Spencer's Words: Game Summaries
GROUP "A"
GAME SUMMARIES: PRELIMINARIES
NYCAbania, NYCEcuador, NYCKorea, NYCJamaica
OVERVIEW
Group A had a mixture of immense talent, some natural, some disciplined, while some teams suffered with problems with depth and fatigue very early on. It was obvious that NYCJamaica would be the class of the group. With youth, speed, stamina, and undeniable quality... Specifically, up top and in defense. NYCAbania had the look of a team that knows each other very well, not to mention that half of them would look comfortable in NYGiants jerseys! Looking at the NYCEcuador side, it was hard to gauge their quality. Run by the always-affable Enrique Valladares, who seemed a little flustered with last minute changes to his side. NYCKorea's fans came out in force, including the Korean League president Mr. Jeon. Unfortunately, NYCKorea didn't seem to have the depth to deal with the arduous weather and competition.
GAME SUMMARIES
NYCAlbania VS NYCJamaica
The game starts and Jamaica takes it strait to the Albanians, creating many chances and controlling play. Team Albania fights back with some aggressive play... ("chippy" is the word used by CopaNYC field general James Caldwell, displaying his depth in footy lingo). Penalty kick is awarded to Albania and #10 Eduard Ortiz converts! Albania starts to slow play down with #11, captain Rigels Qosa controlling the pace of the match. With Albania's Ortiz impressing, the tide begins to turn to Jamaica's favor with Nicholas Clark and Don Smart starting to come on strong. Clark connects with #9 Dwayne Smith for Jamaica's 1st goal! Half ends at 1-1
2ND HALF
With Albania's Qosa trying to keep possession and Ortiz still working hard, Jamaica starts to capitalize on their collective youth and skill. With strong play by #7 Nigel Ellis and #11 Jermain Russell, Jamaica is starting to move quickly. Smith gets his 2nd for a brace and Russell puts in a 3rd to take a 3-1 lead. Albania's #7 Abdulla Begai grabs one back to make the score 3-2! Jamaica's #13 Nicholas Clark, showing quality as a passer, but may shoot to much (if there is such a thing!) rattles the post from an 18yrd. Rocket!
The match ends at 3-2 to NYCJamaica... Dwayne Smith with his brace is man of the match.
NYCKorea VS NYCEcuador
"This match was played in great spirit" written by CopaNYC field general Sherwin O'neil! Also noted by infamous Florida referee and CopaNYC field general Tim Rosman, on vacation to see the best tournament in NYC was, "possession was shared by both teams, each trading superlative shots!" A direct kick from Ecuador's #16, Luis Porras just misses left at the 16 minute mark, while a goal was disallowed for Korea due to a handball. The Korea goalkeeper, Chun Li make a spectacular save to keep them in the match, while Ecuador's back line looks solid. First half ends 0-0
2nd HALF
With good wing play from both teams starting to make a difference, Ecuador is
making strides. #14, Rafael Jara
for Ecuador gets on the back of a through pass to calmly slot the only goal of the game passed the
unlucky Chun Li. Game ends 1-0 to NYC Ecuador. Man of the match: Rafael Jara.
NYCAlbania VS NYCKorea
This match also starts with frantic pace, with Albania's Rigels Qosa playing like Kaka (albeit maybe Kaka's slightly less talented step-brother), #7, Restjall Agolli for Albania is forcing the issue with outstanding play, scoring in the 6th minute with the assist coming from #6 Argent Duka! Albania now starts to control the game, with Agolli winning praise for his skill. Unfortunately, while Albania is protecting the 1-0 lead, the word "Chippy" is used again (I see a motif starting)! Many yellow cards issued to both Albania and Korea and the ref's are having a hard time controlling the match. First half ends 1-0
2nd HALF
Korea starts aggressively in this half, trying to apply pressure to the tough Albanians. More "Shenanigans" (thank you wordsmith Caldwell) ensue before Albania gains complete control of the match. Korea's depth may be an issue, also the heat, which is growing by the minute. Agolli is stamping his name on this match, forcing the Korean keeper Chun Li into save after brilliant save. This game ends 1-0. Man of the match: Restjall Agolli, with special mention to Chun li.
NYCEcuador VS NYCJamaica
The reputation of NYCJamaica is starting to grow and NYCEcuador decide to take matters into there own hands by forcing the attack in the 1st minutes. Jamaica counter with speed and good touch through Dwayne Kellyman. Ecuador's #10, Jesse Vanegas is causing Havoc on the wing with his speed! Jamaica's youth may have got the better of them in the 13th minute, when a defensive error released Ecuador's #4, Victor Lopez, who nutmegged the keeper for a 1-0 lead! With the Ecuadorian fans cheering like mad, Jamaica's Jermain Russell are looking to quiet them down. Sure enough, with a beautiful pass to switch the field from #13 Nicholas Clarke, Russell picks up the ball from the left side and puts in an unstoppable shot in the upper right, 1-1! The 2nd half looks like two boxers trading punches, but neither team capitalizes and the game ends 1-1
Man of the match: Jermain Russell.
