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31

Football / Quarterfinal Line-Up Almost Complete in Caribbean Qualifying

« on: September 26, 2005, 08:53:49 PM »

from concacaf.com


26.9.05 - The past few days have seen a number of games in the Caribbean as teams from across the region set their sights on reaching the next stage of Caribbean qualifying for the 2006 CONCACAF Champion’s Cup.
Games in four of the five home-and-away series have now taken place, three of these having been completed.

Series A
The two games between SV Britannia of Aruba and SV Robinhood of Surinam are scheduled to take place in neutral Trinidad and Tobago on 27 and 29 September. The winner of this series will play North East Stars of Trinidad and Tobago in the next stage of qualifying.

Series B
In the opening game of this tie, Sagicor South East from Dominica lost to visiting Bassa FC from Antigua by 6:0 score line. Two first half goals by Randolph Burton (6’ and 29’) and strikes from Anjis Anthony (41’) and Jamie Thomas (45’+1) gave the visitors a 4:0 lead. Thomas added his second after the break with a strike after 63 minutes before Bevis Romeo scored his team’s sixth, just before he final whistle (89’).


Home victory in the second-leg of this encounter by a 2:1 margin gave Bassa FC an 8:1 aggregate victory and a place in the next stage of Caribbean qualifying. First half goals from Jeffers (19’) and Williams (42’) put the final result well beyond doubt with Sagicor South East’s only goal of the series scored by Pharo Cliffy on 52 minutes. Bassa FC therefore proceed to the next round of Caribbean qualifying where they will play SV Centro Social Deportivo Barber of the Netherlands Antilles.

Series C
Grand Bazaar Dublanc FC, also from Dominica, opened their two-legged series against Hoppers FC of Antigua at home on 22 September. The Antiguans came away with a 2:1 advantage thanks to an early goal from Tamorley Thomas (5’) and a strike by Kemu Peters (76’). Vincent Cosimir reduced the deficit to just one goal when he scored for Dublanc in the 86th minute, giving the Dominican team some hope on their visit to Antigua for the second leg.

Two early goals for Hoppers in the second leg of the encounter, by Terry Roberts (15’) and Kelly Frederick (19’) effectively put the series beyond Dublanc and second half goals by Thomas (59’) and another for Frederick (72’) led the home team to a 4:0 victory and a 6:1 aggregate score line in the series. Hoppers FC therefore proceed to the next round of Caribbean qualifying to play Portmore United FC of Jamaica.

Series D
Following the goal-less draw in the first leg of this encounter, home victory for SV Victory Boys of Antigua over visiting Royal ’95 of Surinam by a 3:1 margin has secured their place in the next stage of qualifying. Goals from Moreno Moscoso (31’) and Permit Germain (38’) gave the home team a 2:0 lead at the break and a second-half strike by Bernarbus Ashar (67’) made in 3:0. Emanuelson Roche scored a consolation goal for Royal ’95 on 75 minutes. SV Victory proceed to the next stage of Caribbean qualifying where their opponent will be the victor of Series E, either Northern United FC (LCA) or Positive Vibes (VIR).

Series E
Following their 2:0 victory on the road in St Lucia against Northern United FC, Positive Vibes of the US Virgin Islands will be looking to confirm their spot in the next stage of qualifying when they host Northern United in the second leg of their series on 1 October.

The five victorious teams from the First Round of Caribbean qualifying will join North East Stars (TRI), Portmore United (JAM) and SV Centro Social Deportivo Barber (ANT) for the quarterfinal home-and-away fixtures scheduled for next month. Semifinal matches take place in November with the Caribbean champion club to be crowned through a final home-and-away series in December.

The Caribbean champion will join two clubs each from Mexico and USA, along with three Central American teams, in the 2006 CONCACAF Champions’ Cup with the winner of that event taking on the best of the World in FIFA’s 2006 Club World Championship.

Meanwhile, the current CONCACAF Club Champion, Costa Rica’s Deportivo Saprissa, will face the world’s best in the 2005 FIFA Club World Championship to be held in Japan in December this year.

2006 CONCACAF CHAMPIONS’ CUP – Caribbean Zone Qualifying

First Round
Series A
27.09.2005: TBD, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO;
SV BRITANNIA (ARU) – SV ROBINHOOD (SUR)
29.09.2005: TBD, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO;
SV ROBINHOOD (SUR) – SV BRITANNIA (ARU)

Series B
23.09.2005: All Saint’s, ANTIGUA & BARBUDA;
SAGICOR SOUTH EAST (DMA) – BASSA FC (ATG) 0:6 (0:2)
25.09.2005: All Saint’s, ANTIGUA & BARBUDA;
BASSA FC (ATG) – SAGICOR SOUTH EAST (DMA) 2:1 (2:0)

Series C
22.09.2005: Gray’s Farm, ANTIGUA & BARBUDA;
RD GRAND BAZAAR DUBLANC (DMA) – HOPPERS FC (ATG) 1:2 (0:1)
24.09.2005: Gray’s Farm, ANTIGUA & BARBUDA;
HOPPERS FC (ATG) – RD GRAND BAZAAR DUBLANC (DMA) 4:0 (2:0)

Series D
24.09.2005: Bandariba, NETHERLANDS ANTILLES;
SV VICTORY BOYS (ANT) – ROYAL ’95 (SUR) 3:1 (2:0)

Series E
14.09.2005: Gros Islet, ST. LUCIA;
NORTHERN UNITED (LCA) – POSITIVE VIBES (VIR) 0:2 (0:0)
01.10.2005: TBD, US VIRGIN ISLANDS;
POSITIVE VIBES (VIR) – NORTHERN UNITED (LCA)

Quarterfinals – Home Teams Listed First
First-legs (TBD)
Series A Winner – North East Stars (TRI)
Bassa FC (ATG) – SV Centro Social Deportivo Barber (ANT)
Hoppers FC (ATG) – Portmore United FC (JAM)
SV Victory Boys (ANT) – Series E Winner

Second-legs (TBD)
North East Stars (TRI) – Series A Winner
SV Centro Social Deportivo Barber (ANT) – Bassa FC (ATG)
Portmore United FC (JAM) – Hoppers FC (ATG)
Series E Winner – SV Victory Boys (ANT)

Semifinals
November 2005

Final
December 2005

32

Football / Andrews wants Rangers to play like champs

« on: September 23, 2005, 10:32:33 PM »

from: guardian.co.tt

T&T defender Marvin “Dog” Andrews has challenged his Rangers teammates to remind Hearts who the Scottish champions are today, when the teams clash.

But the Ibrox defender insists there is no reason to push the panic button if they do fall 11 points behind Hearts in the race to the title.

Hearts have won their opening seven matches of the Bank of Scotland Premier League campaign and are league leaders, while Rangers have been inconsistent and battled to a 5-2 extra-time win over Clyde in the CIS Insurance Cup on Tuesday night, with Andrews on target.

“We know they are coming to prove something against the mighty Rangers so we have a responsibility on our shoulders to play like Rangers,” the Trinidadian defender said.

“We didn’t really do that against Clyde and we didn’t show what Rangers are all about.

“We just have to put that behind us and look forward to the game on Saturday.”

Andrews believes the manner of Rangers’ last-ditch title success last season means there should be no panic even if Hearts stretch their advantage at the top.

He said: “It’s very important that we don’t go 11 points behind Hearts but, if it happens, it doesn’t mean it’s the end of the world.

“It’s never over until it’s over, and last season proved that.

“Everyone is talking as though it’s a do-or-die game and it’s only the eighth game of the season.”
 

33

Football / I dream of Chelsea

« on: September 21, 2005, 11:42:47 PM »

Sancho wants another Premiership prize
LASANA LIBURD
from Trinidadexpress.com
 
Brent Sancho

Trinidad and Tobago international defender Brent Sancho is hungry for another England Premier League test after helping League One club, Gillingham, to a shock second round Carling Cup win over Portsmouth on Tuesday evening.

Defending Premiership champions, Chelsea, or the formidable Manchester United will do nicely.

"I want to draw Chelsea or Manchester United in the next round," a laughing Sancho told the Trinidad Express. "That would be it for me. I could retire after that."

At 28, Sancho should be a long way from going to pasture but the emotional high was understandable. The Gillingham players were booed off their home ground, just ten days earlier, when they crashed 3-0 to League One rivals, Barnsley, while they conceded seven goals without scoring in their last three fixtures.

The Carling Cup win against a Portsmouth outfit that contained Uruguayan international striker Dario Silva and Senegal midfielder Salif Diao went some way towards atoning themselves with their frustrated fans. For Sancho, such fixtures justified his decision to swap Scotland-where he lined up for newly relegated Scottish First Division team Dundee-for the English lower league.

"One of the reasons I left Scotland was to play in games like that," he said. "It was a really exciting game and it was all about the opportunity to test yourself against the supposed top players in the world. I think you get a better chance to that in England."

Five other Trinidad and Tobago players featured in knock out action on Tuesday night as well.

At Sheffield, Shaka Hislop made his first appearance in the West Ham goalmouth since rejoining the club in August and helped the Premiership side to a 4-2 win over Sheffield Wednesday.

Scotland-based central defender Marvin Andrews was also on the winning side and got a crucial goal to boot as he steered Glasgow Rangers to a 5-2 CIS Cup triumph against visiting Clyde.

First Division Clyde were 17 minutes from a prize Scottish Premier League (SPL) scalp before Rangers attacker Thomas Buffel equalized to send the match into extra time. Andrews got the second of three Rangers goals during that period as Scotland's defending champions successfully fought back.

No such luck for Coventry's Clayton Ince, Luton's Carlos Edwards or Southampton's Kenwyne Jones' though.

