U-19 Pre-Tournament Thread

[sstackho]

Hopes high for Canucks ahead of women's world under-19 soccer championship
BY NEIL DAVIDSON
CP
956 words
13 October 2004
15:58
The Canadian Press
English
(c) 2004 The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.

The road to the soccer World Cup has been dotted by disappointment for the Canadian men. The senior women stumbled at the final obstacle before the Athens Olympics.

But the future looks bright for Canada as it prepares for the world under-19 women's championship next month in Thailand.

In fact, Canada finds itself in the unusual position of being one of the favourites.

``I think the players feel that too, which can always be a good thing or a bad thing depending on how you take it,'' coach Ian Bridge said Wednesday.

``We've done lots of goal-setting sessions over the last year, even 18 months, to talk about this tournament,'' he added. ``We believe we can win gold. We've set that as a goal.''

The Canadian women, runners-up to the U.S. in the inaugural world championship two years ago in Edmonton, are going to the 12-team competition as regional champions having taken their revenge on the Americans in qualifying in CONCACAF, which covers North and Central America and the Caribbean.

Canada will be led by Kara Lang and Brittany Timko, who have 75 caps at the senior level between them. Others to watch include Veronique Maranda and Aysha Jamani and goalkeeper Stacey VanBoxmeer.

And there is youth. Forward Jodi-Ann Robinson is 15 while defender Sophie Schmidt is 16. Several under-15 players are still in contention for the few positions left on the squad.

Despite their talent and track record, the Canadians still face a tough road at the tournament. A supposed benign draw, courtesy of winning the CONCACAF region, turned a lot nastier when Spain upset Germany to win the European championship.

That put the Germans in Canada's group as the second-place European team, along with Australia and Thailand.

The Germans had been considered a lock to win the European title, outscoring their opposition 23-0 en route to the final _ including a 7-0 win over Spain.

``They were the strongest team in the tournament,'' Bridge said of the Germans at the European championship. ``But they just had a very poor performance in the final against Spain.''

Spain won 2-1 on a 52nd-minute free kick.

The Germans were left with the consolation prize of 24 goals in five games, a scoring record in a UEFA finals tournament for both men and women at any level.

Group B in Thailand consists of Brazil, China, Italy and Nigeria while Group C features South Korea, Russia, Spain and the U.S.

The presence of Germany means there will be a battle for first place in Group A, a position that carries a more favourable quarter-final. The group winner plays a third-place team in one of the other pools while the runner-up meets the No. 2 team from Group B.

The semifinals are tough however you cut it. Even if Canada wins its group and then its quarter-final, a semifinal with the U.S. could await.

Bridge points to Brazil as a tournament force. Players like Marta, Renata Costa, Kelly and Cristiane were all part of the Brazilian team at the first under-19 tournament as well as the Athens Olympics.

The Brazilian women made it to the Olympic final, losing in overtime to the Americans.

The Canadian coach is also wary of Australia in his group.

``It's the one team we've not seen to be able to scout,'' he said. ``And it's the game you play first so that's always the tough one.''

Canada opens Nov. 10 against the Aussies in Bangkok.

Bridge has already named 17 members of his 21-woman roster. The final four places will be decided by Oct. 22 when the final squad has to be declared.

Some of the Canadian women have been together since August in residency at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, B.C., practising with senior players and taking on local teams.

The women even visited Alert Bay in northern B.C., tying an under-19 men's team 1-1.

Several U.S.-based players will join the camp next week.

``It's been a great experience,'' Bridge said. ``We've had over 45 training sessions and about 12 games in the five weeks. They've been as close to professional as they can be.''

The Canadian teams leaves Nov. 1 for Thailand. The tournament runs Nov. 10-27.

Notes: Soccer fans may have noticed that Fox Sports World Canada has dropped Sky Sports News. A network spokesman said the decision to cut Sky was made because the English Premier League raised its fees and Fox Sports World Canada could not afford keep both. Fox Sports World Canada has the rights to midweek and early Sunday EPL games this season. Rogers Sportsnet carries Saturday games. Some Sunday games are also available on pay-per-view.

Canadian Under-19 Roster

Goal: Stephanie Labbe, Stoney Plain, Alta., Edmonton Aviators; Stacey VanBoxmeer, Collingwood, Ont., Indiana University.

Defenders: Tanya Dennis, Brampton, Ont., University of Nebraska; Justine Labrecque, Laval, Que., Montreal Xtreme; Kara Lang, Oakville, Ont., Vancouver Whitecaps; Katie Radchuk, Halifax, Montreal Xtreme; Emily Zurrer, Crofton, B.C., Nanaimo Women's Premier; Sari Raber, Richmond, B.C., University of Nebraska; Sophie Schmidt, Abbotsford, B.C., Abbotsford Rush.

Midfielders: Brittany Timko, Coquitlam, B.C., Vancouver Whitecaps; Amanda Cicchini, Oakville, Ont., Dixie 86; Veronique Maranda, Saint-Lambert, Que., Montreal Xtreme; Kate Bazos, London, Ont., London; Selenia Iachelli, Edmonton, University of Nebraska.

Forwards: Josee Belanger, Coaticook, Que., Montreal Xtreme; Aysha Jamani, Calgary, Edmonton Aviators; Jodi-Ann Robinson, Richmond, B.C., Semiahmoo Spirit.

Four players to be named later.

[The Ref]

It appears those morons at Sportsnet may not show the U-19 World Cup at Thailand. At least is not on their published schedule. Is it not frustrating that we as Canadians cannot see our team playing in the second most important world soccer event for the women side. Does it not make sense that this group of young women will be representing their country with pride and giving it all they got, but no one back in Canada can see their effort and applaud they play. Makes you wonder what's the point of all this.

[Rodway]

I wouldn't worry! Sportsnet commited to this tournament awhile ago. With the lack of NHL hockey on their schedule, I can see no reason to back out now. Up until 2 days ago the U-19 final in 2002 was their highest rated program ever! (beaten by Sox-Yankees game 7 on Wednesday)

[Ivan]

Is Katie Thorlakson really not playing?

[beachesl]

Not a bad article from the FIFA site- they sure like using the "canuck style" comment in their articles:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
http://www.fifa.com/en/comp/index/0,2442,103502,00.html?comp=U19W&year=2004&articleid=103502

Canada keen to make their own momentum
Kara Lang, though still young, is one of the team's veterans
courtesy of CanadaSoccer


(FIFA.com) 22 Oct 2004

The Canadian U-19 women, who caused such a sensation by reaching the final match as hosts of the first FIFA U-19 Women's World Championship two years ago, are back and putting the final touches on ahead of their trip to the competitions' sophomore instalment in Thailand this November.

