Greetings Kankas and Kankies.
The kankas made the difficult decision to make the journey to Hell yesterday. For those of you who have been to the Ankaraspor Stadium in Yenikent then you will understand my meaning !
We met in The Chopin Bar as usual pre-midday to make the decision on how to get there. Battle Damaged Kanka Damon, Mountaineering Kanka Robbie, Kaleci Kanka Tansu, Philly Kanka Jamie, Connect Kanka Steve and I were the brave ones !
There was a massive CHP Political Rally going on in Kizilay all the way up to Ulus as we made our way along Ataturk Bulvari to try and find the Yenikent bus. However, we under-estimated the size of the Rally and got as far as Sihhiye before we realised that it would be impossible to find a bus.
Kaleci Kanka then came up with the idea of going by Banliyo (Commuter) train to Sincan. So, we negotiated our way across the Bulvari and waited for the train.
In conversation at the station it transpired that this would be a FIRST for us all. Having been in and out of Ankara for almost 30 years this would be Eski Kanka’s first journey on the famous Banliyo !
The 30 minutes journey saw us passing through the picturesque suburbs and Ankara countryside of such luvvlie places as Gazi, Ostim, Eryaman and Elvankent. Never to be forgotten …… ooops ….. should read ………. remembered …… scenery !
We arrived safely in Sincan, and then due to time constraints, it was into 2 taxis to the Stadium.
We made it there and entered the Stadium as the National Anthem was playing still smarting from the exorbitant entry price ….. 50 kurus (2 pence) !! Also, we were given 4 `free` tickets by some Gecikondu boys !
Anyway, almost forgot about footie after our travel adventures !
Ankaraspor 0 ANKARAGUCU 1
The match got underway in the winter sunshine with Ankaragucu in the familiar line up of Serkan in goal, back 4 of El-Yasa, Tolga, Santos and Ilkem. Midfield of Gokhan, Cem, Ibrahim and Captain Murat. Up front was Mehmet and Jaba.
It was a close first half with Ankaragucu shading the opening period, but Ankaraspor coming more into the match before half time. No real worries with Serkan in outstanding form and Santos in commanding form – both qualifying for my ‘Man of the Match’ award.
The 2nd half was mostly all Ankaragucu with Gokhan and Murat taking on a more attacking role from midfield.
Jaba obviously reads this Blog and must have been working on his neck muscles in midweek. He won 2 headers again, one of which brought out a great save from Senecky with the kankas on their feet anticipating a goal.
However, the goal duly arrived half way through the 2nd half after a period of concerted attacking. Gokhan fired in a rocket which rebounded (luckily) from Seneckey into the path of the in-rushing Mehmet and he made no mistake.
Cue ….. up the volume from the kankas and the impressive gathering of Ankaragucu tribunes.
Ankaraspor spent the last 10 minutes in the Ankaragucu half but it was all panic stuff from them. Serkan was never really tested, but when anything came his way it was being dealt with.
Jaba left the field near the end to a standing ovation and chants of …. Jaaaaaaba Jaba Jaba ….. He led the line well yesterday and the ovation was well deserved.
At the end of the match the players responded to the fans and came over to applaud the fans and throw their shirts into the crowd. With the surge of supporters, the ‘barriers’ collapsed and fans spilled onto the pitch with the stewards trying to restore order. A comical sight which could have been dangerous had Ankaragucu lost !! Interestingly, the Gendarma stood their ground and didn’t lift a finger to help the stewards !
We left the Stadium in high spirits but then were left with the perplexing question of ……. how do we get out of Hell and back to the safety of Ankara ??!!
Off we trudged down the ‘road’ to try and find some mode of transport. I was only wearing trainers and wondering why we didn’t wear our hiking boots ! Anyway, after 30 minutes of hiking we piled into a passing dolmus (mini bus) which took us back to Sincan.
Into the Banliyo and then the Metro from Sihhiye to Sakarya Caddesi and …. back into The Chopin for celebrations. Where was Maniac Kanka Harun ? Why didn’t he join us ? Awaiting the answer !!
We watched the first half of the Fener v Besiktas match and there was a lesson here for us from Besiktas on how to attack teams like Fener, ie, on breakaways, take the ball to the by-line and cut it back for the in-rushing strikers to attack it. We know Jaba reads our Blog, so please give this priceless piece of advice to Unal Karaman !
Third win of the season then and climbing out of the danger zone to 13th position after a disastrous start to the season. An important win therefore, but not just for the 3 points. With Galatasaray visiting next weekend confidence is high and Ankaragucu has no reason to fear any team in the league on yesterday’s performance.
Watch this space for match day and KO time.
Incidentally, you will recall that Battle Damaged Kanka won The Best Dressed Kanka Award in 2007/2008. Who can forget the day he entered the Stadium in his Cashmere coat, silver buckled shoes, Italian silk tie and his luvvlie black mittens ??!!
Well, we now have a real challenger for the 2008/2009 award. Phillie Kanka turned up yesterday in an exquisite pair of Michael Jackson look-a-like gloves which really set his ensemble off to the delight of all.
My advice for Battle Damaged …… better bring out ‘that coat’ again soon !!!
All the best from Eski Kanka Jim
The Round Ball in Ankara! Dedicated to football lovers in Ankara (Except for those who follow Osmanlispor)
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
Motherwell 1-4 Hibs
At last three points and a top performance, the question now is can Hibs do it again?
Hibs could and should have been four up by half time but instead found themselves level at 1-1 after Motherwell scored a free kick just before the break. John Rankin had given Hibs the lead after five minutes with an excellant shot from twenty yards.
Hibs then missed four or five good chances to kill the game off before letting Motherwell back in.
Hibs started the second half the same way as the first and regained their lead on 49 mins through Dean sheils again with a shot from the edge of the box.
Hibs third through Stephen Fletcher was the pick of the bunch.
A 30 yard volley that left the keeper no chance.
Hibs passed up a few more opportunities before Derek Riorden finished off the scoring in the last minute.
