Forum: Sports...Traditional & Extreme
Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi SKills ( video Included )
| Deon Burton replaces King in starting line-up |
| Ian Burnett, Sport Editor Wednesday, June 18, 2008 |
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| Jamaican striker Luton Shelton (left) tries to control the ball ahead of a Bahamas defender during their World Cup first-leg Qualifier at the National Stadium on Sunday. Jamaica won 7-0. (Photo: Bryan Cummings) |
Jamaica's Reggae Boyz will look to formalise their passage into the next phase of the CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying Series when they face the Bahamas today in the second-leg encounter at the Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium at 4:00 pm.
Entering today's match against the 167th-ranked Caribbean team with a huge 7-0 advantage, Jamaica, ranked 98th in the world, are poised to join the CONCACAF semi-final phase in a group alongside the already qualified Honduras, as well as Mexico, who hold a 2-0 advantage over Belize, and Canada, who lead 3-0 against St Vincent & the Grenadines after first-leg games.
In the semi-final phase, which runs from August through November, there will be three groups of four teams, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the final phase, where the first three finishers on points qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Finals in South Africa.
The fourth-placed team enters a home and away play-off with the fifth-placed team from South America.
In the first leg on Sunday, captain Ricardo Gardner, Demar Phillips, Marlon King, Andy Williams, Omar Daley and a brace from Luton Shelton carried the Boyz to their huge victory. They led 3-0 at the break in front of more than 80 per cent of the National Stadium's capacity.
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| Veteran Reggae Boy midfielder Andy Williams (left) about to get by an opponent during the World Cup first-leg Qualifier against the Bahamas at the National Stadium last Sunday. Jamaica won 7-0. (Photo: Bryan Cummings) |
Despite the large margin of victory, technical director Rene Simoes said there were some bad decisions taken by the players at critical stages of the game.
"I think the intensity of the team was good," Simoes said, "but I think we made some decisions that were not appropriate".
He added: "We have to play more games. Only games will make you find the best solutions to the problems you face."
On Sunday the Bahamas offered very little in terms of threat to the Jamaicans, with goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts a mere spectator for most of the 90-plus minutes. He was not forced to make a save until well into the second half and spent most of his time playing like a kicking back.
Ricketts might have more work to do today - shying away from the sunlight on the field which is less than ideally marked in an east-to-west direction.
The defensive posture of the Bahamians did not help either. They employed a 4-5-1 formation, with the diminutive Lesley St Fleur, the lone striker, almost totally lost among the Jamaica defence line.
Bahamas' technical director, Brazilian Neider Dos Santos, conceded his side was overwhelmed by the locals.
"We were basically an Under-21 team playing against professionals, so we just tried to hold out for as long as we could to put a bit of pressure on them," he said.
"Unfortunately, we conceded the first goal very early so that made it a lot more difficult for us. The players tried their best, but sometimes the difference of experience makes a huge impact in the game. Now we need to forget that match and see how to improve the performance for the next game."
But realistically, the Bahamians would have done very well if they were to escape with a better result today. Such is the enormous gap between the two sides.
Despite his brace on Sunday, on another day Shelton could easily have been celebrating a hat-trick or four-timer, but he was wasteful in front of goal.
And with very little to do defensively, ace central defender Ian 'Pepe' Goodison could have scored a brace, having struck the post in the second minute, and gone close with a header late on.
Captain Gardner was satisfied with Sunday's effort, but he warned his players to remain focussed for today's closing event.
"From the last game (against Grenada) there was a bit of pressure on us and I think we learned from that game," said Gardner, who scored the opening goal on Sunday.
"We took it very professionally in this game and did the job. But the job isn't over yet, there's a next leg and we have to start from 0-0," he added.
Simoes originally said he would employ the same starting 11 as on Sunday, but late yesterday one change was effected.
It is unsure, what changes, if any, Dos Santos will apply to his team, which is now desperate
and only 90 minutes away
from elimination.
Ricketts will again tend goal, with Goodison and Jermaine Taylor in central defence, flanked by Gardner and Tyrone Marshall. The midfield will be manned by Evan Taylor, Rudolph Austin, Demar Phillips - who has been a livewire for the team - and Andy Williams, while Deon Burton replaces Marlon King in partnership with Shelton up front.
The Barcelona and France striker has played in all the biggest stadiums in Europe, but says the atmosphere at Anfield makes it the best.
Henry said: "For my first few years at Arsenal we didn't do well there, but we improved.
"It's the atmosphere I love. It's unbelievable.
"I've played in a lot of stadiums but for me there is nothing like playing at Liverpool."
His praise of Anfield may be seen as a hint about desiring a move back to England as he has failed to settle down in his first season at Barca, and is known to be good friends with Reds skipper Steven Gerrard.
Henry added: "Nothing can beat Highbury, of course, but playing at Anfield was great.
"The fans always sing and hold up their scarves before and after the game - whether they have won or lost.
"It must be amazing if you are a Liverpool player."
Ronaldinho, Eto'o and Deco surplus to Barca requirements
"We are contemplating the future without them. The coach thinks this way after analyzing questions of performance and the (last) season," Guardiola said Tuesday at his presentation at Camp Nou stadium.
Ronaldinho, who has lost his status as the world's best player after a poor season, is currently being courted by Manchester City. AC Milan has shown interest in Eto'o, a three-time African player of the year who has scored 77 league goals in his four seasons with the club. Portugal midfielder Deco could join coach Luiz Felipe Scolari at Chelsea.
However, Guardiola said France striker Thierry Henry and Mexico defender Rafael Marquez would remain at Barcelona.
MANCHESTER UNITED signs Italy’s star teenager who is tipped to be the next Francesco Totti
The Red Devils signed Davide Petrucci, 16, from Roma, who were powerless to stop the striker leaving.
Petrucci tipped as the next Francesco Totti has seen his wages leap from £16,000 a year to the maximum of £95,000 a year allowed.
But it is the chance for his father to work in the gardens of Manchester that have helped to swing the deal.
Petrucci said: Going to play for the strongest club in the world is a great opportunity for me. It was hard to say no, even though I am a Roma fan.
But United have offered my father Stefano a job as a gardener.
Roma will receive just £200,000 in compensation for Petrucci, who hit 14 goals in 19 youth games last season,
An editorial in the newspaper Il Romanista said: It is a nightmare. In three or four years Petrucci will be worth 100 times more.
Petrucci added: Now Ill be at the same club as Cristiano Ronaldo. *lo**y hell, what a player!
TOP 10 MOMENTS IN FOOTBALL 07/08 SEASON FROM EDUARDO'S INJURY TO TERRY'S MISSED PENALTY [KRAZILY INSANE]
MAKE no mistake, the 2007-08 football season was one of the most dramatic in recent memory.
From the first kick to the final whistle, the rollercoaster ride saw twists and turns in every league and cup competition.
Each storyline whether it was the Premier League title race, cup giantkillings or great relegation escapes gripped fans up like a vice.
But what were the defining moments of the season?
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No10: Arsenal stun Milan
Arsenal produced some stunning results the 10-man comeback in the rain at Bolton, William Gallas' winner against Chelsea but none reached the heights of their San Siro heroics. After a goalless draw at the Emirates, the Gunners delivered a gritty performance against AC Milan to snatch victory with two superb late strikes from Cesc Fabregas and Emmanuel Adebayor.
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No9: Goodbye Jol
Poor old Martin Jol. The Dutchman soldiered on as Tottenham boss despite the boards chase of Juande Ramos. Spurs endured a miserable start to the season and Jol was in the firing line for failing to succeed with Dimitar Berbatov and co. He then found himself on the touchline for the UEFA Cup clash with Getafe as news broke around White Hart Lane that he was fired.
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No8: Barnsleys cup romp
Cardiff deserved their day in the sun at the FA Cup final but it was Barnsley who produced the real magic. After trailing Liverpool at half-time at Anfield, the Tykes battled back to snatch an epic fifth-round victory thanks to Steve Howards late winner. But just when you thought it could not get any better, the Yorkshire side dumped mighty Chelsea out in the next round.
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No7: Fulhams miracle
When Fulham entered the dressing room for half-time at Manchester City trailing by two goals they were effectively relegated from the Premier League. The Cottagers bounced back to snatch a 3-2 win before embarking on an incredible run. The mission was finally completed with just 14 minutes of the season left as Danny Murphys header sealed a critical win at Portsmouth.
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No6: Eduardos horror injury
Eduardo was beginning to find his feet as an Arsenal player when he had the rug pulled from under him at Birmingham. The question of whether Martin Taylor deliberately attempted to injure the Gunners star needs no further debate but what is certain is that it threw the Croatians career into the balance. It remains to be seen whether he will ever fully recover from the horrific broken leg.
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No5: Super-human free-kick
Cristiano Ronaldo was undoubtedly the star of the season. The Portuguese ace was the inspiration behind Manchester Uniteds Double triumph and the forward finished the campaign with an amazing 42 goals. The were many defining strikes the header in Rome, the hat-trick against Newcastle but none could match his breathtaking free-kick against Portsmouth.
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No4: The Messiah returns
Even by Newcastles standards, this season was comical. A new manager, followed by a new owner, could not hide the same old under-achievement. But when boss Sam Allardyce was eventually axed, Mike Ashley make the remarkable decision to bring Kevin Keegan back to the club. Keegan turned around a terrible start to his second stint but will start the season under pressure to work the old magic at St James Park.
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No3: McClaren and his umbrella
There are too many moments to recall from Englands Euro 2008 nightmare at a rain-soaked Wembley against Croatia. Scott Carsons horror fumble, super-sub David Beckhams heroics and, finally, Mladen Petrics devastating winner. But the unforgettable image is that of boss Steve McClaren watching on from the sidelines, with only a FA brolly for company.
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No2: Farewell Mourinho
Jose Mourinhos lasting impact on English football can be measured by the coverage of his every move since leaving Chelsea. The Portuguese boss has barely been out of the news after his controversial exit from Stamford Bridge in September rocked football. Chelsea have never had a manager like Mourinho and fans still crave his unpredictable behaviour.
