Football Craft

Raja Casablanca

2015-10-27T10:18:00.000-07:00

supporters of Raja Casablanca or the Curva Sud, are unconditional fans of the club of soccer Raja Casablanca playing in the city of Casablanca in Morocco.

Cant tell this guy anything

la decima all the goals

2014-05-25T14:37:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid 4 Atletico Madrid 1

All the goals, champions league final

Watch and share

Benfica Europa League Final

2014-05-14T03:59:00.000-07:00

So Benfica have reached the Europa league final doe the second time in a row.

Tonight they play a team from their Spanish neighbors Sevilla. It may seem a little bit of a get to the final and see, but Benfica have been absolutely amazing this season, they wrapped up the league with 2 games to go, they won the League cup, are still to play the Portuguese cup final and tonight its the Europa League Final which means, Benfica have reached the final of all they have competed for this season (take away the champers league)

Coaching CV

2012-04-06T07:11:00.000-07:00

Ambitious; honest; confident

I pride myself in developing young footballers through discipline and hard work, adjusting to tactical plays required when situations arise. I am successful and acquire results long term.

CAREER SUMMARY

2013- Currently:
Due to spending more time with my daughter due to arrangements and work commitments, i have taken time out from football.
Now I have also moved from London to Cambridge which allows me more time and as daughter grows up i would like to slowly get back into football.
I still maintain an interest in football and have a passion for development of youth players.
I am looking for a managerial position within a club playing at a good standard.
My time away may require me to adjust to current football rule book.

Kensington Dragons U13-U17's 2011 – August 2012
Manager

I took over the U18's again (from a break) after the manager had to go work abroad, this was the same group of players i Coached, and had some playing for me at Tokyngton Academy. this was their final year and we were very successful, I took them placed 6th going through a mixed season, we managed to win all our last 11 games and draw 1 to finish 3rd in the Harrow youth premier league.

This is down to discipline and fitness as well as tactical and technique work together with my team of coaches.

Tokyngton Manor FC April 2009- 2011

Director of Football/Academy manager

At Tokyngton I started a new U18s academy squad from scratch to compete at a higher level of youth football, we played in the midweek league a level played in non league stadiums and with more emphasis on development of players.

I assembled a squad of 22 players some through trials and former team to build a squad that reached 2 semis of the cup and 1 cup final in the first season, we also reached the 2nd round of the FA Youth Cup proper.
4/5 players went on to play for the first team with a couple attracting Ryman league interest and moving on.

I was promoted to first team manager for the coming season but unfortunately the teams attempted merger and ground sharing problems saw the senior side suspended from the Spartan South Midlands FL for 1 season.

Brentford FC January 2010- 2011

Scout
After Fulham FC’s change of youth personnel I was asked to join up with Brentford FC by a former Arsenal development Officer who took over and persuaded me to change. I only done a season with Brentford due to personal Commitments.

Fulham FC June 2007- 2010

Academy Scout/Elite coaching

I became Fulham FC academy scout after being recommended by a former Reading FC development officer, here I scouted players from 6-11 for the academy.

I was invited to manage one of Fulham’s New Elite teams for 08/09 season and I also assisted at coaching in their development centres when free.

Kensington Dragons U13-U17's 2004 – August 2010

Manager

Here at Kensington Dragons I have found a club i still have ties with, I have coached a great bunch of players from the ages of u13 up to u18’s. after helping out on my first season with the under 15, I started the u13 age group from scratch and with hard work and training our first season was better then expected by some as we finished mid table. Our second season we won the league conceeding only 11 goals and going unbeaten and being promoted 2 divisions to the premier league.

Willesden Constantines 2004 – 2005

Assistant Manager

I once again supported at semi-pro level with players from the ages of 18-20, I worked with a former Sudbury court manager. We played mostly against semi-pro clubs and adult teams, our players had to adjust to a different level as some had just come out of Sunday youth football.

Acton Ealing Whistlers U15-U16 2003 – 2004

Manager

After Sudbury Court had folded I was invited to start a team at a club up the road from my then work as a local referee. Here I took some players from Sudbury Court and brought in 12 new players, we worked hard all summer on our fitness, Discipline and almost non stop football talks to players to ensure the season started off well.

We managed to win the league in our first season we had a good score record and a good bunch of players whom had my full support and confidence and up until today stay in touch with almost all of them regarding advice and football.

Kinsbury Town Under 18 2002 – 2003

Assistant manager

Whilst managing Sudbury Court I was offered the chance to also assist Kingsbury Town Under 18’s which played in the Flood Light youth under 18’s league against other semi pro clubs such as harrow borough and edgwear town in stadiums. This was a good chance to work with semi pro clubs and get to understand older players.

Sudbury Court FC U13-U15 2001 – 2003

Manager

I was offered the chance to coach at one of north west London’s most successful club at the time, Sudbury Court was famous for producing quality players to professional clubs and the area offered vast amounts of good talent. Here I started at under 13’s and again had to evaluate players who had been coached by someone else to bring the best out of them, The team had just previously been relegated to the 2^nd division and morale was low. I changed a few players around trained really hard and with drills of fitness and tactics, Again I implemented discipline to be the main priority in order to get the best out of players.

In my first season we achieved 4th place in the league and a good cup run.

My second season was another good season with some players being picked up by Fulham and QPR we managed to just finish 4^th again.

Due to financial difficulties Sudbury Court had to disband their youth set up and a legend of a club is until today closed down.

Headstone Venturers U12-U15 1998-2001

Manager

I started my coaching at headstone Ventures under 12’s after answering an advert on the local paper. I took over the under 12’s team as they were doomed to be relegated from the second division to the third. I planned training sessions and assessed players movements, strong and weak points to pin point their more suitable positions, This worked well and we moved out of relegation and stayed up. The fallowing year we finished 4^th in the league, after some hard work and training which was planned with some hard studying to incorporate discipline and fitness.