NYCAlbania VS NYCEcuador
This match starts and Albania is starting to feel like they can come out of the group on top. Sure enough, in the 8th minute, #9 Leo Gonclaves places a shot in the upper right corner from a pass by star in the making Restjall Agolli! In just 2 minutes later Albania's #6, Roland Dembo rifles an unassisted shot for 35 yards out. Ecuador would not lie down and in just 7 minutes time from Dembo's goal, Ecuador's Victor Lopez pulls one back with a low angle shot from a right-sided run! Set up nicely by Jesse Venegas. Late in the half, an elbow to the face of an Albanian player by Venegas gives him a deserved yellow, causing the Albanian coach to ask the illustrious CopaNYC field general Noel Kammermann to put it in the record.
2nd HALF
The half opens with more impressive play from Ecuador's Venegas, creating
chances on the wing. Albania is also making positive runs, but Ecuador's
defense is holding. Ecuador, feeling the pressure of getting through to the
next round is throwing everything they can at Albania, but to no avail. Albania
kills the game off with a Leo Gonclaves shot from the left hand side to
complete his brace. Game ends 3-1 to Albania. Man of the match: Leo Gonclaves.
NYCKorea VS NYCJamaica
Rumors are swirling that Jamaica bought their national team to CopaNYC and fans are starting to come to field 2 to see what all the hype is about! This is bad news for a tired and depleted Korea side. Jamaica wastes no time at all, scoring in the 4th minute, with yet another Dwayne Smith goal (assisted by #20, Kharim Russell). #10, Don Smart, obviously getting jealous of Smith's heroics, puts one in from a silky Sikele Sylvester assist (try and say THAT 5 times fast)! 1st half ends 2-0.
2nd HALF
Much to the chagrin of the lowly Koreans, Jamaica wasn't finished. Jamaica poured on the quality, scoring in the 24th, 31st, 37th, and the 40th minutes by #23, Suwayne Brown and 3 more by the delirious Dwayne Smith! Thank goodness the game ended when it did or Kellyman would still be scoring! Though it must be put on record that Dwayne tried to pull off an outrageous goal lines header from a saved penalty, causing embarrassment to Jamaican's everywhere! Game ends 6-0. Man of the match is, you guessed it... Dwayne Smith.
THROUGH TO THE QUARTER FINALS
NYCJamaica
NYCAlbania
GROUP "B"
GAME SUMMARIES:
PRELIMINARIES
OVERVIEW
NYCEngland, NYCGhana, NYCGreece, NYC JA-Mexico
This group "B" displayed the most energy, passion, intrigue, and controversy that CopaNYC could have ever asked for! Of course, with every drama, there are comedic and tragic moments. Heroes and villains share the stage. And in the case of NYC JA-Mexico...court jesters. So let's open the curtains, have the maestro cue the orchestra, and let the chorus begin...
PROLOGUE
GAME SUMMARIES
NYCGreece VS NYCEngland
The stage is set: A sub-par pitch, a hot, humid morning. 2 teams with fire in their eyes and silverware on their minds. This is what football is made of! The game starts slow... tense, with each team searching for weaknesses and strengths. Greece controls possession for the 1st 15 minutes with brilliant spacing and great one touch passing in the midfield. England are not over committing and they wait for their chance to strike, while continuing to try and disrupt the quality of Greece's young guns with aggression and typical English work rate. But of course, Greece can give as good as they get! England are starting to get their mark on the game with their target man, "the Doom from Froom" #9, Paul Cowler and #23, "The Lip" Tom Hatton. The run of the game remains equal midway through the 1st half and things are getting tense. A scoring chance comes for Cowler, but is deflected for a corner. As the ball swings in a scrum ensues in front of the Greece goal and an elbow from "The Lip" catches a Greek player on the chin. He is yellow carded, but the fireworks begin, handbags are everywhere and Greek coach Andeas Touros arrives like the titan Prometheus, simultaneously checking on his woozy player while berating everything and everyone in sight. Greece team president Mike Megaloudis tries to calm the storm and get his players focused, with only some success. Most disappointing are the antics of Greece goalkeeper Stavros Toumanidis, who embarrassed himself and his team with vulgar and sweeping accusations of a deliberate punch to the face. I, your humble narrator was a field general for this match and I did not see a punch. I can honestly say that my sightline was shielded from the foul so I must take the word of the referee that it was unintentional. The half nears an end and the game is slipping from the officials grip. 0-0
2nd HALF
The Greeks lose none of their rage and they bring it to the pitch, coach Touros makes sure the rage is on the sideline as well. England on the other hand, led by gaffer Yuval Lion, has managed to keep his team as cool as the other side of the pillow... for the most part. It is inevitable that this next set of events happen. #29 for Greece, Collin Geohagen gets a strait red for a bad foul and unsportsmanlike behavior. The Greek bench collectively erupts and yellow cards are handed out to both teams like peeps on Easter Sunday! Soon after, England's Smith attacks a 50-50 ball with Greek keeper Toumanidis and a second yellow card is given... "The Lip" is ejected! Now, there was talk of an actor of Shakespearian class was on the pitch, feigning mortal injury to get "The Lip" sent off. But this is only rumor. With the game in tatters and both teams down to 10 men, Mr. Lion commands the team to find a way to grab the points. England #8, Shane Lennon answers his call with an inspired goal! Greece, understanding the importance of stealing a point from this match, plays like a team possessed. They lose the immaturity they have shown for most of the match and pour on the pressure. #22, Greek player Daniel Bartsis has 2 excellent chances to go level, both go wide by a hair. The match ends, thankfully for your humble narrator. 1-0. Man of the match: England #5, defender Pat Thurston, with honorable mention to #6, Danny D'angelo, also from England.
