My Life In Yours (Sign-Up Story)

[Gennaro08]

5th August 2007

Stefano was taken aback at midday whilst sitting in his office sifting through his correspondances when he came across a request from the Italian FA for San Potito's squad numbers. The San Potito squad as it stands looks like this:

Goalkeepers

Nathan Coe - 23 y/o - Australian - GK - #1

07/2006 - PSV - Free

After a solid first season at the club, injuries have affected the big Aussie goalkeeper of late and may well find himself starting the season as back-up at least until he returns to full and match fitness. Has been attracting interest from Rimini and Vicenza but he is rated as "capable of becoming a class act for the club".

Massimilano Villa - 21 y/o - Italian - GK - #12

07/2007 – AC Milan – Free

Having spent last season on loan at Massese keeping out the San Potito strikers regularly in the four matches, he will be looking to do that in training. Signed with the intention of putting pressure on Coe but will probably start the season as number 1. Has all the attributes to become a great goalkeeper.

Youth Team

The youth team contains four goalkeepers, two former San Marino players, one of which is an U21 international, a former Venezia one and one promoted through the youth academy. It is Cristian Zappala the ex-Acireale and Venezia goalkeeper who currently stands out the most of the four.

Full-Backs

Morgan Suric - 19 - French - D RC - #2

06/2006 - Nantes - Free

Perhaps unfortunately to be pushed out to the right-hand side of the defence but the young French defender, who is highly rated has ably deputised in the centre many a time. A fantastic defender with all the required attributes to hold down a regular spot in either position of the San Potito defence at this level.

Gaetano Avolio - 25 - Italian - D L - #3

2004-05 - Ariano

One of the few players to still be at the club from when Stefano took over and the oldest player to make a league appearance at the club. Has proved to be a steady defender with the main defensive attributes but there are question marks over his ability in Serie B. With Faisel Achlioui's departure, he will start the season at left-back.

Lorenzo De Silvestri - 19 - Italian - D/WB RL - #42

On season long loan from Lazio

With provide cover at both right and left back and is a good all-round player without really excelling in any fascets of his play. Was on loan at San Potito two seasons ago in Serie C2/C as the starting right-back, was on loan at Lanciano last season in Serie C1/B. His Lazio contract expires in the summer, which will be one to watch out for.

Youth Team

The youth team has four full-backs but Vincenzo Marciano - who has deputised to a reasonable standard in the past is the only one really qualified to step up should he need to be. If required Francesco Cosenza could cover at left-back but he is much more comfortable in the heart of the defence.

Centre-Backs

Francesco Cosenza - 21 - Italian, Capped at U19 level - D LC - #5

2005-06 - Reggina

Has courted interest from a number of clubs over the two seasons under Stefano's managerialship, Fiorentina being the most note worthy of them and is still being tracked by Perugia and Lecce. Has developed consistently over the years and is noted as being a player who has a great future. Raised his game significantly last season in Serie C1 and will be a key part of the defence, a defence that conceded 37 goals in 34 games last season.

Luigi Galimberti - 20 - Italian - D C - #6

07/2006 - Inter - Free

Although currently injured, Stefano will be looking for the ex-Inter defender to continue his impressive partnership with Cosenza. Although small in stature, he makes up for it in his pace, decision making and his tenacity. Captained the side last season when fit.

Luca Morongiu - 18 - Italian - D C - # 41

On season long loan from AS Roma

With provide instant cover for Cosenza and Galimberti and has all the attributes to do so with great competance and assurance. Like Galimberti is small is size, even smaller in fact at 5'8" but is a fantastic basic defender.

Others

Morongiu was drafted in as currently the likes of Ricky Rickler, Alan Fusconi and Giacomo Bontempo would struggle at this higher level. Right-back Morgan Suric is also a central player and has covered many a time there and Michael Buskermolen could but his lack of pace is a worry in this position. The youth team have four central defenders looking to make the grade in years to come.

[Gennaro08]

The Flanks

Frank de Haan - 20 - Dutch, Capped at U19 level - M RLC - #7

07/2006 - Feyenoord - Free

Solved a big problem by switching from the central position he started out in to the right flank and has locked that position down as his ever since. As well as being blessed the attributes of a good olde fashioned winger, pace, trickery and the ability to sling in a good cross is also an industrious midfielder who works hard for his team.

Steeve Gustan - 22 - Martinique, 5 caps/0 goals - AM LC - #11

07/2006 - Bordeaux - Free

Steeve is another one of the free transfers signings, unearthed by Urbain Haesaert from last summer and had a good first season scoring eleven goals and as many assists in fourty starts. Deputises as captain when Galimberti is unavailable. Although is one of the quickest players in the squad, his final ball often lets him down and may well find his place under threat from...

Alex Pinardi - 26 - Italian, U21 5/2 - AM RLC - #14

07/2007 - Lecce - £180k

For four days Alex was the clubs record signing and is a player who the word "potential" has been used an awful lot over his career and moved to San Potito for a regular spot after falling out of favour at Lecce. Is immensely talented both on and off the ball but due to his lack of willingness to track back may well find himself playing on one of the flanks at this level. Is the highest paid member of the squad at £2,000 per week.

Others

Matteo Falconi is the other right midfielder in the first team since his capture from Lazio on a free but is still slightly raw and lacks the all-round ability. John Goossens seemed to resolve the left flank problem suffered by many a team and nation but since his transfer to Fiorentina was confirmed, an alternative had to be identified which for the main part was Steeve Gustan. Further back-up beyond Pinardi is provided by Martino Gravante and Agostino Roma but how they will fare in Serie B remains to be seen. The youth team is full of wide players at varying stages in their development.

Central Midfield

Over the past two years this position has been the one that has been most lacking in depth if not quality but stone me if four new ones weren't signed.

Michael Buskermolen - 35 - Dutch - D/DM C - #4

07/2007 - AZ - Free

Michael left AZ Alkmaar after seventeen years with his home club for a taste of a different footballing culture and life at the end of his career and in all honesty the Dutchman probably only has a season or two left in him. Although he can play in defence his lack of pace means that he won't play there unless a tactical adjustment is made or Stefano's hand is forced. Michael is a thoroughly hard-working midfielder, strong in the tackle and is also a bit of a set-piece expert to boot. With his experience, is a possibility for club-captain this season.

Alfred Schreuder - 34 - Dutch - DM - #15

07/2007 - ADO Den Haag - Free

Technically a fantastic player but lacks a little in mobility due to his tender age. More of a forward going player than a backwards, Shouldn't be expected to put in too many tackles but works hard and is also a bit of a set-piece expert. Like Michael with his experience is a possibility for vice club-captain this season.

Davide Giorgino - 22 - Italian - DM - #8

07/2007 - Lecce - £20k

Was the club's most expensive signing for a month until Pinardi took that from him. Spent six seasons at Lecce without featuring much but has maintained his high level of fitness, dedication and enthusiasm. Is a competent ball player and his calmness in the centre of midfield - for such a young player - will be invaluable this season.

Gennaro Del Vecchio - 29 - Italian - CM - #9

08/2007 - Sampdoria - £300k

Spent last season in the wilderness at Sampdoria but the season before that on loan at Lecce in Serie A as a first-team regular. Is San Potito's most expensive signing and the second highest earner at the club on £1,400 per week. Again is a hard-worker with a great engine, tenancious as well as having the ability to play the killer ball. Much is expected of this dominant central midfielder standing at 6'3".

Others

Former starters Gianmarco Rodio and Andrea Cammarota may well struggle for a starting shirt this season with some justification, not only in the additions but also due to the lack of their own ability. The likes of de Haan, Pinardi, Gustan, Gravante and Roma can play centrally but with the exception of the Dutchman lack the hard-working qualities. Again the youth team has many players with Giordano Togneri and Vincenzo Eposito the possibles to star in the future.

