Wednesday, 29 February 2012
Azkals left with draw after late defensive slip vs Malaysians
By Cedelf P. Tupas
Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines�Filipino-German striker Denis Wolf scored his first international goal, but the Philippines was denied of a famous victory after Suzuki Cup champions Malaysia snatched a 1-1 draw with a late equalizer at the Rizal Memorial Stadium Wednesday night.
In the first meeting between two squads that reached the knockout stage of the Suzuki Cup two years ago, Wolf opened the scoring with a diving header off a long throw by defender Jason Sabio in the 34th minute to the delight of the close to 8,000 home fans.
The Azkals played some glittering attacking football for long stretches, but they were made to pay for their failure to finish off the Malaysians deep in injury time.
Substitute Ahmad Shakr Ali faked Sabio, sending the previously rock-solid defender sliding on the pitch, before firing past Neil Etheridge with his left foot for the leveler in the 91st minute.
�We were unlucky but it was a fair result,� said Azkals coach Michael Weiss.
The Azkals got off to a lively start with Wolf and Phil Younghusband testing Norazlan Razali, before they finally found the breakthrough.
Sabio had sent a couple of long throws that caused trouble inside the Malaysian box. With the Malaysians caught napping, Wolf struck it low with his head and found the bottom corner.
Malaysia looked a step slower as it failed to train since arriving last Monday.
But Safee Sali looked dangerous up front and he came close with a shot that went wide. Safiq Rahim, the skipper, also failed to find the target after a fine layoff from Safee.
Malaysia started the livelier team in the second half, but Safee was surprisingly wasteful, skying a shot in the 46th minute.
Etheridge produced a string of fine saves, while Angel Guirado showed some fine skill on the other end with a curling shot that just bounced off the bar.
inquirer.net
Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines�Filipino-German striker Denis Wolf scored his first international goal, but the Philippines was denied of a famous victory after Suzuki Cup champions Malaysia snatched a 1-1 draw with a late equalizer at the Rizal Memorial Stadium Wednesday night.
In the first meeting between two squads that reached the knockout stage of the Suzuki Cup two years ago, Wolf opened the scoring with a diving header off a long throw by defender Jason Sabio in the 34th minute to the delight of the close to 8,000 home fans.
The Azkals played some glittering attacking football for long stretches, but they were made to pay for their failure to finish off the Malaysians deep in injury time.
Substitute Ahmad Shakr Ali faked Sabio, sending the previously rock-solid defender sliding on the pitch, before firing past Neil Etheridge with his left foot for the leveler in the 91st minute.
�We were unlucky but it was a fair result,� said Azkals coach Michael Weiss.
The Azkals got off to a lively start with Wolf and Phil Younghusband testing Norazlan Razali, before they finally found the breakthrough.
Sabio had sent a couple of long throws that caused trouble inside the Malaysian box. With the Malaysians caught napping, Wolf struck it low with his head and found the bottom corner.
Malaysia looked a step slower as it failed to train since arriving last Monday.
But Safee Sali looked dangerous up front and he came close with a shot that went wide. Safiq Rahim, the skipper, also failed to find the target after a fine layoff from Safee.
Malaysia started the livelier team in the second half, but Safee was surprisingly wasteful, skying a shot in the 46th minute.
Etheridge produced a string of fine saves, while Angel Guirado showed some fine skill on the other end with a curling shot that just bounced off the bar.
inquirer.net
Just say YES to Big East
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| If Temple enters the BE, every home hoop game could have this kind of crowd. |
Today was supposed to be D-Day for Temple.
Decision Day. It's been canceled, but hopefully that's just to finalize exit contracts for the MAC and the A-10.
The item on the agenda of today's Board of Trustees conference call was to be "a discussion on athletics" but it is really much more than that.
It's a discussion on the future of the school and its nationwide image.
Temple has two great coaches in place of its two marquee sports programs, Steve Addazio and Fran Dunphy.
If you believe in these guys, and I do, then you know the Temple brand is in good hands.
You know they will make Temple a marquee name not only regionally but across the country.
Nothing would help these guys advance the brand better than a BCS conference affiliation.
As I see it, today's decision is, to use a sports term, a slam dunk.
Just say yes to the Big East.
I hated the Big East for years because it allowed a small private school to have the power to block Temple. A small private school afraid of competition. Contrast that to Temple, which sponsored a small private school, LaSalle, when it attempted to re-enter the Atlantic 10. Temple, though, belongs in the Big East, with fellow like-minded Eastern institutions.
I'm on pins and needles waiting for the good news but because I'm a Temple fan I'm used to bitter disappointment and I realize this could easily go the other way with our teams sentenced a lifetime of mediocrity in the MAC and A10.
In 2010, the Owls were the only 8-4 team in history who beat a BCS conference champion (BE) refused a bowl and that was a bitter day. That day would have never happened if the Owls were 8-4 in the Big East. Heck, the team they beat, UConn, was 8-4 and headed to the Fiesta Bowl.
ESPN basketball analyst Doug Gottlieb said the Owls moved up to a deserving No. 2 seed in NCAA hoops a couple of years ago but instead got a No. 5 and a game against a 24-1 No. 12. (Gottlieb, by the way, is the best at what he does and should be doing the seeding.)
Another disappointing day.
Then I read an article that will appear in today's Inky that says Temple should turn down the BE.
Huh?
Turn it down for exactly what?
Are the representatives of the ACC and the Big 10 waiting outside the BOT's door?
No.
I hope the rest of the BOT doesn't read or put any credence in that guy's misguided and misinformed (he didn't even know it was an all-sports invite) opinion.
On a day the columnists should salute Temple's persistence, this is what we get?
The official call at 3 p.m. to discuss athletics has been canceled, but there is an executive committee call at 2 p.m. to discuss "contracts."
Hopefully, that will include getting out of the MAC contract.
Temple is running out of time to get this done and should be operating post-haste.
Azkals almost pull off Malaysia upset
by Dennis Gasgonia, ABS-CBNnews.com
MANILA, Philippines � The Philippine Azkals nearly pulled off an upset victory over reigning Suzuki Cup champion Malaysia during their international friendly at the Rizal Memorial Stadium Wednesday night.
The Azkals, who looked confident after their 10-day training camp in Dubai, scored a goal against their Malaysian opponents before conceding one late in the game.
The Filipinos played aggressively in the first half, attacking the goal with consistency while forcing the Malaysians into defensive mode.
In the 34th minute, Filipino-German striker Denis Wolf pulled the Azkals ahead, 1-0, with a diving header off Jason Sabio�s long throw.
The Filipinos had 9 shots on the goal by the end of the first half, which forced the Tigers to regroup.
The Azkals appeared headed to the victory when Malaysia�s Ahmad Shakir Mohd Ali scored the equalizer a minute into injury time.
The friendly game is part of the Azkals� preparation for the coming 2012 Challenge Cup in Nepal this March.
�Overall I think we all can be pleased against a very solid and strong team with a good style of football play... we were a bit unlucky in the end but overall I think we fared well,� said Azkals coach Hans Michael Weiss.
Weiss noted the efforts of Wolf, Sabio, midfielder Lexton Moy and Fil-British keeper Neil Etheridge.
�Neil is solid as we know, Lexton Moy very good, Jason Sabio very solid... but the whole team played with big fighting spirit. Denis Wolf, just 2 days in the country, almost playing 90 minutes and scoring the goal. Could've been the hero,� said the Azkals coach.
Even Malaysian coach Datuk Rajagobal commended the Filipinos for giving them a spirited fight.
He said the Azkals played a physical game and that his players were forced to adapt.
�Both of the teams played well, both played with hunger and determination. I also give credit to the Philippines, I think it was a satisfying match,� said Rajagobal.
Team manager Dan Palami said the fact that they drew with one of the best teams in Southeast Asia says a lot about the Azkals.
�I commend the boys,� said Palami. �It's Malaysia, they're Suzuki Cup champions. They�ve been playing against teams that were really high quality.�
The Azkals will be having just a day�s rest before flying to Nepal for the Challenge Cup.
Philippine Football Federation president Nonong Araneta said the team will be leaving for Kathmandu on March 2 to acclimatize in time for their Challenge Cup campaign.
Kathmandu has an elevation of about 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level.
Weiss said the Filipinos should get used to the high altitude before facing defending champion North Korea on March 9.
This will be followed with games against India (March 11) and Tajikistan (March 13).
The games will be aired live on Studio 23.
"We've always wanted to go toe the semis [of the Challenge Cup],� said Palami. �This is the first time the Philippines have actually entered the final stage and we are actually the lowest ranked team among the teams that qualified.�
�We want, just like what we did in the Suzuki Cup to reach the semifinals at least. If we can make it, that would be a dream come true."
ABS CBN News
MANILA, Philippines � The Philippine Azkals nearly pulled off an upset victory over reigning Suzuki Cup champion Malaysia during their international friendly at the Rizal Memorial Stadium Wednesday night.
The Azkals, who looked confident after their 10-day training camp in Dubai, scored a goal against their Malaysian opponents before conceding one late in the game.
The Filipinos played aggressively in the first half, attacking the goal with consistency while forcing the Malaysians into defensive mode.
In the 34th minute, Filipino-German striker Denis Wolf pulled the Azkals ahead, 1-0, with a diving header off Jason Sabio�s long throw.
The Filipinos had 9 shots on the goal by the end of the first half, which forced the Tigers to regroup.
The Azkals appeared headed to the victory when Malaysia�s Ahmad Shakir Mohd Ali scored the equalizer a minute into injury time.
The friendly game is part of the Azkals� preparation for the coming 2012 Challenge Cup in Nepal this March.
�Overall I think we all can be pleased against a very solid and strong team with a good style of football play... we were a bit unlucky in the end but overall I think we fared well,� said Azkals coach Hans Michael Weiss.
Weiss noted the efforts of Wolf, Sabio, midfielder Lexton Moy and Fil-British keeper Neil Etheridge.
�Neil is solid as we know, Lexton Moy very good, Jason Sabio very solid... but the whole team played with big fighting spirit. Denis Wolf, just 2 days in the country, almost playing 90 minutes and scoring the goal. Could've been the hero,� said the Azkals coach.
Even Malaysian coach Datuk Rajagobal commended the Filipinos for giving them a spirited fight.
He said the Azkals played a physical game and that his players were forced to adapt.
�Both of the teams played well, both played with hunger and determination. I also give credit to the Philippines, I think it was a satisfying match,� said Rajagobal.
Team manager Dan Palami said the fact that they drew with one of the best teams in Southeast Asia says a lot about the Azkals.
�I commend the boys,� said Palami. �It's Malaysia, they're Suzuki Cup champions. They�ve been playing against teams that were really high quality.�
The Azkals will be having just a day�s rest before flying to Nepal for the Challenge Cup.
Philippine Football Federation president Nonong Araneta said the team will be leaving for Kathmandu on March 2 to acclimatize in time for their Challenge Cup campaign.
Kathmandu has an elevation of about 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level.
Weiss said the Filipinos should get used to the high altitude before facing defending champion North Korea on March 9.
This will be followed with games against India (March 11) and Tajikistan (March 13).
The games will be aired live on Studio 23.
"We've always wanted to go toe the semis [of the Challenge Cup],� said Palami. �This is the first time the Philippines have actually entered the final stage and we are actually the lowest ranked team among the teams that qualified.�
�We want, just like what we did in the Suzuki Cup to reach the semifinals at least. If we can make it, that would be a dream come true."
ABS CBN News
Philippines settles for a draw
THE Philippines conceded an injury-time goal to settle for a 1-1 draw against Suzuki Cup reigning champion Malaysia in a friendly match at the Rizal Memorial Stadium last night.
Against the reigning champions who beat Indonesia, the team that booted out the Philippines in the 2010 Suzuki Cup, the home side started strongly and had the visitors on the defensive for most of the first half.
After Carli de Murga blocked a shot in the 4th minute, it was all Azkals in the early part of the first half and the partnership between new recruit Dennis Wolf and Phil and James Younghusband provided a few headaches to the visitors. Wolf shot wide in the fifth minute and Phil got stopped by the keeper from point-blank range in the 11th.
The Philippines had the defending champion backpedaling early in the first half and it took a back pass from Roy Jonsson for Neil Etheridge to get his first touch. In the 23rd Phil had another shot go high and in the counter, Etheridge got his first save.
Phil had another shot saved in the 25th and two minutes later, a header by Wolf was saved.
Malaysia responded with two quick attempts in the 27th and 29th that were just off target, while Angel Guirado�s header ricocheted off a defender in the 30th.
