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17401

Football / Three things Beenhakker wanted to enforce.

« on: November 04, 2005, 02:59:17 PM »

Three things Beenhakker wanted to enforce.
By: Shaun Fuentes.[/size]

This November, Leo Beenhakker will aim to bring Trinidad & Tobago (T&T) out of football obscurity and onto the World stage. Before his side’s crucial play-off with Bahrain on November 12th and 16th, the former Real Madrid, Ajax and Dutch manager spoke about the dramatic turn around in T & T’s fortunes.
Beenhakker was called upon to rescue the Caribbean outfit back in April after an abysmal start under former coach, Bertille St Clair. On the receiving end of an opening 2-1 defeat at the hands of USA, then, a 5-1 drumming at Guatemala and a scoreless draw with Costa Rica, left T&T bottom of the final CONCACAF group round. He seemed unfazed at the task in hand. “When there is a lot of pressure its okay. It doesn’t deter me. I can handle it perfectly,” said the cool as you like Dutchman.
His appointment was crucial and many asked why it had not come sooner. “From what I saw,” began Beenhakker, “there was no team. We had players but no team. At the same time I saw that there was much more in every player and more in the team.”
“Of course qualifying was not realistic. Normally we would have been out, but we took it as a challenge, knowing that we were at least on the same level as Costa Rica, Guatemala and Panama. With a little bit of luck we thought from the beginning that we could do it. We took the challenge and it is going well.”
T&T instantly looked a changed side. “I wanted to enforce three things! First of all building a team, working on the fact that the left hand has to know what the right hand is doing. Second we worked one hour, each session, on ball possession because that is what football is all about. Finally, to get much more confidence and forget that the other guys are better then you are.
If there ever was a complete opposite to Jose Mourinho, Beenhakker is it. On the brink of greatness with Trinidad, he is modest, self-effacing and reserved. Beenhakker went straight for the tunnel after the dramatic comeback against Mexico. “I was the first guy to go inside because the players had all the right to celebrate it on the pitch. It was not the end, it was only the beginning. It was nice, but we have not won anything at all.”
His faith in his players is striking and he is confident without seeming arrogant. “I was surprised that Mexico scored the first goal because we had the whole match in our hands. I was full of confidence that we could win this match and I said that at half time to the players. Just go out and perform, the chances will come and you can win this match. It was a match where you had the sensation within five minutes that you could win it.”
Dwight Yorke (34) and Russell Latapy (37) emerged from retirement for this World Cup qualifying campaign, but Beenhakker rubbished claims that the pair are difficult to work with. “These guys are no more difficult then any other players. To manage a football team you need two things. You need your knowledge of football and you need to understand people and give your time to them.”
Latapy at 37 is known as ‘the little magician.’ “The key is not 37. I always say your age based on your date of birth is not important. Age is how you feel inside. He has a good eye for what a team needs and how they are to play. At this moment age is not important. He can still play two matches in four days.”
The relationship he shares with his players is unparalleled. “I give all my time 24 hours a day to my players. It can be on the pitch, it can be outside the pitch, it can be in a mental way, social way, but I live with them 24 hours. I think that is the key of building a good team and also to do your job, not only in a professional way but also in a human way.”
His managerial record is impressive; three Spanish titles with Real Madrid, three Dutch league titles, with Ajax (2) and Feyenoord (1) as well as a World Cup appearance with Holland in 1990. Obviously not feeling indebted to him for getting them to their first World Cup in the USA ‘94, Saudi Arabia dismissed him before a ball was kicked at the Final’s.
In 1989 T&T were in a similar position. With qualification at their finger tips they were defeated at home by the USA. That victory not only put the USA into the World Cup, but it gave a new lease of life to football in their nation. It might well have been T & T in that position today had the team, which included a 21 year-old Russell Latapy and one Dwight Yorke, lived up to expectations. “For sure they will look back on that game, but that is not my problem. I work now and I live now. I don’t live in the past.”
So, what would qualifying for Germany mean to the 2 islands that make up Trinidad & Tobago? “A week’s carnival,” he replies with a little laugh. Bahrain will test Beenhakker’s resilience as a manager. “We will not underestimate Bahrain in any way. The supporters and everybody can dream of Germany. The main part is that we the professionals keep both feet on the ground. Let’s first play Bahrain. I always want to win. I will only be happy when we win and when we qualify for Germany.”
With rumours of Bobby Zamora and Jlloyd Samuel possibly linking up before the showdown with Bahrain, the future looks bright for Trinidad. Will they be able to split the dominance of Mexico’s and the USA? “It is impossible. Mexico has 50 million people, while Trinidad has 1 million. It is the same as Europe when you talk about Andorra, Cyprus and Iceland.” If, however, Trinidad take the Saudi option and sack the Dutchman, he could always become manager of the Irish football team.
Meanwhile, fans living in North America will have the chance to view Trinidad and Tobago’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Bahrain live on Fox Soccer Channel.
This was confirmed through the efforts of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation, thee Local Organising Committee, Jack Warner and Traffic Sports.
“I just confirmed the Live broadcast with FOX Soccer Channel in USA, Canada and Puerto Rico for the game on Nov 12 and Nov 16, they may also cover the game in Fox Sports en Espanol but it is not confirmed,” stated Enrique Sanz of Traffic.
“In the Caribbean the games will be shown via CBU/CMC, in Jamaica with TV Jamaica and a deal with Fox for Latin America is still in the works.
Bahrain has not confirmed the deal and this will take some time.
Japan, Thailand and Indonesia have also confirmed to have the games shown live and there is growing interest in the middle east.

17402

Football / Former players back Warriors.

« on: November 04, 2005, 07:33:17 AM »

Former players back Warriors.
By: Joel Bailey.[/size]

Former Defence Force and national footballers Hutson "Barber" Charles, Kerry Jamerson and Ross Russell are all confident that Trinidad and Tobago can reach the FIFA World Cup Finals for the first time.
The Warriors are in a home-and-away tie with Bahrain on November 12 and 16 for a berth in Germany next year.The aggregate winner of the two matches will join 31 other national teams.
Charles said the team "improved immensely since the arrival of coach (Leo) Beenhakker," was also high in praise of former Strike Squad teammates Dwight Yorke and Russell Latapy, who returned to the squad at varying times of the year.
"I think their roles on the team are great because of the experience that they bring with them. I think the national team needed that sort of experience," said the former midfielder. "You can tell because, of the performance of the team, they’re making a great input."
Charles, who has worked as a coach with Defence Force as well as the national Under-15 and Under-17 teams, is looking at one key element for the home match on November 12.
"For our home match, I think putting the ball in the back of the net," said Charles, "because we create a lot of chances and, if we put the ball in the back of the net, when we get our chances, we’re going to be in a nice position to qualify for Germany."
The soft-spoken Charles is also hoping that the present team can go one step further than the Strike Squad, and book a spot in the World Cup.
Looking back at TT’s 1-0 loss to the United States on November 19 1989, Charles stated: "Now that we have two members from that November 19 team on this present team, I think qualifying for Germany will bring a sense of satisfaction for the members who (were) on the 1989 team."
Like Charles, Jamerson has had a distinguished career both at school and national level, and he is also keeping a close eye on what is taking place with the national team.
"I think the national team started to take a nice turn after the first couple of matches in the (CONCACAF Final Round qualifiers)," the current Defence Force tactician noted.
"What I saw is that the players are more serious, more dedicated right now and I think the coach have them right now in a good position for us to qualify," Jamerson added.
Jamerson, who earned a reputation as a specialist defensive midfielder, is also pleased with the change in mentality with the national defenders.
"The defenders are playing with the ball now," Jamerson said, "they’re not just taking up the ball and kicking it up the road. They’re playing and they’re building (attacks) and that’s the most important part," he continued.
"Once the defenders can take and build with the midfield, and they can connect together, I think that’s the better part of (our) football now," Jamerson.
Another survivor from the November 19, 1989 contest, Jamerson is counting on this squad to finally earn a place in the quadrennial tournament.
"I think they have a great chance of reaching the World Cup," he asserted. "I wouldn’t say that Bahrain is not a good team but I think we’re on top of them in the world (ranking) right now. "If we decide to go at them with that sort of confidence, and the ability to play hard, I think we would end up in the World Cup," he added.
Russell is also pleased with what he has seen with the Trinidad and Tobago team, since the appointment of Beenhakker to replace the ousted Bertille St Clair in April.
"I think the team has turned around to something that is good," said the ex-TT goalkeeper. "I think they’ve been playing with more heart (and) more passion for the game. Right now, the team seems to be more focused on the task ahead," he added.
Focusing his attention on the midfield, Russell stated: "I think Latapy has helped tremendously and (Chris Birchall) works his heart out as a typical English-brand player.
"He gives support to our midfield but Latapy, especially, has added a little more spice to the attack and a little more respect to the football," continued Russell.
"From the opponents just coming at us, they have to think of Latapy, they have to think of Yorke, they have to think of Stern (John), and they have to think about Birchall. But, all and all, I think we have a good group of guys and I think we’ll do well in the next game," he ended.

17403

Football / Women U-20 Football Thread

« on: November 04, 2005, 07:31:56 AM »

Football camp for T&T U-20 women.
By: JoelL Bailey (Newsday).[/size]

Twenty three players were selected by national coach Jamaal Shabazz for a week-long camp, ahead of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Under-20 Women’s Final Round qualifiers here in Trinidad.
The camp will be held at Frederick Settlement, Caroni and runs from Sunday until the start of the CFU contest on November 13.
According to Shabazz, the technical staff will take a look at the 23 players during the course of next week, before narrowing the squad to 18 on November 11.
The players will test their readiness for the series when they oppose the national senior squad in a practice match from 4 pm on Sunday at the Larry Gomes Stadium, Arima.
Under the captaincy of Aveann Douglas, the Under-20 unit includes a number of experienced players, including the American-based trio of Katrina Meyer, fellow defender Kia Rigsby and striker Maylee Attin-Johnson.
Other senior players on the training squad are goalkeeper Gail-Ann Thomas, defenders Ayanna Russell, Christine Rose and Anastasia Prescott, playmaker Dernelle Mascall, winger Jamilia Mathlin and pint-sized forward Kennya Cordner.
Completing the team are goalkeepers Kamica Forbes and Tricia Lawrence, defenders Patrice Superville, Tamar Watson and Kenya Charles, midfielders Karen Forbes, Janine Francois and Stephanie Barrow, and strikers Janeil Nivet, Candice Edwards and the lanky Bianca Walker.
The CFU tournament, featuring Jamaica, Suriname and Haiti kicks off on November 13 with a double-header at the Larry Gomes Stadium, with Haiti opposing Suriname and TT meeting Jamaica. Two days later, Jamaica will face Suriname and the national team hosts Haiti while, on November 17, the Jamaicans square off against Haiti while the TT lasses meet Suriname.
The top three teams will advance to the CONCACAF Final Round Qualification in Mexico, following which three teams will progress to the 2006 FIFA Women’s Under-20 World Championships in Russia.

17404

Football / T&T Players Round-Up, complied by Flex.

« on: November 04, 2005, 04:19:20 AM »

Kenwyne Jones injury doubt.
By Graham Hiley.

Kenwyne Jones is hoping to shake off a minor hamstring injury in time for the biggest game in his country's history.
The Trinidad and Tobago striker is a doubt for tomorrow's game at Leicester after over-stretching slightly for a ball in training yesterday.
And that could threaten his involvement in the two-legged sudden-death play-off against Bahrain for a place in the World Cup finals.
Jones is having a scan to assess the severity of the problem although FIFA regulations mean Trinidad are entitled to insist he travels in any case.
Initial indications suggest he may have an outside chance of being fit for the home leg a week on Saturday or for the return in Bahrain four days later.
Manager Harry Redknapp would prefer the striker not to have to put himself through so much tiring travelling ahead of the home game against Leeds on November 19.
He said: "Kenwyne has a bit of a hamstring and if the scan shows he is not fit then he should not have to make such a long journey when he is injured."
Jones though is confident he will make it saying: "I am sure I will be fit."
Jones has played in seven qualifiers for the Islanders who reached the play-offs with a 2-1 win over Mexico.
That saw them pip Guatemala to clinch fourth spot behind Mexico, USA and Costa Rica. They now meet Bahrain who clinched fifth place in the Asian group with a 0-0 draw against Uzbekistan.
The first leg will be played in Port of Spain on 12 November and the second four days later in Bahrain.
Led by wily old Dutch tactician Leo Beenhakker, Trinidad and Tobago are looking to follow in the footsteps of Jamaica in 1998 to become only the second Caribbean nation in history to reach the World Cup finals.
Speaking in a recent interview for the matchday programme Jones said: "It is a huge game for us. There is so much excitement back home because we are so close.
"We are all really confident that we can win and reach the World Cup finals for the first time and I am looking forward to being part of it."Carlos wins the PFA Player of the Month award.
Luton Town FC.

Carlos Edwards has become the second Luton player to win the PFA Fans Player of the Month award this season.
After Warren Feeney picked up the September gong, Edwards, a summer signing from Wrexham, has gone on to win the October accolade.
The Fans Player of the Month award gives the opportunity for football fans to vote for their player of the month from each division via the PFA's official website www.givemefootball.com
Edwards has mainly been filling in at right back during his 11 Championship appearances for the Hatters this term but recently slotted into midfield during the game with Sheffield United on Tuesday night.
Luton's First Team Coach Brian Stein said: "The higher up the pitch Carlos plays, the more he can hurt teams. He has done fantastically at right back, too but we knew he would do a job when we put him there."Yorke: Aussie PM a Sydney FC fan.
Tribalfootball News.

