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Europe takes the cup
but golf is the winner
A look back at the inaugural Royal Trophy
In 1926 a seed merchant from St. Albans, England visiting Wentworth golf
course for a pre-Open qualifying tournament was dismayed to see British and
American golfers standing apart from each other. In an effort to inject a
friendly bit of rivalry, he organized a competition between the two factions
with a 5 pounds sterling first prize and a champagne and chicken sandwich
buffet for all who took part. That man’s name was Samuel Ryder and from such
humble beginnings, the tournament he conceived would go on to become what is
today, one of the most fiercely competitive and high profile contests in the
whole of sport.
Last Sunday afternoon, as the sun was beginning to set over the Amata
Springs golf course in Chonburi, European captain Seve Ballesteros lifted
the 15 kilo Royal Trophy high above his head and signaled an end to 2 days
of fabulously competitive golf and great sportsmanship. More importantly
however, it ushered in a new era of friendly rivalry on the golf course
between Europe and Asia and it may not be too far down the road before this
newly born tournament can stand shoulder to shoulder with its senior
siblings, the Ryder and Presidents Cups.
The inaugural Royal Trophy proved to be a tremendous success with the
attendance of huge crowds, a relentless and emotional final Sunday charge by
the Asian team and an incredible atmosphere comparable to the any of the
world’s great golf tournaments. Golfing legend Ballesteros, a man who has
played at the top echelon of the game in all of the world’s major golfing
competitions clearly had no doubt about the importance of last week’s event.
“We have made history with the inaugural Royal Trophy. This is a very
special tournament which will grow into one of the world’s great sporting
competitions,” stated Seve just prior to his departure back to Spain. “We
had a great week. The players truly enjoyed the atmosphere and the Asians
put up a great fight. At one point I told my players that things were not
looking good on the golf course for us - we were down in seven out of the
eight singles matches. But our European players came through and although
the Asian team won the singles 5-3, we were able to protect our lead from
Saturday and win the Royal Trophy 9-7. I sincerely congratulate Massy and
the Asian team on their performance. They really made an amazing charge
today,” added the five-time Major winner.
But according to Ballersteros, the biggest winner was the sport of golf.
“The Royal Trophy was great for the players, the fans that came to the
event, the television viewers, for Thailand, really for everyone involved
with the event. But the biggest winner was golf and the people of Asia and
Europe who now have this great new competition to look forward to. The young
people of Asia can now dream, ‘one day I want to wear that red shirt’.”
The final day saw an attendance of 11, 358 fans at the Amata Spring Country
Club - possibly a record for Asian golf. “This is like being at what you see
on television at the big tournaments. Now I know what it feels like. I am
very happy I came,” said a local fan accompanied by his young son as he
walked through one of the large galleries of spectators.
The fans that showed up were not to be disappointed either as the drama
unfolded on the final day. After dominating the foursomes and fourball
matches 6-2 on Saturday, Europe needed just 2 1/2 points from the
eight-singles matches to claim victory. The Asian team however, was not
about to give up without a fight. As lunchtime approached, only Irishman
Graeme McDowell was leading his match, as the rest of the European team were
either battling from behind or all square. At one stage it even looked as
though Asia could pull off a sensational come from behind victory but when
Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee lost his match 5 and 4 to Sweden’s Henrik
Stenson, the writing was finally on the wall.
Asian captain Massy Kuramoto was magnanimous in defeat but proud of the
fight put up by his team. “Our Asian team made a great comeback. I am very
proud of them. The day before I had told them that being 6-2 down after the
first day of play, we had to go out and do whatever was necessary to win our
matches. I told them, go out and bring back a point for Asia. We saw
remarkable courage from our players. Yasuharu (Imano) asked me to play him
first because he was determined to go out and deliver a point for our team
no matter who he played or whatever happened. And he did it. He defeated one
of the world’s hottest players right now - David Howell. It was the pride of
playing for Asia and the pride of playing for our people.”
As the saying goes, to the victors go the spoils and the European team were
happy to take home with them US$1 million (€827,000) in prize money and of
course, the magnificent silver trophy donated by His Majesty King Bhumibol
Adulyadej. As runners-up, the Asian team received US$500,000 (€414,000).
Such sums would be beyond the imagination of those British and American
golfers playing for the chicken sandwiches back in 1926 but the prize money
clearly reflects the importance and status of this new event. The next five
tournaments will be held in Thailand, with the sixth edition being played in
Europe.
The memorable week was probably best summarized by living legend and
European captain Ballesteros. “Life is made up of short great moments of
happiness and significance. These are the ones you remember, they stay with
you. The Royal Trophy provided many of these.”
Seaboard FC too good for ‘Les Gaulois’ in first game of the new year
Seaboard FC traveled to Bangkok last Saturday for their
first game of the New Year in the MBMG Bangkok Casuals League to face Les
Gaulois. The French side were sitting in 3rd place in the league and came
into the game full of confidence following some impressive performances at
the back end of last year. Seaboard themselves were trying to make it 5 wins
in a row so a very close game was expected. Seaboard manager Rick Bryant was
fully aware of the striking threat of the French forward David Serene who
has already netted 20 goals this season but could look to his own sides
scoring record of 51 goals in 8 games.
Seaboard’s Ernest Romario (on
the ball) is surrounded by French defenders.
Prior to the kick off a minutes silence was respectfully observed by both
teams for the wife of a French player who had sadly died a few days before
the game.
The match eventually kicked off in brilliant sunshine and it was Seaboard
who were the first to get into their stride, stroking the ball around nicely
with the French struggling to deal with the width created by Seaboard’s wide
players, Danny Stevens and Ernest Romario.
As in the previous few games, Seaboard were clearly trying to make an early
breakthrough and it took only 2 minutes for them to open their account when
some tidy play in the middle of the park between Craig Banks and John
Campbell saw the ball played out wide to Stevens. He raced to the bye line
and hit an inch perfect cross for Mark Brittain to meet on the volley and
dispatch the ball past the helpless keeper.
Seaboard continued to press and 2 minutes later, a similar move to that
which created the goal saw a cross from Stevens controlled on his chest by
Brittain and just driven over from 18 yards out. Brittain was causing many
problems for the French defence, clearly spurred on by the news that his
younger brother Martin was to be making his first full debut for Newcastle
later in the day in the FA Cup.
On six minutes, Seaboard should have gone further ahead when a throw in down
the line from Christian Elembe found the eager running Stevens who produced
another excellent cross to find Romario at the far post, but he headed just
wide when he should have done better.
Seaboard were now in total control of the game but failed to produce any
further clear cut chances until the 22nd minute when a through ball from
Campbell found Brittain in space but his shot was blocked, with the ball
running to Romario. His first time shot thundered against the post but came
straight back and his second effort could only find the side netting.