[Gennaro08]

Strikers

Luigi Di Pasquale - 26 - Italian - Str - #17

07/2007 - Brescia - Free

Like Del Vecchio spent last season in the wilderness, at Brescia. The season before that was spent on loan at Perugia in Serie C1/B. The competition for the starting striking shirt should be fierce this season with the small pacey striker probably having the first run with that shirt. Luigi lacks a bit of composure at times but is a good headerer of the ball despite being only 5'10".

Luigi Rana - 20 - Italian - Str - #16

2005-06 - Bari

Despite only scoring five goals in his first season at the club in Serie C2/C, although mainly appearing as a sub, the pacey striker went on to score 13 in 22 starts in Serie C1/B. Whether he can push on even further and produce in Serie B is another matter entirely, the coaches at San Potito don't seem to think he can but his pace could certainly stretch defences even if he isn't much of a link and build-up player.

Giuseppe Cozzolino - 22 - Italian - Str - #18

07/2007 - Lecce - £10k

Another player who was deemed surplus to requirements at Lecce. Giuseppe is a hard-working striker who won't let defenders rest, has a good touch, knows where the goal is and has shown good composure in training. Isn't blessed with the pace of Rana or Di Pasquale but offers a different option. Unfortunate to fracture his wrist just thirty-three seconds into his first friendly appearance for the club.

Francesco Albanese - 21 - Italian, U21 1/0 - Str - #43

On season long loan from Palermo

Signed to add extra strength and cover up front. His Palermo contract expires in the summer, so another one to watch with a vested interest. Is the quickest of all the strikers, has a very cool head in front of goal and definitely knows where it is, the goal that is.

Others

Francesco Roberto's future is in some doubt after consultant with the coaches over his ability at this level, although in fairness to the 20-year-old he has not had a run in the first XI at San Potito, so a loan move might be an option. Cristian Toma was unlucky to sustain a thigh strain in pre-season for the youth team and his chances may well be very limited despite impressing in a short spell towards the end of the season. Ex-Vicenza striker Nathan Scalcon looks the pick of the rest of the youth team strikers.

[Gennaro08]

5th August 2007 - Continued

After sending back the Squad Numbers, the Italian FA faxed over details of rearranged matches for television, in the first half of the season, San Potito would feature twice, both away and both Monday evening matches - Crotone in late September and Piacenza in early November.

As the players sat in the changings rooms at Nereo Rocco, Trieste, in the far north-east of Italy on the Slovenian border, Francesco Cosenza approached Stefano papers in hand.

"All signed Boss."

Cosenza turned and headed back to his kit and continued preparing for the match. It was the contract offer, signed, worth £1,200 until 2012, a perfect pre-match relaxant.

Triestina won Serie C1/A comfortably by eight points last season and lost to Catanzaro on away goals in the Serie C1 Super Cup. The season before they finished 18th in Serie B and were relegated after losing to Ternana in the two-legged Serie B Play-Out. With that in mind, the Coppa Italia 1st Qualifying Round match would be a good test and a mark of whether San Potito stood.

"A debut goal, five minutes after coming on, you can't ask for much more than that can you?"

Although his assistant Tiziano Cunico was right about Alex Pinardi, he was wrong overall. What they could have asked for was a victory, Pinardi's goal, a header from a Luigi Di Pasquale cross cancelled out Umberto Improta's opener just after the hour mark. With eight minutes to go though a fantastic cross from Fabio Di Venanzio was turned in by MOM Massimo De Martin for the winning goal despite late San Potito pressure searching for a second equaliser.

During the post-match interview, one journalist questioned goalkeeper Massimiliano Villa's performance, using the words "fairly terrible". Stefano was quick to defend the new signing, responding with, "OK, so he wasn't outstanding for us today but I firmly believe he will be a great signing for this club."

Stefano knew the game could have gone either way but also that Triestina would be one of the sides scrapping with San Potito to avoid relegation, therefore performances at Sant'Abruzzese would be key to achieving survival this season.

In other games from the First Qualifying Round of the Coppa Italia, AS Roma lost on penalties to Serie C2/B side Spal and fellow Serie A clubs Treviso, Livorno, Brescia and Cagliari also all lost out to lower league opposition. Vicenza without Pan Panpardus beat Cheiti 3-0 with two goals from Giuseppe Rossi, a £2.5m signing from Manchester United, setting up a Second Qualifying Round tie with Serie B side Genoa. Lazio and Sam Cox however don't enter the competition until the First Round proper. Gennaro Melisi sat out Modena's 2-0 win over Juve Stabia and now play hosts to Catania of Serie B. Mikkel Kristensen sat on the bench as Bari required extra-time to defeat 10 men Monza and go on to face Serie C1/B side Frosinone.

[HD]

Heh, wonder whether HD has lost any weight yet or if he'll remain 14 stone for his whole career.

[Gennaro08]

Height and weight are static I think HD.

6th August 2007

Goalkeeping coach Jörg Stiel spoke to Stefano after training, noting that Massimiliano Villa had been dejected during the days training. Jörg felt it was due to the comments made about his performance and that there was too much pressure and too much expected of him. Nonsense, Stefano thought, the guy has signed on as a first team player in Serie B therefore anyone would expect decent performances.

Salvatore Valvano was next in to see Stefano reporting that goalkeeper Nathan Coe has suffered another injury. This time it was a calf strain and would miss the month of August.

Off the back of the Cup exit, Stefano arranged another friendly, non-league (Serie D) side Salo, ten days after the San Marino (Italian club side from Serie C1/A) friendly in a bid to get the players fit for the Serie B opener in Rimini.

7th August 2007

Centre-half Alan Fusconi agreed to join Serie C2/C side Sorrento, only a short distance away in locality but a long distance away in ability terms, on a season long loan. He reunites with fellow centre-half Valentino Picozzi and ex-San Potito midfielder Nathan Schiavon, now rotting in their reserves after a £24k move, ten days into Stefano's managerialship.

8th August 2007

Modena won the blind auction for the other 50% of Gennaro Melisi's contract, paying AS Roma £1.4m for the privilege. Roma declined to make a bid for the 20-year-old Italian midfielder who they paid £2m to co-own one year previous. Nevertheless, Modena weren't complaining having made a tidy £600,000 to be in the exact same position they were a year ago.

San Potito travelled to San Marino, a Serie C1/A side with match fitness on the agenda for the new recruits and the fringe players. In the end it was a fairly comfortable 3-0 win for I Leoni, with goals from Luigi Di Pasquale, his first in six games and first for subs Francesco Albanese and Christian Cesaretti. Goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu got fifteen minutes against his former side as a late sub.

In the UEFA Champions League Third Qualifying Phase, Sporting travelled to Poland to face Wisla Krakow in the First Leg. Rod Davies featured on the left-hand side of midfield with Deivid grabbing the only goal of the game to give the Portuguese side a lead and an away goal to take back home for the return leg in two weeks time.

9th August 2007

Giordano Togneri rejected the loan offers from Salo and Turris, Francesco Roberto rejected Pisa's offer wanting to impress at Sant'Abruzzese rather than elsewhere, although Stefano felt that his opportunities would be few and far between at San Potito this season.