Ince deputized for ineligible Coventry first-choice goalkeeper Stephen Bywater but could not keep a clean sheet as they fell 1-0 away to Crystal Palace while Edwards' Luton and Jones' Southampton lost by similar scores at Reading and Mansfield respectively.

But Gillingham's win was arguably the most satisfying by a Trinidad and Tobago played in midweek and only a 1-0 triumph by League Two leaders, Grimsby, over Premiership outfit, Tottenham, topped it for national attention.

Sancho started at right back before moving into central defence to replace his injured captain Chris Hope. Trinidad and Tobago central defender Ian Cox missed the match through injury.

Sancho was involved in two penalty decisions-one converted by Portsmouth midfielder Matthew Taylor-but felt hard done by on both occasions and was pleased with his overall contribution.

"The pace was real fast but I thought I did okay," he said. "Dario (Silva) was quick and full of tricks but he didn't like being roughed up. It was a tough game though because things that players in our divisions do in two touches, they do in one. They are also much better running off the ball."

Sancho wants Chelsea next. He had no doubts about the most dangerous player in the ranks of esteemed Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho.

"I am not worried about (Didier) Drogba," he said, with a laugh. "Drogba is mince meat. It's (Arjen) Robben that I am afraid of."
 

34

Football / Toronto posse

« on: September 06, 2005, 02:48:05 PM »

i saw @ da bar i was on "romana" that they will be playing the game i know its a $15 free 2 go in last time they had it set up on da big screen Tv so if anyone is reaching its by st.clair.W  & earlscort. (lansdowne) on the north side of st.clair

35

Football / Time for cheers ...and caution

« on: September 05, 2005, 12:19:20 AM »

From Trinidadexpress.com

The pervading mood of absolute triumph that engulfed Saturday evening after Trinidad and Tobago's spectacular 3-2 win over Guatemala's football team is jollification we warmly share but not without atleast a hint of caution for, as followers of the game all know, a single victory at this stage does not yet secure a local presence at the World Cup's final round.Not that we underestimate the degree of difficulty in containing jubilation, especially in Saturday's scenario, where joy is triggered by a superlative display of soccer skills from the home-team; a bunch often maligned for inability to convert flawless field strategies into favourable statistics.

Indeed, the T&T Warriors were in crackling form and despite the early setback and accompanying ignominy of helping the visitors chalk up a lead within three minutes of the opening whistle, leaving the home-team trailing thusly to conclusion of the first half, sheer determination delivered desired results in the ensuing segment.

But national coach Leo Beenhakker was clearly on the ball when he said in a post-game interview that his Warriors "have a right to be happy -a little bit," unfettered merriment, for all its infectious glee,hardly ever serving the same purpose as continuing vigilance.


We should not have to remind local fans that, like Trinidad and Tobago, any nation with a dangling opportunity for inclusion among FIFA's 32 World Cup finalists will strain its last resource to ensure qualification. In much the same fashion we expect our Warriors to approach Wednesday's crucial away-game against Costa Rica, the host country will undoubtedly be trying to bury our chance of advancing to next year's final round in Germany.

In any event, the concept of revelling in yet-unachieved victory has long been debunked and indeed, this country's experience with premature celebration in similar circumstances is a chapter of local soccer history we would all rather forget, Government taking thel eadership role in tempting providence on that occasion, rewarding us with a public holiday before the final whistle of the 1989 qualifier against team USA; unable to retract it after we lost by the game's lone goal.In a manner of speaking, team T&T has only three blocks to navigate in completing the journey to Germany but those obstacles-Costa Rica,Panama and Mexico-are very real and not to be taken lightly.

Let us not exhaust delight at every juncture en route when the larger cause for bliss resides at our final destination.

36

Football / Guatemalans expect tough game

« on: September 02, 2005, 10:30:27 PM »

from Trindadexpress.com

 INFLUENTIAL midfielder Carlos Ruiz says that Guatemala is expecting a hard game from Trinidad and Tobago today, but at the same time, he feels they need just six points to reach the World Cup for the first time and they will be going for victory.

After his team trained at the Hasely Craford Stadium yesterday, the MLS midfielder said that this is the first time that his country is near qualifying for a World Cup and they too will give their all.

"I think Trinidad (will) try to find a score in the first minute, because Trinidad needs to win tomorrow for them to stay in the World Cup qualifiers for 2006. Guatemala try tomorrow for the win.

If Guatemala win tomorrow, that is 10 points and that is important for us," he said. "This national team is different, this is the first time Guatemala is close to going to the World Cup."
 

37

Football / Scotland helps silence Partick.

« on: September 01, 2005, 12:19:43 AM »

Jason Scotland helps silence Partick.
By: Lasana Liburd (Express).

Angry boos and hisses rang out around Partick Thistle's Fir Hill home ground on Tuesday night as St Johnstone and Trinidad and Tobago striker Jason Scotland strolled up to take his mark in the penalty shoot out that decided the Bell's Cup second round fixture. How the Partick fans enjoyed screaming abuse at the T&T player. And how Scotland enjoyed making them meekly return to their seats.
At the final count, there were 15 goals scored between the two Scottish lower league teams but First Division St Johnstone emerged victors against their Second Division opponents by four goals to three in the shoot-out, which followed a 2-2 regulation time and 4-4 extra time scoreline respectively.
"Scotty", who was unplayable for much of the first half and for spurts thereafter, played a pivotal role in his second fixture for his new club.
Perhaps it was the presence of Scotland's former army colleagues in the stands--six members of the Defence Force Steel Orchestra, who performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival--that reminded the talented striker of his days as a deadly marksman. Or maybe it was the confidence gained by his elevation to the role of St Johnstone's offensive leader as opposed to the regular rotation that marked his two-year spell at Scottish Premier League club, Dundee United. On Tuesday night, though, Scotland was swaggering again and it was just enough for St Johnstone to continue their Bell's Cup adventure.
The 27-year-old arguably suffered an identity crisis during his two-year stint in the Scottish leagues thus far. Possibly tramautised by Dundee United's rotation policy, Scotland has wavered between his own style of committing defenders and the safer, more sterile option of merely holding up the ball and retaining possession for his teammates.
There is less quality in the Scottish First Division than the Premiership but if Scotland builds on his start for St Johnstone--he scored a fine volley on his debut--his two-year deal with the club could reap long term dividends.
Employed just behind St Johnstone's two strikers in a 4-3-1-2 formation, a role similar to the one he played for Trinidad and Tobago in July's CONCACAF Gold Cup tournament, Scotland was pivotal in three of the visitors' four goals while he came close to scoring himself with a series of powerful drives.
The game was played at a frenzied pace. At every whistle, a player sprinted to take a throw or corner. At virtually every opportunity, either team chose to go forward. Put in a football dvd and hit fast forward and you would get the idea.
Neither team particularly favoured the long ball tactic but, at the game's speed, the quality of delivery from both outfits was bound to suffer. And it was to Scotland's credit that he managed to exhibit some silky touches despite the flying bodies around him.
Partick drew first blood with a dipping volley from Mark Roberts in the 62nd minute but Scotland responded, two minutes later, by wrong footing an opposing defender to win a penalty kick, which was converted by Peter McDonald.
The Partick supporters, distraught at losing their lead, reacted by screaming "cheat" at Scotland and booed him at every opportunity with the gusto usually reserved for notorious hate figures like Bolton's El-Hadji Diouf or Blackburn's Robbie Savage. St Johnstone went ahead in the 81st minute through Kevin Rutriewicz but an injury time Jukka Santala header forced extra time.
Twice, Partick reclaimed the lead through Stephen McConalogue and Sean Kilgannon but Scotty conjured up equalisers, each time, for Stephen Dobbie and Neil Janczyk.
The former Malick schoolboy finally got his chance to beat capable opposing goalkeeper Kenny Arthur in the subsequent penalty shoot out. Scotland casually took his mark and, as the baying intensified, he calmly rolled the ball to his left as Arthur flung himself to the wrong corner.
"Obviously (the Partick fans) thought I dived for the penalty so they booed me," said Scotland, who returned to Trinidad yesterday for international duty. "But I have played in front of bigger crowds and in bigger stadiums, so it did not bother me... I think my performance was alright. My first half was good but I faded a bit in the second half.
"Once I get fitter, I will score plenty goals." If he continues to pull the trigger, as he did on Tuesday in front of his old Defence Force comrades, the goals will surely come.

38

Football / Latapy must earn his pick, says Beenhakker

« on: August 31, 2005, 01:02:49 AM »

Latapy must earn his pick, says Beenhakker
By Ian Prescott  (Trinidad Express)

NATIONAL coach Leo Beenhakker has hinted that former national captain Russell Latapy will have to prove himself, and will not automatically walk back into the Trinidad and Tobago national football team for Saturday's 4.30 p.m. World Cup qualifier against Guatemala at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.

Latapy, a 37-year-old Scotland-based midfielder, has agreed to come out of international retirement for two matches, the Guatemala encounter and next Wednesday's away qualifier in San Jose against Costa Rica. The "Little Magician's" return has come following the efforts of captain Dwight Yorke and FIFA vice president Jack Austin Warner.

But following an intense national team training session yesterday morning at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Beenhakker said that Latapy is somewhat of an unknown quantity and hinted that he has to see what the former national captain has to offer.

Asked if he thought Latapy could make a contribution to the Warriors, Beenhakker said: "I don't know, I don't know. When last you see him?

"I know he was a great player, but he didn't play international football for the last few years, and we all know that international football is a different world from national football, national leagues and so on. There's a difference in the matches we see every week in the Pro League and when we have to play the USA or Mexico."

Beenhakker said that many things will determine if Latapy still has what it takes to make a contribution. The Dutchman explained that football has changed and that every year the pace of the game is becoming faster and much more physical. Latapy's age and fitness are factors Beenhakker has to consider. But even so, the Dutchman will make no conclusions until he sees what the "Little Magician" can do on the field.