In the 33rd minute, Wolf finally scored.
Showing his powerful upper body strength, Jason Sabio hurled his throw in straight to the box and Wolf headed in the ball to the lower left corner, sending the crowd to pandemonium.
Malaysia had a perfect chance to equalize as Etheridge mishandled a freekick but fortunately Malaysia failed to take advantage.
After the half time, which saw Pinoy and Barcelona legend Paulino Alcantara getting honored, the visitors showed they were intent in getting into the match, forcing Etheridge to a 51st minute save.
Angel Guirado had the best chances in the second half, hitting the bar in the 65th and his overhead kick getting collected by the keeper in the 66th.
As the Azkals kept pushing forward, Malaysia finally found an opening in the 90th minute and Ahmad Shakar Mo Ali got past Etheridge for the equalizer.
After the friendly, the Philippines will next focus on their next tournament, the Asian Football Confederation Challenge Cup in two weeks.
Against the reigning champions who beat Indonesia, the team that booted out the Philippines in the 2010 Suzuki Cup, the home side started strongly and had the visitors on the defensive for most of the first half.
After Carli de Murga blocked a shot in the 4th minute, it was all Azkals in the early part of the first half and the partnership between new recruit Dennis Wolf and Phil and James Younghusband provided a few headaches to the visitors. Wolf shot wide in the fifth minute and Phil got stopped by the keeper from point-blank range in the 11th.
The Philippines had the defending champion backpedaling early in the first half and it took a back pass from Roy Jonsson for Neil Etheridge to get his first touch. In the 23rd Phil had another shot go high and in the counter, Etheridge got his first save.
Phil had another shot saved in the 25th and two minutes later, a header by Wolf was saved.
Malaysia responded with two quick attempts in the 27th and 29th that were just off target, while Angel Guirado�s header ricocheted off a defender in the 30th.
In the 33rd minute, Wolf finally scored.
Showing his powerful upper body strength, Jason Sabio hurled his throw in straight to the box and Wolf headed in the ball to the lower left corner, sending the crowd to pandemonium.
Malaysia had a perfect chance to equalize as Etheridge mishandled a freekick but fortunately Malaysia failed to take advantage.
After the half time, which saw Pinoy and Barcelona legend Paulino Alcantara getting honored, the visitors showed they were intent in getting into the match, forcing Etheridge to a 51st minute save.
Angel Guirado had the best chances in the second half, hitting the bar in the 65th and his overhead kick getting collected by the keeper in the 66th.
As the Azkals kept pushing forward, Malaysia finally found an opening in the 90th minute and Ahmad Shakar Mo Ali got past Etheridge for the equalizer.
After the friendly, the Philippines will next focus on their next tournament, the Asian Football Confederation Challenge Cup in two weeks.
Kelantan Turn To Bojan
Reports suggesting Kelantan have moved swiftly to replace Peter Butler with Bojan Hodak. The Croatian is no stranger to Malaysia having worked with the short lived and daftly named MyTeam who were apparently part of a reality TV show.
Last year he worked with Phnom Penh Crown, building the foundations of a title winning team before moving on to Shandong Leung in China.
Butler Reprises Persiba Role
Finally. After leaving Kelantan, Peter Butler has returned to another former club, Persiba Balikpapan. It had been rumoured for a few days, once Butler had gone public over concerns that the Kelantan management had over ruled him on team selection matters.
It was Butler's second spell with Kelantan, who he left top of the Malaysia Super League, and this will be his second spell with Persiba. Coaches at Yangon United, SAFFC and BEC Tero are now reportedly looking over their shoulders in case he turns up their, toothbrush in hand, hoping for second chances there!
Muang Thong Have (Another) New Coach
Muang Thong United have appointed Slavisa Jokanovic to replace Robbie Fowler as their coach for the new season. Fowler was tempted by the dollars on offer in a dodgy Indian league that has yet to get off the ground.
Jokanovic played for Chelsea, but then who hasn't these days, as was last coaching Partizan, a gig that finished in 2009. He is quoted on ASEAN Football as saying he didn't hesitate when he recieved the offer. He's been out of work three years, hardly surprising, is it?!
Given Muang Thong's revolving door policy to coaches, will he be gone by June?
Recruiting 2013--Tramaine Batten
Wednesday---February 29th, 2012
Good Morning on Leap Day. As most of you know, I'm an amateur astronomer. The true seasonal year is about 365.2422 days, so an additional day is needed every four years to keep the seasonal year in step with the calender year.
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Liam Coen has been promoted at RI. He now adds the duties of passing coordinator to his QB coaching.
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UMass football won't be the only Minuteman team to play at Gillette this year. UMass lax will play in the 3rd Annual Lacrosse Classic on April 21st.
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A South Carolina writer says the new NCAA football rules are "ill advised".
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Big Blue view has a bunch of Giant wallpapers. A number of them are of Victor Cruz
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Liam Coen has been promoted at RI. He now adds the duties of passing coordinator to his QB coaching.
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UMass football won't be the only Minuteman team to play at Gillette this year. UMass lax will play in the 3rd Annual Lacrosse Classic on April 21st.
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A South Carolina writer says the new NCAA football rules are "ill advised".
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Big Blue view has a bunch of Giant wallpapers. A number of them are of Victor Cruz
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| Click on image for a larger view. |
Tuesday, 28 February 2012
Today : Philippines vs Malaysia - 1-1 FT
Post news, predictions , line-ups, livestream in "comments"
Livescore : www.futbol24.com and www.spbolive.com
Livestream : http://www.ilive.to/view/24376/
Starting XI : GK: Etheridge DEF: Sabio, L. Guirado, De Murga, Jonsson MID: De Jong, Moy, Angel, JYH ATT: PYH & Wolf
Update :
34 min 1-0 Philippines ! (Denis Wolf)
90 min 1-1 Malaysia
Subs :
Gener in , Carli out
Bahadoran in, Guirado out
Marwin Angeles in , De Jong out
Araneta in , Wolf out
Temple could be in the BE tomorrow
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| O'Connor presides over important call. |
Call it a coincidence or symbolism, but on Hump Day of Leap Day of Leap Year, Temple athletics is poised to make a Bob Beamon kind of leap and get over a hump that has seemed to block any progress for almost a decade.
If you don't remember the Olympic triple-jumper, think former Temple wide receiver Willie Marshall and his 37-inch vertical leap.
Hump Day/Leap Day/Leap Year 2012 could be the biggest day in the history of Temple sports thanks to some visionary leadership provided by Temple University Board of Trustees Chairman Patrick J. O'Connor.
Heck, I've always had a soft spot for O'Connor.
Despite the fact that he graduated from Villanova, the Chairman of the Temple University Board of Trustees is a likeable guy and a loyal Owl. He happens to have the same last name as maiden name of my mother, who passed away on Jan. 14 of last year.
Plus, he's always proven to be a Temple guy at heart and knows the mission of the school and he's always moved the school forward and not backward or sideways.
The second reason is why I'm more convinced O'Connor will guide the Board of Trustees in the right direction in the most important conference call in the history of Temple University when they vote on accepting a Big East offer tomorrow.
According to this excellent story by Michael Bradley on CSNPhilly.com, O'Connor said that Steve Addazio and Fran Dunphy are great coaches and deserve a national stage at Temple.
They can't get that stage in the MAC or A-10.
While we sports fans know you don't get two better coaches than Daz or Dunph, it is nice to know that the guy at the very top feels the same way.
The Big East isn't perfect, but in the national college football game of musical chairs, once the music stops the Big East will be able to find a seat at the BCS table.
The MAC won't.
It's not personal.
It's business.
I think by the time a packed house sends the remarkable senior men's basketball class off at the Temple vs. UMass game (good tickets still available by clicking on the banner above this story but not for long), the day will take on a festive party atmosphere unlike anything at the school since the road hoop win over No. 1 Cincy in 2000 or the hoop win at North Carolina in 1988 that made the school No. 1 in the AP poll for 11 straight weeks.
Still, as big as those days were, hump day this week could be the best-ever because of the implications for the school's two major teams.
Imagine, if you will, Temple winning the Big East title in 2012. It's not a dream. Al Golden and Steve Addazio have built the talent level at Temple to compete in the upper tier RIGHT NOW. If all things break right (no Matty Brown injury, for instance), Temple could win this league right away.
Picture the kind of pub Temple would get on a national scale if that happens. No amount of money can buy that kind of advertising.
If the board accepts the Big East invitation, it will be the greatest day in the history of Temple sports and maybe one of the greatest days in university history as well.
I can't think of another opportunity in any endeavor to promote the Temple brand nationally than this provides. This will have positive implications for the school that goes well beyond the realm of sports.
Fair Play: What the game vs. Malaysia meant to me
(This is the draft of my Fair Play column on Sun.Star Cebu for March 1)
I�M not talking about last night�s game of course. I wrote this hours before the match, because that�s the rules guys like us have to live by.
I�m talking about a much earlier encounter, one that happened when I was both starting as a footballer and as a follower of sports.
I�m talking about a much earlier encounter, one that happened when I was both starting as a footballer and as a follower of sports.
It happened almost 21 years ago, in the Southeast Asian Games, the SEA Games (or Sea Games as some media outfit call it) for short. And as a 12-year-old, I always wondered why there were basketball, football, tennis and all other sports in the hard court in an event called the Sea Games.
It was the first time that I followed a sports event, and the first time, too, that I followed the sports pages and I thought, writing about these events must be fun.
But, sadly, I really don�t remember much from that historic win, when we beat the defending champions, 1-0.
However, I do remember a conversation that happened among match officials in the Coke-Go-For-Goal eliminations months after that SEA Games.
It was my first footie tournament, and I guess, the fact that I remember overhearing what officials say sort of showed the path that I was going to take.
They were talking about the win, and this I can�t forget because I can still quote the guy word-for-word, �If we beat Malaysia, we can quality to the World Cup.�
World Cup? Eh?
The win over Malaysia meant heightened interest and support for the sport�relatively compared to the Azkals�and that led to the short-lived P-League.
It was a promise squandered, as we have all learned to know, but for me, I�ve always used the line, �We once beat Malaysia,� when I get tired of having to defend Philippine football against cynics.
Yep, we once beat Malaysia.
And last night we hosted them, again.
In a column back in 2010, which was written hours before the Philippines was to face Vietnam, I deleted a line, a move that I have since regretted. I wrote,
�The team was to face Vietnam last night�.but I believe in this team.�
I deleted that because, well, I expected us to lose.
For last night�s game? I won�t try to get it back and use that line. Besides, as a superstitious fan, I try to keep things the same the last time my favorite team does well.
All I want from last night�s game is this--for a kid, some 21 years now, to be writing, �What the game vs. Malaysia meant to me.�
Because that would be something.
HBT 2012 - Today`s results from Brunei
Today`s results in HBT 2012 in Brunei :
Myanmar 3-1 Indonesia
Singapore 0-2 Laos
Philippines next match is against Singapore on Friday
Myanmar 3-1 Indonesia
Singapore 0-2 Laos
Philippines next match is against Singapore on Friday
Recruiting 2013-- Joey Ivie
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| Ivie #52/Fred Bellet-Tampa Bay Online image |
Sunshine Preps page here.
Rivals page here.
First Team All-Pasco County.
Thuesday--February 28th, 2012
A Collegian writer says it's a good time to be at UMass. I believe that people involved in UMass sports are among the highest percentage of alums who are also involved with the University.
As I keep pointing out, UMass' move to FBS is not a take-from-Peter-to-pay-Paul situation. The idea is to have UMass working at the highest level in all aspects of college life: academics, research, quality of life and athletics.
Let's go UMass!
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NBC Sports mentions UMass is amoung the four college football programs moving up this spring. Just think, in June when the college football magazines come out, the Minutemen will be in them. No more special order publications.
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Temple News online looks at the difference in revenue between the Big East and the MAC and the A10.
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The BC Blog "BC Interruption" looks at the Eagles 2012 schedule.
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Add UConn recruit Ebenezer Ogundeko to my list of favorite sports names.
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As I keep pointing out, UMass' move to FBS is not a take-from-Peter-to-pay-Paul situation. The idea is to have UMass working at the highest level in all aspects of college life: academics, research, quality of life and athletics.
Let's go UMass!
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NBC Sports mentions UMass is amoung the four college football programs moving up this spring. Just think, in June when the college football magazines come out, the Minutemen will be in them. No more special order publications.
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Temple News online looks at the difference in revenue between the Big East and the MAC and the A10.
