tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10574775575063830682024-02-09T03:14:06.971+01:00Polish Football ScoutMichał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11270286523447457346noreply@blogger.comBlogger215125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-16000990416926298142012-11-20T00:18:00.000+01:002012-11-20T00:18:00.829+01:00Legia frustrates Rumak's tactical sense<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Bartosz Ślusarski </b>was leaving the pitch as one of the last - beaten, unhappy and fuming at the result and chances that came his way but he missed them wastefully. The last thing he needed was a rather loud fan, who from his position in the stands just over the tunnel was loudly commenting on Ślusarski's performance - even advising him to give up playing. The response, however, came and misfiring forward offered supporter to come down and face him like a man.</div>
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This wasn't the most spectacular meltdown Polish football have seen in recent years - that happened more than an hour before, on the pitch, as <b>Legia </b>ripped <b>Lech</b> apart time by time with their precise, fast counters. Shocked by the horrible injury of their teammate and back four leader, <b>Manuel Arboleda</b>, they were in shock when <b>Jakub Kosecki</b> turned out to be onside while linking with <b>Jakub Wawrzyniak's</b> long pass. Then <b>Rafał Murawski</b>, Lech's captain and one of best earners, was unable to stop Legia's left-back run, despite Wawrzyniak's recent injury that allowed him to train only once before the prestigious encounter. Although it was visitors' third goal in thirty minutes that was a piece of almost unbelievably horrible defending from Lech - <b>Radović</b> exposed space behind <b>Ceesay</b> again, went on a run as opposing defenders simply allowed him to enter the box and finish his move.</div>
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<i>"I'm not sad, I'm irritated" </i>- claimed <b>Mariusz Rumak</b> afterwards.<i> "We lacked what I am responsible - tactics"</i> - explained his team's meltdown. That is insufficient to say, though, as Lech managed to win only two home games out of six so far, while their widely discussed minimalistic approach maybe guaranteed them the place at the top, but wasn't enough to keep Legia out from scoring.<b> Górnik Zabrze</b> needed only organization to keep Lech far from their goal, <b>Jagiellonia</b> had two lucky breaks and hit them instantly to notch famous win. Legia was always the most dangerous of them all, especially with fast wingers and technical presence of<b> Danijel Ljuboja</b>, but Lech should be prepared.</div>
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They weren't and, for what is worse, they looked surprised at how Legia went through them, once and again. Pressure and emotions are one thing, but discipline quite the other and that was the least Rumak could expect. <b>Marcin Kamiński</b> should be used to festive atmosphere and important games through the experience gained in Poznan so far, and by enjoying the role of one of the leaders in Poland youth teams. But this wouldn't be right to put the blame all on young defender's shoulders - what should worry <b>Mariusz Rumak</b> the most is the way his senior players crumbled under Legia's presence. Murawski, Ślusarski, Ceesay and Trałka - they are were at fault for the result more than their younger teammates. For what is worth, it was young <b>Karol Linetty</b> who stood out and matched his opponents.</div>
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<i>"I can't wait for the reverse fixture in Warsaw"</i> - was the message through gritted teeth of <b>Mariusz Rumak</b>. He knows that it may be quite different story with incoming winter. Whereas he is looking at the position needing reinforcements - now add an experienced central defender to his list -<b> Jan Urban</b> openly admits that the state of Legia's finances will demand selling some parts of his best assets.</div>
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Scale of work ahead of Lech, and the differences in class proved by Legia, were exposed with unexpected ease - <b>Edgar Cani </b>coming from <b>Polonia Warsaw</b> is more known from his off-the-pitch antics (lately, he was kicked out from Polonia after he was sent for last minutes in <b>Bełchatów</b> and managed to win penalty - although showing his unhappiness on the bus home) than scored goals. To those who prefer to remember the red cards and conflicts, Cani is actually good at what he should be in the first place - eleven goals last troubling season prove just that.</div>
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<i>"There is no point in saying that the title race is over"</i> - said <b>Jan Urban</b> straight away. "<i>A slight slip from leaders and it will open up again - this is Polish football for you, after all."</i></div>
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<b>Urban</b> by no means was triumphant after the game, yet found a way to sympathize with his younger rival and even show him the way Rumak should follow.<i> "In our league a lot can be achieved simply by courage and motivation but this isn't the right one. Organization and positional attack is the key ability." </i><b>Mariusz Rumak</b> was certain, through his results so far, that Lech at least has it - hence the minimalistic approach, but as Legia exposed his side, once there was no discipline, lack of fight and motivation put them far behind title favourites. It seems that this time his job - no matter how much of it is needed to catch Legia - will not be simply restricted to the drawing board.</div>
Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-59286407250662439072012-11-12T00:23:00.003+01:002012-11-12T00:23:57.784+01:00There is no place like... your home<div style="text-align: justify;">
With just seconds left on the clock, <b>Maciej Korzym</b> sprinted through surprisingly open <b>Wisła's</b> back line, collected the ball just outside the box and then, with his left foot, put the ball high past out-rushing <b>Pareiko</b> to equalize for <b>Korona Kielce</b>. Despite going down to nine-men, hosts played bravely and the man who gave them the point was the stand-out performer in pretty much characteristic match for <b>Leszek Ojrzyński's</b> team. No one could take the joy away from Korona's biggest crowd of the season as in the most unlikeliest conditions they put the staggering happenings throughout the weekend in Ekstraklasa on hold. With one game to go on Monday night - and if that very poor referee, <b>Mr Jarzębak</b>, had finished the match a bit earlier - visitors would have seven wins in eleventh round.</div>
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<b>Seven </b>out of <b>eight</b> - <b>six </b>even - is a staggering example of home struggle for Ekstraklasa's eight hosts in this particular round. There were title contenders falling on their knees -<b> Śląsk Wrocław</b> couldn't cope with fast and combinational football of league's newcomers, Piast Gliwice. <b>Górnik Zabrze</b> had history of winning at home against <b>Zagłębie Lubin </b>behind them, but when it was expected from <b>Prejuce Nakoulma</b> or Arkadiusz Milik to star,<b> Szymon Pawłowski</b> outshone them all with two fine goals. Then it was <b>Legia's</b> turn to pay their price for some horrible defending of <b>Marko Suler </b>against well organized Jagiellonia. </div>
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Lucky wins came as well. Lech was struggling at Widzew only to take the rare chance at the end, when<b> Rafał Murawski </b>took advantage of hosts' goalkeeper laying on the pitch after dangerous clash. <b>Kacper Łazaj </b>was lucky sub of <b>Bogusław Kaczmarek's Lechia</b> who snatched three points out of growing Ruch in Chorzow. To be fair - and something that pretty much sums up how surprising that weekend was in term of results - only <b>Polonia Warszawa </b>was expected to win firmly at struggling <b>Podbeskidzie</b> and they did just that through Łukasz Piątek's goal.</div>
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But this is not some one-off, to be perfectly honest. This is not a sudden luck that not one gambler would love to bet on - proper away form is now a fact, a way almost half of the league exist. Seven out of sixteen teams have been performing better away from home, while at the same stage last season, the number was <b>three</b>. Two years ago it was<b> one</b>! </div>
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<b>Polonia, Lech, Lechia, Jagiellonia, Piast Gliwice, Zagłębie </b>and <b>Podbeskidzie</b>, with <b>Górnik Zabrze</b> equal on points but without a defeat away from home - something that could be counted as eighth club, if not for slightly worse goal difference.</div>
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Some are not such surprise - Podbeskidzie needed only last weekend's win in Lubin to beat their home record so far, while Lechia, putting that silly talk about jinxed new stadium aside, had to play at home with top teams so far. Zagłębie lacks focus at crucial moments at home, where recently they complete the plan <b>Pavel Hapal </b>sets for the game. </div>
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But Polonia and Lech are regarded as title contenders and should be much more confident at home than they currently are. The former are cruising away from Konwiktorska, presenting free flowing football, scoring goals, showing bigger class whereas at their own place there might be still the ghost of previous owner and his legendary pressure hanging over players' heads. But that is true that <b>Stokowiec's</b> team is less spectacular - even in recent win over Korona, they needed to great plays from <b>Teodorczyk</b> to secure three points in a very tight encounter.</div>
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Lech is even better example of home struggle. <b>Mariusz Rumak</b> may be confident in talking about style that brings him results but his minimalistic approach is paying off only away from Bułgarska stadium. Even rapidly growing attendances are not helping the tendency that Lech cannot outplay any rival that comes to Poznan - even when two <b>4-0 </b>wins may overshadow that fact. <b>Ruch Chorzow</b> visited Kolejorz when they were on a clear break down, at last breaths of previous manager and without faith, organization and motivation they simply gave the points away before they took it to the pitch. <b>Piast</b>, on the other hand, gave Lech a good go over the night but struggled under Lech's counters that were swiftly finished in a rare show of attacking fluency from Rumak's men. They were unable to unlock <b>Górnik Zabrze</b>, were drastically stopped by <b>Jagiellonia</b>, and early goals for both sides against Pogoń were enough for visitors to calmly see the match off.</div>
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Jagiellonia, as mentioned before, are quite a surprise - manager <b>Tomasz Hajto</b>, as well as captain <b>Tomasz Frankowski</b> made an excuse for their poor home form (just <b>6 </b>out of<b> 15 </b>points won so far) moaning there is no atmosphere, no support and no additional push that would make Białystok a true fortress. That is another silly mistake and again, it would be better for them to blame own imperfections rather than fans, who are in constant boycott - a matter left for another article actually. Their only win came against <b>Podbeskidzie</b>, but wasn't convincing at all, while last weekend's draw against <b>Widzew</b> showed that certain self-assurance often turns to panic and lost heads - after all, they were cruising at 2-0 up and with not much to go and all they got was a draw. </div>
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Three different stories can be connected into one - low quality of the squad. As much critique as Rumak gets for the style Lech plays, it should be noticed that his options are front are at the level of league's mediocrity at best. Lechia, Polonia, Jagiellonia, Zagłębie and Piast are struggling for class in the middle, where there should be players allowing them to dominate the game, dictate the tempo, impose the flow of the match - but each manager prefers to stick to the easiest option which is counter-attacking, something of a stand-out example of Polish football philosophy, if there is one and can be named.</div>
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Look at Lech, and the most impressive players are wingers (<b>Tonev</b> and <b>Lovrencics</b>). Same goes with Polonia (<b>Wszołek</b> and <b>Brzyski</b>), Lechia (<b>Ricardinho</b>), Jagiellonia (<b>Kupisz</b>, <b>Dzalamidze</b>) and rest of those "away" teams. The trend could also mean that each manager's bravery rises with every mile they leave behind while travelling from home - while staying at own place means poor decisions, lack of focus, sheltering, inability to dominate and outclass rivals, even those poorer ones. This shouldn't be said loudly perhaps, but it's getting clearer that certain fear has took control of home dressing rooms around the country. Let's follow closely how it develops because in the last two seasons there was only one team that finished the league with a better away form than the home one - and <b>ŁKS</b> was relegated after all.</div>
Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-63719863868041363002012-10-29T18:32:00.002+01:002012-10-29T18:32:24.671+01:00Boniek on a mission<div style="text-align: justify;">
Zbigniew Boniek might never felt so comfortable in the flesh since his hat-trick against Belgium during World Cup in 1982 but thirty years later his satisfaction was once again completed. Arguably one of the most completed Polish players that ever graced football's top stages, his mission in Boniek's home country was never completed. Until now.</div>
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His presence in last decade in Polish football is not a story of a winner - if anything, it is quite different one. In 2002 he stepped into the Poland managerial job to rebuild what was left following unsuccessful - if not embarrassing - adventure in South Korea and Japan. But Boniek's touch on the team was hardly one of Midas, noting just two wins in five as Euro 2004 campaign got tough from the start. He never finished his mission, though, infamously sending his resignation via fax from Rome, backing his decision with personal issues.</div>
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Boniek's next steps in Poland were made at the clubs he was part of as a player but neither Widzew Łódź, nor Zawisza Bydgoszcz made any impact on the league - in fact, the former are now suffering from huge financial problems, while the latter is still only one of favourites to win promotion to Ekstraklasa. </div>
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His presence in the media, however, was quite different. Always well spoken and with a cheeky response prepared, he enjoyed himself as a TV pundit, but never felt there is a need for him to step up. Only when Poland surprisingly won the co-hosting rights for Euro 2012 he decided that Grzegorz Lato's candidature for PZPN's presidential elections may bring unnecessary embarrassment for the time of preparations, putting himself in the race.</div>
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He never lasted to the final round, though, pulling out when it became clear that his candidature is not even second best. "You wanted to have a bike, now pedal harder" - were his words to Lato as he dismissed the offer of becoming PZPN's vice-president. It might have been his best decision too, judging by how Lato's popularity piked since that nomination.</div>
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Now it got real - after coming back from his morning jog in the Poland sweat suit, he left his opposition far behind in elections and after busy weekend of hooping from one TV studio to another, his works starts. "I have to change my phone number" - he confessed after turning down yet another call during his interview for Przeglad Sportowy - "at this rate, I won't be able to do my job."</div>
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It is hard to recall a PZPN president who would enjoy bigger and warmer reception at his election - for some it seems like a dream-come-true. One of the biggest and most controversial Polish football website, Weszlo.com, didn't even try to hide their pleasure at Boniek's appointment, simply noting that the expectations just got real.</div>
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Popular "Zibi" seems aware of the fact, too. "If it was someone else in my place, then next step would be only in the right direction" - he said after his nomination - "but for me, given the level of expectations, I know I can only go backwards."</div>
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The level of challenge ahead of him is huge, as Boniek himself admits that both, people and the statute of PZPN, are reminding him too much of the communism - in fact, one of the federation's director's nickname is Lukashenko, after Belarus' president. The construction of federation's new headquarters is only one of burning issues, as miscommunication and laziness have brought many moments of embarrassment for Polish football. It is not only the open-closed roof at the National Stadium for the England game, but also how board members abused themselves in the VIP sectors during one of Poland matches at Euro 2012 with strong part of UEFA representatives present and shocked.</div>
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Even the latest elections in the Sheraton hotel brought scenes quite familiar for every football fan in Poland. The speech of one of the candidates - Edward Potok, brought memories of communism times when army authorities ruled the public media. "What the fuck was that?" - asked one of delegates, Zbigniew Lach in a TV interview. He had a comical speech himself, emotional one, and got into a further controversy when it all came down to the elections of the board, arguing with one of candidates.</div>
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The image was clear but Boniek's appointment made it a bit blur - the hope surrounded the federation, as his first decision was to lower the prices for the Uruguay match next month in Gdansk. Fans' person? "I would sing it myself if I think we deserve it" - said Boniek when asked about one of popular, yet particularly abusive chants present at every Polish stadium, no matter what level, directed at PZPN. </div>
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His ideas are less obvious but one of the most important things is that he reminds open for ideas. He confessed that his dream is to start a national youth league or tournament, while first months Boniek will spend checking the structures and assessing the federations budget. "We cannot spend 60 million Polish Zlotys on new headquarters when there are clubs dying in poverty" - he rightly pointed out, giving himself three months for corporate refurbishments inside Polish football federation. </div>
