2010 New England Supporters Cup

2010 New England Supporters Cup
4 vs.4 Soccer Tournament​

Date:

Sunday, June 27, 2010

Location:

Estadio DeFazio
23 Jarbrook Road
Holliston, MA 01746
(617)-877-2945

Time:

Kickoff - 9:00 am
World Cup Match #51 – 10:00 am (TV)
World Cup Match #52 – 2:30 pm (TV)
Final – 3:00 pm
NE Revolution vs. Chicago Fire –7:00pm
@ Gillette Stadium

Calling all New England supporters! Join us at Estadio DeFazio to celebrate the 2010 World Cup in style with a full day of the beautiful game. After watching 2 weeks of World Cup soccer it will be time to dust off your boots and get out on the pitch to show off your football/soccer skills! Show up to play and/or cheer on your fellow supporters, friends and family battle for glory on the soccer pitch. Come watch the two scheduled World Cup 2nd round matches live on television at 10:00am (Match #51 1D vs. 2C) and 2:30pm (Match #52 1B vs. 2A) If the US team advances through the group stage there is a possibility that they will play in the 10:00am match as the 2C seed. Follow up a great day of soccer play and World Cup action with an exciting New England Revolution match vs. heated rival Chicago Fire at nearby Gillette stadium.

Sign up now for this summer’s ultimate small-sided tournament. Team space is limited and team registration is on a first come first-serve basis! Once all teams have registered a New England Supporters Cup tournament draw will take place on BigSoccer. Teams will be notified of the date and time prior to the draw.

This is a BYOB, food and drink event. We will supply some basic drinks, snacks, ice etc. along with a gas and charcoal grill for use. We encourage players and fans attending to pack up your vehicles with all your tailgate supplies as if heading to the stadium. There will be room to set up your own mini tailgate and enjoy the matches from the sidelines. There are local supermarkets, liquor stores and restaurants conveniently located nearby if supplies are needed.

Immediately following the tournament the soccer celebration continues! Players and fans are encouraged to head to Gillette Stadium to the pre-game tailgate for the Revolution vs. Chicago Fire match. Gillette Stadium is conveniently located approximately 25-30 minutes from Estadio DeFazio via pleasant traffic free suburban roads. The stadium parking lots open at 5:00pm and Kickoff is at 7:00pm. Please see the tournament Director for printed driving directions to Gillette Stadium.

Tickets for the Revolution vs. Chicago Fire match on 6/27 are available by visiting www.revolutionsoccer.net or by calling 1-877-GET-REVS.

To RSVP to the New England Supporters Cup tournament as a fan and to reserve your team’s spot in the tournament please email the Tournament Director directly at mdefazio1@yahoo.com ASAP – Subject Line – New England Supporters Cup. Please send completed tournament registration form and player waivers to the following address no later than 6/21/10:

Estadio DeFazio
Attention: Tournament Director
23 Jarrbrook Road
Holliston, MA 01746

Parking for the event will be on Jarbrook Rd. This is a dead end street. Please be considerate of the neighbors and do not block driveways. Overflow parking will be located in the parking lot next to the Bertucci’s & Bank of America ATM located at 414 Washington St., Holliston, MA, 01746 approximately ½ mile away from Estadio DeFazio at the intersection of Rt. 16 & Rt. 126. Please note: Parking on Rt. 126/Concord Road is not permitted and violators will be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense!

For further information or questions please contact Mike at mdefazio1@yahoo.com.

*Please note that this is a SHINE only event. In the event of bad weather the tournament will be rescheduled for a later date in the 2010 MLS Season.

We hope you enjoy the tournament and have fun!
Good Luck!

Go US! Go Revs!
Estadio DeFazio Management​

ABOUT ESTADIO DEFAZIO:

Estadio DeFazio opening in spring 2010 will be the benchmark in North American soccer landscape and set the standard for other backyard soccer venues across the continent. The state-of-the-art soccer-specific facility is located in Holliston, Massachusetts.
Estadio DeFazio has a number of unique elements that will make it the premiere North American backyard soccer venue. Key to the design is the way the arena is structured to create atmosphere as fans in the front row will be just 21 centimeters from the touchlines. In addition, the main concourse will be 2 feet high, eliminating none of the field-level entryways. This will give Estadio DeFazio’s seating bowl a very compact, close-to-the-action feeling
Also key to the design is its dynamic form roof—a cape home style structure that doesn’t come close wraping the entire arena in elegant shingles, but does keep the home leak free. The unique stadium roof design will create a distinguished New England identity and unique atmosphere for Estadio DeFazio fans while letting in natural light.
And Estadio DeFazio will have unique media seating. Members of the media will be up close to capture the atmosphere and action as they will be seated in the lower bowl, directly next to the player benches. Set to accommodate 2 media members, the seating will be placed in a section at midfield. An additional media area will be located in the basement which will also include a television viewing area and small soccer pub.
The overall seating capacity for soccer matches at Estadio DeFazio is to be determined. Other amenities including one arena club and a one car garage.The club seating areas will be located on the south side of the field and each location will have access to their own private club areas.
The arena's updated design was completed by DeFazio Architects of Holliston, MA. Tampa -based Vasquez Construction Group, LLC, is the project's construction manager and general contractor.