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The BC Blog "BC Interruption" looks at the Eagles 2012 schedule.
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Add UConn recruit Ebenezer Ogundeko to my list of favorite sports names.
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Azkals expect 'good test' against Malaysians
MANILA, Philippines � The Philippine Azkals expect to be tested when they play against the Malaysian national football team in a friendly Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Malaysia won the 2010 Suzuki Cup and are ranked 150th by FIFA, while the Azkals are ranked 156th. The Azkals were eliminated in the semi-finals of that tournament.
The Azkals are now seeking to measure themselves against the Malaysians.
�We were gutted two years ago to get knocked out. This would be a good test for us,� said Azkals first-choice goalkeeper Neil Etheridge.
�They are the reigning Suzuki Cup champion, so obviously they are a quality team. Whenever you play a quality team, it�s a good test to see where you are and also an opportunity to get better,� added Jason Sabio.
Etheridge believes that the match will be a friendly in name only.
�We�ve got people watching, and in that respect, we have something to lose,� he said. �This is just a friendly game, but I think I speak on behalf of all the players when I say that a friendly game is just a name.�
�Obviously, we want to win tomorrow night and I think we�re quite capable of doing so,� he added.
Preparation
Azkals head coach Michael Weiss is hoping that playing in the Rizal Memorial Stadium will give the Azkals an edge against the visiting Malaysians.
�We are very strong when we play at home,� Weiss said. �Like most of the teams when they go out, they don�t have the same confidence, so I hope we can take advantage of that.�
The friendly will also serve as preparation for the upcoming AFC Challenge Cup next month in Nepal, Weiss said.
�We will have to see after that where we still have to adapt or get better. Apart from excitement, it will give us clear view on defense shape,� he said.
Weiss is expecting the Azkals to give a good effort in the game, especially with Etheridge playing.
�I expect the team to be defensively organized and balanced and hopefully not allow a goal,� Weiss said. �We have Phil and James (Younghusband) coming back, so we have a decent group even without the players based abroad.�
Datuk K. Rajagopal, head coach of the Malaysian national team, has said that he is expecting a good challenge from the Azkals.
�I think you have a very good, real strong team... I�m definitely expecting a tough match to be honest,� he said.
Moving forward
The Azkals are hoping for a positive result in tomorrow�s friendly in order to continue the progress of football in the Philippines.
�I take massive pride in the progress we�ve taken,� Etheridge said. �You�re not always gonna win every game, but to think that two years ago, this was a team that was unnoticed in this country.�
�We�ve taken massive steps forward,� he added.
�We�re really looking forward to the game and if we can get a good result, then that would be good steps for Philippine football again,� Phil Younghusband said.
ABS CBN News
Malaysia won the 2010 Suzuki Cup and are ranked 150th by FIFA, while the Azkals are ranked 156th. The Azkals were eliminated in the semi-finals of that tournament.
The Azkals are now seeking to measure themselves against the Malaysians.
�We were gutted two years ago to get knocked out. This would be a good test for us,� said Azkals first-choice goalkeeper Neil Etheridge.
�They are the reigning Suzuki Cup champion, so obviously they are a quality team. Whenever you play a quality team, it�s a good test to see where you are and also an opportunity to get better,� added Jason Sabio.
Etheridge believes that the match will be a friendly in name only.
�We�ve got people watching, and in that respect, we have something to lose,� he said. �This is just a friendly game, but I think I speak on behalf of all the players when I say that a friendly game is just a name.�
�Obviously, we want to win tomorrow night and I think we�re quite capable of doing so,� he added.
Preparation
Azkals head coach Michael Weiss is hoping that playing in the Rizal Memorial Stadium will give the Azkals an edge against the visiting Malaysians.
�We are very strong when we play at home,� Weiss said. �Like most of the teams when they go out, they don�t have the same confidence, so I hope we can take advantage of that.�
The friendly will also serve as preparation for the upcoming AFC Challenge Cup next month in Nepal, Weiss said.
�We will have to see after that where we still have to adapt or get better. Apart from excitement, it will give us clear view on defense shape,� he said.
Weiss is expecting the Azkals to give a good effort in the game, especially with Etheridge playing.
�I expect the team to be defensively organized and balanced and hopefully not allow a goal,� Weiss said. �We have Phil and James (Younghusband) coming back, so we have a decent group even without the players based abroad.�
Datuk K. Rajagopal, head coach of the Malaysian national team, has said that he is expecting a good challenge from the Azkals.
�I think you have a very good, real strong team... I�m definitely expecting a tough match to be honest,� he said.
Moving forward
The Azkals are hoping for a positive result in tomorrow�s friendly in order to continue the progress of football in the Philippines.
�I take massive pride in the progress we�ve taken,� Etheridge said. �You�re not always gonna win every game, but to think that two years ago, this was a team that was unnoticed in this country.�
�We�ve taken massive steps forward,� he added.
�We�re really looking forward to the game and if we can get a good result, then that would be good steps for Philippine football again,� Phil Younghusband said.
ABS CBN News
AFC Challenge Cup 2012: Eight Teams To Be Accommodated In Two Hotels
The much anticipated AFC Challenge Cup is almost on the door. All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) is working very hard to keep the things in order for the Championship.
ANFA has already said that they have completed all the preparations and are giving "final touch" to it.
Eight countries, including Nepal, are competing to get the berth in Asian Cup 2015, Australia.
It is learned that eight countries will be accommodated in two hotels in Kathmandu.
"Most probably, Group B teams will be kept at Everest Hotel and Group A in Grand Hotel", the source tells GoalNepal.com.
India, Philippines, Tajikistan and DPR Korea are in Group B while Nepal, Maldives, Palestine and Turkmenistan are in Group A.
goalnepal
ANFA has already said that they have completed all the preparations and are giving "final touch" to it.
Eight countries, including Nepal, are competing to get the berth in Asian Cup 2015, Australia.
It is learned that eight countries will be accommodated in two hotels in Kathmandu.
"Most probably, Group B teams will be kept at Everest Hotel and Group A in Grand Hotel", the source tells GoalNepal.com.
India, Philippines, Tajikistan and DPR Korea are in Group B while Nepal, Maldives, Palestine and Turkmenistan are in Group A.
goalnepal
AFC Challenge Cup 2012: ANFA: There Is No Such Plan Of Selling Tickets Online
Thousands of Nepalese football lovers are making queries about the online tickeing system for AFC Challenge Cup Football tournament.
ANFA said they have no such plan of selling tickets online.
ANFA VP and spokesperson, Lalit Krishna Shrestha said, "So far, there is no such plan of selling tickets online".
"We will open the ticket counters early in the match days", Shrestha said.
ANFA is also yet to confirm the ticket price for the AFC Challenge Cup. It is learned that the price of tickets is likely to be hiked.
goalnepal
ANFA said they have no such plan of selling tickets online.
ANFA VP and spokesperson, Lalit Krishna Shrestha said, "So far, there is no such plan of selling tickets online".
"We will open the ticket counters early in the match days", Shrestha said.
ANFA is also yet to confirm the ticket price for the AFC Challenge Cup. It is learned that the price of tickets is likely to be hiked.
goalnepal
Monday, 27 February 2012
Malaysian nat'l football team arrives in PH
MANILA, Philippines � The Malaysian national football team has arrived in the Philippines two days before they are set to take on the Philippine Azkals in a friendly match.
The Azkals are expected to have a tough time against the Malaysians when they play on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Malaysia was the champion of the 2010 AFC Suzuki Cup and are ranked 150 by FIFA, while the Azkals are ranked 156th.
Meanwhile, Azkals first choice goal keeper Neil Etheridge also arrived in the Philippines from England last Sunday.
Rob Gier and Ray Johnsson are also expected to arrive from Europe. All three players are expected to play against Malaysia on Wednesday. � Report from Dyan Castillejo, ABS-CBN News
The Azkals are expected to have a tough time against the Malaysians when they play on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Malaysia was the champion of the 2010 AFC Suzuki Cup and are ranked 150 by FIFA, while the Azkals are ranked 156th.
Meanwhile, Azkals first choice goal keeper Neil Etheridge also arrived in the Philippines from England last Sunday.
Rob Gier and Ray Johnsson are also expected to arrive from Europe. All three players are expected to play against Malaysia on Wednesday. � Report from Dyan Castillejo, ABS-CBN News
LSGH nails 10th straight NCAA Jr. football title
La Salle Green Hills-College of St. Benilde fashioned out a dramatic 2-0 win over San Beda recently to complete an unprecedented 10 consecutive junior football title in the NCAA Season �87 at the PhilSports turf in Pasig City.
Rookie Mathew Custodio struck in the 13th minute and Best Striker Anton Celdran doubled the lead for LSGH after a free kick from just outside the box in the 37th.
San Beda came back hard but the Blazers� defense, built around co-captains Joaquin Atayde and Eugene De Chavez, and Best Defender Julito Asparen and goalkeeper Enrico Barcia frustrated the Red Cubs� offense.
Team skipper and MVP Jeune Custodio III kept order in the LSGH midfield in the first half until he was carried out on a stretcher with a knee injury after a collision.
The other awardees in the junior division were Ronilio Bayan Jr. of Arellano University (Best Goalkeeper), Roberto Plopinio of SBC (Best Midfielder) and Edienzel Mark Vilizano of Perpetual Help (Best Scorer). The Fair Play Award went to LSGH.
The Red Lions retained their seniors crown after sweeping the first and second rounds.
inquirer.net
Rookie Mathew Custodio struck in the 13th minute and Best Striker Anton Celdran doubled the lead for LSGH after a free kick from just outside the box in the 37th.
San Beda came back hard but the Blazers� defense, built around co-captains Joaquin Atayde and Eugene De Chavez, and Best Defender Julito Asparen and goalkeeper Enrico Barcia frustrated the Red Cubs� offense.
Team skipper and MVP Jeune Custodio III kept order in the LSGH midfield in the first half until he was carried out on a stretcher with a knee injury after a collision.
The other awardees in the junior division were Ronilio Bayan Jr. of Arellano University (Best Goalkeeper), Roberto Plopinio of SBC (Best Midfielder) and Edienzel Mark Vilizano of Perpetual Help (Best Scorer). The Fair Play Award went to LSGH.
The Red Lions retained their seniors crown after sweeping the first and second rounds.
inquirer.net
Azkals off early for Kathmandu
The Philippine Azkals will leave early for Kathmandu, Nepal to acclimatize and familiarize themselves with the environs of the high-altitude site for the AFC Challenge Cup group stages next month.
According to Philippine Football Federation president Nonong Araneta, the Azkals will pack their bags for the Nepalese capital on March 2, a good one week before they kick off their campaign in Group B against defending champion North Korea at the Halchowk Stadium.
�It�s a high altitude city so they have to be there early to acclimatize,� Araneta told The STAR yesterday.
Kathmandu has an elevation of about 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level, with an average temperature of 7.5 to 24.3 degrees Celcius during the month of March.
�I requested to go early, five or six days ahead of original schedule, to get used to the high altitude,� Azkals coach Michael Weiss said during the UAAP football finals.
The Azkals, bogged by lack of time to gather the players for training under Weiss, are in a �group of death� in the Challenge Cup.
After North Korea, the Azkals will take on 2008 champion India on March 11 at Dashrath Stadium, and then 2006 titlist Tajikistan on March 13 at Halchowk Stadium, eyeing to finish in the top 2 in the group to advance to the semis.
But before embarking on their bid in the Challenge Cup, an international competition among emerging nations, the Azkals (156th in the world) will face a big test in a Fifa friendly against ASEAN powerhouse Malaysia Tigers (150th) tomorrow night at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
�It will be a massive test for us to see where we stand at the moment,� first choice custodian Neil Etheridge said in a report on ABS-CBN.
The Tigers are preparing to repeat as Suzuki Cup kings later in the year, and in their buildup, decided to pit skills with the Azkals, a side that made a breakthrough performance in the 2010 tourney. The Azkals reached the semis for the first time ever in the last Suzuki Cup, sparking the sport�s renaissance in the country.
�Obviously getting to the semifinals two years ago was a massive achievement for us and we want to continue progressing and making steps in the right direction,� Etheridge said.
philstar
According to Philippine Football Federation president Nonong Araneta, the Azkals will pack their bags for the Nepalese capital on March 2, a good one week before they kick off their campaign in Group B against defending champion North Korea at the Halchowk Stadium.
�It�s a high altitude city so they have to be there early to acclimatize,� Araneta told The STAR yesterday.
