Bending it with Beckham
David Beckham could be playing at Wellington's Westpac Stadium.
Wellington Phoenix is believed to be in the final stages of negotiations with Beckham's Los Angeles Galaxy club for a match in Wellington in late November, piggybacking on the Galaxy's match against Sydney FC on November 27. The Phoenix refused to comment last night, but it is understood they and Sydney FC would each have to fork out about A$1 million (NZ$1.15 million) for the Beckham show. No surprise, therefore, that the deal hinges on one vital clause, which guarantees the former England captain taking the field. Whether the Wellington tie will take place before or after the Sydney clash is expected to be announced at a press conference in the capital early next week. Beckham signed a five-year, US$250 million (NZ$349 million) deal this year that took him from Real Madrid to the Galaxy, who are now cashing in on their investment through exhibition matches around the globe. His appearance will remain a big question mark as long as the gifted midfielder continues to struggle with injury problems which have marred his first months in the United States. For all the hype, Beckham has so far taken the field for only 18 minutes, but yesterday said he was ready for today's match against DC United after his first full training session in Los Angeles. A 40-strong Galaxy party is reported to be staying several days in Sydney, but it is not known how long the former Manchester United star may be in New Zealand. Whether wife Victoria - better known as Posh Spice - will make the trip down-under isn unknown as the Spice Girls are preparing for their comeback world tour.
Except may be ZZ 
The thing to remember is we're not the ones this game is trying to get along.
They know it's the Phoenix so we'll be there not matter what, but if they get 33,000 and 2,000 stay for the rest of the Phoenix's lifetime well then it becomes a whole different thing.
Incidentally, if it was the Galaxy without Beckham (and even not playing the Phoenix) I'd probably still go. Landon Donovan is quite good, and I'm a football slut. If I'm not playing I'm trying to find a game to watch.
[edit] Hard News posted pretty much the same thing before me! Great minds.
valeo2007-08-16 10:13:12
$1.5 million ...aye right!
Big yawn!!
Kiwi Jambo2007-08-16 10:25:36
Its good for the game. Problem is would they cancel the game if Becks came a croper and got injured prior to kick off
you would at least have some fun with the chants! - As long as Terry and Co can make money on this I don't see why not. Having one of the most famous soccer players ever to come in play in wellington can't do anything but raise the profile of the club and soccer in New Zealand. But If they can't sell most of the tickets in the stadium they stand to loose alot of money.
you would at least have some fun with the chants! - As long as Terry and Co can make money on this I don't see why not. Having one of the most famous soccer players ever to come in play in wellington can't do anything but raise the profile of the club and soccer in New Zealand. But If they can't sell most of the tickets in the stadium they stand to loose alot of money.
Ye cannae help but talk about Hearts can you!
Nice one Terry (even if it doesn't go ahead)!
Arsenal2007-08-16 13:22:55
Definitely a good thing. Good work Terry.
It's a bit like when they brough Tiger out to the NZ open, good publicity but the actual product was a bit disappointing. Could go the same way I guess...I'd certainly go and I'd certainly be willing to pay extra to go...
It's a bit like when they brough Tiger out to the NZ open, good publicity but the actual product was a bit disappointing. Could go the same way I guess...I'd certainly go and I'd certainly be willing to pay extra to go...
You should see me sniffing round in the background too..