[Gennaro08]

11th August 2007

The English Premiership kicked off at 12:45 with Spurs beating Middlesbrough 2-1 at The Riverside. Aston Villa traveled to The Valley to face Charlton at that rare time of 3pm, with Milan Baros' early goal securing victory. David O'Leary signed two new defenders during the summer, which meant Olof Mellberg and Liam Ridgewell sat on the bench and Terkalinho was pushed back onto the transfer list and into the reserves joining Leo Allen. Despite O'Leary only asking £1.8m for the Scottish international, the defender had no suitors and didn't want to leave the club. Allen, entering the last year of his contract at 32-years-old, turning 33 in January wouldn't be playing much first team football if any at all but depsite that also didn't want to leave the club, which was asking £55k for his signature but both players' high wages could potentially be a stumbling block to future moves, slightly beyond AFC Wimbledon's budget anyway.

12th August 2007

Two goals in the last ten minutes from Ibson and Diego rescued Porto after Joao had put Maritimo in front in the Portuguese Super Cup. Scottinho lined up as part of three supporting players behind lone striker, Cesar Delgado, to claim his fifth Winners medal since joining the Portuguese giants back in August 2005 - two years ago.

Early evening and Marseille travelled to Stadium Lille Metropole, Villeneuve-d'Ascq to face Lille. Despite a goal from Diego Della Rosa twenty minutes from time, Lille remained on zero points suffering their third defeat of the season. It was two goals from that man, Helder Postiga, which gave the visitors the win, who has a new striking partner in the form of Swiss international Alexander Frei, signed on a free transfer from Rennes, for whom he scored thirty-seven league goals in two seasons. Conrad Rowden still finds himself in the reserves.

Mikkel Kristensen came in at right-back for Bari's Coppa Italia 2nd Qualifying Round tie at home to Frosinone from Serie C1/B. Last season's Serie B top goalscorer Nikola Dragovich scored both of the goals that put the now Serie A side through to the next round to face Parma at home. Modena beat Catania of Serie B 3-1 at home with all the goals coming in the first half hour. Gennaro Melisi sat on the bench for the whole match but will be hoping to reclaim his position for the visit of Serie C1/B side Arezzo. Pan Panpardus' Coppa Italia action is over for another season without stepping foot on the pitch as Vicenza lost 2-1 at home to Genoa with Diego Alberto Milito scoring five minutes from time for the visitors.

13th August 2007

Martinique international and ex-Bordeaux midfielder Steeve Gustan came to speak to Stefano after Monday's training session requesting that the club renegotiate his contract on improved terms. Stefano's response was swift and decisive,

"No Steeve, not at this time, you've got what, two years left on your current contract and depending where we are in six months to a years time, we'll look to extend your contract then."

Livorno faxed over a couple of offers, which may as well insulted Stefano's mother for all they were worth, a £150k offer for Francesco Cosenza and a £55k offer for goalkeeper Nathan Coe. I guess their offers reflect how highly they rate the players, Stefano mused.

[Gennaro08]

14th August 2007

"Have you seen this Boss?" Tiziano asked.

Vice-Captain Wants Out

Reports are surfacing this morning that San Potito's vice-captain Steeve Gustan - the only international in the squad - wants to leave San Potito. The youngster approached the manager, Stefano Melisi, of the newly promoted side stating that he wanted a new contract, which was flatly refused and this morning he handed a written transfer request.

Gustan joined San Potito from Bordeaux on a free transfer in the summer of 2006 and made 46 appearances last season in all competitions, scoring 11 goals. The 22-year-old started out life on the right-hand side of midfield, unfavoured position for the player before switching to the left midway through the season after the transfer of John Goossens to Fiorentina was agreed. Competition for his left midfield spot has increased with the signing of Alex Pinardi for £180,000 from Lecce so it remains to be seen whether the youngster will get his wish to leave Sant'Abruzzese or will see out the remaining two years on his contract.

French side Troyes have been linked with Gustan this morning according to our French sources so after only one season in Italy, he may be heading back to French soil if an agreement can't be reached with manager Stefano Melisi over a new contract.

Stefano rejected the transfer request from Steeve Gustan, with the view that an agreement can be reached in the future once he settles down after such impulsive actions. Early afternoon and Troyes came in with a bid of only £350,000 for Gustan, which was well below a reasonable fee for the Frenchman in his opinion and if he was to leave the club then it would be for a worthwhile sum.

While the subject of John Goossens arose, Stefano made contact with Fiorentina again over the possibility of a loan move for the Dutchman, which would then free up Gustan for a permanent move, failing that a loan move to rid the club of an unhappy player in the short-term, if no agreement could be reached.

18th August 2007

Luigi Galimberti returned from his foot injury to start if only for a half in the last friendly match against Salo before the league campaign starts. Stefano did not include Steeve Gustan in the travelling squad, left behind, offered out on loan with the hope that a resolution could be reached upon his return as Gustan is a player of a whom a bright future is hoped nee expected. San Potito raced into an early three goal lead through Francesco Albanese, Gennaro Del Vecchio and Agostino Roma. Plenty of other chances came and went including a fantastic full stretch save from substitute goalkeeper Giovanni Fresta pushing Davide Giorgino's lob onto the bar.

After the game Stefano received word that no one was interested in taking Steeve Gustan on loan, whether it was because of the way the midfielder had recently conducted himself or not it was unclear but one option had been ruled out, which now left keeping hold of him or selling him. From what he could tell Steeve was still open to contract negotiations but Stefano wasn't willing to give in as that would send out a negative message to the rest of the squad that all they had to do was kick-up a fuss and a new and improved contract was theirs.

Both Portuguese sides of interest kicked off their league campagin (BWINLIGA) on Saturday, Porto travelled to Vitoria Guimaraes and Sporting to Nacional da Madeira. Scottinho playing centrally of the three supporting roles in manager Co Adriaanse's 4231 formation had the best of the chances for Porto but poor shooting cost the 22-time winners as they drew 0-0. Sporting playing in the televised match, who had finished in third place for the past five years behind Porto and Benfica had an easier time of things. Liedson's goal five minutes before half-time was all it that required to claim victory, with Rod Davies proving a creative force on the left-wing all game.

In the First Round of the German Cup, Mainz beat Offenbach 3-1 at home, HD now a member of the first-team wasn't included in the matchday squad. Bochum travelled to Dusseldorf without Borge Eian who had fractured his arm. Despite playing with ten men for the second half and extra-time, Dusseldorf won 3-2 on penalties after six kicks each, the game ended 1-1. However, Bochum II (Reserves) won 3-1 over Pforzheim setting up a second round home tie with Unterhaching, while Mainz play hosts to Leverkusen.

19th August 2007

John Goossens declared again that he had no intention of returning to San Potito on loan.

Bari lost 1-0 at home to Parma in the Coppa Italia 3rd Qualifying Round where Mikkel Kristensen was an unused substitute. The hosts had goalkeeper Fulvio Montagna sent off with 15 minutes to go dampening their chances of finding an equaliser. Modena had a better times of things at home to Serie C1/B side Arezzo winning 2-1 setting up a two-legged First Round tie with Inter Milan, which Gennaro Melisi will be hoping to return for having again missed out.

[Gennaro08]

22nd August 2007

Man of the Match Rod Davies set up two of Sporting's three goals as they cruised passed Wisla Krakow into the Group Stages of the UEFA Champions League joining the waiting Porto. The draw pitted Sporting with AC Milan, Glasgow Celtic and Bordeaux in Group F. Group D featured Juventus, Club Brugge, Nantes and FC Porto.

Neil Mellor's early sending off cost West Ham dear as they crashed out of the League Cup in the 1st Round at Upton Park to Oxford United. Willy missed another League Cup match through injury, this time suffering from a back strain, while there was no place for James Bradbury. Portsmouth made no such mistake at Fratton Park defeating Cheltenham 4-0, left-winger Jude Alderson setting up one. There was no place for Danish defenderHarleqin, Ty or Smithaldo, the latter find themselves in the Reserves. Aston Villa will enter the competition in the Third Round due to being in the UEFA Cup.

