South American Career...

[Colorado]

Rangers 3-2 defeat away to La Serena ensured we qualify for the play-off stage of the opening round along with Huachipato.

I can now give some players who haven't featured as heavily as I would of liked the opportunity to impress and gain match fitness. I can also rest those who have played alot.

[axeman]

Good performance there Colorado. In the long run, you might make the team into a superpower in the Chilean game.

[Colorado]

Following our qualification for the play-off rounds, made a few changes for our trip to Santiago to take on Palestino.

We made changes in defence, midfield and attack for this one with Munoz coming in for Ahumada, Armijo got a rare start for Reyes who has featured heavily throughout. 33 year old Santibanez who has been outstanding at MR started on the bench which allowed Juan Pablo Arenas to start. DMC Espinoza also got a rare start in place of Celedon who started on the bench. Our subsitutes also featured 21 year old striker Sebastian Calderon who has fallen out of favour in recent months, but has looked good at reserve level.

A small crowd of 785 turned up at Santa Laura to see us crash to our second consecutive defeat, despite yet again being the superior side throughout.

We started well and took the lead through San Martin (17 mins), as he again scored a cracking free kick from distance. Palestino had shown little to conivince me that they were to give much trouble but we allowed them to level through a penalty on 39 mins.

At half time I expressed my disappointment to the team. Despite the changes we'd made to our starting XI, I still felt we should of had enough about to us to overcome Palestino. Centre back Munoz, was consideribly playing below his capabilities.

The second half begun with us leading attack after attack only to find us being wasteful with the ball and Palestino 'keeper Hernan Cuputto being in outstanding form.

We piled forward making changes on the hour bringing on regular midfielders Santibanez and Celedon and forward Calderon to freshen up our side which was looking increasing tired due to the intense heat. Our subs failed to make any major impact and Palestino changed to play 4 up front which was creating us problems on the break. I felt confident we could deal with their threat but I was proven wrong when in the very last minute of stockage time, when their striker was poorly marked on a corner and headed in past our stranded keeper giving them the 2-1. The ref blew for full time as soon as we kicked off and we were left with nothing to show despite being the stronger team.

[Colorado]

In the week leading up to our game with Coquimbo Unido, the focus in the media was all about managerial changes.

Yuri Fernandez is said to be under pressure at Santiago Wanderers and it's thought a defeat against Cobreloa would see Fernandez given the push.

Struggling Puerto Montt became the first club to sack their manager as Gino Valentini. With a record of W4 D5 L9, the Puerto Montt board hope the change will help to strengthen Puerto Montt's chances in the relegation battle for the rest of the season.

[Colorado]

Our final Opening stage home game before the playoff's saw us face midtable Coquimbo Unido. On the back of two unexpected defeats, it was important we performed today to stop our generally impressive form deteriorating.

Unlike our defeat with Palestino, I selected a full strength side side which lined up in our favoured 4-4-2.

We started comfortably and controlled the game early on, Luiz Nunez was the first to get on the score sheet in the 17th min as he slotted the ball home past the stranded Unido 'keeper to make it 1-0. The score was to change minutes later as top scorer Patrico Reyes doubled our lead on 23 mins then again on 26 mins, giving us a comfortable 3-0 advantage. Coquimbo Unido replied though in a rare opportunity on 36 mins which saw them make it 3-1 with a fantastic strike from distance rocketting straight into the top hand corner of our goal.

At half-time I stressed the importance of not letting our standards our hard work from the first half slip. I was sure that we would easily see off the threat of Coquimbo Unido providing we remained 100% focused in the second half.

This proved to be the case in the second half and we domintated the match, with Unido offering little in reply. The game was sealed though on 80 mins when Reyes sealed his hattick with a fantastic little chip over the keeper from a few yards out. The game finished as we comfortably ran out 4-1 winners.

Today's victory was a good result and an away game with Puerto Montt next week (14th May)should provide us with a fairly easy game before going into the play-off games just TWO days later (16th May).

Our preparations for our playoff match though were to take a huge blow. As our physio Pablo Contreras contacted me urgently as I doing the media rounds and informed me of his concerns regarding our striker Luiz Nunez.

It had appeared that Nunez who has played a big part in our season so far with (8 goals in 9 starts) had fallen quite ill. Contreras' diagnosis had showed us that Nunez was suffering from a serious viral infection and would need to see a specialist which would rule him out for anything from 6 to 9 months. Disaster!!

Luiz Nunez was originally injured in a pre-season game and before he came back into the first time, I had concerns over the quality of forwards we had and were forced into playing 4-5-1. However, Nunez recovered from his calf strain, got fit and then settled into the first team. It was a big relief for me and without him our 4-4-2 definatly wouldn't of so sucessful.

[Colorado]

Other news this week saw Nicolas Villamil was announced as the new manager of Puerto Montt. Outspoken Argentine, Villamil joins Puerto Montt from struggling Concepcion where he was involved in the coaching set up. His first game will be against us.

