he should take the trouble to rehearse his goal scoring routines. There should be more sizzling strikes to celebrate in the future.
At times, WASA striker Darin Lewis threatened to turn Wednesday's final against North East Stars into a personal exhibition with his clever dribbling and composure on the ball.
Lewis scored the Super League team's second item with a thumping volley of appreciable technique, while he also created their third goal and converted a penalty kick in the ensuing shootout.
Yet, on Wednesday, the game seemed to centre around the burly Scantlebury-for better and worse.
Stars' coach, Everald "Gally" Cummings, bemoaned the failure of his players to seize the moment as they lost in their second Cup final of the season after a defeat to Vibe CT 105 W. Connection in the FCB Cup.
"We always crack," said Cummings, of the squad he inherited three months ago. "We've been in two finals and played poorly in both. We must get crunch time players who rise to the big occasion.
"This squad is built around foreigners (seven players used on Wednesday were from Guyana, Jamaica and St Vincent) and I had to try and explain to them the significance of this trophy."
WASA coach Ken Elie did not have that problem as he regaled his players with tales of his own FA Cup triumphs as player and coach with Defence Force and Essex. But Scantlebury was particularly touched by his captain Kien Hernandez's admission that he played in one FA final. It was twenty years ago and Hernandez was just 16 when he took the field for Eagles FC.
"It made me realise that you never know when you will get another chance like this," said Scantlebury. "Of course, it helped me to work out how old Kien was too!"
Scantlebury's sense of humour and upbeat personality make him as popular with teammates as his booming right foot shots and swinging set pieces. He has talent but is yet to get the right stage to harness and exhibit it. He never represented his Alma Mata, Arima Senior Comprehensive, at school boy level while a one-year stint with Pro League outfit Caledonia AIA, three years ago, did not lead to a sustained career as a professional.
"I tried out as a striker," he said, "but I was a bit overweight and definitely too slow. I didn't fit into what they required from their strikers and it just didn't work out."
On Wednesday, Scantlebury gave further evidence as to why Caledonia coach Jamaal Shabazz-an esteemed judge of young talent-gave him a chance in the first place.
The match was just two minutes old when his powerful inswinging corner kick set off alarm bells in the Stars' defence. WASA defender Mervyn Brooks redirected Scantlebury's corner goalward with his head although Pollard nudged the effort past his own goalkeeper, Curtis Granger, for the opener.
Stars' wing back, Marc Leslie, brought the Pro League team outfit before the interval with a fine volley into the far corner. But Scantlebury again helped conjure a WASA goal in the 57th minute as the St Joseph team found striker Alvris Faure with a sweeping break and Faure's cross was emphatically dispatched by Lewis.
The lead lasted 17 minutes before a weak punched clearance by WASA's portly custodian, Douglas McNeilly, allowed Pollard to head an equaliser into an unguarded net.
And, two minutes into extra time, Scantlebury seemed to have penned an original suicide note on behalf of his teammates. Inexplicably, he left his arm raised while contesting a corner and referee Lee Davis had no choice but to award a penalty.
"I really thought that was the end of the game," said Scantlebury. "I just wanted the ground to open and swallow me up. I am accustomed to jumping and putting my arms up to protect my face but I came down and still left my arm up for some reason.
"Some of my teammates were very upset with me although (McNeilly) said 'don't worry, I have your back'."
McNeilly saved Vernon Bailey's second penalty after Davis ordered a retake due to an alleged encroachment by Stars' striker Randolph Jerome and, four minutes later, Scantlebury found redemption with a superb strike from 22 yards after good approach work by Lewis.
There were still more twists in a thoroughly entertaining final as Pollard managed another headed equaliser to send the game into penalties. It was the third time that the clubs were separated by the shootout in two seasons.
"I told my teammates that they can't beat us in three straight penalty shoot outs," said Scantlebury. "We can't be so unlucky."
Lewis, who missed in their Toyota Classic shoot out last season, scored WASA's opening kick while McNeilly denied Kendall Velox and Leslie hit the upright.
Granger got a hand to Scantlebury's effort but could deny the most decisive kick of the evening. With a first name like 'Billy Dee', Scantlebury was born for such moments and promptly wheeled away to slide on his knee in front of the television cameras.
It is a celebration that still requires practice. But the rest of Scantlebury's shift was championship material.
"I want to carry WASA to the next level and to play to the fullest of my ability," said Scantlebury, a records custodian at WASA. "I have never been as unfit as I have been this season. I almost stopped playing football and only Darin (Lewis) helped me to come to WASA and continue playing.
"Hopefully, I can use this (title) as encouragement for the future."
Next season cannot start soon enough.
By: Joel Villafana (ttproleague.com).[/size]
WASA FC defied all the odds to capture their first ever FA Trophy crown on Wednesday night as they defeated North East Stars 4-2 on penalty kicks after a 3-3 extra time result in the grand final at the Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva.
The Super League campaigners showed all the quality of FA winners as they grabbed a third minute lead and never seemed intimidated by the higher Professional League outfit as they battled for the $40,00 first prize.
WASA goalie Douglas McNeilly, though conceding a couple soft goals in regulation time, two to headers by Guyanese Charles Pollard, turned hero for the “Water Boys” with a couple penalty.
Before that period, WASA had earlier shocked the Gally Cummings coached team with a 3rd minute goal against the run of play by Mervyn Brooks. But it was only a matter of time before North East settled and they maintained much of the possession, leaving WASA on the backfoot for long periods. But WASA’s tank never ran out.
“Winger Walter Moore had a 20 yard shot easily saved by goal keeper Mc Neilly in the 14th minute as striker Randolph Jerome and young Jesse Martinez troubled WASA’s defenders Anthony Dhandolal, Mervyn Brooks and Kien Hernandez on many occasions.
Striker Kenwin Matthew failed to capitalize on a bad pass by WASA’s Wesly Noriega in the 19th minute when he shot wide of the post from just above the penalty area.
And seconds later Marc Leslie equalized for the ‘Sangre Grande Boys’ when he blasted a volley past goal keeper Mc Neilly from Walter Moore’s crossball for a 1-1 score.
North East was close to adding another in the 22nd minute when Randolph Jerome missed by a whisker at near post.
While WASA had a couple of good buildups themselves forcing a save by goal keeper Granger in the 35th minute on one occasion when Darin Lewis and Alvris Faura combined play created the chance for Keston Thomas,” ttproleague.com wrote.
Lewis in particular, a former US-based player who only joined the WASA team less than a month ago, was the dangerman for his team with some deceptive runs. He eventually added his name to the scoresheet in the second half with a clinical finish and also struck home his penalty during the kicks.
His goal came in the 64th minute with a volley following Alvis Faura’s left side ball.
Pollard then came to North East rescue in the 74th minute heading in from close range a rebound after goal keeper Mc Neilly saved the initial attempt by Walter Moore to tie the scores at 2-2.
In extra time, substitute Vernon Bailey stepped up for a penalty kick for North East and scored the first try but had the kick reordered after a player made his way into the box before time. Second time was unlucky for Bailey as the goalie saved to the delight of the WASA fans.
They went into higher energy when Billydee Scantlebury rocketed home for a 3-2 led in the 7th minute of extra time.
But North East fought back and got their equalizer from Pollard, another header from close range.
The match progressed to kicks with WASA’s goalkeeper ending the evening as hero with a timely save to Stars’ third kick while their fourth effort came off the post. A much deserved win for the WASA team coached by Ken Elie and celebrated by hundreds of their fans on the evening in Couva.
Penalties
North East Stars v WASA FC[/b]
Vernon Bailey (scored) / Darin Lewis (scored)
Kevin Jeffrey (scored) / Wesley Noriega (scored)
Kendall Velox (missed) / Mervyn Brooks (scored)
Marc Leslie (missed) / Billydee Scantlebury (scored)
Teams
WASA FC: – Douglas Mc Neilly (GK), Kien Hernandez (Akil Harley 61st), Billydee Scantlebury Anthony Dhanoolal, Kevon Henry, Jesse Reyes, Alvris Faura (Dwayne Thomas 107th), Wesley Noriega, Mervyn Brooks, Darin Lewis, Keston Thomas (Adrian Nunez 68th).
North East Stars: – Curtis Granger (GK), Akeno Morgan (John Stewart 109th), Jesse Martinez (Oneke Ford, 75th), Kendall Velox, Charles Pollard, Kenwin Matthew (Vernon Bailey 62nd), Kevin Jeffrey, Howard Lowe, Randolph Jerome, Marc Leslie, Walter Moore.
Billy Dee sizzles WASA playmaker dreams big.
By: Lasana Liburd (Express).
Billy Dee Scantlebury limped around WASA's St Joseph Headquarters with a sheepish grin yesterday.
He still felt the effects of Wednesday's FA Trophy clash with North East Stars although he was not recovering from a rough tackle or his heavy workload.
"I injured my knee in our (goal) celebrations," Scantlebury told the Express. "I came down on it wrong and then everyone just jumped on me."
If Scantlebury's performances in WASA's historic 2006 TTFF FA Trophy conquest are any guide, he should take the trouble to rehearse his goal scoring routines. There should be more sizzling strikes to celebrate in the future.
At times, WASA striker Darin Lewis threatened to turn Wednesday's final against North East Stars into a personal exhibition with his clever dribbling and composure on the ball.