Preparing to finalise the squad after a short respite for Canadian Thanksgiving, the reigning CONCACAF champions' training camp in Burnaby, British Columbia has been exhaustive. But between two-a-day training sessions and a score of matches against regional men's and women's teams alike, head coach Ian Bridge found time to sit for a chat with FIFA.com. The Canuck boss and FIFA World Cup veteran knows full well that their adventure in Southeast Asia is bound to be fraught with hardships, and will be no cosy, homespun cakewalk this time around.

Long road worries
"It is going to be more difficult than it was two years ago," Bridge told FIFA.com. "The big difference is that we won't be at home as that was a huge advantage for us. As the tournament went on we got great support throughout the country, not just in the stadiums, and it become a powerful source of momentum."

Aside from the comforts of home, 13,298 kilometres away in the exotic land once known as Siam, Bridge will be without the services of Canada 2002's top-scorer Christine Sinclair. The current senior team standout scored a remarkable 10 goals in six matches, including five against England, to earn Golden Boot honours as top scorer and Golden Ball as the tournament's best player two years ago in Edmonton.

No obvious heir to Sinclair
"Well we have no Sinclair this year, so the rest of the team will have to share the scoring responsibilities," Bridge added. "But all of our attacking players will score, and we have been getting goals regularly from midfield too. We will just have to adapt and get goals when and where we can."
Though perhaps not the dynamo Sinclair was two years ago, prolific striker and Calgary native Aysha Jamani has her coach's seal of approval around the penalty area. "She (Jamani) has scored in almost every game we've played so far, and she would have to be considered the closest thing we have to another out-and-out scorer like Sinclair."

The side that edged out the U.S. in CONCACAF qualifying to take a little revenge (add link) for the loss in the U-19 final in Edmonton, will - according to Bridge - need to make use of the prototypical qualities associated with the Canadian sporting tradition.

'Fast, forward and aggressive'
"The words I use to describe our play would be 'fast, forward and aggressive,' the faster we can attack the better," Bridge went on. "We always looked to go forward and get into dangerous positions. And of course we will always try to use our aggressive style to our advantage - it's a Canadian hallmark.

"We are also dangerous on set pieces," he said, "And we can trouble any defence with our ability in the air."

Veteran input



Canada coach Ian Bridge is in charge once more
courtesy of CanadaSoccer.com
And the coach really has every reason to be optimistic, considering he will have two members of the 2002 side on the Thailand-bound flight in early November. Both Kara Lang and Brittany Timko of the Vancouver Whitecaps lined up for the Canadians at home in 2002, before stepping up to the big stage and representing the Great White North at the FIFA Women's World Cup USA 2003.
Then just 15, Lang was one of the sensations of the inaugural competition garnering the plaudits for her cool head and wonderful ability. And this time around, her boss is hoping the 17-year-old can turn that experience into much-needed leadership as one of the side's "elder" stateswomen.

As far as the group-phase is concerned, Bridge is urging his young ladies to take things one step at a time in Group A.

First things first, never count out the hosts
"Our game against Australia will be the toughest, as it's the first. We know very little about them, as they are tough to scout." The coach said. "But we will be putting all of our energy into being more than ready for that first game.

"Germany are the strongest team from Europe," he added. "Even though they lost to Spain in the continental final I still think they are the toughest and best attacking team in UEFA. I don't think Thailand will be that strong. Physically and experience-wise we will have the edge on them, but as we showed two years ago you can never discount the hosts."

Canada will be looking to keep the dream alive and continue their meteoric rise in the world of women's football. Though it will be a tougher test this time around, underestimate Bridge's battling lasses at your own peril.

[jonesy55]

U19 Women’s National Team versus the Senior Women’s Provincial Champions Surrey United
The North Shore Soccer Development Centre, for the second year in a row, is happy to host a game involving the U19 Women’s National Team versus the Senior Women’s Provincial Champions, Surrey United. This game will take place on Friday, October 22nd at 6:15 pm at William Griffen turf field in North Vancouver.

This will be the last preparation game for the U19 National team before they head to Thailand for the FIFA U-19 Women’s World Championship.

Come see Canadian international players such as Aysha Jamani & Kara Lang along with notable players from the Senior Women’s Provincial Champs Martina Holan & the NSSDC’s own Sara Maglio.

Please come and support these future stars of Canada and watch the highest quality of soccer available on the North Shore. There will be time after the game for autographs.

U19 Canadian team roster for the game Friday....
Alexander Molly, UW
Bazos Kate, Ont
Belanger Josee, QC
Cicchini Amanda, Ont
Dunnett Jaclyn, BC
Everrett Deana, Ont
Gayle Robyn, UNC
Iacchelli Selenia, Alb
Jamani Aysha, Alb
Labbe Stephanie, Alb
Labrecque Justine, QC
Lang Kara, White Caps
Leroux Sydney, BC
Maranda Veronique, QC
Radchuck Katie, NS
Robinson Jodi-Ann, BC
Schmidt Sophie, BC
VanBoxmeer Stacey, IU
Vanderpool Caroline, UOL
Zurrer Emilly, BC

[The Ref]

Game Result

Bridge's U-19 women defeated the Senior Women Provincial Champs Surrey Utd. by 1 goal to zero scored by Maranda. Surrey was shorthanded and had Valentine and Kindel playing to make up the 11.

[Rodway]

Final Roster Announced


Canadian coach picks 14-year-old
By NEIL DAVIDSON

(CP) - Canadian coach Ian Bridge fleshed out his roster Friday for the world under-19 soccer championship next month in Thailand, naming 14-year-old Sydney Leroux and three others to his 21-woman roster.

Bridge had previously told 17 players they had already made the squad for the Nov. 10-27 tournament.

The final four announced Friday were Leroux, a forward from Surrey, B.C., who only turned 14 in May; Robyn Gayle, an 18-year-old defender from Mississauga, Ont.; Deanna Everrett, a 16-year-old forward from Oakville, Ont.; and Erin McNulty, a goalkeeper from Winnipeg who turned 15 in June.

"She is a special talent for a couple of reasons," Bridge said of Leroux. "She has great speed and she's a great finisher - not an easy combination for teams to handle.

"She's tough, has almost a nasty streak to her which again is a great quality for a goal-scorer. You can't avoid noticing her when she plays. And even though she's the youngest player on the squad she doesn't play like that."

Canada was runner-up to the U.S. at the inaugural under-19 championship in Edmonton in 2002.

The Canadian women leave Vancouver on Oct. 31 for Phuket, Thailand, to play two friendlies against Russia on Nov. 4 and 6 before shifting to Bangkok for final tournament preparations.

The team will be led by Kara Lang and Brittany Timko, both starters on the senior side and veterans of the first under-19 world championship.

Six other players have also won caps with the senior team; Josee Belanger, Tanya Dennis, Aysha Jamani, Veronique Maranda, Sari Raber and Emily Zurrer.

There is plenty of youth. Forward Jodi-Ann Robinson is 15 while defender Sophie Schmidt is 16. Leroux, Everrett, McNulty and Schmidt all made their mark with the under-15 and under-17 development teams.

