1201
Football / The greatest sporting night in tnt a magnificent performance
« on: October 12, 2005, 08:02:20 PM »
triniadad 2-1 we did it on to the plat offf if we play like this in november we will qualify. A magnificient performance
April 25, 2024, 09:12:43 AM
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1202
Football / sub1 doc long time no post come out fellas
« on: October 12, 2005, 07:10:24 PM »
I know allyuh supporting
1203
Football / True Warriors
« on: September 07, 2005, 07:29:58 AM »
True Warriors
By Anil Roberts (Trinidad Guardian)
Saturday the third of September, 2005 shall go down in history as a day the entire nation united in pursuit of one common goal. Our football Warriors made our hearts swell with pride.
They exhibited pure guts, heart and soul, skill, desire and excellent teamwork. The team twice overcame deficits to eventually snatch a well-deserved victory and the consequential, all-important three points.
The crowd was tremendous.
The media, especially many radio stations were passionate in promoting our Warriors. Errol Fabien, Jason Daly and Ayanna Leonard must also be given special mention to this end they wore their hearts on their sleeves.
Following is a general analysis of each Individual Warriors: Performance:
Kelvin Jack: Kelvin had a solid game. Both goals against him could not be stopped. The first took a wicked deflection and the second was from a brilliant counter attack, a perfect cross and a great shot from eight yards out. Kelvin’s communication throughout the game was excellent. He helped his defenders to keep their shape at all times. Kelvin has to improve his ground game. He is simply horrendous with the ball at his feet. This is the only factor preventing him from signing with a top-flight club. Finally he needs to decide earlier when he wants to come off his line.
Marvin ‘Dog’ Andrew: Marvin is a walking, running and jumping miracle — keep in mind that he is playing with a partially torn ligament. Once again Marvin had a good game defensively. Though he did drift out of position in his zeal to help T&T score. Obviously he miss-trapped a few balls and made a couple poor passes but keep in mind that is not his game. On set plays Marvin’s desire to win the ball in the air is always evident, however on two occasions, after leaping well, he took his eyes off the ball and muffed the header.
Brent Sancho: Brent Sancho has taken his game to the next level. His heroics against the USA obviously were no fluke. His marking was extremely tight at all times. While he covered his fellow defenders tremendously. His timing in the air was impeccable while his aggression in the tackle was inspirational. Brent kept running for the entire 94 minutes. Simply put, Brent had a brilliant game.
Avery John: Avery John had a nightmare. He seemed to panic whenever the ball was swung over to his side, wide on the left. On one occasion he was caught out of position and was forced to chase the very speedy Guatemalans who time and again tried to exploit the space behind him. Avery cannot be faulted for his supreme effort, however at this level of the game he must become more comfortable in possession. His passes and crosses leave much to be desired. It must be mentioned with the score at 2-1. Avery made one of the greatest saving tackles that I have ever seen!
Silvio Spann: Playing out of his customary position Silvio contributed greatly to T&T’s possession of the ball. Silvio understood his role extremely well and his sublime touches were evident. He continuously pushed the ball forward keeping Guatemala on the back foot at all times. His crosses were whipped in with venom, swerve and precision. Silvio must not be afraid to cut inside and strike at goal from 25 to 30 yards out.
Aurtis Whitley: Finally I saw the Aurtis who demands the ball for Jabloteh. In his previous games he seemed out of his depth. On Saturday he came into his own. Demanding the ball on many occasions and switching the play eloquently. He linked up extremely well with the more experienced players. His defensive coverage and tracking was on the money. This was a breakout game for Aurtis.
Carlos Edwards: Welcome back Carlos. Carlos espoused confidence in every aspect of the game. His decision-making was superb. He accelerated down the line, when the situation required it while he held up the ball and kept possession for T&T as necessary. His fitness is remarkable and his crosses were telling. All in all a great performance from Carlos.
Chris Birchall: Chris is the type of player that T&T has been missing for the past 16 years. He is a true Warrior He scrambles, fights and gets stuck in at every juncture. He has the ability to win possession in the middle of the park and distributes it to the playmakers. He never stops running. Though he did not have his best game on the ball, he is an integral cog in the football machinery of our Warriors.
Stern John: Stern John has and continues to be below his best. However, on Saturday he illustrated why the coach persists with him. He is a classy player, who can win a game with one telling strike. Rumours of him being dropped, obviously spurred him on to achieve greatness. His temperament was much better, as he did not argue with his fellow players. He gave his all throughout the game. Stern’s double has kept the campaign alive. He still needs to be fitter and faster to return to his deadly best.
Dwight Yorke: The skipper continues to be inspirational. His all round game is flawless. His control is immaculate. His footballing brain is functioning on all cylinders. Dwight instilled a never say die approach into all of his players. He shared the ball around remarkably. His defensive pressure kept the Guatemalans out of their comfort zone at all times. He demanded the ball, kept possession and ensured that the Warriors kept the shape at all times. His fitness is remarkable.
Russell Latapy: Russell demonstrated his supreme class. At 37 years old, he is still a footballing genius. His play for 94 minutes was remarkable, never once looking tired or shirking his defensive responsibility. His ability to turn on a dime is a thing of beauty. His control with all parts of his body is flawless. It is truly a joy to watch a grandmaster ply his trade. Russell was the Man of the Match.
Leo Beenhakker — A GENIUS!
Substitutes: Jason Scotland and Scott Sealy made an instant impact on entering the fray. They added life to the attack and were instrumental in the T&T fight back. Ian Cox was introduced very late.
The Crowd: A joy to see such a sea of Red. Well done T&T
Costa Rica — tonight! GO WARRIORS.
By Anil Roberts (Trinidad Guardian)
Saturday the third of September, 2005 shall go down in history as a day the entire nation united in pursuit of one common goal. Our football Warriors made our hearts swell with pride.
They exhibited pure guts, heart and soul, skill, desire and excellent teamwork. The team twice overcame deficits to eventually snatch a well-deserved victory and the consequential, all-important three points.
The crowd was tremendous.
The media, especially many radio stations were passionate in promoting our Warriors. Errol Fabien, Jason Daly and Ayanna Leonard must also be given special mention to this end they wore their hearts on their sleeves.
Following is a general analysis of each Individual Warriors: Performance:
Kelvin Jack: Kelvin had a solid game. Both goals against him could not be stopped. The first took a wicked deflection and the second was from a brilliant counter attack, a perfect cross and a great shot from eight yards out. Kelvin’s communication throughout the game was excellent. He helped his defenders to keep their shape at all times. Kelvin has to improve his ground game. He is simply horrendous with the ball at his feet. This is the only factor preventing him from signing with a top-flight club. Finally he needs to decide earlier when he wants to come off his line.
Marvin ‘Dog’ Andrew: Marvin is a walking, running and jumping miracle — keep in mind that he is playing with a partially torn ligament. Once again Marvin had a good game defensively. Though he did drift out of position in his zeal to help T&T score. Obviously he miss-trapped a few balls and made a couple poor passes but keep in mind that is not his game. On set plays Marvin’s desire to win the ball in the air is always evident, however on two occasions, after leaping well, he took his eyes off the ball and muffed the header.
Brent Sancho: Brent Sancho has taken his game to the next level. His heroics against the USA obviously were no fluke. His marking was extremely tight at all times. While he covered his fellow defenders tremendously. His timing in the air was impeccable while his aggression in the tackle was inspirational. Brent kept running for the entire 94 minutes. Simply put, Brent had a brilliant game.
Avery John: Avery John had a nightmare. He seemed to panic whenever the ball was swung over to his side, wide on the left. On one occasion he was caught out of position and was forced to chase the very speedy Guatemalans who time and again tried to exploit the space behind him. Avery cannot be faulted for his supreme effort, however at this level of the game he must become more comfortable in possession. His passes and crosses leave much to be desired. It must be mentioned with the score at 2-1. Avery made one of the greatest saving tackles that I have ever seen!
Silvio Spann: Playing out of his customary position Silvio contributed greatly to T&T’s possession of the ball. Silvio understood his role extremely well and his sublime touches were evident. He continuously pushed the ball forward keeping Guatemala on the back foot at all times. His crosses were whipped in with venom, swerve and precision. Silvio must not be afraid to cut inside and strike at goal from 25 to 30 yards out.
Aurtis Whitley: Finally I saw the Aurtis who demands the ball for Jabloteh. In his previous games he seemed out of his depth. On Saturday he came into his own. Demanding the ball on many occasions and switching the play eloquently. He linked up extremely well with the more experienced players. His defensive coverage and tracking was on the money. This was a breakout game for Aurtis.
Carlos Edwards: Welcome back Carlos. Carlos espoused confidence in every aspect of the game. His decision-making was superb. He accelerated down the line, when the situation required it while he held up the ball and kept possession for T&T as necessary. His fitness is remarkable and his crosses were telling. All in all a great performance from Carlos.
Chris Birchall: Chris is the type of player that T&T has been missing for the past 16 years. He is a true Warrior He scrambles, fights and gets stuck in at every juncture. He has the ability to win possession in the middle of the park and distributes it to the playmakers. He never stops running. Though he did not have his best game on the ball, he is an integral cog in the football machinery of our Warriors.
Stern John: Stern John has and continues to be below his best. However, on Saturday he illustrated why the coach persists with him. He is a classy player, who can win a game with one telling strike. Rumours of him being dropped, obviously spurred him on to achieve greatness. His temperament was much better, as he did not argue with his fellow players. He gave his all throughout the game. Stern’s double has kept the campaign alive. He still needs to be fitter and faster to return to his deadly best.
Dwight Yorke: The skipper continues to be inspirational. His all round game is flawless. His control is immaculate. His footballing brain is functioning on all cylinders. Dwight instilled a never say die approach into all of his players. He shared the ball around remarkably. His defensive pressure kept the Guatemalans out of their comfort zone at all times. He demanded the ball, kept possession and ensured that the Warriors kept the shape at all times. His fitness is remarkable.
Russell Latapy: Russell demonstrated his supreme class. At 37 years old, he is still a footballing genius. His play for 94 minutes was remarkable, never once looking tired or shirking his defensive responsibility. His ability to turn on a dime is a thing of beauty. His control with all parts of his body is flawless. It is truly a joy to watch a grandmaster ply his trade. Russell was the Man of the Match.
Leo Beenhakker — A GENIUS!
Substitutes: Jason Scotland and Scott Sealy made an instant impact on entering the fray. They added life to the attack and were instrumental in the T&T fight back. Ian Cox was introduced very late.
The Crowd: A joy to see such a sea of Red. Well done T&T
Costa Rica — tonight! GO WARRIORS.
1204
Football / beenie is the man
« on: September 03, 2005, 04:32:14 PM »
who questioned his tactical changes come foward and say why
1205
What about Track & Field / brown 6th burns 7th in Norwich Union British Grand Prix.
« on: August 21, 2005, 12:13:09 PM »
Brown was running faster as a junior i wonder whats up with him now.He is over that injury fully fit this is bad very bad .them guys need to evalute thier situation at the ned of this and decide if they need to go in a another direction
them guy suppose to be running low at least 9.99 now steeps
at least 9.99 consistently now steeps
them guy suppose to be running low at least 9.99 now steeps
at least 9.99 consistently now steeps
1206
Football / Will we qualify people? just a question lets be honest now
« on: August 17, 2005, 09:19:54 PM »
I am not ready to throw in the towel yet but i have to be realistic can we really get 12 points from 4 games.
We have 8 goals against
Will we beat guatemala at home? panaman and costa rica away? and mexico at home?. i like to have faith but sometimes i dont know Was our team confident going to the usa game i repeat sometimes when you loose to so much to a team it is rooted in the psychology the team.FROM MY MEMORY in the last 16 years we have tied the usa TWICE in won zero and lost 7 WCQ and an 11-1-3 record all-time .
The team has no depth when carlos edwards out we in shit we have no one to put on the left leo trying his best .Well i know one thing for sure stern will be a bench warmer now.
We have 8 goals against
Will we beat guatemala at home? panaman and costa rica away? and mexico at home?. i like to have faith but sometimes i dont know Was our team confident going to the usa game i repeat sometimes when you loose to so much to a team it is rooted in the psychology the team.FROM MY MEMORY in the last 16 years we have tied the usa TWICE in won zero and lost 7 WCQ and an 11-1-3 record all-time .
The team has no depth when carlos edwards out we in shit we have no one to put on the left leo trying his best .Well i know one thing for sure stern will be a bench warmer now.
1207
Football / Wendell Downswell "We were the dominant force in the Caribbean"
« on: August 16, 2005, 09:47:15 AM »
Jamaica Gleaner
Howard Walker, Staff Reporter
TOP TEAM
Head coach, Wendell Downswell was very satisfied with the performance of the young Boyz and noted that Jamaica were clearly the top team in the region.
"We were the dominant force in the Caribbean. As you saw, we defeated Trinidad in the finals so to speak. We were beaten 4-2 by Canada and it was one of our better performances," said Downswell. "I am satisfied with the performances, especially with the limited preparation that we had. It was one of the best selection processes that we had as we went through all the parishes to get the best players."
Downswell, also head coach of the senior team, said it was a tremendous experience especially for the youngsters, as with each game played "they equipped themselves relatively well in terms of the progress that they made individually."
to sir up some people here on this site
Howard Walker, Staff Reporter
TOP TEAM
Head coach, Wendell Downswell was very satisfied with the performance of the young Boyz and noted that Jamaica were clearly the top team in the region.
"We were the dominant force in the Caribbean. As you saw, we defeated Trinidad in the finals so to speak. We were beaten 4-2 by Canada and it was one of our better performances," said Downswell. "I am satisfied with the performances, especially with the limited preparation that we had. It was one of the best selection processes that we had as we went through all the parishes to get the best players."
Downswell, also head coach of the senior team, said it was a tremendous experience especially for the youngsters, as with each game played "they equipped themselves relatively well in terms of the progress that they made individually."
to sir up some people here on this site
1208
Football / 'LITTLE MAGICIAN' not ready to put down his wand just yet
« on: August 03, 2005, 11:46:58 PM »
'LITTLE MAGICIAN' not ready to put down his wand just yet
By Lasana Liburd (Trinidad Express)
"I consider myself fortunate because at 37 I am still playing," said Falkirk midfield ace and ex-Trinidad and Tobago national football captain Russell Latapy. "I love the game and I still enjoy playing the game and would like to continue playing at the highest level for as long as I can."
Latapy smiles and strokes his chin between thumb and forefinger as though savouring the thought. He has invited Express Sports to conduct the interview in Falkirk's physio room, which would be off limit for such purposes to most players.
Throughout his career, though, Latapy has enjoyed special privileges from a bevy of coaches to go along with his unique talent on the ball. He might not be as dynamic as he was a decade ago, but his star still burns bright.
The low hairdo Latapy sported before his international retirement, four years ago, has been replaced by Rastafarian locks that drop beneath his shoulder blades. His runs, on and off the ball, are shorter as he admitted to being short of match fitness.
But the No.10 is still on his back and an angel continues to lace his boots. The measured passes, hook backs and body feints are as much a part of his armory as they ever were.
It is irrelevant to discuss whether he is still worthy of an international shirt as Latapy has repeatedly asked that his wish to stay retired be respected. But, for mischievousness sake, I tried to gauge anyway from his performance on Saturday in a 2-0 Scottish Premier League (SPL) loss to unfancied Inverness.
Latapy may struggle to burst past international defenders now. If Trinidad and Tobago are defending deep, as tends to be the case against the Mexicos and Costa Ricas of the CONCACAF region, his defensive work is negligible.
But, 30 yards from the opposing goal, there are still few better at bamboozling an opponent with a deft pass or shuffle.
A Dutch writer once remarked that Johann Cryuff had four feet, "right and left and inside and outside"; a charging Latapy can appear almost as unstoppable.