"I am very happy he's coming over. I have a totally white paper without any conclusions. There are no words, no letters on it. Well, we will see if he can help us. We will see in the next few days," Beenhakker said.

Yesterday's session had only half of the 22 players Beenhakker had called for training, but already among them were overseas-based Silvio Spann (Yokohama FC), Scott Sealy (Kansas City Wizards), Avery John (New England Revolution), as well as T&T-based Anton Pierre, Cyd Gray, Aurtis Whittley, Densil Theobald, Atiba Charles and Glenton Wolffe. Also lending his experience to the younger players was former captain David Nakhid, who is now a scout.

Beenhakker said that Saturday's qualifier is a game Trinidad and Tobago must win. He anticipates that the United States and Mexico will qualify, and that Costa Rica, Trinidad and Tobago, Panama and Guatemala have equal chances of earning the other two qualifying places to the 2006 World Cup.

"It's clear that it's a tournament of four. That way, I think we are still in the race. But, we have no other choice than to win this Saturday of course."

Beenhakker also admitted that there is some pressure to get a good result, but feels his vast experience has prepared him.

"It is only a healthy kind of pressure. If you ask me if it makes me nervous? No, it doesn't, 'cause I have 40 years in this and I play a lot of important matches. Of course, it is always on your mind, but as I say, in a good way."

He said the Warriors still have problems in the midfield and up front and that it's a continuous process to build a good team.

"Football is a passing game and we are still struggling with having much more ball possession and taking much more care of the ball. Of course, one of the problems we have now is that we have played six matches for qualification, and we only scored four goals. So we have to say that up in front we still have a problem."

Despite the lack of goals, Beenhakker defended the continued inclusion of Stern John in his starting line-up. The Dutchman said John's loss of form was typical of many footballers.

"Versus Panama he (Stern John) played a good match, Mexico also. Sometimes you have a rest period in your football. You have guys who have been on good shape for several weeks and then you don't see them for several weeks. But Stern is a good player. If he is in good shape? I don't know, because I have not seen him in the last few weeks."

Beenhakker also defended his decision to drop speedy United States-based striker Cornell Glen from the team. Beenhakker pointed out that even under Bertille St Clair, Glen was not found to be the solution up front. He said he cannot find a spot for Glen among his four strikers.

"In the Gold Cup I was not satisfied with him during the stay-in at the camp and so on. But once again, when you play a match you have a group of 18 players. And within these 18 players, you need enough defence players, enough midfield players and enough strikers. For the moment, I prefer Kenwyne (Jones), I prefer Stern, I prefer Scott (Sealy), and (Dwight) Yorke is a guy who can play more up front, and that is it."
 

39

Football / Andrews: It's do or die

« on: August 27, 2005, 11:37:25 PM »

GLASGOW
trinidadexpress.com

Experienced Trinidad and Tobago defender Marvin Andrews has pinned his country's World Cup dreams on their next two games in the CONCACAF qualifying final round.

With the unbeaten, top-of-the-table Mexico to play in their last game on October 12th, the regional team must now gain positive results against the weaker Guatemala (Sep. 3rd) and Costa Rica (Sep. 7th) before facing Panama on October 8th.

"The next two games are virtually do it or die for us. We need at least four points from these two tough games for us. Guatemala are going to be a confident bunch no doubt," the 29-year old Glasgow Rangers star told the T&T Football Federation website.

Trinidad and Tobago, with just four points from their six games in the competition, meet Guatemala at the Hasely Crawford Stadium next Saturday.

They are three points behind the Guatemalans who have seven points and require a win in order to salvage their dreams of qualifying for the World Cup in Germany next year.

T&T's hopes were not helped when they lost 1-0 to the United States earlier this month, a performance which Andrews said the team must now learn from.

"We showed character in the second half with our backs against the walls and we need to play like that from the start of the match," Andrews said.

"The sending off was my mistake with the bad back pass and Dennis had to go in for the challenge. These things happen and we have just to get on with it."

He continued: "The good thing is we didn't crumble after that and we pulled ourselves together which is what we need in these upcoming matches."

Coach Leo Beenhakker recently summoned a squad of 22 players for training with Luton's Carlos Edwards, Gillingham's Ian Cox and the revered Falkirk midfielder Russell Latapy making their return to the squad.

40

Football / anyone know on what channel i can catch the game on in toronto ?

« on: August 27, 2005, 11:35:13 PM »

or of any bars dat might have it playin on sat ?

41

Football / Latapy in the area

« on: August 26, 2005, 12:18:52 AM »

from trinidadexpress.com

by: Terry Joseph

Back in the days when soccer balls were made of thick leather, gaining weight on contact with water, in a game played during the worst weather, I skillfully chest-trapped a long and curving lob from Franklin Fibbs, arching my body for increased control as it rolled down hardened abs and rigid thigh muscles; raising my left knee to create precise but deceptive lift and rocketed that sucker past a clueless goalkeeper to register the team's one-nil win.

As I remember it, linesman Felix "Baldy" Hernandez stood in awe as supporters of both teams set aside allegiances, offering a thunderous ovation, that noise and the piercing of referee Austin "Jack" Warner's whistle conspiring to yank me out of the dream, its details rekindled earlier this week on reading of Scotland-based Russell Latapy's return to our national football team.

Despite my nocturnal reverie, I am among the many who lost interest in local football since the retirement of star players and demise of teams they comprised in an era long gone, the likes of "Chalkie" Hamel-Smith, Carlton Franco, Lincoln Phillips, Kelvin Berrassa, Vivian Manswell and Jose Gruny delighting fans in front of the Grand Stand, games late in any season bringing new meaning to the Best Dark Virginia (BDV) cup tournament, as waning light increased challenges facing players.

Perhaps it was the standard conspiracy of distractions that caused me to select alternative entertainment options as I attained manhood but there remains a niggling suspicion that the game itself had lost some of its pizzazz with the exit of heroes revered by all, irrespective of team affiliation, men of great talent who played for recreation exclusively, opportunities for realising fortunes from the sport not yet available locally; fans riding bicycles right up to the touch-line to take in the action at close range.

There would come a time when Horace "Pepper-wine" Lovelace collected a clean pass and began his travel down the flank, the crowd reduced to a hush of anticipation, for it was a Colts vs Malvern game, a joust historically laden with unbridled passion, fans taking nothing for granted until the final whistle. Indeed, there were several predictable moments, not limited to clashes between rival teams but individual players that peaked interest in games to which they were already glued.


Then, as time would have it, migration set in and our best players simply disappeared from the picture, even as the frame itself collapsed, fans deciding on other pursuits as young blood filled locker-rooms, replacing the sights and sounds to which we had become accustomed, even the Northern League subsiding, as small-goal football set in with rules quite different from those of the FIFA-endorsed game, making light of the joust that once boasted gentlemanly conduct on the field; albeit producing some identifiably skilled artisans from the inevitable goal-mouth scrimmage.

There are those who firmly believe this poor-man's version of the game, largely played on unkempt fields and tarmac schoolyards after the evening bell, helped reduce nurturing of critical techniques required for major league application, saying even the most clever set-plays devised for the small-goal configuration were useless on a full-sized field but widespread availability of playing outlets near to the homes of participants increased popularity of the contrived adaptation.


Whatever the truth of such arguments, not just its goalkeepers but major league football itself took a dive, remaining down for some considerable time before a new breed of players surfaced, among them the diminutive Latapy, 37, appropriately titled "The Little Magician," a moniker conferred since his days as an Under-10 player and one he continued to justify right up to and through achievement of his current status as player/assistant coach with Scottish premier league team Falkirk.

"Latas," as he is familiarly known, is from my hometown of Success Village, Laventille, which puts an even higher shine on his achievements, given the stereotyping of my homies. From early in his career, the name Latapy has been compared to greats of that golden era, like Carlton "Squeaky" Hinds and in the next wave, Warren Archibald, Everald "Gally" Cummings and a host of attacking footballers.

Not that I demand of Latas that, with a single swing of the leg, he reverse the team's fortunes as it struggles to secure a place in next year's World Cup Finals but the comfort that his return brings to not just fans but on the evidence, fellow players, imports a psychological boost that may even be strong enough to take me to the Hasely Crawford Stadium on September 3 to watch a little magic, or at the least; continue the dream.

42

Entertainment & Culture Discussion / Question 4 anyone who has the ans

« on: August 22, 2005, 11:13:24 PM »

does anyone know how to send a tex message to a mobile phone in T&T i tried doing it while i was romain in T&T & the tex didnt go though but i know cell phones usally have email address's to them so for example: 6479586523@rogers.pcs.com so anything i send to that addy goes to the phone & the person can respond accordingly, I also knew of one site where you can send a tex message to cell phones in T&T but that site is no longer running/or sometimes the tex's dont go though does anyone have a solution to this ??

43

Football / St Johnstone swoop for Scotland.

« on: August 19, 2005, 11:21:21 PM »

St Johnstone swoop for Jason Scotland.
By: Lasana Liburd (Express).