Cobreloa, the only Chilean club to progress through to the Copa Libertadores third round as they beat Brazilian outfit Corinthians in a shock 2-1 win over two legs. Colo Colo the nation's other representitive failed to qualify from the first round group stage where they finished bottom of their group.

Overwhelming saw Santiago Wanderers dispose of Yuri Fernandez and Cobreloa assistant manaer Ruben Espinoza is the big favourite to take over at the Valparaiso based club.

[Colorado]

In what was Yuri Fernandez' first game in charge of Puerto Montt, our high flying Union San Felipe side made several changes with Tuesday's yet to be decided playoff in mind.

Nunez misses his first game through long term injury and Reyes was rested, giving Armijo and Calderon the chance to impress up front. Omar Arcos started his first game in goal since returning from injury, Fuenzalida our solid RB was rested so young Danilo Zamora deputised. Juan Pablo Arenas started at AMR which allowed Santibanez to start from the bench and versitle midfielder Suarez started in the first team after coming back from injury to allow Gonzalo Fierro to be rested. Forgotten striker Victor Fernandez started on the bench.

The chances to our side showed from the start as lack of quality was eveident up front, and we looked lacklusture up front. Arenas was struggling to get into the game from wide right and Nelson San Martin who is a regular in the first failed to stamp any authority on the game from his central midfield role. Poor marking allowed Puerto Montt to take the lead early on 12th mins as their forward found space and netted from a ball into our area. Whilest Puerto Montt found it difficult to create any chances, we were also playing poorly and a dull first half ended with us losing 1-0.

During the break I encouraged the players to take the game on. The largely uneffective Armijo had picked up a knock and with our current shortage of forwards we decided not to risk sending him back out for the second half and replaced him with Victor Fernandez.

Again the second half continued with neither team showing much quality or will to go forward. This was until the 76th min when Victor Fernandez broke free to equalize in a rare chance. Puerto Montt pushed forward in an effort to take a much needed 3 points from the game, this was to be their downfall as Arena's header give us the lead on 83 mins. This was quickly followed a sweet finish by Victor Fernandez on 87 mins to make it 3-1, then San Martin finished a good team move to seal the win and the game finished 4-1.

In what started as a below par performance, we finished strongly and I was particularly pleased as Fernandez scored twice. The fact we rested several players wasn't a problem but our lack of quality without Reyes and Nunez was clear to see and could be a big concern.

I feel we may have to look to bring in a forward when the transfer window opens in July but with us already having agreed to purchase two players, we have no funds left. We are tracking a number of strikers. Phillipe Estevez a 22 year old striker from Concepcion's reserves is available for loan and is a player who I feel could do a job for us. He has a bit of strength about him and is decent in the air, which is something I felt we've lacked. At this moment he probably is our number one target.

With the Opening league now over and the playoff's to begin shortly I think we've exceeded expectations so far, but see no reason for this not to continue. We'll be joined in July by two quality players and providing we can do without Nunez up front we could continue to suprise a few people. The supporters and board are both very pleased with our progress and with my contract expiring at the end of the season, I'd like to be able to be in a position to negotiate a new one sooner rather than later.

Anyway, here is the final Opening league table

[Colorado]

As predicted Ruben Espinoza left his post at asstant manger's post at Cobreloa to take up the manager vacancy at Santiago Wanders.

Also, the playoff's I mentioned don't commence until the highest placed team who didn't qualify from their sub-group, play the lowest placed league team who qualify from their sub-group.

This see's Cobreloa take on Cobresal who despite finishing 7th failed to qualify. Whether the qualifying teams are randomly drawn or play each other in relation to the final league standings also remains to be seen.

[Colorado]

In the qualifying playoff Cobresal beat Cobreloa 2-1, and the two legged playoffs are as follows.

Union San Felipe V Huachipato

Everton V Colo Colo

Union Espanola V Cobresal

Universidad de Chile V Universidad Catolica

We take on Huachipato (first leg at home) in what will be a very difficult game. Huachipato beat us 2-1 in the league game but we finished our sub-group comfortably above them. Everton - Colo Colo and the Universidad games should be particularly interesting.

[bruce grobbelaar]

just come across this story - and i must admit iam hooked -

top stroy keep it going

[Colorado]

Nice one mate, you timed it right because the league is starting to get interesting.

[millwallrules]

this is great KUTGW

Do you sleep,you seem to be typing all day and night lol

[Colorado]

Our attendance record for the season was broken as 4,903 spectators watched on as we took on Huachipato in the first leg of the play-offs.

We started with our strongest team with the exception of the injured Luis Nunez, whom Victor Fernandez replaced.

The game started off an edgy affair with both teams refusing to risk pushing forward but we soon settled down into our pattern of play as we kept the ball, pushing Huachipato back deep inside their half, Victor Fernandez even saw his shot rebound off the post on 6 mins! All that was lacking was the killer ball. This continued until mid-way second half when Huachipato defender Reynero smashed a freekick in from 25 yards from the edge of the box. It was Huachipato's only attempt on goal but it was enough to put them in front 1-0.