Hibs are now back up to fifth in the league but with three points seperating six teams more wins will be required.
Hibs could and should have been four up by half time but instead found themselves level at 1-1 after Motherwell scored a free kick just before the break. John Rankin had given Hibs the lead after five minutes with an excellant shot from twenty yards.
Hibs then missed four or five good chances to kill the game off before letting Motherwell back in.
Hibs started the second half the same way as the first and regained their lead on 49 mins through Dean sheils again with a shot from the edge of the box.
Hibs third through Stephen Fletcher was the pick of the bunch.
A 30 yard volley that left the keeper no chance.
Hibs passed up a few more opportunities before Derek Riorden finished off the scoring in the last minute.
Hibs are now back up to fifth in the league but with three points seperating six teams more wins will be required.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
ANKARAGUCU – JABA WON A HEADER, OR ….. WAS IT TWO ?!!
Greetings Kankas and Kankies.
The headline belongs to Mountaineering Kanka Robbie, but it was ONE header he said. I disagreed and made it two !
The first one was a header on goal, which if he had neck muscles like his thigh muscles, would have gone in, but …. it didn’t. The second was a cross which he headed back into the ‘danger area’ but was saved by Volkan.
Anyway, the point is made. Jaba is putting himself about more and getting into scoring positions. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite work out tonight ….
ANKARAGUCU 0 Fenerbahce 0
As usual, it started out on a high note in The Chopin Bar with high hopes after the 3-1 win away to Eskisehir last week.
In attendance, Battle Damaged Kanka Damon, Kaleci Kanka Tansu, Rip Off Kanka Erman, Casenova Kanka Gokhan, Mountaineering Kanka with his entourage from the Yoo-Ess-ov-Ai, Erin, Angela, Jamie and Steve. Well, most of them are Yanks, but Steve hails from Conneticut which may still be under British or Canadian rule ….. I’m not sure which !! Almost forgot Selami who was a peripheral supporter – was he an Ankaragucu or Fener supporter I ask ??!!
Off to the Stadium and Yankee Kanka was there to meet us. Unfortunately, Maniac Kanka Harun was absent today due to work commitments.
The match underway, Fener were first out of the starting blocks attacking Ankaragucu. My ‘Man of the Match’, Santos, saved the early goal after 2 minutes with a headed clearance off the line. A wake up call if ever it was needed ! Santos is going to be a key element in Karaman’s team and has made a significant start to his career here.
After that early scare, the match settled down into an end-to-end contest with Fener creating most of the openings. The Ankaragucu defence was working overtime and Serkan was in fine form.
There were few openings at the other end apart from a Gokhan free kick which went narrowly wide.
Ankaragucu was playing with ‘fire in their bellies’ and not giving Fener time to settle on the ball. This is what we, as supporters, have missed in previous matches. There was a ‘hunger’ for the ball and lots of movement from Ankaragucu. Great stuff !
I was happy enough to go in at half time 0-0 with optimism of things to come.
Into the second half then and Ankaragucu took control. It was mostly one way traffic leading to Volkan’s goal, and in all honesty the pressure exerted should have produced the winning goal.
I mentioned Jaba’s headed effort, but there were so many other near misses that I lost count.
Gokhan’s free kick which went inches wide. Jaba, El-Yasa, Ilkem and Gokhan (again) all went close with serious chances with Volkan beaten, but the side netting came to Fener’s rescue and poor finishing summed up Ankaragucu’s night when they really should have wrapped the match up.
The referee came in for criticism from the kankas for denying a penalty to Ankaragucu, but with ‘hand on heart’ I have to say that it was a situation of ‘ball to hand’ and not ‘hand to ball’. In the final analysis it is the referee’s opinion which counts !!
Near the end of the match with Ankaragucu still pressing forward we saw another stupid idiot running onto the field and ‘missiles’ from Maraton being thrown onto the pitch, one of which hit the referee in the leg (they were probably meant for Wederson who is a f...... in .... wan....r if ever there was one). Gecikondu joined in and started to throw bits of chairs at the police. Surely another punishment from the TFF for Ankaragucu which may well affect the Galatasaray match in 2 weeks time me thinks ?!
So, a good night’s work from Ankaragucu, but it could so easily have been a famous victory with some cool heads up front.
Back we went to The Chopin Bar where we were met by Maniac Kanka and time to celebrate Hibs victory in Motherwell !!
Next weekend Ankaragucu is away to Ankaraspor in the ‘Stadium from Hell’. Not sure if we are going, but it is a possibility. As always, watch this space.
All the best from Eski Kanka Jim
The headline belongs to Mountaineering Kanka Robbie, but it was ONE header he said. I disagreed and made it two !
The first one was a header on goal, which if he had neck muscles like his thigh muscles, would have gone in, but …. it didn’t. The second was a cross which he headed back into the ‘danger area’ but was saved by Volkan.
Anyway, the point is made. Jaba is putting himself about more and getting into scoring positions. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite work out tonight ….
ANKARAGUCU 0 Fenerbahce 0
As usual, it started out on a high note in The Chopin Bar with high hopes after the 3-1 win away to Eskisehir last week.
In attendance, Battle Damaged Kanka Damon, Kaleci Kanka Tansu, Rip Off Kanka Erman, Casenova Kanka Gokhan, Mountaineering Kanka with his entourage from the Yoo-Ess-ov-Ai, Erin, Angela, Jamie and Steve. Well, most of them are Yanks, but Steve hails from Conneticut which may still be under British or Canadian rule ….. I’m not sure which !! Almost forgot Selami who was a peripheral supporter – was he an Ankaragucu or Fener supporter I ask ??!!
Off to the Stadium and Yankee Kanka was there to meet us. Unfortunately, Maniac Kanka Harun was absent today due to work commitments.
The match underway, Fener were first out of the starting blocks attacking Ankaragucu. My ‘Man of the Match’, Santos, saved the early goal after 2 minutes with a headed clearance off the line. A wake up call if ever it was needed ! Santos is going to be a key element in Karaman’s team and has made a significant start to his career here.