Dave Solomon once again rejected the offer of a new contract from AFC Wimbledon, the salary or lack of the cause.

23rd August 2007

Three days before the league opening, away to Rimini, Morgan Suric damaged his heel in training and would potentially miss the first three league games. The problem was intensified by the absent of Lorenzo De Silvestri, nursing a groin strain and not expected back any sooner than the Frenchman.

Midfielder Agostino Roma joined Alan Fusconi in going out on loan for the season to Sorrento of Serie C2/C. Both would be competing against striker Francesco Roberto as he joined them in Serie C2/C for the season, for Nocerina.

Sunday 26th August 2007, San Potito's first ever Serie B fixture, away to Rimini, who had finished 15th the last two times out. San Potito lined up without Nathan Coe, Morgan Suric, Lorenzo De Silvestri, Frank de Haan and Giuseppe Cozzolino, all through injury. There were league debuts for Massimiliano Villa, Michael Buskermolen, Davide Giorgino, Gennaro Del Vecchio, Alex Pinardi and Luigi Di Pasquale. The only midfielder not making his debut was ironically Steeve Gustan, who played despite problems with manager Stefano Melisi. The back four was almost at full strength with Francesco Cosenza and Luigi Galimberti at the heart, Gaetano Avoilio left and third choice Vincenzo Marciano at right-back.

One of the newcomers, well it had to be really, Alex Pinardi had the first chance of the match ten minutes in after being released by Marciano. Pinardi cut in from the left but shot straight at Riccardo Piovezan in the Rimini goal. Luigi Di Pasquale who was sent off in the inter-San Potito match for continuously arguing with the officials was booked for arguing an offside call. Though twenty minutes in, Di Pasquale showed his footballing ability when he won the ball down by the corner flag, held it up, beat two men before delivering a beautiful cross onto the head of Gennaro Del Vecchio but his header grazed the bar and went over. Five minutes later Del Vecchio had a better chance when released by Di Pasquale but Piovezan was out quick to close down the shot and Giorgino's rebound from twenty yards only troubled the cameramen.

The travelling San Potito contingent were on their feet five minutes later waving off central defender Alessandro Gamberini when he misjudged his tackle on Di Pasquale. Being the last defender he was dismissed for a professional foul. Alex Pinardi raised them to their feet again when he curled in a delicious left-footed free-kick passed Piovezan. Rimini a man light narrowed the midfield to a 4-3-1-1 formation. A defensive mistake just before half-time allowed Di Pasquale in but he was forced wide and shot straight at the keeper who had narrowed the angle.

Eight minutes after half-time the second arrived, more good running from Di Pasquale down the channels, drawing two defenders, opening a big hole for Del Vecchio down the middle. The midfielder made perfect use of the space, receiving the ball from the striker before dribbling into the area and lashing a shot passed the helpless Piovezan. Changes were made including Gianmarco Rodio replacing Del Vecchio with twenty minutes to go to allow the visiting fans to give the ex-Sampdoria man a standing ovation. Five minutes later Marciano chipped back into the penalty area after a corner was cleared and Buskermolen rose highest on the edge of the area to head passed Piovezan who was slow to react, probably taken by surprise.

Stefano was absolutely delighted with the performance in their first Serie B outing, with the hosts failing to register a shot on Villa's goal.

Mikkel Kristensen reclaimed his spot at the heart of the Bari defence for the visit of Fiorentina to San Nicola Stadium in their Serie A opener. Bari came back from being 2-0 down through Luis Jimenez and Freddy Adu, with Nikola Dragovich scoring their first of the three goals in an eight minute spell. Vicenza also got off to a winning start without Pan Panpardus with a 1-0 win over Reggina with a goal from free summer signing Carlitos from Hercules. Modena in the evening kick-off to end the weekend travelled to Stadio Renato Dall' Ara without Gennaro Melisi to face Bologna. The newly-promoted side lost out to a solitary goal from Belgian international Jason Vandelannoite.

[mark wilson27]

Damn back injury, Face it I'm a cripple lol

[Gennaro08]

He does seem to be struggling with injury thus far in his career, Mark.

Striker Cristian Toma joined Sorrento, who were fast becoming a feeder club (playing FM 06 where feeder clubs don't exist) on a season long loan, teaming up with Fusconi and Roma. Stefano accepted a loan offer from Serie C2/C side Giugliano for Martino Gravante, as game-time for the young midfielder would most probably be very limited this coming season.

There was further bad news on the injury front for San Potito full-backs with Gaetano Avolio coming off worse in a challenge in training, bruising his shin, meaning the 25-year-old would potentially miss the next two games as well and Gravante moved to Giugliano for the season. Stefano in light of the current full-back crisis at the club, with all three first-teamers out injured added Catania's Rosario Patane to San Potito's roster for the season. With the 21-year-old's contract expiring in the summer and the defender deemed surplus to requirements at Catania, this season would prove a kind of trial for both player and club.

Premiership club Leeds United made a loan offer to Aston Villa for Terkaldinho for the season, which was rejected by the Birmingham club as the Scottish international was taken off the transfer list and reintroduced to the first team.

South Africa's hopes of qualifying for the African Cup of Nations were dealt a massive blow when they lost 2-1 in Mali, who went top of the group. Pan Panpardus winning his 23rd cap played left midfield in front of his mate Quinton Fortune with Benni McCarthy up front scoring their goal. They will now have to rely upon a favour from Sudan against Mali in the last qualifying match assuming they do their part and beat Madagascar at home. Mali lead Group H by two points and have the better head-to-head record as well.

The day before they face Triestina, Stefano allowed himself to relax in his hotel room and watch Italy demolish Azerbaijan by seven goals to nil, including a debut goal for Alberto Aquilani of AS Roma. Gennaro Melisi was called up to the Italy U21 squad but didn't see any action as they beat their Azerbaijan counterparts 2-0 with both goals coming from Vicenza's Giuseppe Rossi.

Statying in Group 3 Portugal lost 2-0 in Georgia, who now sit in second place in the group. At Windsor Park, Belfast, Northern Ireland entertained the Republic of Ireland, who took the lead through a Stephen Carr penalty. Despite being beaten by the Newcastle full-back Hick - winning his 12th cap - was on the winning side, by two goals to one. Jude Alderson sat on the bench for the visitors while Sam Cox only made it as far as a call-up and Willy was still out with his back strain.

While England topped Group 4, second placed Sweden were held 2-2 at home by Norway, Conrad Rowden again in the squad but not the matchday. France topped Group 5 with a 4-0 home victory over Armenia. Denmark won in Cyprus thanks to a Dennis Rommedahl goal, Harleqin for absent from the squad while Mikkel Kristensen took up his familar spot in the squad.

[Gennaro08]

After almost two-and-a-half years, I'm back to continue my San Potito and sign-up story.

Hopefully, you enjoyed reading it first time around.

[tenthreeleader]

Here's a name from the past! Welcome back and happy writing to you!

[mark wilson27]

Cant wait for more Gennaro, been too long mate

[Gennaro08]

Cheers guys!

Having lost to Triestina in the Coppa Italia, Stefano was looking for a result at Nereo Rocco this afternoon. There was only one change to the line-up that beat Rimini with loanee Rosario Patane replacing the injured Gaetano Avolio with Marciano switching to left-back.