Trinidad and Tobago might still be in Latapy's heart, but he explained that Falkirk dominate his head as he looks toward his future beyond his playing career. He admitted that he never watched his country play since he quit the team in June 2001.
"I have given so much of my life to the national team that the only way for me to move on was to take a step back," he said. "What happens is if I am too involved then I could get sucked in. So I made a decision to step back after having given so much of my life to Trinidad football.
"Because I did well with the national team you have people trying to get you back involved and you appreciate that kind of stuff, but I think some decisions you make, you have to stick by it."
Latapy toyed with the idea of returning to the national set up earlier this year as either a replacement to outgoing head coach Bertille St Clair or as assistant to present boss, Leo Beenhakker. Instead, Beenhakker was chosen and asked him to accept a playing role. Latapy declined.
"I appreciated his offer," he said. "But because of my age and where I am looking to go in football, I did not think it was right for me. I am trying to cross that barrier between player and coach and I have done that at Falkirk. So it would be a step backwards for me if I went to the national team as a player alone."
At present, Latapy is assistant to first team coach Brian Rice who, in turn, is deputy to Falkirk manager John Hughes. Latapy, who has taken the relevant coaching badges, hopes to launch his coaching career at Falkirk when he retires from the game.
The timing of his latest national call-up, he explained, was just not right.
"It was not a case where I am able to go (to Trinidad) and if it does not work then I can come back and get my job here," he said. "So, in making that decision, I decided that it is better for where I want to go to stay here and be involved with the coaching.
"I have been involved with the national team since I was 16 years old, so I gave half of my life to the team. I think I have done a fair shift and I hope everyone understands. I would still want to be involved with the national team but in a coaching capacity."
Latapy insisted that there was no acrimony between himself and the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation (T&TFF) despite their fall-outs in the past.
He described his retirement as the saddest day of his career and explained that it started with the dismissal of ex-Chelsea manager Ian Porterfield, which had annoyed him and close friend and fellow star player, Dwight Yorke.
Another personal low point was the 1998 World Cup campaign when he was banned by the T&TFF for failing to report for international duty against the United States. Latapy had been injured in an earlier qualifier against Costa Rica and was upset that the local federation never called to enquire about his health, but promptly insisted he report for duty as soon as he returned to full fitness.
But he grudgingly conceded to one regret in his international career. Ironically, Latapy was sorry that he never worked with the coach who dropped him before their first training session together and prompted his retirement from national duty.
"I don't like to use the word 'regret'," said Latapy, "because I do not really regret things in life. But I was sorry that I never had the chance to work with Rene (Simoes).
"There were a lot of things happening around football at the time that I was not happy about and then he made his decision. You have to understand that we are footballers second and men first. So he made his decision and we (Dwight and myself) made ours.
"I am certain he was a good coach though."
At 37, Latapy is not only more sympathetic towards the coaches he sometimes fell out with, but is even an admirer. His eyes shone as he discussed the mind games and tactical dilemmas that he would have to sort out as a coach.
As a player, he cared about his own game trusting in his ability to be a match winner. He is now learning to better utilise and even manipulate the resources of the players around him.
This season, for the first time, he has not set himself a personal target as a player.
"My personal ambition is the team's ambition," he said, "which is to do well and win matches."
If Falkirk are the present, Latapy has his own dreams for the future. He has never forgotten his spell at Porto where he won two Portugal league titles and played in the European Champions League under the tutelage of legendary English manager Sir Bobby Robson and his sidekick Jose Mourinho, who is now a star in his own right as Chelsea boss.
He reminisced over Robson's shrewd reading of the game and Mourinho's charm with the playing staff.
Latapy, who speaks fluent Portuguese, would love to return.
"My dream job would be to coach the club that I like the most in the world," he said. "And that is Porto. I have always been a Porto fan."
For now, Latapy would settle for survival with Falkirk. Hughes stressed how important the former Laventille boy was to the club's chances of staying up in the SPL.
"Russell can do things which other players cannot do," Hughes told Express Sports. "I have seen him better (than he was on Saturday) but if we are to succeed this season in the premier league, a big part of that will be on Russell's shoulders.
"Of course, we also have to look at Russell's age and we have to nurse him and look after him. But if I am an opposing manager and I look at the Falkirk team sheet and Russell Latapy's name is not on the team sheet, I would be doing somersaults."
He will not wear national colours again. But "The Little Magician" is not ready to put down his wand just yet.
By Lasana Liburd (Trinidad Express)
"I consider myself fortunate because at 37 I am still playing," said Falkirk midfield ace and ex-Trinidad and Tobago national football captain Russell Latapy. "I love the game and I still enjoy playing the game and would like to continue playing at the highest level for as long as I can."
Latapy smiles and strokes his chin between thumb and forefinger as though savouring the thought. He has invited Express Sports to conduct the interview in Falkirk's physio room, which would be off limit for such purposes to most players.
Throughout his career, though, Latapy has enjoyed special privileges from a bevy of coaches to go along with his unique talent on the ball. He might not be as dynamic as he was a decade ago, but his star still burns bright.
The low hairdo Latapy sported before his international retirement, four years ago, has been replaced by Rastafarian locks that drop beneath his shoulder blades. His runs, on and off the ball, are shorter as he admitted to being short of match fitness.
But the No.10 is still on his back and an angel continues to lace his boots. The measured passes, hook backs and body feints are as much a part of his armory as they ever were.
It is irrelevant to discuss whether he is still worthy of an international shirt as Latapy has repeatedly asked that his wish to stay retired be respected. But, for mischievousness sake, I tried to gauge anyway from his performance on Saturday in a 2-0 Scottish Premier League (SPL) loss to unfancied Inverness.
Latapy may struggle to burst past international defenders now. If Trinidad and Tobago are defending deep, as tends to be the case against the Mexicos and Costa Ricas of the CONCACAF region, his defensive work is negligible.
But, 30 yards from the opposing goal, there are still few better at bamboozling an opponent with a deft pass or shuffle.
A Dutch writer once remarked that Johann Cryuff had four feet, "right and left and inside and outside"; a charging Latapy can appear almost as unstoppable.
Trinidad and Tobago might still be in Latapy's heart, but he explained that Falkirk dominate his head as he looks toward his future beyond his playing career. He admitted that he never watched his country play since he quit the team in June 2001.
"I have given so much of my life to the national team that the only way for me to move on was to take a step back," he said. "What happens is if I am too involved then I could get sucked in. So I made a decision to step back after having given so much of my life to Trinidad football.
"Because I did well with the national team you have people trying to get you back involved and you appreciate that kind of stuff, but I think some decisions you make, you have to stick by it."
Latapy toyed with the idea of returning to the national set up earlier this year as either a replacement to outgoing head coach Bertille St Clair or as assistant to present boss, Leo Beenhakker. Instead, Beenhakker was chosen and asked him to accept a playing role. Latapy declined.
"I appreciated his offer," he said. "But because of my age and where I am looking to go in football, I did not think it was right for me. I am trying to cross that barrier between player and coach and I have done that at Falkirk. So it would be a step backwards for me if I went to the national team as a player alone."
At present, Latapy is assistant to first team coach Brian Rice who, in turn, is deputy to Falkirk manager John Hughes. Latapy, who has taken the relevant coaching badges, hopes to launch his coaching career at Falkirk when he retires from the game.
The timing of his latest national call-up, he explained, was just not right.
"It was not a case where I am able to go (to Trinidad) and if it does not work then I can come back and get my job here," he said. "So, in making that decision, I decided that it is better for where I want to go to stay here and be involved with the coaching.
"I have been involved with the national team since I was 16 years old, so I gave half of my life to the team. I think I have done a fair shift and I hope everyone understands. I would still want to be involved with the national team but in a coaching capacity."
Latapy insisted that there was no acrimony between himself and the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation (T&TFF) despite their fall-outs in the past.
He described his retirement as the saddest day of his career and explained that it started with the dismissal of ex-Chelsea manager Ian Porterfield, which had annoyed him and close friend and fellow star player, Dwight Yorke.
Another personal low point was the 1998 World Cup campaign when he was banned by the T&TFF for failing to report for international duty against the United States. Latapy had been injured in an earlier qualifier against Costa Rica and was upset that the local federation never called to enquire about his health, but promptly insisted he report for duty as soon as he returned to full fitness.
But he grudgingly conceded to one regret in his international career. Ironically, Latapy was sorry that he never worked with the coach who dropped him before their first training session together and prompted his retirement from national duty.
"I don't like to use the word 'regret'," said Latapy, "because I do not really regret things in life. But I was sorry that I never had the chance to work with Rene (Simoes).
"There were a lot of things happening around football at the time that I was not happy about and then he made his decision. You have to understand that we are footballers second and men first. So he made his decision and we (Dwight and myself) made ours.
"I am certain he was a good coach though."
At 37, Latapy is not only more sympathetic towards the coaches he sometimes fell out with, but is even an admirer. His eyes shone as he discussed the mind games and tactical dilemmas that he would have to sort out as a coach.
As a player, he cared about his own game trusting in his ability to be a match winner. He is now learning to better utilise and even manipulate the resources of the players around him.
This season, for the first time, he has not set himself a personal target as a player.
"My personal ambition is the team's ambition," he said, "which is to do well and win matches."
If Falkirk are the present, Latapy has his own dreams for the future. He has never forgotten his spell at Porto where he won two Portugal league titles and played in the European Champions League under the tutelage of legendary English manager Sir Bobby Robson and his sidekick Jose Mourinho, who is now a star in his own right as Chelsea boss.
He reminisced over Robson's shrewd reading of the game and Mourinho's charm with the playing staff.
Latapy, who speaks fluent Portuguese, would love to return.
"My dream job would be to coach the club that I like the most in the world," he said. "And that is Porto. I have always been a Porto fan."
For now, Latapy would settle for survival with Falkirk. Hughes stressed how important the former Laventille boy was to the club's chances of staying up in the SPL.
"Russell can do things which other players cannot do," Hughes told Express Sports. "I have seen him better (than he was on Saturday) but if we are to succeed this season in the premier league, a big part of that will be on Russell's shoulders.
"Of course, we also have to look at Russell's age and we have to nurse him and look after him. But if I am an opposing manager and I look at the Falkirk team sheet and Russell Latapy's name is not on the team sheet, I would be doing somersaults."
He will not wear national colours again. But "The Little Magician" is not ready to put down his wand just yet.
1209
Football / New boy Birchall adding grit to T&T
« on: August 01, 2005, 10:24:04 AM »
New boy Birchall adding grit to T&T
By Gordon Williams (sportsjamaica.com)
THE REGGAE BOYZ' formula for success during the "Road to France" campaign is being sampled by fellow Caribbean hopefuls Trinidad and Tobago as they make a final push for a place in the 2006 World Cup.
Thrust into the heart of T&T's drive to football's biggest stage in Germany is Christopher Birchall, a tough tackling English-born player. He could help erase the so-called "soft" tag long linked to T&T's football teams, and put some real fight into the Soca Warriors. Either way, some regional football observers agree, patterning the Reggae Boyz is worth a try.
"I know that all the countries are trying to give a fair deal to the citizens and because of this, if there is a player who shows up in England who is from Trinidad and Tobago, they certainly will entertain him," said Alvin Corneal, a former T&T national coach who attended the recent Gold Cup as a technical consultant for CONCACAF and FIFA, the sport's governing body.
"Whether it's going to be successful or not we're not quite sure. It worked for Jamaica in the 1998 World Cup."
Not flashy
That Birchall's style is not the finesse version typically associated with T&T national teams - Jamaicans will remember Russell Latapy and Leonsen Lewis - bothers neither the lad born in England to a mother from Port of Spain and a father from Liverpool, nor his new teammates. The Warriors have embraced him from day one, Birchall says, and that's good enough to ease his transition. That leaves him to focus on his job to help them get where they have never been in the world game.
"I think I've been accepted already," said the 21-year-old, blonde, blue-eyed central midfielder from Port Vale in Britain while representing T&T at the Gold Cup in the United States.
From the moment I first come into the camp the lads have been great with me. No one has been difficult with me. They've all been good."
If Gold Cup observers weren't sure what he could do, a swerving long distance strike against Honduras in T&T's opening match served up a timely - if surprising - reminder. That goal helped T&T secure a 1-1 draw with the eventual Gold Cup semi-finalists.
Former Peru World Cup great Teofilio "Nene" Cubillas, who worked the Gold Cup as a CONCACAF consultant, admitted that Birchall and T&T opened his eyes to the fact that good football can come from the Soca Warriors.
"Trinidad and Tobago for me is a surprise," Cubillas told THE STAR.
Being voted the best player in that game by Cubillas and the media, some of whom openly marvelled at the "white guy" roaming the midfield for T&T in Miami, did not hurt Birchall's growing popularity either.
"Playing the first game, getting man of the match, brought a lot of confidence for me," Birchall said. "Especially getting the goal. It's my first goal for Trinidad."
English flavour
Football fans in Jamaica were long convinced that the influx of English-born professionals was among the main reasons the Reggae Boyz reached the 1998 World Cup in France. It started with the arrival of Deon Burton, Paul Hall and Fitzroy Simpson. Later, the British influence grew.
The Reggae Boyz needed a heightened sense of professionalism and the Brits brought it.
During that time T&T, with a couple exceptions, stayed true to talent born in the twin-island republic. That plan did not succeed, as T&T were repeatedly knocked from the final stages of World Cup qualifying, the most cruel blow in 1989 when needing only to draw with the U.S. at home, the Soca Warriors buckled to a devastating 1-0 defeat.
T&T's players' association with professionalism was never in question, most of their national players have been in European leagues for years. But Jamaican coaches spoke openly and often about the Warriors' vulnerability to rugged, rough-and-tumble competition.
This time, with the Soca Warriors currently struggling to stay afloat in the final qualifying group, some good ol' English punch might be enough to get them over the top, despite competing in a group with world class teams Mexico and the U.S., plus Gold Cup finalist Panama and ever dangerous Costa Rica and Guatemala.
Birchall has already sampled the intensity of World Cup qualifiers, his steady, hustling, but less glamourous style offering a contrast to the smoother skills of veterans Dwight Yorke, Stern John and Angus Eve, knitted with a younger brigade.
So far, Dutch coach Leo Beenhakker has not been disappointed in what he has seen, publicly congratulating Birchall on his fine show against Honduras in the Gold Cup. But others are more inclined to wait and see.
"I don't think (Birchall) will ever be one of the creative players that will turn Trinidad and Tobago's midfield around," said Corneal. "It's not gonna happen."
Yet Corneal did concede that Birchall is a good fit for T&T.
"Certainly (Birchall) is footing the bill now," he said. "He's ball winning. He's definitely earning his keep. At the moment, he's doing a good job."
For T&T, there's no time like the present. They travel to the U.S. in mid-August to begin the return leg round of World Cup qualifiers, after being beaten by the Americans the first time. T&T are on four points in the group, tied with Guatemala for the second-from-last place occupied by Panama, who are on two. Mexico and the U.S. are clearly ahead on 13 and 12 points, respectively. Costa Rica are on seven, and in the coveted number three automatic qualifying spot. The race is far from over.
After Jamaica were eliminated in the semi-final round, T&T became the English-speaking Caribbean's last hope for a place in World Cup 2006. But whether or not Birchall can rev-up T&T's engine is yet to be seen. He still battles the higher temperatures of the region, but the warm welcome from the T&T supporters has been encouraging. He feels he owes them now, for getting the opportunity to play international football, and hopes to repay a country long wanting to emulate its Caribbean neighbours Jamaica by appearing at football's biggest show.
"I've got to be grateful to the fans," he said, "...and maybe I can give some of it back by trying to get us to the World Cup."
By Gordon Williams (sportsjamaica.com)
THE REGGAE BOYZ' formula for success during the "Road to France" campaign is being sampled by fellow Caribbean hopefuls Trinidad and Tobago as they make a final push for a place in the 2006 World Cup.