NYCGreece VS NYCGhana
With both teams still in the hunt to make it out of the group, it is surprising that the game gets off so slow for Ghana. Maybe the heat and fatigue are setting in, or maybe there is a hangover from the previous matches. Greece gets out of the gates quickly with a goal by #11, Christian Trevino off a rebound. Greece capitalize again with an open net goal by #28, George Lenses, assisted by #7 Peter Touros, from a blunder by the Ghanaian defense. Ghana, with equal parts talent, spirit, and indiscipline, start to pick up the pace and immediately creates excitement. It takes 1 minute after the Greece goal to get Ghana on the scoreboard with a nice goal from #12, Samba Traore! The half ends at 2-1 Greece.
2nd HALF
Belief is setting in with the Ghana side and they start the 2nd half with a moment of brilliance! 3 minutes in, Ghana #20, Richard Ahiabu scores the goal of the tournament with a 45-yard blast! He is swarmed and there is a new favorite team adopted by the CopaNYC fans! Theatrics continue from both teams. Diving, flopping, and simulated trauma grows to biblical proportion, bordering on slapstick comedy. Chances for both teams still occur and good saves from both keepers keep it level. Game ends 2-2.
Man of the match: Ghana's Richard Ahiabu, with his wonder goal.
NYCEngland VS NYCGhana
With England already through to the next round, coach Lion takes a conservative approach with his talented but light squad and decides to rest some of his impact players. Ghana on the other hand, have everything to play for and must get at least a point or a score loss to go through. Greek coach Touros, president Megaloudis, and some Greek players watch tentatively on the sidelines, hoping for a 1-0 England victory which would see them through to the Elite 8. If this humble narrator is going to be honest, this game hardly was enlightened... In fact the opposite was true. England, playing with a confidence that has been growing leaps and bounds with every match and they are hard to get the ball away from. Ghana gets a breakaway, but it is woefully dismissed as a half chance. England's Pat Thurston is making a strong case with the other CopaNYC elite for the "Golden Ball" award, keeping the back four as solid as the Canadian health care system! I just woke up to let you know the 1st half ends 0-0.
2nd HALF
More of the same from both sides unfortunately, until we hit the 10-minute mark of the period. A free kick is awarded to Ghana about 35 yards out. Still beaming with confidence from the previous game, Richard Ahaibu stands over the ball, waiting for the whistle. With the pressure of his team and the NYCGhanaian fans on his shoulders, he fires... And scores! A shot that couldn't be saved, slots in the upper right corner! Ghana team president and player, Kojo Annan and coach Francesco Bardazzi and the rest of the side pile on Ahaibu in jubilation! The Greek chorus watches in pain. If only the whistle could blow now for Ghana, but there is still a lot of time on the clock. Coach Lion, Visually angry starts to sub in his starters. Now that Ghana has taken the lead, Lion knows that if the result stays the same England would not finish top of the group. England pours on the quality, creating many chances, narrowly missing 3 times. Ghana is playing like they have already won, with great individual play and a loose mentality. Game ends 1-0 and NYCGhana are beside themselves with joy! Man of the match: You guessed it, Richard Ahaibu.
THROUGH TO THE QUARTER-FINALS
NYCGhana
NYCEngland
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*NYC JA...Mexico?
As you have probably observed, there are only 3 teams summarized in Group "B". This deserves explanation and as your humble narrator, I would be more than happy to oblige!
Let me please introduce to you... The Pagliacci, the Court Jester, The Keystone Kops of CopaNYC
NYC JA...Mexico!
