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CoreSportGib - 14.04.2016
Presidential mistake at Angels
Football
E
mpty stands greeted both teams as they walked out onto the field for what was a relegation battle decider.
Angels bottom of the league still had a mathematical chance of survival and needed all three points. Britannia after a series of defeats since January when they lost their Brazilian trio needed to win. Just one point above Glacis and Gibraltar United a defeat could see them dropping into the relegation play off places. The match started with Angels already looking as if they had made a tactical error. Whilst club
president Edmund Hoskens claimed that his first team Brazilian keeper Hosken had been injured when asked why he was not playing, CoreSportGib understood from the keeper himself that he had been left out of the line up because of his momentary outburst at being substituted during the Manchester 62 match the previous week. A substitution which had led to Manchester 62 adding further goals to their tally. Angels were entering the match with a stand in keeper with little league experience, and a substitutes bench that included the club owner.
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Angels, nevertheless started the match in better form than Britannia. The latter had few chances at goal in the first half and only tested the keeper on a handful of rare occasions as their attacks fell apart at the crucial moments.
Angels for their part looked menacing, looking more like a first division side than a relegation team. Quick passing, well formed attacks were bringing them into danger areas and forced several good saves from Britannia's keeper Barnfather.
The situation could not have been worse for Britannia, a lukewarm first half saw them struggling. Angels through with Mena upfront and Dani were taking full advantage of Britannia's frailties
at the back going ahead 1-0 by half time through a top corner free kick from Mena. With Britannia trying to go forward for the equaliser, they were now leaving gaps at the back which Angels were prodding at with danger. Once again Cordoba became one of the playmakers, but to the frustration of his colleagues he was not always releasing the ball in time to at one point accused by his teammates of not taking the game seriously. Angels nevertheless punished Britannia for the gaps they had left at the back with Rodriguez and Banda hitting the back of the net in the 62 and 68th minute.
Britannia went on to lose Hastings through a second yellow card in a match which saw many a niggling
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foul, off play jabs and elbows. With the match seemingly more than won, Angels made a change at the back bringing on club president and founder Hosken. The latter had only a handful of matches under this belt this season, all prior to the big changes in January. Naturally playing up front Hosken decided to play at the back. Latter claiming that the decision was because he had injured himself and couldn’t play up front.
Within four minutes of the change Angels seemed to disintegrate. The back four losing all focus on the game and leaving themselves wide open. A loose through ball chased by Pizzaro saw Angels replacement keeper step out only to be easily chipped for Britannia's first. The absence of Filoho, Angels first team keeper was to be felt as the replacement keeper dithered on coming out and
faltered when stopping the ball. On more than one occasion the keeper's frailties were clear to see the command at the back was not present within Angels, a command which Filoho had asserted since his arrival in January and transformed Angels defence. The fall out between Filoho and Angels is unlikely to be easily resolved with the player "punished" once again for speaking out against his substitution during the Manchester 62 match.
Angels frailties at the back and in goal were soon exposed again, the height of the keeper exposed as Onega struck again on the 76th and Pizzaro just seconds from the restart slotted in the third. Britannia had come back into the game to equalise whilst Angels seemed to switch off all together. Buoyed by the sudden change of
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fate and smelling victory ten man Britannia surged forward looking for the winner. A defensive brick wall was stopping Angels from getting past the second third of the pitch and assisted them in lunging forward for their fourth goal. With four minutes to go Onega struck again. Britannia now led 4-3.
Britannia held their lines at the back for the next seven minutes, after the officials had given three minutes of injury time. Angels had little to no more to give. From leading 3-0 with a chance to take all three points, they had gifted Britannia the match, and even possibly safeguarded their future in the first division.
CoreSportGib - 14.04.2016
Two teams aspiring for Europe, but not on this day
Football
L
ets be harsh from the outset, Manchester 62 and Lions both aspire for European glory, at least to reach the Europa League, but neither have done it through the league as they look towards the Rock Cup semi-finals to reach the finals. The reality is they face two teams that aspire to Europe, have invested for it, and have performed throughout the season to reach such heights. Watching Manchester 62 against Lions play
out the 90 minutes of this midtable clash the realities were apparent, and the realities are it's been a pity to see all season two big football names in Gibraltar football underperform to the extend they have.
Lions entered the match under new management after their coach Juanlo Herrera saw the door following a string of bad results last week. Adrian Parral, women's team coach and recently
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part of Jeff Wood's national coaching team during the international friendly matches, took over for the day with his own technical team. The changes were to prove beneficial for Lions who came out of their mid table clash with Manchester 62 with a point. Yet this was not to be a memorial match, but one to be remembered by mundane yellow cards, a lot of play acting injuries, a series of sending offs which would change the match, and two teams who have all season failed to reach their potential and failed to reach their potential on the day.
As one observer pointed out "Manchester had opted for foreign imports and left many of its younger players out when they could have achieved just as much with the younger players and given them some real football
experience."
Lions were no further better than they had been the previous season. Maybe with new owners in the fold their signings had not yet demonstrated their worth. Still lacking in firepower, and very much reliant on one man up front Lata, who himself was not leaving his mark on the match.
Lions did have some promise, and this has come through young Jayce Olivero who once again showed maturity and class for his age. The young man was to prove pivotal in at least one of Lions goals, his run down the line and his cross instrumental in ensuring Lions got their equaliser and the one point they needed from a match which, if Manchester 62 had not suddenly changed their focus, could easily have been one by the latter. Manchester 62 also
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had a local stand out in defence. Payas commanding his defence well and showing that his selection to the Gibraltar National squad was merited.
Lions were chasing for the game after going 1-0 on the 16th minute to a goal from Toncheff Ferberovich, who would later be send off. This was soon followed by a 32nd minute strike from JP Duarte, who would also not complete the 90 minutes on the field. Lions defence had been a shambles in both goals, allowing forwards space to score and giving little protection to replacement keeper Liam Neale.
