Spencer's Words: Game Summaries

GAME SUMMARIES:  SEMIFINALS

CopaNYC:

SEMI-FINALS, METROPOLITAN OVAL

AUGUST 1^ST, 2009

NYCArgentina VS NYCAlbania

NYCCyprus VS NYCIreland

OVERVIEW:

The 1^st weekend of CopaNYC provided untold memories and monumental football that impressed thousands of fans; some came from the far corners of the USA like Utah and Florida. This tournament was a true test of attrition, as many teams couldn't muster the fortitude needed to withstand the grueling August heat and the overwhelming competitive nature of playing for the shirt. Albania and Argentina may feel a bit fortunate that they progressed after the 1^st half of each of their respective Quarterfinal matches. That said; never discount the importance of team organization and focus when adversity shows its way into a game. In fact, organization would be the key word for all of our Final 4 teams. Cyprus and Ireland have both shown amazing unity and strength on the way to this plateau, with Cyprus carrying a slight edge because of their outstanding, at times intimidating displays of execution.

Argentina and their rabid fans have made their way to the Famous Metropolitan Oval- the oldest soccer pitch in the United States, located in Maspeth Queens. The "Dynamic Duo" of Julian Escobar and Joze Batista has created quite a stir at CopaNYC and will hope to repeat the regal form they unveiled last week. Albania, with the proven talents of Rigels Qosa and Ervin Makishta on hand, keep their sights squared on the prize, the coveted Mayor' Cup; on display for the 1^st time in the middle of the park. The cup is substantive, heavy, polished, and demands attention.

Ireland will have to play a near perfect match to keep pace with George Halkidis' men. Michael Palacio and Peter Antoniades have lead this Cyprus team with wisdom and talent beyond their years. They will surely test the meddle of Tommy Smyth's Ireland and their defense, led by "The Ginger Terminator", Alan O'hara and Goalkeeper Allan Reilly. Both teams have brought loyal fans and can't wait to see what their brethren will produce.

This particular Saturday in Queens had a glow all its own. As the sun began to lower on the majestic New York Skyline, the beauty and pageantry of this wonderful pitch gave way to an unforgettable night for everyone involved. Please enjoy your CopaNYC Semifinal matches!

NYCAlbania VS NYCArgentina

After receiving many disparaging remarks about the level of officiating during the preliminaries, CopaNYC called in a few favors and got hold of some highly qualified referees, of which, 2 of the officiating team just came back from working the AC Milan VS Inter Milan match the previous week. As the teams came down to the field with their National Anthems playing, a sense of pride and electricity has filled the air. Rowdy and jubilant Argentina fans have covered the stands with flags and slogans to root Gustavo Villarda's team forward, while a smaller, but no less passionate Albanian crowd was on hand as well.

 As the opening whistle blows, the roar is deafening by the mass of spectators! Both teams start with a solid tempo, like two prizefighters in the ring testing jabs. Neither side has taken the game under their wing yet in this aperture. Maybe it's the nerves, or conservation of energy, but it is the guess of this humble narrator that both teams have been successful with the counter attack all tournament and are looking for their opponent to show an offensive burst to exploit. The middle of the park is being clogged with talented trades of possession as both teams look to link up with the strike force with through balls or spreading the play to the wings. It is evident that both teams play intelligent and decisive football, rarely making a mistake that would put them in harms way. Albania grab the 1^st chance of the match, with a long range shot from Leo Gonclaves (#9), but Argentina are creating some clear chances from set plays. 1 free kick in particular is cleared off the line by the Albanian defender, #2 Elis Llagami. Both teams are opening up the field now and the pace increases. A hard shot from Ervin Makishta pings off the crossbar, only to be countered by Argentina, which leads to a through pass that finds  #9, Joze Batista, who's shot grazes the near post! The lead official is starting to see aggression from both teams in the form of professional fouls and an overload of testosterone. Yellow cards begin to be awarded. The Argentina crowd, precariously close to the pitch, moan maniacally after each whistle... Jubilant may not be the most adequate definition for them any more.