Two minutes later Seaboard were to double their lead when Brian Wilkins
dispossessed Serene and laid the ball into the feet of Romario whose ball
over the top found Brittain; he drove past the onrushing keeper to make it
2-0 to Seaboard.
Rather than sit back Seaboard continued to surge forward and Brittain almost
completed his hat trick on 25 minutes when he met a corner from Romario but
the ball flew just over, coming to rest on the top of the netting.
The French had not even produced a shot on goal at this point with Lee
Homer, Dave Brown and Wilkins outstanding in defence. Homer in particular
was having a great afternoon containing the ever dangerous Serene.
The game however was to be turned on its head on 31 minutes when Seaboard
failed to clear their lines and a speculative 30 yard effort from the French
saw the ball flying past Mark Coombs in the Seaboard goal to bring them
right back into the game at 2-1.
However, the French sides hopes of drawing level were dashed 1 minute later
when a long ball from Homer found Romario out wide on the left and he cut
inside 3 defenders before unleashing an unstoppable shot into the top corner
from 20 yards to regain Seaboards 2 goal cushion. Seaboard were to retain
most of the possession for the remainder of the half and went in at the
break deservedly 3-1 ahead.
Seaboard manager Bryant was fully aware that the French team could come back
strongly in the second half and urged his troops to maintain their first
half efforts in the second period.
The players clearly responded to the manager’s wishes as they continued to
pressure the French defence straight from the restart with Romario finding
himself one on one with the French keeper but failing to score. Craig Banks,
who turned in another outstanding display on Saturday was next to trouble
the French when he picked up the ball just inside the opponents half and ran
on to unleash a tremendous shot from 25 yards, only to see it come crashing
back off the crossbar with the keeper well beaten.
Seaboard continued to miss a host of chances for the next 20 minutes and it
was not until almost 30 minutes into the second period that they eventually
increased their lead. Romario’s shot was well saved by the French keeper but
the ball rebounded to Stevens 25 yards out and his clever lob sent the ball
back over the keeper and several defenders before dropping into the empty
net.
There was still time for Seaboard to create more chances with Elembe firing
over after a spectacular 60 yard run. The French had still failed to muster
a single shot on goal in the second period and when Serene finally managed
to shrug off the attentions of Homer he was met by a crunching tackle from
Wilkins and the ball was cleared to safety.
The last incident of note in the game came when the referee finally lost
patience with the continued verbal assault from the French team that had
persisted all afternoon and he red carded one of the main offenders.
The final whistle soon followed and Seaboard celebrated a 4-1 victory
against one of the best sides in the league that now stretches their
unbeaten run to 5 games. Manager Bryant yet again had nothing but praise for
his hardworking side and was delighted in taking all three points against
difficult opposition away in Bangkok.
Seaboard’s next game will be at Horseshoe Point against the Scandinavian
Vikings on Saturday 14th January, kick off 4:00pm.
Seaboard FC have been fortunate enough to secure the sponsorship of AGS Four
Winds International Movers and Cranes and Equipment Ltd. Europe-Middle
East-Asia for this season and would like to thank them for their continued
support. Anybody who could be interested in joining Seaboard FC, whether
their stay in Thailand is for a long or short period is more than welcome to
come down to the football pitch in Naklua every Tuesday evening at 6:30pm,
contact us at [email protected] or call Peter on 01 810 1470.
Newbie’s happy New Year
IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral
January 3rd the golfers at the PGS shook off
the New Year celebratory cobwebs and headed up a holiday-peaceful route 331
to distant Noble Place to play their first medal event of the new year. The
course was crowded but the starter found that the B and C nines were
probably the best bet, thanks to some cajoling by Harry Riley and we were
presented with a beautiful course in fine condition. The large field was cut
at twenty and under and the day was to throw up some intriguing scores.
In division one only four shots separated the first from last as five
players posted net 74 to share 3rd place, namely Mikael Andersson, Des
Richardson, Bill Hewitt, Ya Chaiyanont and Peter Fitton. Sam Fitzsimmons
went one better to take runner-up place, his double bogey on the easy par
three B3 costing him a level par start to the year. At the head of the top
flight list was the ubiquitous John Cunningham, current Player of the Month,
and he not only posted a fine net 71 but also a warning of things to come.
His new “Callaways” are awesome in their effect!
In division two Len Jones began the year in fine style with a very
acceptable net 75 to take third place, but a long way behind the stars of
the day, Jim Wilson and “newbie” Matteus Brandl. Jim’s score of net 68 was
his best for a long while, marred only by dropping seven shots on his final
three holes on the front nine, whilst Matteus played astonishing golf,
having picked up the clubs for the first time only recently. His net 67 was
a result of his youthful power and accuracy. Dare he repeat it we wonder!
The twos pot was shared by Maralyn Hayes-Dibben, Des Richardson and Matteus
whilst an old soldier, improperly dressed for parade and on the first tee,
suffered the embarrassment of the Bobby Bevy. A happy New Year to you Sam!
Andersson & Latham share the spoils at Emerald
The first week’s competitions of the New Year ended with the Pattaya Golf
Society leaving the OK Corral to take on Emerald Ban Chang’s fine links,
Thursday, 5th January. A large group had turned out for the stableford event
and all went well until a management blunder in accepting an earlier coach
load of un-booked golfers left the club bereft of caddies. Refusing to allow
one of our groups to play without caddies left the unfortunate three-ball
with no choice but to withdraw to nearby Plutaluang for a casual round.
Undeterred, those with caddies embarked on their competition and a taut
battle ensued, resulting in an exciting finish. John Cunningham, in his mind
playing poorly, and Des Richardson, managed 34 points to take a share of
runner-up place. At the head of the table was Wilf Latham, firing one of the
two sub-par rounds of the day, 37 points, to share the win with local member
Mikael Andersson, whose gross 77 was the best of the day also.
Harry Riley had already recorded a birdie two on the thirteenth and two
holes later he was to repeat the feat, this time joined by playing partner
Wilf Latham and they both took a share of the two’s pot. It is difficult to
return a “no-result” in stableford and Noel O’Brien’s success in managing
the achievement assured him of the Booby Bevy award.