Kathmandu has an elevation of about 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level, with an average temperature of 7.5 to 24.3 degrees Celcius during the month of March.
�I requested to go early, five or six days ahead of original schedule, to get used to the high altitude,� Azkals coach Michael Weiss said during the UAAP football finals.
The Azkals, bogged by lack of time to gather the players for training under Weiss, are in a �group of death� in the Challenge Cup.
After North Korea, the Azkals will take on 2008 champion India on March 11 at Dashrath Stadium, and then 2006 titlist Tajikistan on March 13 at Halchowk Stadium, eyeing to finish in the top 2 in the group to advance to the semis.
But before embarking on their bid in the Challenge Cup, an international competition among emerging nations, the Azkals (156th in the world) will face a big test in a Fifa friendly against ASEAN powerhouse Malaysia Tigers (150th) tomorrow night at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
�It will be a massive test for us to see where we stand at the moment,� first choice custodian Neil Etheridge said in a report on ABS-CBN.
The Tigers are preparing to repeat as Suzuki Cup kings later in the year, and in their buildup, decided to pit skills with the Azkals, a side that made a breakthrough performance in the 2010 tourney. The Azkals reached the semis for the first time ever in the last Suzuki Cup, sparking the sport�s renaissance in the country.
�Obviously getting to the semifinals two years ago was a massive achievement for us and we want to continue progressing and making steps in the right direction,� Etheridge said.
philstar
Azerbaijan 3-0 India
Azerbaijan beat India 3-0 in a friendly today in Dubai.
India play Philippines in AFC Challenge Cup in Nepal
India play Philippines in AFC Challenge Cup in Nepal
Recruiting 2012-- Darren Hambrick
 |
| Image credit ukknown |
Rivals page here.
Hambrick holds offers from Kent State and Western Kentucky.
Monday--February 27, 2012
ESPN Quick Hits says Victor Cruz is raising UMass' profile across the country.
The Giants are considering what to do with Cruz's contract.
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Another FCS program transitioning to FBS Texas State, starts its FBS era.
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Texas A&M may break a 105-year tradition in 2012.
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The Giants are considering what to do with Cruz's contract.
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Another FCS program transitioning to FBS Texas State, starts its FBS era.
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Texas A&M may break a 105-year tradition in 2012.
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Steve Darby Rates Andik Vermansyah
When Steve Darby says a player is worth watching then you can be sure he is worth watching. Darby has been involved in football in this part of the world bloody ages; he was working in Australia the same time I was there and has had an intimate knowledge of the game far beyond many.
In this interview, which the website bill as exclusive, Steve praises Persebaya's exciting young winger Andik Vermansyah and so he should. The guy does look to have something about him.
Now far be it for little old me to put myself on a par with Steve for footballing knowledge, when I say Mind The Gap Tottenham fans will understand what I mean, I first wrote about Vermansyah's ability in November 2008 so I do feel chuffed when a real football person backs up my opinion.
Indonesia seems to have spells when it falls in love with wide men. Elie Aiboy springs to mind as does Okta Maniani who grabbed the headlines during the AFF Cup heroics back in 2010. Back then a few people got all excited suggesting Okta could play abroad...but for me he is not in the same class as Andik.
Gone in 3 minutes: Laos bully Azkals
Ak Fauzi Salleh
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Monday, February 27, 2012
THREE goals in three minutes helped Laos hand the Philippines their second defeat in as many games in this year's edition of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) last night.
Sithideth Khantahavong, Soukaphone Vongchiengkham and Keoviengpheth Lithideth were all on the scoresheet as Laos defeated the Azkals 3-1 at the Balapan Track & Field at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex in Berakas.
The Philippines, who are now bottom of Group A, were thrashed 8-2 by Myanmar on Friday.
Yesterday's victory puts Laos third of the five-team group.
Both teams started slowly producing no real chances in the first 15 minutes of the game.
The first real chance of the first half fell to the Philippines when midfielder Marvin Janver Malinay Angeles dribbled past three Laos' defenders in the 17th minute on the left side of the box, but only to see his cross blocked by a defender.
Laos captain Lamnao Singto then played a great through ball to Sithideth, who made a very good run behind the Philippines' backline and calmly slotted the ball past Paulo Pascual to give Laos 1-0 lead in the 22nd minute.
A minute later the Philippine defenders made another mistake allowing Soukaphone to make it 2-0.
The third goal saw Soukaphone Vongchiengkham set up Keoviengpheth for an easy tap in the 25th minute.
Angelo Verheye Marasigan then reduced the deficit in the 41st minute netting in the 41st minute for the Azkals.
The Philippines played better and faster football in the second half. They also moved the ball well, but failed to convert the chances.
Laos had a chance to extend their lead when they were awarded a penalty in the 82nd minute but defender Ketsada Souksavanh saw his spotkick sail over the bar.
"I am not really happy with the performance of the players tonight (Sunday night), they missed so many chances, we also missed a penalty. I am not happy," said Bounlap Khenkitisack, the Laos manager, at a Press conference.
"In the next game we will play Singapore, we do not have the time to watch Singapore play as their game against Indonesia was played at the same time as ours.
"But, I think it is going to be a 50-50 match," he added.The Brunei Times
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Monday, February 27, 2012
THREE goals in three minutes helped Laos hand the Philippines their second defeat in as many games in this year's edition of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) last night.
Sithideth Khantahavong, Soukaphone Vongchiengkham and Keoviengpheth Lithideth were all on the scoresheet as Laos defeated the Azkals 3-1 at the Balapan Track & Field at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex in Berakas.
The Philippines, who are now bottom of Group A, were thrashed 8-2 by Myanmar on Friday.
Yesterday's victory puts Laos third of the five-team group.
Both teams started slowly producing no real chances in the first 15 minutes of the game.
The first real chance of the first half fell to the Philippines when midfielder Marvin Janver Malinay Angeles dribbled past three Laos' defenders in the 17th minute on the left side of the box, but only to see his cross blocked by a defender.
Laos captain Lamnao Singto then played a great through ball to Sithideth, who made a very good run behind the Philippines' backline and calmly slotted the ball past Paulo Pascual to give Laos 1-0 lead in the 22nd minute.
A minute later the Philippine defenders made another mistake allowing Soukaphone to make it 2-0.
The third goal saw Soukaphone Vongchiengkham set up Keoviengpheth for an easy tap in the 25th minute.
Angelo Verheye Marasigan then reduced the deficit in the 41st minute netting in the 41st minute for the Azkals.
The Philippines played better and faster football in the second half. They also moved the ball well, but failed to convert the chances.
Laos had a chance to extend their lead when they were awarded a penalty in the 82nd minute but defender Ketsada Souksavanh saw his spotkick sail over the bar.
"I am not really happy with the performance of the players tonight (Sunday night), they missed so many chances, we also missed a penalty. I am not happy," said Bounlap Khenkitisack, the Laos manager, at a Press conference.
"In the next game we will play Singapore, we do not have the time to watch Singapore play as their game against Indonesia was played at the same time as ours.
"But, I think it is going to be a 50-50 match," he added.The Brunei Times
Philippines coach reduced to tears
Ak Fauzi Salleh
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Monday, February 27, 2012
ZORAN Djordjevic (pic) was left in tears following the Philippines' 3-1 loss to Laos during last night's Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) game.
Their second loss in as many games their first was the 8-2 thrashing they suffered at the hands of Myanmar on Friday the Philippines' head coach seemed heart broken about the result which leaves the Azkals bottom of Group A.
"It's really difficult for us to progress now," said the Serbian at the post-match Press conference at the Balapan Track & Field at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex in Berakas.
"Everything that we planned in this match did not work well. I really feel sorry for my boys, they gave their best in the match.
"I have been coaching for 33 years and have coached in many countries before. I've never seen boys with such a big heart ... it was a mistake for me to put them in a very hard competition when they are not ready yet.
"I hope the people in the Philippines will continue to support these wonderful young players, they are very talented but we need to get support from the Philippines government to get them good preparation to compete in the future," added Djordjevic, who has only coached the team for the past month.
Mathematically though, the Filipinos still have a chance at making the semi-finals if they pick up big wins their next two games and other results go their way.
The Philippines face Singapore tomorrow at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas and meet Indonesia on Sunday at the Balapan Track & Field, in Berakas.The Brunei Times
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
Monday, February 27, 2012
ZORAN Djordjevic (pic) was left in tears following the Philippines' 3-1 loss to Laos during last night's Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) game.
Their second loss in as many games their first was the 8-2 thrashing they suffered at the hands of Myanmar on Friday the Philippines' head coach seemed heart broken about the result which leaves the Azkals bottom of Group A.
"It's really difficult for us to progress now," said the Serbian at the post-match Press conference at the Balapan Track & Field at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex in Berakas.
"Everything that we planned in this match did not work well. I really feel sorry for my boys, they gave their best in the match.
"I have been coaching for 33 years and have coached in many countries before. I've never seen boys with such a big heart ... it was a mistake for me to put them in a very hard competition when they are not ready yet.
"I hope the people in the Philippines will continue to support these wonderful young players, they are very talented but we need to get support from the Philippines government to get them good preparation to compete in the future," added Djordjevic, who has only coached the team for the past month.
Mathematically though, the Filipinos still have a chance at making the semi-finals if they pick up big wins their next two games and other results go their way.
The Philippines face Singapore tomorrow at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas and meet Indonesia on Sunday at the Balapan Track & Field, in Berakas.The Brunei Times
Philippines squad against Malaysia ?
Possible squad in friendly against Malaysia on Wednesday in Manila :
1. Eduard Sacapano
2. Jason Sabio
3. Carlie De Murga
4. Roel Gener
5. Roxy Dorlas
6. Ref Cuaresma
7. Lexton Moy
8. Emelio Caligdong (injured ?)
9. Juan Luis Guirado
10. Angel Guirado
11. Misagh Bahadoran
12. Phil Younghusband
13. Ian Araneta
14. Nate Burkey
15. Neil Etheridge
16. Ray Jonsson
17. Denis Wolf
18. Jason De Jong
19. Bervic Italia
20. OJ Clarino
21. James Younghusband
22. Rob Gier (injured ?)
23. Ruben Doctora
Pascual, Beloya , Marwin Angeles and Margarse staying in Brunei according to latest news.
OJ Clarino going to Brunei after the Malaysia friendly ?
Rob Gier and Chieffy stiill injured ?
1. Eduard Sacapano
2. Jason Sabio
3. Carlie De Murga
4. Roel Gener
5. Roxy Dorlas
6. Ref Cuaresma
7. Lexton Moy
8. Emelio Caligdong (injured ?)
9. Juan Luis Guirado
10. Angel Guirado
11. Misagh Bahadoran
12. Phil Younghusband
13. Ian Araneta
14. Nate Burkey
15. Neil Etheridge
16. Ray Jonsson
17. Denis Wolf
18. Jason De Jong
19. Bervic Italia
20. OJ Clarino
21. James Younghusband
22. Rob Gier (injured ?)
23. Ruben Doctora
Pascual, Beloya , Marwin Angeles and Margarse staying in Brunei according to latest news.
OJ Clarino going to Brunei after the Malaysia friendly ?
Rob Gier and Chieffy stiill injured ?
Despite short preparation, CFA Under-14 tops ranking of PFF Regional Football Festival
By Cheska D. Geli
Monday, February 27, 2012
THE Cebu Football Association Under-14 Elite team topped the Philippine Football Federation Regional Festival of Football yesterday at San Carlos City.
The weekend tournament was a developmental game, which serves as talent identification for the national pool in the Boys Under-14 and Girls Under-13, which are set to compete in international tournaments.
Team Cebu won all of its four games despite the short period of preparation.
Cebu defeated Negros Occidental Football Association,1-0, in the first day. In the second day, it fished another win over the Iloilo Football Association, 3-0, and completed the sweep when it routed Negros Oriental Football Association, 1-0 and Leyte Football Association, 9-0.
Head coach Jong Perez and his assistant Totot Colina said they were not expecting this finish by team Cebu, which was only formed two weeks ago.
�We were not expecting this. We simplified our game plan in our functional drills during the short period of our practice. Unexpectedly, the plan worked and it showed how our players gelled well as seen in their performance as a team,� said Perez.
Perez commended his boys for a good job in attacking and defending. He added that the technical level of his individual players as well as the tactical skills, were also impressive.
Meanwhile, CFA Girls Under-13 placed second to NOFA, whose players are mostly from San Carlos City.