This match has officially become remarkable, a master-class of total football that refuses to be ignored. The Gonclaves brothers, Leo and Netto are human spark plugs to the 66' Mustang that is Albania, while the growing Argentine legend by the name of Escobar (#7) is demonstrating soccer acrobatics without a net. His death-defying acts are becoming commonplace through the Albanian defense, which almost resulted in Argentina's 1^st goal in the 30^th minute, as Escobar's side-footed volley attempt goes high. Julian Escobar and Netto Gonclaves are each dictating this match with the power and grace of a Barack Obama speech! As the half nears a close, a catastrophe happens... The lead official, who is desperately trying to maintain a sense of order to a match that is perilously close to becoming chaos, has had enough of Albanian player #8, Aleks Llagami and shows him a red card for dissent. Argentina's fans are over the moon! Music and drums are once again furious, as the fans believe this will push their beloved team to glory. But, if we have learned anything about this fickle sport, is that anything can happen no matter what the circumstances may be. Sure enough, in the 45^th minute an Albanian winger by the name of Alexsander Haxhiari (#20) decides to make a splendid run down the right wing, exposing a very tired Argentine left back, who has been reduced to trying to knock over his opponents as defending. Haxihiari has gotten around the defender deep in the penalty box, keeps his composure and lays off a centering pass to #4, Argent Duka, who mechanically deposits the ball past the beleaguered Argentina goalkeeper. Drums stop, confusion sets in and the red shirts of Albania are bouncing like a sea of delicious apples in a storm. 1^st half ends 1-0.

2^nd HALF

The atmosphere at the Met Oval is tense and magnificent. The fans of both teams have symbiotically attached themselves to the players, creating a gooey mass of patriotism and intent. A rhetorical question arises: Which is more dangerous? A Depleted Albanian side with a lead? Or a full strength Argentina team without one? A question that is more than ready to be answered when the whistle blows.

Argentina open with the objective of getting the Albanians off their rhythm, contesting any possible possession with physicality, not to mention a bit of bullying too. Yellow cards are being handed out with purpose as both teams are trying to work the lead official to their advantage. Unfortunately, this method is just unhinging both teams. Ironically, there is still some great football happening, with Rigels Qosa (#11), masterfully taking on 4 defenders and winning a foul ("Sweet play!" Murmurs field general Noel Kammermann) and Netto Gonclaves is still terrorizing like a masked man in a slasher movie. For 20 minutes in the 2^nd half, Albania continue to hold their brilliant form against a determined Argentina team, but Julian Escobar has decided to change the whole match by himself. A moment of utter inspiration drives Escobar down the pitch, running through a stunned Albanian defense and drives a sublime strike past goalkeeper Daniel Suarez. The game levels at 1-1 and The Argentina crowd erupts! To the point that security and staff must keep them from charging the field... This turn of events has further soured a game that has become bitter already. Albania is trying to regain composure, but Argentina continues to press. Suarez snuffs out yet another cross in the box, while Rigels Qosa is holding the ball and winning fouls to slow the rabid attack of the opponent. Emotion is starting to replace talent on the pitch. One of Albania's finest players, Netto Gonclaves receives a red card for dissent in the 75^th minute, which infuriates Oliver Papraniku, convinced the referee has booked the wrong Gonclaves. In an amazing display of bad judgment, Argentina player Sebastion Acosta (#8) receives a red card for assault on the referee! All hell has officially broken loose and this match is now in full survival mode, both teams have fallen to the dark side and it is difficult to see who will find the light. There is still some remnants of soccer being displayed and Albania are keeping their shape. Captain Qosa's team continue to make calculated, controlled attacks at the Argentine net and subsequently win a corner kick. Albania's #20, Alexsander Haxhiari receives a rebound from the scrum and puts Abania in the lead, 2-1! Elation is an understatement to describe Papraniku's men and they feel vindication, but the game is far from over. Inexplicably, an Argentine fan decides to try and help his team by tripping an Albanian player as he attempts a throw-in, creating more headaches for staff and security.