For this story to be complete, we must go back in time 3 months. CopaNYC was introduced to a man named Oscar Macareno Jr. through one of our distinguished advisors. He assured CopaNYC that he had a quality Mexican team and would be proud to represent NYCMexico in our tournament. Our trusted and beloved Spanish associate, Sofia Maria Sanchez was in constant communication with this man and he was fully aware of what CopaNYC was all about. In fact, there was a gentlemen's agreement between all the team presidents that a "20 & 5" rule would be in place. (Simply put, 20 members of the team would be of the heritage of the participating "Nation" or community, while 5 players could be professional, celebrity, or anyone who represented said community). Rumors were swirling throughout the communities that the NYCMexico team had little, or even no... MEXICANS! CopaNYC, being diligent, thorough, and extremely sensitive to issues regarding community and cultural identity, were adamant that Mr. Macareno would abide to this gentlemen's agreement. He always replied that he had a Mexican team with Mexican players and not to worry.
Present Time: July 25th, 2009
Teams were provided waiver forms and asked to have their team rosters handed in the week prior of the tournament, while also having the players provide identification that matches the name on the roster. Most teams were very good about this, some, not so good, Mr. Macareno's band of misfits? Pathetic! This team showed up with no waivers, Players didn't match the team roster. This man acted as if this was the first time he heard this information. CopaNYC's fine team of Field generals were left frustrated with these turn of events to say the least. We finally rounded up this "Mexican" side to check in and have them sign a liability release to compete. This is where the story turns from "dumb" to "dumber".
NYC "Mexico" had at least 9 players of Caribbean descent! S
Stranger still, Mr. Macareno played virtually ALL these JA-Mexicans for the entire 3 games of their preliminaries! They were a talented side and had enough points to go through. But now the story of the JA-Mexicans has spread throughout the tournament like wildfire, causing a mixed bag of emotions from teams and fans alike. Most people said the same thing, "In a city filled with talented Mexican players, why on earth would you field a team of Trinidadians and Jamaicans? CopaNYC was lied to by Mr. Macareno and we were forced to make a decision. As we watched in awe and embarrassment as Ja-Mexico drew there final game with England 1-1, we approached this "team president" to let him know that his farce of a team was disqualified and the remaining teams in the group would receive 2-0 victories for their matches involving them. Mr. Macareno, knowing full well the weight of his actions, cowered away like a boy getting caught with a skin mag. At least we let them keep the shirts!
On a serious note... This humble narrator would like to apologize to everyone who made CopaNYC the wonderful experience it has been and the great fans we have made. Though we were very clear about what CopaNYC's agenda was with all the participating "nations", we also wanted to trust the team president's desire to field a team that represented their communities. Overwhelmingly this happened, with the exception of Mr. Macareno. Maybe we needed to look deeper in the Mexican community. We promise to do a better job next year.
Please allow this humble narrator to write a few more words on this fiasco:
To be blunt, Mr. Macareno is a disgrace to himself and the Mexican community.
These may seem like harsh words, but I can assure you they are true. We have witnessed something wonderful in NYC this summer... We have seen communities and players get together for one cause, to compete as the people they identify as. We have seen proud French, Colombian, Ecuadorian (etc...) people play for the shirt that displays both the country they love and the city they call home. This humble narrator is so proud to be a part of these wonderful teams, people, and communities. I can honestly say that we are creating something important.
CopaNYC were crystal clear with our intentions. Every participating "nation" understood and complied with this simple "20 and5" rule. All the teams were proud of who they represent and took this opportunity to show their community at its best. As we predicted, everyone in NYC and beyond are taking notice. We have received amazing support from around the world for what we are creating. This humble narrator holds Mr. Macareno personally responsible for denigrating the opportunity to show a proud Mexican community and the city of New York how great their players and supporters of "the beautiful game" truly are.
If there is anyone who can speak for NYCMexican's in New York and can help us find a group of community leaders who will take CopaNYC as seriously as the other participating teams. Please contact me at spencer@copanyc.us.
Thank you.
GROUP "C"
GAME SUMMARIES: PRELIMINARIES
NYCArgentina, NYCCyprus, NYCLiberia, NYC U.S.A.
OVERVIEW
This group had all big names in the NYC soccer community. Cyprus, in particular has an historic and legendary reputation in New York... Though they are defined as Cyprus, all Cyprians are also Greek Nationals, which caused a slight controversy early on (mostly internally between some of the club teams that represent both Greece and Cyprus), but as your humble narrator can attest, these issues were smoothed out at a meeting with all the powers that be in Astoria Queens. Argentina, led by handsome, yet enigmatic, Gustavo Villarda came into the tournament as a dark horse to win and kept his cards close to his chest when it came to discussing his team, but not when it came to discussing his beloved Boca Juniors! The Liberian squad, led by former ex-pro and Liberian international Eddie Kingston, taking the place of team president Rufus Arkoi, arrived with unity and unabashed Joy, undeniably proud to represent Staten Island and Liberia, the 2 homes they know and love. USA, led by the approachable and friendly (when not on the pitch!) Mark Kushemba, compiled his team from 2-3 important Cosmopolitan clubs in the Manhattan area. Mark is an idea man, something this humble narrator can relate to. It is virtually impossible not to get a dozen suggestions when speaking to the player/coach/president, all of them equally inspiring!
