Jakarta Casual
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Semarang go goal crazy
5-0 at home to Jakarta North while Tangerang lost 1-0 at Jepara.
6 points on the spin now for Semarang, goals by De Porras (2), Zoubairou, Imral and Gustavo Ortiz keep Norths fighting for their Western Division lives.
Meanwhile England beat Hungary 3-1 with goals from Terry, Gerrard and Crouch. Even Lampard missed a spot kick, Theo Walcott became the youngest ever international for the 3 Lions and I'm going back to bed
Laters....
6 points on the spin now for Semarang, goals by De Porras (2), Zoubairou, Imral and Gustavo Ortiz keep Norths fighting for their Western Division lives.
Meanwhile England beat Hungary 3-1 with goals from Terry, Gerrard and Crouch. Even Lampard missed a spot kick, Theo Walcott became the youngest ever international for the 3 Lions and I'm going back to bed
Laters....
Monday, May 29, 2006
Who cares if Brad fucking Pitt has a baby???
Little action on Sunday. The game at Arema against Bandung was abandoned with the hosts 2-0 up, the pitch was flooded and unplayable.
Meanwhile fixtures featuring Yogyakarta and Slemen were called off as people's minds were else where following on from the earthquake in Bantul. At work today I heard of people who had lost family members and of others who were rushing back to see what they could do to help their family members. Aunts and uncles, brothers and sisters, grannies and granddads are sleeping rough as houses have been demolished and obviously minds are not on work at this time.
Trains and buses are full as people go to see how they can help while elder family members would rather stay homeless at home than under a roof in big bad Jakarta. Homes are rubble, beongings destroyed and there ain't no insurance to cover it, times are going to be hard for many people in the future.
The legendary Liverpool manager Bill Shankley once famously said football is more than a matter of life and death. He was wrong...
Meanwhile fixtures featuring Yogyakarta and Slemen were called off as people's minds were else where following on from the earthquake in Bantul. At work today I heard of people who had lost family members and of others who were rushing back to see what they could do to help their family members. Aunts and uncles, brothers and sisters, grannies and granddads are sleeping rough as houses have been demolished and obviously minds are not on work at this time.
Trains and buses are full as people go to see how they can help while elder family members would rather stay homeless at home than under a roof in big bad Jakarta. Homes are rubble, beongings destroyed and there ain't no insurance to cover it, times are going to be hard for many people in the future.
The legendary Liverpool manager Bill Shankley once famously said football is more than a matter of life and death. He was wrong...
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Test!!!
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Semarang back on top
Semarang won 2-0 against Tangerang in a game memorable for the near absolute colour clash. Semarang of course wore their all blue kit while Tangerang wore all purple. Didn't bother watching it! The home side return to the top of the table albeit on goal difference ahead of Jakarta and have just one game in hand.
In the other game Jepara beat North Jakarta 1-0 so Norths stay in the bottom 2 behind Bandung on goal difference.
The big game today sees Arema Malang desparately seeking 3 points at home to Bandung as they strive to close the 4 point gap on the joint leaders. Elsewhere Pasuruan Town host Yogyakarta, the city suffering yesterday from the earthquake, while Medan play Sriwijaya and Deli Serdang will look to continue their good form, a useful point at home to Arema last week, at home to Padang. 5 points behind Jakarta North and with a much worse goal difference though things look grim for them.
In the other game Jepara beat North Jakarta 1-0 so Norths stay in the bottom 2 behind Bandung on goal difference.
The big game today sees Arema Malang desparately seeking 3 points at home to Bandung as they strive to close the 4 point gap on the joint leaders. Elsewhere Pasuruan Town host Yogyakarta, the city suffering yesterday from the earthquake, while Medan play Sriwijaya and Deli Serdang will look to continue their good form, a useful point at home to Arema last week, at home to Padang. 5 points behind Jakarta North and with a much worse goal difference though things look grim for them.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Weekend Preview
Some interesting midweek results saw strong favourites Semarang and Arema Malang visit Sumatra where each played two games and each returned home with one point. Jakarta meanwhile managed to take a point at Bandung and then go and score 2 at Yogyakarta as they secured all 3 points there. What this means at the top of the Western Division is Jakarta are in poll position though they have played more games and only have 5 remaining including a crucial home game against Arema Malang on June 11th.
Jakarta 23 38
Semarang 21 35
Malang 19 34
Medan 20 32
This weekend sees Semarang host Tangerang who are in danger of slipping into the bottom 2 while Jepara, having lost their last 2 games, entertain Jakarta North.
In the Eastern Division the picture is much clearer.
Kediri 20 41
Minhasa 20 42
Makassar 21 32
Balikpapin 23 32
Indonesian Cup 1st Round results
Palembang v Jakarta North 1-1
Kudus v Balikpapin 1-0
Lamongan v Persid 6-0
PSB v Persipur 0-2
Tangerang v Padang S 2-
Jakarta 23 38
Semarang 21 35
Malang 19 34
Medan 20 32
This weekend sees Semarang host Tangerang who are in danger of slipping into the bottom 2 while Jepara, having lost their last 2 games, entertain Jakarta North.
In the Eastern Division the picture is much clearer.
Kediri 20 41
Minhasa 20 42
Makassar 21 32
Balikpapin 23 32
Indonesian Cup 1st Round results
Palembang v Jakarta North 1-1
Kudus v Balikpapin 1-0
Lamongan v Persid 6-0
PSB v Persipur 0-2
Tangerang v Padang S 2-
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Beer and Hookers...
I don't really like Rugby League. In fact I don't really like any type of rugby, a game payed with odd shaped balls featuring hookers seems odd to me. But if my time in 'Stralia taught me anything it is that the State of Origin between Queensland and New South Wales is one of THE great sporting rivalries up there with Arsenal against Tottenham, Celtic v Rangers and Grove against Connaught (!).
My time downunder coincided with the tale end of King Wally, is it only 'Stralia that can produce a sporting legend called Wally? And Alfie?
The spectacle was made all the better with some of the worst commercials ever to be shown on TV. Chris Marshall and Joyce Mayne, you are not forgotten!
What blew me away in those days was the atmosphere. Take every cliche you want, electric etc, add them all together and you don't come close to decribing it. The commentry teams adds to the scene with them getting animated and pitching ever higher while on the pitch itself the players get in the mood by a hooking and a whacking from the first minute. In those days I hoped Queensland would win for no other reason that I first lived in Brisbane but now, when I remember the games are on, I'm neutral and basically drink heaps of beer and hope for a big screen punch up.
Today sees the Sate of Origin start anew and I have a decision to make. Mad Dogs are showing the game and have a Happy Hour from 3 o'clock to entice the likes of me down there early. Tomorrow is a holiday, today there is cheap beer and a major sporting event perhaps accompanied by pasty and chips. Hmm, decisions, decisons...
My time downunder coincided with the tale end of King Wally, is it only 'Stralia that can produce a sporting legend called Wally? And Alfie?
The spectacle was made all the better with some of the worst commercials ever to be shown on TV. Chris Marshall and Joyce Mayne, you are not forgotten!
What blew me away in those days was the atmosphere. Take every cliche you want, electric etc, add them all together and you don't come close to decribing it. The commentry teams adds to the scene with them getting animated and pitching ever higher while on the pitch itself the players get in the mood by a hooking and a whacking from the first minute. In those days I hoped Queensland would win for no other reason that I first lived in Brisbane but now, when I remember the games are on, I'm neutral and basically drink heaps of beer and hope for a big screen punch up.
Today sees the Sate of Origin start anew and I have a decision to make. Mad Dogs are showing the game and have a Happy Hour from 3 o'clock to entice the likes of me down there early. Tomorrow is a holiday, today there is cheap beer and a major sporting event perhaps accompanied by pasty and chips. Hmm, decisions, decisons...
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Frank Seator
I haven't done much about individual players and the main reason for that is their names are so damned long but watching Sriwijaya I was struck by the performance of Liberian Frank Seator, formerly of Jakarta. So I did some research and came up with this...