Lewis scored the Super League team's second item with a thumping volley of appreciable technique, while he also created their third goal and converted a penalty kick in the ensuing shootout.
Yet, on Wednesday, the game seemed to centre around the burly Scantlebury-for better and worse.
Stars' coach, Everald "Gally" Cummings, bemoaned the failure of his players to seize the moment as they lost in their second Cup final of the season after a defeat to Vibe CT 105 W. Connection in the FCB Cup.
"We always crack," said Cummings, of the squad he inherited three months ago. "We've been in two finals and played poorly in both. We must get crunch time players who rise to the big occasion.
"This squad is built around foreigners (seven players used on Wednesday were from Guyana, Jamaica and St Vincent) and I had to try and explain to them the significance of this trophy."
WASA coach Ken Elie did not have that problem as he regaled his players with tales of his own FA Cup triumphs as player and coach with Defence Force and Essex. But Scantlebury was particularly touched by his captain Kien Hernandez's admission that he played in one FA final. It was twenty years ago and Hernandez was just 16 when he took the field for Eagles FC.
"It made me realise that you never know when you will get another chance like this," said Scantlebury. "Of course, it helped me to work out how old Kien was too!"
Scantlebury's sense of humour and upbeat personality make him as popular with teammates as his booming right foot shots and swinging set pieces. He has talent but is yet to get the right stage to harness and exhibit it. He never represented his Alma Mata, Arima Senior Comprehensive, at school boy level while a one-year stint with Pro League outfit Caledonia AIA, three years ago, did not lead to a sustained career as a professional.
"I tried out as a striker," he said, "but I was a bit overweight and definitely too slow. I didn't fit into what they required from their strikers and it just didn't work out."
On Wednesday, Scantlebury gave further evidence as to why Caledonia coach Jamaal Shabazz-an esteemed judge of young talent-gave him a chance in the first place.
The match was just two minutes old when his powerful inswinging corner kick set off alarm bells in the Stars' defence. WASA defender Mervyn Brooks redirected Scantlebury's corner goalward with his head although Pollard nudged the effort past his own goalkeeper, Curtis Granger, for the opener.
Stars' wing back, Marc Leslie, brought the Pro League team outfit before the interval with a fine volley into the far corner. But Scantlebury again helped conjure a WASA goal in the 57th minute as the St Joseph team found striker Alvris Faure with a sweeping break and Faure's cross was emphatically dispatched by Lewis.
The lead lasted 17 minutes before a weak punched clearance by WASA's portly custodian, Douglas McNeilly, allowed Pollard to head an equaliser into an unguarded net.
And, two minutes into extra time, Scantlebury seemed to have penned an original suicide note on behalf of his teammates. Inexplicably, he left his arm raised while contesting a corner and referee Lee Davis had no choice but to award a penalty.
"I really thought that was the end of the game," said Scantlebury. "I just wanted the ground to open and swallow me up. I am accustomed to jumping and putting my arms up to protect my face but I came down and still left my arm up for some reason.
"Some of my teammates were very upset with me although (McNeilly) said 'don't worry, I have your back'."
McNeilly saved Vernon Bailey's second penalty after Davis ordered a retake due to an alleged encroachment by Stars' striker Randolph Jerome and, four minutes later, Scantlebury found redemption with a superb strike from 22 yards after good approach work by Lewis.
There were still more twists in a thoroughly entertaining final as Pollard managed another headed equaliser to send the game into penalties. It was the third time that the clubs were separated by the shootout in two seasons.
"I told my teammates that they can't beat us in three straight penalty shoot outs," said Scantlebury. "We can't be so unlucky."
Lewis, who missed in their Toyota Classic shoot out last season, scored WASA's opening kick while McNeilly denied Kendall Velox and Leslie hit the upright.
Granger got a hand to Scantlebury's effort but could deny the most decisive kick of the evening. With a first name like 'Billy Dee', Scantlebury was born for such moments and promptly wheeled away to slide on his knee in front of the television cameras.
It is a celebration that still requires practice. But the rest of Scantlebury's shift was championship material.
"I want to carry WASA to the next level and to play to the fullest of my ability," said Scantlebury, a records custodian at WASA. "I have never been as unfit as I have been this season. I almost stopped playing football and only Darin (Lewis) helped me to come to WASA and continue playing.
"Hopefully, I can use this (title) as encouragement for the future."
Next season cannot start soon enough.
132
Football / Foreign owners could kill English game, says Wenger
« on: December 12, 2006, 04:18:23 PM »
Foreign owners could kill English game, says Wenger
By Simon Vincent
LONDON COLNEY, England, Dec 12 (Reuters) - Arsene Wenger said on Tuesday he feared for the future of English soccer if Premier League clubs continued to sell up to foreign owners.
"At the moment the point is the love of the game," Arsenal's manager told a news conference at the club's training ground.
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"Once it becomes investment only, then you have some different ingredients that are not necessarily for the love of the game, or the good of the game."
"It looks as if we have gone from one period to a new one with more people who look at it as an investment -- where they want to be paid back quickly.
Wenger said the days of Englishmen buying clubs for the love of the game is gone and he is worried about the future.
"What was traditionally true in England is that the people who were the owners were the supporters. The biggest example was at Blackburn where a guy called Jack Walker, who was a passionate supporter of the club, was in charge.
Walker ploughed the wealth he made from the steel industry into Rovers and they won the Premier League title in 1995. The Blackburn-born steel magnate died aged 71 in August 2000.
"What happened, chronologically, was he was a supporter, he became wealthy and he fulfilled his dream by buying the club of his dreams," said Wenger.
"But that looks to be a period of the past. It was really reassuring for the fans because it looked as if the heart of the owner was like their heart.
TOO HIGH
"It didn't matter whether it was blue and white, or red and white, or yellow and black, but it was the same colour -- the heart was the same colour.
"It looks like that period has gone because the implication of the financial investment is too high. This tradition has gone."
"We are one of the biggest clubs left with this tradition. Liverpool, until now, were another."
The Merseysiders look set to be the next Premier League club taken over by foreign backers, with Dubai International Capital (DIC) in talks about investing what British newspapers have said could be worth up to 450 million pounds ($882.7 million).
Wenger fears the Premier League could lose its competitive streak if too many teams take up the lead set by champions Chelsea, owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich.
"What is dangerous for us, is once the financial potential of the club goes above their natural resources we will be in trouble," Wenger added.
"At the moment, we can do it because only Chelsea has those resources. But once three or four have that, are you dead?
"If today you go into football and think 'I have 100 million pounds available and could put that into Arsenal Football Club to make 200 million', it looks very dangerous -- both for football and for the club.
"To find people who put 100, 200 or 800 million into a club and are prepared to lose their money, you must be lucky."
By Simon Vincent
LONDON COLNEY, England, Dec 12 (Reuters) - Arsene Wenger said on Tuesday he feared for the future of English soccer if Premier League clubs continued to sell up to foreign owners.
"At the moment the point is the love of the game," Arsenal's manager told a news conference at the club's training ground.
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"Once it becomes investment only, then you have some different ingredients that are not necessarily for the love of the game, or the good of the game."
"It looks as if we have gone from one period to a new one with more people who look at it as an investment -- where they want to be paid back quickly.
Wenger said the days of Englishmen buying clubs for the love of the game is gone and he is worried about the future.
"What was traditionally true in England is that the people who were the owners were the supporters. The biggest example was at Blackburn where a guy called Jack Walker, who was a passionate supporter of the club, was in charge.
Walker ploughed the wealth he made from the steel industry into Rovers and they won the Premier League title in 1995. The Blackburn-born steel magnate died aged 71 in August 2000.
"What happened, chronologically, was he was a supporter, he became wealthy and he fulfilled his dream by buying the club of his dreams," said Wenger.
"But that looks to be a period of the past. It was really reassuring for the fans because it looked as if the heart of the owner was like their heart.
TOO HIGH
"It didn't matter whether it was blue and white, or red and white, or yellow and black, but it was the same colour -- the heart was the same colour.
"It looks like that period has gone because the implication of the financial investment is too high. This tradition has gone."
"We are one of the biggest clubs left with this tradition. Liverpool, until now, were another."
The Merseysiders look set to be the next Premier League club taken over by foreign backers, with Dubai International Capital (DIC) in talks about investing what British newspapers have said could be worth up to 450 million pounds ($882.7 million).
Wenger fears the Premier League could lose its competitive streak if too many teams take up the lead set by champions Chelsea, owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich.
"What is dangerous for us, is once the financial potential of the club goes above their natural resources we will be in trouble," Wenger added.
"At the moment, we can do it because only Chelsea has those resources. But once three or four have that, are you dead?
"If today you go into football and think 'I have 100 million pounds available and could put that into Arsenal Football Club to make 200 million', it looks very dangerous -- both for football and for the club.
"To find people who put 100, 200 or 800 million into a club and are prepared to lose their money, you must be lucky."
133
Football / Too many foreigners playing in Scotland, Law says
« on: December 11, 2006, 02:59:00 PM »
Too many foreigners playing in Scotland, Law says
AFP
December 11, 2006
LONDON (AFP) - Scottish football is being badly hit by a surfeit of foreign players in the domestic leagues according to former Manchester United great Denis Law.
The problem, he said, was most acute in the Old Firm teams of Celtic and Rangers who have traditionally supplied the backbone of the national side.
