Zico joy at Fenerbahçe success

Fenerbahçe SK crowned their centenary celebrations by winning their 17th Turkish title at the weekend to banish the memory of an unhappy end to last season.

Tearful finale
Assured of the trophy with two games to go, tears flowed among the Fenerbahçe players who were denied the crown by Galatasaray on the last day of the 2005/06 season. Vice-captain Tuncay Şanlı said: "Because of what happened last year this title became very important for us. It wasn't an easy season but I am so happy to take get this reward for our efforts."

Fateful results
A 2-2 draw on Sunday against Trabzonspor in a nominal home game played on neutral territory at the Atatürk Stadium in Izmir, as a punishment for disturbances during the Turkish Cup semi-final against Beşiktaş JK, seemed to have ended inconclusively for Zico's side. However, the combination of Galatasaray SK's 1-1 draw at Sivasspor and Beşiktaş's 3-0 defeat at Bursaspor meant Fenerbahçe were left to celebrate.

'A present'
In truth, the 2006/07 campaign is unlikely to be remembered as a vintage one by fans of any of the big Turkish clubs, with supporters disappointed at the standard of competition in the Süper Lig. Nonetheless, captain Ümit Özat said: "This title is a present for our supporters from us. They have supported us very well in every game and deserved this celebration."

Odd distinction
Midfielder Tümer Metin marked the championship success with the odd distinction of becoming the first Turkish player to have won two titles in centenary years, having taken the crown that marked Beşiktaş's 100th anniversary in 2003. Zico, meanwhile, has become third Brazilian to lead Fenerbahçe to the title, following in the footsteps of Didi and Carlos Alberto Parreira.

Zico pleased
"This year was very important for us because it is our centenary and it is my first year in Europe, so it means a lot to me too," said the coach. "The season was difficult for us, but it is time to have fun. I have a two-year contract and I want to stay with Fenerbahçe. I am going to meet with the president in the next few days and ask about staying in Turkey."

European places
Fenerbahçe will play in the third qualifying round of next season's UEFA Champions League, with the eventual runners-up – either Beşiktaş or Galatasaray – going into the second qualifying round. Meanwhile, Gençlerbirliği Oftaşspor – the feeder club of Gençlerbirliği SK – are the first side to win promotion to the Süper Lig this season.