More football, but real fans to miss out

Were any of you football fans aware that in this weekend’s Premier League fixtures just ONE GAME will kick off at the once traditional time of 3 o’clock?
Whatever has changed in modern football over the last few years, this is surely one of the biggest alterations made to the once beautiful game. Thanks to the demands of television schedulers combined with the midweek European games leaving the poor players in need of a nice sit down, just one game will kick off at what we once considered the normal time tomorrow. Turning up on a Saturday afternoon to watch your team is rapidly becoming a thing of the past.
Not that many people in this neck of the woods will be complaining. With the games spread out over a weekend we’ll once again have the opportunity to catch a number of matches, and that’s all very nice. But spare a thought, if you will, for the travelling fans forced to ruin their social lives in support of their football team. Portsmouth’s fans will miss their Sunday lunch by not arriving back in their home town until at least 9pm on Sunday, and that’s just a mild example of some of the travelling nightmares for the poor away supporter.
Where will it all end? Will matches be played earlier in the day once the growing Chinese economy means there are more paying Sunderland supporters in Shanghai than in the town itself?
I’m all for showing more matches, but crikey let’s have some consideration for football fans and their lives. It’s their contribution that really makes the matches what they are, as it’s the atmosphere in the Premier League that has always been its selling point. But perhaps even this is an outdated view.
Take Manchester United fans, for example. Now I’m sure one or two of you will be turning up your noses even considering the misfortune of the Old Trafford faithful, but bear with me. This season their ticketing arrangements at the club have changed, and supporters must now pay for all home games in advance rather than choosing to miss out on cup games to save money.
This is just one of the impacts of United’s massive debt that the Glazer family put the club into after taking over recently. If fans cannot afford to pay for all the club’s cup games by leaving their credit card details on file to be automatically debited whenever a home game pops up then it’s tough luck, my old son. The season ticket moves onto the next lucky waiting list member with deeper pockets. It doesn’t take a scientist to work out that what United will be left with will be a more affluent but less vocal and less loyal fan-base as time passes.
That’s why 72,000 people rocked up to Old Trafford for United’s League Cup fixture with Coventry City last week. That’s a huge attendance of course, but I wonder how many would have turned up if they hadn’t been forced into buying the tickets in the first place?
For Sir Alex Ferguson to field a team of young reserves that then lost 2-0 to the Midlanders was an insult to injury, but at least the end of United’s cup run might save their supporters a few pounds further down the line and keep a few more real fans in the game. For the time being at least.
Moving on, why do I always end up watching all the wrong matches this season? Just as I’ve sat through an uninspiring Arsenal 1-0 win over West Ham and then seen Manchester United beat Birmingham by the same scoreline, news filters through of Portsmouth and Reading playing out an eleven goal thriller at Fratton Park. So there goes the article I’d planned on the better defending in the Premier League this season.
Perhaps it’s just a conspiracy against me. Maybe they know when I’m watching and all agree to play ‘first goal wins’ whenever I’m sat down in front of the telly anticipating a decent match. I shall test this theory tonight, as I type this, by watching Tottenham take on Aston Villa. If the scoreline ends up 0-0 or 1-0 I’m going to be seriously unimpressed.
But I’m sure there’s something in it, and the best explanation I can fathom for the moment is that the gap between the bigger and lesser teams has now become so enormous that sides visiting the big boys are content to just park eleven men in front of the goal and hope for the best. This has been the case for a while now of course, but I always remember loving the EPL because each side had the ability to beat everyone else. Is that really the case these days?
I think that the “smaller” teams - the likes of Wigan and Fulham - only really decide to start playing decent football when they’re playing each other, and they’re the games I think I need to concentrate on. We’ve had two classics in the past couple of weeks with Fulham and Manchester City playing out a 3-3 draw and then on Saturday was one of those moments when you have to do a double take. Portsmouth’s seven goals against Reading’s four was one of those classic matches that make the Premier League what it is. I think I’m going to have to reassess my opinion of what makes a “boring” game when I’m planning my viewing in future. That’s why I’m targeting Fulham against Pompey as a potential classic this weekend. Let’s hope so for everyone’s sake, including the club’s away supporters.
Positive nonsense
Now I’ve nothing against pint-sized Bolton Wanderers manager Sammy Lee. He seems like a nice enough guy, but the lad is hopelessly out of his depth at the Reebok as he attempts to move Bolton forward this season. Following on from ‘Big’ Sam Allardyce was never going to be an easy task, and ‘Little’ Sam is doing a fine job in proving that theory beyond anyone’s reasonable doubt as the Trotters languish in the relegation zone.
I don’t think it’s his fault either. It’s hardly as though Sammy has limitless funds at his disposal up in Lancashire, and attempting to impose his own style onto the players is going to be doomed to failure unless Bolton can somehow climb into the top half of the table and achieve even more than the Allardyce era, which is simply not going to happen. Good luck to him, but the writing seems to be on the wall.
But that’s enough of the nice stuff. What I am thoroughly sick of, even at this early stage of the season, is the new fad of managers ‘taking positives’ from games that their side has failed to win. And Sammy Lee is the king of them all. If I hear him take “a number of positives” from another draw or defeat this season then I’m banning Sammy Lee from this column. And his mate Steve McClaren too. The new breed of manager seems to talk an awful lot of nonsense these days, and frankly I’m struggling to take any positives from that.
Goals galore?
According to a report in The Guardian, referees have been told to favour attacking teams on tight offside calls after being sent a directive that tells them: “Don’t get stuck in a time warp. Gone are the days when we would prefer a ‘dodgy offside’ to a ‘dodgy goal’.”
The new thinking comes after a briefing from the referees’ coach Paul Rejer, who told the men in black: “Think about it. Fans, media, everyone would like to see more goals. FIFA are promoting attacking play with the emphasis being on the benefit of the doubt to the attack.”
And if the Daily Mail is to be believed, Ronaldinho has agreed a whopping 58-million pound contract with Chelsea, should he decide to join the London club. The Brazilian superstar could still choose a move elsewhere, but if Chelsea becomes the destination this means a staggering 223,000 pounds in his piggy bank each Friday.
I’m sure most of us would be happy to be earning that amount in Baht. See you next week.