Celtic fielded five players from outside the British Isles in their team to play Dunfermline in the Premier League on Sunday, while on Saturday Rangers had six foreign stars in their line-up to take on Hibernian.
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The Big Two are not alone in bringing players in from abroad, and Law is concerned about the impact the overseas brigade is having.
"That's a long story, but you do wonder, and Scottish football and the Scottish national team is suffering," Law, who scored 30 times for Scotland, told BBC Radio Five Live.
"You look at the Rangers team and the Celtic team, which a good part of the Scottish team was taken from, and basically there are so many foreign players in there that it's got to be very difficult (for Scottish players).
"You don't really know why the Scottish youth has dried up, but in a way you've got to look at them not getting the opportunity and that's the problem."
[font=Verdana]Its bad when the best midfielder in the league is 38 not to say Latapy is a bad player but Scotland not producing top grade players
[/font]
AFP
December 11, 2006
LONDON (AFP) - Scottish football is being badly hit by a surfeit of foreign players in the domestic leagues according to former Manchester United great Denis Law.
The problem, he said, was most acute in the Old Firm teams of Celtic and Rangers who have traditionally supplied the backbone of the national side.
Celtic fielded five players from outside the British Isles in their team to play Dunfermline in the Premier League on Sunday, while on Saturday Rangers had six foreign stars in their line-up to take on Hibernian.
ADVERTISEMENT
The Big Two are not alone in bringing players in from abroad, and Law is concerned about the impact the overseas brigade is having.
"That's a long story, but you do wonder, and Scottish football and the Scottish national team is suffering," Law, who scored 30 times for Scotland, told BBC Radio Five Live.
"You look at the Rangers team and the Celtic team, which a good part of the Scottish team was taken from, and basically there are so many foreign players in there that it's got to be very difficult (for Scottish players).
"You don't really know why the Scottish youth has dried up, but in a way you've got to look at them not getting the opportunity and that's the problem."
[font=Verdana]Its bad when the best midfielder in the league is 38 not to say Latapy is a bad player but Scotland not producing top grade players
[/font]
134
Football / Prison reform through football
« on: December 08, 2006, 07:18:33 PM »
Prison reform through football
By Shaun Fuentes
The Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation has embarked on a partnership with the Trinidad and Tobago Prison Services in an attempt to revive the passion for the game among prison staff and inmates.
The first step in this venture is the staging of a “D” license coaching course which is being overseen by technical director Lincoln Phillips. The course started at the Prison Grounds, Arouca on December 4 and runs until December 13.
According to Phillips, the purpose of the collaborated effort is to help equip participants (officers) who are interested in coaching football with the necessary knowledge in the art and science of coaching and the opportunity to obtain an accredited “D” coaching license.
“More than the attempt to revive the interest, this is also to encourage successful participants to utilize this knowledge gained and license acquired to begin coaching in prison as well as the youth in their respective communities,” Phillips told TTFF Media.
The Course Objectives
TO PREPARE COACHES WORKING WITH PLAYERS 10-13 YEARS OF AGE BY EXPANDING THEIR KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE TECHNICAL AND TACTICAL DEMENDS OF THE GAME AND THE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS NECESSARY FOR THE PLAYERS OF THESE AGES
TO PROVIDE AN UNDERSTANDING OF PRACTICAL COACHING METHODS AND FRAMEWORK NECESSARY TO PREPARE PLAYERS AND A TEAM FOR COMPETITION.
TO PREPARE COACHES FOR WHOM THIS REPRESENTS THEIR FINAL COACHING COURSE BEFORE THE TTFF NATIONAL “C” LEVEL COACHING LICENSE
By Shaun Fuentes
The Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation has embarked on a partnership with the Trinidad and Tobago Prison Services in an attempt to revive the passion for the game among prison staff and inmates.
The first step in this venture is the staging of a “D” license coaching course which is being overseen by technical director Lincoln Phillips. The course started at the Prison Grounds, Arouca on December 4 and runs until December 13.
According to Phillips, the purpose of the collaborated effort is to help equip participants (officers) who are interested in coaching football with the necessary knowledge in the art and science of coaching and the opportunity to obtain an accredited “D” coaching license.
“More than the attempt to revive the interest, this is also to encourage successful participants to utilize this knowledge gained and license acquired to begin coaching in prison as well as the youth in their respective communities,” Phillips told TTFF Media.
The Course Objectives
TO PREPARE COACHES WORKING WITH PLAYERS 10-13 YEARS OF AGE BY EXPANDING THEIR KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE TECHNICAL AND TACTICAL DEMENDS OF THE GAME AND THE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS NECESSARY FOR THE PLAYERS OF THESE AGES
TO PROVIDE AN UNDERSTANDING OF PRACTICAL COACHING METHODS AND FRAMEWORK NECESSARY TO PREPARE PLAYERS AND A TEAM FOR COMPETITION.
TO PREPARE COACHES FOR WHOM THIS REPRESENTS THEIR FINAL COACHING COURSE BEFORE THE TTFF NATIONAL “C” LEVEL COACHING LICENSE
135
Football / U-20 head coach not too despaired
« on: December 08, 2006, 07:17:38 PM »
U-20 head coach not too despaired
By Shaun Fuentes
National Team Under 20 head coach Brian Williams complimented his players for their last ditch efforts in trying to keep the chances of qualification for the 2007 World Youth Cup alive but didn’t hide from the fact that it was way too late.
Williams who coached the team for eight matches in which he won three, lost three and drew two, told his players at the end of Thursday’s 1-0 win over Jamaica to take stock of themselves and maintain a dedication to becoming better students of the game as the Under 20 campaign came to a close.
For several of the faces in the dressing room at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium, the next hope is to secure a recall for the Olympic qualifiers. The majority will continue to play for their respective clubs.
“Continue to become better students of the game. Take note of this campaign and take everything you can from it and go on. All of you have your personal lives and you must also make a personal commitment to become better players and persons. Football is not just about being good players on the field but it continues out there on the road as well,” Williams said.
In his comments to the media, the former national team defender added that he was disappointed with the team’s failure to progress to the CONCACAF Final round but added that it was important that the development of the players representing the country at the youth level continue and not just on a momentary basis.
“I was satisfied with the way in which the guys went out and gave the effort in this game. They stuck to the game plan and they gave it their all. It was disappointing though that it wasn’t enough and it came too late for us because at the end of it we are no longer in the race for the World Cup,” Williams said.
“The boys adjusted well to the change in system for this game but still I find we had some areas which could have been a bit sharper. What we need now is for a system to ensure that these players are not easily let go and at least those with the potential of going on to better things must be monitored or looked after in terms of development. They must do at the clubs and schools as well.”
Team captain Radanfah Abu Bakr, who will remain in the country until year end, admitted his spirits had been shattered by the team’s exit.
“Of course, we are all disappointed. It came down to one goal to stay alive in the match and it slipped away from us,” Abu Bakr said. “It shows that with a little more preparation we maybe could have avoided it . I hope that the we can have a little more time together for future competitions, he added.
Williams boldly added that if he were to face any of the three teams from the earlier group – St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominican Republic or St Kitts/Nevis, his team would overcome them in confident fashion.
But for now, the T&T Under 20 players of 2006 must await their next call to the national set up, hopefully with eager anticipation of preparing well and taking on the outside challengers.
Next up, Senior Team head coach Wim Rijsbergen will begin a training camp on December 18 with a number of home-based players and invited players from North America ahead of the Digicel Caribbean Cup. This list will be released in due course.
By Shaun Fuentes
National Team Under 20 head coach Brian Williams complimented his players for their last ditch efforts in trying to keep the chances of qualification for the 2007 World Youth Cup alive but didn’t hide from the fact that it was way too late.
Williams who coached the team for eight matches in which he won three, lost three and drew two, told his players at the end of Thursday’s 1-0 win over Jamaica to take stock of themselves and maintain a dedication to becoming better students of the game as the Under 20 campaign came to a close.
For several of the faces in the dressing room at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium, the next hope is to secure a recall for the Olympic qualifiers. The majority will continue to play for their respective clubs.
“Continue to become better students of the game. Take note of this campaign and take everything you can from it and go on. All of you have your personal lives and you must also make a personal commitment to become better players and persons. Football is not just about being good players on the field but it continues out there on the road as well,” Williams said.
In his comments to the media, the former national team defender added that he was disappointed with the team’s failure to progress to the CONCACAF Final round but added that it was important that the development of the players representing the country at the youth level continue and not just on a momentary basis.
“I was satisfied with the way in which the guys went out and gave the effort in this game. They stuck to the game plan and they gave it their all. It was disappointing though that it wasn’t enough and it came too late for us because at the end of it we are no longer in the race for the World Cup,” Williams said.
“The boys adjusted well to the change in system for this game but still I find we had some areas which could have been a bit sharper. What we need now is for a system to ensure that these players are not easily let go and at least those with the potential of going on to better things must be monitored or looked after in terms of development. They must do at the clubs and schools as well.”
Team captain Radanfah Abu Bakr, who will remain in the country until year end, admitted his spirits had been shattered by the team’s exit.
“Of course, we are all disappointed. It came down to one goal to stay alive in the match and it slipped away from us,” Abu Bakr said. “It shows that with a little more preparation we maybe could have avoided it . I hope that the we can have a little more time together for future competitions, he added.
Williams boldly added that if he were to face any of the three teams from the earlier group – St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominican Republic or St Kitts/Nevis, his team would overcome them in confident fashion.