With 5 minutes to go, Argentina tries everything to get level. An all out attack is unleashed on the depleted Albanian team. Every Argentine player is now focused on getting a crucial goal that will keep them alive, but this focus and fury looks to have come a little too late. Albania may be playing with a man down, but their team discipline and shape are a wonder to watch. Each player is working unselfishly and tirelessly to protect this precarious lead. It is crystal clear that the Albanians will do nothing short of putting themselves in a coma for the opportunity to play in the championship match. The final whistle is about to blow and Gustavo Villarda's men have come to the last gasp. A surly crowd of Argentine fans refuse to believe the score-line and would do anything to put extra time on the clock.

Alas, it is not the day for Argentina and the score remains a 2-1 victory for a deserving and reticent NYCAlbania, who must wait patiently to find out their next opponent will be. Kudos must be given to Gustavo Villarda and NYCArgentina; a proud man and a prouder team you will not meet. Though they and their unpredictable crowd always kept the staff and security in a constant state of awareness, it is undeniable that they brought a unique and grand flavor to CopaNYC. They represent the South American brand of football with flamboyance and style. We thank them for bringing this flair to the tournament. Man of the match: Julian Escobar, for an unbelievable display of talent and work rate in a losing cause.

NYCIreland VS NYCCyprus

After the volcano that was Albania vs. Argentina has succumbed, another eruption of Krakatoan dimension is about to take place.

2 titans have prepared for battle, each team are highly motivated and have an immense following from their respective communities in the stands, especially the Irish contingent, who have brought a sea of green to the Met Oval. Both Ireland and Cyprus have brought an enormous reputation into this match and the excitement is accumulating faster than excuses from a Chicago politician!

The opening whistle blows and Ireland takes the game to the Cypriots immediately. Within 5 minutes, Ireland captain Declan Reilly (#4) almost puts his team ahead from a header and Sean Purcell (#8) just misses a 25-yard blast wide left. Cyprus counter quickly and if it wasn't for Ireland's #3, Garth "The Kroker" McCrory's block from a Cyprus shot, Ireland would find themselves behind. Within the 1^st 10 minutes, each team have made several great scoring chances and the pace is dazzling, not to mention the sheer quality of the soccer.

Field general Matty has lost count of the Irish pleads of "AAAHHHH COME ON!"  At 28, while Cyprus coach Mike Iordanou and team president George Halkidis look as worried as expectant fathers in the maternity ward. As this brilliant game is unfolding, the houses that surround the Metropolitan Oval have been trembling from the rapturous crowd noise and the neighbors have started to gather on their rooftops to watch... 2 in particular, with beers in hand, strangely resemble the "Muppet Show" characters Stadler and Waldorf, but without the sarcasm.

Impatience starts to grow from both teams as we near the 15-minute mark and the tactics quickly turn from playing on the carpet to the long-ball game, as Cyprus and Ireland test the speed of their strikers against opposing marking backs. The pace of this match is still staggering, but not much risk is apparent, as neither team wants to expose themselves with hazardous mistakes, knowing full well they will pay for it. Respect is abundant, almost too much actually. There is excellence at every position whether the player is wearing green (Ireland) or White (Cyprus), which has put this chess match at a brilliant stalemate. At the 26^th minute Ireland wins a free kick at the top of the Cypriot box. Ireland #8 Sean Purcell steps up the ball. Purcell, who looks and plays a bit like Irish international and Sunderland maestro Andy Reid, unleashes a vicious shot destined for the back of the "Old Onion Bag" (since the lreland team president is none other than ESPN legend Tommy Smyth, using his tag line only seems appropriate). Purcell is denied by a luminous save from Christian Iordanou, who virtually appears out of nowhere to keep the game level! Not a moment later, Iordanou again denies Ireland, breaking the heart of  #18, Kurt Smith as he saves yet another certain goal from a header. Ireland are starting to win the midfield battle now with the tandem of Purcell and Reilly as they move away from the long-ball approach and start to link the team together with quick passes and physical prowess.

*This would also be a good time to let the audience know of the magnificent job the lead referee has performed in this match. These are 2 powerful and aggressive teams who want nothing less to win. As we all know, this so called "Beautiful Game" can turn very ugly in a matter of seconds. It takes an official of great mettle and spirit to control even a basic amateur match, let alone a game with so much on the line. Rarely have I heard so many unanimous positive remarks about the professional manner in which this match was officiated. Now, back to the match!

