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Pakphum & Anisara
take singles titles
Pattaya All Thailand Table Tennis Championship
Ariyawat Nuamsawat
The Pattaya All Thailand Table Tennis Championship took place over the
period May 12 to 14 at Pattaya City Indoor Sports Stadium, with chairman of
the Sports Association of Chonburi, Wittaya Khunplum in charge of the
proceedings.
 Over
1,000 young table tennis players participated in this competition
The competition was divided into 11 categories, with Pakphum Saguansin from
the Butterfly team winning the general individual men’s category and Anisara
Muangsuk from the Pattaya City team victorious in the general individual
women’s category.
Both Pakphum and Anisara have long and distinguished records with the Thai
national team: Pakphum Saguansin has been on the Thai team since the 13th
Asian Games in 1998, and showed his ability in 1999 as Thailand champion in
singles, doubles and mixed doubles. In 2000 he won the singles and doubles
categories at the National Sports competition in Bangkok. Following this he
went on to achieve his greatest victory to date, in the 21st SEAGames in
Malaysia.
Anisara Muangsuk meanwhile has won nine Thailand championships, and is also
the longest serving member of the Thai national team: She played her first
match for Thailand in 1990 when she was just 12 years old.
The full details of all the winners of the 3-day event are as follows:
Men’s under-12 winner: - Ekanan Leelayut (Sticka Team)
Women’s under 12 winner: - Piyaporn Pannak (Muangthong team)
Men’s under-15 winner: - Anupong Wannakrairoj (Police Team)
Women’s under 15 winner: - Piyaporn Pannak (Muangthong Team)
Men’s under-18 winner: - Krit Likitnurak (Yazaka Team)
Women’s under-18 winner: - Suthasinee Sawtbut (Osotsapa Team)
Men’s 40-49 years winner: Wichai Ngambencharong (Yazaka Team)
Women’s 40 years winner: - Suwaporn Praprutthikul (TOT Team)
Men’s over-50 years winner: - Withoon Khanthaprapet (Bangmod Team)
Seaboard FC runners-up in MBMG Football League Cup
Seaboard FC and Londoner
players shake hands before the final.
The final event in the MBMG International Football League
calendar is the League Cup competition that is played over two days at
Patana School Bangkok. The top twelve teams in the league this season are
invited to play in two groups of six. Each team has to play each other
within their group, with the top team from each group contending the final.
Seaboard FC were drawn to play in Group ‘B’ that contained the Dubliner who
they had denied the chance of winning the league title the previous weekend.
Local rivals F+G Pattaya were also in the same group and would prove to be
difficult opposition.
With the possibility of three, forty-minute games, (twenty minutes each way)
per day this was going to be a very tough physical challenge.
First match up on the Saturday was indeed the Dubliner and Seaboard were
determined not to succumb to any backlash following the previous weeks
league match. Seaboard in fact continued where they had left off the
previous week with their neat passing game and the Dubliner were struggling
to gain any kind of possession. Following a prolonged period of pressure
where Seaboard had numerous chances to take the lead they eventually found
the net when a misplaced back pass wrong footed the Dubliner keeper and Paul
Derbyshire gratefully tapped home into the empty goal.
Seaboard went further ahead 5 minutes into the second period when a long
goal kick from Torn was flicked on by the impressive Emmanuel Tshuma for
Derbyshire to lob the ball over the Dubliner keeper for 2-0.
With 5 minutes remaining the crowd were to witness one of the more bizarre
refereeing decisions of the weekend when Tshuma outpaced the Dubliner
defence only to be brought down from behind a full 5 yards inside the box.
The referee immediately issued a red card for the defender but awarded
Seaboard a free kick outside the box rather than a penalty. After much
protest John Campbell stepped up to drive his free kick against the bar and
away to safety.
The Dubliner gave themselves a glimmer of hope 3 minutes from time when they
pulled a goal back against the run of play but Seaboard managed to
comfortably see out the remaining time to secure a well deserved win.
Following an hours break it was back to the field for the second match this
time against the Bulls Head. Both teams started slowly but it was Seaboard
who opened the scoring in the second minute when Derbyshire was fouled in
the box and Mark Brittain stepped up to coolly convert the penalty. The
referee however was not happy and ordered it to be retaken. Brittain stepped
up again this time sending the keeper the wrong way and calmly slotting the
ball in the corner of the net.
Despite controlling most of the second period, it wasn’t until 5 minutes
from time that Seaboard were able to put the result beyond doubt when
skipper Dave Brown struck a powerful free kick from 35 yards out that flew
past the keeper into the net. Seaboard easily retained possession and ran
down time to secure their second win in a row.
A further hours deserved rest and it was back again to the field for the
final fixture of the day, a very difficult match against a fit and mobile
Bangkok United team.
The game started at a slow pace that was expected after the previous
exertions of the day and chances were at a premium in the first half with
Seaboard maintaining the majority of possession. The game kicked into life 2
minutes into the second period when Brittain latched onto a long ball and
out paced the defence before rounding the keeper and rolling the ball into
the empty net. The Japanese players heads immediately went down and Seaboard
cruised to the final whistle with another 3 valuable points and were the
only team to maintain a 100% record on the first day.
Sunday afternoon came around too soon for a lot of the players and their
aching limbs would surely ensure that the days games would be played at a
much slower pace than the previous day.
Seaboards first challenge of the day was BSL who would prove tough
opposition as they consisted of a large number of young players who had
clearly not sampled the delights of the Bangkok nightlife the previous
evening.
Following an initial period of neat play by BSL, Seaboard took the lead
against the run of play when the eager running Brittain was cleverly picked
out by Campbell and he easily lifted the ball over the advancing keeper for
1-0.
6 minutes before the break Seaboard were to double their lead when a mix up
in the BSL defence saw the ball run loose to Derbyshire and he gratefully
hammered the ball home.
In the second period, Seaboard went even further ahead with one of the goals
of the tournament, with Tshuma picking up the ball on halfway and outpacing
the BSL defence before sliding the ball under the advancing keeper into the
far corner for a great individual effort.
With the introduction in this game of Phil Orr and Rich Wybrow to the
Seaboard defence it would always be difficult for BSL to get back into the
game and Seaboard were able to chalk up their fourth consecutive win of the
weekend.