But for now, the T&T Under 20 players of 2006 must await their next call to the national set up, hopefully with eager anticipation of preparing well and taking on the outside challengers.
Next up, Senior Team head coach Wim Rijsbergen will begin a training camp on December 18 with a number of home-based players and invited players from North America ahead of the Digicel Caribbean Cup. This list will be released in due course.
136
Football / Jamaican striker Roen Nelson is being hailed for his prolific scoring that helpe
« on: December 08, 2006, 06:29:49 PM »
Jamaican striker Roen Nelson is being hailed for his prolific scoring that helped Joe Public land the 2006 Trinidad and Tobago Professional Football League (PFL) title.
Nelson ended the season joint top-scorer in the PFL - on 16 goals - with San Juan Jabloteh's Anthony Wolfe and his fruitful attacking exploits propelled Joe Public to a thrilling championship win this past weekend in their first year back in the top league.
"He's a young man with a lot of potential and he is a very 'coachable' player," Joe Public coach Michael McComie told CMC Sport yesterday.
It was the third consecutive year that Nelson, on loan from Portmore United FC in Jamaica, was emerging as the top scorer.
Playing previously in the Super League (Division 2), Nelson had netted 35 goals in 2004 and 24 goals last year to also win scoring awards.
And McComie believes he showed his quality by stepping up to the top league and again producing goals.
"He's again on top there with 16 goals (in the PFL), 20 goals overall and this says a lot for the young man because he is definitely what you would call a scoring machine," McComie said.
Joe Public clutched the title Saturday night in spite of a 3-1 loss to W Connection, who were aiming to repeat as champions.
With the win, W Connection ended the season on 65 points, the same as Joe Public, but they needed to win the match by three clear goals to surpass Joe Public on goal difference.
Nelson was one of several foreign players finishing among the top frame of scorers in the league.
St Lucia's W Connection star Earl Jean finished third with 13 goals and Guyana's Nigel Codrington, who plays for Caledonia AIA, was joint fourth with 11 goals.
Nelson ended the season joint top-scorer in the PFL - on 16 goals - with San Juan Jabloteh's Anthony Wolfe and his fruitful attacking exploits propelled Joe Public to a thrilling championship win this past weekend in their first year back in the top league.
"He's a young man with a lot of potential and he is a very 'coachable' player," Joe Public coach Michael McComie told CMC Sport yesterday.
It was the third consecutive year that Nelson, on loan from Portmore United FC in Jamaica, was emerging as the top scorer.
Playing previously in the Super League (Division 2), Nelson had netted 35 goals in 2004 and 24 goals last year to also win scoring awards.
And McComie believes he showed his quality by stepping up to the top league and again producing goals.
"He's again on top there with 16 goals (in the PFL), 20 goals overall and this says a lot for the young man because he is definitely what you would call a scoring machine," McComie said.
Joe Public clutched the title Saturday night in spite of a 3-1 loss to W Connection, who were aiming to repeat as champions.
With the win, W Connection ended the season on 65 points, the same as Joe Public, but they needed to win the match by three clear goals to surpass Joe Public on goal difference.
Nelson was one of several foreign players finishing among the top frame of scorers in the league.
St Lucia's W Connection star Earl Jean finished third with 13 goals and Guyana's Nigel Codrington, who plays for Caledonia AIA, was joint fourth with 11 goals.
137
Football / 1860 Munich signs U.S. forward Wolff
« on: December 06, 2006, 03:40:58 PM »
1860 Munich signs U.S. forward Wolff
MUNICH, Germany (AP) - German second-division team 1860 Munich has signed United States forward Josh Wolff on a contract through the end of the 2007-08 season.
Wolff comes from the Kansas City Wizards in the MLS, where he has also played for the Chicago Fire.
The Munich club is sixth in the second division and is seeking to return to the top league.
"He is a very experienced player and fits in very well in our team," 1860 Munich general manager Stefan Reuter said Wednesday. "His instinct for goals and his speed will liven up our attack."
this guy is the luckyess player in the world i fine him as an overated player pure gabage
MUNICH, Germany (AP) - German second-division team 1860 Munich has signed United States forward Josh Wolff on a contract through the end of the 2007-08 season.
Wolff comes from the Kansas City Wizards in the MLS, where he has also played for the Chicago Fire.
The Munich club is sixth in the second division and is seeking to return to the top league.
"He is a very experienced player and fits in very well in our team," 1860 Munich general manager Stefan Reuter said Wednesday. "His instinct for goals and his speed will liven up our attack."
this guy is the luckyess player in the world i fine him as an overated player pure gabage
138
Football / Brazil not certain to get 2014 World Cup, says Blatter
« on: December 06, 2006, 03:04:08 PM »
Brazil not certain to get 2014 World Cup, says Blatter
ZURICH, Dec 6 (Reuters) - Brazil's staging of the 2014 World Cup is not a foregone conclusion despite a commitment to rotating future tournaments around the continental confederations, FIFA president Sepp Blatter said on Wednesday.
"We have said that the 2014 World Cup will be staged in South America, but if there is no candidate strong enough then we would go north instead as the logical thing," Blatter told a media conference following a two-day meeting of FIFA's executive committee.
"We took the decision to ask South America's 10 associations if they wanted to organise the World Cup and now nine of them have come out in favour of Brazil. But Brazil would still have to undergo the same scrutiny as previous bids.
"The bar has been set very high after the last World Cup (in Germany) and if the only candidate from South America were not to fulfil the requirements then we would go beyond South America."
The 2010 World Cup will take place in South Africa.
ZURICH, Dec 6 (Reuters) - Brazil's staging of the 2014 World Cup is not a foregone conclusion despite a commitment to rotating future tournaments around the continental confederations, FIFA president Sepp Blatter said on Wednesday.
"We have said that the 2014 World Cup will be staged in South America, but if there is no candidate strong enough then we would go north instead as the logical thing," Blatter told a media conference following a two-day meeting of FIFA's executive committee.
"We took the decision to ask South America's 10 associations if they wanted to organise the World Cup and now nine of them have come out in favour of Brazil. But Brazil would still have to undergo the same scrutiny as previous bids.
"The bar has been set very high after the last World Cup (in Germany) and if the only candidate from South America were not to fulfil the requirements then we would go beyond South America."
The 2010 World Cup will take place in South Africa.
139
Football / Juan David Torres
« on: December 05, 2006, 05:38:06 PM »
Check out dis yute: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FeinpHOOrh0
140
Football / Coaching staff off to South Carolina for scouting camp.
« on: November 20, 2006, 04:20:05 PM »
Coaching staff off to South Carolina for scouting camp.
By: Shaun Fuentes (TTFF).
Former National Senior Team players Leslie “Tiger” Fitzpatrick and Marlon Rojas are among thirty- six players who will have a chance to impress national coach Wim Rijsbergen in a four-day training camp in South Carolina starting on Wednesday.
Both players who were members of the national team in the qualifying phase of the “Soca Warriors” journey to Germany campaign, were selected from a database and list of players who expressed interest in attending the camp which will be overseen by Rijsbergen and assistant coach Anton Corneal. The other assistant Jan Van Deinsen will remain in Trinidad to assist Brian Williams with getting the National Under 20 team ready for the CFU playoff with Jamaica in December 2 and 6.
The purpose of the scout camp which will include at least one training game, is to allow the coaches the chance to observe and subsequently select players for the Under 17, Under 20, Under 23 and Senior teams for future outings.
Among some of the names who will be attending the camp are former National Under 17 striker Kyle McIvor, Simba Aberdeen, Kevin Norman, Kevin Crooks, Keeron Benito, Jason Devenish who was with the Under 20s last year, Ancil Farrier, Randi Patterson and US-born striker Kyle Bethel who has previously been invited by the US Soccer Federation.
Two others, midfielder Osei Telesford and Darryl Roberts who have trained with the senior team in the past were also invited. Roberts was in the T&T squad for the first 2006 qualifier against Dominican Republic back in 2004.
Also invited were Kevon Neaves who made a second half appearance in T&T’s 2-0 win over Iceland in February and defender Anthony Noreiga. The latter is in Trinidad and will not attend while Neaves is also unable to show. Defender Julius James is also unavailable.
Rijsbergen, while commenting after the recent 4-1 loss to Austria tied in his intentions going into the camp.
“This is a sign to the people that a lot of work has to be done and it’s a signal to the players that the game ask a little bit more than some fancy work and then relaxing on the pitch,” Rijsbergen told TTFF Media. “There’s no time for that. The young player has to understand you have to work a little more and more physical preparation is needed to reach up to the international level. It’s the only way we can make the necessary steps forward.
“The Digicel Cup in January will be with the local guys and then we look to the US for some College players. We will look for the best ones – those with ambition and attitude to become a better player. The same goes for the Pro League and hopefully this can all lead to becoming part of our mix for the future,” the Dutchman added.
By: Shaun Fuentes (TTFF).
Former National Senior Team players Leslie “Tiger” Fitzpatrick and Marlon Rojas are among thirty- six players who will have a chance to impress national coach Wim Rijsbergen in a four-day training camp in South Carolina starting on Wednesday.
Both players who were members of the national team in the qualifying phase of the “Soca Warriors” journey to Germany campaign, were selected from a database and list of players who expressed interest in attending the camp which will be overseen by Rijsbergen and assistant coach Anton Corneal. The other assistant Jan Van Deinsen will remain in Trinidad to assist Brian Williams with getting the National Under 20 team ready for the CFU playoff with Jamaica in December 2 and 6.