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No1: Terrys miss
When weary John Terry walked towards the penalty spot at the Luzhniki Stadium, the Chelsea skipper knew he could win the Champions League final. But despite sending Manchester United keeper Edwin van der Sar the wrong way, the defender's slip saw the ball skim the wrong side of the post. Moments later, United had won the Double, Chelsea finished the season empty-handed and Terry was in tears. And days later Avram Grant had lost his job.
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DERBY have become the quickest team to be relegated from the Premier League.
The Rams draw with Fulham on Saturday ensured they were the first ever team to fall through the trapdoor before April.
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No10: Watford (2007)
Aidy Boothroyd is one of the brightest young managers in the game but even he was unable to save Watford from this season to forget. The Hornets cause was not helped by Marlon Kings season-long injury and Ashley Youngs departure to Aston Villa but they still only managed 28 points.
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No9: Swindon (1994)
Swindon are often harshly regarded as the worst ever team in the history of the Premier League. They did manage to notch 30 points admittedly from the 42 games played each season up until 1996 but that total was largely down to the heroics of Jan-Aage Fjortoft.
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No8: West Brom (2003)
West Brom were lucky to have such an inept team as Sunderland below them to disguise their own poor season, in which just 26 points were won. The Baggies made an instant exit from the top-flight under boss Gary Megson, who is now battling to keep Bolton in the Premier League.
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No7: Bradford (2001)
After surviving relegation with just 34 points in the previous season, Bradfords fans should have seen it coming. Despite big-name arrivals such as Stan Collymore and Benito Carbone, the Bantams finished with just 26 points. They now sit three divisions below the Premier League.
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No6: Watford (2000)
When your biggest summer signing is £950,000 flop Nordin Wooter, you can expect trouble on the horizon. Graham Taylor worked miracles to move Watford into the Premiership in the first place but when they got there, the Hornets were shown up for their distinct lack of quality. Just 24 points came their way.
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No5: Leicester (1995)
Leicester may not have finished bottom but just 29 points from 42 games demonstrated their woeful season. It took the Foxes three consecutive play-off finals to reach the top-flight but the fans were left wondering whether it was worth the wait. Luckily for them, Martin ONeills arrival was imminent.
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No4: Ipswich (1995)
Swindons stint in the Premiership was soon in the shadows thanks to Ipswichs desperate season. Not only did they muster just 27 points from 42 matches, they suffered a humiliating 9-0 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford - a record Premiership loss.
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No3: Sunderland (2003)
The Black Cats are arguably the worst team in the Premier Leagues history thanks to two dreadful campaigns in three years. The first came in 2003 when Mick McCarthys side grabbed just 19 points the first team to finish below 20 points. Sadly for the fans, deeper embarra**ment was to come.
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No2: Sunderland (2006)
Who would have thought this record of just 15 points would ever come under serious threat? Sunderland were absolutely awful as they plunged towards the Championship and the fans felt relief rather than anger when the season was over. Roy Keane has now restored pride on Wearside.
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No1: Derby (2008)
The Rams top this list because they look incapable of earning the further five points that would ensure they did not equal Sunderlands record. Credit must go to Billy Davies for promoting Derby in the first place, while his replacement Paul Jewell arrived too late to stop the rot. But they have never looked anything near a Premier League side.
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THE BAHAMIANS RARELY LEFT THEIR HALF...
IT WASNT UNTIL AFTER HALF TIME THERE ATTEMPTED TO CROSS THE HALF LINE.
ME NUH FEEL SO BAD STILL...CUZ MI DID SOAK INNA D RAIN...
GOAL SCORERS FOR JAMAICA!
RICARDO GARDENER.
DEMAR PHILLIPS
MARLON KING
LUTON SHELTON (2)
ANDY WILLIAMS
OMAR DALEY
-- Edited by postinor at 22:31, 2008-06-15
Day of redemption
published: Sunday | June 15, 2008
Audley Boyd, Assistant Editor - Sport
Simoes and Gardner
ON THE heels of the mental and physical bruising dealt to them by Grenada in a friendly battle last Tuesday, Jamaica's Reggae Boyz are aiming to make a strong rebound when they bow into the 2010 qualification series for South Africa's World Cup finals, in a clash against lowly Bahamas at 'The Office'.
When they report for work at 7 p.m. in the opening leg of a two-way fixture that unusually, will be played here. Football's world governing body, FIFA, declared Bahamas' football facilities unfit for World Cup qualifiers so what should have rightly been their home game will be played here, next Wednesday at the multi-purpose stadium in Trelawny.
keen expectations
There are keen expectations today that Jamaica's 'ballers, ranked 97th, will be most business-like and display form that runs contrary to their preparation, which has evoked some amount of uncertainty.
In recent practice matches, the Boyz walloped St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) 5-1 and drew with Trinidad and Tobago 1-1 away, but couldn't finish off the business when leading and were pegged back to a 2-2 draw with Soca Warriors here, then going down 1-2 to 143rd ranked Grenada on Tuesday.
Reggae Boyz (from left) Marlon King, Omar Daley and Andy Williams participate in a training session at the National Stadium on Friday. - Photos by LeVaughn Flynn
| Boyz bid for glory ... face Bahamas in first hurdle of World Cup campaign |
| By Ian Burnett Sport Editor burnetti@jamaicaobserver.com Sunday, June 15, 2008 |
With a whole nation desperate for a repeat dose of the success of 1998, Jamaica's Senior men's football team begins its quest on the road to the South Africa 2010 FIFA World Cup Finals with a first-leg, second-round CONCACAF Qualifying series against the Bahamas here at Kingston's National Stadium at 6:00 pm today.
The second leg will be played at the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium on Wednesday at 4:00 pm.
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Ranked 98th on the FIFA list, host Jamaica will be meeting the 167th-ranked Bahamians for the first time at the senior level, as they kick off on their ninth World Cup Qualifying campaign, dating back to 1965.
Since then Jamaica have entered all editions, except those of 1974 in West Germany, 1982 in Spain and 1986 in Mexico.
The game will also mark the 73rd World Cup Qualification match for Jamaica, and the 35th at home in the competition.
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| Technical director Rene Simoes (left) and assistant coach Theodore Whitmore walk onto the field for a practice session at the National Stadium last night. (Photo: Garfield Robinson) |
It will also be a nostalgic reunion for Brazilian technical director Rene Simoes, who was reappointed as head of the technical team in January after the return of Captain Horace Burrell to the presidency of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF).
It was primarily that duo who led the outlandish dream of a nation to the historic 1998 World Cup Finals qualification in France, and Simoes's last game with Jamaica in this competition would have been that unforgettable 2-1 victory over Japan in Lyon, France.
In 1997 Jamaica became the first English-speaking Caribbean country to qualify for the FIFA World Cup Finals.
On the other hand, the Bahamas are contesting only their third World Cup Qualifying campaign, following appearances in 2002 and 2006, and their ninth match overall. The odds are stacked heavily against the nation of about 700 islands.
But following a stunning 1-2 loss against lowly ranked Grenada on Tuesday in that eastern Caribbean island, Simoes told the Sunday Observer that there is no chance of complacency setting in on his Boyz.
"There is no chance," he asserted authoritatively. "This is the World Cup and there is only one chance," he added.
But Simoes will be facing a completely different scenario from when he first arrived for the historic 1998 campaign. Now he has precious little time to mould a team with the right personnel and chemistry, but he will have a lot more professionals at his disposal and the onus will be on him to get the right mix.
But based on evidence from Jamaica's five matches since the little moustachioed Brazilian returned to the fold, it appears he is still not yet sure of the right personnel or the system that best suits the players.
In his first game back against Costa Rica on February 6, Simoes employed a 4-4-2 formation, and he did the same against Trinidad and Tobago on March 26.
In the recent friendly games against St Vincent & the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago and Grenada, he switched to the 3-5-2 formation, but based on his training sessions this week, there appears to be another switch to the 4-4-2 formation.
He would not confirm the switch, but said he would be using the best formation for the team.
"I'm going to play the game," he said. "The Bahamas, they play with one striker only...in the game I saw them play against BVI. We are prepared to play any system...but it's what's best for the team."
Stoke City striker Ricardo Fuller will sit out today's game with what appears to be a torn lateral meniscus in his left knee. His place will be taken by the speedy Luton Shelton, who will partner ace striker Marlon King in attack.
Donovan Ricketts will tend goal, and will be supported by veteran Ian Goodison and Harbour View's Jermaine Taylor in central defence, flanked by captain Ricardo Gardner on the left and Tyrone Marshall on the right.
The midfield will be manned by Demar Phillips, Rudolph Austin, Andy Williams and the inexperienced Evon Taylor.
"What we need is a very intense game against the Bahamas," Simoes said. "This ball cannot stop...we have to create space, we have to make rotations, we have to read the movement of the strikers, the support, the penetration."
And still smarting from Tuesday's 1-2 loss to Grenada, Simoes promised that the team will be much better off for that result and the Bahamas could be in for a backlash.
"I think they look much better now..I think they're very focused for this game against the Bahamas."
The Bahamas, who arrived in the island at nearly 2:00 am yesterday, held a training session at the National Stadium last evening with a youthful side, made up of 12 players who participated in their shocking 1-0 upset of Jamaica at last year's CONCACAF Olympic Games qualifier in Haiti. The bulk of the players represent local clubs in the national New Providence League and universities in the United States.
Some of their most recognised players appear to be striker Happy Hall of Appalachian State University, Demont Mitchell of Hosfra University and goalkeeper Dwayne Whylly of Yale Bulldogs.
Their technical director, Brazilian Neider Dos Santos appeared unperturbed when he spoke to the Sunday Observer.
"I know players from the premier league and I saw the game against St Vincent. They draw with Trinidad and Tobago then they lost to Grenada. I know Grenada and they are a good team. That defeat to Grenada put more pressure on them. I know how football works and if 30 minutes of the first half passes and things are not going too well, they will start to feel pressure from the stands also," he said.
Dos Santos, who was at the helm in the shock win last year, said he was just taking it one game at a time.