In my last season we finished 2^nd at under 14’s level to be promoted. Unfortunately due travel and work I was forced to make the decision into moving closer to home as I was travelling 2 hours.

Lukas Lidakevicius Interview

2011-10-18T08:44:00.001-07:00

Name: Lukas Lidakevicius

Country of birth: Lithuania

Position: Goalkeeper

Height: 185cm

Current Club: Barnsley FC

Previous Clubs: National Football Academy of Lithuania

National Team ages played for: 15’s, 17’s, 19’s

I caught up with Lukas Lidakevicius, a young goalkeeper at Barnsley FC.

Coming from a country like Lithuania where the number one sport is Basketball, how did you get involved in football?

I was eight at the time and I was at school one day when a football coach called A.Timofejavas came to my school and offered me and a couple of the other lads the chance to play football, I said 'YES' straight away and never looked back.

When did you realise you wanted to be a goalkeeper with all those outfield positions available?

Before I started my first training session I knew I wanted to be a goalkeeper, this because my brother whom is 5 years older then me used to be a goalkeeper so I knew that was the position I wanted to play, I enjoyed watching every game he played and I knew that I wanted to do the same, I think being a goalkeeper runs in our family’s blood.

You have played for the national youth team from a very young age, in fact you have represented your country in many international competitions up to the U19s has it been a good experience and what has been your best moment?

I’ve played a lot of international games for Lithuania, I think that is a brilliant experience because not everyone gets a chance to represent their country. I’ve enjoyed every game I’ve played for my National team and I’m very proud of that.
I think the best moment is when you are singing your National Anthem, it gives me a massive boost before the game!

What are the similarities or the difference in Lithuanian youth development and the English?

Similarities – playing the same game which is football, but there are a lot of differences, the biggest difference is “coaching”.
Coaches’ knowledge and experience in England are much better, as it is a footballing nation but Lithuania’s coaches are catching up with many having gained experience both in England and in other countries as well as stepping up their methods at home!

I first brought you to England for a week’s trial at Fulham FC with the club really happy with your ability in goal and they wanted to sign you but something went wrong, what was the word in Lithuania?

I really don’t know anything about what happened afterwards, but I knew Fulham were happy with my performance.

With the move fallen at Fulham FC you went back to Lithuania how did the Barnsley move come around?

I went back home to the Lithuanian National Academy and trained hard, I had a big desire to come back to England and play football over here, an Agent heard of me and signed me and he arranged a trial at Barnsley FC, I guess my determination so far has paid off.

Making a move to Barnsley’s academy last year, this will be your second season, you have been in the first team bench for a couple of games this season, but what has been your best moment or game?

I had more than one “best moment” while here at Barnsley but playing the last 10 minutes for first team against Scunthorpe United in pre-season was my BEST moment of course and every win for Barnsley FC is a great moment.

I hear good things about you, Barnsley are doing well in the Academy league and watching you Vs Chelsea last year it seems a solid side, what is atmosphere in the squad like and what is the aim?

This year we are doing very well, we have a lot of good players and our team spirit is brilliant, everyone has a winner’s mentality and that I guess is the key to our success.
Our aim is to win league and play the other winners, our main aim is to be the champions of England!

Well Lukas, thank you very much for your time, and I know we will be hearing about you in the near future, hopefully playing for Barnsley’s first team or gracing a premiership sides goal alongside your national team.

William Troost-Ekong Interview

2011-10-15T02:25:00.000-07:00

Name: William Troost-Ekong

Country of birth: Netherlands

Position: Central defender

Height: 6 3"

Current Club: Tottenham Hotspur

Previous Clubs: Sv Overbos (Netherlands), Bishops Stortford, Fulham FC

When did you realise you had the potential to be a footballer and what inspired you to want you to become a pro player?

I've played football from as far as I can remember. I really started playing football day in day out when I started at primary school and always used to play with the older boys, this is when one of the teachers suggested to my mum that I should try and get some good coaching by joining a local club. Becoming a pro footballer has always been my dream, the thought of being able to do what you love most everyday at the highest level is amazing. It wasnt untill I was 11/12 and provoked intrest from proffesional clubs that I decided I was going to make this my mission to try and succeed. But it wasn't untill i signed a contract for Spurs at the end of year 11 that we really realized I had the potential to go far.

What would you say the difference is of youth football in Holland and England, how do they compare in terms or level and organisation?

I think there are alot of similarities, Holland is renowned for its youth football and the coaching techniques for young players. From what I have seen and experienced amateur football in holland is at a higher level than in england in its organisation and its facilities.

But at academy level those things are very similar, my coach Alex Inglethorpe has adopted alot of the coaching philosophy, together with the spanish who are currently dominating the football scene.

Having seen you at training prior to sending you on a trial at Fulham, I thought and gave you advice on a couple of things to take into the trials, how do you rate the importance of young players to listen to their coaches at any level?

I think that the advice of coaches is the most important thing to help them develop. And it wasnt long after joining an academy when I realised that the result of games is irrelivant to becomming a pro. If you dont listen to what your coaches tell you, you can't improve your game. The players that go the furthest tend to be quick learners besides having natural talent, you have to be, otherwise you get left behind.

You didn’t get in at Fulham FC, at the time you were slightly unfit and comming back from a ankle fracture, did you think at the time your chances were limited or the trial system at Fulham was somewhat wrong?

No I think it was right for me, at the time I wasn't ready yet. But I did think that it was very unclear when I trialled/played there because there was a change of staff in all areas at the time which seemed to affect of new players there. I learnt a lesson not to try and force anything, which was hard because every young player is dreaming of their break and want to grab any opportunity presented to them. At the time I found it very hard not to get in straight away but looking back at it now my patience payed of when I went there the second time.