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His plan for the future - as of the other candidates - wasn't ever publicly declared and it is uncertain whether behind big hopes there are reasonable ideas of which way Polish game should go. In recent decades it was build on declarations expressed in language that was maybe understandable in football, but more than twenty years ago, in different era of the sport. Boniek's first challenge is to prove that not only his thinking is forward-directed, but also actions of 62-year-old ex-Juventus striker match his declarations.</div>
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"But this is only this weekend, believe me" - Zbigniew Boniek replied during one of TV interviews, at the question of his presence in the media after elections - "on Monday, hard work starts for my." His mission really seems like cleaning the mythical Augeas' Stables - hopefully his enthusiasm will not drop at any of stage of getting through some particular excrement left by Boniek's predecessors.</div>
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<br />Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-30408694856652974072012-10-25T02:40:00.001+02:002012-10-25T02:40:09.352+02:00Too weak to win it?<div style="text-align: justify;">
If last season of Ekstraklasa football taught fans anything, it was definitely that the title was up for anybody's taking. Śląsk Wrocław were the eventual winners ahead of Ruch Chorzów - two huge surprises and causes of mass depression regarding chances of these sides in Europe, sadly confirmed by their future performances. </div>
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This season - our focus being purely on Ekstraklasa - is slightly different. Strong statement were made by Lech and Legia at the start with both being in the top two spots, conceding eleven goals together, the same number Polish champions allowed to put past them in eight rounds so far. Single games were as promising for fans of "Wojskowi" and "Kolejorz" - the former comfortably controlled the game with Pogoń (away, 3-0), Wisła (home, 2-1) and Korona (home, 4-0), while the latter showed similar tactical awareness by three away wins with Zagłębie, Polonia and GKS, sending Piast and Ruch home with baggage of eight goals combined. </div>
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Their game in four weeks time will be crucial, but there is more to look forward to in the Ekstraklasa's title race. Śląsk Wrocław are shaking off after their horrible start and long process of saying goodbye to Orest Lenczyk, while Polonia Warszawa may not be that far off as their heads are clear of the mad owner's pressure, as Józef Wojciechowski is long gone - hopefully forgotten. </div>
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But the third strength this season may be a little bit of surprise. Coming off from eighth position last season - an admirable achievement for Adam Nawałka, given all the problems he had to face throughout the campaign - while current started with Górnik Zabrze hoping for as safe year, maybe even confirming their mid-table position when winter would come.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Adam Nawałka is looking forward to fight for the second title of his managerial career</span></i></div>
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Things are, however, slightly different. Górnik is up there competing with the best, showing organization and qualities that could be seen only in glimpses when the season closed last May. Arkadiusz Milik has made a huge step forward, putting himself on the team-sheet against England from being a pure no-name just six months ago with two goals in Ekstraklasa to his name. Prejuce Nakoulma looked for a move but the wage and fee needs of Górnik and the winger himself couldn't be matched by interested parties. </div>
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He went back and went back with a smile - Górnik welcoming him with a pleasure, as some part of Nawałka's plan was missing. Nakoulma had to play and was given time and confidence of the manager to get back to his best - which he confirmed had happened, by scoring four in last three games. His linking with Arkadiusz Milik on the counter is a pleasure to watch. Now both have eleven goals combined, while the rest of the team could score only five.</div>
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There are others, too. Łukasz Skorupski may be guilty of a blunder or two in the season so far, but his overall performances have put him in the Poland's manager notes and on the reserves list as well. Adam Danch is the leader matching the legends of previous hard-tackling, no-nonsense, perfect-positioning sense midfielders. Paweł Olkowski has apparently caught the eye of Borussia Dortmund's scouts, Michael Bemben played above anything we have seen so far from a right back in the Ekstraklasa 2013 edition and Aleksander Kwiek is a pleasure to watch. Adam Nawałka has build an organism that constantly develops as each part is creating new borders for itself and the team - arguably it will be the winter activity that may give the answer to Gónik's ambitions when the second round kicks off, but there are reasons for which Zabrze can look at the club with more positiveness in the eyes.</div>
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It will be also too much to talk about Górnik's title qualities but for once, no one should doubt that such surprise might happen. Above all the solidness performed by Legia and Lech there are reasons for which competitiveness of the league may not be shortened to only two of them - the former lack of true character and nervousness when put under constant pressure (as was shown in 2-2 draw with Górnik) and the latter's lack of quality striker and manager's Mariusz Rumak's minimalistic tactics that cost him the points in Gdansk and in goalless draw at home. Yes - to Górnik again.</div>
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If anything like that happens, surely Górnik will be another example that money mean nothing in the league. With them in cash demand and still on the financial back foot, the club is looking forward to the opening of the three stands that will set up new standards not only in Zabrze but in the whole region of Upper Silesia - Gliwice standing apart. This couldn't came too soon and the hope is that attendances will rise to the level known when Górnik's ambitions were clarified bravely by new ambitious owners, one of leading insurance companies, that the title should come in 2012. It didn't - even the relegation had happened before as debts rose and investments hit the floor, but now Górnik is on the up and no one should wave their credentials away. </div>
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Much is down to Adam Nawałka's work with fine but experience and overall quality lacking squad and, who knows, if it isn't Górnik who will fight for the title very soon, then the manager may relish the challenge himself - though at different club.</div>
Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-59159806753745683092012-10-18T11:56:00.001+02:002012-10-18T11:56:12.114+02:00Draw with England means Fornalik's obligation<div style="text-align: justify;">
There was hardly any joy at the last whistle for Waldemar Fornalik - barely a smile rose on his face as he marched towards Roy Hodgson to exchange firm handshake. Poland manager probably knew that he was the closest to bringing down 39-year-long complex of whole country, a ghost of Wembley 1973 whose soul hang on every bigger game the nation had to play since then.</div>
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After all, there were talks about whole generation brought up on Jan Tomaszewski's magical night, lousy defending and non-existent attacking play long forgotten. </div>
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If not several factors - details, such as Joleon Lescott's back - a different one could be raised on the legend of Piszczeks, Lewandowskis and Gliks. </div>
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How many times in recent years we have heard that this is the right moment to beat England? When Arkadiusz Głowacki put the ball in his own net? When Tomasz Frankowski equalized at Old Trafford with acrobatic volley? When Janusz Wójcik - now manager shortened to only first letter of his surname - promised so in 1999?</div>
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Few have praised Roy Hodgson's England at Euro 2012, a side build on solidness and schemes, but their start to this World Cup 2012 qualification campaign was a good one, bar unimpressive draw with Ukraine at home. That was also the reason why all the talk about possible positive result in Warsaw was forbidden.</div>
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Even more - the excuses were already written down following Tuesday's downpour of embarrassment, as Waldemar Fornalik preferred to move the game for next month rather than the following day. Was he so uncertain regarding his team? Maybe he wanted to wait for Błaszczykowski - just back from injury, out of fitness and form possibly - and not hand out starts to unconvincing Grosicki and unproven Wszołek?</div>
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The question of his and team's ambition was long gone when the players sang their hearts out with the national anthem, followed by maybe vulgar but motivational scream of stand-in captain, Marcin Wasilewski - something Kuba Błaszczykowski undoubtedly has never done nor will. The image was clear from the first moment they stepped out on muddy pitch - this was a team.</div>
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Not three individuals pulling their team-mates forward, not Lewandowski and Piszczek only but also Glik, Grosicki, Krychowiak, Polanski and Tytoń. Each of them played their trade, their roles, which Fornalik made understandable to the point at which England was pushed back to own goal with some despairing clearances.</div>
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Much was said about Hodgson's men taking sleeping pills to have a rest ahead of rescheduled game on Wednesday and - afterwards - English fans joked that they will need the same cure following predictable, slow and overall poor performance from their side. As much of their incompetence and averageness was down to all the problems ex-Liverpool manager had and has, as to Fornalik's players and the way they played. </div>
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Many would argue but it wasn't a single factor that made the difference between yesterday's performance and the ones at Euro - it was much more. United squad, balanced in every department, with a own soul but the most significant disparity was in patience of players and manager. Patience that rose from confidence in the manager and own abilities - to the moment in which not even a goal conceded has stopped Fornalik's men from going forward, has not brought them down. Only made them more focused and stubborn in their attacks.</div>
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Arguably, it was hardly a classic. Tempo of the game was dictated by the conditions and everything that had happened before the actual kick-off of the match. But this game is all about adapting to certain situations and Poles did it way better - sat deep and made England pass sloppily to well-positioned Krychowiak and Polanski. Gave the impression that opponent's full-backs can move forward, only to expose the space behind them with clever movement and combinations of Grosicki and Piszczek on the right side. </div>
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Situations followed - maybe not as clear as the whole stadium wanted - but given the number of them and the ease at which Lewandowski freed himself from the opponents, covered the ball and (not too often) passed it around, Poland was impressive at going forward. This wasn't a game of rising heroes in Fornalik's new team - the one whose only names resemble of the Smuda's - but it was a match, an opportunity to create a united side. Even without several certain starters, Fornalik proved what his predecessor failed at - there is much more to this team than the twelve players Smuda craved about before Euro 2012.</div>
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This is not only a statement from Fornalik and his team - this is only an obligation made to Polish fans. Something must follow, something must be build on the most positive result of recent year or two, that Poland have finally stepped up to the occasion of competitive game and not only was still standing at the end but was nearer the win than their more famous rivals. </div>
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Fornalik knows that, he is hardly a man that would fly away or lose his head - hence the lack of satisfaction on his face when the last whistle went. The mission just got bigger, just got real. The one-all draw in Warsaw has given a faith that the 2014 World Cup in Brazil may be not that far from our dreams as getting out of the group of Greece, Czech Republic and Russia. In fact, it may be even closer.</div>
Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-65867355057412759492012-10-13T00:20:00.002+02:002012-10-13T00:20:17.484+02:00Answers are given as Poland wins<div style="text-align: justify;">
Boos from the crowd send the home team to the dressing room as half time approached and only few players could not take the critique to their hearts. Waldemar Fornalik, however, could only reflect on the opening forty-five minutes and make decisions that would give answers not for how Friday's encounter would go on, but what may Tuesday bring. </div>
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Paweł Wszołek, for instance, was taken off precariously following his fine display - young winger was at his creative best, surging down the right and left flank, depending on how he changed sides with unimpressive and mistake-prone Mierzejewski. The evidence was enough for Fornalik to decide who needs no further test - Polonia's midfielder may have suffered small injury scare at the beginning of the week (which could be another - different? - reason for his withdrawal) but given the start and chance, Wszołek repaid the faith with statement of taking advantage of Błaszczykowski's injury.</div>
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"I can be only happy that the players have given me a fair bit of material to analyse before England match" - said the manager. Just after one hour mark, one of the biggest surprises of this season in French Ligue 1, Grzegorz Krychowiak was subbed and Fornalik was not short of a praise for his midfielder whose impressive progress have surely won him the place against Gerrard, Carrick and Lampard - or whoever else Roy Hodgson picks.</div>
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There was a small doubt of whether both keepers will be tested but Przemysław Tytoń made sure there is no worry for the coaching staff, even if his recent problems at PSV were a concern for all involved. But he was calm and composed, focused and commanding, claiming everything that went his way - that said, the quality of opposition, RSA's attitude, was surely poorer than of those who booed the home team at half time.</div>
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Komorowski's goal was enough what Poland deserved from the game, though it should be Artur Sobiech to find the net, given couple of occasions earlier on, before he collided with Khune and was stretched off the pitch and send to the hospital for further tests. It was not only his mistakes in front of the goal, though - Arkadiusz Piech is guilty of wasting one glorious chance from Wszołek's brilliant pass over the defence, while Adrian Mierzejewski was left swearing at heavens at his early miss.</div>
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Answers were all round. Solidness of Damien Perquis and his fine, timed interventions has given food for thought to Fornalik as Glik was rested, but then nor Wasilewski's recent performances at club level, nor Grzegorz Wojtkowiak's show off were enough to make Fornalik put Piszczek at right-wing, as some of the media wanted. The latter's positioning was suspicious and he allowed RSA's fast wingers inside too many times - mistakes that could prove costly against more clinical opposition.</div>
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"Actually, I think our performance will depend a lot on Obraniak" - claimed Robert Lewandowski, obviously referring to the England match, not friendly encounter on Friday. His influence may be crucial for the breaks and how they shape - if not going on wing, the French-born midfielder must be put through more passes as both Krychowiak and Borysiuk struggle to put the ball forward faster. In fact, most of their passes were safe, side-changing rather than pace-giving when the latter was more needed. Their performances will be rated on the base of the defensive display at which they did well - with Polanski's eagerness to move forward with the ball at his feet, Krychowiak's interceptions and protection may be more crucial than distribution.</div>
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The shape will be different, as will be the performers. Lewandowski will give more intelligence with his movement and, hopefully, more quality to the poor finishing we saw on Friday. The left-hand-side is still as crucial as who goes on the right - without Błaszczykowski the balance between flanks will be sustained and shared, not as heavy relying on captain's shoulders whenever he is present. This may not make up for his eight goals in last sixteen Poland games, but surely gives more options, which is always crucial against stronger opposition.</div>
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Kamil Grosicki and Waldemar Sobota - the choice between them will not be made solemnly on their wide range of tricks and ideas, but how they track back and keep channels closed. Something much more crucial in keeping the clean sheet against less creative but more persistent and patient side Hodgson's trying to create. Waldemar Fornalik will look how to frustrate his opposition at first, then to make them pay for nervous mistakes - his pragmatism will allow Poland to attack with four players at best, on fast counters and with direct approach.</div>
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The second win of Fornalik's tenure was important to set up some basis for bigger challenges ahead. The other game, Ukraine's goalless draw in Moldova, opens the chance even with a defeat on Tuesday but even a point against England may mean a lot for the team that is in constant transition since Smuda left. More important than games won are, indeed, the answers and surely, on a cold Friday's night in Warsaw, Waldemar Fornalik was given enough to look at Poland's next fixture with a slightly bigger hope than the very first news of his players' injuries came to him few days back.</div>
Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-61295795901106120222012-10-06T22:16:00.003+02:002012-10-06T22:16:43.190+02:00Arkadiusz Milik's career on the up<div style="text-align: justify;">
There was quite an amusement when both squads were announced. It was the opening of previous season in Wrocław as Śląsk was hosting Górnik Zabrze and whole attention was put down to one man who was there to lead visitors' attacks against Polish vice-champions. Just seventeen year old striker, a certain no-name in Polish football was send onto his debut by Adam Nawałka - a manager who is not known for his habit of risking. By that time it may be more about statement of Górnik's problems with strikers but at the same time a surprising one-all draw in Wrocław could be a start of one of most electric careers in recent seasons of Ekstraklasa.</div>
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Of course, Milik might had to wait until 24th match of the season to get his debut goals - he hit two that day past impressive Korona Kielce - but there was never any doubt or mistrust towards young striker. Occasionally he was sent to play for the youth team, but given that he was made a set-piece taker by Nawałka shows that his coach knew straight away that the confidence will grow and goals will come, eventually. </div>
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Fourteen months later and Arkadiusz Milik will probably step into the national team from the reserves list after Marek Saganowski was withdrawn with heart problem, full of the thing as he put two past poor Podbeskidzie. First one was a fantastic, powerful, 20-yard strike from tough position on a bumpy pitch, while the second finish has made the commentator compare his second touch to what Paul Gascoigne did once against Scotland. It may not be even close but the way he coped with a long pass, out-running two defenders, taking the ball down, chipping it onto defender's head and then volleying the thing home he made the press open their reports tomorrow with a question whether 19-year-old Arkadiusz Milik should start against England.</div>
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And why shouldn't he? Waldemar Fornalik may have only a couple of games under his Poland's belt but he has shown that he prefers in-form players rather than those of certain status. Milik's biggest problem is not, however, his young age or lack of experience at this level but the way his performances resemble those of Robert Lewandowski. These two have not only similar physical appearance but also are looking for intelligent solutions on the pitch, eager to move a bit deeper, withdraw defender and create space, take the ball or offer himself behind or between the lines. </div>
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There is a long way to go for Milik but he is observed closely and well known abroad already with different clubs following closely his performances and development. The latter is taking the tempo and Milik's five goal in this season already are showing that Adam Nawałka's work and care over him are showing him the right way. He is growing in the best environment possible at the moment - he even took care of his brother in his contract, guaranteeing him the job at the club in the newest deal - and if there is anything on Milik's mind about his next move, he may have to look at his possible partner versus England and create another connection.</div>
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Without a doubt, the way Lewandowski's career was directed by himself and his agent, Cezary Kucharski - even forgetting about latest silly and unnecessary differences over striker's new deal at Dortmund - is the right one. Two years at the time of building his name (domestically at Znicz Pruszków, then continentally at Lech Poznan) with one season for adaptation in foreign conditions then confidentially stepping in the place among Europe's finest strikers. Even with that awful miss at Eithad on Wednesday.</div>
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Arkadiusz Milik is already in his second season at Górnik with new long term deal and club looking for possibly the biggest sum for his signature from foreign club. The latter brings obvious worry regarding his future - if he will be pushed out of the club, then will he be advised by the money or by the chance he will get wherever he goes? </div>
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Thankfully, by now he can focus at what he is doing better and better - scoring goals. His next biggest challenge is to move up to a different level and the only taste he will be given on the international stage is by trusting on Fornalik's instinct. Although the papers will point at the England game, his possibility may come with earlier match with Republic of South Africa. Even with Górnik's bright start to this season - if proven only by last two wins over Śląsk (4-1) and Podbeskidzie (3-1) - there is a doubt whether they will challenge for top spots with as tight squad as Nawałka has at his disposal. </div>
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"Our current situation is interesting" - says Milik himself - "but we simply keep being happy by winning games." He ruled out winter's fire-sell at the club which financial problems were well documented over last years. For Górnik's chances it's absolutely crucial to keep their momentum over next games. Despite Milik's goals and possible inclusion in Poland games, Adam Nawałka may be cursing the international break - it simply comes in the worst possible time for his team. </div>
Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-44374898890124347542012-10-02T01:16:00.001+02:002012-10-02T01:16:14.399+02:00Probierz resigns from Wisła leaving questions over his decision<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>"Wisła Kraków is a certain obligation" </i>- said Michał Probierz after his side suffered from third defeat this season, this time to Piast Gliwice. Sergei Pareiko's mistake and then collective disorganisation and chaos were only the highlights of their latest sufferings that left the manager in disbelief over his chances to turn things around. "You have to act like a man" - he added before handing his resignation to Wisła's board.</div>
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Michał Probierz, however, is wrong. This is not an act of desperation and Piast's match should not be the final straw for him, the always-ambitious manager, one of the brightest coaching talents this league has seen in last decade. If he has shown something at his previous stages of managerial career, was that he fought hardly and against everything that was wrong with each and every club. Probierz may have been more short term coach rather than a long term one, given that the longest stint was a three-seasons long at Białystok, but even now, the 40-year-old should not resign like that.</div>
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On the other hand, he must be aware of the fact that, despite acting like a man, he puts a serious barrier for own future. After eventually settling at Jagiellonia, creating an attacking team that was learned how to win, he successfully fought the fire at ŁKS on short term basis, before travelling all over to Greece to clear the chaos Aris was in. Nothing has prepared him for what he was about to find out at Wisła Kraków though and the scale of lack of professionalism that hurt the strongest team of last decade.</div>
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<i>"I'm the manager who wants to win. Wisła has lost three times [out of six games so far]" </i>- was his excuse. Hardly a reasonable one, likely to be hiding the real problems over interaction with the team and parts of the board - the differences with players over his methods and tactics, while director Jacek Bednarz hardly supported his wishes and only stripped the team of assets, creating problems with lack of decisions when there were offers on the table. Kew Jaliens could leave Wisła on their terms, while Maor Melikson remains unhappy after Celtic's offer was turned down.</div>
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This has left him with the team that was unable to match their ambitions with moves on the transfer market, counting on the mix of unproven, untrusted youth and disregarded senior parts of the team, with several players (Garguła, Jaliens, Chavez, Melikson, Genkov) being especially unhappy over treatment received by the club. Wisła had other problems as well - cash stripped to the point players were made to wait for their wages for several months, something unprecedented at the club that for years lead the financial table of the Ekstraklasa.</div>
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The reason is simple - club overspent during the Dutch year, when Stan Valckx and Robert Maaskant signed on their own terms their own players and the wage bill rose to the point where both had to go and Wisła was left with long deals and disinterested personalities unwilling to leave the club before the end of contracts.</div>
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The gates of heaven remained closed for Wisła - as the Champions League group stages were not reached and the league form slipped, Maaskant and Valckx had to leave. Club legend, Kazimierz Moskal couldn't save them and on 1st March Michał Probierz stepped in. Assured only that the problems will leave his options narrowed - the best example is of signing Daniel Sikorski, a striker who played lately only in the youth league at Polonia Warszawa, where he went for big money despite short term high form at Górnik Zabrze. The only positive for his early stages at Wisła that Michał Probierz could find and tell anybody who would listen was that Sikorski worked hard on the pitch. He may have had, but he is two or three classes below the ones that were leading the attacks in recent years - Maciej Żurawski, Tomasz Frankowski and Paweł Brożek to name just a few.</div>
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The problem is that he hardly made any progress with his side - even left with the names that he would rather see out of Reymonta stadium, Probierz should already had the plan that could include and invite those left to give their all for Wisła. But his team is not only waving the white flag at the first sight of problems on the pitch, they are lacking basics to succeed - at Piast, Wisła was all over the place tactically, gaps between formations were scandalous, while the rate work at the lowest level.</div>
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Perhaps this was the right time for Probierz to resign - unable to inspire his side, pick the right side, convince them to his plans, work it out with the board. Even play against the lot of them, picking the youngest side possible, blooding in talents of which Czekaj, Chrapek and Szewczyk are only just a few. Probierz should show the character he was known for in his managerial career so far - fighting no matter what, against something.</div>
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Arguably, he would struggle with support and results in the opening stages, maybe even forced to leave - but would remain the manager who looked at all options before being rushed out of his position, something that would only show the scale of chaos at Wisła, not his coaching limitations. Michał Probierz is right in saying that maybe the "White Star" needs some sort of shock treatment to move upwards out of eleventh position they are currently in. But even with the feeling that this was the Wisła of the shortest options from the time Bogusław Cupiał is the club owner - some fifteen years now - there is a space to discuss whether Probierz used them all in his six months at the club. </div>
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Resignation looks like the shortcut, yet to what exactly nobody knows - especially Probierz himself, disillusioned at the time of stating his decision, not only because of his failure at Wisła but also at unexpected curve on his career. He must know that it will require more hard work at the less glamorous places of the Ekstraklasa's reality - at least maybe he will find people who will share his willingness to put all they have in for the cause, something he searched for but could not find in Krakow.</div>
Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-39728289160841222112012-09-19T00:54:00.001+02:002012-09-19T00:54:25.791+02:00How easy is it?Widzew Łódź is back on top of the table and it's not middle of the nineties but 2012, as Radosław Mroczkowski's men won 12 points out of as many possible, sending out Polish top two teams of last season home, winning away at spring round winners Zagłębie Lubin and easing past Ekstraklasa strugglers GKS Bełchatów.<br />
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Did they spent big this summer to make old memories real once again? Or maybe Widzew build their squad steadily, recording progress that finally allowed them to become a title-challenging side in Polish football? Is Radosław Mroczkowski a person people would expect to do well with his side this year?<br />
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The answer to all of these questions is negative. To be fair, the only resemblance to the side that have won the back-to-back titles in 1996 and 1997 is their position after four rounds of football. The last team to play in the Champions League group stages was a team full of talent, with some fantastic players and ones that would make half-decent careers abroad, cost and earn millions<br />
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Of course, there is always the same stadium. Ruined even more with each year, with grass allowed to grow on the stands, seats only dirtier and roof more leaking with each season. Things have not moved forward in Łódź in this terms, but current ground remains an important place if You want to understand why current Widzew only in the table is on the up, while the reality hits them hard.<br />
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Sylwester Cacek is club's owner and owner of few restaurants - as every previous investor, he was promised new ground for Widzew or significant improvements at the current one. He waited for years, putting own money and running the club in less or more controversial way, but he strived on promises made by Łódź authorities. By 2012, he had enough of the wait.<br />
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Every week he is spending two days at the club and tries to do as much as possible but the flow of money has stopped - only recently Widzew announced that there will be cut in employment and one quite significant. Big earners were sold or simply let go - impressive left-back from Brazil, Dudu Paraiba, one of the best assistants in the last season, now plays second-tier football in Mexico, though he was connected with several bigger clubs in Poland.<br />
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All in all, fifteen players went from the club this summer, while replacements were hardly impressive - for example, Alex Bruno was signed on free as he joined the team on the training camp abroad as he lived just few miles from the pitch and thought he will give it a shot. The only significant signings were Sebastian Dudek from Polish champions - although at 33. he doesn't have a lot ahead of him - and French defender Thomas Phibel who leads the back line with his experience taken from top-tier football in Belgium.<br />
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Others? In the first four games this season Mroczkowski used only four subs from his wide squad - all of them being under twenty and each time impressive with their skills, ambition and runs. Rybicki, Stępiński, and Pietrowski are the names to remember for each Ekstraklasa fan.<br />
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They are not playing much complicated football - depending a lot on counters and temporary pressing on rival's half, few times in game. Taking advantage from mistakes is also their thing, while reducing own defects to minimum and simply clearing any danger makes life a lot easier for experienced goalkeeper and team's captain Maciej Mielcarz. He only let one goal so far.<br />
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Dudek is central to everything Widzew creates, though to say that he is one of league's sensations is something to far. He is the very same player he was for Śląsk - irritatingly keeping the ball for far too long, dancing on the thing with rivals, getting fouled a lot and putting the right passes while not doing much sprinting. But he is experienced and others follow his instructions - his exit at Śląsk maybe was in conflict but there is no other player in the Ekstraklasa that would be so influential from day one at his new job.<br />
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Radosław Mroczkowski is a man of mystery - he isn't a man for great interview, rarely getting in the spotlight because of team's results. "I have my own philosophy of work" - he said in one of them - "I am not reacting passionately, it often works against you to be honest."<br />
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If anything, he is very patient man. Building a side without real budget and facing clear out in his squad without any chance to say "no" is not a dream land for any manager. But, as his players, he only got his head down and start working harder than ever, motivating his young team and building it around experienced yet all in all unimpressive leaders. He speaks highly of Sylwester Cacek but must know that times will even get harder - especially as the owner threatens to move out of the club that now has lost support of ultras groups, as fans opposed to his lack of investment in Widzew.<br />
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But that is enough to be a league leader. Alex Bruno may have been signed only after a dodgy recommendation during training camp in Cyprus, earning hundredth or even thousandth part of what league most expensive players do, living in a dump in Łódź with seven other sub-locators... but he scored twice so far and was his reputation is on the up, as Widzew's. Glory may not last for long, but at least the confidence is growing. It seems that work on mental side of the team - no matter how shattered, how young or how problematic - can give you an edge over league leaders in Poland. Easy peasy, right?<br />
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<br />Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-69713855226115148972012-09-15T01:39:00.001+02:002012-09-15T01:39:23.267+02:00Right man for the job, but what about timing?<div style="text-align: justify;">