Duncan pips Ormsby by one

PSC golf from P J Pool Bar

Tuesday,September 25,Khao Kheow,Stableford
Nine players made the trip to the splendid Khao Kheow which was in a lull ahead of the approaching storm of the high season. The average score for the day was 27.

The kneeling Neils - Ormsby and Duncan - battled it out at Khao Kheow.

Neil Duncan and Neil Ormsby, each reveling in a shot added to their handicaps by the PSC handicap system, battled it out for top spot with Kenyan Neil Duncan (15) with 36 points edging out Antipodean Neil Ormsby (36) by one point.
Only two near pins were claimed this day by Jeff Wylie and David Gardner. The longest first putt on the 18th green was scooped by Colin Cronin.
Thursday, September 27, Plutaluang S & E, Stableford
Fourteen players teed it up on Thursday with buggies being a popular option. Club buster ‘orrible ‘Orricks’ dad, Ed senior and companion Sharron both visiting Thailand for the first time from the USA, joined us for the day and were warmly welcomed.
Canadian Neil Duncan (15) with 41 points continued to watch the ball a bit better when slashing at it, thereby managing to keep Antipodean Barry Quirk (15) with 38 points out of top spot.
After a mix-up as to whether Malcolm Smith’s handicap of 33 could count as his Stableford points score, Thong Pimblett (34) was adjudged to have come third with 32 points with the ever-present Jeff Wylie (4) completing the prize winners with 30 points after a count back with Ed junior.
Jeff bagged two near pins with one being no more than ½ inch away from a hole-in-one and therefore a birdie of course, with Roy and Thong Pimblett snagging the other two - also with birdies. Barry Quirk had a very long first putt on the 18th green.
Note: If any golfers are seeking to play with our group please visit P J Pool Bar & Restaurant on Soi Watboonsamphan (Soi Kanoi) or phone Neil on 089 511 0575.

Winfield doubles up

PSC golf from The Café Kronborg

Derek Brook
Monday, September 24, Plutaluang, Stableford
Plutaluang South and East layouts hosted a stableford competition in two flights: A Flight 0 to 17 and B Flight 18 up. The course on the day was in fine condition, with quick greens, and there was some very inexpensive beer in the clubhouse when we finished.
Bruce Lawrence won the A Flight with 37 points ahead of Jay Perrin in second with 32 points on count back over Ebrahim in third. In the B Flight the winner was Mike Winfield with 37 points ahead of Marty Topham in second with 35 points and Per Olav Baarli in third with 30 points on count back over P.Singh Basi, and Trevor Loersen.
Thursday,September 27, Greenwood, Stableford
On the drive up to Greenwood the skies were threatening and we arrived with a gentle sprinkling of rain. Quickly changed and picking up the bags and a caddie, we learned we were to play C & A, which made a nice change. I still think in all probability C is the hardest nine.
We were limited to the cart path as it was so wet, but the fairways were in fine condition, and despite being really wet the greens were hard and fast. The rain eased quickly and with an empty course it made it a most enjoyable round.
So, round over and after a quick shower we got down to the results.
In the A Flight, (0-17) the winner was Elias Magnusson with 37 points on count back over Jay Perrin in second. In third was Richard Kubicky with 35 points ahead of four other players on count back.
In the B Flight the winner, and winning both days this week at the Cafe Kronborg, was Mike Winfield with 37 points. Daryl Evans came in second with 36 points and Kevin Dinan was in third with 35 points.
T.T.F.N.