The match, which saw many a niggling foul and disputes with officials and between players was turned on its head when goal scorer Toncheff received his
second yellow card for a needless offense just ten minutes after receiving his first.
With Manchester 62 one man down, Lions took full advantage. A run down the left flank saw the ball swung into the middle where Romero Jimenez met with his head for a fabulous header to goal. Manchester 62's frustrations increased as they lost JP Duarte and then saw one of their technical coaches told to leave the side lines.
Lions once again took advantage of Manchester's implosion. Young Jayce Olivero broke through the wing and on reaching the corner flag send through to the middle an exquisite pass that beat keeper and defence for Gonzalez to header in the equaliser on the 72 minute.
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Manchester had their chance at goal when Liam Neale was forced to come out and block a shot close to the edge of the box. Manchester held on as Lions surged forward looking for a winner. It was not to be as both teams shared the spoils with a 2-2 draw.
Both teams will be looking at better performances for their upcoming Rock Cup semi final games if they hope to meet each other in the finals. Neutrals will however hope that they improve on their performances, as a final with the type of play seen this weekend would be a serious disappointment for everyone. Neither team's performances during the season match aspirations for Europe. Both teams require reinforcement, or at the very least a refocus on their attitudes towards matches. Luckily both teams seem safe from relegation and will have the last matches this season, the Rock Cup Semi Finals and the rest of the summer to re-invent themselves if they are to challenge the likes of Europa and Lincoln.
CoreSportGib - 14.04.2016
Imported handbags or football?
Football
The St Joseph's v Europa clash was always going to be a tense affair. The Saints had beaten Europa earlier in the year 3-1 and had been the catalysts in destroying any chances of Europa closing the gap with Lincoln. Europa would not have a repeat of the situation, not with the season so close to its end and still 8pts adrift. Once again this weekend the story was not so much about the football but the antics seen on and off the field, and this was one
of those matches few would want to witness again. The match had been dominated by the antics of players such as Europa's goalkeeper who persisted throughout the 90 minutes to run to the halfway line and complain and get mixed into any argument or discussion. Yet to everyone's amazement not once was the yellow card shown to the player. Then there was Tornay's verbak abuse of both players and
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manager which led to a warning from St Joseph's manager to Europa's manager that the player be substituted, comments which were clearly heard from the stands and across the field. Tornay was substituted. Then there was the handbags and arguments, the personal insults and niggling fouls and play acting which dominated the second half play, from both sides.
Finally, it was the mĂŞlĂŠe outside the changing rooms that left everyone watching gasping in surprise. Twenty-two grown men, coaches and trainers seemed to be arguing vociferously outside the changing rooms before peace was brought to the area. The shouting could be heard from across the pitch leading many spectators to watch what was transcending at the other side of the stadium. This was a municipal
stadium, with young children playing in the Muga, others playing tennis, a junior futsal tournament among clubs taking place less than 50m from the changing rooms and two first division teams had taken their disputes outside the field. It was a pure class of what Gibraltar does not wish to educate its young footballers to do. The tensions had started on the field during the match, continued in the centre circle after the whistle had been blown and was now being taken off the field in what was essentially a public arena in full view of the public. And yet they called this football afterwards.
But lets talk football, as here were two teams that admittedly had tensions because of the football. Europa had been beaten before
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and could ill afford another defeat, and St Joseph's third in the table had shown that their style of football and their progress this season was developing in a force to be reckoned with. Playing a clever style of football, which adapted to needs of the match, and which in many ways compensated for any weaknesses they had by keeping good control of their defensive work. Against an Europa team intent on getting the three points and having invested heavily to be at the top of the league, St Joseph's needed their style of football to work, and in many ways it did, although this time being on the losing side. Europa came out dominating possession from the start against a St Joseph team that seemed content in absorbing the pressure and pressing forward on the counter. Europa made slow progress building from the back
and not risking much as they pressed on, pinning St Joseph into their own half.
It was not until the 25th minute that Europa were presented with a gift when a shot at goal, which had beaten Perez, rebounded off the post and onto the feet of Cortijo who could not pull away from it and saw the ball bounce off him for an own goal. St Joseph had their chances with Borja proving to be a handful for Europa's defence, yet it was Europa who kept on knocking on St Joseph's doorstep looking for the second.
The second came as a free kick was swung into the middle with Padal reaching the chest high ball first and toe poking it away from Perez before hitting a half volley into the back of the net.
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The tone of the match changed for the worse in the second half as both teams played out a middle of the field battle with few chances and many handbags being thrown. Neither team seemed to make much headway to goal, although the tensions grew in the middle of the field with a a high tempo, high conflict match which saw the officials show a total of ten yellow cards.
St Joseph did manage to break through in the last minute to score via Barea, but the goal came too late with the whistle blown just seconds after restarting. Even on scoring players had to be split apart as the tensions saw the goalkeeper clash with the player. The tensions during the game saw more handbags and taunts
after the match which led to a highly volatile argument outside the changing rooms before teams could be moved away from each other. The incident, which was more noise than physicality, came to nothing as tensions were calmed and both teams were moved away from each other. St Joseph's and Europa continued third and second respectively waiting on the Lincoln v Lynx result played out on Monday. As we enter another weekend of football, both remain in their same positions. There were positives in the attitudes though to be spoken about. The managers even with the tensions did show respect for each other, and called on their players to back off and concentrate on the football. Europa’s manager even advised his team to ignore any comments
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directed to the players as they walked off the field to the changing rooms. Something some players just didn’t seem to want to do themselves.
St Joseph’s manager also showed some good quality leadership when speaking to the fourth official he turned on his own players and screamed at them to not interrupt and play football that he was only having a conversation with the fourth official and it had nothing to do with them, to continue playing football and concentrate on the game. Some players had at the time approached the touchline and were making comments which were immediately put a halt to by their manager.
