Hibs 1-4 Rangers

Hibs 12 match unbeaten run came to an end at home to Rangers last Sunday to leave us trailing the Gers by 8 points in the SPL.

Despite scoring in just 12 seconds Hibs were eventually out classed even if some of the goals can be put down to poor defending rather than great outfield play. That is not to take away from the clinical finishing the Rangers forwards showed.

In an entertaining first half which both teams had set out an attacking formation, an end to end encounter gave the fans plenty to shout about. For the first 20 minutes Hibs looked like they were going to make the SPL a close affair through the turn of the year but as soon as Rangers equalised the tide started to turn.

Rangers took the lead shortly before half time thanks mainly to sloppy defending which gave Boyd the opportunity to score from close range. More slack play allowed Rangers to make it three early in the second half, this time the Hibs keeper looked at fault being beaten at his near post.

The fourth came just after the hour and really killed the game off. To be fair to Rangers (which really hurts), they played very well and left us Hibees in no doubt about how far we have to improve to become title contenders.

Hibs play St Johnstone on Wednesday, hopefully we can see the start of another long unbeaten run which should see at least the European place come Hibs way. Four days later brings the Edinburgh derby, this is a sell out and gives Hibs a chance to ease some of the pain inflicted by Rangers.

Happy Xmas

ANKARAGUCU - ROGER LEMERRE AND UMIT OZAT

Greetings Kankas and Kankies on this sunny and mild Christmas day in Ankara.

As most of you know by now, Ankaragucu has a new management/coaching team.

Some information about Roger Lemerre -

In his playing career he played for Nantes, Nancy and Lens. He also won 6 caps for the French National Team.

As a manager/coach he has been involved with Red Star, Lens, Paris FC, Strasbourg and the French National Team.

Umit Ozat has been appointed as his assistant and he is well known in recent times in Turkey. He played for Gencler, Fenerbahce and FC Koln. He also won 40 something caps for the Turkish National Team.

Pretty impressive CVs I'm sure you will agree. However, it remains to be seen if they can turn things around in the second half of the season with the players at their disposal.

Of course, sometimes miracles do happen and perhaps they will be given some dosh by Baby Gokcek to bring some 'names' in during January. Let's play the wait and see game and give them a chance to show their worth.

Their contract is only for 6 months but with options for extensions to be made after the 6 months period, ie, if Ankaragucu don't suffer the 'Big Drop' !!

As always ...... watch this space for further details.

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

ANKARAGUCU - TOP OF THE LEAGUE !!

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

The Hurriyet's headline this morning was .... 'Welcome Lemerre', but I much prefer mine. After all, when have I ever had the opportunity of writing such a headline ?!!

OK, so Ankaragucu is only top of Group B of the Turkish Cup, and only on goal difference, but please humour me while I enjoy the moment, at least until the 9th of January !

Denizli BBS 0 ANKARAGUCU 2

It was a 'Second String' starting line-up yesterday -

Serkan
El-Yasa, Ediz, Mehmet and Koray
Hurriyet, Ilhan, Ozgur and Adem
Bebbe and Murat Duruer

2nd Half substitutes used - Weeks, Broggi and Volkan

As Bellshill Kanka Nadeem and Battle Damaged Kanka Damon commented in the previous post, Bebbe scored the first on the half hour mark and Murat popped in the second near the end with 20 minutes to go.

Good to see Bebbe back in the team and it is to be hoped that new coach, Lemerre, saw enough to give him an extended run in the team alongside Vassell.

In the other Group B match last night, Galatasaray beat Trabzon 2-1. So, with Ankaragucu having a 'by' on the 9th of January and Galatasaray away to Ordu, it should mean that Galatasaray will top the Group then.

Ankaragucu's next challenge is at home to Trabzon on Thursday 14th January and that will be a MUST WIN match to put Trabzon at the bottom of the table alongside Denizli BBS and Ordu !

Are we really going to have a serious Cup run ? An emphatic .... yessssssss !!!

On behalf of webmaster Oz Kanka Chris and I, a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our readers.

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

THE TURKISH CUP - ANKARAGUCU

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

News just in ...........

Denizli BBS 0 ANKARAGUCU 2

Details of goalscorers tomorrow (but little else), so watch this space. 2-0 may sound a bit of a let-down against a 2nd division side, but let's look on the bright side ....... at least we avoided slipping on the 'banana skin match' !!!

In the other Group B match, it is Galatasaray v Trabzon tonight. Details of that match also tomorrow.

Are we going to have a good Cup Run in our Centenery Year ??

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

Hibs March On

Hibs are now clear in third place in the SPL after beating Aberdeen 2-0 on Saturday. Two goals from Anthony Stokes was the difference as Aberdeen failed to convert their greater percentage of possession.

This was an important three points as last weeks draw away to Kilmarnock allowed both halves of the old firm to streatch their advantage over Hibs.

Hibs host Rangers next Saturday at Easter Road, it is a huge match for both teams and a full attendance is certain. Rangers have hit a bit of form since loosing to Aberdeen so Hibs will have to be at their best.

Celtic allowed Rangers to open a gap of four points at the top when they lost to Hearts at Tyncastle this afternoon. Celtic were one up and cruising when Gary Caldwell gave a penalty away and collected a red card to allow Hearts an equaliser. Hearts then rode their luck in the second half before snatching all the points late on.

Hibs are now only one point behind Celtic and all us Hibees are wondering how long we can keep this going for. That is now 12 games undefeated.

Hopefully I can provide another victory post next weekend.

Merry Xmas

Gencler fail to convert

It was off to the Beer Bus Saturday night where I found a small group of Ankaragucu kankas - Sir Eski, Connect, Philly, Kaleci - as well as Gencler supporter Flying Dutchman, who were all recovering from Ankaragucu's devastating loss.

Hopes weren't that high but the beer was cold and the pub started to fill up with Gencler fans such as Spine and a whole heap of Alkaralar people for a game of two very distinctive halves.

Galatasaray 1 - 0 Genclerbirligi

First half.... crap. We could easily have been down 3-0 with our defence in tatters. Galatasarary actually had two goals disallowed. One for handball and the other for offside. The least said about the half the better. The only good thing was that it ended 0 - 0.

Second half... much better. This should have gone at least 2-0 but for some crappy shooting from Kahe and a bit of bad luck.

Kahe twice found himself unmarked with the goal in front of him but both times sent the ball wide. Orhan later had a great header which hit the post. The game was all Gencler when Galatasaray made their break in the 77th minute with Keita sending in a short cross to Kewell who merely had to tap it in, much to the annoyance of Gencler coach Thomas Doll who seemed to be dressed up like Darth Vader, or possibly a Michelin Man.

That was that. A bit depressive but we played nicely in the second half. Now for the winter break and a month of weekends in which we curl up and freeze. Happy Christmas everyone.

LENTIL 'SOUP' IS OFF THE MENU IN ANKARA !!

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

Grrrrrrr..... I was going to open with a strong adjective, but Phillie Kanka has already been there, and I'm sure Maniac Kanka will not be long in following !

I used to like a big dish of steaming hot lentil soup on a cold winter's night, but ..... no more ! Lentils are defo off the menu, as is Mr Lentil, who gifted TWO effin goals to Sivas yesterday.

Calling Santos ..... for God's sake, please mame a miraculous recovery and come back soon ........ we need you !

ANKARAGUCU 2 Sivasspor 3

I went to our new meeting place, The Beer Bus Bar, where I met up with Costacurta Kanka Caner and his two buddies Mustafa and Bugra (loyal Gecikondu boys). Then came Flying Dutchman Kanka Carlo. Off to the Stadium where we were joined by Connect Kanka Steve, Phillie Kanka Jamie, Yankee Kanka and Huso Kanka.

Only one surprise in the starting line-up with Captain Hurriyet missing (injured ?) - El-Yasa took the armband.

Senecky
El-Yasa, Ediz, Baki Lentil and Broggi
Konate, Weeks and Adem
Aydin
Vassell and Meye

2nd half substitutes used - Metin, Mehmet and Volkan

Lots of razamataz pre-kick off with hundreds (well .... at lot) of flag wavers on the peri-track and the tribunes in full voice as usual.

If we thought that relegation threatened Sivas was going to be whipping-dogs we were sadly mistaken ! They came out of their traps like greyhounds and were dominating the opening exchanges.

However, what was to come took the smiles off our faces and even the tribunes turned down the volume.

Just 12 minutes into the match and a Sivas corner comes over. Played to the back post where full back Sedat was lurking unmarked. Thank you very much he says to the Ankaragucu 'defence' and then coolly chooses his spot to blast the ball in with Senecky helpless.

As if that wasn't bad enough, two minutes later in another Sivas attack, Mr Lentil attempted a simple back pass to Senecky which was an aberration. Thank you very much says Ibrahim and in it goes with Senecky again left exposed and helpless to rectify Mr Lentil's mistake.

At this stage of the match Sivas was in total control and threatening to add another. Mutterings of discontent in the tribunes became violent with fights breaking out in Left Kapali and Maraton. Cue .... steel helmeted Police reinforcements called in to quell the fighting, especially in Kapali where the ambulance was required for an unfortunate few.

During all this nonsense, Mr Lentil was being booed every time he touched the ball !

The half time whistle came as a relief. Time to re-group and change tactics I was hoping.

