Get
your REGGAE BOYZ Replica Soccer Jerseys and T-shirts today
Uhlsport
Jamaica T-Shirt as low as $17.99
From
The Training Ground
Aug. 31
Forum
Reporter Soup_bone1
ThursdayÕs session
Well
todayÕs evening session was extremely interesting and we got glimpses
of what is about to go down on Sunday. Close to 1000 people watched
it. No Mica Hyde...Disappointing The majority of the evening was
a full scale practice match...Starters Vs Bench. The starters
were: Lawrence in goal Dawes at sweeper with Dixon and Sinclair
in front of him and Bibi and Marshall on the wings Whitmore, Powell
and Simpson in the middle Nandi and Burton up front. Interestingly
the customary inter changing between starters and bench was absent.
HmmmmÉTake a guess as to what that means. The game itself very
good, very spirited and fun to watch. Impressive were Ð Nandi,
who was doing everything and doing it well. He was running off
the ball, making short and sharp one-twoÕs with Tappa and Bibi,
dribbling, making long cross field defense splitting passes to
the wings, back heel passes, setting up chances for others, scoring
his chances, I mean the works. The Man is ready trust me and the
crowd loved it. Tappa who was majestic with the ball at his feet.
He at times had the bench defenders in a mess. He on three occasions
got the ball on the edge of the area and just ran past about four
defenders with consummate ease. It was a joy to watch. The down
side though was that on each occasion he failed to pull the trigger,
even with the keeper at his mercy. He either took one touch too
many or gave the defenders a chance to get up ( after he had made
them fall over) and make a tackle. That was annoying and the TD
was visibly upset and he let Tappa know exactly how he felt after
practice. Tappa also worked well off the ball in spurts and combined
well with Nandi in the middle. He looks as if heÕll be a handful
on Sunday. Keepers Lawrence and Gordon looked good and were up
to almost everything that was thrown at them. Frank Sinclair again
looked solid in PepeÕs role. HeÕll be fine Bibi looked shaper
than yesterday and was full of running. Powell and Simpson were
OK but nothing to Òwrite home aboutÓ Paul Hall and Barry Hayles
didnÕt do much on the Bench squad. Andy Williams while on the
bench squad showed no obvious effects on the injury and looked
good going forward. He was outstanding on the shooting drills
at the end of the practice game and had the crowd going during
each of his stints in front of goal. Burton was his usual self
during the practice game.(if you know what I mean). But he too
was excellent during the shooting drills. During the Òchest down
and volleyÓ section of the drill, he had Lawrence all over the
place, each one of his shots went crashing into the back of the
net. That got the biggest roar of the evening from the crowd.
The yout is technically sound me a tell yu. Interesting note for
Bolton FanÕs Jermaine Johnson looked good in patches during the
game. The yout can dribble me a tell you. But on about four occasions
when he unfortunately chose to attack down the left Bibi stopped
him dead in his tracks each time. HmmmmmmmmmmmmmmÉÉÉÉÉÉÉÉÉ Anyway
things are looking very very good and the Vibe gets bigger and
bigger every day. Me caan wait till tomorrow. Until then. More
in the Forum
From
The Training Ground
Aug. 30
Forum
Reporter Soup_bone1
Wednesday's Session
The big guns are in fact here except Micah Hyde, Pepe, Jermaine
Johnson and Jamie Lawrence They come in later this evening. Andy
Williams is fine; He practiced hard this evening and even took
some extra reps at shooting from outside the area. He looked good.
Linval Dixon is also OK and was an integral part of the defensive
drills. (guess what that means). As the TD promised todayÕs session
were more intensive. But it was still not that hard. He intends
to step up the pace significantly tomorrow. He did give them an
impressive motivational speech about the game and what is expected
from them and how much we all need a win. Apart from the usual
drills. They had a very spirited defense Vs offense game. The
defense looks sharp as a unit with Frank Sinclair and Daryl Powell
Òlooking up to itÓ The offense looked OK but nothing outstanding.
Nandi and Burton were there usual selves. Paul Hall is back and
it was as if he had never left, he fit right back in, the crowd
loved him and he looked keen to impress. Bibi and Barry Hayles
looked OK and for obvious reasons spent a lot of time with the
media. The session was watched by about 300-400 people and man
I am telling you the vibe was right. The squad, the coaching staff
and us in the stands, all felt it. Its not just hype trust me.
Something good is about to happen. Anyway at tomorrowÕs session
(as is usually the case) we will be able to gauge what the TD
is thinking about the starting eleven. Also looking forward to
seeing Jamie Lawrence and Micah Hyde in action. Until then More
in the Forum
REGGAE
GIRLS HOLDS HAITI TO 2-2
Aug. 26
Jamaica's Reggae Girls Played to a 2-2 draw with the Haitian National
Women's team at the Lockhart stadium. Jamaica's goals were scored
by Alicia James (captain), from a free kick and Diana Hue. The
full squad was : Alicia James (captain), Nickeisha Thomas, Tameka
Drummond, Hishamar Falconer, Kaena-Shae Thomas, Tamara Honeywell,
Jody-Ann McGregor, Suzette Murray, Kim Dunn, Denise Duncan, Bernadette
Mairs, Sonya Lewis, Yanique Simon, Elise McKenzie, Marsha Boyd,
Kessian Foster and Diana Hue. More
in the Forum
JFF
CALLS UP 25 FOR MEXICO GAME
The JFF have called up 25 players to prepare for its crucial World
Cup qualifier against Mexico at the National Stadium on Sunday.