Sydney FC striker Dwight Yorke has revealed he played golf with Australian prime minister John Howard last week. Yorke was invited to 18 holes by the PM and told FoxSports' Total Football: "I was very surprised and very flattered that the Australian prime minister should want to play golf with me."
Yorke says the Australian PM is a big Sydney FC fan and enjoyed being able to talk with the country's leader away from the pressures of public life.
"It gave me a chance to see a different side to him and to see why he has been so successful," the Trinidad & Tobago ace said.
"I hope he can come and watch Sydney FC play in the grand final next year."
Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago skipper Dwight Yorke will have a familiar face controlling his country's World Cup qualifying play-off with Bahrain.
While Australia's focus switches to Montevideo for the Socceroos' opening clash with Uruguay on November 12 (November 13 AEDT), A-League referee Mark Shield will control the first leg of Trinidad and Tobago's play-off against Bahrain in Port of Spain.
Shield has officiated Yorke's club Sydney FC three times this season, including last weekend's clash with Newcastle, and was the referee who followed the letter of the law a fortnight ago in ruling Perth striker Damian Mori could not play unless he removed his wedding ring.
He was Australia's lone representative at the 2002 World Cup and has also officiated at the 2003 Confederations Cup, 2005 World Youth Championship and this year's Under-17 World Championship.
Ben Wilson and Nathan Gibson, who both officiated alongside Shield at this year's youth titles, will again act as his assistants in Port of Spain, with Matthew Breeze the fourth official.
Both Shield and Breeze, who are on the A panel of referees in the A-League, are amongst a total of 44 officials that have been short-listed for the final group of 30 that will serve at the 2006 World Cup in Germany.
Breeze most recently appeared at the 2005 Confederations Cup in Germany where he controlled the third-place playoff. Colombian referee Oscar Ruiz will control the second leg of the play-off in Manama on November 16.McLeish to hand Andrews new Rangers deal.
Tribalfootball News.[/color]

Rangers boss Alex McLeish is set to hand defender Marvin Andrews a new deal. The Herald says Andrews' contract expires in the summer but a clause inserted at the time of his Bosman move from Livingston, tonight's opponents in the league, obliges Rangers to activate a one-year extension if he starts 25 games this season.
So far, he has made just seven starts and is regarded as back-up to Julien Rodriguez and Sotirios Kyrgiakos.
But McLeish admitted yesterday: "Marvin has declared himself fit and is the only man who could do what he has.
"People ask why and I can only answer 'he's different, he's Marvin Andrews'.
"I haven't given the long-term situation much thought but it is hard to imagine the place without Marvin. I have never known a cruciate ligament to heal, but he can get away with it because he has such strong legs. He goes into the gym to make the muscles stronger and protect the knee."Collin Samuel’s quest should boost Tangerines.
By Ian Roache.[/color]

Collin Samuel’s World Cup quest can boost Dundee United's prospects of finishing in the top six of the SPL. That is the belief of boss Gordon Chisholm, who saw his striker perform well and score a great goal against Celtic on Sunday, despite the Tangerines losing 4-2.
Samuel’s dream is to be included in the Trinidad and Tobago squad for the two-legged play-off against Bahrain on November 12 and 16, with the winners taking their place in football’s premier tournament among the likes of Brazil, Argentina and Italy next summer.
If he gets his wish, and the Soca Warriors go on to Germany, Chisholm feels United will reap the rewards too.
“Sammy is starting to show maturity to go with his pace and I was really pleased with his performance against Celtic,” said the Tannadice boss.
“He is looking to be involved in the World Cup games and if he is playing well for his country then we can benefit as well.
“It goes hand in hand and we would be delighted if he makes it to Germany.
“Before he was in the shadow of (former clubmate and compatriot) Jason Scotland a wee bit.
“He has been banging on the door but has had to wait for a start because David Fernandez has been ahead of him.
“However, he has done well, been positive and gained in confidence.”
Former Livingston striker Fernandez missed the game against his old club because of a hamstring injury, as did defender David McCracken, but both should be available for the trip to Tynecastle to face Hearts on Saturday.
And Chisholm will use a reserve game, against the Jam Tarts at Stirling today, to give several first-team squad men who didn’t start against Celtic a run-out.

Surprise as resurgent Samuel misses out.
The omission of striker Collin Samuel from the Trinidad and Tobago squad, for their World Cup play-off double header against Bahrain, has raised a few eyebrows at Tannadice.
Having initially struggled to hold down a place, the Dundee United frontman is now performing better than ever and scored an excellent goal against Celtic last Sunday.
But, ironically, Samuel now finds himself put on standby by his country, whereas he was included in previous Soca Warriors’ squads while playing reserve football for his club.
And, the prospect of his missing out when the big games are played on November 12 and 16 has surprised United assistant boss Billy Dodds, to name but one.
“They must have some team and some choice of strikers if they can afford to leave Sammy out, given the way he has been playing lately,” said Dodds.
“His pace is electric and that is a huge asset in the modern game.
“He is a big part of our plans now and that says a lot for him, considering he was in the reserves for a while.
“Only now is he getting back to the form he showed while at Falkirk, and is still only 22, so there is a lot to come from him.”
Samuel’s fellow forward Jim McIntyre picked up an achilles injury in training but United expect him to shake it off in time for tomorrow’s match against Hearts.
That means they will have a full squad, with the exception of long-term absentee Lee Mair.
Fans are reminded that the Tynecastle game is all ticket. Purchases can be made at United’s club shop today and tomorrow (9 am-5 pm).Birchall has plane incentives.
The Sentinel.[/color]

Chris Birchall has nine hours and 4,000 miles extra incentive to want to be on the winning side in tonight's FA Cup first-round tie.
The 21-year-old winger is hoping to get the better of Wrexham's 6ft 7in defender Dennis Lawrence, his team-mate in the Trinidad and Tobago international side. The pair are both flying out to Trinidad in the early hours of Sunday morning in preparation for next week's World Cup play-off against Bahrain.
Birchall knows he has no chance of an aisle seat next to the lanky defender, but has no intention of making the journey seem even longer by having to hear about Wrexham's prospects for the second round.
"We are travelling together, so will be giving each other plenty of stick," he said. "But I already know if I have a decent seat I'll have to swap with him.
"Dennis has become an ever-present for Trinidad and we have become good pals, so I can't wait to play against him.
"He is a good player, and will be a handful from set-pieces. Off the field he is a nice guy, but that is how I have found most Trinidadians."
That said, there will be nothing friendly about the pair's approach tonight as the game has huge significance for both sides.
Wrexham need an FA Cup run more than most, having been in administration for the last 11 months. But the game is also crucial for the Valiants, particularly as progress could help Martin Foyle rebuild his side in the wake of Sam Collins's exit and the possible sale of Billy Paynter.
Collins is expected to be replaced by Tony Dinning in the heart of the Vale defence, but Paynter will play, having appeared unaffected by offers from Hull, Plymouth and Sheffield Wednesday.
Collins's absence could hurt the Valiants, although Birchall says the reshaped team are confident about their chances.
He added: "In training we have looked good. The manager wants to put Wrexham on the back foot and everyone is looking forward to the game.
"It is one of the biggest games of the season for the club. We want to do it to help the club financially but also because we want a good cup run."
The 2001 LDV Vans Trophy apart, a cup run has been a rarity for the Valiants in recent years. In fact they have only beaten one League team, Kidderminster, in the FA Cup, since they knocked out holders Everton in 1996.
Birchall was at the Everton game and also watched from the stands as the Valiants took on Liverpool and Leeds.
He added: "I know we say every year that we want a cup run, but in the olden days Vale were classed as giant-killers. The fans love a good cup run and, if we can get to the third round, everyone would be watching their televisions waiting for the draw.
"In the first round all we could have asked for was a home draw and we have got it."
The game marks the start of the most important spell of Birchall's career, because the home and away games against Bahrain will decide whether Trinidad reach the World Cup finals in Germany next summer.
Birchall is desperate to be fit for the play-off matches, at home on November 12 and away four days later, but he says that will not affect his approach to tonight's match.
He said: "I don't think about getting injured when I am playing. I am praying I will be fit for the Trinidad games, but I wouldn't go into a tackle worrying about that.
"I have been having treatment for a slight dead leg since Saturday, but there is no way I am missing the Wrexham game."
Martin Foyle needs all the fit players he can get tonight as he doesn't have permission to play loan players Gary Mulligan and Chris Cornes.
Wrexham have injury problems of their own and will particularly miss highly-rated central defender Andy Holt, who is ruled out with a knee injury. However, they do welcome back top goalscorer Mark Jones who returns from a one-match suspension.
Jones has scored seven goals this season from his attacking midfield role and should be the greatest threat to Vale's re-shaped defence.Shaka Hislop talks of winning aims.
By UK Guardian-Series.[/color]

Turning performances into winning results again is the aim this weekend for West Ham keeper Shaka Hislop, writes Laura Burkin. The Trinidad and Tobago stopper has stepped into the breach after Hammers number one Roy Carroll injured his knee late last month in training and while disappointed with the results of the last two games against Bolton and Liverpool, Hislop is confident that the Londoners can quickly bounce back against West Brom.
He told the Guardian: "We've been doing really well, but there's always going to be games where you are tested and things don't go your way.
"Against Bolton in the League Cup, we felt we dominated most of it but they had one or two chances and scored from one of them. It goes like that sometimes and you just have to accept it and move on.
"We have a very good record at home and while every game is tough and we know we've got to be on top to beat West Brom, the belief in what we can do has not gone just because we have lost a couple of games."
But Hislop is certainly happy to be back at the Hammers where he is now in the middle of his second spell at Upton Park. His first stint saw him clock up 105 league appearances for the Irons between 1998 and 2002.
And the 36-year-old, who could be tasting some World Cup football if his country makes it through the play-offs, is enjoying being back in East London and revealed his delight about being able to be play in front of the West Ham fans again.
He said: "They always create a terrific atmosphere both home and away and it's really something to go out there and have that behind you, they're something else. As long as they know I'm doing my best for the team, they'll give me that support and that's what I aim to do every time I play."
While Hislop will return to the bench once Carroll is fit , he is relishing the challenge of pushing his fellow team-mates all the way and will always be ready to take his chance when called upon.
He added: "I know that once Roy is fit, I'll be on the bench, but that doesn't mean you don't work as hard and I just make sure I'm prepared as if I was playing anyway, that's how I am.
"I've settled back in well at the club. A lot has stayed the same, but in other areas a lot has changed. As soon as Alan (Pardew) got in contact with me and expressed an interest in me coming back here, there wasn't much discussing to do, I knew it was the right thing for me to do straight away and I'm enjoying my football.
"I've been impressed by the lads here, especially the younger ones like Anton, Elliott and the new boys who have done terrific at the back, but they all go out there with pride and aiming to do their best for the team. This is something West Ham can rely on me to do, when I am called upon, as well."Kelvin Jack poised to travel.
By Tom Duthie.[/color]

Dundee are happy for Kelvin Jack to jet off to the Caribbean this weekend, but, unless the big keeper is fit, they don’t want that to be the first leg of an 11-day world tour.
A knee injury means Jack is still not in full training, but Trinidad and Tobago want him to fly to Port of Spain on Sunday in the hope he will recover in time to be involved in the World Cup play-off against Bahrain next week.
The second leg of that tie is in the Middle East four days later, after which the players will face another long journey back to their clubs for domestic games the following weekend.
If Jack does not make the first game, however, the Dark Blues want him back in Scotland as soon as possible.
“With a week to the game, it is understandable they want Kelvin with them, but, if he does not make the first one, I don’t see him being ready for the second,” said boss Alan Kernaghan today.
“Like I said yesterday, I hope he makes it, but, if he doesn’t, it would be better for us to have him back here as soon as possible and not be making the trip to Bahrain.”
There is no game tomorrow because of Hamilton’s involvement in the Bell’s Cup on Sunday, but the players will train in the morning before Alan heads off to spy on St Johnstone, who are next to visit Dens.
Former Manchester United kid Danny Byrne has been training with the squad this week, but interest in him will not be pursued.Scotland’s World Cup call will hit Saints.
By: Ian Roache.[/color]

St Johnstone striker Jason Scotland will jet off to Trinidad following Saturday’s home match against Airdrie United with the best wishes of his manager and colleagues ringing in his ears.
Scotland has been called up by his country for the World Cup two-leg play-off against Bahrain, with the prospect of playing in Germany next summer looming large.
While Saints boss Owen Coyle is disappointed at losing him for the league match against Dundee a week on Saturday, hopes are high at the club that one of their own will win through to the finals.
“Jason will be available for the Airdrie game, but the Trinidad and Tobago FA have been in touch and want him to fly out the following day,” said manager Owen Coyle.
“It is a big blow for us that he is missing the Tayside derby, but we will all wish him well.”
Dundee’s Kelvin Jack is in the Trinidad and Tobago squad too—Dundee United’s Collin Samuel is on stand-by—and will also be counted out of the derby as well as the Dark Blues’ re-arranged fixture with Hamilton the following Tuesday.

17405

Football / Re: FIFA yellow card rule sucks !!!!!!!!!!!!

« on: November 04, 2005, 04:10:42 AM »

Kanoute says he'll play for Mali; Spurs angry.

Tottenham striker Frederic Kanoute said Tuesday he would represent Mali at next month's African Nations Cup, angering his English club.
Kanoute was born in France but is eligible for Mali through his parents.
"I should be going with Mali," Kanoute, 26, said. "I have decided to play for them and I have told the club."
Kanoute is Tottenham's topscorer with seven goals, but could be missing for two months. The club has dropped into the relegation zone after losing 1-0 to Charlton on Sunday.
Tottenham caretaker manager David Pleat said Kanoute's decision could affect his club career.
"The matter is complicated," Pleat said. "But it is a tester for him whether he wants to stay and fight. I don't think there is any way we can stop him going.
"We will have to see how the situation develops but obviously it is not in Freddie's or the club's interest for him to go."
Kanoute has played for the French Under 21 team, but FIFA regulations allow players to switch countries if they have not played at a senior level. The African Nations Cup runs from Jan. 24-Feb. 14 in Tunisia.
Meanwhile, Fifa president Blatter has already given his approval to Kanoute's plan to play for Mali.
"His case should be crystal clear: there would be nothing to stop him playing for Mali, once the players' status committee has confirmed his eligibility, if that is what he wants to do," said Blatter.
"Club managers and coaches would be well advised not only to observe international rules, but to stop trying to obstruct players' legitimate rights. "Fifa will always defend those rights, even when adopting such a stance makes us unpopular."

