MANILA, Philippines - Europe-based Azkals Ray Jonsson and Rob Gier arrived in Manila late Wednesday night for their friendly against the MLS Cup champions Los Angeles Galaxy on December 3 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Both Jonsson and Gier are excited to play the Galaxy, especially Gier who grew up in England like Galaxy superstar David Beckham.
"It's just an unbelievable opportunity," Gier said. "If you told me a few months ago that we would be playing against David Beckham here in Manila, I would've laughed at you."
"It's an amazing thing for football in the Philippines. I can't wait to get out there and play," Gier added.
Jonsson said that Azkals will be aiming for the win, even though they will be the underdog against the best football team in the United States.
"There's always a chance, if we play good defense," Jonsson said.
Gier added that the friendly game against the Galaxy shows that the Philippines is now being recognized for its improvements in football.
"All of a sudden, people like the Galaxy want to come and play an exhibition game over here. So it's good for us, it's good for them, everyone wins in the situation," he said.
The Azkals will be playing without other Europe-based players, including goal keepers Neil Etheridge and Roland Muller and midfielder Stephan Schrock, who all have commitments with their clubs.
Homegrown stars Chieffy Caligdong and Ian Araneta, along with Phil and James Younghusband, are expected to lead the Azkals in the game.
Beckham and the rest of the LA Galaxy are expected to arrive in Manila Thursday afternoon.
In the first stop of their 2011 Asia Pacific Tour, the LA Galaxy defeated a selection from the Indonesian national team, 1-0.
After playing against the Azkals, they are set to fly to Australia to face the Melbourne Victory in the last stop of their tour. -- From a report by Raffy Santos, ABS-CBN News
Wednesday 30 November 2011
Five 7 reasons why Bernard Pierce should stay
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| "When I get out of here, I'm going to lay out that guy with the long hair from the Pittsburgh Steelers, Troy Polamalu, and the only reason I'm going to be able to do that is because I stayed my full time at Temple building my body for the rigors of the NFL. When I do that, you'll know it's a signal from me to you to stay in school." |
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| Just as promised, Steve Maneri lays out Palamalu. |
The subject of my favorite Temple Owl came up with one of my favorite Temple fans in the parking lot before the game last Friday.
"What is Bernard majoring in?" my friend, Chet, said.
"Nuclear physics," I shot back.
Of course I knew Bernard Pierce is majoring in the same thing I majored in at Temple University, Communications. I have that degree on my wall and it is next to my two Associated Press Best Sports Story awards and one Pennsylvania Newspaper Publisher Association award for Best Feature Story.
Without the degree, I don't get a chance to get the other two items framed. Whatever little writing talent I had as a 17-year-old was harnessed into a readable style thanks to Temple profs.
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Of course, I could never run the ball like Bernard Pierce can but I see a bright future for him in Communications after football and the average work lifespan of a good NFL running back is about five years.
The average work lifespan of a TV guy with a Temple degree is about 60 years longer than that.Ask Kevin Neghandi of ESPN.
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| Another reason to come back: Steve Addazio tells funny jokes. |
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If Bernard really was majoring in nuclear physics, I'd advise him to leave.
Since it is Communications and he is thisclose to graduating, he would be a wise Owl to stay.He's going to run into a lot of shady sports agent characters and they are going to give him a lot of advice designed to get their cut of his money a year early. My best advice (and it's free) for him is to go with the first agent who tells him it is in his best interest to stay.
Five good reasons:
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| Mel Kiper is much more likely to call Bernard Pierce a No. 1 choice next year, not this one. |
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| Bernard already has a nice suit ready for next year's Heisman ceremony. |
The Heisman Trophy _ With Richardson, James and Ball graduating, Bernard has jumped over the field into the top five in next year's Heisman conversation. All the good backs will be gone. He'll be on national TV in the bowl game and every TV guy will be mentioning his name as one to watch in next year's Heisman talk. Also, he's playing Villanova next year in the first game. He should get 500 yards and six touchdowns in that game alone and that should catapult him into the top of the race. Usually, guys who get to the top early stay there at the end. If he stays, I will make it a singular mission to gather up all my Temple communications alumni buddies and get Bernard the Heisman Trophy. What a great thing it would be for him to be at the Downtown Athletic Club in Manhattan accepting the award that just eluded Temple's Paul Palmer in 1986. Plus, it would set him up for a good TV gig 10 years down the road.
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| No wonder BP has such great vision. |
The Franchise Tag _ Not Temple's, mine. For the past three years, I have been the guy yelling the loudest from the stands: "GIVE THE BALL TO THE FRANCHISE. THIS IS NOT ROCKET SCIENCE. IT'S FOOTBALL!!" For some reason, I didn't do that in the Kent State game and, after all three BP touchdowns, the two teenage girls sitting in front of me turned around to me, gave me a fist bump, and said: "GIVE THE BALL TO THE FRANCHISE. THIS IS NOT ROCKET SCIENCE. IT'S FOOTBALL!" I wonder where they got that from? I must've been a bad influence on those kids. If there's no Bernard Pierce next year, I got nothing. Matty Brown will do a nice job, but it won't be the same without The Franchise. Scot Loeffler, you are on your own calling plays. Could get scary.
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| Tesa, Wayne and Cyrus Tribue |
The Mom Factor _ Watching all the moms with their sons on Friday, I thought it would be great if Tammy Pierce would be escorted onto the field by Bernard Pierce for the Senior Day ceremony next year. Tammy has been Bernard's No. 1 fan since Day One. She deserves that day in front of a packed house next year. (And it will be a packed house. Paul Palmer drew over 40,000 to crappy Veterans Stadium for his final home game.) I met her in the concourse at the Miami game and, without knowing who she was, she said to me: "Nice to meet, you, I'm Bernard Pierce's mom." I stood there with my mouth open for about five seconds before thinking of something to say. "He's my favorite player, I love him," I said (nothing kinky, of course just like a proud adopted uncle). Tammy said, "Well, we do, too." There's a lot more people at Temple who love him than in the NFL. There is no agent out there who loves him like we do.
Ramone Moore and Lavoy Allen _ Like Bernard Pierce, both Ramone Moore and Lavoy Allen filed paperwork with the pros to determine the level of interest. Hopefully, like Ramone and Lavoy, Bernard will make the same determination to come back. Neither guy is far away if Bernard wants to get advice. Lavoy is practicing with the Sixers. Bernard walks by Temple basketball practice on the way to class every day so he can talk to Ramone as well. Just by looking at the smiles on the faces of both guys during their senior years at Temple should be enough for Bernard to want to experience his senior year at Temple as well.
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| Ramone looks sad he came back (not!) |
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| Lavoy: All smiles during his senior year. |
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Daz finally figured out how to use Bernard Pierce best. |
The Daz Factor _ Both head coach Steve Addazio and offensive coordinator Loeffler finally figured out by the Army game that the best way to use Bernard Pierce was outside the tackle box, not between the hash marks. You hear the term "edge rusher" almost exclusively referring to a defensive player, but Bernard Pierce is the best edge rusher on offense I've ever seen. When Addazio stopped using Pierce between the tackles like he did at Ohio and Bowling Green, we saw the real Bernard Pierce once again. He's got the speed to beat everyone outside on sweeps and tosses. I don't think they will go back to between the tackles again. That will undoubtedly mean bigger numbers and bigger things for a bigger and better Bernard Pierce in 2012.
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Feeling Horny? The Stags Celebrate SLeague Title
If fans of Indonesian football have any awareness at all of Singapore football it is probably limited to Tampines Rovers. The team from the east coast of the city state have provided several internationals to clubs in Indonesia with varying degrees of success.
Khairul Amri is widely recognized as one of the most talented players of his generation and when he made the move to Persiba Balikpapan many hoped he would bring his prodigious talent to one Oil City. He is also one of the most injury prone and rarely had the chance to sign before being released.
Mustafic Fahruddin is one of several Singaporean internationals who qualified for the national team after having played in the SLeague for five years. He spent a season with Persija before being released when a new coach came in and wanted to surround himself with his own players. After last season with Persela he is now back with Tampines.
Noh Alam Shah and M Ridhuan made the move to Arema in 2009 and are currently looking at their third season with the Crazy Lions.
On Sunday evening Tampines hosted Balestier Khalsa at the Tampines Stadium knowing a victory would guarantee them their first SLeague triumph since 2005. Home United were the only team that could catch them but they were a point behind and despite playing Geylang United at the same time Tampines coach Steven Tan knew his team held their destiney in their hands.
After a nervy start Fahruddin opened the scoring from the penalty spot and the team nicknamed the Stags were on their way to the title.
Fahruddin scored a second around the half hour mark with a spectacular free kick from 25 yards before the 41 year Aleksander Duric netted a typical tap in before half time.
The second half was a non event. Balestier Khalsa were on the field but it was one way traffic as Tampines piled forward looking to increase the margin. Ahmad Latiff did just that and with some style. Receiving the ball some 25 yards out he looked up and seeing the keeper off his line deliciously curled the ball over his head.
Latiff, with his dyed hair and all action combative style is an unlikely Singaporean. Vocal and opiniated he has upset people in the island�s football community but there is now doubting his ability on the football field. He also had a short spell in Indonesia when he was younger, spending time with Persikabo in the early years of the 21st century.
It was a fitting contribution from the 32 year old who has been in fine form the last couple of years but continues to be inexplicably overlooked by the national team selectors. It was also his final contribution as minutes he was substituted and received a warm ovation from his appreciative fans.
Substitute Ahmad Fahmie made it five and still Tampines pressed. The job was done. In the VIP area of the stand officials were handing out commemorative t shirts while on the field Fahruddin was being urged forward by the bench, hoping he could complete a rare hat trick. He couldn�t but when he was finally replaced his reception from the faithful was raw and appreciative.
Noh Alam Shah and M Ridhuan have experience of winning titles in Indonesia. They were part of the Arema team that became champions in 2009/2010. The title deciding game of that particular season saw Arema play Persija at Bung Karno in Jakarta.
Arema fans travelled in large numbers, in excess of 50,000, and camped overnight outside the stadium, determined to see their heroes make history. More than 85,000 excited fans shoehorned themselves into the historic stadium and witnessed the Malang team win 5-1 to set up a monster celebration.
Things were much humbler in staid old Singapore. For a start the crowd was a shade over 2,000 and there was no evidence of fans sleeping outside the ground the night before. And despite being known as a raucous crowd, by Singapore standards, there was no singing or dancing. Plenty of drumming but no singing.
When captain Duric was presented with the trophy the biggest cheer came from the Master of Ceremonies courtesy of his microphone and deafening speakers. The fans applauded politely, cheered when the MC asked them to but for a team winning the title it was all very subdued and understated.
The players of course made the most of it. Fans or no fans, atmosphere or no atmosphere they were in football to win trophies and so they did their jigging. But you can�t help but wonder whether Fahruddin and Latiff, with their Indonesian experiences, were looking at the crowd and hoping for an injection of Indonesian passion to crank up the volume.
ISL Kicks Off Today
The AFC told the Indonesian Football Association the new season had to begin by a certain date or they would lose the right to enter teams in continental football next season. So, amid much ballyhoo, the Indonesia Premier League kicked off on 15 October when Persib hosted Semen Padang.
A few more games were scheduled but never took place and the competition, fully one game old, went into hibernation for the SEA Games, a period of six weeks.
Much can happen in six weeks. The IPL lost nearly half of its teams which seems pretty careless. One of the teams that left were Persib, preferring the Indonesia Super League. They are left with 13 teams...don't the AFC get upset with an odd number of teams in the league?
Persib may have gone but the IPL website still shows the game counting for Semen Padang! Seriously, I'm not making this crap up...I couldn't, it just beggars belief.
The fixture list on the official website resembles a fairy tale with the withdrawn clubs games still listed; perhaps wishful thinking?
With clubs like Persib, Persija, Persipura and Sriwijaya opting for the ISL, the IPL is seriously short of class and quality. They have Arema and maybe Persebaya and PSM.
Next Thursday the team formerly known as Jakarta FC, now labouring under the misapprehension they are in fact Persija, have a home game against Persiba Bantul. It remains to be seen where this game will be played. Bung Karno, as has been suggested, would be an expensive folly given the rental fees involved and the lack of support the club enjoys.