Recalled to the squad is England-based Paul Hall, who plays with
First Division club Walsall. The full Jamaica squad named is:
Linval Dixon, Aaron Lawrence, Donovan Ricketts, Leon Gordon, Tyrone
Marshall, Frank Sinclair, Christopher Dawes, Ricardo Gardner,
Ian Goodison, Fabian Davis, Shavar Thomas, Robert Scarlett, Claude
Davis, Marco McDonald, Darryl Powell, James Lawrence, Fitzroy
Simpson, Theodore Whitmore, Andy Williams, Micah Hyde, Jermaine
Johnson, Onandi Lowe, Paul Hall, Deon Burton, Barry Hayles. More
in the Forum
JERMAINE
TO BOLTON
It was reported that Jamaican midfielder Jermaine Johnson will
sign a £1million deal with Bolton Wanderers after his impressive
trial spell at the club. The 20-year-old, who previously played
for Tivoli Gardens in the Jamaica Premier League, has been on
trial with The Trotters since last month.Johnson joins Jamaican
team mate Ricardo Gardner at the club. More
in the Forum
JAMAICA
WOMEN FEATURE ON FUSION DOUBLE HEADER
Aug. 17
Jamaica's women footballers will showcase their skill when they
match up against the Haitian National Women's team at the Lockhart
stadium on August 25, 2001. The game will be part of the attractions
in celebration of Caribbean Night
with the Miami Fusion Team. In the first game of the double
header, the Miami Fusion will face the Metro Stars in their MLS
encounter. The Jamaican girls will have Alicia james, who plays
left midfield and reads the game very well. She posse a lethal
left foot and scored from 25 metres out when they faced the Raleigh
Wings. Nicole Bell (Florida International University) is an attacking
midfielder and center forward, with an abundance of skill, very
good goal scorer and an exciting player to watch. Nickesia Thomas,
is a talented goalkeeper and was voted most outstanding player
against the Raleigh Wings in 1999. The festival starts at 6.00
PM and will have a live remote with WAVS 1170 radio, authentic
Caribbean food and music, Fusion F.C. T-Shirts and ticket giveaways.
For more information call: 954-295-6291
REGGAE
BOYZ 1-0 OVER SWANSEA CITY
August 5
The Reggae Boyz defeated Swansea City 1-0 in an entertaining game
at the Vetch on Sunday. After a much delayed kick off, due to
a a crash on the M4, Jamiaca immediately launched a series of
attacks to the delight of their supporters, showing good speed
and skill. The Reggae Boyz took the lead in the eleventh minute
when Fitzroy Simpson executed a great free kick from the right
side, which Jamie Lawrence header pass the Swans keeper. Minutes
later, Fabian Taylor blasted high and wide, after collecting a
pass from Winston Griffiths. The Boyz mostly contained their opponents,
who forced a fine save from Lawrence late in the half, with a
Steve Watkin's shot from the left side. The Swans came close toÊan
equaliser, two minutes into the second half when Michael Keegan
sent a dipping free kick over thejamaican wall, only to see an
agile Lawrence push it onto the bar and over. Lawrence was again
called on minutes later, when blocked a Watkin effort at close
range. The Boyz took control coming close on many occacions and
was unlucky to find the back of the net. On 83 minutes, Fitzroy
Simpson sent a cracking 25 yard drive just wide of the post, and
again minutes later, he forced a flying save from Jason Jones
with a simular shot, following after a Johnson, Deerr, Williams
build-up. The Teams; JAMAICA:A Lawrence (Ricketts),J Lawrence
(Daley),Goodison,Thomas,Dixon (Davies),Scarlett,Simpson,Johnson,Whitmore,Griffiths
(Deerr),Taylor. Scorer: J Lawrence (11. SWANSWA CITY: Freestone
(Jones),Jenkins (De-Vulgt),Howard,Cusack,Todd,O'Leary (Bound),Keegan
(Romo),Mazzina (Phillips),Sidibe,Watkin (Williams),Coates (Roberts)
More
in the Forum
REGGAE
BOYZ TO PLAY SWANSEA CITY
August 3
A young Reggae Boyz team left for London yesterday for a friendly
against Welsh club Swansea City as a part of their World Cup qualifying
preparation. Excluded from the traveling team will be former Swansea
striker Walter Boyd. Boyd was involved in controversial incident
in the 0-0 draw between the Reggae Boyz and St Kitts/Nevis last
Monday. Boyd suffered a cut to the head when he was hit by the
flag of assistant referee Anthony Bergan's and Boyd was accused
of assault. Five English based players will join squad to face
Swansea. Those players are Fitzroy Simpson, Theodore Whitmore,
Jamie Lawrence, defender Ian Goodison and striker Barry Hayles.
Midfielder Jermaine Johnson, goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts and sweeper
Shavar Thomas will make up the 20 man squad. The full list if
players are: Donovan Ricketts, Aaron Lawrence (goalkeepers); Shavar
Thomas, Ian Goodison, Linval Dixon, Sean Frazer, Robert Scarlett,
Marco McDonald, Claude Davis (defenders); Jermaine Johnson, Damion
Williams, Fabian Dawkins, Fabian Taylor, Winston Griffiths, Simpson,
Whitmore, Lawrence, Daley (midfielders); Barry Hayles and Kevin
Derr (forwards).