17406

Football / Re: Fox Soccer Channel in USA and Canada Bringing both Games

« on: November 04, 2005, 04:02:32 AM »

Wed Nov 16 08:00AM Pacific
Wed Nov 16 09:00AM Mountain
Wed Nov 16 10:00AM Central
Wed Nov 16 11:00AM Eastern
Length: 2 hr     LIVE
ART Global America
World Cup Qualifying Playoff - Asia/CONCACAF - 2nd Leg
Bahrain vs Trinidad

ART Global America.
Language:   Arabic
DISH Network
Channel Number: 758
Orbital Slot: 121 degrees west longitude

17407

Football / T&T Government gives T&TFF half.

« on: November 04, 2005, 03:35:33 AM »

Kenwyne Jones makes it 22 now.
By: Shaun Fuentes.[/size]

Trinidad and Tobago head coach Leo Beenhakker will have his hands full come Monday after Southampton striker Kenwyne Jones was passed fit on Saturday and will be arriving to join the team camp for the weekend showdown with Bahrain at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
It was only Friday when Southampton FC sent a fax to the TTFF advising that Jones was unfit to travel and partake in the preparations and match due to a hamstring injury which forced Beenhakker to omit him from the 21-man squad. The Dutchman then named Cornell Glen as his replacement on Saturday, only to learn later that evening that Jones had passed a fitness test.
Beenhakker has since decided to have both men in the camp and the squad will now comprise 22 players.
Jones arrives today (Sunday) with Dennis Lawrence and Chris Birchall while Glen also comes in with Scott Sealy and Avery John. Gillingham defender Brent Sancho arrived on Saturday night while the rest of overseas pros – Russell Latapy, Stern John, Carlos Edwards, Marvin Andrews, Kelvin Jack, Clayton Ince, Shaka Hislop, Silvio Spann, Jason Scotland and  Ian Cox will come in on Monday to meet up with home-based pros Densill Theobald, Aurtis Whitley, Cyd Gray and Anthony Wolfe. Dwight Yorke comes in on Tuesday. All the players will report to camp at the Crowne Plaza on Monday evening with the first session carded for Tuesday morning.Bahrain comes in on Monday.
By: Rami Hulayyel.[/size]

Bahrain's national soccer team professionals returned to the Kingdom from Doha last night ahead of their 2006 World Cup final playoff against Trinidad and Tobago scheduled on Saturday and November 16.
The eight professionals came back after playing their matches with the Qatari clubs in the Premier Division League.
Al Gharrafa's strikers Hussain Ali, Ala'a Hubail and Al Silia midfielder Mahmood Jalal returned last night while defenders Mohamemd Juma'a, Sayed Mohammed Adnan (Al Khor) and midfielders Mohammed Salmeen, Salman Isa (Al Arabi), Mohammed Hubail (Qatar Club) arrived earlier on Friday.
However, the players did not practice with the team last night as they were rested by coach Luka Peruzovic of Belgium.
Team manager Abdulrazzaq Mohammed said the professionals will be practicing today while the team is set to depart tomorrow at 2am and will reach Trinidad via London after a 16-hour journey.
Mohammed said the team will fly by Gulf Air to London and from there they will take a national Trinidad plane.
According to Mohammed, the team will return home in a private jet soon after the first-leg match at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain while the second-leg match is scheduled four days later at the National Stadium in Riffa.
The delegation will be headed by Bahrain Football Association vice-president Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa and includes association member Yousef Hassan and 25 players.
The team will stay at the Hilton Hotel and will train three days at the Larry Gomes Stadium, one two-hour session per day and then on Friday at the match venue.News from the 5th of November 2005.

Cornell Glen called up for Bahrain clashes.
By: Shaun Fuentes.[/size]

National Head coach Leo Beenhakker has called up American MLS striker Cornell Glen as a replacement for the injured Kenwyne Jones in the squad to face Bahrain next Saturday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Glen was informed of this on Saturday and will be part of the 21-man squad which will assemble at the Crowne Plaza on Monday with training scheduled to begin the next day at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Jones was forced to miss the trip due to a hamstring injury sustained last week and medical reports from Southampton FC left Beenhakker with no choice but to replace him.
Also coming off a head knock was goalkeeper Shaka Hislop who went off in the 60th minute in Saturday’s 1-0 win over West Brom.
But he later confirmed that the blow was not a serious one.
“I had to go off because I began feeling wobbly at the time and a headache came on. I’ll have to monitor it for the rest of the day but I’m certain I will be fine and ready for the game next Saturday,” Hislop told TTFF Media.
There was also good news with no other T&T player coming away with any injuries on Saturday. Jason Scotland netted a 28th minute winner for St Johnstone in their 1-0 win over Airdrie and skipper Dwight Yorke also scored in the 9th minute as Sydney FC trounced Central Coast Mariners 5-1. Russell Latapy’s Falkirk faces Celtic Sunday. A fit Brent Sancho was expected home on Saturday while Chris Birchall and Dennis Lawrence are scheduled in on Sunday with the other overseas pros expected on Monday. Yorke comes in on Tuesday.
Beenhakker meantime, said he had to pay all respects to the players on the current team even though the doors will not be closed on others eligible of representing the country.
“I always said from the beginning that we will not close  the door on any players who can get Trinidad passport  and may be able to help us. On the other hand, more than ever I have to respect the players who brought us to where we are now. We have to handle all this stuff very  carefully. All the 25 players have responded very well. The main part is they are all responding better. So first of  all I want to show all my respect and protect the players that have done the job until now,” he said.
When asked whether there will be any changes in approach to the game on Saturday against Bahrain, the Dutchman instantly shrugged off the need for any switch in the set about.
“No! From the beginning we did what we could do. It’s always the same. The guys are traveling on Monday . Based on what happened today I can tell you it’s a hell of a trip. We will use Tuesday to get them on their feet again. We have more or less Wednesday and Thursday  to make good and serious training in relation to our team and Bahrain team. Then Friday we have only one final session which is just a warm up for the match.
“There’s not much time but we did it before for Panama and Mexico and Guatemala and Costa Rica, It’s amazing we have reached the playoffs, the last three, with all my respect, everyone wants  be involved now. We everybody wants to do something and to go there and to be worried about that player. Hey just let us do our job. We did it from the beginning  within possibilities we had with our overseas guys and in that way we don’t do anything special other things from the preparations to beat Panama and Mexico. We have only  a few days together and we have to do it that way,” he added.
He added that he will protect the team members and as such the media will not be invited to every session this week. He also touched on the styles of both teams.
“The only thing you can say is that it is two teams with two different styles. We try to play football from behind and we get the opportunity when we have the ball to come up in front with many players. I don’t like to play on a counter attacking. Generally their play is based on very solid defense with a lot of players behind the ball and looking for the opportunity to go on the counter attack That’s not our style. I will not change our style. I don’t think I have to change our style.”
Asked to give a message to the public, the former Real Madrid chief said “ I think that all the fans and public have the right to be excited. I love the way they reacted in the last few matches at home. They gave us a great support and the team needs it and appreciates it. There are many people already and it’s okay because you can have your dreams, but most of them, within their mind, they are already in Germany. Wait a moment, the last few weeks I had a lot of questions on what are we going to do in January, what about the camps and the friendly matches… But wait, this is football and you first have to win and you have first have to be there. I respect all the excitement and I love the way the fans are living with it but from our side we have to protect the team and day hey we have two very tough jobs to do still.”Three things Beenhakker wanted to enforce.
By: Shaun Fuentes.[/size]

This November, Leo Beenhakker will aim to bring Trinidad & Tobago (T&T) out of football obscurity and onto the World stage. Before his side’s crucial play-off with Bahrain on November 12th and 16th, the former Real Madrid, Ajax and Dutch manager spoke about the dramatic turn around in T&T’s fortunes.
Beenhakker was called upon to rescue the Caribbean outfit back in April after an abysmal start under former coach, Bertille St Clair. On the receiving end of an opening 2-1 defeat at the hands of USA, then, a 5-1 drumming at Guatemala and a scoreless draw with Costa Rica, left T&T bottom of the final CONCACAF group round. He seemed unfazed at the task in hand. “When there is a lot of pressure its okay. It doesn’t deter me. I can handle it perfectly,” said the cool as you like Dutchman.
His appointment was crucial and many asked why it had not come sooner. “From what I saw,” began Beenhakker, “there was no team. We had players but no team. At the same time I saw that there was much more in every player and more in the team.”
“Of course qualifying was not realistic. Normally we would have been out, but we took it as a challenge, knowing that we were at least on the same level as Costa Rica, Guatemala and Panama. With a little bit of luck we thought from the beginning that we could do it. We took the challenge and it is going well.”
T&T instantly looked a changed side. “I wanted to enforce three things! First of all building a team, working on the fact that the left hand has to know what the right hand is doing. Second we worked one hour, each session, on ball possession because that is what football is all about. Finally, to get much more confidence and forget that the other guys are better then you are.
If there ever was a complete opposite to Jose Mourinho, Beenhakker is it. On the brink of greatness with Trinidad, he is modest, self-effacing and reserved. Beenhakker went straight for the tunnel after the dramatic comeback against Mexico. “I was the first guy to go inside because the players had all the right to celebrate it on the pitch. It was not the end, it was only the beginning. It was nice, but we have not won anything at all.”
His faith in his players is striking and he is confident without seeming arrogant. “I was surprised that Mexico scored the first goal because we had the whole match in our hands. I was full of confidence that we could win this match and I said that at half time to the players. Just go out and perform, the chances will come and you can win this match. It was a match where you had the sensation within five minutes that you could win it.”
Dwight Yorke (34) and Russell Latapy (37) emerged from retirement for this World Cup qualifying campaign, but Beenhakker rubbished claims that the pair are difficult to work with. “These guys are no more difficult then any other players. To manage a football team you need two things. You need your knowledge of football and you need to understand people and give your time to them.”
Latapy at 37 is known as ‘the little magician.’ “The key is not 37. I always say your age based on your date of birth is not important. Age is how you feel inside. He has a good eye for what a team needs and how they are to play. At this moment age is not important. He can still play two matches in four days.”
The relationship he shares with his players is unparalleled. “I give all my time 24 hours a day to my players. It can be on the pitch, it can be outside the pitch, it can be in a mental way, social way, but I live with them 24 hours. I think that is the key of building a good team and also to do your job, not only in a professional way but also in a human way.”
His managerial record is impressive; three Spanish titles with Real Madrid, three Dutch league titles, with Ajax (2) and Feyenoord (1) as well as a World Cup appearance with Holland in 1990. Obviously not feeling indebted to him for getting them to their first World Cup in the USA ‘94, Saudi Arabia dismissed him before a ball was kicked at the Final’s.
In 1989 T&T were in a similar position. With qualification at their finger tips they were defeated at home by the USA. That victory not only put the USA into the World Cup, but it gave a new lease of life to football in their nation. It might well have been T&T in that position today had the team, which included a 21 year-old Russell Latapy and one Dwight Yorke, lived up to expectations. “For sure they will look back on that game, but that is not my problem. I work now and I live now. I don’t live in the past.”
So, what would qualifying for Germany mean to the 2 islands that make up Trinidad & Tobago? “A week’s carnival,” he replies with a little laugh. Bahrain will test Beenhakker’s resilience as a manager. “We will not underestimate Bahrain in any way. The supporters and everybody can dream of Germany. The main part is that we the professionals keep both feet on the ground. Let’s first play Bahrain. I always want to win. I will only be happy when we win and when we qualify for Germany.”
With rumours of Bobby Zamora and Jlloyd Samuel possibly linking up before the showdown with Bahrain, the future looks bright for Trinidad. Will they be able to split the dominance of Mexico’s and the USA? “It is impossible. Mexico has 50 million people, while Trinidad has 1 million. It is the same as Europe when you talk about Andorra, Cyprus and Iceland.” If, however, Trinidad take the Saudi option and sack the Dutchman, he could always become manager of the Irish football team.
Meanwhile, fans living in North America will have the chance to view Trinidad and Tobago’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Bahrain live on Fox Soccer Channel.
This was confirmed through the efforts of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation, thee Local Organising Committee, Jack Warner and Traffic Sports.
“I just confirmed the Live broadcast with FOX Soccer Channel in USA, Canada and Puerto Rico for the game on Nov 12 and Nov 16, they may also cover the game in Fox Sports en Espanol but it is not confirmed,” stated Enrique Sanz of Traffic.
“In the Caribbean the games will be shown via CBU/CMC, in Jamaica with TV Jamaica and a deal with Fox for Latin America is still in the works.
Bahrain has not confirmed the deal and this will take some time.
Japan, Thailand and Indonesia have also confirmed to have the games shown live and there is growing interest in the middle east.Warner disappointed with Government’s halfway meet.
By: Shaun Fuentes.[/size]

TTFF Special Advisor Jack Warner has expressed disappointment over Government’s Decision to grant $6 million to the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation for campaign to get to the next World Cup in Germany.
Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs Roger Boynes announced at Thursday’s cabinet briefing that after considering the original request of $13,993.00, the Government was prepared to meet some of it.
But Warner said he would not allow this to have any effect on the week leading up to the home leg against Bahrain at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Saturday.
“I am in fact disappointed with that the Government has decided to give as a reply to our request but I will say more about this after November 16. For the time being all emphasis must be placed on these two games we have ahead of us,” Warner said.
He added that the Government had agreed to meet the request and had he known they would have then decided upon half of it, the decision to raise the ticket prices for November 12 to $300 and $150 would not have been withdrawn.
“They had agreed to meet this request and had we known this would have been the outcome we would have definitely gone through with raising the prices,” Warner said.
He also made it clear that the charter to Bahrain is costing close to $6.5 million and as such the monies being provided by the Government is in a sense already used up. He credited TSTT for purchasing 50 seats on the charter.News from the 4th of November 2005.
T&T Government gives T&TFF half.
T&T Express Reports.[/size]