After that early scare, the match settled down into an end-to-end contest with Fener creating most of the openings. The Ankaragucu defence was working overtime and Serkan was in fine form.
There were few openings at the other end apart from a Gokhan free kick which went narrowly wide.
Ankaragucu was playing with ‘fire in their bellies’ and not giving Fener time to settle on the ball. This is what we, as supporters, have missed in previous matches. There was a ‘hunger’ for the ball and lots of movement from Ankaragucu. Great stuff !
I was happy enough to go in at half time 0-0 with optimism of things to come.
Into the second half then and Ankaragucu took control. It was mostly one way traffic leading to Volkan’s goal, and in all honesty the pressure exerted should have produced the winning goal.
I mentioned Jaba’s headed effort, but there were so many other near misses that I lost count.
Gokhan’s free kick which went inches wide. Jaba, El-Yasa, Ilkem and Gokhan (again) all went close with serious chances with Volkan beaten, but the side netting came to Fener’s rescue and poor finishing summed up Ankaragucu’s night when they really should have wrapped the match up.
The referee came in for criticism from the kankas for denying a penalty to Ankaragucu, but with ‘hand on heart’ I have to say that it was a situation of ‘ball to hand’ and not ‘hand to ball’. In the final analysis it is the referee’s opinion which counts !!
Near the end of the match with Ankaragucu still pressing forward we saw another stupid idiot running onto the field and ‘missiles’ from Maraton being thrown onto the pitch, one of which hit the referee in the leg (they were probably meant for Wederson who is a f...... in .... wan....r if ever there was one). Gecikondu joined in and started to throw bits of chairs at the police. Surely another punishment from the TFF for Ankaragucu which may well affect the Galatasaray match in 2 weeks time me thinks ?!
So, a good night’s work from Ankaragucu, but it could so easily have been a famous victory with some cool heads up front.
Back we went to The Chopin Bar where we were met by Maniac Kanka and time to celebrate Hibs victory in Motherwell !!
Next weekend Ankaragucu is away to Ankaraspor in the ‘Stadium from Hell’. Not sure if we are going, but it is a possibility. As always, watch this space.
All the best from Eski Kanka Jim
Genclerbirligi slip into the relegation zone
I guess I could have stayed at home to do some radio blogging of today's match but decided instead to take Little Oz Kanka to a pantomine where Smart Arse Yankee Kanka Dave gave a much better performance as Major Domo in Aladdin then Genclerbirligi have been performing as a football team in the Turkish Super Lig.
Gaziantep 2 - 0 Genclerbirligi
So all I've got is the Anadolu news agency very short report.
Let's just put it this way, five of the Gencler players (and this includes the two subs used) were given two stars out of three. The rest got just a single star. My guess is that if Anadolu gave "no stars" then quite a few of our players would have got them.
Looking at the comments on the Alkaralar fan site this was quite a boring game, spiced up only by a couple of decent shots from Kahe and Nas.
Then, just towards the end Gaziantep scored. Then a few minutes later, they scored again.
Dear oh dear. This is looking pretty scary.
There has been a thread on the Alkaralar site wishing the best to a few fans who are off to do their military service. Quite frankly, the way we are going this might be the best time to disappear from the scene for 12 months.
Gaziantep 2 - 0 Genclerbirligi
So all I've got is the Anadolu news agency very short report.
Let's just put it this way, five of the Gencler players (and this includes the two subs used) were given two stars out of three. The rest got just a single star. My guess is that if Anadolu gave "no stars" then quite a few of our players would have got them.
Looking at the comments on the Alkaralar fan site this was quite a boring game, spiced up only by a couple of decent shots from Kahe and Nas.
Then, just towards the end Gaziantep scored. Then a few minutes later, they scored again.
Dear oh dear. This is looking pretty scary.
There has been a thread on the Alkaralar site wishing the best to a few fans who are off to do their military service. Quite frankly, the way we are going this might be the best time to disappear from the scene for 12 months.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Hard Times for Hibs
Hibs have found it hard to put points on the board over the last few weeks. Hard fought draws or defeats have seen Hibs drop down the table to ninth place.
Only a month ago we were looking to secure third place but so tight is the SPL outwith Rangers and Celtic that anyone who strings a few wins together can shoot up the table.
Stephen Fletcher rescued a point last week deep into injury time against Aberdeen at Easter Road. This followed close on the heels of defeats to Inverness and Dundee Utd.
Tomorrows opponents are Motherwell who are not having the best of seasons either. Three points would be most welcome but I will not be betting much money on a Hibs win.
The latest rumour around Easter Road that Stephen Fletcher is off to the English Premiership, Blackburn are said to be interested. I would imagine £2 to £3 milllion will be required to prise him from Easter Road.
Just another in a long line of players to leave Hibs for pastures new, at least Hibs bank balance is looking good.
I hope to be posting good news tomorrow.
Good luck to the Ankara teams as well.
Only a month ago we were looking to secure third place but so tight is the SPL outwith Rangers and Celtic that anyone who strings a few wins together can shoot up the table.
Stephen Fletcher rescued a point last week deep into injury time against Aberdeen at Easter Road. This followed close on the heels of defeats to Inverness and Dundee Utd.
Tomorrows opponents are Motherwell who are not having the best of seasons either. Three points would be most welcome but I will not be betting much money on a Hibs win.
The latest rumour around Easter Road that Stephen Fletcher is off to the English Premiership, Blackburn are said to be interested. I would imagine £2 to £3 milllion will be required to prise him from Easter Road.
Just another in a long line of players to leave Hibs for pastures new, at least Hibs bank balance is looking good.
I hope to be posting good news tomorrow.
Good luck to the Ankara teams as well.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
The Kankas celebrate
Times haven't been so great on the pitch recently for the kankas but last week we were able to raise our glasses at the wedding of Flying Dutchman Kanka Carlo and Legal Kanka Saadet. Lots of fun and dancing at the Ankara Devlet Palas just down the road from the 19 Mayis.