Thrust into the heart of T&T's drive to football's biggest stage in Germany is Christopher Birchall, a tough tackling English-born player. He could help erase the so-called "soft" tag long linked to T&T's football teams, and put some real fight into the Soca Warriors. Either way, some regional football observers agree, patterning the Reggae Boyz is worth a try.
"I know that all the countries are trying to give a fair deal to the citizens and because of this, if there is a player who shows up in England who is from Trinidad and Tobago, they certainly will entertain him," said Alvin Corneal, a former T&T national coach who attended the recent Gold Cup as a technical consultant for CONCACAF and FIFA, the sport's governing body.
"Whether it's going to be successful or not we're not quite sure. It worked for Jamaica in the 1998 World Cup."
Not flashy
That Birchall's style is not the finesse version typically associated with T&T national teams - Jamaicans will remember Russell Latapy and Leonsen Lewis - bothers neither the lad born in England to a mother from Port of Spain and a father from Liverpool, nor his new teammates. The Warriors have embraced him from day one, Birchall says, and that's good enough to ease his transition. That leaves him to focus on his job to help them get where they have never been in the world game.
"I think I've been accepted already," said the 21-year-old, blonde, blue-eyed central midfielder from Port Vale in Britain while representing T&T at the Gold Cup in the United States.
From the moment I first come into the camp the lads have been great with me. No one has been difficult with me. They've all been good."
If Gold Cup observers weren't sure what he could do, a swerving long distance strike against Honduras in T&T's opening match served up a timely - if surprising - reminder. That goal helped T&T secure a 1-1 draw with the eventual Gold Cup semi-finalists.
Former Peru World Cup great Teofilio "Nene" Cubillas, who worked the Gold Cup as a CONCACAF consultant, admitted that Birchall and T&T opened his eyes to the fact that good football can come from the Soca Warriors.
"Trinidad and Tobago for me is a surprise," Cubillas told THE STAR.
Being voted the best player in that game by Cubillas and the media, some of whom openly marvelled at the "white guy" roaming the midfield for T&T in Miami, did not hurt Birchall's growing popularity either.
"Playing the first game, getting man of the match, brought a lot of confidence for me," Birchall said. "Especially getting the goal. It's my first goal for Trinidad."
English flavour
Football fans in Jamaica were long convinced that the influx of English-born professionals was among the main reasons the Reggae Boyz reached the 1998 World Cup in France. It started with the arrival of Deon Burton, Paul Hall and Fitzroy Simpson. Later, the British influence grew.
The Reggae Boyz needed a heightened sense of professionalism and the Brits brought it.
During that time T&T, with a couple exceptions, stayed true to talent born in the twin-island republic. That plan did not succeed, as T&T were repeatedly knocked from the final stages of World Cup qualifying, the most cruel blow in 1989 when needing only to draw with the U.S. at home, the Soca Warriors buckled to a devastating 1-0 defeat.
T&T's players' association with professionalism was never in question, most of their national players have been in European leagues for years. But Jamaican coaches spoke openly and often about the Warriors' vulnerability to rugged, rough-and-tumble competition.
This time, with the Soca Warriors currently struggling to stay afloat in the final qualifying group, some good ol' English punch might be enough to get them over the top, despite competing in a group with world class teams Mexico and the U.S., plus Gold Cup finalist Panama and ever dangerous Costa Rica and Guatemala.
Birchall has already sampled the intensity of World Cup qualifiers, his steady, hustling, but less glamourous style offering a contrast to the smoother skills of veterans Dwight Yorke, Stern John and Angus Eve, knitted with a younger brigade.
So far, Dutch coach Leo Beenhakker has not been disappointed in what he has seen, publicly congratulating Birchall on his fine show against Honduras in the Gold Cup. But others are more inclined to wait and see.
"I don't think (Birchall) will ever be one of the creative players that will turn Trinidad and Tobago's midfield around," said Corneal. "It's not gonna happen."
Yet Corneal did concede that Birchall is a good fit for T&T.
"Certainly (Birchall) is footing the bill now," he said. "He's ball winning. He's definitely earning his keep. At the moment, he's doing a good job."
For T&T, there's no time like the present. They travel to the U.S. in mid-August to begin the return leg round of World Cup qualifiers, after being beaten by the Americans the first time. T&T are on four points in the group, tied with Guatemala for the second-from-last place occupied by Panama, who are on two. Mexico and the U.S. are clearly ahead on 13 and 12 points, respectively. Costa Rica are on seven, and in the coveted number three automatic qualifying spot. The race is far from over.
After Jamaica were eliminated in the semi-final round, T&T became the English-speaking Caribbean's last hope for a place in World Cup 2006. But whether or not Birchall can rev-up T&T's engine is yet to be seen. He still battles the higher temperatures of the region, but the warm welcome from the T&T supporters has been encouraging. He feels he owes them now, for getting the opportunity to play international football, and hopes to repay a country long wanting to emulate its Caribbean neighbours Jamaica by appearing at football's biggest show.
"I've got to be grateful to the fans," he said, "...and maybe I can give some of it back by trying to get us to the World Cup."
1210
Football / Southampton agree fee for Fuller
« on: July 27, 2005, 11:19:18 AM »
Pompey demand fee for Fuller
Southampton have agreed a nominal fee for Portsmouth's Jamaican international striker Ricardo Fuller.
Fuller, 25, will have to pass a stiff medical on his problematic knee, which cost him a move to Sunderland, but could seal his transfer on Wednesday.
Saints boss Harry Redknapp took Fuller to Fratton Park in August 2004 and said: "He'll do a good job for us."
"We have the go-ahead from Pompey, now we have to deal with the player," Redknapp told BBC Radio
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/shared/bsp/hi/services/copyright/html/default.stm
Southampton have agreed a nominal fee for Portsmouth's Jamaican international striker Ricardo Fuller.
Fuller, 25, will have to pass a stiff medical on his problematic knee, which cost him a move to Sunderland, but could seal his transfer on Wednesday.
Saints boss Harry Redknapp took Fuller to Fratton Park in August 2004 and said: "He'll do a good job for us."
"We have the go-ahead from Pompey, now we have to deal with the player," Redknapp told BBC Radio
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/shared/bsp/hi/services/copyright/html/default.stm
1211
Football / U-15 Men's Football Team Thread
« on: July 27, 2005, 08:27:27 AM »
Jamaica's U-15 team gearing up for CFU
Observer Reporter
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
WALTERS ... they have good size and speed and with two years to work with them, they should be very competitive
Jamaica's National Under-15 footballers will tackle St Vincent and the Grenadines, The Bahamas and the British Virgin Islands in Zone B of the preliminary phase of the inaugural Caribbean Football Union Youth Cup tournament in Trinidad and Tobago, starting on August 3.
The five-zone 20-team event runs from August 3-14.
Zone A: Guatemala, Antigua-Barbuda, Aruba and the US Virgin Islands.
Zone C: Canada, Grenada, Dominica and St Lucia.
Zone D: Szuriname, Martinique, Puerto Rico and Guyana.
Zone E: Trinidad and Tobago, Netherlands Antilles, St Kitts-Nevis and Anguilla.
The quarter-finals are slated for August 9, with the semi-finals on August 11, and the final and third-place play-off on August 13.
Coach Patrick "Jackie" Walters is very optimistic that this team will emulate that of 1999, which qualified for the Under-17 World Championships.
"This is the youngest national football team ever selected by Jamaica, with all the players ranging from 14 to 15 years old.
"They have good size and speed and with two years to work with them, they should be very competitive," said Walters.
Qualification for the Under-17 World Cup begins next year.
The squad was set to return to camp yesterday and the final 18 will be selected by the end of the week. They leave on August 2.
Observer Reporter
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
WALTERS ... they have good size and speed and with two years to work with them, they should be very competitive
Jamaica's National Under-15 footballers will tackle St Vincent and the Grenadines, The Bahamas and the British Virgin Islands in Zone B of the preliminary phase of the inaugural Caribbean Football Union Youth Cup tournament in Trinidad and Tobago, starting on August 3.
The five-zone 20-team event runs from August 3-14.
Zone A: Guatemala, Antigua-Barbuda, Aruba and the US Virgin Islands.
Zone C: Canada, Grenada, Dominica and St Lucia.
Zone D: Szuriname, Martinique, Puerto Rico and Guyana.
Zone E: Trinidad and Tobago, Netherlands Antilles, St Kitts-Nevis and Anguilla.
The quarter-finals are slated for August 9, with the semi-finals on August 11, and the final and third-place play-off on August 13.
Coach Patrick "Jackie" Walters is very optimistic that this team will emulate that of 1999, which qualified for the Under-17 World Championships.
"This is the youngest national football team ever selected by Jamaica, with all the players ranging from 14 to 15 years old.
"They have good size and speed and with two years to work with them, they should be very competitive," said Walters.
Qualification for the Under-17 World Cup begins next year.
The squad was set to return to camp yesterday and the final 18 will be selected by the end of the week. They leave on August 2.
1212
Football / WHO'S DE WHITE BOY?
« on: July 14, 2005, 06:00:06 AM »
WHO'S DE WHITE BOY?
...and then they all knew
Gary and Cheyenne Hector
Canada's Adam Braz, left and Gabriel Gervais argue with a referee on a yellow card call against them during the first half of the game against the United States in Seattle on Saturday. USA won 2-0.
Well the Faithfulista made it safely to Miami for the CONCACAF Gold Cup last Tuesday on an American Airlines flight. The flight was a smooth one, with just a ten-minute spell of slight turbulence. The breakfast shocked both my son, "Small Magician", and me, "Big Magician", as it could well have been some cheese paste sandwiches we slapped together at home. The in-flight movie was Hitch, starring Will Smith. Comedy-romance, with Smith as a consultant to men trying to pick up the women of their dreams. I could see "Small Magician" soaking up all the lines and moves for some future use.
The rest of the time on the flight was spent speculating on T&T's Warriors chances in the Gold Cup. Former national player and coach, Alvin Corneal, was also on the flight, and looked a little disappointed when telling me he was en route to Seattle to do FIFA technical reports on Group B teams, USA and Costa Rica. Sadly when I took the chance to chat with him, he was having a little snooze, because he is always very classy football conversation.
We were met at Miami International Airport by our gracious Trini-born host, Ian. "Small Magician" is busy snapping away at Porches, Escalades, Hummers and 18 Wheelers and asking, "Is it going to be this hot?" Because it's hot. Ian, and his America-born Cuban/Mexican bride-to-be Marilou's home is 20 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes to the Orange Bowl. Perfect. We got our own AC bedroom (thank God) with toilet and bath, so we set.
Both "Magicians" then take a four-hour nap due to jet-lag, which makes me wonder about the foreign-based national players flying in from various destinations and going straight to a training session.
Next to the house, is a small man-made lake, or is it a pond? "Small Magician" asks about snakes. After being told of the deadly Water Moccasin which makes the odd appearance, I thought to myself, "I in Miami or Moruga"?
So it's Wednesday, July 6, and we head downtown Miami to browse around, four full hours before we go to the Orange Bowl for the Warriors' first match against Honduras.
We check out the Intercontinental Hotel where we met Brent Rahim taking a stroll in the impressive hotel's lobby. Then it's a yellow cab ten-minute ride to some shopping area. The cabdriver is from Pakistan, and on hearing we are from Trinidad and Tobago, he breaks into song, "Aruba, Bahama oooohhh I love you Mama"-you know that Beachboys song, Pocamon or Cocamon or something like that?
I was trying to find a sure-fire way to give him something to connect T&T with "Brian Lara". "Ooohh oh Brian Lara, right, right he is welly, welly good", the driver says. I am quite sure no prime minister or opposition leader's names would have gotten the same response. Yes, the same Brian Lara who should be in Sri Lanka now beating Murali "till he hand get straight", beating him like a windball pelter in the Aranguez Savannah, but instead, our world figure is home 3-putting at Moka.
Shopping around for some digital camera/video accessories, we encounter the famous Miami hustler type salesman, and it was absolutely amazing.
The first question, with a Spanish accent, goes like this: "How much you saw it for next door?" We ask about a software CD for the camera and were shown an infra red lens for US$650, which in three minutes went down to $350 a cell phone for $350 went to $250...the CD software went from $250 to free, if we went with the package for all the items. We worked our way out of it and just settled for a picture card for $50, only to see the same item in other shops for way less. Yes, ripped off! "Small Magician" could not believe it. I mean we even shook the man's hand and thanked him for all his help. So lessons learnt, we got a bus to the Orange Bowl for the real reason for our trip-T&T's Warriors.
On the bus, we discuss T&T's chances against the tricky Hondurans, asking ourselves which Honduras will show up. The one that explodes and beats teams 4-2, 5-0 or the one that implodes and loses by the same scoreline. We think back to the last World Cup campaign, when they blew past T&T 4-2 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. That day remains a sad one for me. That was the last time the "Little Magician" (Russell Latapy) played for T&T on home soil, and as a second half substitute as well. What a sin. At least he scored. We think back to the away leg of that campaign, with Honduras hitting the woodwork at least six times and T&T getting one chance and scoring through Stern John-T&T 1 Honduras 0. I always say that the ghost of the late Mickey Trotman was perched atop the goalpost. I joked that if I were a rich man, I would have flown to Honduras and bought the posts and installed them in the National Stadium.
You feel the atmosphere as you exit the bus at the colossal monument which is the Orange Bowl. We see the yellow of the Colombian fans, some Panamanians with flags, hundreds of blue and white clad Hondurans and "Look-three Trinis!" We quickly follow them to get to the Trini section. The first game, Colombia versus Panama has just kicked off and the crowd starts to chant oles and Spanish football chants.
We see the Warriors observing the game from another stand and T&T coach "Don Leo" about ten rows above them, by himself, taking notes on the next opponents. I am not sure what the "Don" in "Don Leo" means. Is it like Don Juan? Or is it a title given to Dutch grandmaster coaches as in Brazil where they are called professor, like Professor Zagallo, Simoes? Well, then it's a good thing T&T did not hire Dick Addvocat.
We join a small group of T&T fans near the half line about 20 rows up from the touchline. Great view. The crowd providing more entertainment than the match, as both teams try to settle, we start to chat with some of our country men and they were a bit surprised to find out we travelled to Miami just for the Gold Cup. They start seeking information about the T&T players and "Don Leo"-"He good?" "Who he coach?".
At half time we give out some promotional items from TSTT, bottle openers, T-shirts and the blow-up noise makers which instantly become musical instruments in Trini hands. Met a man who said he is David Rudder's brother and he seems the life of the party. Exchanged greetings with former national striker Graham Rodriguez, saw my old friend John, the nephew of ex-national player Steve Khan, and was then recognised by some Trini rock music fans. I quickly changed the subject to football.
Trini bring in alcohol in all types of sport bottles, and even in some Carnival-type goat skin pouches. Colombia missing sitter after sitter, so we guess what will happen next. Panama scores. And goes on to win 1-0.
Time for the real thing!
About 50 Trinis now gather in the section, with the odd handful in different sections. Rudder's brother starts teasing the Hondurans-all 7,000 of them and they respond with some loud Honduran chants and footstomping which vibrates throughout the stand. Wow! "Small Magician's" pores are up now as the teams make their way out. Our section sings the national anthem a full ten seconds behind the soundtrack and we take our seats. One problem. Trini remains standing as the rhythm section kicks in, "T&T...Boom Boom we want ah goal... Ram ah goal in dey a#% hole .ole ole ole ole T&T, T&T". Rudder's brother steals a line from "de man" himself, "O..O..O sweet, sweet T&T" For our refusal to sit, we take a few plastic bottles and some match programmes from the Hondurans we are blocking-but side by side we stand.
