Champions League Result - Semi-Final 1st Leg
MAN UTD 1 ARSENAL 0
A convincing home performance by European champions Manchester United gave them a 1-0 lead to take into the 2nd leg of the Champions League against English Premier League rivals Arsenal.
In the first half Man Utd dominated and scored with John O’Shea, where Arsenal were caught flat footed chasing the ball and not closing down man for man. Almunia was tested numerous times and pulled off some good saves, Man U would have hoped to have made it 2-0 in the first half so at this stage you’d imagine that Wenger would have been philosophical about the 1-0 deficit.
In the second half it was more one way traffic. Christiano Ronaldo smacked the crossbar with a long range shot that dipped viciously towards the Arsenal goal. Manchester United bossed the midfield possession with neat passing between Scholes, Carrick and Giggs driving on the other big game players.
Nicholas Bendtner had a great opportunity to equalise towards the end of the match and Arsenal tried to put the home team under pressure in the final few minutes but Manchester United were just too strong for them.
So will a 1-0 lead be enough for the champions to take to the Emirates next week in order to progress to the Champions League final? I think so, as Man U seem to be peaking again just at the climax of this exciting season. If they don't Fergie will definitely look back at this match and think they should have capitalised on the form they showed with more goals...
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Man U vs Arsenal Champions League News
Although previous encounters between Manchester United and Arsenal have been very heated affairs, both on the pitch between players and off the pitch with a war of words between Fergie and Wenger, the build up to this tie has been characterised by the mutual admiration from both managers towards the opposing team. The Scotsman has described the tie as the “perfect semi-final . .. full of terrific footballers” and in particular has heaped praise upon Cesc Fabregas. In return Wenger has paid homage to the 18 year top flight career of Ryan Giggs.
There is however no doubting the desire of both managers to win this tie. Manchester United could and want to be the first European champions to successfully defend their title and Wenger is only too aware that the one big gap in Arsenal’s trophy cabinet and indeed in Wenger’s glittering career is Europe's most prestigious club competition. Wenger came close to winning in 2006, losing to Barcelona in the final and is determined to go one better this time around and admits he will be giving his all in pursuit of this honour. "I had the luck to stay at the same club for 12 years and I also know how much it means to the club and the players. I am just focused to give every bit of energy I have to the team.". Wenger has also made it clear that his strategy will not be to play a defensive game away with the hope of overturning the red devils during the return leg at the Emirates. "The modern rules in Europe encourage the home team to be cautious and the away team to be audacious," he said. "That's why I believe to score an away goal will be very important for us.”
Ferguson shares Wenger’s view that both teams will be playing an attacking exciting game for both legs. "It won't be decided on Wednesday," says Ferguson. "I feel sure of that. I think that there is a lot of football left at the Emirates.
As well as the similarities between the two managers’ approaches and respect for the opposing team, both Manchester United and Arsenal are finishing strongly to the season and appear to have the mental strength necessary to succeed at the top level. Arsenal have kept their nerve despite a very average start to the season and are currently undefeated in 20 league games. Manchester United came back from 2:0 down on Saturday to thrash Spurs 5:2.
Looks like an exciting night of football tonight. Hopefully at least a goal apiece with no red cards or pizza throwing in sight!!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Barcelona vs Chelsea Champions League News
This evening is the first leg in what promises to be an epic clash between two of the biggest teams in European football, when the Catalan giants Barcelona FC host Chelsea at the Nou Camp in the semi-final of the Champions’ League.
The last 2 times these sides met in Europe (2004-05 and 2006-07 seasons) the Londoners were victorious but the time before that (1999-2000 quarter finals) Barca made a dramaric comeback and beat the Blues 5-1 after extra time despite losing the away match 3-1 in London. Arguably this year Barca are stronger than ever, lying streets ahead of all opposition in La Liga and able to field Messi, the highest scorer in the Champion’s League and described by many as the best player in the world, in their line-up.
The rest of Barca’s squad is also impressive, including Henry and Xavi. Henry of course needs no introduction to fans of English football and Xavi is an excellent player who currently is joint top with Ribery of Bayern Munich in terms of assists in the competition. Chelsea will be disappointed that they are not able to field Ashley Cole (suspended) to mark Messi, but a confident Jose Bosingwa is likely to cover at left back. Chelsea are also likely to play Drogba, who is demonstrating a fine run of form at the moment, including scoring in the last 5 of Chelsea’s Champions’ League matches.
Undoubtedly tonight will be a showcase for some fine displays of attacking football, but if history is anything to go by, there may also be some tempers shown. Drogba received a red card during Barcelona's 2-1 win over Chelsea in the 2004-05 competition. The 2-2 draw between the 2 clubs in October 2006 saw 10 players receiving a yellow card. The managers also have some history when it comes to cards; when Hiddink managed Valencia against Barcelona in 1992, the Dutchman was sent off the pitch for arguing and Guardiola, who was then a Barca player, was sent off for two yellows.