Jacks and Crossland on top at Burapha

PSC golf from The Outback Golf Bar

The Bangpakong winners gather with Captain Bob.

Monday,September 24, Burapha, Stableford
A Flight
1st Brian Jacks (11) 42pts
2nd Phil Smith (18) 41pts
3rd Frank O’Neill (18) 38 pts
B Flight
1st Paul Crossland (20) 41pts
2nd Roger Koehlar (21) 39pts
3rd Keith Avery (29) 38pts
2’s: Frank O’Neill, Ray Luttman, Paul Crossland & Brian Hardwich
This gorgeous autumn day began with twenty-five happy Outbackers roaming free amongst the green hills. How refreshing it is to use buggies properly as a benefit rather than a chore.
Playing loops A and B off the white tees proved a more relaxing, easier test of golf to most competitors and scores were impressive.
Outbackers Jacks and Crossland took the honours with Geoff Doody picking up The Hat on behalf of his caddie who insisted on applauding every shot, whether the ball found the grass, the sand, the bushes or the water, with a piercing, “ Good shot Geoffrey!”
Wednesday, September 26, Bangpakong, Stableford
A Flight
1st Bill Plath (15) 37pts
2nd Bob Philp (7) 35pts
3rd Harvey Samuel (19) 35pts
B Flight
1st Orowon Sodot (35) 40pts
2nd Travis Mitchell (22) 40pts
3rd Toy Theobald (29) 40pts
2’s: Bill Plath & Bob Philp
In spite of a slightly moist beginning we were treated to a most enjoyable day. In true golf touring tradition the Outbackers arrived en-mass, courtesy of the bus, and the return journey was made more enjoyable by the wonderful collection of tales of the day, too numerous to record save for the following.
One fatality, our first, must be included and that was to Jack Moseley’s umbrella which was completely trashed by his caddie on the first hole. Our leader, Outbacker Philp, was eager to inform me that his own brolley suffered a similar fate but he did not blame his caddie.
Nigel Cannon proudly unveiled his shining weapon on the first tee, a brand new driver, which he promptly fired, with suitable artillery type sound effects, ten yards down the fairway in the general direction of the ladies tee.
Note: The Outback Golf Bar is situated about 6km from Sukhumvit Road along Soi Siam Country. All are welcome to come and join us for a beer and a hit. Just call in and put your name down on the list or give Bob a call on 087 941 2474.

McIntosh hits only sub-par round at Phoenix

PSC golf from The Caddyshack

Tuesday, September 25, Phoenix, Medal
Monday was a trip to Phoenix for a Medal event.
Any hopes we had of a good day’s golf were marred somewhat by some very slow play caused by single players sneeking in between the 4 balls. The course was also not in the best of condition, with the approach to greens and also the putting greens themselves not up to their usual high standard.

Tuesday’s first and second: Barry McIntosh and Peter Davies.

Barry McIntosh was the only player to break par with a net 70 round and he took the day’s honours ahead of Peter Davies in second and Graham Beaumont in third, both with net 72s.
Peter was also the only golfer to get a ‘2’ so he took the pot as well.
Mike Allidi once again came in with the lowest gross score of the day, a gross 75 (net 74) but he had nothing to show for it.
Friday, September 28, Emerald, Stableford
The venue for the day was The Emerald and the format was stableford. This venue is getting more favored by golfers as the course is in great shape and a good test of golf is assured.
The players were split into two divisions with the cut made at 15 and under and the tricky pin positions meant that good scores were very hard to come by
In Division 1 we had three golfers all tied on 33 points, with the count back seeing Keith Hector in second, Bill Hewitt in third and the unlucky golfer in fourth place and just outside the prizes was Barry McIntosh.
Without any doubt though, the best round of the day and the lowest gross score of 78 was achieved by Brian Jacks, scoring 41 points off his 11 Handicap to take first prize. Brian, to his amazement, also garnered the only ‘2’ of the day despite getting beaten in a couple of the near pin prizes.
In Division 2 the scores were not so good as none of the golfers broke par. This did not stop a very close finish however between most of the field.
Chris Platten scored 34 points to secure third place, Phil Cawse came in second with 35 points, but with the same score of 35 points Phil Smith won on count back with the better back nine.
The near pin prizes sponsored by the Caddyshack were won by Les Hall, Bill Hewitt and Phil Cawse.
As from the October 1, The Caddyshack is playing golf Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, pop in and check us out as everyone is welcome.