For the fifth and final group match of the tournament Seaboard had to face
local Pattaya rivals F+G Pattaya knowing that a win or draw would see them
go through to the final but a win for F+G would see them progress to the
final.
Both the Pattaya teams were enjoying an excellent tournament and were
committed to proving to the Bangkok sides that football is very much alive
and kicking in Pattaya.
This local derby was always going to be tight and with so much at stake both
sides somehow managed to find the strength to start the game at a high tempo
with Danny Stevens and Phil Drake taking an early grip on midfield for F+G.
With Adam Gardner looking lively up front they looked the more likely to
open the scoring and it was Stevens who was to break the deadlock on 5
minutes when his 20 yard shot deflected off the top of Dave Browns head and
rocketed into the top corner. Rather than press forward with their advantage
F+G seemed to sit back and allowed Seaboard more time on the ball with both
Derbyshire and Brittain being denied for Seaboard by excellent saves from
the keeper.
Seaboard continued to press in the second period and Derbyshire should have
leveled the scores midway through the half but he put his header wide when
well placed. It was left to Seaboard Skipper Dave Brown who had been immense
all afternoon to draw them level when he picked up a loose ball in his own
half, ran forward 10 yards before letting fly with an unstoppable shot from
fully 40 yards into the corner of the net.
From here, Seaboard did not take their foot off the pedal and it was
Brittain who put the result beyond doubt 5 minutes from time when he turned
neatly in the box, wrong footing the defender and goalkeeper with his cross
shot. There was still time for Campbell to strike the crossbar with an
excellent free kick but the seconds soon ticked away for F+G and Seaboard
were to complete their group matches with a 100% record and a place in the
final against the newly crowned league champions the Londoner.
This final group game had taken a heavy toll on both the Pattaya sides with
Seaboard losing Derbyshire to hospital with a suspected broken rib and
influential defender Gary Munro with a calf injury.
And so to the final with Seaboard now running very short of fit players and
fatigue setting in it would be a very difficult challenge playing a Londoner
side with seventeen fit players available for selection.
The game kicked off with the Londoner taking control of the middle of the
park but failing to create any clear-cut chances. However, they were to take
the lead 6 minutes into the game when a strike from 30 yards flew into the
top corner of the Seaboard goal giving the keeper no chance. The Londoner
were to double their lead just before the interval when Downer latched onto
a long ball, carried on the now strong wind blowing down the pitch, slicing
his shot off the side of his boot totally deceiving the Seaboard keeper Torn
with the ball creeping in at the near post.
Seaboard were grateful that they would have the wind in their favour for the
second period and this helped to keep the majority of play in the Londoner
half. Seaboard did have one glorious opportunity to pull a goal back midway
through the second half when Baker outpaced the defence before delivering an
inch perfect cross onto the head of Brittain but he failed to convert with
the keeper blocking at point blank range.
With so many tired legs it was going to be almost impossible for Seaboard to
break down the Londoner defence and they managed to comfortably run down the
clock to the final whistle.
The Seaboard players had given their all and manager Rick Bryant was quick
to recognize the efforts put in by every player in his squad over the
weekend and would have returned to Pattaya with an immense feeling of pride
in what his team had achieved over the two days of the tournament. He was
reluctant to single out any one player for particular praise stating that
every man had made an incredible effort and will have left an impression
with many at the tournament with their attractive style of football and
pride in wearing the Seaboard shirt.
Results for Group Matches:
Seaboard FC 2 Dubliner 1
Seaboard FC 2 Bullshead Brazilians 1
Seaboard FC 1 Bangkok United 0
Seaboard FC 3 BSL 0
Seaboard FC 2 F+G Pattaya 1
Final
Seaboard FC 0 Londoner 2
Seaboard FC have been fortunate enough to secure the sponsorship of AGS Four
Winds International Movers and Cranes and Equipment Ltd. Europe-Middle
East-Asia for this season and would like to thank them for their continued
support.
Sports Quiz
Congratulations to Chris Mann who was the first to answer all 3 questions
for last week’s quiz. Thanks to all who tried and in case you were wondering
about the answers, here they are:
1) When Johan Neeskens scored for Holland in the 1974 World Cup final, the
goal was unique for 3 reasons. 1/ It was the first penalty scored in a
final. 2/ It was the fastest goal in a final. What was the 3rd reason?
Answer: None of the opposing team had touched the ball until it was
picked out of the back of the net.
2) How many of the 4 Men’s Grand Slam tennis trophies are gold?
Answer: Only 1 - Wimbledon
3) Which batsman scored the most Test runs during the 1990’s? Was it a)
Brian Lara, b) Sachin Tendulkar, c) Alec Stewart or d) Steve Waugh?
Answer: c) Alec Stewart
This weeks Questions are:
1) What does the acronym golf stand for?
2) Only 5 teams from Europe’s capital cities have ever won the European
Cup/Champions League. Who are they?
3) Which was the first Asian nation to play in a World Cup finals
tournament?
Victor inflicts a Medal victory
IPGC golf from Lewiinski’s
Sunday, May 14,
Green Valley - White Tees, Monthly Medal
A Flight:
1st Lindsay Semple, net 68
2nd Ian Ashenden, net 70
3rd Bob LaPoint, net 70
B Flight:
1st Vic Hester, net 66 - Monthly Medal Winner
2nd Joop Medze, net 68
3rd Steve Mulberry, net 69
C Flight:
1st Ian Grout, net 68
2nd Stan Dismuke, net 69
3rd George Jackson, net 71
D Flight:
1st John Warren, net 68
2nd Sugar Ray Handford, net 68
3rd Jez Lees, net 70
NP’s: #2 Joop Medze; #9 Dave Schelling; #12 Steve Mulberry, #16 Ian Grout
2’s: Lindsay Semple, Klaus Schackt, Joop Medze, Steve Mulberry, Barry
Chadbourn
Vic Hester started out a fine week with the biggest prize of the month, the
cut-crystal vase emblematic of the Monthly Medal. Vic’s net 66 was two clear
of five other players sprinkled through the day’s four flights. One of those
68’s was the work of the B Flight’s second place holder, Joop Medze. The
flight’s bronze medal winner, Steve Blackpool Mulberry was yet another
stroke in arrears at 69.
