Stuart Lustigman Column
At last Maccabi GB has won the European Maccabi Football Trophy which has not visited these shores until now. Last Sunday, in Madrid, Maccabi, GB drew with defending champions Maccabi Germany and beat both Maccabi Russia and the hosts Maccabi Spain to win the tournament. It was an excellent performance from a team that performed well and was superbly managed. Without any disrespect, most (if not all) of these players are unlikely to make the Maccabiah squad but what a delight that they should have the opportunity to represent their country and which they did with great distinction.
Simon Corneys Oldham Athletic demonstrates the non glamorous side of professional league football with a report from the clubs chairman, Simon Blitz, that losses have run to 380,000 and still no joy in getting planning permission for an 80 million redevelopment at Boundary Park. In addition to that, Blitz refers to fans that sneak into matches without paying, debtors and sponsors who have not coughed up. However, I think he gave bad advice when he invited two shoplifters to go to Blackpools shop next time they wanted to steal football clothing. I mean, whats wrong with Manchester United?
I know that we dont always agree with referees but Maccabi referees secretary John Smiths recent comments in the JN were spot on. He denigrated the state of public football pitches that is contributing so much to the decline of 11-a-side football. Theres a Sky Sports blog:
http://www.skysports.com/blogs/blog_story/0,19793,14556_3498192,00.html which if you, you will find a very interesting read. However, the MSFL and Maccabi Masters Masters FL are bucking the trend which really reinforces the value of Jewish football to the community.
I just couldnt let the opportunity go by without wishing the State of Israel a happy 60th birthday. Im off for a couple of weeks to Israel to join in the celebrations and Ill be back with you at the end of the month.