The purpose of the scout camp which will include at least one training game, is to allow the coaches the chance to observe and subsequently select players for the Under 17, Under 20, Under 23 and Senior teams for future outings.
Among some of the names who will be attending the camp are former National Under 17 striker Kyle McIvor, Simba Aberdeen, Kevin Norman, Kevin Crooks, Keeron Benito, Jason Devenish who was with the Under 20s last year, Ancil Farrier, Randi Patterson and US-born striker Kyle Bethel who has previously been invited by the US Soccer Federation.
Two others, midfielder Osei Telesford and Darryl Roberts who have trained with the senior team in the past were also invited. Roberts was in the T&T squad for the first 2006 qualifier against Dominican Republic back in 2004.
Also invited were Kevon Neaves who made a second half appearance in T&T’s 2-0 win over Iceland in February and defender Anthony Noreiga. The latter is in Trinidad and will not attend while Neaves is also unable to show. Defender Julius James is also unavailable.
Rijsbergen, while commenting after the recent 4-1 loss to Austria tied in his intentions going into the camp.
“This is a sign to the people that a lot of work has to be done and it’s a signal to the players that the game ask a little bit more than some fancy work and then relaxing on the pitch,” Rijsbergen told TTFF Media. “There’s no time for that. The young player has to understand you have to work a little more and more physical preparation is needed to reach up to the international level. It’s the only way we can make the necessary steps forward.
“The Digicel Cup in January will be with the local guys and then we look to the US for some College players. We will look for the best ones – those with ambition and attitude to become a better player. The same goes for the Pro League and hopefully this can all lead to becoming part of our mix for the future,” the Dutchman added.
141
Football / Macclesfield 0-0 Walsall
« on: November 16, 2006, 09:27:23 PM »
Macclesfield 0-0 Walsall
Ten-man Walsall held on to earn an FA Cup first-round replay against struggling Macclesfield.
The home side looked the more dangerous in the opening 20 minutes with John Murphy blasting over the bar and Simon Wiles putting in some telling crosses.
Hector Sam twice broke clear for Walsall, but could not find the target.
Craig Pead was sent off in the 80th minute for a shin high challenge on Martin Bullock, but Paul Ince's side were unable to capitalise.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Macclesfield: Brain, Scott, Morley (McNulty 25), Swailes, Wiles (Tolley 70), Bullock, Hadfield, Navarro, McIntyre, Murphy, Heath (McNeil 72).
Subs Not Used: Miles, Weir-Daley.
Booked: Hadfield, Navarro.
Walsall: Ince, Pead, Dann, Roper, Taylor, Wright (Bedeau 67), Dobson, Keates, Fox, Butler, Sam (Wrack 61).
Subs Not Used: Bossu, Kinsella, Demontagnac.
Sent Off: Pead (80).
Booked: Bedeau, Wrack.
Att: 2,018.
Ref: P Joslin (Nottinghamshire).
Ten-man Walsall held on to earn an FA Cup first-round replay against struggling Macclesfield.
The home side looked the more dangerous in the opening 20 minutes with John Murphy blasting over the bar and Simon Wiles putting in some telling crosses.
Hector Sam twice broke clear for Walsall, but could not find the target.
Craig Pead was sent off in the 80th minute for a shin high challenge on Martin Bullock, but Paul Ince's side were unable to capitalise.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Macclesfield: Brain, Scott, Morley (McNulty 25), Swailes, Wiles (Tolley 70), Bullock, Hadfield, Navarro, McIntyre, Murphy, Heath (McNeil 72).
Subs Not Used: Miles, Weir-Daley.
Booked: Hadfield, Navarro.
Walsall: Ince, Pead, Dann, Roper, Taylor, Wright (Bedeau 67), Dobson, Keates, Fox, Butler, Sam (Wrack 61).
Subs Not Used: Bossu, Kinsella, Demontagnac.
Sent Off: Pead (80).
Booked: Bedeau, Wrack.
Att: 2,018.
Ref: P Joslin (Nottinghamshire).
142
Football / UEFA to investigate Poland bribe claim
« on: November 16, 2006, 09:19:29 PM »
UEFA to investigate Poland bribe claim
November 16, 2006
BRUSSELS, Belgium (Ticker) - UEFA is set to launch an investigation into claims by Poland defender Jacek Bak that he was offered a bribe before the Euro 2008 Qualifying match against Belgium on Wednesday.
The Belgian Football Association (KBVB) have demanded Europe's governing body investigate Bak's allegations which followed Poland's 1-0 win in Group A.
Radoslaw Matusiak capitalized on a mistake by Bayern Munich's Daniel Van Buyten to score the game's only goal in the 19th minute.
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"We ask UEFA to investigate this case thoroughly," the KBVB said in a statement. "UEFA can do this, so we will send them the media prints and we trust that UEFA will bring clarity."
According to Dziennik newspaper, Bak, a former Lyon defender, has said he was offered 10,000 euros to concede a penalty during the match.
"Something strange happened before the start of the match. A person came to me and asked me to throw the match," Bak said.
The 33-year-old, who plays for Al-Rayyan Doha in Qatar, refused to reveal details of the proposal, but he did speak with team captain Maciej Zurawski.
"Jacek told me about what had happened, but we couldn't talk too much," Zurawski said.
Poland coach Leo Beenhakker, who's side moved to third in Group A following the win at the Roi Baudouin revealed he was aware of the allegations.
"I heard on Wednesday afternoon that some idiot had called us," he said. "I did not pay any attention to that at first. But we closed down the phone and we played the game. I think we did what was expected of us."
Former Poland international goalkeeper Jan Tomaszewski believes the corruption attempt could amount to "the biggest scandal in European football in recent years."
"If this attempt of corruption really took place and Jacek Bak can prove it, he will be considered a hero," said Tomaszewski.
November 16, 2006
BRUSSELS, Belgium (Ticker) - UEFA is set to launch an investigation into claims by Poland defender Jacek Bak that he was offered a bribe before the Euro 2008 Qualifying match against Belgium on Wednesday.
The Belgian Football Association (KBVB) have demanded Europe's governing body investigate Bak's allegations which followed Poland's 1-0 win in Group A.
Radoslaw Matusiak capitalized on a mistake by Bayern Munich's Daniel Van Buyten to score the game's only goal in the 19th minute.
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"We ask UEFA to investigate this case thoroughly," the KBVB said in a statement. "UEFA can do this, so we will send them the media prints and we trust that UEFA will bring clarity."
According to Dziennik newspaper, Bak, a former Lyon defender, has said he was offered 10,000 euros to concede a penalty during the match.
"Something strange happened before the start of the match. A person came to me and asked me to throw the match," Bak said.
The 33-year-old, who plays for Al-Rayyan Doha in Qatar, refused to reveal details of the proposal, but he did speak with team captain Maciej Zurawski.
"Jacek told me about what had happened, but we couldn't talk too much," Zurawski said.
Poland coach Leo Beenhakker, who's side moved to third in Group A following the win at the Roi Baudouin revealed he was aware of the allegations.
"I heard on Wednesday afternoon that some idiot had called us," he said. "I did not pay any attention to that at first. But we closed down the phone and we played the game. I think we did what was expected of us."
Former Poland international goalkeeper Jan Tomaszewski believes the corruption attempt could amount to "the biggest scandal in European football in recent years."
"If this attempt of corruption really took place and Jacek Bak can prove it, he will be considered a hero," said Tomaszewski.
143
Football / We paid the price for slow football says Rijsbergen
« on: November 15, 2006, 07:23:17 PM »
We paid the price for slow football says Rijsbergen
By Shaun Fuentes
Trinidad and Tobago’s senior team head coach Wim Rijsbergen took Wednesday’s 4-1 defeat to Austria with a pinch of salt and vows to return to the sunshine and work the team’s way back into a respectable fashion.
The Dutchman let it be known after the defeat in Vienna that he was disappointed immensely with the performance of the team as their lackadaisical first half performance allowed the Austrians to take the match beyond their reach before 20,900 fans at the Ernst Happel Stadium.
The “Soca Warriors” as they suffered too many unforced errors and paid the price with Rene Aufhauser grabbing a first half hattrick and substitute Ferdinand Feldhofer netting a late fourth item for the hosts.
Rijsbergen, already missing no less than seven World Cup regulars, thought his team would have had a chance of salvaging a result as though being exploited at the back, they did manage to force some pressure on the Austrians with Carlos Edwards and Collin Samuel in particular running at them.
But skipper Dennis Lawrence was an overworked man by the end of the game and even his efforts couldn’t prevent the scoreline. Missing due to late knee injury was leading goalscorer Stern John,Dwight Yorke, Avery John, Kenwyne Jones, Brent Sancho, Kelvin Jack with Cornell Glen injured out and the likes of Shaka Hislop, Silvio Spann and Marvin Andrews also out of the fray.
Wouldn’t we have had a lot of answers from the defeat, Rijsbergen was asked and he replied “Not just answers but also questions. The people in Trinidad saw the game. Don’t matter what international game you play, if you start too easy or too slow, you pay the price for it. Physically we give the Austrians the chance to come into the game and they build up their confidence,” Rijsbergen told TTFF Media after the game.