The junior flight sported two net 68’s with the Shack’s John Warren getting
the better of the count back on Sugar Ray. The Principal was the third place
competitor in D Flight.
In the premier flight, extended visitor Lindsay Semple saw his net 68 to be
two clear of the tandem of Ian Ashenden and Bob LaPoint. Ian’s fine gross
70, the day’s low gross, justifiably held up for a count back victory over
Bob.
Ian Grout, the fifth of the 68’s eluded to at this article’s outset, was one
clear of Stan Dismuke’s 69 in C Flight. One Ball captured the last step on
the C Flight awards ladder with a net 71 - surprisingly the highest paying
score on a day of medal play.
Tuesday, May 16,
Laem Chabang - C & A
(Blue or White Tees), Stableford
Blue Flight:
1st Max Arlen, 25 points
A White Flight:
1st Lindsay Semple, 43 points
2nd John Emmerson, 41 points
3rd Mike Gaussa, 40 points
B White Flight:
1st Peter Stonebridge, 39 points
2nd Norm Adre, 37 points
3rd Steve Mulberry, 36 points
NP’s: Whites: #A7 Gary Blackburne; #C8 Paul Shaw
2’s: Whites: John Emmerson, Pat Regan, Robert Sellick, Vic Hester
Max Arlen, the highest handicapper of the triumvirate that took on the moist
Blue Tees of the Valley and Mountain nines of the Laem Chabang, took the top
prize with a modest, but no less profitable, 25 points.
Lindsay Semple for the second time in as many comps, took the top spot in
this flight, this time with an ample 43 points. The Golf Manager took the
second slot in the A Flight of the White Division with 41 points, one clear
of a continuingly strong Mike Gaussa.
The Headmaster, in a rare mid-week appearance, captured the B Flight of the
White Division with 39 points, two clear of Norm Adre and yet one more over
Blackpool Steve.
Wednesday, May 17,
Bangpra - White Tees, Stableford
A Flight
1st Steve Mulberry, 41 points
2nd Simon Philbrook, 36 points
3rd Bob LaPoint, 35 points
B Flight
1st Vic Hester, 37 points
2nd Bob Lindborg, 36 points
3rd Eddy Beilby, 35 points
NP’s: #3 Dave Tanner; #13 Joe McArdle
2’s: Norm Adre, John Muirhead, Non-2: Rick Sharp
Steve Mulberry, who already had two third places in the young week, stepped
it up a notch to take a five-point victory in A Flight. Simon of Philbrook
was that distant second place winner, one clear of the tandem of Bob LaPoint
and Gary Blackburne. Of course, a nice guy like Gary would never be so rude
as to win a count back.
Our title boy came back with yet another victory on the week, this time
edging the recently quiet Guru of Green Valley by a single digit. New Man of
Leisure, Eddy Beilby showed little deference to his elder, The Mechanic, in
winning a count back for B Flight’s third.
Friday, May 19,
Mountain Shadow - Blue Tees, Stableford
1st Pat Regan, 36 points
2nd Lindsay Semple, 35 points
3rd Peter Hynard, 35 points
4th Stan Dismuke, 34 points
NP’s: #15 Simon Philbrook
2’s: Colin Davis, John Emmerson, Non-2: Jack Grindvold
A low turnout of two-dozen bucked up against the Mango Monsoon to take on
the diabolical layout of Mountain Shadow. The wily Irishman Pat Regan was
all that stood between Lindsay Semple and a third victory on the week. Pat’s
36 points was one clear of Lindsay’s and Peter Hynard’s 35 points. Stanley D
took his second podium slot of the week in the reasonably unique fourth
place in a very unique single flight day.
Ole enters the record books in style
IPGC golf from The Haven
Monday May 15,
Burapha C & D,
Better Ball Stableford
1st Len Hardingham & Rod Crosswell, 40 pts
2nd Peter Aitcheson & Scott Jaconetty, 38 pts
3rd Norman Isherwood & Paul Hartley, 35 pts
A much smaller group than usual traveled the short distance to Burapha to
take on the more difficult of the two courses. Presumably the lower numbers
can be attributed to the course’s insistence that golfers should take a
buggy, and that makes for an unnecessary additional cost for the walkers and
results in a lower total income for the course with many players opting for
an alternative venue.
Len Hardingham and Rod Crosswell took advantage of the low numbers,
recording a very modest total that proved good enough to take the day’s
honours from the ad hoc team of Peter Aitcheson and Scotty Jaconetty, who
were only introduced as partners at registration, but fitted together well
enough to secure second place.
Norman Isherwood struggled with the out-of-form Paul Hartley, who has still
not recovered from the strain of carrying vast quantities of swag from
Spinneys in Dubai, for the Doc to use in the kitchen. Even playing from the
white tees there were no “twos” in either division.
In the absence of Richard who was unwell, the Doc welcomed newcomers Rod
Crosswell and Scott Jaconetty before presenting the prizes. He also welcomed
back Len Hardingham.
Wednesday May 17,
Treasure Hill,
Stableford
1st Tony Quaid, 38 pts
2nd Jeff McLaury, 37 pts - cb9 20
3rd Len Hardingham, 37 pts - cb9 19
A day that started out at The Haven in driving rain, turned into a very
pleasant outing; as the nearer the players got to the course the clearer the
skies became, and on arrival the course was found to be in excellent
condition and the weather as good as on any day.
Tony Quaid played one of his better rounds to just take the day’s top spot
from the much-improved Jeff McLaury by a single shot to leave Jeff ruing the
double bogey on the seventeenth that cost him the competition. Even with the
aforementioned slip, Jeff still managed to wrestle twenty points from the
back nine to keep the in-form Len Hardingham in third on count back.
There were no “twos” again in the first division and B.J. Smith holed the
only one in the second division to sweep the pot.
Although not 100%, Richard was back at the presentation to welcome back
Darrell Paull before handing out the prizes.