But hey, ho. Never a dull moment in the wacky world of Indonesian football.
SLeague Clubs Plan Overseas Trips
The SLeague may have just finished but teams there are already looking to next season. Tampines Rovers, champions, are looking at another trip to Thailand at the end of January in what is becoming an annual event while SAFFC are considering options reportedly including Vietnam, Malaysia or Australia.
Today : Indonesia 0-1 LA Galaxy FT
Indonesia vs LA Galaxy playing now.
Indonesia is fielding a mix of U23 and senior players.
The match is live on Fox sports, also in replay
http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/tvschedule
live stream :
http://www.oleoletv.com/watch/live/strea....-la-galaxy.html
http://www.usagoals.com/live/38156-indon....vivo/tv/gratis/
http://mivo.tv/home.php --> click on the SCTV button.
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14 min 0-1 , LA Galaxy score, Robbie Keane
0-1 HT
Indonesia is fielding a mix of U23 and senior players.
The match is live on Fox sports, also in replay
http://msn.foxsports.com/foxsoccer/tvschedule
live stream :
http://www.oleoletv.com/watch/live/strea....-la-galaxy.html
http://www.usagoals.com/live/38156-indon....vivo/tv/gratis/
http://mivo.tv/home.php --> click on the SCTV button.
------------------------------------
14 min 0-1 , LA Galaxy score, Robbie Keane
0-1 HT
Rick Price has no place in team sports
BACK in high school, we had a couple of teammates we called Rick Price, not because of how well they sang but because of how valuable they thought they were to the team.
We�d always say a few lines of �Heaven Knows,� whenever one or two of them were up to their antics and would tell the coach that �they were too tired, too busy or too injured to practice,� while ordinary mortals like us were killing ourselves in the drills.
Now athletics is an individual sport but in the case of the Cviraa, it is a team game and it seems the Rick Price mentality has also affected some of the track stars of Cebu City.
ANS track coach Elberto Banzon, who I regularly saw at the CCSC track oval hard at work teaching track stars, told Sun.Star Cebu, �Sometimes it�s disappointing because we have good athletes but they don�t show up for training.�
Vice Mayor Joy Young wouldn�t have any of it and said they�d easily drop these �stars� with attitude problems.
Bravo! I hope Young goes through with that move because in a competition like the Cviraa, where Cebu City�s dominance has been unrivalled, how you perform in training is more important than how you perform during the competition.
For every gold medalist, there are two or three more who can take�and willingly so�his or her place in the team.
One thing about attitude problems is that these things are more difficult to correct than a flaw in technique; you can train out a technical �flaw,� but no amount of training will correct a mental flaw.
�We want to instill values and discipline in the kids but more importantly, we want them to value their education more,� said Young.
So to the Cebu City Rick Prices, only heaven knows where you will end up if you don�t change.
REACTIONS. Here are two of the comments generated by Dan Palami�s article on the U23�s campaign and his plans.
From Craig Burrows: �What an intelligent, humble but most of all enlightening article. Instead of buying a bulletproof vest, Dan exposes his soul. I just hope that all of us armchair critics will give him the time he needs and the respect he deserves to build the squad we all want to see.�
We�d always say a few lines of �Heaven Knows,� whenever one or two of them were up to their antics and would tell the coach that �they were too tired, too busy or too injured to practice,� while ordinary mortals like us were killing ourselves in the drills.
Now athletics is an individual sport but in the case of the Cviraa, it is a team game and it seems the Rick Price mentality has also affected some of the track stars of Cebu City.
ANS track coach Elberto Banzon, who I regularly saw at the CCSC track oval hard at work teaching track stars, told Sun.Star Cebu, �Sometimes it�s disappointing because we have good athletes but they don�t show up for training.�
Vice Mayor Joy Young wouldn�t have any of it and said they�d easily drop these �stars� with attitude problems.
Bravo! I hope Young goes through with that move because in a competition like the Cviraa, where Cebu City�s dominance has been unrivalled, how you perform in training is more important than how you perform during the competition.
For every gold medalist, there are two or three more who can take�and willingly so�his or her place in the team.
One thing about attitude problems is that these things are more difficult to correct than a flaw in technique; you can train out a technical �flaw,� but no amount of training will correct a mental flaw.
�We want to instill values and discipline in the kids but more importantly, we want them to value their education more,� said Young.
So to the Cebu City Rick Prices, only heaven knows where you will end up if you don�t change.
REACTIONS. Here are two of the comments generated by Dan Palami�s article on the U23�s campaign and his plans.
From Craig Burrows: �What an intelligent, humble but most of all enlightening article. Instead of buying a bulletproof vest, Dan exposes his soul. I just hope that all of us armchair critics will give him the time he needs and the respect he deserves to build the squad we all want to see.�
And from Erick, �I would like to think that you are the Mark Cuban of Philippine Football. But you�ve got to trim down the tummy, mate. We don�t want to lose you to hypertension this early. We need a good manager for the team, you know!�
Wednesday--November 30, 2011
UMass players are staying together and waiting for their new coach.
Tyler Holmes, Julian Talley and Jesse Julmiste were named to the New England Football Writers All-Star team.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Michigan is considering a night game during the 2012 season, but it doesn't look as if it will be UMass.
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The press is plugging next year's OOC opponent head coach James Franklin of Vanderbilt as SEC Coach-of-the-year. Vandy, BTW, may be in the Liberty Bowl this year.
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Meanwhile, Indiana another 2012 UMass OOC, had a really rough year. The Hoosiers' only win came over FCS South Carolina State.
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Jim Tressel is not interested in the University of Akron job.
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Maine's Jack Cosgrove was named the New England Football Writers Coach-of-the-Year.
The Black Bears are on the road to Appalachian State this Saturday.
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Tyler Holmes, Julian Talley and Jesse Julmiste were named to the New England Football Writers All-Star team.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Michigan is considering a night game during the 2012 season, but it doesn't look as if it will be UMass.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The press is plugging next year's OOC opponent head coach James Franklin of Vanderbilt as SEC Coach-of-the-year. Vandy, BTW, may be in the Liberty Bowl this year.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Meanwhile, Indiana another 2012 UMass OOC, had a really rough year. The Hoosiers' only win came over FCS South Carolina State.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jim Tressel is not interested in the University of Akron job.
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Maine's Jack Cosgrove was named the New England Football Writers Coach-of-the-Year.
The Black Bears are on the road to Appalachian State this Saturday.
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Azkals coach wants huge turnout for LA Galaxy game
MANILA, Philippines - Philippine Azkals coach Michael Weiss is hoping that Filipino football fans will come in droves to watch the team play against the Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup champions Los Angeles Galaxy on December 3 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
It will be the last match that the Azkals will play for the year, and Weiss is hoping it will be a good send-off for the PH XI.
"I hope that we will send a clear signal, and a good bye for the fans," Weiss said. "I hope they will come in masses. I hope the stadium will be sold out."
Tickets to the Azkals-LA Galaxy game cost P2000 to P15,000, but the United Football League (UFL) is giving UFL fans a 35% discount on all tickets.
Fans who still want to buy tickets to the game can give the code #6987 when buying at Ticketworld outlets. The discount is not available when buying online.
Weiss said they are expecting the LA Galaxy to be "strong opponents" even though the team will be coming from another friendly in Indonesia.
"They are tired from the long trip. I'm sure they're taking it a little bit easier but they will play with all their experience," Weiss said. "It will be an interesting game to watch."
The LA Galaxy, led by David Beckham, Robbie Keane and Landon Donovan, will play their friendly against an Indonesian team tonight. They are set to arrive in the country tomorrow.
Challenge Cup
Weiss is planning to use the game as an opportunity to evaluate the players who may participate in next year's AFC Challenge Cup.
"This game is a test on a comparatively high level. We can see the Younghusbands (Phil and James) and the defenders who are coming in new, how they will perform at this level," Weiss said.
"I expect the players to show who is ready for the Challenge Cup next year," he added.
The Azkals will be without key players, however, including goal keepers Neil Etheridge and Roland Mueller, who are still playing with their clubs in Europe.
The national team will be bannered by mainstays Phil and James Younghusband, Chieffy Caligdong and Ian Araneta.
Football fans can also watch the LA Galaxy's practice session on Friday afternoon at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, with ticket prices ranging from P1500 to P3000. -- With a report by Dyan Castillejo,
ABS-CBN News
It will be the last match that the Azkals will play for the year, and Weiss is hoping it will be a good send-off for the PH XI.
"I hope that we will send a clear signal, and a good bye for the fans," Weiss said. "I hope they will come in masses. I hope the stadium will be sold out."
Tickets to the Azkals-LA Galaxy game cost P2000 to P15,000, but the United Football League (UFL) is giving UFL fans a 35% discount on all tickets.
Fans who still want to buy tickets to the game can give the code #6987 when buying at Ticketworld outlets. The discount is not available when buying online.
Weiss said they are expecting the LA Galaxy to be "strong opponents" even though the team will be coming from another friendly in Indonesia.
"They are tired from the long trip. I'm sure they're taking it a little bit easier but they will play with all their experience," Weiss said. "It will be an interesting game to watch."
The LA Galaxy, led by David Beckham, Robbie Keane and Landon Donovan, will play their friendly against an Indonesian team tonight. They are set to arrive in the country tomorrow.
Challenge Cup
Weiss is planning to use the game as an opportunity to evaluate the players who may participate in next year's AFC Challenge Cup.
"This game is a test on a comparatively high level. We can see the Younghusbands (Phil and James) and the defenders who are coming in new, how they will perform at this level," Weiss said.
"I expect the players to show who is ready for the Challenge Cup next year," he added.
The Azkals will be without key players, however, including goal keepers Neil Etheridge and Roland Mueller, who are still playing with their clubs in Europe.
The national team will be bannered by mainstays Phil and James Younghusband, Chieffy Caligdong and Ian Araneta.
Football fans can also watch the LA Galaxy's practice session on Friday afternoon at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, with ticket prices ranging from P1500 to P3000. -- With a report by Dyan Castillejo,
ABS-CBN News
Manpower woes hound Azkals
BY BONG PEDRALVEZ
ALREADY saddled by manpower woes, the Philippine Azkals suffered another setback when Filipino-German goalkeeper Roland Mueller informed German coach Michael Weiss that he can�t play in a friendly match against the LA Galaxy this Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
"Mueller informed me by overseas call Monday night that he could not come for the friendly match because of his commitments to his club MSV Duisburg in the German Second Division," Weiss said yesterday of the 23-year-old goalie who saw action for the national team in the last 26th Southeast Asian Games in Indonesia.
Weiss said he asked Mueller if he could intervene on his behalf to suit up for Saturday�s match "but Roland declined my assistance because he would not like to jeopardize his stint for the Azkals when they play in the Asian Challenge Cup in March in Nepal."
With Fil-British Neil Etheridge, the Azkals� main goalie, also tied down to reserve duties to his Fulham side in the English Premier Division, the squad will have to make do with youthful Paolo Pascual and veteran Edward Sacapano to mind the net.
Team manager Dan Palami had no second thoughts about who would tend the goal, saying: "Sacapano, for sure."
Aside from Etheridge and Mueller, also out for the highly-anticipated friendly featuring the newly-crowned Major League Soccer champs starring David Beckham and Landon Donovan against the Azkals are Fil-foreigners Dennis Cagara, Paul Mulders, Jerry Lucena, Stefan Schrock and Manny Ott, who have commitments with their respective clubs.
It wasn�t all bad news for the Philippine camp since US-based Fil-British midfielder Chris Greatwich arrived last Monday morning and immediately rejoined his teammates in a workout at the Rizal Stadium.
"It�s amazing and great to be here playing against the likes of David Beckham," said Greatwich, 28, a four-year veteran of the national team who last saw action for the nationals in the 2010 Suzuki Cup.
Filipino football fans remember him best for scoring the 90th-minute equalizer in the Philippines� 1-all standoff against fancied Singapore in the Suzuki Cup group qualifiers in Vietnam.
"Only two years ago, we would be playing tune-up matches against San Beda or any local club willing to play us, but now we have the LA Galaxy no less," added Greatwich. "This is a dream come true for me and the Azkals."
"He (Greatwich) is a solid player," said Weiss after witnessing him work out with the squad. "Chris will be a great help to us."