Having been called up to the Dutch U19 squad to play England, how did you find your first call up and what does it mean to wear the famous Orange Jersey?

It was the best experience I have had! I think it is every football lovers dream to play for their country, and I think it was made even more special for me to make my debut on my 18th birthday against England.

Not only playing but training with the best players in the country was an amazing experience, in a week in which we faced England and Germany we trained very hard to try adopt to the style the coach had in mind which was especially important for me and the other new players in the group. My family and I couldn't of been more proud and hopefully I can make this the start of many more appearances in Orange!

What has been your biggest challenge so far and do you feel there are harder challenges to come?

My hardest challenge must have been the switch from playing on the wing and up front to a centre back when I was at Fulham. I am still working hard to learn my position inside out and get as much experience which is key to become a world class defender.

I am always faced with challenges. I found it very hard in patches last season when I wasnt playing which can be very frustrating. But in football you always have your ups and downs and it is learning how to stay in the middle throughout both periods and not get carried away is important.

You now have the benefits of a full time academy training schedule, I also know you travel to and from Holland a lot, how demanding is academy training, and what would you say are the one or two things you do in training that are key to your football career so far?

I dont think there is just one or two things in training that have got me this far. The steps I have made have come down to being focussed and pushing myself in training everyday, only like that I will get anyting out the fitness, technique, positonal and strengthening training we do. I miss out on seeing my family and friends as much as I like, I am not the only one there are a group of players that come from as far as Australia to persuit a carreer here at spurs. I try to go home whenever I have time off but sometimes that may only be sunday on which I need to rest and recover so then they come over to England.

Breaking into the Spurs reserves at 18 is obviously a good step, how far away do you see your chances of getting that call from Mr Redknapp and what would it mean?

This season its the aim to be involved and play regularly in the reserves. It is still far away and I need to prove myself at every level before that chance might come around. This season I've played in a training game with the first team once which went well. Every player at the clubs long or short term goal is to be one of the 11 playing under Harry Redknapp and it would be living the dream when you do.

In brief, what would it mean to represent your country at senior level?

Playing for spurs first team will be something special but like I said playing for Hollands senior team would be top of the list.

What would you like to be if not a footballer?

I find this question difficult because I dont like imagening what anything else would be like. But being realistic I have private lessons in Business at the moment, so it would have to be something along those lines.

Thank you very much William, its has been good catching up with you, wish you all the best in your football career and will keep an eye out for your senior debut.

Chamada telefonica pro Sporting

2011-09-02T17:04:00.000-07:00

CHAMADA PRO LOL

-Alo e da liga Europa?.
-sim.
-O Sporting esta?
-Nao, já saiu.
-Alo, e da liga dos campeões?
-Sim.
-O Sporting esta?
-Sinto muito, mas ele nunca apareceu por aqui.
-Alo, e da liga Portuguesa?
-Sim.
-O Sporting esta?
-Sim, ta lá em baixo, quer que eu chame?
-Nao, nao e preciso. Falo com ela na segunda.
-Alo, e da segunda de honra?
-Sim.
-O Sporting esta ?
-Nao, mas deve estar mesmo a chegar.

Gill Vicente 2 Benfica 2

2011-08-12T15:57:00.000-07:00

First game of the season and the first game in the Portuguese league, Gil Vicente hosted Benfica in their first game back to the Primeira Liga.

The Team from Lisbon looked promising after a being busy in the transfer market, a good run in the Champions League qualifier and the fact they were playing a newly promoted side could count for a lot to start the season well.
Not too long into the game, 7 minutes to be precise, new boy Nolito Scored his début goal after combining well with Ruben Amorim, and on the 20th minute Saviola made it 2-0.

Hugo Vieira made it 2-1 before the half finished. Lainoel made sure Gil Vicente got away with a point in the 75th minute.

From a club promoted the tactical change from Paulo Alves when the team was losing was one of 'nothing to lose' he threw an attacking player seemed to have changed the team a bit or at least show some tactics.
Benfica lacked tactics, lacked conviction and command.

Similar to the end of towards the end of last season when no real command or interest from some players or even the manager seemed to motivate the team into maintaining a level of superiority in games.
Today Benfica showed the same level of management, Going 2 goals up, the attacking plan stayed the same, no changes or provisions were made to the fact Gil Vicente had created and opened our defence three times inside 10 minutes, the fact the goalkeeper had to be called into making 3 good saves, and still no change in at least keeping control of the game.
Benfica as usual seemed to pull high on to the pitch and lose the ball, no real defensive play was required from the central or wide players.
When the second Goal went in.. Mr Jesus almost if not at all lost his commanding voice, failed to administer new tactics, its as if there was only Plan A and hope Plan B is the opposition cant play.
Happy with Benfica's direct and attacking play but very unhappy with the defensive and decisive play, also the lack of command and conviction failed us as usual.

The Oakside- Redbridge FC v Romford FC

2011-04-13T08:08:00.000-07:00

Redbridge Vs Romford

After months of twittering with @TheMotormen and @ADennehey (Adam Dennehey) I chose the derby between Redbridge and Romford FC in the Ryman Division One North to make a trip to the Oakside.

Setting off from Notting Hill it took me an hour to get to the ground, as the central line stops at Barkingside and a 3 minute walk around the station brings you to the ground.

But being a bit early I walked around the area for a bit, looking for a bar/pub to have a pint, watch the unfolding of the Champions League whilst doing my Sudoku, but no pubs in the area near the ground or surrounding the station.

Approaching the leafy area near the Oakside i caught a few snaps through the top fence, the Chairman arrived in his Jaguar (Flash the cash).