Friday May 19,
Phoenix, Stableford
1st Len Hardingham, 41 pts
2nd Rod Crosswell, 38 pts
3rd Graham Hiskett, 36 pts - cb9 21
4th Ole Stamnes, 36 pts - cb9 12
After a long hiatus during the high season when the rates were too high, a
welcome return to Phoenix saw an improved turnout of golfers for the short
trip to play the Lakes and Ocean layouts. The course was as usual in top
condition as can be attested to by the scores, but these were aided by the
implementation of the IPGC local rule of, placing in the bunkers due to the
inordinate amount of sand, which caused the ball to sink well below the
surface even when the ball had just rolled into the hazard.
Len Hardingham again showed why the handicap chairman is taking a keen
interest in his scores, by recording a clear victory by three points over
his fellow countryman and traveler, Rod Crosswell.
Graham Hiskett made an infrequent visit but showed that he still knows where
the hole is and took third place on count back from Ole Stamnes by what must
surely be the all time count back record margin of nine shots. Ole had shown
great promise on the outward nine only to slip up in a major way over the
last five holes where the best he could manage was two single point scores
to slump to twelve points - exactly half of his front nine haul. It will be
a long time before anyone matches 34 points on the first thirteen and then
doesn’t place higher than fourth. But still it was worth a few extra noggins
in the bar as everybody needed to be talked through the last five again and
again. Indeed, in the end, the consensus was that two points was a good
result.
Amazingly once again there were no “twos” in the first division making a
record 3 carry overs whilst Noel McKenna slipped in the only one in the
second division.
Back at The Haven Richard welcomed new member Brian Vale and welcomed back
Yves Philibert, Geoff Brainbridge, Don Everett and Noel McKenna, all from
the famous Australian Gosnells Golf Club in Perth. It is sad to relate that
the long time visitor and tour organiser from the Gosnells, Fred Streeter
was unable to travel this year due to ill health, but we all wish him well
and look forward to seeing him again next year or sooner.
A battle for the ‘Ashes’
IPGC golf from The Caddyshack
Tuesday, May 16 saw the Caddyshack golfers take a trip to the local Pattaya
Country Club for a Medal competition on a perfect, overcast day for
golf.
Because 16 golfers had decided to take a 2-day trip to Sai Dao,
including a visa run, the field back home was obviously reduced.
Consensus held that a pairs competition would be the order of the day
and the theme would be England v Australia. After a fierce battle, the
winners emerged as Clark Alexander and Mr. Loy in first place with Bob
Philp and Brent Dalby in the runners-up spot.
The “twos” pot was won outright by Mr. Loy and the ‘Bananas’ were
presented to the entire Australian contingent. A report on the Sai Dao
trip will be included next week.
JJ has a week to remember
PSC golf from The Bunker
Monday, May 15, Crystal Bay, Medal
The Bunker Boy’s made the short trip to the beautiful Crystal Bay Golf
Club for their first Medal competition of the week and with the cut at
15 and under we had a runaway winner in the A Flight; Rab McDonald
winning with a superb net 67 ahead of arch rival John McDonald, who
could only manage a net 75 to take second place, with Paul Smith
finishing third with a net 80.
In the B Flight, JJ Harney came up trumps winning with a very fine score
of net 69, followed in second place by Geoff Parker with a one over par
net 73 and Brian Rought came third with a net 74. Near pin prizes went
to Geoff Parker, Paul Smith and William Macey.
Wednesday, May 17, Phoenix Country Club, Stableford
As a warm up for next week’s HomeHunters Charity Golf Open
Tournament, The Bunker Boy’s played a Stableford competition at the
lovely Phoenix Country Club.
With a big field for this time of the year, the cut was again 15 and
under and we saw John King take the honours in the A Flight winning with
39 points, one point ahead of William Macey with JJ Harney claiming
third spot on 37 points. The B Flight had a clear winner with Geoff
Parker leaving the rest of the field trailing, coming into the clubhouse
with the best score of the day and 43 points. Bob Fouryou came second
with 35 points ahead of Sunny Ruthsip who finished third with 34 points.
Two near pin prizes went to William Macey and Rab McDonald got the only
other one.
Friday, May 19, Eastern Star, Medal
Eastern Star was the venue for the second Medal comp of the week on
Friday with the cut today at 14 and under. Once again, JJ Harney stole
the show with a fine four under par net 68 to win the B Flight, only one
shot ahead of Clark Diawara who finished with net 69 and Geoff Parker
continued his fine form of late claiming third place with a net 74.
In the A Flight, Kiwi Mark won with a two under par net 70, one shot
ahead of Rab McDonald on net 71, who was himself three further shots
ahead of Paul Smith who finished with a net 74.
Near pins went to Geoff Parker, Paul Smith, Trevor Sharman and Rick
Twitchel.
NB:
Only one week to go before The Bunker Bar in conjunction with The
Buffalo Bar (on 3rd Road) holds their Charity Open Golf Tournament with
the main sponsor’s being HomeHunters (located upstairs in Pattaya Bazaar
on the Dolphin Roundabout)
The format will be Individual Stableford (Men Only), there will be two
Divisions 0-18 Handicap and 18.5+ (Full PSC or IPGC Handicaps) and will
be played on Friday June 2 at The Phoenix Country Club.
To register call in at The Bunker Bar on Soi Chaiyapoon (near Exzite
Disco) entrance fee is 1500B.
There will be a welcome hotdog and coffee on arrival and this includes
green fees, caddy fees and polo shirt, a free post-event buffet at The
Bunker Bar and many prizes and entertainment at The Buffalo Bar in the
evening with all profits being donated to a local Children’s Charity.
Register early as the number of player’s is limited!
For more information call The Bunker Bar 038 429292
Peter Emslie ‘Aces’ Treasure Hill
PSC 58th Member’s Monthly at Treasure Hill
With the Monsoon season well and truly here with a vengeance, Treasure
Hill seemed a daunting trip especially when driving in torrential rain
at the infamous Amata City traffic lights. With a week to go and with
only 38 entries on hand, a disaster of titanic proportions threatened to
engulf us. A sudden rush boosted the figures to 120, but how many would
bother to turn up given the poor weather prospects? In the event the
rain stopped and a reasonably dry course awaited the 114 brave golfers
who made the trip.
Chris John presenting to B Flight winner Peter Emslie.