Scottish First Division football club, St Johnstone, hope to succeed where Dundee United failed after requesting a work permit for Trinidad and Tobago national striker Jason Scotland earlier this week.
Scotland, who represented United for the past two seasons in the Scottish Premier League (SPL), was denied a work permit by the British Home Office last month after being offered a new two-year deal by United. The Home Office accepted a verdict from a six member panel of ex-football players and managers who declared, in a split vote, that the striker lacked the quality to "contribute significantly" to the Scottish Premiership.
United were incensed by the decision but St Johnstone hope to benefit from their misfortune.
"I wouldn't be doing my job right if I didn't bring quality players to St Johnstone," St Johnstone manager and ex-United forward Owen Coyle told the BBC. "Jason is available and is a top-class player. If we're successful in getting him, it will give us tremendous competition in the striking department."
Scotland's work permit appeal should be heard next week and the former soldier's case is likely to go before a different panel. But, even if the new adjudicators accepted last month's ruling that Scotland lacked the calibre to play in the SPL, they could agree that he is good enough for the First Division.
Scotland vowed to remain positive despite the disappointment of leaving United, who he helped qualify for this season's UEFA Cup with a match winning goal against Hibernian in the Scottish Cup semi-final.
"If I have to prove myself and show I am good enough to play in the Premiership," he told The Daily Express, "then that is what I have to do. It is a setback because, instead of going forward to a bigger club, I find myself going down a division but I just have to work my way up."
Scotland also hopes that playing regularly for St Johnstone would help him regain his national place after being omitted from Leo Beenhakker's squad, which lost 1-0 to the United States in Wednesday's World Cup qualifier. Scotland played in all three CONCACAF Gold Cup outings in July but subsequently lost his spot as a result of his topsy-turvy professional situation.
Scotland, who claimed that he was not fully match fit at the Gold Cup tournament, was grateful that Beenhakker explained his reasons for leaving him out his midweek team.
"The coach told me I was not in the team because I was not playing every week and I have to accept that," said Scotland. "I think that so long as I am playing football every Saturday, I have a good chance of getting in the team so I hope can win back my place."
At present, St Johnstone are atop the First Division standings with a maximum of six points from two outings in which they scored five times and are yet to concede. They also won their opening CIS Cup match 3-2 away to Cowdenbeath to maintain a 100 per cent record. Coyle is confident that Scotland can make them even stronger.

44

Football / Yorke wants to play midfield

« on: August 18, 2005, 11:46:20 PM »

Yorke wants to play midfield
By Ian Prescott (Trinidad Express)


Dwight Yorke, right, of Trinidad and Tobago tries to control the ball against Gregg Berhalter of the United States during their World Cup Qualifier match at Rentschler Field on Wednesday in East Hartford, Connecticut.

CAPTAIN Dwight Yorke would much rather play in midfield for the rest of Trinidad and Tobago's World Cup qualifying campaign, providing the Warriors Dutch national coach Leo Beenhakker let's him do so.

Yorke let his feeling known following Trinidad and Tobago's 1-0 loss to the Americans in their World Cup qualifier on Wednesday night at Rentschler Field, East Hartford, Connecticut, USA.

The match saw the Warriors getting the worst possible start when Brian McBride put the Americans ahead after just 92 seconds, beating their previous fastest of 94 seconds, also scored against Trinidad and Tobago some years ago. It got worse for the Trinidad and Tobago when stopper Dennis Lawrence was ejected in the 41st, when he halted American striker Landon Donavon's breakaway run at the T&T goal, with a last gasp desperate grab. But with Yorke running things in the middle, after being shifted from up front, the Caribbean visitors did improve somewhat, despite playing with a player short.

With important back-to-back qualifiers coming up at home to Guatemala on September 3 and in San Jose against Costa Rica on September 9, Yorke feels he makes a better contribution in the middle of the pack, than up front where he made his reputation at Manchester United, and where Beenhakker now uses him.

"I'd like to be involved a little bit more, and certainly I was able to do that in the second half. Am thinking, the second half (in the midfield) is the position I'd like to play, because of my experience. But, the manager is the one who makes those decisions, and I have to go with it."

Yorke would have loved to avoid the slow start. The game had only just begun when John O'Brian's straight pass at the back of T&T's Atiba Charles picked out Bobby Convey, whose accurate short pass across the six-yard box made it almost impossible for McBride to miss from so close in. McBride just had to beat Marvin Andrews to the pass, and the ball was in the back of the T&T net.

Yorke believed that conceding the early goal was a fatal slip, but credited his team-mates for their effort at not being overwhelmed by the Americans.

"We showed that we have a bit of fight and spirit, even with 10 men. We showed that we can compete with these guys. But, we can't afford to give them the upperhand, as we did."

"I think we played well in the second half, considering we were down a man. The way we started is inexcusable, and it wasn't a good performance in the first 20 minutes. We knew if we started well, we had a chance. If there was an opportunity to get a good result against the Americans, we needed to start well.

Unfortunately, we were not able to do that," he added. Even American coach Bruce Arena gave T&T some kudos for their effort. "Well, they (Trinidad and Tobago) never gave up, we have to give them credit for that. Many teams would have," Arena said.

For a significant part of the match, Arena's men were cutting apart the T&T defence with excellent off the ball runs, and it was mainly due to some excellent stops by goalkeeper Kelvin Jack, that T&T remained close. Jack began erratically, but improved as the play moved on. During that time he made four excellent stops to keep out the Americans.

After failing to keep out McBride's opener in the second minute, Jack stopped the Americans getting a second in the ninth in blocking a "cute" attempt at a back-heeled goal from American defender Oyuchi Onyewu, who was bold enough to venture into his opponents' penalty area while the Americans were dominating the match. But after stopping Onyewu, Jack almost pushed the self-destruct button, when carelessly clearing the ball low to Donovan at the edge of the T&T penalty area. The T&T 'keeper cleaned up his mess, but his was typical of Trinidad and Tobago's shaky and uncertain play at that time.

Glasgow Rangers defender Marvin Andrews, usually so forceful at the back, was having a shaky time and did his fellow stopper, Dennis Lawrence, an injustice, when letting Donovan intercept his errant back pass to 'keeper Jack. Lawrence was having his usual good game, when he sacrificed himself by making the necessary last-gasp tackle to stop the American scoring, and was red-carded by the Mexican referee.

Blue-vexed after the game, and probably at that stage as well, Beenhakker quickly re-organised his team, making a double-change after Lawrence's ejection. Central midfielder Silvio Spann moved to the right-back position, replacing Atiba Charles, who the Americans "ate up" regularly on the left flank. Yorke dropped from the front to assume Spann's position in the middle; and hard-working Scott Sealy ran his heart out after coming on for Charles to fill Yorke's vacant position up front. Scotland-based Dundee defender Brent Sancho also filled Lawrence's stopper position at the expense of Collin Samuel.

The T&T coach's juggling stemmed the tide in the second half, and when Kenwyne Jones came on for an ineffective Stern John in the second half, he, Sealy and overlapping Spann on the right, kept the Yanks alert with a few threatening drives. But mainly it was Jack's , work that served T&T best.

Young American Convey must have felt he had scored for sure when hitting a low, angled shot, before Jack's left palm kept the ball out. The T&T 'keeper later brought off a similar stop. Jack was pleased with his work on the night, but wished he had stopped the early goal.

"I think I played okay, unfortunately, I could not keep a clean sheet. We knew it was going to be a very difficult game, but we still have four games to play, and a possible 12 points to get."

Unlike Jack, Beenhakker was in no talking mood and totally by-passed the post-match press conference. Almost brooding as he sat isolated at the front off the T&T team bus, Beenhakker must have been well aware that the next two matches could well make or break the campaign. But the Dutchman would have seen some positives on the night and granted expected improvement by some of Wednesday's under-achievers, he would expect a better showing next time against Guatemala.

Sealy's high work-rate and Jones' never-say-die attitude must have been refreshing. Spann played with total assurance, even when shifted to an unfamiliar defensive position. And so did Aurtis Whittley, who was not afraid to keep the ball at his feet and take on the Americans when required. Yorke played a captain's part, Jack held his end, and Lawrence was doing well before getting the boot.

Sancho also battled. But Atiba Charles, who is a better player than the one that showed up against the Americans, Chris Birchall and Avery John, each need to improve on what they did.

Stern John was tough, but looked a shadow of himself. Is he still in a very long slump in form? Or, has Stern passed his best? These are questions Beenhakker needs to ponder before meeting Guatemala.

45

Football / Hot Scott ready to strike.

« on: August 16, 2005, 12:17:16 AM »

Scott Sealy ready for action.
By: Shaun Fuentes.

US-based striker Scott Sealy says he’s pumped up for his reintroduction into the National senior team for today’s 2006 World Cup qualifier against the United States in Connecticut.
The Kansas City Wizards forward currently has seven goals this season in the MLS and has recently caught good form and has also caught the eye of T&T head coach Leo Beenhakker.
Sealy is yet to make an appearance for the “Warriors” in the final round of the qualifiers but insists that he’s up for the challenge.
“I haven’t been in the team for  a while now but I think once I get the chance on Wednesday, I should be up for it. The last few months have been a really good learning experience for me in the MLS. I had been playing well but I just wasn’t scoring and now of late, the goals have started coming and my confidence has grown,” Sealy said after training in Hartford on the eve of the encounter. Like Stern John, Sealy is intent on making the best of his time in the MLS and hopefully move on to bigger things in the years ahead.

Q&A with Sealy.

1.What’s your most memorable moment or match, whether for Country or Club?
Game against South Korea, the shot which hit the crossbar. It didn’t score but it was a big moment and the result was a good one for us.
       
2. Name two persons, whether relative or not who have been an inspiration to you.
My mother Annette Sealy.

3. Any favourite player or team?
Adriano and Chelsea.

4.What would be your preferred other profession.
A Pilot.
 
5. What do you hope to accomplish either in next 5 years or end of playing career.
Hopefully playing in a World Cup and winning some sort of silverware with the club I’m with.
 
6. Who’s been among your most admired coaches and why?
Edmond Pouchet, even though was swimming he was a good mentor and in football Luciano Woodley at St Mary’s College in 1997 because he gave me a prospective that no other coach has been able to  give me. He was a forward and he had a good knowledge of the game. Ken Butcher too because he was at CIC for two years and we developed a good relationship, beyond football.