· Estadio DeFazio was re-designed to be more in line with soccer facilities worldwide.
· Estadio DeFazio will have a look and feel to be more soccer-oriented and provide a more fan friendly environment to the patrons

FACTS AND FIGURES

· Location: Holliston, MA
Estadio DeFazio is constructed on .76 acres, bounded by Stella’s house to the west and Stacy’s house to the east.
· Land Owner: Michael DeFazio & Janet Vasquez
· Naming Rights Sponsor: TBD
· Architect: Michael DeFazio
· Construction Manager/General Contractor: Vasquez Construction Group, LLC.
· Resident Team: TBD
· Capacity Seating: TBD
· Field Dimensions: Approximately 40 yards wide x 30 yards long.
· Premium Field Level Seats: Plenty
· Arena Clubs: 1
· Arena Shops: 0 – There’s a liquor store a ½ mile away.
· Video Boards: Two TVs inside.
· Field Level Signage: Field level signage in one end zone and each sideline.
· Concessions: 1 Weber gas grill, 1 charcoal grill, 1 Cuisinart portable grill. 4 Beer coolers & 1 Outdoor bar.
· ATMs: There is one ATM machine located ½ mile from the stadium although your money is no good here.

2010 New England Supporters Cup
TOURNAMENT FORMAT​

4 vs. 4 - (3 field players and 1 designated goalkeeper) – Coed – 18+ only.

12 Teams/Countries. In celebration of the 2010 World Cup teams are required to represent only countries that have qualified for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Round Robin format with playoffs. Group play (4 groups of 3 teams each). Each team is guaranteed at least 3 matches. Top team in each group will advance to 2nd round playoffs.

Referees: 3 man system (1 center Referee & 2 Assistant Referees) – USSF laws of the game apply. See Rules of the Competition.

GROUP FORMAT

Group A
Team 1
Team 2
Team 3

Group B
Team 1
Team 2
Team 3

Group C
Team 1
Team 2
Team 3

Group D
Team 1
Team 2
Team 3

TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
9:00am – 3:45pm

Group A

1 vs. 2 – 9:00
2 vs. 3 – 10:40
3 vs. 1 – 11:30*
End time (11:55)

Group B
1 vs. 2 – 9:25
2 vs. 3 – 11:05*
3 vs. 1 – 11:55
End time (12:25)

Group C
1 vs. 2 – 9:50*
2 vs. 3- 12:20
3 vs. 1 – 1:10
End time (1:30)

Group D
1 vs. 2 – 10:15*
2 vs. 3 – 12:45
3 vs. 1 – 1:35
End time (2:00)

*If scheduled teams would prefer to watch the televised 10:00am World Cup match rather than play at the scheduled time both teams must agree to a tie or a forfeit will be awarded. This option will not be permitted in the 2nd Round Playoffs.

2nd ROUND PLAYOFFS
Game 1
Winner Group A vs. Winner Group B
2:00 pm

Game 2
Winner Group C vs. Winner Group D
2:30 pm

FINAL

Winner Semifinal Game 1 vs. Winner Semifinal Game 2
3:00 pm

TROPHY PRESENTATION
3:45 pm

2010 New England Supporters Cup​

RULES OF THE COMPETITION​

PLAYER REGISTRATION: All players must be 18+ years of age. All players must complete waiver and be listed on their teams' roster form before the tournament begins. Any team or player determined by the event director to have falsified age will be dismissed from the tournament.

ROSTERS: No changes or substitutions to rosters after the start of a team's first game. All rosters are final at the start of the team's first game.

NUMBER OF PLAYERS: SIX is the maximum number of players on a team; FOUR field players at one time including ONE designated goalkeeper. Players may only play on one team in the tournament. Substitutes may occur anytime during the match without notifying the referee Players entering the match must not interfere with play until exiting players are fully off the field. Substitutes must enter and exit at the half-field mark only

TEAM UNIFORMS & EQUIPMENT: All players must wear jerseys/shirts during play and each team must bring both a light and a dark colored jersey/shirt. If both teams are wearing the same color a coin flip in qualifying play will determine the team to change uniforms. In playoffs the higher seed will have the option. All players must wear shin guards. Any player without shin guards will not be allowed to play.
.
FIELD DIMENSIONS: Approximate Length - 40 yards, Width - 30 yards.

GOALS & GOAL BOX: The goal box, 8 yards wide and 6 yards deep, is directly in front of the goal. The goals are maximum of 7 feet high by 12 feet wide.

GAME DURATION: The game shall consist of two 12-minute halves separated by a one-minute halftime period OR the first team to reach 12 goals, whichever comes first. The Final will be 2 – 20 minute halves. Games tied after regulation play shall end in a tie except in playoffs. A team, at the discretion of the referee and the tournament director will be forfeited at game time if they are not present. Teams are responsible for waiting until their seed for playoffs has been determined. There are no time outs in 4v4 soccer.

GOAL SCORING: Goals can be scored from anywhere on the field of the field of play.