ESSEX
VALLEY ELIMINATED
August 3
The Alpart/Essex Valley Under-14 All-stars loss 3-1 to Esprof
of Rio/Brazil and was eliminated in the Norway Cup at Ekeberg,
Norway. Esprof went ahead in the first minute when Kverson Viana
beat the young Jamaican goalkeeper Jason Simpson. Showing a lot
of grit the Essex Valley All-stars equalized shortly after winning
a penalty that was converted by skipper Lewis Planter. Esprof
took the lead just before half-time when they were rewarded with
a penalty. Esprof's sealed the issue on a defender's goal two
minutes before the end.
JAMAICA
FALL 2-0 TO GRENADA
August 2
Technical director, Clovis de Oliveira gave no excuses for Jamaica's
2-0 loss to 137th ranked Grenada on Wednesday, but said that they
did not have the best squad available and that they need to learn
from the experience. He also said that a major concern was the
teams failure to score goals in four games against Caribbean opposition
during the past two weeks. The Reggae Boyz played to scoreless
draws against Cuba, Martinique and St Kitts/Nevis and Grenada.
He said the Jamaican team looked flat, the offense lacked bite
and many of the players failed to rise to the occasion. The teams
were: Jamaica -- Aaron Lawrence, Linval Dixon, Marco McDonald,
Claude Davis, Daniel Shaw, Kevon Harris (Dave Leung 62nd), Omar
Daley, Damion Williams (Sheldon Battiste 46th), Fabian Taylor,
Kirk Wright (Fabian Dawkins 46th) and Kevin Deerr. Grenada --
Kelon Baptiste, Ian Andrew, Franklyn Baptiste, Brian Benjamin,
Nigel Bishop (Denis Rennie 73rd), Ashley Cyrus (Fabian Blake 87th),
Anthony Modeste, Kevin Salandy, Kennedy Phillip, Chris Bain (Tyrone
John 77th) and Anthony Augustine.
JAMAICA/BRAZIL
GAME OFF
July 23,
The frindly international between Jamaica and Brazil scheduled
for August 9, will not take place as earlier reported. According
to the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), Jamaica has declined
the invitation to play the number 2 ranked team in the world because
of unavilibility of the foreign based players. Technical director,
Clovis de Oliviera, was to use the game as one of the warm-up
encounters for the World Cup qualifiers which continue on September
2 against Mexico, but with the unavilibility of the players, the
JFF has said that the match would be unproductive for both teams.
The JFF said that most of English clubs have responded negatively
because their players have not been able to rest after a long
season". Jamaica are presently in fourth place in their World
Cup qualifers with 8 points along with Honduras who have a better
goal average. Costa Rica and United States lead the CONCACAF points
standing with both teams on 13 points.
JAMAICA,
CUBA TIE
July 22
Jamaica and Cuba played to a 0-0 tie in their friendly game on
Friday. Jamaica used a number of young players to give them more
international experience.
REGGAE
BOYZ TO PLAY CUBA IN FRIENDLY
July 20
The Reggae Boyz, will play Cuba this afternoon in a friendly international
in Havana, starting at 3:30 pm (Jamaica time). Jamaica will be
without their their overseas-based players and will be playing
with a young squad that includes seven Under-20 players. Added
to the lineup is veteran Walter Boyd. The two teams last met in
Kingston just over a month ago, with Jamaica winning that match
4-1. Squad: Linval Dixon, Aaron Lawrence, Leon Gordon, Shavar
Thomas, Marco McDonald, Claude Davis, Robert Scarlett, Sheldon
Battiste, Sean Fraser, Kevon Harris, Patrick Graham, Omar Daley,
Jermaine Johnson, Fabian Dawkins, Damion Williams, Fabian Taylor,
Kirk Wright and Walter Boyd. More
in the Forum
MARSHALL
SCORES FOR FUSION
July 19
Jamaica international, Tyrone Marshall, scored to give the Miami
Fusion a 2-1 win over the Chicago Fire. Marshall executed a well
placed header from a Diego Serna cross in the 23rd minute. It
was Marshall's third goal of the 2001 Major League Soccer (MLS)
season and the Fusion's win halted a seven-game unbeaten run by
Chicago. Andy Williams and Wolde Harris, both scored to give New
England Revolution a 3-2 win over Los Angeles Galaxy in US Major
League Soccer (MLS) Tuesday night. Harris scored in the 17th minute
to put his team ahead, and Williams, who assisted on the second
goal, got the game winner in the 51st minute. More
in the Forum
T&T
HIGHEST RANKED CARIBBEAN TEAM
Trinidad and Tobago, remains the highest ranked Caribbean Football
Union (CFU) team in the July ratings slipping two places to 27th
on FIFA's world list. Jamaica is the next highest ranked CFU team
at 45th. Trinidad & Tobago (27), Jamaica (45), Cuba (82), Haiti
(83) , Barbados (107), St Lucia (128), St Kitts & Nevis (129).
More
in the Forum
DERBY
TURNS DOWN OFFER FOR BURTON
It was reported that Derby County have turned down an offer for
Reggae Boy Deon Burton from Serie B side Napoli which wanted the
Jamaican striker on loan until December. Burton has struggled
to hold down a regular place in Darby's first team and will now
have his position challenged by new signing Fabrizio Ravanelli.