The match had also shown one good characteristic, there was competitiveness beyond the Lincoln/Europa which is only good for football.
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CoreSportGib - 14.04.2016
The battle for first division status
Football
T
his was Gibraltar United and Glacis United's best chance to secure an automatic first division place next season. With both teams equal in points and goal difference, and second from bottom the clash between the two would give one of them the advantage. It was Glacis United, whose side has been reformed with a crop of new foreign signings, that came out on top. Glacis United had entered the match leaving one of their biggest assets, goal scorer Sastrie on the bench. Throughout the first half Gibraltar United, with a full home
grown team, backed by a 30 odd fan base in the stands, kept Glacis from posing too much of a threat to them. Swarming around Glacis' offensive players when they chased for goal, the red and whites kept Chino's penalty area clean and tidy for the first 40 minutes. On the other side of the field, Montovio was proving to be a constant niggle to Glacis posing a serious threat on their goal. Whilst Glacis' talisman and playmaker Lopez had to play deep into his area to get a sniff of the ball. Just as Gibraltar United seemed to be controlling the pace through their defensive work the defining
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moment of the match came.
Tensions had already been sparked with some of the antics from the Glacis team looking for fouls and yellow cards from minor tussles. Players had rolled on the ground holding their faces looking for a foul and had soon been seen jumping back into action as if nothing had happened. Glacis goalkeeper had also entered the scene looking for a reaction from Montovio, something which was to get worse in the second half. Glacis United scored a surprise goal from a corner. Under claims that there had been a push and shoves leading to the goal from a corner, which had gone over Chinos head, tensions erupted on the goal line as the official pointed to the centre spot for a goal. Three players encircled a Glacis player, the latter fell to the ground but not before the same player
had tried to take the ball and had pushed and shoved in doing so, with allegations later that he had provoked the incident. The reactions from the Gibraltar United players was immediate, yet not something which we hope will be repeated as three players surrounded the Glacis player and took matters into their own hands. Chino could be clearly seen sticking his leg into the melee and making contact with the player before he fell on the ground. An action which could likely lead to a heft sanction. A quick word with his linesman saw referee Parody produce a red card for Gibraltar United's keeper. Gibraltar United were one man down, and one goal down, the goal also given as an own goal to Perez. Chino walked off the field, whilst no other player was sanctioned, even though the situation had been provoked and
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there were others reacting.
Both teams made changes at half time, Gibraltar United brought in Currer and Gilbert, the latter was to prove a disastrous move as he was sent off for his second yellow card, leaving Gibraltar United with just nine men on the field. Glacis United brought on Sastrie, their main goal scorer, who proved his worth scoring the second goal. The official was to have a hard time from the supporters in the stands as they called for Glacis blood calling out that he was only booking the red and whites and was "scared to book the Spaniards." Their reactions coming after numerous fouls by some Glacis players seemed to go without punishment. Matters got even worse for Gibraltar United as Cardona
sustained an injury and was forced to play limping for the whole of the second half.
With just Montovio up front to make the runs, Cardona standing on the half way line, without any possibility of running for anything, Gibraltar United played with a straight back four and two men in midfield. It was only Aidan Vinales saves that kept them in the game as Glacis looked for another goal. The young keeper came out with some six extraordinary saves which kept the ball out and kept Gibraltar United just one goal down until the 90th minute in which Sastrie sealed the points. Aidan had no chance of saving the one on one run by is six yard box. The match was also marked by the antics of Glacis keeper who once again saw him provoking a
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reaction not just from Gibraltar United fans and players, but also from his own manager who recriminated him for his actions, calling out "if what he wanted was to risk getting a yellow card."
Payas had been deliberately dropping the ball without catching it and forced Montovio to follow, in one such move Montovio attempted to get the ball but fell backwards in doing so. In extraordinary scenes which have little to do with UEFA's motto for "RESPECT" he could be heard laughing out loud and pointing as he did to Montovio. The keeper kept on laughing in a hysterical tone which could be clearly heard from the stand as he walked to the half way line in bravado style. When Gibraltar United fans condemned his actions he gestured to them, blowing several
kisses to them and calling out in defiance.
Fans called on Glacis United manager to say something to him, which the manager acknowledged with a gesture of respect, calling him on several occasions to stop his antics. The win by Glacis United moved them three points clear of Gibraltar United with four matches to play. However, it further widened the gap between local fans and Spanish players as many felt that the locals had been discriminated against unfairly and the match had seen players trying to ridicule local players in a manner which had nothing to do with football. This was not just a relegation battle but a Gibraltar V Spain one.
CoreSportGib - 14.04.2016
Monday Night football at its best
Football
T
here were points to be proven on both sides in Monday's encounter between Lincoln and Lynx, First against fourth placed. Lincoln entered the match with a new manager, Uruguayan Julio Cesar Ribas had been appointed as the Head Coach during the weekend, just ahead of the match. With just two months before Lincoln look at playing in the European preliminary qualifiers the new manager would be looking with fresh eyes at each player and the
latter knew this.
Lynx for their part had a chance to claim the third placed spot as their own with St Joseph's having lost to Europa in the weekend. This was a chance to prove to their sponsors that they meant business. The first half proved to be an exciting ding dong between two teams eager to score, eager to win. Lincoln, the stronger of the two teams did most of the attacking. However, they were
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met by a resilient Lynx who held their own and on every conceivable chance pressed forward and took the game to Lincoln. The latter, used to having their defenders stray forward had to hold back their defence as the likes of Guilling and Doxagarat proved to be a handful. Both teams left for the half time break with the score line level. Lincoln had the better of the chances forcing several saves from Robba who was kept busy between his posts.
It was not until the second half that the game changed with Lincoln pressing harder up front and pinning Lynx back into their area. The first goal came from a fantastic strike by Lee Casciaro who picked up the ball at the edge of the box and was given too much freedom to unleash a strike to the top corner beating Robba.