This group was a toss up! Any team could win the whole thing, let alone get out of the group. Here's how it played out.
NYCCyprus VS NYCLiberia
This game did not provide the fireworks expected from the pundit's and the "experts". Liberia looking a bit weak from the start and Cyprus working nice quick passes but with no real hunger to take the game by the scruff of the neck. Cyprus must have thought Christmas came early when #9, Frank Spanos Scored from a Peter Antoniades (11) assist. 1 minute later, #7 Andreou Stelios looked to shut the door on Liberia with another quick goal, served by MIcheal palacio. That is how the 1st half ends.
2nd HALF
Cyprus starts very strong, but fatigue may be setting in. the Liberians go on all out attack, but no real threat comes from them. Cyprus looks comfortable and not too bothered by the Liberians. Game ends with the inevitability of a bad sitcom. Cyprus 2-0. Man of the match: Frank Spanos.
NYC U.S.A. VS NYCArgentina
This match had everything! Passion, skill, ugliness, poetry, and vulgarity, just like every Sunday right? USA displays a great all around game, with great attention to the defense, which looked formidable. Argentina on the other hand, with a rabid fan base which included base drums and symbols, were applying pressure with short, quick passes with standout player, #7 Julian Escobar. 1st half was mainly a story of 2 teams finding out each other's capabilities, while strong egos and attitude start to show a dark side to the match. There is still a lot of talent on the pitch and much to admire of both sides. Chances appear for both teams, but overall talent around the pitch cancels any threat out. 1st half ends 0-0.
2nd HALF
The beginning of the half creates a glorious chance for USA"s #9, Andy Abramovits, only to be wasted! Another chance for a USA goal from a corner, headed by #18, Jon Nessa. The third clear-cut chance for the USA comes from #8, Colin Marshall, USA's midfield general, but the shot goes inches wide. Argentina, with Julian Escobar causing the only real problems for the US, has a breakaway for his side, only to be saved by the US keeper. Unfortunately, the passion of the game is bringing out the worst in the Argentina stands, where rushing of the field occurs a few times. USA may rue the missed opportunities handed to them in this match. Game ends 0-0. Man of the match is Colin Marshall, but all eyes are on Argentina's Julian Escobar!
NYCCyprus VS NYCArgentina
This match started quickly, with a Cyprus shot deftly saved by Argentina goalkeeper Riccardo Jackuet! This match displays 2 great teams with fantastic tempo, reminding this humble narrator of a battle between a viper and a ferret, each capable of taking their foe down with a quick strike. Shots go off target and saved, neither team gaining an edge, until the 23rd minute! A long pass from Cyprus #8, George Spanos is collected and deposited in the back of the net by #11, Peter Antoniades! These 2 teams remain well matched and this half ends with Cyprus leading 1-0.
2nd HALF
As beautiful as this game was in the 1st half, it is becoming more and more unseemly. Rough play is evident from both sides and coach Villarda is showing his dark side. It takes 10 minutes for Argentina to equalize, with a goal by #18, Sebastian Acosta. Tense and antagonistic is commonplace, as Cyprus and Argentina are more interested in puffing chests than playing football. Cyprus find their composure in the final minutes with a goal from #20, Christopher Megaloudis. Somewhere I hear a distant tear fall to the ground from a certain man called "Maradona". Coach Villarda severely harasses the referee after the match, which once again frustrates the beleaguered CopaNYC staff and wishes Valium was an over the counter drug. Game ends 2-1. Man of the Match: Cyprus #10, Micheal Palacio.
NYC U.S.A. VS NYCLIberia
Liberia comes into the tournament as a crowd favorite, warming up as a team and singing with jubilation. USA, hardened by their rough match with Argentina is looking for points and are in no mood to harmonize. The only rain of the day begins and it is as if Atlantis himself got slide talked from behind and retaliates! Everyone is soaked to the bone and our venerable field general Mattie has demanded a free beer from your humble narrator! (I can assure you fine people that he won't see a Pabst Blue Ribbon, let alone a quality pint!) This game has been described as "muscle vs. finesse" with the USA providing a tank by the name of Andy Abramovits, (#9) who finds the back of the net in the 11th minute. Proving that muscles aren't the only thing that can bulge the back of the net, #9 for Liberia, Lorenzo Stevens whittles his way through the US minefield to artistically put away the equalizer in the 18th minute. The Half ends 1-1.