More
in the Forum
WHITMORE
HAS NO TAKERS
Hull City's continues to have problems finding a taker for Theodore
Whitmore. The club have yet to receive one single inquiry for
the Jamaican star. Whitmore who is on free transfer, fell out
of favor with manager Brian Little after his form dipped, but
his salary demands seems to be scaring off any clubs that might
have an interest in him. More
in the Forum
BIBI
DONATES TO SCHOOL
Jamaica's Ricardo Gardner has joined forces with Western Sports
Stores in presenting the Harbour View Primary school with football
gear valued at £1000 yesterday. Gardner, is a past student of
Harbour View Primary, matched £500 with the sporting goods distributors
to outfit the school with the Puma brand of clothing and shoes
for their upcoming football season.
BOYZ
PREPARE FOR FOOTBALL FESTIVAL
July 10
The JFF has invited a number of under-20 players to start training
with the senior team in preparation for some upcoming practice
games. The Reggae Boyz are scheduled for a three nation football
festival in St Kitts/Nevis later this month and also a friendly
international against Grenada in Grenada on August 1. The 11 Under-20
players called are, Alien Whittaker, Shavar Thomas, Omar Daley,
Keith Kelly, Sean Fraser, Wolry Wolfe, Shane Stevens, Fabian Dawkins
Kevon Harris, Damion Williams and Christopher Nicholas. The other
players invited are, Donovan Ricketts, Aaron Lawrence, Leon Gordon,
Ray Graham, Linval Dixon, Claude Davis, Marco McDonald, Robert
Scarlett, Patrick Graham, Jermaine Johnson, Fabian Taylor, Damion
Stewart., Kirk Wright.
JAMAICA
ESCAPES WITH 2-1 WIN
June
30
Jamaica defeated Trinidad and Tobago 2-1 in a CONCACAF world cup
qualifier today in Port of Spain, Trinidad. Jamaica, playing without
midfield ace Theodore Withmore, showed no urgency in their play
and found themselves behind in the 26 minute compliments of Stern
John, who got the ball after Marvin Andrews intercepted a pass
at midfield. Some good work in the middle from Mica Hyde, helped
Jamaica to slowly take control of the game and was justly rewarded
with a goal from a sneaky Onandi Lowe header that gave goalkeeper
Clayton Ince no chance. The half ended 1-1. Not much changed in
the second half as both teams played aimless soccer. Hampered
by a small and rough pitch the Reggae Boyz failed to play any
good football and struggled to put passes together. Arnold Dwarika
of T&T almost single handedly broke the Jamaicans down with
some penetrating passes as they kept pressing for a goal. in the
68th minute, Andy Williams, who had replaced Mica Hyde slipped
one through for Deon Burton to score and put the Boyz ahead and
giving them the win. Jamaica (2-2-2), is fourth in the finals
of the North and Central American and Caribbean region, trailing
Honduras (2-1-2) on goal difference. The United States, which
leads at 4-0-1, plays Sunday at Mexico, fifth at 1-3-1. Honduras
plays at home Sunday against second-place Costa Rica (3-1-1).
The top three nations advance to next year's World Cup in Japan
and South Korea. Attendance 4,000. Teams T&T: 21-Clayton Ince,
4-Marvin Andrews, 13-Ansil Elcock, 6-Avery John (10-Lyndon Andrews
86), 5-Reynold Carrington, 3-Dale Saunders, 15-Mickey Trotman
(8-Angus Eve), 14-Stern John, 18-Nigel Pierre, 17-Anthony Rougier,
9-Arnold Dwarika. Jamaica: 13-Aaron Lawrence, 15-Ricardo Gardner,
14-Tyronne Marshall, 18-Deon Burton, 4-Linval Dixon, 5-Ian Goodison,
19-Frank Sinclair, 6-Fitzroy Simpson, 20-Daryl Powell (8-James
Lawrence 43), 12-Micah Hyde, 31-Onandi Lowe. Referee: Gustavo
Mendez (Uruguay)
JAMAICA
PREPARES TO FACE T&T
June 25
The JFF named a group of 22 players to resumed training for Saturday's
World Cup clash with Trinidad and Tobago. Returning to the team
is Ricardo "Bibi" Gardner who missed the last game against Costa
Rica due to a double yellow card suspension. Jamaica is desperate
for a victory and needs maximum points from T&T if they are
to qualify next year's World Cup finals to be held in South Korea
and Japan. The CONCACAF group is led by the USA with 13 points,
followed by Costa Rica on 10, Honduras on eight, Jamaica on five,
Mexico on four and Trinidad and Tobago at the bottom on one point.
Technical director, Clovis de Oliveira believes Jamaica's chances
of qualifying for the finals of the 2002 World Cup are still good
and expressed to journalists that " we have to lift up our
heads, work harder and go get three points from Trinidad".
The invited player will be back in camp on Monday as the team
is scheduled to leave for T&T on Wednesday. Players incited
are: Linval Dixon, Donovan Ricketts, Aaron Lawrence, Ricardo Gardner,
Ian Goodison, Frank Sinclair, Tyrone Marshall, Christopher Dawes,
James Lawrence, Darryl Powell, Andrew Williams, Theodore Whitmore,
Micah Hyde, Fitzroy Simpson, Robert Scarlett, Claude Davis, Marco
McDonald, Onandi Lowe, Deon Burton, Wolde Harris, Fabian Taylor
and Ricardo Fuller.