The Government has granted the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation (T&TFF) just under half of the $13,993,000 it had requested to fund the campaign to get the national football team to the 2006 World Cup.
At yesterday's Cabinet briefing, Roger Boynes, the Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs, announced that after considering the request for funding which came two weeks ago, Government was prepared to meet some of what was asked for.
The T&TFF had requested $4.4m to cover the cost of securing a charter flight to Bahrain; $2,001,800 to cover the cost of accommodation, taxes and match fees for the upcoming two-leg play-offs against Bahrain; and another $7,591,200 to cover costs of the CONCACAF qualifiers in which Trinidad and Tobago earned a play-off berth after finishing fourth.
Two weeks ago, FIFA vice-president and T&TFF special adviser Jack Warner stated he had spent $17 million of his own money to fund the CONCACAF qualifiers and had chided the Government for its lack of involvement.
In response, Boynes met with Warner and T&TFF officials and agreed to take their request for assistance to Cabinet. Yesterday, he announced what assistance the Government was willing to give.
"The Government has agreed to grant further, and I repeat further assistance, to the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation in the sum of $6 million in respect of the qualifying games up to the return match in Bahrain, including the cost with respect of team preparation, travel expenses, match fees, accommodation and administration costs to assist the Trinidad and Tobago national football team with its quest to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2006."
Boynes also said his own efforts had rallied corporate sponsorship and that British Gas, the National Gas Company, Petrotrin, Eastern Credit Union and several companies in the Point Lisas Industrial Estate had agreed to come aboard.
Those firms, he said, have been directed to the T&TFF and the Local Organising Company (LOC) handling the World Cup qualifying campaign.
Boynes further added that CLICO and TSTT had agreed to assist in securing a charter to Bahrain.
"As the Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs, we reached out to corporate Trinidad and Tobago so that we can have all the stakeholders on board."
Boynes was quick to point out that the assistance given will cover the qualifiers against Bahrain on November 12 and 16 and indicated the Government was willing to consider further assistance to the team later on. "When they do in fact qualify, we as a Government will again come to the table and adjudicate on the assistance for our national team as we prepare to compete against the best in the world."Spanning the globe.
By: Ian Prescott.[/size]

Do you know there are 8,964 miles between Japan and Trinidad and Tobago? Silvio Spann might know. He has been feeling every one of them every time he comes home to play an International match for T&T.
A day after landing in Trinidad, Spann was absolutely exhausted following one of Leo Beenhakker's training session. Despite being very fit, the combination of a long flight and a torrid training session had taken their toll on the young T&T international footballer.
"For me, that is the greatest difficulty...the up and down. But that is the price I have to pay to represent my country. And it is an honour to represent Trinidad and Tobago."
Despite the long hours of travel and the certain jet lag, Spann says he will make the trip any and every time coach Beenhakker calls on him. He's eager to get to the World Cup Finals.
"To play with the national team has been a real honour for me," he says in a soft tone. "I would very much like to go to the World Cup. That is something that I would like to do for my father because he was not able to do it in his time."
Silvio laughs, when compared to his father Leroy, a former national captain with a big reputation in T&T even now...long after his heyday.
"First of all, I am not a left-footer like him, and those are very big shoes to fill. I think that rather than try to do that, I just have to do the best than I can."
Modest, he appears, but Spann has already done a lot in just 24 years. A former student of Couva Junior Secondary and St Benedict's College, Spann played club football with Doc's Kelwalaas and Vibe CT 105 W. Connection in the local leagues, before getting his first overseas contract while still a teenager. At 19, he was signed by Perugia, an Italian club, at which he stayed for two seasons, before returning to play for W. Connection.
Now in his first season with the Japanese second division club Yokohama F.C., Spann says he is comfortable in Japan, despite being the only Trinidadian to play there. And despite the cultural difference, he has already taken to the Japanese people. He admires their politeness and resourcefulness and they have been able to help him settle. His biggest problem in Japan may be the food. He is allergic to shell fish and unfortunately the only Japanese food he can eat is sushi...raw fish.
"A lot of the food the Japanese eat is raw and because of my allergies that has caused me some problem. What I have had to do is find an Italian restaurant so that I can still get my pasta...and so on."
Because the Japanese have taken to him, Spann is determined to make the best of his situation. He often mentions that with God's help, everything will work out. Already, he already become a favourite at Yokohama, a club which after a very slow start, has only now started to pick up victories and is eighth of the 12 teams in the competition. He says he has had to make some adjustment after playing the laid back football of the T&T Pro league for some time.
"The game in Japan is very fast. The Japanese are not strong people, so they have to be quick. There football is also technically very good."
Spann, hopes to use his stint in Japan to improve his game.
He list his own strengths as being a good defensive midfield, having a good first touch, and being able to shoot the ball very well. These are the skill he hopes will take both Yokohama up the league table and T&T to the World Cup Finals.

Sports Editor's Note:
Although Silvio Spann, because of his two yellow cards, was not eligible to play for T&T in this country's 2-1 victory over Mexico here last month, he will however be again available from the first home game on November 12 against Bahrain.BFA official for Trinidad.
Gulf Daily News.

Bahrain Football Association's development and training director Mahmood Fakhro is leaving tonight for Trinidad to make various arrangements for the national team ahead of the 2006 World Cup playoffs. Bahrain clash with Trinidad and Tobago in a two-leg playoff for a place in next year's World Cup to be held in Germany.
The first-leg is set for November 12 at Port-of-Spain while the second-leg will be played at the National Stadium four days later.
Fakhro will be finalising Bahrain team's boarding and training facilities ahead of the team's arrival on November 8 or 9.
Bahrain, meanwhile, continued preparations at the National Stadium under coach Luka Peruzovic of Belgium.
Two of the 11 Bahrain professionals, Talal Yousef and Hussain Baba, have already joined training while nine others playing in the Qatari league are expected by tomorrow, according to team manager Abdulrazzaq Mohammed.
"Once the remaining nine professionals arrive from Qatar, we will finalise our travelling arrangements. In all probability, we will be leaving on November 6 or 7," added Mohammed.
"The team will continue training through the Eid holidays and the only injury worry right now is that of Rashid Al Dossary who has a knee problem." Both Bahrain and Trinidad are battling for their first-ever ticket to the World Cup.Football camp for T&T U-20 women.
By: JoelL Bailey (Newsday).[/size]

Twenty three players were selected by national coach Jamaal Shabazz for a week-long camp, ahead of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Under-20 Women’s Final Round qualifiers here in Trinidad.
The camp will be held at Frederick Settlement, Caroni and runs from Sunday until the start of the CFU contest on November 13.
According to Shabazz, the technical staff will take a look at the 23 players during the course of next week, before narrowing the squad to 18 on November 11.
The players will test their readiness for the series when they oppose the national senior squad in a practice match from 4 pm on Sunday at the Larry Gomes Stadium, Arima.
Under the captaincy of Aveann Douglas, the Under-20 unit includes a number of experienced players, including the American-based trio of Katrina Meyer, fellow defender Kia Rigsby and striker Maylee Attin-Johnson.
Other senior players on the training squad are goalkeeper Gail-Ann Thomas, defenders Ayanna Russell, Christine Rose and Anastasia Prescott, playmaker Dernelle Mascall, winger Jamilia Mathlin and pint-sized forward Kennya Cordner.
Completing the team are goalkeepers Kamica Forbes and Tricia Lawrence, defenders Patrice Superville, Tamar Watson and Kenya Charles, midfielders Karen Forbes, Janine Francois and Stephanie Barrow, and strikers Janeil Nivet, Candice Edwards and the lanky Bianca Walker.
The CFU tournament, featuring Jamaica, Suriname and Haiti kicks off on November 13 with a double-header at the Larry Gomes Stadium, with Haiti opposing Suriname and TT meeting Jamaica. Two days later, Jamaica will face Suriname and the national team hosts Haiti while, on November 17, the Jamaicans square off against Haiti while the TT lasses meet Suriname.
The top three teams will advance to the CONCACAF Final Round Qualification in Mexico, following which three teams will progress to the 2006 FIFA Women’s Under-20 World Championships in Russia.

17408

Football / Jason Scotland’s World Cup call will hit Saints.

« on: November 03, 2005, 07:10:38 AM »

Scotland’s World Cup call will hit Saints.
By: Ian Roache.[/size]

St Johnstone striker Jason Scotland will jet off to Trinidad following Saturday’s home match against Airdrie United with the best wishes of his manager and colleagues ringing in his ears.
Scotland has been called up by his country for the World Cup two-leg play-off against Bahrain, with the prospect of playing in Germany next summer looming large.
While Saints boss Owen Coyle is disappointed at losing him for the league match against Dundee a week on Saturday, hopes are high at the club that one of their own will win through to the finals.
“Jason will be available for the Airdrie game, but the Trinidad and Tobago FA have been in touch and want him to fly out the following day,” said manager Owen Coyle.
“It is a big blow for us that he is missing the Tayside derby, but we will all wish him well.”
Dundee’s Kelvin Jack is in the Trinidad and Tobago squad too—Dundee United’s Collin Samuel is on stand-by—and will also be counted out of the derby as well as the Dark Blues’ re-arranged fixture with Hamilton the following Tuesday.
Saturday’s clash at McDiarmid Park will pit Coyle against a side that has been close to his heart over the years.
But he is just concerned with making sure Saints perform against an Airdrie team that hammered Dundee last weekend.
“I know the Airdrie boys really well and have a few close friends there,” he said.
“I am well aware how difficult this game may be and they are capable of beating any team in the division on their day.
“But we have to get back to doing the good things we did in the games here against Brechin and Hamilton.”
Meanwhile, midfielder Neil Janczyk has been sidelined again, this time by a flu-type virus.
On a more positive note, Mark Campbell and Scott Paterson will both play in a closed- door game today and Darren Sheridan’s foot knock is responding to treatment.

17409

Football / US buy W/Cup rights for US$425M.

« on: November 03, 2005, 06:50:57 AM »

US buy W/Cup rights for US$425M.

NEW YORK (AP): FIFA awarded US television rights to the 2010 and 2014 World Cups yesterday for a record US$425 million, the largest contract for any single country and a more than 120 percent increase from the previous American deals.
Spanish-language broadcaster Univision said they will pay US$325 million, US$175 million more than for the 2002 and 2006 World Cups. ABC and ESPN will pay US$100 million for the English-language rights, two and a half times more than the US$40 million Soccer United Marketing — an arm of Major League Soccer — paid four years ago. The 2010 World Cup is scheduled to be played in South Africa while the 2014 tournament is designated for a country in South America.
The contracts also include internet, broadband and mobile telephone rights to the men’s World Cup as well as 2007 and 2011 Women’s World Cups, the 2009 and 2013 Confederations Cups, the Under-17 and World Youth championships, the Under-20 Women’s Championship, and the futsal and beach soccer championships.
It is the third contract FIFA has awarded for the 2010 World Cup or beyond. The world body already has signed deals for Japan and Europe. The European deal for 2010 is worth approximately US $1.2 billion.

17410

Football / Vessigny, Benedict’s advance in InterCol showdown.

« on: November 03, 2005, 06:49:32 AM »

Vessigny, Benedict’s advance in InterCol showdown.
By: Mikhail Greene (Newsday).[/size]

Vessigny Government Secondary made light work of their first round RBTT Intercol fixture when they scored an easy 3-0 victory over Mayaro Composite yesterday at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium, Marabella.
Not even the spirited efforts of the Mayaro rhythm section could help their team on this day as Vessigny, last year’s national runners-up asserted their dominance over the majority of the 90 minutes. Akeem Collins set the tone early for the "boys by d’ sea" by registering a double within the first 20 minutes before he was taken off just minutes before the half.
Moments after Collins made his departure, Khalil Commissiong then added a third item for good measure as PSAEL sponsored boys went into the interval with a three goal advantage. Vessigny appeared to be on cruise control in the second session as they did just enough to ensure that there would be no comeback for Mayaro.
They now advance to meet St Benedict’s college who scored four goals to crush Moruga 4-1. The evening’s second match should have been dubbed the "Matthew Bartholemew Show" as the midfielder had a part to play in all of his team’s goals.
Moruga momentarily stunned the ‘Beneticts’ supporters by going ahead in the 10th minute via Solomon Brerton goal. But their celebrations would be short lived as St Benedict’s stormed back with goals by Jamal Penny in the 16th and Muhajir Ar-Razi in the 34th, both products of Bartholomew crosses.
The long haired midfielder then exchanged his passing shoes for a pair of scoring boots at the interval as he proceeded to score a double in the second half to put the match out of Moruga’s reach.
The team from Deep South clearly had no answers for Bartholomew but will have a long time to try and figure out what went wrong as their season came to an abrupt end yesterday.
Three matches were contested in the Central Zone, with Marabella annihilating Union Claxton Bay 15-1 in the second match of a double-header at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.
The first match at the venue saw Chaguanas getting the better of Tabaquite 2-1, with Anjel Garcia’s effort in vain for the losers. At the Presentation College Ground in Chaguanas, Carapichaima crushed Gasparillo 7-0 to advance to the Central Zone "semis", which will take place on Wednesday.
Four matches will be played today, in the South, East and Tobago Zones.
At the Manny Ramjohn Stadium, Princes Town meet Fyzabad at 3 pm followed by the clash between Naparima and Presentation San Fernando. Hillview will face Malabar at the Larry Gomes Stadium in Arima from 4 pm while, simultaneously, Bishop’s clash against Mason Hall in Shaw Park, Scarborough.

Yesterday's InterCol results[/b]

South Zone

Vessigny 3 (Akeem Collins 2, Khalil Commissiong) v Mayaro 0

St Benedict's 3 (Kendall Penny, Manasir Ar-Razi, Matthew Bartholomew 2) v Moruga (Soloman Brereton).