Brain, Jorn and Eddy can’t be separated
IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s
MSunday January 1
Green Valley - White Tees,
Stableford
1st Blue Flight: Steve Mulberry, 37
points
2nd Blue Flight: Robert McCarthy, 36 points
3rd Blue Flight: Phil Mitchell, 34 points
1st White A Flight: George Jackson, 39 points
2nd White A Flight: Paul Young, 38 points
3rd White A Flight: Colin Davis, 37 points
1st White B Flight: Ken Kutzing, 38 points
2nd White B Flight: Fred Theobald, 37 points
3rd White B Flight: Paul “Std”Ovens, 36 points
NP’s: Blues: #12 Phil Mitchell, Whites: #2 Joe Mooneyham, #9 John, “JtB”
Dearden #16 Joe McArdle
2’s: Blues: Robert McCarthy, Whites: Paul Young (2), Rick Sharp, Dave
Porter,Jim Munns, Kevin Moraghan
Non-2 Kenny Kutzing
It is an annual whim, perhaps bi-annual at best, that the bangers
effectively plead their case to first, go find the Blue tees at the
oft-played Green Valley layout and second, to play them. At first one
assumes that the low handicappers will automatically prevail, but
historically high handicappers have shown well (isn’t that right Uncle
Fred?). It was a player of unlimited ability, but perhaps with limited time,
due to work (pardon my French), to perfect it, Blackburn Steve, who wielded
his 16 handicap to a fine 37 points. The cream did rise for the silver medal
as +2 handicapper Robert McCarthy shot a monster gross 70 for 36 points (how
would you like to shoot that to make your handicap every day?). Befittingly,
Robert scored the only “2” off the Blues. Long hitter and fine player
Flipper garnered the third spot in the 17-strong field of Blue Bombers.
Off the traditional whites, One-Ball stole the A Flight with 39 points, with
Paul Young and The Donkey stretched out in one point increments. In B
Flight, K4 took the day with 38 points, with Uncle Fred (former Order of the
Blue Winner) and Spot the Dog stretched back, again in one point increments.
K4 had a “2” but didn’t enter the pool.
Monday January 2
Eastern Star White Tees,
Stableford
1st Sugar Ray Handford, 42 points
2nd Bob Patterson, 39 points
3rd Keith Meehan, 39 points
2’s: Doug Lynch, Doug Hubbs
The day started auspiciously (not in the Buddhist sense, but in the “how are
we going to be geeked this time” sense) as the Thai Navy scored their first
victory over an international force since their boats were elephants, as
they met the Society with an offering of no carts and no caddies. Faster
than you can say “Tower of Babel” the lads and lasses dispersed to other
golf courses, dens of iniquities and cabarets. With the bulk showing up at
Eastern Star, that was deemed the days comp. Sugar Ray showed the resiliency
that one would expect from a Lad form Oz as he took the day with a brilliant
42 points. The Senator was knotted with the old Rice Owl at 39 points, but
caucused his way to a count back victory.
Wednesday January 4
Khao Kheow (B & C) Yellow or White Tees, Stableford
1st Yellow A Flight: Rick Sharp, 40
points
2nd Yellow A Flight: Barry Tregurtha, 39 points
3rd Yellow A Flight: Barry Copestake, 38 points
1st Yellow B Flight: Jorn Finnerup, 39 points
2nd Yellow B Flight: Eddy Beilby, 39 points
3rd Yellow B light: Brian Lee, 38 points
1st White Flight: Ken Kutzing, 38 points
2’s: Yellow: Barry Tregurtha, Ray Dell, David Snell, Bob Patterson, Bob
Philp. White: none
The Society finally exacted a pound of Pete Dye’s flesh, rather than the
contrary, which is usually the case. The Hermit awoke (well his golf never
sleeps) to throw 40 points at the Yellow tees and A Flight. That left
everyone’s favorite Croupier, shell shocked for the first time for the week
(but not the last, mind you) in second place with an excellent 39 points.
Barry Copestake put a successful count back on Simon of Philbrook to wrap up
the day’s premier flight.
Two of our title lads were locked in count back as 39 points took the top
two rungs of Yellow’s B Flight. Our third title entrant completed the cast
of luminaries on the B Flight podium with the bronze. K4 almost scored a
“Craighead”, that is, winning a one-man flight, but instead had to settle,
thanks to Robert OBE, for a Kutzing, that is, winning a two-man flight.
This, albeit asterisk ridden victory, gave Kenny two firsts on the week.
Friday January 6
Royal Lakeside - White Tees,
Stableford
1st A Flight: Brian Lee, 45 points
2nd A Flight: Barry Tregurtha, 44 points
3rd A Flight: David Tanner, 42 points
1st B Flight: Ed Junger, 40 points
2nd B Flight: Eddy Beilby, 38 points
3rd B Flight: Jorn Finnerup, 38 points
Near Pins: #6 - Koji Yamada
2’s: Brian Lee, Stuart Thompson, David Snell, Peter Hynard, Jorn Finnerup,
Linda Lee, Koji Yamada, Mark Allen
Well I told you the ol’ Croupier had felt the electric cattle prod on
Wednesday, well it was a veritable pleasure compared to this day, where his
44 points yielded to the A Flight winning 45 of Brian Lee (just so Linda
doesn’t feel left out, note that she had a “2”). David Tanner edged the
Lady’s Man on count back as the field had its way with the south Bangkok
course. David Snell and Tom Sathrum should be given unpaid credit for their
40 point endeavors.
Airbus Ed took B flight with 40 points, two points ahead of the trio of Eddy
Beilby, Jorn Finnerup and K4. In his second bout with near title fame in
three days, Kenny lost the three-way to go out of the money, as Eddy made it
two seconds on the week and Jorn a first and a third, same as Brian’s weekly
total. I think Kenny has a legitimate gripe.
UK lottery man wins
IPGC golf from The Haven
Monday 02 January
Noble Place B&C, Stableford
Division 1 (0-18)
1st Mike Dabanovich: 41
2nd Nui Stockman: 39
3rd Alan Howell: 38
4th John Howard: 37
Division 2 (19plus)
1st John Clements: 39 c/b21
2nd Dave Spendley: 39 c/b19
3rd Jorn Finnerup: 37
4th Fred Land: 35
The last day of the Thai New Year Holiday saw a large turnout taking
advantage of the special holiday rate at Noble Place. The course was
excellent as usual and though the greens were hard and unreceptive, with the
tees well forward, scores were always going to be good and “Dabber” pretty
much destroyed the field with a superb 78 gross to take Division 1 honors.
The division split was at an amazing 18 (usually 12-15) and nobody in
division 1 scored less than 30 points! In Division 2, John enjoyed a fine
battle with Dave Spendley to narrowly take the honors on count-back. Another
amazing scorecard spotted by Richard was that of John Draper who carded nine
straight 5’s on B course, neither Richard or Stephen had seen this “feat”
before! In the “2”s competition, Mike Dabanovich, Peter Tucker & Tom Sathram
shared the division 1 prize, whilst Peter Johansson & Alex Tait shared the
prize in division 2. Prior to the presentation, Richard Livingston, the
resident PGA professional, welcomed Vin Durkin and welcomed back Moe
Deverdine before wishing “bon voyage” to David Dines.
Wednesday 04 January
Crystal Bay A&C, Bogey
1st Rick Holmes: 5up c/b 5up
2nd John Teague: 5up c/b 4up
3rd Mark Cooper: 5up c/b 3up
4th Brian Wilkinson: 3up
5th Martin Grimoldby: 2up
A slightly disappointing turnout for the first Bogey competition for some
considerable time. Nevertheless, 27 golfers enjoyed the change of event and
it was particularly pleasing to see 33% of the field playing off single
handicaps! Scores were quite amazing to say the least and Rick won a
memorable competition shooting a 72 gross that included a fantastic 33 gross
on the back 9, giving him the honors on count-back from John & Mark.