Greatwich will be reunited at midfield with Chieffy Caligdong, Jason de Jong and James Younghusband, according to Weiss.
Malaya
ALREADY saddled by manpower woes, the Philippine Azkals suffered another setback when Filipino-German goalkeeper Roland Mueller informed German coach Michael Weiss that he can�t play in a friendly match against the LA Galaxy this Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
"Mueller informed me by overseas call Monday night that he could not come for the friendly match because of his commitments to his club MSV Duisburg in the German Second Division," Weiss said yesterday of the 23-year-old goalie who saw action for the national team in the last 26th Southeast Asian Games in Indonesia.
Weiss said he asked Mueller if he could intervene on his behalf to suit up for Saturday�s match "but Roland declined my assistance because he would not like to jeopardize his stint for the Azkals when they play in the Asian Challenge Cup in March in Nepal."
With Fil-British Neil Etheridge, the Azkals� main goalie, also tied down to reserve duties to his Fulham side in the English Premier Division, the squad will have to make do with youthful Paolo Pascual and veteran Edward Sacapano to mind the net.
Team manager Dan Palami had no second thoughts about who would tend the goal, saying: "Sacapano, for sure."
Aside from Etheridge and Mueller, also out for the highly-anticipated friendly featuring the newly-crowned Major League Soccer champs starring David Beckham and Landon Donovan against the Azkals are Fil-foreigners Dennis Cagara, Paul Mulders, Jerry Lucena, Stefan Schrock and Manny Ott, who have commitments with their respective clubs.
It wasn�t all bad news for the Philippine camp since US-based Fil-British midfielder Chris Greatwich arrived last Monday morning and immediately rejoined his teammates in a workout at the Rizal Stadium.
"It�s amazing and great to be here playing against the likes of David Beckham," said Greatwich, 28, a four-year veteran of the national team who last saw action for the nationals in the 2010 Suzuki Cup.
Filipino football fans remember him best for scoring the 90th-minute equalizer in the Philippines� 1-all standoff against fancied Singapore in the Suzuki Cup group qualifiers in Vietnam.
"Only two years ago, we would be playing tune-up matches against San Beda or any local club willing to play us, but now we have the LA Galaxy no less," added Greatwich. "This is a dream come true for me and the Azkals."
"He (Greatwich) is a solid player," said Weiss after witnessing him work out with the squad. "Chris will be a great help to us."
Greatwich will be reunited at midfield with Chieffy Caligdong, Jason de Jong and James Younghusband, according to Weiss.
Malaya
Tuesday 29 November 2011
UFL Cup - Quarterfinal Stallion Fc 1-2 Loyola FT
UFL Cup - Quarterfinal Stallion Fc vs Loyola today at 8 pm UMAK
Stallion FC 1-2 Loyola FT
Phil Younghusband 2 goals
Lee Joo-Young scored for Stallion FC
Stallion FC 2 red cards , Loyola 1 red card
Semifinals December 5, 2011 at Rizal Memorial Stadium:
Kaya FC v Loyola Meralco Sparks FC 6:00pm
Global FC v Air Force Phoenix FC 8:00pm
Local keepers ready for Galaxy of stars
By Olmin Leyba
MANILA, Philippines - Homegrown players will provide the last line of defense for the Philippine Azkals against the vaunted offensive arsenal of David Beckham and the LA Galaxy side on their �Dream Cup� match on Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
Negrense Eduard Sacapa�o and Cebuano Paolo Pascual will be tasked to tend the net for the host Azkals as first choice keeper Neil Etheridge of Fulham and Under-23 stalwart Roland Muller of Duisburg are tied up with club commitments in Europe.
�Sacapa�o and Pascual will be our GKs for the Dream Cup. Now, questions finally answered,� Azkals team coordinator Ace Bright announced via Twitter yesterday.
Sacapa�o previously played custodian for Phl in their 1-2 setback to Mongolia in the AFC Challenge Cup playoffs qualifiers in chilly Ulan Bator while Pascual served as backup to Muller in the last Southeast Asian Games.
Veterans Chieffy Caligdong, Phil and James Younghusband, Rob Gier, Ray Jonsson and comebacking Chris Greatwich lead the 30-man pool assembled for the Galaxy outing, linking up with U-23 mainstays and new faces being tried out for future campaigns.
Among the newbies are Matthew Uy from the US and California-born Demitrius Omphroy, who played at the U-18 level for the US and the U-21 level for Panama.
�We�re testing a few players who have not played with us before. This will be a good time for us to see how well they play in preparation for the 2012 AFC Challenge Cup as well as future matches,� said team manager Dan Palami.
�We�ve been trying to get in touch with Uy since last year, he�s been recommended by Chris Greatwich. We�ve happened to scout Omphroy via the internet and he�s expressed interest to come over. We�re still trying to figure out if he could be eligible because he was part of the Panama (U-21 team); we�re doing due diligence,� he added.
The Azkals will also be missing Europe-based pros Stephan Schrock, Paul Mulders, Jerry Lucena and Dennis Cagara for the friendly with the high-profile Beckham and Galaxy.
philstar
MANILA, Philippines - Homegrown players will provide the last line of defense for the Philippine Azkals against the vaunted offensive arsenal of David Beckham and the LA Galaxy side on their �Dream Cup� match on Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
Negrense Eduard Sacapa�o and Cebuano Paolo Pascual will be tasked to tend the net for the host Azkals as first choice keeper Neil Etheridge of Fulham and Under-23 stalwart Roland Muller of Duisburg are tied up with club commitments in Europe.
�Sacapa�o and Pascual will be our GKs for the Dream Cup. Now, questions finally answered,� Azkals team coordinator Ace Bright announced via Twitter yesterday.
Sacapa�o previously played custodian for Phl in their 1-2 setback to Mongolia in the AFC Challenge Cup playoffs qualifiers in chilly Ulan Bator while Pascual served as backup to Muller in the last Southeast Asian Games.
Veterans Chieffy Caligdong, Phil and James Younghusband, Rob Gier, Ray Jonsson and comebacking Chris Greatwich lead the 30-man pool assembled for the Galaxy outing, linking up with U-23 mainstays and new faces being tried out for future campaigns.
Among the newbies are Matthew Uy from the US and California-born Demitrius Omphroy, who played at the U-18 level for the US and the U-21 level for Panama.
�We�re testing a few players who have not played with us before. This will be a good time for us to see how well they play in preparation for the 2012 AFC Challenge Cup as well as future matches,� said team manager Dan Palami.
�We�ve been trying to get in touch with Uy since last year, he�s been recommended by Chris Greatwich. We�ve happened to scout Omphroy via the internet and he�s expressed interest to come over. We�re still trying to figure out if he could be eligible because he was part of the Panama (U-21 team); we�re doing due diligence,� he added.
The Azkals will also be missing Europe-based pros Stephan Schrock, Paul Mulders, Jerry Lucena and Dennis Cagara for the friendly with the high-profile Beckham and Galaxy.
philstar
Galaxy-Azkals tickets stay unsold
By JONAS TERRADO
MANILA, Philippines � David Beckham may be one of the world�s most popular footballers, an icon in the soccer universe, but he is no Kobe Bryant.
When Bryant and his band of NBA superstars swooped down in the country last July, the stampede for tickets was so great that scalpers had a Christmas-like celebration.
That may not happen with Beckham and his Los Angeles Galaxy team as thousands of tickets for their one-game exhibition against the Philippine Azkals remain unsold, prompting a ticket seller to say, for those who may be intrested, that the best seats are still available.
Why the tickets are piled up at the box office could be traced to one thing: prices.
The prices are so over the top, the average Azkals fans who trooped in the thousands when the team played against Kuwait, Sri Lanka and Mongolia are simply not biting.
The MLS champions will face the Azkals on Saturday in what organizers dubbed as a �Dream Match�.
But the match could end up as a nightmare for organizers.
Even the cheapest tickets, pegged at P2,000 each, are hardly moving.
The most expensive seat is P15,500 while other seats are pegged at P12,500, P9,000, P7,000 and P5,000.
Organizers were so confident that the event will be a huge hit that tickets were sold for the open practice and football clinic slated a day before the match. Priced at P1,500-P3,000, there were few takers.
Meanwhile, 15-20 tickets will be raffled when Loyola Meralco takes on Stallions FC tonight in the UFL at the Makati pitch.
UFL has also offered a 35-percent discount on tickets if buyers give a code to a TicketWorld booth. TicketWorld, on the other hand, is offering a 10-percent discount for every 10 tickets purchased.
Beckham and company are scheduled to arrive tomorrow in the second part of their Asia-Australian tour.
Aside from Beckham, also in the team is Landon Donovan � America�s best player.
Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines � David Beckham may be one of the world�s most popular footballers, an icon in the soccer universe, but he is no Kobe Bryant.
When Bryant and his band of NBA superstars swooped down in the country last July, the stampede for tickets was so great that scalpers had a Christmas-like celebration.
That may not happen with Beckham and his Los Angeles Galaxy team as thousands of tickets for their one-game exhibition against the Philippine Azkals remain unsold, prompting a ticket seller to say, for those who may be intrested, that the best seats are still available.
Why the tickets are piled up at the box office could be traced to one thing: prices.
The prices are so over the top, the average Azkals fans who trooped in the thousands when the team played against Kuwait, Sri Lanka and Mongolia are simply not biting.
The MLS champions will face the Azkals on Saturday in what organizers dubbed as a �Dream Match�.
But the match could end up as a nightmare for organizers.
Even the cheapest tickets, pegged at P2,000 each, are hardly moving.
The most expensive seat is P15,500 while other seats are pegged at P12,500, P9,000, P7,000 and P5,000.
Organizers were so confident that the event will be a huge hit that tickets were sold for the open practice and football clinic slated a day before the match. Priced at P1,500-P3,000, there were few takers.
Meanwhile, 15-20 tickets will be raffled when Loyola Meralco takes on Stallions FC tonight in the UFL at the Makati pitch.
UFL has also offered a 35-percent discount on tickets if buyers give a code to a TicketWorld booth. TicketWorld, on the other hand, is offering a 10-percent discount for every 10 tickets purchased.
Beckham and company are scheduled to arrive tomorrow in the second part of their Asia-Australian tour.
Aside from Beckham, also in the team is Landon Donovan � America�s best player.
Manila Bulletin
Low ticket sales force organizers to give discounts for Galaxy-Azkals friendly
Low ticket sales force organizers to give discounts for Galaxy-Azkals friendly
Francis Respicio, News5 � Tuesday, November 29, 2011 � 4:16 pm
While there was much hype about the announcement of Saturday�s friendly between Major League Soccer champion Los Angeles Galaxy and the Philippine national men�s football team, the public hasn�t exactly snapped up tickets to the much-anticipated event.
The website of TicketWorld, which is charged with selling tickets for the match, indicate that there is still �good availability� of tickets, reflecting low sales.
Ticket prices for the Azkals-Galaxy friendly range from P2,060 to P15,965, which has been called �unfriendly� by local football fans.
Prior Azkals matches were usually the hottest tickets in town, with games being sold out before to the event.
Given the slow uptake of spectators to the match, the game�s organizers have allowed the sale of tickets for a 35 percent discount since last night.
Discounted tickets will only be made available at TicketWorld outlets and not online. Buyers need to mention the code �#code6987? to avail of the discount.
Sales of the said tickets is being done through the United Football League. UFL marketing manager Coco Torre says he expects ticket sales to pick up given the high-profile event.
Selling the discounted tickets, Torre also says, is UFL�s way of helping further promote football in the Philippines.
Meanwhile, there seems to be less interest with tickets for the Galaxy�s open practice and clinic on December 2. Tickets to the event, which sell for P1,545 and P3,090, remain in �excellent� availability according to the TicketWorld website.
interaksyon
Francis Respicio, News5 � Tuesday, November 29, 2011 � 4:16 pm
While there was much hype about the announcement of Saturday�s friendly between Major League Soccer champion Los Angeles Galaxy and the Philippine national men�s football team, the public hasn�t exactly snapped up tickets to the much-anticipated event.
The website of TicketWorld, which is charged with selling tickets for the match, indicate that there is still �good availability� of tickets, reflecting low sales.
Ticket prices for the Azkals-Galaxy friendly range from P2,060 to P15,965, which has been called �unfriendly� by local football fans.