Squad: The Bahamas - Dwayne Whylly, Shari-Cardeece Clarke, Daron Beneby, Michael Bethel, Lamar Cancino, Gavin Christie, Dwayne Forbes, Happy Hall, Cameron Hepple, Nesley Jean, Demont Mitchell and brother Denair Mitchell, Justin Sealy, Connor Sheehan, Lesly St Fleur, Damani Horton, Alexander Wallace-Vanderpool, Kyle Williams.
| Beyond the Asafa-Bolt hype Are the JAAA, JTB cashing-in at National Trials? |
| BY ANDREW HANCEL Observer staff reporter hancela@jamaicaobserver.com Sunday, June 15, 2008 |
When Usain Bolt broke Asafa Powell's world record recently, many avenues open. Bolt and Powell are now expected to meet over the distance at the Jamaica Olympic Trials (June 27-29) in a contest that has already triggered massive interest around the globe.
Established international media entities such has BBC, ESPN, FoxSports and NBC and a host of other broadcasting agencies from as far as Japan, Italy and L'Equipe of France, have all indicated their desire to give coverage to this stellar event.
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But beyond the hype and drama that is about to unfold at the National Stadium in Kingston, the issue of how the nation can capitalise on the expected influx of revenue gathers momentum.
At a glance the possibilities are endless. By virtue of Jamaica being a great tourist destination, coupled with its world acclaimed reggae music, the little Caribbean island stands to benefit immensely - if shrewdly and prudently executed - from these Olympic Trials.
From the look of things, however, the governing body for the sport, the Jamaica Amateur Athletic Association (JAAA), appears to have already dropped the baton.
Carole Beckford, author of the book, Keeping Jamaica's Sport on Track, indicate that another opportunity to market Jamaica via sport could go abegging.
"One of the things that we fail to do effectively is to mix sports with entertainment, because that is a package all to its self," Beckford told Sunday Observer in a recent interview.
"We've been in the Olympics for 60 years, so it's time to re-engage our youngsters and our people into Jamaica's history of... the Olympics games," she pointed.
Meanwhile, Jamaica gained invaluable experience in the hosting of major events from the 2002 World Junior Championships and the 2007 Cricket World Cup.
Knowing what it takes to stage a world event, the onus is now on the key players, including the government, to bring added value to this upcoming event - arguably is the most highly anticipated pre-Olympics meet heading into the 29th Olympiad in Beijing, China.
According to the website www.sportbusiness.com, Sport Tourism is a multi-billion dollar business and one of the fastest growing of the US$4.5 trillion global travel and tourism industry.
But delving into this is relatively virgin territory in the Jamaican context and for the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), notes Beckford.
"It's (for) the Jamaica Tourist Board to now see the National Trials as a major event and package it properly so that it will engage and attract people to come into the country... associate it with the entertainment package," said Beckford.
Tourism Minister, Ed Bartlett, told the Sunday Observer that "Sport Tourism will become the centre-piece of the tourism new marketing approach to drive greater visitor arrivals into the country".
But it still remains unclear whether the JTB is on board for the most important weekend in June.
When contacted, lead organiser of the Jamaica Trials, Ludlow Watts, had little say.
"We're in our planning stage now and I don't want to make a lot of comment... but... a lot of interests is being generated. All the various components are being processed right now... and a lot of interest is being shown in the championships. We're actually planning for a high-quality meet," Watts stated.
"We expect it to be high quality based on the performance of the athletes and we in turn want... to provide a good structure and ensure that we have a good Championship for the benefit of the athletes and the spectators..."
It is yet to be seen, however, to what degree Jamaica reaps benefits from parading on local soil the two fastest human beings that have ever lived.
Can ex Portugal boss Scolari sign Cristiano Ronaldo to Chelsea????
IF Luiz Felipe Scolari is serious about toppling Manchester United from their throne, his first act as Chelsea boss should be to make a move for Cristiano Ronaldo.
Alex Ferguson is already throwing his toys out of the pram at the prospect of losing his star player to Real Madrid this summer.
So I can only imagine what his reaction will be to the realisation that Ronaldo is now in daily contact with the new Blues chief.
Fergie will hate the idea of Scolari and Ronaldo working together as part of Portugals campaign to win Euro 2008.
Confirmation that Big Phil is heading to Stamford Bridge the minute the Championships are over can only increase Fergusons paranoia.
It is safe to assume that Roman Abramovich has promised Scolari the financial backing to sign any player in the world as part of his brief to turn Chelsea into European champions.
No one will be beyond his budget and there is no better player right now than Ronaldo.
With Abramovichs fortune at his disposal, Scolari can outbid anyone for a star who has served him so well at international level these past five years.
If he could get his hands on Ronaldo, it would be a magnificent statement of intent. At the same time, it would deliver a devastating blow to United.
Ferguson, of course, will never allow it to happen. He would rather sell Ronaldo to Madrid than let him join Uniteds biggest rivals.
Yet even the whiff of interest from Chelsea will increase the likelihood of Ronaldo leaving Old Trafford.
If, as seems increasingly likely, Ronaldo hands in a transfer request, it would make perfect sense for United to get as much money as they can and to sell to the highest bidder.
It looks, though, like the players heart is set on a move to Real Madrid. Anywhere else and he would look like a complete bull**** merchant.
Ferguson, naturally, is determined to keep Ronaldo and make him honour his contract. If he says no move, there is nothing the wing wizard can do about it except sulk.
But there is nothing worse than having an unsettled, demotivated player in the ranks. Scolari knows that, just by expressing an interest in Ronaldo, he can throw a very large cat into Uniteds pigeon loft.
That would be only the start of what promises to be an explosive war between the new Chelsea boss and his United counterpart.
For, make no mistake about it, Scolari is the real deal. He knows exactly what is expected for his £5million a year and has the knowledge and expertise to deliver.
He definitely fits Abramovichs bill in terms of the quality and style of attacking football his teams play.
The 4-3-3 formation he utilises with Portugal is perfect for the talented squad he will inherit at Chelsea.
Some he will keep, others he will sell to make way for new signings.
He is getting the best goalkeeper in the world and a very solid back four. Now it is just a case of arranging his midfield and forwards.
With Portugal, he uses Petit and Moutinho as holding midfielders. That allows Deco to get right forward and play just behind the striker.
It would not surprise me to see him sign someone like Spains Antonio Senna to play the holding role and push Michael Ballack into the Deco role. Or he could just buy Deco.
The Scolari system also relies on two very good wingers, which is where Ronaldo would come into the equation.
Tactically, Scolari is very sound. He knows his job, is good at working with world-class players and has a track record which inspires respect.
He won the World Cup and two South American Championships with Brazil and has turned Portugal into one of the best teams in the game in recent years.
He is also a very strong man, who will not be intimidated or back down from confrontation. He strikes me as the kind of fella who likes to get his retaliation in early.
The only drawback I can see is the fact his English is not great.
Fabio Capello made it one of his priorities as England manager to learn the language as quickly as possible.
Scolari will not have as much time for the lessons he will need. Even so, he is walking into a multi-national dressing room and needs to get his message across straight away.
If Scolari overcomes the language barrier, there is nothing to stop him delivering all Abramovich wants and more.
He is not the sort of bloke to stand for boardroom interference and, as long as the owner is getting the results and the football he is seeking, the manager will be left alone to make the decisions.
Scolari knows exactly what he is letting himself in for. He realises second place will not be good enough.
The Brazilian has the pedigree and capabilities to deliver the Champions League for Chelsea. Do not bet against him.
| Bolt down to run 200 metres at Ostrava meet |
| CMC Thursday, June 12, 2008 |
OSTRAVA, Czech Republic (CMC) - The world's fastest man, Usain Bolt of Jamaica, tackles a 200-metre assignment as he headlines the names listed for the Ostrava Golden Spike and field meeting this evening.
After his stunning world-record 100-metre run at the Reebok Grand Prix two weekends ago, the 21-year-old Bolt appears poised for another rapid run over the trip he still considers his favourite.
Bolt already has a big name over 200 metres, with a personal best time of 19.75 seconds - the ninth fastest all-time - and his CARIFTA Games 19.93 victory four years ago in Bermuda is still the World Junior record.
His sudden rise in the 100 metres has been astounding since it is an event he never focused on.
Bolt had threatened his Jamaican colleague Asafa Powell's world record when he clocked 9.76 seconds at the Jamaica International in early May, and then smashed the mark with his 9.72-second run four weeks later at the Reebok Grand Prix in New York.
His rivals in Ostrava 200 metres include Zimbabwe's Brian Dzingai, Britain's Marlon Devonish and Stephane Buckland of Mauritius.
Bolt will not be the only top Caribbean sprinter at the meet.
The 2007 Osaka World Championship silver medallist Derrick Atkins, of the Bahamas, will compete in the 100 metres after his wind-assisted win in 9.98 seconds at the Bislett Games Golden League meeting last Friday.
Olympic 400-metre champion Jeremy Wariner will contest the rarely run 300 metres, with Jamaican Xavier Brown and Dominica's Chris Lloyd among his rivals.
Jamaican Ricardo Chambers is entered for the men's 400 metres.
Improving Jamaican Melaine Walker continues her Olympic Games build-up by racing in the women's 400-metre hurdles against Poland's Anna Jesien and American Christine Spence.
| The Viceroy is dead |
Saturday, June 14, 2008 |
The outstanding thoroughbred, The Viceroy, a three-time horse-of-the-year died of an apparent heart attack at the farm at Orange Valley Estates on Thursday night.
Arguably one of the truly great Jamaican thoroughbreds of all time, The Viceroy, who is also an inductee into the Hall of Fame of Thoroughbred Racing in Jamaica, won the horse-of-the-year honours in 1989, 1990 and 1992. In 1989 he became the only thoroughbred in Jamaican history to win the Triple Crown and the Superstakes in the same year.
He is a three-time Superstakes winner (1989, 1990 and 1992) and a four-time winner of the Shell Silver Plate (1990, 1991, 1992 and 1994).