Central Zone

Chaguanas 2 v Tabaquite 1

Marabella 15 v UCB 1

Carapichaima 7 v Gasparillo 0‘Fyzo’ start South title defence today.
By: Mikhail Greene (Newsday).[/size]

Fyzabad Composite begin the defence of their 2004 South Zone RBTT Intercol title against Princes Town Senior Secondary in the first match of a double-header at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium, Marabella today.
This season "Fyzo" failed to build on the previous year’s success as they struggled with inconsistency all season long and finished the season in fifth place just as they did last year.
While they boasted victories over Vessigny and St Benedict’s, they were only able to muster a solitary point in two matches against lowly Moruga.
Team manager Eric Lange is convinced that if his team is to repeat as South Zone champs, they must perform to their ability more consistently and would require huge efforts from their forwards Bevon Dass and Andre Quashie.
After a promising start to the season, Princes Town have fallen on hard times and have limped to the finish of the season with a three-match losing streak.
Despite their recent struggles, team manager Louis Bobcombe insists his team would be "no walkover" in Intercol but admits that it would require a team effort if they were to turn around their season and advance deep into this year’s tournament.
The second match of today’s double-header renews one of the biggest rivalries in schools football with Presentation College coming up against league champs Naparima.
Presentation, once among the elite of secondary schools football teams, have fallen off lately and spent the last two seasons in the doldrums of the senior division.
They return to the championship division next year after winning the senior league and will get their first taste of Intercol football in two years as they battle "Naps" today.
A team who had an unbeaten season capped off by winning the "Big 5" title less than a week ago should not be overly concerned about playing against a senior grade team.

This is different.
"Pres" is not your typical underachieving eight seeded team. They too boast an undefeated 2005 season (albeit against much weaker opponents) and in a friendly encounter two Saturdays ago, the boys from Carib Street left a bad taste in the mouths of Naparima faithful when they unofficially handed them their first defeat of the season.
Naparima team manager Richard Nagaur said that the team is "confident but not overconfident" going into first round match against "Pres".
He insists that they have a score to settle with the senior grade champs and are approaching the match seriously knowing that Pres would be on a high after getting the better of their team in the friendly.
Presentation College Technical Co-ordinator Terrence Boissiere describes his team as being "quietly confident" going into today’s encounter and is hoping for a win that would mean a lot to a school body recently starved of football success.

17411

Cricket Anyone / US$240m to be spent on Stadia for World Cup.

« on: November 03, 2005, 03:55:01 AM »

US$240m to be spent on Stadia for World Cup.
By: Vinode Mamchan (Guardian).

With the third biggest sporting event in the world about to reach Caribbean shores, mega facilities are needed and so a lot of money is being put out by many governments, including extra-regional, to provide world -class facilities for what is expected to be the greatest ever Cricket World Cup.

In T&T, there will be a spanking new cricket stadium in the Southland, named after one of the Caribbean’s most famous cricketing sons,Brian Lara.

It is costing the T&T government TT$850M and will be used to host warm-up matches, leading to the 2007 event.

Around the Caribbean there are many new stadia being built and the Japanese and Chinese Governments seem to be trying to outdo the other in the number of facilities many they are going to fund.

In Guyana, the Indian Government will build a stadium and have already deployed engineers and other workers to Guyana for the constructing of that country’s best ever cricket facility.

Overall it is calculated that about US$240M, will be spent on stadium construction in the Caribbean.

It is likely that infrastructure and technology will increase total regional expenditure by up to 100 percent.

G-Sport Arena today brings you part II of some very important news about the most exciting sporting event to come to our shores.

The Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the ICC World Cup brings fans up to date with the situation.

Q. How much money is being spent on construction in the region for ICC Cricket World Cup 2007?

A. Currently it is calculated that about US$240M, will be spent on stadium construction. It is likely that infrastructure and technology will increase total regional expenditure by up to 100 percent.

Q. The tournament is 18 months away, will the stadia be completed in time? What is the status on construction?

A. In our overall venue development plans this period of time is not scheduled to feature huge amounts of construction.

A lot of time has been invested in finalising all elements of venue design in line with ICC requirements and in selecting contractors.

In fact, our overlay allowed for the 2005 Test and ODI series to be played, with plans for upgrades to playing surfaces to begin from June 2005 onwards. Legacy sections of the stadia are all slated for completion by October to December 2006.

Q. How many new stadia are being built?

A. There are five new stadia being built in Antigua, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Trinidad. The stadia in the other participating countries are being modified or upgraded.

Q. Who are the lead architects for these projects?

A. ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 is working with some of the world’s most experienced sports stadium architects.

l Arup Associates for Barbados and Grenada

l CPS for Trinidad

l HOK Sports for Antigua, Jamaica and Trinidad

l NLBA for Guyana, St. Lucia and St. Kitts

l SKM who are responsible for overall management of Venue Development in conjuction with a Caribbean partner - Acuitas Caribbean based in Trinidad.

Q. Is there any provision for ensuring that the Caribbean is equipped to host another event of this nature in the future?

A. The Caribbean Economic Enterprise (CEE) initiative forms part of the overall objectives contained in the ICC approved master plan for the hosting of the CWC 2007, which was the foundation strategic plan for the West Indies to host the tournament.

It focuses on ensuring that a legacy of the 2007 event in that Caribbean companies and nationals gain economic benefits, as well as know-how and experience in the planning and execution of world-class mega-events.

As result a commitment has been made to select and procure resources that reflect a diverse Caribbean regional base wherever possible, whilst maintaining the optimum standards required to deliver a world class event.

In the event of the required services being offered by non Caribbean campanies or persons, all major contracts feature an undertaking or obligation by such companies or persons to engage Caribbean nationals or partner with Caribbean companies. As a result of all of this, the region will gain experience to play hosts to mega events in the future.

Q. What action has been taken to address security surrounding the event?

A. Headed by John Collymore, security director for CWC 2007, a team of senior security officers from across the region are working together to facilitate a consistent security programme in all participating countries.

Security planning for a world games event is a highly sensitive issue and therefore only limited information will be made public.

Q. How will the working media gain access to each match?

A. All working media will go through an event accreditation process, as is standard for all international sporting events.

Q. What is the purpose of the accreditation process?

A. The accreditation process will give event credentials to persons needing to gain entry to a competition venue to undertake their work.

A pass will be issued to all accredited persons and will include the holder’s personal details including name, organisation and photograph.

Accreditation will allow all persons working at the event to carry out their duties in a safe and secure environment.

Q. When will media be accredited?

A. All media wishing to work at the event will need to apply for accreditation. Full details of this process will be announced in 2006.

Q. What access will media have within the grounds?

A. All accredited persons will have access to the areas required to complete their duties. In the case of media, this will include the media centre, photo facilities or broadcast areas.

Q. Is accreditation transferable?

A. No, each person requiring ‘working access’ must apply for accreditation on an individual basis.

Q. What facilities will be available to media?

A. All stadia will be fully equipped with world class media facilities. More detailed information will be issued in due course.

Q. Will media be allowed to go into the players dressing rooms?

A. All accredited persons will have access to the areas required to complete their duties.

Access to sensitive player areas such as dressing rooms will be carefully managed, in conjunction with the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit.

17412

Football / Kenwyne Jones aims to leave his mark.

« on: November 03, 2005, 03:41:27 AM »

Kenwyne Jones aims to leave his mark.
T&T Guardian Reports.[/size]

A World Cup berth looms on the horizon for T&T as the country prepares to host Asia’s Bahrain in the first of a home-and-away play-off series which kicks-off on Saturday 12, November at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo.
The return leg is set for Manama, Bahrian four days later (November 16) and one the players who will be aiming to leave his mark on that series is six-six striker Kenwyn Jones, who plies his trade for Southampton in the English Championship Division.
Well aware that he is the youngest striker in the T&T team, the former Under-20 skipper is raring to go as the country prepares for the upcoming 2006 World Cup qualifier against Bahrain.
Jones remembers his stint at Manchester United alongside Nkosi Blackman and Jerol Forbes back in early 2002.
Now he could just be the man partnering Dwight Yorke and Stern John for T&T, depending on the call from head coach Leo Beenhakker.
“At the moment, the training has been hectic, but it’s something we have to put ourselves up for because it is important that we mesh good as a team for the games coming up.
“Whatever position I am given to play, I try to give it my best shot and hope it benefits the team.
“Whether it’s Dwight, Stern or whoever player I have a chance to play alongside, I will still try to perform at my best and learn off them as well,” Jones said.
Kenwyne is one of the outstanding defenders from the National Under-17 team which took part in the historic FIFA Under 17 World Championship in T&T in 2001.
He has been on trial at Manchester United and Middlesbrough, also having stints in Holland and Scotland where he was on trial with Glasgow Rangers. He finally secured a contract with English Premiership side Southampton FC. A strong, aggressive and intelligent defender who can also play in attack, he represented T&T at the Under-20 level as well, skippering the team. He made his international senior debut against Finland in January 2003.

Q&A with Kenwyne Jones.[/b]

1. What’s your most memorable moment or match, whether for country or Club?
My appearance against the Martinique Senior team with the T&T Olympic team. We won 3-0 and my son Isaiah was born just before the game.

2. Name two persons, whether relatives or not, who have been an inspiration to you.
My parents Pamphille and Lydia.

3. Any favourite player or team?
Patrick Viera and AC Milan.

4. Any other favourite sport?
Basketball, athletics and cricket.

5. What would be your preferred other profession?
Football always.

6. What do you hope to accomplish, either in next 5 years or at the end of your playing career?
In five years, I should be halfway through to retirement, therefore stable enough to live a comfortable life.

7. Who have been among your most admired coaches and why?
No answer.

8. What do you think of T&T’s chances of making it to the 2006 World Cup?
Once the players can put all their heart and soul into the effort, our chances are as good as any.

9. What areas you think need improving on and how do you think this can be achieved?
We need to concentrate for the entire game. Personally, I need to prepare myself better to play the wing position.

10. Any instances or plays that you always reflect on?
Appearing for the national team against South Korea. It’s definitely been my biggest appearance so far.

11. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Put God first.

12. What do you do to relax away from the game?
Probably sleep or hang out with some friends. Depends on my mood.

13. What’s your favourite dish?
Barbecue ribs. My favourite drink is pineapple juice.

14. Favourite time of year?
Don’t really matter. All times are good.

16. Most comfortable football boot?
Adidas.

17. Name one thing about yourself you would change if given the chance. Even if it meant going back in time?
I would change nothing. God made me how he wanted me to be.

18. Preferred wear?
Jeans and T-shirts but it depends on the occasion as well.

17413

Football / Re: Where in Toronto

« on: November 02, 2005, 01:24:55 PM »

Welcome onboard Marc, it's a great pleasure to have you join us here, I do hope you become a regular.

Thanx for all you did and also, the support...

Regards.

17414

Football / Re: T&T Players in action today. (02-Nov-2005).

« on: November 02, 2005, 08:02:39 AM »

Marvin Andrews.

For Livingston in the UEFA Cup.
2 games played - vs SK Sturm Graz twice, scored once.

For Rangers in the UEFA Cup.
4 games played - vs Amica Wronki, Graz AK, AZ Alkmaar & Auxerre.

For Rangers in the UEFA Champions League.
2 games played - vs Anorthosis Famagusta & CSKA Moscow.

17415

Football / W Connection, Jabloteh in 1-1 draw.

« on: November 02, 2005, 07:56:19 AM »

W Connection, Jabloteh in 1-1 draw.
By Joel Bailey (Newsday).

Three days before they meet in the Toyota Classic final, W Connection and CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh battled to an exciting 1-1 draw at the Larry Gomes Stadium, Arima, in the 21st round of play in the T&T Pro League.
Jabloteh took the lead after ten minutes, when Trinidad and Tobago midfielder Aurtis Whitley blasted home an indirect freekick (set up by Kerry Baptiste), after Connection’s goalkeeper Jan-Michael Williams handled a back-pass from William Da Silva Oliviera.
Another freekick resulted in Connection’s equaliser. After captain Earl Jean was fouled by defender Ian Gray in the 27th, Jabloteh’s goalie Daurance Williams failed to hold Gefferson Goulart’s spotkick, and Andre Toussaint slapped the loose ball home.
Both teams missed numerous chances and, even when national defender Cyd Gray was sent off by referee Richard Piper for his second bookable offence in the 71st, the winner never came.
Daurance Williams saved a close range effort from Goulart in the 72nd, while Jabloteh’s defender Dexter Franklyn cleared a powerful blast from Clyde Leon in the 80th.
In stoppage time, a diagonal ball from Leon found Ronaldo Viana (via Toussaint) on the right and his cross to Goulart was skied overbar.
Meanwhile, two goals apiece from national midfielders Gary Glasgow (22nd and 27th) and Anthony Wolfe (74th and 87th), with one from Trinidad and Tobago Under-20 Kendall Jagdeosingh (81st) gave North East Stars a crushing 5-2 win over Tobago United at the Dwight Yorke Stadium, Bacolet. Noel Williams’ double (64th and 90th penalty) were little consolation for the hosts.
And veteran striker Peter Prosper scored a 54th minute winner to give United Petrotrin a shock 1-0 triumph over Defence Force at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium, Marabella.

Results:

1. W Connection 1 (Andre Toussaint) v San Juan Jabloteh 1 (Aurtis Whitley).

2. N E Stars 5 (Gary Glasgow 2, Anthony Wolfe 2, Kendall Jagdeosingh) v Tobago Utd 2 (Noel Williams 2).

3. United Petrotrin 1 (Peter Prosper) v Defence Force 0.

17416

Football / T&T Players in action today. (02-Nov-2005).

« on: November 02, 2005, 05:33:14 AM »

Player	Team	Opponent	Result	Notes
John, Stern	Derby	Ipswich	3-3	Not Selected
Ince, Clayton	Coventry	Stoke	1-2	Benched

Yesterday's Results:

Player	Team	Opponent	Result	Notes
Andrews, Marvin	A.Petrzalka	Rangers	2-2	Benched
Edwards, Carlos	Sheff Utd	Luton	4-0	Played Full 90
Cox, Ian	Hartlepool	Gillingham	3-1	Played Full 90
Sancho, Brent	Hartlepool	Gillingham	3-1	Recovering
Wolfe, Anthony	N E Stars	Tobago Utd	5-2	Goals 74, 87
Glasgow, Gary	N E Stars	Tobago Utd	5-2	Goals 22, 27
Whitley, Aurtis	SJ Jabloteh	W Connection	1-1	Goal 10
Charles, Atiba	W Connection	SJ Jabloteh	1-1	Played Full 90
Pierre, Anton	Defence Force	Utd Petrotrin	0-1	Played Full 90

17417

Football / Re: READ AND WEEP

« on: November 02, 2005, 05:20:04 AM »

Mourinho says enough is enough.
soccernet.

