Despite encountering a few challenges in Kazakhstan, Golden Jaguars International Walter `Boyd’ Moore said the experience is one of a life-time in his football career.
Kazakhstan, officially the Republic of Kazakhstan, is a country in Central Asia, with its smaller part west of the Ural River in Eastern Europe.
“It was always my dream to play in Europe and to play in a recognized League. Football in Europe is well recognized and respected,” says Moore.
In an exclusive interview with Stabroek Sport at his South Ruimveldt residence, Moore said the opportunity to play in Europe sprung when he was spotted during the World Cup Qualifiers by a Brazilian (no name disclosed) who lives in Finland.
“After I had a few decent performances in the World Cup Qualifiers a guy from Brazil, who lives in Finland along with Jamaal Shabazz (former Head Coach of Golden Jaguars), were talking and he was interested in me,” the left wing back player said.
From there, Moore had a try-out in Turkey for the European football team, FC Vostok which had gained premiership status and was fortunate to be one of the players selected.
“They (FC Vostok) were looking for a few players and fortunately, with the help of God, I was one of the players selected,” he explained.
FC Vostok is known for playing competitive football in Champion League matches over the years but was relegated to second division after some match fixing scandals. However, they won the second division and are now trying to regain their composure.”
The 28-year-old, who is presently on four days vacation following a break in the Kazakhstan Premier League, said football in Kazakhstan is a ‘step-up’ for his career. According to him, the structure of the league is different from the ones in the Caribbean.
“The structure of the league itself is a big step from playing in the Caribbean. They have a lot of business investors that invest in the league and the competitive level is great because you have the likes of players from all over Europe and also in the Caribbean plying their talent there. It was more than what I expected,” he stated.
The former Alpha United player said his main objective is to assist his team in the league. Presently his team is ranked seventh on the points table and according to him they are doing well.
“We can even push if things go good for a Champion’s League spot because it is a very tight table. It has no leaders or losers anybody can win on the day,” he disclosed.
The 5’10 athlete also said investment level by business entities and teams in the sport is towering.
“They also have a lot of business investors that invest in the league… teams now invest because it is an opportunity to market players and you find they invest a lot,” Moore said.
The former North East Stars and Caledonia AIA player (Trinidad and Tobago-based clubs) has scored two goals in the league thus far. He gave FC Vostok their first three points which they gained when the defeated Tobol by a slim 1-0 margin.
Moore, who is set to return this week, said he is looking to leave his trademark in Europe flying the Golden Arrowhead high.
The second phase of the season resumes on 14 June and will conclude in the latter part of November.