Both teams do however have a lot of respect for each other. Despite confidently proclaiming that Barça “won’t fail” Josep Guardiola believes the tie will be decided in London and acknowledges that “no-one goes to Stamford Bridge thinking they’ll have an easy game.” When asked about how Barça would play against Chelsea, Guardiola said that Barca were up against a very strong team, “They’ve got some very powerful players with a lot of experience ... their players are a lot more powerful than ours and are dangerous in the air.”
Hiddink will however not be under-estimating the Spanish giants, who are often brilliant in their own stadium, aiming to overpower the opposition both with skill and with a high tempo closing down style in the opposition's half, which leaves many teams floundering and unable to recover under this early onslaught. Hiddink’s defence will have to be at their absolute best to resist this. Hiddink is however insisting that Chelsea will not sit back and allow Barcelona to dictate play, "This team has to go for it," says Hiddink."Chelsea are not a team who can sit back and wait for one or two counter-attacks. We must play courageously. It's important to score in Barcelona given it's a two-legged tie, so we can have a big chance at home as well. “
The Catalans are favourites to progress to Rome, but no one at Barcelona is viewing this as an easy tie and no one at Chelsea lacks confidence that they will put up a great challenge. This tie is hard to call but my prediction is 2:0 to Barca, which will set things up nicely for an explosive return leg next week at Stamford Bridge.
The last 2 times these sides met in Europe (2004-05 and 2006-07 seasons) the Londoners were victorious but the time before that (1999-2000 quarter finals) Barca made a dramaric comeback and beat the Blues 5-1 after extra time despite losing the away match 3-1 in London. Arguably this year Barca are stronger than ever, lying streets ahead of all opposition in La Liga and able to field Messi, the highest scorer in the Champion’s League and described by many as the best player in the world, in their line-up.
The rest of Barca’s squad is also impressive, including Henry and Xavi. Henry of course needs no introduction to fans of English football and Xavi is an excellent player who currently is joint top with Ribery of Bayern Munich in terms of assists in the competition. Chelsea will be disappointed that they are not able to field Ashley Cole (suspended) to mark Messi, but a confident Jose Bosingwa is likely to cover at left back. Chelsea are also likely to play Drogba, who is demonstrating a fine run of form at the moment, including scoring in the last 5 of Chelsea’s Champions’ League matches.
Undoubtedly tonight will be a showcase for some fine displays of attacking football, but if history is anything to go by, there may also be some tempers shown. Drogba received a red card during Barcelona's 2-1 win over Chelsea in the 2004-05 competition. The 2-2 draw between the 2 clubs in October 2006 saw 10 players receiving a yellow card. The managers also have some history when it comes to cards; when Hiddink managed Valencia against Barcelona in 1992, the Dutchman was sent off the pitch for arguing and Guardiola, who was then a Barca player, was sent off for two yellows.
Both teams do however have a lot of respect for each other. Despite confidently proclaiming that Barça “won’t fail” Josep Guardiola believes the tie will be decided in London and acknowledges that “no-one goes to Stamford Bridge thinking they’ll have an easy game.” When asked about how Barça would play against Chelsea, Guardiola said that Barca were up against a very strong team, “They’ve got some very powerful players with a lot of experience ... their players are a lot more powerful than ours and are dangerous in the air.”
Hiddink will however not be under-estimating the Spanish giants, who are often brilliant in their own stadium, aiming to overpower the opposition both with skill and with a high tempo closing down style in the opposition's half, which leaves many teams floundering and unable to recover under this early onslaught. Hiddink’s defence will have to be at their absolute best to resist this. Hiddink is however insisting that Chelsea will not sit back and allow Barcelona to dictate play, "This team has to go for it," says Hiddink."Chelsea are not a team who can sit back and wait for one or two counter-attacks. We must play courageously. It's important to score in Barcelona given it's a two-legged tie, so we can have a big chance at home as well. “
The Catalans are favourites to progress to Rome, but no one at Barcelona is viewing this as an easy tie and no one at Chelsea lacks confidence that they will put up a great challenge. This tie is hard to call but my prediction is 2:0 to Barca, which will set things up nicely for an explosive return leg next week at Stamford Bridge.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Barca’s terrifying trio threaten Chelsea
Ahead of the Champions League semi-final showdown this week, Barcelona’s triple attacking threat of Lionel Messi, Samuel Eto’o and Thierry Henry have been described as a “world-class” front line by Chelsea interim boss Guus Hiddink. No wonder – Chelsea fans may want to look away now because the trio’s goalscoring stats this season are incredible.
Between them, Messi, Eto’o and Henry have amassed a terrifying 90 goals in all competitions as Pep Guardiola has unleashed a devastating assault on Spain and the rest of Europe. The figures are all the more compelling when you consider those three have hit 66 of the club’s total of 94 league goals so far and 16 of the Catalans’ 29 strikes in the Champions League. This makes this ‘unplayable’ triumvirate Barca’s best-ever forward line collectively so it’s no wonder they remain favourites to see off England’s finest in the remainder of this year’s competition. It’s shudder-inducing stuff indeed.