The Viceroy, a bay gelding by The Peacemaker out of La Golondrina, was conditioned throughout his career by many-time champion trainer Philip Feanny and was often ridden by hall of fame jockey Winston Griffiths.
In 48 career starts, he won 22 times, was second of six occasions, third on six occasions, fourth as many time and earned $3,794,600 in stakes. He won by 1,100 metres to 2,400 metres. He remains the track record holder for 1,800 metres (1.48.1) and is the stakes record holder for the derby (2.30.1).
However, Ronaldinho "does not form part of the first list," Gandini added.
Gandini's remarks echo those of Milan's general manager Ariedo Braida two weeks ago. Brieda said the Italian powerhouse needed Eto'o more than Ronaldinho but acknowledged a large transfer fee would be required to sign the Cameroon international.
Both players, who helped Barcelona win the 2006 Champions League, appear likely to leave soon. The Catalan club is undergoing a makeover after two trophy-less seasons, and coach Frank Rijkaard has already been replaced with Pep Guardiola.
Barcelona would reportedly seek 40 million (US$61.6 million) for the 27-year-old Eto'o, a three-time African player of the year who has scored 77 league goals in his four seasons with the club.
Ronaldinho, who has lost his status as the world's greatest player after a poor season, would likely command a lesser fee. The Brazilian, a two-time world player of the year, is also a year older than Eto'o.
At present, the club most interested in signing Ronaldinho appears to be Manchester City, which said this week it has held talks with the player's representatives.
Milan is seeking reinforcements after failing to reach next season's Champions League, the seven-time European champion only managing a fifth-place finish in the Serie A.
The 24-goal striker has fervently pledged himself to the Reds, saying the team are on the brink of Premier League success.
Torres said: "I have no intention of leaving.
"We have to focus our energies to give the little step we need to get to the top teams.
"If we only improve the team a little, we are going to manage to do so.
"I want to say very clearly that I'm not on the market and it is my desire to continue at Liverpool.
"I am very happy at Liverpool and want to carry on."
The striker's comments echo that of Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry who said: "Fernando Torres is just not for sale to anyone.
"It is as simple as that, really. He is not going anywhere."
| Dyson holds criticism of Windies batsmen |
| CMC Saturday, June 14, 2008 |
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) - West Indies coach John Dyson refused to be critical of his batsmen after the Caribbean side handed Australia a 35-run first innings lead on the second day of the third Digicel Test at Kensington Oval yesterday.
After dismissing the world champions for 251, West Indies failed to capitalise and were dismissed for 216.
The display was met with some criticism from fans, but Dyson was not too perturbed.
"I don't think the batsmen threw it all away just like that. We are disappointed with the batting effort and the batsmen would be the first to admit that," he told reporters.
"Shiv batted beautifully again, as Shiv always does. That was a positive."
Shivnarine Chanderpaul made an unbeaten 79, having occupied the crease for three and three-quarter hours in sustaining his rich form.
A few of his teammates, including the first four batsmen in the order, however, fell to aggressive strokes.
"I don't know about soft dismissals. It's a very, very fine line. You want players to be aggressive, particularly on wickets that offer a bit of pace and bounce," Dyson said.
"You want them to play their shots and you applaud like crazy when it comes off. On that fine line when it doesn't come off, you want to term that 'throwing it away'. I don't quite follow that."
West Indies lost their first three wickets for 64 and the last six fell for 48.
On the opening day, Australia also lost wickets through aggressive strokes and with the West Indies following suit, Dyson said it was a reflection of a change in approach to the modern game.
"Both sets of batsmen have found themselves on a wicket that offers a bit more pace, a bit more bounce, more opportunities for scoring and they've gone after them. That is the way cricket is being played these days," he said.
"The Australians started this a number of years ago about getting a total on the board in the first innings as quickly as you can.
"What we would like to do is get more runs on the board. We are not converting our 20s and 30s often enough. So occasionally the shot selection isn't spot-on, the execution isn't spot-on and occasionally you get out to a superb catch."
| But other Windies batsmen disappoint against Aussies |
| CMC Saturday, June 14, 2008 |
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| Australia's bowler Stuart Clark (left), celebrates the wicket of West Indies' batsman Ramnaresh Sarwan (right), who was caught by teammate Micheal Hussey (out of pivture), for 20 runs on the second day of their third and final cricket Test at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, yesterday. (Photo: AP) |
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) - Shivnarine Chanderpaul maintained his rich streak of form with an unbeaten 79, but West Indies batsmen batted disappointingly to hand Australia a 35-run first innings lead on the second day of the third Digicel Test at Kensington Oval yesterday.
While Chanderpaul again played a fine innings, there was little support and West Indies succumbed to the pace of Brett Lee and Mitchell Johnson to be dismissed for 216 in response to Australia's 251.
The tourists closed out the day on 35 for one in their second innings - for an overall lead of 70 entering the third day.
Lee, who started West Indies' problems, finished with three for 64 in 15 overs of genuine pace, while left-armer Johnson overcame an indifferent first spell to end with four for 41 from 11.5 overs.
Chanderpaul, who mixed aggression with defence, occupied the crease for 226 minutes, faced 142 balls and struck 12 fours and a six in a fine half-century that followed hundreds in the first two Tests.
The plucky left-hander added 60 for the fifth wicket with Dwayne Bravo to allow West Indies to put their noses ahead at tea when they were making good progress to reach 167 for four.
On resumption, Bravo provided Johnson with his first wicket from a leg-side catch to wicketkeeper Brad Haddin that started a slide in which the last six wickets fell for 48.
There was little resistance from the tail and Australia were able to gain a handy lead.
After Denesh Ramdin went to a good diving catch by Michael Clarke at gully, Clarke made a contribution with the ball by having Jerome Taylor caught at mid-wicket.
The slide continued with both Sulieman Benn and Daren Powell giving catches to the keeper before the innings ended with the dismissal of Fidel Edwards, erasing the hopes of West Indian fans when Chanderpaul and Bravo were together.
The pair joined forces at 108 for four after Xavier Marshall fell for a polished 39 that included six sweetly stroked fours, most of which were struck through the off-side.
Marshall, who endured a challenging period against Lee, took two blows on the helmet from the fiery fast bowler. He was eventually caught at mid-wicket off medium-pacer Andrew Symonds after adding 44 for the fourth wicket with Chanderpaul.
In the early part of the innings, it was a double-strike by Lee that jolted West Indies who would have been satisfied after quickly polishing off the last three Australia wickets in the morning session.
Lee removed openers Sewnarine Chattergoon and captain Chris Gayle, while Stuart Clarke accounted for Ramnaresh Sarwan to leave the match delicately poised at lunch with West Indies on 89 for three.
Chattergoon fell for six to an edged catch to Haddin after attempting a drive and Gayle was prised out for 14 to a fine diving catch at mid-off by debutant Beau Casson.
Australia sustained the fine display of fielding when Mike Hussey threw himself to his right at gully to haul in a spectacular catch that caused the downfall of Sarwan for 20, which included an upper cut for six off Lee.
Earlier, Australia, resuming on 226 for seven, lost their last three wickets for 25 following a prompt start at 9:30 am that appeared in doubt after heavy overnight and early morning rain.
Pacer Edwards collected two wickets to finish with three for 55 off 17 overs, while fellow fast bowler Taylor grabbed another wicket to end with three for 46 in 12 overs.
Edwards removed Casson lbw as he played across the line and wrapped up the innings with a yorker that bowled Clark.
Taylor's success came with the help of an excellent catch by Benn at gully that accounted for Johnson.
In spite of heavy overnight and early morning rain, giving credit to the improved drainage system that was installed prior to the 2007 World Cup.
AUSTRALIA 1st Innings
(overnight 226-7)
P Jaques c wkp Ramdin b Taylor 31
S Katich c Gayle b Edwards 36
*R Ponting lbw b Taylor 18
M Hussey c Powell b Bravo 12
M Clarke c wkp Ramdin b Bravo 0
A Symonds c Chattergoon b Bravo 52
+B Haddin lbw b Benn 32
B Casson lbw b Edwards 10
B Lee not out 23
M Johnson c Benn b Taylor 0
S Clark b Edwards 1
Extras (lb7, w21, nb8) 36
TOTAL (all out, 68 overs) 251
Fall of wickets: 1-46, 2-75, 3-96, 4-96, 5-111, 6-198, 7-213, 8-244, 9-245, 10-251.
Bowling: Powell 11-5-43-0, Edwards 17-4-55-3 (w3, nb2), Taylor 12-2-46-3 (w2), Gayle 7-2-6-0, Bravo 15-5-61-3 (nb3), Benn 6-0-33-1.
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| West Indies' all-rounder Dwayne Bravo celebrates after taking the wicket of Australia's Michael Clarke (out of picture), who was caught behind for a duck, on the opening day of their third and final cricket Test match in Bridgetown, Barbados, Thursday. (Photo: AP) |
WEST INDIES 1st Innings
*C Gayle c Casson b Lee 14
S Chattergoon c wkp Haddin b Lee 6
R Sarwan c Hussey b Clark 20
X Marshall c Casson b Symonds 39
S Chanderpaul not out 79
D Bravo c wkp Haddin b Johnson 29
+D Ramdin c Clarke b Johnson 1
J Taylor c Katich b Clarke 0
S Benn c wkp Haddin b Johnson 3
D Powell c wkp Haddin b Lee 9
F Edwards c Ponting b Johnson 1
Extras (lb7, nb8) 15
TOTAL (all out, 58.5 overs) 216
Fall of wickets: 1-11, 2-26, 3-64, 4-108, 5-168, 6-188, 7-189, 8-204, 9-204, 10-216.
Bowling: Lee 15-2-64-3 (nb5), Clark 15-4-41-1 (nb1), Johnson 11.5-3-41-4 (nb2), Symonds 8-4-17-1, Casson 7-1-43-0, Clarke 2-0-3-1.
AUSTRALIA 2nd Innings
P Jaques not out 13
S Katich not out 17
Extras (b2, lb1, nb2) 5
TOTAL (no wkt, 14 overs) 35
Bowling: Powell 4-3-6-0, Edwards 4-1-13-0, Taylor 3-2-7-0, Gayle 2-1-1-0, Benn 1-0-5-0.