November 12, 2002 Siebo D. WilliamsMonrovia One of Liberia's leading professional players, Frank "Jaen" Seator, has dispelled rumors that he and his family were expelled from Qatar because of dress code. Making the clarification in a telephone conversation with our Sports Desk recently, player Seator said he was disappointed to have heard that there was a newspaper article indicating that he and his family were expelled from Qatar. "The paper carried the article without contacting me while in the country." He said for five years, he and his family lived in Qatar without any problem. He disclosed that after his contract with Al Ta-awon ended, his manager told him there was a another contract in the making for him in another country. "That is why I was in Liberia awaiting on my manager for signal before I could leave the country." Commenting further in a serious mood, player Seator frowned on the paper for such an article aimed at tarnishing he and his family reputation. Meanwhile, Seator has called on the paper to retract the article to avoid any confrontation. "I respect the media in Liberia because they have played a key role in promoting my career. I don't want any problem between they and myself because we need each other." In another development, player Seator has disclosed that he is presently in Italy justifying his inclusion on Serie B side Regianna. Regianna was in the Serie A recently before being relegated. Several African players including Nigeria's Sunday Oliseh and Sierra Leone's Mohammed Kallon have played for the club before. According to player Seator, if all goes well he will join the club at mid season. But he was quick to point out that he could be loaned to North Africa, specifically Esperence of Tunisia, where he will play for some time before returning to Italy. Seator was invited to play for the National football team, the Lone Star, for the African Cup of Nations qualifying match against Guinea in September. After the match he was not called for the match against Niger for what the coaches termed "lack of form". The player stayed in Liberia for some time before going to Italy based on arrangement concluded by his Manager. Seator has been playing professional since 1995 beginning from Kuwait. He also played in Saudi Arabia, Hungary and Sweden. Seator was part of the Lone Star squad that participated in the 2002 African Nations Cup finals held in Mali.
Saturday, 30 November, 2002, 20:37 GMT
Seator signs for Esperance
Seator in action at the 2002 Nations Cup Liberian striker Frank Seator's trial with Tunisian giants Esperance has been turned into a season's loan.
Seator said he was initially unaware that the deal had been confirmed.
"I was surprised when my agent Zarrouk Abdellatif called me to say the move was complete.
"He decided that after some great years in the Gulf, playing for the Tunisian's would enable me to develop my talent so I might get into a European club".
Seator, who was in Liberia's squad at the Nations Cup in Mali, has spent five years in the Middle East, playing for teams in Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
"The Gulf might be luxurious, but if you look at Europe now there are hardly any Liberians there - only Prince Daye," the striker said.
"This is not normal - so I've decided to come to Tunisia where European scouts are frequently present.
"It's a lucrative contract, and I hope to live up the fabulous image that George Weah has set in Liberian football."
Seator, is expected to make his debut on 14 December, and is hoping to have a chance to play in continental competition.
IPOH:01/ 21/ 2004 Argentine midfielder Ricardo Silva and Liberian striker Frank Seator are fast proving to be a lethal combination for Perak as they prepare for next month’s Super League.
Both new buy Silva and last season's hero Seator have been on target in the team's ongoing playing tour of Perth, Australia, sharing between them the five goals the team have scored in their two friendly matches so far.
In their first outing against Cockburn City Soccer Club last Friday, the 26-year-old Silva, who played for Spanish Div 2 Badasooz in the 1999 - 2000 season, was on target once while Seator scored a brace. The two teams drew 3-3.
SEATOR: The Liberian is playing very well in the on-going tour of Perth.On Monday, Silva, a product of River Plate, found the net again in Perak’s 2-1 victory over Sterling Lion’s SC.
Not to be left out, Seator, whose contract was extended after an impressive showing last year, was the other scorer for Perak.
Perak assistant coach Mohamed Zakaria Mohamed said Silva had been impressive with his feedings and skill.
“Silva was easily the man of the match against Sterling Lion’s SC. He created several scoring chances and also displayed good touches.
“He and Seator are certainly proving to be a deadly pair for Perak. Team officials are hoping the duo can maintain this combination in the Super League,” added Zakaria in a telephone interview yesterday.
Zakaria said locals K. Nanthankumar and Liew Kit Kong, who joined the team on their tour on Monday also played the full game against Sterling Lion's SC.
“I have no complaints about the two's performance considering that they only joined us on Monday after their training stint with the national team.”
The duo, together with V. Saravanan were training with the national team who are preparing for the World Cup qualifiers.
Perak's next match is against Armandale FC today.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Tay Sin Kiat and leftback Chan Wing Hoong will cut short their trip in Perth and return today to celebrate the Chinese New Year festival with their families.
November 12, 2002 Siebo D. WilliamsMonrovia One of Liberia's leading professional players, Frank "Jaen" Seator, has dispelled rumors that he and his family were expelled from Qatar because of dress code. Making the clarification in a telephone conversation with our Sports Desk recently, player Seator said he was disappointed to have heard that there was a newspaper article indicating that he and his family were expelled from Qatar. "The paper carried the article without contacting me while in the country." He said for five years, he and his family lived in Qatar without any problem. He disclosed that after his contract with Al Ta-awon ended, his manager told him there was a another contract in the making for him in another country. "That is why I was in Liberia awaiting on my manager for signal before I could leave the country." Commenting further in a serious mood, player Seator frowned on the paper for such an article aimed at tarnishing he and his family reputation. Meanwhile, Seator has called on the paper to retract the article to avoid any confrontation. "I respect the media in Liberia because they have played a key role in promoting my career. I don't want any problem between they and myself because we need each other." In another development, player Seator has disclosed that he is presently in Italy justifying his inclusion on Serie B side Regianna. Regianna was in the Serie A recently before being relegated. Several African players including Nigeria's Sunday Oliseh and Sierra Leone's Mohammed Kallon have played for the club before. According to player Seator, if all goes well he will join the club at mid season. But he was quick to point out that he could be loaned to North Africa, specifically Esperence of Tunisia, where he will play for some time before returning to Italy. Seator was invited to play for the National football team, the Lone Star, for the African Cup of Nations qualifying match against Guinea in September. After the match he was not called for the match against Niger for what the coaches termed "lack of form". The player stayed in Liberia for some time before going to Italy based on arrangement concluded by his Manager. Seator has been playing professional since 1995 beginning from Kuwait. He also played in Saudi Arabia, Hungary and Sweden. Seator was part of the Lone Star squad that participated in the 2002 African Nations Cup finals held in Mali.
Saturday, 30 November, 2002, 20:37 GMT
Seator signs for Esperance
Seator in action at the 2002 Nations Cup Liberian striker Frank Seator's trial with Tunisian giants Esperance has been turned into a season's loan.
Seator said he was initially unaware that the deal had been confirmed.
"I was surprised when my agent Zarrouk Abdellatif called me to say the move was complete.
"He decided that after some great years in the Gulf, playing for the Tunisian's would enable me to develop my talent so I might get into a European club".
Seator, who was in Liberia's squad at the Nations Cup in Mali, has spent five years in the Middle East, playing for teams in Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
"The Gulf might be luxurious, but if you look at Europe now there are hardly any Liberians there - only Prince Daye," the striker said.
"This is not normal - so I've decided to come to Tunisia where European scouts are frequently present.
"It's a lucrative contract, and I hope to live up the fabulous image that George Weah has set in Liberian football."
Seator, is expected to make his debut on 14 December, and is hoping to have a chance to play in continental competition.
IPOH:01/ 21/ 2004 Argentine midfielder Ricardo Silva and Liberian striker Frank Seator are fast proving to be a lethal combination for Perak as they prepare for next month’s Super League.
Both new buy Silva and last season's hero Seator have been on target in the team's ongoing playing tour of Perth, Australia, sharing between them the five goals the team have scored in their two friendly matches so far.
In their first outing against Cockburn City Soccer Club last Friday, the 26-year-old Silva, who played for Spanish Div 2 Badasooz in the 1999 - 2000 season, was on target once while Seator scored a brace. The two teams drew 3-3.
SEATOR: The Liberian is playing very well in the on-going tour of Perth.On Monday, Silva, a product of River Plate, found the net again in Perak’s 2-1 victory over Sterling Lion’s SC.
Not to be left out, Seator, whose contract was extended after an impressive showing last year, was the other scorer for Perak.
Perak assistant coach Mohamed Zakaria Mohamed said Silva had been impressive with his feedings and skill.
“Silva was easily the man of the match against Sterling Lion’s SC. He created several scoring chances and also displayed good touches.
“He and Seator are certainly proving to be a deadly pair for Perak. Team officials are hoping the duo can maintain this combination in the Super League,” added Zakaria in a telephone interview yesterday.
Zakaria said locals K. Nanthankumar and Liew Kit Kong, who joined the team on their tour on Monday also played the full game against Sterling Lion's SC.
“I have no complaints about the two's performance considering that they only joined us on Monday after their training stint with the national team.”
The duo, together with V. Saravanan were training with the national team who are preparing for the World Cup qualifiers.
Perak's next match is against Armandale FC today.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Tay Sin Kiat and leftback Chan Wing Hoong will cut short their trip in Perth and return today to celebrate the Chinese New Year festival with their families.
And in Indonesia he has played for Jakarta and of course now he is with Sriwijaya. Bit of a globetrotter our Frank...