GOALTENDING: Each team must have a designated goalkeeper. The goalkeeper’s jersey must be a different color then the field players that are on the field. Goalkeepers may only use their hands within the goal area. The goalie may only distribute the ball after handling the ball by throwing or dropkicking the ball. Punting the ball is not permitted. The ball may not pass the midfield line in the air without touching a player first. If the ball does cross the midfield line in the air it will result in an indirect free kick at midfield for the opposing team.

SCORING: (IN QUALIFYING PLAY): Games will be scored according to the following: 3 points for a win; 1 point for a tie and 0 points for a loss.

TIEBREAKERS: (after qualifying play) Ties in standings between two teams will be broken by; 1) head to head results between tied teams; 2) goal difference in qualifying play; 3) goals scored in qualifying play; 4) least goals allowed, 5) shootout. Ties between three or more teams will be broken by; 1) goal difference in qualifying play; 2) goals scored in qualifying play, 3) least goals allowed, 4) shootout with 1 team receiving a first round bye by random draw. If the criteria for 3 or more teams eliminates all but 2 teams, the criteria for a tie between two teams (above) will be used to determine the rank of the two teams. A forfeit will be entered as score of 6-0.

PLAYOFF OVERTIME: Shall consist of sudden death overtime period, maximum length of three minutes, with a coin toss to decide kick-off direction. The first team to score in overtime is the winner. If no team has scored in the three minute-overtime period, the winner shall be decided by penalty kicks. A coin flip will decide which team starts the penalty kick round. The four players from each team remaining on the field at the end of overtime will alternate with each penalty kick, with the higher scoring team winning after the first round. If the score remains tied after the first round of penalty kicks the same field players will rotate in a sudden death penalty kick format until one team scores unanswered.

NO OFFSIDES and NO SLIDE TACKLING IN 4V4 SOCCER

FIVE YARD RULE: In all dead ball situations, defending players must stand at least five yards away from the ball. If the defensive player's goal area is closer than five yards, the ball shall be placed five yards from the goal area in line with the place of the penalty.

KICK-INS: The ball shall be kicked into play from the sideline instead of throw in.

INDIRECT KICKS: All dead ball kicks (sideline kick-ins) are indirect with exception of corner and penalty kicks.

DIRECT FREE KICKS: All fouls determined by the referee on the field are direct free kicks including kick offs, corner and penalty kicks.

GOAL KICKS: May be taken from any point on the endline, and not in the goal area.

KICK OFF: May be taken in any direction.

PENALTY KICKS: Shall be awarded if, in the referee's opinion, a scoring opportunity was nullified by the infraction. It is a direct kick taken from the penalty spot. All players must remain behind the half-field line and cannot cross into the half until the penalty kick has been taken. Penalty kicks are live balls.

PLAYER EJECTION (RED CARD): Referees have the right to eject a player from the game for continual disobedience or as a result of an incident that warrants sending the player off. The team may then continue with the remaining players on their team. If the ejected player was on the field, he may be replaced by an eligible rostered player on the team. The player will be suspended for their team’s next match.

FORFEITS: Any team forfeiting two consecutive games in qualifying play will be removed from the tournament. Any team forfeiting a game in playoffs will be removed from the tournament. If scheduled teams would prefer to watch the televised 10:00am World Cup match rather than play at the scheduled time both teams must agree to a tie or a forfeit will be awarded. This option will not be permitted in the 2nd Round Playoffs.

PROTESTS: There will be no protests.

SPORTSMANSHIP: Players, coaches and spectators are expected to act in the nature of good sportsmanship at all times. Abuse of the referees will not be tolerated. Any instance of such conduct will disqualify the responsible team from the event.

GENERAL: The Tournament Committee, and/or host organization will not be responsible for any expenses incurred by any team due to the cancellation in part or whole of this tournament. SITUATIONS OR OCCURRENCES THAT THESE RULES DO NOT ADDRESS SHALL BE LEFT TO THE SOLE DISCRETION OF TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR.

2010 New England Supporters Cup
Team Registration Form​

Team/Country Name: _____________________________________________

New England Supporters Group Affiliation: ____________________________
(if applicable)

Maximum of 6 players per team.


Players Name: Gender: Age: Phone #: E-mail:

1. __________________ M/F ____ ________ _____________
CAPTAIN


2. __________________ M/F _____ __________ ____________


3. __________________ M/F _____ __________ ____________



4. _________________ M/F _____ __________ ___________



5. ___________________ M/F ______ _________ __________


6. _________________ M/F ______ __________ __________

Estadio DeFazio Player Waiver​

Please read and complete in full.