7. What do you think of T&T’s chances of making it to the 2006 World Cup.
I think the chances are still good. We need at least four or even three points in the next two games.

8. Any instances or plays that you always reflect on.
When I control the ball well in a difficult situation or just keep reflecting on some of the goals that I have scored. That keeps me on top of my game.
 
9. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Just to put your best foot forward and things will work out.

10.What do you do to relax away from the game.
I just cool it by watching tv, listen to music, play video games and chilling with the family.
 
11.What’s your favorite dish?
Sesame Chicken.

12.Favourite drink?
Malta.

13.Favorite time of year?
Christmas.

14.Most comfortable football boot?
Copa Mundial but now I like the Adidas F50s.

15.What was the high point for you this season as well as the low point.
High point has been getting in a groove with Kansas now and being consistent in terms of appearances. Low point has been struggling to adapt early in the MLS as well as not being a regular member of the T&T team for the final round of the qualifiers up to now.Hot Scott ready to strike.
By: Ian Prescott.[/size]

There is no limit to the amount of work that Scott Sealy is willing to do on a football field. A relative rookie to national football, Sealy shows the typical hunger of a young striker who is eager to prove himself.
That thirst for goals has made Sealy the top rookie at his club, the Kansas City Wizards and also has him running a 'hot streak' during which he has scored five goals in the last five games he has played for his club.
Most experienced coaches know the value of a striker on a 'hot streak' and it was this thirst for goals that caught the eye of coach Leo Beenhakker. Looking to beef up his attack, Beenhakker travelled to the United States last weekend to see Sealy in a Major League Soccer (MLS) match against the New England Revolution.

Guess what? He scored.

And after having his first look at the player, Beenhakker made the brave move to select the 24 year-old former Petit Valley resident ahead of ex-Dundee United striker Jason Scotland, and also Colombus Crew striker Cornell Glen, who seemed a certain candidate for the spot after the way he had panicked the Americans when the teams met on February 9 in the first leg of the qualifying tie in Port of Spain. Sealy too feels that it is his goals, more than anything, that has got him onto the Trinidad and Tobago national team.
"I guess it has to be the goals more than anything else," he said. "Because the coach (Beenhakker) never saw me play previously. In such a situation, the fact that am producing for my club is the main thing that I can see earning me a call up to the national team. I also think my work rate as a footballer is something that is not too common In Trinidad football," he said."
After a slow start to the MLS season, Sealy has moved up rapidly and his recent five strikes have taken his tally to seven for the season. He is also jointly tied as the leading scorer for his club with well-regarded players such as Sasha Victorine and Chris Kline.
"It feels good, because I started off slowly, but for the past month and a half, I have started to show some really good form." However, scoring goals is nothing new to Sealy, who earned a football scholarship to Wake Forest after scoring goals in bunches for St Mary College in the Secondary Schools Football League. He also excelled at the American College where he made All Conference and All-American First teams and also left as the second highest goal scorer in Wake Forest history. Sealy says his goal had always to be a professional football, but he feels that it was important to go to school.
"I always wanted to get my education first, because nothing is certain. I think that I am lucky in that I am one of those who can do both. But one day, I hope to play at a higher level, maybe in England or in the Bundesliga." He has been a professional for just a short time and has had even less time as a senior national football. Former national coach Bertille St Clair, had used him a couple of times off the bench, but Beenhakker has never had a chance to see what the young striker can do. And after seeing what Beenhakker can do, Sealy is convinced that Trinidad and Tobago can do well against the United States tomorrow.
"I like what I have seen of the coach. He has us attacking, but he also has us defending and cutting out the ball. He definitely has a plan, " says Sealy, who is hoping that Beenhakker also has him in his plans for tomorrow's match.

Related News:

K.C. mates Sealy, Conrad square off.

46

Entertainment & Culture Discussion / reggae vs. soca ??

« on: July 19, 2005, 12:09:25 AM »

soca is the music of the devil.
thoses were the statements made by I-Wayne in this express article
from my understanding most reggae(mostly dancehall songs ) are i'd have to say 90% negiative as to soca which is like 99% positive i dont see how he would come up to this conclusion
i dont know help me out jus a general question reggaefan or any other person trini/jamaican dat reads this whats your opinion to his comments ?
this isnt meat to bring up an argument on which music is better (Soca would win  ) but jus to get your opinions.

  Soca flows at the Savannah

by Wayne Bowman 

from trinidadexpress.com
 
Apart from a stabbing and the violent rocking of the fence separating the VIP section from the general audience, Saturday night's Soca for Summer party was without major incidents.

An unidentified man who found himself in the area leading to backstage and the VIP area was stabbed when he got into an altercation with another man. The culprit jumped the fence and escaped while the injured was attended to by security personnel.

The thousands who jammed the Queen's Park Savannah were treated to non-stop action from as early as 8 p.m. when the band Surface served up the opening act.

This went on virtually until just before the break of dawn yesterday when Road March champion Shurwayne Winchester and his band Traffik brought down the curtains.

During a break in his performance, Machel Montano called out to the general admission audience behind the VIP section, telling them that they were too far and he wished they were closer. A few hearts in VIP skipped several beats as patrons in general admission began to rock the fence violently, but it held up and they eventually cooled down.

Montano told the patrons that he was a patriotic Trinbagonian and shouted, "Me no sign up with no Digicel, Mr Machel support TSTT all the way."

As the crowd cheered, he then called on them to hold up their lighted mobile phones saying, "I don't know how to solve crime, but I could talk to you and tell you to put your faith in God. Always."

He also commented on the statements being made to the international media by Jamaican reggae singer I-Wayne, who says that as far as he is concerned soca is the music of the devil. "I don't believe in Satan, I believe in God," Montano shouted to his screaming audience.

Bunji Garlin, too, commented on I-Wayne's statements during his performance, saying that I-Wayne can't ever come here to perform again after having disrespected the people of Trinidad and Tobago as he has. "I am not afraid to speak out. They asking me if I don't know who they is," Garlin said.

Garlin, who informed the audience that he has been told that a TT$100,000 bounty has been placed on his head, said, "If tomorrow you hear that something has happened to me,never forget that I was one of the baddest that ever pass through the business"

There was some loud grumbling when the VIP Bar Manager closed all the bars shortly after Montano's performance.

Patrons were angered when they were refused even water and ice by the workers and the police appeared on the scene to bring order. Show producer, Terrin Callender, eventually showed up to ask the bar manager why he had closed the bar when there were still drinks available. The bars were then reopened for a while.

47

Football / Tobago U holds champs NE Stars to 3-3 draw

« on: June 19, 2005, 11:57:32 PM »

BY NIGEL SIMON
guradian.co.tt

ANCIL GEORGE made a last-minute break-away to secure Tobago United’s first point in the 2005 T&T Professional Football League’s Senior Division.

The Tobagonians battled to a 3-3 draw with National Quarries North East Stars at the Dwight Yorke Stadium in Bacolet, Tobago, on Saturday night.

NE Stars, the defending champions, seemed set for a huge win after taking a 3-0 lead, but the Tobagonians struck back with three goals, the last coming in the final minute, to get their first point from eight matches.

Anton Wolfe opened the scoring for Stars in the 23rd minute off a free-kick while Carrey Harris made it 2-0, two minutes before half-tima.

Three minutes into the second-half, the match seemed all but over when Harris fired in his second goal of the match—the team’s third.

But the Tobago United players were not to be denied and started their recovery in the 58th minute through Ashford Legerton.

Noel Williams, the top scorer in the Under-20 last year, rattled the nerves of the Stars when he banged in the Tobagonians’ second goal in the 76th minute.

With the final seconds ticking away, George found himself on a break-away and with only Stars goalkeeper Trevor Nottingham to beat, he coolly slotted the ball into the net to salvage the 3-3 draw for his club.

Earlier on Saturday, CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh got a 69th-minute winner from Josh Johnson to beat previously-unbeaten VIBE CT 105 W Connection 1-0 at the Larry Gomes Stadium in Malabar, Arima. The Jabloteh team now has 14 points from eight matches—the same number as Defence Force—while W Connection, winners of their previous seven league matches, remain with 21 points.

At the Manny Ramjohn Stadium in Marabella, Kevon Carter scored with one minute left to give Defence Force an entertaining 3-2 win over United Petrotrin.

The match started one hour and half late, but it did not seem to bother Defence Force who took a second-minute lead through Anton Joseph.

Ronald Boyce doubled the lead before Kevin Hernandez pulled a goal back for the “Oilmen” in the 31st minute.

Brent Garcia drew Petrotrin level in the 77th minute, but with only one minute remaining, Carter, a former national youth team player, fired home the winner to the delight of his team-mates who were coming off a 7-0 drubbing by CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh in the previous round

48

Football / Latapy drafts two for Falkirk

« on: June 17, 2005, 12:46:59 AM »

guardian.co.tt

Former T&T international and team captain Russell Latapy has already begun drafting new players for his club, Falkirk as they prepare for life in the top flight of the Scottish Premier Division.

The 36-year-old Latapy, who began his European professional career with Academica in Portugal, was responsible for the addition of two Portuguese youngsters to their squad for next season’s assault on the SPL.

The duo, midfielder Vitor Manuel Lima Santos, 23, and defender Tiago Jonas Ferraz Rodrigues, 22, will sign as a free agents for Falkirk on 1 July.

Both were playing in the Portuguese Segunda B Leagues and were discovered by Bairns player-coach Russell Latapy.

Latapy, who turned down an offer from newly appointed T&T coach Leo Beenahker to re-start his international career to focus his effort on helping Falkirk make a good adjustment to life in the SPL also spent time with top Portuguese clubs Porto and Boavista before his move to Scotland.