Dabber wins his first Medal

IPGC golf from The Haven

Monday, September 24, Bangpra, Stableford
1st Roar Berger 38pts
2nd Peter Sumner 36pts
3rd Moe Deverdenne 35pts
4th Chris Knapp 35pts
5th Al Keith 35pts
6th Jens Gunnarsson 35pts
A large group for the low season traveled to the oldest course in the area and found it to be as usual in great shape, although playing a little long in the wet conditions.
Roar Berger at last stood on the top tier of the podium following a very good putting tip from Russell which he put to good use over the closing holes. On these he managed to score 4 for 4, 3 for 3 and 3 for 5 to amass 12 points in three holes and easily come from way back to the front and a two-shot victory.
Peter Sumner nearly took his first win of this trip with a solid level par round but on the day he could not match either the putting or scoring of Roar.
Moe Deverdenne led a gaggle of players on one-over by count back.
Dave Stockman had the only ‘2’ in the first division and Mark Gorda had the lone one in the second division.
Prior to the prize giving The Doc welcomed new members Serge Laureau, Jose Parodi, Richard Belin and Yves Mourier and also welcomed back Shane Heavey, Paul Ovens, Moe Deverdenne and Mark Gorda.
Wednesday, September 26, Greenwood, Stableford
1st Kenny Graham 38pts
2nd Tony Thorne 36pts
3rd B.J. Smith 36pts
4th Tony Barritt 35pts
5th Jens Gunnarsson 35pts
6th Russell Exley 35pts
Kenny Graham swept back into town with a solid two-under to take the day’s honours by two from the in-form Tony Thorne and B.J. Smith, the latter losing out on count back on the back nine.
Tony Barritt, still glowing from the recent successes with his new playing partner and team mate, had a very strong finish over the last six holes to take fourth spot from Jens Gunnarsson and Russell Exley, neither of whom could quite keep it going to the bitter end.
There were no 2’s in the second division but Russell Exley had the only one in the first division to sweep the pot.
Before presenting the prizes The Doc welcomed back Kenny Graham and Werner Pausch.
Friday, September 28, Phoenix - Blue Tees, Monthly Medal
Division 1
1st Mike Dabanovich net 74
2nd Russell Exley net 75
3rd Al Keith net 75
Division 2
1st Serge Straeten net 74
2nd Paul Ovens net 79
3rd La Keith net 83
Mike Dabanovich was totally surprised to find that he had succeeded in securing his first Monthly Medal out of The Haven with a level par round in the first division against the standard scratch of 74. But with the course playing about as long as it could possibly be and the fairways very sodden following the overnight rain, anything around par was always going to be in contention.
Russell Exley nearly managed the double with a win in either division at the year end Gold and Silver medals but had to be content with second place with a count back win over Al Keith.
Serge Straeten also played a very solid round to match Dabbers level-par round in the second division, but his was a far more comprehensive victory as the second division contenders found the conditions a little too much to handle, with Paul Ovens being second best some five shots further back
La Keith, also playing off the blue tees, did exceptionally well to take third place and put one or two of the male players into the shade.
Once again there were no 2’s in the second division but Phil Groves, Mike Dabanovich and Peter Sumner shared the first division pool.
Back at The Haven, The Doc welcomed back Matt Millar and had a farewell for Peter Sumner and Tony Barritt who were both returning to Blighty for a rest.