Treasure Hill is not an easy course but was in great shape apart from
the bunkers, which had far too much sand. However 14 golfers managed to
score par or better which must be something of a record here. Leading
the field by a country mile was Peter Emslie, a septuagenarian who has
been playing golf since he was 9 years of age and shot a net 63 in B
Flight, including his first ever hole in one. He even bought us all a
drink proving that not all Scotsmen are frugal with the house keeping!
Elsewhere Mikael Andersson took the A Flight with a fine 67, Ramsay
Smith won C Flight with 41 points and Grant Dawson D Flight with a
similar score. Lamthong Tewin won the ladies’ flight with 35 points and
Ploy (who else?) took the low gross with an 82. The men’s low gross went
to Masayuki Matsumoto with a 73.
Many thanks to our sponsors, namely The Diana Group, Shenanigans, The
Harley Bar, The Blue Parrot, The Camel Bar, The TQ and The Simpatia
Restaurant. My personal highlight of the day was encountering Kamikaze
Thai drivers on the wrong side of the new road at Patana whilst being
serenaded by Bernie Tuppin doing his Rod Stewart impression - badly!
Still turned out nice again
CJ
Results
Low Gross - Masayuki Matsumoto, 73
A Flight:
Winner: Mikael Andersson, net 67
Runner up: Anders Pedersen, net 69
B Flight:
Winner: Peter Emslie, net 63
Runner up: John King, net 68
Third: Calvin Ige, net 74
C Flight:
Winner: Ramsay Smith, 41 points
Runner up: Charles Sheppard, 39 points
Third: Curtis Hessler, 38 points
D Flight:
Winner: Grant Dawson, 41 points
Runner up: Rolf Ahlstrom, 37 points
Third: Brian Ellis, 29 points
Ladies Flight
Low gross - Nattaporn (Ploy) Thongpen, 82
Winner: Lamthong Tewin, 35 points
Runner up: Mam Trayling, 34 points
Near Pins: Norm Adre, Gary Blackburne, Masayuki Matsumoto, David
Zlatarich, Alan Pearce, Dave Richardson, Peter Emslie, Curtis Hessler,
Charles Sheppard, Nigel Canon, Kevin Dinan (2), Ed Trayling, Nattaporn
Thongpen, Lamthong Tewin, Chant Schwulera, Nora Haugsjordet
Long putts: Nattaporn Thongpen, Jean-Paul Michels, Chris Balzli, Charles
Sheppard
Long drives: Mikael Andersson, John King, Eddy Beilby, Grant Dawson,
Nattaporn Thongpen,
The Beautiful Game?: Norwegian ref halts Arsenal’s challenge
Riz Taylor, 22nd May 2006
Well that’s another season over then, at least on the domestic scene. World
Cup fever continues to gather pace as the greatest tournament on the planet
draws ever closer. We’ll move onto that next time, but first a look at last
week’s Champions League final. It’s been only nine days since Arsenal
travelled to their first final of Europe’s premier competition in what some
might suggest is their hometown of Paris. Awaiting them were Barcelona -
undoubtedly the favourites considering their array of attacking options and
‘fancy-dan’ South Americans.
It seems English sides are unable to play in European finals without an
almighty drama, and this time would be no different. Reduced to ten men
midway through the first half after Jens Lehmann brought down Samuel Eto’o
as the Cameroonian looked certain to score, it was always going to be an
uphill battle. A surprise lead through a Sol Campbell header shortly before
half-time came as a shock, and at one stage you thought Arsene Wenger’s men
might just hold on to claim an amazing win, but in the end the relentless
pressure from Spain’s finest took it’s toll on the Arsenal defence. The club
that hadn’t conceded a goal since anybody can remember buckled and conceded
two - from Eto’o and Belletti - in the space of five minutes.
It had been billed as Ronaldinho versus Henry in the clash of the world’s
two best attacking players, but it was Samuel Eto’o and Swedish legend
Henrik Larsson that stole the show. Henry, by contrast, was quiet in yet
another big game, and missed a gilt-edged chance to seal the match midway
through the second half at 1-0.
Yet despite the efforts of the 22 players, it will be the officials that
will be remembered when people look back on this one. It all began to go
horribly wrong after Norwegian linesman Ole Hermann Borgan posed for a
newspaper ‘Drammens Tidende’ grinning and posing in a Barcelona shirt two
days before the game. “It was both stupid and thoughtless of me,” he said
afterwards on the paper’s website. “I didn’t think through the situation and
consequences when I was asked to put on the shirt.”
Splendid work. But it wasn’t over, not by any means. Borgan’s referee
counterpart and fellow countryman Terje Hauge was equally keen to make a
name for himself, and did just that after giving Lehmann his marching orders
after the Eto’o incident. No matter that the ball fell to Ludovic Giuly who
slammed the ball home to give his Barcelona side what should have been the
lead, Hauge called play back, sent off Lehmann and gave Barca a bizarre free
kick.
It should have been a goal, end of story. And thanks to his haste in pulling
play back, Hauge then found himself bound by the ridiculous ruling that a
keeper should walk for fouling the last man. Ten versus eleven is not what
hundreds of millions of football lovers stay up all night waiting for. This
rule simply must go, and go soon.
The law also encourages diving, something that drives me to shout words at
my television that cannot be repeated here, as much as I’d like to.
Theatrics are becoming the scourge of the world game, but until something
drastic is done it will continue to embarrass the sport.
It wasn’t one-way traffic. This match was full of playacting not just from
the Spaniards, but - and when can you remember say this - from the English
side too. Indeed, Campbell’s header for Arsenal’s opener came from a free
kick that Emmanuel Eboue had earned from a blatant dive. If this is your
kind of fun then good for you, but for me it cheapens success whoever you
are.
Barca were unfortunate that the offence was just inches outside of the area
and they weren’t awarded a penalty. The resulting free kick came to nothing,
but the man advantage would eventually tell.
After Arsenal’s shock goal the referee continued his night of howlers,
booking Henry in a challenge in which he clearly took the ball, before
evening this up with an equally poor decision to add Oleguer into his book
for taking the ball once again. And then the Barcelona goals came, two in
quick succession, and suddenly Arsenal were no longer potential champions
but back to earth with a bump as England’s fourth best side this season.
After the huge disappointment of losing the biggest match in their long
history, better news came for Arsenal fans when Henry announced that he’d be
staying on at the club, ending months of rumours.