“ We didn’t show in the twenty minutes that we came to win this game. We didn’t have one good pass in the first eight minutes with the first one being from Aurtis to Carlos. If you start like that then of course it’s very difficult to come back .Everyone sees how easy we gave the goals away. After some talking, we did a little better in the first half but that wasn’t enough.
“But if you can play much better from the first half then you won’t have to pay the price.
He emphasized the need for the players, particularly the home-based ones to increase their intensity of play. And not because four of those outfield players didn’t start means he cannot refer to them as the fact is, had they been in better conditions, the possibility lies that they could have been among the starters.
“Physically, if you see their number 6, he scored three goals and he did a lot more. On the day you have to do a lot of work and it’s a team effort. Austria is not the best team in the world but all their guys were working and fighting for every one v one situation. If you do that, then the rest would come much easier,” he added.
The former Dutch defender didn’t forget to say that prolific scorer Stern John deserves every credit for his efforts for T&T.
“I know Stern has a lot of enemies but we saw also today that Stern John is by far the best forward that the country probably ever had. We missed him because with him holding the ball a little more, it would give us some more time to breathe and build but it didn’t; happen today. It’s a good signal to the other players to work very hard and it takes a lot to play this international game.”
Next up will be the Digicel Cup in T&T from January 28 to February 11 but Rijsbergen and his staff heads off to South Caroline next week to conduct a scouting camp for players in the North American region eligible of playing for this country.
The overseas-based pros will return to the respective clubs on Thursday while the home-based contingent will also leave Vienna for Port of Spain on the same day.
By Shaun Fuentes
Trinidad and Tobago’s senior team head coach Wim Rijsbergen took Wednesday’s 4-1 defeat to Austria with a pinch of salt and vows to return to the sunshine and work the team’s way back into a respectable fashion.
The Dutchman let it be known after the defeat in Vienna that he was disappointed immensely with the performance of the team as their lackadaisical first half performance allowed the Austrians to take the match beyond their reach before 20,900 fans at the Ernst Happel Stadium.
The “Soca Warriors” as they suffered too many unforced errors and paid the price with Rene Aufhauser grabbing a first half hattrick and substitute Ferdinand Feldhofer netting a late fourth item for the hosts.
Rijsbergen, already missing no less than seven World Cup regulars, thought his team would have had a chance of salvaging a result as though being exploited at the back, they did manage to force some pressure on the Austrians with Carlos Edwards and Collin Samuel in particular running at them.
But skipper Dennis Lawrence was an overworked man by the end of the game and even his efforts couldn’t prevent the scoreline. Missing due to late knee injury was leading goalscorer Stern John,Dwight Yorke, Avery John, Kenwyne Jones, Brent Sancho, Kelvin Jack with Cornell Glen injured out and the likes of Shaka Hislop, Silvio Spann and Marvin Andrews also out of the fray.
Wouldn’t we have had a lot of answers from the defeat, Rijsbergen was asked and he replied “Not just answers but also questions. The people in Trinidad saw the game. Don’t matter what international game you play, if you start too easy or too slow, you pay the price for it. Physically we give the Austrians the chance to come into the game and they build up their confidence,” Rijsbergen told TTFF Media after the game.
“ We didn’t show in the twenty minutes that we came to win this game. We didn’t have one good pass in the first eight minutes with the first one being from Aurtis to Carlos. If you start like that then of course it’s very difficult to come back .Everyone sees how easy we gave the goals away. After some talking, we did a little better in the first half but that wasn’t enough.
“But if you can play much better from the first half then you won’t have to pay the price.
He emphasized the need for the players, particularly the home-based ones to increase their intensity of play. And not because four of those outfield players didn’t start means he cannot refer to them as the fact is, had they been in better conditions, the possibility lies that they could have been among the starters.
“Physically, if you see their number 6, he scored three goals and he did a lot more. On the day you have to do a lot of work and it’s a team effort. Austria is not the best team in the world but all their guys were working and fighting for every one v one situation. If you do that, then the rest would come much easier,” he added.
The former Dutch defender didn’t forget to say that prolific scorer Stern John deserves every credit for his efforts for T&T.
“I know Stern has a lot of enemies but we saw also today that Stern John is by far the best forward that the country probably ever had. We missed him because with him holding the ball a little more, it would give us some more time to breathe and build but it didn’t; happen today. It’s a good signal to the other players to work very hard and it takes a lot to play this international game.”
Next up will be the Digicel Cup in T&T from January 28 to February 11 but Rijsbergen and his staff heads off to South Caroline next week to conduct a scouting camp for players in the North American region eligible of playing for this country.
The overseas-based pros will return to the respective clubs on Thursday while the home-based contingent will also leave Vienna for Port of Spain on the same day.
144
Football / MLS approves salary change that could tempt world stars
« on: November 12, 2006, 09:20:19 AM »
MLS approves salary change that could tempt world stars
AFP
November 12, 2006
FRISCO, United States (AFP) - Major League Soccer's chances of luring marquee names such as David Beckham to US football improved as league owners approved changes to the salary cap structure.
Under the new rule approved by team owners, clubs will have the ability to go above the current two million-dollar per team salary cap to acquire a "designated player."
Each team will receive one "designated player" spot on its roster, and while they can be traded among teams no team will be able to have more than two such players.
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MLS will be responsible for up to 400,000 dollars of the player's salary, and the team will pay the rest.
Unlike other leagues, MLS currently operates under a "single entity" system in which the league, not the individual teams, employs the players and pays them.
The change is seen as necessary to attract international stars such as former England captain David Beckham, who has voiced interest in ending his career in the United States.
"Our fans have told us they want to see more world stars in MLS, and this rule will allow us to sign the most talented stars in the world," MLS commissioner Don Garber said.
AFP
November 12, 2006
FRISCO, United States (AFP) - Major League Soccer's chances of luring marquee names such as David Beckham to US football improved as league owners approved changes to the salary cap structure.
Under the new rule approved by team owners, clubs will have the ability to go above the current two million-dollar per team salary cap to acquire a "designated player."
Each team will receive one "designated player" spot on its roster, and while they can be traded among teams no team will be able to have more than two such players.
ADVERTISEMENT
MLS will be responsible for up to 400,000 dollars of the player's salary, and the team will pay the rest.
Unlike other leagues, MLS currently operates under a "single entity" system in which the league, not the individual teams, employs the players and pays them.
The change is seen as necessary to attract international stars such as former England captain David Beckham, who has voiced interest in ending his career in the United States.
"Our fans have told us they want to see more world stars in MLS, and this rule will allow us to sign the most talented stars in the world," MLS commissioner Don Garber said.
145
Football / Rangers stunned by 2-1 defeat at Dundee United
« on: November 05, 2006, 10:34:40 AM »
Rangers stunned by 2-1 defeat at Dundee United
(Adds details, quotes and byline)
By Kenny MacDonald
GLASGOW, Nov 5 (Reuters) - Rangers were booed off the pitch after losing to lowly Dundee United 2-1 on Sunday and fell 15 points behind leaders Celtic in the Scottish Premier League (SPL) title race.
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Manager Paul Le Guen was baffled by the defeat.
"It is unbelievable to lose such a game," he told the BBC. "I am so disappointed because we controlled the game.
"We had so many chances but we needed a second goal to be at ease...with a second goal I am convinced we would win the game."
Dundee United bounced back from a goal down to win with two goals inside five minutes and give new manager Craig Levein a dramatic debut day win.
Nacho Novo missed two first-half chances for Rangers while United came close with two efforts inside a minute.
Spanish forward Novo ran in on goal only to lob his shot over advancing keeper Derek Stillie and the crossbar from 15 metres. He then slashed a 10-metre shot across the face of the goal from the right with only the keeper to beat.
Then United's Trinidad & Tobago forward Collin Samuel whipped in a low cross from the left which Bosnian defender Sasa Papac slid just past his own goal from six metres.
When the corner was cleared to the edge of the box United's David Robertson fired in a fierce volley which Rangers keeper Derek Stillie brilliantly turned away.
Rangers opened the scoring with a Charlie Adam goal in 50 minutes when he swept a six-metre shot beyond Stillie from Novo's low cross from the left.
United surged back with two goals from defenders to move off bottom place.
Garry Kenneth headed a Barry Robson corner down and through keeper McGregor's legs at the back post in 77 minutes before Lee Mair glanced in a six-metre header for the winner from a deep Craig Conway free-kick.
United manager Craig Levein told the BBC: "This can be one of two things, it can be a catalyst to push on to bigger and better things or it could be a blip and we go back to what we have been doing previously."
Champions Celtic top the SPL standings with 34 points from 13 games after beating nearest rivals Hearts 2-1 on Saturday. Hearts have 21 from 13 while Rangers now have 19 from 13. United have 11 points from 13 games.
Inverness Caley are at home to Aberdeen on Monday.
(Adds details, quotes and byline)
By Kenny MacDonald
GLASGOW, Nov 5 (Reuters) - Rangers were booed off the pitch after losing to lowly Dundee United 2-1 on Sunday and fell 15 points behind leaders Celtic in the Scottish Premier League (SPL) title race.
ADVERTISEMENT
Manager Paul Le Guen was baffled by the defeat.
"It is unbelievable to lose such a game," he told the BBC. "I am so disappointed because we controlled the game.
"We had so many chances but we needed a second goal to be at ease...with a second goal I am convinced we would win the game."