Arsene Wenger must decide whether to accept Jose Mourinho's offer of a truce or risk the prospect of the Football Association stepping in to end their feud once and for all.
The FA have so far opted to watch from the sidelines as the pair verbally attack each other.
But Wenger has been given the opportunity to put an end to the animosity by the Portuguese coach.
After his side had crashed to a second defeat in six days against Real Betis in the Champions League last night, Mourinho called on Wenger to halt his personal tirade with the proviso that he was ready to carry on with the fight should he refuse.
'First of all if my comments were very strong, I have to accept that his next comments will be very strong,' said Mourinho. 'I have to accept that.
'But at Stamford Bridge, we have a file of quotes from Mr Wenger about Chelsea football club in the last 12 months - it is not a file of five pages.
'It is a file of 120 pages so we have a very strong reaction. My objective is that it is enough. He has talked enough about us including some very strange things about Chelsea football club. We have a very strong answer.
'I accept the next answer being strong but it is time to stop because if he doesn't stop we are there for the fight.'
Mourinho is clearly gambling that Wenger will see the harm the constant bickering is doing to the game and to their clubs and agree to meet him halfway.
The Arsenal manager sparked the latest verbal circus by suggesting Chelsea, after their defeat to Charlton 5-4 on penalties in the Carling Cup last Wednesday, could be losing a 'little bit of self-belief'.
After Chelsea had remained in pole position at the top of the Barclays Premiership on Saturday with a 4-2 win over Blackburn, Mourinho delivered his return salvo.
Mourinho labelled Wenger a 'voyeur' - a description which the Frenchman disliked with such severity that he talked of legal action at the same time as denouncing Mourinho as 'out of order, disrespectful and stupid'.
However, no-one could accuse Mourinho of failing to see the frailties in his own team and he did just that after Betis moved to within a point of them in Group G.
Substitute Dani's 24th-minute goal was enough secure three vital points for Betis and leave Chelsea with five defeats in their last six away games in Europe.
Mourinho watched his side squander a gilt-edged chance to equalise through Eidur Gudjohnsen minutes before the interval and then muttered in earshot of the TV cameras in the tunnel at half-time that it was the worst first-half performance he had witnessed since taking charge.
Worse was to follow, even though Mourinho replaced Gudjohnsen and Joe Cole at half-time - a decision that baffled many as Arjen Robben had barely had a kick throughout the entire half.
Chelsea still could not find a way back into the game but were cruelly out of luck when a Michael Essien shot rebounded off both posts and into the arms of the grateful Betis goalkeeper to preserve their lead.
'It was the worst performance since I arrived,' admitted Mourinho. 'I have been here for 15 months and we have played perhaps 80 games at Chelsea and this was the worst performance.
'The first half was too bad to be true. I know everything was bad. I cannot find a positive out of the game.
'I do not think it is fair to single out any individual player, the whole team played bad. This is was a very bad team performance.'
So much for the football. All eyes are now firmly fixed on Highbury and Wenger to see if there is to yet another episode in the love-hate relationship between two of the most forthright and successful managers in the English game.

17418

Football / Bahrain Coach: 'We can do it ...'

« on: November 02, 2005, 04:08:29 AM »

Bahrain Coach: 'We can do it ...'
Gulf-daily-news.[/size]

There was no hint of hesitation or pretention, but lots of hope and optimism as Luka Peruzovic said Bahrain had the capacity to beat Trinidad and Tobago in the two-leg final playoff and book a berth in the 2006 World Cup.
"We can do it," said the 53-year-old Belgian who took over as Bahrain coach from German Wolfgang Sidka in June.
Peruzovic is aware of the mountain ahead of him, and the reward behind it too, but his calm demeanour hardly reveals the pulls and pressures he is presently under.
Only two of his 11 professionals playing in Kuwait and Qatar are with the team training at the National Stadium; travel plans for two 16-hour journeys half-way across the globe have to be tackled; and, more importantly, practice schedules and warm-up matches are yet to be finalised.
But Peruzovic is optimistic and confident that things will fall in place, hurdles cleared and his team, sponsored by Batelco, will ultimately triumph in the two-leg showdown.
The opposition are no pushovers either, and are as eager and excited as Bahrain to make their first-ever entry in a World Cup.
Trinidad have a Dutch master as coach, Leo Beenhakker who was formerly in charge of Real Madrid; an inspirational forward in Dwight Yorke, who played for Manchester United at his prime, and a top Fifa official as a wealthy well-wisher - Jack Warner who is pumping in millions of dollars of his own money into his country's campaign for a World Cup ticket.
Peruzovic, however, seemed unperturbed as he spoke of Bahrain's performance so far under him.
"I cannot talk about our performance against North Korea because some players were playing for the first time. I can talk about the performance against Uzbekistan. All major players played this playoff except Ala'a Hubail, who was just returning from injury," said the former coach of Standard Liege of Belgium.
"I think the team's performance in the last two matches against Uzbekistan was very good. The players went into both matches with a similar idea and mentality and worked together towards one target which was to pass that stage and they did."

Yet, Peruzovic was not happy.

"When I took over the team in July, I had a problem with not having all the players here. Most of my players were either in Qatar or Kuwait," said Peruzovic who played in the 1974 World Cup for Yugoslavia.
"Some players were also recovering from injuries like Hussain Baba, Rashid Al Dossary and Mohammed Salmeen while some like Mahmood Jalal had to do his university examination in Cairo. So I had to take a decision of including more players and new faces to the team."
Perusovic also dismissed the notion that Bahrain is ultra-defensive.
"No, I don't believe Bahrain is playing defensively. In the last two matches against Uzbekistan we created so many scoring chances."
Passing the Uzbekistan hurdle was a major achievement for Bahrain as it took them one more step closer to realising a long-cherished dream of playing in a World Cup.
"I had to turn a new page after our match against Uzbekistan. We have to maintain our concentration as this is the most important moment for Bahrain football."
But Bahrain is yet taste victory under Peruzovic. "I don't think that really matters," he said. "I am more concerned about preparing for the Trinidad match right now. I am waiting for the rest of my players to come. Of course, what is on my mind at the moment is to have them back without injuries so we can resume our preparations for these two matches."
Bahrain's task against Trinidad is made even more difficult as 11 of the national team players are with yellow cards.
"I have to think about that. I must prepare other solutions and that's why we started our preparations earlier," said Peruzovic.
The other more crucial problem facing Bahrain is the question mark against key player Ala'a Hubail's name.
The star striker, who was joint top scorer at the Asian Championship in Beijing last year where Bahrain finished fourth, is just back from long-term injury and played only the last 10 minutes in the matches against Uzbekistan.
"He is better than before and is recovering faster. Ala'a was out for over eight months and I hope he can be 100 per cent fit for the next playoff.
"This is a knock-out system, so we need to be very cautious. Trinidad is also a strong team, but I have faith in the players I have, including those who were recently included."
But Trinidad is altogether a new challenge for Bahrain as they know very little about the Caribbean side who have many players playing in the European and South American leagues.
"At this moment, the Bahrain players know very little, but they will watch tapes of Trinidad matches which will help them get more information about their opponents and how to battle with them."
Many feel Bahrain have an advantage as they get to play the second-leg at home and also get more time for aclimatisation ahead of the first-leg.
But according to Peruzovic the distance is more important.
"We have to make two flights while they will have to fly only once which will not be an advantage for us. But it is good for us to play the second-leg at home," reasoned Peruzovic.
"I do not think it is a fair situation for both teams because we will have to make a 16-hour journey to Trinidad and then come back."
On the other hand, Peruzovic is happy with all other facilities at his disposal.
"Everyone here is helpful and supportive. People are giving the maximum they can which I really appreciate. We all need to put our efforts together at this important stage.
"To me, I have the best team in the world. This is my team for the moment. We have weakness in the attack, but I don't want to talk about it."
"But I would have loved to have the professional players for a longer time but I know how to find alternatives by selecting new players. "I know the Fifa rules which gives five days for any national team coach to meet with his professionals so why should I complain?" Peruzovic summed up.

The final question.

What are your plans in case, A, Bahrain qualifies for the World Cup. B, Bahrain fails to qualify for the World Cup. "I don't have plans. I have a one-year contract. I would like Bahrain to qualify for the World Cup even if my contract is not renewed. "But all that I am thinking of right now is to beat Trinidad and go to Germany."

17419

Football / Re: Stern John

« on: November 02, 2005, 04:01:58 AM »

Stern John ranked with the top concacaf scorers and with 2 games in hand he could very well be tops.

N./C. American and Caribbean Zone.

17420

Football / Support brewing for ‘Warriors’.

« on: November 02, 2005, 03:34:28 AM »

T&T Government gives T&TFF half.
T&T Express Reports.[/size]

The Government has granted the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation (T&TFF) just under half of the $13,993,000 it had requested to fund the campaign to get the national football team to the 2006 World Cup.
At yesterday's Cabinet briefing, Roger Boynes, the Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs, announced that after considering the request for funding which came two weeks ago, Government was prepared to meet some of what was asked for.
The T&TFF had requested $4.4m to cover the cost of securing a charter flight to Bahrain; $2,001,800 to cover the cost of accommodation, taxes and match fees for the upcoming two-leg play-offs against Bahrain; and another $7,591,200 to cover costs of the CONCACAF qualifiers in which Trinidad and Tobago earned a play-off berth after finishing fourth.
Two weeks ago, FIFA vice-president and T&TFF special adviser Jack Warner stated he had spent $17 million of his own money to fund the CONCACAF qualifiers and had chided the Government for its lack of involvement.
In response, Boynes met with Warner and T&TFF officials and agreed to take their request for assistance to Cabinet. Yesterday, he announced what assistance the Government was willing to give.
"The Government has agreed to grant further, and I repeat further assistance, to the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation in the sum of $6 million in respect of the qualifying games up to the return match in Bahrain, including the cost with respect of team preparation, travel expenses, match fees, accommodation and administration costs to assist the Trinidad and Tobago national football team with its quest to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2006."
Boynes also said his own efforts had rallied corporate sponsorship and that British Gas, the National Gas Company, Petrotrin, Eastern Credit Union and several companies in the Point Lisas Industrial Estate had agreed to come aboard.
Those firms, he said, have been directed to the T&TFF and the Local Organising Company (LOC) handling the World Cup qualifying campaign.
Boynes further added that CLICO and TSTT had agreed to assist in securing a charter to Bahrain.
"As the Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs, we reached out to corporate Trinidad and Tobago so that we can have all the stakeholders on board."
Boynes was quick to point out that the assistance given will cover the qualifiers against Bahrain on November 12 and 16 and indicated the Government was willing to consider further assistance to the team later on. "When they do in fact qualify, we as a Government will again come to the table and adjudicate on the assistance for our national team as we prepare to compete against the best in the world."Spanning the globe.
By: Ian Prescott.[/size]

Do you know there are 8,964 miles between Japan and Trinidad and Tobago? Silvio Spann might know. He has been feeling every one of them every time he comes home to play an International match for T&T.
A day after landing in Trinidad, Spann was absolutely exhausted following one of Leo Beenhakker's training session. Despite being very fit, the combination of a long flight and a torrid training session had taken their toll on the young T&T international footballer.
"For me, that is the greatest difficulty...the up and down. But that is the price I have to pay to represent my country. And it is an honour to represent Trinidad and Tobago."
Despite the long hours of travel and the certain jet lag, Spann says he will make the trip any and every time coach Beenhakker calls on him. He's eager to get to the World Cup Finals.
"To play with the national team has been a real honour for me," he says in a soft tone. "I would very much like to go to the World Cup. That is something that I would like to do for my father because he was not able to do it in his time."
Silvio laughs, when compared to his father Leroy, a former national captain with a big reputation in T&T even now...long after his heyday.
"First of all, I am not a left-footer like him, and those are very big shoes to fill. I think that rather than try to do that, I just have to do the best than I can."
Modest, he appears, but Spann has already done a lot in just 24 years. A former student of Couva Junior Secondary and St Benedict's College, Spann played club football with Doc's Kelwalaas and Vibe CT 105 W. Connection in the local leagues, before getting his first overseas contract while still a teenager. At 19, he was signed by Perugia, an Italian club, at which he stayed for two seasons, before returning to play for W. Connection.
Now in his first season with the Japanese second division club Yokohama F.C., Spann says he is comfortable in Japan, despite being the only Trinidadian to play there. And despite the cultural difference, he has already taken to the Japanese people. He admires their politeness and resourcefulness and they have been able to help him settle. His biggest problem in Japan may be the food. He is allergic to shell fish and unfortunately the only Japanese food he can eat is sushi...raw fish.
"A lot of the food the Japanese eat is raw and because of my allergies that has caused me some problem. What I have had to do is find an Italian restaurant so that I can still get my pasta...and so on."
Because the Japanese have taken to him, Spann is determined to make the best of his situation. He often mentions that with God's help, everything will work out. Already, he already become a favourite at Yokohama, a club which after a very slow start, has only now started to pick up victories and is eighth of the 12 teams in the competition. He says he has had to make some adjustment after playing the laid back football of the T&T Pro league for some time.
"The game in Japan is very fast. The Japanese are not strong people, so they have to be quick. There football is also technically very good."
Spann, hopes to use his stint in Japan to improve his game.
He list his own strengths as being a good defensive midfield, having a good first touch, and being able to shoot the ball very well. These are the skill he hopes will take both Yokohama up the league table and T&T to the World Cup Finals.

