The Women’s World Cup in France has made riveting viewing. I’ve been gripped by some of the matches, plus the quality and passion on show, namely from Phil Neville’s England team. But the less said about Aidy Boothroyd’s team at the Under-21 Championships in Italy the better. They have really under-performed. 

There are plenty of lessons for the Maccabi GB teams to take on board. First and foremost, the referee’s decision is final as there will be no VAR in Mexico or Hungary. Hopefully none of the teams will lose their discipline in the manner Cameroon did. They felt several decisions went against them, but a couple of their players were fortunate not to be sent off. Ultimately they lost their heads and paid the price.

The U21s, on the other hand, had a nightmare of a competition from start to finish. They created 25 chances in the game against Romania, but were ultimately punished for poor finishing and despite the best efforts of goalkeeper Dean Henderson, some of their defending was shambolic.

So my message to the MGB squads is take your chances, defend resolutely, and in numbers, and don’t lose your heads. Possession is also key in summer tournaments, where rival nations are better acclimatised to playing in the red-hot conditions.

It’s no wonder Andy Landesberg is taking a sports scientist as rehydration is key, especially with the games scheduled so closely together. A couple of people have asked me, ‘is a sports scientist really necessary?’ The answer is that Landesberg is a perfectionist who will leave no stone unturned in his pursuit of glory. Having lost in the final of the last Maccabiah Games, he will do whatever is required to ensure MGB have the best possible chance to succeed. Managers live and die by the sword, but I think it will be second time lucky for Andy and his men in August.

* First team captain Jake Furman has been crowned Player of the Year at London Lions. Furman, the brother of South Africa star Dean, received the accolade from boss Andy Landesberg, with goalkeeper David Myers winning the Players’ Player award. Adam Lipman was named best Young Player.
Lions also won most improved team in the Spartan South Midlands League Division One, while Rowley Lane, the club’s base in Arkley, won ‘best playing surface’ in the SSML. 

James Gold headed the Sunday football honours list at Maccabi London Lions. He collected the best player award. Defender Alex Taylor secured the Players’ Player prize, with Reiss Mogilner won the Golden Boot. Paul Lenchner received the main prize in the Garston Veterans team, with Daniel Stanton taking the Players’ Player trophy.  James Temple and Simon Barr were joint-winners of the Lions Masters’ team, with goalkeeper Trevor Racke recognised as Players’ Player. Gideon Barnett finished the season as the team’s top-scorer.

Dan Jacobs received the top boss award after steering Lions Vets to a league and cup double. Arthur Duke was named Clubperson of the Year.

* Russell Corin collected the Manager’s Player of the Year prize at Hendon United Sports. Roie Spitzer received the Players’ Player and Golden Boot awards, while Chaim Korman won the Young Player trophy.