Prior Azkals matches were usually the hottest tickets in town, with games being sold out before to the event.
Given the slow uptake of spectators to the match, the game�s organizers have allowed the sale of tickets for a 35 percent discount since last night.
Discounted tickets will only be made available at TicketWorld outlets and not online. Buyers need to mention the code �#code6987? to avail of the discount.
Sales of the said tickets is being done through the United Football League. UFL marketing manager Coco Torre says he expects ticket sales to pick up given the high-profile event.
Selling the discounted tickets, Torre also says, is UFL�s way of helping further promote football in the Philippines.
Meanwhile, there seems to be less interest with tickets for the Galaxy�s open practice and clinic on December 2. Tickets to the event, which sell for P1,545 and P3,090, remain in �excellent� availability according to the TicketWorld website.
interaksyon
PSC: Who�ll foot the bill?
Manila, Philippines � Six days before the much-awaited friendly match between the MLS Champion La Galaxy and the Philippine Azkals, the Philippine Sports Commission is at a loss as to who will foot the bill for the two-day rental of the government-owned Rizal Memorial football field.
PSC chairman Richie Garcia said yesterday that it will likely charge the organizers and promoters of the goodwill game for close to P1 million since �they will not only use the football field but will take up the space of the entire Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.�
Owing to the arrival of the big-named Galaxy players and the entire organization, Garcia said security will also be tightened inside the decades-old venue. Coming over are team captain US star Landon Donovan and British glamour boy David Beckham.
�There are other events like tennis and fencing being played inside the complex right now so those will be affected when they get here to train, hold clinics and play the game,� said Garcia.
Garcia said he has met with Philippine Football Federation (PFF) officials but not Jinx Macabenta, the US-based promoter of the one-game friendly match, stressing that the PFF is not shouldering the rental but the promoter.
Garcia said he would have probably waived the rental if only the ticket prices are affordable to the public.
�But this is business,� said Garcia, stressing that the PSC had virtually waived the rental when the Azkals played there in the previous months.
Ticket prices range from a high of P15,000 to a low of P2,000. Other tickets are priced at P5,000, P9,000, P10,500 and P12,500, figures that Garcia said was too expensive.
�If they only lowered the ticket prices to the hundreds eh libre na ang rental,� he said.
Still, Garcia said the rental fee remains negotiable and he will take up this issue when the PSC Board meets this morning.
Garcia said he has no choice but to charge the promoter/organizer for the use of the facilities and the newly-refurbished pitch. (Nick Giongco)
tempo
PSC chairman Richie Garcia said yesterday that it will likely charge the organizers and promoters of the goodwill game for close to P1 million since �they will not only use the football field but will take up the space of the entire Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.�
Owing to the arrival of the big-named Galaxy players and the entire organization, Garcia said security will also be tightened inside the decades-old venue. Coming over are team captain US star Landon Donovan and British glamour boy David Beckham.
�There are other events like tennis and fencing being played inside the complex right now so those will be affected when they get here to train, hold clinics and play the game,� said Garcia.
Garcia said he has met with Philippine Football Federation (PFF) officials but not Jinx Macabenta, the US-based promoter of the one-game friendly match, stressing that the PFF is not shouldering the rental but the promoter.
Garcia said he would have probably waived the rental if only the ticket prices are affordable to the public.
�But this is business,� said Garcia, stressing that the PSC had virtually waived the rental when the Azkals played there in the previous months.
Ticket prices range from a high of P15,000 to a low of P2,000. Other tickets are priced at P5,000, P9,000, P10,500 and P12,500, figures that Garcia said was too expensive.
�If they only lowered the ticket prices to the hundreds eh libre na ang rental,� he said.
Still, Garcia said the rental fee remains negotiable and he will take up this issue when the PSC Board meets this morning.
Garcia said he has no choice but to charge the promoter/organizer for the use of the facilities and the newly-refurbished pitch. (Nick Giongco)
tempo
Recruiting 2012--Joe Epps
 |
| David Colantuano/Wicked Local image |
Story here.
Epps had 1,320 yards and 16 TD's in 2011.
Also drawing interest from UConn and Boston College.
Tuesday--November 29, 2011
Matty V. reports on UMass' interaction with the Black Coaches and Administrators Association. He also says the consultative committee could be announced today.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jeff Thomas says it won't be Mike Leach. He'd like for UMass to take a look at Ben Albert who is a position coach at Temple after spending a year in the NFL.
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Either a 43 or 28 year streak is going to be broken when Northern Illinois and Ohio meet for the MAC Championship Friday.
The MAC will have six bowl eligible teams this year.
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The highest paid coaches in college football.
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The CAA website has video on JMU and Old Dominion's wins on Saturday.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Seventy-three year old former NFL QB Joe Kapp and seventy-four former DT Angela Mosca get in a fight on stage.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jeff Thomas says it won't be Mike Leach. He'd like for UMass to take a look at Ben Albert who is a position coach at Temple after spending a year in the NFL.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Either a 43 or 28 year streak is going to be broken when Northern Illinois and Ohio meet for the MAC Championship Friday.
The MAC will have six bowl eligible teams this year.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The highest paid coaches in college football.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The CAA website has video on JMU and Old Dominion's wins on Saturday.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Seventy-three year old former NFL QB Joe Kapp and seventy-four former DT Angela Mosca get in a fight on stage.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Geylang United Trivia
Which two Singaporean international keepers started their careers in the Geylang United youth team?Which two players have spent the longest with one team in Singapore and what was that team?
Which SLeague team had never won at Bedok Stadium since the competition began?
This kind of trivia is commonplace in England where fans are quick to absorb all sorts of nonsense about the game and their favourite team.
Less common in south east Asia where it seems a person's support for a team is judged by the number of replica shirts he has. Knowledge against materialism?!
The above questions come from Geylang United's excellent matchday programme. After years of whining about SLeague teams doing nothing to ocnnect with fans it is good to see the Eagles doing their bit. As well as the programme they have a small merchandising booth at home games offering a small selection of souveniers to fans. Interestingly foreign visitors, brought up on a culture of collecting, are picking up a few things as a momento of their time in Singapore.
Hopefully a few more locals may take the time to do the same.
Malaysia's London Dream Ends
Despite taking a 2-0 lead against Bahrain in their qualifier on Sunday Malaysia's Under 23s still went down 3-2 with three goals conceded in five late minutes.
These boys are knackered. They have worked hard all year, they need a rest ahead of the new season that begins in January. They do not need a tour of Australia as was mooted a few days back.
Results 28/11
Indonesia Premier League
PSMS v Persebaya 1-2
Persiraja v Persija (!) 3-3
Other games were scheduled but never happened. Arema flew all the way to Papua to play Persipura...but last year's champions had already withdrawn from the league and were playing n the Inter Island Cup. Who the hell allowed them to fly when they had no opponent? Change the game my arse. Persib were due to play Mitra Kukar but both teams have withdrawn. And Persija aren't Persija at all, they're Jakarta FC. What a joke...
Thai Premier League
Army v TTM Phichit 2-0 (Leanardo, Jakrapong) 3,125
Chiang Rai United v Bangkok Glass 2-2 (Wasan 2; Saruta, Souza) 8,300
Raj Navy v Buriram PEA 0-1 (Franck Ohandza) 4,376
Khon Kaen v Chonburi 0-2 (Adul, Pipob) 5,100
Buriram PEA go 13 points clear at the top of the TPL after a narrow victory against the Navy while Chonburi's victory in the north east just allows the myth that the TPL is a competition and not just run for the benefit of one team to continue that little longer.
1 - Buriram PEA 26 20 5 1 51-11 65
2 - Chonburi 26 15 7 4 49-23 52
3 - Muang Thong United 25 15 7 3 44-19 52
SLeague
Tampines Rovers v Balestier Khalsa 5-0 (Mustafic Fahruddin 2, Aleksander Duric, Ahmad Latiff, Ahmad Fahmie) 2,106
Home United v Geylang United 5-0 (Masrezwan Masturi 3, Qiu Li, ShiJiayi) 786
Tampines Rovers champions of the SLeague for the first time since 2005. And in a comment as to how seriously the local media take football their one journo was asking how many times the Stags had won the trophy...never heard of research fella? Asian Football Pictures has some images from the game.
Update - Azkals team vs LA Galaxy
Azkals team against LA Galaxy on Dec 3
Goalkeepers (2)
Paolo Pascual (Global FC)
Ed Sacapano (Philippine Army Fritz & Maciol IBM)
Defenders (10)
Rob Gier (Ascot United, England)
Ray Jonsson (Grindavik., Iceland)
Anton Del Rosario (Kaya Cignal FC)
Jerry Barbaso (Global FC)
Carli de Murga (Racing Portuense, Spain)
Reymark Fernandez (Diliman Victory Liner FC)
Roel Gener (Philippine Army Fritz & Maciol)
Jason Sabio (Kaya Cignal FC)
Matthew Uy (Long Island Rough Riders, USA )
Demetrius Omphroy (ex Toronto FC, Canada)
Midfielders (10)
Chieffy Caligdong (Philippine Air Force Phoenix FC)
James Younghusband (Loyola Meralco Sparks)
Chris Greatwich (Morris County Colonials, USA)
Angel Guirado (Global FC)
Jake Morallo (Loyola Meralco Sparks)
Jason de Jong (FC Dordecht '90, Netherlands)
Manny Ott (FC Ingolstadt II, Germany) TBC
Nestorio Margarse, jr. (Philippine Army Fritz & Maciol)
Lexton Moy (Kaya Cignal FC)
Misagh Bahadoran (Global FC)
Forwards (7)
Phil Younghusband (Loyola Meralco Sparks)
Ojay Clarino (University of Santo Tomas)
Joshua Beloya (Ceres FC)
Jinggoy Valmayor (Diliman Victory Liner FC)
Ian Araneta (Philippine Air Force Phoenix FC)
Nate Burkey (Kaya Cignal FC)
Chad Gould (England Beach Soccer NT)
The final team is expected to be 23 players.
Goalkeepers (2)
Paolo Pascual (Global FC)
Ed Sacapano (Philippine Army Fritz & Maciol IBM)
Defenders (10)
Rob Gier (Ascot United, England)
Ray Jonsson (Grindavik., Iceland)
Anton Del Rosario (Kaya Cignal FC)
Jerry Barbaso (Global FC)
Carli de Murga (Racing Portuense, Spain)
Reymark Fernandez (Diliman Victory Liner FC)
Roel Gener (Philippine Army Fritz & Maciol)
Jason Sabio (Kaya Cignal FC)
Matthew Uy (Long Island Rough Riders, USA )
Demetrius Omphroy (ex Toronto FC, Canada)
Midfielders (10)
Chieffy Caligdong (Philippine Air Force Phoenix FC)
James Younghusband (Loyola Meralco Sparks)
Chris Greatwich (Morris County Colonials, USA)
Angel Guirado (Global FC)
Jake Morallo (Loyola Meralco Sparks)
Jason de Jong (FC Dordecht '90, Netherlands)
Manny Ott (FC Ingolstadt II, Germany) TBC
Nestorio Margarse, jr. (Philippine Army Fritz & Maciol)
Lexton Moy (Kaya Cignal FC)
Misagh Bahadoran (Global FC)
Forwards (7)
Phil Younghusband (Loyola Meralco Sparks)
Ojay Clarino (University of Santo Tomas)
Joshua Beloya (Ceres FC)
Jinggoy Valmayor (Diliman Victory Liner FC)
Ian Araneta (Philippine Air Force Phoenix FC)
Nate Burkey (Kaya Cignal FC)
Chad Gould (England Beach Soccer NT)
The final team is expected to be 23 players.
Monday 28 November 2011
Roland M�ller not GK against LA Galaxy
Manny Ott Twitter : Talked with Roland today ... he will not come... very sad but we will see him next time=) get the answer of my club if i can go tmrw morning
Apologies and next step for Philippine football
Monday, November 28, 2011
Dan Stephen Palami
Manager, PH Azkals
YOU'RE right, we could�ve done better.
Does Gloria Arroyo deserve to be placed under house arrest? Cast your vote.
After our much-maligned outing in the 2011 Southeast Asian Games, this became my matter-of-fact reply to the deluge of questions and criticisms--my skin has never grown so thick, so fast.