We responded well to being a goal down and again held onto the ball and forcing Huachipato back. As the half time whistle blew though, the lack of quality in our final ball and Patrico Reyes ineffective first half were concerning.

We came out for the second half with the same team which had started and if we could just add the killer ball to our possesion then I felt we would be able to get ourselves back into the game.

No matter how hard we tried we continued finding ourselves unable to find the goal. On 73 mins I decided to try and freshen things up in our bid to equalize. Arena's came on for the suprisingly disappointing Santibanez at MR and brought off Victor Fernandez and replaced him with Sebastian Calderon. Arena's looked lively but just as the rest of the team found hinself unable to find a goal. With 5 mins to go, we brought on DMC Espinoza for AMC Celedon who was beginning to tire and with the 2nd leg midweek in mind.

The game finished with Huachipato winning 1-0 and with us wondering how we lost as we'd easily matched what they threw at us. We visit Talcahuano with a 1-0 deficit to overcome, and I feel fairly confident we can do it.

In the other play off matches,

Everton lost 2-1 to Colo Colo and Universidad de Chile scored in the last minute to steal a 2-2 draw with Universidad Catolica.

The Union Espanola V Cobresal first leg is played when we play the second leg.

Other news in Chile see's Cobreloa go to Colombia in the Copa Libertadores 3rd Round, 2nd leg. After drawing 0-0 in the 1st leg they now play Deportivo Cali away. After already knocking out Corinthians in the Second Round, the Calama based club will be looking to add Deportivo to their hit-list.

[Colorado]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by millwallrules:

this is great KUTGW

Do you sleep,you seem to be typing all day and night lol </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

It does take some time up, but I'm off work this week and my girlfriend's working during the day so I ain't got much else to do! Glad your enjoying. If we can turn it around in the second leg, we'll be in the semis!!!

[Colorado]

As we approached the Estadio Las Higueras in Talcahuano, we knew that the game with Huachipato was going to be the biggest yet of the season. The memorable victories over Unversidad de Chile and Colo Colo, the difficult tie with Union Espanola; they had all been for this.

Tonight we had to win by to ensure we didn't go out of the Opening stage. The weekend visit of Huachipato saw us lose 1-0 but other than that, there was very little between the two teams. We knew we were capable of getting something from the game today.

We started with the same team which started the first leg. On the bench Armijo replaced Calderon.

The match begun slowly with both teams probing each other looking for any weakness, any opening. We began to settle into our game and then took the lead with Santibanez heading in Fierro's cross, giving us the lead and making the match level over the two legs.

The first half continued in a cautous manner and it remained 1-0 until half time.

The second half kicked off and was much the same as the first, Huachipato striker Hector Mancilla who had been a constant thread throughout the match then levelled for the home side after losing his marker and slotting the ball past Arcos. We had to score or we'd be out...

We upped the tempo and attacked, allowing everyone to get forward but the Huachipato were always looking to break away down our end. Fustration began to set in and after picking up his second yellow, our reliable RB Pablo Fuenzalida recieved his marching orders. Our chances of getting into the game now were fading fast. We kept our shape and our defence adapted to playing as a 3. We then continued to push, but Huachipato were looking more and more of a threat with having the man over and breaking as we attacked.

The game finished 1-1, with the 2-1 scoreline over 2 legs enough to see Huachipato make the semi-finals.

Other scores from the playoffs saw Colo Colo and Everton draw 1-1 ensuring the Santiago giants go through and Union Espanola got off to a good start in their first leg with Cobresal, winning 2-0.

The Santiago derby between Universidad Catolica and Universidad de Chile is played tomorrow and is tied 2-2 after the first leg.

In the Copa Libertadores, Cobreloa were knocked out as they lost their second leg 2-1 to Colombian outfit Deportivo Cali.

During the interviews after our match, I was asked about the future of our centre back Juan Robledo. Since returning from injury a few weeks ago, he has been in fantastic form for us and is being monitored by Everton (Chi) and Cobreloa. I told the press I have no intention of letting him go and that he will definatly be staying.

As far as our fixtures are concerned, we now have a long break as the Opening Stage of the Championship unfolds.

Our campaign in the closing stage begins 6th August (current date is 24th May). By this time we will have at least two new faces in the squad. I am also hoping I will have my own future clarified by this time. My contract expires at the end of the year and despite our early exit from the playoff's, I myself and the coaching staff have the pushed the club onto a new level. The club's finances although still not extremely healthy have improved.

[Colorado]

The two remaining Opening Stage playoffs were decided-

Just under 23,000 saw Unversidad Catolica defeat Universidad de Chile 2-1 (4-3 agg), whilest Union Espanola ensured their place in the semi finals winning 2-1 (4-1 agg) against Cobresal.