BOYZ
SUFFER SET BACK
June 21
The Reggae Boyz suffered another set back in the world cup qualifying
bid when they were beaten 3-1 by Costa Rica at the Morera Soto
Alajuela Stadium in Costa Rica. Luis Marin put the home side ahead
after four minutes from a corner but six minutes later Jamaica
equalized when Onandi Lowe ripped a powerful left foot drive into
the Costa Rican net. Striker Paolo Wanchope hit the winner in
the thirty-seventh minute after Tyrone Marshall stumbled on the
ball he was defending allowing Costa Rica to get a cross off to
Wanchope. Costa Rica are now second in the CONCACAF group, with
10 points from five games. Jamaica now has five points from five
games. Costa Rica, who defeated Mexico's at the Azteca stadium
last weekend, played their usual quick-passing game while Jamaican
players countered with some skillful moves of their own. Jamaica
was hurt by poor officiating and ended with six yellow cards.
The Boyz had a chance to equalize late in the game as the ball
skidded pass the Costa Rican goal Onand Lowe hesitated to put
a foot on it and gave away a glorious chance to snatch a draw.
Frank Sinclair was outstanding as he was all over the Costa Rican
players never giving them an inch to work. In other games, The
United States stayed on course by beating Trinidad 2-0 and Mexico
was humiliated as Honduran striker Carlos Pavon scored a hat-trick
in a 3-0 win. The Mexican coach immediately quit after the game.
Starting line-ups Costa Rica - Erick Lonnis, Luis Marin, Gilberto
Martinez, Reynaldo Parks, Jervis Drummond, Carlos Castro, Mauricio
Solis, Wilmer Lopez, Rolando Fonseca, Paulo Wanchope, Hernan Medford
Jamaica - Donovan Ricketts, Ian Goodison, Frank Sinclair, Darryl
Powell, Tyronne Marshall, Thedore Whitmore, Andy Williams, Jamie
Lawrence, Christhoper Dawes, Onandi Lowe y Deon Burton.
P W D L F A Pts
United States 5 4 1 0 7 1 13
Costa Rica 5 3 1 1 9 5 10
Honduras 5 2 2 1 11 8 8
Jamaica 5 1 2 2 3 6 5
Mexico 5 1 1 3 7 8 4
Trinidad 5 0 1 4 3 11 1
More
in the Forum
JAMAICA
FACE A CONFIDENT COSTA RICA
June 20
The Reggae Boyz will face a confident Costa Rican team tonight
at the Morera Soto (Alajuela Stadium) in a World Cup qualifying
match. Costa Rica is upbeat after their historic 2-1 defeat of
former CONCACAF kingpins, Mexico, at the Azteca Stadium last Saturday,
and now set their sights on Jamaica who trails them on points.
The present standings are that United States lead the six-nation
standings with 10 points. Costa Rica are on seven, Honduras and
Jamaica, five, Mexico, four, and Trinidad and Tobago on one point.
The US will host T&T in Boston, while Mexico will travel to Honduras
for a game they need to win. Jamaica's record against Costa Rica
in six World Cup qualifying games dating back to 1965, is that
Costa Rica have won three, drawn two and lost once in Kingston
in 1997. Jamaica will be without Ricardo Gardner, who has been
suspended for receiving his second yellow card. Costa Rica's deadly
striker Paulo Wanchope is also said to be facing a double yellow
suspension. Returning to the Reggae Boyz will be Deon Burton,
who missed the last game due to yellow card suspension, and Darryl
Powell, who has been out with a knee injury. Burton is expected
to start up front with Lowe, with the possibility of Tyrone Marshall
moving over to Gardner's left back position. Fitzroy Simpson,
who missed Saturday's match due to injury is expected to be in
a midfield position. Jamaica probable starting team: Donovan Ricketts,
Chris Dawes, Ian Goodison, Frank Sinclair, Tyrone Marshall, Jamie
Lawrence, Fitzroy Simpson, Theodore Whitmore, Andy Williams, Onandi
Lowe and Deon Burton.
PROFESSIONAL
LEAGUE PLANNED
June 20
THE Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has announced plans for
implementing a Professional Football League for the 2002-2003
season. Among the plans are that teams participating in the league
must have a minimum of 1,500 seats at their game venue. The JFF
will allow more than one team to share an approved venue. These
venues must be equipped with turnstiles to allow for easy access
and to allow for better collection of entrance fee at the gate.
All games will be have a under-20 curtain-raiser. This is to showcase
the younger talent and keep them in the program. Each team will
be allowed to register a maximum 40 players with a minimum 16
Under-20 players on the roster. Other requirements includes changing
rooms for teams and officials, proper rest room facilities for
fans, perimeter fencing, and an elevated platform for the media
to allow for the telecast at least five matches per round. More
in the Forum
JAMAICA
AND USA PLAY TO GOALESS DRAW
June 16
The Reggae Boyz continued their "unbeaten at The Office"
streak, taking it to 51 games when they drew 0-0 with the United
States in a CONCACAF region World Cup qualifier. Jamaica went
at the Americans determined to win but the usual poor finishing
and the inability to put the ball in the net spoiled the day for
the Boyz. In the 22nd minute Tyronne Marshall was called offside
as he headed a cross from Theodore Whitmore into the USA's goal.