I don�t have all the answers, so from mild to scathing rebukes, I read the myriad reviews and their long comment threads. The gleeful (and mostly uninformed) bashing I let slide, but I carefully considered the sentiments of football players, enthusiasts and critics who are deeply invested in Philippine football. If I were still a fan and not the manager of the national team, I might have weighed in on their often-heated exchanges in the football forums.
But now, I�m in the trenches with the team, and I can�t indulge in my own frustrations. I need to quickly pick up the pieces, go back to the drawing board, and come up with the right formula (not to mention sufficient funds) for our Junior Azkals� return in 2013. There�s the matter of continuing to build up our Senior Azkals, too. Save for the friendly game with LA Galaxy, I know expectations are high for our next tourneys. There are many who jump on the football bandwagon when the Azkals are winning, but more would pounce on our mistakes and kick us when we�re down.
Barely a year after its resurgence in the Philippines, we can�t let football slip into obscurity again so soon. As 2011 draws closer to full time, I can assure fans and critics that the blueprint for next year includes at least the following:
1.) Much better and lengthier preparation. Going into the SEA Games, we knew we weren�t as prepared as our regional rivals. They had the advantage of two years grassroots training at the very least, while the new PFF administration was just getting its own off the ground. We were able to organize the U23 around May, which is when I took on management of the team. Despite the tight schedule, I must emphasize that it wasn�t a rag-tag team we pooled together. We had some of the best individual players in the tournament: standouts from the U23 Suzuki cup, top university players, and experienced, foreign-based players. Naively, I thought that what our young team lacked in preparation and cohesion, they could compensate with the Pinoy�s never-say-die, guns-blazing attitude. But the attacks from the better-prepared teams quickly exposed our team�s vulnerabilities and eroded their confidence. We�ll use the time ahead to develop not just their physical skills, but their emotional and mental toughness for high-pressure competitions as well.
2.) We will continue to get outside reinforcement for the squad. Yes, we will continue having foreign-based Azkals, despite recurring complaints from those who play the race card. (Enough already! As Rob Gier puts it, �I don�t understand when people ask us how �Filipino� we feel. The blood that runs through us runs through our �homegrown� teammates. Just because we were born in another place or grew up in a different country doesn�t make us less Filipino. We feel Filipino every second of our lives.)
To put it briefly, their international training and experience sharpen our local talents� skills and level of play, their presence helps promote local interest in football, they help generate sponsorships and funding, and they widen our international network and support.
Local and foreign-based
For the moment, while the PFF brews its grassroots programs, I choose to invest in both local and international players. As I wait for the UFL and other tournaments and trainings to develop more talents for our homegrown roster, there�s no reason not to get outside help that will make an impact now. There is no reason to discard one strategy for the other. In fact, to keep football alive, there is every reason to work on both the outside and inside now.
3.) But we will strive harder to build from the inside, with a better grassroots program.
Contrary to claims of a zero grassroots program, the initiatives taken by the new PFF administration are all part of shaping it. The PFF-Suzuki Cup U23 National Tournament helped us discover fresh talents from outside Metro Manila. It�s training eight-year-old standouts from all over the country for the AFC Under-17 Championship and World Championship in 2017 and 2019. It�s working with DFB (German Football Association), in evaluating the current state of our grassroots program and helping us shape a solid and sustainable program.
It can take time and effort to bear fruit though. A comment on the web noted that �A grassroots program entails infrastructure, funds and political will.�
It�s a long road ahead, and at times it can be quite frustrating. A thriving sport requires the concerted actions of various groups and stakeholders, but I can�t control how others participate or operate. I can hope for the best, but in the end, I can really only work on myself and on the team. In that sense, the onus falls on me and the Azkals. We have the opportunity, and responsibility to help grow the next generation of football players.
Children anywhere in the country should have easy access to football, to play and appreciate the beautiful game, and imagine a future in the sport.
If only for this wild dream, I am raring to go at it again come 2013. This time we�ll have more resources, more training, and an arsenal of hard-earned lessons to work with. If we don�t do any better despite all that�s at stake, oh well then, bring on the lynch mob.
P.S. Now you know what�s on my Christmas list: either a better finish in next SEAG, or a thicker hide for the next licking. Whatever you got listed, I hope you get it all.
Merry Christmas!
Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on November 29, 2011
Dan Stephen Palami
Manager, PH Azkals
YOU'RE right, we could�ve done better.
Does Gloria Arroyo deserve to be placed under house arrest? Cast your vote.
After our much-maligned outing in the 2011 Southeast Asian Games, this became my matter-of-fact reply to the deluge of questions and criticisms--my skin has never grown so thick, so fast.
I don�t have all the answers, so from mild to scathing rebukes, I read the myriad reviews and their long comment threads. The gleeful (and mostly uninformed) bashing I let slide, but I carefully considered the sentiments of football players, enthusiasts and critics who are deeply invested in Philippine football. If I were still a fan and not the manager of the national team, I might have weighed in on their often-heated exchanges in the football forums.
But now, I�m in the trenches with the team, and I can�t indulge in my own frustrations. I need to quickly pick up the pieces, go back to the drawing board, and come up with the right formula (not to mention sufficient funds) for our Junior Azkals� return in 2013. There�s the matter of continuing to build up our Senior Azkals, too. Save for the friendly game with LA Galaxy, I know expectations are high for our next tourneys. There are many who jump on the football bandwagon when the Azkals are winning, but more would pounce on our mistakes and kick us when we�re down.
Barely a year after its resurgence in the Philippines, we can�t let football slip into obscurity again so soon. As 2011 draws closer to full time, I can assure fans and critics that the blueprint for next year includes at least the following:
1.) Much better and lengthier preparation. Going into the SEA Games, we knew we weren�t as prepared as our regional rivals. They had the advantage of two years grassroots training at the very least, while the new PFF administration was just getting its own off the ground. We were able to organize the U23 around May, which is when I took on management of the team. Despite the tight schedule, I must emphasize that it wasn�t a rag-tag team we pooled together. We had some of the best individual players in the tournament: standouts from the U23 Suzuki cup, top university players, and experienced, foreign-based players. Naively, I thought that what our young team lacked in preparation and cohesion, they could compensate with the Pinoy�s never-say-die, guns-blazing attitude. But the attacks from the better-prepared teams quickly exposed our team�s vulnerabilities and eroded their confidence. We�ll use the time ahead to develop not just their physical skills, but their emotional and mental toughness for high-pressure competitions as well.
2.) We will continue to get outside reinforcement for the squad. Yes, we will continue having foreign-based Azkals, despite recurring complaints from those who play the race card. (Enough already! As Rob Gier puts it, �I don�t understand when people ask us how �Filipino� we feel. The blood that runs through us runs through our �homegrown� teammates. Just because we were born in another place or grew up in a different country doesn�t make us less Filipino. We feel Filipino every second of our lives.)
To put it briefly, their international training and experience sharpen our local talents� skills and level of play, their presence helps promote local interest in football, they help generate sponsorships and funding, and they widen our international network and support.
Local and foreign-based
For the moment, while the PFF brews its grassroots programs, I choose to invest in both local and international players. As I wait for the UFL and other tournaments and trainings to develop more talents for our homegrown roster, there�s no reason not to get outside help that will make an impact now. There is no reason to discard one strategy for the other. In fact, to keep football alive, there is every reason to work on both the outside and inside now.
3.) But we will strive harder to build from the inside, with a better grassroots program.
Contrary to claims of a zero grassroots program, the initiatives taken by the new PFF administration are all part of shaping it. The PFF-Suzuki Cup U23 National Tournament helped us discover fresh talents from outside Metro Manila. It�s training eight-year-old standouts from all over the country for the AFC Under-17 Championship and World Championship in 2017 and 2019. It�s working with DFB (German Football Association), in evaluating the current state of our grassroots program and helping us shape a solid and sustainable program.
It can take time and effort to bear fruit though. A comment on the web noted that �A grassroots program entails infrastructure, funds and political will.�
It�s a long road ahead, and at times it can be quite frustrating. A thriving sport requires the concerted actions of various groups and stakeholders, but I can�t control how others participate or operate. I can hope for the best, but in the end, I can really only work on myself and on the team. In that sense, the onus falls on me and the Azkals. We have the opportunity, and responsibility to help grow the next generation of football players.
Children anywhere in the country should have easy access to football, to play and appreciate the beautiful game, and imagine a future in the sport.
If only for this wild dream, I am raring to go at it again come 2013. This time we�ll have more resources, more training, and an arsenal of hard-earned lessons to work with. If we don�t do any better despite all that�s at stake, oh well then, bring on the lynch mob.
P.S. Now you know what�s on my Christmas list: either a better finish in next SEAG, or a thicker hide for the next licking. Whatever you got listed, I hope you get it all.
Merry Christmas!
Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on November 29, 2011
Temple bowl foes: The unusual suspects
 |
| Expect Morkeith Brown to be in the middle of the bowl celebration again. |
All of this bowl talk reminds me of the shell game on the Jumbotron at Lincoln Financial Field.
You know the one.
Three Temple helmets and guess which one the ball is under.
That's pretty much how it is today, about a week before the official selection Sunday.
Like that video game, there are too many moving parts to make a solid prediction but there are just enough moving parts to know it is a limited pool of opponents to chose from right now.
I'm pretty sure of two things. They are going to have a bowl selection party at the Liacouras Center and everybody is going to go crazy around Morkeith Brown in the center of the room.
Everything else is just speculation at this point. The real bowl is under one of six helmets.
What isn't speculation is the number of teams are mostly unusual foes for Temple football. I like that aspect of the bowl games. Reminds me of the World Series before interleague play ruined that element.
Heck, I'm excited to be playing anywhere but I'm a little more excited about certain matchups.
The speculation:
1) Rutgers vs. Temple, Birmingham Ala. BBVA Compass Bowl _ Two sites have this has the possible matchup. This is very appealing to me for three reasons: 1) Temple is underrated and 2) Rutgers is overrated and 3) It would give Temple another chance to shove it in the Big East's face. Put me down for this one. Army keeps coming up as a common foe. Rutgers beat Army, 27-13. Temple beat Army, 42-14. RU also beat Ohio at home, 38-26, while the Owls lost at Ohio. The Owls were struggling with QB issues vs. Ohio but got that ironed out by Army.
3) Western Kentucky vs. Temple, Kraft Hunger Bowl, San Francisco _ ESPN predicted this and it makes no sense to me at all. Not because Temple is there, but because Western Kentucky is there. Western Kentucky brings nothing to the table. No fans. No TV ratings. Western Kentucky is to FBS football what Villanova is to FCS football in terms of interest and that is no interest. Temple brings a big-time East Coast TV following. It would make a lot more sense if UCLA is able to obtain a NCAA waiver and compete in this bowl at 6-7. Either UCLA or Cal vs. Temple would be a bowl rematch and a great game.
4) Florida International vs. Temple, Beef O'Brady Bowl _ Plenty of Temple fans in the Clearwater/St. Pete, Fla. area because I run into them every March at Phillies Spring Training. Probably the nicest town (go to Ybor City for night life) and the best weather. I'll take it over any venue but Birmingham. Don't like the foe because beating FIU doesn't do much to promote the Temple football brand. Both teams have one common foe: Akron. FIU beat the Zips, 27-17. Temple won, 41-3. |
| Temple fans are still thawing out from D.C. game in 2009. |
Listen, when you are in the MAC and you don't take care of business in three league games, any bowl is a great bowl.
There are just some better than others and I'm rooting for the first or second matchup.
No AFC President`s Cup for Philippines on 2012
AFC has decided not to give Philippines any club participation in AFC President`s Cup for 2012.
35 % discount for tickets - Azkals vs LA Galaxy
"RT @santiaraneta UFL is gving all UFL fans a 35% off on LA Galaxy vs Azkals tickets. Just giv this code 6987 when U purchase in ticketworld. this applies on all ticket prices."
