The Northern Ireland, Lawrie Sanchez arrived to Portugal on 6/4/10 after almost one month of having assistant manager experience on Guinness Football.
When the Irish manager took FC Portus Cale as his 1st job as head manager we dreamt of success but today he sees that his dream didn’t came true at least for a long term.
FC Portus Cale saw its best with Lawrie Sanchez as they got 2nd place on the league on the 1st season of the manager. But now they can’t do better than 6th position and the Irish man thinks that it is time to step down and give a chance to another manager.
Centro Desportivo - Why you’re Leaving Portus Cale?
Lawrie Sanchez - I am leaving to give the club a new management perspective on how to play the game. This was our 5th season in the top Portuguese division and I feel we have took a step backwards for the 2nd time since I have been manager here. When it happens once, you have to address it and look at yourself to solve the problem. I felt I did that and sorted the problem for the club and we started to improve again. But when it happens a 2nd time, you get the feeling a change in management is what is required. We have the players and the unity to be performing at a higher level than what we currently are, and so hopefully a new manager can come in and get more from the players and achieve what is capable from them, To win the Portuguese league.
CD - You’re staying in Portugal?
LS - Right now I am undecided on my own future. I will make sure the new manager takes over smoothly and keep an eye on the remaining fixtures of this season before thinking about a new management career for myself. Portugal may be an option.
CD - What are your Best memories as Manager of Portus Cale?
LS - Well one of my best memories is of course winning 2A in just my 2nd season in charge. It was quite a competitive league at that time, and we won the league quite convince inly. Another good memory is achieving a very respectable 4th place finish in our 2nd season in 1A. Along with victories over reigning champions Benfica and other surprise results I have had many good moments here. But none of them can replace the friends you make along the way and I have had the privilege of managing some great guys.
CD - And Worst?
LS - I think I have two worst moments at Portus. Season 9 defeat to Ataporquinhos (0-2), and this seasons defeat to BHFanaticos (0-1). As both teams are battling relegation you go into these games expecting a win. A draw with a poor performance. But when you lose, you really feel bad. And they highlighted at two times when the team was having trouble.
CD - What tips can you leave for aspiring managers to League 1?
LS - Just go for it. Don't hold back against the big teams and give it a real shot. If your team has the believe and confidence to win, they can. Keep your squad tight and tactics consistent so your team becomes familiar with each other and the way they play together. Team chemistry plays a big part in fid, but real chemistry between the players is also the key.
CD - tell us about the Future of Portus cale.
LS - The future actually looks really bright. Despite a few stories of us being thrown around regarding CD's and not being able to score, we should have these problems ironed out soon enough. We have already replaced the CD, with a more experienced user with a better character. And we have came to an agreement with a top quality CF to sign for us next season. Give the team season 11 to settle down with the new coach and get rid of some chemistry penalty and in season 12 this team will be back challenging at the top! I just hope there is no more unexpected transfers required, as 2/3 signings each season takes it toll on chemistry penalty, and once you have none, anything is possible!
I'd just like to take one last moment to thank everyone involved at Portus, all other managers and players in the league, the journalists and the randomness of fid for making my time so enjoyable here. Thank you.
I think I can say this on Portuguese Community behalf and thank you for being such a sport despite everything and making your team an active one so you could give some competition to the league. We certainly hope that you stay around as the Portuguese League really need dedicated managers like you.
good luck bro!
ReplyDeletegrts Phil Weston