And here are all the kankas at the wedding (except for Imposter Kanka Jools on the far left who has yet to go to a footy match)
And here are all the kankas at the wedding (except for Imposter Kanka Jools on the far left who has yet to go to a footy match)
Sunday, November 16, 2008
IS THIS THE TURNING POINT FOR ANKARAGUCU ?
Greetings Kankas and Kankies.
With bottom club, Kocaeli, winning their first match of the season against Denizli yesterday it was imperative for Ankaragucu to take something from Eskisehir today ………. and they did.
Eskisehir 1 ANKARAGUCU 3
Sighs of relief all round !
When you are down it is always difficult to get up again, so this may prove to be the turning point in a season which got off on the wrong foot for Ankaragucu.
Winning is a sure tonic for building players confidence which we will need in the weeks ahead for 4 difficult matches. The first point in question ?? Fener come visiting on Saturday !
Not much I can tell you about today’s match at this stage, except that there will be lots of singing and dancing in The Lacivert Pub tonight ……. and I’m celebrating at the moment as I write this with luvvlie yummy Efes !!
Gokhan (remember …. Battle Damaged Kanka’s hero figure !) opened the scoring on 23 minutes. Eskisehir equalised on 58 minutes and I’m sure there were lots of …… ‘oh no, here we go again’ ….. from the Ankaragucu faithful.
However, all credit to Ankaragucu’s never-say-die spirit when Moine made it 2-1 from the penalty spot.
Gokhan scored his 2nd to make it 3 and put the smiles back on our faces.
So, not wishing to get carried away with the euphoria of our 2nd league win of the season, I still say …… bring on Fener !
Ankaragucu always seem to be able to raise their game for the ‘Big Ones’ and, as I said, the players confidence will be high on the back of a fine away win.
Not sure of the KO time for the Fener match yet. Probably 4pm or 7pm. Oz Kanka will send a kanka mail during the week with the details.
All the best from a happier Eski Kanka Jim
With bottom club, Kocaeli, winning their first match of the season against Denizli yesterday it was imperative for Ankaragucu to take something from Eskisehir today ………. and they did.
Eskisehir 1 ANKARAGUCU 3
Sighs of relief all round !
When you are down it is always difficult to get up again, so this may prove to be the turning point in a season which got off on the wrong foot for Ankaragucu.
Winning is a sure tonic for building players confidence which we will need in the weeks ahead for 4 difficult matches. The first point in question ?? Fener come visiting on Saturday !
Not much I can tell you about today’s match at this stage, except that there will be lots of singing and dancing in The Lacivert Pub tonight ……. and I’m celebrating at the moment as I write this with luvvlie yummy Efes !!
Gokhan (remember …. Battle Damaged Kanka’s hero figure !) opened the scoring on 23 minutes. Eskisehir equalised on 58 minutes and I’m sure there were lots of …… ‘oh no, here we go again’ ….. from the Ankaragucu faithful.
However, all credit to Ankaragucu’s never-say-die spirit when Moine made it 2-1 from the penalty spot.
Gokhan scored his 2nd to make it 3 and put the smiles back on our faces.
So, not wishing to get carried away with the euphoria of our 2nd league win of the season, I still say …… bring on Fener !
Ankaragucu always seem to be able to raise their game for the ‘Big Ones’ and, as I said, the players confidence will be high on the back of a fine away win.
Not sure of the KO time for the Fener match yet. Probably 4pm or 7pm. Oz Kanka will send a kanka mail during the week with the details.
All the best from a happier Eski Kanka Jim
Gencler go down fighting
Genclerbirligi 0 - 1 Trabzonspor
Friday night started out okay. Just myself, Dan the Man, Guclu and a new man in town, James, at the Chopin but we got the beers in and in what should have been an omen for the evening I got pulled over by the cops at the first of the two police checkpoints and was accused of being "alkollu" for having had three beers.
Immediately understanding the situation I went "dumb" and let Guclu do all the talking. A minute or so later they let me through. At the second police check, the one just inside the stadium, I got through no worries but this time it was James' camera that was the problem... not the camera itself but the battery which the cops thought James was planning at throwing at the linesman (who probably deserved it).
Guclu was on hand to save the day the day once more.
Finally in and we get to watch Genclerbirligi finally play some decent football. We were all over Trabzon. Pretty much completely controlled the midfield and James Troisi was constantly getting past his man (he was subsequently given the highest rating out of the Gencler players by Hurriyet newspaper).
First half over and no goals though. I was feeling pretty up beat, as were most of the gencler supporters.
Second half and a simple breakaway by Trabzon led to old Ankaragucu boy Umit Bulut scoring...
Time for full on attack and Gencler went for it.
Shots were being sent wide though and one from a free kick hit the crossbar. Match over and it was with disappointment that we left the stadium.
The match had started with Gencler fans making the now familiar "management resign" chants. It ended, even though we had lost with calls for the players to take a bow. Heads held high, even if the result was disappointing.
Friday night started out okay. Just myself, Dan the Man, Guclu and a new man in town, James, at the Chopin but we got the beers in and in what should have been an omen for the evening I got pulled over by the cops at the first of the two police checkpoints and was accused of being "alkollu" for having had three beers.
Immediately understanding the situation I went "dumb" and let Guclu do all the talking. A minute or so later they let me through. At the second police check, the one just inside the stadium, I got through no worries but this time it was James' camera that was the problem... not the camera itself but the battery which the cops thought James was planning at throwing at the linesman (who probably deserved it).
Guclu was on hand to save the day the day once more.
Finally in and we get to watch Genclerbirligi finally play some decent football. We were all over Trabzon. Pretty much completely controlled the midfield and James Troisi was constantly getting past his man (he was subsequently given the highest rating out of the Gencler players by Hurriyet newspaper).
First half over and no goals though. I was feeling pretty up beat, as were most of the gencler supporters.