Congratulations also to Brian & Martin and honorable mentions to John
Howard, Alan Howell, Alex Tait & Mike Gosden who all finished 1 up. In the
“2”s competition, Jens Nielsen, Rick Holmes & John Howard shared the
division 1 prize, whilst Mark Cooper rounded out a fine day’s golf with the
only “2” in division 2. Prior to the prize giving, Richard Livingston,
welcomed Tony Charlwood and Aki & Kirsi Ahlfors, welcomed back Mark Gorda
and bid farewell to Mike Campbell & Mike Gosden.
Friday 06 January
Eastern Star, Stableford
Division 1 (0-16)
1st Brian Wilkinson: 41
2nd Danny Miller: 37 c/b 22
3rd Doug Hollingsworth: 37 c/b 19
4th John Howard: 35
Division 2 (17plus)
1st Mark Cooper: 40
2nd Tom Breslin: 38 c/b 20
3rd John Draper: 38 c/b 19
4th Barry Chadbourn: 37
A return to Ban Chan for the second successive Friday and Eastern Star
proved to be as popular as ever with 37 golfers battling for the honors. At
the end of the day Brian Wilkinson destroyed the lower handicappers in
division 1, but a well done to Danny & Doug for excellent rounds and
particularly good back 9’s. In division 2, the UK National Lottery employee,
Mark Cooper, continued where he left off on Wednesday to comfortably scoop
the “jackpot” ahead of Tom, John & Barry. Great to see Mark settling down
and playing some great golf, especially after declaring a two shot lower
handicap when he returned to Thailand a couple of weeks ago! Surprisingly,
for Eastern Star, there were plenty of “2”s and Peter Hall, Takeshi Hakozaki
& Doug Hollingsworth shared the division 1 prize, whilst Gordon Langtry,
John Draper, Barry Chadbourn & Wendy Hollingsworth each took away a share of
the spoils in division 2. Prior to the presentation, Richard Livingston,
welcomed Victor Barton & Michael Main and welcomed back Doug & Wendy
Hollingsworth, Rasmus Jensen, Claus Nielsson, & Nicholai Larsen before
bidding farewell to John Lawton, Martin Grimoldby & Peter Hall.
Curtiss Hessler lifts the Monthly Tankard at Emerald
PSC golf from McAllisters
Friday 6 January - The first Friday of the month is played for the
McAllister’s Tankard award and this time it went to a B flight player,
Curtiss Hessler with a fine round producing a Stableford score of 41
points, easily outpacing the A flight players but only just beating Joe
St. Laurent into second place.
Curtiss Hessler (center left) celebrates his
capture of the Monthly Tankard with the other winners of the day.
With Emerald Golf Club continuing to improve every week it was no
surprise to see 48 players turn out to compete on a very fine day. About
the only complaint one can have with the golf course is the apparent
over watering, causing a lot of soggy patches on the fairways. The
greens are becoming some of the best around and can be quite treacherous
when putting from above the hole and some pin positions can be so
difficult that 4 putts can happen easily.
The regular and always finely prepared luncheon spread was made
available to all the players by our genial host Don McAllister and was
thoroughly enjoyed by all. The winners for the day were, as usual, seen
treating the less fortunate to drinks at the ever crowded bar.
Next Friday will be another regular outing at Emerald. Come as a group
or individually between 07:30 and 08:30 and we will sort you out with a
group to play with.
Results:
A Flight: 1st Erice O’Brien (13) 39 Points, 2nd Rick Evans (6) 39
points, 3rd Mark Graham (15) 38 points, 4th Robert McArthy (2) 38
points.
B Flight: 1st Curtiss Hessler (20) 41 points, 2nd Joe St. Laurent (22)
40 points, 3rd Dene Mundy (28) 37 points, 4th Rick Bevington (21) 35
points.
Sauber F.1 Fan Club wraps, after eight good years
Mike Franklin
It is not often that a well run and successful organization, and one
that does charitable work for children, has to shut down through no fault of
its own. Sadly, that is the case with the Sauber F.1 Fan Club in Thailand as
the Swiss Sauber team has been taken over by BMW and will no longer have a
presence on the grid.
 Steve
and Toy Ryser share the stage with life-size cut outs of Sauber F1 drivers
Filipe Massa and Jacques Villeneuve.
Long standing president of the club, Stefan (Steve) Ryser, himself from
Switzerland, regretted the end of the club but felt it was on a high note
due to the valuable charity work that the club has accomplished over the
years.
In addition to normal club activities and social events, much work has been
done for the benefit of the underprivileged, especially children. A school
has been built and routinely maintained in the North near the Lao border
with three visits by club members to carry out or supervise the work. The
club was one of the first to react after the tsunami by not just providing
aid, but by members convoying supplies to the South and directly providing
help. In addition to other projects, the club has supported local charitable
organizations such as the Jesters ‘Care for Kids’ Charity Drive by
participating in the Children’s fair and contributing valuable F.1
memorabilia for auction on the Jesters Pub night. Sponsoring holes at the
annual Diana Gold Charity tournament has also contributed to the children’s
charities that the Diana Group supports.
A ‘wrap’ party at the Marriott Sala Rim Nam was more of a celebration of
past enjoyment and success, rather than commiseration that Sauber would no
longer be fighting for P.1 on the starting grid. However, Steve Ryser did
make sure that Sauber and motor racing was not forgotten by playing a tape
of a Ferrari F.1 V.12 engine in full flight.
His efforts and enthusiasm as President were acknowledged by a presentation
of life-size board cut outs of Filipe Massa and Jacques Villeneuve by his
lovely wife Toy and committee members: these had been skillfully obtained by
Toy Ryser at the 2005 Malaysian Grand Prix from the souvenir shop. Steve’s
efforts to acquire them were accordingly unsuccessful, as Toy was much
quicker off the grid.
It was a grand evening with some entertaining close-hand magic and a stage
show too. The Marriott, as always, displayed an excellent and varied buffet,
supported by quick and attentive table service. All the members took away a
commemorative bottle of personalized Sauber F.1 Fan Club wine and can look
back on eight years happily and charitably spent.
NB: A full report on the Sauber F1 final gathering can be seen tomorrow, Sat
14 on PMTV
Chirstmas Polo Cup
A festive win for Siam Polo Park
Winners and losers celebrate together following
the final of the Christmas Polo Cup.
There was a lot of Christmas polo this
year at the Siam Polo Park and at the new VR Polo Club. The Kuppa polo team,
representing tournament sponsors Kuppa Coffee Traders (Bangkok) were slow
off the mark in Pattaya but came on very strong in the final chukka with
excellent fieldwork by Khun Robin and a spectacular under the neck shot and
final goal by Churo to leave a final score of 4-4.