49

Football / UEFA allows Liverpool to defend title

« on: June 11, 2005, 12:09:22 AM »

from tsn.ca

LONDON (AP) - Liverpool is back in the Champions League - but not exactly where the defending champions wanted.

UEFA, European soccer's governing body, ruled Friday that Liverpool will be allowed to defend its Champions League crown after all next season.

But the Reds won't go straight into the group stage; they'll have to play three qualifying rounds just to get there.

The decision was met with a mixture of relief and contempt.

"To be told they have to start in the first qualifier is wrong and a real kick in the teeth," said Les Lawson, spokesman for the Liverpool International Supporters Club.


 
 
 
"It is a disgrace. Liverpool are the top team in Europe because they are the holders and have beaten Europe's best. They are being treated like ... a very small club."

Despite beating AC Milan on penalties in the final in Istanbul last month, the five-time European champions didn't gain an automatic spot in next season's competition.

Under UEFA's rules, the champion didn't automatically qualify. The top four in the English Premier League qualify, and Liverpool finished fifth. Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United and Everton qualified automatically.

But UEFA decided Friday to give a special exception for Liverpool this time and that, from now on, the tournament's reigning champion will automatically have the right to defend the crown.

UEFA chief executive Lars-Christer Olsson said the unanimous decision would be supported by "all fans" and was "a good reward ... for the fantastic final we had in Istanbul."

"We welcome the decision to allow us in the competition next season," Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry said. "We wish to express our thanks to all those who supported us and campaigned on our behalf."

"We've had the right things in our hearts, and they've had the right things in their minds," added Phil Thompson, former Liverpool captain and manager.

If the situation happens again, the fourth-place team will have to drop out to make room for the Champions League winner. Had the rule been in force this season, Liverpool's archrival Everton would have been out.

"In the upcoming season, England will be the only national association ever, and for the last time, that will be allowed to have five clubs," UEFA spokesman William Gaillard said.

Gaillard indicated that revenue from the competition would be split five ways, not four ways, by the English clubs.

"There will be some financial burden on the other four clubs," he said.

Liverpool will enter the first qualifying rounds, which begin on July 12-13 and July 19-20. The draw for the round is June 24.

Last season, Liverpool played one qualifying round - two games - to reach the main stage.

Liverpool will have to play six matches to reach the group stage this time. Parry said the club's lucrative tour to Japan in late July could be in doubt.

Under the UEFA decision, Liverpool could face any of its English rivals at any stage in the competition. UEFA normally keep teams from the same country apart until the quarter-final stage.

But since Liverpool wasn't given "country protection," it could play Manchester United or Everton in the third qualifying round. In the group stage, Chelsea or Arsenal could loom as opponents.

"I wouldn't say the majority of Liverpool fans are overjoyed as we have been put in at the very lowest level in the first round rather than as the highest seed," said Rich Peddar, chairman of the Liverpool FC Supporters Club. "We are in it and that is the main thing."

British bookmaker William Hill installed Liverpool as a 25-1 underdog to repeat as champion. Chelsea is the title favourite at 6-1.

Liverpool was one of three English teams that had qualified for the UEFA Cup, the continent's second-tier competition. England may now have only two teams in the competition - Bolton and Middlesbrough. UEFA said Manchester City would not be given Liverpool's berth, as some expected.

In a statement, the Premier League said it would lobby to have Man City included in the UEFA Cup.

"We will be asking the FA to formally re-nominate Bolton, Middlesbrough and Manchester City in the three UEFA Cup places allocated to the English game," the statement said.

50

Football / Ince back in T&T Gold Cup squad Eve, Wolfe also among 25

« on: June 10, 2005, 10:56:30 PM »

guardian.co.tt
 
 Former national captain Angus Eve will have a chance to reclaim his place in the T&T World Cup squad, as he is in a squad of 25 players for the 2005 Concacaf Gold Cup, which takes place in the USA from July 6-24.

Crewe Alexandra’s goalkeeper Clayton Ince is also named in the 25-man training squad, suggesting that his problems with the federation have been settled. Jack Warner, advisor to the TTFF said Ince had resigned following his omission as goalkeeper for the match against Panama, which Ince said later was not so-that he had asked for a rest.

Eve, currently a player/coach with CL financial San Juan Jabloteh in the T&T Professional Football League was captain of the Warriors under sacked coach Bertille St Clair, during the first two rounds of World Cup qualification matches.

However, since the arrival of Holland-born Leo Beenhakker as national team coach, Eve has been limited to one appearance, a friendly against local club National Quarries North East Stars.

Glenton Wolfe, who made two appearances in friendly matches for the Warriors under Beenhakker, like Eve will have another chance to impress the former Real Madrid and Ajax coach before he announces his Gold Cup team.

Daurance Williams, David Atiba Charles, Anton Pierre, Aurtis Whitley and Densil Theobald, all members of the World Cup squad, are the other locally based professional players in the squad which will be trimmed to 23, 15-days prior to the team’s first match.

Also called up to the team are Cornell Glen of Major League club Columbus Crew and Jason Scotland of Dundee United.

The remaining members of the squad comprise the players who were selected to represent T&T in the World Cup matches against Panama and Mexico.

This year’s Gold Cup will consist of three groups of four teams for the first round, with the top two from each group, along with the best two third-placed teams, progressing to the quarterfinals for a total of ten double-headers.

The quarterfinal matches will take place on July 16 (two matches in Foxboro), and July 17 (two in Houston). The 2005 Concacaf Gold Cup semifinal and final are scheduled for Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 21 and July 24, respectively.

T&T squad

Goalkeepers: Clayton Ince (Crewe Alexendra), Kelvin Jack (Dundee), Daurance Williams (San Juan Jabloteh);

Defenders: Marvin Andrews (Glasgow Rangers), David Charles (W Connection), Avery John (New England Revolution), Dennis Lawrence (Wrexham), Anton Pierre (Defence Force), Marlon Rojas (Real Salt Lake), Brent Sancho (Dundee), Glenton Wolfe (North East Stars);

Midfielders: Christopher Birchall (Port Vale), Carlos Edwards (Luton Town), Angus Eve (San Juan Jabloteh), Leslie Fitzpatrick (Real Salt Lake), Brent Rahim (Un-attached), Densil Theobald (Caledonia AIA/Fire), Aurtis Whitley (San Juan Jabloteh), Dwight Yorke (Sidney FC);

Forwards: Gary Glasgow (un-attached), Cornell Glen (Columbus Crew), Stern John (Coventry ), Kenwyneb Jones (Southampton), Hector Sam (Wrexham), Jason Scotland (Dundee United).
 
 

51

Football / PFL targets $60,000 profit from S&G deal

« on: June 10, 2005, 10:55:16 PM »

PFL targets $60,000 profit from S&G deal.
By: Nigel Simon.

The Professional Football League hopes to generate profits of more than $60,000 for the remainder of the 2005 season, after signing a two-year apparel deal with Sports and Games Limited.
The deal was announced by Dexter Skeene, chief executive officer of the PFL, at Sports and Games, West Mall branch in Diego Martin yesterday.
Prior to disclosing the details of the partnership, Skeene noted that the PFL were focused on giving their sponsors value for their money.
He explained that when he approached Charles Hadeed, S&G’s managing director, he was a little taken back, because the approach was not for a handout but to establish a strategic business alliance from which both parties would benefit.
“The PFL is not only committed to developing clubs and players, but also to support the local industry.
As part of the agreement, S&G will now be known as the official equipment supplier of all clubs in the PFL’s senior and junior divisions.
Skeene said the deal will benefit the clubs in several ways, including all clubs receiving discounts and economical prices on the purchase of uniforms, as well as ten per cent discounts to teams on all equipment purchases, while the uniforms will all be custom-designed to suit the individual needs of each club.
In addition to the team uniforms, the new sponsors will also manufacture team replicas and memorabilia.
From the purchase of the replicas by the club’s supporters, the PFL will receive 20 per cent of all sales.
Holders of PFL season tickets were not left out of the promotional drive by the PFL and S&G.
The season ticket holders will be able to use their cards for discounts. Upon presentation of the card at all S&G outlets, they will receive a ten per cent discount on each purchase.
The league will receive a further ten per cent of sales made with the season-pass discount cards.
With this in mind, Skeene said: “If each of the 2,000 season-pass holders make a $300 purchase at Sports & Games, the league will stand to gain at least $60,000.
Skeene also used the opportunity to present former national football team coaches Edgar Vidale, Jimmy Blanc, Alvin Corneal and Muhammed Isa with vouchers, PFL season-passes and discount cards for their service in the development of football in T&T.

52

Football / Kudos for Warriors ..T&T give battling performance in 2-0 defeat to Mexico

« on: June 10, 2005, 12:30:04 AM »

Kudos for Warriors
T&T give battling performance in 2-0 defeat to Mexico
By: Ian Prescott (Trinidad Express)

Trinidad and Tobago's Warriors have come in for kudos from several quarters, despite a 2-0 defeat to Mexico in a CONCACAF World Cup qualifier in Monterrey, Mexico, on Wednesday night.
After a goalless first half, goals from Jared Borgetti (65th) and Luis Perez (89th) gave group leaders Mexico victory and extended their unbeaten streak to 18 World Cup qualifying matches.
But even in defeat, which left Trinidad and Tobago fifth in the six-team standings, many are encouraged by the Warriors' performance away to a traditionally difficult opponent and feel it is still possible to qualify for the 2006 World Cup from the five remaining CONCACAF qualifiers.