Indonesian Cup
Today has Tangerang playing some team from Padang in the Indonesian Cup and while I wasn’t able to get there I feel what this site really needs is a round up of the Cup so far. So sit back and enjoy…
Surabaya v Mojokerto 2-1
Medan v Sriwijaya 3-1
Serang v Tangerang City 2-1
Persid (?) v Lamongan 0-1
Bandung v Semarang 0-0
Kediri v Pasuruan Town 3-0
Persipro (?) v Arema Malang 0-2
Coming soon lah…
Medan Victory v PSP (?)
Tangerang v PSKPS Padang
Palembang v Jakarta North
Kudus v Bantul
Solo v Sidoarjo
This is the first round, I have no idea whether teams like Jakarta, Makassar or Jayapura are involved or come in at a later stage or indeed how complete this is. Perhaps David can add his 1000 rupiah worth?
Surabaya v Mojokerto 2-1
Medan v Sriwijaya 3-1
Serang v Tangerang City 2-1
Persid (?) v Lamongan 0-1
Bandung v Semarang 0-0
Kediri v Pasuruan Town 3-0
Persipro (?) v Arema Malang 0-2
Coming soon lah…
Medan Victory v PSP (?)
Tangerang v PSKPS Padang
Palembang v Jakarta North
Kudus v Bantul
Solo v Sidoarjo
This is the first round, I have no idea whether teams like Jakarta, Makassar or Jayapura are involved or come in at a later stage or indeed how complete this is. Perhaps David can add his 1000 rupiah worth?
Monday, May 22, 2006
A brief summary
In the big game on Sunday it was no real surprise to see Medan inflict a rare defeat on Arema Malang but while the Greens from North Sumatra sneaked back into the Big 4 both Semarang and Jakarta slipped up in tricky away games. Semarang visited Palembang where they were held to a 1-1 draw while Jakarta made the short journey to Bandung and also came away with a point from a similar scoreline. Pasuruan Town surprisingly lost to Deli Serdang 2-1 and so were overtaken by Medan. The Big 4 then has a familiar look about it with Semarang ahead of Jakarta on goal difference with Malang and Medan coming 3rd and 4th. Elsewhere in the Western Division Tangerang City lost 2-1 in Yogyakarta.
A cracking game in Denpaser saw Gianyar fall 2-4 against Makassar who jumped up to 3rd on the back of this victory. Wonder if Squire made it to the game?
Copa Indonesia, or we’ll call it the Indonesia Cup, is being played this week with Tangerang playing some team from Padang but not the Western Division one. No doubt there are other games but we’ll find out about them tomorrow.
Laters…
A cracking game in Denpaser saw Gianyar fall 2-4 against Makassar who jumped up to 3rd on the back of this victory. Wonder if Squire made it to the game?
Copa Indonesia, or we’ll call it the Indonesia Cup, is being played this week with Tangerang playing some team from Padang but not the Western Division one. No doubt there are other games but we’ll find out about them tomorrow.
Laters…
Jakarta Highland Gathering
Call me wierd but watching Sidoarjo from the comfort of my armchair just couldn't compete with watching a bunch of grown men with funny hair wearing skirts and throwing DIY tools around with gay abandon.
Lippo Karawaci was the venue for this gathering of the clans that enticed young and old, bule and Indonesian to sample the Celtic delights of Robert Burns, bagpipes and of course beer.
There was dancing of the Scottish sort with twirling tartans, there was pipe bands, especially a Sikh band from KL with their very own tartan and there was a tug of war. In a hasty moment of sporty ne'er do well I had actually put my name forward for this event and represented the dogs and bitches of Mad Dogs. We had a team meeting in the beer tent where we did some serious training and at one stage I nearly joined the German team by mistake.
We were due to start tugging at 1 pm but the general feeling was this was nowt but a ruse by Glen to have people quaffing in his bar a bit longer but fair play, it worked! We drank then drank and drank some more before finally our team captain said it was time to go and led us, Japanese tour guide like, round the field. We gathered for our final team talk which was along the lines of 'Who let the dogs out' and lined up for our first communal tug. It was now we found out our fearless leader would not be joining the team but merely barking from the sidelines so we guessed he'd tugged already.
It was best of 3 but we won the first two comfortably and milled around a while drinking while we waited for our next opponents. Bart and Lens team somehow won also and we were hoping against hope they would be our next opponents but alas and alack...our next foe was a team of body builders fresh from a tug free day and as for us, well, you know how difficult it is having a pull after several beers. It was a non event, the freshies pulled us all over the place while we struggled to get a grip. Twas not fair I tell thee. How can a team have a bye in to the semi final and if a team then why not us? We were the biggest and the fattest, surely some sympathy och aye?
The rest of the day was spent in the various beer tents. Helicopter rides went over our heads as we imbibed the pleasures of the amber and patted ourselves on the back at how we were contributing to such worthy causes. Oh and Glen showed once and for all what a Scotsman wears under his kilt and for those who witnessed his shameful display the general feeling was things aren't bigger or better on the other side of Hadrian's Wall...
Lippo Karawaci was the venue for this gathering of the clans that enticed young and old, bule and Indonesian to sample the Celtic delights of Robert Burns, bagpipes and of course beer.
There was dancing of the Scottish sort with twirling tartans, there was pipe bands, especially a Sikh band from KL with their very own tartan and there was a tug of war. In a hasty moment of sporty ne'er do well I had actually put my name forward for this event and represented the dogs and bitches of Mad Dogs. We had a team meeting in the beer tent where we did some serious training and at one stage I nearly joined the German team by mistake.
We were due to start tugging at 1 pm but the general feeling was this was nowt but a ruse by Glen to have people quaffing in his bar a bit longer but fair play, it worked! We drank then drank and drank some more before finally our team captain said it was time to go and led us, Japanese tour guide like, round the field. We gathered for our final team talk which was along the lines of 'Who let the dogs out' and lined up for our first communal tug. It was now we found out our fearless leader would not be joining the team but merely barking from the sidelines so we guessed he'd tugged already.
It was best of 3 but we won the first two comfortably and milled around a while drinking while we waited for our next opponents. Bart and Lens team somehow won also and we were hoping against hope they would be our next opponents but alas and alack...our next foe was a team of body builders fresh from a tug free day and as for us, well, you know how difficult it is having a pull after several beers. It was a non event, the freshies pulled us all over the place while we struggled to get a grip. Twas not fair I tell thee. How can a team have a bye in to the semi final and if a team then why not us? We were the biggest and the fattest, surely some sympathy och aye?
The rest of the day was spent in the various beer tents. Helicopter rides went over our heads as we imbibed the pleasures of the amber and patted ourselves on the back at how we were contributing to such worthy causes. Oh and Glen showed once and for all what a Scotsman wears under his kilt and for those who witnessed his shameful display the general feeling was things aren't bigger or better on the other side of Hadrian's Wall...
Friday, May 19, 2006
Weekend Preview
Two games stick out this weekend.
In the Western Division tomorrow Jakarta travel to Bandung. I had penciled this fixture in, as one does, but am elsewhere now but the game is a 20,000 sell out and Bandung have asked Jakarta fans not to travel without tickets. I won't even get to watch it on TV.
On Sunday Arema Malang make the long trip to Medan. The hosts have won 6 and lost just one at home this season and 3 points tomorrow are crucial because they are pants on the road. I don't see this game listed as being onb TV for some reason. Maybe the cameras can't leave Java??? Instead they're at Sidoarjo, a suburb of Surabaya, for the mouth watering clash with Wamena (13th against 7th!)
Western leaders Semarang visit Sriwijaya Palembang tomorrow while an interesting match up sees Tangerang City travel to Yogyakarta. 3 points for City and defeats for Medan and Pasuruan Town would see them slip into the top 4.
Whoops, just noticed the Semarang game is on live and as far as I'm aware Palembang is in Sumatra!
In the Western Division tomorrow Jakarta travel to Bandung. I had penciled this fixture in, as one does, but am elsewhere now but the game is a 20,000 sell out and Bandung have asked Jakarta fans not to travel without tickets. I won't even get to watch it on TV.
On Sunday Arema Malang make the long trip to Medan. The hosts have won 6 and lost just one at home this season and 3 points tomorrow are crucial because they are pants on the road. I don't see this game listed as being onb TV for some reason. Maybe the cameras can't leave Java??? Instead they're at Sidoarjo, a suburb of Surabaya, for the mouth watering clash with Wamena (13th against 7th!)
Western leaders Semarang visit Sriwijaya Palembang tomorrow while an interesting match up sees Tangerang City travel to Yogyakarta. 3 points for City and defeats for Medan and Pasuruan Town would see them slip into the top 4.
Whoops, just noticed the Semarang game is on live and as far as I'm aware Palembang is in Sumatra!
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Oh well
For 50 minutes we faced Barcelona with 10 men, we took the lead, we held on, we restricted Ronaldinho, we had chances to score, we lost.