There is no man angrier at Wisła Krakow tonight than "White Star" boss, Michał Probierz. He, above all, was relishing the chance he was given by the club last march but after six months in charge first questions of his work have been stated and apparently even certain option is prepared as his replacement.</div>
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In easily the craziest season of his career - during which he managed four clubs: Jagiellonia, ŁKS, Aris in Greece and then Wisła - Probierz took important decisions (leaving Jaga, going for cash-strapped ŁKS and then moving for risky challenge in Thessaloniki) but all in all his gamble paid off. Despite winning the Polish Cup with Białystok, only one of two of cups won during his seven-year-long coaching career, he was never given a job at the highest point of Polish football. Not that he wasn't (isn't?) highly regarded by fans, media and critics, though negotiations with Legia, Lech remained only small-talks while others took the job.</div>
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Some would say that going to Greece was maybe just topping the list of the gambles Probierz took over last twelve months, just edging over going to Łódź where he never had the chance to work in normal conditions. But it was his signing for Wisła Krakow that now is moving closer to the top, as two defeats in a row have put him in the hot-seat, as ex-national team manager Franciszek Smuda is waiting for his slip up. </div>
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Why Wisła then? First of all, Wisła is not the same club they were at the start of last season - still fighting in the Champions League final stages of qualifications, with Robert Maaskant attracting players of impressive CVs and high demands. Budget was significantly higher than it is now, and a few minutes that Wisła were short of making it to the gates of UEFA heaven have settled their course for next few years. Investments stopped, players had to leave, high-earners proved to be low on ambition levels and the background to the senior squad was nowhere near the standards of Polish champions.</div>
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Offer for Wisła was the one Probierz could not turn down. Without a doubt, the other one would come sooner or later but it was about time he would reach for the highest level of pressure known in Polish football. Not that he didn't know the taste of it previously, but at Jagiellonia, Polonia Bytom or Widzew Łódź he was not expected to win titles. This summer, even as Wisła had no money to spend on new players, fans expected to be back at the top as soon as possible after one of the worst seasons since Bogusław Cupiał took the club at the end of the nineties. </div>
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Probierz, working closely with Jacek Bednarz, Wisła's vice-president who was signed only eleven days after current manager, had to wave goodbye to ten players that were in or very close to the starting eleven over last year, while the replacements were far from perfect. Daniel Sikorski had only one good season in his career so far at Górnik Zabrze, while last year he played only at reserves level for Polonia Warszawa. Jan Frederiksen spent only short period of time outside Denmark throughout his career. Romel Quioto was expected to be instant hit at Wisła yet his reckless stamp in previous league match has put him out of next five games. Comeback of long-standing captain Arkadiusz Głowacki was always on cards but his health got only worse and latest set back was his late withdrawal from starting eleven in Szczecin, where Wisła lost 0-2 tonight.</div>
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The match itself was a disaster for Wisła. Only Maor Melikson tried to carry whole team on his shoulders but doubled and tripled at times, he had no space and chances to make up for others mistakes. And there was quite a few of them. Sergei Pareiko made bad and nervous decisions but even compared to his defenders he looked composed. They were all over the place and only Gordan Bunoza could be understood or taken with benefit of a doubt after facing family tragedy recently. </div>
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The last stages were the worst. Pogoń, 2-0 up at that moment, had all the space to create attacks, counter fruitless visitors and... waste their chances, over and over again, while denying everything Probierz's men tried to achieve. Nothing had worked for his team - introducing Boguski and Szewczyk was an act of true desperation. The former is past his short-lived prime, while the latter only two weeks ago gave his first, positive impressions, though in defeat. Lack of options on the bench was another reason why Wisła could not get back into the tie.</div>
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Michał Probierz was livid at referee following strange first half penalty decision and allowing second goal to stand, despite clear, few-yards offside, was even worse from today's officials but the manager tried not to blame him for defeat. "I wish he'd be brave enough to come to our dressing room and say that he is sorry" - said the manager. "We have to man up, even with such decisions, there is nothing we can do now, he will be out there refereeing next week."</div>
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The manager is hardly at fault over recent results. Of course, it was his time of preparations, it was his decisions over starting eleven and how he used subs, but then again - Wisła is only a paper tiger of the league, legend from recent past that now struggles to keep their identity as chaotic years inside the club have accumulated in what happens now. Failure at work with youngsters caused lack quality of those coming through - a thing hardly crowd-delighting, even if fans chanted that they wanted more Polish squad. Transfers were poor and should be only regarded as widening options for manager, not really strengthening Wisła's championship chances.</div>
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The results against Polonia and Pogoń are not effects of only poor summer at the club - or Probierz's lack of qualifications for that matter - but this is something that accumulated over the years and now has hit the team that was the closest to breaking Poland's duck in the Champions League. The answer, however, to recent problems is not another change of direction, not jumping from one tornado to the second one. Franciszek Smuda is not the man to provide stability with his denial of own mistakes, something that was so easily exposed at Euro 2012, while Michał Probierz is the man of hard work, of not running away from the chance he was waiting all his coaching career. For once, Wisła have the right man for the job, though believe that the times are right for him to work and succeed is shrinking desperately. Referees' mistakes or not, there were trivial reasons behind sackings of his predecessors and asking for time at Wisła is the last thing any manager should do. That not only shows desperation but lack of knowing the reality at which one is working.</div>
Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-63577788602135244142012-09-12T01:37:00.002+02:002012-09-12T01:37:18.926+02:00Two sides of an early glory"I would like to thank fans for their outstanding support" - said Waldemar Fornalik following 2-0 win over Moldova, clearly forgetting about long booing that filled Municipal Stadium in Wroclaw several times throughout the evening, as Poland struggled to put even three passes together.<br />
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"99 percent of people can see who is the man in charge of the team, only few have a problem with that" - this was manager's reaction to question over Błaszczykowski's and Lewandowski's influence on his decisions and the squad.<br />
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There are like two realities in which the national team operates. In the first one, everything seems to be okay. Four points in opening two games shouldn't be regarded as bad result, especially with other results going also Poland's way. Out of four goals scored so far, Błaszczykowski was the author of two and provided an assist for third, showing his accuracy at crossing and composure when stepping up for penalty kick. Young players are being given a chance for once - Ariel Borysiuk starting last three games, while Kamil Glik playing last two from start to finish - while manager is not scared to change his tactics at half-time, re-adapt them in certain circumstances.<br />
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All rosy then? Not so. The other reality is the one fans observe and they look at recent comments of Błaszczykowski on Obraniak and his red card in Montenegro game ("We had the talk with him few before but now, once that had happened again, something should be done"), while Lewandowski - the other star of the squad - remains silent whenever asked a question by Polish journalists. As quiet he is on the pitch, now over 500 minutes without a goal for Borussia's striker since the one against Greece at Euro 2012 opening.<br />
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As with every game recently, win over Moldova gave more questions than answers - first half showed that 4-4-2 is far from the perfect system for Poland. Fornalik wanted his team to play the ball wide and provide crosses, even from deep positions, for Saganowski and Lewandowski to make use of them. That did not happen as set up play was too slow and allowing opposition to prepare themselves to handle everything that Poland threw at them. The only surprise they weren't prepared for was dive from Piszczek inside Moldova's box that allowed Błaszczykowski to open the scoreline.<br />
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Half time change - "tactical one", as Marek Saganowski explained his withdrawal for Waldemar Sobota - did not change much, as only Fornalik tried Mierzejewski in a role linking Lewandowski with two central midfielders. Polanski was at his poorest tonight, while Borysiuk rarely used his advantage of inch-perfect diagonal passes and that worked well only once, when Mierzejewski put Błaszczykowski through with nice ball from the edge of the box.<br />
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Something that will make Fornalik smile - apart from result, obviously - were the set pieces again. When Poland had their first corner after an hour mark, they created danger instantly. Marcin Wasilewski had his goal ruled out for offside at third, Glik's header went wide at fourth, while sixth gave a goal, even if the first cross was half-cleared. But whenever the ball was sent up from the spot, it was in the direct place, where it should be, where it was planned to land on Glik's or Wasilewski's head. The second goal of the night proved the improved level of organization in opponent's box in the second ball situation - four Fornalik's players were ready to convert the chance.<br />
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But that should not hide the fact, that for the large stages of the match, Moldova was the dominant side, passing the ball better around and after the restart Poles were reduced to despairing clearances from around own box to keep their account clean. Best chances of the first half fell to Suvorov and Picusciac, not Lewandowski or Saganowski. "The positioning attack is not only our weak side, it is like that for most of the sides" - said Borussia's striker afterwards. He has a point but that doesn't explain his negativity towards participation in this game for most of the ninety minutes. Usually so eager to offer himself for a ball, hold it up, create for others and not only for his own, Lewandowski had one fine move over the course of the game, one of the poorest he has played for the national side.<br />
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The most negative aspect of the game could be the fake prospect of progress that was underlined by Lewandowski, Piszczek, Wasilewski and the manager himself after the win. Surely, there are positives - even few more than the ones listed above - but Fornalik's honey moon should be over by now and there is no space for mistakes or try-outs anymore, like with 4-4-2 or playing the likes of Saganowski or Sobota. The next time Poles will fight for points to win a trip to Brazil in 2014, they will not have Suvorov or Picusciac against but Jermaine Defoe, Frank Lampard and rest of Roy Hodgson's team. Four points in two games are good result but surely England will put them in some perspective when the two sides meet in a few weeks time, much to Waldemar Fornalik's headache.Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-50340255651709501832012-09-08T00:07:00.002+02:002012-09-08T00:07:40.836+02:00Encouraging result for Fornalik's team in PodgoricaIf there is a map of Europe's football capitals and it is graduated with colours by difficulty to play there, then among obvious destinations like Madrid, London and Berlin would be one certainly smaller but not less tough to visit. Podgorica in Montenegro would be definitely coloured with red.<br />
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Better sides have struggled there against Vukcević, Jovetić and Vucinić, while the most important thing is to respond with same character that is shown by hostile fans. Despite winning early penalty - as Lewandowski's run was cut short unfairly by Savić - and following conversion by Błaszczykowski, Montenegro was on top for the rest of opening half. Brnović's men were teaching Fornalik's team a lesson and not one restricted only to standing up for a fight on a football pitch - their passing was slick, precise and technique good enough to allow them continuously skip past slow Polish markers. <br />
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"My players were scared of what might await them" - said Waldemar Fornalik afterwards and it was easily seen as not even early lead could settle their nerves. Przemysław Tytoń was hit and stunned for a longer while by a firecracker thrown from home end, as other objects landed on the pitch throughout the game.<br />
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But that does not explain mistakes made by his players - lack of assurance when Borysiuk was down as hosts continued to play and scored their first goal. Then, whenever given the ball, they struggled to keep it for even few seconds, always playing it the same way - over to right wing where Błaszczykowski tried to skip past two-three rivals and pass it to Lewandowski. It worked only once, though.<br />
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Fortunately, before the break came, Montenegro scored their second, a fine block & move cooperation at corner from Savić and Vucinić, as the latter headed in. Fornalik knew he has to react quickly and respond strongly, assessing well that the midfield battle was lost - Ariel Borysiuk's inexperience at international level (it was his first competitive match for Poland) was quickly exposed by more aggressive rivals and he really looked like he needed a break. Adrian Mierzejewski may not be stronger in that aspect but he quickly showed that he doesn't like to give the ball away often, provoking more movement from his colleagues and winning space in the final third with his passes.<br />
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Response was quick enough to unsettle hosts with fine goal of Mierzejewski - Obraniak crossed from left, he headed the ball in. Just several minutes later they were down to ten men, as nerves were on Montenegro's side now, and Poland grew in confidence. Only Obraniak's stupidity to react when provoked again, charging at his rival and putting his forehead close enough to give him a reason to dive and force red card for Polish attacking midfielder. From that moment, game evened out and there was even scare at the end, but opening draw is now a fact.<br />
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Waldemar Fornalik knew from the start that he will be compared to Smuda and he is already showing important differences that separate him from the failure of previous regime. Starting from choosing a suit instead of track-suit, for example, he will not trust Obraniak again - perhaps wisely but the player will have to win his trust again and with a disciplinary investigation ahead, he may not have time for it in next few months.<br />
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But he also has to know that Poland may need to start the games with 4-1-4-1, shape they are looking better in, as it was shown in stages even in Talin in opening match of his tenure. Again, he must be strong with his decisions - Lewandowski and his friends did not like it when Smuda tried to change formation and style - but he may have a point to show to his players. Second half from his side was not perfect - even far from it - yet if Lewandowski had improved his finishing a bit tonight, there would be national support for manager, not the players. They were given trust, now it's Fornalik's turn - if he will continue to give reasons to believe there is a chance for this squad to progress (results are surely the best way to do so) even the best individual displays will be overshadowed by his personality. The one that was mostly criticized at his arrival.Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-87778916578430728732012-09-04T00:47:00.001+02:002012-09-04T01:04:46.960+02:00Stanislav Levy - Nothing more to ask for?<div style="text-align: justify;">
The reception at signing of Czech manager, <b>Stanislav Levy </b>to replace<b> Orest Lenczyk </b>just less than four months after he won the second championship at <b>Śląsk Wrocław</b> in their history, wasn't even mixed. From judging by his looks to the poor research done by the club to colourize <b>CV</b> of their new appointment, Czech coach maybe made good impression, but his <span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="en"><span class="hps">anonymity is widely criticized</span></span>. Club workers didn't help at all - Levy was wrongly credited for being ex-Bundesliga coach, while mistranslations during press conference have cost him part of his reputation as a scout. </div>
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Nonetheless, those writing down his achievements and records were not responsible for picking 56-year-old from certain group of candidates. It was<b> Krzysztof Paluszek</b>, Śląsk sport's director - a man who was put aside by Lenczyk's decision to decide on transfers by his own, something that didn't go too well in last two seasons. Latest signings of <b>Marcin Kowalczyk</b> and previously <b>Marek Wasiluk </b>are great examples of that.</div>
