An appeal for help for injured player

WARSCHOCKZ is one of the top youth clubs in Cebu and is a regular fixture in the local football festivals. Coached by former national team player Alex Ballesteros, who played for Cebu during the 1997 Philippine National Games, Warschockz has made their mark in the younger age groups, in both boys and girls categories. It is actually an impressive feat considering that most of their players don’t belong under one school, unlike some of their rivals. Most study in different schools but play under Warschockz.

It isn’t also a well-off club and most of the players come from the public schools, so money for registration fees in tournaments is always a concern. However, in the past few days, the club has another concern and this time, it’s not just football.

One of their players, Jade Vince Valiente, was hit by a speeding motorcycle last June 25 and hit his head on the pavement. He was comatose but a quick response and operation saved his life and he is now recovering.

However, hospital bills and other financial needs are piling up and the player whom the club knows as a fighter needs all the help they can get as he fights his way in recovery.

So I hope those who can will help the young boy. An online appeal has been launched on Facebook and if you want to donate you may contact Jessica Ma of Phoenix FC (09176270627).

EURO. I’m anticipating a delivery of four cold ones from Eric Nacorda today after he wrongfully picked Italy over Germany in the Euro qualifiers. Germany hasn’t beaten Italy in major tournaments recently but, of course, if Iceland can eliminate England, anything can happen, right?

It almost went to script after a dreadful penalty shootout that had Germany trailing early, but Italy missed a shot too, giving the World Cup champions a chance. Giancarlo Buffon guessed right on most shots, and even on the match-winner, but I guess the football gods were drinking beer that night, instead of Italian wine. So off they go to the semis, against the winner of the Iceland vs. France contest.

Iceland, the under dog story of the year, faces tall odds but heck, I go for the tiny nation co-managed by a practicing dentist over France any day. Who knows? Strange things have happened in the field. In the other semis, it will be Wales against Portugal, something Barcelona fans might be avoiding considering how Lionel Messi lucked out in international play recently and how that match features Gareth Bale of wales and the man with impeccable ‘do, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Germany vs. Portugal in the finals, anyone?