Barcelona bashed Bayern Munich in the quarter-final, 5-1 on aggregate, after racing into a 4-0 lead inside just 43 minutes of the first leg. No need to ask which players provided all those four goals either.
The problem Chelsea face, other than ensuring they’re still in the tie after Tuesday’s first leg at the Nou Camp, is that all three players are different in terms of style but all pose a huge goalscoring threat. Messi is the incomparable playmaker, all quick-feet often running from deep and linking the play with deft touches while Henry tends to operate out wide on the left these days but is still as devastating in front of goal as he was at Arsenal. Eto’o often does the dirty work for the other two, always chasing and harassing the opposition but his strength and killer instinct means he is just two goals behind Messi on 32 from 42 games in total this term. Not bad for a player who probably would have left if another club had stumped up Barca’s asking price of £25m-plus last summer.
So, how do Chelsea cope in the semi-final? Well, by not reading the football stats for a start.
Between them, Messi, Eto’o and Henry have amassed a terrifying 90 goals in all competitions as Pep Guardiola has unleashed a devastating assault on Spain and the rest of Europe. The figures are all the more compelling when you consider those three have hit 66 of the club’s total of 94 league goals so far and 16 of the Catalans’ 29 strikes in the Champions League. This makes this ‘unplayable’ triumvirate Barca’s best-ever forward line collectively so it’s no wonder they remain favourites to see off England’s finest in the remainder of this year’s competition. It’s shudder-inducing stuff indeed.
Barcelona bashed Bayern Munich in the quarter-final, 5-1 on aggregate, after racing into a 4-0 lead inside just 43 minutes of the first leg. No need to ask which players provided all those four goals either.
The problem Chelsea face, other than ensuring they’re still in the tie after Tuesday’s first leg at the Nou Camp, is that all three players are different in terms of style but all pose a huge goalscoring threat. Messi is the incomparable playmaker, all quick-feet often running from deep and linking the play with deft touches while Henry tends to operate out wide on the left these days but is still as devastating in front of goal as he was at Arsenal. Eto’o often does the dirty work for the other two, always chasing and harassing the opposition but his strength and killer instinct means he is just two goals behind Messi on 32 from 42 games in total this term. Not bad for a player who probably would have left if another club had stumped up Barca’s asking price of £25m-plus last summer.
So, how do Chelsea cope in the semi-final? Well, by not reading the football stats for a start.
Aidan Perkins is a sports journalist who writes regularly for Betfair.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
West Ham 0 Chelsea 1 Premiership match result
Chelsea managed to get 3 points away at Upton Park to keep the pressure on Liverpool and Manchester United at the top of the Barclays Premier League. This game had a bit of an end of season feel, as Chelsea will be gearing up for their Champions League match against Barcelona and West Ham are definitely safe from the drop and will be hoping for a UEFA Cup spot.
Salomon Kalou was at the heart of the action yesterday, initially he conceded a penalty in the second half which Petr Cech saved and then in the 55th minute scored the winning goal. Lampard clerverly got into a decent crossing position on the left hand side which Green managed to get his finger tips to but it was not enough to divert the ball away from Kalou who took one touch then hit it into the top corner from 6 yards out.
A pretty average game really. Anelka could have made it 2-0 when Upson miss kicked to give the Frenchman the opportunity but Robert Green stood up and made himself big to deny the visitors a second goal.
Not a classic!
Chelsea scorer: Kalou 55th minute
Attendance: 34,749 (Upton Park)
Salomon Kalou was at the heart of the action yesterday, initially he conceded a penalty in the second half which Petr Cech saved and then in the 55th minute scored the winning goal. Lampard clerverly got into a decent crossing position on the left hand side which Green managed to get his finger tips to but it was not enough to divert the ball away from Kalou who took one touch then hit it into the top corner from 6 yards out.
A pretty average game really. Anelka could have made it 2-0 when Upson miss kicked to give the Frenchman the opportunity but Robert Green stood up and made himself big to deny the visitors a second goal.
Not a classic!
Chelsea scorer: Kalou 55th minute
Attendance: 34,749 (Upton Park)
West Brom 3 Sunderland 0 Premier league match result
West Brom have proved that they are fighters this season with a fantastic attitude – they beat Sunderland in great style yesterday at the Hawthorns.
Jonas Olsson scored the home team’s first five minutes before half time before Chris Brunt scored in the 58th minute to become the Baggies top goal scorer, who is now on 7.
Substitute Juan Carlo Menseguez then rounded up a brilliant day for the Baggies, scoring a good goal in the 88th minute to compound the Black Cats misery.
Sunderland were poor and lacked confidence in front of goal. Sbragia said that they lacked fight which will have been quite alarming for him considering the fact that they are in 15th position, dangerously close to the relegation zone. The play in form Everton at home next at the Stadium of Light which really is a must win for them.
For WBA, this victory ended a miserable 11-game winless league run and puts them on 28 points, 2 behind the Magpies....too much too late? We shall see.
