TT: TT 2, Iraq nil

WEST BROMWICH, England - Iraq's revived national soccer team lost 2-0 to Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday in an exhibition game leading to the Athens Olympics and World Cup qualifying play.

Stern John scored in the 29th and 66th minutes but was ejected two minutes after his second goal for punching an opponent. John plays for Birmingham City in England.

The Iraqis impressed with their passing and tricks with the ball but did not play well in front of the goal. Trinidad and Tobago is preparing for World Cup qualifying games in June against the Dominican Republic.

"We made horrible mistakes," Iraq coach Bernd Stange said. "You shouldn't see such mistakes at international level, never, never. It looks very nice in the midfield and passing. They have good skills. But if they want to win the game it's not good enough."
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The game was played before just 1,464 fans, but they made plenty of noise. The Iraqi followers outnumbered the Trinidad and Tobago fans, who had a calypso band. Security was low key with about 40 regular club stewards on duty backed by a small group of police.