“A lot of stuff helped me to stay - like my family, my love of London, David
Dein and Arsene Wenger,” the 28-year-old to the Daily Mail. “Also, I
couldn’t let down the fans and my team. When I’ve seen how Fabregas has been
playing in the past four or five months, as well as Eboue, Flamini, and
Diaby, they are all young players who have raised their game. I also told
the boss it would be difficult to leave because of the passion. The stadiums
are always full and the reception away is amazing.”
“The team showed me they would have done anything to beat Barcelona,” he
said. “They reassured me in that performance how much they wanted it. I
won’t lie, I thought about leaving, but I think with my heart and my heart
told me to stay.”
The small matter of more than 100,000 pounds each week will also keep him
smiling, but perhaps Arsenal’s fans deserve better from a man who still
can’t seem to perform in the really big games. But the disappointment was
not just aimed at Henry or indeed any of the players, it was mostly saved
for the referee, and this cannot be allowed to happen again. It’s time for
the game’s decision-makers to tinker with their rules once more.
Hornets Go Up
Watford will once again grace the Premiership next season after beating a
sorry Leeds outfit 3-0 at Cardiff last Sunday. Goals from three players
you’ve never heard of sealed the win, and Watford manager Adrian Boothroyd -
who you will be hearing a lot more of - was understandably quite pleased.
“I think the best way to sum this up,” he said, “is that we are now a model
for other clubs that don’t have a great deal of money. With good
organisation, preparation, a fantastic work ethic and a hunger and a no-fear
attitude to whoever you play, anything is possible.”
Roeder will be Toon Boss
Glenn Roeder has been handed the vacant manager’s post at Newcastle United.
The 50-year-old took over as caretaker manager in February following the
dismissal of Graeme Souness.
For a spell it appeared that Roeder would not be allowed to take up the
post, as he has yet to obtain a UEFA ‘Pro” Licence that is required by the
Premier League. But the clubs agreed that the former West Ham boss could
qualify whilst in the job.
Roeder has seen 32 points come his side’s way in 15 league games since
taking over, and was delighted to get the job on a two-year contract. “If
you work hard and fight for the dream it proves that anything in life is
possible - and when the opportunity comes along you have to be ready for
it,” he said.
“I am looking forward to the next few seasons now and I think it is going to
be an exciting time for everyone connected with this football club.”
It won’t be a moment too soon for Geordies starved of success, but who
knows, perhaps a down to earth, quiet manager is just what the club needs,
qualification or no qualification.
So that’s it for another season. You’ve got a couple of weeks to impress
your girlfriend, wife or teerak with your undying love and “quality-time”
before dumping her for a month of non-stop World Cup action. So what are you
waiting for?
House of the Golden Coin leaves the rest behind
Pattaya Sports Club Friday Bowling League
200 Bowlers: Malcolm, Jon, PK,
Konrad, Kran & Aht
Taking 3 out of 4 points today were Café Kronborg (with a
team effort lead by Jon shooting 563 and Kran shooting 536) over Domicil;
France over Brother D; Friends (with the help of Lance shooting 608) over
Jack & Tar, and Shenaanigans over Montana. Splitting their matches were
House of the Golden Coin and VFW Post 9876; Grape Vine and Café Olé; Three
Sisters and Mai’s Thai Restaurant.
The Square Ring
by Howie Reed
In addition to the big money that I get for this weekly
effort it’s always nice to get fan mail even if I do have write most of it
myself. Not only is it rewarding to get fan mail but its also satisfying to
have some sway on boxing in the kingdom. This email arrived during the week:
“I will never again doubt the influence you have through your use of the
written word. Last week I moaned to you about the plethora of soccer on
Pattaya television and the dearth of good boxing events. Voila! Today in the
sports section of the Bangkok Post they have listed the Sunday fights coming
up from this weekend into July. We are gong to see Barrera/Juarez,
Corrales/Castillo, Tarver/Hopkins, Taylor/Wright and Gatti/Baldamir. I
believe we owe it all to you printing my whining story in your ‘Talking
Boxing/Square Ring’ column. You have my vote for the sports writer of the
year. Maybe there’s a Pulitzer in there somewhere.
I accept the honour, the money and all the adulations that will follow your
e-mail.
One of the real problems in covering boxing on any regular basis is that the
sport refuses to learn from the past. An often-heard quote is “those that
ignore history are doomed to repeat it.” Last Sunday, Joan (pronounced “Yo
Anne”) Guzman was supposed to challenge Scott Harrison (25-2-2) in Belfast
for the WBO feather title. Instead Guzman opted to move up to 130lbs to
fight Javier Jauregui on the undercard of DeLaHoya-Mayorga. Guzman was
successful against Jauregui but not impressive.
“He’s won the fight but he’s not likely to have attracted any fans. He
doesn’t seem to be able to close the deal.” Those were the words of Hall of
Fame trainer Emanuel Steward. Guzman’s performance seems to validate the
worry that he would have trouble carrying his power to the 130lbs class. In
the effort he injured both hands. Meanwhile Harrison was getting ready for
Martin Honorio (21-3-1) And that didn’t happen either.
Pal O.R. will know the name Jimmy Montana as synonymous with boxing in
Southern California. Montana is the manager of Honorio, so when he (Honorio)
went missing for three days it was decided he would not take part in the
fight. Action may be taken by the WBO against Honorio. Into the breach
stepped Gary St. Claire (37-3-2) who is the WBO Intercontinental champ.
Claire, a resident of Perth, South Australia, could claim quality loses.
They came at the hands of Diego Corrales (40-3), Vivian Harris (26-2) and
Leonard Dorin (22-1) all by decision. Harrison might have been in for a
surprise. Well, except that the only surprise was that Harrison pulled out
days before the fight.
The reasons why are still sketchy. What is known is that Harrison was again
arrested in a “dust up” at a Dunbartonshire nightclub on Saturday night
before the fight. On Tuesday he pulled out of the fight. Promoter Frankie
Warren stated the obvious: “Scott obviously has problems and whilst I have
sympathy, I’m very disappointed in him as it has not been dealt with in a
professional manner. I have been continually informed by Scott’s advisors
that he would be boxing but that is obviously not the case and has never
been the case. I would like to apologize to all the fans he has let down.”