Later in the game, Wolde Harris again put the Boyz ahead but a
very questionable "foul" call by the ref robbed Jamaica
of the goal. Jamaica has a history of receiving these types of
dubious calls when they play the USA. Jamaica's goalkeeper, Donovan
Ricketts was outstanding with some splendid saves and defender
Frank Sinclair was constantly breaking up the USA attacks. Jamaica
came close to getting the winner in the 85th minute, but again
Ricardo Fuller was denied by some excellent keeping from Kasey
Keller. A disappointed technical director Clovis de Oliviera said
"We played well....we did everything , we got the chances to score
but we just could not," "This result is not what we wanted, but
it is better than a loss. The United States coach Bruce Arena
also expressed disappointment not to gain a fourth consecutive
win, but was happy with a draw on the road.
BOYS
CONFIDENT OF A GOOD PERFORMANCE AGAINST USA
June 14
A confident Reggae Boyz team worked hard during a rigorous physical
conditioning session on Wednesday morning in preparation for their
World Cup qualifier against the USA this Saturday. The numerous
physical drills included passing, controlling, shooting and juggling,
along with long runs and sprints. Jamaica will be aiming to keep
their 50-match unbeaten run at home intact and secure valuable
points needed to advance to the World Cup final round. The USA
leads the six-nation CONCACAF group with nine points from three
games. Costa Rica, Mexico and Jamaica are all level with four
points, while Honduras and Trinidad & Tobago on two and one points
respectively. Technical director Clovis de Oliveira said that
"this is the game of our lives" as America and Mexico
are almost sure to qualify and the remaining teams are fighting
for the final spot. After a poor performance in the Copa Caribe
tournament, Clovis de Oliveira recalled English-based players
Frank Sinclair and Fitzroy Simpson. Wolde Harris who scored twice
last weekend for club New England Revolutions was also a late
recall after Walter Boyd failed to join the team for the Cuba
game. It was reported that Simpson, Jamie Lawrence and Linval
Dixon are nursing injuries but are expected to be ready for Saturday's
game. Kickoff is at 2 p.m. ET, and the match will be televised
live on ABC. Jamaica will then leave for Costa Rica on Sunday
for their qualifying clash on Wednesday June 20.
UNDER
20 FACE EGYPT IN WORLD CUP QUALIFER THIS WEEKEND
June 14
Jamaica's Under-20 footballers traveled to Argentina for FIFA's
Under-20 World Cup finals starting this weekend. They will be
in Group A with Argentina, Finland, and Egypt, who they will face
on Sunday. The young "Reggae Boyz" have just completed a one week
training session in Brazil where they played three-games. On Tuesday
they played to a 1-1 draw against Vasco da Gama. In the other
games the young Jamaicans lost 2-0 to African champions, Angola,
and 3-1 to a Brazil Under-20. Their GROUP A schedule is Egypt
on Sunday, Finland on June 20 and Argentina on June 23. The Group
B teams are Canada Brazil, Germany Iraq; Group C The USA , Chile,
Ukraine and China, and Group E has Costa Rica, Ecuador, Ethiopia,
and the Netherlands. Two teams from each of the six first-round
groups go through to the second round, that will battle for a
place in the final to be held in Buenos Aires on July 8.
internetsoccer.com
to present LIVE audio coverage of the Jamaica vs. USA World Cup
Qualifier
(Charlotte, NC) - June 12, 2001
On June 15th and 16th, 2001, internetsoccer.com, a Charlotte-based
Internet company and the industry leader in LIVE audio soccer
broadcasts, will be presenting two days of LIVE audio coverage
of the Jamaica vs. United States, World Cup qualifier from Kingston,
Jamaica. On Friday, June 15, the coverage kicks off with a LIVE
one-hour preview hosted by veteran U.S. soccer commentator Dave
Johnson, along side former U.S. soccer official Richard Groff.
They will bring you all of the day's news and live interviews
with the marquee names involved in the match. Then on Saturday
at 1:30 PM EST, Johnson and Groff will be back with complete play
by play coverage of the match, including a half-hour pregame show
leading up to the kickoff. The United States enter the fourth
matchday of CONCACAF qualifying at the top of the group with 9
points and will attempt to solidify their position with another
win. The Reggae Boyz are currently in fourth position and look
to move up with a positive result. The top three finishers will
advance to World Cup 2002 to be held in Korea and Japan. "We are
very excited to be presenting this crucial match," said Pat Millen,
Executive Managing Director of internetsoccer.com. "It is our
continuing goal to provide marquee soccer coverage to fans around
the world." internetsoccer.com has previously broadcast CONCACAF
Olympic and World Cup qualifiers, men's and women's Gold Cup matches,
and A-League and MLS action to Internet listeners.
HARRIS
TO REPLACE NO SHOW BOYD
June 12
Recently recalled striker Walter Boyd has been replaced by New
England Revolution striker, Wolde Harris. Boyd did not show up
to the JFF training sessions and the friendly game against Cuba,
and no explanation was given by the player. Harris, who scored
twice in his team's 3-0 victory over the Tampa Bay Mutiny in the
MLS on the weekend was also named MVP of the game and is expected
to join the Jamaican team today.
