Tumilovich shines at last
Saturday, January 12, 2002
Article summary
Confident Belarussian goalkeeper Gennady Tumilovich is an inspirational figure for his side.
Article body
Gennady Tumilovich, 30, was named the Player of the Year in Belarus in 2001. The Belarussian international goalkeeper was in fantastic form throughout the year, helping his team mount a serious tournament challenge in their 2002 FIFA World Cup campaign. Thanks to their goalkeeper’s efforts, Belarus came mighty close to their first-ever World Cup qualification.
Remarkable performance
Perhaps the best performance by Tumilovich came against Ukraine in March in Kiev when he denied star duo of Andriy Shevchenko and Sergiy Rebrov on numerous occasions to earn Belarus a scoreless draw they barely deserved. The performance was made even more remarkable for the fact that at the time Tumilovich had spent almost a year without a club! In the summer of 2001 he ended this spell by signing a deal with Russian first division side FC Rostselmash Rostov-Na-Donu.
Hot temper
In his next game, Tumilovich showed not only his talent, but also his renowned hot temper. Belarus held a one-goal lead in Oslo up until the 81st minute when John Carew eventually managed to beat the hitherto magnificent Tumilovich in Belarus goal. The keeper thought the goal was rather controversial, lost his nerve, and fiercely protested the Yugoslav referee’s decision. He was duly sent off although Belarus managed to hold out for a draw in his absence.
Potential fulfilled at last
With Tumilovich sitting out a one-match ban, Belarus lost a key encounter with Ukraine in Minsk. Upon his return the side swept away group leader Poland, 4-1. Despite being 30 years of age, Tumilovich only just began to fulfill his considerable potential. Much was expected of him from an early age when he was a part of USSR Under-18 and Under-21 teams. Problems with discipline and motivation blighted his career though he frequently moved clubs before settling at Rostselmash.
Key figure
One of the most confident players you will ever see on a football pitch, Tumilovich is a natural leader who inspires his team-mates and can psychologically intimidate any opponent. He will be a key figure in Belarus’s EURO 2004™ qualification campaign.