Second half and a simple breakaway by Trabzon led to old Ankaragucu boy Umit Bulut scoring...
Time for full on attack and Gencler went for it.
Shots were being sent wide though and one from a free kick hit the crossbar. Match over and it was with disappointment that we left the stadium.
The match had started with Gencler fans making the now familiar "management resign" chants. It ended, even though we had lost with calls for the players to take a bow. Heads held high, even if the result was disappointing.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
ANKARAGUCU's CUP HOPES EXTINGUISHED
Greetings Kankas and Kankies.
Last night in the Cappadokia Bar, Battle Damaged Kanka Damon and I witnessed the sad demise of Ankaragucu's season.
Second bottom of the League with 5 difficult matches coming up and now elimination from the Cup with a whimper.
Bursaspor 1 ANKARAGUCU 0
Bursa P2 W2 D0 L0 F3 A0 Points 6
Fener P1 W1 D0 L0 F1 A0 Points 3
Tokat P1 W0 D1 L0 F1 A1 Points 1
Esehir P2 W0 D1 L1 F1 A3 Points 1
A'gucu P2 W0 D0 L2 F0 A2 Points 0
With Bursa and Fener still to play Tokat we can safely assume that Bursa and Fener will qualify for the next stage of the Cup. Therefore, the Ankaragucu v Tokat match takes on little significance and only die-hard supporters are likely to attend this match.
We are now accustomed to seeing Ankaragucu at the bottom of the League and the Cup Group this season and it will be no surprise if Tokat come to Ankara with an attacking formation and a surprise could well be on the cards !
Ankaragucu started with a strange line-up last night. No Serkan, Erdogan and Jaba. Regulars, Gokhan, Cem and Mehmet came on in the 2nd half, but apart from some nice touches from Gokhan, there was little change in the kick and rush tactics.
Zafer and Metin started a match for the first time this season and can take some credit for their efforts, but apart from them, it was a sorry performance.
The match was effectively over after 25 minutes when Zuniga latched onto a superb through ball which left 3 defenders trailing in his wake. He angled his shot out of the reach of Zafer and that was it. No criticism of Zafer who had a few excellent saves to keep the scoreline down.
Ankaragucu had only one clear-cut chance just before the final whistle when a rocket from Gokhan came off the post, but the player following up (the cameraman was too slow to pick him out !) blasted over when all it needed was a deft touch.
So, sad to say, it was the old story of huff and puff from Ankaragucu. No doubting their effort, but there was no cohesion from midfield to attack which gave the Bursa defence an easy night.
League business resumes in Eskisehir on Sunday, and it goes without saying that I am not looking forward to reporting that match !
All the best from a sad Eski Kanka Jim
PS ...... Unfortunately, due to illness, Maniac Kanka Harun couldn't be with us last night and so we wish him ....... gecmisolsen from us all.
Last night in the Cappadokia Bar, Battle Damaged Kanka Damon and I witnessed the sad demise of Ankaragucu's season.
Second bottom of the League with 5 difficult matches coming up and now elimination from the Cup with a whimper.
Bursaspor 1 ANKARAGUCU 0
Bursa P2 W2 D0 L0 F3 A0 Points 6
Fener P1 W1 D0 L0 F1 A0 Points 3
Tokat P1 W0 D1 L0 F1 A1 Points 1
Esehir P2 W0 D1 L1 F1 A3 Points 1
A'gucu P2 W0 D0 L2 F0 A2 Points 0
With Bursa and Fener still to play Tokat we can safely assume that Bursa and Fener will qualify for the next stage of the Cup. Therefore, the Ankaragucu v Tokat match takes on little significance and only die-hard supporters are likely to attend this match.
We are now accustomed to seeing Ankaragucu at the bottom of the League and the Cup Group this season and it will be no surprise if Tokat come to Ankara with an attacking formation and a surprise could well be on the cards !
Ankaragucu started with a strange line-up last night. No Serkan, Erdogan and Jaba. Regulars, Gokhan, Cem and Mehmet came on in the 2nd half, but apart from some nice touches from Gokhan, there was little change in the kick and rush tactics.
Zafer and Metin started a match for the first time this season and can take some credit for their efforts, but apart from them, it was a sorry performance.
The match was effectively over after 25 minutes when Zuniga latched onto a superb through ball which left 3 defenders trailing in his wake. He angled his shot out of the reach of Zafer and that was it. No criticism of Zafer who had a few excellent saves to keep the scoreline down.
Ankaragucu had only one clear-cut chance just before the final whistle when a rocket from Gokhan came off the post, but the player following up (the cameraman was too slow to pick him out !) blasted over when all it needed was a deft touch.
So, sad to say, it was the old story of huff and puff from Ankaragucu. No doubting their effort, but there was no cohesion from midfield to attack which gave the Bursa defence an easy night.
League business resumes in Eskisehir on Sunday, and it goes without saying that I am not looking forward to reporting that match !
All the best from a sad Eski Kanka Jim
PS ...... Unfortunately, due to illness, Maniac Kanka Harun couldn't be with us last night and so we wish him ....... gecmisolsen from us all.
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Gencler pull off a draw at the death
Konyaspor 2 - 2 Genclerbirligi
Genclerbirligi pulled off their second away draw in a row on Sunday, coming from 2-0 behind to snatch a draw in extra time.
With new coach Samet Aybaba in charge, Gencler started off with a fairly attacking line up but that didn't seem to bother Konya with almost all of the few chances for a goal belonging to the home side.
Looking at the very brief summary posted by the Anatolian news agency, Konya went ahead on the 59th minute and stretched their lead to 2-0 on the 68th.
The Aussie connection almost got one back for Gencler in the 77th minute when Bruce Djite got onto the end of a pass from James Troisi. The shot was hard but the Konya keeper managed to save.
Light at the end of the tunnel came five minutes later when Troisi sent a pass through to Mustafa Pektemek who was one-on-one with the keeper. Unlike two weeks ago when we stuffed up so many one-on-ones, Pektemek made sure. 2-1
Three minutes into extra time and Koray sends in a free kick, Pektemek gets his head to it and the ball falls for Burhan who scores... Phew.