The semi final ties are-

Huachipato V Colo Colo

Union Espanola V Universidad Catolica

I can personally see Colo Colo and Universidad Catolica going through from the semi's, my tip throughout the Opening Stage is Universidad Catolica.

Meanwhile, my assistant Julio Escobar has reported on Juan Robledo, who he says is delighted that I have confirmed he'll be staying at the club.

[Colorado]

Both the first leg semi finals finished level,

Huachipato earned a creditable 0-0 draw with Colo Colo, and Union Espanola and Universidad Catolica drew 2-2.

[Colorado]

The semi finals were decided today-

Huachipato played out a 0-0 draw away to Colo Colo despite having 2 men sent off within 37mins. Incredibly they managed to hang on until extra time and won on penalities! Definatly, the biggest shock of the season so far!!

Universidad Catolica sealed thier place in the final with a less dramatic 2-0 win (4-2 agg) over Union Espanola.

The two legged final see's Huachipato at home for the first leg.

[PMLF]

Surprising Huachipato so far.

Also, keep us updated on Copa Libertadores.

[Colorado]

I certainly will.

[Colorado]

As promised the 3rd Round draw for Copa Libertadores is-

River Plate V Deportivo Cali

Cruz Azul V Atletico Paranaense.

Meanwhile across South America,

River Plate are celebrating after winning the domestic Closing Stage, pipping rivals Boca by a point.

In Brazil, the National Championship has just got underway with the standings looking like this-

1. Atletico Paranaense 6 14

2. Fluminense 7 14

3. Parana 7 14

4. Corinthians 7 13

5. Vasco 7 13

17. Fortaleza 7 6

18. Ponte Preta 7 5

19. Goias 6 3

20. Coritiba 7 2

In the major state championships,

Minas Gerais - Cruzeiro

Gaucho - Caxias

Parana - Atletico Paranaense

Rio - Botafogo won both, Opening and Closing.

Sao Paulo - Sao Paulo

[Colorado]

In Colombia, Millonarios have sealed thier place in the First Phase final, where they are likely to meet the winners of the forthcoming match between Atletico Nacional and Tolima.

With one final round of games to be played the Peruvian Opening League is wide open and currently looks like this-

1. Alianza Lima 23 40

2. Sporting Cristal 23 39

3. Union Huaral 23 39

4. Universitario 23 37

5. Cienciano 23 36

[Colorado]

In Uruguay, Penarol will meet Rocha to decide the Championship.

Meanwhile heading north, Atlante beat Toluca to claim the Opening Stage Championship in Mexico, whilest Tigres beat Pachuca on penalities to win the Closing Stage.

The United States' M.L.S is well underway and after 14 rounds, the East Conference see's MetroStars, Chicago, Colombus and New England all going strong. Colorado and Chivas USA and going particularly well in the West Conference.

[Colorado]

Back to Chile,

Huachipato's fantastic run in the Opening Stage is all but over as Universidad Catolica comfortably won 3-0 in the first leg in Talcahuano. A remarkable effort will need to be made in the second leg now if Huachipato are going to claim their first championship since 1974.

All is fairly quite at Municipal de San Felipe where for the first time since joining the club we've had a period of no matches. I've issued a hands-off warning through the press as Cobreola and Universidad de Chile continue to keep tabs on my centre half Juan Robledo.

PS- I've breifly covered all the leagues running in the game but if anyone has questions about certain clubs then feel free.

[Colorado]

Universidad Catolica sealed the Opening Championship with a 3-1 victory in the second leg at the San Carlos Apoquindo in Santiago.

The following morning I spoke to the press, praising Catolica boss Jorge Pellicer. Much to my suprise, in a lovely gesture he spoke to national newspaper saying how lucky Union San Felipe were to have me! Now, if only they'd give me a new contract!!

[Colorado]

24th June 2006...

With Germany 2006 underway, here's a recap of the final group standings and the draw for the 2nd Round.

Group A:

Germany and Brazil qualify, with USA finishing 3rd.

Group B: Portugal and Ukraine qualified.

Group C: Morocco and Norway qualify, with France finishing 4th!

Group D: Italy and Argenitina go through.

Group E: England and Poland qualify, with Paraguay finishing 3rd.

Group F: Spain and Mexico go through.

Group G: Croatia and Czech Rep qualify with Ecuador coming 4th.

Group H: Sweden and Holland top the group which saw Uruguay finish 3rd.

The Second Round draw is -

Germany V Ukraine

Portugal V BRAZIL

Morocco V ARGENTINA

Italy V Norway

MEXICO V England

Spain V Poland

Holland V Croatia

Czech Rep V Sweden

Domestically, the transfer window opens in less than a week and already things are heating up.

Omar Arcos our GK has attracted bids from Concepcion and First Division B outfit Santiago Morning, needless to say both were rejected. The bids were of around £16,000 and the club doesn't need the money. To replace Arcos would cost us far more.