  The game takes a dire turn in the 30^th minute when an airborne challenge leaves Ireland captain Declan Reilly on the ground, clutching his face. Boxing is an easy metaphor to use when you speak about football, ("Trading punches"...  "Like 2 heavyweights", etc") but in Declan's case, he has personified the legendary bare knuckles boxer Dan Donnelly, but unfortunately for the captain, on a bad day. A gaping wound above his eye has left him woozy and requiring medical attention. He will later need 6 stitches to close the gash he received. This event will test coach Paul Doherty to Pythagorian proportions, not only in leadership on the pitch, but a proven ball winner in the middle of the park. It has taken 7 minutes to clear the pitch and resume the match and neither team skip a beat. Conor Hunter uses a bit of skill and releases Karol Hughes down the wing, only to be deftly defended by a stoic and effective Cypriot defense. As the 2^nd half approaches, Cyprus looks to catch Ireland on the wrong foot and apply pressure. Cyprus #11, Peter Antoniades rattles the nearside post with a great shot, but Ireland counter and win a corner on the other end. Cyprus defend well and quickly counter back, this time Frank Spanos (#9) shakes the woodwork! The Cypriots seem to be wearing down the Irish, who seem like fatigue maybe setting in. Ireland hard man Pat Kelly (#2) receives a yellow card for a hard shoulder and this ends the 1^st half.

Though scoreless, absolutely no one would be disappointed with what they have witnessed. One of our proud sponsors, Redbull, who have provided glorious tents and libation for the CopaNYC faithful, would have been smart to send talent scouts as well. The quality of both teams have exhibited could honestly give the woeful NYRedulls a run for their money!

2^nd HALF

Ireland were fortunate to hear the half-time whistle and Cyprus might feel a bit frustrated after "Playing chimes on the posts" (thanks for the quote field general Matty) in the closing minutes. The only team that seems to be scoring at will are the mosquitoes, which have taken every chance they get with precision and lethal measure, leaving everyone on the sidelines scratching with no abandon. Ireland's depth will become an issue for Tommy Smyth and "Doc" Doherty, as it looks like Declan Reilly will not return to the game.

The 2^nd half starts eerily similar to the 1^st, as both teams attack ferociously with midfield strength and ingenious work on and off the ball. Strikers and wingers are switching positions, trying to stretch the defense of both teams, but the back 4 of each side are up to the task, marking with acute accuracy. Ireland has begun to win the possession war, but few chances are coming from the hard work provided. Cyprus are now poised to make a run of their own and with a clean and effective passing game they start to progress.

The back and forth superiority that these teams produce is reminds this humble narrator of what it must have been like to watch Bobby Fischer battle Boris Spassky for the "World Chess Championship" in 1972. It is common to see heart, passion, and guts every match day in New York City, but the intelligence that is being displayed in conjunction with these traits is what separates this game from the others.

Cyprus has begun to close down on the Ireland midfield, leaving the towering Irish center back, #10 Alan "The Ginger Terminator" O'Hara to go over them with long-balls, trying to release the forwards. Cyprus soak up these attempts and start to dominate for long spells as they put the ball on the capable feet of the Spanos brothers, Michael Palacio (#10), and Peter Antoniades. Palacio just misses the far post with a shot in the 17^th minute and the Irish fans, once boisterous and full of life, are curiously quiet. Cyprus hit man named George Spanos, (#8) tests the Irish keeper Alan Reilly, but the shot minder is more than up to the task. Antoniades is making an argument for man of the match as he is driving "The Ginger Terminator" delirious trying to keep him from scoring. Antoniades is either creating shots for himself or his teammates and I wish there was a nickname adequately describe his talent. The tide is turning with a hint of Ouzo in the air, but the team in green have not collapsed. Ireland are holding their own and still trading blows, but they are squandering valuable chances. WAIT! Is that a Cyprus goal? No... It's just Peter Antoniades getting a yellow card for his variation of "The Hand of God" as he handled the ball to attempt a volley. The final whistle is closing in and Cyprus look to be the more determined side. They are force-feeding their quality down the throats of the Irish defense in the last minutes. Cars are actually slowing down on the bridge that is located behind the field to watch this "Titanic Battle" (this quote brought to you by field general Noel Kammermann). Waldorf and Stadler, now visibly drunk, are screaming like hyenas in a field full of springboks during lunchtime!