All credit to Gencler for refusing to say die.
Next week we have Trabzon at home. Friday night 8pm KO. See you all at the Chopin Bar.
Genclerbirligi pulled off their second away draw in a row on Sunday, coming from 2-0 behind to snatch a draw in extra time.
With new coach Samet Aybaba in charge, Gencler started off with a fairly attacking line up but that didn't seem to bother Konya with almost all of the few chances for a goal belonging to the home side.
Looking at the very brief summary posted by the Anatolian news agency, Konya went ahead on the 59th minute and stretched their lead to 2-0 on the 68th.
The Aussie connection almost got one back for Gencler in the 77th minute when Bruce Djite got onto the end of a pass from James Troisi. The shot was hard but the Konya keeper managed to save.
Light at the end of the tunnel came five minutes later when Troisi sent a pass through to Mustafa Pektemek who was one-on-one with the keeper. Unlike two weeks ago when we stuffed up so many one-on-ones, Pektemek made sure. 2-1
Three minutes into extra time and Koray sends in a free kick, Pektemek gets his head to it and the ball falls for Burhan who scores... Phew.
All credit to Gencler for refusing to say die.
Next week we have Trabzon at home. Friday night 8pm KO. See you all at the Chopin Bar.
ANKARAGUCU – NO MIDAS TOUCH IN THE OLYMPIC STADIUM
Greetings Kankas and Kankies.
As reported in midweek, Ankaragucu was punished by the TFF for the behaviour of some of their `fans` at the end of the Kayseri match 2 weeks ago.
You will recall that I mentioned in the match report the throwing of `missiles` and chairs on to the pitch after Kayeri’s 3rd goal. There was also another incident when 2 `fans` ran onto the pitch and shouted some `choice words` to Protokol, ie, Mr Cemal Aydin. In incidents such as these the TFF show no mercy, therefore all are punished for the stupidity of a few !
So, yesterday’s match was played in the Olympic Stadium in Istanbul, but there were no gold medals to be won there.
ANKARAGUCU 1 Bursaspor 1
Captain Courageous, Murat Erdogan, opened the scoring in the 2nd half and Romashenko equalised 15 minutes from the end.
A shortage of strikers and a shortage of goals is a familiar story with only Istanbul BBS and Hacettepe scoring fewer goals in the league than Ankaragucu. We have to say ….. thank God for our captain staving off defeat this week and last week.
So, Ankaragucu is still rooted in 3rd bottom position in the league, but that could be 2nd bottom today if Antalyaspor beat Sivas in Antalya !
Woe woe ………. doom and gloom !
Turkish Cup business resumes in Bursa on Wednesday evening and a last chance for the players to keep their season alive. It is fairly certain that the match will be on Lig TV KO 8pm and perhaps we can meet in The Cappadokia to watch it.
Next league match is away to Eskisehir next Sunday.
All the best from despondent Eski Kanka Jim
As reported in midweek, Ankaragucu was punished by the TFF for the behaviour of some of their `fans` at the end of the Kayseri match 2 weeks ago.
You will recall that I mentioned in the match report the throwing of `missiles` and chairs on to the pitch after Kayeri’s 3rd goal. There was also another incident when 2 `fans` ran onto the pitch and shouted some `choice words` to Protokol, ie, Mr Cemal Aydin. In incidents such as these the TFF show no mercy, therefore all are punished for the stupidity of a few !
So, yesterday’s match was played in the Olympic Stadium in Istanbul, but there were no gold medals to be won there.
ANKARAGUCU 1 Bursaspor 1
Captain Courageous, Murat Erdogan, opened the scoring in the 2nd half and Romashenko equalised 15 minutes from the end.
A shortage of strikers and a shortage of goals is a familiar story with only Istanbul BBS and Hacettepe scoring fewer goals in the league than Ankaragucu. We have to say ….. thank God for our captain staving off defeat this week and last week.
So, Ankaragucu is still rooted in 3rd bottom position in the league, but that could be 2nd bottom today if Antalyaspor beat Sivas in Antalya !
Woe woe ………. doom and gloom !
Turkish Cup business resumes in Bursa on Wednesday evening and a last chance for the players to keep their season alive. It is fairly certain that the match will be on Lig TV KO 8pm and perhaps we can meet in The Cappadokia to watch it.
Next league match is away to Eskisehir next Sunday.
All the best from despondent Eski Kanka Jim
Thursday, November 06, 2008
THE WAY ….. `FORWARD`
Greetings Kankas and Kankies.
Most of you regular readers are well aware of my attitude to footie tactics, but for those of you who aren’t, then it is quite simple …… saldir saldir …… attack attack !
My Primary School Coach in North Berwick instilled this into us long before it was quoted by the late great Jock Stein.
Jock Stein was manager of Hibs, Celtic and The Scottish National Team and his philosophy was to build a team starting with a good goalkeeper right through to the strikers. Then he was quoted as saying ….. the only successful way to defend is to …… attack !
All well and good if you have the wherewithal to build a `dream team` which unfortunately we don’t have in Ankara. Jock Stein was fortunate in that respect and he built a team at Celtic with Scottish born players that went on to win The European Cup.
The same might be said of the present Hibs manager, Mixu Paatelainen, who in a similar situation to the Ankara teams, also has a limited budget. However, I had to `take my hat off to him` when Hibs travelled through to Glasgow to play Celtic recently and he was quoted as saying …..