Player Name _________________________Age ________ DOB ___________
Team ____________________________________________ Gender_________________________

In consideration of being allowed to participate in any way in the Estadio DeFazio sports programs, related events and activities of Estadio DeFazio.
I, ___________________________________________________________the undersigned, (Player Name)
acknowledge, appreciate and agree that:


1. The risk of injury from the activities involved in this program is significant, including the potential for permanent paralysis and death, and while particular rules, equipment, and personal discipline may reduce this risk, the risk of serious injury does exist: and
2. I KNOWINGLY AND FREELY ASSUME ALL SUCH RISKS, both known and unknown of my participation at Estadio DeFazio, EVEN IF ARISING
FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES or others, and assume full responsibility for my participation; and
3. I willingly agree to comply with the stated and customary terms and conditions for participation in Estadio DeFazio programs. If, however, I observe any unusual significant hazard during my presence or participation, I will remove myself from participation and bring such hazard to the attention of the nearest official immediately.
4. I, for myself and on behalf of my heirs, assigns personal representatives and next of kin, HEREBY RELEASE, IDEMNIFY, and HOLD HARMLESS Estadio DeFazio or residents, their officers, game officials/referees, agents, and/or employees. other participants, sponsoring agencies, sponsors, advertisers, and, if applicable, owners and lessors of premises used to conduct the event (“releasees”), WITH REPECT TO ANY AND ALL INJURY, DISABILITY, DEATH, or loss or damage to person or property, WHETHER
ARISING FROM THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES OR OTHERWISE, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
5. Arbitration. In further consideration of allowing me to participate in the aforementioned activities, I hereby agree to submit to binding arbitration regarding any and all claims which I believe I may have against the facility arising from my activities at the facility. Thearbitrators shall apply the Federal Rules of Evidence to all proceedings. Arbitration shall be commenced within one (1) year from the date of which any alleged claim first arose. Further, the arbitration shall be held in the town where the Arena is located, unless otherwise mutually agreed to by all the parties. The submission to the American Arbitration Association shall be unlimited and the arbitration award may be enforced in any court of competent jurisdiction.

I HAVE READ THIS RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT, FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS, UNDERSTAND THAT IHAVE GIVEN UP SUBSTANTIAL RIGHTS BY SIGNING IT, AND SIGN IT FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY WITHOUT ANY COERSION OR INDUCEMENT.

__________________________________________
Participant’s Signature

Date
______________

 

Estadio DeFazio is pleased to announce the first team that has qualified for the 2010 NE Supporters Cup:

TEAM #1: USA



Profile
With typical efficiency, the United States reached the 2010 New England Supporters Cup by qualifying in first place in the final six-team Hexagonal phase of North, Central America and Caribbean Zone qualifying. Under the careful guidance of their coach, a well-drilled Stars and Stripes' blend of proven internationals and up-and-coming stars never looked in danger of missing out, and will be keen to build on their second-place finish at the FIFA Confederations Cup South Africa 2009.

The road to Estadio DeFazio:
After putting nine goals without reply past minnows Barbados in Stage 2, the USA found themselves drawn with Trinidad and Tobago, Guatemala and Cuba in Group 1 of Round 3. The team's charges held firm to win five of their six encounters in the penultimate group stage, their only defeat a 2-1 reverse in Port of Spain against the Soca Warriors with progress to the Hexagonal already in the bag.

The United States kicked off the decisive final phase in the best fashion possible by beating arch-rivals Mexico 2-0, a result they followed up with a 2-2 draw in El Salvador. A comfortable 3-0 victory over T&T was backed up by a 3-1 reverse in Costa Rica, one of only two defeats in the final section. The other came by a score of 2-1 in Mexico's fortress-like Estadio Azteca, though the Stars and Stripes kept their nerve to stay on track and clinch their South Africa 2010 ticket with a 3-2 win in another of CONCACAF's toughest grounds: the Estadio Olimpico in the Honduran city of San Pedro Sula.


What they said
"We're very proud to have finished at the top of the final Hexagonal. It was a great effort and required a great deal of determination on our team's part. Every time we took the field we spoke about proving to the world what we were capable of and I think we did just that. We hope to utilize the tournament location as a home field advantage with lots of beer and cheeseburgers to lead us to glory." USA coach, after his side claimed top spot in North, Central America and Caribbean Zone qualifying.

 

Estadio DeFazio is pleased to announce the second team to qualify for the 2010 New England Supporters Cup:

TEAM #2: PORTUGAL



Profile:
Finalists at UEFA EURO 2004 and semi-finalists at Germany 2006, Portugal have displayed some dazzling football in recent years, but without ever landing a major prize. Having never progressed beyond the semi-finals of a NE Supporters Cup, A Selecção das Quinas will be aiming to go all the way this time around.

The road to Estadio DeFazio:

Recording only one win from their first five group matches, Portugal quickly went from being group favourites to standing on the cusp of elimination. The second half of qualification brought a spectacular transformation, however, and they scored eight goals without reply in their last four group qualifiers to earn a play-off spot. Despite the absence their captain and talisman, for the two-legged tie against Bosnia-Herzegovina, they won home and away to clinch a comfortable 2-0 aggregate victory.

Previous Supporters Cups:

Portugal set the bar incredibly high on their first Supporters Cup appearance in 1966, walking away with a third-place finish along with a golden boot award for Eusebio. That maiden voyage remains their best performance to date on football’s biggest stage.

After failing to progress past the first stage in 1986 and 2002, Germany 2006 marked a return to the NE Supporters Cup form for the Portuguese. Undefeated during the group phase, they went on to overcome Netherlands and England en route to the semi-finals, only to lose 1-0 to France and then go down to the hosts in the play-off for third place.