"Will be active 10am tomorrow. "
This will mean ticket prices will be:
VIP Area: Php 10,075
Lower Grandstand: Php 8,125
Upper Grandstand A: Php 6,825
Upper Grandstand B: Php 6,175
Center Bleachers: Php 3,250
Side Bleachers: Php 1,300
"Will be active 10am tomorrow. "
This will mean ticket prices will be:
VIP Area: Php 10,075
Lower Grandstand: Php 8,125
Upper Grandstand A: Php 6,825
Upper Grandstand B: Php 6,175
Center Bleachers: Php 3,250
Side Bleachers: Php 1,300
Phil Younghusband believes game with L.A. Galaxy will put Azkals on the map
MANILA, Philippines � More than being keyed up to play against his idol, David Beckham, the Philippine Azkals' Phil Younghusband believes the upcoming game will boost his team's exposure.
"It's good exposure for the Azkals, not only locally but internationally and it'll be a good experience for the team," explained the Fil-Brit striker on PEP�s Nov. 28 report.
He added, "I think last year we would never have been able to get this type of game in the Philippines.�
Phil unabashedly admits that he is a hardcore fan of the L.A. Galaxy superstar.
"To have David Beckham come over who...I mean, he's one of the reasons I played football. He's been my idol. I used to copy his haircut when I was younger. Used to copy the way he used to dress.
"He was one of my, my biggest idols, football idols, ever since I was seven or eight years old. To get the chance to play with him, knowing that he's coming to the end of his career, it's a dream come true for me," he blurted relentlessly in the report.
While Phil was all about the upcoming exhibition game on Dec. 3 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, three of his teammates would unfortunately miss the rare opportunity. According to a previous Manila Bulletin report, goalkeeper Neil Etheridge, as well as midfielders Stephen Schrock and Jerry Lucena won't be playing that day because of their earlier commitments with their professional clubs in Europe.
Azkals coach Michael Weiss said there�s no way the Azkals could beat Beckham�s Galaxy. Nevertheless, he rues about the wasted opportunity of fielding an incomplete Philippine team against the foreigners.
"That's very unfortunate," said Weiss. "As much as I support and want this game coming, it would have been better if I have the professional players with me so that we could show that we can play on a higher level."
Among those sure to play are Phil and James Younghusband, Chieffy Caligdong, Ian Araneta, Chris Greatwich, Rob Gier and Anton del Rosario. Team captain Aly Borromeo will not suit up because of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury he suffered in the United Football League recently.
Manila Bulletin
"It's good exposure for the Azkals, not only locally but internationally and it'll be a good experience for the team," explained the Fil-Brit striker on PEP�s Nov. 28 report.
He added, "I think last year we would never have been able to get this type of game in the Philippines.�
Phil unabashedly admits that he is a hardcore fan of the L.A. Galaxy superstar.
"To have David Beckham come over who...I mean, he's one of the reasons I played football. He's been my idol. I used to copy his haircut when I was younger. Used to copy the way he used to dress.
"He was one of my, my biggest idols, football idols, ever since I was seven or eight years old. To get the chance to play with him, knowing that he's coming to the end of his career, it's a dream come true for me," he blurted relentlessly in the report.
While Phil was all about the upcoming exhibition game on Dec. 3 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, three of his teammates would unfortunately miss the rare opportunity. According to a previous Manila Bulletin report, goalkeeper Neil Etheridge, as well as midfielders Stephen Schrock and Jerry Lucena won't be playing that day because of their earlier commitments with their professional clubs in Europe.
Azkals coach Michael Weiss said there�s no way the Azkals could beat Beckham�s Galaxy. Nevertheless, he rues about the wasted opportunity of fielding an incomplete Philippine team against the foreigners.
"That's very unfortunate," said Weiss. "As much as I support and want this game coming, it would have been better if I have the professional players with me so that we could show that we can play on a higher level."
Among those sure to play are Phil and James Younghusband, Chieffy Caligdong, Ian Araneta, Chris Greatwich, Rob Gier and Anton del Rosario. Team captain Aly Borromeo will not suit up because of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury he suffered in the United Football League recently.
Manila Bulletin
Azkals to miss key players
By JONAS TERRADO
MANILA, Philippines � The Philippine Azkals could miss several of their key players when they compete in the 2012 AFC Challenge Cup slated March 3 to 18 next year in Katmandu, Nepal.
Team manager Dan Palami said that they will try to appeal to their European clubs to allow the Fil-Foreigners to play for the Azkals.
�That will be the challenge,� said Palami. �What we will try to do is talk with the clubs to allow them to to play for two games. And from there, once we know if the clubs will allow them, then we will determine the games where they will play.�
Among those who are commited to their mother clubs are goalkeepers Neil Etheridge (Fulham) and Roland Muller (MSV Duisburg), Stephen Schrock (SpVgg Greuther Furth), Jerry Lucena (AGF Aarhus) and Dennis Cagara (Lyngby) and Paul Mulders (ADO Den Haag).
To make up for their potential absence, Palami has ordered coach Michael Weiss to have the National players based here to be ready for the AFC tourney, so eager that the training camp starts on Dec. 8.
The Azkals are scheduled to train in the Gulf region while a friendly match on Feb. 29 is being planned, possibly here or in a nation near Nepal.
Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines � The Philippine Azkals could miss several of their key players when they compete in the 2012 AFC Challenge Cup slated March 3 to 18 next year in Katmandu, Nepal.
Team manager Dan Palami said that they will try to appeal to their European clubs to allow the Fil-Foreigners to play for the Azkals.
�That will be the challenge,� said Palami. �What we will try to do is talk with the clubs to allow them to to play for two games. And from there, once we know if the clubs will allow them, then we will determine the games where they will play.�
Among those who are commited to their mother clubs are goalkeepers Neil Etheridge (Fulham) and Roland Muller (MSV Duisburg), Stephen Schrock (SpVgg Greuther Furth), Jerry Lucena (AGF Aarhus) and Dennis Cagara (Lyngby) and Paul Mulders (ADO Den Haag).
To make up for their potential absence, Palami has ordered coach Michael Weiss to have the National players based here to be ready for the AFC tourney, so eager that the training camp starts on Dec. 8.
The Azkals are scheduled to train in the Gulf region while a friendly match on Feb. 29 is being planned, possibly here or in a nation near Nepal.
Manila Bulletin
Monday--November 28, 2011
 |
| McKenzie #42, Williams #9/ Andy Clark/REUTERS IMAGE/ Not from Gray Cup |
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dennis Erickson, Ron Zook and Turner Gil were all fired yesterday.
In the MAC, the Akron Zips fired Ron Ianello.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Attendance figures from the MAC talk board:
#81 Temple 28,060
#89 Toledo 22,157
#95 WMU 19,985
#96 Ohio U 19,891
#108 Miami U 16,174
#109 Buffalo 15,890
#110 Akron 15,734
#114 CMU 15,291
#115 NIU 15,209
#116 Ball State 15,064
#117 BGSU 15,007
### UMass 12,817 (counting the Colonial Classic as a home game)
#119 Kent State 11,587
#120 EMU 4,267
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It's Huskies Vs Bobcats for the MAC title Friday night on ESPN2.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Whoa! Keepers College Football Ratings has all five CAA teams as underdogs in this week's FCS playoff games.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Now that the Thanksgiving Holiday week is over, we should get some news on the committee UMass is forming to find a new head coach.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dan Palami: Apologies. Next steps
(Note: Dan Palami asked me to publish this article for Sun.Star Cebu and I have also decided to publish it here--ML)
You�re right, we could�ve done better.
After our much-maligned outing in the 2011 Southeast Asian Games, this became my matter-of-fact reply to the deluge of questions and criticisms--my skin has never grown so thick, so fast.
I don�t have all the answers, so from mild to scathing rebukes, I read the myriad reviews and their long comment threads. The gleeful (and mostly uninformed) bashing I let slide, but I carefully considered the sentiments of football players, enthusiasts and critics who are deeply invested in Philippine football.
After our much-maligned outing in the 2011 Southeast Asian Games, this became my matter-of-fact reply to the deluge of questions and criticisms--my skin has never grown so thick, so fast.
I don�t have all the answers, so from mild to scathing rebukes, I read the myriad reviews and their long comment threads. The gleeful (and mostly uninformed) bashing I let slide, but I carefully considered the sentiments of football players, enthusiasts and critics who are deeply invested in Philippine football.
If I were still a fan and not the manager of the national team, I might have weighed in on their often-heated exchanges in the football forums.
But now, I�m in the trenches with the team, and I can�t indulge in my own frustrations. I need to quickly pick up the pieces, go back to the drawing board, and come up with the right formula (not to mention sufficient funds) for our Junior Azkals� return in 2013. There�s the matter of continuing to build up our Senior Azkals, too. Save for the friendly game with LA Galaxy, I know expectations are high for our next tourneys. There are many who jump on the football bandwagon when the Azkals are winning, but more would pounce on our mistakes and kick us when we�re down.
Barely a year after its resurgence in the Philippines, we can�t let football slip into obscurity again so soon. As 2011 draws closer to full time, I can assure fans and critics that the blueprint for next year includes at least the following:
1.) Much better and lengthier preparation. Going into the SEA Games, we knew we weren�t as prepared as our regional rivals. They had the advantage of two years grassroots training at the very least, while the new PFF administration was just getting its own off the ground. We were able to organize the U23 around May, which is when I took on management of the team. Despite the tight schedule, I must emphasize that it wasn�t a rag-tag team we pooled together. We had some of the best individual players in the tournament: standouts from the U23 Suzuki cup, top university players, and experienced, foreign-based players. Naively, I thought that what our young team lacked in preparation and cohesion, they could compensate with the Pinoy�s never-say-die, guns-blazing attitude. But the attacks from the better-prepared teams quickly exposed our team�s vulnerabilities and eroded their confidence. We�ll use the time ahead to develop not just their physical skills, but their emotional and mental toughness for high-pressure competitions as well.
2.) We will continue to get outside reinforcement for the squad. Yes, we will continue having foreign-based Azkals, despite recurring complaints from those who play the race card. (Enough already! As Rob Gier puts it, �I don�t understand when people ask us how �Filipino� we feel. The blood that runs through us runs through our �homegrown� teammates. Just because we were born in another place or grew up in a different country doesn�t make us less Filipino. We feel Filipino every second of our lives.)
To put it briefly, their international training and experience sharpen our local talents� skills and level of play, their presence helps promote local interest in football, they help generate sponsorships and funding, and they widen our international network and support.
For the moment, while the PFF brews its grassroots programs, I choose to invest in both local and international players. As I wait for the UFL and other tournaments and trainings to develop more talents for our homegrown roster, there�s no reason not to get outside help that will make an impact now. There is no reason to discard one strategy for the other. In fact, to keep football alive, there is every reason to work on both the outside and inside now.
3.) But we will strive harder to build from the inside, with a better grassroots program.
Contrary to claims of a zero grassroots program, the initiatives taken by the new PFF administration are all part of shaping it. The PFF-Suzuki Cup U23 National Tournament helped us discover fresh talents from outside Metro Manila. It�s training eight-year-old standouts from all over the country for the AFC Under-17 Championship and World Championship in 2017 and 2019. It�s working with DFB (German Football Association), in evaluating the current state of our grassroots program and helping us shape a solid and sustainable program.
It can take time and effort to bear fruit though. A comment on the web noted that �A grassroots program entails infrastructure, funds and political will.�
It�s a long road ahead, and at times it can be quite frustrating. A thriving sport requires the concerted actions of various groups and stakeholders, but I can�t control how others participate or operate. I can hope for the best, but in the end, I can really only work on myself and on the team. In that sense, the onus falls on me and the Azkals. We have the opportunity, and responsibility to help grow the next generation of football players. Children anywhere in the country should have easy access to football, to play and appreciate the beautiful game, and imagine a future in the sport.
If only for this wild dream, I am raring to go at it again come 2013. This time we�ll have more resources, more training, and an arsenal of hard-earned lessons to work with. If we don�t do any better despite all that�s at stake, oh well then, bring on the lynch mob.
P.S. Now you know what�s on my Christmas list: either a better finish in next SEAG, or a thicker hide for the next licking. Whatever you got listed, I hope you get it all. Merry Christmas!
But now, I�m in the trenches with the team, and I can�t indulge in my own frustrations. I need to quickly pick up the pieces, go back to the drawing board, and come up with the right formula (not to mention sufficient funds) for our Junior Azkals� return in 2013. There�s the matter of continuing to build up our Senior Azkals, too. Save for the friendly game with LA Galaxy, I know expectations are high for our next tourneys. There are many who jump on the football bandwagon when the Azkals are winning, but more would pounce on our mistakes and kick us when we�re down.