2nd HALF
Liberia receives a rousing, emotionally charged, speech from coach Eddie Kingston. But the USA begins to shoot mercilessly at the Liberia net from the start, making numerous chances. Most notably, a torpedo header off a free kick and is saved by Liberian Keeper Melvin Dan. Liberia's finesse is slowly turning sour and USA's power is starting to wear them down. It was only a matter of time before the USA strikes again. With 5 minutes remaining #7 Josh Trott connects with a beautiful mid-range cannon of a shot. The USA plays keep away with the Liberians to try and secure the win, but they do not give up and until the final whistle blows, the Liberians continue to create chances. Unfortunately for them, the game ends 2-1. Man of the match: Andy "the Tank" Abramovits.
NYCCyprus VS NYC U.S.A.
These 2 teams are the best of the best and many fans are eagerly waiting for the whistle to blow. Cyprus and the US play largely a back and fourth game and it is very hard to gauge who may take advantage. Both teams are playing their third and final match, which gives visions of Ali vs. Frazier in the "Thrilla in Manilla". Fighting the crazy heat and humidity and a poor excuse for a pitch the USA find a way to put them ahead! A goal scored by none other than Josh Trott, with an assist given to #6, George Quraishi. First half ends 1-0.
2nd HALF
I believe a hair dryer must have been used by Cyprus Coach Mike Iordanou for his halftime talk (if you don't understand what this means, try to remember how loud your father screamed at you when he caught you drinking for the 1st time... That is the "hair dryer" treatment!). Just 3 minutes into the 2nd half, #11, Peter Antoniades scores a rebound goal to level the match. Cyprus star Micheal Palacios (#10) finds Antoniades again on the wing and calmly puts it in the upper 90 far post! Cyprus score an insurance goal in the waning minutes by #9, Frank Spanos. USA comes close to getting back in the match, but a beautiful goal by #8, Colin Marshall is disallowed due to offside. This result puts the USA in jeopardy and they will need help from Liberia to get past Argentina for the next round. 3-1 victory for Cyprus. Man of the match: Frank Spanos.
NYCArgentina VS NYCLiberia
With the USA helpless to change their fate, Argentina smells the sweet aroma of the elite 8! The only thing that stands in front of them is a deflated Liberian side, playing for pride but not much else. The Argentines deserve credit for their ruthlessness, especially in this act of attrition known as CopaNYC. Coach Villarda's team has made some enemies, but the fans love him and his team unconditionally. Sure enough, Argentina come out with their fangs exposed and quickly dash any hope the USA team have by scoring 3 goals in 5 minutes! Joze Batista (#9), Diego Gorosito (#3), and Mathian Jorge (#13) were the goal scorers. For the rest of the 1st half the Liberian players heads couldn't have been lower unless they were ostrich's. Argentina weren't done; they added 2 more before the 2nd half, another by Gorosito and Batista. 1st half ends 5-0.
2nd HALF
Now that Argentina has done the job, they phone the final period in with their awesome Boost Mobile phones! (Sorry, I couldn't help myself!) Liberia shows some type of life in the second half and tries to get something, anything from the game. Redemption finally comes late with a goal by Liberian #10, Richard Doe. Game ends 5-1. Man of the match: Diego Gorosito.
THROUGH TO THE QUARTER-FINALS
NYCCyprus
NYCArgentina
GROUP "D"
GAME SUMMARIES: PRELININARIES
NYCColombia, NYCFrance, NYCIreland, NYCTrinidad+Tobago
OVERVIEW
"The Group of Death"... Was the term used immediately after this group was displayed at the United Nation's now famous CopaNYC tournament selection. This group brought the heavy hitters, on and off the pitch. Tommy Smyth, ESPN analyst and Yonkers legend represents Ireland as team president. Shaka Hislop, World Cup hero for Trinidad+Tobago, Newcastle and West Ham legend, and also an ESPN commentator, holds the reigns for his beloved nation and community. Frederick Lesort, NYC restaurateur extraordinaire, owner of Frederick's and Opia, makes an impression as team president, coach, and player for France. Team Colombia, based in Flushing Queens carries a reputation for wonderful futbol, routinely bringing in former ex-pro and internationals to play to big crowds in Corona Park. Though the teams may have been nervous on how the ball bounced for them to reach this group, CopaNYC was certainly pleased! It went down like this:
GAME SUMMARIES
NYCColombia VS NYCTrinidad+Tobago
This match started the way Shaka Hislop would have liked, with T+T attacking through great wing play and overlapping runs coming from the back. T+T continues to put on the pressure and it looks as if Colombia hasn't found their footing yet. We have to wait until the 21st minute, but T+T go ahead! #14, James David dribbles through the Colombia central defense and buries a curler in the upper 90. This brings the 1st half to a close, 1-0.