Umpires: Mark Benson, Aleem Dar
TV Replays: Goaland Greaves
Match Referee: Roshan Mahanama
The Portugal coach starts work at Stamford Bridge on July 1 and he insists he will have no problem motivating his Blues stars.
He said: I am what you see. I like to play, I like jokes, I like a good atmosphere, I feel comfortable anywhere in the world because I establish good relationships with the people who surround me.
I dont like high society. I dont like to go to parties. Im shy!
"But I have a good relationship with my players and thats the most important thing.
I speak English with my players, I speak German, I speak Italian - dont worry, the language of football is only one.
Scolari revealed he tried to negotiate a new contract with the Portuguese football federation but terms could not be agreed.
He said: Every decision was taken with the parties involved knowing what happened, namely the president of the Portuguese football federation, who looked for assistance with some sponsors.
"He tried to get their help but they didnt give their assistance.
We wanted to get a similar proposal but after having done that they told me I was free to negotiate with whomever I wished to negotiate. I negotiated.
We tried, we did our utmost on each side. But there are numbers and based on these numbers we decided the best thing for me was what was decided a few days ago.
MICHAEL ESSIEN backs Luiz Felipe Scolari to deliver the Quadruple to Chelsea
The Chelsea midfielder roared: I can state straight away that we will contend for all titles next season.
The new manager will push us to compete for everything. I know we will come back for the new campaign refreshed with a hunger for revenge.
Brazilian legend PELE insisted: Luiz is a great coach and can lead any team in the world. Im sure the job will go well as he gets good results wherever he goes. Any side would want him.
Brazil World-Cup winner RIVALDO said: Scolari demands total discipline and he likes to have direct contact with the players.
I dont think he will change when he is in England he will be a success.
This is very good news for Chelsea and for the English game.
Blues players are excited about the Brazilians arrival.
Keeper PETR CECH said: Scolari has great charisma, great experience and great results. I am looking forward to working with him.
Portugal defender PAULO FERREIRA added: He is a good boss and he can do a job. It will be good for the club as a whole.
And Brazilian ace JULIANO BELLETTI revealed: He is very intelligent. He will know how to deal with everything.
He was responsible for putting me in the national team in the 2002 World Cup.
It will be great for Chelsea to have a Brazilian boss.
MANCHESTER CITY will battle Chelsea all the way to land Ronaldinho
Manchester City were close to sealing a deal for the Barcelona playmaker but Luiz Felipe Scolari has thrown a spanner in the works by becoming the new Chelsea manager.
The former Brazil coach wants countryman Ronaldinho to be his first signing and the pair are close after winning the World Cup together in 2002.
But City will not go down without a fight as owner Thaksin Shinawatra reckons big-name signings are vital to his bid to break the top four.
Shinawatras men have already held talks with Ronaldinhos people.
They can offer him a huge £120,000-a-week deal to play for new manager Mark Hughes.
The Eastlands club insist much of the outlay can be recouped in commercial ventures on the back of Rons name and in advanced season-ticket sales.
Ronaldinho, 28, has already told Barcelona he wants to leave and is said to be keen on coming to the Premier League.
The Netherlands piled on the goals for the second straight match yesterday, routing World Cup runner-up France 4-1 only four days after embarra**ing Italy at the European Championship.
The 1988 champions were supposed to struggle to earn a spot in the quarter-finals at this year's tournament, but, instead, the team has clinched first place in Group C after only two matches. Dirk Kuyt, Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder scored a goal each for the Dutch in Bern. The only goal the Dutch have conceded came from Thierry Henry, who scored his record 45th for France in the 71st minute.
Italy struggled
Italy, which beat France on penalties in the 2006 World Cup final, again struggled yesterday, but stayed alive at Euro 2008 when goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon preserved a 1-1 draw with Romania in Zurich by saving an 81st-minute penalty from Adrian Mutu.
"A save is a save - I was lucky," said Buffon, whose team needs to beat France on Tuesday to have any chance of advancing from the tournament's toughest group. "The draw doesn't make things easy for us, but thinking about the fact that we could have been eliminated, we've got to be pleased for this point."
The Netherlands became the third team to reach the quarter-finals, following the progression of Portugal and Croatia on the previous two days.
Today, the four teams in Group D play their second match of the tournament, with Spain facing Sweden in Innsbruck and defending champion Greece playing Russia in Salzburg.
| Aussies choke under Windies pressure |
| CMC Friday, June 13, 2008 |
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) - Given the most bowler-friendly pitch of the season, West Indies, riding on the back of five wickets between Dwayne Bravo and Jerome Taylor, gained the upper hand over Australia on a rain-curtailed opening day of the third Digicel Test at Kensington Oval yesterday.
Backed up by splendid catching that accounted for three wickets, West Indies had restricted the world-ranked No one team to 226-7 when rain sent the players off the field at 3:39 pm to force an early finish with only 56.4 overs completed.
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| BRIDGETOWN, Barbados - West Indies' fastbowler Fidel Edwards (left) watches an attempted run-out of Australian batsman Brett Lee on the opening day of the third Test yesterday. (Photo: AP) |
Australia, sent in on a pitch that offered more pace and bounce after the first hour, were struggling on 111-5, but were pulled around by a sixth-wicket partnership of 87 between Andrew Symonds and Brad Haddin after Bravo and Taylor started to make inroads.
Taylor, brought on as the first-change bowler, took the first two wickets after Australia were given an opening stand of 46 at a run-a-minute pace, while Bravo claimed a double-strike just short of lunch.
Symonds hit the topscore of 52 off 84 balls with five fours and a six, but appeared to benefit from an umpiring error when he was on 14.
Television replays suggested that Symonds had gloved a leg-side catch off Bravo, but umpire Mark Benson ruled in favour of the batsman.
It was a big setback for West Indies and they had to wait until 15 minutes after tea to remove Symonds from a catch to cover that gave Bravo his third wicket.
In the first session, Australia scored freely before losing three wickets in a 35-minute period and went to the lunch break at 98-4.
Taylor removed opener Phil Jaques for 31 and captain Ricky Ponting for 18, while Bravo dismissed Mike Hussey for 12 and Michael Clarke without scoring to leave Australia under pressure in spite of scoring at four runs an over for most of the session.
After the start was delayed by 10 minutes because of problems in adjusting the sightscreen at the southern end, Jaques and Simon Katich batted without much bother.
The partnership was broken when Taylor struck in the second over by having Jaques well caught by wicketkeeper Denesh Ramdin, who ran back several yards to settle under the ball at short fine-leg.
Ponting was into stride, hooking Daren Powell for successive sixes before he was lbw to a ball of fullish length by Taylor.
Bravo gave West Indies the upper hand just before lunch by having Hussey and Clarke dismissed in the same over.
The left-handed Hussey fell to an outstanding catch by Daren Powell on the long-leg boundary after top-edging a hook, while Clarke edged a defensive prod to the keeper.
West Indies started the second session on a positive note when left-hander Simon Katich fell for 36 to another excellent catch that was taken by captain Chris Gayle running back from first slip after the batsman attempted to hook fast bowler Fidel Edwards.
Gayle fell to the ground immediately after taking the catch and appeared to have some discomfort in his back. He received onfield treatment from physiotherapist C J Clark, but after returning to his position, he left the field for a brief period.
After Katich was dismissed, wicketkeeper Haddin joined Symonds to lead a fightback before the partnership was broken just before tea.
Haddin, in his best effort of the series, made 32 before he was lbw to left-arm spinner Sulieman Benn.
Benn was one of three changes to the team that played in the second Test. Skipper Gayle and fellow opener Sewnarine Chattergoon also returned and the three to make way were Devon Smith, Runako Morton and Darren Sammy.
In spite of the good catching by West Indies, they would have been disappointed that they missed three chances.
Powell could not hold onto a return offering from Ponting and Xavier Marshall also put down two sharp chances at second slip. The first went to Symonds at seven off Bravo and the other let off Brett Lee from the bowling of Fidel Edwards.
With the loss of 33.2 overs on the day, there will be a 9:30 am start today.
Powell, F Edwards.
Toss: West Indies.
Umpires: A Dar, M Benson, TV Replays: G Greaves, Reserve: V Bullen.
Match Referee: R Mahanama.
Scoreboard
Australia 1st Innings
P Jaques c wkpr Ramdin b Taylor 31
S Katich c Gayle b Edwards 36
R Ponting lbw b Taylor 18
M Hussey c Powell b Bravo 12
M Clarke c wkpr Ramdin b Bravo 0
A Symonds c Chattergoon b Bravo 52
B Haddin lbw b Benn 32
B Casson not out 6
B Lee not out 7
Extras (lb5, w20, nb7) 32
Total (7 wkts) 226
To bat: M Johnson, S Clark
Fall of wickets: 1-46 (Jaques), 2-75 (Ponting), 3-96 (Hussey), 4-96 (Clarke), 5-111 (Katich), 6-198 (Haddin), 7-213 (Symonds)
Bowling: Powell 11-5-43-0; Edwards 11-1-47-1 (nb2, w10); Taylor 9-1-44-2 (w10); Gayle 7-2-6-0; Bravo 12.4-4-48-3 (nb5); Benn 6-0-33-1
Overs: 56.4
West Indies: C Gayle, S Chattergoon, R Sarwan, X Marshall, S Chanderpaul, D Bravo, D Ramdin, S Benn, J Taylor, D
| 'I'M ASHAMED' Simoes mourns Ja's loss to lowly Grenada |
| KAYON RAYNOR Senior staff reporter raynork@jamaicaobserver.com Thursday, June 12, 2008 |
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| Technical director Rene Simoes speaks with journalists on arrival at the Norman Manley International Airport from Grenada yesterday. The Reggae Boyz lost 1-2 against the hosts in a friendly international on Tuesday. (Photo: Lionel Rookwood) |
DESCRIBING Tuesday's 1-2 defeat by lowly ranked Grenada as a "shame" and "unacceptable", national technical director Rene Simoes says the Reggae Boyz will rebound in Sunday's CONCACAF World Cup qualifier against the Bahamas at 'The Office'.
