17-soccer sentences

[matilda]

Dear all
Hello
What does it mean when they say:

1(The following January, he
took the reins at little-known Uniao de Leiria and was quickly back
into his stride, guiding them to the top five by the midpoint of the
2001-02 season)

2(He jumped ship when Porto came calling in January
2002, and the team finished the season in third place despite a poor
start)

Thanks in advance

Matilda

[Casiopea]

To take the reins means to take control, manage, lead.

To jump ship means to give up, quit.

Hope that helps.