West Brom scorers: Olsson 40th minute, Brunt 58th minute, Menseguez 88th minute
Attendance: 26,256 (The Hawthorns)
Jonas Olsson scored the home team’s first five minutes before half time before Chris Brunt scored in the 58th minute to become the Baggies top goal scorer, who is now on 7.
Substitute Juan Carlo Menseguez then rounded up a brilliant day for the Baggies, scoring a good goal in the 88th minute to compound the Black Cats misery.
Sunderland were poor and lacked confidence in front of goal. Sbragia said that they lacked fight which will have been quite alarming for him considering the fact that they are in 15th position, dangerously close to the relegation zone. The play in form Everton at home next at the Stadium of Light which really is a must win for them.
For WBA, this victory ended a miserable 11-game winless league run and puts them on 28 points, 2 behind the Magpies....too much too late? We shall see.
West Brom scorers: Olsson 40th minute, Brunt 58th minute, Menseguez 88th minute
Attendance: 26,256 (The Hawthorns)
Man Utd 5 Tottenham H 2 Premier League report
It’s a game of two halves.You’ve got to love the old cliché from Jimmy Greaves because invariably it is pure wisdom. Spurs are renouned with their obsession for playing the passing game and giving the big teams a run for their money. Well, in the second half they battered the champions with Bent and Modric scoring from slick counter attacks with a sleepy Manchester United defence looking like they could have conceded more in the first half. Redknapp would have been praying for some of those chances to go in because he will know that when you’re up against Berbatov, Rooney and Ronaldo that anything could happen. And it did.
Man Utd racked up an unbelievable 5 goals in the second half after some hair dryer treatment from Sir Alex. Their one touch passing and relentless pressure was too much for Spurs, however the first Manchester United goal was very controversial. The red devils were awarded a penalty as ex Spurs midfielder Michael Carrick moved into the 18 yard box and Gomes met him, diving at his feet to take the ball away from him. Harry Redknapp and the players appealed to Howard Webb but the penalty stood and Christiano Ronaldo stepped up and didn’t make any mistake about converting the spot kick.
Spurs fell to pieces after this penalty decision with goals in quick succession from Rooney, Ronaldo, Rooney and then ex Spurs striker Berbatov made it 5 to add misery to unfortunate Spurs. Interestingly, it appeared earlier on in the game Manchester United supporters were booing the Bulgarian international presumably for his penalty miss in the FA Cup semi final last week against Everton.
Harry Redknapp’s view of the game was summed up on the THFC website:
"It wasn't a penalty and the referee made a terrible mistake," said Harry at Old Trafford. "The players couldn't believe it, they were all saying 'how did he give a penalty for that' but he did and it changed the game.
"I know we conceded four goals after that but the penalty pulled them back into it. They weren't going to win the game from where they were, unless something like that happened.
"In my opinion, it changed the game completely.
"I'm not making excuses for conceding bad goals but at that stage of the game there was no way they were going to get back into the game.
"At half-time I felt confident we were going to score again. Every time we got the ball to Aaron Lennon they were afraid and I felt there were more goals there for us.
"The penalty gave them a massive lift. I felt they were giving the ball away, the crowd was a little edgy and the longer the game went on the more comfortable we were.
"Again, I'm not saying that we should concede the goals we conceded after that but it changed the game for both teams - it gave them a massive lift and I felt we became very deflated over it."
Man Utd’s win puts them 3 points ahead of Liverpool now and the champions also have 1 game in hand. Not all over yet but pretty close to it.
Manchester United scorers: Ronaldo 57th minute (pen), 68th minute, Rooney 67th minute, 71st minute, Berbatov 79th minute.
Tottenham scorers: Bent 29th minute, Modric 32nd minute
Attendance 75,458 (Old Trafford)
Man Utd racked up an unbelievable 5 goals in the second half after some hair dryer treatment from Sir Alex. Their one touch passing and relentless pressure was too much for Spurs, however the first Manchester United goal was very controversial. The red devils were awarded a penalty as ex Spurs midfielder Michael Carrick moved into the 18 yard box and Gomes met him, diving at his feet to take the ball away from him. Harry Redknapp and the players appealed to Howard Webb but the penalty stood and Christiano Ronaldo stepped up and didn’t make any mistake about converting the spot kick.
Spurs fell to pieces after this penalty decision with goals in quick succession from Rooney, Ronaldo, Rooney and then ex Spurs striker Berbatov made it 5 to add misery to unfortunate Spurs. Interestingly, it appeared earlier on in the game Manchester United supporters were booing the Bulgarian international presumably for his penalty miss in the FA Cup semi final last week against Everton.
Harry Redknapp’s view of the game was summed up on the THFC website:
"It wasn't a penalty and the referee made a terrible mistake," said Harry at Old Trafford. "The players couldn't believe it, they were all saying 'how did he give a penalty for that' but he did and it changed the game.
"I know we conceded four goals after that but the penalty pulled them back into it. They weren't going to win the game from where they were, unless something like that happened.