The easy way out is to blame the ref. But he was fair and consistent, he made mistakes for both sides. Perhaps he could have been tougher on some of the Barca challenges but he also saw through some of their extravagent play acting. Perhaps he could have let the goal stand and just yellow card Lehmann instead of reaching for the red but he didn't. Just as important, perhaps Henry, Freddie or Hleb could have converted one of their chances but they didn't.
Down to 10 we hung on gamely. Toure was immense in the centre of the defence as he has been most of the season, Almunia done all right when he came on and I think he'll be a bit peeved at being beaten at the near post twice. But most of all we nullified much of the Catalan's threat. Ronaldinho was pretty ineffective, Deco showed touches, Eto'o scored but not much else besides. Against 10 men Barca attacked in waves but threatened only occassionaly.
Barca are a good team. We're a good team. The final was never going to be a classic after the sending off but that's the way it goes. There were pluses for us on the night and hopefully we can now truly compete on the European stage on a regular basis.
The easy way out is to blame the ref. But he was fair and consistent, he made mistakes for both sides. Perhaps he could have been tougher on some of the Barca challenges but he also saw through some of their extravagent play acting. Perhaps he could have let the goal stand and just yellow card Lehmann instead of reaching for the red but he didn't. Just as important, perhaps Henry, Freddie or Hleb could have converted one of their chances but they didn't.
Down to 10 we hung on gamely. Toure was immense in the centre of the defence as he has been most of the season, Almunia done all right when he came on and I think he'll be a bit peeved at being beaten at the near post twice. But most of all we nullified much of the Catalan's threat. Ronaldinho was pretty ineffective, Deco showed touches, Eto'o scored but not much else besides. Against 10 men Barca attacked in waves but threatened only occassionaly.
Barca are a good team. We're a good team. The final was never going to be a classic after the sending off but that's the way it goes. There were pluses for us on the night and hopefully we can now truly compete on the European stage on a regular basis.
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Bit of a dead week
Domestically there is not a whole lot going on apart from some Indonesian Cup games which I haven't been following.
Oh and in Paris there is some Champions League Final between Arsenal and Barcelona. If you're in Jakarta you can catch it live at Schwabing, Plaza Semanggi, and Front Row, Taman Ria Senayen.
Me, I'll be lucky if I wake up in time for it on the TV. No doubt every web site will be previewing the game so I won't bother...
Oh and in Paris there is some Champions League Final between Arsenal and Barcelona. If you're in Jakarta you can catch it live at Schwabing, Plaza Semanggi, and Front Row, Taman Ria Senayen.
Me, I'll be lucky if I wake up in time for it on the TV. No doubt every web site will be previewing the game so I won't bother...
Monday, May 15, 2006
Jakarta vs Deli Serdang
Jakarta's inability to finish could end up costing them big time. Against the team holding all the rest up, the Jak huffed and they puffed and they hit the bar many a time but could only bulge the net on once occassion, admittedly a sweetly taken volley, early in the second half. You can't help but think against sterner opposition they would have been made to pay. As it was the North Sumatran visitors had an effort cleared off the line and in the dying stages spurned a chance to share the points when a simple header went the wrong side of the crossbar.
Still, 19 goals in 21 games don't lie. Jakarta have played more games than their nearest rivals, Semarang and Arema Malang, with the latter having 4 games in hand! Football success is a fragile thing, look how close West Ham to Cup Final success on Saturday and while Jakarta may argue on another day they could have scored 5 or 6, cold hard facts tell us they are no mor likely to go nap than I am to buy a round for everyone in BuGils on a Tuesday night. Deli Serdang would with justificationalso claim they were unlucky not to come away with a point. The fact remains games are running out for Jakarta, they need to starting converting more. Maybe they should sign Christian Gonzales, Kediri's free scoring forward who has scored more than the whole Kemayoran Tigers team have.
Still, 19 goals in 21 games don't lie. Jakarta have played more games than their nearest rivals, Semarang and Arema Malang, with the latter having 4 games in hand! Football success is a fragile thing, look how close West Ham to Cup Final success on Saturday and while Jakarta may argue on another day they could have scored 5 or 6, cold hard facts tell us they are no mor likely to go nap than I am to buy a round for everyone in BuGils on a Tuesday night. Deli Serdang would with justificationalso claim they were unlucky not to come away with a point. The fact remains games are running out for Jakarta, they need to starting converting more. Maybe they should sign Christian Gonzales, Kediri's free scoring forward who has scored more than the whole Kemayoran Tigers team have.
Quick post
I went to see Jakarta play Deli Serdang yesterday, will do a write up laters.
Medan lost on the road, no surprise there, while Kediri rattled in just 2 without reply in the big game in the Eastern Division.
Arema Malang looked impressive on Saturday against Jepara and sit menacingly in 3rd spot one point behind leaders Semarang with 2 games in hand.
Medan lost on the road, no surprise there, while Kediri rattled in just 2 without reply in the big game in the Eastern Division.
Arema Malang looked impressive on Saturday against Jepara and sit menacingly in 3rd spot one point behind leaders Semarang with 2 games in hand.
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Indonesia National Team
Since I've been taking an interest in Indonesian football I've seen nothing about the national team. Thanks to David for this!!!
Its been a great year for peter withe since he arrived in Indonesia back in 2004, the team lose to saudi arabia 3-1 on world cup qualification but they managed to beat turkmenistan 3-1, on the next occasion like tigercup, Peter once again brought the team to its highest perfomance, with beating Vietnam 3-0 at Hanoi! and not even conceding a single goal in the group stages. When it came to semifinal, Indonesia trashed Malaysia 4-1 at Kuala lumpur in where many analysts on ESPN comparing Boas salossa as Wayne rooney. But its all finally coming to the dark side after the team beaten by Singapore 5-2 on aggregate and Indonesia is the only team that went to the finals for third consecutive times but failed to win the cup. despite all of this...Peter still have the job. Sea Games 2005 Lack of preparation and Peter decision to train in Perth Australia for a month was a great mistake for the team. With one month left to the tournament, the team is still in early preparation. Indonesia league just finished four days before the team departed to Perth, it was spring there and weather condition was quite cold at night but they managed to play in that condition. The young indonesians were unbeaten during theyr australian tour but it was a great mistake for them to train there, because all the team that they were playing are not typical ASEAN players, Australian team always play high ball and kick in rush type of football, while asean players usually play one-touch-two-go and using their fast running pace.....so its pretty useless for them.. The team never make it to the final but once again they were unbeaten during the group stages and not conceding a single goal! bad result for peter but hey..he still got the job! so now comes my question, whats next from Peter ? Indonesia has a great footballers, here is my list of players that Peter should pick Center back - Hamka, Maman, Aris budi, Aris indarto Left wing/right wing - Erol fx iba, alex pulalo, elie aboy, M ridwan, Ismed sofyan, Ortisan salossa, Mahyadi P, Harry salisburi, Budi sudarsono Strikers - well those four Indo-dutch players and Bambang pamungkas will do....or soon becoming indonesian naturalized christian gonzales
Its been a great year for peter withe since he arrived in Indonesia back in 2004, the team lose to saudi arabia 3-1 on world cup qualification but they managed to beat turkmenistan 3-1, on the next occasion like tigercup, Peter once again brought the team to its highest perfomance, with beating Vietnam 3-0 at Hanoi! and not even conceding a single goal in the group stages. When it came to semifinal, Indonesia trashed Malaysia 4-1 at Kuala lumpur in where many analysts on ESPN comparing Boas salossa as Wayne rooney. But its all finally coming to the dark side after the team beaten by Singapore 5-2 on aggregate and Indonesia is the only team that went to the finals for third consecutive times but failed to win the cup. despite all of this...Peter still have the job. Sea Games 2005 Lack of preparation and Peter decision to train in Perth Australia for a month was a great mistake for the team. With one month left to the tournament, the team is still in early preparation. Indonesia league just finished four days before the team departed to Perth, it was spring there and weather condition was quite cold at night but they managed to play in that condition. The young indonesians were unbeaten during theyr australian tour but it was a great mistake for them to train there, because all the team that they were playing are not typical ASEAN players, Australian team always play high ball and kick in rush type of football, while asean players usually play one-touch-two-go and using their fast running pace.....so its pretty useless for them.. The team never make it to the final but once again they were unbeaten during the group stages and not conceding a single goal! bad result for peter but hey..he still got the job! so now comes my question, whats next from Peter ? Indonesia has a great footballers, here is my list of players that Peter should pick Center back - Hamka, Maman, Aris budi, Aris indarto Left wing/right wing - Erol fx iba, alex pulalo, elie aboy, M ridwan, Ismed sofyan, Ortisan salossa, Mahyadi P, Harry salisburi, Budi sudarsono Strikers - well those four Indo-dutch players and Bambang pamungkas will do....or soon becoming indonesian naturalized christian gonzales
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Weekend Preview
After an exciting week that has seen goals galore, Tangerang hitting 6, Kediri 7, bumper crowds, 30,000 at Arema Malang vs Semarang and Kediri's Gonzales thumping 5, we can perhaps feel the weekend wil be an anti climax. Today the highlight is probably Pasuaruan Town hosting Semarang while the live TV game is Arema Malang playing the notoriously hard to beat Jepara. Their midweek reverse at Pasuaruan Town only their 4th of the season. Tomorrow has 4th place Medan visiting Tangerang City while in the Eastern Division goal crazy Kediri host Lamongan.