Rumours also continue to circulate about the future of our Juan Robledo, the player this time apparently talking up the chances of a move to Cobreloa. Despite this he seems settled at the club and I have no intention of selling him.

During the window I'll be hoping to bring in a striker on loan but other than that and the two deals we've already agreed I don't see any more activity in or out of the club.

[Colorado]

Elsewhere, the Colombian Opening Championship has been decided in front of 54,000 fans packed into El Campin, Bogota as Millonarios beat Atletico Nacional on penalties to secure the title for the first time in 18 years!

In Uruguay the Championship's suprise package Rocha won their first ever title after beating giants Penarol 5-1 over two legs.

Also, in the Peruvian capital, Alianza Lima secured the Opening Championship.

With many South American nations now in a brief break between 'Opening and Closing' championships, the following managers are under pressure-

Paulo Autuori, Sao Paulo (Bra)

Ruben Omar Romano, Cruz Azul (Mex)

Hernan Dario Gomez, America de Cali (Col)

Juan Carlos Oblitas, Sporting Cristal (Peru)

Meanwhile struggling Chilean First Divison B club, Union La Calera are set to be considering the future of their manager, Nicola Hadwa.

[Colorado]

With the transfer window opening withing days now, my players continue to attract interest,

Vina del Mar based Everton made an offer of £210,000 for Robledo. Everton's Alvaro Villaron AM/FC (£1.1mill) is a player who's their finding it hard to keep and is destined to move to a higher level so I asked for a straight swap!! I made the offer non-negoiatable and I know they'll refuse but it'll give them a taste of their own medicine.

They also made an offer for verstile defensive midfielder Victor Nelson Suarez, whom I have no intention of selling.

Over in Germany, the World Cup continues...

Germany 2-1 Ukraine

Portugal 0-1 BRAZIL

Morocco 0-2 ARGENTINA

Italy 2-1 Norway

MEXICO 3-3 England, England win on pens.

Spain 1-0 Poland

Holland 1-0 Croatia

Czech Rep 1-0 Sweden

The quarter final draw, throws together two massive games...

Germany V Italy

BRAZIL V ARGENTINA

England V Czech Republic

Spain V Holland

[Colorado]

Alexis Jose Garcia and Omar Riquelme have joined the club as expected.

Not so expected is the response to other clubs for my players.

Juan Robledo (DC) is a player who it's becoming increasingly difficult to hang onto. He's happy at the club and is valued at less than £100,000. Hoping to put off Cobreloa who've constantly been linked with him I put his asking price up to £1 mill. Cobreloa have come back to me offering just this! They wanted to pay an inital £250,000 with the remainder over 24 months, I've negoiated to have £700,000 up front then £300,000 over 24months plus 25% sell on clause.

I fear if they come back with this, then in the best interests of the club I feel I will have to seriously consider allowing Robledo to leave.

Meanwhile unexpectedly, Colo Colo have made an offer to loan our left back and captain John Valladares. With the arrival of Omar Riquelme I'm happy to let him go for the rest of the season (£110,000 is the fee) providing there's no obligation to sell him at any point.

Whatever happens though I will not allow both Robledo and Valladares to leave.

In the World Cup the quarter finals have been decided-

Germany 1-1 Italy - Italy winning on penalities.

BRAZIL 2-1 ARGENTINA

England 2-0 Czech Rep

Spain 0-0 Holland - Spain going through on pens.

With the pressure on, the semi-finals are-

Italy V Spain

Brazil V England

[Colorado]

Welcome to Union San Felipe!

Alexis Jose Garcia

Omar Riquelme

[Colorado]

Unbelivable!! Everton came in for Valladares with the terms I'd negoiated! A part exchange for their forward Alvaro Villaron (In my earlier post I said they were after Robledo, apologies).

We've spoke to Villaron and he doesn't appear to seem keen to agree terms so it is doubtful the deal will go through, however Colo Colo have made us a new offer to take Valladares on lone without an option to make the move permanent.

Two days later, Villaron rejected our offer meaning teh Valladares transfer to Everton falls through. It is now likely that he will join Colo Colo on loan.

Goalkeeper Arcos continues to attract interest this time with Huachipato making an offer, which again was rejected.

The board also turned down my request for some transfer funds in my quest to bring in a new striker.

[Colorado]

The semi finals for the World Cup have been concluded with penalties deciding the outcome in both matches.

Italy went through on pens after finishing 1-1 with Spain.

Brazil lost on penalties after a dramatic 2-2 with England.

Italy will meet England in the World Cup Final.

[Colorado]

Valladares agreed to join Colo Colo on loan. The £110,000 we get for it ensures that we dont have any pressure to sell to help with clubs finances. It also gives new signing (LB) Omar Riquleme a chance in the first team as Valladares was playing there.