The entry fee is £5 plus £1.50 for a match day programme which was impressive.

Into the club house a pint will cost you £3 with a lovely young barmaid (the only way is Essex type of fake tan) but more impressive is the clubhouse is very modern, having been refurbished not too long ago.

I also grabbed a burger, with the food being sold next to the stands and at £2.50 was a good burger.

On to the match:
My first 5 minutes were watched from the bar as i finished my pint, immediately i saw the Centre back completely miss a tackle and luck was on his side when the striker over ran the ball. But his luck immediately ran out as Romford put one over Redbridge with again the battle being lost in the centre of defence.

Through the first half Romford had the best of possession but created very little threat at goal, mainly blasting the ball over the net-less ground, infuriating the ball catching official.

The second half was almost similar to the first, Romford got on the score sheet again halfway through when a lob over the keeper, which everyone thought was going in, came off the post only for Alex Reid, a former Redbridge player to smash it into the back of the net as no Redbridge players opted to run and cover the net.

Redbridge got a penalty when Shane Stamp was pulled back in the area after he had made a good break from the left, Lee Townrow stepped up and converted with a powerful shot.
The final nail was hammered in by Kurt Smith just before the final whistle, when he was fed inside, he took on one defender and with a low shot made it 3-1.

On the team:
Something to desire, the club has a good number of strong players, the style of football was aerial, with hardly any combination passing throughout the match. Centre midfield was nonexistent, the passing and possession of Hyon-Jin Lee usually spelt missed passes or lost possession.

Shane Stamp often ran into trouble, with the option to pass back and ran off available, but not ever used. But he did look good when fed through with his quick pace.

From a team overall, there was no width or central play, going forward the team had no striker and Kevin Mcleod was unavailable, but even if so, the passing was hard to come by, and when it did, Julian Edwards fluffed the one or 2 chances he had.

For Romford there was spells of good possession and communication, they thoroughly deserved the 3 points and goals, they hardly gave Redbridge the time to move the ball.

Redbridge seem to have a good young base, and their academy side does well (from what I read and heard), perhaps the introduction of a few would be beneficial to the first.
My views are also that a bit more tactical and passing work may be needed to achieve a good level of attractive football, but with points needed its imperial to play the route to goal, with Redbridge just about being safe maybe a rethink by the young manager (same age as me) Jody Brown.

The Crowd and overall:
I was happy with the number at the ground, told mostly were Romford supporters, but the crowd Redbridge had was fantastic, they had offered a local Special needs group the chance to attend the match and cheer on The Motormen and what a fantastic group they were, not even with the team 3-1 down they stopped believing. They promised to come back as they had enjoyed their night. And for a lower league club to offer this support was truly amazing.

Overall was an enjoyable night at the Oakside, and should I not be involved in managing next season I shall make a return to the Oakside.

Benfica second string shambles

2011-04-11T10:38:00.000-07:00

Benfica have nothing to play for in the league and with a game on Thursday away to PSV in the return leg, it was another chance for Jorge Jesus (from the stands) to swap the entire starting 11 and throw in Benfica’s second team.
I tuned in to see a match, in the back of my mind I thought, ‘’it won’t be a pretty game, but let me see the boys’’ after all they seemed to produce some football against Portimonense a while back.

Little did I know I was in for a shock.
As a Benfiquista I would not generally be happy to tune in and watch my team.

But we all as supporters have the right to criticise when the performance is below par, when the team does not push for the win or even strive to produce the necessary performance even in a loss.

But when that loss is due to a very large number of players, being paraded as the second option or the long term replacement to some of the 1st eleven, not performing or just simply relying on the name Benfica to win a game, it’s a bit hard to swallow.

I agree we can’t fully expect to change the full eleven and win matches week in and week out, no team will take the full eleven one day and be able to beat the likes of Sporting, Porto , Braga and in Europe.

But when players are asked to come in and beat a team like Naval (no offence intended) they should be good enough, they should work hard enough, show desire, commitment, and passion.

We have to look at Arsenal, FA Cup is where they showcased their talent, and they brought on a squad of young players, whom played to the same standard as the established eleven.
Manchester United brought on an almost changed squad for cups and with the youngsters performing well.
Why? They had all intentions on showing the Gaffer they deserved their place, they showed passion and won games.

Last night in the squad there were players unable to even show they were worth the few and wages paid out, the arrogance of walking on to a pitch and not putting enough effort was shameful and somewhat disappointing to even watch.

Why is it important to perform? Well for the simple fact that when this happens again, no one will tune in, the stadiums will be half full if not much less. Why would anyone travel to watch a miserable performance from the second string that we already know won’t give their all or at least a few faces that did not perform to the standard of the eagle.

But that said, bring on PSV with a full squad.

We are Benfica- NOT FOR SALE -

2011-04-08T07:12:00.000-07:00

On the night where many players in red shone, the question will be raised from Socios and Supporters, when the group of players are more or less likely to be sold on to bigger clubs in Europe.

The likes of Fabio Coentrao, Aimar, Cardozo and Co are all on the wanted lists of the big teams.

With Portuguese football on the rise again, perhaps we should think about keeping some or most of the talent at home, make the league a force for Europe.

Why should our talent such as Coentrao go to Germany or Spain? I gather he is more then happy at Benfica, so seeing him in the red and white of Bayern Munich or the white or Real Madrid will not give me the same joy, unless he is wearing the red or Portugal.
Why should we not attract the TV audiences that the English Prem or the Spanish league do?

Benfica need to keep hold of Salvio, lets spend a little, be the club that buys big when the player is worth the money, and Salvio definitely has proven he can make a difference therefore worth the money.
Sign contracts early when we know a player is good to show the rest we mean business.