On the strength of this exciting game, the Siam Polo Park was invited 29
December to play in a fast and furious Christmas Cup tournament against the
Thai National Team at VR Sports Club near the new Suvarnabhumi airport.
There were three teams entered in this tournament. The VR team (Ploy, Noo,
Un, Cabeza Grande) gave a very strong performance with Khun Ploy marking her
man well and Khun Noo hitting very good nearside shots.
The Thai National Team (Top, Tol, Tsu, Tumb) is the team that everyone was
worried about. Top and Tol were a very dangerous combination with Tol
leading down field and blocking for “Cambiaso” Top, who recently hit a
60-yard goal after 5 taps in the air during a practice. The Siam Polo Park
team (Robin, Suzy, Tom, Marco) was on excellent form with Khun Suzy hitting
a great neck shot and Khun Robin coming on strong in her usual 3rd and 4th
chukkas as the tournament was finished under the lights.
The Thai National Team is in the process of training for the SEA Games in
2007 which will be the first SEA Games to ever feature the sport of polo.
Malaysia and Singapore have been playing polo for almost 100 years, but in
Thailand, the sport is relatively new. This will be a very exciting
challenge for the Thai Team to prepare for these games. Fortunately for
everyone, the Thai National Team had been worn out by a week’s worth of
exams in school, and Siam Polo Park were able to just edge by with only one
goal difference, so they brought the stuffed red Santa trophy back to
Pattaya.
There is a lot of exciting polo coming up in February with international
polo teams from Jordan, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Dubai and Indonesia
coming to Thailand to compete from 6-12 February for the King’s Cup. This is
the top polo tournament in Thailand and will be held at the Siam Polo Park
on 6-9 February then at VR Polo on 10-12 February. All spectators are
welcome to come and watch for free. More information on www.siampolonews.com
Ian scales the heights whilst Joe hits the cellar
PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar
On Monday only a few golfers turned up, as it was again a
holiday. Out of the last four weeks, three Mondays were holidays. As it
turned out Ian Woo, in Thailand for the holidays won the day with 38 points.
Ian played at Siam with a few others. The course was in good shape but is
due to close shortly for an upgrade.
 Cellar
occupant Joe St. Laurent (left) and Monday’s winner Ian Woo.
Others played at Pattaya Country Club. It seems that golfers from the Far
East are now coming in large numbers so it is advisable to get there in time
to utilize our booking. I have booked 07:30 to 08:30 for our Monday outings.
Holding the bag for the week was Joe St. Laurent. I don’t think that Joe was
ever in the cellar before but with a few balls in the water and others out
of bounds, his score plummeted to 23 points. It was not a bad score but it
did come in at the bottom. He will be here for a few more outings to redeem
himself.
Friends comes out
on top as league ends
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
Friends ended up this thirty week league as the first
place team after splitting their match with Second Place Shenanigans at two
points each. Teuvo rolled a 540 series for Friends and Jon had a 222 game
and 508 pin count for Shenanigans. Third place went to Mai’s Thai Restaurant
as they beat VFW Post 9876 taking three points.
First place Team - Mark, Dang
and Teuvo from Friends
VFW Post 9876 had to settle for fourth place. Fifth place
went to Domicil who beat out Three Sisters taking three points to overtake
Three Sisters. Bill Key had a 203 game and 538 series for Domicil and La
knocked down 516 pins for Three Sisters. Grape Vine took all four points
from Brother D and Café Kronborg did the same to Jack & Tar. Bill Gibson was
best for Kronborg with a 535 series, Kran rolled a 527 series and Jim added
a 519 pin count. Mai was best for Jack & Tar with a 200 game and 536 series.
House of the Golden Coin beat Café Ole as they took three points in that
match but couldn’t clime out of the cellar. Spare bowlers who bowled well
were Lance, 208 game, 541 series, Nun 528 series and Sven who rolled a 223
game.
Alex Keith and Tom take the plaudits at Noble Place
PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s
Tuesday 3 January Noble
Place, Stableford
This is getting really exciting for
the players; every Tuesday they turn up too early for brekkers, and join the
queue, just to see if Bert’s is still there. We keep telling them it will be
there next week, and it is, but now that Xmas and New Year are over I am
told the ‘workers’ are back and the new Bert’s opposite Greg’s Kitchen will
soon be open. Amazing how this time of year leads to an exodus to ‘The
Village’.
So shortly we will be on the move, probably after next weeks competition.
This week we traveled to Noble Place, and surprise, surprise the roads were
empty and quiet. Probably all were still in bed or at ‘The Village’; it was
great for us drivers as we zipped up there.
 The
winners at Tropical Bert’s.
As usual it was a quick book in and onto the course, A & B for a change!
Still they are a pleasure to play and on this day it was a good quiet round.
Back to the Clubhouse, and here it is fine value and a quiet sit down to
relax after a long day on the course, then off back down the road to Bert’s.
Back at Bert’s the players tucked into a fine salad buffet, I always like a
meat salad, you can relax and eat what you need, then into the presentation,
and on this day the winner of the A Div was Alex Sala and the B Div winner
was Keith Avery, however the big winner of the day was Tom Herrington with
many technical wins.
T.T.F.N.
Winner A Div: Alex Sala, Second: Tom Herrington, Third: Derek Brook
Winner B Div: Keith Avery, Second: Jan Van Spellen, Third: Ray Glenwright
Near Pin: Derek Brook, Stu Thompson, Rainer Helling, Tom Herrington (2),
Bill Knight, Colin Cronin, Ray Glenwright, Dave Swaine (2)
Long Put: Stu Thompson, Brian Noguer, Tom Herrington (2), Andy Evans, Keith
Avery
Vince and Colin the stars of the East
PSC golf from The Grapevine
L to R: Barry, Vincent, Colin, and Bob with the
lovely Da in front.
Thirty seven Grapevine golfers headed south
to Eastern Star (is that Irish?) for a stableford competition in 2
Divisions, 0 - 17 & 18 +. The course was in overall good condition, although
the greens were a little on the long side & thus did not run as truly as we
are used to at this good quality course. On the day, only 3 golfers bettered
their handicap, with Colin Cronin (20) recording the top score of the day,
41 points, to lead the higher division. Staying with the higher handicappers
Barry Kerr (21) scored 37 pts while a long way back, but ahead of the rest
was Gunshi Nobuo (23) with 32 pts. In the lower handicap flight Vincent
Smyth (12) was able to put his new driver to good use to score 40 pts. In
second place with a respectable 36 pts was the ever-reliable Bob Benda (17).
Third place went to Paul Petricca (17) who made good use of his newly
acquired 3 shots to also fleece an extra 100 baht from our golf organizer.
Well done, Paul. Next week?