The second leg will be played at the Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium on June 18.
"Nobody can be pleased to lose to Grenada; it's a shame, it's unacceptable, we are very upset," Simoes told journalists after arriving at the Norman Manley International Airport from the eastern Caribbean yesterday.
"I think maybe it will be a good wake-up call for the entire squad, that (we) don't look (at) Bahamas as we looked at Grenada, and football is not basketball, it's a different sport that anyone can beat anyone, so I think it's a good wake-up call," added the philosophical Brazilian.
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| A contemplative Reggae Boyz captain Ricardo Gardner on arrival at the Norman Manley International Airport yesterday from Grenada where the team lost 1-2 against the host nation. In the background are Luton Shelton (right) and Adrian Rei. (Photo: Lionel Rookwood) |
Second-half goals by Sharlie Joseph (68th) and Blackburn Rovers' Jason Roberts (76th) lifted the 143 FIFA-ranked Grenadians to a stunning 2-1 come-from-behind win over Jamaica - ranked 45 places higher at 98. Ricardo Fuller scored first for the Reggae Boyz in the 20th minute.
"We started the game very well. The game looked like we would beat them easily, but we made so many mistakes, losing focus and concentration, so all of us, we have to settle down, think (and) learn lessons and know how to take the games against teams like that another way," Simoes stated.
"We have to make analysis and see what is supposed to be done... the next game will not be the same, I guarantee you it will not be the same," he emphasised.
Simoes, who is serving his second stint as technical director, having guided the country to the 1998 World Cup Finals in France, has already decided on his starting XI for Sunday's opening qualifying match.
"I can tell you the team (that) will start the game will be (Donovan) Ricketts, Tyrone (Marshall), (Jermaine) Taylor, (Ian) Goodison, Ricardo Gardner, (Rudolph) Austin, Evon Taylor, Andy Williams, (Demar) Phillips if he be OK, Ricardo Fuller if he be OK and Marlon King that's the team.
I have not doubt I think this team can perform well," Simoes disclosed.
Phillips and Fuller sustained respective ankle and knee injuries in Tuesday's match in St George's.
But Simoes seems confident both players, who will ply their trade in the English Premiership with Stoke City next season, will recover in time for Sunday's clash.
"I think Phillips looks much better... and Ricardo Fuller, I don't know, let's talk to doctors and see how he will recover for this game... We are pretty confident that both of them will play," he insisted.
The CONCACAF World Cup qualification stage for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa which started with 35 national teams competing for the three automatic berths is now down to 24 teams.
The fourth-placed finisher will play a two game play-off series against the fifth-placed finisher from CONMEBOL for a possible fourth berth.
That fee may rise to £8.6million depending on both Dos Santos and Tottenham meeting specified targets during his four-year stay at White Hart Lane.
Dos Santos's father, Zizinho, admitted that his son is proud and excited by the thought of moving to such a prestigious club as he told Mexican daily paper, Record, that a deal was in the offing.
"Nothing has been finalised," he said. "But it is an honour that a club as important as Tottenham want to sign Giovani, but nothing can be said officially yet.
"The ambitious project that Tottenham have has excited Giovani and he just wants to go there and help the team in any way he can.
"It is obvious that leaving Barcelona is a risky decision, but with his qualities it appears that it could be the best option for him."
Spurs boss Juande Ramos was keen to land the starlet because he strongly believes that his pace, ability to break into the area and shooting ability make him perfect for the English game.
Although a deal has not been finalised, Dos Santos' agent, Pini Zahavi, and Barca's sporting vice-president, Marc Ingla, believe that there will be few problems in reaching an agreement.
Throughout the negotiations, Dos Santos has been undergoing treatment to recover from an operation that he had on his ankle in the middle of May and is set to keep him out of action for another four weeks.
Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon superbly saved Adrian Mutu's penalty with nine minutes remaining to keep the world champions' UEFA EURO 2008 hopes alive as the Azzurri and Romania battled out a breathless draw in Zurich.
Penalty drama
Buffon dived to his left to block the ACF Fiorentina striker's stinging drive with his arm and foot after Christian Panucci had held back Daniel Niculae in the area. Defeat would have left Italian ambitions on a knife-edge but in a free-flowing match they delivered a perfect response to Mutu's 55th-minute opener as Panucci levelled a minute later. It salvaged a crucial point, which kept Italy in Group C contention before their reprise of the FIFA World Cup final against France on Thursday when Romania play the Netherlands.
Widespread changes
Italy coach Roberto Donadoni made five changes to the side that lost to the Netherlands as he looked to rescue their campaign. Victor Piurc had more reason to be satisfied after a goalless draw with France, but still freshened up his midfield, with Florentin Petre and Paul Codrea coming in the latter bringing experience of Italian football with AC Siena. Italy's reshuffled back line was tested in the first minute when Mutu nodded over and in an open game it was immediately clear that Romania were willing to commit more men forward than they had against France. Alessandro Del Piero made his first start since September and Italy's captain almost had an early impact when his header was deflected wide.
Ebb and flow
Romania then created three excellent chances in the space of four minutes. Buffon saved brilliantly from Mutu, who had broken free down the left, then stretched to keep out a Gabriel Tama free-kick. The goalkeeper was beaten, however, when Cristian Chivu's long-range free-kick deflected off Panucci, but the ball bounced back off the post. Piurc's team were showing all the invention they had concealed against France and their coach, sensing the momentum was going their way, chose to withdraw the injured Mirel Rdoi for the forward-thinking Nicolae Dic on 25 minutes. Attack was dominating defence, with Romania's slick passing inviting fear in the Italy rearguard while Luca Toni was winning everything in the air at the other end, Bogdan Lobon tipping one header over.
Short-lived lead
AC Milan pair Massimo Ambrosini and Gennaro Gattuso had made way for Daniele De Rossi and Simone Perrotta in Italy's midfield, yet their replacements were finding little joy against Chivu, who cut off the supply line down the centre. Mutu also continued to catch the eye, drawing a smart stop from Buffon before pouncing on Gianluca Zambrotta's weak back-header to fire his side in front ten minutes into the second period. The Romania fans were still celebrating when Italy hit back, Giorgio Chiellini heading a corner back across goal for Panucci to knock in.
Buffon brilliance
Lobon had to touch away De Rossi's diving header as Italy pushed for a second goal, although it was Romania who had the best opportunity to win a breathtaking contest. Panucci was adjudged to have restricted Niculae with his arms in the area, allowing Mutu the chance to snatch what would have been a memorable victory. The Azzurri were staring defeat and possible elimination in the face but Buffon produced a dramatic diving save to his left to keep his team in the competition.
Papers: First summer signing
Petrucci signing angers Roma
Manchester United last night came under fire after signing one of Italy's most promising young strikers. Just days after they were pipped by Arsenal to the signature of 17-year-old Cardiff midfielder Aaron Ramsey, United snapped up Davide Petrucci, 16, who scored 14 goals in 19 matches last season and was the top scorer in Roma's youth team. He has also starred for Italy's under-17 team. United will pay Petrucci £95,000 a year and will cover the cost of regular flights home to Italy. The deal is the maximum permissible offer for a youth-team player. Roma will receive around £200,000 in compensation but the move has caused fury. Petrucci, who comes from the San Basilio suburb of Rome, has been compared to a young Francesco Totti and could have made the first-team squad next year.
Malcolm Moore, Daily Telegraph
All the daily newspapers run with the story ManUtd.com announced on Thursday that Patrice Evra has signed a new four-year contract.
The Daily Mirror believes Sir Alex Ferguson and Luiz Felipe Scolari to be "at war". Sir Alex, the paper claims, thinks there was a conflict of interests when the newly-announced Chelsea boss reportedly advised Cristiano Ronaldo to swap Manchester for Madrid.
The Sun says Portugal are after Carlos Queiroz as the next national team manager when Luiz Felipe Scolari leaves his post for Chelsea after the Euro 2008 championships.
And finally... Wayne Rooney and childhood sweetheart Coleen McLoughlin tied the knot on Thursday. Unfortunately for the Rooneys, the heavens opened on the big day on the Italian Riviera - a wedding which cost a reported £5million. Childish giggle of the day: the Daily Mail's headline "Bride spells with outbreaks of Wayne".
FC Barcelona and AC Milan have reached an official agreement so the transfer of Gianluca Zambrotta to the Italian club can be completed.
The 31-year-old defender will put pen-to-paper on a four-year contract with the Serie A outfit that will see him play at the San Siro until 2012. The transfer fee is 9m plus 2m more depending upon Milans performance in the Champions League over the next four seasons.
Zambrotta has played for Barcelona for the past two seasons after joining the club from Juventus in 2006 and helped the Blaugrana to win the Spanish Super Cup in his first season.
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With a second classic performance in as many games, the Dutch again produced the sparkle any championship craves, compiling a total of seven goals against World Cup finalists Italy and France. The Netherlands beat Italy 3-0 Monday.
The only goal the 1988 champions have conceded came from Thierry Henry, who scored his record 45th goal for France in the 71st minute. Robin van Persie, Dirk Kuyt and Wesley Sneijder also scored for the Dutch on Friday.
"Italy was already so beautiful and this is exactly the same," said Sneijder, who was picked man of the match for the second time in a row. "Super, Italy and France are nothing to laugh at."
The second Dutch goal will be cherished by the Netherlands for years and will haunt the aging French defense. After Kuyt gave the Netherlands the lead in the ninth minute with a header from a corner kick, Van Persie finished off an attack in the 59th.
Ruud van Nistelrooy spun some magic with close footwork to send Robben down the left and the counter was on. The winger outran opposition, bided his time and saw Van Persie make a run on the right. The Arsenal winger pushed it past Gregory Coupet for the second goal.
After Henry had put the game within French reach with a subtle deflection from a cross from the right by Willy Sagnol, the tension in the 30,000-capcity stadium suddenly was electric.