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Paluszek is a football theorist, author of several coaching books, a person of admirable record when it comes down to building youth structures at regional federation as well as at <b>Zagłębie Lubin</b>, while he also worked with youth national teams and now doing pretty much the same job at Śląsk - after he was let go of transfer responsibilities in September 2010. For the most interesting part, he is close follower of the Bundesliga and admirer of German trends in coaching, preferring <b>4-2-3-1 </b>as a formation, with fluent <b>4-4-2</b> being also a second-best option. </div>
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<b>Stanislav Levy</b> is exactly the same.</div>
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There is no worry then that both will not cooperate. Levy, known for this conflicts with boards in Czech league, now will have to work closely with Paluszek over transfers but also club's set up <i>- "the word 'cooperation' is back in manager's job description"</i>, said chairman <b>Piotr Waśniewski </b>at today's press conference. </div>
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The most important thing for Śląsk in recent week was to look for totally different type of manager - not only in regards to tactics, but also to what kind of human being one should be. Lenczyk's conflict with the squad was well documented and even surreal at the very end - with throwing empty beer cans from the end of the club bus on route home being one of the highlights - but he worked hard on that kind of reputation. Ignoring the football side of training - jogging around whenever there was a test match - or making his players lift weights just day before the game. Lenczyk was also accused by former players - <b>Sebastian Dudek</b>, <b>Krzysztof Wołczek</b> - of being a liar, saying one things to them, then changing the version only to put the whole blame on Śląsk board. The same board he discredited for transfer of Rafał Grodzicki. </div>
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<i>"Śląsk wanted a famous coach, they've got a good one instead"</i> - said Michal Petrak, Czech football journalist. Levy is highly regarded in his homeland despite not winning anything in their league. Laying the basis for <b>Pavel Vrba's</b> success at<b> Viktoria Plzen</b> was probably the most recognizable achievement, as well as winning Albanian title last year. His credentials from his time in Germany are mostly down to his work as a scout and assistant or second coach, not manager - not something that should make his appointment less meaningful, of course. </div>
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One of the most often repeated sentences about Levy's work in Czech league was that he connected well with players (something at which Lenczyk obviously failed), got them playing with pace (Lenczyk's Śląsk was slow and predictable), and with attacking, fluent style (Lenczyk's pre-match talks were only about securing own goal) while footballers actually enjoy his training sessions (Lenczyk's squad often moaned that they were made training more often on gym mats, than at normal pitch). Whenever Levy was near the sack in Czech league, players and fans always stood behind him - something quite uncommon in every country in this job.</div>
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This, of course, may be only wishful thinking but all in all, it looks like managerial signing was made with some research before, preceded by interviews about and with candidates. Usually it is looking for the easiest move possible - there are always the same names thrown in the mix of speculations, with favourites being those who are well connected inside the game. In this case, the research was done by <b>Krzysztof Paluszek </b>and he might have made this choice by own admission of what is good and bad in football coaching yet at the same time, he went for the wisest and safest option at the very time. Śląsk owners - even though their experience in and knowledge about football is unimpressive - pressed on foreigner, someone from the outside of the system, person with good patterns and full of experiences. With pressure of the time, they could really do with one phone to those mentioned in the press - <b>Maciej Skorża </b>or<b> Franciszek Smuda</b> - and choose the easiest path possible. It happens so often in the Ekstraklasa.<br />
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What is also important, if the squad was moaning about Lenczyk's behaviour towards them, they were given a leader of totally different kind. There is a strong feeling in Śląsk's board now, that after such conflict in the dressing room that hammered club's chances in the European cups, players were given last chance to prove themselves, prove their worth. After all, they cannot ask for more, can they? </div>
Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-9154312849371357342012-08-25T19:17:00.001+02:002012-08-25T19:17:28.145+02:00Pawłowski's refusal is one bold move too far<div style="text-align: justify;">
Wojciech Pawłowski is yet another fine goalkeeping talent Poland has produced. Coming through youth ranks in Koszalin, being recruited by Lechia Gdansk and then making an instant breakthrough to the first team - capping sixteen full-time appearances in Ekstraklasa last season was enough to attract Serie A contenders, Udinese. </div>
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Now, just few months into his contract and less than a year since he made his debut in Polish top tier, Pawłowski is just stirring yet another controversy, boldly refusing to play for U21 national team side, claiming that he is ready only to turn up when Waldemar Fornalik will decide to call him up. </div>
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This is just weeks after video of him compromising in front of Italian club's camera in <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQa7Setip_o">an interview</a> given by him in English. Showing almost zero knowledge of the language, he failed to give any reasonable or understandable answer for even the easiest questions. Video was put on YouTube channel and quickly picked up in his home country, making rounds and claiming 700,000 clicks in just few days. Pawłowski has become an object of jokes and laugh, something that surely frustrated young keeper.</div>
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Nonetheless, he did deserve it. Rarely we see such young characters coming into senior football so strongly, with something to say - not really something wise or interesting - yet standing out of the crowd. In that term, Pawłowski's stubbornness is one of his highlights.</div>
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There are stories of him giving himself a day off in training at Lechia, only because he didn't feel like convincing anyone that he should be number one for next weekend. Provoking rivals - shouting to their ears, laughing out their skills, abusing and attacking them - all of that had happened during his rather short spell in Ekstraklasa. </div>
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After 0-0 draw with Korona Kielce, last season's revelation, he gave an interview in which he claimed that Leszek Ojrzyński's men are using tactics suitable to fourth league, not Polish top tier. Then the story from Lechia's dressing room came out, that he was beaten by goalkeepers' coach after heated discussion after one of the games. </div>
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Admirably, Pawlowski's early career at Udinese looks much better on the pitch than it is in front of TV cameras. He better keeps his goal than holds his nerves, showing quality in pre-season friendlies with few wonder interventions, also saving penalty in one of the last games.</div>
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He is one of the brightest talents, yet still only number two at his club - at best. Of course, Poland is as famous of great goalkeepers as they are known from their craziness, controversies. Jan Tomaszewski is known for this up to this day, while Artur Boruc is never short of a problem himself. </div>
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But what makes a difference between them and Pawłowski is that they proved their class on the pitch first and only then went on to be big-mouthed, full of controversies personalities, stand out characters in the game. While current Udinese goalie still has to prove his worth even at club level, he shouldn't have any doubts over participation and gaining experience from international football - even for U21 duty. Especially when games come less often than controversial appearances in domestic or foreign media.</div>
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In every interview he gave, Pawłowski refuses to be judged as talent overtaken by quickly earned money and fame. In one of them he claimed to be the only one who knows what is the best for him - and this was back in Gdansk, where he was sent for reserves for, as he says, giving Lechia some recognition by signing pre-contract with Udinese.</div>
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So far, he may be right - despite all the problems he caused, controversies he has involved himself in, he may have a point after all - not every teenager is given a contract by one of top Italian sides. But there is a thin line between doing it own way and choosing the right turns on rough ride that every professional career is. Making himself unavailable for future U21 international duty is a bold move that can mean only one thing - Pawłowski's stubbornness got him finally lost. Not that he wasn't asking himself for it, mind.</div>
Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-82424932356174966672012-08-21T23:07:00.002+02:002012-08-21T23:07:41.225+02:00Ekstraklasa - Matchday 1Ekstraklasa is back, finally. After 104-days long summer, players can again show us why we are following the league, going to the stadiums, paying for the tickets etc... What are the most interesting stories after matchday one?<br />
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We are starting with Śląsk Wrocław and another defeat, one even more worrying than the ones in European Cups. Against Widzew, Lenczyk's players turned up only when they were two-nil down, getting back to the game through Kaźmierczak's header. It is unbelievable how poor the champions were, even without six players that were out suspended for abusive chants at Legia in May. Orest Lenczyk's selection was baffling - he sent out three defensive midfielders, one winger and one central midfielder and a striker. He had all week to prepare them but struggle to prepare any plan, as Śląsk looked clueless throughout ninety minutes. Of course, this defeat put even more pressure on the manager and early rumours were that he will be sacked - saved yet by the owners as they put the blame on players, who, in their opinion, underperformed. Talks with the team and manager will be set up soon and we should find out how the future shapes - there are informations that Piotr Nowak may be the closest to taking over, yet this should be stressed that along with possible sacking of Lenczyk, several players should be signed off for their unprofessional behaviour. Match with Widzew is only one of examples.<br />
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In eight games we have seen 28 goals, the best result since 2009 in a single round. Looking for reasons for this fantastic number, we can name at least two - finally, in the opening weekend, we have seen two goals coming from direct free-kicks, while in last season we had to wait till November for Sebastian Mila's strike. New balls, perhaps? There were few decent moves, quicker and shaper but the standard of defending and goalkeeping should also be the subject of the discussion. Gliwa, Buchalik, Kelemen were all at fault, while back fours of Śląsk, Korona and Ruch Chorzów should be questioned for lack of form and effort.<br />
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How many games you have to play to be well prepared for the season? Apparently, the less the better! When you go through pre-season Ekstraklasa clubs had, the lower number of friendlies team had was eight - for the purpose matches in the European cups were counted in as games played before the start of the league. So five games played in the pre-season because of all the problems Polonia's squad were through could actually be a good thing. They were put through some hard, physical work early on, on Józef Wojciechowski's demand, then to play five games in quick succession, just to get prepared and give players some shape the manager Piotr Stokowiec wanted. Of course, the game with Lechia could go other way and there were times in the second half when hosts were close to a draw, but that shouldn't overshadow the fact, that Polonia played really well in stages, showing promising movement and enough quality to think about them not as relegation candidates.<br />
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Lech's performance against Ruch Chorzow in an impressive 4-0 win puts more questions over Mariusz Rumak's credentials than it is answering few of them. How can a team once perform that good, only to be absolutely awful against lower league opposition in the cup week before, then even earlier in the European Cups. It is also strange, that he is unwilling to fit in the team players such as Jakub Wilk and Jacek Kiełb - both returned from rather successful loan spells at Lechia and Korona respectively - saying them that they are unwanted. Kiełb found himself at Polonia and scored on his debut, Wilk is looking at options. This is partly a reason for looking for pay cuts in the wage budget, spare finances for possible move of a striker that is needed, despite promising performance from Ślusarski. The good news is that Gergő Lovrencsics fit well in the team, showing great set of skills, wide range of qualities, noting goal and an assist, both with hard outside-volley hits. Rumak is under pressure to perform in the league, he needs results to back his work but until the moment, he showed that his ego is growing, not experience or willingness to learn from mistakes. If he will keep admitting that everything is fine at Lech, he will not stay long - his side is having mixed results, something that will not be welcomed in Poznan.<br />
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Five minutes before half time, after Tomasz Hołota was injured for Polonia Warszawa, Dieme Yahiya made his Ekstraklasa debut, following his move from fourth division. The most interesting thing about this midfielder from Senegal is, that while playing at one of previous clubs, due to poor wages and lack of money, he had to work also as a security man at the parking place in Chorzow. Needless to say, he doesn't have to worry about the other job now and his rather optimistic performance gives him more chances to start against Lech Poznan in the upcoming series of games.<br />
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Results and the table are <a href="http://www.90minut.pl/liga/0/liga6218.html">HERE</a>.Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-70402941995676083362012-08-15T16:08:00.001+02:002012-08-15T16:16:45.325+02:00#Ekstraklasa Magazine - FREE guide to 12/13 season!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-83447595200930484452012-08-10T00:29:00.003+02:002012-08-10T00:29:54.568+02:00Money, ambitions and blindness<div style="text-align: justify;">
Over eight matches of Polish clubs in Europe, just in one week, <b>Lech, Legia, Śląsk</b> and <b>Ruch Chorzow</b> have conceded<b> nineteen</b> goals, something that shows the difference between the level of top sides in the <b>Ekstraklasa</b> and even average sides challenging in the European Cups. It is no coincidence, that only Legia could snatch a promotion to the next round, while also Lech added honour win. </div>
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The biggest tragedy was the performance of top two sides from previous season - Ruch Chorzow lost <b>0-7</b> on aggregate to <b>Viktoria Plzen</b>, while <b>Śląsk Wrocław </b>was kicked out of the <b>Champions League </b>after three straight defeats, one against <b>Buducnosti Podgorica</b> and twice versus Swedish <b>Helsingborgs</b>. Both Polish sides were woeful in every football term you can think of, while decisions of both managers - the most and one of the least experienced in Polish football - deserve heavy critique.</div>
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But, thankfully, leaving the football reasons aside for a moment, perhaps the biggest worry is the lack of ambition that surrounds these defeats - no one at Lech, Śląsk, Ruch and even Legia was seen criticizing players or managers for the lack of effort, insufficient preparations, poor quality and, most importantly, for the lack of results. It seems that no one in Chorzow, Wroclaw, Warszawa or Poznan hoped or expected the progression to the next round - as you would guess, there is no reaction whatsoever after these results.</div>
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It is strange, given how much the continental experience means, how much simply playing there means - latest financial report on Ekstraklasa from <b>Deloitte</b> proves that teams that were performing the best in the last season in Europe, <b>Wisła Krakow</b> and <b>Legia Warsaw</b>, could count on bigger incomes than other clubs. In fact, the difference between Wisła and third ranked club is almost <b>17</b> million Polish Zlotys. Staggering sum, given that only seven clubs have bigger incomes in general than that.</div>
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<b>Legia</b> is better example, becoming the leaders of the financial league in Poland for the first time since it is prepared, noting<b> 127% </b>growth of income over a single year - from <b>28.4m PLN</b> to <b>64.3m PLN</b> - which is down to the opening of a new stand and, mostly, playing in Europe till early spring. <b>Lech Poznan</b>, finding themselves out of European spots after poor finish to the 2010/2011 season, claimed a decrease of incomes by third part, surely a sum that pushed them to selling Ekstraklasa's best scorer, <b>Artiom Rudnev</b>. That said decrease, counted by<b> Deloitte</b> at <b>22m PLN</b>, is more than budgets of two thirds league clubs!</div>
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Of course, the financial difference between Poland and five top leagues in Europe (Spanish, English, French, German and Italian) is still huge - the biggest is between <b>Premier League</b> and <b>Ekstraklasa, </b>where incomes of the latter are <b>twenty nine</b> times lower. The smallest gap is between Poland and France, as League 1 generates incomes at the level <b>twelve</b> times higher. </div>