Sure enough. Metin and Mehmet replaced Konte and the ineffective Meye for the start of the 2nd half and that tactic seemed to be working. Ankaragucu looked a different team and started to play footie at last and attack Sivas full-on. However, we had to wait until halfway through the 2nd half for the breakthrough.

It was a goalmouth melee from a corner which wasn't cleared by the (up to that point) effective Sivas defence, and Metin was on hand to blast the loose ball in. Was this the turning point I wondered ? Hmmmmmm ..... I wasn't convinced because Sivas was still looking dangerous when they broke out of defence.

Then came the equaliser with one minute left. Another scrappy finish with Metin getting the final touch. A fair reward after all the 2nd half Ankaragucu pressure. OK, I thought, one point is not a bad return after being 0-2 down, and to be unbiased, a fair result after a brave fight back.

Then, straight from the re-start, with everyone still celebrating Metin's equaliser, the ball was played into the Ankaragucu penalty box. Senecky ran out to clear, but either Mr Lentil is deaf (as well as dumb !) or Senecky didn't shout, so Mr Lentil decided to have a backheader which looped over Senecky and into the empty goal ! Very clever trick ...... I don't think !!!

Stunned silence !

Still, there was time for Ankaragucu to equalise in time added-on but a great effort was missed by Mehmet when the cross-bar prevented what would have been another equaliser and .... justice.

Off we trudged out of the Stadium with long faces, shaking heads and foreboding of what's in store in the 2nd half of the season !! Ankaragucu has been sucked into the relegation zone again and now have the winter break to prepare to put things right in this their Centenery Year.

What to do about the defence is what will no doubt be troubling the new coach ! Broggi continues to impress, but, I would say that even the performances of El-Yasa and Ediz were not up to scratch yesterday. The less said about Mr Lentil the better - I'm sure there will be lots of comments flooding in on this 'gentleman's' performance !!!

In the meatime, there is a trip to Denizli to negotiate on Wednesday when Denizli BBS play host in the first group match of the Turkish Cup.

Hopefully I will have some good news to report on Thursday.

All the best from an almost despairing Eski Kanka Jim

No happy Christmas for Ankaragucu

Just to allow you lot a space to scream obscenities before Eski Kanka sobers up and posts a report.

Ankaragucu 2 - 3 Sivasspor

And in other news, Ankaragucu have apparently come to an agreement for the Frenchman Roger Lemerre to take over as coach. He was also seen at the match taking copious notes.

Full report later.

PS: If you are a Mr. Lentil fan you had better not check out the comments that will be coming in soon.

Compulsory beauty

French Kanka Hande sent me an e-mail last night which I feel I must share with you all.

"I think he should be training instead of giving teammates a hair cut and talking crap about women..." the militant feminist wrote concerning a story run by the semi-official Anatolia news agency on Genclerbirligi midfielder Kerem Savaş opening a beauty salon.

In the Anatolia piece that French Kanka probably found whilst googling "top class hairdressers in Ankara", Kerem said it was his first investment since starting football and that he did so in order to further the cause of women's rights. Asked by a top hack "why a salon?", Kerem replied:

"Because it is compulsory that women at all times must look beautiful they choose these type of salons," Savaş said.

What a kind fellow.

And here is Kahe, hopefully just half-way through a haircut.



For those Kanka women out there who are finding it difficult to look beautiful at all times, you can find Kerem's place in Cayyolu - Trio Bay, Bayan Kuaför ve Güzellik Salonu.

Sıhhatler olsun.

Genclerbirligi-Ankaragucu rivalry

I just found a very weird clip from a Fox TV (Turkey) soap called Deniz Yıdızı. To see the clip, click on the link and scroll down past the comments and click on the youtube type thingy.

Cringe worthy... but brilliant.

Click here

ANKARA AWAITS THE VIP VISIT OF KIRKCALDY KANKA

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

In answer to Kirkaldy Kanka Martyn's comments in the post 'He's Back', I am giving Ankaragucu's home fixtures for the 2nd half of the season for his forward planning. Of course, they may be subject to change, and if so, I will give details here if necessary.

23/24 January - Ankaragucu v Diyabakir
6/7 February - Ankaragucu v Bursa
20/21 February - Ankaragucu v Antalya
27/28 February - Gencler v Ankaragucu
6/7 March - Ankaragucu v Gaziantep
20/21 March - Ankaragucu v Kayseri
2/3/4 April - Ankaragucu v Besiktas
17/18 April - Ankaragucu v Eskisehir
30/1/2 May - Ankaragucu v Trabzon
7/8/9 May - Ankaragucu v Fenerbahce

We await details of your visit dates Kirkcaldy Kanka, and can assure you, Kirkcaldy Kankie Sinead and your two Ankaragucu Kanka Boys a VIP welcome !!

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

CHANGE OF KANKAS MEETING VENUE

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

As I mentioned in my previous match post, the time has come to change our meeting venue.

It has become quite clear recently that the Head Waiter of The Chopin Bar, Ali Bey, (a cantankerous bassa at the best of times !) doesn't want us in his establishment when Ankaragucu or Gencler are playing any of the Istanbul teams. However, he is quite happy to take our hard earned money on other occasions (maybe he has some Jewish blood in his veins - with apologies to Battle Damaged Kanka and Connect Kanka ho ho ho !!).

Last Saturday night was the defining moment as far as I was concerned, when if it hadn't been for Ismail (the waiter, and a very nice guy) shepherding me to a table I would have left the premises in view of Ali Bey's comments that he didn't want any Ankaragucu supporters in his pub.

Therefore, having discussed this with Oz Kanka Chris, we have decided to move next door to The Beer Bus Bar which is a regular haunt for Gencler fans and where we will be made more welcome than the Chopin.

To answer Phillie Kanka's question, the prospect of moving back to Genclik Park is a dead duck. There is only one 'restaurant' open (Pinar), and quite frankly, it looks more like an 'effin transport cafe' than a place which we could use.

Looking forward to this weekend's match against Sivas, we will meet in The Beer Bus Bar on Saturday from 1.30pm, and go to the Stadium at 2.45pm for the 4pm KO. Remember, this is the last league match before the winter break, so the Stadium will probably be full.

We will then return to The Beer Bus Bar after the match to watch Gencler stuff CimBom in Istanbul KO 8pm. btw, perhaps Gencler were pacing themselves at the Antep match for this one ??!!

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

Cold and distracted as Gencler draw with Antep

In the end a draw was probably the right result. just annoying that Gencler failed to score a winner. Off the field, there was a bit of excitement when someone in the stands unfurled a MHP banner. The silly boy was promptly beaten up by the Gencler fans and had to be rescued by the security guards.

Genclerbirligi 1 - 1 Gaziantepspor

The weather didn't seem so bad when I left home but by the time Justin Paul and myself joined Ambo Kanka Peter and his son Patrick it had changed big time. It was bloody cold. The rain was coming down to annoy the players but for us under the stadium roof it was a biting wind that it was taken me some six hours to thaw out my fingers in order to write this report.

The pitch was crap and very waterlogged in places but Gencler started very nicely indeed. We were making good moves done the flanks and were creating chances, one of which was converted in the 18th minute when Burhan sent a ball in to Sandro who somehow managed to get it past the keeper. I'm not exactly sure what happened but will hopefully have a youtube clip up soon.

The rest of the first half Gencler seemed to be attempting to find another goal but didn't really look as if they were in top form.

The second half though saw us have a number of chances but none which would be put away. Kahe seemed as if Aylin is back as the Gencler dietician. In fact Ambo Kanka made the point after the match that at times Gencler seem to be the slowest team in Turkey. I'd have to agree, we do some good stuff in midfield but so often we slow it down as if to allow the opposition defenders to get back.

It wasn't just that though, our pssing today was pretty woeful as well. Although I guess some of the blame for that can be attributed to the waterlogged pitch.

It was about half-way through the second half when Antep got the equaliser. No one to blame really. Well, at least I don't think so. As I said before, I'll put up a video as soon as one becomes available. In the meantime I'm off to soak my toes in some warm water in an attempt to get some feeling back into them.

DISHONEST OR INEFFICIENT

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

Only Messrs Ozkahya, Narinc and Kan know the real answer ! The kankas watching the match know it is the former !! Was Ankaragucu's '3rd goal' over the line when it was cleared ? Everyone, except the referee and his assistant 'linesman' could see it was ! All I can say is ..... may they burn in Hell !!!

Fenerbahce 3 ANKARAGUCU 2

The kankas met up in The Chopin Bar. I was first in and didn't receive the normal warm welcome. Apparently the manager didn't want any Ankaragucu supporters in the pub, but Fener supporters were made welcome ! However, one of the waiter's found me a table 'in the corner'. This after being regulars for about 4 years ! Time to review our loyalties me thinks, but more of that in another post next week.

I was joined by Oz Kanka, Maniac Kanka and his buddy Nurer, Connect Kanka and his beautiful lady Ayisha, Venezuela Kanka Rom and Celtic Kanka Joe.

The match was played to an empty stadium as a punishment to Fener's fans behaviour during the Kasimpasa match a couple of weeks ago.

