Soccer: Pyunik pick up another trophy

Pyunik pick up another trophy

UEFA.com
May 10 2004

Reigning champions FC Pyunik have lifted their first silverware of
the 2004 season by defeating FC Banants in the Armenian Cup final.

Bete the hero

After a goalless 120 minutes, including extra time, today’s match went
to penalties where Pyunik goalkeeper Edel Bete proved the hero, saving
two Banants spot-kicks. During the game, both teams missed plenty of
opportunities with Karen Aleksanyan and Mamadou Diawara profligate
for Pyunik and Albert Iskoyants and Artak Oseyan squandering chances
for Banants.

Birthday present

“I’m very happy,” said Pyunik coach Mihai Stoichita, who celebrates
his 50th birthday tomorrow. “My players have given me a great birthday
present. We have completed our first task this season, but there is
no time to rest with important matches looming.”

European consolation

Stoichita’s counterpart Hovannes Zanazyan was much more terse. “I’m
satisfied with our display, however some experienced players let me
down.” Banants will, however, still qualify for the 2004/05 UEFA Cup
as will FC Shirak, while Pyunik will play in the UEFA Champions League.

Emil Lazarian

“I should like to see any power of the world destroy this race, this small tribe of unimportant people, whose wars have all been fought and lost, whose structures have crumbled, literature is unread, music is unheard, and prayers are no more answered. Go ahead, destroy Armenia . See if you can do it. Send them into the desert without bread or water. Burn their homes and churches. Then see if they will not laugh, sing and pray again. For when two of them meet anywhere in the world, see if they will not create a New Armenia.” - WS