Here are reactions to Wednesday's match:

LINCOLN PHILLIPS-Trinidad & Tobago Football Federation technical director:

"I though it was the best performance of a Trinidad and Tobago team in Mexico...absolutely. I was very happy to see a continuation of the improvement that I saw from the Alianza Lima game, where we tried to possess the ball. It got even better in the game against Panama (which T&T won 2-0 last Saturday) and we were equally as positive against a world-class team as Mexico.
I think the tactics of the game were first class. We closed up the middle and played compact, to the point where the Mexicans were booing their own team and they made a substitution after 35 minutes." Overall, Phillip felt that Trinidad and Tobago were improving rapidly and with continued advancement could qualify for the World Cup. "I think we are going along a very nice line of improvement. I think the upcoming Gold Cup games will help to take us to that other level," he added.

EDGAR VIDALE-Former national coach/technical director:

"I was proud that we were able to keep the score as low as it was. The best I had hoped for was a draw, but I think they played very manfully, the defence in particular."

PETER O'CONNOR-Marketing manager, Local Organising Committee/ Former Football Association president:

"I had hoped for a draw and wished for a win, but I did not rationally expect either. I would have loved a point, but what I see is continued improvement. I see us fighting for third with Costa Rica and Guatemala. I think the Gold Cup is going to give us a chance to maintain the continuation of the good work that we are seeing with the team. Though I was disappointed, I see many positives."

DAVID JOHN WILLIAMS-Owner, W. Connection Football Club:

"I think that we defended well, although we did not have as much possession as the Mexicans. Looking at the history of us playing in Mexico, I think it was one of our better performances over there." John-Williams felt the Warriors have improved and that the squad is now more settled. "When last you see Trinidad play the same squad in consecutive matches?" he asked.

CLAYTON MORRIS-Former national captain:

"Just like in the Panama game, I think that we really improved again for the Mexico game. The way we structured the game, especially the defence, was very impressive. You can see that we are trying to play to a plan. You see that the team is now organised, has a plan, and is trying to play to that plan. I am impressed."

BRIAN WILLIAMS-Former national defender:

"I think the national team continues to improve. Since (coach Leo) Beenhakker took over, I see a new spirit in the team. I don't think it was bad performance."
Williams said, fitness-wise, the team has some work to do to maintain the intensity through a full World Cup qualifier, but he is confident that Trinidad and Tobago are playing well enough to pick up the seven or so points that will qualify the team for the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

MUHAMMED ISA-Former national coach:

"I think that we played well. Tactically, I think we approached the game well. There has been a great improvement in the team and the players are possessing the ball more. I thought that basically two errors cost us the game but, overall, I think they played well."

53

Football / Starting all over again...

« on: June 10, 2005, 12:27:21 AM »

Fazeer Mohammed
trinidadexpress.com

The more things change, the more they deteriorate in this twin-island madhouse of a country, whether its politics or morality, cricket or football.

Why does it always seem like we've been through all this before? An exiled former player begs for the salvation of local football. A former official rips the local media for failing to promote the national team's World Cup qualifying bid. And Trinidad and Tobago are beaten in Mexico. What else is new?

Add to that the regular bittersweet journeys down memory lane as the Express Sports magazine's "Turning Back the Clock" focuses Thursday after Thursday on the countless images of 16 years ago, when this nation was galvanised like never before or since in pursuit of a dream that seemed so close we were convinced that it was already a reality.

Even if our short memories allow us to quickly forgive and forget before jumping onto the next bandwagon, the recriminations that followed the "Road to Italy" campaign left many a diehard fan feeling used and abused.

Yet some-showing more unyielding loyalty to the game than some of those wearing the uniform or sitting in the administrative offices-still keep coming back for more, to have their hopes fuelled by delusions of grandeur and wholly unrealistic expectations.

Sammy Llewellyn, the former national striker, has an axe to grind with Jack Warner for what he describes as the game being taken away from the people.

Peter O'Connor, president of the Football Association in those heady days of 1989 and now marketing manager of the 2006 qualifying campaign, holds the media partially responsible for the success or failure to achieve what he says will be the biggest sporting story of our lives, reaching the World Cup finals.

Assuming both have valid arguments, why did the people allow the game to be taken away from them? Why don't the people berate the media for such cursory coverage of their beloved national team?

Indeed, just as a people get the political representatives (on both sides of the floor) they deserve, so is any public institution reflective of those who comprise it and are directly influenced by it.

Hardly anyone makes a big fuss about the often superficial nature of the coverage of the country's World Cup qualifying campaign. Not because they are necessarily satisfied with it, but simply because they are tired of getting their hopes up, only to be let down.

Even now, at the halfway stage of an effort in which Trinidad and Tobago, despite Wednesday night's 2-0 loss in Monterrey, are still very much in with a chance of finishing at least fourth to earn a playoff with an Asian country, most of the public are observing from a cautious distance.

There is a sense of resigned inevitability that sooner or later the bubble will burst and we will all be thankful for not getting caught up in the premature euphoria as in the countdown to November 19, 1989.

Of course, if the current squad reverses the expected trend, the indifferent and uncommitted will readily get on board, leaving them open to justifiable accusations of being a band of fair-weather friends.

We may not all be students of history, but we are conditioned by it without even acknowledging that we are repeating the mistakes of the past.

So many world-class players have reached their prime and gone past it, so many coaches have come and gone, yet the dream has never even come anywhere close to being fulfilled as on that golden sunny Sunday afternoon in November 16 years ago.

If the public and media are now tired and wary of the hype generated every four years, who can blame them?

None of this is fair on the players, who are only trying their very best.

Even in the defeat to Mexico, they showed commitment and spirit, except that the perennial bugbear of the defence caving in under relentless pressure got the better of them.

Just as Brian Lara is winning over the doubters over his status as one of the greatest batsmen of all time, so too is his liming partner Dwight Yorke literally trying to lead from the front as Trinidad and Tobago captain, four years after he and compere Russell Latapy resigned from national duty in the midst of the last failed campaign.

If only things were different. If only there was less controversy, less bacchanal, less fury and invective associated with football in this country.

If only merit and integrity, consistency and discipline were the watchwords of the local game, then there might have been the gradual progress towards a cherished goal, not the rapid accelerations and swift reversals that invariably have left us in the same place from whence we started the journey.

But that is how we want it, or else for sure it would be different. As with any other worthwhile endeavour, there are too many people involved with widely varying agendas.

Someone screams from the rooftops at perceived injustices, and then goes strangely quiet when offered a big job and a nice jacket with a badge stuck onto it.

Leo Beenhakker is an outstanding world-class coach. But he will not change the state of Trinidad and Tobago football. That has to come from the grassroots and will only manifest itself after years of careful nurturing, not chopping down and re-planting every year or so.

In the meantime, many will continue to wait and watch from an emotionally safe distance.


fazeer2001@hotmail.com

54

Football / Spain coach blames team for draw

« on: June 10, 2005, 12:25:02 AM »

tsn.ca/soccer

MADRID (AP) - Spain coach Luis Aragones chided his players Thursday for only managing a 1-1 home draw against modest Bosnia-Herzegovina in World Cup qualifying.

''There was too much anxiety, hastiness and disorganization,'' Aragones said. ''There were occasions when we had four forwards all in a line and that's no good. On the left wing we didn't overlap enough.''

Defender Carlos Marchena came to Spain's rescue deep into injury time to equalize Zvjezdan Misimovic's 39th-minute goal in Wednesday's game at Valencia's Mestalla stadium.

''Our opponents took advantage of our anxiety. They had one attack in the first half, scored and then made good use of the situation,'' Aragones said.

While Spain's point moved it atop Group 7, the result was a blow to the team's chances of directly qualifying for next year's finals in Germany.


 
 
 
Spain has 13 points from seven games, while Serbia and Montenegro has 12 points from six. Lithuania is next with nine points, followed by Belgium with eight and Bosnia with seven, all from six games.

The Serbs were in Toronto on Wednesday for a 1-1 friendly tie with Italy.

Spain, which has three games remaining, hosts Serbia and Montenegro on Sept. 7 in a match which should have a major bearing on the final standings.

''We're all packed together but I still think we'll finish in first place because we're the best,'' Aragones said.

Spain's media Thursday were equally displeased by the result that ended a streak of 16 consecutive home victories in World Cup qualifying games.

''A complete lack of credit'' ran the headline of national El Pais, which said ''the team was increasingly distant from its supporters, increasingly mediocre and increasingly boring.

''Every game is agony and a loss of prestige for the team,'' the newspaper added.

Leading sports daily Marca noted that Spain had needed 28 shots to finally score its late goal, saying ''Spain was a disaster in front of goal. A blunt and anarchic team which won't get anywhere like this.''

55

Football / Argentina qualifies with win over Brazil

« on: June 10, 2005, 12:23:05 AM »

tsn.ca/soccer

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) - Argentina clinched a berth in next year's World Cup, beating archrival Brazil 3-1 Wednesday night and retaining the lead in South American qualifying behind two goals from striker Hernan Crespo.

Crespo scored in the third and 39th minutes and Juan Roman Riquelme added another in the 18th in a showdown between the two South American soccer powerhouses, winners of seven World Cup championships.

Roberto Carlos scored Brazil's goal in the 71st.

Argentina, World Cup winners in 1978 and 1986, leads the 10-team qualifying group with 31 points, followed by defending champion Brazil with 27. Ecuador is third with 23, followed by Paraguay with 22 after 15 games.

In the latest chapter in their rivalry for soccer supremacy, Argentina dominated much of the match against a Brazilian squad without star striker Ronaldo, who asked to be excused because of personal reasons.


 
 
 
In the first half, Argentina controlled most of the possession with nifty passing and movement, eliciting chants of "Ole! Ole!" from fans at Monumental Stadium.

Crespo opened the scoring early, collecting a pass from Luis Gonzalez to beat goalkeeper Dida with a low shot.