Gee, someone lied to a promoter - that has the making of a man bites dog
story.
Former superfeather title holder Yodsanan 3K Battery (48-3-1) won a
unanimous decision over PBF 140lb champion Arniel Tinampay (6-3-1) in an
eight round non-title bout last Friday at the New World-Shienghai Shopping
Center in Nonthaburi Province, Thailand. What the hell is a former quality
champion doing fighting a guy with only 9 fights? Getting a payday on his
road to nowhere.
Unusual was that there were two Thai lady boxers on the card. Female fighter
Nongnoon Sithjadaeng destroyed Petmongkut Sithjadech at 1:08 of the opening
round whilst O-A Sithkaerai won 39-38 on all scorecards over Jubjaeng in a
four round bout. How about them apples? Now to real action last week.
British superstar, (the country cries out for superstars), jr welterweight
prospect Amir Khan, (7-0, 5 KOs) won a six round decision over Hungarian
Laszlo Komjathi (24-11-1) with only referee Mickey Vann scoring 60-55. It’s
the first time Khan’s been forced to go the distance. Komjathi is (4-7) last
11. Mean anything? Nope.
In the Land of Smiles, pal O.R. got to watch Marco Antonio Barrera, (62-4)
on the telly against Rocky Juarez (25-2) from the Staples Center in Los
Angeles. If you watched the fight you know that it was a flat-footed draw on
the announced scorecards. Duane Ford (Nevada) had it 115-113 for Juarez, Ken
Morita (Japan) 114-114 and Anek Hongtongkam (Thailand) 115-113 for Barrera.
The Square Ring had is 115-114 for Barrera.
Whoops! When the assorted free loaders assembled for the press conference it
was discovered that there was a mistake in adding up the scores. Yep. Seems
that after scoring the 12th for Juarez, as the entire civilized world did
including The Square Ring, Judges Ford and Morita scratched out that 10-9
and made the round 10-10. That added point to the scored card of Morita gave
Barrera a 115-114 win. Anyone see the fine hand of WBC ‘head honcho’ Jose’
Suliaman in this? No? You’re joking, surely?
O.R saw it this way: “Just watched Barrera and Juarez on the Sunday boxing
series and I agreed with Sheridan that Barrera should have gotten the nod:
(upon further review he did). His partner Dave Bontempo had it close with
maybe Barrera by a point. What did you think?”
The Square Ring had it 115-114 for Barrera.
O.R. continued: “Juarez looked pretty good in the later rounds and Barrera
is lucky they don’t go 15 rounds anymore for a title fight. What’s your
opinion on lots of past ‘big’ fights maybe catching up with Barrera? Maybe a
little age to go along with that.”
That’s probably the case as Juarez should not have been that close to or
even getting the win. Barrera’s had 66 fights, most of them wars. He said he
wants Manny but in his heart he knows that’s not the best move. At this
stage in Barrera’s career he’s a lot like the last days of JC Chavez. Still
marketable but no longer a “Super Fighter”.
O.R. completed his report: “I’ve already forgotten (old timer’s disease) the
name of the Filipino on the under card, but he sure looked like a future
champion.”
The fighter you mentioned is Ray “Boom Boom” Bautista (20-0). He’s trained
by Freddie Roach so he’s in capable hands. You watched him KO Robert Bonilla
(23-8) in 3. This was Bautista’s best outing yet. Fighting at jr. feather or
feather is difficult. There’s a lot of quality at the top.
“Time to go to the TQ and tell some lies about how I know this famous boxing
sportswriter.”
You know a famous sportswriter. Would you introduce me sometime?
Jeeves: “Master - your friend appears to be off to the TQ. Would the Master
care for a libation now that he’s finished his weekly grind?”
His Lordship: “That would be delightful Jeeves my good man. But there’s more
to celebrate than just another column headed to the Hall of Fame.”
Jeeves: “And that would be?”
His Lordship: “On Sunday the birthday of Vic “O.R” Cross. He will be
celebrating 80 years. Happy Birthday O.R! Let the liquid flow and let the
‘Ladies walk to Music’.”
Winch hoists himself to the top
IPGC Pattaya Golf Society at the OK Corral
After a break of seven months the Pattaya Golf Society
chose Tuesday, May 16 as the day when a large mixed group would desert the
OK Corral and return to reacquaint themselves with Phoenix Golf Course. The
Lakes and Ocean nines were the assigned track for the medal event and the
return was to be celebrated with an average score of level par net 72 for
the whole field! This was helped in part by the excellent course conditions.
The field was cut at 20 and in a tight Division One, Howard Stanley at last
played his way into the honours, after a year of trying, and fired an
excellent net 74 to take third place. Incidentally, this was one behind the
score of his wife Jill, who easily posted the best ladies’ score of the day!
Well done both. Second in the fight was the ubiquitous Mike Allidi whose
gross 73 was an excellent effort but his handicap of one only gave him a
level par return for some fine golf. The division winner was the PGS’ old
friend, Basil Foley, who returned after a break to set a splendid standard
of net 71.
The Second Division threw up some remarkable scores, as often happens at
Phoenix, with Paul Scully nabbing third place with a well-deserved net 69;
one shot behind Rob Heath from Paweena’s Bar in Jomtien, whose net 68 was a
similarly fine reward for some good golf. One of the founder-members of the
Pattaya Golf Society, Les Winch found everything on the day to his liking
and his score of net 64 will live long in his memory on one of those rare
day’s in golf when everything goes right! It was an excellent return from
this senior golfer, playing like a junior, and he more than merited the fine
victory.
The two birdie “twos” on the day meant that Tony Duthie and Mike Allidi had
some consolation for earlier disappointments and new member Carl Lovatt
celebrated his first round with the PGS with the welcome Booby Bevy.
However, the taste of the Heineken will not have been as sweet as that of
the victory of Les Winch.
Allidi, Kendall and Barr happy
at Bangpra
Bangpra International Golf Club hosted the Pattaya Golf Society’s
weekly stableford event on Thursday, May 18 under brooding skies, which
later fulfilled their foreboding with very heavy showers that had the
inevitable cooling and delaying affect on everyone’s round. However, the two
playing divisions, cut at nineteen and under set off in the hopes of another
enjoyable day’s golf, and none were disappointed.