The technical prizes were hard to come by with several not won & then a
couple that were won and not claimed at the presentation. Of the lucky
winners for the Near Pins, Vincent, Fred, Keith & Fergus were happy to
collect, while the Long Putts went to Jeff & Mike.
All in all another enjoyable day’s golf, so next week should be more of the
same, weather willing. If you would like to join in, come on down to Soi
Regent Marina & sign up, or give Malcolm a call on 038 361736.
Cheers & good golfing.
The road to Super Bowl XL (part two)
by Howie Reed
As the Kingdom had the advantage of watching three of the best college
football games in years it’s now time for the “official professionals” of
the National Football League to take over. What turned the NFL into
America’s favorite sport was “betting” and the point spread. Some from the
“mother country” call it a head start but then they call soccer “football”
so they must be tolerated. The spread makes the games even for wagering
purposes. Every punter is looking for an even break. Think I lie? Check out
the local “walking to music spots.” The “spread” makes it possible for the
on field team to win and move on but also for fans of the loser to also win
if the favorite, called the “fav”, doesn’t cover the spread. The wise guys
said this was the week to bet the “dog”
It was a tough row to hoe, as the NFL wildcard games are notoriously as
non-competitive as the action at a “walk to music palace” at closing time.
The playoffs first game had some peoples “now” team, the Washington Redskins
(+ 2 points) traveling to Tampa Bay (-2 points) to do battle with the
Buccaneers. The Buc’s won the first meeting in November 36-35. The wise
folks wrote, “Although Tampa Bay is 6-2 at home this season, Washington is a
dangerous underdog, having won five in a row to reach the post season for
the first time since 1999.”
Hard to believe but with only a “measly” 122 yards of offensive the Redskins
beat Tampa 17-10 in a game about as ugly as it could get. The Redskins best
offense was a defense that had two interceptions. The first set up the
opening touchdown, while the second stopped Tampa Bay’s attempt to pull even
as time ran out. The defense also ran back a fumble 51 yards for another TD.
With the win the Redskins now must get ready to travel to Seattle to play
“maybe” the best team in the NFC. For Redskin QB Mark Brunell it will be a
homecoming as he played his college ball at the University of Washington.
With a week off, the NFL’s most valuable player, Seahawk RB Shaun Alexander
should be ready to roll. Most think that Seattle’s biggest problem will be
overconfidence. At press time Seattle was favored by 9 points with many
thinking that will climb to 10 or more by kickoff, Sunday morning 4:30am
The New England Patriots (-8) have won three of the last four Super Bowls
and for the first time this seasons were healthy and playing at home. It’s
little wonder then that the Jacksonville Jaguars (+8) got less respect than
a Rodney Daingerfield look alike. The “dog”, in this case the Jag’s had QB
Byron Leftwitch back which along with an improved receiving corps promised
more offense and to some made them a “live dog.” The bad news for Jaguar
fans is that they were a “live dog” only until the second half when New
England blew it open on their way to a 28-3 win. That makes the Pat’s
undefeated in their last 10 playoff games and the most the favored team to
represent the AFL in Detroit, February 6th.
New England doesn’t want to be caught looking ahead as they head into Denver
for Sundays 8am tussle with the Denver Broncos at Mile High Stadium. Back in
October the Pat’s visited the heart of the Rocky Mountains only to be beaten
28-20. Bronco’s QB Jake Plummer had two TD strikes of 72 and 55 yards while
RB Tatum Bell had one run of 68 yards and 114 for the game. The Broncos
built up a 25-point lead and then hung on. The Pat’s were without Linebacker
Teddy Bruskie who should be healthy this time around. The Bronco’s are
3-point favorites.
Some seem to have forgotten that just a couple of years ago the Carolina
Panthers (+2) were in the Super Bowl. Here was another game with a “live
dog” as many thought that Carolina was peaking at the right time. New York
Giants QB Ely Manning would make a ton of mistakes in his first playoff game
and the Giant secondary was as porous as the words “I love you long time.”
All the preceding pre game statements were true as Carolina ran, passed and
stomped the Giants 23-0. How bad were the Giants? Usually the smell in New
Jersey comes from their medical waste, chemical plants or rotten politics.
This time it was the New York Football Giants that filled the air with
pollution.
The Panthers have the third best defense in the NFL but they’ll be facing
the best next week in the Chicago Bears. The first time the two teams met,
Carolina QB Jake Delhomme got sacked 8 times in a 13-3 loss. Usually a team
coming into Chicago this time of year has the weather to battle. Probably
won’t be the case as extended forecasts predict a summer like 41 degrees at
game time. If Deshawn Foster is able to run the ball while not turning it
over as he did against the Giants, Carolina has a good chance of making it
to the Championship Game. The Bears are purely defense with the offensive
there just to give the “D” a break. They are probably a little better on
offensive with Rex Grossman at QB but not much. Those in the know call for a
very low scoring game with Chicago favored at home by 3 in a game that kicks
off at 4am on Monday.
The playoff picture became complete when the Pittsburgh Steelers (-3)
traveled to meet the Cincinnati Bengals (+3) in what promised to be a high
scoring affair. During the regular season the teams spilt two games, each
winning at the others pitch. In the playoff there is always the
“unexpected”. When Bengals QB Carson Palmer went down and out after
completing his first pass the air seemed to come out of the Cincinnati team.
Palmer was replaced by John Kitna (former star in the World League) who
played well enough to take the Bengals to a 17-14 half time lead. Cincinnati
took the second half kick off and drove to the Pittsburgh 15. On 4th and 6
Cincinnati was going to try a field goal, the snap from center was a little
high, when the ball stopped rolling it was recovered at the 34 with
Pittsburgh taking over. From then on it was all Steelers. The final of 31-17
is closer than the game was.
Pittsburgh’s got a tough row to hoe as they travel to the indoor home of the
Indianapolis Colts where just last November they were taken to the woodshed
26-7. Inside the dome the problem isn’t weather but noise. Pittsburgh didn’t
handle that well first time out. No wonder the Colts are favored by 9 points
with a receiving corps that should run wild in the Steelers secondary.
Against the Bengals the Steelers were able to use the run so that QB Ben
Roethlisberger didn’t have to convert on long yardage downs. Big Ben’s
problems have been when forced to go downfield where his passes do have a
tendency to get picked off. If Indy breaks on top with a couple of quick
scores the Steelers are toast. Many think the winner of this game will go to
the Super Bowl.
Fearless forecast
Washington at Seattle: Seattle is a big favorite as they should
be. With the Redskins lack of offense it’s hard to see them making it close.
Look for the Seahawks to move on.
New England at Denver: The weather is going to be in the mid 50’s which is
probably bad news for the visiting Patriots as they would prefer below zero
and windy. Denver coach Mike Shanahan has done a great job of taming QB Jake
Plummer but the mystique of New England and the playoffs remains... They
don’t loose. Take the Pat’s to move one step closer to the Super Bowl 31-28,
oh yes take the 3
Pittsburgh at Indianapolis: Are the Colts the best team in the NFL? They
darn sure are when playing at home. The Steelers just don’t have enough
offensive to run up and down the “fake, green turf” of the Dome. Indy has
too many weapons. Take Indy to win easy.