The goal came just seconds after Lincoln had seen the ball fly across the goal mouth from a corner and just inches wide off the post. As Lynx pushed forward their defence was left wide open, a situation which Lincoln exploited with full effect. Cabreras, who has found his place further to the centre in Lincolns frontline surged forward and on one occasion had a one on one with Robba, the latter pushing the ball to corner.
It was however, Robba who failed to clear from the subsequent corner with Roy Chipolina at the end of it to head it into goal for the 2-0. Lynx continued to look for a goal, but were met by a solid defence and a chasing Lincoln front man
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who once again picked up a loose ball and surged forward. With Lee Casciaro by his side, Cabreras feigned Robbas with a pass and allowed Casciaro to score probably his easiest goal, just having to slide it into an empty net. Lincoln were not finished as they took command and went for the finish. The fourth goal came from Cabreras who picked up the ball at the edge of the box on the right flank. With Robbas off his line Cabreras went for a chipped ball over the keeper for a delightful fourth and final goal. One which he had fully deserved after his continued forays to goal. The match had progressed without many problems. A high intensity, high tempo match had
been played cleanly and with both sides giving the referee little more than the normal routine work, unlike other matches played out during the weekend which had seen a string of yellow and red cards and some unwanted scenes on and off the field.
Although beaten 4-0 the score line gave Lynx little credit for their performance which lack the final firepower up front but had in many occasion put Lincoln on the backfoot. Lynx had taken the game to Lincoln, and had proven a worthy foe, this had been their undoing in the end, but it had given the 70-80 odd spectators watching some excitement and quality football to watch on the night.
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Lincoln’s new manager
Football
Lincoln Red Imps FC announced the appointment of Uruguayan Julio Cesar Ribas as their new Head Coach. Julio joined the club with 5 matches to go to decide the title. A spokesman for Linciln Red Imps said this weekend, “Julio knows the club well having being involved in preparing the clubs youth development strategy and new academy setup. The coach will debut against Lynx FC and will be sure to fire up the players motivation for this important fixture. Julio is a tremendous character on and off the pitch and he will undoubtedly make his
presence noted with his unique style.
“He takes on a tough challenge to improve on the high standards that previous coach Raul Procopio brought to the club. The club wishes him every success in this new stage of the clubs development and welcomes him into the Lincoln Family.” Career
1993-1995 - Institución Atlética Sudámerica. Montevideo Uruguay. 1997-1998 - Club Atlético
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Bellavista Montevideo.Uruguay 1996. Club Nacional de Fùtbol. Asunción.Paraguay.
2009. - Centro Atlético FENIX.
Montevideo – Uruguay.
1999-2001. - Club Atlético Peñarol. - Montevido. Uruguay
2010 – 2012 - Deportivo Maldonado. - Montevideo – Uruguay
2004-2005.- AC Venezia. Italia.
2014. - Manager General del FC Cartagena. Spain
2002-2003.- Liverpool Fútbol Club. -Montevideo.Uruguay
2006-2007 - Club Atlético Juventud. - Montevideo. Uruguay.
2008. - Coach de la Selección Nacional de Omán. 2009. - Club Atlético PEÑAROL. Montevideo – Uruguay.
2013. - Club Atlético Bellavista. Montevideo – Uruguay.
2015. - La Manga Club,Professional Futbol Center,Official Representative 2016. - Lincoln Red Imps FC Gibraltar
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Under 17s prove there is talent in Gib Two high intensity matches in the Under 17 league were played out this weekend between Lynx v Europa and Lincoln v Manchester 62.
First out were Lynx V Europa which saw both teams finish the first half on equal terms. After a half time pep talk which highlighted that the match was so tight any one error could provide a winner, Lynx came out scoring the first, to a Europa mistake. Europa pressed hard to try and
get the goal back but came out losing 1-0.
In the second match the intensity between the two was at a much higher level as leagues leaders and runners up Lincoln and Manchester 62 were playing out what could be a league decider. This was a match in which not only the players, but also the coaches on the touchline felt the intensity of the match. A well balanced contest saw both teams with chances to take the lead and
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tensions on the pitch.
Lincoln were to come out the eventual winners in a match which could have gone either way. Both teams highlighting the extent of their youth programmes with a match fitting any first division encounter see this weekend. The matches highlighted the extent of youth talent still within our local football. Both matches proved to be exciting and with some good balanced football and skills on display.
However, the players participating will soon reach the 18 years of age in some cases and will face an uncertain future in Gibraltar football as more and more foreign imports filter into our leagues even within the second division.
CoreSportGib - 14.04.2016
Under 16s heads to Cyprus
Football
Gibraltar's Under-16 squad headed to Cyprus to compete in a UEFA Development Tournament. With a total of three matches to play, Gibraltar face the hosts Cyprus in their opener and will
then come up against Wales and Armenia, respectively. Cyprus v Gibraltar Thursday 14th April Kick Off: 12:00 Gibraltar v Wales Saturday 16th April Kick Off: 14:00
Gibraltar v Armenia Monday 18th April Kick Off: 14:00
The squad and coaching staff have been working hard in preparation for the challenge that awaits in Cyprus. Head Coach, Stephen Head will take the following 20 players to
represent Gibraltar:
Aaron Asquez, Christian Lopez, Tyronne Avellano, Sean Montovio, Dennis Bautista, Dylan Peacock, Stefan Borrell, Nicholas Pilcher, Ethan Britto, Kevin Poggio, Jaydon Drakes, Brenden Reyes, Jarred Flores, Kian Ronan, Adam Gracia, Michael
Ruiz, Jaylan Hankins, Julian Valarino, Ethan Llambias, Sheigh Wilson
The UEFA Under-16 Development Tournament kick off this Thursday.
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Top of the 2nd division still there to be decided
Football
With Europa Point having drawn against Gibraltar Pheonix on Sunday in a scoreless draw, the second division promotion place was left wide open to be contested between three, even possibly four teams as Pheonix remain with distance.