The girls had one win, one draw and two losses as they played NOFA four times in the event. Since the two were the only teams in the girls division, they needed to play four matches before a winner was declared.
San Carlos and Davao City held held simultaneous festivals of football, while Luzon will conduct it next week.
Among the important components of the festival is the skills test, a series of drills for the kids, which is the basis of the coaches who scout for players.
The coaches will submit to PFF a list of recommended players who will be called in the future to be part of the training pool.
Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on February 27, 2012.
Monday, February 27, 2012
THE Cebu Football Association Under-14 Elite team topped the Philippine Football Federation Regional Festival of Football yesterday at San Carlos City.
The weekend tournament was a developmental game, which serves as talent identification for the national pool in the Boys Under-14 and Girls Under-13, which are set to compete in international tournaments.
Team Cebu won all of its four games despite the short period of preparation.
Cebu defeated Negros Occidental Football Association,1-0, in the first day. In the second day, it fished another win over the Iloilo Football Association, 3-0, and completed the sweep when it routed Negros Oriental Football Association, 1-0 and Leyte Football Association, 9-0.
Head coach Jong Perez and his assistant Totot Colina said they were not expecting this finish by team Cebu, which was only formed two weeks ago.
�We were not expecting this. We simplified our game plan in our functional drills during the short period of our practice. Unexpectedly, the plan worked and it showed how our players gelled well as seen in their performance as a team,� said Perez.
Perez commended his boys for a good job in attacking and defending. He added that the technical level of his individual players as well as the tactical skills, were also impressive.
Meanwhile, CFA Girls Under-13 placed second to NOFA, whose players are mostly from San Carlos City.
The girls had one win, one draw and two losses as they played NOFA four times in the event. Since the two were the only teams in the girls division, they needed to play four matches before a winner was declared.
San Carlos and Davao City held held simultaneous festivals of football, while Luzon will conduct it next week.
Among the important components of the festival is the skills test, a series of drills for the kids, which is the basis of the coaches who scout for players.
The coaches will submit to PFF a list of recommended players who will be called in the future to be part of the training pool.
Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on February 27, 2012.
Crazyhorse makes Aboitiz Cup semis, to play without Fegidero next week
By Cheska D. Geli
Monday, February 27, 2012
DEFENDING champion Crazyhorse FC stood its ground as it defeated Panalpina FC, 1-0, in their highly-physical men�s open game of the 14th Aboitiz Cup yesterday at the Aboitiz Football Field.
The win gave the Crazyhorse a ticket to the semifinal round set next week.
Veteran player Joshua Fegidero scored the winning goal in the 22nd minute to give Crazyhorse the lead early in the first half.
But it became a different story in the second half after a clash with Panalpina�s Bryan Flores booked them both with red cards that forced them out of the game.
Flores was defending Fegidero, when the two got too close for comfort. As the two collided in a tense situation, Flores allegedly punched Fegidero, who retaliated with a blow.
A short commotion ensued with the Crazyhorse goalkeeper leaving his post to join the fracas.
This was the second altercation of the two players after Fegidero was elbowed by Flores and was handed a yellow card earlier in the game.
Cooler heads prevailed and the match continued with Crazyhorse getting the semifinals slot.
It will, however, miss the services of Fegidero by virtue of an automatic one-game suspension because of the incurred red card.
�Okay naman, naayos na. Pasok na kami sa semis kaso sayang lang at hindi makakalaro si Joshua,� said Crazyhorse player Gary Panagsagan.
Panalpina, on the other hand, admitted that they lost the motivation to play after the minor encounters happened.
�It affected our game. We lacked practice, communication and motivation,� said Voltaire Montebon of Panalpina.
In earlier matches, the University of San Jose Recoletos- Alumni won against San Roque Football Club, 3-1, while Erco FC and DB Magone ended with a 1-1 draw.
Meanwhile, the University of San Jose Recoletos emerged the winner in the men�s Under-23 division against University of Cebu, 1-0.
Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on February 27, 2012.
Monday, February 27, 2012
DEFENDING champion Crazyhorse FC stood its ground as it defeated Panalpina FC, 1-0, in their highly-physical men�s open game of the 14th Aboitiz Cup yesterday at the Aboitiz Football Field.
The win gave the Crazyhorse a ticket to the semifinal round set next week.
Veteran player Joshua Fegidero scored the winning goal in the 22nd minute to give Crazyhorse the lead early in the first half.
But it became a different story in the second half after a clash with Panalpina�s Bryan Flores booked them both with red cards that forced them out of the game.
Flores was defending Fegidero, when the two got too close for comfort. As the two collided in a tense situation, Flores allegedly punched Fegidero, who retaliated with a blow.
A short commotion ensued with the Crazyhorse goalkeeper leaving his post to join the fracas.
This was the second altercation of the two players after Fegidero was elbowed by Flores and was handed a yellow card earlier in the game.
Cooler heads prevailed and the match continued with Crazyhorse getting the semifinals slot.
It will, however, miss the services of Fegidero by virtue of an automatic one-game suspension because of the incurred red card.
�Okay naman, naayos na. Pasok na kami sa semis kaso sayang lang at hindi makakalaro si Joshua,� said Crazyhorse player Gary Panagsagan.
Panalpina, on the other hand, admitted that they lost the motivation to play after the minor encounters happened.
�It affected our game. We lacked practice, communication and motivation,� said Voltaire Montebon of Panalpina.
In earlier matches, the University of San Jose Recoletos- Alumni won against San Roque Football Club, 3-1, while Erco FC and DB Magone ended with a 1-1 draw.
Meanwhile, the University of San Jose Recoletos emerged the winner in the men�s Under-23 division against University of Cebu, 1-0.
Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on February 27, 2012.
Sunday, 26 February 2012
Persija Coach Quit Shock
Following Persija's 0-0 draw at home to Persisam their coach, Iwan Setiawan, sensationally stepped down as coach. Persija have struggled to score goals this season but their defence has been tight.
UPDATE - he's sticking around!
Fair Play: It's more fun in the PAL Interclub
DAVAO CITY�Of all the tournaments I cover, the PAL interclub is my second-most favorite event, next of course, to home games of the
Philippine national football team.
I don�t play golf, of course, and can�t distinguish a driver from a wedge even if my life depended on it, but that doesn�t stop me from appreciating the game.
Philippine national football team.
I don�t play golf, of course, and can�t distinguish a driver from a wedge even if my life depended on it, but that doesn�t stop me from appreciating the game.
One of things I learned lately is why visiting teams do poorly and home teams do well in the tournament, and it�s not about the familiarity with the courses.
Home clubs generally perform better at home because, they are, well, at home, safely with their wives and with no, shall we say, �distractions.�
Visiting teams, on the other hand, have all the time in the world to be little boys again. Just the other day, in the final round of the men�s regular tournament, I was in the smoking area next to a guy who was calling his wife, and let just say he made another call and listening to both conversations was interesting. (Before I get anyone in trouble, he was not from Cebu.)
That�s not to say, of course, that it holds true for everyone else and there�s the Cebu Country Club as proof. This team has ruled the Founder�s Division for years, winning nine of 11 titles, away from home before getting promoted to the championship division last year.
In Cagayan in 2011, they finished second, and now? They return home as
champions of the country�s biggest golf tournament after a blistering run that saw them win by eight points over Del Monte.
And they did it, while everyone else was discounting them. Even the Manila media, when they took the lead by 10 points in the second day, all assumed they were going to fall flat in the third day.
�Ten points? Wala yan, dalawa o tatlong players lang yan,� the guys were talking in the media center the other day.
When CCC kept the lead, their banters were reduced to a whisper.
When CCC was poised to win the title, well, let�s just say, they weren�t too pleased to be proven wrong, and I think by next year, they will learn not to discount the folks from Cebu again.
But Jonathan Gesmundo was pretty happy that Cebu won.
�Yes! May bago na naming headline!� he said.
You see, the PAL Interclub men�s tournament has been dominated by a
few clubs only and CCC�s win will teach the other clubs, those who have given up, that they can win this thing with their jungolfers and club members.
Aside from stuffs like that, covering the PAL interclub is a pleasure because of the people you meet. Aside from the other sports editors like Jon Develos, Charles Maxey, and the missing Leo Palou, there�s PAL�s Charlie Erojo, who could belt out a mean Rod Stewart song on request.
I�ve also depended on Charlie for the scores and he�s faster than a fax machine. There�s also the �ates� of the media, Eya, Tini and Pinky, and they really go the extra mile to make your coverage easier.
I even joined the media division once, but I�m now smart enough to know that joining a tournament without preparation is an ill-advised move.
Next year though, is a different story. With the tournament headed here, I might just sign up for the media division anew and since it would be here, media guys who are better at hitting that tiny ball
like John Pages can also join the tourney.
Next year, too, I will finally get a chance to do what I�ve wanted to do since the PAL Interclub last came to Cebu in 2001�serve Al Mendoza a hot warm cup of coffee.
Recruiting 2013---Darius Commissiong
UAAP Football: Maroons bag back-to-back via 1-0 win
Roehl Ni�o Bautista, GMA News
University of the Philippines Fighting Maroon Jinggoy Valmayor's emphatic 61st minute goal versus the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers was enough for the UAAP men's football defending champs to keep the crown in Diliman, after a 1-0 nail-biter in the 74th season of the UAAP.
The sophomore striker found Jay Eusebio's through ball that sent the rival squad's defenses scrambling back to the box in vain.
"It feels so great na two years pa lang ako sa UP tapos dalawang championship na," said Valmayor, who was last season's top scorer and rookie of the year.
With their 1-nil win at the Ateneo High School field on Sunday, UP grabbed their third title in four years, bringing their championship tally to 16 crowns.
"We started off very, very bad [in the] first round," recalled Maroons head coach Anto Gonzales of their football stalemate slump. But redemption came sweet with a dominant second round effort that earned them a twice-to-beat advantage in the finals.
UST, meanwhile, was reminded of their 2-1 defeat last year as UP denied them the crown once again.
Striker OJ Clarino, whose collegiate football career ended on a losing note, said that he has his sights on academics.
"Marami pang ibang magagaling," said Clarino about his Philippine National Football Team gig. He joined the country's South East Asia Games U-23 campaign with Valmayor last year.
Earlier in the ladies' match, the De La Salle University Lady Archers forced a winner-take-all Finals meeting after forcing the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigresses to burn their twice-to-beat incentive.
After both sides went scoreless in regular time, the game was decided in a penalty shootout that the Green and White won, 4-3. � AMD, GMA News
University of the Philippines Fighting Maroon Jinggoy Valmayor's emphatic 61st minute goal versus the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers was enough for the UAAP men's football defending champs to keep the crown in Diliman, after a 1-0 nail-biter in the 74th season of the UAAP.
The sophomore striker found Jay Eusebio's through ball that sent the rival squad's defenses scrambling back to the box in vain.
"It feels so great na two years pa lang ako sa UP tapos dalawang championship na," said Valmayor, who was last season's top scorer and rookie of the year.
With their 1-nil win at the Ateneo High School field on Sunday, UP grabbed their third title in four years, bringing their championship tally to 16 crowns.
"We started off very, very bad [in the] first round," recalled Maroons head coach Anto Gonzales of their football stalemate slump. But redemption came sweet with a dominant second round effort that earned them a twice-to-beat advantage in the finals.
UST, meanwhile, was reminded of their 2-1 defeat last year as UP denied them the crown once again.
Striker OJ Clarino, whose collegiate football career ended on a losing note, said that he has his sights on academics.
"Marami pang ibang magagaling," said Clarino about his Philippine National Football Team gig. He joined the country's South East Asia Games U-23 campaign with Valmayor last year.
Earlier in the ladies' match, the De La Salle University Lady Archers forced a winner-take-all Finals meeting after forcing the University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigresses to burn their twice-to-beat incentive.
After both sides went scoreless in regular time, the game was decided in a penalty shootout that the Green and White won, 4-3. � AMD, GMA News
Sunday--February 26th, 2012
Emil Igwenagu's results from yesterday's NFL Combine workouts.
Nepatriots.com says Emil looks "very intriguing".
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WHAT COULD POSSIBLY GO WRONG?
Toledo takes winter conditioning to the next level.
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Have you checked on First Row streaming video lately?
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Victor Cruz looks to capitalize on his growing profile.
The Giants GM said they only took a chance on Cruz because he was a local player.
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Nepatriots.com says Emil looks "very intriguing".
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WHAT COULD POSSIBLY GO WRONG?
Toledo takes winter conditioning to the next level.