The tandem of Palacio and Antoniades do not want extra time and push forward. After a great shot which produced another fine save from Reilly, George Spanos receives a great pass to put himself in the Ireland penalty box, he shoots, the shot deflects to Palacios, who has an open net, He heads it... WIDE! A glorious chance missed for Cyprus and full time is called. "What a game!" Kammermann extols.

EXTRA TIME:  2, 15-minute halves will be played and there is no golden goal in CopaNYC. If there is no score after extra time, penalty kicks will decide the victor.

The free Redbull given to the crowd must have finally kicked in for the Ireland faithful because they have woken up from their collective slumber and are now firmly rooting their team on. The halftime talks were spirited from both sides, but the most intriguing quotes come from coach Doherty, such as "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take" and screaming at his team for "MORE BEEF!" 

Ireland start strong and look dangerous at the outset by making runs and causing trouble. Conor Hunter gets brought down in a dangerous spot and wins a fortunate free kick, only to have the chance go by the wayside. Cyprus begin to retaliate and George Spanos is at the center of the storm. He just misses a close range header and lets out a roar of frustration, which drives the Irish fans wild. The pace of this match has yet to slow down, much to the bewilderment and envy of some of us "less fit" onlookers. Once again, neither team look to be clearly ahead, rather each side take turns to inspire and dishearten. Another Cypriot chance illuminates and nearly breaks the deadlock, but the Irish defense holds firm once again. Intensity has filled the stands with squeaky bums and the sidelines are feeling the pressure as well, but on the pitch, both teams stay focused and simply refuse to have a mistake decide the outcome of this match. The excitement is palpable but the 2 titans remain calm, constantly attacking, knowing a moment of brilliance can end this amazing quagmire.  These 15 minutes of extra time go by quicker than the singing career of William Hung.

PENALTY KICKS: 1^st team to reach the best of 5 penalties will win the match.

It seemed inevitable that it would come to this conclusion. Cyprus and Ireland can feel immensely proud of the endeavor and class displayed for the 120-minutes of amazing soccer that has taken place. If I'm honest, I believe that if another 120-minutes were to be played in succession, the same result would have occurred. The crowd is seismic with anticipation and there is absolutely no clue of which team may have an edge. Both the Irish and Cypriot keepers have put their teams on their broad shoulders at various times in this match and can take much credit to be in this position to be the hero. It is now up to calm nerves and a sure shot, with a little luck thrown in.

The team captains meet in the center circle for the coin toss, which Ireland has won. They decide to shoot 1^st, which leaves Cyprus with the choice of which goal to shoot at. In what maybe the only mistake of the match, the Cyprus captain chooses the goal that has   hundreds of rabid Irish fans in the stands behind it. The scene is set. The players take their marks. Let the drama begin...

The Goalkeepers for each team; Christian Iordanou for Cyprus and Alan Reilly for Ireland shake hands and wish each other luck. Ireland's Sean Purcell takes the long walk from the center circle to the penalty spot amidst a deluge of Irish cheers. He places the ball and steps back, then, as if he was in his back yard, calmly deposits his shot in the back of the net and Iordanou is left sprawled on the turf.

1-0: IRELAND

It is Michael Palacio's time for glory or infamy as he proceeds to the spot? The Ireland crowd is deafening in response. Alan Reilly feels the surge and waits for Palacio to make his move. Palacio hits a great shot to the lower left corner, but Reilly guesses correctly and makes an incredible outstretched save! The crowd goes insane!

1-0: IRELAND

Ireland #2, Pat Kelly is up next. As he prepares to put himself in the CopaNYC history books, Christian Iordanou makes himself as imposing as possible. He is a big lad already and his outstretched arms make the goal look miniscule. Kelly, who must have channeled the spirit of the legendary clan of Irish warriors from the "Fianna" clan, is not intimidated and buries his shot to keep the pressure squarely on Cyprus.