Monday evening was to see the first important clash as Mons Calpe leading the pack on goal difference met Brunos Magpies who where six points from both at the start of the match.
The match was played out under an air of tensions which resulted in 17 yellow cards produced and players required to be split apart from each other after the whistle had blown for the end.
Brunos Magpies had shortened the distance to three points with a 2-0 win which had also left an unsavoury taste in people's mouths over the state of football in the second division as both teams, including managers and fans insulted each other and even threatened each other during and
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after the match.
With both teams now left with four matches to play, and Europa Point and Pheonix left with five, the second division promotion places are wide open to be taken by any of the four teams. An error towards the end of the season could result in a costly affair for any of the teams, all of which have invested in new players this season with an aim of gaining the automatic promotion place to the first division.
This week’s matches also brought about some incidents which CoreSportGib witnessed which is hoped will not occur again. In particular the comments from a Mons Calpe personnel who described Gibraltar football as “manau�. Comments made in front of members of the public and persons not involved in the match, including journalists present and which resulted in immediate reactions from some quarters present reprimanding and criticising those making the comments and which can only lead to friction between foreign imports into Gibraltar football and the local community.
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MILL PHARMACY AIRBALL CLINCH LEAGUE TITLE
Basketball
Mill Pharmacy Airball clinched their first-ever GABBA First Division League title on Monday with a game to spare, always assuming they play that game, following their 94-79 win over a depleted Europa.
They were already 50-36 up at half-time, having taken the quarters 23-21, 27-15, but plucky Europa took the third 25-20, before they won the fourth 24-18. Dylan Gomez hit 6 of MPA’s 12 three-pointers to lead the game with 34, followed by Andrew Yeats
13, Derek Aston-Fox 12 and Liam Banda 12. Carlos Perez was Europa’s top scorer with 33, followed by Jason Schwartz 23 and Guille Perez 15.
In the other First Division game, Valmar Wrighttech edged CS Bayside Argus 78-76 in overtime to keep alive their chances of finishing second. Valmar took the first quarter 19-18, lost the second 13-17 but regained their one-point lead after winning the third 17-13, only for Bayside to edge the fourth 20-19 and take the game to
Action from this weeks Quarter Finals
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overtime, won 10-8 by Valmar. Karel Alecio 22, Ian Viñales 15, Juanma Cabrita 15 and Johnny Camacho 14 led Valmar, and Aaron Turner 23, Chris Noon 21 and Solomon Ojapah 16 were best for Bayside. EUROPA B WIN SECOND DIVISION Europa B, although not involved in the latest round of games, only have to turn up for their last two games to be crowned Second Division champions, following Valmar Wrighttech Reserves’ win over Isolas Blue Stars Reserves by 70-51. James Viñales 16, Kyle Pecino 14, Ian Viñales 13, Julian Smart 12 and Alejandro Ordoñez 11 led the winners, while Stuart Felice led the losers with 19. This defeat for the Blues not only ended any outside chance of
taking the title but could result in that their last game against Europa Youth will decide runnersup spot, following the latter’s 75-69 win over Valmar Wrighttech Veterans by. Alberto Rojas 28, Santi Palacios 18 and David Aguilera 15 led the Youth and Ian Felice 25, Patrick Barnes 19 and Jason McMahon 13 were best for the losers. U18 LEAGUE COULD GO DOWN TO THE WIRE The latest results in the Under 18 League point to a decider in the very last game between Isolas Blue Stars and CS Bayside Argus, scheduled to be played on Wednesday 27th of this month. That is, if the latter beat Europa – each side having beaten the other once – and the former beat Valmar Wrighttech, both games
Action from this weeks Quarter Finals
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on Tuesday 12th. A win for Europa could still pave the way to second place. Back to the latest results: Europa (Alberto Rojas 26, Antonio Pozo 17, Liberto Carande 14, Stefan Tellez 12) beat Valmar Wrighttech (Ian Yeats 35, Julian Smart 19, Adrian Castellon 15) 82-73; and Isolas Blue Stars (Sergio Gil 44, Aaron Santos 19) beat CS Bayside Argus (Nicky Lopez 24, Kyle Tellez 13, Jayron Sevilla 13) 78-73. In the Under 14 League, Isolas Blue Stars (Sami Tunbridge 19) beat CS Bayside Argus (John Paul Cassaglia 14) 37-30; and Europa got a walk-over Valmar Wrighttech. In the Women’s League, Sparks (Arianne Garro 14, Amy Pozo 13) beat Jets (Emma Mosquera 13,
Anabella De la Chica 13) 48-39, and the game between leaders Mons Calpe Giants and Panthers was postponed. Also please note the following amended fixtures for the next few weeks
U16 League game (CS Bayside Argus v Isolas Blue Stars) from 14 April to Tuesday 26 April, 5:30; U14 League game (Valmar Wrighttech v Isolas Blue Stars) from 25 April to Tuesday 26 April, 4:00; U14 League game (CS Bayside Argus v Europa) from 25 April to Tuesday 26 April, 4:00; Men 1 game (Europa v CS Bayside Argus) from 25 April to Tuesday 10 May, 7:15;
Action from this weeks Quarter Finals
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Men 1 game (Isolas Blue Stars v Valmar Wrighttech) from 25 April to Tuesday 10 May, 9:00; Men 2 game (Isolas Blue Stars Reserves v Europa Youth) from 26 April to Friday 13 May, 7:30;
Men 2 game (Europa B v Valmar Wrighttech Veterans) from 26 April to Friday 13 May, 9:00; GABBA Cup semi-finals: Monday 16 May, 7:15 - Mill Pharmacy Airball v Valmar Wrighttech; 9:00 - CS Bayside Argus v Isolas Blue Stars
Action from this weeks Quarter Finals
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Gibraltar Hockey ends with two great wins
Hockey
Both the Gibraltar Under 16 and the senior Gibraltar selection came out triumphant against a Telford & Wrekin HC in Thursday evening with emphatics wins.