That youth bodes well for Canada. After this tournament, FIFA is changing the age limit to under-20 so players like Leroux could get three kicks at the can.

Of the four additions Friday, McNulty will serve as cover in goal while Leroux and Everrett may gain experience by coming off the bench.

Gayle, who plays at highly regarded North Carolina, is pushing for a starting job. She fell out of the national team picture after problems dealing with the heat in Trinidad at a Canadian training camp, but has put that trouble behind her through training at UNC.

The Canadian women are going to the 12-team competition as regional champions having beaten the Americans in qualifying in CONCACAF, which covers North and Central America and the Caribbean.

A supposed benign draw, courtesy of winning CONCACAF, turned a lot nastier when Spain upset Germany to win the European championship.

That put the Germans in Canada's group as the second-place European team, along with Australia and Thailand.

The presence of Germany means there will be a battle for first place in Group A, a position that carries a more favourable quarter-final.

The group winner plays a third-place team in one of the other pools while the runner-up meets the No. 2 team from Group B.

The semifinals are tough however you cut it. Even if Canada wins its group and then its quarter-final, a semifinal with the U.S. could await.

Canada opens against Australia on Nov. 10 and continues Group A play against Thailand on Nov. 13 and Germany on Nov. 16

[beachesl]

http://www.breakertoba.com/letters/can/041022_u19c.jpg

My heroine.

(Thanks to Wavester on GoBigRed for the pic:))

[beachesl]

SCHEDULE, FINAL ROSTER AND CSA ARTICLE

http://www.canadasoccer.com/eng/media/viewArtical.asp?Press_ID=1937


Women's Under-19 Team
Friday, October 22, 2004
Bridge Selects Roster For Thailand


Ian Bridge
Ottawa, Ontario – Canada’s Women’s Under-19 Head Coach Ian Bridge today announced his 21-player roster for the FIFA Under-19 Women’s World Championship from November 10-27, 2004 in Thailand.

Canada will depart from Vancouver on Sunday, October 31st for Phuket, Thailand to play two friendlies against Russia on Thursday, November 4th and Saturday, November 6th. The team will depart after the second friendly for final preparations in Bangkok, Thailand.

Canada will begin their quest for gold against Australia on Wednesday, November 10th and continue Group A play against Thailand (host) on Saturday, November 13th and Germany on Tuesday, November 16th.

Bridge has selected two players from the Canadian squad who earned silver in the inaugural Championship hosted by Canada in 2002. Veterans Kara Lang and Brittany Timko will lead the young team in Thailand. Both players are regular starters on Canada’s Women’s World Cup (senior) team. Lang of Oakville, Ontario has 10 goals in 24 appearances since her U-19 debut on June 30, 2001 against the United States. Timko of Coquitlam, British Columbia has earned nine goals in 29 appearances since her debut with Bridge’s team on April 13, 2002 against Jamaica. With the senior team, Lang has scored 21 goals in 43 games and Timko has been capped 34 times.

Joining the two silver medalists are the members of the U-19 squad which recently claimed first place at the 2004 CONCACAF U-19 Qualifying Tournament played in Montreal and Ottawa; Kate Bazos (London, ON), Josee Belanger (Coaticook, QC), Amanda Cicchini (Oakville, ON), Selenia Iacchelli (Edmonton, AB), Aysha Jamani (Calgary, AB), Stephanie Labbe (Stoney Plain, AB), Justine Labrecque (Laval, QC), Veronique Maranda (Saint-Lambert, QC), Sari Raber (Richmond, BC), Katie Radchuck (Halifax, NS), Jodi-Ann Robinson (Richmond, BC), Stacey VanBoxmeer (Collingwood, ON), Emily Zurrer (Crofton, BC).

VanBoxmeer was named top goalkeeper at the CONCACAF Tournament with four shut-outs in five starts, while Zurrer scored three goals, and was named tournament MVP. Jamani scored five times for second place in scoring at the tournament followed closely by Belanger with four. Belanger’s last goal of the tournament came in the final two minutes of the second overtime period to defeat the United States 2:1 in the CONCACAF final.

Returning to the roster is Tanya Dennis (Brampton, ON) who missed the CONCACAF tournament due to injury. Robyn Gayle (Mississauga, ON) will also re-join the roster following a year long absence from the team.

Along with Lang and Timko, six players listed on the roster have also earned caps with the senior team; Belanger (1/0), Dennis (12/0), Jamani (10/7), Maranda (12/1), Raber (1/0), and Zurrer (2/0). (Caps/Goals)

New to Bridge’s roster are young players that have made their mark with the Under-15 and Under-17 development teams; Deana Everrett (Oakville, ON), Sydney Leroux (Surrey, BC), Erin McNulty (Winnipeg, MB), and Sophie Schmidt (Abbotsford, BC).

"The staff and I are very excited about this dynamic, talented, young team,” said Bridge. “We have a great mix of experience and youth: players with senior team and World Cup experience like Kara Lang, Brittany Timko, Tanya Dennis, Aysha Jamani and Veronique Maranda; as well as ‘graduates’ of our U-17 and U-15 teams like Amanda Cicchini, Jodi-Ann Robinson, and Emily Zurrer. Choosing the final roster - especially the last few selections - was very difficult because the players have all worked so hard, and with such passion to be a part of this team.”

“For the past 20 months, over 40 players have been in camps or competitions in the U-19 program, and although not in the final roster, these players have played a part in any successes the team may have in the future. Now that the selections have been made, we enter into the final phase of preparations here in Vancouver before departing for Thailand on November 1st,” concluded Bridge.

U19 Roster

No. Player Pos. DOB Caps G/S Club Hometown
1 VanBoxmeer, Stacey GK 10/05/85 9 5 University of Indiana Collingwood, ON
2 Radchuck, Katie D 27/02/86 9 0 Montreal Xtreme Halifax, NS
3 Gayle, Robyn D 31/10/85 15 0 U. of North Carolina Mississauga, ON
4 Dennis, Tanya D 26/08/85 2 0 U. of Nebraska Brampton, ON
5 Zurrer, Emily F/D 12/07/87 6 3 Nanaimo Crofton, BC
6 Labrecque, Justine D 02/07/87 3 0 Montreal Xtreme Laval, QC
7 Cicchini, Amanda M 28/02/87 7 1 Dixie Blaze Oakville, ON
8 Maranda, Véronique M 18/08/86 8 2 Montreal Xtreme Saint-Lambert, QC
9 Robinson, Jodi-Ann F 17/04/89 4 0 Semiahmoo Spirit Richmond, BC
10 Iacchelli, Selenia M 05/06/86 11 2 Edmonton Aviators Edmonton, AB
11 Belanger, Josee F 14/05/86 11 6 Montreal Xtreme Coaticook, QC
12 Bazos, Kate M 15/08/86 1 0 Toronto Inferno London, ON
13 Everrett, Deana F 26/12/87 0 0 Dixie Blaze Oakville, ON
14 Jamani, Aysha F 28/06/87 8 8 Edmonton Aviators Calgary, AB
15 Lang, Kara D 22/10/86 24 10 Vancouver Whitecaps Oakville, ON
16 Schmidt, Sophie D 28/06/88 0 0 Abbotsford Rush Abbotsford, BC
17 Timko, Brittany M 05/09/85 26 9 Vancouver Whitecaps / U. of Nebraska Coquitlam, BC
18 Leroux, Sydney F 07/05/90 0 0 n/a Surrey, BC
19 McNulty, Erin GK 03/06/89 0 0 Flames Winnipeg, MB
20 Labbe, Stephanie GK 10/10/86 3 0 Edmonton Aviators Stoney Plain, AB
21 Raber, Sari D 01/01/86 10 0 U. of Nebraska Richmond, BC