2nd HALF
The match, heavy with fouls, is still moving in the direction of Trinidad and Tobago. With coach Alfie Blackman shouting encouragement on the sidelines, his team responds with positive play from both sides of the pitch, T+T look poised to put another goal in the records. Wait! Not so fast... Colombia is still a very talented squad and they're starting to find their game. Midway through the half, a drastic fumble from the T+T keeper leads to a Johan Bolanos (#17) tap in! Now level on points, the match has the feel of two rams locking horns. Colombia's #21, Ibrahim Diop has forced fans to take notice, with dazzling footwork and physical presence; he is someone to watch for in the future! The horns remain locked and this game ends 1-1. Man of the match: Ibrahim Diop.
NYCFrance VS NYCColombia
With Colombia having a match under their belt, they start this match with more confidence, but France has come to play! Even a novice would notice that these are 2 top-notch squads, hungry for glory. France have brought their shooting boots early on and start to pepper the Colombian keeper Mauricio Ceballos, forcing him into some spectacular saves, but France are unfortunate not to be ahead, missing 2 clear opportunities. France #8, Diop Mohamed is making his mark, not just with his outstanding form, but also his illuminated boots! France hit the post late in the 1st half from a shot by #7, Terrence Ahoua. The half ends 0-0
2nd HALF
Colombia come out of the gates and quickly makes their own fate with a self-made goal by #21, Ibrahim Diop! Quickly fulfilling the promise so deftly noted by your humble narrator. Reports reveal that France are the better side on the day, more reports reveal the game was a bit rough in the second half, with yellow cards strewn liberally. Game ends 1-0. Man of the Match: Ibrahim Diop.
NYCIreland VS NYCColombia
Colombia, now playing their final match of the grueling day, must now meet a powerful force in Tommy Smyth's Ireland team. Ireland has taken CopaNYC seriously, combining 3 of the most storied clubs in NYC (Manhattan Celtic, Shamrock Rovers, and Landsdown Bhoys) to assemble the best Ireland team possible. If you look closely into manager Paul Doherty's eyes, I believe you can see silverware within his icy stare. This match, nominated for match of the tournament, had the feel of something special. When Ireland strike, they strike hard and fast! 3 goals in 4 minutes come at the 10 minute mark of the 1st half, with a goal off a corner kick by #8, Sean Purcell and a brace, which includes a beautiful solo goal by #18, Kurt Smith. This game was not a blow out in any way mind you! Colombia came to play and have also made chances. In fact, if it weren't for a great defensive tackle by Ireland's captain Declan Reily (#4) the game would be closer. Ireland look to have taken the boot off the jugular going into the break and Colombia makes them pay, with not 1, but 2 goals from #7, Hemir Neibles, the 1st from a free kick, the2nd from a bullet from 18 yards out! 1st half ends 3-2.
2nd HALF
Now that this match could go either way, the intensity starts to rise. Ireland take a team approach, moving the ball like a well oiled green machine, while a tiring Colombia side is relying on the strength and youth of Ibrahim Diop to dictate their intentions. Smyth's army breathe a sigh of relief when deep into the game Diop misses an open net from the far post! Match ends 3-2 to Ireland. Man of the match: #18, Ireland's Kurt Smith.
NYCFrance VS NYCTrinidad+Tobago
Apart from the celebrity of Shaka Hislop and Frederick Lesort gracing the sidelines, this match resembles a clogged drain as both midfields are gaining and losing possession in the center of the pitch. Mother Nature, who must have been disappointed by this display, decides to punish the teams with a torrential downpour! As the sky clears, so does the quality of the match. The level of play rises as the 1st half comes to a close. Let's hope this continues to the next period! 1st half: 0-0.
2nd HALF
T+T starts to attack, hitting the post with an eager shot, but the French defense remains solid, with rising star Alexandre Austin (#6) anchoring the back. Finally, a moment of clarity, an epiphany if you will, brings itself to light! France captain Zohair Ghenania (#25), former professional in France, now coaching in NYC, rises towards a cross, sent in from 20 yards out. Amidst a crowd of red shirts, Ghenania connects with a perfectly timed scissor kick to bulge the back of the net! This humble narrator has been informed that there is photo evidence of this spectacular goal, but no video is available. Will this Goal of the tournament become an urban fairy tale? We shall see... Game ends 1-0. Man of the match: Zohair Ghenania.
NYCIreland VS NYCFrance
France come into this game needing 3 points to go through. This is their last match of the game and they are coming up against an Irish mob, looking to feast on frog's legs, escargot, steak frites, and wash them down with a little Bordeaux! This game starts slow, with both teams trying to find the rhythm of the match. France starts to make their move, with good central midfield play from #21, Kevin Ara and the aforementioned Ghenania.