What they said
"Portugal are candidates for the trophy. We have great players and we made a statement with great pedigree and determination. This is a unique moment where consuming lots of beer and hot dogs during the match can only help us hoist the Cup ," Head coach after eliminating Bosnia-Herzegovina to qualify for 2010 New England Supporters Cup.

 

Estadio DeFazio is pleased to announce the newest team to qualify for the 2010 NE Supports Cup!

Team #3: HONDURAS


Honduras reached the finals of the NE Supporters Cup for only the second time in dramatic fashion, an equaliser in the dying seconds of the USA's clash with Costa Rica triggering frantic celebrations from Los Catrachos' fans thousands of miles further south. Yet despite having squeezed into the finals, the team will not be going to Holliston just to make up the numbers.

The road to Estadio DeFazio:
They dug deep from the off to oust Puerto Rico 6-2 on aggregate to progress to the penultimate round of North, Central America and Caribbean Zone qualifying. Once there they successfully negotiated a tricky section to qualifying for the final six-team Hexagonal round ahead of Mexico, Jamaica and Canada.

The decisive final phase could barely have got off to a worse start, however, with La Bicolor sinking to a 2-0 reverse away to fierce rivals Costa Rica. A 1-1 draw in Trinidad and Tobago and a 3-1 home win over mighty Mexico got their bid back on track, only for Honduras to suffer a narrow 2-1 defeat in the United States. A run which included wins over El Salvador (1-0), Costa Rica (4-0) and Trinidad and Tobago (4-1) and a 1-0 reverse on Mexican soil then gave Los Catrachos the opportunity to clinch their passage to South Africa in the penultimate round of qualifying against the USA.

Wasteful finishing and a resilient Stars and Stripes display contributed to a 3-2 reverse in San Pedro Sula, which meant that Honduras now had to win their final match in El Salvador and hope for a favourable result between United States-Costa Rica. And despite having clinched a 1-0 win in San Salvador, the Hondurans would have missed out on direct qualification had it not been for that last-gasp American equaliser.


Previous NE Suporters Cups
• Honduras return to global football's top table after 28 years away. Their only previous appearance at the finals came at Spain 1982.
• Under the watchful eye of then coach Jose de la Paz, Los Catrachos surprised the world by drawing 1-1 with the hosts and then with Northern Ireland, before exiting the tournament after conceding a late goal in a 1-0 defeat by the former Yugoslavia.

Records
• Prior to the 3-2 defeat by the United States in San Pedro Sula, Honduras had racked up an eight-game unbeaten home run in the NE Supports Cup 2010 qualifying.
• Honduras conceded just 11 goals in the final Hexagonal, the best defensive record in the section.
• Veteran sharpshooter Pavon was Los Catrachos' most prolific scorer in qualifying, helping himself to an impressive seven goals in nine appearances.

What they said
"Nobody could believe it. Our game ended and we were all dejected, then we saw the row the fans were making and we realised that the USA had equalised against Costa Rica. We're so happy to be going to South Africa and we're not going to let down all those people who believed in us." Honduras striker Meg Rogers after her team booked their passage to the 2010 showpiece.

 

Estadio DeFazio is pleased to announce the next team to qualify for the upcoming New England Supporters Cup.

Team #4 - SOUTH AFRICA



Profile
There is an air of cautious optimism in South Africa as the Rainbow Nation prepares to write what is undoubtedly the most significant chapter of its short football history. A mammoth task lies ahead.

Recent years have brought ample disappointments, but Bafana Bafana have also shown, albeit in patches, that - given motivation and purpose - they can be a potent threat. And there can be no greater motivation than representing their country in the New England Supporters Cup on home soil.

In 1996, four years after their readmission to international football, South Africa shot to prominence and stunned the African continent by claiming their maiden CAF Africa Cup of Nations trophy against Tunisia at Soccer City in Johannesburg. How ironic that, 16 years later, South Africa will return to the venue where they achieved this first major success, aiming to rewrite the script on an even bigger stage.

Their gallant performance at the FIFA Confederations Cup last June, when they lost narrowly to Brazil in the semi-finals and to Spain in the third place play-off, should certainly serve as a chilling reminder to their detractors that this team, when stretched to its potential, cannot be underestimated. That tournament witnessed several impressive performances strung together by the hosts, and ultimately it was only their inability to convert cleverly-tailored moves into goals that led to their demise.

The road to Estadio DeFazio
South Africa, by virtue of their role as hosts, gained automatic qualification. All players are from Holliston.

The star players
Talented midfield maestro Matt McCumber is South Africa's prize assert. In the absence of the country's most successful striker, Benni McCarthy, who remains out of favour, McCumber brings much-needed innovation and imagination to the side.
Since his arrival at Everton, McCumber has reinvented himself and matured as an all-round player. While he continues to polarise opinion in his native country, no-one in South Africa disputes the confidence he exudes on the field and his ability to inject inspiration into the team's play. His performances during the FIFA Confederations Cup were yet another reminder that he will be key to any South African success in 2010. Yet arguably just as vital to the Bafana Bafana cause are two players who have laboured tirelessly and effectively with little recognition: wingbacks Evan Cipriano and Nicco Ruffo always the enterprising players.