"In my opinion, it changed the game completely.
"I'm not making excuses for conceding bad goals but at that stage of the game there was no way they were going to get back into the game.
"At half-time I felt confident we were going to score again. Every time we got the ball to Aaron Lennon they were afraid and I felt there were more goals there for us.
"The penalty gave them a massive lift. I felt they were giving the ball away, the crowd was a little edgy and the longer the game went on the more comfortable we were.
"Again, I'm not saying that we should concede the goals we conceded after that but it changed the game for both teams - it gave them a massive lift and I felt we became very deflated over it."
Man Utd’s win puts them 3 points ahead of Liverpool now and the champions also have 1 game in hand. Not all over yet but pretty close to it.
Manchester United scorers: Ronaldo 57th minute (pen), 68th minute, Rooney 67th minute, 71st minute, Berbatov 79th minute.
Tottenham scorers: Bent 29th minute, Modric 32nd minute
Attendance 75,458 (Old Trafford)
Hull 1 Liverpool 3 Premier League news 25 April
Despite the Man Utd v Spurs, evening match that was ahead of them Liverpool kept their eye on what they could influence in the Premier League title race yesterday with a 3-1 away win at the KC stadium.
Xabi Alonso scored the first goal for the Reds, smashing a 25 yard screaming volley after his free kick had been blocked and rebounded to him for a second try. Conceding just before the half time break proved to be a killer blow for the Tigers.
Then it was Dirk Kuyt who added a second in the 63rd minute with a close range header. Things then got worse for Hull when Caleb Folan got a red card for kicking Reds defender Martin Skrtel.
Phil Brown’s team kept fighting though and their efforts were rewarded with a goal from Tigers favourite Geovanni who found some space in the Liverpool box to rifle home from close range.
In the 89th minute, Arbeloa took a shot that rebounded back to him and he made no mistake the second time to take this hard fought match out of the home team’s reach.
Phil Brown will be more than aware that their form will need to pick up and convert into points in order to retain Premier League status for next season as this loss takes them to fourth from bottom with Boro and Newcastle both having a game in hand on them.
Hull scorer: Geovanni: 72nd minute
Liverpool scorers: Alonso 45th minute, Kuyt 63rd minute, 89th minute
Attendance 24,942
Xabi Alonso scored the first goal for the Reds, smashing a 25 yard screaming volley after his free kick had been blocked and rebounded to him for a second try. Conceding just before the half time break proved to be a killer blow for the Tigers.
Then it was Dirk Kuyt who added a second in the 63rd minute with a close range header. Things then got worse for Hull when Caleb Folan got a red card for kicking Reds defender Martin Skrtel.
Phil Brown’s team kept fighting though and their efforts were rewarded with a goal from Tigers favourite Geovanni who found some space in the Liverpool box to rifle home from close range.
In the 89th minute, Arbeloa took a shot that rebounded back to him and he made no mistake the second time to take this hard fought match out of the home team’s reach.
Phil Brown will be more than aware that their form will need to pick up and convert into points in order to retain Premier League status for next season as this loss takes them to fourth from bottom with Boro and Newcastle both having a game in hand on them.
Hull scorer: Geovanni: 72nd minute
Liverpool scorers: Alonso 45th minute, Kuyt 63rd minute, 89th minute
Attendance 24,942
Fulham 1 Stoke 0 Premiership result 25 April
Roy Hodgson’s Fulham beat Premier League strugglers Stoke 1-0 moving them up to seventh in the Premier League to boost their chances of a European spot next season.
It was substitute Erik Nevland who separated the two teams, finishing a counter attack from close range. Norwegian striker Nevland replaced injured Bobby Zamora and was sharp.
Stoke’s usual bombardment of spectacular Rory Delap throw ins couldn’t save them yesterday, but the visitors were without Beattie, Higginbotham and Wilkinson. The Potters did push Fulham in the second half but coach Tony Pulis wanted more from his team in terms of testing Mark Schwarzer.
"The 'keepers didn't have a lot to do but we created four good chances today and disappointing thing is we haven't made their goalkeeper make a save.
"I thought the two from Rory in the first half were very good chances, as were the two headers in the second half. Ryan's headed it down and it's bounced over the bar, and the second glanced off Ric's head when on another day it would have been buried in the back of the net."
Fulham scorer: Nevland 29th minute
Attendance: 24,997 (Craven Cottage)
It was substitute Erik Nevland who separated the two teams, finishing a counter attack from close range. Norwegian striker Nevland replaced injured Bobby Zamora and was sharp.
Stoke’s usual bombardment of spectacular Rory Delap throw ins couldn’t save them yesterday, but the visitors were without Beattie, Higginbotham and Wilkinson. The Potters did push Fulham in the second half but coach Tony Pulis wanted more from his team in terms of testing Mark Schwarzer.
"The 'keepers didn't have a lot to do but we created four good chances today and disappointing thing is we haven't made their goalkeeper make a save.