Staff

Andy Sharpe Head of Delegation
Ian Bridge Head Coach
Even Pellerud Director Women’s Program
Bob Birarda Assistant coach
Shel Brodsgaard Goalkeeper coach
Cassandra Zinkowski Athletic Therapist
Cathy Campbell Doctor
Holly Mair Massage Therapist/ Equipment Manager
Earl Cochrane Media officer
Anne Pellerud Manager

Friendlies

November 4, 2004 vs Russia - Phuket
November 6, 2004 vs Russia - Phuket

2004 U-19 World Championship Schedule

Group A
Australia
Canada
Germany
Thailand

Group B
Brazil
China PR
Italy
Nigeria

Group C
Korea Republic
Russia
Spain
USA

Group A

Game Date Venue Match
1 November 10 @ 17:00 BANGKOK THA - GER
2 November 10 @ 19:45 BANGKOK AUS - CAN
7 November 13 @ 17:00 BANGKOK GER - AUS
8 November 13 @ 19:45 BANGKOK CAN - THA
13 November 16 @ 19:45 BANGKOK GER - CAN
14 November 16 @ 19:45 CHIANGMAI AUS - THA

Group B
Game Date Venue Match
3 November 10 @ 17:00 CHIANGMAI NGA - CHN
4 November 10 @ 19:45 CHIANGMAI ITA - BRA
9 November 13 @ 17:00 CHIANGMAI CHN - ITA
10 November 13 @ 19:45 CHIANGMAI BRA - NGA
15 Nov. 16 @ 17:00 BANGKOK CHN - BRA
16 Nov 16 @ 17:00 CHIANGMAI ITA - NGA

Group C
Game Date Venue Match
5 November 11 @ 17:00 PHUKET KOR - USA
6 November 11 @ 19:45 PHUKET RUS - ESP
11 November 14 @ 17:00 PHUKET USA - RUS
12 November 14 @ 19:45 PHUKET ESP - KOR
17 November 18 @ 17:00 PHUKET USA - ESP
18 November 18 @ 17:00 BANGKOK RUS - KOR

Quarterfinals
Game Date Venue Match
19 November 21 @ 17:00 CHIANGMAI 1A - 3BC
20 November 21 @ 17:00 BANGKOK 1B - 2C
21 November 21 @ 19:45 CHIANGMAI 1C - 3BA
22 November 21 @ 19:45 BANGKOK 2A - 2B

Semifinals
Game Date Venue Match
23 November 24 @ 17:00 BANGKOK W19 - W21
24 November 24 @ 19:45 BANGKOK W20 - W22

Third place
Game Date Venue Match
25 November 27 @ 16:00 BANGKOK L23 - L24

Final
Game Date Venue Match
26 November 27 @ 19:00 BANGKOK W23 - W24

[beachesl]

Game report, U-19 1- Surrey United (Plus) 0, from monicacasfriend on GoBigRed:

"I was hoping that someone would have reported on the U-19s vs. Surrey United game. However, as I do not see anything I will say what I can. The U-19s won 1-0 on a long ball early in the second half from Vero Maranda which bounced in front of the goalkeeper and went over her head.

Attendance was surprisingly good. At least the word got out to the North Shore soccer community. One sideline was lined several people deep, the other had a broken line, and there was a crowd seated on the slope overlooking one end.

Surrey Utd. must have been short players because (Whitecap and Surrey Utd. coach) Steve Kindel and (ex-Whitecap and North Shore coach) Carl Valentine played for them. Martina Franko was not there, nor was Diana Artuso.

For the U-19s, Robin Gayle was not visible. Someone wore no. 17 who I didn't recognize. Man, will Timko be mad when she hears about this! (I'm kidding.) Vanboxmeer was in goal, the defenders were Radchuck, Lang, Zurrer, and Labrecque. Midfield was no. 17, Cicchini, and Iachelli. Robinson, Jamani, and Belanger started up front, but Jamani and Belanger were pulled back a bit.

In the second half Robinson and Belanger came off, as did Zurrer later, and Maranda, Vanderpool, and Schmidt came on. Vanderpool took Robinson's role, and was the only player consistently far forward.

Among the things that viewers might take note of (if they get to see the Thailand games) is that Lang looks pretty comfortable as central defender. She handles the ball much more than Zurrer. She acts like a quarterback dropping back with space and time to pass. She not only hits the long balls that we would expect but often plays a simple ball to a midfielder or pushes it out to one of the side defenders. This could send Raber or Dennis down the sidelines to start an attack.

The team in general seems to use the width of the field more effectively than before. Special plaudits go to Cicchini for this. They looked very secure at the back with only a couple of dicey situations.

I thought that the players who were most surprising, probably because we didn't see too much of them in qualifying, were Iachelli and Vanderpool. Iachelli looked strong, had good touch, and linked up well. Vanderpool had rockets on. She beat defenders to balls she had no business getting to.

As for how the game went, Canada had most of the possession, threatened throughout, had numerous shots at goal, but didn't force very many saves. Surrey played a short passing game and for spells kept the ball moving against steady Canadian pursuit (it helped having two men on the team) but mounted almost no threat on goal."

[DJT]

Note that by the time this tournament starts, Thailand will be 12 hours ahead of EST (we'll be off DST by then and Thailand does not observe DST).

As for television coverage, of course I do want it, but I'll also be pretty ticked if Sportsnet covers this and didn't cover the men's U20s.

[beachesl]

quote:Originally posted by DJT

As for television coverage, of course I do want it, but I'll also be pretty ticked if Sportsnet covers this and didn't cover the men's U20s.


Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh, dear DJT, let me tell you the parable of the prodigal son. It goes like this....

[mtlfan]

quote:Originally posted by DJT

Note that by the time this tournament starts, Thailand will be 12 hours ahead of EST (we'll be off DST by then and Thailand does not observe DST).

As for television coverage, of course I do want it, but I'll also be pretty ticked if Sportsnet covers this and didn't cover the men's U20s.