The investment on another keeper is also something we may need to look at, we spent big on Roberto, whom so far has been hit and miss, a decent back up should make him work harder.

We only have to look at Gomes the Tottenham keeper, a player that until he had no decent challenger was conceding silly goals.

Benfica should at the end of the season fight this temptation to make a bit of money, and establish the dominance of Portuguese football by creating a squad to consistently win trophies.

Maybe follow the footprints of rivals FC Porto whom don’t sell in massive numbers or build a new squad every year.

Consistency in squads is something adapted in Premier League team, top clubs keep top players, the likes of Manchester United buy 2 players and sell fringe players, Chelsea and Arsenal are the same.

Would we not be a greater squad with the likes of Ramires, David Luis, Di Maria, still in the squad? With the addition of the new faces then I am sure Benfica would dominate the league and even Europe.

We have the beautiful stadium, we have the greatest supporters on the planet, a team that can fight the title and win it every year is what it’s needed.

Let’s keep it big, lets make it great…. We are Benfica.

Benfica 4 PSV 1

2011-04-08T04:01:00.000-07:00

Last nights result for Benfica in the Europa League was proof that Portuguese football is steadily getting back to its best.

The dominance of the decades past are starting to be seen. Clubs like SC Braga reaching the quarters, FC Porto totally outclassing their opponents from Moscow can only show why Portugal will have the opportunity to have 3 teams in the Champions League from 2012/13 season.

Benfica’s game against one of Europe’s top teams gave the team much to think about, after the loss in the domestic league against their fiercest rivals FC Porto, a small number started to question the approach to Europe.

But Benfica seem to have a different approach to Europe, a much more attacking flow to their game. They seem to be able to find spaces and penetrate through gaps that come hard to find domestically.

The display from the whole squad was astonishing, the full backs constantly pumping up the pitch, the central and attacking midfielders seemed to connect well most of the time.

The danger from Benfica started earlier on and carried on, and with four really special goals, it will be a feat only worth repeating in Dublin for the final.

On the night it was the Opener from Pablito Aimar which came from a much hard fought play by Fabio Coentrao and Nico Gaitan to cross and find Cardozo, only for the ball to come off him and into the oncoming Aimar to smash it with great power for 1-0.

Salvio went on to score 2 further goals, the first with the hard work from Coentrao on to Salvio to back heel it into the net.

His second was another great work, this time from the right, he goes inside, and with a bit of skill manages to get past in-between two players to hit the inside side net on the far post.

PSV managed to get an away goal which may or may not be important in the return leg in Holland, after a ball from the by line is crossed low, Roberto fails to get hold and Ladyad stick a foot at it to make it 3-1.

Saviola Made it 4-1 on the 93^rd minute, Maxi Pereira gets the ball on the right, passes inside to Saviola, who turns his man and hits the top left for the final kick of the game.

This result will be comfortable to take into the Philips Stadion on the 14^th of April.

Kensington Dragons 5 - 0 FC Kensington

2011-04-04T07:17:00.000-07:00

KDFC 5 FC Kensington 0

This was the last match of the season for a group of players, some of whom have represented the club from the age of 12.

And to finish against one of our neighbours and rival, FC Kensington was going to be a special occasion, having beaten Chelsea elite the week before (who is part of the same club but different name).

Before the match kicked off, captain Karris Graham-Moore assembled his troops for one final speech. “Some of us have been here 6 years and others little less then 1 year, but regardless of time, today we are all equal, we are all Dragons”

The match started off with a very strong KDFC taking control of the game, preventing FCK from playing football, with this done, the Dragons preceded in some great passing football. Managing to move the ball all over the field and finding their strikers with only the finishing needed.

On the 25th minute the Dragons used their now trademark of cross field switching, and with Jamal Velinor the main supplier, a long switch on to the far post saw Formosa Mendes strike the ball into the back of the net for 1-0.

The team kept their shape and soon made it 2-0 when Darius Mckenzie got in at the end of a through ball to get the first of his hat-trick.

Darius chipped the ball over the FCK keeper to make it 3-0 and send the Dragons with some breathing space into the interval.

With some words the KDFC players took to the field for one last assault in the Harrow Youth League before graduating into the seniors.

It was an immediate impact and the FCK goal was rattling with 2 shots at the bar and post from David Lalic.

It took 10 minutes for the Dragons to make it 4-0 when Darius completed his hat-trick, he released a powerful shot which was blocked on the line, and on the rebound the young Dragon with even greater power made sure the ball was in the back of the net.

With his reward for the hat-trick he was put in goal for the keeper to get his time on the pitch, and with this Mohammad Kamal made his contribution in his assist for David Lalic to score for the final 5-0.

This was a great performance from and outgoing team that has given so much and battled through the bad and good times.

It was a pleasure to be there at the beginning as well as the end.

Ricardo

Kensington 3 Chelsea Elite 2

2011-03-27T09:31:00.000-07:00

After a long weekend of training the young Dragons were well up for their last big match of the season and went out on the pitch really focused for the first time in a few weeks.

The hard work on pressing and shape in training was clear to see from the outset, with the midfield and forwards pressing Chelsea into mistakes.

After a couple of missed half chances and a clear penalty not given, a goal of real quality put the Dragons in front. Jamal at Right Midfield dummied inside and pinged a fifty yard switch ball to David on the Left Midfield who controlled in one touch, steadied himself and curled a beautiful cross into the box. The Dragons striker Darius read the play and rose majestically to find the top corner from 12 yards with a truly magnificent header.

HT 1-0. The manager asked for even more at Half time and the Dragons produced early with David again causing trouble. His whipped low cross confused the keeper who could only palm into his own net.