I'm sure the chance to play for a club like Colo Colo is a great opportunity for Valladares and I hope he'll do well there. As mentioned, we have a ready made replacement in Riquelme but with Valladares being captain, it's not yet been decided who will deputise whilest he's away.

This also means I'm able to reject the huge offer from Cobreloa for Juan Robledo. He was 2 years remaining on his contract so we have time on our side if we feel we need to sell him.

I'm not looking to sell anymore players although a few reserve players are getting attention from First Division B clubs. Other the next few days I'm hoping to step up our efforts in bringing a new striker in on loan.

I'm looking forward to the Closing Stage and feel we can improve of what we've achieved so far.

[Colorado]

In Germany, the world watched as Italy met England in the World Cup final.

A goal each half ensured Italy won in a close match as the game finished 2-0 to the Italians.

The Golden Boot winner was Wayne Rooney, he was also named as the best player.

Copa Libertadores:

Cruz Azul 2-2 Atletico Paranaense, Cruz Azul win on pens

Deportivo Cali 1-4 River Plate

The cup will be heading to either Mexico or Argentina!

[Colorado]

Despite a 2-2 draw in the first leg in Argentina, again Cruz Azul and River couldn't be seperated as they played out a dull 0-0 draw. The game needed to be decided by penalties which Cruz Azul won 3-2.

After being runners up in 2001, this was Cruz Azul's first major continental trophy.

[Colorado]

With a week to go until the transfer window closes, we've narrowed it down to two potential transfer targets.

O'Higgins' striker Claudio Videla is topping the goal scoring charts in the First Division B and we are currently talking to about a permanent deal and Jose Pedro Fuenzalida whom we've approached to take on loan for the rest of the season from Universidad Catolica.

It is also a week until our Closing Stage campaign begins. We play two away games at Temuco and Concepcion in the first week, before a difficult televised home match with Cobreloa.

[Colorado]

Our match day squad for our first match of the Closing Stage had a new face, it Jose Pedro Fuenzalida the AMR/ST who'd joined us on loan from Opening Champions Universidad Catolica. Fuenzalida joined up with us in the days leading up to the transfer deadline. Our efforts to sign Claudio Videla had been unsucessful.

The match itself was one we'd expected to win, Temuco failed to make much of an impression in the Opening Stage but with our players lacking match fitness and playing under the glaring Temuco sun, we felt we could get turned over if not careful.

The game started well, with us giving a debut to Alexis Jose Garcia and starting with a 4-5-1 formation, Fuenzalida started from the bench whilest our third signing, left back Omar Riquelme was to miss the first month our the Closing Stage through injury. We contained Temuco well, limiting their chances however with only Reyes up front alone we too lack imagination going forward. We kept things tight and went in at half time drawing 0-0.

During the break I asked the players to keep the shape which was containing Temuco but to try and attack more hoping we'd get a chance to give us the lead.

We did attack far more in the second half but on 48 mins Temuco AMC Canio managed to find space and placed a shot past our keeper to put Temuco in front. Things was going to be tough.

Things were being made even tougher in the heat and both teams looked tired and mistakes were creeping into the game. On the hour, in attempt to freshen things up I made three changes. Switching to a 4-4-2 we brought on Armijo and Jose Pedro Fuenzalida up front and put Espinoza in centre midfield for the tired looking Reyes, San Martin and Celedon.

The switch to 2 up front seemed to work as we put the Temuco defence under alot of pressure, a paid off when Garcia scored a debut goal for us after good work from Fuenzalida to put things level. We continued to push forward as I felt it was a game we should of won. Our reward came very late into the game, when in the second minute of added time, up popped Santibanez to volley in Feunzalida's flick on from a corner. We took the lead and seconds after Temuco kicked off the ref blew for full time.

We did leave things late, but we deserved the win and should of won by more than 2-1. However I recognise that the players condition was severely affected by the heat and the fact we hadn't played for some time, so I'm just happy to start our campaign with a win. I was pleased with the input the new players had today and feel within 2/3 games we should be back to our best.

First though we have a tricky game midweek away to Concepcion, followed up by an even tricker game at home against Cobreloa.

[mavericktango]

excellant work as ever

[Colorado]

For our visit to Concepcion we were forced to make ten changes to our starting XI due to the condition of the players who featured in our win over Termuco.

We changed to a 4-4-2 formation and Calderon and Fernandez getting the nod up front. Jose Pedro Fuenzalida who impressed when he came off the bench on the weekend was handed a start, playing wide right. Only Nelson San Martin was deemed fit enough to play and he continued in centre midfield.

Despite the changes, Concepcion were without a win in nine games and I still felt we have enough quality about us to cause them problems. We started well enough and were ahead within 26 mins when reserve ML Alarcon scored in his first senior game with a fortunate deflection of a Concepcion defender. We looked comfortable in the lead and were always causing Concepcion problems when we attacked. Our lead at half time was to be made even healthier when Sebastian Calderon scored in the 36th min.