First out were the Under 16's who went into the lead early on only to see Telford come back in the first half to equalise. Gibraltar, nevertheless, struck again before half time for the second goal. Not before Telford seemed to reach boiling point and saw some very aggressive and unsportsmanlike play, going to strike the ball at
head height just inches from the opponents head, and then being high-fived by colleagues for having done so. The local selection, although not having played together as many matches as Telford showed unison and good play in the first half. Yet this was not enough for their coach Christie who pointed out some keys issues, such as their offensive play.
The Under 16s went out more offensively and added a third goal
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early in the second half. Telford were then hit again by a beautifully struck reverse stick to make it 4-1.
Just as the seconds ticked away for the end of the match Gibraltar conceded a short corner which led to Telfords second and final goal. Gibraltar under 16 winning 4-2. Immediately after came the Gibraltar senior side playing against a mixture of the Under 18 and some senior players of Telford & Wrekin.
The first half was a balanced affair in which Telford struck first to go in the lead. Gibraltar's senior selection then hit the equaliser to end the half at 1-1. The local side showed signs that they had not played often together, with some nervousness in their initial play, and some rare mistakes from
some players that allowed Telford to create some danger play.
Moving away from pitch side for the half time briefing Gibraltar came back with greater urgency in their play, faster two stroke and pass movements and a determination which pinned Telford into their final quarter of the pitch. Gibraltar soon went in the lead as Telford succumbed to the pressure.
Gibraltar. playing a 4-4-3 allowed Telford to come to them and absorbed the pressure well playing for the break, or building up through quick passing, and opening the game across the flanks. Looking down at the formations it was clear to see that
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even without the ball, Gibraltar was dictating the pace and formation on the pitch as Telford went for a man to man and were being stretched across the field allowing for more space to manoeuvre through. Gibraltar found themselves further ahead in one of their quick counters when they steamed through Telford's defence to slot in the third and final goal. Although not having played often, the mix of players on the field had found a unity at half time which when brought to the field had allowed them to gel together and play at a faster and more effective pace. Gibraltar won 3-1 in the end.
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Tough encounters of the vets
Hockey
It was never going to be the fastest of matches, not with so many veteran players within the ranks of both teams, but the Eagles versus Collegians clash was to prove an exciting encounter. Tactical play, skill and positioning played a crucial role for both teams in what was a well balanced equally fought match.
Eagles opened the scoring putting themselves ahead. It was not long before veteran Gerard Victor
came back to equalise.
Eagles were kept in the game by their keeper after two consecutive saves one after the other kept a surging Collegians from scoring. It was soon the turn of Collegians keeper to get into the action blocking a shot with his feet.
As the two teams played it out in the second half, with some neat clean passing, and hard battles in
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the centre it was Mark Wood who struck to put Eagles in the lead. The veteran forward provided evidence of why he was considered as one of the best forwards to have played in Gibraltar Hockey with a strike that rocketed into the back of the net to the calls of Collegians.
Collegians were not defeated yet and pushed forward, only good deep defending by Eagles keeping them away. With just five minutes of the match left Collegians were kept out, at time by pure luck. Eagles came out 2-1 winners in a match neutrals would have felt deserved a share of the spoils for both.
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Grammarians celebrate in style with 9-4 win
Hockey
You would have not been blamed for believing that Byrne's XI had the better of Grammarians with them going 3-0 up early in the match, but Grammarians, celebrating their 65th Anniversary on the same day, were never going to be easily beaten.
The match started with a tribute to one of Gibraltar's key contributors to Gibraltar Hockey. Eric Abudharam, a former player, umpire and executive member of the GHA was not only presented with a momento for his contribution, he was given an
opportunity to be a part of the match umpiring for the first part of the game.
Byrne's XI, a pick & mix from across the men's league provided the initial surprise taking the lead early. Grammarians soon after conceded a short corner which led to the second goal. Just as Grammarians pushed forward and upped the gears Byrne's XI stole the ball and broke with a three against two for the 30.
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The score line had everyone surprised but once again Grammarians proved that they weren't the top team in the men's division for nothing. Grammarians came back for their first. Just minutes later a tactical error in replacing players led to Byrne's XI defence left exposed as the players came onto the field. Grammarians took full advantage with a quick break for the second. Just before half time they added their third to end the half on equal terms.
The second half was a different kettle of fish. Grammarians upped their gears and controlled the pace of the game adding a further five to their score line ending with an emphatic 9-4 victory.
On their 65th anniversary celebration day Grammarians were not about to be beaten with ease and provided proof of why they have survived 65 years among the top of Gibraltar hockey.
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Rugby Asia Tour The game reports courtesy of Gibraltar Rugby Last week we brought you Gibraltar’s first day in the Asia Tour, with victories for the Veterans and a heavy defeat for the men’s senior team. Courtesy of Gibraltar Rugby we can bring you the rest of the reports from the last two days in the Asia Tour. Game Day Two – Report
Friday 8th of April 2016 – Gibraltar’s National Team played
their second and final match of the 2016 tour to Asia against a physical Singapore side this evening. In slightly cooler conditions than Wednesday in Malaysia owing to a steady breeze coming straight down the field, Gibraltar went straight to work with fast-paced attacking runs from both their backs and forwards, linking up well to put Singapore under pressure in their own half. When the home side did manage to get possession, Gibraltar’s defence was Solid As
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The Rock leaving the hosts with little option other than to kick the ball in behind our back line.