"I thought the two from Rory in the first half were very good chances, as were the two headers in the second half. Ryan's headed it down and it's bounced over the bar, and the second glanced off Ric's head when on another day it would have been buried in the back of the net."
Fulham scorer: Nevland 29th minute
Attendance: 24,997 (Craven Cottage)
Everton 1 Man City 2 25th April
In contrast to their brilliant win against Man Utd in the FA Cup last weekend, home team Everton lost 2-1 and picked up an injury wit Phil Jagielka being stretchered odd towards the end.
City scored in the 35th minute when Elano put in Brazilian trickster Robino, who skipped past Jagielka. This was a blow to the home side who then conceded again wuickly after the half time break, this time with Man City favourite Stephen Ireland fnding himself in space at the end of a siwft counter attack, Ireland coolly side footed past ‘keeper Tim Howard.
Awkwardly for the Toffees, Moyes had used all 3 subs by the time that Jagielka came off with his injury but one of those subs Dan Gosling who replaced Louis Saha smashed the ball in the net from a good pass from winger Pienaar but the game was over and done with even with 7 minutes of added time.
Man City’s victory gave them a much needed boost in the league, pushing them up into ninth, giving the Blues the belief that they can get right back into the UEFA Cup next season after last week’s exit against Hamburg.
Attendance: 37,791 (Goodison Park)
Everton 1 Man City 2 25th April
Everton scorer: Gosling 90th minute
Man City scorers: Robinho 35th minute, Ireland 54th minute
In contrast to their brilliant win against Man Utd in the FA Cup last weekend, home team Everton lost 2-1 and picked up an injury wit Phil Jagielka being stretchered odd towards the end.
City scored in the 35th minute when Elano put in Brazilian trickster Robino, who skipped past Jagielka. This was a blow to the home side who then conceded again wuickly after the half time break, this time with Man City favourite Stephen Ireland fnding himself in space at the end of a siwft counter attack, Ireland coolly side footed past ‘keeper Tim Howard.
Awkwardly for the Toffees, Moyes had used all 3 subs by the time that Jagielka came off with his injury but one of those subs Dan Gosling who replaced Louis Saha smashed the ball in the net from a good pass from winger Pienaar but the game was over and done with even with 7 minutes of added time.
Man City’s victory gave them a much needed boost in the league, pushing them up into ninth, giving the Blues the belief that they can get right back into the UEFA Cup next season after last week’s exit against Hamburg.
Attendance: 37,791 (Goodison Park)
Everton scorer: Gosling 90th minute
Man City scorers: Robinho 35th minute, Ireland 54th minute
City scored in the 35th minute when Elano put in Brazilian trickster Robino, who skipped past Jagielka. This was a blow to the home side who then conceded again wuickly after the half time break, this time with Man City favourite Stephen Ireland fnding himself in space at the end of a siwft counter attack, Ireland coolly side footed past ‘keeper Tim Howard.
Awkwardly for the Toffees, Moyes had used all 3 subs by the time that Jagielka came off with his injury but one of those subs Dan Gosling who replaced Louis Saha smashed the ball in the net from a good pass from winger Pienaar but the game was over and done with even with 7 minutes of added time.
Man City’s victory gave them a much needed boost in the league, pushing them up into ninth, giving the Blues the belief that they can get right back into the UEFA Cup next season after last week’s exit against Hamburg.
Attendance: 37,791 (Goodison Park)
Everton 1 Man City 2 25th April
Everton scorer: Gosling 90th minute
Man City scorers: Robinho 35th minute, Ireland 54th minute
In contrast to their brilliant win against Man Utd in the FA Cup last weekend, home team Everton lost 2-1 and picked up an injury wit Phil Jagielka being stretchered odd towards the end.
City scored in the 35th minute when Elano put in Brazilian trickster Robino, who skipped past Jagielka. This was a blow to the home side who then conceded again wuickly after the half time break, this time with Man City favourite Stephen Ireland fnding himself in space at the end of a siwft counter attack, Ireland coolly side footed past ‘keeper Tim Howard.
Awkwardly for the Toffees, Moyes had used all 3 subs by the time that Jagielka came off with his injury but one of those subs Dan Gosling who replaced Louis Saha smashed the ball in the net from a good pass from winger Pienaar but the game was over and done with even with 7 minutes of added time.
Man City’s victory gave them a much needed boost in the league, pushing them up into ninth, giving the Blues the belief that they can get right back into the UEFA Cup next season after last week’s exit against Hamburg.
Attendance: 37,791 (Goodison Park)
Everton scorer: Gosling 90th minute
Man City scorers: Robinho 35th minute, Ireland 54th minute
Bolton 1 Aston Villa 1 Premier League result 25th April
Martin O’Neill and his team felt disappointed at the end of 90 minutes yesterday at the Reebook Stadium but then found out that Man City had beaten Everton who are also trying to get into Europe next season Aston Villa took the lead just before half time against the Wanderers with Ashley Young and in the second half carried on playing great football. Predictably, Gary Megson’s team were tough, resilient and scored on the 60th minute with Israeli Tamir Cohen. Megson admitted:
"We did okay without playing anywhere near like champagne football. Aston Villa have taken a lead 13 times this season and they have won 11 of them and drawn two, so we've done well against a top-class side."