The Warriors start solid enough, knocking it around. I have to name some of the players to some T&T faithful. They don't know Cyd Gray, Kelvin Jack (wey Shaka?), Aurtis Whitley (dey should pick Otis Seaton), Theobald and the common question, "Who is de white boy?" But by the 28th minute the name Chris Birchall was being mentioned among the Trinis after "me mum" put T&T ahead with a beautiful right- footed strike from 25 yards.
Wild celebrations among the T&T faithful and instant reaction from the Honduran fans. Water, beer and plastic bottles rained into our section with "Small Magician" taking one on his back and laughing nervously about it.
T&T continue to keep possession and defend well until the 44th minute, when Honduras score a well-taken free kick past a disorganised Warriors wall. One-all at half time.
The Trini riddum section continues to play through the half time break, but quickly slows down during the second half as the Hondurans look more purposeful and likely to score. "Don Leo" puts on Colin Samuel and Kenwyn Jones to inject some life into the attack, and Samuel responds with a powerful shot which the Honduran 'keeper does well to tip onto the crossbar, injuring himself in the process.
The final whistle comes with both teams deadlocked at one goal each. A fair result in the end. We shake a few Hondurans hands on the way out and some of them blame their "stupid coach"-universal language...this beautiful game.
The sheer buzz of the match kept us up at night in bed talking of near misses, team selection and Panama, our next opponents And all the little Latinas who "Small Magician" was secretly eyeing down.
We wake up the following morning to the news of the potentially dangerous Hurricane Dennis, heading for Miami. We get together and say a prayer and I quietly think to myself "God is ah Trini...in Miami".
Next week: Panama, Colombia, South Beach and weather updates.
So later from the Faithfulista.
The Faithfulista are trying to build a defensive wall.
Site designed and managed by CCN New Ventures. Editor at large: Keith Smith, Editor: Omatie Lyder, TV News; Natalie Williams, Copyright 2005 All rights reserved. Trinidad Express 35 Independence Sq, Port of Spain, Trinidad. Express newspaper and TV6 are subsidiaries of Caribbean Communications Network,
...and then they all knew
Gary and Cheyenne Hector
Canada's Adam Braz, left and Gabriel Gervais argue with a referee on a yellow card call against them during the first half of the game against the United States in Seattle on Saturday. USA won 2-0.
Well the Faithfulista made it safely to Miami for the CONCACAF Gold Cup last Tuesday on an American Airlines flight. The flight was a smooth one, with just a ten-minute spell of slight turbulence. The breakfast shocked both my son, "Small Magician", and me, "Big Magician", as it could well have been some cheese paste sandwiches we slapped together at home. The in-flight movie was Hitch, starring Will Smith. Comedy-romance, with Smith as a consultant to men trying to pick up the women of their dreams. I could see "Small Magician" soaking up all the lines and moves for some future use.
The rest of the time on the flight was spent speculating on T&T's Warriors chances in the Gold Cup. Former national player and coach, Alvin Corneal, was also on the flight, and looked a little disappointed when telling me he was en route to Seattle to do FIFA technical reports on Group B teams, USA and Costa Rica. Sadly when I took the chance to chat with him, he was having a little snooze, because he is always very classy football conversation.
We were met at Miami International Airport by our gracious Trini-born host, Ian. "Small Magician" is busy snapping away at Porches, Escalades, Hummers and 18 Wheelers and asking, "Is it going to be this hot?" Because it's hot. Ian, and his America-born Cuban/Mexican bride-to-be Marilou's home is 20 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes to the Orange Bowl. Perfect. We got our own AC bedroom (thank God) with toilet and bath, so we set.
Both "Magicians" then take a four-hour nap due to jet-lag, which makes me wonder about the foreign-based national players flying in from various destinations and going straight to a training session.
Next to the house, is a small man-made lake, or is it a pond? "Small Magician" asks about snakes. After being told of the deadly Water Moccasin which makes the odd appearance, I thought to myself, "I in Miami or Moruga"?
So it's Wednesday, July 6, and we head downtown Miami to browse around, four full hours before we go to the Orange Bowl for the Warriors' first match against Honduras.
We check out the Intercontinental Hotel where we met Brent Rahim taking a stroll in the impressive hotel's lobby. Then it's a yellow cab ten-minute ride to some shopping area. The cabdriver is from Pakistan, and on hearing we are from Trinidad and Tobago, he breaks into song, "Aruba, Bahama oooohhh I love you Mama"-you know that Beachboys song, Pocamon or Cocamon or something like that?
I was trying to find a sure-fire way to give him something to connect T&T with "Brian Lara". "Ooohh oh Brian Lara, right, right he is welly, welly good", the driver says. I am quite sure no prime minister or opposition leader's names would have gotten the same response. Yes, the same Brian Lara who should be in Sri Lanka now beating Murali "till he hand get straight", beating him like a windball pelter in the Aranguez Savannah, but instead, our world figure is home 3-putting at Moka.
Shopping around for some digital camera/video accessories, we encounter the famous Miami hustler type salesman, and it was absolutely amazing.
The first question, with a Spanish accent, goes like this: "How much you saw it for next door?" We ask about a software CD for the camera and were shown an infra red lens for US$650, which in three minutes went down to $350 a cell phone for $350 went to $250...the CD software went from $250 to free, if we went with the package for all the items. We worked our way out of it and just settled for a picture card for $50, only to see the same item in other shops for way less. Yes, ripped off! "Small Magician" could not believe it. I mean we even shook the man's hand and thanked him for all his help. So lessons learnt, we got a bus to the Orange Bowl for the real reason for our trip-T&T's Warriors.
On the bus, we discuss T&T's chances against the tricky Hondurans, asking ourselves which Honduras will show up. The one that explodes and beats teams 4-2, 5-0 or the one that implodes and loses by the same scoreline. We think back to the last World Cup campaign, when they blew past T&T 4-2 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. That day remains a sad one for me. That was the last time the "Little Magician" (Russell Latapy) played for T&T on home soil, and as a second half substitute as well. What a sin. At least he scored. We think back to the away leg of that campaign, with Honduras hitting the woodwork at least six times and T&T getting one chance and scoring through Stern John-T&T 1 Honduras 0. I always say that the ghost of the late Mickey Trotman was perched atop the goalpost. I joked that if I were a rich man, I would have flown to Honduras and bought the posts and installed them in the National Stadium.
You feel the atmosphere as you exit the bus at the colossal monument which is the Orange Bowl. We see the yellow of the Colombian fans, some Panamanians with flags, hundreds of blue and white clad Hondurans and "Look-three Trinis!" We quickly follow them to get to the Trini section. The first game, Colombia versus Panama has just kicked off and the crowd starts to chant oles and Spanish football chants.
We see the Warriors observing the game from another stand and T&T coach "Don Leo" about ten rows above them, by himself, taking notes on the next opponents. I am not sure what the "Don" in "Don Leo" means. Is it like Don Juan? Or is it a title given to Dutch grandmaster coaches as in Brazil where they are called professor, like Professor Zagallo, Simoes? Well, then it's a good thing T&T did not hire Dick Addvocat.
We join a small group of T&T fans near the half line about 20 rows up from the touchline. Great view. The crowd providing more entertainment than the match, as both teams try to settle, we start to chat with some of our country men and they were a bit surprised to find out we travelled to Miami just for the Gold Cup. They start seeking information about the T&T players and "Don Leo"-"He good?" "Who he coach?".
At half time we give out some promotional items from TSTT, bottle openers, T-shirts and the blow-up noise makers which instantly become musical instruments in Trini hands. Met a man who said he is David Rudder's brother and he seems the life of the party. Exchanged greetings with former national striker Graham Rodriguez, saw my old friend John, the nephew of ex-national player Steve Khan, and was then recognised by some Trini rock music fans. I quickly changed the subject to football.
Trini bring in alcohol in all types of sport bottles, and even in some Carnival-type goat skin pouches. Colombia missing sitter after sitter, so we guess what will happen next. Panama scores. And goes on to win 1-0.
Time for the real thing!
About 50 Trinis now gather in the section, with the odd handful in different sections. Rudder's brother starts teasing the Hondurans-all 7,000 of them and they respond with some loud Honduran chants and footstomping which vibrates throughout the stand. Wow! "Small Magician's" pores are up now as the teams make their way out. Our section sings the national anthem a full ten seconds behind the soundtrack and we take our seats. One problem. Trini remains standing as the rhythm section kicks in, "T&T...Boom Boom we want ah goal... Ram ah goal in dey a#% hole .ole ole ole ole T&T, T&T". Rudder's brother steals a line from "de man" himself, "O..O..O sweet, sweet T&T" For our refusal to sit, we take a few plastic bottles and some match programmes from the Hondurans we are blocking-but side by side we stand.
The Warriors start solid enough, knocking it around. I have to name some of the players to some T&T faithful. They don't know Cyd Gray, Kelvin Jack (wey Shaka?), Aurtis Whitley (dey should pick Otis Seaton), Theobald and the common question, "Who is de white boy?" But by the 28th minute the name Chris Birchall was being mentioned among the Trinis after "me mum" put T&T ahead with a beautiful right- footed strike from 25 yards.
Wild celebrations among the T&T faithful and instant reaction from the Honduran fans. Water, beer and plastic bottles rained into our section with "Small Magician" taking one on his back and laughing nervously about it.
T&T continue to keep possession and defend well until the 44th minute, when Honduras score a well-taken free kick past a disorganised Warriors wall. One-all at half time.
The Trini riddum section continues to play through the half time break, but quickly slows down during the second half as the Hondurans look more purposeful and likely to score. "Don Leo" puts on Colin Samuel and Kenwyn Jones to inject some life into the attack, and Samuel responds with a powerful shot which the Honduran 'keeper does well to tip onto the crossbar, injuring himself in the process.
The final whistle comes with both teams deadlocked at one goal each. A fair result in the end. We shake a few Hondurans hands on the way out and some of them blame their "stupid coach"-universal language...this beautiful game.
The sheer buzz of the match kept us up at night in bed talking of near misses, team selection and Panama, our next opponents And all the little Latinas who "Small Magician" was secretly eyeing down.
We wake up the following morning to the news of the potentially dangerous Hurricane Dennis, heading for Miami. We get together and say a prayer and I quietly think to myself "God is ah Trini...in Miami".
Next week: Panama, Colombia, South Beach and weather updates.
So later from the Faithfulista.
The Faithfulista are trying to build a defensive wall.
Site designed and managed by CCN New Ventures. Editor at large: Keith Smith, Editor: Omatie Lyder, TV News; Natalie Williams, Copyright 2005 All rights reserved. Trinidad Express 35 Independence Sq, Port of Spain, Trinidad. Express newspaper and TV6 are subsidiaries of Caribbean Communications Network,
1213
Football / No Dogg's life for Beckham !!!
« on: July 08, 2005, 03:54:19 PM »
With David Beckham's list of celebrity friends growing at a more alarming rate than his Real Madrid CF team-mate Guti's blonde locks, it was only a matter of time before his loving wife Victoria decided to put the boot in. And, with charitable contributions the order of the day, where better to spice up things up than the Live 8 gig in London, where Mrs Beckham decided her husband was getting all too friendly with rapper Snoop Dogg. As Becks and his musical hero traded jokes about everything from the offside law to dreadlocking techniques, Mrs Beckham was less than pleased to hear the conversation turn to a possible evening out on the town. "Look Mr Snoopy," she told the rapper. "You're not taking my husband out. I've heard about your reputation." A disappointed Beckham did not take the news too well - and admitted the artist had amazed him with his football wisdom. "I've wanted to meet him for ages. We got on well. I was impressed with his knowledge of football." What price a coaching role for the rapper at the Santiago Bernabéu next season to help Beckham and Co beat FC Barcelona to No1 spot?
1214
Football / SEEING IS BELIEVING U.S. players getting fitted for their new lenses
« on: July 03, 2005, 02:47:42 PM »
ALL_ACCESS VIDEO - SEEING IS BELIEVING: Can you imagine staring directly into the sun without having to turn away? Can you envision seeing a crossed ball cleanly and clearly whether it comes in from the shade or bright sunlight? Can you imagine having more than 50 percent of the incoming light blocked from your eyes, but everything looking brighter? Not only is that all happening, but here's the best part: It comes in the form of a contact lens developed by Nike. Specifically designed to increase the visual acuity of professional athletes, it's like wearing sunglasses on your eyes. Sure, they look a little eerie with the bright amber tint, but your opponent certainly gets the impression that you know something they don't. To learn about this amazing technology, and to see the U.S. players getting fitted for their new lenses, check outcertainly gets the impression that you know something they don't.
this is ova doing it now see link
http://www.ussoccer.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsid=195836&itype=113&icategoryid=76
© Copyright US Soccer Federation 2001-2005. All rights reserved.
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this is ova doing it now see link
http://www.ussoccer.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsid=195836&itype=113&icategoryid=76
© Copyright US Soccer Federation 2001-2005. All rights reserved.
Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Jobs at U.S. Soccer | Contact Us | Recommended Browsers
1215
Football / Ken Butcher: Kerry Noray Deserves A National Call Up.
« on: June 21, 2005, 06:55:39 PM »
Butcher: Kerry Noray deserves a national call up.
By: Joel Villafana.[/size]
Former National Midfielder Ken ‘The Smooth’ Butcher has made a strong call for CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh’s striker Kerry Noray to be included in the National team as soon as possible.
Butcher, a former National Technical Director, is of the strong view that Noray deserves a chance just based on his performances for Jabloteh in the T&T Pro League this season.
Butcher told ttproleague.com, “Noray is quick, deceptive and hard working, he torments defenders and has great goal scoring ability.”
“When you look at the current national team, we don’t possess a striker of his nature, currently Stern John and Dwight Yorke are similar in style and someone like Noray will be a wonderful surprise package for Coach Beenhakker to have in his armory.”
Noray, just 24 years old has scored 5 goals this season in 7 appearances—and has impressed this season for San Juan Jabloteh. The diminutive striker is one of the main reasons Jabloteh have bounced back after their stuttering start to the 2005 season.
Noray’s lone item in the Pro Bowl final against W Connection was critical as it helped Jabloteh claim their first national title since winning the league in 2003.
The National team is expected to gather on June 26th for a camp in Miami ahead of the 2005 Gold Cup and National Coach Leo Beenhakker is expected to finalize his squad for the tournament pretty soon.
By: Joel Villafana.[/size]
Former National Midfielder Ken ‘The Smooth’ Butcher has made a strong call for CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh’s striker Kerry Noray to be included in the National team as soon as possible.
Butcher, a former National Technical Director, is of the strong view that Noray deserves a chance just based on his performances for Jabloteh in the T&T Pro League this season.
Butcher told ttproleague.com, “Noray is quick, deceptive and hard working, he torments defenders and has great goal scoring ability.”
“When you look at the current national team, we don’t possess a striker of his nature, currently Stern John and Dwight Yorke are similar in style and someone like Noray will be a wonderful surprise package for Coach Beenhakker to have in his armory.”
Noray, just 24 years old has scored 5 goals this season in 7 appearances—and has impressed this season for San Juan Jabloteh. The diminutive striker is one of the main reasons Jabloteh have bounced back after their stuttering start to the 2005 season.
Noray’s lone item in the Pro Bowl final against W Connection was critical as it helped Jabloteh claim their first national title since winning the league in 2003.
The National team is expected to gather on June 26th for a camp in Miami ahead of the 2005 Gold Cup and National Coach Leo Beenhakker is expected to finalize his squad for the tournament pretty soon.
1216
Football / U.S. U-20s Fall to Italy, 3-1, in Round of 16 at 2005 FIFA World Youth Champions
« on: June 21, 2005, 01:25:12 PM »
.S. U-20s Fall to Italy, 3-1, in Round of 16 at 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship
6/21/05 12:40 PM
ENSCHEDE, Holland (June 21, 2005) — The U.S. Under-20 Men’s National Team's strong run through the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship ended today following a 3-1 defeat to Italy in the Round of 16 at Arke Stadium in Enchede, Holland. The U.S. actually led 1-0 at the half on a Hunter Freeman penalty kick, but couldn't contain Italy's impressive strike Graziano Pelle in the second as he guided the Azurri to well-earned spot in the tournament quarterfinals.