PLAYERS
MUST IMPROVE TO GET POSITIVE RESULT AGAINST USA
June 12
TD Clovis de Oliveira stated that his players will have to improve
in all aspects of their game if they are to get a positive result
on Saturday against the USA. They will have to improve on the
game they played against Cuba. He is calling for a more compact
midfield and defense and improvement from his strikers. He also
said that the 4-4-2 formation that was used against Cuba on Sunday,
is not a radical change from the usual 3-5-2 system and that most
of the players are experienced, confident and comfortable with
playing it. Meanwhile United States MenÕs National Team head coach
Bruce Arena announced a 23-man squad that will train for the teamÕs
qualifiers against Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. The United
States are 1-0-3 all-time in qualifying against the Reggae Boyz,
with a victory in August 13, 1988 in St. Louis. Both teams played
to draws in the Õ98 qualifying campaign, going scoreless in Kingston
on March 2, 1997 and then battling to a 1-1 draw at RFK Stadium
in Washington, D.C., on October 3 later that year. The U.S.A will
train in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., from June 11-14 prior to departing
for Kingston. Kickoff is at 2 p.m. ET, and the match will be televised
live on ABC. The USA players called are GOALKEEPERS: Brad Friedel,
Kasey Keller. DEFENDERS: Jeff Agoos,, Gregg Berhalter, Steve Cherundolo
, Robin Fraser , Carlos Llamosa, Eddie Pope, David Regis, Greg
Vanney. MIDFIELDERS: Chris Armas, Chris Klein, Eddie Lewis, Pablo
Mastroeni, John O'Brien, Claudio Reyna, Tony Sanneh, Earnie Stewart,
Richie Williams. FORWARDS: Jovan Kirovski, Brian McBride, Joe-Max
Moore, Ante Razov
JAMAICA
STOP CUBA 4-1
June 10
Jamaica's big man, Onandi Lowe led the way with two goals as Jamaica
defeated Cuba 4-1 in preparation for Saturday's World Cup qualifying
game against the United States of America. Jamaica took charge
of the first half witha strong showing from Whitmore, Williams
and Gardner took the lead in the 19th minute when Lowe volleyed
home a right footer from an Andy Williams cross. In the 32nd minute
Lowe played a one-two combination with Gardner who unleashed a
swerving left footer that beat goalkeeper Lazaro Moralez. Six
minutes later Williams let go a thunderous left footer after receiving
a brilliant pass from Theodore Whitmore. In the second half TD
Clovis de Oliveira replaced , Jamie Lawrence, and striker, Barry
Hayles, with Chris Dawes and Ricardo Fuller . The level and intensity
of the Boyz play dropped during the second half allowing Cuba
to pull one back. Five minutes from the end, Ricardo Fuller was
fouled in the box by Manuel Alvarez and a penalty was given. Lowe
calmly scored to give the Boyz a convincing win and take their
unbeaten run at "The Office" to 50 games. Teams: Jamaica -- Ricketts,
Marshall, Ian Goodison (Marco McDonald 82nd), Sinclair, Gardner,
Simpson (Fabian Taylor 66th), Lawrence (Dawes 46th), Whitmore,
Williams (Micah Hyde 59th), Hayles (Fuller 46th) and Lowe (Robert
Scarlett 88th). Cuba -- Moralez, Darien Perez, Alexander Dalis,
Jorge Urrutia, Yeniel Molina, Alvarez, Jamie Betancourt, Gonzalez,
Rey Mendive, Ariel Cepero (Lazaro Martinez 46th) and Alberto Perez.
SIMPSON,
SINCLAIR, BOYD RECALLED
June 8
Midfield general, Fitzroy Simpson, has been recalled by technical
director Clovis de Oliveira, for a friendly international against
Cuba at the National Stadium on June 10. Also called are defender,
Frank Sinclair, and striker Walter Boyd. Derby County midfielder,
Daryll Powell who missed the last game because of injuries was
named in the 23 man squad for Sunday's game against Cuba . Other
English-based players named are defenders Ricardo Gardner, Ian
Goodison; midfielders Jamie Lawrence and Theodore Whitmore, strikers
Barry Hayles and Deon Burton ; The US-based players are Onandi
Lowe, Andy Williams, Chris Dawes and Tyrone Marshall. The full
squad is : Donovan Ricketts, Leon Gordon, Aaron Lawrence, Tyrone
Marshall, Frank Sinclair, Linval Dixon, Marco McDonald, Claude
Davis, Ian Goodison, Ricardo Gardener, Robert Scarlett, Jamie
Lawrence, Daryll Powell, Andrew Williams, Christopher Dawes, Fitzroy
Simpson,Theodore Whitmore, Fabian Taylor, Ricardo Fuller, Onandi
Lowe, Deon Burton, Barry Hayles and Walter Boyd.
WHITMORE
PUT ON FREE TRANSFER
June 6
Midfield star, Theodore Whitmore was put on free transfer by his
English Club, Hull City according to manager, Brian Little. Reports
are that Hull City is having financial problems and so Whitmore,
and four other players, have been given the ok to shop around.
MARSHALL
SCORES FOR FUSION
June 4
Defender Tyrone Marshall, scored for the Miami Fusion as they
defeated Dallas 6-2 on Staurday night. Marshall's goal came in
the second minute when he dribbled diagonally pass the Dallas
defence and beat goalkeeper, Matt Jordan. This is Marshall second
MLS goal this season. The Fusion presently have the league's best
record -- nine wins from 11 games and 28 points.