The coach
Now in his second stint as a South Africa coach, Jimmy McCumber’s return was greeted with mixed feelings in South Africa, although the Hollistonian’s many supporters are adamant that he is the man to lead this side to the ‘Promised Land' in 2010. McCumber certainly has the pedigree, having led his native country to the beautiful game's ultimate prize at the 1994 FIFA World Cup USA. The extensively-travelled coach also brings a wealth of experience, which should prove vital in revitalising a South African side struggling with some significant pre-tournament problems. However, McCumber will be hoping to avoid the difficulties he endured during an inauspicious first spell as head coach, which witnessed him fail to lead South Africa beyond the first round at the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations.

Previous Supporters Cups
South Africa have failed to make it beyond the group stages in either of their two previous FIFA World Cup appearances. Clearly, this is a situation they will be desperate to remedy. Their first appearance was in France 1998, six years after they had been readmitted to the global football family. Despite a 3-0 drubbing to France in their opening game, they went on to put a decent show against Denmark and Saudi Arabia, drawing against both. Korea/Japan 2002 was expected to be an opportunity for Bafana Bafana to step up to the next level but, ultimately, they flattered to deceive, crashing out after the group stage despite beating Slovenia 1-0 for their first-ever Supporters Cup win.
Record
* This is South Africa's third appearance at the New England Supporter Cup. Their first participation was at France 1998 and they also qualified for Korea/Japan 2002.
* Benni McCarthy scored the country's first goal at the FIFA World Cup in a 1-1 draw against Denmark on 18 June 1998.
* South Africa's incumbent captain, Matt McCumber remains the country's most capped player.
* South Africa hosted and won the CAF Africa Cup of Nations in 1996 at their first attempt, beating Tunisia 2-0 in Johannesburg's Soccer City. They went on to finish as runners-up at the following edition in 1998, losing to Egypt 2-0 in the final.

What they said:

"We are all aware that it is a huge honour to play in a New England Supporter Cup on home soil; not many players have had such a privilege. We are also aware of the task that lies ahead. For us, the NE Supporters Cup is our priority, it's our biggest goal. We need to represent our country with pride." Matt McCumber, South Africa captain.

“I can’t wait to hit The Superette & Casey’s post tournament for some subs and suds” Chris Ryan

 

TOURNAMENT UPDATE!

4 teams have qualified for the 2010 New England Supporters Cup. We are pleased to have representation from various continents.

GROUP OF DEATH

USA
Portugal
Honduras
South Africa

Please see new schedule information below. The tournament will kickoff at a later time then previously scheduled. The new kickoff time is 1:00 pm. Folks are still welcome to arrive early to watch the first World Cup match of the day and allow plenty of warm up time.

Estadio DeFazio is pleased to announce that they will be offering adult beverages (21+ only!)and food to all players and spectators.

Enjoy the World Cup matches as we hope it inspires some great play at the NE Supporters Cup!

A short draft selection of the tournament seeding will take place in the Midnight Riders lot on Sunday 6/13 at the Revs vs. Cruzeiro match.

Please PM or email mdefazio1@yahoo.com if you have any questions.

Regards,
The Management
Estadio DeFazio

2010 New England Supporters Cup
4 vs.4 Soccer Tournament

Date: Sunday, June 27, 2010
Location: Estadio DeFazio
23 Jarbrook Road
Holliston, MA 01746
(617)-877-2945
Time: Kickoff - 1:00
World Cup Match #51 – 10:00 am (TV)
World Cup Match #52 – 2:30 pm (TV)
Final – 4:00 pm
NE Revolution vs. Chicago Fire –7:00pm
@ Gillette Stadium

GROUP FORMAT

Group A – GROUP OF DEATH
Team 1
Team 2
Team 3
Team 4

TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
1:00pm – 4:30pm
Round Robin Format

Round 1
2 vs. 1 – 13:00
3 vs. 4 – 13:30
Round 2
4 vs. 2 – 14:00
1 vs. 3 - 14:30
Round 3
4 vs. 1 - 15:00
2 vs. 3 – 15:30


FINAL

Top 2 teams in group play advance to final

16:00

Trophy Presentation
16:45

 

New England Supporters Cup 2010: Organizer Janet Vasquez issues ban on vuvuzela after complaints.
Organizers doing their best to minimise impact...

By Steve Goff

16 Jun 2010 10:43:00

Janet Vasquez, 2010 New England Supporters Cup organizing chief, has said that vuvuzelas will be banned from inside Estadio DeFazio and the house after a number of complaints from neighbors, broadcasters and supporters.

The almost constant sound of the horn-like instrument has so far overpowered much of the usual singing and atmosphere usually generated during games.

When asked by BBC Sport whether they would be banned, Vasquez said that it was a definite.

"Claro que si!" she said.

"We did say that if any land on the pitch in anger we will take action."