Sports Editor's Note:
Although Silvio Spann, because of his two yellow cards, was not eligible to play for T&T in this country's 2-1 victory over Mexico here last month, he will however be again available from the first home game on November 12 against Bahrain.Scotland’s World Cup call will hit Saints.
By: Ian Roache.[/size]

St Johnstone striker Jason Scotland will jet off to Trinidad following Saturday’s home match against Airdrie United with the best wishes of his manager and colleagues ringing in his ears.
Scotland has been called up by his country for the World Cup two-leg play-off against Bahrain, with the prospect of playing in Germany next summer looming large.
While Saints boss Owen Coyle is disappointed at losing him for the league match against Dundee a week on Saturday, hopes are high at the club that one of their own will win through to the finals.
“Jason will be available for the Airdrie game, but the Trinidad and Tobago FA have been in touch and want him to fly out the following day,” said manager Owen Coyle.
“It is a big blow for us that he is missing the Tayside derby, but we will all wish him well.”
Dundee’s Kelvin Jack is in the Trinidad and Tobago squad too—Dundee United’s Collin Samuel is on stand-by—and will also be counted out of the derby as well as the Dark Blues’ re-arranged fixture with Hamilton the following Tuesday.News from the 2nd of November 2005.
Support brewing for ‘Warriors’.
By: Shaun Fuentes.[/size]

One of this country’s professionals playing his trade in a part of the world where Trinidad and Tobago’s last opponent before Germany comes from says he can guarantee support from that part of Asia for the Warriors.
Japanese-based midfielder Silvio Spann boasted about the compliments and positive feedbacks he has received over the last few days since his return to Yokohama in Japan over T&T’s resounding win over Mexico and the support for his team in the upcoming playoff matches against Bahrain on November 12 and 16.
The former National Under 23 skipper is also aware of the attempts to dismantle T&T’s hopes with the news of David Nakhid’s link with Bahrain quickly followed by his denials and the Jamaicans possibly accommodating the opponents on their Caribbean trip.
And down under, skipper Dwight Yorke has been getting well wishes from fans who are also familiar with T&T through the exploits of World batting star Brian Lara.
According to some of the professionals based in the United Kingdom and United States, T&T’s fan base continues to grow as the supporters attached to the respective clubs are backing T&T and have been requesting any ‘Warriors’ paraphernalia available.
“These days I cannot describe the feeling because it seems that everyone wants Trinidad (and Tobago) to qualify for the World Cup,” Spann told TTFF Media. “You remember me after the game and I didn’t even play  against Mexico but since then I have been enjoying every moment of it. The talk back at my club is ‘Come on Silvio and T&T, let’s do it. We believe you can do it.”
Spann added that the Japanese fans have been talking about having seen the Bahrain team in action. “They all believe that we are a better team than Bahrain but the most important thing is for us to prove it on the 12th and 16th,” Spann said.
And as to what influence his father, former National midfielder Leroy Spann, is having in terms of getting the former St Benedict’s College skipper ready for the biggest games of his life.
“He believed from day one that we could get to the World Cup and he’s been through this already so definitely I have been trying to learn from his guidance. As a matter of fact both him and my mom are already arguing about who is going to Germany to see the games.”
“Like my brother Latas says it, we go vibes it up for sure, by the Grace of God,” Spann added.
Yorke on the other hand has been a hit with the Sydney Supporters group who recently put up a banner with a T&T flag at one of the club’s matches.
“It’s an amazing thing because there’s no doubt that if we can qualify for the World Cup a lot of people will be supportive of us. We all know what a story this will be,” Yorke said. “But before that we have one more hurdle to get over and that has got to be our focus.”
And while some of the focus recently has switched from the team and towards the Nakhid saga, West Ham goalie Shaka Hislop is confident the positive vibrations will return once the team assembles in Port of Spain on November 7.
“I think once we get together again and the preparations begin then everything will be in place for this game. Nothing will distract us and the people will know what has to be done in terms of supporting the team,” Hislop said.
The overseas pros will return to Trinidad on November 7 and head coach Leo Beenhakker will arrive on November 4 ahead of the clash at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. Tickets are also still carded to go on sale on November 10 at advertised KFC outlets and Republic Bank branches and the TTFF has also taken a decision to issue no complimentary tickets for this particular match.I might play for Trinidad and Tobago.
By: Icons.com.[/size]

Jlloyd Samuel: There has been a lot speculation about my future in international football and I want to set the record straight.
It is true that I may qualify to play for Trinidad and Tobago. I was born in Trinidad and it would make me proud to play for them. Yes, I have played for England Under-21s, but there may be a possibility that I'm able to switch allegiance.
I am sure some people will accuse me of jumping on the bandwagon, but I only think that would be the case if I said I wanted to play for them only after they had qualified for the World Cup. In fact, I would like to contribute in their efforts to qualify. I was born in Trinidad and it would make me proud to play for them.
As it stands they haven't made it yet, and they are not sure to get through. I want them to qualify, but if they don't it does not mean I will regret my decision. I feel Trinidadian and want to play for them.
It would be a dream to make my debut against Bahrain in the World Cup play-off next week. This could be possible if I'm proved eligible to play, because there is no truth whatsoever in the story that Aston Villa are preventing me from playing for my country. I spoke to our assistant manager Roy Aitken and he said the club had no problem with it, and were just waiting for official confirmation. He was all for it.
The team is doing well and they are in with a good chance of beating Bahrain, but I hope I can bring something different to the side than what they've already got if everything comes together. I've been playing in the Premiership for a long time, and am the only Trinidadian playing at that level at the moment, so I'd like to think I could bring some experience and added quality to the side.
I've spoken to the Trinidad and Tobago assistant manager and he's been very positive as well. He's been to see me play a few times, and I believe he liked what he saw, so hopefully everything will come off and I'll get to play next week.
On the domestic front, things didn't go very well against Manchester City last night. The result was disappointing and I was hauled off at half-time. I definitely feel I was made a scapegoat. We all make mistakes, and you need time to put them right, but I didn't get that.
Football is all about confidence and the more time you are on the field, the more confident you become. And that's what I need at the moment - game time - because my confidence isn't as sky high as it should be.
I didn't talk to the manager about it, because at the end of the day it's his decision. And also in the heat of the moment, things can come out wrong so I thought it best not to say anything. I'll just knuckle down now and try and make sure I'm in the starting line-up for Liverpool at the weekend.K.C.'s Scott Sealy has World Cup dreams for T&T.
By Robert Rusert/MLSnet Staff.[/size]

Kansas City -- The number of MLS players headed to Germany next summer for the FIFA World Cup could increase in three weeks time when Trinidad & Tobago take on Asian side Bahrain in a two-match playoff on Nov. 12 and 16 for one of the last spots on soccer's grandest stage.
Kansas City Wizards forward Scott Sealy, as well as Cornell Glen of the Columbus Crew and Avery John of the New England Revolution, are in the preliminary pool for the Caribbean's island team that came from behind on the power of two goals by former Columbus Crew marksman Stern John to defeat Mexico in Port-of-Spain and claim fourth place in the CONCACAF region, winning the right to take on Asia's playoff qualifier.
The quick and agile Sealy's coolness in finishing and penchant for being in the right spot helped him hit the net seven times for the Wizards from July 16 to Aug. 19, a streak that resulted in T&T coach Leo Beenhakker calling in the rookie out of Wake Forest University to reinforce his front line.
Sealy had appeared in three qualifiers in a row for the Soca Warriors before their clash with Panama Oct. 8 and the Mexico clash Oct. 12, including playing the entire second half against the USA on Aug. 17, a 1-0 loss for T&T. But he failed to make the 18-man matchday roster for the last two crucial qualifiers.
"I think it's the toughest position right now on the team because we're playing with one forward, basically, and then it's however the other guy is going to complement the other forward. So it was kind of up in the air who was going to be his backup," Sealy said. "I didn't get a specific reason, but I did well in training. It was a coach's decision."
Nevertheless, Sealy took in the drama and excitement as his countrymen battled to keep the dream alive of a first-ever World Cup finals appearance against a watered-down Mexico side at Hasely Crawford Stadium in the capital of the twin-island republic.
"[It was] definitely one of the more exciting games ever played in Trinidad, a big step in the right direction of where we want to go," said Sealy. "For the last two qualifiers we sold out. The fans are really getting behind us because they believe we have a realistic chance of qualifying for the World Cup which will be the first time ever for [the] senior [team]."
Drafted 11th overall in the 2005 MLS SuperDraft, Sealy's first season with Kansas City was a qualified success.
"It wasn't bad. Coming into the first year, I thought it was going to be a learning experience, definitely. I didn't have big expectations, winning scoring titles or anything like that," he said. "I thought I would be able to contribute, and hopefully the team would do well enough to go into the playoffs and be a contender. Obviously, that didn't happen. But individually I thought I grew a lot from the beginning of the season right until the end."
As the season went on, the 24-year-old grew more comfortable and savvy on the ball, and perhaps most revealing, more insightful off the ball. His final totals included appearing in 28 of 32 matches, making 20 starts, and scoring nine goals with two assists.
"It was a bit inconsistent because in the beginning I wasn't playing much, and then the middle part I played a lot, then coming on to the end, I probably didn't play as much as I thought I should of," the rookie of the year candidate said. "All in all it was definitely a good experience. And I think next year, for sure I'm going to be a stronger and better player in this league."
Despite the late season swoon, Wizards head man Bob Gansler thinks Sealy is ready to up his game to aid Trinidad if his play in training is any indication.
"He's an intelligent soccer player, very introspective, and motivates himself. There's a confidence about his game," said Gansler. "He is gaining in sharpness again, and I'm sure he'll be an asset to them."
The other two candidates for Gatorade Rookie of the Year honors -- Michael Parkhurst of the New England Revolution and Chris Rolfe of the Chicago Fire -- will face each other in the Eastern Conference Championship match next weekend with the winner heading to MLS Cup 2005. Sealy will preparing for the showdown with Bahrain, where he believes playing the first leg in Trinidad will be beneficial.
"I think us playing at home first will be an advantage because they have to fly all the way to the Caribbean to play. And then it will be up for grabs going back to their place," he said.
"I think [the Mexico win] is serving us right now with everybody expecting us to get the job done, but I don't think [Bahrain] is any walkover team. They definitely did well enough to get to this point, so they're going to be a good team. But our chances are just as good as theirs."Kenwyne Jones anxious.
By: Shaun Fuentes.[/size]

Southampton striker Kenwyne Jones could not hold back his feelings while on the sidelines. He says that the time he spent there during T&T’s 2-1 win over Mexico had to have been the most dramatic of his career.
Jones recalled his emotions:
“It was crazy for us on the bench because for such a match, especially with the atmosphere around you, it’s hard to contain yourself.’
The period when Stern John missed the penalty and then Mexico scored soon after, left Jones and company biting their nails.
“At that point I was feeling to just bury myself in the ground. But we kept thinking it could still happen and the players on the bench actually had our arms around each other, because you also have to be thinking that at any point you could be asked to go out and do it on the pitch.
“That’s the sort of spirit we have and it’s going to be no different against Bahrain,” he said.
Jones said he came on in the 77th minute in Southampton’s 1-0 win over Stoke City on the weekend and is in the squad to face Crystal Palace today in Championship League action.Chris Birchall happy to be fit.
By: Shaun Fuentes.[/size]

Midfielder Chris Birchall says everytime he returns to his club after representing T&T, he tries to stay fit; praying that he remains injury free in order to have the chance of wearing the red, white and black national colours.
Birchall has been dubbed a real fighter in the Warriors’ outfit and this has been exemplified, as it has been by the rest of his team-mates, in recent wins over Panama and Mexico.
Now it’s Bahrain’s time to feel the hurt.
“I’ll always have it at the back of my mind when I go back to England that the last thing I want is to get injured for the matches for T&T.
“But at the same time, I’m always trying to do the best that I can for whichever team I’m playing for.
“Right now, it’s just about looking forward to the massive game against Bahrain.”
Birchall also spoke of having his parents, Jennifer and Phil, in T&T to witness him play for the first time in international football.
“I don’t think any of us will ever forget that, especially my mom, coming back to her home country and being able to witness the last win before the home fans. God knows where we can end up now,” he said. Birchall played the full match in Port Vale’s 2-1 loss to Hartlepool last Saturday.

17421

Football / Ian Cox makes up for lost time.

« on: November 01, 2005, 07:45:17 AM »

Ian Cox makes up for lost time.
By: Joel Bailey (Newsday).

Ian Cox is definitely making up for lost time as he tries to reach the pinnacle of his football career — assisting the national football team in their quest to reach the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany. The tall, well-spoken English-born defender is not one to make a fuss at the fact that he has been among the reserves or, in some cases, not called upon at all, either by Trinidad and Tobago coach Leo Beenhakker or his predecessor Bertille St Clair. Ian he is the 21-member squad to face Bahrain on November 12 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. He is modest enough to accept that he will have to take his chances when it comes, both with the national squad and Gillingham in the English First Division (League One).
The son of a Tobago mother, Ian was born in Croydon, south London on March 25, 1971, and had to wait until he was well into adulthood before he could look to make a career out of the game. “I just basically started football at Crystal Palace (one of England’s more prominent and long-standing clubs),” Ian admitted. “I’d come into the game quite late at 23, just the way how it was, I just didn’t make the grade as a youngster. “I went and played non-league football and I got picked up by Crystal Palace while I was playing non-league football and it all started from there really.” Concerning his growth in the sport, Ian reflected: “I played all over the place.
“Since I went to Bournemouth (club) ten years ago, that’s when I was converted into a defender. I was naturally a midfielder at first but I gradually went back and back.” Ian later became captain of Bournemouth before joining another English club Burnley, for a fee of £500,000. With his calmness on the field, even though he does possess a strong tackle and strength in the air, Ian was given his international debut by St Clair during a 1-0 defeat to Morocco in January 2000. Even after St Clair was replaced as coach by Ian Porterfield a month later, Ian was still in the thick of things until, like so many of Trinidad and Tobago’s overseas-based players, he found the struggle to maintain his intensity, and his starting place, for both club and country.
On April 20, 2001, Ian decided to retire from the international fray to concentrate on his career with Burnley, a move which turned out to be a blessing in disguise as he signed a three-year deal at Gillingham in 2003. A consistent run of form for Gillingham, as well as a return to the TT coaching helm of St Clair, prompted Ian to make a re-think and, in 2004, he came out of international retirement. In the national team, Ian has had to battle with the likes of Marvin Andrews, Dennis Lawrence, Anton Pierre and Brent Sancho for a spot on the first eleven, but he is not despondent by that. Even Sancho, who joined Gillingham before the start of the 2005/2006 season, has credited Ian’s overall demeanour in helping him settle at the club, who unfortunately dropped from the English Championship Division to League One.
“It’s not too bad,” is how Ian describes the season thus far. “Obviously it was disappointing last year to get relegated. But we’re in the League One now. “We just have to get on with job in hand,” he continued. “It feels good. We know we’ve got a hard job ahead of us but we’re up to the task.”
As far as his career is concerned, he was quick to point out that he does not see his career continuing for much longer. “At the moment, all I’m just doing is concentrating on this year,” Ian said. “I’ve got a year left at Gillingham and then I’ll just probably take it from there.” He added: “I’ve got my fingers in other (places) and I’m just going to wait to see if they can come into fruition over the next few years.”
When asked about the other “places,” he replied: “it’s not necessarily with football. “My wife’s got a conference business so we’re actually in the corporate industry as well.” A father of three girls — Jade 11, Shann, 8, and Anna-Mae, 4, Ian  takes an active role in his family life with the same zeal as he does his role on the football field. But he does not envision any of his daughters taking up the sport. “They wouldn’t be following my footsteps in football but (Shann) is a gymnast, very, very good,” he admits. “It all depends on if she wants to pursue this or pursue that as she gets older.”
“At the moment, it’s just something to keep her busy, keep her out of the house,” he noted. When he is not taking on the challenges of opponents on the field, Ian puts most of his attention, and his time on his family. “I spend a lot of time with my girls, hanging out, running around after them because they do a lot of different activities,” he ended.