“It’s one of those things where if I play a very negative game, with nine men defending and one up front, I would be criticised for being defensive. If however I am positive, and really want to take the game to our opponents, trying to win the game and putting goalscorers out there, have creative midfielders out there, I will be criticised again for only having a three-man midfield. “But this is part of the job, and one thing that will not change is I will remain being positive, I believe that playing negative football takes you nowhere – if you are positive, if you are brave and go to places like Parkhead with a positive frame of mind and have a good go then at the end of the day you win. “We always expect to do well - we have the confidence and belief that we can do well no matter where we are playing. There was much talk about our away form but I think we’ve slightly corrected that and started to produce results away from home. We want to keep that going, it’s all about your mentality and how you approach the game. Do you approach it in the same manner as you would at home? Regardless of who you are playing or where, you have to maintain concentration an focus on doing your job, every individual player needs to concentrate on their own job and collectively they will be fine.”
Not many team in Scotland have `the balls` to play away against Celtic or Rangers with THREE strikers in their line-up !
I’m encouraged that more teams are using this strategy these days in Turkey when they play away from home – Bursa, Kayseri and Sivas spring to mind.
It’s still early days for Unal Karaman of Ankaragucu, but perhaps he might come around to this way of thinking in the future when he finds a `young` midfield general and some `young` strikers to fire the bullets up front !
We Ankaragucu and Genclerbirligi fanatics always live in hope of better times to come !
All the best from Eski Kanka Jim
Most of you regular readers are well aware of my attitude to footie tactics, but for those of you who aren’t, then it is quite simple …… saldir saldir …… attack attack !
My Primary School Coach in North Berwick instilled this into us long before it was quoted by the late great Jock Stein.
Jock Stein was manager of Hibs, Celtic and The Scottish National Team and his philosophy was to build a team starting with a good goalkeeper right through to the strikers. Then he was quoted as saying ….. the only successful way to defend is to …… attack !
All well and good if you have the wherewithal to build a `dream team` which unfortunately we don’t have in Ankara. Jock Stein was fortunate in that respect and he built a team at Celtic with Scottish born players that went on to win The European Cup.
The same might be said of the present Hibs manager, Mixu Paatelainen, who in a similar situation to the Ankara teams, also has a limited budget. However, I had to `take my hat off to him` when Hibs travelled through to Glasgow to play Celtic recently and he was quoted as saying …..
“It’s one of those things where if I play a very negative game, with nine men defending and one up front, I would be criticised for being defensive. If however I am positive, and really want to take the game to our opponents, trying to win the game and putting goalscorers out there, have creative midfielders out there, I will be criticised again for only having a three-man midfield. “But this is part of the job, and one thing that will not change is I will remain being positive, I believe that playing negative football takes you nowhere – if you are positive, if you are brave and go to places like Parkhead with a positive frame of mind and have a good go then at the end of the day you win. “We always expect to do well - we have the confidence and belief that we can do well no matter where we are playing. There was much talk about our away form but I think we’ve slightly corrected that and started to produce results away from home. We want to keep that going, it’s all about your mentality and how you approach the game. Do you approach it in the same manner as you would at home? Regardless of who you are playing or where, you have to maintain concentration an focus on doing your job, every individual player needs to concentrate on their own job and collectively they will be fine.”
Not many team in Scotland have `the balls` to play away against Celtic or Rangers with THREE strikers in their line-up !
I’m encouraged that more teams are using this strategy these days in Turkey when they play away from home – Bursa, Kayseri and Sivas spring to mind.
It’s still early days for Unal Karaman of Ankaragucu, but perhaps he might come around to this way of thinking in the future when he finds a `young` midfield general and some `young` strikers to fire the bullets up front !
We Ankaragucu and Genclerbirligi fanatics always live in hope of better times to come !
All the best from Eski Kanka Jim
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Sir Eski Kanka gets attacked
A few weeks ago Little Carlo and Matthew decided that Sir Eski Kanka ought to become a Genclerbirligi fan. No wonder he showed up to the bar on Sunday wearing an Antalyaspor shirt. Thanks to Orcan for the photos.
Monday, November 03, 2008
Bakkal resigns
As we predicted yesterday Mesut Bakkal has resigned as coach of Genclerbirligi.
"Meeting today with my assistants we decided to resign," Bakkal said in a statement released this afternoon. "We believe for the club to succeed changes are necessary."
The club accepted Bakkal's resignation and are now on the look out for someone else. Anyone want to apply?
"Meeting today with my assistants we decided to resign," Bakkal said in a statement released this afternoon. "We believe for the club to succeed changes are necessary."
The club accepted Bakkal's resignation and are now on the look out for someone else. Anyone want to apply?
STALEMATE IN KOCAELI
Greetings Kankas and Kankies.
Not much I can say about the stalemate in Kocaeli. Suffice to say ...... another bloody frustrating weekend for Ankaragucu and Gencler.
Kocaeli 1 ANKARAGUCU 1
Maniac Kanka Harun, Battle Damaged Kanka Damon, Marash Kanka Hakan and I were enjoying the sun in The Chopin Bar with lottsa luvvlie Efes for company. Off went the Gencler Kankas to the Stadium and I was sure that I had put the kiss of death on Antalya by wearing my Antalyaspor Top. Wrong .............. oooops sorry kankas !!!
News came through that Ankaragucu had opened the scoring through Murat Erdogan after 10 minutes. Cheers all round and cue ............ let's open the bottle of Glenkinchie Single Malt which Battle Damaged was kind enough to bring from the Duty Free Shop. Mmmmmm yummy, although Maniac was not too sure about it !!
Oooops tilt ...... Kocaeli equalised with a penalty 3 minutes later after Moine brought down Taner. cue ..... cork the bottle and wait for the next Ankaragucu goal. Wrong ...... that was it !! However, we did open the bottle again when Kayseri scored against (better not say Sekiztrash again !!!) Besiktas !!
So, Ankaragucu remain in 3rd bottom place in the League with Antalya moving up to within just one point behind. On the upside, Ankaragucu is only 7 points behind Fener in 9th position !!
So to next Saturday, and the match against Bursa takes on added significance. Brotherly love will be maintained by the Tribunes, but I doubt if we will see any brotherly love on the pitch when the match kicks off ! Every point is vital now, and the players know it !
It will probably be a 2pm KO, and if so, we will be meeting at The Chopin Bar at midday.