One minute later, Robben was loose on the left, with France's once-great defender Lilian Thuram ahead of him. Working at twice the pace, he created space and rifled the ball past Coupet high in the net. At 36, Thuram didn't know what happened to him.
In injury time, another great goal to rub it in. Van Nistelrooy served Van Persie, who served Sneijder in the center. The Real Madrid midfielder turned his defender and with a curling shot from 20 meters (yards) capped another perfect evening.
"Lets build a party now. Not too much because we still need to play the quarterfinals," Sneijder said.
For some spells France at least proved it could still play great football. The French didn't want to be lulled into another bad result like the scoreless draw against Romania, but France coach Raymond Domenech failed to come up with the magic formula for goals.
And when the Dutch started to look brittle for the first time in the championships, up stepped standout goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar. Ever since making the vital penalty stop to give Manchester United the Champions League title, it seems he can do no wrong. In a five-minute spell late in the half, the 37-year-old Van der Sar saved the team three times.
In the second half, the French immediately piled on pressure and appealed for a penalty in the 49th when a shot from close range from Henry appeared to hit Andre Ooijer's arm as he was falling down to block the shot.
Lineups:
Netherlands: Edwin van der Sar, Khalid Boulahrouz, Andre Ooijer, Joris Mathijsen, Giovanni van Bronckhorst, Orlando Engelaar (Arjen Robben, 46), Nigel de Jong, Dirk Kuyt (Robin Van Persie, 55), Wesley Sneijder, Rafael van der Vaart (Wilfred Bouma, 78), Ruud van Nistelrooy.
France: Gregory Coupet, Willy Sagnol, Lilian Thuram, William Gallas, Patrice Evra, Franck Ribery, Claude Makelele, Jeremy Toulalan, Florent Malouda (Bafetimbi Gomis, 60), Sidney Govou (Nicolas Anelka, 75), Thierry Henry.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is ready to hand Luiz Felipe Scolari unlimited access to the club coffers when the Brazilian takes charge of the team next month, reports said Friday.
Scolari is set to take up his post with the English Premier League high-flyers after leading Portugal through the Euro 2008.
According to reports, the 59-year-old who led his native Brazil to World Cup glory in 2002 can look forward to having some of the world's biggest players at his disposal as Abramovich strives for his team to play a more attractive style of attacking football.
The Times newspaper speculated that Scolari, announced as Chelsea's new boss on Wednesday, has been handed a player wish-list that includes Liverpool's Fernando Torres, Bayern Munich's Frank Ribery and AC Milan forward Kaka.
Reports from Madrid meanwhile said Chelsea are also hoping to lure Brazil-born Portuguese midfielder Deco and Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o to Stamford Bridge from Barcelona.
Marca sports daily, without naming any sources, claimed: 'Barcelona is currently tying up a deal that will see Deco and Eto'o being sold to Chelsea for 55 million euros.'
Chelsea may have to offer up some of their own talent, especially if they are determined to lure Torres from Anfield and prise Kaka away from the San Siro.
According to some reports, Chelsea would be ready to use Ivory Coast forward Didier Drogba and Ukrainian marksman Andriy Shevchenko as powerful bargaining chips in their bid for Kaka, who is said to be worth upwards of 60 million pounds (76 million euros).
Nevertheless AC Milan reacted quickly on Friday to the news that Chelsea may be targeting their top striker.
A report on the BBC quoted the club's technical director Leonardo as saying Kaka was simply not for sale: 'It's normal for a Brazilian coach to try to bring in Brazilian players.
'But signing Kaka is impossible, because he is here at AC Milan and will be here until the end of his career.'
Torres, meanwhile, said recently he was happy at Liverpool, where he has just capped his first season by scoring 33 goals.
However The Times reported that one of the club's American owners would allow Torres to be sold if the price was right.
In the absence of official statements from both Chelsea and Scolari on which players are being targeted, some reports suggest the players currently lighting up the Euro 2008 are being watched closely.
The Daily Telegraph suggested that Torres' international teammate David Villa - who scored a hat-trick in Spain's 4-1 win over Russia - would be a realistic alternative to the expenside Kaka.
And at reportedly half the price, his club, Valencia, may be more willing to sell.
Scolari's first competitive game as Chelsea manager will be the first Premier League match of the 2008-09 season on the weekend of 16-17 August.
| Gayle back as West Indies seek series leveller |
| CMC Thursday, June 12, 2008 |
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) - Bolstered by the return of captain Chris Gayle, West Indies are hunting a series-levelling victory against Australia in the third and final Test, starting today at Kensington Oval.
After almost two months out of the game because of a groin injury, Gayle is set to make a comeback despite not being fully fit.
"I'm not 100 per cent fit, but 90 cent. I can cope," he told reporters following a practice session yesterday.
"I wasn't 90 per cent fit in Antigua. The physio said I was about 70 per cent. I didn't want to risk it in the second Test. I wanted to give it more time in between Test matches."
Gayle sustained the injury in the third One-Day International against Sri Lanka at the Beausejour Stadium in St Lucia on April 15 and it kept him out of the Indian Premier League and the first two Tests of the current series.
In the build-up to this Test, he has been batting in the nets without much discomfort and going through physical drills.
"The most difficult thing is running between the wickets. Running between the wickets is a bit difficult, but I am comfortable batting," Gayle said.
"There is no problem while batting. I just have to monitor it properly."
After losing the opening Test by 95 runs at Sabina Park, West Indies showed fighting qualities to earn a draw in the second match at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground.
They now fancy their chances of a positive result on a pitch that it is expected to be faster than the previous Test.
"It is going to be a good wicket. It is very hard. The net facilities also are very good," Gayle said.
"The Antigua wicket is very different. It is harder to score. Here in Barbados, the wicket is coming on more. You can play more shots."
With uncapped fast bowler Kemar Roach added to the 14-man squad, there are a host of options available to the selectors.
While West Indies are waiting until this morning to finalise their team, Australia have announced their starting eleven which will include debutant left-arm wrist spinner Beau Casson.
The 25-year-old Casson replaces experienced leg-spinner Stuart MacGill - who announced his retirement in the middle of the second Test - and captain Ricky Ponting expects him to be ready for the big day.
"He has come on leaps and bounds as person. He has been a little bit more outspoken than at the start of the tour," Ponting said.
"It has helped his bowling a lot, and if you talk to him, he feels he has become a more consistent bowler now than when we arrived and this is a good sign for him."
With many observers predicting West Indies will relish the conditions at Kensington, Ponting played down the issue, saying the ground could benefit his team as well.
"Some of their bowlers have been talking to some of their batsmen, and telling them that they can't wait to get us down to Barbados where there is more pace and bounce," he said.
"We are brought up on those kinds of pitches, so I do not think there will be too many sleepless nights. But it's also the style of cricket that West Indies have grown up playing.
"Their bowlers are going to enjoy it, our bowlers are going to enjoy it, but our batsmen may enjoy it a little more than theirs."
The weather yesterday was mostly hot and sunny, but blue skies in the early part of the day gave way to heavy evening showers.
Squads:WEST INDIES (from) - Chris Gayle (captain), Xavier Marshall, Sewnarine Chattergoon, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Runako Morton, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Denesh Ramdin, Darren Sammy, Jerome Taylor, Daren Powell, Fidel Edwards, Kemar Roach, Sulieman Benn
AUSTRALIA - Ricky Ponting (captain), Phil Jaques, Simon Katich, Mike Hussey, Michael Clarke, Andrew Symonds, Brad Haddin, Brett Lee, Mitchell Johnson, Beau Casson, Stuart Clark. Reserves: Brad Hodge, Ashley Noffke, Doug Bollinger, Luke Ronchi.
Umpires: Mark Benson, Aleem Dar, TV Replays: Goaland Greaves, Reserve: Vincent Bullen.
Match referee: Roshan Mahanama.
| Sports channel, TVJ settle out of court |
| Kayon Raynor Thursday, June 12, 2008 |
Sportsmax has finally confirmed that the intellectual property rights case filed against the RJR Communication Group last September was settled out of court.
"We have resolved that issue and yes, we agreed to something out of court," said Oliver McIntosh, president and CEO of Sportsmax in response to queries by the Observer yesterday.
"Obviously, as you can imagine, I'm confined by that agreement to not divulge the details, but let's just say that we have always had a good relationship with TVJ and we will continue to have a good relationship with TVJ," he added, noting that the settlement was reached shortly after Sportmax's attorney, Kwame Gordon of Frater, Ennis and Gordon, filed documents with the Supreme Court in Kingston on September 19, 2007.
Highly placed Observer sources indicated the settlement was valued at just under two million dollars. Asked to confirm that figure, McIntosh was cautious in his response.
"Again, the confidentiallity within that agreement does not allow me to talk about the details of it, so the settlement was a settlement that not everybody wins, but not everybody loses and what we agreed to was to better monitor content on each others' channels to make sure that there is no infringement of intellectual property and I think that value was received," he explained.
"These matters come up sometimes and unfortunately, you have to take a step to protect your intellectual property, and in this case, Sportsmax and IMC did that.
"... At the end of the day, Sportsmax and TVJ were able to come to a resolution, that we hope this would not happen again," McIntosh stated.
The above-mentioned breaches relate to the alleged unauthorised broadcast of an international friendly match between England and Brazil in June (2007), and the COPA America (South American Football Championships) in June and July on TVJ-SN.
Who u think is better stricker Wanye Rooney or Didier Drogba
vs 
WATCH FRANCE VS HOLLAND LIVE - CLASS A FOOTBALL MATCH [KRAZILY INSANE]
SOME RHATID GOAL A SCORE....
HOW CHELSEA FI SELL ROBBEN...*shakes head in disgust*
Terra claim to have carried out an exclusive interview with the Portugal international in which he said: "I would like to play for Real Madrid but only if it is true they are ready to pay what Manchester United ask of them.
"However, it does not depend on me."
The interview continued with Ronaldo stating his hope that the announcement would bring closure to the speculation linking him with a possible move to the Bernabeu.
He added to Terra: "From today I'm not going to talk about this topic with anyone at all.