*This is where your humble narrator would like to make a public plea to all the coaches of NYC and beyond... Please teach your children to shoot with BOTH your left and right feet! Countless goals have been missed in this wonderful tournament due to the lack of a left foot. Can you please help? Thank you for your time and back to the game...
France have an excellent run of play and through some beautiful build-up #28, Marc-Antoine Zuffredi finds himself open in the 6 yard box with the ball on his left foot, instead of shooting for a certain goal, he drags the ball to his right, where he promptly loses it to the capable Irish defense. 1st half ends 0-0.
2nd HALF
Please forgive this humble narrator for such a brief 1st half summary for such an important match, I shall try and make up for this now... The second period starts with flare and consequence. There is quality from every part of the pitch from both sides. Lesort and Ghenania have gathered the troops to a common cause and now they look a bit hungry for colcannon, boxty, and coddle, and want to wash it down with a pint of Guiness! Both teams want the win, Ireland want to be top of the group and make a statement for the next round. France has found themselves in survival mode and start to play as if they are pushed into a corner. Something has to give! Tension is as high as any match of the day. Aggression and harmony are swirling together to make a strange and alluring brew. 2 styles of play, indicative of their homeland is ever-present. French midfielder Kevin Ara finds himself in front of the net for a loose ball from a corner kick and buries it to put his name in the scoring books. 1-0! Less than 10 minutes later, the seasoned Zohair Ghenania decides to put this team on the back of his shoulders, latches on to another superb Kevin Ara corner kick and smoothly heads France to what looks like a comfortable 2-0 lead. Coach Doherty looks like a man only by basic definition; he resembles more like the ancient Celtic legend Dagda. Known as "the Lord of Life and Death" Dagda controls all in his path. Doherty's players certainly feel his wrath and believe if they don't get out of this mess, they are sure to become his next victims. With approximately 5 minutes left and a free kick awarded to Ireland, #10 Allan O'Hara Gets his team a little closer to level with a quality goal! Just 2 minutes later, Ireland #24, Garry Tierney slots another one past the bewildered French Keeper. All level with only injury time remaining. France, still unsure of progressing to the elite 8, looks as if they only have 1 last gasp at victory. Jean-Phillipe Ahoua, having a relatively quiet match, drives through the Irish defense, finding himself with a slight opening to shoot and converts with the winning goal! He is surrounded instantly by his flabbergasted French teammates... This brings France to the top of group "D"! Ireland however, must earn crucial points to keep Colombia from progressing to the next round. Final score is, 3-2. Man of the match: #25 Zohair Ghenania.
NYCIreland VS NYCTrinidad+Tobago
Ireland, still fuming from the capitulation in the France match, now must find focus and determination to keep T+T from becoming their nemesis. This is the last match of the group and Ireland have mortgaged all their homes to buy the sufficient amount of sun block to deal with the vicious rays pounding on them the whole day. Shaka's T+T squad, on the other hand, have no chance of playing in the next round, but look loose and still happy to be a part of the festivities. The game gets interesting early with #9 from Ireland, Conor Hunter, scores from a sublime through pass from captain Declan Reilly (#4) in the 7th minute. The game turns from interesting to fascinating as T+T win a penalty kick for a 2-footed challenge in the box! #3 for T+T, Marques Thomas calmly converts the PK. This game has yet again changed, from fascinating to riveting! 1st half ends 1-1.
2nd HALF
Intensity from both teams increase and the level of play remains high. Both teams are creating and shots are flying from all over the pitch. It takes about 8 minutes for glory to appear... It is the quality of Conor Hunter that shines though once again, converting a penalty for a T+T violation in the box. The penalty was given for a hand-ball on the goal line by T+T defender Mark Adda (#8) which has resulted in a strait red card and ejection. With T+T down to 10 men, Ireland continues the onslaught and Conor Hunter again puts himself in the CopaNYC history books! Hunter plucks a Karol Hughes pass from midair, controls it with a touch that would make Robbie Keane jealous, and puts belief into the hearts of the huge Irish fan section! There is still much time left and T+T have not bowed their heads in any way. T+T win a free kick from a handball. This infraction causes coach Dagba... Apologies, coach Doherty... To lose the plot and promptly gets thrown out of the match! We now go from riveting, to mesmerizing! To add insult to injury, T+T #10, Angelo Jack puts his free kick in back of the net to close the gap to 3-2. The last minutes of this game provide dramatic sequences and some scoring opportunities, but T+T do not dash the dreams of city glory away from Tommy Smyth and the rest of the Irish faithful. Game ends 3-2. Man of the Match: #9, Conor Hunter for his hat trick.
THROUGH TO THE QUARTER-FINALS
NYCFrance
NYCIreland
Read on... QUARTERFINALS SUMMARIES | SEMIFINALS SUMMARIES | FINALS SUMMARIES