Dundee United bounced back from a goal down to win with two goals inside five minutes and give new manager Craig Levein a dramatic debut day win.
Nacho Novo missed two first-half chances for Rangers while United came close with two efforts inside a minute.
Spanish forward Novo ran in on goal only to lob his shot over advancing keeper Derek Stillie and the crossbar from 15 metres. He then slashed a 10-metre shot across the face of the goal from the right with only the keeper to beat.
Then United's Trinidad & Tobago forward Collin Samuel whipped in a low cross from the left which Bosnian defender Sasa Papac slid just past his own goal from six metres.
When the corner was cleared to the edge of the box United's David Robertson fired in a fierce volley which Rangers keeper Derek Stillie brilliantly turned away.
Rangers opened the scoring with a Charlie Adam goal in 50 minutes when he swept a six-metre shot beyond Stillie from Novo's low cross from the left.
United surged back with two goals from defenders to move off bottom place.
Garry Kenneth headed a Barry Robson corner down and through keeper McGregor's legs at the back post in 77 minutes before Lee Mair glanced in a six-metre header for the winner from a deep Craig Conway free-kick.
United manager Craig Levein told the BBC: "This can be one of two things, it can be a catalyst to push on to bigger and better things or it could be a blip and we go back to what we have been doing previously."
Champions Celtic top the SPL standings with 34 points from 13 games after beating nearest rivals Hearts 2-1 on Saturday. Hearts have 21 from 13 while Rangers now have 19 from 13. United have 11 points from 13 games.
Inverness Caley are at home to Aberdeen on Monday.
146
Football / Soccer could be U.S. game -- with help from Germany, Brazil and England
« on: November 04, 2006, 04:03:15 PM »
Soccer could be U.S. game -- with help from Germany, Brazil and England
By NANCY ARMOUR, AP Sports Columnist
November 4, 2006
Watch out Italy, Germany, Spain, France and Brazil. Even England, the hallowed home of soccer, should beware.
The Americans are coming after your stars again. Not content to be masters of the NFL version of football, it won't be long before the Yanks take over yours, too.
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OK, that's a stretch. But say the United States does hire Juergen Klinsmann as its national team coach. And say Ronaldo and David Beckham do move to Major League Soccer in the next year or two.
That's some serious star power -- not to mention giving the United States some heavyweight attention in the only game that matters everywhere else.
By all rights, the United States should be a dominant force in soccer. According to Major League Soccer, 65 million people in the United States consider themselves fans. A whopping 18 million of them play the game. That's more than the entire populations of 15 countries at last summer's World Cup.
Now, the majority of those players aren't world class. Far from it. But in a country this size, with that many people playing, the talent pool for the U.S. team should be several thousand, at least.
Not even close.
The United States may as well be Switzerland, given the lack of elite players. Too often teenagers who could be game-changers look at opportunities in soccer -- educationally, economically and athletically -- and, not surprisingly, hang up their boots.
To be a powerhouse, soccer in the United States needs to be as ultracool with the junior high set as basketball and football. And that won't happen until some international superstars bring some street cred to this side of the Atlantic.
Which is where Klinsmann, Beckham and Ronaldo come in.
Klinsmann is considered the favorite to replace Bruce Arena as national team coach. He's proven he's up for the job, leading a young Germany squad to a surprising third-place finish at the World Cup.
He's also young, intelligent and good-looking, someone who should be able to generate some interest among folks who don't know a corner kick from a bicycle kick.
"I've lived in this country for eight years now, so I've followed soccer development in the United States," he told The Associated Press last week. "The player-development aspect is a huge aspect."
The talent level in MLS has improved tremendously since the league began a decade ago, and the average attendance of 15,504 this year was up 2.6 percent. But professional soccer in the United States is still the JV compared to the top leagues in England, Germany, Spain, France and Italy.
To be considered among the elite, the Americans need a league that's competitive at every spot on the field and compelling off it. When MLS conference championships are played Sunday, it's a good bet a lot more people will be watching the NFL.
Beckham and Ronaldo are past their prime, no question. Beckham was dumped from the England squad in the biggest breakup since Brad and Jen, and he and Ronaldo have been reduced to high-priced subs at Real Madrid.
But they're still better than most of those in MLS, not to mention gossip-column items in the making. Beckham isn't even here, and he's tabloid fodder. Or at least his wife, aka Katie Holmes' new best friend, is. Put him in Los Angeles and Ronaldo in New York, and watch interest in the league jump.
More fans means more revenue. More revenue means more money for big-name players. More big-name players means better competition on the field. Better competition on the field means stronger American players.
And that eventually makes for a stronger national team -- one that would have a legitimate shot at winning a World Cup.
"We have a bunch of talented young players and, in some cases, more talented than ever before. However, they're very inexperienced at this level," Arena said after the Americans were eliminated in Germany.
"We've got to do a better job in trying to develop our elite players earlier."
The United States had this kind of opportunity once before, and blew it. Pele, Franz Beckenbauer and George Best helped make the North American Soccer League a household name, but there weren't enough fans around to support it.
Now there are.
Bring in Klinsmann, Beckham and Ronaldo to inject some pizazz, and America could be a football powerhouse. And we're not just talking NFL.
AP sports writer Ronald Blum also contributed to this report.
Updated on Saturday
By NANCY ARMOUR, AP Sports Columnist
November 4, 2006
Watch out Italy, Germany, Spain, France and Brazil. Even England, the hallowed home of soccer, should beware.
The Americans are coming after your stars again. Not content to be masters of the NFL version of football, it won't be long before the Yanks take over yours, too.
ADVERTISEMENT
OK, that's a stretch. But say the United States does hire Juergen Klinsmann as its national team coach. And say Ronaldo and David Beckham do move to Major League Soccer in the next year or two.
That's some serious star power -- not to mention giving the United States some heavyweight attention in the only game that matters everywhere else.
By all rights, the United States should be a dominant force in soccer. According to Major League Soccer, 65 million people in the United States consider themselves fans. A whopping 18 million of them play the game. That's more than the entire populations of 15 countries at last summer's World Cup.
Now, the majority of those players aren't world class. Far from it. But in a country this size, with that many people playing, the talent pool for the U.S. team should be several thousand, at least.
Not even close.
The United States may as well be Switzerland, given the lack of elite players. Too often teenagers who could be game-changers look at opportunities in soccer -- educationally, economically and athletically -- and, not surprisingly, hang up their boots.
To be a powerhouse, soccer in the United States needs to be as ultracool with the junior high set as basketball and football. And that won't happen until some international superstars bring some street cred to this side of the Atlantic.
Which is where Klinsmann, Beckham and Ronaldo come in.
Klinsmann is considered the favorite to replace Bruce Arena as national team coach. He's proven he's up for the job, leading a young Germany squad to a surprising third-place finish at the World Cup.
He's also young, intelligent and good-looking, someone who should be able to generate some interest among folks who don't know a corner kick from a bicycle kick.
"I've lived in this country for eight years now, so I've followed soccer development in the United States," he told The Associated Press last week. "The player-development aspect is a huge aspect."
The talent level in MLS has improved tremendously since the league began a decade ago, and the average attendance of 15,504 this year was up 2.6 percent. But professional soccer in the United States is still the JV compared to the top leagues in England, Germany, Spain, France and Italy.
To be considered among the elite, the Americans need a league that's competitive at every spot on the field and compelling off it. When MLS conference championships are played Sunday, it's a good bet a lot more people will be watching the NFL.
Beckham and Ronaldo are past their prime, no question. Beckham was dumped from the England squad in the biggest breakup since Brad and Jen, and he and Ronaldo have been reduced to high-priced subs at Real Madrid.
But they're still better than most of those in MLS, not to mention gossip-column items in the making. Beckham isn't even here, and he's tabloid fodder. Or at least his wife, aka Katie Holmes' new best friend, is. Put him in Los Angeles and Ronaldo in New York, and watch interest in the league jump.
More fans means more revenue. More revenue means more money for big-name players. More big-name players means better competition on the field. Better competition on the field means stronger American players.
And that eventually makes for a stronger national team -- one that would have a legitimate shot at winning a World Cup.
"We have a bunch of talented young players and, in some cases, more talented than ever before. However, they're very inexperienced at this level," Arena said after the Americans were eliminated in Germany.
"We've got to do a better job in trying to develop our elite players earlier."
The United States had this kind of opportunity once before, and blew it. Pele, Franz Beckenbauer and George Best helped make the North American Soccer League a household name, but there weren't enough fans around to support it.
Now there are.
Bring in Klinsmann, Beckham and Ronaldo to inject some pizazz, and America could be a football powerhouse. And we're not just talking NFL.
AP sports writer Ronald Blum also contributed to this report.
Updated on Saturday
147
Football / New Costa Rica coach aims to win World Cup
« on: October 31, 2006, 05:15:52 PM »
(Adds Medford quotes)
By John McPhaul
SAN JOSE, Oct 31 (Reuters) - Hernan Medford, one of the most famous players in Costa Rican history, took over as national team coach on Tuesday and said his target was to win the World Cup.
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"You have to aim high if you want to fly high," Medford told reporters. "You have to put out positive vibes."
Costa Rica have played at three World Cups but have never got past the second round.
The 38-year-old, who played at the 1990 World Cup and was also in Costa Rica's squad in 2002, replaces Alexandre Guimaraes, who resigned after the Central Americans lost all three group games at this year's tournament in Germany.