Although both teams wanted 3 points for different reasons, the home team will be content to have improved on their points tally as they remain in 13th, now on 38 points. Villa are now 2 points above Everton and will be looking to finish strongly after a difficult phase of results in the last 2 months.
Attendance: 21,709 (Reebok Stadium)
Bolton scorer: Cohen 60th minute
Aston Villa scorer: Young 43rd minute
"We did okay without playing anywhere near like champagne football. Aston Villa have taken a lead 13 times this season and they have won 11 of them and drawn two, so we've done well against a top-class side."
Although both teams wanted 3 points for different reasons, the home team will be content to have improved on their points tally as they remain in 13th, now on 38 points. Villa are now 2 points above Everton and will be looking to finish strongly after a difficult phase of results in the last 2 months.
Attendance: 21,709 (Reebok Stadium)
Bolton scorer: Cohen 60th minute
Aston Villa scorer: Young 43rd minute
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Premier League 25th April
Footie fixtures for this week in the Premier League:
Saturday, 25 April 2009
Barclays Premier League
Bolton v Aston Villa
Everton v Man City
Fulham v Stoke
Hull v Liverpool
Man Utd v Tottenham (17:30 kick off)
West Brom v Sunderland
West Ham v Chelsea
I guess that most people will be watching the performance of the teams at the bottom of the Prem today. Boro are away to in-form Arsenal and Newcastle play on Monday at home vs Pompey. Today Stoke will hope to pull away from the relegation zone as the visit Craven Cottage and Sunderland are away at West Brom who are nearly sunk.
Man Utd have the 5.30 slot on Setanta Sports, at home entertaining Spurs. I think today they'll pull away from Liverpool who are away at Hull...Hull aren't safe quite yet so the Premier League could take a big swing today to the current champions.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Chelsea vs Everton Preview 22nd April 2009
Chelsea vs Everton Preview 22nd April 2009
Following the weekend’s FA Cup semi results, tonight’s Premiership clash (televised on Sky) is a dress rehearsal for the FA Cup final at the end of May. For both teams this match is however much more than a practice for the Wembley showdown.
Chelsea, who have steadily increased in confidence since Hiddink took over, believe they are still in contention for the Premiership. Three points against the Toffees would bring Chelsea within one point of Liverpool, who dropped 2 points against Arsenal last night. Equally Everton, who currently lie in sixth, want a win to help secure their Europa prospects and a win tonight would see them leapfrog Villa to fifth place. Everton is also keen to demonstrate that despite Chelsea being the favourites, Everton has a strong chance of winning the FA cup for the first time since 1995.
Chelsea are without midfielder Deco and right-back Jose Bosingwa for Wednesday's home Premier League clash with Everton.Deco due to both players having hamstring problems. Joe Cole and Paulo Ferreira are both out for the season with knee ligament injuries. Everton’s young manager has his own dilemma. Although keen to field a strong squad and with no fresh injuries to concern him, Moyes is conscious that some of his players would benefit from a rest after playing 120 minutes on Sunday. Fortunately Moyes also has striker Jo at his disposal, who is able to return to the squad after being cup-tied on Sunday.
Despite Moyes’ enthusiasm and growing reputation, it is hard to overlook recent history between the two teams. Everton have not beaten Chelsea in the league or in the cup since Novmember 1995. For this reason I predict a 3:1 win for Chelsea.
Following the weekend’s FA Cup semi results, tonight’s Premiership clash (televised on Sky) is a dress rehearsal for the FA Cup final at the end of May. For both teams this match is however much more than a practice for the Wembley showdown.
Chelsea, who have steadily increased in confidence since Hiddink took over, believe they are still in contention for the Premiership. Three points against the Toffees would bring Chelsea within one point of Liverpool, who dropped 2 points against Arsenal last night. Equally Everton, who currently lie in sixth, want a win to help secure their Europa prospects and a win tonight would see them leapfrog Villa to fifth place. Everton is also keen to demonstrate that despite Chelsea being the favourites, Everton has a strong chance of winning the FA cup for the first time since 1995.
Chelsea are without midfielder Deco and right-back Jose Bosingwa for Wednesday's home Premier League clash with Everton.Deco due to both players having hamstring problems. Joe Cole and Paulo Ferreira are both out for the season with knee ligament injuries. Everton’s young manager has his own dilemma. Although keen to field a strong squad and with no fresh injuries to concern him, Moyes is conscious that some of his players would benefit from a rest after playing 120 minutes on Sunday. Fortunately Moyes also has striker Jo at his disposal, who is able to return to the squad after being cup-tied on Sunday.
Despite Moyes’ enthusiasm and growing reputation, it is hard to overlook recent history between the two teams. Everton have not beaten Chelsea in the league or in the cup since Novmember 1995. For this reason I predict a 3:1 win for Chelsea.