The Square Ring: by Howie Reed

There were three fights of some importance last Sunday, with one of them hailed as one of the “best middleweight fights ever.” That claim was made by the ring announcer with the peacock like persona, Michael “Let’s get ready to Mumble” Buffer, but it may have had a hint of truth.
In Germany, former WBA heavyweight champion Nikolai Valuev (47-1) made a successful return against Francois Bergeron (27-1). It was a 12-round decision which probably had the fans booing not the decision, but Bergeron’s “hit and run” tactics and the fact that he showed little interest in trading punches.
In the land of Jeeves, that would be England, IBF (I Be Fixin) light heavyweight champion Clinton Woods retained his title with a “hard fought” 12-round decision over Julio Gonzales. Both fighters had cuts over their right eyes when the final bell sounded. For Woods this was his fourth title defense and a rematch of their fight in 2005. Next up maybe Glenn Johnson, he’s #1 IBF contender for the fourth time.
The fight between Jermain Taylor (27-0) and Kelly Pavlik (31-0) for the WBC/WBO middleweight title was a darn good scrap. The Square Ring tipped it as a “must see” and as usual was right. It had all the ingredients for a good old-fashioned brawl on the Boardwalk which mixed together well for a bountiful buffet.
Pavclik “kissed canvas” in the second and seemed ready to go but Taylor couldn’t close the deal. Pavlik got a little assist from referee Steve Smoger who took his own sweet time after the knockdown before restarting the action. In the 7th Pavlik unleashed what appeared a good solid flurry while Taylor was in the corner. As quick as you can say “bar fine”, Taylor was down and Smoger stopped the fight. The end was sudden and surprising. Between the two knockdowns Pavlik came forward throwing punches with Taylor retreating and answering, as he always does.
Taylor’s trainer Emanuel Steward stated, “It was one of the greatest fights I’ve ever seen.” Promoter Buffalo Bob Bob Arum called it, “one of the best middleweight fights I’ve seen. Right now it’s second to Hagler-Hearns.”
Gentleman, please take a deep breath.
It was a good fight but far from “great”. To be “great” there has to be back and forth action with the tide of victory swinging to and fro like a Teelock’s affections. To be “great” the crowd has to be on its collective feet yelling their baby hearts out in appreciation. That didn’t happen.
For those that caught the American feed of the fight on HBO, and if they listened to the three brain-dead “experts”, they heard a different fight than they saw. At the time of the KO, all had Pavlik ahead. The “experts” saw the fight differently than the three judges who had Taylor ahead 58-55, 59-54, 58-55. One of those judges was Julie Lederman whose father Harold is the resident HBO expert. He had Pavlik by 2 points.
The Square Ring? We had it 58-55 for Taylor. How about that?
While on the subject of “BS”, I hope someone has noticed that a plethora of fights have recently been cancelled due to “injury,” which is really a code for many things. The latest was Oleg Maskaev who “hurt” his back, which caused the cancellation of his WBC title defense against Samuel Peter due for Sunday morning. As a result the WBC has named Samuel Peter interim champion which allows him to defend against Jameel McCline instead of the “bad backed” Maskaev.
Peter seems to be a good guy and he deserves the title after being jacked around by Maskaev, James Toney and the WBC. The WBC now realizes that a champion that doesn’t defend his title, i.e. Maskaev, doesn’t bring a lot to the boxing buffet, especially money. The real looser here is Maskaev who pays the price for an incompetent manager and promoter.
Promoter Dennis “Not ready for Prime Time” Rappaport spent time looking for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow with one big fight. It never happened. Enter into the equation Fred Kesch, Oleg Maskaev’s longtime manager. He’s upset that the WBC decided (rightly) to protect itself and the heavyweight title it allows fighters to compete for.
“Give us a chance to come back and fight,” Kesch said in an interview with Fightnews. “Give us six weeks; we’ll let you know if he’s all right. Don’t treat him like he’s nobody and kick him to the curb because he has an injury! The WBC is diluting its importance. It makes the organization look like it’s not worth anything. Give him the time to recuperate. If it looks like he’s going to be out longer then give Peter an interim title, but give Oleg a chance.”
As could have been expected ‘Camp Maskaev’ filed suit, which is always advisable if you’re being stupid. Judge Deborah A. Batts told Maskaev and company to “take a hike”. Mark up a “W” for the WBC.
Oleg has had a million chances to fight but always had an excuse. He doesn’t draw fans to his fights nor TV ratings which is a combination made for “who cares?” He could fight in a phone booth and still have room for a dinner for five. He had his chance but thanks to two ‘boobs’ named Rappaport and Kesch, as the lady says, “Your time is up!” Goodbye and drive safely.
Yes Jeeves.
Your Lordship, news in that the WBC has stripped Shane Mosley of his interim welter crown because he isn’t putting it on the line when he meets Miguel Cotto on November 10. U no pay the “sanctioning fee” U no have title. It’s that simple Your Lordship.”
It should be mentioned in passing Jeeves that the lead investigator in the BALCO steroid case accused Mosley of “juicing” before his 2003 fight with De LaHoya. Mosley has denied before a Grand Jury that he never took any “juice” and specifically “THG.”
Boxing is alive and well in the Kingdom with boxers actually boxing on a regular basis. The Ban Kam-ahuan School in Mukdahan Province and Chonburi hosted boxing events recently featuring well-known Thai boxers with world credentials. It should also be mentioned that none of the bouts at either venue was anything close to being competitive, which explains why Thai fighters have so much trouble when they enter the international arena.
While not the main attraction, the return of Yodsanan Sityodthong (3K battery) after a 10-month lay off caused some excitement. 3K (52-3) was the WBA super-feather champ until he ventured to New York City to defend against Vicente Mosquera in April of 2006. Though down three times 3K did put Mosquera on the canvas for the first time in his career. That aside he lost a UD that wasn’t close.
His comeback lasted only 58 seconds of the first stanza as he KO’d either Chu Song Yong or Xu Zhong Yong (4-2) depending on where you find the results. How did he KO “whoever?” With a “right fist to the right base of the ear,” according to our man on the spot.
Former WBO bantamweight champion Ratanachai Sor Vorapin (71-9) won over Rene Banares (5-8-1). The Filipino was given 5 minutes to recover from a low blow but refused to continue. He probably said something like “Nagbibiro Ka Ba” which we all know means “NFW” in Tagalog. WBO#1 super-bantam Sod Looknongyangtoy hardly broke a sweat when he “destroyed” Joan De Guia (4-6-2) with a right hook in round three.
Couple of good fights on the menu in the next couple of days. Saturday at the York Hall, Bethel Green, the ‘Pride of the Second Road’ Dapper Dave Stewart gets his shot at the British lightweight title against Jon Thaxton. Stewart is a slight underdog as Thaxton has a points loss to Ricky Hatton on the books.
In his first title shot Stewart lost to Lee Meager who then lost to Thaxton in his first title defense. Thaxton isn’t taking anything for granted though, “Just because Dave got stopped by Lee Meager, and I beat Lee Meager, doesn’t mean I should beat him (Stewart). Styles make fights. Lee was good for me because he is a come-forward fighter, but I think I will have to go looking for Dave”, said the champ.
Anytime there’s a heavyweight title fight in New York City it gets attention. As mentioned before, Samuel Peter against Jameel McCline is a “go”. Nice showcase for Peter who probably wins on youth and power.
The really big fight is Sunday morning when Manny Pacquiao (44-3-2) and Marco Antonio Barrera (63-5) touch ‘em up for the second time in Las Vegas, Nevada. The first time they met was 2003 in San Antonio with Pacquiao getting an 11th round TKO, which stunned those that figured Barrera was unbeatable. Manny was ahead on all cards when the fight was stopped as he controlled the action from the “get-go”.
There is no doubt that it will be a good fight as both fighters come to throw punches with bad intentions. One does have to wonder though how long Barrerra can continue in the business of boxing. Although only 33, young if you’re an atomic scientist, he’s been in the ring as a professional for 18 years and that has to take a toll. In boxing, fighters get old before your eyes and usually when they least expect it. The question that will be answered on Sunday is whether this is Barrera’s time to apply for his AARP card?
Jeeves my good man, your just in time with the liquid refreshment, fire sticks and some tunes.
“Your Lordship, can I ask you a question? How did your Chicago Bubs do in the American game of rounders?”
Jeeves that would be the Chicago Cubs not the Bubs, and thanks to my pal Gary they rallied to win their division and are currently involved in the playoffs. Also Jeeves the name of the game is baseball, as it’s really rude for you to call it rounders. May I ask you a question? Did you have sex with your wife before marriage?
“Your Lordship, I can honestly say that I never slept with my wife before I got married. Did you?”
Maybe Jeeves, what was maiden name?