U.S. forward Freddy Adu earned the penalty kick for the U.S. late in the half, being tackled as he tried to move past a defender in the right side of the box. Adu's penalty attempt was well-saved by Italian goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano, but the referee whistled the goalkeeper for moving early and Hunter Freeman stepped up to rifle home the second attempt.
The 1-0 lead would not hold up, though, as Graziano Pelle assited on a tying deflected goal by Daniele Galloppa in the 54th minute, and then danced through the U.S. defense to score a superb goal on 62 minutes. An own goal from the USA's Sacha Kljestan rounded out the scoring for the Italians in the 74th minute.
A complete game report will be posted here shortly.
- U.S. U-20 MNT Game Report -
Match-up: U.S. U-20 MNT vs. Italy U-20 MNT
Date: June 21, 2005
Competition: FIFA World Youth Championship – Round of 16
Venue: Arke Stadion – Enschede, Netherlands
Kickoff: 11:30 a.m. ET / 5:30 p.m. local
Attendance: TBA
Weather: 80 degrees, hot
Scoring Summary:
1 2 F
USA 1 0 1
ITA 0 3 3
USA - Hunter Freeman (penalty kick) 44th minute
ITA - Daniele Galloppa (Graziano Pelle) 54.
ITA - Graziano Pelle (Daniele Galloppa) 62.
ITA - own goal (Sacha Kljestan) 74.
Lineups:
USA: 1-Quentin Westberg; 2-Marvell Wynne, 5-Patrick Ianni, 3-Jonathan Spector, 15-Hunter Freeman (13-Jacob Peterson, 76); 6-Greg Dalby (capt.) (7-Sacha Kljestan, 65), 8-Benny Feilhaber, 18-Sammy Ochoa, 10-Eddie Gaven, 11-Freddy Adu; 9-Chad Barrett
Subs not used: 4-Nathan Sturgis, 12-Will John, 14-Lee Nguyen, 16-Michael Harrington, 17-Andrew Kartunen, 19-Danny Szetela, 20-Brad Evans, 21-Justin Hughes
Head Coach: Sigi Schmid
ITA: 1-Emiliano Viviano (capt.); 2-Lino Marzoratti, 5-Andrea Coda, 6-Michele Canini, 13-Francesco Battaglia (15-Antonio Aquilanti, 46); 4-Antonio Nocerino, 7-Marino Defendi (8-Lorenzo Carotti, 93+), 11-Daniele Galloppa, 16-Simone Bentivoglio, 17-Raffaele De Martino; 9-Graziano Pelle
Subs not used: 3-Andrea D Agostino, 10-Michele Troiano, 12-Fabio Virgili, 14-Palmiro Di Dio, 19-Francesco Nieto, 21-Daniele Padelli
Head Coach: Paolo Berrettini
Stats Summary:
USA ITA
Shots 11 14
Saves 6 4
Corner Kicks 10 3
Fouls 16 21
Offside 1 4
Misconduct Summary:
ITA - Daniele Galloppa (caution) 11th minute
ITA - Marino Defendi (caution) 31.
USA - Greg Dalby (caution) 45.
ITA - Lino Marzoratti (caution) 57.
ITA - Emiliano Viviano (caution) 87.
Officials:
Referee: Esam Abd El Fatah (Egypt)
1st Asst.: Beshr Rashwan (Egypt)
2nd Asst.: Luleseged Begashaw (Ethiopa)
Fourth Official: Coffi Codjia (Benin)
ussoccer.com Man of the Match: Quentin Westberg
2005 FIFA World Youth Championship
GROUP D - FINAL RESULTS / STANDINGS
Team GP W L T GF GA GD Pts.
USA 3 2 0 1 2 0 +2 7
ARG 3 2 1 0 3 1 +2 6
GER 3 1 1 1 2 1 +1 4
EGY 3 0 3 0 0 5 -5 0
Saturday, June 11
USA 1, Argentina 0
Germany 2, Egypt 0
Tuesday, June 14
Argentina 2, Egypt 0
USA 0, Germany 0
Saturday, June 18
USA 1, Egypt 0
Argentina 1, Germany 0
ROUND OF SIXTEEN
Date No. Match Kickoff Venue
June 21 37 USA 1, Italy 3 Enschede
June 21 38 Morocco vs. Japan 2:30 p.m. ET Enschede
June 21 39 Brazil vs. Syria 2:30 p.m. ET Tilburg
June 21 40 China PR 3, Germany 2 Tilburg
June 22 41 Nigeria vs. Ukraine 11:30 a.m. ET Doetinchem
June 22 42 Netherlands vs. Chile 2:30 p.m. ET Doetinchem
June 22 43 Colombia vs. Argentina 11:30 a.m. ET Emmen
June 22 44 Spain vs. Turkey 2:30 p.m. ET Emmen
QUARTERFINALS
Date No. Match Eastern Time Venue
June 24 45 W38 vs. W37 11:30 a.m. ET Utrecht
June 24 46 W40 vs. W39 2:30 p.m. ET Tilburg
June 25 47 W41 vs. W42 9:30 a.m. ET Kerkrade
June 25 48 W43 vs. W44 2:30 p.m. ET Enschede
SEMIFINALS
June 28 49 W46 vs. W48 11:30 a.m. ET Utrecht
June 28 50 W45 vs. W47 2:30 p.m. ET Kerkrade
THIRD PLACE MATCH
July 2 51 L49 vs. L50 11 a.m. ET Utrecht
FINAL
July 2 52 W49 vs. W50 2 p.m. ET Utrecht
Copyright US Soccer Federation 2001-2005. All rights reserved.
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6/21/05 12:40 PM
ENSCHEDE, Holland (June 21, 2005) — The U.S. Under-20 Men’s National Team's strong run through the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship ended today following a 3-1 defeat to Italy in the Round of 16 at Arke Stadium in Enchede, Holland. The U.S. actually led 1-0 at the half on a Hunter Freeman penalty kick, but couldn't contain Italy's impressive strike Graziano Pelle in the second as he guided the Azurri to well-earned spot in the tournament quarterfinals.
U.S. forward Freddy Adu earned the penalty kick for the U.S. late in the half, being tackled as he tried to move past a defender in the right side of the box. Adu's penalty attempt was well-saved by Italian goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano, but the referee whistled the goalkeeper for moving early and Hunter Freeman stepped up to rifle home the second attempt.
The 1-0 lead would not hold up, though, as Graziano Pelle assited on a tying deflected goal by Daniele Galloppa in the 54th minute, and then danced through the U.S. defense to score a superb goal on 62 minutes. An own goal from the USA's Sacha Kljestan rounded out the scoring for the Italians in the 74th minute.
A complete game report will be posted here shortly.
- U.S. U-20 MNT Game Report -
Match-up: U.S. U-20 MNT vs. Italy U-20 MNT
Date: June 21, 2005
Competition: FIFA World Youth Championship – Round of 16
Venue: Arke Stadion – Enschede, Netherlands
Kickoff: 11:30 a.m. ET / 5:30 p.m. local
Attendance: TBA
Weather: 80 degrees, hot
Scoring Summary:
1 2 F
USA 1 0 1
ITA 0 3 3
USA - Hunter Freeman (penalty kick) 44th minute
ITA - Daniele Galloppa (Graziano Pelle) 54.
ITA - Graziano Pelle (Daniele Galloppa) 62.
ITA - own goal (Sacha Kljestan) 74.
Lineups:
USA: 1-Quentin Westberg; 2-Marvell Wynne, 5-Patrick Ianni, 3-Jonathan Spector, 15-Hunter Freeman (13-Jacob Peterson, 76); 6-Greg Dalby (capt.) (7-Sacha Kljestan, 65), 8-Benny Feilhaber, 18-Sammy Ochoa, 10-Eddie Gaven, 11-Freddy Adu; 9-Chad Barrett
Subs not used: 4-Nathan Sturgis, 12-Will John, 14-Lee Nguyen, 16-Michael Harrington, 17-Andrew Kartunen, 19-Danny Szetela, 20-Brad Evans, 21-Justin Hughes
Head Coach: Sigi Schmid
ITA: 1-Emiliano Viviano (capt.); 2-Lino Marzoratti, 5-Andrea Coda, 6-Michele Canini, 13-Francesco Battaglia (15-Antonio Aquilanti, 46); 4-Antonio Nocerino, 7-Marino Defendi (8-Lorenzo Carotti, 93+), 11-Daniele Galloppa, 16-Simone Bentivoglio, 17-Raffaele De Martino; 9-Graziano Pelle
Subs not used: 3-Andrea D Agostino, 10-Michele Troiano, 12-Fabio Virgili, 14-Palmiro Di Dio, 19-Francesco Nieto, 21-Daniele Padelli
Head Coach: Paolo Berrettini
Stats Summary:
USA ITA
Shots 11 14
Saves 6 4
Corner Kicks 10 3
Fouls 16 21
Offside 1 4
Misconduct Summary:
ITA - Daniele Galloppa (caution) 11th minute
ITA - Marino Defendi (caution) 31.
USA - Greg Dalby (caution) 45.
ITA - Lino Marzoratti (caution) 57.
ITA - Emiliano Viviano (caution) 87.
Officials:
Referee: Esam Abd El Fatah (Egypt)
1st Asst.: Beshr Rashwan (Egypt)
2nd Asst.: Luleseged Begashaw (Ethiopa)
Fourth Official: Coffi Codjia (Benin)
ussoccer.com Man of the Match: Quentin Westberg
2005 FIFA World Youth Championship
GROUP D - FINAL RESULTS / STANDINGS
Team GP W L T GF GA GD Pts.
USA 3 2 0 1 2 0 +2 7
ARG 3 2 1 0 3 1 +2 6
GER 3 1 1 1 2 1 +1 4
EGY 3 0 3 0 0 5 -5 0
Saturday, June 11
USA 1, Argentina 0
Germany 2, Egypt 0
Tuesday, June 14
Argentina 2, Egypt 0
USA 0, Germany 0
Saturday, June 18
USA 1, Egypt 0
Argentina 1, Germany 0
ROUND OF SIXTEEN
Date No. Match Kickoff Venue
June 21 37 USA 1, Italy 3 Enschede
June 21 38 Morocco vs. Japan 2:30 p.m. ET Enschede
June 21 39 Brazil vs. Syria 2:30 p.m. ET Tilburg
June 21 40 China PR 3, Germany 2 Tilburg
June 22 41 Nigeria vs. Ukraine 11:30 a.m. ET Doetinchem
June 22 42 Netherlands vs. Chile 2:30 p.m. ET Doetinchem
June 22 43 Colombia vs. Argentina 11:30 a.m. ET Emmen
June 22 44 Spain vs. Turkey 2:30 p.m. ET Emmen
QUARTERFINALS
Date No. Match Eastern Time Venue
June 24 45 W38 vs. W37 11:30 a.m. ET Utrecht
June 24 46 W40 vs. W39 2:30 p.m. ET Tilburg
June 25 47 W41 vs. W42 9:30 a.m. ET Kerkrade
June 25 48 W43 vs. W44 2:30 p.m. ET Enschede
SEMIFINALS
June 28 49 W46 vs. W48 11:30 a.m. ET Utrecht
June 28 50 W45 vs. W47 2:30 p.m. ET Kerkrade
THIRD PLACE MATCH
July 2 51 L49 vs. L50 11 a.m. ET Utrecht
FINAL
July 2 52 W49 vs. W50 2 p.m. ET Utrecht
Copyright US Soccer Federation 2001-2005. All rights reserved.
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1217
Entertainment & Culture Discussion / I-Wayne Quoted in Vibe Magazine that soca is the DEVIL MUSIC
« on: June 21, 2005, 11:09:48 AM »
From an interview with rupee
(MK) I Dont know if you read the Vibes magazine but theres a quote that iwayne says that soca music is devil's music How do you feel about that?
(R) Iwayne? (MK: Yeah iWayne the reggae artist) Yeah Man theses days everyone is intitled of their own opinion thats what the world is about. I cant be matter about theses things because thats his opinion. even tho i cant necessarely agree with him. at the same time if you look at dancehall they are doing the same thing we are doing in soca music its very sexual, very sensual,erotic,movement of the body,jumping up and waving, if you listen up to the dancehall now a days, Its very heavy like soca. Just like *sings* you too badmind you too badmind* Thats a soca Beat *beat sound* you know what i mean.if you say one you say next Dancehall is basically the same thing as soca, dancing up and sexual whinning. And him saying that i could say the same thing for his music too but at the end of the day i aint matter the guy because we are all intitled of his opinnion it wouldnt affect that i love his music. i respect that man , But i dont agree with him no way it could be the devil music.
http://www.dancehallareaz.com/interview/rupee.html
(MK) I Dont know if you read the Vibes magazine but theres a quote that iwayne says that soca music is devil's music How do you feel about that?
(R) Iwayne? (MK: Yeah iWayne the reggae artist) Yeah Man theses days everyone is intitled of their own opinion thats what the world is about. I cant be matter about theses things because thats his opinion. even tho i cant necessarely agree with him. at the same time if you look at dancehall they are doing the same thing we are doing in soca music its very sexual, very sensual,erotic,movement of the body,jumping up and waving, if you listen up to the dancehall now a days, Its very heavy like soca. Just like *sings* you too badmind you too badmind* Thats a soca Beat *beat sound* you know what i mean.if you say one you say next Dancehall is basically the same thing as soca, dancing up and sexual whinning. And him saying that i could say the same thing for his music too but at the end of the day i aint matter the guy because we are all intitled of his opinnion it wouldnt affect that i love his music. i respect that man , But i dont agree with him no way it could be the devil music.
http://www.dancehallareaz.com/interview/rupee.html
1218
Football / Fenwick Tightens Up At Jabloteh
« on: June 16, 2005, 06:05:44 PM »
Fenwick Tightens Up At Jabloteh
By Joel Villafana
CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh have officially released three players from their Pro League team, as coach Terry Fenwick attempts to sharpen things up at the San Juan based club.
The players are Nigel Pierre, Vernon Bailey and Ancil Elcock.
The English born coach made the cut saying he does not believe these players fit into his future plans at this stage.
However the players remain contracted to the club and Jabloteh will continue to honor their contracts, which expires at the end of 2005.
Striker Nigel Pierre and Vernon Bailey are free to look at their options while defender Ancil Elcock will be used by the club as a youth coach.
Fresh from their Pro Bowl success, Jabloteh with their ongoing process in developing young players and therefore Coach Fenwick is currently looking at a number of youth players, fresh talent that has come from within Jabloteh’s youth system and also from the outside.
Young defender Karlon Murray and creative midfielder Terryl Elwyn have both been promoted by Fenwick from the club’s youth teams while defender Devaughn Drumett out of Campton football club in Guyana also joins the fold.
Young midfielder Michael Celestine who was part of the senior Pro League team is facing disciplinary action and will not be part of the team until further notice.
Fenwick defended his decision to tighten things up at the club saying, “I’ve looked at players that have been around the scene for some time now and there are some of them not up to the standard I want them to be—I want to build a young squad that are not just capable of winning everything in Trinidad but are also capable of challenging for spots on the National team”.
By Joel Villafana
CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh have officially released three players from their Pro League team, as coach Terry Fenwick attempts to sharpen things up at the San Juan based club.
The players are Nigel Pierre, Vernon Bailey and Ancil Elcock.
The English born coach made the cut saying he does not believe these players fit into his future plans at this stage.
However the players remain contracted to the club and Jabloteh will continue to honor their contracts, which expires at the end of 2005.