I on the other hand say I hope Sportnet does not ignore this tournament like they did with the U20's.

[Rodway]

quote:Bridge has selected two players from the Canadian squad who earned silver in the inaugural Championship hosted by Canada in 2002. Veterans Kara Lang and Brittany Timko will lead the young team in Thailand.
This from the CSA article is incorrect. Robyn Gayle also was a member of the 2002 team. As I recall at the time, was considered quite the bluechipper.

[Wavester]

heiyall,

first time poster here just popping in to say "hi".

as Steve Kindel and Carl Valentine were part of the Surrey United team that played against the U19's Friday evening, "beachesl" has kindly asked me to post a couple of pics featuring the two for the good folks @ Voyageurs. if they seem a little too "female-centric", i apologize in advance: [:p]

http://www.breakertoba.com/letters/can/041022_u19f.jpg

"Huh, no respect. Don't get no respect" - so this is grandpa Carl mixing it up with left back Katie Radchuck. the crowd had a great time heckling him to pieces, and he took it all in great stride. Very surreal (and lots of fun) to watch.

http://www.breakertoba.com/letters/can/041022_u19g.jpg

And this is Sara Maglio taking charge of things, with beau Steve Kindel in tow, to her right. Surrey in general had good possession throughout the game, but was sorely missing a decisive punch (ie. Martina Franko, who was subbed off almost immediately after starting the game to make way for Old Man Valentine). Would have been interesting to see how the U19's would have dealt with a class striker like her.

Enjoy and take care everyone,

Wavester
breakertoba.com

[beachesl]

Thanks Wavester, they are great! And welcome to Voyageurs!

Don't worry about anything being too "female-centric". All we guys here are trying to get in touch with our "inner girls". Why, I just got done my cucumber facial(lol).

[DJT]

quote:Originally posted by mtlfan

I on the other hand say I hope Sportnet does not ignore this tournament like they did with the U20's.Well yes, I do agree (I did say "of course I do want it"). But at the same time, I haven't gotten over the U20s (not to mention Olympic qualifying) and this would make me more angry about that.


quote:Originally posted by beachesl

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh, dear DJT, let me tell you the parable of the prodigal son. It goes like this....You've lost me, but I admit that I don't know the parable well.

[DJT]

quote:Originally posted by The Ref

Is it not frustrating that we as Canadians cannot see our team playing in the second most important world soccer event for the women side.No, the top two are the Women's World Cup and the Olympics. Perhaps the U19 WWC is third, but the Algarve (given its history and that it's for full national teams) seems pretty big as well.

[mtlfan]

quote:Originally posted by DJT

[quote]Originally posted by mtlfan

I on the other hand say I hope Sportnet does not ignore this tournament like they did with the U20's.Well yes, I do agree (I did say "of course I do want it"). But at the same time, I haven't gotten over the U20s (not to mention Olympic qualifying) and this would make me more angry about that.

[quote]

Get over it lad and remember we did manage to get the last match on.

That in itself was a victory.

If you are still licking your wounds you will be of less value to the team.

[beachesl]

post from "crossbar" in GoBigRed:

"from Sportsnet:
An official decision has not yet been made however, it looks like we will only be airing Canada's matches in the playoff rounds and the finals (whether Canada is in it or not)."

[Massive Attack]

I wonder if today's riots in southern Thailand should be cause for concern?

http://tinyurl.com/6koz6

[beachesl]

quote:Originally posted by Massive Attack

I wonder if today's riots in southern Thailand should be cause for concern?

http://tinyurl.com/6koz6


Here's a link to a riot article you don't need to login to:
http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/ap/20041025/ap_on_re_as/thailand_southern_violence

The rioting was in different provinces, the ones near the Malaysian border. Phuket is a bit more north of that, and well-policed.

The provinces where the riots occur are the ones with Muslim majorities, many of whom are separatists. Most of the people in Phuket province are Buddhists and happy with being in Thailand.

The Canadians play all their matches in the Bangkok central area, so no possible problem for them. All the playoffs are in Bangkok or in the very safe North in Chiang Mai. The US play in Phuket, but I don't expect security to be a problem.

I have travelled a lot, and I think the Thais are generally the nicest people in the world. The players will love it there. :)

[The Ref]

Maybe Sydney Leroux will become the new Christine Sinclair.

[bc_soccer_fan]

Here is a story on Leroux
http://www.canada.com/sports/story.html?id=21661c92-0af4-44b8-8a52-79c5a549ca79

Sounds like she has a very bright future. Who knows maybe she will be as good as Sinclair...?

[beachesl]

TV For All of Canada's Matches!:)

passed on by T Henry at GoBigRed:

"Hello,

You recent emailed our network about the women's under-19 soccer tourney from Thailand. The broadcasting agreement has now been signed. We will be airing the three qualifying matches that Canada will play. As well, we will air all of their games that they play in the playoff rounds. We will also air the finals, whether Canada plays in it or not. Decisions regarding which games will be live and which will be tape delayed have yet to be made. Just follow up on our website closer to the date. Any other questions, please let me know. We certainly appreciate your interest in our network".

Sincerely
Jim LaChapelle
Audience Relations
Rogers Sportsnet"

First Match:

Canada vs Australia on Wednesday, November 10 (Tape Delay) in the following Sportsnet Regions:
4.00 pm Eastern
3.30 pm Ontario
2.30 pm West
4.30 pm Pacific

[Massive Attack]

Olympic disappointment will inspire Lang
By JIM MORRIS

(CP) - It was a long, frustrating summer for Kara Lang.

The 18-year-old defender on Canada's under-19 women's soccer team refused to watch the Athens Olympics on television. Lang was a member of the senior team that lost a heartbreaking 2-1 game to Mexico last March which cost Canada a trip to the Summer Games. The anguish of losing that game will be fresh in Lang's mind as Canada competes in the under-19 world championships in Thailand Nov. 10-27.

"I'll bring that to Thailand with me, knowing what it's like to lose such an important competition," said Lang, a native of Oakville, Ont., who now plays for the Vancouver Whitecaps of the W-League.

Coach Ian Bridge said the 21-member squad that left early Monday morning may be more talented than the Canadian side that lost to the U.S. in the final of the inaugural under-19 championship in Edmonton in 2002.

"It's always difficult to compare a team that has gone through a tournament and had great results with a team that has yet to do that," said Bridge. "Talent wise we're every bit as good, maybe better. We have players with even more senior caps now than we had back then. The team back then had more international games leading up to the tournament. We've had much more time together but fewer international games."

Bridge will be looking for veteran leadership from Lang, who has 43 caps with the senior team, and midfielder Brittany Timko, 19, a Coquitlam, B.C., native who has 34 caps and plays for the University of Nebraska.

Both women played in the 2002 under-19 tournament and were part of the Canadian senior team that finished fourth at last year women's World Cup.