Bill takes the crown on count back

PSC golf from Tropical Berts

Derek Brook
Tuesday, September 25, St Andrews, Stableford
Now a standard on the monthly calendar at Tropical Bert’s, this course is really a pleasure to play and a real test of golf. Just across the road from Green Valley, and sharing the same clubhouse facilities, the up and down nature of the layout means that nobody complains of the need for carts as some hills are not too good to walk up, but from the top there are some quite superb views.

Steve Carleton of Alan Bolton Property Consultants (right) presents to Bill Knight.
On this day a full list left Bert’s nice and early, and as it was the last day of the month, the ‘Alan Bolton Golfer of the Month’ title was also up for grabs, although only three people had a chance; Bill Knight, Robin Lennon and Chris “The Fish’ Youngman.
We were a little early at the first tee, but as is normal this time of the year, we were straight away with the only confusion being the ‘leader’, had left the start list in the changing room. Any excuse to go first, however all knew their groups and all were soon away, with the just returned Kubicki family picking up the pins.
The course, as I said, was really tough but a pleasure to play, and even the high handicappers enjoyed it. The fairways were well manicured, the rough punishing and the greens fast and true. The greens were more than fast on some, with the 17th showing just how tricky when both Steve Hamstad and Gareth Weeks putted up the slope to the hole, didn’t make it and not only rolled back, but rolled off the green into the bunker on the right.
Round over we soon realised that the scores ‘on the doors’, were not going to be impressive.
Back at Bert’s, Bill waited to see if he was to be named ‘Alan Bolton Golfer of the Month’, and this was not to be decided until the count back was complete, as we had three golfers tied on 34 points. If Robin won the count back and Bill was third, Robin would just sneak in. However the count back did not go that way and the winner on count back was Carole Kubicke with 34 points over Bill Knight in second and Robin Lennon in third.
So Bill Knight won the monthly title and a big well done indeed Bill, especially as he has not been well of late.
T.T.F.N.