Ankaragucu's starting line up was -

Senecky
El-Yasa, Brabec, Baki Lentil and Broggi
Hurriyet, Adem, Cihan
Metin and Aydin
Vassell

2nd half substitues used were Meye, Konate and Volkan

Fener dominated the opening exchanges but the Ankaragucu defence, Senecky in particular, held firm, and after the initial flurry had subsided, Ankaragucu started to come more into the match.

However, I wasn't too happy that Vassell was being asked to plough a lone furrow up front with support coming from Aydin, Metin, Cihan and Hurriyet from the midfield.

The first goal arrived on the half hour mark and surprise surprise ..... it was from a defensive blunder. Mr Lentil and Brabec got themselves into a tangle going for the same ball and the breakaway was on with Alex slotting it in with Senecky left exposed and helpless.

Ankaragucu to their credit got stuck in and were chasing every ball - sometimes shadows ! It was all end to end stuff now, and to be honest, Fener was looking like adding another.

Then, just before the half time whistle a truly fantastic goal fashioned by Metin and Vassell. A breakaway attack, a through ball from Aydin to Metin. Without hesitating, he backheeled the ball into the path of Vassell and .... whooosh ..... goal ! Defo a candidate for goal of the season.

Into the 2nd half then and what a start. In Ankaragucu's first attack, Vassell this time turned provider with a cut back on the left for Aydin to sidefoot it in.

Fener were wobbling for a few minutes but Ankaragucu couldn't find the killer touch to put the match out of their reach. Half way through the 2nd half that man Alex again pounced to score the equaliser. I was thinking at this stage ....well, I suppose on the balance of play it was a fair result.

But ..... that irritating bassa Guiza pops up near the end to score the winner (I thought it looked offside but I can't be 100% certain). Grrrrrrrr !!!

In the closing minutes, Meye had two shots on goal which on any other day would have gone in. One rebounded off the bar and the other went just past the post.

Then came the '3rd goal' incident. No doubt Ankaragucu was robbed of a share of the spoils. As I said earlier, it was defo over the line when the ball was hoofed clear. Now we can understand how the Irish players felt when Henry scored 'that goal' !!

So, a very good performance from Ankaragucu with Senecky taking the Man of the Match award from me. More performances like this will see Ankaragucu winning, as long as they don't have to play against 14 !!!

Next weekend Ankaragucu will be at home to Sivas in the last match before the winter shut-down. This becomes a MUST WIN match if ever there was one !

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

HE'S BACK !!

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

Who's back ?

Our long lost kanka, Apple Kanka Erman, now to be re-named Avea Kanka !

However, it was not a job change that forced his temporary absence from the ranks of the kanka group, but his little 'bundle of joy' Ece Duru (sometime referred to as Cemile by Eski !!).

To view the latest photos of Cemile Kankie (the youngest Ankaragucu Kankie on the planet) please visit her blog at ........

http://eceduruyuksel.blogspot.com/

Is she beautiful, or ....... is she beautiful ??

Look forward to seeing Avea Kanka Erman soon - perhaps on Saturday night ?

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

Gencler grab the three points

Pretty miserable weather in Ankara but all up not a bad game of football.

Genclerbirligi 2 - 0 Denizlispor

I was enjoying my pre-midday beer when Aussie Ambo Kanka Peter and his son Patrick showed up at the Chopin, soon to be joined by Spine. But that was it. Where was everyone else? No idea. But it was their loss as Gencler won a hard fought match.

The first half was quite a bit of fun, with Gencler probably the better team but with the best chance of the half falling to Denizli who had our defenders at sixes and sevens but could only manage to hit the side bar. Phew.

Second half and Denizli stepped up their attacks and we were lucky to keep them out.

Finally Mustafa Pektemek had a shot and GOOOOOOOOAAAALLLL.

It was pretty much Gencler for the rest of the match but it was Bilal who won our hearts with a great run from about the half-way line, he jigged in and then sent the ball over the Denizli keeper's head. Lovely stuff.

That's it. 2-0 and I was a happy boy.

PS: The reason that this report is rather short is because afterwards I went back to the Chopin Bar to watch the Trabzon-Ankaragucu match.

PPS: I'll put the youtube videos of the goals up as soon as I see them. Don't forget to check out the second one from Bilal, a real beauty.

ANKARAGUCU - PISSING INTO A BLACK SEA STORM

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

Tonight will not go down in history as one of Ankaragucu's memorable performances !!

Trabzonspor 3 ANKARAGUCU 0

Ankaragucu was blown away (especially in the 2nd half) by a Black Sea Storm bordering on Hurricane strength.

If you only want to read positive reports on this blog about Ankaragucu then do NOT come back in and read the full report tomorrow.

For what it's worth, I now understand why Trabzonspor are called 'The Black Sea Storm' !!

All the best from 'Blown Away' Eski Kanka Jim


MONDAY 7 DECEMBER 2009

The Three Muskateers (Oz Kanka, Spine and Eski) met up in The Chopin Bar to see if Ankaragucu could string a couple of wins together. Mmmmmmm ...... reminder ..... I must visit my Chemist this week and get another supply of optimism pills !!

Oz and Spine had just returned from the Stadium having watched Gencler stay on the winning track with two late goals.

Ankaragucu started with the same line-up as last week, ie,

Senecky
El-Yasa, Ediz, Mr Lentil, Broggi
Hurriyet, Adem, Mehmet, Aydin
Vassell and Meye

2nd half substitutes used - Weeks, Emre and Ilhan

As expected, Trabzon came out with all guns blazing and for the first 10 minutes it was panic-stations in the Ankaragucu defence with the ball being hoofed anywhere to safety.

However, just as I was thinking that the storm had been weathered, the worst scenario happened.

Last week's hero, Mr Lentil, became this weeks's villain. Attempting to make a routine clearance he gave the ball away with a weak header (unusual for him). It was gratefully accepted and played out to Serkan on the right who took the ball almost to the corner flag and made a perfect cross into the box. 'Olde Boy', Umut Bulut, came powering in between Ediz and Mr Lentil to head the ball into the opposite corner of the goal with Senecky having no chance to save Mr Lentil's blushes.

Was this to be the beginning of the storm ? No, not yet !

All credit to Ankaragucu, they got their act together and started to press forward and create some chances. Similar to last week, Meye was caught offside a few times, but on his only serious shot on goal, Onur, in goal, pulled off a great save.

Vassell was trying to make some headway, but was running into a resolute defence.

No futher scoring and I was hoping that new coach, Nazmi Bey, would wave his magic wand during the half time team talk and send his charges out to turn the match around. Wrong ! It was the other new coach, Senol Gunes, who's magic wand was working !

The Black Sea Storm was in full force now and it hit Ankaragucu time and again in the 2nd half when Trabzon were rampant. Ankaragucu were chasing shadows for most, if not all, of the 2nd half.

Actually, I couldn't quite decide if Trabzon stepped up a gear or if Ankaragucu just lost the plot or if Ankaragucu were just blown away by the storm. Suffice to say that Ankaragucu's 2nd half performance was ..... to use a polite word .... pathetic !

2nd half goals were scored by Gabric on 63 minutes (a screamer which left Senecky clawing thin air) and Colman near the end. The least said the better !

The only Ankaragucu player who takes any credit for their performance yesterday was Senecky. Even though he conceded 3 goals, it could easily have been more but for some of his reflex saves.

New coach, Nazmi Bey, now has a monumental task on his hands to build some confidence back into the team for next week's visit to Kadikoy, and .... to adopt a 90 minutes plan of action that might emulate the performances of Kasimpasa and Eskisehirspor in recent weeks !!!

We will be watching the Ankaragucu v Fener match in The Chopin next Saturday night KO 8pm. Come early and reserve your seat !

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

PS ..... Fatih Tekke was at the match. I wonder which team he was supporting ??!!

We interrogate Gencler coach Thomas Doll

From left to right: Zakumi, Oz Kanka, Thomas Doll, Ralf Zumdick and Lanky Kanka Jorg.

Last night I managed to corner Genclerbirligi coach Thomas Doll between a wall and the mascot of the World Cup to be held in South Africa. It was the sort of knock 'em down drag 'em out interview that only "The round ball in Ankara" can be subjected to. I'm sure it was supposed to be the other way around.

Oz Kanka: I wrote these questions a couple of weeks ago on the anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. Where were you and how did you feel?

Doll: I was in Leipzig, in preparation for a World Cup game against Austria.

Oz Kanka: And how did you feel when the wall fell?

Doll: At first I couldn't believe what happened. I called my family and I was very, very happy at what happened.

Oz Kanka: You later played for the united German team, were there any problems between the west and east German players in the team.

Doll: (not quite understanding the question but nonetheless offering an interesting insight) The difference the both leagues were that the Bundesliga was much more public. The system was that in the Bundesliga it was much more quicker, on much more a higher level.

Oz Kanka: Fast forward to six months ago when you became Genclerbirligi's coach. Weren't you scared because Gencler had gone through so many coaches over the last few years.

Doll: We spoke together (with Doll's assistant coach and obvious good mate Ralf Zumdick) for this situation because it is not normal for there to be so many trainers. It is not an easy job. It is a challenge.

Oz Kanka: How different is it to train a team here in Turkey as compared to Germany.

Doll: We make the same training here in Turkey as we did in Germany. Now the boys have adapted very good. I think they have made a step forward. I think there is still a difference between the the German Bundesliga and the Super Lig but this is a challenge for us.