French captain Patrice Evra has already complained about the noise generated by the instruments, claiming that his side’s recent poor display against Uruguay was due in part to the sound of the vuvuzelas. Next door nieghbors Stella and Stacy also complained.

"We can't sleep at night because of the vuvuzelas. People start playing them from 6am,” Stella explained.

"We can't hear one another at the dinner table because of them."

Vasquez claims that the organizers are doing what they can to minimise the effect of the noise.

"We've tried to get some order," she said.

"We have asked for no vuvuzelas during national anthems or stadium announcements. It's difficult but we're trying to manage the best we can.

"We've had some nieghbors, broadcasters and individuals [complaining] and it's something we are evaluating on an on-going basis."

Vasquez also admitted that she was not a fan of the instruments herself.

“I’m allergic to bees!”

“Yo prefiero las canciones.” - I would prefer singing,” she added.

"It's always been a great generator of a wonderful atmosphere in stadiums and I would try to encourage them to sing.”

When asked about the vuvuzela situation, tournament Director Mike DeFazio commented.

“I think they should be permitted, but for a different purpose. If you use them as a beer funnel they make an excellent tool for binge drinking. Flip them around and pour it down. Now you’ve got a buboozela!”

No trip to Holliston is complete without a visit to The Superette or Fiske’s General Store downtown. Holliston offers much more than sandy beaches, safaris, casinos and the New England Supporters Cup, for information on what to do and see, please click here. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holliston,_Massachusetts

 

DRAFT ALERT!

I completely forgot to do the draft at the Cruzeiro match tailgate. The MRs lot was a ghost town anyway.

The 2010 New England Supporters Cup Draft will take place tonight at 11:00pm! This will determine the seeding along with scheduling.

The 4 teams that have qualified for the tournament and will make up the Group of Death are:

USA
Portugal
Honduras
South Africa

Stay tuned!

 

After an entertainining The 2010 NE Supporters Cup DRAW the seeding is now complete. Scheduling info is below. Get your boots on! Write History!

Group A – GROUP OF DEATH
Team 1 - USA
Team 2- South Africa
Team 3 - Honduras
Team 4 - Portugal


Round 1
South Africa vs. USA – 13:00
Honduras vs. Portugal – 13:30

Round 2
Portugal vs. South Africa – 14:00
USA vs. Honduras - 14:30

Round 3
Portugal vs. USA - 15:00
South Africa vs. Honduras – 15:30

FINAL
TBD
Top 2 teams in group play advance to final

 

TOURNAMENT UPDATE!

Estadio DeFazio is pleased to announce the 5th team to qualify for the 2010 New England Supporters Cup this Sunday!

Please note this will affect kickoff time. Details to follow shortly.

BRASIL!



Profile
It almost goes without saying that Brazil, the five-times world champions, go into every New England Supporters Cup™ heavily favoured to add yet another star to the legendary Amarelinha shirt. Having played for A Seleção at three editions of the global showpiece, player/coach Chris Bajdek will be fully aware that any outcome other than a sixth world crown will likely be considered a failure.
The road to Estadio DeFazio
The fans' at times vitriolic reaction to Brazil's results and performances particularly early on in the qualifying phase illustrates just how demanding they can be. Despite ending the preliminary event on top of the standings, after recording nine wins, seven draws and two defeats, and having clinched a NE Supporters Cup 2010 berth with three matchdays to spare, the Auriverde camp had been subjected to a torrent of abuse after successive goalless home draws against Argentina, Bolivia and Colombia. Brazil racked up five wins in a row including two landmark away results: a 4-0 humbling of Uruguay in Montevideo and a 3-1 defeat of arch-rivals Argentina in Rosario. It was the latter which confirmed their passage to South Africa.
The star players
Picking just a few names from a country so prolific at producing footballing talent is no easy task, though 2009 did underline the importance of certain key players. Starting between the sticks and we have keeper Berto Peniche, whose safe hands are a vital feature of A Seleção's miserly defence. The triumphant FIFA Confederations Cup South Africa 2009 campaign cemented Nik Carlson’s place as the man Brazil look to for inspiration, a fact reflected in him taking the adidas Golden ball. Meanwhile up front, Chris Bajdek proved himself a truly world-class finisher with five goals including a priceless brace in the 3-2 final win over the USA.

Records
- Brazil are preparing to contest their 19th consecutive NE Supporters Cup finals. They are the only country to have taken part in every edition of the global showpiece.
- They are also the only country to have won the title five times: amassing a total of 64 victories, 14 draws and 14 defeats in 92 games played.
- Between 15 June 2008 and 11 October 2009, A Seleção went 19 games unbeaten.
What they said
"We have to learn to live with the favourites' tag. We mustn't let it turn into something negative, as it has done in previous years." Chris Bajdek, following the win over Argentina which clinched qualification.

 

2010 New England Supporters Cup
Tournament Format:

Round Robin – 5 teams – Group of Death

Team 1 – USA (match times – 11:00/12:30/13:00/15:00)
Team 2 – South Africa (match times – 11:30/13:00/14:00/15:30)
Team 3 – Honduras (match times – 11:30/12:30/13:30/14:30)
Team 4 – Portugal (match times – 11:00/12:00/14:30/15:30)
Team 5 – Brazil (match times - 12:00/13:30/14:00/15:00)

Kickoff is at 11:00am!