I would like to get to a game tomorrow but much depends on tonight and the beer consumption. Nights out are a rare commodity these days and need to be grasped and clung to whenever they happen.
Two hours to kick off...laters
Latest Standings
Western Division
Semarang 18 34
Jakarta 20 31
Arema Malang 16 30
Medan 17 28
Pasuarruan Town 16 26
Tangerang City 20 25
Jepara 18 24
Sriwijaya 18 24
Yogyakarta 18 23
Tangerang 19 23
Padang 18 21
Jakarta North 19 19
Bandung 18 18
Deli Serdang 17 13
Eastern Division
Kediri 19 42
Minhasa 18 35
Lamongan 19 30
Makassar 18 29
Balikpapan 20 29
West Kalimantan 20 26
Wamena 16 25
Ternate 18 24
Persibom 18 22
Jayapura 16 21
Malang 18 21
Sleman 17 17
Sidoarjo Deltras 17 14
Gianyar 18 14
I would like to get to a game tomorrow but much depends on tonight and the beer consumption. Nights out are a rare commodity these days and need to be grasped and clung to whenever they happen.
Two hours to kick off...laters
Cup Final Day
I've never been to an FA Cup Final though of course as an Arsenal fan there's been plenty of opportunities. There were those 3 successive finals in the 70's and 80's but I was still a waif back then, not a regular and I resented ripping up my match programmes for those cup final tokens that would have ensured my attendance. My older brother is, or rather was, West Ham and he was there in 1980 but less said about Brooking falling over to head the ball in the better. We, after all, had the biggest Willie!
Today Liverpool are the red hot favourites so purely for that reason I'm backing West Ham. Not because I like them, I don't. Not because I would like Sheringham to get a medal, I can't stand the smarmy knob juice and I'm pretty sure he doesn't like me or my club. But also another reason. Who has won the cup over the last few years?
2005 - Arsenal
2004 - Man Utd
2003 - Arsenal
2002 - Arsenal
2001 - Liverpool
2000 - Chelsea
1999 - Man Utd
1998 - Arsenal
1997 - Chelsea
1996 - Man Utd
1995 - Everton
1994 - Man Utd
1993 - Arsenal
1992 - Liverpool
In 14 attempts only Everton have broken the stranglehold of Arsenal, Man Utd, Liverpool and that lot from the King's Road. We need West Ham there to break the monotony.
Another thing. West Ham won it in the year I was born. They won it when I was 16 and could start rutting legally. Why not win it in the year I get married as well? They aslo had one of the best, admittedly unofficial, cup final songs ever with I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles by the Cockney Rejects. And in Marlon Harewood they have a 21st century Alan Taylor.
So there'll be a few beers probably in Aphrodite and Everest before settling down to watch the game and for once Chin Chinnary Chin Chinnary Chin Chin Charoo I'll be supporting the Claret n Blue.
Of course there are also some domestic games and i'll preview them laters...
Today Liverpool are the red hot favourites so purely for that reason I'm backing West Ham. Not because I like them, I don't. Not because I would like Sheringham to get a medal, I can't stand the smarmy knob juice and I'm pretty sure he doesn't like me or my club. But also another reason. Who has won the cup over the last few years?
2005 - Arsenal
2004 - Man Utd
2003 - Arsenal
2002 - Arsenal
2001 - Liverpool
2000 - Chelsea
1999 - Man Utd
1998 - Arsenal
1997 - Chelsea
1996 - Man Utd
1995 - Everton
1994 - Man Utd
1993 - Arsenal
1992 - Liverpool
In 14 attempts only Everton have broken the stranglehold of Arsenal, Man Utd, Liverpool and that lot from the King's Road. We need West Ham there to break the monotony.
Another thing. West Ham won it in the year I was born. They won it when I was 16 and could start rutting legally. Why not win it in the year I get married as well? They aslo had one of the best, admittedly unofficial, cup final songs ever with I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles by the Cockney Rejects. And in Marlon Harewood they have a 21st century Alan Taylor.
So there'll be a few beers probably in Aphrodite and Everest before settling down to watch the game and for once Chin Chinnary Chin Chinnary Chin Chin Charoo I'll be supporting the Claret n Blue.
Of course there are also some domestic games and i'll preview them laters...
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Two crunch games
Well haven't I dropped a bollock this week eh? A couple of really big games on Wednesday saw the top 4 in the Western Division play each other.
Been so busy celebrating the Totts getting the shits and bottling their 'Cup Final' I've been diverted from the real essence of this board. And boy has there been some fun! Check these scores...
Jakarta v Medan 1-0!
Arema Malang vs Semarang 1-0
Tangerang City v Deli Serdang 6-0
Pasaruan Town v Jepara 1-0
Kediri v Gianyar 7-1
Been so busy celebrating the Totts getting the shits and bottling their 'Cup Final' I've been diverted from the real essence of this board. And boy has there been some fun! Check these scores...
Jakarta v Medan 1-0!
Arema Malang vs Semarang 1-0
Tangerang City v Deli Serdang 6-0
Pasaruan Town v Jepara 1-0
Kediri v Gianyar 7-1
Preview on Saturday before the FA Cup Final!
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Beer Tuesday
There were a couple of games played including one at Tangerang but business took me to town. Once upon a time Tuesday night meant one thing, ladies night at Bugils, a beer frenzy among the fairer sex which seemed to draw the worst out of people and must have seen rough heads on the Wednesay at more than a few offices across the city.
Being of a much milder temperment these days I sought solace in Aphrodite where the mushy peas absorbed the initial beer attack. Aphro is another favourite bar of mine. Immensely popular with expats and locals it manages to keep the feel of a local thanks in no small part to the managers, Fred and Daniel. There's always a friendly welcome here to get you in the mood for some serious swilling and a couple of pool tables tempt the sporty types out there.
Then it was off to Mad Dogs Brahaus in distant Serpong. It was billed as a soft opening and Glen, the manager, had laid on some finger snacks as well as some free beers for the punters. It's a bit of a mish mash at the moment. Previously a German themed bar, the team are attempting to add parts of the Mad Dogs Englishness to it which could go down well with Fritz and the other regulars. The opportunities for mischief are legion; Basil Fawlty Night, 30th Anniversary of England's sole World Cup triumph, 'Allo 'Allo reruns...marvellous stuff. Apparently they'll be using a German chef so you could have sauer kraut on the menu as well as sitting in the bar!
It looks a nice place. It's on the 7th floor, has an open terrace and offers a fine vista of I know not what. I stuck close to the bar and kept the barmaids on their toes to make the place look busy! There are plans for an Oktoberfest, I guess in October, and perhaps some of the waitress' will be dressed up as busty Bayerische frauleins with long willowing dresses and Tysonesque fingers...or maybe not.
Wonder how Tangerang got on?
Being of a much milder temperment these days I sought solace in Aphrodite where the mushy peas absorbed the initial beer attack. Aphro is another favourite bar of mine. Immensely popular with expats and locals it manages to keep the feel of a local thanks in no small part to the managers, Fred and Daniel. There's always a friendly welcome here to get you in the mood for some serious swilling and a couple of pool tables tempt the sporty types out there.
Then it was off to Mad Dogs Brahaus in distant Serpong. It was billed as a soft opening and Glen, the manager, had laid on some finger snacks as well as some free beers for the punters. It's a bit of a mish mash at the moment. Previously a German themed bar, the team are attempting to add parts of the Mad Dogs Englishness to it which could go down well with Fritz and the other regulars. The opportunities for mischief are legion; Basil Fawlty Night, 30th Anniversary of England's sole World Cup triumph, 'Allo 'Allo reruns...marvellous stuff. Apparently they'll be using a German chef so you could have sauer kraut on the menu as well as sitting in the bar!
It looks a nice place. It's on the 7th floor, has an open terrace and offers a fine vista of I know not what. I stuck close to the bar and kept the barmaids on their toes to make the place look busy! There are plans for an Oktoberfest, I guess in October, and perhaps some of the waitress' will be dressed up as busty Bayerische frauleins with long willowing dresses and Tysonesque fingers...or maybe not.