Lang controls the play from her spot in the middle of the Canadian defence. Tall and rangy, she scored two goals in five games during the CONCACAF U-19 qualifying tournament.

"I think this is more of a leadership opportunity for me than anything I've had to do," said Lang. "I am directing from the back a lot. I get to see the whole field. I think it does make a little bit of difference that I've been there once before. I know what to expect."

Canada's roster includes goalkeeper Stacey VanBoxmeer of Collingwood, Ont., who had four shutouts in five starts during the qualifying tournament; Aysha Jamani of Calgary, who scored five goals; Josee Belanger of Coaticook, Que., who scored the overtime goal in a 2-1 win over the United States to win the qualifying tournament and Sydney Leroux of Surrey, B.C., a 14-year-old who combines a cat's quickness with a bulldog's tenancy around the net.

Bridge is also looking for a strong performance from Jodi-Ann Robinson. The 15-year-old forward from Richmond, B.C., plays like a young Charmaine Hooper, who has scored more international goals than any Canadian player.

"She loves the contact," Bridge said with a grin. "She loves to beat up on players as an attacking player. She's very clever around the goal and very tricky."

Canada is in Group A of the 12-team tournament and plays all its first-round games in Bangkok. The Canadians open the tournament Nov. 10 against Australia, face Thailand Nov. 13 and then Germany Nov. 16.

The powerful German team, led by scoring machine Anja Mittag, is favoured to win the tournament while Australia reached the quarter-finals in Edmonton.

The top two finishers from each group, plus the two best third-place teams advance to the quarter-final playoffs.

Bridge expects tougher games this tournament than what Canada faced in Edmonton.

"Everybody has had two more years to prepare and had players in their youth system for an extra two years," he said. "The level of play has gone up across the board. The teams in our group will be very hard."

A look at the teams Canada will play in the first round of the Nov. 10-27 under-19 women's soccer championship in Thailand:

Australia

The Young Matildas needed to beat just two other teams to qualify for the tournament but showed no mercy in outscoring Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands by a combined score of 27-1.

Coach Adrian Santrac has put together a team that combines youth and experience. Santrac says he wants to make Australia one of the top four women's teams in the world, but he may have difficulty matching the club's fifth-place finish two years ago in Edmonton.

Thailand

The host nation automatically qualified for the under-19 championships but showed skill and goal-scoring ability by finishing in the top four of the Asian regional tournament, the best-ever result for a Thai women's side at this age level.

Pattarawan Thongkern showed she will need marking during the tournament by scoring all three goals in Thailand's 3-0 defeat of Taiwan in the quarter-final of the qualifying tournament. Other players to watch will be midfielders Niparat Sriwasao and Junpen Seesraum.

Brazilian coach Je Costa Lopes has imported a samba-style of play that has resulted in some exciting games.

Thailand failed to qualify for the 2002 tournament.

Germany

Despite a surprise loss to Spain in the European championships, Germany is one of the favourites to win the world under-19 championship.

Coach Silvia Neid has built an arsenal of scoring talent, led by Anja Mittag. The German's combine tactical discipline and a relentless attack. During the European championship the top five scorers were all German.

Germany finished third in Edmonton.

http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Soccer/Canada/2004/10/22/681233-cp.html

[Massive Attack]

Olympic disappointment will inspire Lang
By JIM MORRIS

(CP) - It was a long, frustrating summer for Kara Lang.

The 18-year-old defender on Canada's under-19 women's soccer team refused to watch the Athens Olympics on television. Lang was a member of the senior team that lost a heartbreaking 2-1 game to Mexico last March which cost Canada a trip to the Summer Games. The anguish of losing that game will be fresh in Lang's mind as Canada competes in the under-19 world championships in Thailand Nov. 10-27.

"I'll bring that to Thailand with me, knowing what it's like to lose such an important competition," said Lang, a native of Oakville, Ont., who now plays for the Vancouver Whitecaps of the W-League.

Coach Ian Bridge said the 21-member squad that left early Monday morning may be more talented than the Canadian side that lost to the U.S. in the final of the inaugural under-19 championship in Edmonton in 2002.

"It's always difficult to compare a team that has gone through a tournament and had great results with a team that has yet to do that," said Bridge. "Talent wise we're every bit as good, maybe better. We have players with even more senior caps now than we had back then. The team back then had more international games leading up to the tournament. We've had much more time together but fewer international games."

Bridge will be looking for veteran leadership from Lang, who has 43 caps with the senior team, and midfielder Brittany Timko, 19, a Coquitlam, B.C., native who has 34 caps and plays for the University of Nebraska.

Both women played in the 2002 under-19 tournament and were part of the Canadian senior team that finished fourth at last year women's World Cup.

Lang controls the play from her spot in the middle of the Canadian defence. Tall and rangy, she scored two goals in five games during the CONCACAF U-19 qualifying tournament.

"I think this is more of a leadership opportunity for me than anything I've had to do," said Lang. "I am directing from the back a lot. I get to see the whole field. I think it does make a little bit of difference that I've been there once before. I know what to expect."

Canada's roster includes goalkeeper Stacey VanBoxmeer of Collingwood, Ont., who had four shutouts in five starts during the qualifying tournament; Aysha Jamani of Calgary, who scored five goals; Josee Belanger of Coaticook, Que., who scored the overtime goal in a 2-1 win over the United States to win the qualifying tournament and Sydney Leroux of Surrey, B.C., a 14-year-old who combines a cat's quickness with a bulldog's tenancy around the net.

Bridge is also looking for a strong performance from Jodi-Ann Robinson. The 15-year-old forward from Richmond, B.C., plays like a young Charmaine Hooper, who has scored more international goals than any Canadian player.

"She loves the contact," Bridge said with a grin. "She loves to beat up on players as an attacking player. She's very clever around the goal and very tricky."

Canada is in Group A of the 12-team tournament and plays all its first-round games in Bangkok. The Canadians open the tournament Nov. 10 against Australia, face Thailand Nov. 13 and then Germany Nov. 16.

The powerful German team, led by scoring machine Anja Mittag, is favoured to win the tournament while Australia reached the quarter-finals in Edmonton.

The top two finishers from each group, plus the two best third-place teams advance to the quarter-final playoffs.

Bridge expects tougher games this tournament than what Canada faced in Edmonton.

"Everybody has had two more years to prepare and had players in their youth system for an extra two years," he said. "The level of play has gone up across the board. The teams in our group will be very hard."

A look at the teams Canada will play in the first round of the Nov. 10-27 under-19 women's soccer championship in Thailand:

Australia

The Young Matildas needed to beat just two other teams to qualify for the tournament but showed no mercy in outscoring Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands by a combined score of 27-1.

Coach Adrian Santrac has put together a team that combines youth and experience. Santrac says he wants to make Australia one of the top four women's teams in the world, but he may have difficulty matching the club's fifth-place finish two years ago in Edmonton.