Oz Kanka: And where do you want to see Genclerbirligi at the end of the season?

Doll: This is the first season for us and last year Gencler were lucky to stay in the Super Lig. We are happy now that the boys are confident with us and we are in a safe place at the moment.

Oz Kanka: In the next couple of weeks we will be into the transfer season. Have the management given you money for more players?

Doll: We are in discussions now ... but there are lots of players who are under contract. We can't send away players who are under contract . So we have to look at getting some new players... but it is not easy.

Oz Kanka: Now for the serious questions.... Cheese, or chocolate?

Doll: (without hesitation) Chocolate.

Oz Kanka: What is your favourite drink?

Doll: Apple juice with water.

Oz Kanka: Apple juice with water?

Doll: You mean drink at a bar?

Oz Kanka: Obviously.

Doll: Ah, red wine.

Oz Kanka: Your favourite footballer?

Doll: Ahh.. Messi

Oz Kanka: Finally, Heidi Klum or Claudia Schiffer?

Doll: None of them.

Oz Kanka: Are you a man?

A slight discussion in German between Ralf and Thomas then ensues and then Thomas goes for the host of tonight's World Cup draw

Doll: Charlize Theron.

Oz Kanka: Thank you very much Mr. Doll and the very best of luck on Sunday against Denizlispor.

Doll: Thank you. And who are you?

Breaking news: Reaction to World Cup draw

It was just a few balls drawn out of some punch bowls but we at "The round ball in Ankara" took tonight's World Cup draw very seriously. At the German Embassy tonight after a few wiessbiers it was all friendly banter between the Aussies and the Germans but my, oh my... are they cocky.

Oz Kanka to German Ambassador Eckart Cuntz : Ambassador, what do you think of the draw and are you scared you are going to play Australia.

Kuntz: I'm not at all scared.

Oz Kanka: Your not!

Kuntz: Because Germany is the best. But Australia can be happy to be with Germany. This is the top group.

It's not just the German ambassador who was happy to get Australia in the draw. I also spoke to Genclerbirligi coach Thomas Doll (the full interview will be published tomorrow).

Oz Kanka: What do you think of the draw? Is it good for Germany?

Doll: Yes, I think we have a good draw. Serbia and Ghana I think ... ah Australia is not a favourite in the group. I think it is clear Germany will pass the group.

Oz Kanka: Do you realise that I'm from Australia?

Doll: It is quite difficult that Australia will pass from this group.

Ralf Zumdick (Gencler assistant coach): He is quite honest.

So that's it then. The Germans have already written us off. I can't wait until the kick-off.

A very big thank you to Lanky Kanka Jorg for inviting us to the German Embassy tonight. The full interview with Thomas Doll will be published tomorrow.

The reason Genclerbirligi are doing better this season

It isn't a classic season for Genclerbirligi but we are doing a hell of a lot better than last year. One of the main reasons for this is thanks to our Brazilian striker Kahe who is scoring at the rate of one every two matches. Last season he wasn't able to hit a barn door.

The reason for his amazing turn around appears to have been the brilliant decision at the end of last season to sack the club's dietitian as we reported here.

As you can see in the image below that was supplied by to The round ball in Ankara by someone who preferred to remain anonymous, five months after Aylin was sacked an unsourced story on sporyolu claims it was Aylin's policy of feeding Kahe purely on Big Macs and steroids that was the reason for him being overweight. This year and on the Atkin's diet Kahe has lost 10 kilogrammes and is now at his perfect match weight.*



Unfortunately the story doesn't explain how the sacking of cleaners and waiters at the end of last season has improved the club. No doubt we will learn that sometime soon.

* I may have slightly mistranslated the article slightly, so please don't sue.

Hibs 2-0 Falkirk

After two draws against Hearts and St Mirren Hibs got back on winning ways against Falkirk with a goal in each half.

This victory brings Hibs unbeaten run to nine games.

The second goal came with only a few minutes left after a rather nervy second half which Falkirk had made a spirited fight.

Hibs did not really get going in this match and can thank Derek Riordan for being the main difference between the teams. He scored his first with the help of a deflection off the defenders shin but his second gave the goalkeeper no chace after Wotherspoon had delivered a tremendous cross which left the keeper stranded.

This win puts Hibs level on points with Rangers in second place two points behind Celtic. Us Hibs fans are in danger of getting vertigo being this high up the league, hopefully it will continue for a while yet.

Hibbie Kanka

ANKARAGUCU - BETTER LATE THAN NEVER !

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

As Oz Kanka reported in the previous post ........

ANKARAGUCU 1 Denizlispor 0

Having laid siege to the Denizli goal for most of the 2nd half it took until the last few minutes of the match to make the break through.

Our giant defender, Mercimek, (built like a brick shit house) came up for a free kick and rose above everyone in the crowded penalty box to power it in, much to the relief of an almost full house.

More details tomorrow afternoon (had a late night at The Knight and Flight after the match !!).

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim


MONDAY 30 NOVEMBER

Greetings Again Kankas and Kankies.

The 'fantastic four' (Kaleci Kanka Tansu, Yankee Kanka, Huso Kanka and Eski) met up in the Chopin on a cloudy Ankara autumn day with rain threatening. Later the clouds didn't disappoint us and the rain poured out of them !

Because of the local Kurban Bayram holiday the streets were unusually quiet and I was the only customer in the Chopin until the others arrived.

However, when we arrived at the Stadium it was just like deja vu, ie, teaming with Ankaragucu punters ! The Stadium was almost full and the 5 tribunes were in full voice in expectation of a vicoreeee. btw, as I've said many times, being an optimist is a pre-requisite for supporting Ankaragucu !!

New Captain, Hurriyet, led the team out -

Senecky
El-Yasa, Ediz, Baki Mercimek and Broggi
Hurriyet, Adem Koc, Mehmet Cakir and Aydin
Vassell and Meye

2nd half substitutes used were Konate (who showed some great touches when he came on), Emre and Barbaros.

The first half was a bore, and with Ankaragucu attacking the Gecikondu End we expected more.

Mehmet Cakir had a good oppotunity but he shot over. Aydin, attacking from the left midfield position also had a couple of chances but he tried to do too much on his own when an early ball into the centre was the best option. However, having said that, he had a good match and could well have cemented his place in the team.

The 2nd half was a different story with Ankaragucu on all out attack and Denizli restricted to sporadic breakaways. However, the Ankaragucu defence was solid, and with Senecky also looking and playing confidently, there was never any danger of Denizli causing an upset.

I lost count of the number of corners which Ankaragucu forced, and as the clock showed 10 minutes to go we were beginning to despair. But, I remember telling Kaleci Kanka that a goal was inevitable (there's that optimism again !!).

Then with 5 minutes to go from a free kick on the left, expertly taken by Broggi, the ball was floated into the crowded penalty area and Baki the Giant rose above everyone to fire in a bullet of a header. Goaaaaaaal and relief and celebrations all round !!

A great 2nd half team performance. However, on the downside it has to be said that Vassell and Meye both had quiet matches and rarely threatened. Most of the goal attempts came from Broggi, El-Yasa and midfield, and of course, the goal scorer Baki. OK, evey player has an off-day but we will need more penetration up front from our 2 strikers next weekend in Trabzon.

Final whistle and cue for all the players to do an Ankara Misket Dance in the centre circle. Fantastic !

So, the MUST WIN match was won and thank God for that !

Back to The Knight and Flight for Kaleci and Eski to have lottsa celebrations drinkies !

Looking forward to next week then and Ankaragucu travel to Trabzon. As far as I'm aware at the moment, this match will take place on Sunday KO 4pm. So, we will probably watch it in The Chopin. See you all there.

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

Antalyaspor v Genclerbirligi

Afternoon all and bad news already.

1:43 pm: A bit late I'm afraid as my son has been playing PES 2010 on the computer and I've had to kick him off so I can report on the report from the radio. Anyway, the match kicked-off at 1:30 pm and just four minutes in saw Mile Jedinak score for Antalyaspor. Does make you wonder why we loaned the fellow to Antalya at the beginning of the season. According to the radio it has been all Antalya. A long afternoon ahead of me? Antalyaspor 1 - 0 Genclerbirligi

1:54 pm: As usual, TRT radio don't have a dedicated feed of the match and so I'm currently listening to coverage of some lower division match. I did manage to get a team list though: Serdar-Ilhan-Ivan-Aykut-Orhan-Cem Can-Hurşut-Kerem-Burhan-Kahe-Sando.

1:56 pm: Lack of coverage gives me the chance to explain the latest regarding Hurşit. It seems that when he was playing back in Belgium (or somewhere) the coach decided his name was not appropriate, for obvious reasons, and he now wants to be known as Hurşut. At least that is what I sort of understood from a quick read of a Gencler forum report.

2:00 pm: Still not a single chance for Gencler, half an hour in... what has happened?

2:05 pm: Gencler have a go! Kahe shoots, off the post and then Burhan sends it just out. 36 minutes in and it was our first proper chance.

2:15 pm: Just on half-time and Jedinak scores again.
Antalyaspor 2 - 0 Genclerbirligi

2:33 pm: Second-half starts and Mustafa Pektemek and Harbuzi are brought on for Gencler. Sandro and Kerem off. I think it may all be a lost cause though.

