REF WAS ENGLAND 12TH MAN

Trinidad and Tobago’s Soca Warriors played against 12 men- the 11 English footballers and the referee.

This was the personal view of Works Minister Colm Imbert at yesterday’s post-Cabinet news conference when asked about Thursday’s World Cup match.

Trade Minister Ken Valley said the Cabinet did not formally discuss the matter but at the appropriate time it would take a decision on what is to be done to welcome the Soca Warriors who have done exceeding well. “Against all odds, including the referee,” Imbert added sotto voce.

Valley announced that Government, buoyed by the fact that Trinidad and Tobago’s international image had been heightened by the sterling performance of the Soca Warriors, was now thinking of organising several trade and investment missions to Europe. He said Spain, France and Sweden were some of the places being considered for a mission which he hopes would be ready by July 10. He added that Latin America was also being looked at. He said the contingent would include artistes as well as businessmen. He said if FIFA Vice President Jack Warner wanted to join the delegation personally he would have no objection. “Especially in Latin America where he is well known. When we were pursuing the headquarters of the FTAA (which has gone on the back burner) Mr Warner had said that he was willing to assist in that initiative...having some good friends in senior positions in Latin America. So I would have no problems taking him along,” Valley stated.