Thailand

The host nation automatically qualified for the under-19 championships but showed skill and goal-scoring ability by finishing in the top four of the Asian regional tournament, the best-ever result for a Thai women's side at this age level.

Pattarawan Thongkern showed she will need marking during the tournament by scoring all three goals in Thailand's 3-0 defeat of Taiwan in the quarter-final of the qualifying tournament. Other players to watch will be midfielders Niparat Sriwasao and Junpen Seesraum.

Brazilian coach Je Costa Lopes has imported a samba-style of play that has resulted in some exciting games.

Thailand failed to qualify for the 2002 tournament.

Germany

Despite a surprise loss to Spain in the European championships, Germany is one of the favourites to win the world under-19 championship.

Coach Silvia Neid has built an arsenal of scoring talent, led by Anja Mittag. The German's combine tactical discipline and a relentless attack. During the European championship the top five scorers were all German.

Germany finished third in Edmonton.

http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Soccer/Canada/2004/10/22/681233-cp.html

[beachesl]

Link to Ammanda Cicchini article and pic.:
http://eteamz.active.com/vaughangirls88/index.cfm?

[Ashton Gate]

There is no doubt Canada will be tough opponents for anyone in this tournament, yet in all discussions so far surrounding Canadian preparations I am surprised there has been little mention of the weather conditions they will face in Thailand. Playing in 33-37 C temps in South East Asia is very, very energy sapping. I've played under these conditions in that part of the world, you sweat profusely and the oppressive heat is shattering. When I hear the Bridge "master plan" is fast, forward and aggressive it brings to mind numerous England World Cup forays into such conditions as coming an absolute cropper. In Japan, Michael Owen openly admitted that it was impossible to play go, go, go type football for any great stretch.

Bridge himself has plenty of experience in these conditions (WC 86) so we can be optimistic that he will pass on his expertise. Canada will have to try and make the ball do the work if they are to be successful. Having Pellerud standing over Bridges' shoulder is not grounds for optimism though as he clearly heavily favours Scandinavian style route 1 soccer.
I think Canadas' progress in the tournament will depend hugely on whether they have the right players and style of game to adapt to the conditions. Lets hope they can pull it off.

[red card]

Canada Blanks Russia 2:0


Aysha Jamani
Ottawa, Ontario – The Canadian Women’s Under-19 Team today defeated Russia 2-0 at Karon Stadium in Phuket, Thailand in the first of a two game warm up series before beginning the 2002 FIFA Under-19 Women’s World Championships against Australia on Wednesday, November 10th.

Both Aysha Jamani and Deanna Everrett scored for Canada. Everrett also earned her first cap with the U-19 team.

Canada will play their final preparatory friendly against Russia on Saturday, November 6th at 10:00 am local time.

Canada - Russia:
November 4, 2004 – International friendly
Attendance: 114
Karon Stadium - Phuket, Thailand
Canada 2 (1)
Russia 0 (0)
Goals: Canada - Aysha Jamani, Deanna Everrett

[red card]

Canada Blanks Russia 2:0


Aysha Jamani
Ottawa, Ontario – The Canadian Women’s Under-19 Team today defeated Russia 2-0 at Karon Stadium in Phuket, Thailand in the first of a two game warm up series before beginning the 2002 FIFA Under-19 Women’s World Championships against Australia on Wednesday, November 10th.

Both Aysha Jamani and Deanna Everrett scored for Canada. Everrett also earned her first cap with the U-19 team.

Canada will play their final preparatory friendly against Russia on Saturday, November 6th at 10:00 am local time.

Canada - Russia:
November 4, 2004 – International friendly
Attendance: 114
Karon Stadium - Phuket, Thailand
Canada 2 (1)
Russia 0 (0)
Goals: Canada - Aysha Jamani, Deanna Everrett

[beachesl]

Fourteen-year-old impresses as women prep for world U-19 soccer tourney

Updated at 16:31 on November 4, 2004, EST.


(CP) - Young phenom Sydney Leroux is pressing her case for an expanded role for Canada at the women's world under-19 soccer championship in Thailand.

The 14-year-old from Surrey, B.C., turned heads Thursday in a 2-0 warmup win over Russia in Phuket after coming on in the second half. "She had a big, big impact," Canadian coach Ian Bridge said from the team hotel.

Leroux played a major part in one goal, getting free at the top of the box and hitting a shot that bounced off the underside of the bar and may have dropped in. Teammate Deana Everett, a 16-year-old from Oakville, Ont., got credit for the goal, knocking in the bouncing rebound.

"Literally every time she got the ball, she was dangerous," Bridge said of Leroux, who only turned 14 in May. "They couldn't handle her speed. She is so brave and aggressive, and wants to score goals.

"She's a handful. I turned to Bob (assistant coach Bob Birarda) on the bench and said 'I would not want to play against her."'

Canada, runner-up at the inaugural tournament two years ago in Edmonton, opens play Wednesday against Australia in Bangkok.

Leroux would not be the first Canadian phenom at the championship. Kara Lang was a 15-year-old upstart in 2002. Now Lang and Brittany Timko, the other returning veteran, lead the squad and have played a combined 77 times for the senior side.

Bridge has options up front. While he does not have the luxury of a scoring machine like Christine Sinclair, the 2002 tournament MVP and scoring leader with 10 goals, he has plenty of talent and can line up his team several ways.

Jodi-Ann Robinson, a 15-year-old from Richmond, B.C., started Thursday as a lone striker up front with support from attacking midfielders Timko and Josee Belanger.

Timko can also play up front. Jamani is another option, as are Leroux and Everett.

Leroux and Everett were among the last four players chosen to the 21-woman roster. Bridge had looked to the youngsters to perhaps make an impact off the bench, but their stock rises as the tournament nears.

"This is a team where everybody is pushing hard for starting spots, making my job on the one hand very tough, but on the other hand very easy, to put a good team on the field," said Bridge.

Against Russia, Bridge was impressed by his backline of Lang, Tanya Dennis, Emily Zurrer and Katie Radchuck in front of goalkeeper Stacey VanBoxmeer.

Canada comes into the tournament among the favourites, having beaten the 2002 champion United States in the CONCACAF qualifying tournament.

That was supposed to earn the Canadians a good draw, but the potential reward was somewhat nullified when a disappointing Germany finished a surprise second in European qualifying and joined Canada, Australia and host Thailand in Group A at the 12-country tournament.

The Canadians left Vancouver early Monday, arriving in Phuket via Hong Kong. The long haul was eased by the fact that the team's training base in on the ocean.

"We hit the beach about 30 seconds after arriving at the hotel," Bridge said.

Notes: Another exhibition game against Russia is planned for Saturday. ... Bridge has chosen his captains but has yet to announce who they are. He normally has three: a match captain, a training captain and a "social" captain. He is waiting until Saturday when defender Robyn Gayle, the last player to join the squad, arrives from the University of North Carolina.