Carolina at Chicago: If there is a “Now” team in the playoffs it’s Carolina.
Chicago played in a very weak division in winning 11. They won’t have
terrible weather to count on and their QB’s are questionable. Carolina is
the type of team that won’t give up or get worn down. Take the Panthers and
3 points for the upset.
NB: Live coverage of all the games can be seen on UBC Star Sports and UBC
Super Sports. Check the TV Sports guide on page 54 for details.
The Square Ring
by Howie Reed
Greetings to one and all, damn the torpedoes and full
speed ahead. One of the great fight fans in Land of Smiles is O.R.
Cross. Even better than him being a fight fan is that he’s always ready
to “opine” on the subject. O.R. has also hit the ground running for
2006.
“What’s your take on the UFC? Since there is a dearth of good boxing
these days, I have started watching it and have become addicted.” Slight
pause here for a brief note. O.R. was also addicted to The Contender,
golf and ‘ladies that walk’ to music, which shows he is selective with
his addictions. Back to O.R...
“Thankfully it’s not phony like the WWE or WWF or WW whatever. Lots of
hard contact and some brutal finishes. Anyway, I’m curious about the
sport since they seem to play to big crowds in Vegas and Atlantic City.
Boxing better look over its shoulder and let’s hope Don King doesn’t get
involved.” The sport does indeed draw large crowds wherever it’s
presented. Even more importantly it draws huge crowds on pay-per-view.
A little background on UFC: For years the sport was played out in “non
boxing “ places and relied on pay-per-view for major revenue. Those that
were the guardians of boxing were 100% against the UFC. Working with
Athletic Commissions, which in most states regulates boxing, they were
able to keep UFC out of major markets. Then the family that owns a
casino group in Nevada, and who had a son on the Nevada State Athletic
Commission bought the UFC lock-stock and barrel. Lo and behold the sport
became respectable playing to overflowing crowds in Las Vegas, where it
had previously been banned. The 10th wonder of the world had occurred.
O.R. isn’t however 100% happy with the UFC. “The drawback is the
announcer Bruce Buffer. Could it be that he is related to the other
“Richard cranium” boxing announcer Michael Buffer?” O.R., yes he is the
brother of same and another example of the truth that prove self evident
“apples don’t fall far from the tree.” O.R. ends with “Time for a cold
one.” Advice I’ll take to heart after about 800 more words of wisdom.
A week from today at the world’s largest casino, Foxwoods Resort of the
USA Fahprakord Rakkiatgym (52-3) will get another shot at a world title.
The last time he laced them up for a world title, Manny Pacquiao
dispatched him with nary a ‘far-thee-well’ at 2:46 of round one. That
mismatch held in the Philippines in October of 2002 should have been a
wake up call to the popular Thai. It wasn’t; since then he’s run off 12
on the trot, which includes 9 KO’s. One of those victims was advertised
as Wang-Jong Hyon of North Korea with a record of 11-2-1. In fact the
boxer was Wanjon Hai with no professional record. Like many fighters
that find making weight a problem Rakkiatgym has moved up from 122 to
126 for this title shot.
Not a lot is known about opponent Valdemir Pereira (22-0) other than
he’s from Brazil and the “IBF” Featherweight title is the weakest of the
major sanctioning organizations. Pereira does have a little pop in his
punch with 15 KO’s against opposition that was not the most difficult.
As a tune up for this title bout Pereira last fought July 23 of last
year. His opponent was Victor Hugo Paz who’s picture could probably be
found in the dictionary under the term “journeyman”. He started his
career 53-1-1 then got his first real chance for a world title. In 1995
he fought Yong-Son Choi for the WBA Super Feather title in his homeland
of Argentina. Paz lost on a 12 round TKO. From then it was all downhill
for Paz. He’s now 18-32-2. Whoops. Seems Pereira hasn’t been tested in
the deep water either. The fight will be televised live in the USA which
should provide the winner with a springboard to bigger fights. Have to
think that Rakkiatgym is in the deep end of the pool and can’t swim.
The first real fight of the year took place last Sunday from the
‘Theatre’ at Madison Square Garden in New York City. It’s easy to
discount the WBC Welter title defense of Zab Judah (34-2). The opponent
Carlos Baldomir (41-9-6) had literally been around the world of boxing.
He’d fought in Denmark, England, Germany, America and Argentina. His
business card could well have said, “Have shoes, gloves, trunks and will
travel.”
The co-feature was a fight for the WBC/WBA.IBF Cruiserweight title
between Jean Marc Mormeck (32-1) and O’Neil “Ring My” Bell. Some thought
it could usher in a new appreciation for the division. The
cruiserweights reputation is that they can’t hit, spend most of the bout
dancing and eventually decide to move up to heavyweight were the real
money is.
Jean Marc was looking for a nickname before the fight and Mr. Bell was
looking for some recognition. Mormeck still needs a nickname but Bell
has established himself as one tough dude. It was a back and forth
contest with both fighters giving and receiving on about a level plain
until the 8th when Bell took control. He was able to take that control
because it appeared that Mormeck hit the wall sometime in round 7. Prior
to that Mormeck landed a great shot in the second that sent Bell’s
mouthpiece flying through the air with the greatest of ease much like
the man on the flying trapeze. This after a round 1 where both landed
some bombs.
Momentum was on the Frenchman’s side in rounds 3 and 4, Bell rallied in
the 5th with both fighters having their moments in the 6th. Bell finally
stopped Mormeck at 2:50 of the 10th. Bell becomes the first fighter to
unify the cruiser titles since Evandler Holyfield in 1988.
The highlight of the televised fight card was Zab Judah (34-3) against
“tune up fighter” Carlos Baldomir (42-9-6) of Argentina for the WBC
Welterweight title. “Tune up”? Judah with his win over Cory Spinks was
seen to be in the same elite group of fighters as Floyd Mayweather jr.
and Ricky Hatton. A win against Baldomir and all those moneyed doors
open. Heck Judah was fighting in his home town, The ‘Threatre’ at
Madison Square Garden, with all his “homies” in attendance. Surely this
would be no more than a 3 or 4 round walk in the park.
What “Punk” Judah forgot was that walking in any park in New York City
can be dangerous. There had been attempts lately to portray Judah as a
more mature child, responsible and all grown up. That lasted until Judah
landed a punch to Baldomir’s thigh whilst the referee was giving
instructions. Then in the 4th there was a deliberate head butt.
Still Judah was cruising along with what looked like an easy win until
the 7th when Baldomir staggered Judah. That punch and the barrage that
followed over the next five rounds was enough to give the challenger a
squeaker UD decision 115-113,114-113,115-112. Judah as usual blamed
everyone but himself for the loss.