2:35 pm: Hello to whoever is commenting below. Unfortunately the match isn't on the telly. I'm listening to the radio.

2:44 pm: Seems as if Antalya have just missed a very good chance. Not much to report as the radio is concentrating on every game but this one. Meanwhile half-time in Ankara. Ankaragucu 0 - 0 Denizlispor. Sounds like a big and very loud Ankaragucu crowd.

2:56 pm: The commentator has just said that Genclerbirligi's biggest problem seems to be an inability to concentrate. It's not that difficult is it? Aussie Bruce has been brought on.

2:59 pm Still not much to report. And to our friend commenting below the line - I'll put up a youtube video of the goals once someone or other posts them. Normally it takes a day before that happens. Just remember to come back some time tomorrow.

3:13 pm: Another missed chance for Gencler. Aussie Bruce this time hits the post. Commentator says the match has lost all purpose. Little Oz Kanka is badgering me to get off the computer as he wants to get back to playing Pro-Evolution Soccer. Gencler are certainly doing better in the PES league with Little Oz Kanka just registering a 6-0 win over Fenerbahce.

3:20 pm: Peep, peep, peep and an end to my misery. Bye all and good luck to Ankaragucu who are still drawing 0-0 with Denizli.

Final Score
Antalyaspor 2 - 0 Genclerbirligi

And full time at the 19 Mayis.

Ankaragucu 1 - 0 Denizlispor
Report from Sir Eski later on.

Monday
Here is the youtube highlights clip

ANKARAGUCU - TROND SOLLIED AND HIS STRANGE MANOEUVRING ANTICS !

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

What the bloody hell is Trond Sollied on about ?!

From The Hurriyet newspaper this morning it is still unclear if he will coach Ankaragucu or not.

He's quoted as saing that he doesn't want his career reputation tarnished if Ankaragucu lose their next four matches, ie, up until the winter break.

Naturally 'Baby' Gokcek is unhappy with this and is blaming Sollied for breaking a promise to join the Club.

Not a good start for Mr Sollied me thinks, and it will not go down well with the supporters. I say to him ..... put up or shut up !

More on this as developments unfold, but I would guess that Ankaragucu will be looking for a new coach again fairly soon.

Another bloody mess !

Other news ..... good and bad ........

Ceyhun has left the Club and Hurriyet will assume the captaincy tomorrow.

Vassell is staying. Sighs of relief all round ??!!

A good win tomorrow against Denizli will show Mr Sollied a thing or two me thinks !!

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

Will a football match in Turkey become an event you can take the whole family to?

After reading the comments following Eski's post on our match with Eskişehir, I thought it would be appropriate to post the link to an article I read this morning in the Hürriyet Daily News. The title in the paper this morning was Federation will act tough on thugs while the title on the online version is Football federation moves to curb violence. Give it a read and see what you think.

http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/n.php?n=1124152213863-2009-11-24

Gencler goes into sixth

As I was in Eskisehir this weekend I can't say much about Genclerbirligi's 3-1 win over Istanbul BBS. But I can post a youtube goals clip. Hopefully someone who was actually at the match will be able to fill in the blanks sometime soon.

ESKI GOES TO ESKI WITH THE KANKAS

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

Eskisehirspor 0 ANKARAGUCU 0

It was off to Eski's home city yesterday when the kankas went to Eski City on the High Speed Train. Thanks for arranging the train tickets go to Battle Damaged Kanka and for the Match tickets to Onur in Eski City (Roger's brother-in-law).

In attendance was Battle Damaged Kanka Damon, Kaleci Kanka Tansu, Connect Kanka Steve, Philly Kanka Jamie, TaffyBach Kanka Richy and yours truly.

We left at 9am and arrived in Eski City at 10.30 after a smooth and comfortable train journey. We met up with Oz Kanka Chris and Eskisehir Kanka Roger for some pre-match refreshments after a walk around this very impressive city and a walk along the river side.


The Stadium is a bit spartan with only one side covered, and needless to say, the away end was like a pig-sty. It had wooden walkways and about 1,000 plastic seats resting on metal struts. Well, there WAS about 1,000 when we arrived, but only about 700 when we left the Stadium after the match !! Those 300 'missing' plastic seats had been trashed and destroyed during the course of the match by the Ankaragucu Gecikondu and Anti-X Boys. Photos of that, courtesay of Connect Kanka, coming soon !

In the pre-match build-up in the Stadium, I was thinking it was going to be another Battle of Kayseri when the Gecikondu Boys started to chant obsenities to the Eskisehir Tribunes and vice versa. Then came the plastic seats being ripped-up and thrown down to the peritrack. Scary moments, especially when a large brick came flying over the 'protective fence' and landed not far from us, which fortunately didn't hit anyone.

The match was underway by this time and I must confess to having only one eye on the match and the other watching for the shadows of any missiles heading towards us !


The team -

Senecky
El-Yasa, Abdullah, Broggi, Brabec
Hurriyet, Mehmet Cakir, Aydin, Adem
Vassell and Meye

You will be forgiven if the think that is the Ankaraspor team !!!

Well, to be honest, it didn't really matter too much about the nonsence going on all around us because the footie was abysmal to say the least. The was little or no cohesion in Ankaragucu's footie and the same could be said for Eskisehir. At least Eskisehir was creating the more dangerous moves in the first half and Senecky saved us on several occasions - a big improvement on his performance from the Kasimpasa match 2 weeks ago !

Ankaragucu made no impact on the Eskisehir goal in the first half and giant goalkeeper Ivesa had practically nothing to do except eat-up all the speculative high balls being pumped into his vicinity.

Half time came as a relief and still more oral hatred was being vented back and forward between the tribunes. One of the main reason for this was no doubt connected to the almost fatal stabbing of two Ankaragucu supporters in the city prior to kick-off which Oz Kanka mentioned in his brief report. More of that when details emerge.

The 2nd half was a different story with Ankaragucu taking the initiative and playing the ball around a bit more. However, Vassell was not having an easy time of it out on the right wing - admittedly, not his preferred position. But, Meye was starting to look more dangerous and he almost opened the scoring with a screamer which Ivesa tipped over.

Again, Meye was put through but he sent a lame shot at Ivesa when the cool-head would have taken the obvious route to the corner of the goal. Other chances came and went for Ankaragucu but Man of the Match, Ivesa, kept a clean sheet.

There were two red cards. Doga of Eskisehir had the first one half way through the 2nd half - I must admit to missing that one with all the problems and bedlam going on around us. Brabec received the other 10 minutes from the end for a 'fair' challenge, in my opinion.

The referee, Cuneyt Cakir, couldn't hide the fact (from me anyway) that he had forgotten about the 1st half yellow he gave Brabec. There was a delay in pulling out the red card after the 2nd yellow. In my opinion he had obviously forgotten about the earlier yellow and had no other option but to follow through with his TWO mistakes by giving him a red. Rough justice, but of course, he will never admit it !!



Back to the City Centre one hour later to join up with Oz and Roger. We were 'detained' by the Police for our own safety !!!

However, apart from only winning one point, it was a really enjoyable visit to a great city. The riverside walkways with its many cafes, restaurants and pubs would put many other Yooro cities to shame. Shall we go again next year ? Mmmmmm, I suppose it will depend on how deeply the animosity develops after yesterday's stabbings.

If I was an Eskisehir supporter, I would NOT come to Ankara in the 2nd half of the season !!!

Next up is the home match against 2nd bottome Club Denizlispor next Sunday KO 2pm.

Most of the kankas will be out of town next weekend during the Kurban Bayram holiday so I may well be there on my own. I'll be in The Chopin at midday if anyone can make it.

Photos coming up - taken by Connect Kanka Steve and posted by Oz Kanka Chris.

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

The weekend action

Just a short note from Eskisehir where Ankaragucu played out a boring 0-0 draw in a match that was marred by some stabbings before the game. Back in the capital Genclerbirligi defeated Istanbul BBS 3-1. Reports from Flying Dutchman Kanka and Sir Eski will be coming soon.

THE TURKISH CUP - GROUP STAGE

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

The draw has been made for the Group Stage of the Turkish Cup. Ankaragucu's Group is as follows -

Trabzonspor
Galatasaray
ANKARAGUCU
Orduspor
Denizli BBS

Yes, a tough group, but aren't they all at this stage ? Notwithstanding the turmoil within the Club at the moment, I would say that we have nothing to fear. No doubt Battle Damaged is thinking .......... but, Eski would say that wouldn't he ???!!!

So, diaries out ....... and these are the important dates in the Group Stage, but as there are 5 teams in the group I don't know which date is the Ankaragucu (rest or by match). I'll make a post when the details are known.

23 December - Denizli BBS v ANKARAGUCU
10 January
13 January
17 January
27 January

The Quarter Finals will be played home and away on 3 and 10 February.

The Semi Finals will be played home and away on 24 March and 14 April.

The Final will be played on 5 May.

Hope the Final is in Izmir so that we can all go and see Ankaragucu win the Cup in their Centenery Year and then celebrate in Kibris Sokak after the match !!!

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

Vassell's Turkish Nightmare

According to News of the World, Darius Vassell is looking for an escape route out of Ankara and Turkey. That escape route may very well lead to Bolton. For more on the story, here is the link.

http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/football/exposed/598165/VASSSELL-EYES-BOLTON-ESCAPE-ROUTE.html

Are Bebbe, Serkan, and Ceyhun also looking for a way out? Is Ankaragucu becoming less Ankaragucu and more Ankaraspor with each passing day? At what point does the team stop being the team?