Last weeks stand-out man Gennaro Del Vecchio should have put San Potito ahead after ten minutes following good work by Di Pasquale finding Pinardi whose cross across the face of goal was met by Del Vecchio but Paolo Comi (no, not Perry Como) made a great save to deny the midfielder. Villa had to be alert to deny Massimo De Martin from a flicked header, turning it over for a corner. Five minutes before half-time and captain Michael Buskermolen put San Potito ahead with a curling left-footed free-kick that left Comi flapping at thin air. On the stroke of half-time the lead was doubled through Alex Pinardi, who drifted inside from the right, collected a pass from Buskermolen and let fly a stunning 30-yarder. Steeve Gustan received an elbow to the face in the second half, for which Giuseppe Russo was booked and his replacement Giuseppe Barone kicked out at Buskermolen and was dismissed with five minutes to go as Triestina lost their patience and cool.

Another fantastic performance in Stefano's eyes, which saw full-back Marciano pick up the MOM award for his magnificant distribution, which he has shown consistently and for his great reading of the game, constantly breaking down promising attacks. One sour note was that subsitute Francesco Albanese picked up a knock in a challenge, bruising his thigh.

The defensive curse then struck twice in two days, Nathan Coe stubbing a finger warming up in training and Francesco Cosenza suffered a groin strain that could sideline him for a month depending on the severity/grade of the strain.

In midweek Italy were held to a goalless draw in Lisbon against Portugal. Hick kept his second clean sheet for Northern Ireland on his 13th cap in the 3-0 away win over Azerbaijan, the same team that he recorded his first against. Conrad Rowden again didn't make the playing squad in Oslo, where England were in town. Goals from Beckham, Owen and Rooney saw England ease to a 3-0 win. France beat Russia 2-1 with late goals from Etienne Didot and David Trezeguet while also in Group 5 James Bradbury made his 8th appearance for Wales, which started off well as John Hartson gave them the lead at The Millennium Stadium. The burly striker was sent off later in the first half and Finland took control of the game and goals from Mikael Forssell and Sami Hyypia gave them victory. Winless Scotland travelled to Borussia-Park, Monchengladbach and fell behind just before the hour mark but Allan McGregor and the defence featuring Terkaldinho - winning his 14th cap - kept them in contention. Substitute Ross Wallace of Celtic grabbed the equaliser with three minutes to play to take the Scots points tally to four, behind Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Hungay, Romania, Belgium and Germany. Finally, Denmark beat Luxembourg through a Jon Dahl Tomasson goal as Mikkel Kristensen missed out.

[Gennaro08]

On the eve of San Potito's first home match of the season, there was good news on the injury front with full-backs Morgan Suric and Gaetano Avolio back fit and in full training but not quite fit enough for the visit of Avellino. With Cosenza's injury there was one change from the weekend with loanee Luca Morongiu taking his place at the heart of the defence. Stefano was a little disappointed as he walked out from the dressing rooms at the start of the match having given his pre-match talk to the players to see the stadium as empty as it had been over the past two seasons.

Those that did turn out on this Thursday evening watched San Potito record the only 100% record of Serie B, topping the table. Midfielder Alex Pinardi also kept up his 100% record, scoring in every competitive game for San Potito. Patane released Gustan down the right flank, exploiting the space left by Avellino's 352 formation and his cross was met by the head of Pinardi, sailing into the far corner. Massimiliano Villa didn't have a shot to save in the San Potito goal, while former Chelsea goalkeeper Marco Ambrosio played well keeping out most notable Gennaro Del Vecchio and a Pinardi free-kick. Davide Giorgino had a good chance after a scramble in the box but his effort was wayward.

[Gennaro08]

With only two days rest San Potito played hosts to Genoa with an unchanged starting XI. However, there were places on the bench for left-back Gaetano Avolio and Dutch goalkeeper Nathan Coe with his fellow countryman Frank de Haan again having to be content to sit alongside them with Stefano not wanting to make an unforced changes to a winning side.

Luigi Di Pasquale had the first chance of the afternoon running the channels but firing straight at Alessio Scarpi from a tight angle. The ball rolled across the six-yard box from Scarpi's save but it was hacked clear by a defender. Ten minutes in and wing-back Iliev found himself in oceans of room at the far post but Villa was equal to his shot. Davide Giorgino continued to show his inability in front of goal firing well over from the edge of the box under little to no pressure.

Ten minutes into the second half Villa was again called upon this time keeping out Santagata's effort from Rossini's cross. Defender Luca Fusco headed over from substitute Cristiano Doni's free-kick as the second half ticked by without much action. With five minutes to go wing-back Jamelli swung over a cross, right under Villa's crossbar who under considerable pressure from Rossini failed to claim the ball and the striker bundled the ball over the line, however the goal was credited to the wing-back.

Stefano and San Potito fell to their first league defeat of the season, first league goal conceded and first time they'd been shut-out in the league, in front of again a very disappointing home crowd, more akin to the attendances received in Serie C2 than what should be Serie B.

*** *** ***

Having the midweek off Stefano settled in for Matchday 1 of the UEFA Champions League, Stadio Delle Apli was the venue on the television as 'The Old Lady' hosted Porto. £17.75m signing Robinho put Juventus in front just before half-time from Gianluca Zambrotta's neat ball into the penalty area. Just as five minutes before half-time it was one, five minutes after half-time it was two, Adrian Mutu unleashing a fierce effort from twenty-yards that beat Vitor Baia. Juventus eased off, defending the lead and were made to pay on the hour mark as Manuel Santos floated in a cross from the left onto the head of Argentinean striker Lisandro Lopez, whose glanced header beat Italian number one Gianluigi Buffon. Scottinho was replaced with twenty minutes to go after picking up a knock. The Portuguese U21 international had twice tested Buffon but ten minutes later it was three. As Porto were pushing for an equaliser, not undeserved either, Swede Zlatan Ibrahimovic produced a moment of class. With his back to goal, he received Federico Balzaretti's chipped pass on his chest and span to hit a first time shot on the volley that left Vitor Baia motionless. In injury-time, a healthy reflection was placed on the game as Lisandro Lopz outstripped the aging central defensive partnership of Fabio Cannavaro and Robert Kovac and neatly placed his shot passed Buffon. Elsewhere in Group D Club Brugge beat Nantes 1-0 at home.

The following night Sporting got off to a disasterous start. At home to Glasgow Celtic, the Portuguese side succumbed to two John Hartson goals. Wingers Rod Davies and Silvestre Varela were both replaced at half-time after an ineffective first. AC Milan beat Bordeaux in France, showing their early dominance as they will look to run away with the group leaving second spot open for the other three to fight over.

In the Qualifiers for the Olympics Games, Asian section, Australia (Under 23's level - not counted as International caps) led India at the half-time interval through a Tobes goal but the hosts levelled soon after the break and The Socceroos should progress in the Second Leg in a weeks time. Kuwait beat Saudi Arabia by three goals to nil at home in the First Leg with Steve al-Jazeera captaining the blues at right-back.

Having been reintroduced to the Aston Vila first team only weeks earlier, Terkaldinho found himself back in the Reserves and back on the transfer list. That coupled with a head injury meant the Scottish defender sat out FC Twente's visit to Villa Park in the First Round of the UEFA Cup. Despite falling behind to an early goal from Italian striker Alessandro Noselli, two goals from Uruguayan striker German Hornos gave the English side a slender first leg lead. Lazio travelled to Turkey to face Trabzonspor and although they didn't manage an away goal, the Italians did keep a clean sheet, rather dull for the neutrals unfortunately.

[tenthreeleader]

Terkaldinho found himself back in the Reserves and back on the transfer list. That coupled with a head injury

There are those on this board who might make fun of the proper noun "Terkaldinho" and the phrase 'head injury' being used in the same paragraph I wouldn't be one of them, though.

Nice, easy read. Great stuff!

[mark wilson27]

Am I still crippled Gennaro

[Gennaro08]

Thanks for the kind words 10-3 and unfortunately you are Mark, the back injury keeps you sidelined for a month.