Argentine playmaker Riquelme made it 2-0 in the 17th minute, receiving the ball with his back to the net before turning to beat his defender and launching a left-footed blast from outside the penalty area. The midfielder celebrated by running over to Argentina's bench and hugging teammate Pablo Aimar and later kissing his own jersey.

Argentina kept up the pressure through the first half. In the 39th, with Brazil slow to react defensively, Riquelme played a short pass off a corner kick to Javier Saviola who sent a lofting chip that Crespo headed in for his seventh in qualifying for the 2006 tournament.

But the five-time champions came out in the second half looking toward the goal.

Roberto Carlos sent a bending free kick into the upper corner of the net in the 71st minute, foreshadowing a flurry of Brazilian attacks.

Adriano had two scoring opportunities in the final 15 minutes, sending a header just over the crossbar and hitting the post with a low drive.

After the final whistle, Argentina's players gathered in a circle at midfield, hugging each other and jumping in place.

Argentina's victory evened the series between the teams at 33-33-24. In 2002, Argentina was eliminated in the first round of the World Cup, which Brazil won over Germany.

56

Football / Warner promises a new UNC(whats he up too)

« on: June 06, 2005, 09:14:38 AM »

i find J.W have yoo much of a hand in politics

-Darren Bahaw
trinidadexpress.com

UNC financier Jack Warner yesterday hinted at the return of outcast UNC members Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj, Trevor Sudama, Gillian Lucky and Dr Fuad Khan back into the party's fold.

Addressing hundreds of the party faithful at St Helena following a motorcade from Chaguanas in support of UNC leader Basdeo Panday, who is in prison, Warner said: "Twenty-four hours from now, mark my words, you will see the dawn of a new era in this country."

He said he made no apologies for calling back those members who had left, while admitting that he had already spoken to Maharaj, Sudama and Lucky. He said that whatever happened in the past must be forgotten.

Contacted yesterday, Pointe-a-Pierre MP Lucky said: I remain committed to my principles. and my professional integrity has to reign supreme in the politics. That's what I am prepared to say. I can tell you I have not spoken to Ramesh (Maharaj)." Efforts to contact Maharaj were unsuccessful.

Warner also said that if and when Panday chooses to come out of jail and there is no difference in the party,"we would have failed him."

The CONCACAF president said the cry on the ground was for the two major races in this country to unite. He said he will be visiting Panday today.

"After I see him, you will see a new party. On Monday afternoon you shall see the rising sun (the party symbol) rise.

"When the party rises tomorrow afternoon, Mr Panday's imprisonment will not be in vain," he said.

57

Football / Raul quit hint alerts Liverpool

« on: June 05, 2005, 11:40:42 PM »

LONDON: Liverpool's Spanish contingent could swell with the purchase of Real Madrid golden-boy Raul (pic), according to the BBC.

Raul has hinted that his 11-year career with the Spanish giants could be about to come to an end, sparking rumours that Liverpool might make a move for the 27-year-old forward.

“If I listen to polls in papers it looks as though I should leave. I want what is best for Real,” said Raul. “If at some time I have to sacrifice myself for Real to progress I will.

“If the club calls you up and says you have to go, then as a player you have to be prepared to look for a way out that benefits everyone.”

He has not given up hope of remaining among the Galacticos of Madrid, though, and feels that the Bernabeu's fans have yet to see the best of him.

“I still feel useful to the club and believe I have not reached my peak, but I don't want to be in the way. All I want is for the club to be clear with me,” he added.

Raul's place in the Madrid starting line-up has come under threat from England striker Michael Owen, with many believing that Real coach Wanderley Luxemburgo may favour an Owen-Ronaldo strike partnership next season – at the expense of Raul.

If he does leave, Raul may favour joining Liverpool's Spanish contingent under Rafael Benitez, which includes former Real team-mate Fernando Morientes as well as international team-mates Xabi Alonso and Luis Garcia. – AFP

58

Football / Beenhakker praises Warriors' teamwork

« on: June 05, 2005, 11:28:27 PM »

Beenhakker praises Warriors' teamwork
Kern De Freitas (Trinidad Express)

With Trinidad and Tobago winning their first match of the final round World Cup qualifiers for Germany 2006, new coach Leo Beenhakker has praised the Warriors, attributing their 2-0 victory over Panama to playing as a team.

The vastly-experienced coach, who has seen success with his native Holland and Real Madrid, was almost casual as he responded when asked how it felt to have the win, following the match at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Saturday night.

"Yeah. When you win it feels good. I think that's normal," the coach replied, in a totally relaxed tone as someone quite familiar with such results.

But he gave all the credit to the T&T team, who were seen as the underdogs coming into the match.

"I have to congratulate the players, the team," Beenhakker said, "because as I told before the match, we only had five days together, and we did a lot of preparations, and they did during the whole week a very good job. And that they showed this afternoon, that they played like a real team. And it's a great result for us, for the team, because it means that we're still in the race for third place for the moment."

He was also full of praise for Dennis Lawrence, the lanky defender who scored midway through the second half to extend T&T's lead after Stern John got the opener in the 34th minute.

"Well, at least my neighbour on the right (Lawrence) was thinking to leave his defence and go for it as a striker, and after all it was a good decision. Just once, but never more," the Dutchman joked.

Although Lawrence admitted he would probably never score such a goal again, he said once the opportunity arrived, he realised he had to take it.

"It's just getting the perfect ball," Lawrence explained. "In the end, like a footballer, you've got to take chances. Whether it be the first minute, or the last minute, but I took a chance, and like it paid off in the end. And in the end we were looking for the perfect goal, fortunately enough it came from me.

"For me as a defender, whoever is in the crowd, they are going to be expecting me to miss because I'm a defender, so I'm under no pressure to score the goal."

Beenhakker is also confident the Warriors will be going all out for a win when they play away to group leaders Mexico on Wednesday.

"Well, we still need (to improve on) a lot of things, but for the moment, we are very happy with the result, and we know within four days we have another match and a very difficult match. Mexico is without doubt the best of this group, but...well at least we showed that we can play very strong, so we can play with a lot of confidence, looking for a good result over there, too," Beenhakker said.
 

59

Football / so whats it like in T&T

« on: June 03, 2005, 08:31:20 PM »

i heard that there was alot of advertising going on from TSTT etc but how is the mood of the general public ? can we expect a big turn out ?

60

Football / All together now - three in a row

« on: June 03, 2005, 12:13:45 AM »

Keith Smith
trinidadexpress.com

Here's hoping that it will be three in a row for us. Or, maybe, I should say for me since the assumption in that "we'' there is that all Trinbagonians are Liverpool fans ("Liverpuddians,'' I have heard them call it) which is, of course, patent nonsense.

But a "Puddian'' (you know how we Trinidadians like to shorten things) I've been for years, following the feats (and feet) of Kenny Dalgleish and Graeme Souness and even before that having been, well, liverpooled on my father's lap long before then which is how, I want to tell you, children really learn, whatever the specifics imparted by formal schooling.

My father it was, too, who early made me a "Mapelite'' which is what I remained until the local club's end even though all of my friends were "Malvernites'' after the club which had not only a more glamorous but a more "working class'' image but when one inculcates these passions from young they are set for life, which is why in spite of my dispirited expostulations, I have never been able to switch allegiance from even a losing Liverpool to the likes of Manchester, Arsenal, or worse yet, Chelsea, the new high-flyers of English football.

Imagine, then, how I savoured that Champions League victory the other day, Liverpool leaving not only me limp as they came back from three goals down Barry, the bright, in that colourful way Trinidadians have of putting things, noting that Milan were walking up the steps to collect the shimmering Cup only to find themselves "sliding down'' and ending up with nothing but a lifetime's memory of what might have been.


Mark that down as the first in the hoped-for three in a row. The second, if you are following the chronology, had to have been the West Indies' crushing of Pakistan in the first of the two Test series, the Asiatics' dream of a first series victory in the Caribbean (note how we have become everybody's new low fence) collapsing in soon-to-be collapsed Kensington although, for a while there, Afridi (to my innately nervous mind, anyway) seemed set to make the improbable probable, the man hitting sixes and fours like mad in the absence of the pace of Fidel that would have had him first flailing and then outing.

Since we are all West Indians you don't have to imagine how I savoured that victory, made sweeter by the predictions of all the pundits, although even here I have to be careful of sweeping assumptions, Chiney, the Confusionist, vexed when we got the last man out because he didn't want us to win anything under Chanderpaul after "what they did to we boy, Brian''.

Well, as I remember it, nobody did Brian anything, his captaincy surrendered in the natural sequence of things and, besides, the betting is that when it is the turn of the children of Chiney and his contemporaries to sit on their fathers' laps the tale they will be told of this turnaround (?) game will have more to do than anything else with the way Lara lashed that one hundred and thirty almost, I want to tell you, like when, before becoming the cricket world star that he is, he made a ton and a half, I think, against Jamaica, the boy playing chess when the Jamaicans playing not even draughts but cheepets, he playing Test cricket with only the Lord knowing what the Pakistan bowlers were playing.

Mark it down, then, Two in a row and for the third, well, for that we'll have to wait until tomorrow when we beat the hats off Panama. And, yes, I not only hear but understand your sneers, Trinidad and Tobago's football being in such a rut for so relatively long a time that we have suffered doubly given that cricket and football are the games by which we have come to identify ourselves both as a region and a nation.


And, yes, I wish I could at least reduce the collective apprehension by citing games or even practice sessions I have seen that would have allowed me to deduce brilliant Beenhakker strategies that would have made our opponents happy to go back to Panama and lick their wounds while looking down into the, I suppose, murky waters of their much-traversed canal. Alas, however, I can offer no such assurance, my hope for a third in a row based on nothing more than a feeling that I am on a roll even though, and mark this, Papa Neeza was never even a neighbour, far more my grandfather.