Striker Nigel Pierre and Vernon Bailey are free to look at their options while defender Ancil Elcock will be used by the club as a youth coach.
Fresh from their Pro Bowl success, Jabloteh with their ongoing process in developing young players and therefore Coach Fenwick is currently looking at a number of youth players, fresh talent that has come from within Jabloteh’s youth system and also from the outside.
Young defender Karlon Murray and creative midfielder Terryl Elwyn have both been promoted by Fenwick from the club’s youth teams while defender Devaughn Drumett out of Campton football club in Guyana also joins the fold.
Young midfielder Michael Celestine who was part of the senior Pro League team is facing disciplinary action and will not be part of the team until further notice.
Fenwick defended his decision to tighten things up at the club saying, “I’ve looked at players that have been around the scene for some time now and there are some of them not up to the standard I want them to be—I want to build a young squad that are not just capable of winning everything in Trinidad but are also capable of challenging for spots on the National team”.
1219
Football / To SAVE our SOCCER.
« on: June 16, 2005, 06:52:51 AM »
To SAVE our SOCCER.
By: Mervyn Stewart (Express).[/size]
Steve David wants...
Steve David, former national footballer, who represented Trinidad and Tobago between 1971-'75, scoring 16 goals in World Cup qualifiers, is willing to return home and assist in the development of local football, but only if the powers-that-be are serious about what needs to be done.
David was a former St. Benedict's College striker in the late '60s who later played for Police in the 1970s before migrating to the USA to ply his trade in much greener pastures.
In the USA he first played for Miami Toros where he scored an amazing 26 goals in 24 matches, winning numerous MVP awards despite having to compete with the likes of England's George Best, Brazil's Pele and Germany's Franz Beckenbauer, just to name a few.
In his twilight years he turned out for San Jose Earthquakes in the National American Soccer League (NASL) before hanging up his boots somewhere in the early '80s.
Asked about his opinion concerning the present state of local football he told Express Sports that it was quite clear that while the talent was there, this country's soccer was being affected by problems at the administrative level of the game, and at times it looks like T&T are doing things by guess.
"At present, I do not agree with the system we play as a team simply because we do not have the right coaches to implement and build those systems.
"I really felt like the unit that Everald 'Gally' Cummings developed in the late '80s was quite a good squad, but our administrators failed miserably in their capacity to build on all the hard work and progress that was achieved," he explained.
David said he had the opportunity to see Trinidad and Tobago's two recent World Cup qualifiers against Panama and Mexico.
"Against Panama, I am of the view that although we came away winners they were the better team. Now when I say better I am speaking in footballing terms because Panama played a much more constructive game of football than our lads. Their approach was definitely a bit more positive, and they were quite aggressive which led to them being more dominant in the middle of the field. Their only let-down was in their inability to finish, and as we all know, goals win matches.
"We took our chances when it mattered most, scored twice and thus walked away with all three points on offer, but there was a lot lacking in our aggression and our ability to keep possession of the ball and construct plays.
"In our match-up with Mexico there was definite signs of improvement and up to the 65th minute of the game both teams were pretty evenly matched, which was
a credit to us, and were it not for those two defensive blunders we could have come away with a goalless draw and a share of the points.
"As it stands the road to Germany is undulating, but we still have an outside chance of making it if the team continues to show the type of improvement that's necessary."
David said he believed Leo Beeenhakker is a coach of substance since there were two moves implemented by the Dutchman that were for the best interest of the team. "Firstly, playing Dwight Yorke as a striker instead of in midfield was an excellent move, and putting David Nakhid where he rightfully belongs--and that is off the playing field and in the stands (no disrespect meant)."
Asked to compare the players of his era to what we currently have now and David inferred that the players of today were falling short in the area of dedication and there existed a lack of excitement in the actual playing of the game.
"Football is supposed to be entertaining and if the excitement factor is missing then fans will not feel motivated to come out and watch football matches Instead they will find an alternative that provides them with the degree of excitement they are looking for."
David believes that in order for T&T's football to move forward skilled and knowledgeable persons, such as Leroy De Leon, need to have some sort of input. "De Leon fame is well-known, having been voted as one of the greatest player to grace CONCACAF tournaments and certainly one of the best players Trinidad and Tobago has ever produced.
"He's currently doing an excellent job of developing young players in the USA and if he could do it with so much success abroad then certainly he can do the same at home."
David is also calling on the people in charge of football that in the event T&T were not to qualify for next year's World Cup Finals, they should hang on to coach Beenhakker for at least the next four to five years to ensure that the standard of this country's football gets the opportunity to elevate so that next time around we will be exactly where we want to be.
Quizzed whether he would like to be given the opportunity of guiding this country's soccer? The US-based David's reply was: "With the sad state our football finds itself in at the moment, and if our football administrators are serious about what it takes to turn things around then I am quite prepared to quit my job and play a pivotal role in saving football in T&T".
By: Mervyn Stewart (Express).[/size]
Steve David wants...
Steve David, former national footballer, who represented Trinidad and Tobago between 1971-'75, scoring 16 goals in World Cup qualifiers, is willing to return home and assist in the development of local football, but only if the powers-that-be are serious about what needs to be done.
David was a former St. Benedict's College striker in the late '60s who later played for Police in the 1970s before migrating to the USA to ply his trade in much greener pastures.
In the USA he first played for Miami Toros where he scored an amazing 26 goals in 24 matches, winning numerous MVP awards despite having to compete with the likes of England's George Best, Brazil's Pele and Germany's Franz Beckenbauer, just to name a few.
In his twilight years he turned out for San Jose Earthquakes in the National American Soccer League (NASL) before hanging up his boots somewhere in the early '80s.
Asked about his opinion concerning the present state of local football he told Express Sports that it was quite clear that while the talent was there, this country's soccer was being affected by problems at the administrative level of the game, and at times it looks like T&T are doing things by guess.
"At present, I do not agree with the system we play as a team simply because we do not have the right coaches to implement and build those systems.
"I really felt like the unit that Everald 'Gally' Cummings developed in the late '80s was quite a good squad, but our administrators failed miserably in their capacity to build on all the hard work and progress that was achieved," he explained.
David said he had the opportunity to see Trinidad and Tobago's two recent World Cup qualifiers against Panama and Mexico.
"Against Panama, I am of the view that although we came away winners they were the better team. Now when I say better I am speaking in footballing terms because Panama played a much more constructive game of football than our lads. Their approach was definitely a bit more positive, and they were quite aggressive which led to them being more dominant in the middle of the field. Their only let-down was in their inability to finish, and as we all know, goals win matches.
"We took our chances when it mattered most, scored twice and thus walked away with all three points on offer, but there was a lot lacking in our aggression and our ability to keep possession of the ball and construct plays.
"In our match-up with Mexico there was definite signs of improvement and up to the 65th minute of the game both teams were pretty evenly matched, which was
a credit to us, and were it not for those two defensive blunders we could have come away with a goalless draw and a share of the points.
"As it stands the road to Germany is undulating, but we still have an outside chance of making it if the team continues to show the type of improvement that's necessary."
David said he believed Leo Beeenhakker is a coach of substance since there were two moves implemented by the Dutchman that were for the best interest of the team. "Firstly, playing Dwight Yorke as a striker instead of in midfield was an excellent move, and putting David Nakhid where he rightfully belongs--and that is off the playing field and in the stands (no disrespect meant)."
Asked to compare the players of his era to what we currently have now and David inferred that the players of today were falling short in the area of dedication and there existed a lack of excitement in the actual playing of the game.
"Football is supposed to be entertaining and if the excitement factor is missing then fans will not feel motivated to come out and watch football matches Instead they will find an alternative that provides them with the degree of excitement they are looking for."
David believes that in order for T&T's football to move forward skilled and knowledgeable persons, such as Leroy De Leon, need to have some sort of input. "De Leon fame is well-known, having been voted as one of the greatest player to grace CONCACAF tournaments and certainly one of the best players Trinidad and Tobago has ever produced.
"He's currently doing an excellent job of developing young players in the USA and if he could do it with so much success abroad then certainly he can do the same at home."
David is also calling on the people in charge of football that in the event T&T were not to qualify for next year's World Cup Finals, they should hang on to coach Beenhakker for at least the next four to five years to ensure that the standard of this country's football gets the opportunity to elevate so that next time around we will be exactly where we want to be.
Quizzed whether he would like to be given the opportunity of guiding this country's soccer? The US-based David's reply was: "With the sad state our football finds itself in at the moment, and if our football administrators are serious about what it takes to turn things around then I am quite prepared to quit my job and play a pivotal role in saving football in T&T".
1220
Football / Asafa powell just smash the 100 meter record
« on: June 14, 2005, 12:31:03 PM »
This man is pressure.bORWN AND BURNS WHERE ALLYUH
1221
Football / Griffith: No billion-dollar sports complex
« on: June 13, 2005, 09:39:40 PM »
Griffith: No billion-dollar sports complex
...not when players have to dip in their pockets to represent T&T
BY Mark Pouchet
Tuesday, June 14th 2005
The recent announcement by Government of a $850 million national sports complex has sparked much public reaction as to the viabilty and wisdom of such a project at this time.
Among those voicing their opinion on the matter is Captain Gary Griffith, a former Trinidad and Tobago Hockey Board (T&THB) vice-president and national team manager (1998-2002).
In a letter to the Express, Griffith has lashed out at Government over the multi-million-dollar elite sports and training complex to be constructed at Tarouba, saying the money could be better spent by ensuring national athletes don't have to dip into their pockets to represent their country.
Griffith argued that Government neglected to conduct a Cost Benefit Analysis of the Tarouba facility, adding that the project is unlikely to be self-sufficient.
"The sudden, non-budgeted approval for a sports training facility that will eventually cost over $1 billion, or maybe even about the same cost as the much-talked about Piarco Airport, again shows the professionalism of our Banana Republic-styled way of thinking in politics," Griffith declared.
"It is quite obvious that absolutely no Cost Benefit Analysis or proper needs assessment was done to justify this facility by a Government that constantly criticised the construction of four stadiums (for the 2001 Under-17 World Cup) each at a cost of less than $100 million, yet they now find justification to construct a training facility to be built in a sparsely-populated area, inclusive of a 'practice' cricket facility with a seating capacity of over 20,000 that will never see a crowd of over 1,000 turning up there, as the only time you can get numbers in excess of 10,000 at a cricket game is at the One Day Internationals, and these games will still be played at the Queen's Park Oval," Griffith pointed out.
He stated Government is using the 2007 Cricket World Cup to attempt to justify the huge expenditure on the $265 million Brian Lara Stadium, a facility that will only be used for warm-up and first round matches in the World Cup.
Griffith believes athletes, who he said had to hold cake sales, raffles and go "begging" for money, will be better served by Government's funding of their national outings.
"We are still in a country where almost every amateur sporting discipline continues to be plagued with having to demand that our national players have to financially contribute to represent their country," he emphasised.
Griffith termed as "ridiculous" the practice of Government's small contributions and mandate to national bodies to pay the remainder.
"This mandatory financial contribution is then inevitably thrown on the players themselves, as in most cases amateur sporting disciplines are mostly coordinated by amateur sporting bodies, hence aspects such as self-sufficiency are out of the question, so the burden is placed on the poor national sportsman, who is now forced to pay his own way to represent his country, or stay at home," said Griffith.
He added that that undesirable situation-citing the example of the 2001 Pan Am World Cup Qualifying national indoor hockey team he managed-severely affects the morale and self-motivation of the players "as they spend their time wondering, sometimes up to 48 hours before departure, whether they are indeed travelling or not because of financial constraints".
Having stated his case, Griffith said he is not totally against the idea of the $850 million project-just not at this time.
"I am not saying that such a billion-dollar sport training facility is of no value to our nation, but we need to get our priorities straight," he argued.
"And if our nation is now so filthy rich that we can spend over $1,000 million for a sports facility that will be an inevitable white elephant, then we must ensure that our national sportsmen and women must NEVER be forced to put their hands in their pockets to represent us again."
That means, according to Griffith, providing them with stipend for travelling to games and training; providing them with suppliments and vitamins, medical insurance plans whilst training and at all tournaments; purchasing of uniforms; and, above all, "not having the least concern about financial shortfalls prior to an international tournament.
"This should cost the Government no more than $100 million per annum for all sporting disciplines," Griffith suggested, before concluding: "which is a drop in the bucket as compared to a billion-dollar stadium that will be empty most of the time".
...not when players have to dip in their pockets to represent T&T
BY Mark Pouchet
Tuesday, June 14th 2005
The recent announcement by Government of a $850 million national sports complex has sparked much public reaction as to the viabilty and wisdom of such a project at this time.
Among those voicing their opinion on the matter is Captain Gary Griffith, a former Trinidad and Tobago Hockey Board (T&THB) vice-president and national team manager (1998-2002).
In a letter to the Express, Griffith has lashed out at Government over the multi-million-dollar elite sports and training complex to be constructed at Tarouba, saying the money could be better spent by ensuring national athletes don't have to dip into their pockets to represent their country.
Griffith argued that Government neglected to conduct a Cost Benefit Analysis of the Tarouba facility, adding that the project is unlikely to be self-sufficient.
"The sudden, non-budgeted approval for a sports training facility that will eventually cost over $1 billion, or maybe even about the same cost as the much-talked about Piarco Airport, again shows the professionalism of our Banana Republic-styled way of thinking in politics," Griffith declared.
"It is quite obvious that absolutely no Cost Benefit Analysis or proper needs assessment was done to justify this facility by a Government that constantly criticised the construction of four stadiums (for the 2001 Under-17 World Cup) each at a cost of less than $100 million, yet they now find justification to construct a training facility to be built in a sparsely-populated area, inclusive of a 'practice' cricket facility with a seating capacity of over 20,000 that will never see a crowd of over 1,000 turning up there, as the only time you can get numbers in excess of 10,000 at a cricket game is at the One Day Internationals, and these games will still be played at the Queen's Park Oval," Griffith pointed out.
He stated Government is using the 2007 Cricket World Cup to attempt to justify the huge expenditure on the $265 million Brian Lara Stadium, a facility that will only be used for warm-up and first round matches in the World Cup.
Griffith believes athletes, who he said had to hold cake sales, raffles and go "begging" for money, will be better served by Government's funding of their national outings.
"We are still in a country where almost every amateur sporting discipline continues to be plagued with having to demand that our national players have to financially contribute to represent their country," he emphasised.
Griffith termed as "ridiculous" the practice of Government's small contributions and mandate to national bodies to pay the remainder.
"This mandatory financial contribution is then inevitably thrown on the players themselves, as in most cases amateur sporting disciplines are mostly coordinated by amateur sporting bodies, hence aspects such as self-sufficiency are out of the question, so the burden is placed on the poor national sportsman, who is now forced to pay his own way to represent his country, or stay at home," said Griffith.
He added that that undesirable situation-citing the example of the 2001 Pan Am World Cup Qualifying national indoor hockey team he managed-severely affects the morale and self-motivation of the players "as they spend their time wondering, sometimes up to 48 hours before departure, whether they are indeed travelling or not because of financial constraints".
Having stated his case, Griffith said he is not totally against the idea of the $850 million project-just not at this time.
"I am not saying that such a billion-dollar sport training facility is of no value to our nation, but we need to get our priorities straight," he argued.
"And if our nation is now so filthy rich that we can spend over $1,000 million for a sports facility that will be an inevitable white elephant, then we must ensure that our national sportsmen and women must NEVER be forced to put their hands in their pockets to represent us again."
That means, according to Griffith, providing them with stipend for travelling to games and training; providing them with suppliments and vitamins, medical insurance plans whilst training and at all tournaments; purchasing of uniforms; and, above all, "not having the least concern about financial shortfalls prior to an international tournament.