In Division Two, Keith Barr maintained his current hot run with another fine
round; this time his 37 points proving too much for the chasing pack, led by
Ian Kidd and Pat Murphy, whose 27 point scores were enough for second place
- a country mile behind the winner.
In Division One things were much tighter with Jan Eriksen recording a level
par 36 points, only to be usurped by the quality of Mike Allidi and Simon
Kendall’s 37 point hauls. Yet again Mike had recorded the day’s best gross
with a splendid 72 “off the sticks”.
Howard Stanley drew the curtains on a fine week by winning the “twos” pot
with the day’s sole birdie on the eighth hole, but the smiles on the face of
Alan Freeman were no less broad when it was announced that his miserable
efforts merited no more than the Booby Bevy. As usual at Bangpra the golf
had been enjoyable, even though the weather could have been better.
John & Derek - The happiest of a happy bunch
PSC golf from Tropical Bert’s
Tuesday, May 16, Bangpra
So what did today bring us? Well a warm welcome and free breakfast at
Bert’s, a nice trip to Bangpra and a day’s golf on a great course at a super
price, rainbow ice-cream, some free grub at Bert’s and a fine presentation
by Tim - and then a few cold un’s. That was the day.
Winners all round - John and Derek.
This happens every week, of course and the one thing that is noticeable is
that all the golfers are happy and enjoy their day, and evening, out.
Seems a pity to spoil this, but I am going to be short, because of the
hangover, and so quickly to the winners. In the A Div the winner was Derek
Brook, with Peter Dessaix in second and Dick Warberg in third. In Div B the
winner was John Christie, with Stanley Everingham in second and Tewin
Lamthong in third on count back over Gordon Everingham.
So that’s it, till next week and another run out on a great course with a
friendly group.
T.T.F.N.
Near Pin: Peter Dessaix, Roy Pimblet, Ulli Kollak, Gordon Everingham, Tewin
Lamthong, John Christie, Mark Brenton
Long Put: Ted Morris, Mark Kelly, Gordon Everingham, Chris Youngman, Fergus
Brennan
Ted proves to be no ‘Mug’ at Pattaya C.C.
PSC golf from The Café Kronborg
Monday, May 8,
Treasure Hill, Stableford
The tough Treasure Hill layout was host to a Stableford competition with the
cut at 14. The course on the day was in good condition, but the back 9
greens were cored and sanded.
 Songkran
hands the ‘Mug’ To Ted
Ted Morris took the A Flight with a net 76 from Gene Rooney in second on
count back from Daniel Shamir in third, both net 77.
Kevin Dinan took the B Flight with a net 73, Wayne Koch was in second with a
net 74 and Fergus Brennan in third with net 75.
Monday. May 15,
Burapha, Stableford
The Burapha A & B layouts played host to a Stableford competition
in two flights, with the cut at 18. The course was in good condition and
despite it being a sports day, it was not very busy.
Ted Morris took the A Flight with 40 points whilst Zed Beloglavic was second
with 38 points on a count back from Brian Noguer in third.
Mark Brenton came in with a good round of 41 points to take the B Flight;
Pete Harris was second with 40 points and Dave Zlaterich was third with
37points.
Near Pins: A3 Mary Kollach, A6 Brian Noguer, B3 Dave Richardson, B8 Ulli
Kollak
Thursday May 18,
Pattaya Country Club,
Stroke - M/Mug
It seems I view the passing of time by how quickly the Monthly
Mug comes around. Yes I know that it is every month, but I swear that five
years ago the ‘Mug’ came around much more slowly, and now it seems every
week. I’m convinced, once you are on the slippery down slope, the ‘Mug’
comes around more often.
The day started as normal - meet at The Cafe Kronborg, on to the transport,
and then off to the golf course. Normally the course has little effect on
who wins, but this day it was to have a major impact, as it was extremely
wet after four days of rain. It actually started out really cool and nice
for several holes, and then it all changed as the heavens opened, and this
is where it is important where you are on the course. Just starting and
“Help!” Near the end and “Let’s get in.”
There are of course those good parts like being near a shelter, then the bad
parts like being in the middle of a hole. The really good thing is that
according to the ‘Rules of Golf’, you have to play on in even the biggest
downpour. This is where the clever ones have really big umbrellas, lots of
gloves and dry towels.
Still the round finally ended and the tales of woe abounded, all were
playing well until the downpour came, and if you believe that you must agree
the Moon is made of green cheese.
Back at the Cafe Kronborg the results were given, and with great surprise it
was noted that nobody had broken net 70 and the second nine scores were
horrific. Indeed one of our players lost the ‘Mug’ for the third time when
he scored badly on the last hole. No names no packdrill.
And so to the scores: The winner of the A Flight was Sus Ige with net 70
ahead on countback of Bob Morrison in second, who took 8 on the last hole.
In third was Bob Pearce with a net 72.
The winner of the B Flight was Herbie Ishinaga with a net 70 ahead of Art
Bailey with a net 71 in second and Wayne Koch in third with a net 72.
And finally to the top prize of the day, and after another count back
decision, Ted Morris won his first Kronborg Mug with a score of net 70.
Until the next Monthly Mug, whether it be 2 weeks or one month away...
T.T.F.N.
Near Pin: #5 Ted Morris, #7 Bob Morrison, #12 Toy Theobald, #16 Clive
Robinson
The one that nearly got away!
Rob Wilkinson and Rob
Middlemiss pose with the champion catch
When the boys from Soi 6’s Thai Rose and The
Derbyshire Bar went on their weekly fishing trip out of Sattahip
recently, little did they know that the day would see them doing battle
with a pair of behemoths straight out of a Hemmingway novel. It took the
combined strength of the five intrepid fishermen: Rob Wilkinson, Andrew
& Rob Middlemiss, Mike Phillpott and Dennis Moorhead over an hour to
land the largest of the ‘sea monsters’ - a white spotted shovel nosed
ray, which weighed in at over 100kg. A mere 40 minutes later, and
another huge ray was hoisted out of the water. This was a comparative
minnow though at only 80kg on the scale.
It just goes to show that once you get away from the murky waters of
Pattaya Bay, there are some mighty big fish out there.
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