But these Dragons never like it easy and conceded territory and possession thinking the job maybe done. After 70 minutes it was 2-2 after a couple of sloppy concessions and Chelsea where now confident of pushing on to win over the now deflated Dragons. However, a canny couple of substitutions and tactical switches got them back on track and the 10 minutes left with Darius side footed from 12 yards after a set piece mix up to put them ahead once more. Another change of shape and some outstanding back foot defending nullified the threat leaving the opposition players and coaches bemused.

The attendance was close to 100 on the day.

West London Derby

2011-03-22T16:48:00.000-07:00

The West London Derby is on this Sunday!!!!

No not the Fulham v Chelsea FC it will be Kensington Dragons v Chelsea FC Elite, a match that will have both entertainment and heated challenges.

I mean its only an under 18’s match, why would it be so important for it to be a big thing?

Well it’s all good, but the Dragons are the eldest club in the North Kensington area, with Chelsea FC Elite (formerly known as Latimer fc and then FC Kensington) having been mostly associated with Chelsea FC Kickz Project and using the former clubs as a chance to play Sunday youth football.

But why the big importance?

Well as Kickz attracted a good number of kids from the area, it meant a lot of players from Dragons would attend sessions with the hope of ending up at Chelsea.

So when Kickz decided to join a Sunday league a small number were asked but refrained from joining them, and only trained with Kickz, but when I dropped a couple of players, they would almost automatically sign for them. All was good as one summer one of my centre backs decided that he wants to play for CHELSEA FC.. to which I replied, ‘good luck’ as would never want to keep a player from realising his dream, but also warned him that playing for Kickz was not Chelsea FC.

So this was the small start until midway through the season I found out that my captain had played for them illegally on occasions, after i told him i would report the club if he ever done it again, an angry manager phoned me and to this day i will not reveal my reply or the conversation.

The following summer my captain whom had been constantly asked to join them gave in, causing the angry reaction from some of the squad members a bit tired of intrusions.

The teams never met until Chelsea (then FC Kensington) was promoted to the Premier League from the second and us from the 1st as runner ups.

The first meeting showed that no other then 7 of our former players were playing for them, most of them players i had dropped for unruly behaviour and non commitment.

So in the meeting that followed, most games have been heated up, a decent standard of football and lots of goals, with majority of the game being of bad tackles and management have never exchanged words or handshakes, but the players after all the heated tackles, do end up speaking and having a laugh at the end of the game.

Benfica President attacked and the FC Porto scum

2011-03-22T15:51:00.000-07:00

Someone not too long ago rightly asked me ''why do you refer to FC Porto as pigs'' my main answer was just the fact I grew up knowing them as pigs, the attitude of the club and its supporters is shameful, violent and damn right life threatening.

I will say this, many clubs across the world have violent fans, there is always a group that cause trouble, and Benfica fans are no exception.

The club has its own hardcore mob that has been dealt with in the past, and have somewhat scaled down from its approach to violence.

But the scale of FC Porto supporters goes well beyond fans match day violence, and something that will have to be dealt with but the authorities.

As we know FC Porto have their own registered support group that has to account for its member’s acts, after all, you can’t legally accept membership for violence (unless you are an MMA licensed fighter).

The acts after last nights game could have easily caused the death of Benfica’s President Luis Felipe Vieira, the president was driving behind the Team bus when his windscreen was hit by a sack of stones causing the driver to be assisted by paramedics with Luis Felipe Vieira being treated for injuries to his hand and face.

A little over a week ago Benfica's Vice-President was attacked outside a restaurant in the city of Porto by two masked men, and told to never speak against FC Porto or suffer a repeat.

The constant harassment from the 'Pig corral' at any given time a SL Benfica team, be it football, handball, volleyball or basketball, they travel to the dirty mud, are given the dirty treatment.

So in short to my views of the FC Porto mob, I truly believe they are directed and if not so, they are encouraged by the actions and reactions to these incidents from the King pig himself, a Mr Nuno Pinto da Costa, a man so corrupt and with no little regard for anything but his gain. A man walking on water even after being proven to have brought Portuguese football to its knees only to be allowed to carry on presiding over a club that without his money and power and influence (in bribery more often then not) would frankly not have struggled to be where they are now.

With the club releasing a statement on their website (probably in the hope they wont be attacked on their travels to Lisbon) it might be a little too late.

Para sempre BENFICA (Benfica forever)

P.Ferreira 1 Benfica 5 Nuno Gomes shines

2011-03-21T17:49:00.000-07:00

Pacos De Ferreira 1 Benfica 5

Benfica managed a sweet victory against a team that have so far been doing well in the league, the team from the Porto region however failed to apply the early needed pressure on Benfica, and inside four minutes, Javier Cohene seemed to catch Javi Garcia on the head and a penalty for Benfica, with Cardozo bravely stepping up to make it 1-0.
On the 13th minute after a team passing move, Gaitan connected well with Aimar, who put the ball past a helpless Cassio for 2-0.
the Eagles went ahead again on the 25th minute when Nico Gaitan from 35 yards out placed the ball on the top left corner with almost no pressure, and with such ease that he hardly felt like celebrating.

Pacos managed to grab one back when new boy Carole (yes its a boy) uknowigly directed the ball into his own net.
The team from the north finally got some grip on the game and pressed Benfica until the half time, managing to go close a couple of times, and forcing Roberto into some magnificent saves.
in the second half was a similar performance with the hosts finding the gaps, and creating chances with Benfica equally wasting them.
on the 77th minute with the introduction of Nuno Gomes the Reds looked a bit more capable upfront with the crowd cheering on and screaming for the man, and it didn't take long for the Benfica 'old boy' to get off the mark, and on the 82nd minute from the second attempt at goal.

Nuno Gomes made it 4-1 and then after playing off the last man on the 90th he finished for 5-1.