LOWE
GETS ASSIST IN KANSAS WIN
June 4
Onandi Lows Kansas City Wizards, came from a goal down to beat
Tampa Bay 2-1. Lowe assisted in the first goal when he smoothly
let off a through pass for Fransisco Gomez to score. Roy Lassiter
scored the winner on 52 minutes. Lowe, who last week for the Wizards,
was marked very tighly but created problems for the Tampa defence
all evening.
GOODISON
HULL CITY PLAYER OF THE YEAR
June 2
Jamaican international defender Ian Goodison was named Hull City
Player of the Year at the Jarvis International Hotel, Willerby.
Goodison played an influential part in City's tremendous run during
the second half of the season which took them into the play-offs.
Manager Brian Little was full of praise for Goodison, and said:
"I had watched Ian on video before joining the club and felt his
form was probably suffering because he hadn't settled into any
one position. "We switched him to the central defence and he has
really come good, shown consistency, and I believe thoroughly
deserves this award." Steve Burton was named City's Young Player
of the Year
More at http://www.thisishullsport.co.uk
JAMAICA
2000/2001 FOOTBALL AWARDS
June 2
Jamaican midfielder Fabian Davis and Village forward Teofore Bennett
topped the awards at the Craven A Premier and National A Leagues
2000/2001 award ceremony at Le Meridien Jamaica Pegasus hotel.
Davis who plays for Arnett Gardens was named both most valuable
player for the final rounds of the NPL and player of the season.
Bennett was voted young player of the year in the A League and
player of the season. Bennett's teammate Fabian Dawkins, was awarded
MVP for the A League final rounds. Village also had the top goalkeeper
in Alrick Henry and the best defensive unit award which was shared
with Black Stars. Best Premier League team management award went
to Arnett Gardens and Hazard won for top goalkeeper with Shawn
Sawyers, best defensive unit and also top NPL junior player in
Omar Daley. Harbour View led the league in goal scored with 51
and coach Peter Cargill was selected as coach of the year. Other
awards were: Leading scorer: A League - Shawn Simpson (Rivoli
19 goals). Premier League - Thomas Grant (Wadadah 16 goals) Top
goalkeeper: A League - Alrick Henry (Village) Premier League -
Shawn Sawyers (Hazard) Top scoring team: A League - Galaxy (58
goals) Premier League - Harbour View (51 goals) Best defensive
team: A League - Village and Black Stars Premier League - Hazard
Final Rounds MVP: A League - Fabian Dawkins (Village) Premier
League - Fabian Davis (Arnett Gardens) Junior player of the year:
A League - Teofore Bennett (Village) Premier League - Omar Daley
(Hazard) Player of the Season: A League - Teofore Bennett (Village)
Premier League - Fabian Davis (Arnett Gardens) Coach of the year:
A League - Mortimer Heron (Galaxy) Premier League - Peter Cargill
(Harbour View) Fair Play A League - St Georges. Premier League
- Reno Best club management: A League - Village Premier League
- Arnett Gardens Winning Parish: A League - Trelawny Premier League
- KSAFA Top Referees: A League - Copeland Bailey. Premier League
- Peter Prendergast earned award."
BOYD
GETS CALL
May 30
Striker Walter Boyd was among a 24-man squad called by the JFF
to prepare for Jamaica's June 10 friendly International match
against Cuba and for their crucial World Cup qualifying match
against the unbeaten United States on June 16. Boyd was a key
member of the Jamaican team that qualified for the 1998 World
Cup in France. He now plays for Swansea City in the English Division
2 League and has not played for Jamaica since November. The full
squad reads: Aaron Lawrence, Donovan Ricketts, Leon Gordon, Linval
Dixon, Claude Davis, Marco McDonald, Shane Crawford, Kirk Hendricks,
Daniel Shaw, Jermaine Johnson, Fabian Taylor, Ray Graham, Irvino
English, Kevin Wilson, Ricardo Fuller, Greg Gardner, Derrick Smith,
Damion Stewart, Patrick Graham, Kirk Wright, Fabian Davis, Robert
Scarlett, Theodore Whitmore and Walter Boyd. More
in the Forum
UNDER
20 SCHEDULED FOR TOUR
May 30
Paris St Germain's midfielder Keith Kelly has joined Jamaica's
Under 20s team in preparation for next month's World Youth Cup
in Argentina. The Under-20s drew 1-1 with the senior national
team in a practice game at the Constant Spring field yesterday.
The Under-20s leaves on Thursday on a tour of the Cayman Islands
before traveling to Brazil for a training camp prior to flying
to Argentina in mid-June. More
in the Forum
GARDNER
AND BOLTON PROMOTED TO THE PREMIER LEAGUE
May 28
Two late goals from Michael Ricketts and Jamaica's Ricardo Gardner
along with Gareth Farrelly's first-half strike sent Bolton Wanderers
back into the Premier League as they defeated a spirited Preston
North End side 3-0 at the Millennium Stadium. More
in the Forum
Current
CONCACAF standing:
| Team
|
P |
W |
D |
L |
GF |
GA |
Pts
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| USA |
2 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
1 |
6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Costa Rica |
2 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
5 |
2 |
4
|
| Mexico |
2 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
4 |
2 |
3 |
| Jamaica |
2 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
4 |
3
|
| Honduras |
2 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
3 |
4 |
1
|
| T&T |
2 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
4 |
0 |
See More May News