Medford blamed poor local stadiums and pitches for hindering Costa Rica's progress and said he would press clubs to invest more in infrastructure.
"If we had the same environment and stadiums that they have in Mexico, we would be challenging the best," he said. "You can't play good soccer on poor pitches."
But he acknowledged that it would be hard work. "We have many economic limitations," he said
Medford added that age would not influence his team selections.
"On my national team there will be no differentiation by age. If you're 15 or 85 and you can play, you're going to play," he said.
Costa Rica's all-time leading scorer Paulo Wanchope announced his international retirement after the World Cup, even though he is only 30.
PURPLE MONSTER
Medford's first hurdle is the CONCACAF Gold Cup qualifying tournament in El Salvador in February.
Medford's only previous coaching job has been with local side Saprissa, where he has enjoyed considerable success since taking over in 2003.
His team won the 2003-04 and 2005-06 Costa Rican titles and the 2005 CONCACAF Champions Cup by beating Mexico's UNAM in the two-legged final.
That victory earned the so-called Purple Monster a place in the World Club championship in Japan the same year.
"The players were the ones who put out the effort and made it possible for me to be appointed," said Medford.
As a player, Medford won 89 caps and scored 18 goals including two of the most important in Costa Rican history.
He hit the winner when they beat Sweden 2-1 to progress to the second round of the 1990 World Cup.
He also scored the decisive goal when the Ticos beat Mexico 2-1 in 2001, becoming the first and only side to defeat the Mexicans in a World Cup qualifier at the Azteca stadium.
Medford retired after playing for clubs in Mexico, Spain, Italy, Austria and the former Yugoslavia.
Updated on Tuesday, Oct 31,
By John McPhaul
SAN JOSE, Oct 31 (Reuters) - Hernan Medford, one of the most famous players in Costa Rican history, took over as national team coach on Tuesday and said his target was to win the World Cup.
ADVERTISEMENT
"You have to aim high if you want to fly high," Medford told reporters. "You have to put out positive vibes."
Costa Rica have played at three World Cups but have never got past the second round.
The 38-year-old, who played at the 1990 World Cup and was also in Costa Rica's squad in 2002, replaces Alexandre Guimaraes, who resigned after the Central Americans lost all three group games at this year's tournament in Germany.
Medford blamed poor local stadiums and pitches for hindering Costa Rica's progress and said he would press clubs to invest more in infrastructure.
"If we had the same environment and stadiums that they have in Mexico, we would be challenging the best," he said. "You can't play good soccer on poor pitches."
But he acknowledged that it would be hard work. "We have many economic limitations," he said
Medford added that age would not influence his team selections.
"On my national team there will be no differentiation by age. If you're 15 or 85 and you can play, you're going to play," he said.
Costa Rica's all-time leading scorer Paulo Wanchope announced his international retirement after the World Cup, even though he is only 30.
PURPLE MONSTER
Medford's first hurdle is the CONCACAF Gold Cup qualifying tournament in El Salvador in February.
Medford's only previous coaching job has been with local side Saprissa, where he has enjoyed considerable success since taking over in 2003.
His team won the 2003-04 and 2005-06 Costa Rican titles and the 2005 CONCACAF Champions Cup by beating Mexico's UNAM in the two-legged final.
That victory earned the so-called Purple Monster a place in the World Club championship in Japan the same year.
"The players were the ones who put out the effort and made it possible for me to be appointed," said Medford.
As a player, Medford won 89 caps and scored 18 goals including two of the most important in Costa Rican history.
He hit the winner when they beat Sweden 2-1 to progress to the second round of the 1990 World Cup.
He also scored the decisive goal when the Ticos beat Mexico 2-1 in 2001, becoming the first and only side to defeat the Mexicans in a World Cup qualifier at the Azteca stadium.
Medford retired after playing for clubs in Mexico, Spain, Italy, Austria and the former Yugoslavia.
Updated on Tuesday, Oct 31,
148
Football / United complain over Benfica 'racist abuse'
« on: September 30, 2006, 06:45:28 AM »
United complain over Benfica 'racist abuse'
AFP
September 30, 2006
LONDON (AFP) - Manchester United have complained about racist abuse and monkey chants directed at some of their players during Tuesday's Champions League win at Benfica.
Patrice Evra, goalscorer Louis Saha, Kieran Richardson and Wes Brown were all targeted by the Portuguese club's supporters in the 1-0 win in Lisbon.
And a Manchester United source told Saturday's Sun newspaper: "All the players were upset and angry by the chanting."
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United have written a letter of protest about the incidents to the Lisbon-based side and have called on UEFA, European football's governing body, to take action, the paper reported.
If found guilty Benfica could be hit with a heavy fine or ordered to play one or more games behind closed doors.
United's protest follows the call by gay rights campaigners to get Paul Scholes to apologise after he allegedly made a homophobic comment to the referee during the Group F clash.
The 31-year-old former England international is alleged to have made the remark after receiving a yellow card from referee Frank De Bleeckere in the 10th minute of the game.
UEFA were waiting for reports from the match delegate and the referee before deciding whether to follow up the complaint.
Updated on Saturday, Sep 30, 2006 7:54 am EDT
AFP
September 30, 2006
LONDON (AFP) - Manchester United have complained about racist abuse and monkey chants directed at some of their players during Tuesday's Champions League win at Benfica.
Patrice Evra, goalscorer Louis Saha, Kieran Richardson and Wes Brown were all targeted by the Portuguese club's supporters in the 1-0 win in Lisbon.
And a Manchester United source told Saturday's Sun newspaper: "All the players were upset and angry by the chanting."
ADVERTISEMENT
United have written a letter of protest about the incidents to the Lisbon-based side and have called on UEFA, European football's governing body, to take action, the paper reported.
If found guilty Benfica could be hit with a heavy fine or ordered to play one or more games behind closed doors.
United's protest follows the call by gay rights campaigners to get Paul Scholes to apologise after he allegedly made a homophobic comment to the referee during the Group F clash.
The 31-year-old former England international is alleged to have made the remark after receiving a yellow card from referee Frank De Bleeckere in the 10th minute of the game.
UEFA were waiting for reports from the match delegate and the referee before deciding whether to follow up the complaint.
Updated on Saturday, Sep 30, 2006 7:54 am EDT
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Football / Beenhakker drops Dudek from Poland squad
« on: September 30, 2006, 06:42:34 AM »WARSAW, Sept 30 (Reuters) - Poland coach Leo Beenhakker has dropped Liverpool keeper Jerzy Dudek for his squad's European championship qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Portugal on Oct. 7 and Oct. 11
Poland are looking to make amends after they opened their Group A campaign earlier this month with a surprise 3-1 defeat by Finland in a game Dudek started, followed by a disappointing 1-1 draw against Serbia.
Dudek, 33, has yet to make an appearance in the Premier League this season.
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Squad:
Goalkeepers: Wojciech Kowalewski (Spartak Moscow), Artur Boruc (Celtic), Mariusz Pawelek (Wisla Krakow)
Defenders: Mariusz Jop (FK Moscow), Jacek Bak (Al-Rayyan), Pawel Golanski (Kolporter Kielce), Gregorz Bronowicki (Legia Warsaw) Arkadiusz Glowacki (Wisla Krakow)
Midfielders: Mariusz Lewandowski (Shakhtar Donetsk), Radoslaw Sobolewski (Wisla Krakow), Arkadiusz Radomski (Austria Vienna), Euzebiusz Smolarek (Borussia Dortmund), Jacek Krzynowek (VfL Wolfsburg), Jakub Blaszczykowski (Wisla Krakow), Lukasz Gargula (GKS Belchatow) Przemyslaw Kazmierczak (Boavista), Rafal Grzelak (Boavista)
Forwards: Ireneusz Jelen (AJ Auxerre), Tomasz Frankowski (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Maciej Zurawski (Celtic), Radoslaw Matusiak (GKS Belchatow), Gregorz Rasiak (Southampton)
150
Football / FIFA tells Brazil to get building for 2014 World Cup
« on: September 28, 2006, 04:28:25 PM »BRASILIA, Brazil, Sept 28 (Reuters) - Brazil must start building new stadiums now if it wants to ensure it will be chosen to host the 2014 World Cup, FIFA head Sepp Blatter said on Thursday.
"The ball is Brazil's court and we can say that the demands are very great," Blatter said after meeting Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in Brasilia.
Brazil, five times winner of the World Cup, is keen to host the 2014 tournament and is the front-runner to do so after FIFA established its policy of continental rotation that paved the way for a South American country to stage the event in eight years.
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However, many of Brazil's stadiums are inadequate or even dangerous and other infrastructure such as transport links is also lacking.
Lula, who is tipped to win re-election in a poll on Sunday, told Blatter his government would fully back the bid.
"This is important because we need government guarantees," Blatter said. "If Brazil needs new infrastructure, it should begin today."
A high standard of organisation had been set by Germany with this summer's World Cup, he added.
Lula, a keen football fan who supports the Sao Paulo side Corinthians, recently said Brazil must build 12 new stadiums.
Sports Minister Orlando Silva said Brazil would make every effort to bring the tournament to the country. It would be the first World Cup tournament to be held in South America since Argentina in 1978 - though central American Mexico held the 1986 edition.
Blatter said a decision would be announced late next year or early 2008.
South Africa will host the 2010 World Cup - the first to be held in Africa.
Updated on Thursday,