French Toast at Plutaluang

IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral

The Pattaya Golf Society took its Sunday Stableford show to Plutaluang on September 23 for a competition over the South and East nines. The absence of some regulars, a result of visa runs, injury or “anno domini”, meant a smaller than normal field but the return of some old friends made the day enjoyable nevertheless.
The course was in excellent condition and the greens were consistent.
Making the early running was David Thomas but a stumble on sixteen and seventeen saw his card bear two embarrassing blobs which held his score at 35 points, good enough only for third place. In second was Japanese golfer Masaaki Sugaya, tasting his first success with the group, and his 37 points was a fine return. The winner was former chef Jean Morel and he cooked up a tasty score of 39 points. He later commented over a glass of wine that at his level such days are rare and they should be savoured while they last. Very true!
Peter Blok had a trying day which saw him buying back a ball he had lost earlier but the cost was offset by his birdie ‘2’ on East 2. The Booby Bevy went to Denis Smith for his disastrous efforts, a result of a late night’s cricket on TV. Maybe it should have gone to the Starter who is now insisting that shirts must be tucked in before teeing off at Plutaluang. Another little job for the caddies? Whatever next!
Nice one Don!
Bangpra in low season is an absolute joy and the Pattaya Golf Society visited there on Tuesday, September 25, to play a stableford event. The welcome was as warm as always and the day was hot with the only drawback being the newly sanded greens on the back nine, which caught many in the group out.
Old friends had returned and for Joop Medze, playing his final round before surgery and a six-month lay-off, it was almost a suitable sign-off, but ahead of him in third came Chris Hardy whose 33 points heralded his temporary return to UK. Sunday’s winner Jean Morel found his good form continued with a fine 34 point total, this time for second place.
The winner was the man from Baku, Don Nellis, whose form this visit has been his most consistent and his knowing wink on the 10th tee presaged his final score of 36 points. It was his first win for a long time and thoroughly deserved.
Chris Hardy fired the day’s only birdie ‘2’ on the exquisite eighth hole and picked up the honours for the best gross whilst Kazuki Agune struggled to get to grips with his game and savoured the Booby Bevy for his efforts. Nevertheless, everyone had shared a fine day at Bangpra.
Good day
for the Boss
Thursday, September 27, the Pattaya Golf Society headed for Greenwood to play a stableford competition over the C and A nines and found the course in excellent shape under heavily brooding skies. Such is the “value for money” at the course these days that the group found two other Pattaya golf groups there, but this did not detract from an excellent day.
The competition was extremely tight with Kazu Agune making his mark for all the best reasons, recording his best ever score of 34 points, whilst compatriot Masashi Iizumi posted the same to continue a very consistent run. Don Nellis was also up there and his card of 34 points could have been so much better if he had found his putting touch on the front nine.
In second place was Werner Pausch, playing a course he always plays well, and his 35 points reflected a round of prodigious strength off the tee. But it was to be a day to remember for the Boss. Denis Smith rarely features in the frame but on this day his game came together with his 37 points taking the honours. The result could not have been more warmly appreciated and the smile on the Boss’ face could not have been broader if Singha Gold had been reinvented!
Kazuo Takimoto brought his current stay to an end with a birdie ‘2’ on A2 and he shared the pot with Fiz Kamruddin, whose birdie on C6 was also a fine effort. At the other end of the scale was Max Tolbert, who smiled his way through a dismal round only to end up with the Booby Bevy.
Greenwood had again provided a very fine competition venue, with the average score being a very respectable 31 points.

September is “Mod’s” month

PSC golf from the Travellers Rest

Barry Hooper
The month of September emphatically belonged to Vichayada Chaviraksa, better known to all the golfing fraternity as “Mod”. She is the first lady to take the title of “Golfer of the Month” since is inception by the organisers, both at the previous venue and now at The Travellers Rest.