As Stefano prepared his troops for the trip north to the east coast to face Cesena he was hit by further injury problems, loanee Francesco Albanese sustained a reoccurance of his thigh injury, Luigi Rana came down with food poisoning and Marco Foti suffered a head injury playing for the youth team, who had won five from five in the Italian Under 20's Group 2. Nicola Scalcon was called up the first team for the first time having impressed for the youth team thus far, which included a man of the match performance in Friday night's 2-1 win over Cesena U20's. Morgan Suric and Gaetano Avolio took over the full-back spots in the only changes.

In a rather dull first half Papa Waigo had the best chance for the hosts turning Avolio from a throw-in but he lashed his shot high and wide from 12 yards. A minute before half-time Gennaro Del Vecchio almost gave San Potito the lead from a deflected Steeve Gustan shot. With the ball heading out for a corner Del Vecchio beat his marker Ola to the ball and turned in goalwards but ex-Udinese goalkeeper Luigi Turci tipped it over for a corner. A minute after half-time San Potito did take the lead through Luigi Di Pasquale's first senior goal in his sixth match. Alex Pinardi stood over a free-kick wide left and while everyone was expecting a cross, the midfielder teed it up for the striker waiting on the edge of the area who squeezed his shot through a crowded penalty area. The striker was later cautioned by referee Riccardo Di Mauro for protesting a decision having been let off in the first half and Stefano shook his head and placed his head in his left-hand as the striker seemed to have some sort of authority and discipline problem. The lead lasted all of ten minutes, slack marking from a throw-in allowed Tomas Danilevicius to get to the byline and his floated cross was met by Sengealise striker Papa Waigo rising above Luigi Galimberti. The lead was restored again seven minutes later Luca Morongiu's drifted in a free-kick and Ola was adjudged to have climbed all over Del Veccio according to the assistant on the far side, despite the referee having a good view from his position. Nevertheless Del Vecchio didn't dwell on the decision and expertly placed his kick low and hard in the bottom left corner passed Turci's outstretched glove.

When Di Pasquale is switched on and focused on football rather than complaining, the striker is a real handful and he pounced on a stray pass by Danilevicius, turning and facing the aging Luigi Di Biagio, he outstripped him and fired in a shot with his left-foot at Turci's near post. Despite his age Turci showed his ability getting down low to save the shot. Cesena fired a warning sign just after de Haan and Scalcon entered for Gustan and Di Pasquale, Turci's long kick beat the defence and right-winger Ferreira Pinto was first on the scene, defenders gave chase and Villa edged off his line and parried the Brazilian's shot. Warning not heeded, Turci's kick, Depetris' flick and Gianni Munari timed his run from central midfield perfectly, ghosting through the defence unmarked and in the clear. As Villa came out to narrow the angle, the trigger was pulled and pulled with force. Villa throw his hands up in the air more in hope than expectation and turned to watch the ball ripple the net. The defending at times got desperate from then on in, another long ball caught out the San Potito defence, Chiaretti getting away down the left and his cross found Ciaramitaro fourteen yards out. His shot cannoned off the crossbar. Davide Giorgino found himself in the right place at the right time clearing Chiaretti's knock down to preserve a point for San Potito.

*** *** ***

Vicenza's encounter with Bari was over inside 20 minutes at the Romeo Menti Stadium. Mikkel Kristensen's central defensive partner Lorenzo Sibilano put Bari ahead three minutes in and two minutes later right-back Roberto Gimmelli was dismissed and on 20 minutes Giuseppe Rossi equalised for Vicenza, for whom Pan Panpardus hasn't played all season. The rest of the game faded into obscurity.

Steve al-Jazeera and Dave Solomon would travel to the birthplace of Charlie from Busted (you know the one with the eyebrows) in the Second Qualifying Round of the FA Cup, Woodbridge.

In one of the shocks of the Second Round of the German Cup Mainz beat Bayer Leverkusen by three goals to one, where HD sat on the bench. Three goals in the first 23 minutes did the damage and despite fielding an Eastern European strike force of Andriy Voronin and Dimitar Berbatov the Bundesliga club couldn't mount a successful comeback, the former scoring their goal. Børge Eian played right-midfield for Bochum II (Reserves) in their home match with Unterhaching, going down in a five-goal thriller, 3-2.

[Gennaro08]

Wednesday night and another match for San Potito, AlbinoLeffe, formed by a merger of Albinese Calcio and S.C. Leffe in 1998. It was a slightly tired side that took to the field with Morgan Suric and Alex Pinardi rested, Rosario Patane and Frank de Haan their replacements.

Brazilian striker Joelson appeared to be the only player alive and awake in the first half forcing a smart save out of Massimilliano Villa down low to his right. Joelson beat Luigi Galimberti in the air to meet Gaddi's free-kick but was off target. If the San Potito were alive they certainly weren't awake, Joelson again got ahead of Galimberti from a Gaddi cross but volleyed high and hard over the west stand at Sant'Abruzzese. Patane was caught out at the far post allowing Vallese in behind him but he headed over. The first half performance from San Potito was woeful only managing one attempt at goal, while for all the visitors dominance only managed one shot on target. The response Stefano was looking for, was produced six minutes after the break de Haan crossed into the box, right into the path of Gennaro Del Vecchio who took a touch before flicking the ball passed Moro with the outside of his right-foot, one shot on target, one goal. The goal took the sting out of AlbinoLeffe for a while but they came back again with renewed vigour. Vallese got free down the left and his cross was met by Gori, but only found a section of the 7,350 strong crowd. Morongiu and Di Pasquale both required treatment with 15 minutes left and Salvatore Valvano gave the word that replacements were needed, Austrian defender Ricky Rickler came on for his debut and Nathan Scalcon in attack. The visitors made changes of their own and Joelson's replacement Serafini didn't fare any better in front of goal, Villa equal to his shot. In the latter stages of the match both central defenders Rickler and Galimberti were called upon to make great saving tackles to ensure the lead remained and that Villa kept his fourth clean sheet of the season.

*** *** ***

Despite a good performance by India, Australia's clinical finishing in front of goal earned the Socceroos victory by three goals to nil and progression through to the Group Stages of the Asian Qualifying Section of the Olympics. They were drawn in Group C alongside South Korea, Qatar and Kuwait, victors against Saudi Arabia by two goals to nil. With Tobes lining up up-front for Australia and Steve al-Jazeera at right-back for Kuwait the pair would meet in mid-March of 2008.

Portsmouth travelled to The Racecourse Ground to face Wrexham in the Second Round of the English League Cup. A goal from Zimbabwe international Benjani put the south-coast side on course but a penalty drew the hosts level. Extra-time came and went and so to penalties. Wrexham missed their first three while left-winger Jude Alderson was first up for Portsmouth but failed to convert. Luckily for him, Pedro Mendes, Richard Wood and Aliou Cisse found the back of the net and they limped through to face Cardiff at Fratton Park. Aston Villa enter the competition in the Third Round due to their European involvement and will face Manchester United at home.

[Gennaro08]

The television cameras came to Crotone, southern Italy on Monday evening, which was a relatively short trip for San Potito. Morgan Suric and Alex Pinardi returned down the right-hand side and were the only two changes to the starting line-up, Luigi Rana had recovered from food poisoning to take a place on the bench while Crotone lined up in a 343 formation.