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This however, does not mean that the level of expectations should reach such low as it did. Once Ruch Chorzow was drawn against Viktoria Plzen, a club of richer recent history in Europe than Polish side, but lower budget, it was made clear in the club that the pressure will come only if in the first game a draw will be achieved. As<b> Tomasz Fornalik</b> said, they really hoped to keep goalless score in Chorzow and then count on another draw, albeit with goals - today, after 0-5 defeat, there is no question that Ruch's plans went seriously wrong.</div>
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Should they hope for a win from the start? Of course, their expectations should be reasonable, yet there is nothing wrong in being ambitious as well. Especially, if the resources are growing, the reputation as well and ways to increase own budgets were never as wide as they are now, after<b> Euro 2012</b> and the enthusiasm that surrounded the tournament. With that kind of performances, clubs are not helping to sustain the buzz around domestic football - even if it was previously lowered by poor results of the national team.</div>
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The difference can be seen on the example of <b>Ruch Chorzow</b>, once again. They are regarded as rather small-budget club, their incomes were ranked at 12th position by <b>Deloitte</b>, number smaller than Śląsk's gain from winning the championship, but even that makes them a target more attractive than their rivals, <b>Viktoria Plzen</b>. There, as was noted by Polish press, top players earn no more than<b> 5000 Euro</b> each month, sum rather average in the Ekstraklasa.</div>
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To be fair, three out of four clubs that have played in Europe can attract at least one player of the average level, of notable experience in top leagues. Legia had three players like that last season in <b>Danijel Ljuboja</b>, <b>Nacho Novo</b> and <b>Ismael Blanco</b> - of course the last two have failed due to lack of sufficient preparations and when they were introduced, they were out of form. Wisła also tried that way and they were seconds from the holy gates of the financial paradise, the Champions League.</div>
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Lech and Śląsk never even tried to do so, to bring an influential foreigner with admirable experience, someone that would be a stand out leader and an example for rest of the team. Legia, in <b>Danijel Ljuboja</b>, have a perfect example of a cleverness, intelligence and character - all combined with qualities like technique and vision. Ljuboja was hardly a crowd stealer abroad, his reputation never reached certain levels and definitely has never stayed there for long anyway. But his impact on Legia was and is simply priceless.</div>
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Once they can certainly afford it, there are other factors that should attract such foreigners, not only growing wages or bonuses promised on the paper - new, huge stadiums, fanatic and loud support, as well as good media coverage that is spreading wider around Europe. But clubs seem clueless of how to take advantage of that.</div>
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Śląsk, the champions, set the ticket prices on such high level for the Champions League qualifying games against Helsingborgs that attracted only mere <b>14000</b> people to a <b>40000</b> all-seated stadium. <b>Lech Poznan</b>, meanwhile, could not recognize remarkable turnout of fans in the earlier stages of the Europa League - meaning high hopes obviously - and then failed to match their ambitions with at least one transfer that would give the manager <b>Mariusz Rumak</b> more options. Or more chances to beat <b>AIK Stockholm</b>. When it was all lost, only <b>13000 </b>turned up for the second leg. The club budget will remain at the same level, as not even one TV station decided to broadcast the match.</div>
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If clubs are unwilling to use the money on experienced players from abroad - that, arguably, means often risky deals with players over their best time on the pitch, less ambition as well - then they should invest it wisely, not on overrated domestic so-called stars, whose biggest hopes are connected with restricted to decent contract. Base, youth, coaching, scouting... this is the same, old story but should be repeated till people ruling in football understand what the real worth is. And that, in fact, they have everything in their own hands to make it happen - though they struggle for an idea of how to use them, how and where invest. It is not important how much money do you have, but what use you will make of it.</div>
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The latest results are not only reflection of lack of ambition or lack of quality of Polish sides - the biggest worry is that they are clueless of how to make themselves repeatedly successful in Europe. After heavy defeats, all three managers, <b>Mariusz Rumak</b> at Lech, <b>Orest Lenczyk</b> at Śląsk and <b>Tomasz Fornalik</b> at Ruch spoke of positives and that the experiences will reward in the future. Unfortunately, as <b>Thomas Hardy </b>has put it <i>"</i><span class="huge"><i>there is a condition worse than blindness, and that is, seeing something that isn't there."</i></span></div>
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<br />Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-54966439198997069412012-08-03T01:05:00.004+02:002012-08-03T01:05:48.448+02:00What Polish football needs<div style="text-align: justify;">
Two weeks back and no one could hardly believe how easy draw for Polish clubs in European competitions looked like. Teams from <b>Swede</b>n, <b>Austria</b> and <b>Czech Republic</b> are not among top competitors on the continent and as progression of each of four teams looked easy, there was a hope that most of them will make their way to the latter stages.</div>
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After first games we are wiser. We know that this will not happen. Four defeats, ten goals lost, one scored and not much optimism about the second legs that will be played next week. <b>Lech</b> was easily defeated by <b>AIK Stockholm</b> and, during few reports, should be happy about the scoreline. <b>Śląsk</b> was nowhere near the level of Swedish champions, <b>Helsingborgs IF</b>, as they cruised to <b>3-0 </b>victory in <b>Wrocław</b>. <b>Ruch</b> was much closer to extending their chances for the revenge in <b>Plzen</b>, yet two late goals conceeded proved too costly for them to have hope. <b>Legia</b> lost in <b>Reid</b> and, according to their manager <b>Jan Urban</b>, were second best throughout the game. Late header from <b>Ljuboja</b> makes it possible to overcome Austrian team next Thursday.</div>
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<i>"All our problems combined into the result of the game"</i> - claimed <b>Mariusz Rumak</b>, Lech's manager. "The sleepless night we had prior to the game... but this is only the first half. We have own ambition, pride and we will put up a fight in the second leg."</div>
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<i>"I believe in this team"</i> - said Śląsk captain, <b>Sebastian Mila</b>. <i>"The game was pretty even, but they have scored in the worst moment, when I thought we can create something positive"</i> -<b> Tomasz Fornalik</b>, Ruch's manager claimed.</div>
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Only <b>Jan Urban</b> came out and was not afraid to say that his side's defeat was deserved, using exactly these words. He made no excuses, did not blame referee or hotel's alarm that went off in the middle of the night. Nothing like that. No wonder that only his team is regarded as the one that may still progress on to the next round of <b>Europa League</b>.</div>
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Now, media are full of discussions over the causes of quadruple defeat Polish export sides have suffered. For once, the discussion finally reached the finances and players' wages - just in the same day that <b>Deloitte Poland</b> revealed their annual report on money involved in the Ekstraklasa. The sums are not making any impression on Europe's finest leagues - for example, the combined incomes of the clubs are <b>29 times less</b> than the ones in the Premier League. </div>
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Wages are high and this is hardly players' fault - they simply took advantage of clubs' willingness to raise the numbers to inadequate level, level at which it is obvious that footballers earn way too much to the qualities they offer instead. Unfortunately, even with shy and unreal proposals of introducing salary cap, this trend will not be stopped. A certain caste was created, one that, in own opinion, is blameless, innocent of continuos defeats on domestic and international stage. Football, according to Polish professionals, is something that they own, they have a key to it, the knowledge about the sport is only theirs. Whoever tries to argue with this theory is quickly grounded - the caste tryumphs again, showing its independence and different, higher status.</div>
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But Polish football does not need a financial revolution - perhaps enviromental one, the one in attitude of football people towards fans, critics and media. For years, the neglection of certain way to achieve success was preceded by conviction that only huge investments in experienced players can bring European cups and domestic glory. Wages rose to unreasonable levels, while no one even tried to do it, achieve it all, in a different way. To be an example.</div>
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That is why Polish football is in desperate need of an European and domestic success, a domination even, of <b>Legia Warszawa</b>.</div>
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<a href="http://bi.gazeta.pl/im/2/9941/z9941422Q,Michal-Zyro-i-Ariel-Borysiuk--W-tle-Rafal-Wolski.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="http://bi.gazeta.pl/im/2/9941/z9941422Q,Michal-Zyro-i-Ariel-Borysiuk--W-tle-Rafal-Wolski.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Legia's youth - Borysiuk is congratulated by Żyro as Wolski joins them in goal celebrations</i></span></div>
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Arguably, this is the only club that is so willing to bring young players through their ranks - and for whatever reason they do it, even if they seem unable to compete on the transfer market or in offering wages at least anywhere near the average European level. <b>Ariel Borysiuk</b>, <b>Michał Kucharczyk</b>, <b>Rafał Wolski</b>, <b>Michał Żyro</b> - there is no other club in Poland that can be proud of four players with already international experience in their age. And with futher products of Legia's academy or effects of scouting network coming through the ranks and breaking into the starting line up, there is welcomed and long forgotten continuity of the work. </div>
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Polish clubs cannot dream of being something more than a feeders for bigger and wealthier opponents from stronger leagues. The trend of Polish finest talents emigrating to better clubs will only grow, especially with current attitude towards youngsters in the Ekstraklasa. </div>
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The example of such unwillingness to invest time and patience - even results - was shown in Wroclaw, after Śląsk's <b>0-3</b> defeat to <b>Helsingborgs</b>. First, came out <b>Åge Hareide</b>, Norwegian in charge of Swedish champions, former manager of Norway's national team, also footballer of <b>Manchester City</b> and <b>Norwich</b>, to name a few. He was asked about inability of Polish players to adapt to certain conditions in modern football - pace, technique, combinations... He smiled and replied, that there is too much looking back in history, that changes may come slower because of that. But, as he argued, problems are similar in Sweden and Poland - both countries have struggled in keeping top talents in domestic leagues. <i>"From the boot room to the board, every member of the club must be aware of the challenge, patience and work that must be put in to achieve greater things"</i> - <b>Hareide</b> said - <i>"I think that this knowledge gave us an important advantage over Śląsk tonight."</i></div>
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Then it was <b>Orest Lenczyk's</b> turn. He came, disappointed about the outcome but surprisingly honest about the shortage of class of his own team that failed against Helsingborgs. As usually, on and on went his press conference, but at the end he was asked question - whether young players breaking into the squad (journalist named two, <b>Paweł Garyga </b>and <b>Kamil Juraszek</b> - both have played reasonably well against <b>Athletic Bilbao</b> in the <b>Polish Masters</b> tournament just ten days ago) will be given chance in the return leg, to gain invaluable experience for the future. <i>"I know the difference between a player that plays football and one that kicks the thing"</i> - was Lenczyk's response, as he openly disregarded Juraszek's impression and talent. But that was only one example of his continuos and disrespectful treatment to Śląsk's youth - even if there is truth in his statements that scouting, selection and coaching talents at the club is of poor standards. </div>
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He is expected to give them support and, possibly, a chance to prove themselves on the level above. Knowing that <b>Orest Lenczyk</b> is so unwilling to introduce young players to the team - Śląsk had the oldest squad while winning the championship few months ago - the hard of club workers is much harder. It is highly unlikely that any reasonable and talented footballer of young age will come to Śląsk knowing that he will not be given the chance, simple as that.</div>
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As mentioned, at <b>Legia</b> there might be different reasons for which young guns are given their chance. But, surely, <b>Jan Urban</b> is aware of the fact that <b>Daniel Łukasik</b>,<b> Bartosz Żurek</b>, <b>Dominik Furman</b> are talented players, worth a shot. He may be cursing the fact that he wasn't given enough resources to strengthen his squad enough before the challenges, though there is no other club that would have players stepping up in such short term. Legia is the only club that transfers talent from youth league to senior squad.</div>
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Legia can be a shining example of completely different path, one that should be followed from the start. For years, academies were regarded as unnecessary invention of the western world, while license regulations were bypassed by simply buying the rights of local youth clubs to play under club's name. To silence the league, not actually prepare own players, invest in the football base, coaching staff and time to produce decent footballers. Legia may not be different in thinking that experience will give them eventual success, but by winning anything this season - or at least achieving more than their rivals - they may show that, indeed, there is something clever in their plan. That the investment, crazy, somewhat reverse plan to the familiar one has finally paid off. </div>
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If any other club will try to copy such obvious system and introduce it on their own - Legia's success will be one for Polish football. </div>Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-38220409988949576242012-08-02T01:29:00.000+02:002012-08-02T01:29:02.573+02:00Predictable disaster as Śląsk heads for Champions League exit<div style="text-align: justify;">
Some would say that winning the championship was a huge step forward for <b>Śląsk</b>, a move into the right direction, a better future. But surely, that person, could not be wider off the point, especially seeing as <b>Orest Lenczyk's</b> team heads to the exit from the <b>Champions League</b> just after their third game this summer. While there are all kinds of defeats, this is possibly the one that hurts the least - only because the difference in class between <b>Śląsk Wroclaw </b>and <b>Helsingborgs IF </b>was so big.</div>
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The <b>0-3 </b>result does not even say how much better Swedish champions were. Of course, that could be one of their best performances in months but even given that eventuallity, Śląsk shouldn't look as kids lost in the fog, after long walk with heavy backpacks. Because this is exactly how slow they were compared to their rivals, how wisely they have played, how panicked they were. </div>
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The championship title was supposed to be only a start of dination, of a legacy that would allow join Śląsk to the likes of<b> Legia, Lech and Wisła</b>, those teams at the very top of domestic league. After the last whistle went and final vicotry in Krakow was celebrated on the pitch, that chance was already gone. There was no imagnation of how painful the following weeks would be for the team, and how clueless people at the club were back then. How clueless they are now, probably scratching their heads, thinking about reasons of tonight's defeat. Only the biggest optimist can hope that they will come to senseful conclusions.</div>
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They have lost seven valuable players - or rather allowed them to leave, in search for better clubs (<b>Celeban</b>), better enviroment (<b>Madej, Ćwielong</b>), better career options (<b>Pietrasiak, Dudek, Sztylka, Wołczek</b>). But replacements were never brought in Wroclaw, as, up to date, only four footballers were signed (<b>Jodłowiec, Grodzicki, Patejuk, Kowalczyk</b>), though it was quite obvious it would take time to fit them in, to make the team click again, play the system Lenczyk applied.</div>
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After painful defeat Lenczyk claimed that he had selected 25 players for possible deals in the summer but by decision of the board, based on club's finances - though he never claimed that these footballers would change anything. Change the image of the team that against<b> Helsingborgs</b> was slow, clueless and clearly lacked ambition. The leaders have failed but as much as the manager - he struggled to put their fitness levels anywhere near the requirements of even the Champions League qualifying rounds.</div>
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To be fair, Śląsk problems have not started when <b>Orest Lenczyk </b>joined the club, but in a fight for results, he couldn't do anything more than just make an experienced side that would be competitive against top sides in the league. There was and there is no background in the club of Polish champions - maybe Lenczyk is not disrespectful to Śląsk's youth, but he struggles to think that there is enough talent in them to make them professional footballers one day.</div>