"I'll only talk about this again after the European Championship. Don't ask me any questions because I won't answer."
Italian fullback Gianluca Zambrotta, who played at Barcelona for two seasons, has joined AC Milan, the Italian first division club said on Saturday, without giving further contract details.
The 31-year-old Zambrotta therefore returns to the Serie A where he excelled at Bari (1997-1999) and then particularly at Juventus (1999-2006).
He left the Turin club in the summer of 2006 for Barcelona following the match-fixing scandal which had rocked Italian football.
Zambrotta was also crowned a World Cup winner with Italy in 2006 and has played 71 times for his country, scoring two goals. On Monday he will fly with the Italian team to Austria for the June 7 to 29 Euro 2008 finals.
Zambrotta's arrival at AC Milan will compensate for the departure of two fullbacks, Brazilians Cafu and Serginho.
FC Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur FC have come to an agreement for the transfer of Giovani Dos Santos to the English club.
The Mexican will sign for the club managed by Juande Ramos until June 30, 2013 for a fee 6 million euros plus another 5 million depending on the players appearances for the London club during his five years of contract.
FC Barcelona also maintain 20% of the financial rights to any possible transfer of the player during his first two years of contract and 10% on any transfer from his new club, Tottenham Hotspur FC.
Giovani dos Santos, aged 19, joined Barça in 2002/03 and joined the Infantil A (Under 15) squad, eventually making his first team debut in 2007/08, in which he has played an intermittent part in Frank Rijkaards first team.
Barcelona has been the busiest Spanish club since the start of the offseason transfer market.
The Catalans signed defender Gerard Pique from Manchester United to a four-year deal on Tuesday, a day after buying Seydou Keita out of his contract with Sevilla. The Mali midfielder, who also agreed to a four-year contract, cost Barcelona 14 million (US$22.1 million).
Barcelona finished 18 points behind champion Real Madrid for third place - its worst finish in five seasons.
The 27-year-old Hleb could invoke Article 17 of FIFA's transfer rules, which allows a player under 28 to end his contract after three years.
Daniel Alves is no closer to leaving Sevilla even with the club receiving numerous offers for the Brazil right back.
Sevilla president Jose Maria del Nido said Wednesday that he has received three offers for the 24-year-old Alves.
"But not one offer is close and for that I haven't even entered negotiations," Del Nido said. "To say that I won't drop his price is a lie because all prices are negotiable, but with this player the room for movement is little.
"Until a deal is reached, the player will see out his contract."
Alves has four years left on his deal and has been linked with FC Barcelona a year after Del Nido turned down a reported 33 million (then-US$44.3 million) offer from English club Chelsea.
Alves has been at Sevilla since 2003 and won back-to-back UEFA Cups and a Copa del Rey trophy with the Andalucian club.
JOSE Mourinho now INTER MILAN's boss - wants his players from Chelsea
The axed Stamford Bridge chief has been given a whopping £100million transfer kitty.
Blues £24million midfielder Essien tops Mourinhos hitlist before he turns his attention to two more Chelsea stars Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard.
Inter are bankrolled by billionaire oil magnate Massimo Moratti and are prepared to match the huge fee Chelsea splashed to land Essien from Lyon three years ago.
The Premier League runners-up are expected to put up a fierce fight to keep their big names.
But Mourinho wants Essien to be his midfield enforcer at the San Siro while the Ghana star would love to be reunited with his old boss.
Inters Portugal international Luis Figo revealed: Already everyone knows of Mourinhos arrival to Inter, and even the club have informed me of the news.
The Italian giants are ready to make an official announcement today before presenting Mourinho as their new boss tomorrow.
Mourinho and Moratti met at the world-famous La Tour dArgent restaurant in Paris on Friday to thrash out their plans for next season.
We all knew that back on September 22 that Moratti had offered Mourinho the Inter job just days after the Portuguese boss was axed by Chelsea.
Moratti kept pressing Mourinho and finally got his man to say yes a few weeks ago.
MEN'S 100M GRAND PRIX RESULTS......BOLT 9.72 RECORD RUN***DK xclusiv**
=====================================================================
Name Year Team Finals Wind
=====================================================================
Finals
1 Usain Bolt JAM 9.72 1.7
2 Tyson Gay USA 9.85 1.7
3 Darvis Patton USA 10.07 1.7
4 Mike Rodgers USA 10.11 1.7
5 Daniel Bailey ANT 10.12 1.7
6 Shawn Crawford USA 10.13 1.7
7 Leroy Dixon USA 10.24 1.7
8 Rae Edwards USA 10.33 1.7
MENS 200M RESULTS
1 Wallace Spearmon USA 20.07 0.6
2 Rodney Martin USA 20.30 0.6
3 Brendan Christian ANT 20.39 0.6
4 Christopher Williams JAM 20.75 0.6
5 Chris Hargrett USA 20.78 0.6
6 O.J. Hogans USA 21.28 0.6
7 Junior Burnett JAM 22.33 0.6
-- Edited by ***DK*** at 23:34, 2008-05-31
-- Edited by ***DK*** at 23:56, 2008-05-31
Franz Beckenbaeur was passionate about it and Michel Platini toed the party line.
Soccer's world governing body voted overwhelmingly Friday to pursue a "6+5" rule that restricts the number of foreign players to five in a club's starting lineup in domestic leagues, despite it contravening European law on freedom of movement for workers.
FIFA president Sepp Blatter was bullish about the rule being implemented, and enlisted the help of two of the game's greats before his '6+5' resolution was put to the ballot here at the 58th congress.
German legend Beckenbauer, chairman of FIFA's football committee, talked about the need to restore the national identity in European leagues where some teams were devoid of native players.
Platini, the former France great, was between a rock and hard place as head of the European confederation, but supportive of the thrust of the rule change.
Blatter's proposal was supported by 155 delegates, with five against and 40 abstaining. Despite the overwhelming support for the objectives of the rule, few of FIFA's European delegates expect it to be implemented without a fight.
In other decisions, the Congress formally accepted the revised World Anti-Doping Agency drug code and changes to the qualifying criteria for players switching nationalities, defined its principles of promotion and relegation in national leagues to ensure it is based on sporting and not financial merits, approved a revised budget for 2007-2010 period, and agreed to hold next year's Congress in the Bahamas from May 30-June 2.
Blatter also outlined his proposal to hold the votes for both the 2018 and 2022 World Cups at the same time - most likely in 2011. He will propose that at the next FIFA executive committee meeting.
But most debate centered on the "6+5" rule, which Blatter said is designed to protect the national identity of clubs, stop the player drain from Africa and South America, ensure more development of home-grown talent, and slow the growing imbalance between national leagues.
He highlighted the English Premier League, where of 471 first-team players, 280 - or almost 60 percent - were not eligible to play for England.
Blatter proposed a stepped introduction, with a 4+7 rule in place by 2010, 5+6 in 2011 and the 6+5 in 2012.
Since the Bosman ruling in 1995 defined professional players as workers, the European Union has prohibited restrictions on the free movement of players within the EU.
"If you look at the workers in general, you have 2 percent (of workers from other EU countries) for the general population in the 27 EU nations, but 43 percent for the footballers," Blatter said. "Footballers should be known by some other identity, not simply as workers.
"When trying to introduce such a solution, naturally we shall not forget we're living in a world where we have to face national and international law. It's not our intention, and has never been, just to go into confrontation with our governmental authorities."
He said FIFA's statutes meant it had to intervene to prevent political interference in the running of national associations.
"The European Union is an economic and political power with 27 members and 30 (soccer) associations - 15 percent of the total of the FIFA family. Shall they make the rules for all the others? This is political interference. We should not be afraid to intervene."
Blatter took confidence from the so-called "Lisbon Treaty" devised by the EU last October which he said gave "specificity" in structure and organization to sport as opposed to other employment.
England's Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick was not as convinced.
"It's an exploration rather than a definitive position," Barwick said. "Certainly we can understand the general principle of further exploration, but we're keen exponents of things staying within domestic and international law. Any initiative of its type would have to fit that criteria for us."
Barwick said he still advocated selection based on merit.
"We're still great believers in the meritocracy, that players should be on the team on performance and ability first and foremost," he said.
England was among the nations expected to fight the Blatter proposal, as the rise of the Premier League to dominance on and off the field was fuelled by foreign players.
"Where there is a will, there is a way and we shall try in consultation, not confrontation," Blatter said. "Thank-you for support to protect the youth, and football."
Platini said he supported the "objectives" of "6+5" despite his confederation proposing alternative quotas based on where players were developed rather than their nationality - proposals that would adhere to EU employment law.
"The '6+5' rule is a European rule first and foremost ... it concerns the European leagues, the European Court, the European Parliament ..." he said. "That puts European football at risk. I fully share both the philosophy and objectives of the 6+5 rule - it would be an excellent thing for football and the identity of national teams.
"For Europe, it's not a comfortable position, but we'll do everything we can to assist the FIFA president reach this objective."
In other business, FIFA officially closed the books on its failed relationship with MasterCard Inc., announcing a US$49 million (?31.5 million) profit for 2007 despite a payout of US$90 million (?58 million) to the credit card company.
MasterCard and FIFA met in court in 2006 over MasterCard's right to sponsor the 2010 and 2014 World Cups.
The Spaniard enjoyed a superb first season in the Premier League but he believes his job was made easier by some poor defending.
He found most of the centre-backs he came across to be more brawn than brains, and admits he was able to capitalise on some careless mistakes.
One exception was Carvalho, who Torres feels does not get the credit he deserves.
Torres rates the Portugal international above his Chelsea team-mate John Terry and thinks he is one of the most impressive defenders in world football.
"Terry is captain so gets a much higher profile. But he's only secondary to Carvalho," Torres told The Sun.
"Ricky is superb. He has every quality that is needed."
Torres added: "The central defenders (in the Premier League) are usually big, strong, aggressive lads.
"I guess it is probably because of these characteristics that the majority think they can solve problems by getting tough with me.
"But the truth is most of them lack defensive positioning as a result of their reliance on strength and aggression and leave so much space for you to take advantage of."
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_3652489,00.html#
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