All the best from Eski Kanka Jim
Not much I can say about the stalemate in Kocaeli. Suffice to say ...... another bloody frustrating weekend for Ankaragucu and Gencler.
Kocaeli 1 ANKARAGUCU 1
Maniac Kanka Harun, Battle Damaged Kanka Damon, Marash Kanka Hakan and I were enjoying the sun in The Chopin Bar with lottsa luvvlie Efes for company. Off went the Gencler Kankas to the Stadium and I was sure that I had put the kiss of death on Antalya by wearing my Antalyaspor Top. Wrong .............. oooops sorry kankas !!!
News came through that Ankaragucu had opened the scoring through Murat Erdogan after 10 minutes. Cheers all round and cue ............ let's open the bottle of Glenkinchie Single Malt which Battle Damaged was kind enough to bring from the Duty Free Shop. Mmmmmm yummy, although Maniac was not too sure about it !!
Oooops tilt ...... Kocaeli equalised with a penalty 3 minutes later after Moine brought down Taner. cue ..... cork the bottle and wait for the next Ankaragucu goal. Wrong ...... that was it !! However, we did open the bottle again when Kayseri scored against (better not say Sekiztrash again !!!) Besiktas !!
So, Ankaragucu remain in 3rd bottom place in the League with Antalya moving up to within just one point behind. On the upside, Ankaragucu is only 7 points behind Fener in 9th position !!
So to next Saturday, and the match against Bursa takes on added significance. Brotherly love will be maintained by the Tribunes, but I doubt if we will see any brotherly love on the pitch when the match kicks off ! Every point is vital now, and the players know it !
It will probably be a 2pm KO, and if so, we will be meeting at The Chopin Bar at midday.
All the best from Eski Kanka Jim
Sunday, November 02, 2008
Bloody frustrating!
Is there another word for frustrating. I'm sure there is but right now I can't be bothered to find it.
Genclerbirligi 1 - 2 Antalyaspor
The Indian summer continues and we found ourselves in the sun at the Chopin. Sir Eski Kanka being his annoying self showed up wearing an Antalyaspor shirt but beside that all was good with the world. Scouser Kanka Steve, myself and the two Alpine Kankas (Wolfgang and Chris) showed up and we were joined by Ertank Kanka and Dan the Man at the match itself.
First half. Bloody hopeless. No need to expand. Two-nil down.
Then something exploded. Gencler came out for the second half on fire. A lot of it had to do with taking Mustafa Pektemek off and bringing Kahe on... My God. The first half ended with us Gencler supporters calling on the management to resign and the second half we were on our feet.
A few minutes into the half and Hakan Aslantas on the left sent in a low cross which Aussie Bruce got a hold of and slided it in. 1-2 down but the way we were playing it was almost certain we were going to do something special.
On the 53rd Troisi sent in a pass but Burhan couldn't finish it. Two minutes later and Troisi again got a lovely pass in but Kahe's header was sent around the post.
Arrrgghhh. After that it was all rubbish and again at the end our supporters were calling for coach Mesut Bakkal to resign. As Scouser Kanka Steve said... "This is going to be a long season for you Gencler boys". What do you mean "us" Gencler boys, you are a bloody Gencler boy yourself!
As for Bakkal, the bloke is under a damn lot of pressure and I wouldn't be surprised if he resigns in the next 24 hours.
Genclerbirligi 1 - 2 Antalyaspor
The Indian summer continues and we found ourselves in the sun at the Chopin. Sir Eski Kanka being his annoying self showed up wearing an Antalyaspor shirt but beside that all was good with the world. Scouser Kanka Steve, myself and the two Alpine Kankas (Wolfgang and Chris) showed up and we were joined by Ertank Kanka and Dan the Man at the match itself.
First half. Bloody hopeless. No need to expand. Two-nil down.
Then something exploded. Gencler came out for the second half on fire. A lot of it had to do with taking Mustafa Pektemek off and bringing Kahe on... My God. The first half ended with us Gencler supporters calling on the management to resign and the second half we were on our feet.
A few minutes into the half and Hakan Aslantas on the left sent in a low cross which Aussie Bruce got a hold of and slided it in. 1-2 down but the way we were playing it was almost certain we were going to do something special.
On the 53rd Troisi sent in a pass but Burhan couldn't finish it. Two minutes later and Troisi again got a lovely pass in but Kahe's header was sent around the post.
Arrrgghhh. After that it was all rubbish and again at the end our supporters were calling for coach Mesut Bakkal to resign. As Scouser Kanka Steve said... "This is going to be a long season for you Gencler boys". What do you mean "us" Gencler boys, you are a bloody Gencler boy yourself!
As for Bakkal, the bloke is under a damn lot of pressure and I wouldn't be surprised if he resigns in the next 24 hours.
Saturday, November 01, 2008
THE TURKISH CUP - DIARY NOTE
Greetings Kankas and Kankies.
The details have been announced for the 2nd Round matches in the Group Stage for the Turkish Cup.
Wednesday - 12 November - KO 8pm
Bursaspor v ANKARAGUCU
All the other group matches that day will be played at 2pm and 4pm so there is a good chance that the Bursa v Ankaragucu match will be shown live on Digiturk Lig TV.
This is a MUST WIN match for Ankaragucu to keep their Cup aspirations alive so I guess we will be watching it in The Chopin or The Cappadokia.
Watch this space for `the plan` nearer the time.
All the best from Eski Kanka Jim
The details have been announced for the 2nd Round matches in the Group Stage for the Turkish Cup.
Wednesday - 12 November - KO 8pm
Bursaspor v ANKARAGUCU
All the other group matches that day will be played at 2pm and 4pm so there is a good chance that the Bursa v Ankaragucu match will be shown live on Digiturk Lig TV.
This is a MUST WIN match for Ankaragucu to keep their Cup aspirations alive so I guess we will be watching it in The Chopin or The Cappadokia.
Watch this space for `the plan` nearer the time.
All the best from Eski Kanka Jim
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)