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Have you checked on First Row streaming video lately?
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Victor Cruz looks to capitalize on his growing profile.
The Giants GM said they only took a chance on Cruz because he was a local player.
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Saturday, 25 February 2012
Today HBT 2012 - Philippines 1-3 Laos (FT)
Hassan Bolkiah Trophy 2012 in Brunei
Sunday : Philippines vs Laos at 20.15 (8.15)
Official website
Twitter
Laos lost 0-2 to Indonesia in first match . Philippines lost 2-8 to Myanmar
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Starting XI :
Paolo Pascual
Jerry Barbaso
Jacques van Bossche
Amani Aguinaldo
Nestorio Margarse
Gabriel Borja
Angelo Marasigan
Dwight Kevin Sendino
Marvin Angeles
Joshua Beloya
Marwin Angeles
23 min 0-1 Laos
25 min 0-2 Laos
27 min 0-3 Laos
40 min 1-3 Philippines (Marasigan)
1-3 HT
Aguinaldo out. Pusing in
Sendino out. San Martin in
1-3 FT
Sunday : Philippines vs Laos at 20.15 (8.15)
Official website
Laos lost 0-2 to Indonesia in first match . Philippines lost 2-8 to Myanmar
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Starting XI :
Paolo Pascual
Jerry Barbaso
Jacques van Bossche
Amani Aguinaldo
Nestorio Margarse
Gabriel Borja
Angelo Marasigan
Dwight Kevin Sendino
Marvin Angeles
Joshua Beloya
Marwin Angeles
23 min 0-1 Laos
25 min 0-2 Laos
27 min 0-3 Laos
40 min 1-3 Philippines (Marasigan)
1-3 HT
Aguinaldo out. Pusing in
Sendino out. San Martin in
1-3 FT
The unofficial official announcement
 |
| "If this helps my old Temple guys, let's move the South Florida game," Al Golden seems to be saying. |
I'm too young to remember the TV broadcast of that re-entry, but I do remember the replay of what one of the ground crew guys said to Glenn after he successfully re-entered despite a heat shield that was about to burn up.
"Roger, John Glenn," the man said, "you've got a lot of guys on the ground here about to turn blue."
Well, I've been holding my breath for a few days and I'm about to turn blue waiting for another re-entry: Temple back to the Big East.
So is just about every fan who cares about Temple sports.
"Obviously I think Temple's a great fit for the Big East. I think clearly we began the process of establishing you can recruit, and there's so many great things that have occurred at Temple University. I think they're worthy of taking that next step."
_ Al Golden,
May 24th, 2011
One of the guys covering Miami (Fla.) football I've gotten to know after he asked me questions about Al Golden last fall provided a clue this morning. _ Al Golden,
May 24th, 2011
"Mike, we had to move our game with South Florida to accomodate a Temple game on the Big East schedule," the man wrote in an email. "Good news for you guys. Congratulations. Al Golden can't say anything specific, but I assume he's happy."
That's about as official as it gets these days.
I looked on the internet over the last few hours and a half to get this information "sourced" and the best I could come up with was a report in the Tampa Tribune that confirmed the move and mentioned the Temple talks as a possible reason.
That, combined with calls to the Temple ticket office where the man answered "we're waiting on the Big East" for the schedule to be finalized indicates to be that Temple and the MAC must have reached a settlement of their $2.5 million exit fee and the two years' notice.
Those two pieces of the puzzle seem to fit nicely. You don't need to be Sherlock Holmes to come to a conclusion based on that evidence.
Otherwise, it would not be logical to move games to accomodate a Big East schedule about to be released in a few days.
It's not the official announcement we've all been waiting for, but it will have to do for now.
UFL - Sunday`s matches - Global FC win 5-0
February 26, 2012
Sunken Garden United FC 0-12 Cebu Queen City United FC
4:00 pm Turf at Bonifacio Global City
Sunken Garden United Starting XI: De Castro, Billanes, Galo, Jover, Sobremisana, Rumpel, Fortuno, Faiyaz, Doronilla, Intia
Cebu Queen City United Starting XI: Isic, Cubillo, Menchavez, Villarico, Villarta, Anthony, Baunsit, Eborda, Cuizon, Aguilar, Flores
4 min Cuizon 0-1
8 min Villarico 0-2
24 min Baunsit 0-3
27 min Menchavez 0-4
29 min Villarico 0-5
33 min Doronilla 0-6
53 min Aguilar 0-7
59 min Villarico 0-8
73 min Cubelo 0-9
87 min Arriola 0-10
90 min Eborda 0-11
92 min Conmigo 0-12
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Lions Meltique Beef FC 1-0 Manila All-Japan FC
6:00 pm Turf at Bonifacio Global City
Lions Starting XI: Ngo, Tan, De Leon, Choy, Hui, Jacobs, Tan, Arenal, Bangayan, Tiu, Mozol
Manila All-Japan Starting XI: Zenki, Yuki Tanaka, Hattori, Shinichi Tanaka, Morimoto, Wakana, Okeyui, Kono, Kato, Gonda, Nono
26 min De Leon
1-0 FT
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Phil. Navy Red Juice FC 0-5 Global FC
6:00 pm UMak
Philippine Navy Red Juice Starting XI: Talipan, Perez, Fadrigalan, Burda, Kalalang, Pinero, Liman, Carino, Cabural, Viliran, Caminos
Philippine Navy Red Juice Subs: Dimzon, Candolesa, Orcullo, Leyble, Villon, Abu-Abu, Mellendrez
Global Starting XI: Guisso, Bahadoran, I. Elhabbib, B. Elhabbib, Kama, Espinosa, Basa, J. Guirado, Maravilla, Sylvain, Hoshide
Global Subs: Palami, Venida, A. Guirado, De Murga, Nejib
1 min 0-1 Misagh (Global Fc)
36 min 0-2 Juan Luis Guirado (Global Fc)
0-2 HT
58 min 0-3 Izo Elhabbib
67 min 0-4 Misagh
72 min 0-5 Izo Elhabbib
0-5 FT
Sunken Garden United FC 0-12 Cebu Queen City United FC
4:00 pm Turf at Bonifacio Global City
Sunken Garden United Starting XI: De Castro, Billanes, Galo, Jover, Sobremisana, Rumpel, Fortuno, Faiyaz, Doronilla, Intia
Cebu Queen City United Starting XI: Isic, Cubillo, Menchavez, Villarico, Villarta, Anthony, Baunsit, Eborda, Cuizon, Aguilar, Flores
4 min Cuizon 0-1
8 min Villarico 0-2
24 min Baunsit 0-3
27 min Menchavez 0-4
29 min Villarico 0-5
33 min Doronilla 0-6
53 min Aguilar 0-7
59 min Villarico 0-8
73 min Cubelo 0-9
87 min Arriola 0-10
90 min Eborda 0-11
92 min Conmigo 0-12
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Lions Meltique Beef FC 1-0 Manila All-Japan FC
6:00 pm Turf at Bonifacio Global City
Lions Starting XI: Ngo, Tan, De Leon, Choy, Hui, Jacobs, Tan, Arenal, Bangayan, Tiu, Mozol
Manila All-Japan Starting XI: Zenki, Yuki Tanaka, Hattori, Shinichi Tanaka, Morimoto, Wakana, Okeyui, Kono, Kato, Gonda, Nono
26 min De Leon
1-0 FT
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Phil. Navy Red Juice FC 0-5 Global FC
6:00 pm UMak
Philippine Navy Red Juice Starting XI: Talipan, Perez, Fadrigalan, Burda, Kalalang, Pinero, Liman, Carino, Cabural, Viliran, Caminos
Philippine Navy Red Juice Subs: Dimzon, Candolesa, Orcullo, Leyble, Villon, Abu-Abu, Mellendrez
Global Starting XI: Guisso, Bahadoran, I. Elhabbib, B. Elhabbib, Kama, Espinosa, Basa, J. Guirado, Maravilla, Sylvain, Hoshide
Global Subs: Palami, Venida, A. Guirado, De Murga, Nejib
1 min 0-1 Misagh (Global Fc)
36 min 0-2 Juan Luis Guirado (Global Fc)
0-2 HT
58 min 0-3 Izo Elhabbib
67 min 0-4 Misagh
72 min 0-5 Izo Elhabbib
0-5 FT
Saturday--February 25th, 2012
Barry Tramel, a Oklahoma Sports Blogger discusses FCS Vs FBS games this season and "opines "nobody wants to see UConn play UMass". Not to mention UMass isn't FCS anymore.
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Besides Emil Igwenagu, the MAC will have seven former players at the NFL Combine.
Speaking of Emil, he did 19 reps at the Combine's bench press event.
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The UMass Daily Collegian has some details on Victor Cruz's upcoming book.
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The Bengals special teams, including leading tackler Jeromy Miles, look to repeat their top-tier finish in 2012.
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Brandon London gets six catches for 81 yards last November 13 and runs over a whole bunch of Tiger-Cats in the process.
London has a new two year deal with the Larks.
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Besides Emil Igwenagu, the MAC will have seven former players at the NFL Combine.
Speaking of Emil, he did 19 reps at the Combine's bench press event.
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The UMass Daily Collegian has some details on Victor Cruz's upcoming book.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Bengals special teams, including leading tackler Jeromy Miles, look to repeat their top-tier finish in 2012.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brandon London gets six catches for 81 yards last November 13 and runs over a whole bunch of Tiger-Cats in the process.
London has a new two year deal with the Larks.
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Friday, 24 February 2012
Tangerang Teams Need New Home
With Benteng Stadium closed to both Persita and Persikota till further notice both teams are scooting round trying to find a new venue for their home games.
Reports today suggest Persita (fans pictured left) will use Krakatau Steel Stadium in Cilegon which is about an hpur and a half west of Tangerang.
Meanwhile Persikota are considering a number of options including Cilegon, Padeglang and Serang. Persitara's Tugu Stadium is also being considered while Pajajaran Stadium in Bogor is thought to be another option.
UFL - Saturday`s matches - Kaya FC win
February 25, 2012
Phil. Army Fritz & Macziol FC 0-2 Kaya FC LIVE ON AKTV
2:00 pm University of Makati (UMak)
Philippine Army Fritz & Macziol Starting XI: Villanueva, Lobaton, Pelayo, Cain, Roel Gener, Ronel Gener, Bedua, Sacapano, Betita, Dela Cruz, Brillantes
Philippine Army Fritz & Macziol Subs: Vestal, Baron, Silvestre, Villaruel, Bretana, Almenar
Kaya Starting XI: Garmaroudi, Sabio, Del Rosario, Semblat, Romero, Burkey, Dagroh, Omura, Moy, Boley, Kigbu
Kaya Subs: Rizaei, Del Rosario, Santos, Mallari, Camcam, Bolzico
33 min 0-1 Omura (Kaya Fc)
0-2 Eric Dagroh (Kaya Fc)
0-2 HT
Eric Dagroh , red card
0-2 FT
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Agila FC 4-3 Forza FC
4:00 pm Turf at Bonifacio Global City
Agila Starting XI: Merida, Louie Valeroso, Madrona, Somoza, Tahul, Rodelas, Salisad, Maranon, Mark Valeroso, Mortillero, Martir
Forza Starting XI: Robert, Nasir, Gbalah, Shoum, Pajibo, Casal, Cipriano, Al Mohjili, Bioumla, Campo, Agyee
4 min 0-1 Al- Mouhjili (Forza)
34 min 0-2 Agyee (Forza)
40 min 1-2 Somoza (Agila)
1-2 HT
61 min 2-2 Mortillero (Agila)
62 min 3-2 Mortillero (Agila)
63 min 4-2 Maranon (Agila)
90 min 4-3 Pajibo (Forza)
4-3 FT
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Team Socceroo FC 2-2 Union Internacional Manila LIVE ON AKTV
4:00 pm University of Makati (UMak)
Team Socceroo Starting XI: Avellana, Dinglasan, De Koenigswarter, Hector Zaghi, Reyes, Daniel Matsunaga, Joannes Reyes, Berhan,Tonda, Roza, Oraa
subs Team Socceroo : supena, jose reyes, vapor, gautier, gonzales, muraoka, pasion.
Union Internacional Manila Starting XI: Turno, Uche, Amores, Ibrahim, Hungerford, Pascual, Villajuan, Nembot, Ali, Mungcal, Cerdena
Union Subs: galicia, ayuban, ahmad.