Barely a year after its resurgence in the Philippines, we can�t let football slip into obscurity again so soon. As 2011 draws closer to full time, I can assure fans and critics that the blueprint for next year includes at least the following:
1.) Much better and lengthier preparation. Going into the SEA Games, we knew we weren�t as prepared as our regional rivals. They had the advantage of two years grassroots training at the very least, while the new PFF administration was just getting its own off the ground. We were able to organize the U23 around May, which is when I took on management of the team. Despite the tight schedule, I must emphasize that it wasn�t a rag-tag team we pooled together. We had some of the best individual players in the tournament: standouts from the U23 Suzuki cup, top university players, and experienced, foreign-based players. Naively, I thought that what our young team lacked in preparation and cohesion, they could compensate with the Pinoy�s never-say-die, guns-blazing attitude. But the attacks from the better-prepared teams quickly exposed our team�s vulnerabilities and eroded their confidence. We�ll use the time ahead to develop not just their physical skills, but their emotional and mental toughness for high-pressure competitions as well.
2.) We will continue to get outside reinforcement for the squad. Yes, we will continue having foreign-based Azkals, despite recurring complaints from those who play the race card. (Enough already! As Rob Gier puts it, �I don�t understand when people ask us how �Filipino� we feel. The blood that runs through us runs through our �homegrown� teammates. Just because we were born in another place or grew up in a different country doesn�t make us less Filipino. We feel Filipino every second of our lives.)
To put it briefly, their international training and experience sharpen our local talents� skills and level of play, their presence helps promote local interest in football, they help generate sponsorships and funding, and they widen our international network and support.
For the moment, while the PFF brews its grassroots programs, I choose to invest in both local and international players. As I wait for the UFL and other tournaments and trainings to develop more talents for our homegrown roster, there�s no reason not to get outside help that will make an impact now. There is no reason to discard one strategy for the other. In fact, to keep football alive, there is every reason to work on both the outside and inside now.
3.) But we will strive harder to build from the inside, with a better grassroots program.
Contrary to claims of a zero grassroots program, the initiatives taken by the new PFF administration are all part of shaping it. The PFF-Suzuki Cup U23 National Tournament helped us discover fresh talents from outside Metro Manila. It�s training eight-year-old standouts from all over the country for the AFC Under-17 Championship and World Championship in 2017 and 2019. It�s working with DFB (German Football Association), in evaluating the current state of our grassroots program and helping us shape a solid and sustainable program.
It can take time and effort to bear fruit though. A comment on the web noted that �A grassroots program entails infrastructure, funds and political will.�
It�s a long road ahead, and at times it can be quite frustrating. A thriving sport requires the concerted actions of various groups and stakeholders, but I can�t control how others participate or operate. I can hope for the best, but in the end, I can really only work on myself and on the team. In that sense, the onus falls on me and the Azkals. We have the opportunity, and responsibility to help grow the next generation of football players. Children anywhere in the country should have easy access to football, to play and appreciate the beautiful game, and imagine a future in the sport.
If only for this wild dream, I am raring to go at it again come 2013. This time we�ll have more resources, more training, and an arsenal of hard-earned lessons to work with. If we don�t do any better despite all that�s at stake, oh well then, bring on the lynch mob.
P.S. Now you know what�s on my Christmas list: either a better finish in next SEAG, or a thicker hide for the next licking. Whatever you got listed, I hope you get it all. Merry Christmas!
Sunday 27 November 2011
PFF reaps P105M in 2011, expects P5M from LA Galaxy friendly
Foreign subsidies, corporate sponsorships, and local fundraisers boosted Philippine Football Federation (PFF) finances by P105 million in 2011, officials of the local governing body of football reported on Saturday in the annual PFF Congress.
However, PFF treasurer Bonnie Ladrido said the PFF incurred expenses totaling about P104 million�the major chunks of which were P67 million for the country�s participation in international competitions and P19.32 million spent on local competitions.
PFF president Mariano �Nonong� Araneta said it was the first time in the federation�s history for its funds to exceed P100 million. The PFF also disclosed that it has chosen the accounting firm SGV & Co. to serve as external auditor.
Since November last year, the PFF raised P25.7 million from corporate sponsors and P21.8 million from ticket sales and merchandising items.
�We�ve only really scratched the surface of the potential corporate support,� Ladrido said. He recommended upgrades in the PFF�s corporate sponsor and merchandising programs.
He also proposed the setting up of a pension benefit plan for those who serve the national team and more enhancements in accountability measures to further assure sponsors that their contributions are spent well.
Provincial football associations were encouraged to submit proposals for funding support while it was also recommended that the chapters� professionalization be boosted by courses on finance, marketing and sponsorships.
Support from overseas
Araneta added that more foreign support for football in the Philippines is on the way, including $500,000 for the artificial pitch to be installed at the ULTRA football field and another $500,000 for a training center in Bukidnon.
From the Asian Football Confederation will come $200,000 which will be for technical training and from the FIFA is the annual subsidy of $250,000.
Araneta also said the Jordan-funded Asian Football Development Program will be launched in January or February here in the Philippines and the country will be its first beneficiary.
PFF officials also expect the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the German Football Association and the PFF to be forged. The MOU will mostly cover technical assistance to augment grassroots football funding coming from the Japan Football Association.
Araneta also revealed that the PFF will host the AFC Council meeting next February. The PFF will also invite some European teams to come over for friendly matches with the Philippines� national teams.
Ladrido said expenses amounting to about P4 million may be incurred to conduct the exhibition match between the 2011 Major League Soccer champions, LA Galaxy and the Azkals.
Araneta assured the representatives of the provincial football associations that audited financial statements will be presented at the special PFF Congress to be held in June next year. Main agenda of that meeting are amendments to the PFF constitution and by-laws.
Gma News tv
However, PFF treasurer Bonnie Ladrido said the PFF incurred expenses totaling about P104 million�the major chunks of which were P67 million for the country�s participation in international competitions and P19.32 million spent on local competitions.
PFF president Mariano �Nonong� Araneta said it was the first time in the federation�s history for its funds to exceed P100 million. The PFF also disclosed that it has chosen the accounting firm SGV & Co. to serve as external auditor.
Since November last year, the PFF raised P25.7 million from corporate sponsors and P21.8 million from ticket sales and merchandising items.
�We�ve only really scratched the surface of the potential corporate support,� Ladrido said. He recommended upgrades in the PFF�s corporate sponsor and merchandising programs.
He also proposed the setting up of a pension benefit plan for those who serve the national team and more enhancements in accountability measures to further assure sponsors that their contributions are spent well.
Provincial football associations were encouraged to submit proposals for funding support while it was also recommended that the chapters� professionalization be boosted by courses on finance, marketing and sponsorships.
Support from overseas
Araneta added that more foreign support for football in the Philippines is on the way, including $500,000 for the artificial pitch to be installed at the ULTRA football field and another $500,000 for a training center in Bukidnon.
From the Asian Football Confederation will come $200,000 which will be for technical training and from the FIFA is the annual subsidy of $250,000.
Araneta also said the Jordan-funded Asian Football Development Program will be launched in January or February here in the Philippines and the country will be its first beneficiary.
PFF officials also expect the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the German Football Association and the PFF to be forged. The MOU will mostly cover technical assistance to augment grassroots football funding coming from the Japan Football Association.
Araneta also revealed that the PFF will host the AFC Council meeting next February. The PFF will also invite some European teams to come over for friendly matches with the Philippines� national teams.
Ladrido said expenses amounting to about P4 million may be incurred to conduct the exhibition match between the 2011 Major League Soccer champions, LA Galaxy and the Azkals.
Araneta assured the representatives of the provincial football associations that audited financial statements will be presented at the special PFF Congress to be held in June next year. Main agenda of that meeting are amendments to the PFF constitution and by-laws.
Gma News tv
Ateneo girl booters win fifth Alaska Cup crown
THE Ateneo de Davao girls had another successful campaign in the annual Alaska Cup when they captured their fifth straight crown in the 12-under category recently in Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa.
The Ateneo girls beat Nomads FC in the finals, 2-1, courtesy of Joana Marie Adao to cap another amazing run in one of the country's biggest football event for the young booters.
Adao went on to win Most Valuable Player (MVP) honors, her second straight individual award in the Alaska Cup, which was staging its 16th edition.
Ateneo made it a double celebration when the the 8-under team also emerged champion.
The Ateneo girls reached the finals after beating DSL Lipa in the semifinals, 5-0, while Nomads FC earned the right to play the Davao booters following its 2-1 win over Sakya.
In the battle for third, Sakya topped DSL Lipa.
Aside from Adao, playing for Ateneo were Bea Dongon Deluna, Patricia Francisco, Therese Reyes, Kyra Paronda, Kyra Gabinete, Michaela Co and Drew Datumanong.
"I�m always proud of the team," said Ateneo coach Reynalyn Ranada Ravanes. "They did well and did their very best to win."
Published in the Sun.Star Davao newspaper on November 28, 2011.
The Ateneo girls beat Nomads FC in the finals, 2-1, courtesy of Joana Marie Adao to cap another amazing run in one of the country's biggest football event for the young booters.
Adao went on to win Most Valuable Player (MVP) honors, her second straight individual award in the Alaska Cup, which was staging its 16th edition.
Ateneo made it a double celebration when the the 8-under team also emerged champion.
The Ateneo girls reached the finals after beating DSL Lipa in the semifinals, 5-0, while Nomads FC earned the right to play the Davao booters following its 2-1 win over Sakya.
In the battle for third, Sakya topped DSL Lipa.
Aside from Adao, playing for Ateneo were Bea Dongon Deluna, Patricia Francisco, Therese Reyes, Kyra Paronda, Kyra Gabinete, Michaela Co and Drew Datumanong.
"I�m always proud of the team," said Ateneo coach Reynalyn Ranada Ravanes. "They did well and did their very best to win."
Published in the Sun.Star Davao newspaper on November 28, 2011.
Azkals back in camp for 2012 Challenge Cup
MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Azkals, currently with their respective clubs, will link up and get back on training next month to gear up for the 2012 AFC Challenge Cup on March 3-18, 2012 in Nepal.
�We start training for the Challenge Cup on Dec. 8,� said Azkals team manager Dan Palami of the resumption of sessions set five days after Phl XI�s exhibition match with David Beckham and the Los Angeles Galaxy.
�We intend to do two training camps � one local and one in the Gulf (region) � and then use the (Fifa) international date on Feb. 29 to play against a team either at home or near Nepal, depending on when our first game will be for the Challenge Cup,� he added.
The Azkals reached the Challenge Cup�s main tournament for the first time after placing second in Group B of the qualifiers earlier this year. They will be up against Palestine, 2008 champ India, Turkmenistan, Maldives, 2006 champ Tajikistan, North Korea and host Nepal, whom the Azkals defeated in a friendly (4-0) before they went on a break last month.
Palami admitted the Azkals won�t be a complete team for the Challenge Cup as the presence of the Europe-based pros like Stephan Schrock, Paul Mulders, Jerry Cagara and Dennis Lucena depends on the good graces of their respective clubs.
�At this point in time, we don�t want to be too optimistic on being able to come up with a complete team. However, I�ve asked the coach to make sure that the core team, this means those who are based here, will be prepared so that when we infused two or three players (there won�t be much adjustment),� he said.
The Challenge Cup does not fall under the Fifa international match days, the period in which clubs tend to release players to their national teams.
Only defenders Rob Gier and Ray Jonsson, according to Palami, had committed to be with the team for the duration of the meet. As with the rest of Fil-Euros, Palami said the plan is to �borrow� them for two games and shuffle their stints in the two-week tourney.
�Right now, what we�re trying to do is talk to the clubs to allow them to at least send their players for two games and from there, once we know whom the clubs have allowed, then we determine what game they�ll play � first two games, next two games, those things. We�ll probably play two at a time, maybe Mulders and Schrock, then Jerry (Lucena) and Cagara,� he said.
philstar
�We start training for the Challenge Cup on Dec. 8,� said Azkals team manager Dan Palami of the resumption of sessions set five days after Phl XI�s exhibition match with David Beckham and the Los Angeles Galaxy.
�We intend to do two training camps � one local and one in the Gulf (region) � and then use the (Fifa) international date on Feb. 29 to play against a team either at home or near Nepal, depending on when our first game will be for the Challenge Cup,� he added.