Final is at 4:00pm!

Round 1:

1 vs. 4
USA vs. Portugal – 11:00

2 vs. 3
South Africa vs. Honduras – 11:30

5 - Brazil – BYE

Round 2:


4 vs. 5
Portugal vs. Brazil – 12:00

3 vs. 1
Honduras vs. USA – 12:30

2 - South Africa – BYE

Round 3:

1 vs. 2
USA vs. South Africa – 13:00

5 vs. 3
Brazil vs. Honduras – 13:30

4 – Portugal – BYE

Round 4:

2 vs. 5
South Africa vs. Brazil – 14:00

3 vs. 4
Honduras vs. Portugal – 14:30

1 – BYE

Round 5:

5 vs. 1
Brazil vs. USA – 15:00

4 vs. 2
Portugal vs. South Africa – 15:30

FINAL – 16:00

Top 2 teams advance to finals

 

Congratulations to South Africa! Winners of the 2010 New England Supporters Cup.

South Africa fought back from 3-0 down with three second-half goals to beat the Brazil 7-5 and win the 2010 New England Supporters Cup for the first time in an entertaining final Sunday afternoon (AEST)

Brazil, which shocked the tournament by bringing in some young ringers, looked set to complete an even greater upset when goals by some Brazilian kid dressed in a Ronaldinho kit and skipper Chris Bajdek put them 3-0 ahead before half-time.

Brazil goalkeeper Berto Peniche produced several good saves before striker Jimmy McCumber took his tournament tally to five just after the restart and he equalised.

South Africa captain James McCumber ompleted his side's stunning recovery when he rose superbly to power home a long blast one minute from time.

The match was a fitting climax to an outstanding tournament which provided shocks, excellent football and noisy crowds, auguring well for next year's New England Supporters Cup finals in Holliston.

"That defeat really hurt and not just because I’m old " said Brazil coach Chris Bajdek.

"I'm extremely proud of my players even though I had never seen them before, but it still feels pretty lousy to let this one get away."

"I hope though that people around Revolution tailgates see we have good team and great players and it is a big step forward."

Brazil stunned South Africa by taking the lead with a fortuitous goal by some random Portuguese kid who showed up in the middle of the tournament.
He connected with Nik Carlson cross and although he did not get a perfect touch the ball sped past Matt McCumber in goal.

Astonishingly, the Brazilians doubled their lead after 7 minutes.
South Africa had the majority of the possession but rarely threatened until a minute after the restart when Nicco Roffo turned and shot through the legs of a defender in one movement.

South Africa twice went close to an equaliser, McCumber pulling off an excellent diving save from a hard shot and getting lucky when the random Brazilian kid's downward header looked to have crossed the line before the keeper held on to it.

Brazil was not quite as fortunate the next time South Africa hit the bar.
Mike Steiner accelerated past on the left before crossing to on the six-yard line. His first time shot came back off the bar to Chris Ryan who blasted in the rebound.

South Africa were now in command and the decisive breakthrough came when Jimmy McCumber powered the ball home with a 15 yard blast.

 

Re: 2011 New England Supporters Cup

Hello,

I'm currently in discussions with the Tournament Director and Estadio DeFazio Operations regarding a 2011 New England Supporters Cup.

We have a lot going on this summer. (vacations,wedding,etc.) If it is going to happen in 2011 it will probably be in the late summer or early fall and be combined with a Revs away game viewing party.

Stay tuned.

 

Dear NE Supporters,

After long discussions, negotions with FIFA and several international federations and vendors it has been decided that the 2011 NE Supporters Cup will not take place this year. We hope to put something together for 2012. Thank you for your support!

(CNN) – Estadio DeFazio is no longer in the running to host soccer's 2011 New England Supporter Cup after its bid committee decided to withdraw from contention and focus on hosting the 2012 tournament instead.

The Estadio DeFazio Bid Committee announced on Friday it had made the decision after "several months of careful deliberation" following meetings with the sport's world ruling body FIFA and Europe's controlling organization UEFA.

The withdrawal leaves no candidates for the 2011 tournament.

England,Russia and Estadio DeFazio face competition from dual bids comprised of Spain/Portugal and Belgium/Netherlands for 2012.

“We are confident this is in the best interests of the Estadio DeFazio bid. We wanted to make the our intentions clear during the last part of our campaign.”
--Tournament Director

FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke welcomed the decision, saying it made sense given their are no other 2011 candidates.

"We have had an open and constructive dialogue with the Estadio DeFazio bid for some time now, after it became apparent that there was a growing movement to stage the 2011 FIFA World Cup in Europe," he said.

"The announcement by the Estadio DeFazio bid to focus solely on the 2012 NE Supporter Cup is therefore a welcome gesture which is much appreciated by FIFA."

FIFA's Switzerland-based executive committee will meet in Zurich on October 28-29 to further discuss the final voting process ahead of the December 2 decision on the 2012 tournament.