17 min 0-1 Hungerford (Union)
23 min 1-1 Roza (Team Socceroo)
1-1 HT
2-1 Michael Reyes (Team Socceroo)
2-2 Hungerford
2-2 FT
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Diliman Victory Liner FC 2-1 Dolphins United FC
6:00 pm Turf at Bonifacio Global City
Diliman Victory Liner: Rances, Manlunas, Santiago, Datu, Permanes, Liza, Zerrudo, Appiah, Calunsod, Santos, Villame
Dolphins United Starting XI: Lelis, Echin, Cuyos, Eupena, Samnoy, Teodoro, Tim Clemente, Delante, Baleos, Concepcion, Jeremiah Clemente
5 min 1-0 Manlunas (Diliman)
35 min 1-1 Jerome Cuyos (Dolphins United)
1-1 HT
91 min 2-1 Ariel Zerrudo jr
Kaya eyes share of UFL lead vs Army booters
By Cedelf P. Tupas
Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines�Kaya guns for a share of top spot when it battles Army Fritz and Macziol Saturday in the United Football League at the University of Makati field.
Kickoff is at 2 p.m. with the Kaya booters looking for their fifth win that will put them level on points with the Loyola Meralco Sparks, who have a big edge on goal difference after a 14-0 victory over Navy last weekend.
The match will be the last for both teams, before the league goes on a break because of the AFC Challenge Cup.
Army is coming off a 3-2 nipping of Navy Wednesday, ending a four-match winless run. But it is also playing its third match in five days, while Kaya enjoyed a week�s rest after a 3-nil conquest of Pasargad.
National team striker Nate Burkey ended his scoring drought in the win, while Ivorian striker Eric Dagroh and Liberian midfielder Prince Boley also found the back of the net.
�We expect a physical match,� said Kaya defender Jason Sabio. �We want to enter the one-month hiatus on a positive note.�
Army will miss Nestorio Margarse, who has been called up to Under-21 side in the Hassanal Bolkiah Cup in Brunei.
Team Socceroo, led by celebrities Daniel Matsunaga and Fabio Ide, take on Union Internacionale Manila at 4 p.m. in a second division match that will also be aired live on AKTV on IBC13.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines�Kaya guns for a share of top spot when it battles Army Fritz and Macziol Saturday in the United Football League at the University of Makati field.
Kickoff is at 2 p.m. with the Kaya booters looking for their fifth win that will put them level on points with the Loyola Meralco Sparks, who have a big edge on goal difference after a 14-0 victory over Navy last weekend.
The match will be the last for both teams, before the league goes on a break because of the AFC Challenge Cup.
Army is coming off a 3-2 nipping of Navy Wednesday, ending a four-match winless run. But it is also playing its third match in five days, while Kaya enjoyed a week�s rest after a 3-nil conquest of Pasargad.
National team striker Nate Burkey ended his scoring drought in the win, while Ivorian striker Eric Dagroh and Liberian midfielder Prince Boley also found the back of the net.
�We expect a physical match,� said Kaya defender Jason Sabio. �We want to enter the one-month hiatus on a positive note.�
Army will miss Nestorio Margarse, who has been called up to Under-21 side in the Hassanal Bolkiah Cup in Brunei.
Team Socceroo, led by celebrities Daniel Matsunaga and Fabio Ide, take on Union Internacionale Manila at 4 p.m. in a second division match that will also be aired live on AKTV on IBC13.
CFA posts first win in PFF regionals
By Cheska D. Geli
Friday, February 24, 2012
THE Cebu Football Under-14 Team is off to a good start after stamping its first win in the PFF Regional Festival of Football yesterday in San Carlos City.
It won its match against Negros Occidental Football Association, 1-0, courtesy of a goal from Don Bosco booter Angelo Ouano in the fifth minute of the match.
�Overall, the boys really played well,� said head coach Jong Perez.
The Cebu team dominated the ball possession of the game and had a number of goal chances but unfortunately failed to convert.
�They are now communicating well and I am confident he will see them improve more in upcoming games,� said Perez.
Perez added he will have to train his boys more in finishing plays because they were ahead in ball possessions but missed their chances in getting more goals.
The team now has three points and they will try to continue the winning streak as they play Iloilo today at 2:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, the Cebu Football Under-13 team dropped its first match against NOFA, 2-1, in the first match but was able to pull a 1-1 draw against the same team in the second meeting.
Since only CFA and NOFA were able to send a girls team in the regional tournament, the two teams need to meet four times to determine the champion based on the league type format.
Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on February 25, 2012.
Friday, February 24, 2012
THE Cebu Football Under-14 Team is off to a good start after stamping its first win in the PFF Regional Festival of Football yesterday in San Carlos City.
It won its match against Negros Occidental Football Association, 1-0, courtesy of a goal from Don Bosco booter Angelo Ouano in the fifth minute of the match.
�Overall, the boys really played well,� said head coach Jong Perez.
The Cebu team dominated the ball possession of the game and had a number of goal chances but unfortunately failed to convert.
�They are now communicating well and I am confident he will see them improve more in upcoming games,� said Perez.
Perez added he will have to train his boys more in finishing plays because they were ahead in ball possessions but missed their chances in getting more goals.
The team now has three points and they will try to continue the winning streak as they play Iloilo today at 2:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, the Cebu Football Under-13 team dropped its first match against NOFA, 2-1, in the first match but was able to pull a 1-1 draw against the same team in the second meeting.
Since only CFA and NOFA were able to send a girls team in the regional tournament, the two teams need to meet four times to determine the champion based on the league type format.
Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on February 25, 2012.
Etheridge to play in Azkals match vs Malaysia
by Edward Lao, ABS-CBN Europe News Bureau
LONDON - The Philippine Azkals' first choice goalkeeper Neil Etheridge has confirmed he will be playing in the national team's friendly match against Malaysia on February 29.
The match, taking place at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila, is the final tune-up game for the Azkals ahead of this year's AFC Challenge Cup in Nepal.
Malaysia, currently 150th in the FIFA world rankings, is the defending 2010 Suzuki Cup champion. Etheridge feels it will be a stern test to see how far the Azkals have progressed since their last tournament.
"It will be a massive test for us to see where we stand at the moment. Obviously getting to the semi-finals two years ago was a massive achievement for us and we want to continue progressing and making steps in the right direction,� Etheridge said.
The Azkals, ranked 156th in the FIFA standings, stunned Asian football when they made it to the semi-final stage of the 2010 Suzuki Cup.
Philippine Head Coach Michael Weiss and Manager Dan Palami have stated they want to emulate that achievement by reaching the semis of this competition. Etheridge believes that anything can happen.
�In football, I've said it many times before, that anything is possible. We didn't expect to get to the semi-finals of the Suzuki Cup two years ago. We were the biggest underdogs there, the lowest ranked team, and lost over two legs, one zero, one zero, against Indonesia, which is a very strong team. In all honesty, it was unexpected, but we believe we can take steps forward and become a much stronger force in football", Etheridge said.
European-based Filipinos Paul Mulders, Ray Jonsson and Rob Gier will all be suiting up for the Azkals in the Challenge Cup, while Stephan Shrock and Dennis Cagara will be confirming their availability as the tournament nears.
Etheridge wants to participate but is unsure whether he will be released by his employers - English Premier League side Fulham FC.
"I know that Fulham want me to stay around the club as often as possible. As much as I'd love to go to the Challenge Cup, because it's a great competition and we've got such a hard group, and I want to compete, it's too far away really to say whether I'll be there or not yet", he said.
The Philippines is pooled in the same group as India, Tajikistan and defending Challenge Cup champions DPR Korea (North Korea). The AFC Challenge Cup will take place from March 8-13.
ABS CBN News
LONDON - The Philippine Azkals' first choice goalkeeper Neil Etheridge has confirmed he will be playing in the national team's friendly match against Malaysia on February 29.
The match, taking place at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila, is the final tune-up game for the Azkals ahead of this year's AFC Challenge Cup in Nepal.
Malaysia, currently 150th in the FIFA world rankings, is the defending 2010 Suzuki Cup champion. Etheridge feels it will be a stern test to see how far the Azkals have progressed since their last tournament.
"It will be a massive test for us to see where we stand at the moment. Obviously getting to the semi-finals two years ago was a massive achievement for us and we want to continue progressing and making steps in the right direction,� Etheridge said.
The Azkals, ranked 156th in the FIFA standings, stunned Asian football when they made it to the semi-final stage of the 2010 Suzuki Cup.
Philippine Head Coach Michael Weiss and Manager Dan Palami have stated they want to emulate that achievement by reaching the semis of this competition. Etheridge believes that anything can happen.
�In football, I've said it many times before, that anything is possible. We didn't expect to get to the semi-finals of the Suzuki Cup two years ago. We were the biggest underdogs there, the lowest ranked team, and lost over two legs, one zero, one zero, against Indonesia, which is a very strong team. In all honesty, it was unexpected, but we believe we can take steps forward and become a much stronger force in football", Etheridge said.
European-based Filipinos Paul Mulders, Ray Jonsson and Rob Gier will all be suiting up for the Azkals in the Challenge Cup, while Stephan Shrock and Dennis Cagara will be confirming their availability as the tournament nears.
Etheridge wants to participate but is unsure whether he will be released by his employers - English Premier League side Fulham FC.
"I know that Fulham want me to stay around the club as often as possible. As much as I'd love to go to the Challenge Cup, because it's a great competition and we've got such a hard group, and I want to compete, it's too far away really to say whether I'll be there or not yet", he said.
The Philippines is pooled in the same group as India, Tajikistan and defending Challenge Cup champions DPR Korea (North Korea). The AFC Challenge Cup will take place from March 8-13.
ABS CBN News
Thailand's New Teams
While I still think no one comes close to Indonesian football for cack handedness Thailand is running it a pretty close second.Notionally the Thais have three up, three down between the Thai Premier League and Division One. So have a look at the new names in the upcoming season that begins next month.
Buriram United
Wuachon United
TTM Chiang Mai
BB-CU
Isarn United
Chainat
From that three up, three down we have a whopping 33% new names in the TPL next season. TTM have moved from Phichit to Chiang Mai. Sisaket have become Isarn United. BB-CU United and Chainat got promoted the old fashioned way, by promotion. Buriram United may be something to do with Buriram who won Division One last season and Buriram PEA who won the TPL while Wuachon United are just a vanity project by some knucklehead who wanna impress people.
Rumours that Chainat would not be promoted because they don't have the word United in the name are not confirmed; eight teams are United in name if nothing else.
In more news from la la land, apparently BB CU, who used to be called Chula United who used to be called Chula Sinthana who used to be called ad nauseum, will use the cavernous Rajamangala Stadium. That's like, I dunno, say Wembley from England's non league playing at Wembley Stadium.
Indonesia's High Profile Friendly
The new leadership at the Indonesian Football Association, PSSI, promised they would change the game when they took over. They promised a new era of openness and professionalism and they would do their best to improve Indonesia's standing in the world game.
Gone are the days of tedious months long preparations for international tournaments interspersed with promises of friendlies against Argentina and Ivory Coast, delivering friendlies against Pelita Jaya Under 23s or the Army team.
Those days are gone. Indonesia is now preparing for not very much by playing a better quality opposition. Tonight, for example, they are being hosted by Persebaya at the new Bung Tomo Stadium in Surabaya.
A rosy future surely lies ahead for the national team...
Friday--February 24th, 2012
Matty V. has a quote from the Commissioner of the A10 that says she realizes football drives the market.
Philly.com has a story about Temple's possible move.
A copy of the UMass-MAC contract is available here .
Philly.com also states the a Temple move to the Big East would change the recruiting dynamics of the Northeast for both hoops and football.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yahoo Sports has a story about Emil Igwenagu and UMass football.
Relevant quote for UMass fans:
""When you look at the number of guys they've placed in the league, UMass is now a program that is sending players into the NFL regularly," the scout said. "And they're guys making an impact, guys starting and contributing. You have to look at these players now."
Emil's official weigh-in numbers from the NFL Combine.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I forgot to mention Emil and James Lizotte made the CAA All-Academic team (.pdf download).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A Bleacher Report writer looks at every opening game in the 2012 season and predicts a UConn victory over UMass. He also uses an image I took.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Philly.com has a story about Temple's possible move.
A copy of the UMass-MAC contract is available here .
Philly.com also states the a Temple move to the Big East would change the recruiting dynamics of the Northeast for both hoops and football.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yahoo Sports has a story about Emil Igwenagu and UMass football.
Relevant quote for UMass fans:
""When you look at the number of guys they've placed in the league, UMass is now a program that is sending players into the NFL regularly," the scout said. "And they're guys making an impact, guys starting and contributing. You have to look at these players now."