The Azkals reached the Challenge Cup�s main tournament for the first time after placing second in Group B of the qualifiers earlier this year. They will be up against Palestine, 2008 champ India, Turkmenistan, Maldives, 2006 champ Tajikistan, North Korea and host Nepal, whom the Azkals defeated in a friendly (4-0) before they went on a break last month.
Palami admitted the Azkals won�t be a complete team for the Challenge Cup as the presence of the Europe-based pros like Stephan Schrock, Paul Mulders, Jerry Cagara and Dennis Lucena depends on the good graces of their respective clubs.
�At this point in time, we don�t want to be too optimistic on being able to come up with a complete team. However, I�ve asked the coach to make sure that the core team, this means those who are based here, will be prepared so that when we infused two or three players (there won�t be much adjustment),� he said.
The Challenge Cup does not fall under the Fifa international match days, the period in which clubs tend to release players to their national teams.
Only defenders Rob Gier and Ray Jonsson, according to Palami, had committed to be with the team for the duration of the meet. As with the rest of Fil-Euros, Palami said the plan is to �borrow� them for two games and shuffle their stints in the two-week tourney.
�Right now, what we�re trying to do is talk to the clubs to allow them to at least send their players for two games and from there, once we know whom the clubs have allowed, then we determine what game they�ll play � first two games, next two games, those things. We�ll probably play two at a time, maybe Mulders and Schrock, then Jerry (Lucena) and Cagara,� he said.
philstar
UFL Cup Semifinals
UFL Cup Semifinals :
Global Fc vs Air Force
Kaya Fc vs winner of Stallion FC and Loyola
Loyola Meralco Sparks vs Stallion FC at 8pm at the University of Makati Stadium on Wednesday Nov. 30.
Sunday--November 27, 2011
Mark Blaudschun of the Boston Globe says Bill McGovern would be an excellent fit at UMass.
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A blog reader suggested Texas A&M offensive line coach Jim Turner. He's from Braintree, MA and has extensive Northeast coaching experience.
Video feature on Coach Turner.
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A lot of people expected BC's Frank Spaziani to be fired after a 4-8 season. Apparently not.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Both James Madison and ODU won their respective opening playoff games against EKU and Norfolk State.
James Madison story here. The FCS playoffs are great, but the economics of FCS football are tough. From the JMU-EKU box score: Date: Nov 26, 2011 � Site: Richmond, Ky. � Stadium: Roy Kidd Stadium � Attendance: 2388
ODU's Taylor Heinicke, who got his start against UMass, threw five TD's against Norfolk State.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The San Francisco Chronicle picks Victor Cruz as one of the top six NFL TD dancers.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A blog reader suggested Texas A&M offensive line coach Jim Turner. He's from Braintree, MA and has extensive Northeast coaching experience.
Video feature on Coach Turner.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A lot of people expected BC's Frank Spaziani to be fired after a 4-8 season. Apparently not.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Both James Madison and ODU won their respective opening playoff games against EKU and Norfolk State.
James Madison story here. The FCS playoffs are great, but the economics of FCS football are tough. From the JMU-EKU box score: Date: Nov 26, 2011 � Site: Richmond, Ky. � Stadium: Roy Kidd Stadium � Attendance: 2388
ODU's Taylor Heinicke, who got his start against UMass, threw five TD's against Norfolk State.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The San Francisco Chronicle picks Victor Cruz as one of the top six NFL TD dancers.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fair Play: English Soccer School in Cebu
IF things go according to plan, Cebu could have an English Soccer School, soon.
Last Friday, I met Englishman James Raj and Rich, who are planning to put up an English Soccer School at Bright Academy, a local school that slowly established a footballing tradition.
Aside from boasting of FA and Uefa qualified coaches, the ESS, which has already established schools in Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand, has some solid A-listers in its staff, like their technical director Keith Boanas and Pauline Cope.
Keith used to be the assistant director for coaching in the David Beckham Academy�yep, that David Beckham�and is currently the technical director for women�s and girl�s football of Estonia. He�s also the lead educator of the FA. (The FA, of course, is the Football Association, and there�s only one group in the world that simply calls itself the FA without attaching a country to it and that�s the oldest FA in the world.)
And Keith also taught Simon McMenemy, the former Philippine coach who was at one time, the youngest national team coach in the world.
Pauline is the most experienced female goalkeeper of England and is a Hall of Fame inductee. She�s a Uefa B license coach who�s won the FA Cup, Premier League Cup and the Champioships.
And James is planning to bring the two to Cebu next month.
�It�s going to be one big free demo for two days,� said James, who added the two-day clinic would be open to footballers and coaches of all ages.
But once the ESS Cebu gets established, it won�t be for free and the price, projected at P900 per session, would be out of reach for majority of the kids.
Though the group is planning to establish base at Bright Academy, their target market is not limited to the school as they are planning to invite students from other private schools to enroll at their academy.
And since there are a lot of British expats in Cebu, and private schools that don�t have a football program, the ESS is sure to attract students.
The ESS, too, has some attractive plans as it has linkages with a few top-tier English clubs and US universities and can offer football scholarships to deserving kids.
I told James that the price range is out of reach for the poor footballers and he said they can offer �assisted placements� or scholarships, too, to deserving kids.
All these things are still in the planning stages and I wish ESS the best of luck as it tries to establish a foothold in the local football scene.
I don�t have much experience with football academies so I can�t compare ESS with others.
Will it be worth it? I don�t know. But what I like is that the ESS Cebu could be the starting point of the FA�s involvement with Cebu, and even, Philippine football.
Who knows what the next step would be.
UFL. Global FC got a step closer to defending its title with a 1-0 win over the tough Pachanga squad last Saturday. Joshua Fegidero let loose a cannon late in the second half but Paolo Pascual was up to the task and pulled a brilliant save.
Here�s what Global coach Graeme Mackinnon posted after the win.
�It wasn�t pretty and some of the time it was downright ugly. But a win is a win and if I have to choose between an ugly 1-0 win and a pretty loss I know which one I will choose.�
Last Friday, I met Englishman James Raj and Rich, who are planning to put up an English Soccer School at Bright Academy, a local school that slowly established a footballing tradition.
Aside from boasting of FA and Uefa qualified coaches, the ESS, which has already established schools in Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand, has some solid A-listers in its staff, like their technical director Keith Boanas and Pauline Cope.
Keith used to be the assistant director for coaching in the David Beckham Academy�yep, that David Beckham�and is currently the technical director for women�s and girl�s football of Estonia. He�s also the lead educator of the FA. (The FA, of course, is the Football Association, and there�s only one group in the world that simply calls itself the FA without attaching a country to it and that�s the oldest FA in the world.)
And Keith also taught Simon McMenemy, the former Philippine coach who was at one time, the youngest national team coach in the world.
Pauline is the most experienced female goalkeeper of England and is a Hall of Fame inductee. She�s a Uefa B license coach who�s won the FA Cup, Premier League Cup and the Champioships.
And James is planning to bring the two to Cebu next month.
�It�s going to be one big free demo for two days,� said James, who added the two-day clinic would be open to footballers and coaches of all ages.
But once the ESS Cebu gets established, it won�t be for free and the price, projected at P900 per session, would be out of reach for majority of the kids.
Though the group is planning to establish base at Bright Academy, their target market is not limited to the school as they are planning to invite students from other private schools to enroll at their academy.
And since there are a lot of British expats in Cebu, and private schools that don�t have a football program, the ESS is sure to attract students.
The ESS, too, has some attractive plans as it has linkages with a few top-tier English clubs and US universities and can offer football scholarships to deserving kids.
I told James that the price range is out of reach for the poor footballers and he said they can offer �assisted placements� or scholarships, too, to deserving kids.
All these things are still in the planning stages and I wish ESS the best of luck as it tries to establish a foothold in the local football scene.
I don�t have much experience with football academies so I can�t compare ESS with others.
Will it be worth it? I don�t know. But what I like is that the ESS Cebu could be the starting point of the FA�s involvement with Cebu, and even, Philippine football.
Who knows what the next step would be.
UFL. Global FC got a step closer to defending its title with a 1-0 win over the tough Pachanga squad last Saturday. Joshua Fegidero let loose a cannon late in the second half but Paolo Pascual was up to the task and pulled a brilliant save.
Here�s what Global coach Graeme Mackinnon posted after the win.
�It wasn�t pretty and some of the time it was downright ugly. But a win is a win and if I have to choose between an ugly 1-0 win and a pretty loss I know which one I will choose.�
Weiss sisibakin na? (Weiss to be replaced ?)
MANILA, Philippines - May posibilidad na mag�kakaroon ng bagong German coach ang football team ng bansa.
Ayon sa mga mapagka�katiwalaang impormante, di nagustuhan ng pamunuan ng Philippine Football Federation (PFF) ang di ma�gandang ipinakita ng Junior Azkals sa katatapos na 26th SEA Games na minandu�han ni German coach Michael Weiss.
Isang panalo lamang sa limang laro ang nakuha ng koponang binuo ng higit na nakararaming Fil-Fo�reigners. Pinakasamakit na pagkatalo ay nalasap sa Timor Leste sa 2-1 iskor.
Inako naman ni Weiss ang reponsibilidad sa di ma�gandang kinalabasan ng kampanya sa SEA Games na kung saan mismong ang team manager na si Dan Palami ay naunang naniwa�lang palaban ang team sa bronze medal.
Kinuha man ang res�pon�sibilidad ay hindi rin na�pigil ni Weiss na sabihan ang mga taong may ipinukol na mataas na ekspektasyon sa koponan na hindi pa na�rarapat ang ganitong pag�titiwala sa koponan.
�We were going against teams that has been playing together for years,� wika ni Weiss.
Hindi rin niya alintana ang mga ugong-ugong na balita sa napipintong pag-uwi dahil may mga pinaplano siyang programa sa Azkals na sasabak sa AFC Challenge Cup sa susunod na taon.
Pagdalo sa mga trai�ning camps sa Gulf Area at Japan bukod pa sa mga friendly matches ang nais niyang gawin sa Azkals upang mas mahubog ito para sa mala�laking torneo sa 2012.
Kasalukuyang nasa ban��sa si German coach Eckhard Krautzun para tulungan ang Philippine Football Federation (PFF) na bumalangkas ng 8-year grassroots program at ito umanong pinakiusapan ng PFF para hilingin sa German Football Association na magpadala ng bagong coach sa Pilipinas.
philstar
Ayon sa mga mapagka�katiwalaang impormante, di nagustuhan ng pamunuan ng Philippine Football Federation (PFF) ang di ma�gandang ipinakita ng Junior Azkals sa katatapos na 26th SEA Games na minandu�han ni German coach Michael Weiss.
Isang panalo lamang sa limang laro ang nakuha ng koponang binuo ng higit na nakararaming Fil-Fo�reigners. Pinakasamakit na pagkatalo ay nalasap sa Timor Leste sa 2-1 iskor.
Inako naman ni Weiss ang reponsibilidad sa di ma�gandang kinalabasan ng kampanya sa SEA Games na kung saan mismong ang team manager na si Dan Palami ay naunang naniwa�lang palaban ang team sa bronze medal.
Kinuha man ang res�pon�sibilidad ay hindi rin na�pigil ni Weiss na sabihan ang mga taong may ipinukol na mataas na ekspektasyon sa koponan na hindi pa na�rarapat ang ganitong pag�titiwala sa koponan.
�We were going against teams that has been playing together for years,� wika ni Weiss.
Hindi rin niya alintana ang mga ugong-ugong na balita sa napipintong pag-uwi dahil may mga pinaplano siyang programa sa Azkals na sasabak sa AFC Challenge Cup sa susunod na taon.
Pagdalo sa mga trai�ning camps sa Gulf Area at Japan bukod pa sa mga friendly matches ang nais niyang gawin sa Azkals upang mas mahubog ito para sa mala�laking torneo sa 2012.
Kasalukuyang nasa ban��sa si German coach Eckhard Krautzun para tulungan ang Philippine Football Federation (PFF) na bumalangkas ng 8-year grassroots program at ito umanong pinakiusapan ng PFF para hilingin sa German Football Association na magpadala ng bagong coach sa Pilipinas.
philstar
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