Wonder how Tangerang got on?
Monday, May 08, 2006
The Arsenal Way
Football is about rivalry and there is no greater rivalry than that between The Arsenal and that lot up the Seven Sisters Road. You grow up with it, friendships based on your team define your life, you just love rubbing your mates noses in it when they get bested by you. You do it because you know sure as shagging pigs produces porkers they'll do the same to you.
For this game the result is all. In my times with the Arsenal we've had a pretty good run against them. Apart from a little spell round the early 80's we've been top dogs and it's been most enjoyable. But with The Arsenal it's never just about beating them. It's about doing it with a beat of cheek, a bit of verve. Bragging rights taste so much sweeter when we collect the pots and piss on their parade as well.
1971 - final league game of the season at White Hart Lane. We need a 1-0 to guarantee our first championship in 18 years (actually with goal average it was more complicated) and you know it. Kennedy in the last minute, we are Champions and N17 witness a team winning the League for the 3rd time in it's pathetic history
1974 - They appoint ex Arsenal man Terry Neill and he sets about building a team fit for relegation! His enviable record of winning only 33% of games under his charge is bettered only by their leg end Ardilles. Under him they only won 30%.
1978 - We won 5-0 at the Lane
1987 - League Cup Semi. They win the first leg 1-0 at ours. In the second leg they go 1 up but we win 2-1 meanining a replay. Again they go 1-0 up. We equalise then with a minute to go we finally take the lead! After 269 minutes of football we take the lead and get to the final! How did they feel???
1988 - They sign Gazza and get all excited thinking they're a big club but we win 3-2 at theirs and win the league again!
1993 - FA Cup Semi - Tony Adams scores, Lee Dixon is sent off but we only need 10 men.
1995 - We got Dennis Bergkamp, you got Chris Armstrong!
1999 - Hey what do you know? They win a trophy!!! The League Cup in the last minute. But who was their manager? Georgeous George Graham!
2001 - Another Semi Final, another victory...didn't they go 1 up?
2001 - Sol Campbell wants to win trophies so after some teasing of Manchester United and Bayern Munchen he signs for the Arsenal
2002 - Sol finally gets to use the trophy cabinet he'd bought from IKEA
2004 - WHL witnesses yet another Championship. The Totts go home secure in the knowledge that we have won the League at theirs more times in the last 50 years than they have. Bless...
2006 - In 4th spot since December, they'd been busying renewing passports and looking up Ajax on road maps, getting all excited about being in the Champions League for the first time in their history. Last game, they MUST win at West Ham to assure themselves but their bottle, and their bowels, go. They fail to get the game postponed but at 1-1 they're through. But The Arsenal, oh my Arsenal, are toying with them. We even go a goal down just to give them some false hope. Henry scores, he celebrates, a yid scores for West Ham, Sheringham misses a penalty, yeah, we know how much he loves us right, and that's it. We finish 4th, St Totteringham's came a little late this year but it came...The Arsenal Way
For this game the result is all. In my times with the Arsenal we've had a pretty good run against them. Apart from a little spell round the early 80's we've been top dogs and it's been most enjoyable. But with The Arsenal it's never just about beating them. It's about doing it with a beat of cheek, a bit of verve. Bragging rights taste so much sweeter when we collect the pots and piss on their parade as well.
1971 - final league game of the season at White Hart Lane. We need a 1-0 to guarantee our first championship in 18 years (actually with goal average it was more complicated) and you know it. Kennedy in the last minute, we are Champions and N17 witness a team winning the League for the 3rd time in it's pathetic history
1974 - They appoint ex Arsenal man Terry Neill and he sets about building a team fit for relegation! His enviable record of winning only 33% of games under his charge is bettered only by their leg end Ardilles. Under him they only won 30%.
1978 - We won 5-0 at the Lane
1987 - League Cup Semi. They win the first leg 1-0 at ours. In the second leg they go 1 up but we win 2-1 meanining a replay. Again they go 1-0 up. We equalise then with a minute to go we finally take the lead! After 269 minutes of football we take the lead and get to the final! How did they feel???
1988 - They sign Gazza and get all excited thinking they're a big club but we win 3-2 at theirs and win the league again!
1993 - FA Cup Semi - Tony Adams scores, Lee Dixon is sent off but we only need 10 men.
1995 - We got Dennis Bergkamp, you got Chris Armstrong!
1999 - Hey what do you know? They win a trophy!!! The League Cup in the last minute. But who was their manager? Georgeous George Graham!
2001 - Another Semi Final, another victory...didn't they go 1 up?
2001 - Sol Campbell wants to win trophies so after some teasing of Manchester United and Bayern Munchen he signs for the Arsenal
2002 - Sol finally gets to use the trophy cabinet he'd bought from IKEA
2004 - WHL witnesses yet another Championship. The Totts go home secure in the knowledge that we have won the League at theirs more times in the last 50 years than they have. Bless...
2006 - In 4th spot since December, they'd been busying renewing passports and looking up Ajax on road maps, getting all excited about being in the Champions League for the first time in their history. Last game, they MUST win at West Ham to assure themselves but their bottle, and their bowels, go. They fail to get the game postponed but at 1-1 they're through. But The Arsenal, oh my Arsenal, are toying with them. We even go a goal down just to give them some false hope. Henry scores, he celebrates, a yid scores for West Ham, Sheringham misses a penalty, yeah, we know how much he loves us right, and that's it. We finish 4th, St Totteringham's came a little late this year but it came...The Arsenal Way
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Highbury Memories
It is so typically Arsenal. We can qualify for the Champions League in the last minute. We can do it at the expense of those funny people up the Seven Sisters. And we can do it with tears of joy and remembrance as we say farewell to Highbury Stadium, our home for 93 years and my own spiritual home for 30 odd years.
My Highbury experience began as a 9 year old being taken by my Dad to see us play West Ham in 1974. What do I remember? I remember walking up the North Bank steps; I remember seeing the Clock End for the first time, a vast open terrace. We stood to the right of the North Bank, we drew 0-0 and in Clyde Best I saw my first black man! The programme cost 5p! The next day it was on the Big Match and my Mum asked why bother when I could stay at home and watch it on TV? Well, at Highbury it was in colour!
I had to wait 51 weeks for my next trip up from suburbia. This time we played Sheffield United, the crowd was below 20,000 and Brian Kidd scored the first goal I ever saw at Highbury. 1-0 to The Arsenal. My old man soon tired of dragging me up there so I started going on my own. I was a tall gangly youth, not dissimilar to Lux in Graham’s Gang, and I lacked the confidence to go on the North Bank but we are The Arsenal. We had the Schoolboy’s Enclosure. 20p to get in and a chance of being on TV. Which I was. I also had my picture in the programme a few times which sure as hell impressed my mates at school.
Those late 70’s were a crossover period. The Arsenal were looking at revenue streams beyond the turnstiles and introduced lottery tickets with Make Money With Arsenal. Red Kagouled babes walked the cinder track before kick off and at half time selling tickets, one even today still sticks in the mind not just of me but many of those terrace veterans. Tall, wild hair… But we stayed traditional. No advertising hoardings, a manual half time score board, red and white college scarves, silk scarves and toilet rolls on the pitch. The Metropolitan Police Band at half time and everyone praying the conductor would drop that stick thing. Being traditional of course, it was round this time I took my first slap, off a Manchester United fan, at Arsenal underground station.
1980/81 was my first real season. I missed very few games and moved from the Schoolboy’s to the North Bank. First home game was Southampton and there weren’t enough turnstile operators to go round. It was Keegan’s first game back in England but for us it was the post Liam Brady era, Kenny Sansom’s first game and you know what? They’re both still involved with The Arsenal! The final game of the season was against Aston Villa. We beat them 2-0, they became champions, Pele ran round the pitch and a computer game manufacturer sponsored the game. I started queuing about 11 am that day, coming down from Finsbury Park to be sure of my spot among the 57000. We finished 3rd, we were confident but failed to replace Brady and that summer Stapleton was off leaving behind much recrimination. I still hate the guy!
We were in the doldrums. Attendances dropped, I recall one game at Highbury against West Brom and the crowd was 13000! Swansea and Watford would come and collect three points. I would get home disgruntled and my mum would ask if I enjoyed the game and to be fair nobody can say they enjoyed those days. But for those who lived through them they make Wenger’s wonder years so much sweeter. Woodcock and Chapman came and generally disappointed, Petrovic did a cameo, impressed and, in a typical Arsenal moment, was released. Probably too skillful, after all we had Peter Nicholas and Brian Talbot.