Emil's official weigh-in numbers from the NFL Combine.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I forgot to mention Emil and James Lizotte made the CAA All-Academic team (.pdf download).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A Bleacher Report writer looks at every opening game in the 2012 season and predicts a UConn victory over UMass. He also uses an image I took.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday, 23 February 2012
Fair Play: Azkals' first Blue-Haired Fanatic returns home
(This is the draft of my Fair Play column for Sun.Star Cebu on Feb. 25)
DAVAO CITY�To say that last Sunday�s conversation I had with coach Graeme Mackinnon was unusual would be an understatement.
Here�s a guy I�ve known since 1997 telling me he�s quitting his job as head coach of Global FC because he�s lost the fire in him. The passion was gone and now all he wants is to go home to his family.
Boy was I surprised. May have gotten a bit emotional, too.
I�ve known Graeme for quite some time now and I couldn�t forget the first time I met him because I was telling my former boss about how our football columnist got red-carded in one match and pop, on cue, this guy arrives at the office and I get introduced to the man who, right now, is in Brunei as the manager of the Philippines Under 21 team.
Time sure flies fast and 1997 sure feels like a lifetime ago considering the changes in the Philippine football landscape, and the changes, too, in our lives.
We met again in 2005 and I was no longer the angst-ridden, teenage football correspondent and he was no longer the coach who screams a lot at referees when calls that are a bit hard to understand are made.
It was the SEA Games in Bacolod and there were more space in the papers devoted to how basketball was missing than there was on the Philippines� first international football tourney at home in 14 years.
And in that SEA Games, coach Graeme was the Blue-Haired Fanatic, donning that garb and wig of his that almost got him in trouble after one teacher told the cops that he should be arrested. Now that was funny.
But he wasn�t there as just an ordinary fan because coach Graeme is no ordinary fan. He was there, too, to watch the progress of Arnie Pasinabo and Michael Casas, guys he coached in that game that got him red-carded and were starting for the U23 match.
In the final match against Malaysia, the Philippines walked to the pitch to the music of �Who let the dogs out!� thanks to Graeme�s connections.
It was quite an experience.
After that, Graeme returned home to Australia and for years, I�d occasionally get an e-mail from him when the PFF screws up anew, or when Maria Sharapova exits the Australian Open early. (He was the first to raise the alarm �what is he thinking� when the former PFF president said he would resign if he couldn�t make football the second-most popular sport in the country)
And that was that.
Things changed, of course, in December of 2010 and suddenly the nickname guys and gals like us threw around in an old forum back in 2005 was in the limelight. Just reading the word �Azkal� or hearing it mentioned on national TV made me shake my head.
And when Dan Palami and some players first attended a sports talk show, I couldn�t help but notice the program using the logo that I uploaded�it was drawn by our copyeditor and rendered on photoshop by a fellow sportswriter.
We met again in 2011, for the home match against Mongolia and we joked that if only the guys and gals in the forum thought about copyrighting the �Azkal� name in 2005, we�d be in comfortable hotels.
In that game, too, Graeme was no longer the only fan in facepaint and wigs, and he saw�like we all did�the birth of The Blue-Haired Fanatic.
I met Graeme again for the home game against Kuwait in July and it was hours before that match when I heard Dan say, �Graeme, would you coach my team?�
I broke the news later that October, when he finally took the job.
And the circle got completed too early when Graeme told me last Sunday, �I have resigned from Global.�
To be honest, about 10 minutes into that interview, while I was automatically jotting down what Graeme had to say, my mind was off in another direction.
�Does this mean I�m no longer going to see my old friend again?�
I hope not.
I surely hope not.
Thanks for the memories and lessons coach, and I hope you�re going to have all the �apo days� when you return home.
And yes, it�s been quite a crazy ride. Still is.
DAVAO CITY�To say that last Sunday�s conversation I had with coach Graeme Mackinnon was unusual would be an understatement.
Here�s a guy I�ve known since 1997 telling me he�s quitting his job as head coach of Global FC because he�s lost the fire in him. The passion was gone and now all he wants is to go home to his family.
Boy was I surprised. May have gotten a bit emotional, too.
I�ve known Graeme for quite some time now and I couldn�t forget the first time I met him because I was telling my former boss about how our football columnist got red-carded in one match and pop, on cue, this guy arrives at the office and I get introduced to the man who, right now, is in Brunei as the manager of the Philippines Under 21 team.
Time sure flies fast and 1997 sure feels like a lifetime ago considering the changes in the Philippine football landscape, and the changes, too, in our lives.
We met again in 2005 and I was no longer the angst-ridden, teenage football correspondent and he was no longer the coach who screams a lot at referees when calls that are a bit hard to understand are made.
It was the SEA Games in Bacolod and there were more space in the papers devoted to how basketball was missing than there was on the Philippines� first international football tourney at home in 14 years.
And in that SEA Games, coach Graeme was the Blue-Haired Fanatic, donning that garb and wig of his that almost got him in trouble after one teacher told the cops that he should be arrested. Now that was funny.
But he wasn�t there as just an ordinary fan because coach Graeme is no ordinary fan. He was there, too, to watch the progress of Arnie Pasinabo and Michael Casas, guys he coached in that game that got him red-carded and were starting for the U23 match.
In the final match against Malaysia, the Philippines walked to the pitch to the music of �Who let the dogs out!� thanks to Graeme�s connections.
It was quite an experience.
After that, Graeme returned home to Australia and for years, I�d occasionally get an e-mail from him when the PFF screws up anew, or when Maria Sharapova exits the Australian Open early. (He was the first to raise the alarm �what is he thinking� when the former PFF president said he would resign if he couldn�t make football the second-most popular sport in the country)
And that was that.
Things changed, of course, in December of 2010 and suddenly the nickname guys and gals like us threw around in an old forum back in 2005 was in the limelight. Just reading the word �Azkal� or hearing it mentioned on national TV made me shake my head.
And when Dan Palami and some players first attended a sports talk show, I couldn�t help but notice the program using the logo that I uploaded�it was drawn by our copyeditor and rendered on photoshop by a fellow sportswriter.
We met again in 2011, for the home match against Mongolia and we joked that if only the guys and gals in the forum thought about copyrighting the �Azkal� name in 2005, we�d be in comfortable hotels.
In that game, too, Graeme was no longer the only fan in facepaint and wigs, and he saw�like we all did�the birth of The Blue-Haired Fanatic.
I met Graeme again for the home game against Kuwait in July and it was hours before that match when I heard Dan say, �Graeme, would you coach my team?�
I broke the news later that October, when he finally took the job.
And the circle got completed too early when Graeme told me last Sunday, �I have resigned from Global.�
To be honest, about 10 minutes into that interview, while I was automatically jotting down what Graeme had to say, my mind was off in another direction.
�Does this mean I�m no longer going to see my old friend again?�
I hope not.
I surely hope not.
Thanks for the memories and lessons coach, and I hope you�re going to have all the �apo days� when you return home.
And yes, it�s been quite a crazy ride. Still is.
Today HBT 2012 - Philippines 2-8 Myanmar (FT)
Possible livestream : Visit official website
Livescore
News, comments , line-ups , predictions , post in comments !
---------------------------------------------------------
Update Starting XI :
Paolo Pascual,
Jerry Barbaso,
Nestorio Margarse(C),
Jaques Van Bossche,
Aguinaldo,
Borja,
Marasigan,
Marwin Angeles
Joshua Beloya,
Sendino,
Marvin Angeles
13 min 0-1 (Myanmar)
15 min 0-2 (Myanmar)
39 min 1-2 (Philippines) Marvin Angeles
45 min 1-3 (Myanmar)
1-3 HT
49 min 1-4 (Myanmar)
50 min 1-5 (Myanmar)PK
66 min 1-6 (Myanmar)
75 min 1-7 (Myanmar)
86 min 2-7 (Philippines) Beloya
90 min 2-8 (Myanmar)
Subs :
David Pusing
Joseph San Martin
Russel Pierson
Allen Serna
Gerardo Valmayor
Mario Jabier Clarino
Raymark Fernandez
----------------------------------------------
Laos 0-1 Indonesia HT
0-2 FT
Azkals face Malaysians in friendly
BY BONG PEDRALVEZ
FOOTBALL chief Mariano Araneta Jr. and German coach Michael Weiss like the prospects of the Philippine Azkals when they play Southeast Asian soccer powerhouse Malaysia in friendly match on Feb. 29 at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
"With our defense improving and our attack reinforced with the return of Phil Younghusband, I believe we stand a very good chance of beating Malaysia," said Araneta, noting the addition of fellow Barotac Nuevo native and comebacking Ruben Doctora Jr. in the lineup.
"What we need are quick strikers and I believe Doctora can also supply that," said Araneta of the 26-year-old standout of second running Giligan FC in the UFL.
The stocky but speedy forward is set to suit up in front of the hometown crowd opposite another national squad for the first time since playing for the Azkals in the 2008 Asian Challenge Cup group eliminations in Iloilo.
With Phil Younghusband and Fil-German Denis Wolf tipped to be the starting forwards in spearheading the attack against the reigning Southeast Asian champions, Doctora, fellow Ilonggo Ian Araneta and Misagh Bahadoran will be coming off the bench to provide instant offense should the need arise.
Weiss echoed Araneta�s hopes, saying: "I rate our chances good against Malaysia."
He pointed out the return of Phil and James Younghusband, who missed the Azkals� last tune-up match against the Australian Olympic Under-23 squad in Doha that ended in a 1-2 loss, would boost the transition from defense to offense.
"We should be more uniform and compact defensively that will help us switch fast to offensive-oriented play," Weiss said. "With Wolf and Phil pairing off for the first time in front of the home crowd, the game should be exciting."
Weiss and Araneta�s renewed optimism were also based on the fact Fil-British goalkeeper Neil Etheridge will be back in harness to mind the net, although the German mentor said he was just at home with Fil-German goalie Roland Muller.
"I�m confident with either (Muller or Etheridge) one," he said.
Araneta said Muller would not be available for the Malaysia friendly but will play for the team in next month�s AFC Challenge Cup in Kathmandu, Nepal.
For his defenders, Weiss said he will pin his hopes on Juan Luis Guirado, younger brother of striker Angel, Ray Jonsson, Jason Sabio or Dennis Cagara "if he can make it."
malaya
FOOTBALL chief Mariano Araneta Jr. and German coach Michael Weiss like the prospects of the Philippine Azkals when they play Southeast Asian soccer powerhouse Malaysia in friendly match on Feb. 29 at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
"With our defense improving and our attack reinforced with the return of Phil Younghusband, I believe we stand a very good chance of beating Malaysia," said Araneta, noting the addition of fellow Barotac Nuevo native and comebacking Ruben Doctora Jr. in the lineup.
"What we need are quick strikers and I believe Doctora can also supply that," said Araneta of the 26-year-old standout of second running Giligan FC in the UFL.
The stocky but speedy forward is set to suit up in front of the hometown crowd opposite another national squad for the first time since playing for the Azkals in the 2008 Asian Challenge Cup group eliminations in Iloilo.
With Phil Younghusband and Fil-German Denis Wolf tipped to be the starting forwards in spearheading the attack against the reigning Southeast Asian champions, Doctora, fellow Ilonggo Ian Araneta and Misagh Bahadoran will be coming off the bench to provide instant offense should the need arise.
Weiss echoed Araneta�s hopes, saying: "I rate our chances good against Malaysia."
He pointed out the return of Phil and James Younghusband, who missed the Azkals� last tune-up match against the Australian Olympic Under-23 squad in Doha that ended in a 1-2 loss, would boost the transition from defense to offense.
"We should be more uniform and compact defensively that will help us switch fast to offensive-oriented play," Weiss said. "With Wolf and Phil pairing off for the first time in front of the home crowd, the game should be exciting."
Weiss and Araneta�s renewed optimism were also based on the fact Fil-British goalkeeper Neil Etheridge will be back in harness to mind the net, although the German mentor said he was just at home with Fil-German goalie Roland Muller.
"I�m confident with either (Muller or Etheridge) one," he said.
Araneta said Muller would not be available for the Malaysia friendly but will play for the team in next month�s AFC Challenge Cup in Kathmandu, Nepal.
For his defenders, Weiss said he will pin his hopes on Juan Luis Guirado, younger brother of striker Angel, Ray Jonsson, Jason Sabio or Dennis Cagara "if he can make it."
malaya
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