Ankaragucu’s Logo Wars

The current Ankaragucu emblem: depending on how you look at it, it can represent either a shield or a projectile. This signifies an impregnable defense and an armor piercing offense. Don't forget what the team's origins are: http://www.mkek.gov.tr/

According to former Ankaragucu chairman and current member of the board of directors Serdar Ozersin (as quoted in Haber Turk, Hurriyet, Fanatik and a number of other sources), Ahmet Gökcek and his regime are planning to change the Ankaragucu logo.

The former chairman said, "There have even been a variety of meetings held on this topic. Such a thing is not even open to discussion. As long as there are Ankaragucu fans, no one has enough power to change either the team's name or its logo. No power in Ankara would dare change Ankaragucu's name or logo."

Sound familiar?

Can you think of any power in Ankara who has tried to change an important traditional symbol in Ankara? Need a hint?

Pretty clear Ahmet is not a terribly original thinker.

Note: photos nicked from the newspaper Radikal

Now Karaman has been kicked out

You would be crying, if you weren't laughing. Actually, it is probably the other way around.

What the hell is happening at Ankaragucu? In the last two days we have had the coach and players showing up to training sessions that were apparently cancelled by the management. We have had Bebbe and Vassell kicked out of their hotel rooms at the Crowne Plaza after the club reportedly failed to pay. Now we have reports that Karaman has been sacked.

Actually, it is a bit more than that... Karaman has been sacked by Little Gokcek.

Speaking to the press this afternoon, Little Gokcek says he is after Hagi. A man who has done nothing.

Bloody sad stuff but all predicted here by at least some of us at "The round ball in Ankara". Mess with them Gokcek's at your own peril. This isn't about politics, it is about competence.

In the meantime though. Enjoy the fun and games of Darius Vassell's website. http://www.vassell.net/Darius/Welcome.html

Having been kicked out of the Crown Plaza, Vassell has been inundated with offers to take up the couch at various Gucu houses. (please note that Eski Kanka would have offered a place to stay but the Dragon wasn't really that enthusiastic)

Unfortunately we have parted company with our coach this week. It is always a bad situation to say goodbye but we can now look forward to a new beginning and continue to push this team in the right direction... (I'm sure Hikmet shares those sentiments - Oz Kanka) I personally thank him for his efforts and hard work and wish him the best of luck in his future..

Alot of questions have been asked to me recently about me leaving my hotel and unfortunately i dont have any answers i have been honest and forthcoming about everything and i will make the necessary steps to resolve my problems. Ankaragucu fans have offered me their help and support via email and i really appreciate their offers but i have found refuge in another hotel for the time being.

Ankaragucu kankas! Time to start voicing your opinion. Was Karaman a bucket of lard? Is Gokcek still the messiah? Do you have a spare room? Are you all fucking mad?

Vassell kicked out of hotel

Thanks to Spine for alerting us to this news. I thought it was of sufficient importance to make a post. Here's a snippet from The Guardian. Click on the link for the full story.

The former England striker Darius Vassell has been evicted from his Ankara hotel after his club Ankaragucu failed to pay the bill.

The 29-year-old was heralded as a landmark signing – and given a hero's welcome – when joining the Turkish club in the summer following the end of his contract with Manchester City.

Vassell has scored twice in seven games for Ankaragucu, but has since voiced concerns over the club's financial problems following a recent change in ownership.

According to Vassell, players' wages have frequently been paid late, training has been cancelled and the player has been thrown out of his hotel room.

"I don't know what's happening," he said on Sky Sports News. "I have been told today that I have to leave the hotel. I have asked the managers did I do something wrong? The hotel manager said 'no you didn't do anything wrong' but they had a meeting today with the club and now I must leave the hotel.

"I don't really know what to do, I have not spoken to anybody yet.

"I have all my bags packed. My heart tells me to stay here and play football for the fans but my bags are all packed and I wonder sometimes whether I should go back home. But tomorrow I hope somebody will explain to me what is happening and we can resolve the situation.

"I'm not sure [if I will return to England]. It's difficult. First of all I don't speak the language so I can't hear anything that's happening."

Ethiopia feels the power of Ankara!

This relates the story of yet more mountains claimed for our beloved team for Ankara! Ankara Gucu!!!!!! The two peaks in question are called Imet Gogo (3926 meters) and Bwahit (4443 meters). These peaks were claimed as part of a five day trek in northern Ethiopia's Simien mountains. It was one of the best treks I and my kankie have ever had the pleasure of doing. We saw lots of animals as well.

The first picture is of myself with the flag of champions on the top of Imet Gogo, gaping chasm in the background. The second is of myself, Bini (our guide), and yet another gun-toting scout. If anyone out there can tell me what kind of gun he's holding I'd appreciate it. They only knew the Amharic word for it which translated into "snake killer".


The next big challenge is of a different sort. I will attempt to take the flag of Gucu an astonishing 40 meters BELOW seal level. It will be the lowest the Gucu flag has ever been (even though all I'd really need is a bathtub). Hope you enjoyed the pictures. Miss you guys.

Lelalelalelaaaaaaaaaaaa!

Mountaineering Kanka

ANKARAGUCU BLOW HOT, COLD AND HOT, BUT .....

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

Yes, but ..............

ANKARAGUCU 2 Kasimpasa 2

Remember the late great Bill Shankley, the Liverpool Manager ? He was the one who kept stating the obvious .... the game of footie is for 90 plus minutes, and how many times did Liverpool prove that to opponesnts in their heyday under Shanks ?!

This is one of the basic errors being made by Ankaragucu and so it proved again yesterday when they took their foot off the gas for most of the 2nd half in the assumption that 1-0 was enough to see-off Kasimpasa.

The kankas met up in The Chopin - Battle Damaged Kanka Damon, Connect Kanka Steve, Phillie Kanka Jamie, Kaleci Kanka Tansu, Noojoysay Kankie Natalie, Sweet Mini Kankie Kate, Arizona Cowboy Kanka Charlie and yours truly.

The 'Indian Summer' weather brought out a big crowd and we were lucky to find seats in Maraton. Jackets had to come off in this unusually warm November sunshine ! Lots of singing from all the tribunes, who like us, obviously expected a comfortable win, especially with our first choice strike force in the starting line-up for the first time.

Senecky
Koray, Ediz, Broggi, and Brabec
Hurriyet, Barbaros and Adem
Ceyhun
Vassell and Meye

2nd half substitutes used - Murat, Emre and Konate

It was not an auspicious start at the kick-off when Ceyhun passed the ball to the referee, but that was a sign of things to come for him on a rare off-day !

However, Ankaragucu was quickly into their stride and had Kasimpasa back-pedalling for most of the first half.

Vassell had a great chance to open the scoring after 10 minutes when the ball was crossed from the left wing to the unmarked Vassell at the back post. Unfortunately he headed over when it looked simpler to head the ball down and into the unguarded corner of the goal.

Ankaragucu was passsing the ball around in fine style and mouting waves of attacks but it just wouldn't happen for them. Then, with time running out before the half time whistle, Koray made the break through. Again the cross from the left and the unmarked in-rushing Koray showed Vassell how it should be done with a powerful header.

So, lots of happy smiling faces at half time and we were all licking our lips in anticipation of more goals to come.

Yes, but ............... NOT from Kasimpasa ....... grrrrrrrr !!

All credit to them though for coming out in the 2nd half and having a go at Ankaragucu.

Ankaragucu passes started to go astray and Kasimpasa began to win more tackles and more possession in midfield from the sloppy Ankaragucu midfield and defence.

Senecky was irritating the hell out of me with his speculative high balls to Vassell and Meye which were being swallowed-up by the Kasimpasa defence. Also, his handling was not too confident and there appeared to be a lack of communication with his defenders which caused a few scares during the match. Time for Serkan to return PDQ me thinks !!

The arrival of the Kasimpasa goals were therefore not surprising and they were not flukes either.

The first from Gokhan was a long range shot which arguably could have been saved. The second was an unusual goal, but if Moritz meant it, then it was brilliant. The cross from the left which seemed to be covered by Senecky, but he didn't expect the back header which looped over his head and flew into the net.

Stunned silence for a few minutes, the cue for Ankaragucu to wake up !!!

Better late than never I thought !

It was all Ankaragucu now in the last 10 minutes of the match which saw them camped inside the Kasimpasa half. Corner kick followed corner kick until the dying minutes when Meye poked in the equaliser when he pounced on a loose ball in a goalmouth melee.

Relief ? Yes, but if we had been blowing hot for bloody 90 plus minutes there would have been no need for Ankaragucu to scramble in a goal to save a match which should have been won much earlier !

My Man of the Match was the busy bee, Hurriyet, who didn't stop running, which was just as well with Ceyhun having an off-day. In fact he almost scored near the end with a fierce shot which Tolga did well to tip over the bar.

So, as I said, a disappointing performance in the 2nd half and something which Hikmet Bey needs to rectify over the next 2 weeks in the training ground and, dare I say it, in the classroom !