17422

Football / Fatima, Tigers through, El Do, Green Machine advance in East.

« on: November 01, 2005, 04:03:53 AM »

Fatima, Tigers through.
By: Jovan Ravello (Guardian).

Defending North and National Inter Col champions, the “Westmooring’s Tigers” St Anthony’s College and this year’s Secondary Schools’ Football League North Zone League runners-up Fatima College easily advanced to the semifinals of the 2005 North Zone Inter Col yesterday.
In the first match of a double header at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo, Fatima fell just short of double figures as they beat North Zone minnows Tranquility Secondary 9-0 in a drab one-sided affair.
Makesi Lewis opened the scoring with the first of his three goals in the 21st minute after Fatima wasted a few good early chances.
Right-winger Kieran Marin doubled Fatima’s tally with a well taken 42nd minute goal as the Mucurapo boys went into the half leading 2-0.
When they came back out Lewis made it 3-0, slotting home Sean Bateau’s squared pass, before Marin got his second in the 58th and Emmanuel Joseph put in his first, a deftly headed goal at the end of Marin’s well-weighted cross, then made it six in the 79th.
Joseph’s second was a good piece of individual skill as he chased down a deep clearance, chipped the ball past the Tranquil’ left back and Barclay Richard in goal and tapped it into an empty net to the glee of the Fatima supporters.
Shortly after Collins Christopher got Tranquillity’s best chance of the match but he shot into the arms of Fatima ‘keeper Adrian Foncette with whom he was alone in the 18 yard box.
In the 90th minute, second-half substitute Chad De Freitas finally got his name on the scoresheet after wasting a couple and Lewis completed the rout in the second minute of time added on 9-0 Fatima.
Though from early indications St Mary’s College appeared prepared to tough it out with the defending champs, St Anthony’s College showed their class and walked away with a 4-0 win from their match.
After some brisk early exchanges Lester Peltier scored the opener in the 12th minute off a Stefon St Louis pass and St Louis made it 2-0 in the 34th after Peltier played the role of provider following some poor defensive work by St Mary’s.
DeFreitas got a well deserved goal in the 41st minute as Peltier capped off a solo run down the left with a sharp square ball and in the second-half St Louis scored the “Tigers” fourth in the 74th minute. North Zone Inter Col action continues on Saturday.El Do, Green Machine advance in East.
By: Rachael Thompson King.

Kernater Morris scored a double to ensure El Dorado Senior Comprehensive was the first team in the East Zone to advance to the semifinal of the zonal RBTT InterCol semifinals yesterday.
Playing at the Larry Gomes Stadium in Malabar El Dorado defeated Toco Composite 5-1 in extra time.
Toco secured its spot in the InterCol quarterfinal after winning the Secondary School Football League senior division.
At the end of regulation time the score was tied 1-1.
Jamal Gay opened the scoring for the “Blue Thunder” in the 30th minute sending Toco at the half with a 1-0 deficit.
Play continued in the second session with El Dorado, missing numerous chances at the goal.
Toco equalised in the 60th minute off a penalty taken by captain Sheldon Balfour.
The scores remained 1-1 after 90 minutes.
The El Dorado players, who seemed relax throughout much of the match, became more aggressive in the extra period and got its second goal from Morris.
The other three goals came from off the feet of Hasani Wharwood, Morris again and Keston Henry put the icing on the cake.
The “El Do” footballers now move onto play St Augustine Senior Comprehensive next Tuesday.
The “Green Machine” booked its place in the semifinals beating Arima Senior Comprehensive, 3-2 in other East Zone double-header at Larry Gomes Stadium.
The winner of the other quarterfinal match between Malabar Composite and Hillview College which will be played on Thursday at the same venue meets East Zone league champion San Juan Secondary Comprehensive.

Results:

Fatima 9 (Makesi Lewis 21st, 49th, 90th, Kieran Marin 42nd, 58th, Emmanuel Joseph 67st, 79th, Sherron Joseph 81st, Chad De Freitas 90th).

St Anthony’s College 4 (Lester Peltier 12th, Stefon St Louis 34th, 74th, Akil De Freitas 41st) vs St Mary’s College 0.

El Dorado 5 (Jamal Gay 30th, Kernater Morris 2, Hasani Wharwood, Keston Henry) vs Toco 1 (Sheldon Balfour 60th).

St Augustime 3 (Kempest Villafana, Danny Joseph 2) vs Arima 2.

17423

Football / Re: Dwight Yorke report

« on: October 31, 2005, 08:21:16 AM »

Littbarski wants Yorke to shine.
Sportal News.

Sydney FC head coach Pierre Littbarski is hoping star forward Dwight Yorke will soon shine and start scoring goals again for Sydney FC after a middle-season drought.
Yorke has been playing some exciting football for Sydney, but has been unable to put the ball in the back of the net since round six, despite a number of gift opportunities.
As the second-placed FC attempts to close the gap on leaders Adelaide United, Littbarski is keen for the former Manchester United striker to start scoring more frequently.
"These are periods you must go through, sometimes for four or five games you can't score and then you score," he said of Dwight. "He had a great start and now we're hoping that he scores again."
But Littbarski was quick to express his confidence in Yorke and said that he too, as a forward, experienced similar quiet periods where goals were scarce.
"Even if you are a world class player, you have these periods, and hopefully it's soon over."
"He looked very positive before the game, he played very well, but like every other forward he needs the goals."

17424

Football / Jack Warner to fight Villa for Samuel.

« on: October 30, 2005, 07:46:03 AM »

Jack Warner to fight Villa for Samuel.
By: Curtis Williams (Guardian).[/size]

Fifa Vice President Austin Jack Warner has said he will be going to football’s governing body to force Aston Villa to allow its left back Jlloyd Samuel to play for Trinidad and Tobago in its crucial World Cup play-off against Bahrain.
Warner confirmed that Leo Beenhakker has was impressed with Samuel and wants him to be part of the team for the home match on November 12.
Warner said that while it was up to Fifa to make a final decision, he was confident that the world governing body would decide in this country’s favour.
He said: “Once the coach say he wants him, then he will have him and the coach says he wants him.”
Samuel, a 24-year-old defender from Aston Villa, is qualified to play for both Trinidad and Tobago and England and has recently indicated a willingness to represent T&T.
However, Warner says Aston Villa is insisting that Samuel is not qualified to play for this country because they “do not wish to release him.”
He said: “Aston Villa tell us he is not available. Who is Aston Villa? They say he is not qualified. Who is Aston Villa? Give me a break.”
Warner also said it was pressure from the public in Jamaica which in part led to Bahrain calling off the camp in Jamaica.Beenhakker: Truth will be out on the pitch.
By: Shaun Fuentes.[/size]

Trinidad and Tobago head coach Leo Beenhakker said he intends to have his players focused like never before going into the 2006 World Cup qualifying play-off with Bahrain on November 12 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Port of Spain.
The Dutchman plans to address the T&T media on his return to Trinidad on November 4 at Piarco International Airport and hinted that the players will be off limits to the media and the public from the time they assemble on November 7 for their live-in training camp.
Beenhakker also put to rest any allegations of unnecessary hype involving former T&T scout David Nakhid and Bahrain's preparations for the match, with or without the input of the Jamaica Football Federation.
"I refuse to believe what they are saying just based on the reports in the Bahrain newspapers," Beenhakker told Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation (T&TFF) media officer Shaun Fuentes on Friday evening.
"Until there's any evidence, what can I do with it?" He praised his team under the captaincy of Dwight Yorke for their commitment and professional showing leading up to the play-offs, pointing out that anything that could affect the psyche of the T&T Warriors will be ignored.
"Besides that, we know what we want, we know what we have to do. This is all garbage for us, players and staff. In football, the truth is on the pitch so let us try to do our job there," Beenhakker added.Bahrain team to have private jet in WCQ.
Gulf Daily News.
 
The Bahrain national football team will have a private jet which will bring them back to the country after their match against Trinidad and Tobago in Port of Spain on November 12. His Majesty the King, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, has also ordered an open budget for the team's training camp at any place selected by its technical staff, after a camp in Jamaica was ruled out.
General Organisation for Youth and Sports (Goys) President, Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, told the Tribune yesterday that cash prizes, purported to be the biggest in Bahrain's sports history, have also been earmarked for players in case they get to play World Cup.
He said there is a bonanza waiting for Bahraini students in the United States in the form of 100 air tickets that have been resereved for them.
Shaikh Fawaz thanked His Majesty the King, the Prime Minister, Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, and the Crown Prince and Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, for their support. He said this support had always been a contributing factor in developing sports and in Bahrain making a mark in the international arena. Thanks to these directives, the national team will get five star treatment, he said. Shaikh Fawaz said Bahrain's embassy in the United States has received a large number of requests from students desirous of watching the match. He said a final decision on the camp will be taken soon. The choice is between Honduras and Venezuela.

17425

Football / Toyota Classic Thread

« on: October 30, 2005, 07:19:20 AM »

W Connection, Jabloteh win on penalty kicks.
By: Nigel Simon (Guardian).[/size]

W Connection and San Juan Jabloteh showed how penalty kicks should be taken as they beat Defence Force and Joe Public, respectively, to reach the final of the inaugural Toyota Classic competition.
They won semifinal matches at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo, on Friday night.
W Connection beat Defence Force for the sixth time this season, the third in a Cup competition, 4-3 on penalty-kicks after a goalless draw.
Jabloteh and Joe Public also played to a goalless draw before the San Juan club took the shoot-out 5-4.
W Connection reached its third final of the season (its 18th straight Cup final) but had only itself to blame for not winning the game in regulation time, as many chances were squandered.
Defence Force goalkeeper Cleon John, however, must also be given credit for a number of timely saves.
In the shoot-out, team captain, Earl Jean, Andre Toussaint and Brazilians William De Olliviera and Ronaldo Viana all converted.
But whereas the “Savonetta Boys” were cool and precise, Defence Force was the opposite.
Devon Jorsling missed his team’s first attempt which hit the post, while Anton Pierre kicked straight to the Colombian goalie, Alejandro Figueroea.
In between the misses, Dexter Pacheco, Kurt Williams and Addison Belfon scored for Defence Force.
Jabloteh was also perfect with its shooting through Aurtis Whitley, Kerry Baptiste, Josh Johnson, Nigel Daniel and Trent Noel.
The Easter Lions seemed on course to do the same until Jamaican goalkeeper, Jacomento Barrett, the hero in the quarterfinal win over Caledonia AIA Fire, fired wide of goalkeeper Duarance Williams and the post.
The final on Friday will be played at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium, Marabella, from 8.30 pm.
It will be the third clash in a final between the teams this season.
In their two tournament finals this season, Jabloteh won the Pro Bowl 1-0 over W Connection while the latter won the First Citizens Bank Cup on penalty kicks.
The winner will collect $30,000 and a trophy donated by the sponsors Toyota, while second placed gets $20,000.
Defence Force and Joe Public will meet in the night’s first match from 6.30 pm, for the third and fourth places for $1,500 and $5,000, respectively.
W Connection and Jabloteh will meet in a dress rehearsal for the final, when T&T Professional Football League final round matches take place on Tuesday.
W Connection with 46 points can move within a point of wrapping up the PFL crown with a win over Jabloteh (34 points) at the Larry Gomes Stadium, Malabar from 4 pm.
A win over Jabloteh will push W Connection’s lead to the top with 15 points and five matches left to play.
In other matches carded for Tuesday (Divali), also from 4 pm, Tobago United host last year’s league winner, National Quarries North East Stars, at the Dwight Yorke Stadium, Bacolet, Tobago, while United Petrotrin meets Defence Force at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium, Marabella.

Friday’s Toyota Classic Semifinal Results:

W Connection 0 vs Defence Force 0.
W Connection won 4-3 on penalty-kicks.

San Juan Jabloteh 0 vs Joe Public 0.
San Juan Jabloteh won 5-4 on penalty-kicks.

17426

Football / Re: Trinis in action (Oct 29, 2005).

« on: October 30, 2005, 06:52:49 AM »

Fire Band and others, ok, its been updated and corrected...

Thanx..

17427

Football / Re: Peter Goldstein match preview

« on: October 29, 2005, 02:34:40 PM »

Nice work again Peter....

17428

Football / Re: Jabloteh and Connection ride penalties to Toyota Cup Final

« on: October 29, 2005, 02:28:36 PM »

is this the same conrad that played for malick?

Yes....

Conrad Smith.

17429

Football / Re: Warriors stand up!

« on: October 29, 2005, 12:47:41 PM »

If you guys want to help out a little, just point out the thread that needs to be deleted/modify/edited and I will handle it...

You must be one of the orignal members to do so...

Thanx guys...

17430

Football / Re: Trinis in action (Oct 29, 2005).

« on: October 29, 2005, 10:15:50 AM »

A lil correction Flex, You have Carlos Edwards starting for Coventry. Having said that, I just need to tell you that you guys are doing a massive job on this site.... could never be said enough.

Love and peace

Actualy it is correct, I put the home team listed first.

Thanx.....