A knock on gave Singapore a scrum inside the Gibraltar 22 which led to a couple of phases of attack but the defence held strong, earning Gibraltar a penalty on their five metre line and allowing them to clear. The lineout, secured by Ronnie Gache, gave a solid platform for the backs. Strong runs followed from captain Teddy Sacarello and – at the start of a performance which saw Singapore nominate him their man-of-the-match – Matthew Isola pushed Gibraltar into the Singapore half before a penalty was awarded. Alexander “Chuqi” Cruz successfully slotted the kick to put Gibraltar 3 points up after 21 minutes. Almost straight from the restart,
Singapore were awarded their own penalty from 40 metres out which was successfully kicked by their number 9. 3-3. Gibraltar put Singapore under pressure from the restart forcing them to again kick to clear their lines. The ball went straight into Chuqi Cruz’s arms who danced past the approaching chasing winger and raced back into the Singapore half. A number of ground-gaining phases put Luke Torres down the far side of the pitch who offloaded to Chris Gillighan who was subsequently tackled high. Jack Milton, in typical scrum-half fashion, took a quick tap and started a sniping run for the corner, only to be tackled within 10 metres by an offside player. The Singapore player was yellow carded and Chuqi Cruz successfully converted the penalty kick to put
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Gibraltar 6 points to 3 up. Another penalty from the restart gave Singapore a chance to equalise from 30 metres, a task their scrum-half successfully completed.
With a minute to go of the half, and the Singapore yellow card, Singapore had an attacking scrum just outside the Gibraltar 22. Solid scrummaging from the pack, who truly played out of their skins today, put the Singapore scrum half under pressure forcing him to rush his pass. Regularly pushing the Singapore pack back in the scrum, the forwards were also determined in the tackle and aggressive at the breakdown and the turnover that resulted from the rushed pass all started with yet another great Gibraltar scrummage. Quick ball to the wing via the hands of Jack Milton to Luke
Torres who made a silky offload out of the tackle onto Harvey Armstrong who sprinted the remaining 70 metres to the tryline, dotting down under the sticks. Chuqi Cruz successfully kicked the conversion to put Gibraltar 13-6 to the good at half time.
The second half kicked off and Gibraltar were immediately awarded a penalty just inside the Singapore half. Unfortunately the kick was just out of Chuqi’s range and the ball went dead having passed inches under the crossbar. The 22 drop out went straight to Harvey Armstrong who went barn-storming into the Singapore defence. A great backs’ move sent Teddy Sacarello through the middle, offloading to Joey Garcia who was brought down just a metre short. The next phase led to a penalty for not releasing and Singapore clear
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their lines once again.
The next 15 minutes saw the home side put the visitors under a substantial amount of pressure which the Gibraltar defence dealt with admirably. Forwards and backs putting their bodies on the line and forcing mistakes from the Singaporean onslaught.
With only four minutes to go, Gibraltar forced another knock on from Singapore to gain a scrum. The ball was passed out wide from the base of the scrum and unfortunately knocked on. Singapore collected and score in the far corner of the pitch. A superb kick for the conversion brought the game to a 13 a piece tie and that’s how the scores remained for the remaining couple of minutes of the match. During the final minute of the
game, play was stopped whilst 22 year-old Luke Payas, who had suffered a nasty cut to the chin was attended to. Special mention should be made as he was taken off for treatment and therefore missed out on playing all 160 minutes of this tour’s rugby by just 60 seconds. Great effort from the young hooker. The players who did make the 160 minute mark are: Mike Milward, Luke Torres, Teddy Sacarello and Chuqi Cruz, an accolade to be immensely proud of. This was a contest that will be remembered for dogged determination from, on paper, the underdogs. A group of 24 individuals who put in a shift as a team, worked together to attack well and defend even better. Speaking with various members of the GRFU party after the match, although disheartened by
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the draw, it was unanimous that Gibraltar had a lot to be proud of. Honorary President of the GRFU, Denis Lafferty, said that he felt that “Gibraltar had won the game, even if it resulted in a draw.” Veteran prop, at 37 years old, and stalwart of Gibraltar rugby Nicholas Ramagge said he was proud of “the intensity and the work rate from every man”, that the players had “left everything on the pitch” and that “every player can be very, very proud”. National Team Manager, Steve Payas, said “I’m hugely proud of the team who played to their strengths, stuck to the game plan and truly showed World Rugby exactly how talented they are.”
GRFU Chairman, Maurice Stagnetto added “it’s been a great honour to travel with the Gibraltar National Team and see how the organisation, both on and off the
field, has demonstrated to all the level of professionalism within the GRFU. I am privileged to have been with the players for two momentous matches in the development of the National Team, matches to be remembered for the talent on show, especially from the younger players who show great promise for the future of Gibraltar rugby. A week that will truly live in the memories of all those in attendance, I am hugely proud and want to give my sincerest thanks to all players and management involved.” Tomorrow sees the Gibraltar Vets and Development squad take on local team Bucs Rugby Club, this will kick off at 5am CET so will only be posting the half time and final scores for our supporters at home to read once they wake up! For now, it’s good night from me, and it’s good night from them!
archived images
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Game Day Three - Report
Centaurs 10-0 Gibraltar D/V
Good start from Gibraltar Development and Veterans (D/V) but they're turned over near halfway. Centaurs break through the middle and there is some confusion in defense as Charlie Lopez runs into Harry Brunskill whilst both try and tackle the Centaurs player. There is one more phase as they go wide and score a try.
Good scrum from the Gibraltar selection and the ball moves left, Harry with a show and go just outside the 22 and runs 130 metres, around two defenders to score under the posts. Kick is somehow missed and the score is 10-5
There is a small break for water due to the heat and humidity. Just after the game is restarted the D/V team knock on in midfield and the Centaur center collects. He steps around a forward caught in midfield and sprints to the corner for a try. Kick is missed again.
Second half passed for 20 mins mostly without incident until a clearing kick only found the centaur winger who passed inside to the centre. He then avoided a tackle to score beside the posts. Kick is good and it's 17-10.
Missed conversion and the Centaurs lead by 5 points to 0.
Centaurs move the ball wide but it's intercepted by Simon Adamson who runs in from 60 metres. Missed conversion and it's level at 10 all.