Ankaragucu's next match is away to Eskisehirspor on 22 November and a few of the kankas will be making the journey there on the Hizli Tren (High Speed Train). Looking for a 90 plus minute performance from the team to give us cause for celebration in Eskisehir's many pleasant watering holes !

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

What a difference a week makes

Back to normal pleasant autumn weather in Ankara and back to Gencler being in good form.

Bursaspor 1 - 2 Genclerbirligi

A slight change from normal as Lanky Kanka Jorg and myself joined up with the Alkaralar crowd at the wonderfully-named Beer Bus to watch Gencler play out of their skins.

Gencler started a million miles faster than Bursa and were unlucky not to have scored twice in the first 20 minutes, with Hursit having the best chance when a great shot from down the left hit the cross bar.

Not long after that though saw Bursa go ahead from a corner. All a bit depressing but then just before the half-time mark Gencler got back into it thanks to a great run by Burhan and a shot from Hursit that the Bursa keeper couldn't hold on to.

Second half and we had a great game on our hands with both sides playing good attacking football. In the end though it was Mustafa Pektemek who had us on our feet after heading in the ball from a corner.

More beers and then a warning that the police were tear gassing people protesting against YOK. Managed to somehow get home though.

Last night's performance was the best I've seen Gencler in quite a while. Makes you wonder what the hell has been going on in the last few weeks that have seen us lose to Diyarbakir, Istanbul and Manisa. Next week we are at home to Istanbul BBS. Fingers crossed.

Hibs 2-0 Aberdeen

Hibs moved into second place in the SPL thanks to a hard fought win over Aberdeen and the weather causing Rangers game to be abandoned at half time.

Aberdeen came to Easter Road with a game plan more of stopping Hibs playing good football rather than trying to entertain themselves. Their physical approach certainly gave them the edge in the first 45 minutes but at a cost of some yellow cards that later proved to be their downfall.

Early in the second half Ross lunged in on Ian Murry to pick up a second yellow card and Aberdeen were down to ten men. Five minutes later Maguire was late with his tackle on McBride, this time the referee gave a straight red. A booking would have been enough but as Maguire was already booked the end result would remain the same.

Down to 9 men everyone expected Aberdeen to fold but to their credit they held out and even tested the Hibs goalie a couple of times.

Hibs eventually scored on 88 minutes, tough on Aberdeen but a big relief for the Hibees. A good cross was met by Nish's head and the keeper was left helpless. Miller added a second in added time, a deflection leaving the keeper blameless again.

A great three point for Hibs but we must start playing more imaginative football if we are to stay at the top end of the league.

Hearts at tynecastle on Saturday, 3 points for Hibs would mean at the end of the first quarter we would be right on the heels of the leaders. Also would be well clear of our local rivals which is always good for work banter!

That was a bit crap

A bitterly cold day in Ankara on Sunday afternoon certainly kept the numbers down with just Dan the Man joining me at the Chopin. Alpine Kanka Wolfgang and his mate Mustafa met us at the stadium, but really, we should all have stayed home.

Genclerbirligi 0 - 2 Manisaspor

We kicked off and I thought the tap between the forwards was a good one. Unfortunately less than 40 seconds later the ball was in the back of our net. Gencler clearly had their minds elsewhere, Cloud Kuzbain for all I know, but this was pathetic.

Much shaking of heads but then we started to dominate. We still couldn't get anywhere near their goal though.

At half-time there was still hope but that was dashed out after some very poor defending let Manisa go 2-0 up.

Heads in hands as we started to give the ball away time and time again. Problem was we were a million miles too slow and I don't think we got a shot on goal all match.

Our best chance fell to Aussie Bruce who came on as a sub at some stage in the second half but he managed to send his header wide of the post.

All up it was very depressing stuff and clearly the worst I've seen Gencler play in quite a long time.

ANKARAGUCU - THE INONU AFFLICTION CONTINUES !

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

I still have a wee bit of a hangover from last night, but I'm reasonably sober to write a few paragraphs.

What is it about The Inonu Stadium ? Does Besiktas raise their game for Ankaragucu ? Does Ankaragucu have a death wish about this Stadium ? Whatever the reason, we lost again and I couldn't tell you the last time Ankaragucu won a match there, so don't ask !

Besiktas 1 ANKARAGUCU 0

Hopes were high in The Chopin Bar where we all met up. Battle Damaged Kanka Damon, Oz Kanka Chris, Spine Kanka Steve, Kaleci Kanka Tansu and ............ surprise surprise ...... Maniac Kanka Harun turned up to surprise us all. We also had a visit from one of Eski's old students, the beautiful and charming Merve, who has just returned to Ankara after graduating from a Uni in Oz.

Battle Damaged was first to point out the good news that Serkan was back in goal for Ankaragucu. So, as I said, hopes were high even without the injured Vassell. The team -

Serkan
El-Yasa, Ediz, Koray and Adem
Murat, Hurriyet, Weeks and Broggi
Ceyhun and Meye

2nd half substitutes used were - Emre, Aydin and Barbaros

Ankaragucu came out of the traps fast and took the game to Besiktas. I think Hikmet Bey has learned that this is the only way to play the Istanbul 3 !

The match looked pretty even until the 17th minute when lady luck played a part in the match. Ismail of Besiktas picked up a loose ball well outside the penalty area (about 40 metres I would say) and fired in a speculative shot which had lots of power in it. However, that's when lady luck intervened and the ball hit El-Yasa to be deflected out of reach of Serkan's dive. I could see from the replay that Serkan had the ball covered but it was a wicked deflection and he was helpless to reach the ball as it entered the opposite side of the goal from which it was intended.

No criticism of Ismail who had a very good match, but there is no way that the goal should be creditted to him !

Ankaragucu continued to press forward for the remainder of the match, but apart from good opportunities which fell to Meye and Hurriyet, they rarely troubled the Besiktas back four or 'the giraffe' in goal.

Disappointing not to have taken at least one point from this match, but as I said earlier, there must be a hoodoo hanging over the Inonu Stadium for Ankaragucu.

Memories of our fantastic performance against Galatasaray are fading fast, so it becomes crucial to win next week's home match against Kasimpasa.

Hopefully Vassell will be fit by then. I am anxious to see how Vassell and Meye play together with Ceyhun supplying the bullets from midfield.

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim

ANKARAGUCU WAS .......

dare I say it ......

OK, I will ....... because Maniac Kanka Harun said I must .......

we were ............ fucked !!!

Beshik...spit....tash ... 1 ANKARAGUCU 0

It's a sad story of bad luck which will be revealed tomorrow when I'm reasonably sober ......

suffice to say for now that the best team lost !!!

All the best from intoxicated Eski Kanka Jim

ANKARAGUCU ..... (OR IS IT ANKARASPOR ??!!) MOVE INTO THE TURKISH CUP GROUP STAGE

Greetings Kankas and Kankies.

There was no lap of honour last night at the final whistle. Ankaragucu played their 'get out of jail' card and were rather fortunate to avoid a penalty shoot-out.

ANKARAGUCU 3 Karsiyaka 2

The kankas met in The Chopin as usual. Battle Damaged Damon, Connect Steve, Phillie Jamie, Flying Dutchman Carlo, 'new boy' Berlin Kanka Karl and yours truly. At the Stadium we met-up with Yankee Kanka and Huso Kanka.

When the players emerged prior to kick-off it was a case of playing the game 'guess the player' ! Was this Ankaragucu or Ankaraspor was my first thought, but hey, Ankaraspor was playing in Tokat (where they got stuffed by the way !) and Ankaraspor don't have yellow shirts !

The Ankaraspor goalkeeper (can't spell or pronounce his name !) was in for Serkan and I will give the names of the others when I can find them. Nothing in The Hurriyet or on the Ankaragucu website this morning, so I may well do an edit tomorrow.

We did have a few Ankaragucu 'olde boys' in the starting line-up, eg, Ceyhun, El-Yasa, Metin and Murat. Also, Vassel came on when Metin went off injured and then Emre came on for Vassell when he went off injured !

So to the start, and what a start ! One up inside the first minute. It happened so quickly that it was difficult to recall as we were just settling down. A break down the right by Metin who crossed for a tap-in by Meye (I think) with the Karsiyaka defence all at sea. Volume up and wait for the avalanche of goals !!

Ermmm hello, we are playing Karsiyaka and not Muglaspor (with apologies to the good people of Mugla !). Karsiyaka steadied themselves and began to play a bit, but it was still all Ankaragucu and the 2nd goal duly arrived on the half-hour mark with a stunning piece of opportunism from Metin who swivelled in the penalty box and struck a half volley into the corner with the goalkeeper helpless.

This is it we all thought with the singing reverberating around the Stadium .... uc uc uc ..... but we fell for the sucker punch. Foot off the pedal, players thinking .... this is easy ...... and then .... with the Ankaragucu goalkeeper out of position and the defence in 'dream mode' the Karsiyaka striker lobbed the ball over the stranded goalkeeper and into the net. A schoolboy error and I'm thinking .... where is Serkan ??!!

Not to worry ..... don't panic. We are 2-1 up at half time and attacking the Gecikondu end in the 2nd half. The goals will come no probs ......wrong !

As I mentioned to the kankas prior to the match, Karsiyaka has a famous history in Turkish footie and they are not coming to Ankara to be lambs to the slaughter. So, it proved. All credit to Karsiyaka for coming out in the 2nd half and taking the game to Ankaragucu. Their footie was at times textbook stuff as they passed the ball around with Ankaragucu chasing shadows. They were in full cry and Ankaragucu was rocking.