"This should cost the Government no more than $100 million per annum for all sporting disciplines," Griffith suggested, before concluding: "which is a drop in the bucket as compared to a billion-dollar stadium that will be empty most of the time".
1222
Football / Leo Beenhakker : I’m a bad loser, I don’t like to lose matches.
« on: June 11, 2005, 06:53:31 AM »
Coach Beenhakker sets sights on Gold Cup.
By Joel Bailey (Newsday).
National coach Leo Beenhakker has set his focus on the 2005 CONCACAF Gold Cup, which will be contested in the United States from July 6-24. Beenhakker, as well as the majority of the national team’s players and technical staff, returned home yesterday from Monterrey, Mexico, via three US cities - Dallas, Washington DC and Miami. The TT lads were beaten 2-0 by Mexico on Wednesday in their CONCACAF World Cup Final Round qualifier and Beenhakker emphasised: “I think everybody who’s related to TT football is satisfied with the way we played. I’m also satisfied with the way we played. “At the other end, I’m a bad loser, I don’t like to lose matches,” he added. Reviewing Wednesday’s match, he noted: “for 70 minutes, we did a very good job. We’re playing (against) one of the top teams in the world.
“Then they got a lucky goal and that was, more or less, the key moment.” Beenhakker was quick to point out: “there were only a 10-day preparation with the team. I don’t think I can ask more of the players. They did a very good job over there.” Like every coach at all levels of the game, Beenhakker stressed that he don’t like to lose a match. As a result, he’s looking towards bettering the team in time for the Gold Cup, as well as the next World Cup qualifier against the Americans on August 17. “We have to be better in defence and in midfield,” he said. “I think that one of the reasons (why) we got in trouble is (that) we played too far in the back and we were not able to stop them in the midfield.
In related news, team captain Dwight Yorke returned to Australia to begin pre-season training with Sydney FC while Chris Birchall (Port Vale), Hector Sam (Wrexham) and Carlos Edwards (Luton) have also rejoined their respective English squads for pre-season work. Brent Rahim and Gary Glasgow, both without a club at the moment, are in Britain on trials while the left-footed trio of Avery John (New England Revolution), Marlon Rojas and Leslie ‘Tiger’ Fitzpatrick (Real Salt Lake) will feature in American MLS action today. As far as the coaching staff is concerned, Beenhakker is expected to go on vacation in St Maarten next week while his assistants Whim Rhizerburg and Theo De Jonk are back in their native Netherlands. The trio will all return to TT later this month to begin preparations for the Gold Cup.
By Joel Bailey (Newsday).
National coach Leo Beenhakker has set his focus on the 2005 CONCACAF Gold Cup, which will be contested in the United States from July 6-24. Beenhakker, as well as the majority of the national team’s players and technical staff, returned home yesterday from Monterrey, Mexico, via three US cities - Dallas, Washington DC and Miami. The TT lads were beaten 2-0 by Mexico on Wednesday in their CONCACAF World Cup Final Round qualifier and Beenhakker emphasised: “I think everybody who’s related to TT football is satisfied with the way we played. I’m also satisfied with the way we played. “At the other end, I’m a bad loser, I don’t like to lose matches,” he added. Reviewing Wednesday’s match, he noted: “for 70 minutes, we did a very good job. We’re playing (against) one of the top teams in the world.
“Then they got a lucky goal and that was, more or less, the key moment.” Beenhakker was quick to point out: “there were only a 10-day preparation with the team. I don’t think I can ask more of the players. They did a very good job over there.” Like every coach at all levels of the game, Beenhakker stressed that he don’t like to lose a match. As a result, he’s looking towards bettering the team in time for the Gold Cup, as well as the next World Cup qualifier against the Americans on August 17. “We have to be better in defence and in midfield,” he said. “I think that one of the reasons (why) we got in trouble is (that) we played too far in the back and we were not able to stop them in the midfield.
In related news, team captain Dwight Yorke returned to Australia to begin pre-season training with Sydney FC while Chris Birchall (Port Vale), Hector Sam (Wrexham) and Carlos Edwards (Luton) have also rejoined their respective English squads for pre-season work. Brent Rahim and Gary Glasgow, both without a club at the moment, are in Britain on trials while the left-footed trio of Avery John (New England Revolution), Marlon Rojas and Leslie ‘Tiger’ Fitzpatrick (Real Salt Lake) will feature in American MLS action today. As far as the coaching staff is concerned, Beenhakker is expected to go on vacation in St Maarten next week while his assistants Whim Rhizerburg and Theo De Jonk are back in their native Netherlands. The trio will all return to TT later this month to begin preparations for the Gold Cup.
1223
Football / Ex-nationals Nigel “Croc” Pierre, Ansil Elcock sacked by Fenwick.
« on: June 09, 2005, 07:10:08 AM »
Terry Fenwick sacks Jabloteh four.
By: Nigel Simon[/size]
Less than one month after taking over the reigns at T&T Professional Football League club CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh, English-born coach Terry Fenwick has sacked four players.
The players are ex-nationals Nigel “Croc” Pierre, Ansil Elcock, Vernon “Zartie” Bailey and Michael Celestine.
Contacted yesterday, Fenwick confirmed the sacking.
“Yes, unfortunately we have parted ways with a few guys who have served the club well in the past.
“At this point in their careers, I don’t feel they are good enough for my team,” added Fenwick.
Fenwick was happy to announce the promotion of youth team players ex-Queen’s Royal College midfielder Jason Devenish, Terryl Elwyn of San Juan Senior Secondary and national Under-20 defender Carlon Murray to the senior team along with the acquisition of and Devaughn Dummette of Guyana.
“I just felt that the time was right to bring in fresh blood and hopefully they would help to take us in the right direction.
“Devenish, Elwyn and Murray have been with the youth teams for a while now and will be given the chance to prove themselves.”
Pierre and current Jabloteh defender Keyeno Thomas were snapped up by ex-Jabloteh coach Ricky Hill at the start of the 2003 season and helped the team to the league title.
However, since the start of the season, Pierre has not been able to re-discover his goalscoring touch as was often left out of the starting team by Michael Grayson, who was the team’s stand-in coach.
Bailey started his career at Jabloteh before moving to Joe Public and then back to Jabloteh before being fired while Celestine came through the youth ranks of Jabloteh.
By: Nigel Simon[/size]
Less than one month after taking over the reigns at T&T Professional Football League club CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh, English-born coach Terry Fenwick has sacked four players.
The players are ex-nationals Nigel “Croc” Pierre, Ansil Elcock, Vernon “Zartie” Bailey and Michael Celestine.
Contacted yesterday, Fenwick confirmed the sacking.
“Yes, unfortunately we have parted ways with a few guys who have served the club well in the past.
“At this point in their careers, I don’t feel they are good enough for my team,” added Fenwick.
Fenwick was happy to announce the promotion of youth team players ex-Queen’s Royal College midfielder Jason Devenish, Terryl Elwyn of San Juan Senior Secondary and national Under-20 defender Carlon Murray to the senior team along with the acquisition of and Devaughn Dummette of Guyana.
“I just felt that the time was right to bring in fresh blood and hopefully they would help to take us in the right direction.
“Devenish, Elwyn and Murray have been with the youth teams for a while now and will be given the chance to prove themselves.”
Pierre and current Jabloteh defender Keyeno Thomas were snapped up by ex-Jabloteh coach Ricky Hill at the start of the 2003 season and helped the team to the league title.
However, since the start of the season, Pierre has not been able to re-discover his goalscoring touch as was often left out of the starting team by Michael Grayson, who was the team’s stand-in coach.
Bailey started his career at Jabloteh before moving to Joe Public and then back to Jabloteh before being fired while Celestine came through the youth ranks of Jabloteh.
1224
Football / this "attractive football" trinidadians like to see
« on: June 07, 2005, 09:05:14 AM »
Just a quote from andre samuel's post of the radio show
He spoke about de dutch system, and it not requiring creative players, but rather players who fill roles.
Then some idiot called and said that we not playing the kind attractive football that he like tuh see and dem two other idiots agree with him saying that we missing ah latapy or a dwarika playes steups!
Attractive football doing a pretty dribble,a nice beat pretty touch .I remember as a youth growning up all we used to like to do is play fancy football.As far as i see people prefer that the national team play sexy football and lorse than plain basic football adn win.BUT aNYWAY in ah tallman post of a practice session he said beenieman was bawling down the players for holding onto the ball to long. Mr corneal has a hidden agenda either he want to see jones and dwarika start or may its beacuse birchall is well let me say "snow".
He spoke about de dutch system, and it not requiring creative players, but rather players who fill roles.
Then some idiot called and said that we not playing the kind attractive football that he like tuh see and dem two other idiots agree with him saying that we missing ah latapy or a dwarika playes steups!
Attractive football doing a pretty dribble,a nice beat pretty touch .I remember as a youth growning up all we used to like to do is play fancy football.As far as i see people prefer that the national team play sexy football and lorse than plain basic football adn win.BUT aNYWAY in ah tallman post of a practice session he said beenieman was bawling down the players for holding onto the ball to long. Mr corneal has a hidden agenda either he want to see jones and dwarika start or may its beacuse birchall is well let me say "snow".
1226
Football / U.S. Falls to England 2-1 in Soldier Field Friendly
« on: May 28, 2005, 08:51:57 PM »
CHICAGO (May 28, 2005) – The U.S. fell behind by two goals after 45 minutes before battling back with a dominating second half, but could only find the back of the net once as they fell to England 2-1 on Saturday afternoon in front of 47,637 fans on a beautiful day at Soldier Field in Chicago. U.S. midfielder Clint Dempsey, who battled through a physical English team all day, scored the only goal for the United States, his first with the full national team.
Midfielder Kieran Richardson was the hero for England as he tallied both goals, striking early on a free kick in the fourth minute and then striking again just before halftime in the 44th minute. The second half was a different story, though, as the U.S. was able to control the majority of the play, eventually out-shooting England 14-8 (including 9-3 in the second half), while scoring their only goal off a free kick in the 79th minute.
"I thought it was a good game,” said U.S. manager Bruce Arena, who saw the U.S. lose a home game for the first time in a span of 14 games dating back to 2003. “I was pleased with our team's effort in the second half. Not that it was a bad effort in the first half, but I think the English team did an outstanding job for 45 minutes in the first half with their concentration and their ability to hang in on every play and make a difference. Their two goals they scored were opportunistic and intelligent plays. I told our guys at the end of the game that players like Alan Smith and Joe Cole, you appreciate them a lot more when you are on the field with them and see the plays they pull off for their team."
On the U.S. goal, midfielder Landon Donovan curled in a free kick from the left sideline where Carlos Bocanegra was able to slide in and get a foot to it, but goalkeeper David James made a reactionary save from four yards. The rebound, however, popped in the air toward Dempsey at the right post where he headed home for his first international strike.
“It was a great experience," said Dempsey following the game. "They have a lot of players in the EPL and it was a good game for some of our players to gauge where we were. We came out a little tentative, but we had a lot of spurts of good play. We played well at times and put them on their heels a little bit in the second half trying to get the equalizer. It was a fun game for us, but it was just a game to sharpen us up for the qualifiers and that’s the most important thing right now – qualifying for the World Cup.”
On the first English goal, a foul by Eddie Pope on Andy Johnson set up a dangerous English free kick from 20 yards in the fourth minute of play. Earning his first cap for England, Richardson stepped up to take the shot and whistled it into the upper right corner, past the outstretched hands of U.S goalkeeper Kasey Keller.
The U.S. had two excellent chances to tie the match following England’s opening goal, both courtesy of Donovan. In the 20th minute, a Wes Brown foul on Josh Wolff set up Donovan for a wicked free kick from the left flank that beat ‘keeper David James and slammed off the right post from 23 yards. Donovan’s second attempt came in the 37th minute, with Josh Wolff perfectly heading a nice ball from Steve Ralston into his path in the penalty area, where the L.A. Galaxy forward hit a shot screaming along the grass and just wide of the right post.
Following those near misses, it was Richardson’s turn again in the 44th minute, as he nicely tucked a shot past Keller and into the lower left corner of the goal after a crafty square pass from Joe Cole found him running open into the left side of the area. As he did when he was fouled on the first goal, it was Andy Johnson’s pass that started the attack into Cole.
The U.S. started off the second half strong, getting into the attacking end early in the half. U.S. defender Steve Cherundolo took the ball up the right side as the half began, crossing a ball into Dempsey, who went up for a header but was beaten to it by the English defense. The ball hopped back out on the play, where Greg Vanney ran on to it and unleashed a shot that went just wide of the goal on the left side.
In the 72nd minute, the U.S. earned a free kick at the top of the English penalty area after Wolff had been taken down. His ensuing free kick hit the wall and ricocheted back to Wolff, whose second-chance shot sailed high above the goal. Soon after that, Dempsey would find the net for the U.S., allowing for a few anxious moments at the end of the game as the U.S. pushed for the equalizer.
"Overall a good experience and I hope it was a good show for people in the stands,” said Arena. “I think it was positive for the game in this country to bring such a good team in here and have a good game."
In the 91st minute, midfielder Clyde Simms entered the match for his first international cap, capping off a remarkable rise up the ladder of soccer in the United States from the USL First Division to MLS to the U.S. MNT over the past six months.
The U.S. team now travels to Utah on Monday, where the U.S. will play host for the second time in the final round of FIFA World Cup qualifying, welcoming Costa Rica on June 4 in Salt Lake City. Kickoff at Rice-Eccles Stadium is set for 5:30 p.m. MT, and will be broadcast live on ESPN2 and delayed on Telemundo at 11:30 p.m. ET/PT. The match will be followed by MLS expansion franchise Real Salt Lake hosting FC Dallas at 8 p.m. in the second game of the doubleheader. Four days later, the U.S. travels to face Panama at the Estadio Rommel Fernandez in Panama City. Kickoff is set for 8:30 p.m. CT, and the match will be broadcast via tape-delay on ESPN2 at 1 a.m. ET and on Telemundo at 11:30 p.m. ET/PT.
Scoring:
ENG – Kieran Richardson (unassisted) 4th minute.
ENG – Kieran Richarson (Joe Cole) 44.
USA – Clint Dempsey (Carlos Bocanegra) 79.
Lineups:
USA: 18-Kasey Keller (Capt.); 2-Steve Cherundolo, 23-Eddie Pope (4-Carlos Bocanegra, 73), 12-Cory Gibbs, 21-Greg Vanney; 14-Steve Ralston (15-Bobby Convey, 73), 2 5-Kerry Zavagnin, 2-Clint Dempsey (19-Clyde Simms, 91+); 10-Landon Donovan; 16-Josh Wolff, 20-Brian McBride (11-Conor Casey, 81)
Subs not used: 1-Marcus Hahnemann, 3-Gregg Berhalter, 8-Jonathan Spector
Head Coach: Bruce Arena
ENG: 1-David James; 2-Glen Johnson, 5-Wes Brown, 6-Sol Campbell (capt.) (15-Zat Knight, 46), 3-Ashley Cole (16-Jermain Defoe, 63); 7-Jermaine Jenas, 4-Michael Carrick, 11-Joe Cole, 8-Kieran Richardson (14-Phil Neville, 59); 9-Alan Smith, 10-Andy Johnson (12-Luke Young, 76)
Subs not used: 13-Robert Green, 16-Jermain Defoe, 17-Peter Crouch, 22-Scott Carson
Head Coach: Sven-Goran Eriksson
Stats Summary: USA ENG
Shots 14 8
Saves 2 3
Corner Kicks 4 6
Fouls 5 19
Offside 3 6
Misconduct Summary:
USA – Eddie Pope (caution) 31st minute
ENG – Ashley Cole (caution) 35.