San Potito got off to a flyer, those not in their seats at kick-off would have missed it. Massimilliano Villa released Pinardi down the right flank behind the wing-back. Defender Ghomsy was drawn out to meet him, allowing Gennaro Del Vecchio space, which Pinardi exploited feeding the central midfielder. Del Vecchio jinked his way passed Tacchinardi and got into the penalty area. Looking up he saw Di Pasquale and Gustan awaiting unmarked at the back stick and slid the ball across the face of goal leaving Gustan with the simpliest of tap-ins to give San Potito the lead after only 36 seconds. It was almost two, just minutes later when Suric popped a free-kick behind the defence and Di Pasquale nipped in off the shoulder of Ghomsy. Stretching the striker didn't make clean contact allowing veteran keeper Paolo Orlandoni to palm the ball away. 18 minutes in and the producers were treated to a second goal, Del Vecchio pulled wide and swung in a cross, which deceived the Orlandoni and Di Pasquale was on hand to greatly tap home from a matter of yards. Ten minutes before half-time and Crotone had their first attempt at goal but not on, Nocerino's nod down was net by Turano but his effort didn't have enough curl on it and flew wide but the hosts were inching themselves back into the contest. Turano sawa another effort fly wide with a shot on the turn but this time there was too much curl.

Two minutes after half-time and the movement and runs of Del Vecchio caused more problems in the Crotone defence. This time it was an angled pass into the path of the midfeilder from Suric. Del Vecchio stretched and got the faintest of flicks, which was well saved by the onrushing Orlandoni. It was a temporary reprieve as captain Michael Buskermolen sized up a free-kick just right of central, picked his spot in the top-left hand corner of the goal and found it with precision. Del Vecchio twice stung the palms of Orlandoni before the hosts pulled one back with 12 minutes left. Davide Giorgino cleared Falcone's cross from the left but failed to get any significant distance on the clearance. With Villa having come off his line to claim the cross, sub Juric lobbed the stranded keeper from 20 yards. Villa was called upon to keeper the lead at two with a fantastic flying save from Chiappara with five minutes to go as the San Potito defence were caught out positionally from a free-kick allowing the sub too much space far post. His effort bound for the top corner was kept out by a top draw save as Crotone pushed forward in search of goals. Crotone did reduce the deficit in the first minute of stoppage time, Jeda turned Suric inside the box and got to the byline picking out subsitute Valente who like Gustan and Di Pasquale tapped home in front of the east stand but San Potito saw out the remaining of stoppage time to record a televised win.

*** *** ***

Having lost to Glasgow Celtic, Rod Davies and Sporting travelled to Milan to face the Rossoneri and it was an own goal by Mozambique left-back Paito that gave AC all three points. Celtic beat Bordeaux one-nil thanks to a goal from that man John Hartson again to leave the Italian and Scottish sides with maximum points from the opening two games and the Portugese and French sides with nothing. Up next in Group F for Sporting though were back-to-back games against Bordeaux, which would make or break their qualification hopes.

Wednesday morning saw two rejections, the on-going contract saga of Dave Solomon and AFC Wimbledon. Secondly former Lazio player, now AlbinoLeffe coach Armando Madonna (no not Diego Armando Maradona as I first thought) rejected Stefano and San Potito's approach for him to join the coaching ranks.

Later in the day in Group D of the UEFA Champions League whilst Nantes were earning themselves a point at home to Juventus, Scottinho was busy putting Porto ahead at home to Club Brugge playing in an unfamiliar central midfield role. The 19-year-old Portugeseman latched onto Lisandro Lopez's knock down to volley in his first goal of the season before substitute Benni McCarthy sealed the win ten minutes later.

[Gennaro08]

Salvatore Valvano had indifferent news from the physio room, Francesco Cosenza was back in contention having missed the Crotone game with a groin injury but fellow central defender Luigi Galimberti twisted his knee in training and could potentially be out for a month. Worse news was to follow that Dutchman Frank de Haan tore knee ligaments and would be out until the New Year.

*** *** ***

Aston Villa had a better Thursday than Stefano as they eased passed FC Twente 3-1, 5-2 on aggregate to reach the group stages of the UEFA Cup, where they were to be drawn in Group E alongside Villarreal, Galatasary, Austria Wien and Servette FC.

*** *** ***

Alto Adige who won the Serie C1/A Playoffs the year before were the visitors to Sant'Abruzzese, having lost five of their seven league matches this season. Curiously though in those seven games they had only conceded eight goals but scored only one so Stefano expected a tight cagey match. The visitors in red unsurprisngly weren't quick to throw men forward but did rattle Massimilliano Villa's crossbar and Stefano's nerves inside five minutes. It was the returning Cosenza who put San Potito ahead on the half hour mark after a mazy Luigi Di Pasquale run was halted unfairly by Sorensen inside the box, the young Italian defender slotting home for his first of the season. Steeve Gustan tested Fabio Consonni's - on loan from Inter Milan - reactions and Buskermolen headed wide just before half-time with Alto Adige having conceded their obligatory one goal for the game.

A San Potito match wouldn't be complete this season without a Di Pasquale rant at an official, this time arguing an assistant referee's offisde flag, he escaped without a booking on this ocassion but was promptly substituted for summer signing Giuseppe Cozzolino to don the yellow shirt for the first time this season in a competitive match. Both teams pushed for the vital second goal of the match, San Potito to kill off the game, Alto Adige to take something from it and both sides had half-chances but it wasn't until the last minute when it came. All three substitutes combining Matteo Falconi exchanging passes down the right with Cozzolino before crossing for Alfred Schreuder in too much space on the edge of the box. The Dutchman coolly slotted passed Consonni.

As well as being San Potito's third straight league victory pushing them up into fifth spot, it was also significant for being the highest attendance of the season at 8,824 and also the Club's record gate receipts at £110,000.

*** *** ***

The weekend also saw two clashes of interest in Serie A, on Saturday Vicenza played hosts to Lazio, neither Pan Panpardus nor Sam Cox took to the field with the South African having only played 17 minutes for the hosts this season, a sub appearance in the 2-0 home defeat to Sampdoria. The 18-year-old Irishman hadn't played for Lazio's first team at all, which wasn't really surprising given his tender age, however he had managed one goal this season in a friendly for the Reserve side. On Sunday afternoon, the game of interest was Modena's victory over Bari at Alberto Braglia, Modena. Gennaro Melisi playing central midfield failed to trouble Fulvio Montagna in the Bari goal but Giovanni Federico's goal was enough for victory despite playing almost an hour with ten men, goalkeeper Andrea Guatelli sent off. Mikkel Kristensen came on as sub for the visitors as they went to three at the back and pushed in the second half but to no avail, the Dane a little in and out of the side at present. Thus brought an end to a rather successful first month and a bit to Serie B life.

[Gennaro08]

August & September 2007 Review:

Coppa Italia 1st Qualifying Round

Triestina 2 - Improta (62) De Martin (82)

San Potito 1 - Pinardi (72)

Man of the Match: De Martin (Triestina - Str)

Rimini 0

San Potito 3 - Pinardi (31) Del Vecchio (53) Buskermolen (75)

Action: Gamberini (Rimini - s/o 30)

Man of the Match: Del Vecchio (CM)

Triestina 0

San Potito 2 - Buskermolen (41) Pinardi (45+1)

Action: Barone (Triestina - s/o 84)

Man of the Match: Marciano (LB)

San Potito 1 - Pinardi (10)

Avellino 0

Man of the Match: Pinardi (RM)

Att: 2,575

San Potito 0

Genoa 1 - Jamelli (84)

Man of the Match: Santagata (Genoa - Str)

Att: 2,241

Cesena 2 - Waigo (57) Munari (78)

San Potito 2 - Di Pasquale (46) Del Vecchio (pen 64)

Man of the Match: Del Vecchio (CM)

San Potito 1 - Del Vecchio (51)

AlbinoLeffe 0

Man of the Match: Giorgino (CM)

Att: 7,350

Crotone 2 - Juric (78) Valente (90+1)

San Potito 3 - Gustan (1) Di Pasquale (19) Buskermolen (47)

Man of the Match: Del Vecchio (CM)

Televised

San Potito 2 - Cosenza (pen 30) Schreuder (89)

Alto Adige 0

Man of the Match: Buskermolen (CM)

Att: 8,824

League Position: 5th

[Gennaro08]

The month of October was to be busy with Internationals, both European and African. Stefano settled in to watch Italy beat the Ukraine with goals from Alberto Gilardino and Luca Toni wipping out Tymoschuk's early penalty. Elsewhere in Group 3, the Republic of Ireland kept up their faint hopes of qualification with a 2-0 victory over Azerbaijan, Sam Cox sat on the bench throughout with Jude Alderson and Willy in the stands. Hick conceded three on his 14th cap for Northern Ireland at Windsor Park against Portugal, the hosts had no reply to Marseille's Helder Postiga's two goals and one from Luis Boa Morte.