It was no surprise therefore when they equalised. How many times has Ankaragucu been caught out by breakaways when our 'old' defenders couldn't play 'catch up'. So it was again with the cut-back and the pick your place in the goal.

2-2 and we were thinking ........ oh no, not a penalty shoot out - Karsiyaka had nothing to lose before the match and would definitely be favourites to win it.

It was nail biting stuff and with only minutes to go Karsiyaka almost snatched the winner with a shot that went just past the post with the goalkeeper beaten.

Shit ! Anxious looks all round from the kankas !!

Almost full time and from one of the few Ankaragucu attacks of the 2nd half the ball was collected by Meye just outside the penalty area. With the Karsiyaka defence backing off expecting the ball to be sent wide, he looked up and fired in a screamer of a ball to the top left hand corner with the goalkeeper clawing air.

Sighs of relief all round and let's start singing again .... cue ...... Annnkaaaaarrrrraaaagoooojoooo !!!

OK, Ankaragucu is into the Group Stage, but only just. Hikmet Bey has some serious thinking to do about how he is going to get his team playing like a TEAM and back to the basics of passing and playing for each other.

Meye had an outstanding match. Apart from his goals he was full of running and endeavour. Also, Metin had a good match in the short time he was on. El-Yasa was his usual reliable self, but Ediz had a shocker and his distribution was abysmal. Ceyhun looked a lonely figure in midfield and the sooner Barbaros and Semavi return the better !

We can only play better than this performance, and it will need to be for next Saturday's match at the Inonu Stadium.

All the best from Eski Kanka Jim


EDIT - Friday 30th October

As promised here is the team for the Cup Match (nicked from the Ankaragucu website) -

Senecky
El-Yasa, Ediz, Koray and Broggi
Ceyhun, Hurriyet, Murat and Theo
Meye and Metin

Substitutes used - Vassell, Emre and Mehmet

Gencler knocked out early (again)

Another very short appearance for Genclerbirligi in the Turkish Cup. This year we bow out after losing out on penalties to Istanbul BBS.

Istanbul BBS 1 - 1 Genclerbirligi (Pen: 4-2)

Not a great to deal to report because I didn't see the match but I did catch snippets on the radio. Seems as if Gencler started the game well but allowed Istanbul to get back into it in the second half.

It was 0-0 after 90 minutes so an extra half-an-hour was tacked on.

Kahe looked like he might have wrapped it up for us in the 95th minute with a free kick goal, but Istanbul pulled even in the 112th minute.

Off to the dreaded penalties.

Istanbul started: Goal 1-0
Kahe scores: 1-1
Istanbul score: 2-1
Bilal misses: 2-1
Istanbul score: 3-1
Tozo scores: 3-2
Istanbul score: 4-2
Hursit misses: 4-2 and over.

So, just like last year Gencler are knocked out in the first round. It does seem an eternity ago that Spine, French Kanka and myself went off to Bursa for the 2007-2008 Cup final. We lost that one on penalties as well.

Hibs Miss Out on Top Spot

Hibs missed out on the chance to top the SPL on Saturday after only drawing with Rangers 1-1 at Ibrox, not often we can say that.

I suppose it shows how far Yogi Hughes has taken Hibs since he took over in the summer. That and how far the rest of the teams have fallen after loosing out on TV money when Setanta went bust.

There is no doubting the exciting style of play Hibs are taking to the table and as each week goes by our expectations become more and more unrealistic, its great.

On Saturday Stokes had levelled for Hibs after 63 minutes, Rangers had taken an early lead through Chris Boyd. Rangers passed up a few good opportunities early in the second half but could also easily have lost the game when Colin Nish missed a great chance for Hibs with only a few minutes remaining.

Last week Hibs had defeated Kilmarnock at Easter Road by a goal to nil. After a tight first half Hibs came out fighting and totally dominated the game. Despite their dominance Hibs had to wait till the 83rd minute for their goal. A slightly dodgy penalty was awarded after Benji tumbled in the box. Benji picked himself up and scored to the keepers left.

I would not say Hibs are anywhere near a finished article but when they click they are producing nice football, If they continue to improve at this rate we Hibees are in for a good season.

Live radio blogging: Diyarbakir v Genclerbirligi

Preamble: Good morning football lovers. My first opportunity of the season for some live radio blogging. For those of you who are new to this caper, this is a Web 2.0 production whereby I listen to the radio and try to understand what the hell is going on and then write it up. It is normally a bit haphazard as for a start my Turkish is shaky at the best of times and the radio commentators speak extremely fast.

I'll be back here for KO which is at 2pm Turkish time. Remember the clocks went back an hour last night and don't forget you can contact me during the match through our wisely-named 'Contact us' form.

1:49 pm: Slight change to the plans. KO isn't for another hour and a bit.

2:37 pm: Its all gone pear-shaped and I haven't even started. It seems as if TRT radio is the only place doing live radio. As there are four matches on at the same time they will be crossing backwards and forwards. In other words, you won't be getting full-on Diyarbakir on Gencler action.

Last year Lig Radyo had radio rights and they streamed every match over the internet. Well done TRT and the TFF, flamin' galahs, you have managed to go backwards technology-wise.

Abbreviated coverage coming soon.

2:46 pm: The four matches kicking off at 3 pm are:
Diyarbakir v Genclerbirligi
Kasimpasa v Denizli
Manisa v Antalya
Sivas v Gaziantep

3:02 pm: Peep, peep and they are off. Gencler start off with a free kick which Kahe sends out. Not sure of the team yet.

3:05 pm Patiyo sends it to Hursit, big chance but last minute stop from a defender. Sounds like we are up for it. Radio moves on to another match.

3:09 pm Oh dear, now TRT have decided to cross to second division matches. This is a joke.

3:16 pm No idea what is happening in Diyarbakir but Kasimpasa have gone one up against Denizli.

3:17 pm Hursit has a shot off the post, ball falls to Kahe but misses. Commentator says we have had a lot of chances, including Kahe missing a "bom bosh" shot at goal (I don't have Turkish characters on my laptop. Sorry about that). And off we go to another match.

3:25 pm I still have no idea of the team.

Feedback! Of a sort. Sir Eski Kanka has just phoned and says he and Battle Damaged are heading down to the Chopin Bar to watch Liverpool v Man. United. They will also be staying there for the Fener v Galatasaray match which kicks off at 8pm. If you are thinking of heading down, give Jim or Damon a ring so they can reserve a seat for you.

3:30 pm Kahe on the attack, Pektemek fails to capitalize. Meanwhile the commentator must be reading this blog as he has just acknowledged that he hasn't given the weather nor the team squad. Now Hursit has a go, to the keeper. Now he does give the squad but speaks so bloody fast I can't follow.

3:32 pm Now Cem Can hits the post. C'mon boys! EDIT: that might have been Hursit hitting the post actually.

3:36 pm Oh dear, Diyarbakir have scored. Sounds like we should be ahead but haven't been putting it away. Diyarbakir 1 - 0 Genclerbirligi

3:42 pm Following football on the radio can be nerve wracking. As they commentate on some match and news comes through: "And goal news from Diyarbakir". Your hopes are high and then..... arrrgggghhhh. In actual match news, we continue to attack full on, just no luck.

3:47 pm Arggh. Commentator says they scored. But then takes it back not realising that the ball actually went out. Half-time. I'm off for a cigarette.

3:53 pm Commentator says it is a great fast match. Glad he is enjoying it.

Half-time scores:

Diyarbakir 1 - 0 Genclerbirligi
Kasimpasa 1 - 1 Denizli
Manisa 0 - 1 Antalya
Sivas 0 - 0 Gaziantep

4:07 pm Second-half has kicked off but they have yet to cross to Diyarbakir. In the meantime, why are Sir Eski and Battle Damaged talking about (in the comments section of this post) tonight's derby and not the match at hand. Meanwhile, Kahe has another go... but no luck.

4:17 pm Burhan comes on, Cem Can off. Then Diyarbakir counter... seems like they should have scored. And then Diyarbakir attack again, and again. Now we attack. Burhan is straight into the action, but nothing is happening. Get on with it Gencler!

4:23 pm Commentator says we are very messy. Losing possession all the time. Back to normal?

4:28 pm We keep on attacking but still nothing. Just a few minutes left. Can we get back a goal? I'm not confident. Now Kahe stuffs up again, and another attack and a ball goes to no one.

4:31 pm Actually we have a fair bit of time left, 17 minutes. Diyarbakir though look more likely to score.

4:36 pm Kahe misses again!

4:42 pm Now Burhan misses a "bom bosh" goal. Corner coming up. Nothing comes from it.

4:46 pm Both teams have used up their substitutes. I have no idea who has come on, or off, for us. Looks like there will be no points for us today. Just a couple of minutes left.

4:52 pm Peep, peep and we have lost. All very depressing considering how many shots we stuffed up.

All the results:

Diyarbakir 1 - 0 Genclerbirligi
Kasimpasa 3 - 1 Denizli
Manisa 1 - 2 Antalya
Sivas 3 - 0 Gaziantep

Evening all. I'll try and join Sir Eski and Battle damaged down at the Chopin.