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He often moans over the selection, scouting system, but barely does anything to build the system that would be successful in the future, give enough of his experience to allow Śląsk build a legacy. But, looking at Śląsk's defeat, in search of optimism, there is nothing to back fans' faith. And even though we will have another season without Polish side in the Champions League group stages, this is probably the saddest conclusion for current champions and the state of domestic football. How little it takes to build a side capable to win something in <b>Ekstraklasa</b>, and how ignorant a club can be over looking at the wider picture, having a plan of building everything from scratches, despite resources and examples to follow.</div>
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And how far from European sides, even as average as Helsingborgs, that puts Polish teams. If Śląsk would make it to the Champions League, that would be a miracle, but also sad confirmation of which template other clubs would follow. A disaster like that, for someone as close to the club as the author of these words, is a sad eventuality but also a chance for new start. But that does not make me an optimist - only because I know that everyone at Śląsk will move on and choose not to look back and learn. They will live in neglection only to find themselves neglected from the group that went the right way.</div>Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-59048828024535487022012-07-26T11:44:00.001+02:002012-07-26T11:44:30.038+02:00Battle for Dvalishvili shows weaknesses of Polish top clubs<div style="text-align: justify;">
Over the dispute regarding<strong> Polonia Warsaw</strong> and where and under what name the club will play, the battle for one signature has grown. With <strong>Józef Wojciechowski </strong>still having rights to several players from his former team, he is looking to get back at least part of the money he invested in the <em>Czarne Koszule</em> over last six years of his unstable and controversial tenure at Konwiktorska stadium. </div>
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One of them is <strong>Vladimir Dvalishvili</strong>, former striker of <strong>Maccabi Haifa</strong> and <strong>Skonto Riga</strong>, currently subject of heated talks between Wojciechowski and two top Polish clubs,<strong> Legia Warsaw</strong> and <strong>Śląsk Wroclaw</strong>. The battle lasts for a week now, with both of interested sides failing to meet player's demands over personal contract. With many false rumours doing rounds over last few days, and as it is still unknown in which city Dvalishvili will play, the most interesting thing about possible move is how both, Śląsk and Legia are actually struggling to finish this off.</div>
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Legia looks less under the pressure to get him, at least on the paper. <strong>Danijel Ljuboja</strong> had a good last season, netting eleven goals in the league, but now is expected to feature in a bit deeper role under management of <strong>Jan Urban</strong>. But comeback of <strong>Marek Saganowski</strong> was a bit of a surprise, even if new manager wanted more experience and domestic influence on Legia's squad from experienced striker. Yet even with youngsters <strong>Kucharczyk</strong> and <strong>Kosecki</strong> in contention for the single place up front, there is a mixed feeling whether Urban and <strong>Marek Jóźwiak</strong>, club's sport director, did well enough to secure enough quality to raise the level on that position, in order to successfully challenge for the title.</div>
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<strong>Śląsk</strong>, on the other hand, despite scoring the most goals from the whole league last season, is desperately needing a proper striker, the one that would guarantee at least ten goals per season. After all, the trio that is now in the squad of <strong>Orest Lenczyk</strong>, netted much less than one third of their <strong>47</strong> goals in the championship season. Despite the fact that this position should be Śląsk's top priority in current transfer window, with many losses in the back four and midfield, the focus was taken off from the search of goalscorer, and the likes of <strong>Rafał Grodzicki </strong>(center-back) and <strong>Marcin Kowalczyk </strong>(full-back) were signed. </div>
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Now, the low quality on the striker's position is even easier to spot and harder to cover for - especially with team being under reconstruction and starting new season much earlier than majority of the league. But even that should not explain the struggle to sign a striker - Orest Lenczyk could not voice his concerns regarding <strong>Cristian Diaz</strong> and <strong>Johan Voskamp</strong> louder, while <strong>Łukasz Gikiewicz</strong>, despite all of his hard work on the pitch, is nowhere near the quality giving the champions chance in Europe and Ekstraklasa. </div>
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<em>"I don't think they still remember what they are getting paid for"</em> - said <strong>Lenczyk</strong> recently, talking about Voskamp and Diaz. Both are currently out of favor - the Dutch goalscorer, six to his name last season, criticized the manager in his homeland media, blaming his training methods for recent injury struggles. Diaz was few days late back from holidays and never provided reliable explanation, showing lack of discipline again, something that is crucial in every player's cooperation with Orest Lenczyk. The rather defensive tactics in season's opening games are unlikely to put Śląsk where they ended in May, while manager is forced to play out-of-form players, only not to risk unbalancing team even further than it was seen against <strong>Buducnost Podgorica </strong>in the Champions League.</div>
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<strong>Vladimir Dvalishvili</strong> can be the answer for both of them. 26-year old Georgian may not have been the best striker in the league since he joined Polonia at the beginning of the year, though in the last three seasons he succeeded in breaking ten-goals barrier and also showing the qualities that are much valued at Legia and Śląsk. He is dynamic, strong on the legs and mobile striker, hard working and pressing high up the pitch - both Lenczyk and Urban are looking for that kind of striker to cooperate with their wingers and playmakers, something that would complete their tactics.</div>
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But failure of one or the other club to sign him up to date shows few other things as well. First of all, it proves that top clubs are not willing to spend much despite having obvious problems in their squads - and we are not talking about much money. In fact, Legia and Śląsk are desperate to spend as less as possible on Dvalishvili, agreeing on strange conditions of <strong>Józef Wojciechowski</strong>, giving away themselves a chance to earn more in the future, when and if the player will be wanted by bigger, foreign clubs.</div>
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It is said, that the offer for him from both clubs stands at more than one hundred thousand Euro, while they are ready to give out half of the rights to incomes from future transfers. What is more, both clubs are prepared to agree that Wojciechowski keeps financing some part of <strong>Dvalishvili's</strong> wages during the length of the contract, only not to break their laboriously constructed budgets. If they cannot finance and meet demands of the player and his card owner, then it only shows how poor resources teams representing Poland on the European stage have.</div>
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Arguably, both clubs cannot fail at this transfer and this is the most important reason for which this move is delayed and prepared so cautiously by Śląsk and Legia, as every offer that breaks the other is rather small one, the bids are not of an advantage that would be enough to secure the signature of Dvalishvili. Even if <strong>Orest Lenczyk</strong>, as he said, is contemplating a deal for <em>"a very good, experienced striker on a free transfer"</em>, he knows he must hurry up with decision - as games against Podgorica proved, his team is struggling up front, desperately needing driving force that would make the difference versus Swedish <strong>Helsingborg</strong>. </div>
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Legia, though their situation with strikers is less pressing that Śląsk's, may be willing to outbid their title rivals only to prove that they are still the club of a certain reputation in Poland, of the driving force that can take every player they want, attract him not only with finances, but also the stadium, the history, the fans. Being far from stating that one battle lost for Dvalishivili's contract will mean serious change of that trend - a trend set up back in the days of communism, when Legia was an army's club and could have any player they wanted - they need to be wary of more clubs coming in their way, with new stadiums, comparable budgets and as devoted fans. Despite huge investments in the club, this would be seventh season without championship, rather unremarkable failure in an exciting times of new stadium, growing attendances, record budget and, finally, creation of a youth coaching system that is giving its first fruits.</div>
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Finally, even though the battle should be up by the end of the week, the most important factor is overlooked. With both clubs struggling at the start of the season in Europe, and clearly having problems with in-form players, especially strikers, the fight, outbidding and continuous negotiations with <strong>Józef Wojciechowski </strong>show true desperation of both clubs to make themselves at least look successful. </div>
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Surely, they are not hoping that once <strong>Vladimir Dvalishvili </strong>signs for ones or the others, he will jump straight to the starting line-ups - as the player himself pointed out, he is after joke of a preparations at troubled, decimated rest of Polonia's squad that is now shaping the way new owner wants, but without Georgian striker. <em>"It rarely had anything to do with football" </em>- said <strong>Dvalishvili</strong>. Sadly, the same can be also said about the summer businesses done by Ekstraklasa's leading clubs, <strong>Legia Warsaw</strong> and <strong>Śląsk Wroclaw</strong>.</div>Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-18152721618753995312012-07-20T20:33:00.001+02:002012-07-20T20:37:07.511+02:00Results in Europe show scale of work ahead of Polish clubs<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is not bad situation, taking the time of the season in account, for all Polish clubs. It even got better this morning, as<b> Śląsk Wroclaw, Ruch Chorzow, Legia Warsaw and Lech Poznan </b>have all found out their fates in the <b>Champions</b> and <b>Europa league</b> respectively, subject to the second matches of these clubs. But two wins and two draws when three out of four games were played away mean there is a chance that when the next qualifying rounds will come, not even one early exit will be made.</div>
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But looking at pure results doesn't do any justice to Polish teams, especially when one looks at the class of their rivals or the position in Europe teams from <b>Montenegro, Latvia, Macedonia and Azerbaijan</b>. An honest evaluation should, however, come from the style and performances of four representatives of Polish football on the European stage. </div>
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Śląsk's win in <b>Podgorica</b> was put much to the luck of Polish champions, especially given their shaky start against Buducnosti, who exploited easily problems of Lenczyk's defensive formations. For the whole first half, <b>Marcin Kowalczyk</b>, nominal right-back, was adapting himself to the place at the heart of the back four, making similar mistakes to the ones he committed during last pre-season friendly against third division team from Wroclaw.</div>
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Arguably, Śląsk did well enough to expose weaknesses of their rivals in a heated game, easily creating chances whenever they have put more patience in setting up their attacks. Sadly, that was the issue only in the first half, as after the break Śląsk decided to defend the lead and the second goal came after debatable penalty decision - defending was improved but there was no fluency and <b>Lenczyk's</b> players struggled to keep the ball even in the easiest situations. </div>
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Legia's troubling draw away in Latvia means that home game will be more stressful than it should be. Again, it were easy mistakes at the back, mainly from <b>Inaki Astiz</b>, that gave <b>Metalurgus Lipava </b>a chance in the tie that should be very much over. Legia took the lead twice and last minutes of the game played with advantage, and judging by the quality of rivals' center-backs, both were turning like tankers, not footballers, there should be goals galore, not even scoreline. <b>Jan Urban</b> had rather different problems at his first stint at Legia, when it was rather an issue of transferring quality from the back to the front, rather than the other way. The form of whole back four needs huge improvement, and even of the subs as well, as we hear that their only signing, <b>Marko Suler</b>, is nowhere near place in the side, despite huge expectations.</div>
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Lech's issue is with their away form, as the second draw shows that the main problem is in attack and finishing. The likes of<b> Vojo Ubiparip</b> and<b> Bartosz Slusarski </b>are hardly anywhere near the class of Artiom Rudnev, who went to play in the Bundesliga, and even though Hungarian<b> Gergo Lovrecsics</b> showed glimpses of talent in the previous round, he started the game in Lenkoran only as a sub. Hopes are high in Poznan regarding <b>Mariusz Rumak's</b> managerial talent but even he will struggle to defend his work and team against accusations of too defensive set up and lack of classic and clinical striker. It is highly unlikely that one of Lech's targets will join the squad before next challenges in Europe will come.</div>
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Ruch's win over <b>Metalurg Skopje</b> was a nervous one, and put down only to late wave of the Blues' attacks, as goal conceded meant the away match could be a mission impossible for <b>Tomasz Fornalik's </b>men. But once again Ruch proved that whenever they can support <b>Arkadiusz Piech </b>with crosses in the right place, the goals will come. Ruch will, again, stretch their chances in the following rounds but they showed, despite losing the goal and putting themselves for a nervous finish, that their form is the closest to the needs of the European football.</div>
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The scores in current round and future games made Polish hopes rose again, yet there is a feeling of job unfinished. It remains unlikely, that four teams will show their true quality at this stage of the season, though for once each of them should get credit for coming unharmed from problematic situations. Even if it is their fault. </div>Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-86641989955470228922012-07-19T01:21:00.002+02:002012-07-19T01:21:27.028+02:00Cetnarski: Behave as people should<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tonight's start of Polish champions,<strong> Śląsk Wroclaw</strong>, was overshadowed by what had happened off the pitch, even off the stands of small stadium in <strong>Podgorica</strong>, Montenegro. For the whole day we could hear reports of unrest in the city, of Polish fans being attacked or provoked to fight with locals. During the game, what was confirmed by Śląsk's chairman, Mr <strong>Piotr Waśniewski</strong>, one of traveling fans was beaten up by police inside the ground and taken to the hospital, apparently unconscious. Before the kick-off, Śląsk's press officer was also attacked, while some was stolen from Polish side as the team bus was attacked at arrival in Podgorica.</div>
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Below is interview which <strong>Mateusz Cetnarski</strong>, Śląsk midfielder, <a href="http://www.slasknet.com/?nr=12832">gave to one of reporters of Slasknet.com</a> and that was written down and translated by myself. Śląsk won the game 2-0 but the result is less important in the wake of what had happened off the pitch.</div>
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<strong>You come out from the locker room full in emotions, but it's not just a result of the match, is it?</strong><br /><em>- To begin with, we won this match after a very clever game. It seems to me that the second half was much better than the first. We controlled the course of the match, and the result is an incredible advantage before the second game at home, in front of our fans. And that's about the match, because it seems to me that is enough. And what had happened before the match, outside the stadium, those voices that came to us - even from fans who have asked before the second half that we should waited for them... Montenegrin police behaved like barbarians. Apparently, they beat the families, children and people who came to the game from Poland. Nearly three hundred people were not let in, while police behaved like in the wild west. With respect to Montenegro, but they should behave like Europeans, and not as people who lived 300 years ago and had to fight with swords for their land. Lets behave as people should, especially as people should. It seems to me that we are brought up in a culture of respect for another person, and what's going on here ... and yet it is the police, I'm not even talking about rival fans, but the police, which is to protect and prevent evil, and at the same time they beat women and children that traveled thousands of miles for the team. It's not the way it should be. Football should unite and not aim for this, that the police beat our fans, and here a very big minus in the direction of Montenegro. Let's hope that we will never have to come here again.</em></div>
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This was hanging in the air for some time now and even knowing what kind of person <strong>Józef Wojciechowski</strong> is, only few were not surprised as the news of him selling <strong>Polonia Warsaw's</strong> license to the owners of GKS Katowice. New club is going to be created, playing under the name of <strong>KP "GieKSa" Katowice</strong> and the very first games should be played in <strong>Krakow</strong> or <strong>Sosnowiec</strong>, because of league regulations.</div>