At half time, I stressed to the players that we had done well and were in a good position to go on and win but we couldn't allow our standards to drop and let the home side back into the game.

The players took my words on board for the second half and Calderon and Fernandez linked up superbly to make it 3-0! Minutes later a terrible mix up between the Concepcion defence and goalkeeper gifted Calderon his second of the game, putting us 4-0 up!! Concepcion now looked down and beaten. This became evident as the started giving away niggly freekicks getting several players booked in the process. Each time this was given us posession. On 63 mins I brought off the fantastic Calderon to give Armijo a run out and also brought off the tiring San Martin for Celedon. Concepcion couldn't seem to get anything right as they attempted to get back into the game and without too much effort, we dictated the game and finished with a 4-0 win.

I was delighted with the result, ecspecially with changes we made to the team. We'd got of to the perfect start with two wins in two, and we're in good form for our first home game of the Closing Stage, in front of the TV cameras with Cobreloa.

During the post-match interviews, I warned Cobreloa manager Fernando Diaz that confidence was high, and that their visit to Municipal de San Felipe wouldn't be an easy one. If we got win this we'd really be in a good position to push on in the Closing Stage championship.

[Colorado]

The game with Cobreloa saw us again make several changes to our starting line up in front of over 4,000 fans. We opted to play 4-4-2 again and Reyes started up front the Calderon. Fierro came in at left wing, Fuenzalida retained his place on the right and San Martin partnered Espinoza in central midfield.

We started edgy as Cobreloa put us on the back foot immediatley. We defended well and I realised it would be the sort of game where our chances needed to be taken as there wouldn't be too many off them. The first goal came on 18 mins as a Cobreloa centre head in a corner to give them a 1-0 lead. We picked up our game, played more openly. Ironically, it was the defender who scored Cobreloa's goal who as a fault as he gifted San Martin the ball six yards out from goal. San Martin didn't need a section inivitation and lifted the ball over the stranded keeper and into the net, 1-1!!!

At 1-1 I felt we could push on a take the inicitve as being at home and put the pressure on Cobreloa. We pushed up but saw Cobreloa deal with us comfortably with themselves pushing on towards goal. They re-took the lead on 44 mins as a one time transfer target of ours, Ricardo Viveros scored his first for his new club with a well taken effort. To go in 2-1 down just before half time was a killer blow.

We began the second half without any changes hoping we'd work ourselves back into the match, without too much time, our hopes were given a killer blow. On 49 mins a terrible mistake by Robledo allowed Viveros to put Cobreola 3-1 ahead. We really needed to dig in now, and we began looking giving the ball away as tiredness set in. Ineffective Reyes was brought off on 62 mins, as was Espinoza as Armijo and Celedon came on. Our changes didn't make things open up so we made another sub on 71 mins with Sanitbanez coming on Fuenzalida. As we attacked we looked more like conceeding than scoring, but in the 89mins Celedon broke from midfield and headed in Fierro's cross, 3-2 and we were back in! Or so we thought... Cobreola dealt with our attacks with ease after we got the second goal, and forced us into errors, giving the ball away on numerous occassions and our defence, Robledo in particular looking vunerable. The game came to a close with the scoreline with 3-2 loss and an impressive performance by Cobreola.

Our first defeat of the Closing Stage. There aren't many games when we've been beaten hands down, but this match along with the game away to Universidad Catolica a few months ago or occassions when I've thought just that.

We need to pick ourselves up quick though, we have another home game against Rangers. A good performance with 3 points will surely put things back on track. Rangers are also in a sub group.

[Colorado]

The game with Rangers saw us pick up points for the first time at Municipal de San Felipe in the Closing Championship.

We again went with our 4-4-2 and were again forced to make changes to our starting line up and players struggled with condition from previous games. On loan Jose Pedro Fuenzalida continued his run in the team starting up front for us alongside Sebastian Calderon.

In front of 2,711 we started well and needed just 3 minutes to take the lead when Santibanez's cross was turned in by Fuenzalida, 1-0!! From the whistle we continued to stamp our authority on the game and when Calderon was through on goal, Rangers' defender Caceres brought him down, finding himself on the recieving end of a red card. We were a goal up with an extra man, we were well on our way to picking up the win. Without any major threat from Rangers we played out the rest of the half and went in at the break winning 1-0.

At half time, I made a double subsitution. Reyes came on for Calderon who'd picked up a slight know, and the tired looking Ahumada came off for Suarez. I felt another goal would kill off Rangers, so as long as we kept things tight, and continued to create the points would be hours.

Rangers also made two changes at half time and were forced to make their final change on 47 mins. If having 10 men wasn't a big enough problem, Rangers' goalkeeper Juan Martinez picked up a knock and was forced to play through the pain barrier. He was clearly struggling so I felt we could really put the game within reach now. Our second goal came on 65 mins when Fuenzalida scored again after a cross from Jaime Lira. Surely, there was no way of Rangers getting back into the game. We played the reminder of the match out with Rangers unable to have a single shot on goal through the entire game as we comfortably ran out 2-0 winners.