Officials:
Referee: Benito Archundia (MEX)
1st Asst.: Pedro Rebollar Leon(MEX)
2nd Asst.: Alejandro Cruz Rios (MEX)
Fourth Official: Michael Kennedy (USA)
ussoccer.com Man of the Match: Josh Wolff
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Midfielder Kieran Richardson was the hero for England as he tallied both goals, striking early on a free kick in the fourth minute and then striking again just before halftime in the 44th minute. The second half was a different story, though, as the U.S. was able to control the majority of the play, eventually out-shooting England 14-8 (including 9-3 in the second half), while scoring their only goal off a free kick in the 79th minute.
"I thought it was a good game,” said U.S. manager Bruce Arena, who saw the U.S. lose a home game for the first time in a span of 14 games dating back to 2003. “I was pleased with our team's effort in the second half. Not that it was a bad effort in the first half, but I think the English team did an outstanding job for 45 minutes in the first half with their concentration and their ability to hang in on every play and make a difference. Their two goals they scored were opportunistic and intelligent plays. I told our guys at the end of the game that players like Alan Smith and Joe Cole, you appreciate them a lot more when you are on the field with them and see the plays they pull off for their team."
On the U.S. goal, midfielder Landon Donovan curled in a free kick from the left sideline where Carlos Bocanegra was able to slide in and get a foot to it, but goalkeeper David James made a reactionary save from four yards. The rebound, however, popped in the air toward Dempsey at the right post where he headed home for his first international strike.
“It was a great experience," said Dempsey following the game. "They have a lot of players in the EPL and it was a good game for some of our players to gauge where we were. We came out a little tentative, but we had a lot of spurts of good play. We played well at times and put them on their heels a little bit in the second half trying to get the equalizer. It was a fun game for us, but it was just a game to sharpen us up for the qualifiers and that’s the most important thing right now – qualifying for the World Cup.”
On the first English goal, a foul by Eddie Pope on Andy Johnson set up a dangerous English free kick from 20 yards in the fourth minute of play. Earning his first cap for England, Richardson stepped up to take the shot and whistled it into the upper right corner, past the outstretched hands of U.S goalkeeper Kasey Keller.
The U.S. had two excellent chances to tie the match following England’s opening goal, both courtesy of Donovan. In the 20th minute, a Wes Brown foul on Josh Wolff set up Donovan for a wicked free kick from the left flank that beat ‘keeper David James and slammed off the right post from 23 yards. Donovan’s second attempt came in the 37th minute, with Josh Wolff perfectly heading a nice ball from Steve Ralston into his path in the penalty area, where the L.A. Galaxy forward hit a shot screaming along the grass and just wide of the right post.
Following those near misses, it was Richardson’s turn again in the 44th minute, as he nicely tucked a shot past Keller and into the lower left corner of the goal after a crafty square pass from Joe Cole found him running open into the left side of the area. As he did when he was fouled on the first goal, it was Andy Johnson’s pass that started the attack into Cole.
The U.S. started off the second half strong, getting into the attacking end early in the half. U.S. defender Steve Cherundolo took the ball up the right side as the half began, crossing a ball into Dempsey, who went up for a header but was beaten to it by the English defense. The ball hopped back out on the play, where Greg Vanney ran on to it and unleashed a shot that went just wide of the goal on the left side.
In the 72nd minute, the U.S. earned a free kick at the top of the English penalty area after Wolff had been taken down. His ensuing free kick hit the wall and ricocheted back to Wolff, whose second-chance shot sailed high above the goal. Soon after that, Dempsey would find the net for the U.S., allowing for a few anxious moments at the end of the game as the U.S. pushed for the equalizer.
"Overall a good experience and I hope it was a good show for people in the stands,” said Arena. “I think it was positive for the game in this country to bring such a good team in here and have a good game."
In the 91st minute, midfielder Clyde Simms entered the match for his first international cap, capping off a remarkable rise up the ladder of soccer in the United States from the USL First Division to MLS to the U.S. MNT over the past six months.
The U.S. team now travels to Utah on Monday, where the U.S. will play host for the second time in the final round of FIFA World Cup qualifying, welcoming Costa Rica on June 4 in Salt Lake City. Kickoff at Rice-Eccles Stadium is set for 5:30 p.m. MT, and will be broadcast live on ESPN2 and delayed on Telemundo at 11:30 p.m. ET/PT. The match will be followed by MLS expansion franchise Real Salt Lake hosting FC Dallas at 8 p.m. in the second game of the doubleheader. Four days later, the U.S. travels to face Panama at the Estadio Rommel Fernandez in Panama City. Kickoff is set for 8:30 p.m. CT, and the match will be broadcast via tape-delay on ESPN2 at 1 a.m. ET and on Telemundo at 11:30 p.m. ET/PT.
Scoring:
ENG – Kieran Richardson (unassisted) 4th minute.
ENG – Kieran Richarson (Joe Cole) 44.
USA – Clint Dempsey (Carlos Bocanegra) 79.
Lineups:
USA: 18-Kasey Keller (Capt.); 2-Steve Cherundolo, 23-Eddie Pope (4-Carlos Bocanegra, 73), 12-Cory Gibbs, 21-Greg Vanney; 14-Steve Ralston (15-Bobby Convey, 73), 2 5-Kerry Zavagnin, 2-Clint Dempsey (19-Clyde Simms, 91+); 10-Landon Donovan; 16-Josh Wolff, 20-Brian McBride (11-Conor Casey, 81)
Subs not used: 1-Marcus Hahnemann, 3-Gregg Berhalter, 8-Jonathan Spector
Head Coach: Bruce Arena
ENG: 1-David James; 2-Glen Johnson, 5-Wes Brown, 6-Sol Campbell (capt.) (15-Zat Knight, 46), 3-Ashley Cole (16-Jermain Defoe, 63); 7-Jermaine Jenas, 4-Michael Carrick, 11-Joe Cole, 8-Kieran Richardson (14-Phil Neville, 59); 9-Alan Smith, 10-Andy Johnson (12-Luke Young, 76)
Subs not used: 13-Robert Green, 16-Jermain Defoe, 17-Peter Crouch, 22-Scott Carson
Head Coach: Sven-Goran Eriksson
Stats Summary: USA ENG
Shots 14 8
Saves 2 3
Corner Kicks 4 6
Fouls 5 19
Offside 3 6
Misconduct Summary:
USA – Eddie Pope (caution) 31st minute
ENG – Ashley Cole (caution) 35.
Officials:
Referee: Benito Archundia (MEX)
1st Asst.: Pedro Rebollar Leon(MEX)
2nd Asst.: Alejandro Cruz Rios (MEX)
Fourth Official: Michael Kennedy (USA)
ussoccer.com Man of the Match: Josh Wolff
© Copyright US Soccer Federation 2001-2005. All rights reserved.
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1227
Football / Chelsea and Sky One launch nationwide search for a star
« on: May 27, 2005, 12:21:48 PM »Sky One follows Premiership Champions Chelsea FC in national search for a FOOTBALL ICON
Thousands of young hopefuls will be tested to find one winner of the ultimate prize — a professional contract with Chelsea FC
Sky One, the UK's leading non-terrestrial channel, has commissioned North One to produce FOOTBALL ICON, an 8x'60 observational documentary series following Premiership Champions and League Cup winners Chelsea FC as they engage in the greatest football talent search ever undertaken in Britain. In an initiative supported by Chelsea’s top management, thousands of trialists are expected to take part with the prize of a professional contract at Chelsea FC for the talented winner.
FOOTBALL ICON aims to discover new talent and unearth those who may have slipped through the net. Promising drama both on and off the pitch, FOOTBALL ICON will examine the gruelling challenges that face today's youth as they vie for a place in the Chelsea academy.
In June 2005, the nationwide search for a FOOTBALL ICON commences with three regional heats in Manchester (13-18 June), West Midlands (20-26 June) and London (28 June - 10 July). From these trials, a shortlist of just 12 will be invited to Chelsea's football academy. At Chelsea's training HQ in Cobham, Surrey, the dream dozen will undergo a summer of exhaustive tests and trials. Full details of the terms and conditions can be found at www.skyone.co.uk/footballicon.
Each week, trainees will be eliminated from the trials until only three remain. In the ultimate footballing showdown, Chelsea Manager, Jose Mourinho and his academy staff will decide the winner of FOOTBALL ICON. The prize - possibly one of the greatest prizes ever offered on TV - is a professional contract with Chelsea FC.
Chelsea FC's academy has produced John Terry, this year's PFA Player of the Year, and Robert Huth, while other players at Chelsea such as Football Writers’ Player of the Year Frank Lampard, Joe Cole, Glen Johnson and Scott Parker have graduated through the academy system at other English clubs. The winner will be given every opportunity to prove he has the talent to follow in these illustrious footsteps.
Chelsea set an English top flight record for points and a Premiership record for most wins in a season in the 2004/5 Season. Now the team, under the guidance of manager, Jose Mourinho, are looking to build on their achievements as the club looks to the future. The preparations begin now...
Jose Mourinho, manager and first team coach of Chelsea FC, commented: "Not every young player is spotted through the normal process. Here is an opportunity for someone who may have been missed to come to Chelsea. This also shows that Chelsea is not just about the top players signed for big money. We are open to anyone who is good enough. We want our academy to be a breeding ground for first team talent and if we can find someone through Football Icon, either in England, or around the world, then that will be fantastic."
FOOTBALL ICON will also offer a unique look inside Chelsea. The series follows the fortunes of the hopefuls aspiring to a first-team place; the planning for the club's Centenary and an insight into the day to day activities of the club.
James Baker, Controller of Sky One, commented: "This is a very exciting initiative and we are delighted to be working closely with Chelsea FC on this project. This is an aspirational series - for every young footballer that has written to clubs around the country asking for a trial - this is their big chance. The show is absolutely authentic and the prize is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."
FOOTBALL ICON is a North One Television production for Sky One. The series was commissioned by Jo Wallace, Director of Original Programming, Sky One. Series Producer is Nick Evans. Executive Producers are Steve Regan for Sky One and Neil Duncanson and John Quinn for North One.
© 2005 Chelsea FC / Skysports.com
1228
Football / Norville: "Injuries Cost Me My Chance"
« on: May 25, 2005, 05:34:46 AM »
JASON Norville cited continual injury problems as the main reason he never established himself at Watford.
The Trinidadian striker was released by the Hornets at the end of the 04/05 season and will be looking for a new club next year, with Colchester United a possible destination after an earlier interest in the 21-year old.
A player who was always on the periphery of the first-team without ever breaking through, he suffered a torried run of injuries which ruled him out of action for lengthy periods in almost every season at Vicarage Road - ultimately ending his time with the Hornets.
Before heading off on his summer break, Norville sat down with watfordfc.com to ponder a spell which promised much, but ultimately delivered very little.
"No, it hasn't delivered much at all," he agreed. "I remember after my debut at Bradford talking about pushing on and playing in the first team but it's just never happened.
"I've had a lot of injuries during my time here, one after the other really, so it's been very hard to even get close to the team.
"I'd like to think that people knew I was a good player but injuries prevented me showing it to anyone. If I could have stayed injury-free I'm sure that things would be different now."
Jason nearly joined Colchester United on a loan spell but was recalled just before the transfer deadline, and hopes that their earlier interest will manifest itself in the form of a contract offer during the summer.
"I haven't spoken to them but I would hope so - it was disappointing not to go there and show what I could do but I don't know if they're still interested.
"It would have been the ideal chance to get some league games under my belt - I was playing in the Reserves here anyway but some proper league games would have been good for my fitness and confidence."
The striker enjoyed a rich run of form in the Barclays Premiership Reserve League (South) towards the end of his Watford stint, scoring five in five starts and, he hopes, finally showing what he's capable of.
"I knew a little ago that my contract wasn't being renewed so I was playing for myself really - that's the best way to play I think, to do it for yourself," he revealed.
"Scouts want to see you in the first team - I know I can play at the Reserve level because I've done it for the last six years but could I do it at the next level up? I think I can and that's what I want to prove next year."
The Trinidadian striker was released by the Hornets at the end of the 04/05 season and will be looking for a new club next year, with Colchester United a possible destination after an earlier interest in the 21-year old.
A player who was always on the periphery of the first-team without ever breaking through, he suffered a torried run of injuries which ruled him out of action for lengthy periods in almost every season at Vicarage Road - ultimately ending his time with the Hornets.
Before heading off on his summer break, Norville sat down with watfordfc.com to ponder a spell which promised much, but ultimately delivered very little.
"No, it hasn't delivered much at all," he agreed. "I remember after my debut at Bradford talking about pushing on and playing in the first team but it's just never happened.
"I've had a lot of injuries during my time here, one after the other really, so it's been very hard to even get close to the team.
"I'd like to think that people knew I was a good player but injuries prevented me showing it to anyone. If I could have stayed injury-free I'm sure that things would be different now."
Jason nearly joined Colchester United on a loan spell but was recalled just before the transfer deadline, and hopes that their earlier interest will manifest itself in the form of a contract offer during the summer.
"I haven't spoken to them but I would hope so - it was disappointing not to go there and show what I could do but I don't know if they're still interested.
"It would have been the ideal chance to get some league games under my belt - I was playing in the Reserves here anyway but some proper league games would have been good for my fitness and confidence."
The striker enjoyed a rich run of form in the Barclays Premiership Reserve League (South) towards the end of his Watford stint, scoring five in five starts and, he hopes, finally showing what he's capable of.
"I knew a little ago that my contract wasn't being renewed so I was playing for myself really - that's the best way to play I think, to do it for yourself," he revealed.
"Scouts want to see you in the first team - I know I can play at the Reserve level because I've done it for the last six years but could I do it at the next level up? I think I can and that's what I want to prove next year."
1229
Football / TV6 can no longer continue to deliver news clips for free, steups!!!
« on: May 23, 2005, 10:19:56 PM »
TV6 news and sports - service change notification
The demand for TV6 News and Sports clips has escalated to the point we can no longer continue to deliver this service free. Over 30,000 people watch clips nightly. We are currently examining pay per view, and other options for those who wish to view all our TV News and Sports.
We will continue to publish news headlines and top story while we investigate.
If you are willing to pay US$2.99 a month for full access to news and sports plus all other TV specials please let us know at tjohnson@trinidadexpress.com
The demand for TV6 News and Sports clips has escalated to the point we can no longer continue to deliver this service free. Over 30,000 people watch clips nightly. We are currently examining pay per view, and other options for those who wish to view all our TV News and Sports.
We will continue to publish news headlines and top story while we investigate.
If you are willing to pay US$2.99 a month for full access to news and sports plus all other TV specials please let us know at tjohnson@trinidadexpress.com
1230
Football / Birchall to get TT passport today
« on: May 23, 2005, 09:32:59 AM »ENGLISH-born midfielder Chris Birchall is expected to collect his Trinidad and Tobago passport today. This was revealed by FIFA vice-president Jack Austin Warner yesterday morning at a breakfast get-together at the Andre Kamperveen Hall, Dr Joao Havelange Centre of Excellence, Macoya, Tunapuna. He let on also, that Birchall’s mother Jennifer received her passport and was scheduled to return to England yesterday. Warner, an advisor to the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation thanked Mrs Birchall for coming to Trinidad on short notice to assist in getting a passport for Chris.
The 20-year-old Birchall who plays with Port Vale in English Division One, is currently in the squad under Dutch coach Leo Beenhakker, getting ready for a June 4 CONCACAF World Cup qualifying match against Panama at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. Warner reiterated his belief that the Warriors as the Trinidad and Tobago footballers are called, will not only get past Panama but will be in Germany for World Cup 2006. Earlier, Beenhakker called for full public support and said he believes together “we can do the job.”
He said the players must be congratulated for coming into camp with a fantastic attitude. The coach said, “We need the support because we have a short time to get things ready.” Warner later said the breakfast get-togther was called so players could interact with sponsors, fans and the local media. Still later, Errol Fabien and his sidekick Wendell put on a skit, advertising the June 4 match.