Conrad Rowden made the unusual distinction of having played more internationals than league games when he made his 3rd cap for Norway on the right wing in the 3-0 home win over the Faroe Islands. In Group 5, France kept up their unbeaten run with a 3-0 home win over Wales in the Stade de France. Terkaldinho watched from the stands as Scotland drew 1-1 at home to Hungary in Group 6 and in Group 7 Mikkel Kristensen watched on as a Peter Madsen strike was enough to beat Serbia and Montenegro as with two games left to play they are one of four sides including Serbia who can still claim second spot and qualification for the 2008 European Championships in Austria and Switzerland.

Over in Africa and South Africa had to beat Madagascar at home and hope for a favour from Sudan as a Mali win would put them through to the 2008 African Cup of Nations. The opening five minutes offered mixed fortunes as Sudan had put two passed Mali but Randriamarozaka put Madagascar in the lead in the Johannesbury Stadium. Karlsruhe's left-back Bradley Carnell equalised five minutes later and Sudan made it three. Pan Panpardus set about stamping his authority on the game turning in a MOM performance and setting up Deportivo's Lebohang Mokoena and Osasuna's Mabhuti Khanyeza for the victory. Sevilla's Frederic Kanoute pulled one back for Mali in the second half and even though Sudan were reduced to ten minutes with ten minutes to go, it was South Africa that topped the group and marched on to Nigeria for the African Cup of Nations in January 2008.

*** *** ***

The home match with Empoli was postponed three days due to international call-ups from the Sunday when there were internationals to the Wednesday, where there were internationals, Stefano only had two youth team players away while the visitors were missing left-sided Swede Ozcar Wendt.

In a rather dull first half, with both teams cancelling each other playing a lone striker and two advanced flank men, it was Empoli, a yo-yo side between Serie A and B that took the lead, Eder Bau's free-kick was met by Senegalese International Mamadou Diabang, beating Morgan Suric in the air at the back post. A slight shape change at half-time didn't help either as San Potio never really got going, Luigi Di Pasquale squandering the one good chance that came their way as Empoli sat back and sat back in numbers guarding their lead. Stefano was almost flattered that Empoli felt the need to sit back and not commit men forward but frustrated as they couldn't find a way to break down their resiliance. Ten minutes from time the equaliser came from a set-piece. As chances from open play had been at a premium for both sides it seemed only fitting that that was the way it was to be. Skipper Michael Buskermolen curling home a delicious free-kick from the left-hand edge of the box. Massimilliano Villa pulled off a top-draw save with a minute to go to preserve the point flying down low to his right as Szetela turned in the box from a Lodi free-kick.

[chesterfan2]

I'm doing too much sitting in the stands for my liking.......

Like this story Gennaro, hope your posting troubles are only temporary

[Gennaro08]

That evening Stefano skimmed through the 2008 European Qualifiers, where Italy travelled to Georgia and ensured an unbeaten campaign, two Luca Toni goals doing the damage. Northern Ireland did their bit by pulling off a fantastic 1-0 victory in the Ukraine, captain Hick with a clean sheet on his 15th cap. Unfortunately for them, Portugal beat the Republic of Ireland in Coimbra with identical goalscorers from before, Helder Postiga twice and Luis Boa Morte once, Andy Reid's reply counting for nothing in the end. The three Irishman all present in the stands, frustrated. Italy and Portugal progress from Group 3. If either Gennaro Melisi or Scottinho can have a meteroic rise in the next eight months, there may be some added interest in the Euro 2008 tournament.

Group 1 and Croatia have qualified with four teams Eastern European teams in contention for the second spot. Spain topped Group 2 with Greece and Bulgaria fighting for second spot. To Group 4 and England and Sweden have progressed, Norway going down in Poland. Group 5 and it is France and Russia marching to Switzerland and Austria, Wales beat Malta 3-1.

Group 6, Germany are through with second spot still up for grabs, Scotland's win in Liechenstein gives them hope of avoiding finishing bottom of the group, Terkaldinho warming the bench. Holland progress from Group 7 with second spot available to four sides including Denmark, a 1-1 draw in Iceland wasn't what they were hoping for, a win would have put them in pole position, a win in Slovakia and favours from Holland and Cyprus would put them through.

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The opening five minutes was frenetic, both goalkeepers pulling off double saves, first Catania keeper Ciro Polito denying Steeve Gustan and then Massimiliano Villa keeping out captain Roberto De Zerbi. Luigi Di Pasquale's third of the season however did break the deadlock against a side currently sitting in mid-table and flooding men forward at every possible opportunity. Villa twice more had to make good saves to keep the hosts out. Stefano ordered his players to stand strong and weathered more Catania pressure as the long balls continued and from the important second balls the likes of Michael Buskermolen and Davide Giorgino tried to launch counter attacks using the pace of Di Pasquale. Ten minutes before half-time, the system worked perfectly, Alex Pinardi winning it in midfield and sending Di Pasquale away clear of the defence, his shot was true, hard and low across the keeper like Stefano had always advocated, it was so far across the keeper that it came off the inside of the post before nestling nicely in the back of the net.

The second half was all about more of the same, Michael Buskermolen's aging legs broke up the attacks, sometimes legally, other times not so and was eventually booked and within minutes made an ill advised tackle from behind. Stefano watched on as the referee warned the Dutchman and Matteo Falconi was quickly despatched to warm up. With the young winger stretching down by the corner flag, Stefano tried whistling for his attention, for him to return for the substitution to be made, his efforts were in the vain though as the small travelling contingent were dancing on the terraces celebrating Alex Pinardi fourth league goal of the season. Di Pasquale, Pinardi and Del Vecchio had been harrying the Catania backline and central midfield all game and their efforts paid dividends as Di Pasquale turned provider winning the ball in midfield and setting Pinardi away. The 27-year-old got through one-on-one with Polito and some fancy footwork left the keeper floundering as Pinardi tapped into an open net for three.

It was safe to say that Stefano's side had rode their luck at times, nee throughout and he was surprised that Massimiliano Villa didn't picked up the MOM award for his string of fine saves from start to finish. When he was beaten with twenty minutes left the assistant's flag saved them, Gionatha Spinesi ruled offside and from then on in the pressure eased on the backline as it seemed the Catania players slumped to accepting the defeat.

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A frantic opening at the Stade General Eyadema, Lome, Togo, saw four goals inside the first six minutes, Adebayor and Akoussah on target for the hosts and Martins and Obi Mikel for Nigeria, for whom Luna was a spectator. Chievo's Victor Obinna gave the visitors the advantage ten minutes from time with the return leg of the First Round of African Qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup scheduled for four days time. South Africa being the host nation did't have to qualify.