The Canadian Press, 2004

[Ashton Gate]

The Australians are upbeat about their preparations in Singapore before meeting Canada, interesting article on FIFA website:

FIFA U-19 Women's World Championship
Aussie U-19s getting comfortable with Asian heat
Adrian Santrac, the coach of the Australian U-19 team for the FIFA U-19 Women’s World Championship Thailand 2004
courtesy of australiansoccer.com

(FIFA.com) *04 Nov 2004

As the world's best prepare to meet at the FIFA U-19 Women's World Championship Thailand 2004, Australia are hoping to sneak in under the radar cause a surprise to their more illustrious rivals.* With intense preparations underway, coach Adrian Santrac's youngsters would like to achieve at least as much as they did when they reached the quarter-finals at Canada 2002.

Full national team boss Santrac was also in charge two years ago when his team came from two goals behind only to fall 4-3 to Brazil in the last eight, and he has been working hard lately to prepare his team for the international showpiece event for youth football on the women's side.* The Oceanian Zone Champions will face a tough task in Group A along with regional champions Canada, European runners-up Germany and hosts Thailand.

Heading north with momentum
A 10-0 thumping of the Singapore's women's national team over the weekend has raised spirits in the Australian team.* Leena Khamis, Selin Kuralay and Collette McCallum all scored twice in the target practice at Jalan Besar Stadium that also served to get the South Pacific women used to what could be difficult conditions in Southeast Asia.

"The climatic conditions (in Singapore) are very similar to Bangkok, so before moving on to Thailand we'll have plenty of time to get acclimatised," Santrac recently told the Australian FA's web site.* "The heat and humidity should be very energy sapping … There's no doubt that the conditions will be a factor, along with which teams are the fittest and strongest."

Luckily for Oz supporters, physical strength, conditioning and work-rate are traditionally strong suits for their athletes, and an intense preparation period over the past month should ensure that the Young Matildas continue that trend.* The Aussie women have been in Thailand itself this week where they are preparing for their final friendly match and the second-ever U-19 finals.

Italian test*
Selin Kuralay is hoping to be Australia's star at the FIFA U-19 Women's World Championship Thailand 2004
Based in the northern mountain city of Chiang Mai before heading to Bangkok on 6 November, Australia will face European upstarts Italy the day before.* It promises to be a good test for both teams as they scramble to gain experience and form.* The Azzurre were unfortunate to lose out in the European last four to eventual champions Spain, so Australia will be anxious to put on a good performance and prove themselves against a world class team.

Three consecutive 2-1 home defeats to Asian powerhouses China PR exhibited a worrying lack of inexperience but also encouraging talent which left Santrac upbeat.

"This squad of players has enormous potential," he said.* "But, there is also a fair bit of work to do to reach that potential. We're all confident that we'll get very close in Thailand."

How the Italy contest goes should give a fair assessment of that preparation process before the Australians face women's giants Canada in their opening match.* Stealing points against the North Americans is not out of the question insists Santrac.

"We are a very unknown team," said the 46-year-old boss.* "Looking at what Canada has done, they have a squad which has been together since the fourteen years age group.* Our team is without a lot of international experience, but in saying that, it is a team with a lot of quality.* If we are effective in retaining possession, are able to handle the heat and humidity and impose our game, we are quietly confident we can achieve good things."



*

*

[The Ref]

Humidity and heat may be factors, but goals still decide a game.

[CG]

Hello everyone. I have been surfing onto Voyager for a while to follow the progress of the U-19's.
I am finally going to post because I was in a position to hear through the Grapevine that Zurrer collided with a Russian Player in their second match and took 18 stitches to the forehead plus many more underneath. Apparently they stitched her up on the sidelines, and she is hoping that she can still play. Thats all I know for now.
CG

[The Ref]

Man that hurts. Hope they used some freezing. Guess the team doctor is one of those have-needle-will-travel. Wonder if all our gals should be using those new head-gear thingys.

[Elaine]

Hey guys,

Go Big Red!! has just transferred to its' U19 World Championships layout ... I'm going to do my best to keep track of everything (Canada and other countries) through the site.

http://www.gobigred.ca

[beachesl]

2nd match: Canada 2 - Russia 1, haven't heard who scored. Maranda also had a concussion.

[beachesl]

Final Russian friendly match report from CSA site.
----------------------------------------------------
Women's Under-19 Team
Sunday, November 07, 2004
Canada Sweeps Russia In Two Game Series

Ottawa, Ontario – The Canadian Women’s U-19 Team defeated Russia 2:1 on Saturday, November 6th in Phuket, Thailand to sweep the two game friendly series. Canada will now travel to Bangkok to prepare for their opening match of the FIFA U-19 Women’s World Championship against Australia on Wednesday, November 10th.

Aysha Jamani scored the go ahead goal in the 25th minute. Russia scored the equalizer five minutes later.

Jodi-Ann Robinson scored the winner in the 80th minute.

"This was a tough, physical game that sometimes happens when you play a team for the second time in two days. Russia was more competitive than in the first game and showed why they will be a tough group C opponent for Spain, Korea Republic and USA. Having said that, our players fought very hard and created more goal chances than Russia. The goals were well finished by Jamani and Robinson,” said Head Coach Ian Bridge.

“We have had a great pre-tournament camp here in Phuket and the local organizing committee and FIFA have been very helpful and professional. We are still getting used to the 14 hour time difference and tropical temperatures, but the team is looking sharper every day. Now we move on to Bangkok to prepare for Australia”

November 6, 2004 – International friendly
Karon Stadium - Phuket, Thailand Nov. 6, 10:00
Attendance: 200
Canada 2(1)
Russia 1(1)
Goals: Canada- Jamani (25), Robinson (80); Russia- N/A (30)
Canada: VanBoxmeer; Radchuck, Lang, Zurrer (Schmidt, 44), Dennis (Lebrecque, 65); Maranda (Iacchelli, 42), Cicchini, Timko (Bazos, 70,); Belanger (Raber, 70), Jamani (Everrett, 63), Leroux (Robinson, 42); Head Coach: Ian Bridge
Russia: NA

[Elaine]

Go Big Red!! will be featuring journals from both Stacey Van Boxmeer and Steph Labbé throughout the tourney. Their first batch of entries were posted last night!

http://www.gobigred.ca

[Elaine]

Go Big Red!! will be featuring journals from both Stacey Van Boxmeer and Steph Labbé throughout the tourney. Their first batch of entries were posted last night!

http://www.gobigred.ca

[Egan]

Went to see Australia v China Under 19 womens before the tournament in my home city...a great spectacle to watch.

China looked like a good side, but Australia only lost by a goal

Whats lacking in Australia is the same enthusiasm for women's football as here in Canada...yes it was broadcast, but forums are not as popular of Womens Soccer as Mens Soccer is.