2-0: IRELAND

It is the burden of Jon Simos (#2) to give his Cyprus team a realistic chance to get back in this match and the weight of Nicosia (capital of Cyprus) must be putting a strain on him. Alan Reilly is brimming with confidence and his stature is of a man who would protect his goal, his property, at all costs. Simos lines up his shot and takes long strides to unleash his attempt. Reilly once again is outstretched and makes another miraculous save! Irish belief is filling the stands...

2-0: IRELAND

Iordanou has guessed correctly for both attempts so far, but the shots were too clinical to save. It is now time for the legendary Ireland lynchpin Conor Hunter to stand and deliver. Hunter walks to the spot with purpose and calculating intent. It looks as if he has been under this type of pressure his whole life. As quickly as he prepares to take this momentous penalty is as quick as it is over. Iordanou has no chance of saving Hunter's shot and Ireland now see the championship match as a reality rather than a fleeting dream.

3-0: IRELAND

The mountain that Cyprus must climb must seem as daunting as Olympus. #20, Christopher Megaloudis takes responsibility for the next attempt. He must put this shot away for they're to be any chance of Cyprus to climb out of this mess. Megaloudis is up to the task and connects with precision, leaving Alan Reilly clueless.

3-1: IRELAND

It is now up to none other than "The Ginger Terminator" to finish this shootout. Former Clemson Final 4 player for Clemson University, Alan O'Hara has been chosen to carry NYCIreland to the Promised Land. O'Hara has managed the Irish back 4 with authority and steel throughout the entire tournament and it is only right that he would be in the spotlight for this occasion.

Christian Iordanou must feel let down by the Soccer Gods; he has done everything up until now to help his team to this point, only to be left helpless from great penalties by Ireland. Nonetheless, Iordanou stands tall, defiant, and eager to redeem his great Cyprus team. The Irish fans have gone quiet and pensive. With impending glory so close, the masses have made silence their battle cry for O'Hara to carry them to victory. Alan O'Hara steps to the spot and turns his back as he prepares to shoot. The 2 teams are waiting at the center circle, 1 is hopping up and down in anticipation, while the other is pleading with any religion within earshot to get another chance. The official's whistle blows, indicating the shooter can make his attempt. O'Hara descends upon the ball and delivers his shot. Once again, Iordanou has no chance to make a save. NYCIreland have claimed the victory and the chance to play NYCAlbania for the illustrious Mayor's Cup! Man of the match:  Goalkeeper Alan Reilly... No explanation needed. Congratulations.

The Ireland fans go wild in the stands. The wonderful scene on the pitch visibly moves the proud Tommy Smyth and his lovely wife Treasa. "Doc" Doherty and the rest of the team swarm O'Hara and a long night is close to an end, surely after a pint or to have been had of course!

 The disappointment is blatant and harsh for a dejected George Halkidis, Mike Iordanou, and the Cyprus players. The Cypriot fans, which may not have been the size of Irelands, are just as devoted and proud of their team, must leave with heavy heads. A goalpost may be thought of as the enemy for a very long time in Astoria Queens, but there is no argument that this amazing team left everything on the pitch and can sleep well with this knowledge.

This battle was without question the match of the tournament (with consideration that the championship match has yet to be played) and will stay in the minds and hearts of everyone who witnessed it.

These words of expression for this game... And the other matches before it may seem exaggerated to many. I mean we are just talking about amateur soccer right? But to the contrary, the sustained brilliance and passion this game, like many matches in CopaNYC, would remind even the staunchest critic of soccer that these players and teams honestly reflect the world's sport. The level of play can be debated, but no one can deny the talent and intent of the urban game... t would simply be an insult.

This humble narrator would like to personally thank all the coaches and players of the 4 semi-final teams for inspiring not only me, but the thousands of fans and attendees who made the trek to the Metropolitan Oval this fateful weekend. It was an honor to witness such an event and a pleasure to write such deserving words to you.

CHEERS!!!  

PRELIMINARIES SUMMARIES  |  QUARTERFINALS SUMMARIES  |  FINALS SUMMARIES