A performance that started well for Benfica, but died soon after the 3rd goal, and with some chances not being finished, the team had to count on their long serving striker to come off the bench and show some established strikers how to finish.

I for one would love to see Cardozo in games like this perform better, despite scoring a penalty, the Benfica hitman has failed to fire the bullets with the same accuracy that he had last season, and at times looking lazy.
Jorger Jesus for the tough man he is, should learn to accept that, despite having players like Kardec on the bench and an under performing Cardozo, sometimes an old head just knows better, as he has shown in the last 2 league games.
The tactics were about right but somehow the team were lacklustre in the middle part of the game, at times the leadership from the back isn't felt upfront.

But a happy day for any Benfica fan, a good over all win to ensure that 'Os Andrades' will not win the title in our back yard when Benfica will 'roast' FC Porto for the next round of the Liga Zon Sagres.

Bayern Munich Stars ''Europa League is worthless''

2011-03-21T14:57:00.000-07:00

Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery have both recently claimed that the Europa League is not worth playing in, and it should be avoided.

With Bayern 4th in the Bundesliga, they will need to get their act together in the remaining eight games or face the humiliation of having to eat their own words.

Robben says 'I can't imagine playing in the EL competition' and that 'It would be the worst thing that could happen, and would be better not to play in it at all'

the flying dutchman also added "Even winning the Europa League would not mean anything for me," ending with "That is not the title you want to win and it is not something I want."

Robben seems to be more used to Champions League football, and playing in the Europa League seems to be bellow his standards.

Ribery's comments came a week after commenting;

"The Champions League is incredibly important for the team, the club and the fans,'' the French man also added. "The Europa League is rubbish and we have got to avoid that'' and also said "The best way is not to even think about that. Playing in the Europa League is no fun at all''
"Once you know the Champions League, then you always want to play in the Champions League.''

With this i am sure their team will really have to sell 2 players should they fail to qualify for the Champions League, or perhaps the two superstars are already paving their way out of the club should they not finish third at least.

But one thing is for sure.. I now want Bayern Munich to end up in the Europa League, keep both players, this way I can point at the TV and laugh... and should they end up playing an English side I will gladly pay to point at them and laugh... so look out for a banner ''HOW SHIT ARE YOU? ARJE & FRANCK''

Kesington DFC 3 Pitshanger 2

2011-03-20T16:57:00.000-07:00

The U18’s faced 5th placed Pitshanger FC at Birbeck, trying to cement a top 2 position for the season.

They began brightly and controlled the game but as has happened of late, paid the penalty for some poor final balls and finishing by conceding from some naive defending at a set piece.

They were 2 down shortly after the break allowing the opposition to cross too easily and not marking tightly enough in the middle.

It looked all over as the Dragons had an obvious goal chalked off with the opposition linesman refusing to admit it had crossed the line and the referee failing to spot an obvious ball had crossed the line by 2 yards at least.

But heads never went down as this clan of Dragons is made of strong stuff and once the switch was made to the emergency 3-5-2 it was one way traffic.

Two super free kicks from the inform right winger drew them level and a flowing move through the middle allowed the Dragons to smash the winner home with 10 minutes to go.

Once more the team showed some character to come from two goals down and grab all 3 points, but clearly made life hard on themselves by wasting at least 15 chances.

Next opposition will be the big West London derby at home against Chelsea FC elite at St Marks.

Derlis Gonzalez

2011-03-19T15:42:00.000-07:00

Benfica have put pen to paper on young Paraguayan forward, Derlis Gonzalez, the youngster plays for Rubio Nu in the Paraguayan 1st division.

The deal has been agreed and from 2012 the player will make the full transition to the 'LUZ' on a five year contract.

Once Rodriguez is back from representing Paraguay in the South American U17s competition where he has already scored a goal vs Colombia.

Rodrigues made his professional debut at 15 and judging by his videos, the young striker has the physical and finishing ability to be a good player.

First video of his recent goal (last goal)

PSG v Benfica

2011-03-17T17:49:00.000-07:00

A tense night at Parc des Princes, PSG needed to set the tone of the game but getting a goal and then defend. Benfica needed to get the away goal and hold on for at least a 1-1 draw.

On a night where the stadium was packed, and i mean packed by Benfica supporters and a squad that had been rested from playing the previous league game, the expectations of the visiting crowd and Eagle supporters were high.

Benfica started the match well, the attack from Benfica as usual was rushed forward, with a PSG defence able to stand the attack, Makelele seemed the man to break up most of Benfica’s attack from the middle, where Benfica had Pablo Aimar whom was being instrumental to create the offensive play.

Benfica took the lead on the 27th minute when Nico Gaitan was fed outside the area by Salvio, the Argentine looked up as to cross, but opted for a long range shot at goal, and with the ball swerving away from Edel Benfica went ahead 1-0 and with the much needed away goal.

But it was to be a short lived lead as on the 35th minute Bodmer equalized from a sweet right foot volley just inside Roberto’s goal area.

The second half was mainly dominated by the French, with Benfica being taken back to its goal at most occasions, the likes of Coentrao and Maxi Pereira constantly working the wings from the back, supporting Gaitan and Javi with Saviola in Behind Cardozo seemed to be always good for a counter attack at the ever attacking French side looking to get 1 goal to take the tie into extra time.

Roberto was called upon late in the match to make a point blank save to keep the reds in the game.

Benfica would have been able to get away from this with a goal more, but the usual connection of passing and finishing in the final third of the pitch was always stopping the comfortable passage through.

The atmosphere in the final 10 minutes in the stadiums was more than Benfica would have imagined, the crown of over 20,000 travelling an immigrant Portuguese people made it a home away from home, and the songs ‘Glorioso SLB’ and ‘Benfica Campeao’ could be hard to inspire the team on.