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<strong>Józef Wojciechowski </strong>is probably the most controversial personality that existed in Polish football in recent decade, as he invested in Polonia six years ago, then also buying out the license of <strong>Groclin Grodzisk Wielkopolski</strong> to play in Ekstraklasa. He sacked more than twenty managers during that time, invented the <strong>Coconut Club</strong>, brought <strong>Jose Mari Bakero</strong> to Poland, allowed to earn crazy money to countless numbers of players, paying millions for average footballers as well. </div>
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He invited his employees on own plane to take them to<em> El Clasico</em>, after matches won they could count on his joyful mood and special bonuses, while even during half time he was able to call his manager and impose own views about tactics and substitutions. Those who struggled or opposed were simply sacked or, worse, made train on their own.</div>
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Wojciechowski's patience ended when last season his team failed to live up to his expectations of finally winning a trophy. His six-years-long stint at the club ended without <strong>Polonia</strong> being anywhere close reaching his main goal - the C<strong>hampions League</strong>. Wojciechowski put the club on sale and received numbers of offers but decided to go with the worst one - the one that in reality meant the end of Polonia.</div>
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It is not irrelevant that Polonia made their progression to <strong>Ekstraklasa</strong> on similar terms as now <strong>Katowice</strong> will. Fans accepted that move, supported Wojciechowski's merger with <strong>Groclin</strong> but throughout his time at Konwiktorska there was rarely time of understatement and trust between the owner and fans - if only, then driven to the discontent at team's performances. </div>
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Now, they find themselves on the other side of the problem, looking at possible liquidation of the club, especially when the rights for the name and badge are staying with <strong>Wojciechowski.</strong> It will be extremely tough to bring Polonia back to the place it belongs, a process that will take time and money, patience and actions from fans that have found themselves on the brink. <strong>Ekstraklasa</strong> nor <strong>PZPN </strong>may not be able to do anything about their status but for the greater good of the football in Poland, they should oppose to the merger and creation of new club.</div>
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Without a doubt, this merger is bad for league - in times of expansion of interest in Polish football, distinguished by successful organization of <strong>Euro 2012 </strong>and TV-rights going to more countries, this maybe makes <strong>Ekstraklasa </strong>interesting at the moment, but competition will suffer on the course of the season. With <strong>KP GieKSa </strong>playing not in Katowice, fans boycotting the new creation, we are looking at potential marketing disaster - empty ground, poor, unprepared team and no potential future. Authorities should be well aware of how the league looked like when <strong>Wisła</strong> and <strong>Cracovia</strong> had to play in <strong>Sosnowiec</strong>, in times when their grounds were under construction. Crowds of 300 are hardly making the product more attractive to potential sponsors. </div>
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Poland have seen quite a few mergers in more than twenty years after transformation, yet still there are no regulations in the league that would make clubs, their traditions and fans, a bit safer, even if under the rule of such controversial figures as <strong>Józef Wojciechowski </strong>is. If to believe press reports, he could go for different investor, choosing someone who would keep Polonia afloat for some time at least - and if Wojciechowski's fortune is as big as he claims, then he could afford himself that decision. But for reasons unknown, he went for burning all bridges - burning the whole club down, the one thing that would remind him of the most spectacular failure in his life, in his own city. Such personality he is, such devalued concept of satisfaction he has.</div>
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Also, this time, the merger means destroying two clubs, two great traditions, two reasonably large fan bases for... what exactly? One's businessman wish to compete in <strong>Ekstraklasa</strong>, to create something he can show off to his friends? Another force in Polish football? If so, that makes the person clueless of what and how proper football teams are build - from scratch, from the basics, youth teams, training base and structures that will give the ability to clubs to give success for generations, not single seasons.</div>
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If, for creators of <strong>KP GieKSa Katowice</strong>, the disastrous failure of <strong>Wojciechowski</strong> to win anything is not the best example, then look at <strong>Wisła Krakow </strong>and <strong>Bogusław Cupiał</strong>, who bought the club fifteen years ago. Arguably, he created a team that dominated the league since then, but never been able to create something more out of it and never reached the ultimate dream of the <strong>Champions League</strong> gates - now Wisła is in another transition after temporary squad was build on experienced players and without youth coming through. The seventh-place finish speaks for itself.</div>
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The refusal to welcome new creation into the league would be an exceptional disagreement for short-term, supposedly successful tactics of building football clubs in this country. Leaving <strong>Polonia's </strong>history, tradition and fans aside for a while, if there is at least intention of caring about the situation in the game from its authorities, then the moment to react is perfect. A simple "no" would do, for a start.</div>Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-73428921286913776412012-07-15T23:09:00.001+02:002012-07-15T23:09:29.992+02:00Lewandowski's rant puts all blame on Smuda<div style="text-align: justify;">
If someone would think that <strong>Euro 2012 </strong>is over and every debate about the spectacular failure of <strong>Polish</strong> national team settled, then think again. After nomination of the new manager, when all eyes should be on upcoming tough challenges for <strong>Waldemar Fornalik's</strong> men, strange comments from <strong>Robert Lewandowski</strong> occurred, hitting out at <strong>Franciszek Smuda</strong>.</div>
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With a cold blood, Borussia's striker and scorer of the first goal at Euro 2012 executed his former manager, stating that everything what Smuda was responsible for, failed during the tournament. From the selection, two-years-long preparations and tactics, Lewandowski has not given any space for praise, any doubt to think that the fault could be on the players' side - even though after the Russia game, he publicly stated that everything is going wrong.</div>
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<em>"I never wanted to moan about the pre-Euro camp in Austria, but I've felt that the trainings are too tough, that we had to limit the intensity of the sessions"</em> - <strong>Lewandowski </strong><a href="http://www.sport.pl/celebrities/1,96810,12127070,Lewandowski_dla_Sport_pl__Zaluje__ze_gralismy_tak.html?as=2&startsz=x">said</a> - <em>"trainings were tougher than at club level before season."</em></div>
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The rant did not stop there though, as claims and accusations become harder to bear for every coach. <em>"We never discussed tactics with him. I felt strange to play even against four defenders at times. Even though I've dribbled past one of them, the second always was there and I had no one to pass to. We had no men forward, I regret that we played so defensively"</em> - Lewandowski said. </div>
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In an interview for <strong>Sport.pl</strong>, striker, subject of potential moves to <strong>Liverpool</strong>, <strong>Arsenal </strong>and <strong>Chelsea</strong>, also stated that the manager had no hearing among the team. <em>"There was no talk during the half time. We settled on our own how to play and behave on the pitch."</em></div>
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<em>"We had no plan B than individual moves. Each training during those three years looked the same, warm up and then 11-a-side training game, some set-pieces at the end"</em> - said Lewandowski, also claiming that before the match with<strong> Russia</strong>, they have changed<strong> Smuda's</strong> directions in the tunnel, at the last minute before the game. Finally, he put the blame for the results - only two draws, that have put Poland last in the weakest group - mostly on manager's head, saying that the players have failed but wouldn't if everything would be right on Smuda's side.</div>
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Smuda behaved well, took the damning critique with class rather unknown from him, clearly knowing that any aggressive response would be taken only as black PR.<em> "Robert is young man, he has right to make mistakes. I forgive him everything. I tried to help him, help all of them" </em>- <a href="http://www.sport.pl/celebrities/1,96811,12129709,Smuda_dla_Sport_pl_o_Lewandowskim__Mlody_jest__ma.html">said</a> <strong>Franciszek Smuda</strong>. </div>
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Make no mistake, the battle will go on and there is expectation that others will follow in critique of the manager. Looking at the atmosphere in the squad now, and how poisoned the relationship between the team and Smuda is, there seems to be no room for reasonable talk on reasons why, again, Polish football falls behind even Europe's second-best teams in terms of technique, quality, tactics and fitness. If in that battle someone would distribute points, then certainly three would go to Smuda, who had won, for once, with his class silence over those issues - probably knowing that further debate over the issues would mean his degeneration as a manager.</div>
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But Lewandowski has a point in his critique, even if it is ill-advised, mistimed and conflicted with everything that he said during the tournament. However, he should know better, ignite the debate over every issue without making his rant so private, making the interview an attacking one, rather than insightful. <em>"Player should respond on the pitch"</em> - <a href="http://www.weszlo.com//news/11143-Boniek_-_Napastnik_niech_przemawia_golami">says</a> <strong>Zbigniew Boniek </strong>in an interview for <strong>Weszlo </strong>website, criticizing Lewandowski. <em>"In Czech match, he had a match ball on his feet. If he had scored that, which version would stood, the one after Russia game [when striker positively talked about the manager and the team] or the one he revealed now?"</em> - Boniek asks.</div>
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It seems that there is no one who would take the blame, who would be ready to stand out of the crowd and say that the decisions taken were wrong, that they have not performed well enough. Even <strong>Smuda</strong>, with his lack of response now, said before <strong>Lewandowski's</strong> interview that he wouldn't change a thing if he had a second chance. This obvious defeat is still unsettled, the guilt is bounced back from each side like a tennis ball. </div>
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But fans observe and make opinion on their own, and this battle seems lost by both leaders of the team, both and the only players that have scored for Poland at <strong>Euro 2012</strong>. <strong>Błaszczykowski's </strong>comments about lack of tickets for players' families straight after the Czech match in the mixed zone were a huge, costly mistake, much worse than Lewandowski's rant. Now, those who were said to be the only positives in the much-average squad, are said to be <strong>Fornalik's </strong>biggest challenges at the start of his tenure - to cope with primadonnas, international stars that can, without a blink, crush manager's reputation after defeat.</div>
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This could be also definition of every defeat we have seen in recent decades in Polish football. Conflicts with media, blameless managers, self-titled heroic footballers have overshadowed the debate and the definition of the responsibility over defeat was never close to the right one. As always, the focus was on the short term, the last days of preparations, single training sessions, one match, one move, one decision, but never the longer perspective was even taken in account. No wonder that Polish football has not moved forward in last ten years. With <strong>PZPN's</strong> claims that they are not responsible for coaching nations' youth, there is no hope that it will in next decade as well.</div>Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1057477557506383068.post-18314932235793456502012-07-10T23:47:00.005+02:002012-07-10T23:47:42.594+02:00Depressing press conferece overshadows Fornalik's appointment<div style="text-align: justify;">
As said yesterday, <a href="http://polishscout.blogspot.com/2012/07/meet-new-one.html"><strong>Waldemar Fornalik</strong> was appointed new manager of Poland national team</a>, leaving behind three years of great job he did at <strong>R</strong><strong>uch Chorzow</strong>. He was given eleven votes during four-hours-long debate of PZPN board, a vast majority that meant there was no need of second poll. <strong>Jerzy Engel</strong>, who was already in the job ten years ago, gained only three votes. </div>
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But it was not about Fornalik or other candidates, as we have witnessed a staggering show of how far behind in thinking domestic football thought is. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antoni_Piechniczek">Antoni Piechniczek</a> was supposed to explain why Fornalik was the best candidate and he had fairly easy job - though failed miserably, not answering questions but once again proving every critic of the federation right.</div>
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<strong>Antoni Piechniczek</strong> is unquestionably a legend in Polish football, someone who influenced the game in the seventies and eighties with successes as club and national team coach. He won the third place in the world in 1982, then moved to northern Africa, and even after unsuccessful spell back with Poland in 1996, he remains close to every PZPN board, being responsible for how coaching in the country looks like. </div>
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And it is not looking any good, as Poland have only over 1200 coaches with UEFA A and B categories, as even the most basic courses are quite expensive, long and simply boring, too general. This is, however, an issue for years unsolved and, as today's press conference showed, not even regarded a problem by the board.</div>
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The board of which Antoni Piechniczek is vice-president, by the way.</div>
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He came up with the mission to learn his audience, voice his concerns, opinions and explain - not the appointment, but the situation of football in Poland in general. It ended in farce as Piechniczek's rant was not only pointless but clueless as well, leaving thousands in front of TVs puzzled of what he was saying. By overshadowing Fornalik, he, and sitting next to him the president, Grzegorz Lato - unmoved by the critique and smiling contemptuously - showed complete ignorance about the football. It almost looked like the sport belong only to them, when Piechniczek stated that <em>"the choice was made and will be no other, there is no need to question it now."</em></div>
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Antoni Piechniczek went on a rant that took a long journey back in the time, to the times of the peak of his professional work, when he indeed was the figure respected and unquestioned. Quite different to the opinion he has now.
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<em>"The ten-years-long epoch of success was fantastic. You know what it was down to? This happened because of Polish coaches. And also because the authorities took care of the sport. Our country was divided into 49 provinces, and each wanted to have a decent football team. To show up on the football map."</em><br />
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<em>"We all got used to the opinion that, as we say, transformation placed on the shoulder heavy industry, steel industry has no longer played its role, and the segment hit the most was the </em><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_Agricultural_Farm_(Poland)"><em>state-owned farms</em></a><em>. For me, though, it was the professional sport that has suffered the most, because from one day to another, everyone landed on the streets."</em></div>
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This is, sadly, only the small part, small example of how far he went off the main topic of the press conference. He explained everything - literally everything - on the examples of his past successes and carrying his arguments on the shoulders of sadly gone legend, <strong>Kazimierz Górski</strong>. <em>"When the taxi driver asked me who I wanted to pick, I said that personal favorite is not among us anymore"</em> - he shared as well.</div>
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The reaction was negative, obviously, as people laughed, cursed and almost cried from the frustration at people who are in charge of the game in Poland. The press conference was probably the best example of what should be so obvious - so many times PZPN was hiding behind UEFA's back when the authorities came up with an intervention, but when it is down to put a blame on the real problems in football, deficit of well educated coaches, idea, plan for the national teams and coaching in the country, the finger was pointed always in other direction. Always not PZPN's fault, as they "were and are doing a lot" - indefinite term heard each time. Their isolated stance, their theory of common enemy - the fans, the public, the media - shows the naked, bare truth. </div>
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There is nothing behind their words and actions, only history.</div>Michał Zachodnyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08280150348057961048noreply@blogger.com0