1983 the casual scene was at its peak as brand labels filled the terraces and everyone whispered ICF and Gooners. We signed Charlie Nicholas and the fans grew bubble perms. He was our Charlie, he scored against Tottenham, he filled the gap left by Brady, a terrace hero, our first terrace hero in a number of years. But on the pitch we were still inconsistent. A skinny Tony Adams made his debut, we lost to West Brom and Coventry and Terry Neill was on thin ice. We played Walsall in the League Cup and went one up. 10 minutes left and they equalized. Mentally I’m doing the maths and logistics of a day off work and a trip to the West Midlands for the replay. I decided I didn’t want to go, Come On The Arsenal, we need another goal. Walsall scored, we were out and so was Neill days later.
Don Howe was in charge and the following season we were top for a while with Ian Allinson becoming an unlikely hero with some important goals. But it didn’t last. It never did in those days. Roberts, that silver haired tosser from the football purists in N17 put Nicholas in the Lower East and we had someone else to hate! Something needed to be done. After a snowy league cup tie against Southampton I decided to move to the Clock End. Rocastle was introduced, Davis delivered on his promise, Merson looked good but for now we were still shite.
Then George Graham arrived for our Centenary Season. Youth was given its head, we went on an unbeaten run and we won the League Cup with Charlie getting both goals. One nil down 2-1 up, we fucked Rushie’s record up! Things were promising; I set off to Australia convinced I’d be gone just 12 months and be back for a nicely maturing team.
I missed 87/88 but returned for the following season. Richardson, Marwood and Smith had added experience and guile while Davis had developed as both a player and a boxer as his assault on Cockerill proved. It was an exciting season, we won the Championship and I was gone again.
1991/92 was at times sublime. At Highbury Ian Wright was brought in and with Campbell and the Merse formed a bloody impressive spearhead. We scored for fun at Highbury, 7 against Sheffield Wednesday, 4 against Palarse, 4 against Liverpool (one 50 yard lob from Limpar) 5 against Southampton. That was some day. I had a tenner on us to win 6-1, we won 5-1 and it was bye bye North Bank. The next season we would play with a mural at one end, I didn’t want to see that so moved to Germany! The Arsenal I’d grown up with was slipping away from me.
I went to a few games in the early 90’s but mostly I kept up with live TV broadcasts and the internet. My last game at Highbury was understated. I flew back from Bangkok on the same day we played Oldham in a League Cup replay. We won 2-0; Paul Dickov scored the last goal I will ever see at Highbury.
Then came Arsene. I never saw him at Highbury. Never saw Overmars, Anelka, Bergkamp, Henry. From various pubs and bars across Asia I have followed our impressive success but always remember how transient football can be. In my day we were shite, go one nil up and play for a draw. Maybe I never saw Henry and Bergkamp but I saw Colin Hill and Gus Ceaser! But they were The Arsenal, they were my team, my club and I believed. They still are The Arsenal and always will be. Highbury will always be a part of my growing up years and maybe one day in the future, in my dotage, I will return to my spiritual home and cheer on The Arsenal.
My Highbury experience began as a 9 year old being taken by my Dad to see us play West Ham in 1974. What do I remember? I remember walking up the North Bank steps; I remember seeing the Clock End for the first time, a vast open terrace. We stood to the right of the North Bank, we drew 0-0 and in Clyde Best I saw my first black man! The programme cost 5p! The next day it was on the Big Match and my Mum asked why bother when I could stay at home and watch it on TV? Well, at Highbury it was in colour!
I had to wait 51 weeks for my next trip up from suburbia. This time we played Sheffield United, the crowd was below 20,000 and Brian Kidd scored the first goal I ever saw at Highbury. 1-0 to The Arsenal. My old man soon tired of dragging me up there so I started going on my own. I was a tall gangly youth, not dissimilar to Lux in Graham’s Gang, and I lacked the confidence to go on the North Bank but we are The Arsenal. We had the Schoolboy’s Enclosure. 20p to get in and a chance of being on TV. Which I was. I also had my picture in the programme a few times which sure as hell impressed my mates at school.
Those late 70’s were a crossover period. The Arsenal were looking at revenue streams beyond the turnstiles and introduced lottery tickets with Make Money With Arsenal. Red Kagouled babes walked the cinder track before kick off and at half time selling tickets, one even today still sticks in the mind not just of me but many of those terrace veterans. Tall, wild hair… But we stayed traditional. No advertising hoardings, a manual half time score board, red and white college scarves, silk scarves and toilet rolls on the pitch. The Metropolitan Police Band at half time and everyone praying the conductor would drop that stick thing. Being traditional of course, it was round this time I took my first slap, off a Manchester United fan, at Arsenal underground station.
1980/81 was my first real season. I missed very few games and moved from the Schoolboy’s to the North Bank. First home game was Southampton and there weren’t enough turnstile operators to go round. It was Keegan’s first game back in England but for us it was the post Liam Brady era, Kenny Sansom’s first game and you know what? They’re both still involved with The Arsenal! The final game of the season was against Aston Villa. We beat them 2-0, they became champions, Pele ran round the pitch and a computer game manufacturer sponsored the game. I started queuing about 11 am that day, coming down from Finsbury Park to be sure of my spot among the 57000. We finished 3rd, we were confident but failed to replace Brady and that summer Stapleton was off leaving behind much recrimination. I still hate the guy!
We were in the doldrums. Attendances dropped, I recall one game at Highbury against West Brom and the crowd was 13000! Swansea and Watford would come and collect three points. I would get home disgruntled and my mum would ask if I enjoyed the game and to be fair nobody can say they enjoyed those days. But for those who lived through them they make Wenger’s wonder years so much sweeter. Woodcock and Chapman came and generally disappointed, Petrovic did a cameo, impressed and, in a typical Arsenal moment, was released. Probably too skillful, after all we had Peter Nicholas and Brian Talbot.
1983 the casual scene was at its peak as brand labels filled the terraces and everyone whispered ICF and Gooners. We signed Charlie Nicholas and the fans grew bubble perms. He was our Charlie, he scored against Tottenham, he filled the gap left by Brady, a terrace hero, our first terrace hero in a number of years. But on the pitch we were still inconsistent. A skinny Tony Adams made his debut, we lost to West Brom and Coventry and Terry Neill was on thin ice. We played Walsall in the League Cup and went one up. 10 minutes left and they equalized. Mentally I’m doing the maths and logistics of a day off work and a trip to the West Midlands for the replay. I decided I didn’t want to go, Come On The Arsenal, we need another goal. Walsall scored, we were out and so was Neill days later.
Don Howe was in charge and the following season we were top for a while with Ian Allinson becoming an unlikely hero with some important goals. But it didn’t last. It never did in those days. Roberts, that silver haired tosser from the football purists in N17 put Nicholas in the Lower East and we had someone else to hate! Something needed to be done. After a snowy league cup tie against Southampton I decided to move to the Clock End. Rocastle was introduced, Davis delivered on his promise, Merson looked good but for now we were still shite.
Then George Graham arrived for our Centenary Season. Youth was given its head, we went on an unbeaten run and we won the League Cup with Charlie getting both goals. One nil down 2-1 up, we fucked Rushie’s record up! Things were promising; I set off to Australia convinced I’d be gone just 12 months and be back for a nicely maturing team.
I missed 87/88 but returned for the following season. Richardson, Marwood and Smith had added experience and guile while Davis had developed as both a player and a boxer as his assault on Cockerill proved. It was an exciting season, we won the Championship and I was gone again.
1991/92 was at times sublime. At Highbury Ian Wright was brought in and with Campbell and the Merse formed a bloody impressive spearhead. We scored for fun at Highbury, 7 against Sheffield Wednesday, 4 against Palarse, 4 against Liverpool (one 50 yard lob from Limpar) 5 against Southampton. That was some day. I had a tenner on us to win 6-1, we won 5-1 and it was bye bye North Bank. The next season we would play with a mural at one end, I didn’t want to see that so moved to Germany! The Arsenal I’d grown up with was slipping away from me.
I went to a few games in the early 90’s but mostly I kept up with live TV broadcasts and the internet. My last game at Highbury was understated. I flew back from Bangkok on the same day we played Oldham in a League Cup replay. We won 2-0; Paul Dickov scored the last goal I will ever see at Highbury.
Then came Arsene. I never saw him at Highbury. Never saw Overmars, Anelka, Bergkamp, Henry. From various pubs and bars across Asia I have followed our impressive success but always remember how transient football can be. In my day we were shite, go one nil up and play for a draw. Maybe I never saw Henry and Bergkamp but I saw Colin Hill and Gus Ceaser! But they were The Arsenal, they were my team, my club and I believed. They still are The Arsenal and always will be. Highbury will always be a part of my growing up years and maybe one day in the future, in my dotage, I will return to my spiritual home and cheer on The Arsenal.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Weekend games
Not alot on this weekend.