“Everyone knows that my promoter Don King is “****** up but I’m not
going to blame him.” “But you just did”, replied interviewer Jim Gray.
Judah blamed King and everyone in sight except himself. The truth is
that Judah is a low class Punk who has never taken responsibility for
his own actions. He’s never lost a fight, he’s always right and “the
public knows I’m a great sportsman”. The upside to Judah? He’d drive a
man to drink and that time has just arrived.
The Beautiful Game?: Premiership? You’re having a laugh!
Riz Taylor
The FA Cup returned last weekend, and not a moment too soon. The world’s
oldest footballing competition seems to have been devalued in recent years
by a media obsessed with the Premiership and Champions League, but the FA
Cup holds its own, special place in the hearts of football supporters across
the world. After all, how many other competitions get fans salivating at the
third round stage?
It’s the Premiership versus non-league ties that generate the real interest,
of course. Television stations dig around their archives for famous cup
footage from the past, such as Ronnie Radford’s amazing winner for lowly
Hereford against Newcastle United in 1972 or Sutton United’s triumph over
then top-flight Coventry City in 1989.
And that’s why all eyes were on Nuneaton Borough on Saturday as they hosted
Middlesbrough. Six thousand eager spectators crammed into Manor Park to
witness the biggest match in the history of the Conference North club as
they lined-up against the Premiership giants that sat exactly 100 league
places above them and contained a full-strength team of millionaire
superstars.
Middlesbrough took an early lead through a superb free kick from Spanish
midfielder Mendieta, yet from that moment on it was Nuneaton that dominated.
The UEFA Cup representatives gifted possession too easily and allowed
Nuneaton’s part-timers to dictate the play. “Premiership, you’re having a
laugh” sang the crowd, and deservedly so as Middlesbrough keeper Brad Jones
made save after save to keep his side’s slender lead intact.
You don’t go unbeaten at home for 13 months without persistence, and
Nuneaton’s was rewarded in the last minute of the match. Gez Murphy, a
Sports Development Officer by day, slotted home a penalty to reward his side
with a deserved draw and a huge pay-day when the two sides meet again at
Middlesbrough’s Riverside Stadium on Tuesday. The Nuneaton players fell into
each other’s arms at the final whistle and were swarmed by ecstatic
supporters.
As celebrations unfolded around him, a delighted Murphy said: “We knew we
couldn’t afford to be overawed. To get a draw is fantastic. It was terrific
for our fans.” Middlesbrough boss Steve McLaren also acknowledged that his
side were lucky to be in the draw for the next round. “It was always going
to be a difficult game and in the end we were fortunate it was just a draw,”
he said.
Eight months ago Liverpool became European champions after hauling back a
rampant AC Milan in Istanbul. On Saturday the scenario was all too similar,
but this time the opposition was the mighty Luton Town. The Hatters are
currently going well in the Championship and cannot be compared to Nuneaton
(or AC Milan for that matter), but the “romance of the cup” was there for
all to see as Luton rallied from a Steven Gerrard opener to lead 3-1 at the
hour mark. As in Istanbul it was the genius of manager Rafa Benitez that
brought Liverpool back into the competition, this time introducing Florent
Sinama Pongolle who notched two goals for the shocked Scousers. Xabi
Alonso’s sixty-yard thump into an empty net at the final whistle left the
score at 5-3, but the result disguised a real scare for the Reds. A true cup
classic if ever there was.
Huddersfield Town travelled to Stamford Bridge, the scene of their 1922
final win over Preston North End. The prospect of playing a Chelsea side
packed with household names clearly didn’t faze the League One side, and the
English champions made extremely hard work of progressing to round four.
Gary Taylor-Fletcher cancelled out Carlton Cole’s 12th minute opener and it
looked like Huddersfield might earn a draw until Eidur Gudjohnsen popped up
eight minutes from time to take victory.
All over England the scene repeated itself as the big boys struggled.
Several Premiership sides could only manage draws against lower league
opposition, including Everton at Millwall and West Bromwich Albion at home
to Championship leaders Reading. In-form Leeds United will take Wigan back
to Elland Road for a tricky replay and Steve Bruce’s joyless season at
Birmingham City continued as the Blues barely managed to escape from Torquay
with a 0-0 draw.
Not to be outdone, on Sunday it was Manchester United’s turn to be
humiliated by non-league opposition, this time in the shape of Burton
Albion. Nigel Clough’s side managed to hold their lofty opponents, who
featured both Wayne Rooney and Ronaldo as substitutes, to a deserved
goalless draw and secure a replay at Old Trafford. Only Phil Barsdley’s two
goal-line clearances saved United from a story that would go down in FA Cup
folklore. Leicester City also came from 2-0 down to knock out Tottenham in a
thriller at the KP Monster Munch Arena, or whatever it’s called these days,
and Fulham crashed out to Leyton Orient.
And that capped a terrifying weekend for many Premiership sides. A special
mention also goes to Tamworth for earning a replay against Stoke City. No,
I’ve never heard of them either, but that’s the whole point - their
achievement sums up the beauty of third round day of the FA Cup. It’s
untouchable, so congratulations to Tamworth, Nuneaton, Orient, Burton and
others for briefly reminding us what football is all about. Roll on the
replays!
Henry: “I’m staying”
Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has seemingly committed himself to
Arsenal, ending speculation of a summer move to Barcelona. “The truth is I
love this club and I’ve made my mind up to stay,” he told The Sun. “I can
say to all my fans and the people who care about me I want to lead the team
out in the new stadium.”
Shearer Hits Magic 200
Newcastle United fans had something to celebrate on Saturday
despite a poor performance from their team. After seeing their beloved
Magpies outplayed for long periods by League Two outfit Mansfield Town
during the clash at St.James’ Park, Alan Shearer smashed the winner home
from an Albert Luque pass in the 82nd minute to notch his 200th goal for
Newcastle, equalling Toon legend Jackie Milburn’s record haul in the
process.
Whilst Shearer was celebrating (and perhaps planning his long overdue
retirement), manager Graeme Souness clings to his job by a thread. Bolton
boss Sam Allardyce is being lined up as a replacement. Watch this space.
Sports Quiz
Unfortunately there were no correct entries submitted for
last week’s quiz. Thank you to all who tried and better luck next time. In
case you were wondering about the answers, here they are:
1) Who rode Aldaniti to win the Grand National in 1981?
Answer: Bob Champion
2) When did Great Britain last win the Ryder Cup?
Answer: 1957
3) Who scored eight tries for Scotland in 1925 during the Five Nations Rugby
tournament?
Answer: Ian Smith
This weeks Questions are:
1) Who won the Men’s 100m at the Olympics in Paris in 1924?
2) What was the original nationality of Alfredo di Stefano?
3) Who was the first reigning monarch to attend an FA Cup Final?
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