A very pleasing result saw us bounce back up the table after our home defeat to Cobreloa. We were now 2nd trailing behind suprise early leaders Palestino who had won their four games.

Our next three games are-

20/08 A - Universidad de Chile

27/08 H - Universidad Catolica

10/09 A - Melipilla

Two very difficult games, followed by an away game with struggling Melipilla.

[Spav]

I think you're currently the busiest writer on the FMS forum - your output is huge, but the quality is top shelf too. I'm enjoying reading about the Chilean league as I know nothing about it myself. KUTGW Colorado.

[Colorado]

Thanks, have you read the whole thing right from the beginning on just started from half way through?

I didn't know anything about the Chilean league myself until I began the game. I'm going to do another round up of the other South American championships soon too.

I'll try and keep the same level of detail but I'm working next week so it won't be as frequent, I should be able to manage a decent update each day though. I'd have to pack my life up to keep it the way it is right now!!

Keep on following the mighty Union San Felipe!!

[axeman]

I started off reading your story on the first post and I must say that I'm impressed

I thought I was doing a good job but you're outwriting me at an incredible rate

[Colorado]

Like I said mate, I'm going to have to wind it down a bit from next week!

Cheers!

[Colorado]

Elsewhere around South America-

The National Championship is well underway in Brazil where Brasiliense are surprise leaders closely followed by Rio outfit Botafogo who are hoping to emulate the success they had in this years Rio State Championship on national level. Current holders Santos have so far lacked consistency and find themselves 11th. Meanwhile, Vasco are managerless after Renato Gaucho left the club to take over the reins at Second Division Gremio. Brazilian Cup winners Goais are struggling to find the form which brought them silverware earlier in the season as they are in 19th place.

1. Brasiliense 16 29

2. Botafogo 16 28

3. Palmeiras 16 24

4. Corinthians 16 24

5. São Caetano 16 24

16. Juventude 15 19

17. Fortaleza 16 19

18. Coritiba 15 18

19. Goiás 15 16

20. Ponte Preta 15 14

[Colorado]

In Argentina, it’s early days in the Closing Stage with most teams having only played 3 or 4 games,

Boca are off to a good start with a 100% record whilst Opening Stage winners River along with Newell’s and Banfield are all undefeated. Argentinos are facing up to a long hard season as have a fight on their hands to remain in the Argentine Premier Division.

1. Boca 4 12

2. Quilmes 4 9

3. Racing Club 4 9

4. River 3 7

5. Newell’s 3 7

16. Gimnasia (J) 4 3

17. Central 4 3

18. Gimnasia (LP) 4 2

19. Almagro 4 1

20. Argentinos 4 0

[Colorado]

After eight rounds in the Colombian Closing Championship, current holders Millonarios are already considered to be out of the running. With only one win so far Millonarios find themselves 14th. Up at the other end of the table, it’s Santa Fe who are the pace setters as they have a two point lead over second place América de Cali. Despite their current placing, América de Cali are strongly rumoured to be making changes with boss Hernan Dario Gomez’s future anything but secure. Copa Libertadores semi-finalists Deportivo Cali are currently in 5th place.

1. Santa Fé 8 19

2. América de Cali 8 17

3. Atlético Nacional 8 16

4. Magdalena 8 14

5. Deportivo Cali 8 14

14. Millonarios 8 8

15. Real Cartagena 8 7

16. Quindío 8 7

17. Deportivo Pereira 8 6

18. Pasto 8 3

[Colorado]

After eight rounds in the Colombian Closing Championship, current holders Millonarios are already considered to be out of the running. With only one win so far Millonarios find themselves 14th. Up at the other end of the table, it’s Santa Fe who are the pace setters as they have a two point lead over second place América de Cali. Despite their current placing, América de Cali are strongly rumoured to be making changes with boss Hernan Dario Gomez’s future anything but secure. Copa Libertadores semi-finalists Deportivo Cali are currently in 5th place.

1. Santa Fé 8 19

2. América de Cali 8 17

3. Atlético Nacional 8 16

4. Magdalena 8 14

5. Deportivo Cali 8 14

14. Millonarios 8 8

15. Real Cartagena 8 7

16. Quindío 8 7

17. Deportivo Pereira 8 6

18. Pasto 8 3

[Colorado]

In the Peruvian Closing Championship most teams have played five games with Universitario and Atlético Universidad heading the pack. Current champions Alianza Lima find themselves 7th although they have only played three matches. One of Peru’s larger clubs, Sporting Cristal have continued to stick with manager Juan Carlos Oblitas despite constant rumours regarding his future at the club. How long he will remain at the club though remains to be seen as they have only managed to win one of their five match they’ve played.

1. Universitario 5 12

2. Atlético Universidad 5 12

3. Melgar 4 10

4. Alianza Atlético 5 8

5. Cienciano 5 7