Gib are pressing well inside the
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22 when yet another 50/50 at the breakdown goes Centaurs way. The ball is kicked ahead by Centaurs, failed to be controlled and the ball grubbers towards the 22. Charlie Lopez tackled hard as he collect and spills the ball. A quick pass out to the wing and Centaurs are in again. Centaurs 22-10 Gibraltar D/V
The game is in the dying seconds and Centaurs are camped deep in the Gibraltar 22. The forwards pick and go and are over the line. The conversion is quickly taken and the whistle blows.for full time. Final Score
Centaurs 29-10 Gibraltar
archived image from Core Photography
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Women's football The Women's football league will return this week with matches to be played on Pitch 1. Following a decision to delay the restart of the league due to the effects of a safety net placed over pitch 2 an alternative allocation for the matches was sought by the GFA. A decision has since been taken for matches to be played on pitch 1 with new lines to be drawn in for the 9- aside matches.
tournament will be Tues 3rd May '16 Entrance fee £10 per player members and £15 per player for non- members. Trophies and a prize money of £200 for the winning team and £100 for the runner-up team. Entry fee will cover the end of tournament presentation of prizes and BBQ.
Tennis THE SAN MIGUEL Paddle Tennis Open Tournament will start on Monday 9th May 2016. The list to register will be up at the club's notice board as from this coming Monday. Closing date for the paddle tennis
Entry fee £10 for members and £15 for non members.
The women's league still has seven rounds to go plus a cup final which had been scheduled to be played earlier in the season.
THE FAMOUS GROUSE Tennis Open Tournament will take place as from Monday 23rd May 2016. The list will be up on the club's notice board as from this coming Monday.
Trophies and prize money of £100 for the winner and £50 for the runner-up. Entry fee will cover the end of
tournament presentation of prizes and BBQ. Football In the latest news coming from Europa FC they have announced that U11 youth players Omer Gussarsky and Jesse Gomez have been selected for training with the La Liga Malaga CF next Monday.
Netball Following Macclesfield School and Cheslyn School visit this week in which they played against local teen sides from the Gibraltar Netball leagues more teams will be arriving next week to play local teams
St Aubyns school will be playing GNA's High 5 teams on Monday 11th April at 5.15pm at the Victoria Stadium. Matches from the Superteens teams will also play against Archbishop Sentamu Academy at the same time in the Red area next to the football pitch at the stadium.
Planned matches against an Australian school team this week did not materialise at the last minute although local teams from the UK have been arriving as links continue to develop between Gibraltar and the UK associations. Netball Gibraltar's senior netball squad will be facing Grenada, Israel and the Republic of Ireland in Group B matches of the Open Championships to be held in the UK. Gibraltar will tip off against the Republic of Ireland on Thursday 12th May, six hours later on the same day they will also face Grenada. On Friday 13th May they will play against Israel. On Saturday and Sunday 14th and 15th May they will play further Challenge group matches which will be decided once the first group matches are completed. Group A will see the USA, Malta and Switzerland play each other.
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The Gibraltar senior national squad have been in training since February in preparation for the Open Championship. The squad has already seen the main selection made after a cut was held earlier in March. Island Games A small visiting delegation from the Small Island Games, accompanied by members of the GSLA, Gibraltar Small Island Games and representatives from different sports went on a guided tour of most of Gibraltar's sports facilities on Saturday.
The delegation saw firsthand many of the sports facilities in use during their visit on Saturday morning with small pitches used by junior leagues and the Tercentenary Sports Hall packed by young children and parents competing in the May Day Futsal Junior tournament.
The tour started at the Bayside Sports Complex and went on to see the Media Centre, drugs testing and first aid area, the Tercentenary Sports Hall before heading to the facilities for Clay Shooting, Rifle range, Pistol range, Squash, Tennis, Sailing, Swimming Pool and Ten Pin Bowling.
The delegation also met with the Chief Minister last week before visiting the facilities where in his presence Natwest signed an agreement to continue with the sponsorship until after the 2019 Island Games.
Badminton Fixtures Reminder. This Thursday 14th April at 6:30pm in Tercentenary Hall: Div 3. Rebels v Dominators SSB3 v The Beasts
Athletics The athletics seen saw Alison Edwards achieve an exceptionally good sixth placed finish in the Seville marathon this weekend within the female category. Alison, who has been plagued with injuries during the winter road racing league yet achieved the Queen of the Road title, is still on the road to a full recovery to her peak fitness levels. The, not so young athlete, also achieved first place in her seniors category.
Athletics in Gibraltar will next see the completion of the Winter track with the presentation of prizes to runners on Tuesday. On the same day the first race of the summer league will take place, bringing back competitive athletics to our tracks. Football Manu makes a return to Britannia Argentinean footballer Manuel
Camacho Onega, better known as Manu, made a return to the ranks of Britannia after leaving the club earlier in the year to seek new pastures. Manu featured as a substitute in the 4-3 win against Angels on Friday.
Hockey Hawks ladies won 1-0 against Grammarians Ladies on Sunday. Hawks had just a few weeks ago lost 3-2 against the Grammarians ladies. The other match on Sunday between Eagles Ladies and Grammarians Boys resulted in a walk over for the Boys with Eagles not fielding a team. Pool Mixed results in Pool in Bridington The Gibraltar men's pool team had a mixed start to their European Championship matches with a defeat against Cyprus in their first match by 13-12, and
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then a victory against Catalonia by 13-12. They then went on to wn against Holland by 14-11 and lose against Ireland . The men's pool team were in the UK playing in the European Championships being held in Bridington. Earlier last week the Under 15 team reached the semi-finals
where there were beaten 8-0 by a more experienced Welsh team.
Football In the latest news coming from inside the Lincoln Red Imps camp it seems that the GFA have lifted the red card shown during the match against Glacis United following evidence seen on video footage of the match.
All our images are available from www.corephotographygibraltar.com original size from ÂŁ7 per download Websized from ÂŁ2.50