Tangerang host Sriwijaya while Padang visit Jakarta North tomorrow.
On Sunday Kediri play the shitty team from Malang and must hope for 3 points to shed some daylight between them and Minhasa after some recent dropped points.
Sunday I'll be shedding a tear as Highbury sees it's last ever game. I'll be doing a Highbury Memories over the weekend.
The pub beckons...
Tangerang host Sriwijaya while Padang visit Jakarta North tomorrow.
On Sunday Kediri play the shitty team from Malang and must hope for 3 points to shed some daylight between them and Minhasa after some recent dropped points.
Sunday I'll be shedding a tear as Highbury sees it's last ever game. I'll be doing a Highbury Memories over the weekend.
The pub beckons...
Thursday, May 04, 2006
2004-2005 Liga Djarum Indonesia
This article comes from wikipedia and refers to last seasons Big 8 play offs as they relate to Jakarta. Can't be arsed editing it! Persebaya is Surabaya, Persipura is Jayapura...
Persija, in the Western Division, had not many obstacles to go to Liga Djarum Indonesia 2nd phase. They met Persebaya, PSIS, and Arema. But many thought that Persija's victories were based on unfair referees and officials. This theory's accuracy is debated.
[edit]
Persija vs Persebaya
One scandal occurred at this 2nd phase when Persebaya walked out from the Competition. They thought that Jakmanias, the supporters of Persija, had intimidated Persebaya supporters, the Boneks (Bondho Nekat, lit. "based on guts"). Some 10 supporters were reported dead because of beating by some Jakartans [citation needed]. They left the Liga Indonesia trophies, which they got last year, to the press. This incident had made the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) angry. They prohibited Persebaya from any football activities for some 20 months. Hence, Persija went to the final alongside Persipura.
[edit]
The final
The final was held at Bung Karno Stadium, Indonesia's biggest stadium, located in Jakarta. About 80,000 Jakmanias came to watch the match. The coach, Arcan Iurie, played all the best Persija could do, although they had lost some of their brilliants, like Yulianto and Pamungkas.
The match was played in attacking flow. The first goal was by Agus Indra, Persija's midfield, at the 10th minute. But soon Persija equalized the position. The match ended in draw, and Silver Goal was taken. In the silver goal, Persipura succeeded to add another goal, and Persipura won the final 3-2.
Soon, riot broke out. After the prize giving ceremony, Persija's supporters begun to destroy Gelora Bung Karno. Some chairs were burned out, some cars outside were also burned.
The price for Persipura is 1 billion rupiah.
Retrieved from "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Persija_Jakarta"
Persija, in the Western Division, had not many obstacles to go to Liga Djarum Indonesia 2nd phase. They met Persebaya, PSIS, and Arema. But many thought that Persija's victories were based on unfair referees and officials. This theory's accuracy is debated.
[edit]
Persija vs Persebaya
One scandal occurred at this 2nd phase when Persebaya walked out from the Competition. They thought that Jakmanias, the supporters of Persija, had intimidated Persebaya supporters, the Boneks (Bondho Nekat, lit. "based on guts"). Some 10 supporters were reported dead because of beating by some Jakartans [citation needed]. They left the Liga Indonesia trophies, which they got last year, to the press. This incident had made the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) angry. They prohibited Persebaya from any football activities for some 20 months. Hence, Persija went to the final alongside Persipura.
[edit]
The final
The final was held at Bung Karno Stadium, Indonesia's biggest stadium, located in Jakarta. About 80,000 Jakmanias came to watch the match. The coach, Arcan Iurie, played all the best Persija could do, although they had lost some of their brilliants, like Yulianto and Pamungkas.
The match was played in attacking flow. The first goal was by Agus Indra, Persija's midfield, at the 10th minute. But soon Persija equalized the position. The match ended in draw, and Silver Goal was taken. In the silver goal, Persipura succeeded to add another goal, and Persipura won the final 3-2.
Soon, riot broke out. After the prize giving ceremony, Persija's supporters begun to destroy Gelora Bung Karno. Some chairs were burned out, some cars outside were also burned.
The price for Persipura is 1 billion rupiah.
Retrieved from "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Persija_Jakarta"
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
On the road with Jakmania
Taken from www.jakmania.org any errors in translation are mine lah!
I flew down to Semarang on the morning of the match but I did spare a thought for those loyal Jakmania who I knew would travel and was keen to know about theire journey. 10 pm on the Friday night, quality beer time for some of us, they were pulling out of Senen station, some 600 orange clad road warriors on their way to support their team.
After a 30 minute break at Cirebon they arrived at Semarang Poncol station at 7.15 am, about the time I was checking in at the Adam Air terminal at Jakarta airport. They were met at the station by some of the Semarang firm, SNEX (Semarang Extreme) but this was a very different greeting to that I used to receive at stations around England. This was all very friendly and buses were laid on to take the fans somewhere to have a scrub down and a quick nose bag.
By 2 pm they were in the stadium but were a bit disappointed to find they were in an encloseure next to the Panzer Biru (Blue Panthers) and not their friends the SNEX. Whether anything kicked off or not I don't know, we were still in the Putri Lounge necking cold beers!
The game was crap but the Jak kept up a noise through the whole 90 minutes, pretty good away support and one they can be proud of! They were kept behind for a while after the game, the single access to the stadium forms a bottle neck and is ideal ambush territory if someone fancies a pop at opposing fans, but eventually they found their way back to the station, again with some SNEX in tow. I guess they would have got back to Jakarta about 2 am on the Sunday morning but we've all been there. Be it Arsenal, Saarbrucken or Jakarta following your team away from home requires a certain devotion and a special bond arises between the players and the fans.
Much is written of hooliganism at the game here. The Jakmania trip showed an unpublicised side of the game...next up for them is Jepara away.
I flew down to Semarang on the morning of the match but I did spare a thought for those loyal Jakmania who I knew would travel and was keen to know about theire journey. 10 pm on the Friday night, quality beer time for some of us, they were pulling out of Senen station, some 600 orange clad road warriors on their way to support their team.
After a 30 minute break at Cirebon they arrived at Semarang Poncol station at 7.15 am, about the time I was checking in at the Adam Air terminal at Jakarta airport. They were met at the station by some of the Semarang firm, SNEX (Semarang Extreme) but this was a very different greeting to that I used to receive at stations around England. This was all very friendly and buses were laid on to take the fans somewhere to have a scrub down and a quick nose bag.
By 2 pm they were in the stadium but were a bit disappointed to find they were in an encloseure next to the Panzer Biru (Blue Panthers) and not their friends the SNEX. Whether anything kicked off or not I don't know, we were still in the Putri Lounge necking cold beers!
The game was crap but the Jak kept up a noise through the whole 90 minutes, pretty good away support and one they can be proud of! They were kept behind for a while after the game, the single access to the stadium forms a bottle neck and is ideal ambush territory if someone fancies a pop at opposing fans, but eventually they found their way back to the station, again with some SNEX in tow. I guess they would have got back to Jakarta about 2 am on the Sunday morning but we've all been there. Be it Arsenal, Saarbrucken or Jakarta following your team away from home requires a certain devotion and a special bond arises between the players and the fans.
Much is written of hooliganism at the game here. The Jakmania trip showed an unpublicised side of the game...next up for them is Jepara away.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Bandung vs Yogyakarta
I missed the Simpsons for this dross.
Bandung took the lead with a dodgy spot kick, he fell very well I'll say that, especially after he'd jumped over the outstretched leg.
The guy I love to hate Adolfo equalised from a well worked free kick...
No one scores goals in this damned league, no one wants to win the bloody league. Let's hope Semarang can do something against Tangerang City tomorrow.
Oh well, The Nanny is on now, wonder what Niles says to the CC Babcock today...
Bandung took the lead with a dodgy spot kick, he fell very well I'll say that, especially after he'd jumped over the outstretched leg.
The guy I love to hate Adolfo equalised from a well worked free kick...
No one scores goals in this damned league, no one wants to win the bloody league. Let's hope Semarang can do something against Tangerang City tomorrow.
Oh well, The Nanny is on now, wonder what Niles says to the CC Babcock today...
Pasty and Sleep
Useless eh?
I went down Mad Dogs for a nose bag last night the idea being I'd get back for the Sunderland game live on ESPN.
Oh I got back all right...
...and fell asleep and missed the bloody game!
Still, Bandung play Yogyakarta this afternnon and I'm not going to miss the chance to see Adolfo roll around in the mud...
I went down Mad Dogs for a nose bag last night the idea being I'd get back for the Sunderland game live on ESPN.
Oh I got back all right...
...and fell asleep and missed the bloody game!
Still, Bandung play Yogyakarta this afternnon and I'm not going to miss the chance to see Adolfo roll around in the mud...