On another note with FC Porto and SC Braga through to the quarters as well, it could be a meeting between two Portuguese team or not avoidable should the all reach the semi finals.

Benfica-Portimonense

2011-03-14T10:34:00.000-07:00

With the Eagle more or less out of the running for the league after the loss in Braga last week, Jorge Jesus had opted to rest some players for the upcoming second leg match against PSG.

A line up not including the likes of Fabio Coentrao and Roberto, Moreira took over goal guarding duties. Jesus gave January signing Carole his first start at left back with Luis Felipe at right back.

With Luisao, Javi Garcia and Maxi Pereira suspended, it was to be a different back four. The partnership of Jardel with Roderick at the back was to be tested.

Airton held the centre with Aimar just in-front, with Menezes and Peixoto at either side, Jara and Kardec upfront.

With the opposing team being rooted to the bottom of the league, it was as good time as any to try out some players, to observe strengths and weaknesses.

But the team from Portimao were in no mood to lay back and let their host mess about with the subs.

Portimao went ahead on the 29th minute when Ricardo Pessoa converted a penalty when Roderick handled just inside the area.

The game was only to be equalized on the 78th Minute, Nuno Gomes came off the bench to head the ball into the back of the net.

On a night where many questioned the decision to used that many players not often used.

But I liked a few things that I saw, I liked the Young full back Carole, although he will take some hard work to replace Fabio Coentrao, his style was different, he preferred the much direct passing forward, he pushed and was able to get in space, but clearly he needs more games.

The partnership of Roderick and Jardel, at times resembled the Luisao Sidnei, ‘oh the one where they don’t understand each other that is’, Roderick attempt to clear with his hand instead of his head resulted in a penalty. To say the back four could have had a rest on this night too.

The style of play from the team was somewhat usual, kept majority of possession, had more shots at goal etc etc...

But this was a game to try and rest the players for the match where the club is looking to concentrate on, the Europa League, going into the game against PSG 2-1 up, it will be important to score early or not concede a goal at least. So Benfica will need to have rested their more senior and established players to focus on such task ahead.

Even if those who attended the game or Watched it on TV and Stream were there hoping to see the likes of Coentrao and Saviola only but only saw Carole and Jara, it is important to know that when you support Benfica you support the players wearing the shirt, after all the saying ‘Benfica ate de baixo de agua’ (Benfica even under water) should come into effect regardless of the players on show.

But what would I like to see more from Benfica in the next couple of seasons is the acquisition or development of more Portuguese players.

Headstone Manor 3 Kensington DFC 3

2011-03-13T12:49:00.000-07:00

The U18's Dragons arrived at Headstone Manor FC just as the heavens opened and it seemed to dampen their spirits as well as drench their coaching staff and substitutes.

A loose midfield pass led to a counter and a very soft Headstone penalty. The visitors were 2 down shortly after as the keeper came out, no one thought to guard the empty net and the striker composed himself and slotted home. The reaction was good though and the end of the half saw the young Dragons hit the woodwork 3 times and very unlucky to go in 2 goals down. The comeback seemed inevitable after the break but the job was made even harder with the referee awarding another penalty rather than a 6.0 for the dive over the defending Dragon and into the box, 3-0.

However the Dragons are made of stern stuff and after the striker finally found his shooting boots to power one back, the management reshuffled into a 3-5-2 to rescue the situation.
Five minutes later the lead was only one after a good move down the left leaving the Dragons MoM midfielder to slot home at the far post.
The ref however had one more contribution, this time awarding a soft away pen and it was 3-3.
A great comeback in an average performance but the Dragons still left unhappy as they had 3 or 4 good chances to steal all the points at the death but failed to find the target.
FT 3-3

Weldon on his way

2011-03-13T10:23:00.000-07:00

Brazilian forward Weldon could return to Brazil this summer, after failing to feature in Jorge Jesus plans.

The Benfica man has been at the club since 2009 has rarely featured in the squad, having only played 12 games and scored only 5 goals.

But he seems to be receiving interest from three major Brazilian clubs, with Vasco da Gama, Corithians and Palmeiras all looking for his signature.

Since Weldon is out of contract in the summer, it seem very unlikely Benfica will offer to renew it.

Benfica v Portimonense preview

2011-03-12T15:48:00.000-08:00

Benfica v Portimonense

Jorge Jesus has taken a gamble in the selection for the game versus Portimonense.

In what seems like a chance to rest some of the players for the coming European game against PSG in France on Thursday.

First choice keeper Roberto has been rested alongside Fabio Coentrao and Carlos Martins was also allowed to stay home (or watch from the stands).

Jesus has drafted in Jose Fernadez and Airton (should he recover from a mild illness) with Carole the young French left back included in the squad.

With Luisao, Maxi Pereira and Javi Garcia all suspended for the game, Jesus will have to reshuffle the defence whilst giving some players their much needed rest.

Although Benfica will host the team that currently is bottom if the league, Jorge Jesus has promised that the team has the responsibility to win the game, with Portimonense looking to climb off the foot of the table.

The Mister has also expressed his delight at the call up of Salvio and Gaitan into the Argentina for two friendly games.

Guarda-redes: Moreira e & Júlio César.
Defwnders: Luís Filipe, Sidnei, Jardel, Carole, César Peixoto, Roderick.
Midfielders: Fernández, Airton, Felipe Menezes, Nico Gaitán, Aimar, Salvio.
Forwards: Saviola, Cardozo, Weldon, Nuno Gomes Alan Kardec, Franco Jara.

I myself will see that victory happen live from my streaming computer, in my London pad;

Benfica v Portimonense
13th March 2011, KO 20:15