Saturday’s winners: Bob Short, John Dennis and David Thomas with “Mod” Chaviraksa (Golfer of the Month for September).
Three players were in the running for the title going into Saturdays play at the Emerald: Fergus Brennan, David Thomas and Mod Chaviraksa. Whoever won there would take the title. After the days play no one was left in doubt of the winner. Mod took the one-flight event by five points with 41 points and was followed home by David Thomas on 36 and Bob Short on 32 after a count back.
Fergus was never in the running and admitted that he had posted one of his poorest games ever at the Emerald, a course that is very challenging to most players.
Mod in fact had an excellent week all round. Second in the B Flight on Tuesday at Crystal Bay, a B Flight win at Phoenix on Thursday, and then topping it off with the win at Emerald on Saturday. Congratulations from all of us at the Travellers Rest.
Tuesday September 25, Crystal Bay B & C - White Tees, Stableford
A Flight
1st Akitoshi Ito (18) 38pts
2nd David Thomas (7) 36pts
3rd Sunny Khanna (13) 36pts
4th Jack Mooney (12) 35pts
B Flight
1st Geoff Moody (28) 37pts
2nd Mod Chaviraksa (24) 36pts
3rd Seamus Farrell (36) 35pts
4th Lars Strom (23) 30pts
Near Pins: Mod Chaviraksa, Tony Burnett (2) Akitoshi Ito
2’s: Mod Chaviraksa, David Thomas, Tewin Lamthong, Tony Burnett
The A Flight saw a win for Akitoshi Ito with 38 points. Second spot went to David Thomas on a count back 36 from Sunny Khanna in third place. B Flight was Geoff Moody’s with 37 points over Mod Chaviraksa’s 36 and Seamus Farrell’s 35.
Thursday, September 27, Phoenix, Stableford
A Flight
1st Chaten Patel (16) 40pts
2nd Ken Graham (18) 39pts
3rd David Thomas (7) 37pts
4th Fergus Brennan (8) 36pts
B Flight
1st Mod Chaviraksa (24) 39pts
2nd Ian McKissack (20) 38pts
3rd Lars Strom (23) 38pts
4th John Dennis (36) 37pts
Near Pins: Stewart Thompson, Mod Chaviraksa, Jack Mooney, Steve Compton.
2’s: Chatel Patel, Mod Chaviraksa, Stewart Thompson, Jack Mooney
A very good turnout and two large flights on the day.
Chaten Patel won the A Flight with a solid 40 points with Ken Graham one back in second, David Thomas in third with 37 points and Fergus in fourth on a count back over Mick Folan and Jack Monney.
Mod Chaviraksa was the winner of B Flight with 39 points ahead of Ian McKissack and Lars Strom in second and third respectively, both on 38 points.
Saturday, September 15, Emerald – White Tees, Stableford
1st Mod Chaviraksa (22) 41pts
2nd David Thomas (7) 37pts
3rd Bob Short (24) 32pts
4th Roger Wilkinson (14) 32pts
Near Pins: Bob Short, Steve Compton, Mod Chaviraksa (2)
2’s: Mod Chaviraksa, Bob Short, Steve Gould
The turnout was down a little on the day so a one-flight event was organised
Mod Chaviraksa left no one in doubt as to the winner of the ‘Golfer of the Month’ title with an excellent 41 points. Second place went to David Thomas on 36, and third was Bob Short on a count back 32 points over Roger Wilkinson in fourth and John Dennis in fifth.
“Mod,” after the announcement and presentation of the ‘Golfer of the Month’ crystal prize, rang the bell to the delight of all who had returned back to the bar.
Reminder: If anyone is interested in golfing with the Travellers Rest we play every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. We meet at7:45 am for breakfast and transportation and new players are always made to feel welcome. Call Tewin on 086 056 7019 for further information.

Dale keeps the Murphy name on the trophy

PSC golf from The Three Sisters Bar

Tuesday last week was a great day to golf. It was overcast but no rain arrived. The greens were also good but Rodney Ishii still four-putted the first.

Monthly winner Dale Murphy (left) with second placed Bob Pierce.

As we ended the month, Dale Murphy charged to the front to win the day. He shot 38 points to come in first and get his name engraved on the Three Sisters trophy. It makes it two months in a row now that a Murphy has won the tournament at the end of the month. Last time out it was Richard and this month Dale took the honors.
Coming in a close second again was Bob Pearce with 37 points. Bob has been playing well but always seems one or two short of the lead. Playing off a 10 handicap it was still good shooting though.
Holding up the group was our steady supporter Jim Tully. Tully, as we know him, still gets out there and gets around the course at 78 years of age, but he looks much younger. Bob Benda, who is normally near the top, almost made it to the bottom as he had a horrible day coming in with 20 points. I’m sure that he will get his revenge next week.

Mai’s Thai Restaurant regains first place

Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League

200 Bowlers: Kran, Wade, La, Bill Key, Somrak, Bill and Morn.

Results & Standings September 28 (week 23)
Wade bowled a 566 series and Bill a 556 to lead Mai’s Thai Restaurant to a four point sweep over Beaver Bar and Grill which put them back into first place. Bill Key rolled a 553 series for Beaver.
Morn led the way for Café Ole with a 245 game and 551 series to give her team a three-point win over Brother D. Konrad bowled a 516 series for Brother D but his team dropped to second place.
Café Kronborg remains in third place as they split their match against Jack and Tar with each team getting two points. Somrak bowled a 214 game, 540 series and Mai knocked down 514 pins for Jack & Tar. Kran had a 206 game and 522 series for Café Kronborg.
Aht bowled a 515 series to lead Diamond Shop to a three-point win over Montana and move them into fifth place. Barry bowled a 523 series for Montana. Three Sisters won three points from VFW Post 9876 with La leading the charge with a 215 game and 576 series. Jim had a 209 game and 541 series for Three Sisters.

League Table
Team                       Points                   Standings
Mai’s Thai Restaurant 4 - 0                         55 - 37
Brother D                   1 – 3                  52.5 - 39.5
Café Kronborg            2 - 2                         49 - 43
Jack & Tar                 2 - 2                         49 - 43
Diamond Shop            3 – 1                        45 - 47
Montana                     1 – 3                  44.5 - 47.5
Beaver Bar & Grill       0 - 4                    42.5 - 49.5
Three Sisters              3 - 1                   42.5 - 49.5
Café Ole                     3 - 1                        40 - 52
VFW Post 9876           1 - 3                        40 - 52