Manchester United v Portsmouth Preview 22nd April 2009
Manchester United v Portsmouth Preview 22nd April 2009
Despite Liverpool only managing a draw last night against Arsenal and topping the table on goal difference alone, Alex Ferguson will be keen to use one of Manchester United’s games in hand against Portsmouth tonight to knock them off the number one spot. The controversial Scot surprised and ultimately disappointed many on Sunday by fielding an inexperienced team in their losing FA cup semi against Everton and is unlikely to do the same against Pompey.
Rafael and Fabio Da Silva, Federico Macheda, Danny Wellbeck, Ben Foster and Darren Gibson all started at Wembley but all will almost certainly step aside for the more established stars, including Paul Scholes, who is expected to make his 600th appearance for the Red Devils tonight. Carrick is also hoping to be passed fit for tonight’s match and Fletcher may also be sufficiently recovered from is hamstring injury to be selected tonight. Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic are also likely to play at centre-back and may in fact be the only survivors from the weekend’s defeat.
As well as the immense depth of Manchester United’s squad, Ferguson is bullish that his team have the psychological strength to bounce back after Sunday’s disappointment. "We only lost the semi-final with Everton on penalties and that can happen to anyone," said boss Ferguson. "There is enough motivation to ensure we will be OK against Portsmouth. We are focused on what we have got to do."
Whilst Ferguson’s attention is very much on the top spot, the match is of equal significance to Pompey at the other end of the table. The South Coast team are only 6 points above the drop zone and three points against Manchester United could provide them with the buffer they need to stay in the top flight next season. Portsmouth have had a tough season after first losing their influential manager Harry Redknapp to Tottenham and then sacking his replacement Tony Adams as form suffered, but have grown in confidence under caretaker boss Paul Hart. Since Hart took over, the team have lost just once against Chelsea and are currently unbeaten in five games having conceded just four goals in the process. However Hart, whilst remaining positive, advises against complacency "Anybody who thinks the 37 points we've got makes us safe already is a fool," said Hart "We are keeping hard down on the pedal and, even though United are the best team in the world, we can give them problems if we prepare right. I can't see any reason why we can't get something there." Hart also has Brian Kidd on his staff, who as a former number two to Ferguson, will be useful in anticipating the Scot’s game plan.
Pompey does however have some injury problems and like most teams in the world does not have a squad with as much depth as Manchester United to call upon. Portsmouth will be without their inspirational midfielder Niko Kranjcar who is out with an ankle injury and defender Younes Kaboul looks unlikely after tearing fibres in a thigh muscle.
My prediction for tonight is that as Manchester United have an uncanny knack of bouncing back strongly after disappointment (look at their form since the defeats against Fulham and Liverpool), this momentum will be too much for Pompey, who will go down 2:0 at Old Trafford.
Despite Liverpool only managing a draw last night against Arsenal and topping the table on goal difference alone, Alex Ferguson will be keen to use one of Manchester United’s games in hand against Portsmouth tonight to knock them off the number one spot. The controversial Scot surprised and ultimately disappointed many on Sunday by fielding an inexperienced team in their losing FA cup semi against Everton and is unlikely to do the same against Pompey.
Rafael and Fabio Da Silva, Federico Macheda, Danny Wellbeck, Ben Foster and Darren Gibson all started at Wembley but all will almost certainly step aside for the more established stars, including Paul Scholes, who is expected to make his 600th appearance for the Red Devils tonight. Carrick is also hoping to be passed fit for tonight’s match and Fletcher may also be sufficiently recovered from is hamstring injury to be selected tonight. Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic are also likely to play at centre-back and may in fact be the only survivors from the weekend’s defeat.
As well as the immense depth of Manchester United’s squad, Ferguson is bullish that his team have the psychological strength to bounce back after Sunday’s disappointment. "We only lost the semi-final with Everton on penalties and that can happen to anyone," said boss Ferguson. "There is enough motivation to ensure we will be OK against Portsmouth. We are focused on what we have got to do."
Whilst Ferguson’s attention is very much on the top spot, the match is of equal significance to Pompey at the other end of the table. The South Coast team are only 6 points above the drop zone and three points against Manchester United could provide them with the buffer they need to stay in the top flight next season. Portsmouth have had a tough season after first losing their influential manager Harry Redknapp to Tottenham and then sacking his replacement Tony Adams as form suffered, but have grown in confidence under caretaker boss Paul Hart. Since Hart took over, the team have lost just once against Chelsea and are currently unbeaten in five games having conceded just four goals in the process. However Hart, whilst remaining positive, advises against complacency "Anybody who thinks the 37 points we've got makes us safe already is a fool," said Hart "We are keeping hard down on the pedal and, even though United are the best team in the world, we can give them problems if we prepare right. I can't see any reason why we can't get something there." Hart also has Brian Kidd on his staff, who as a former number two to Ferguson, will be useful in anticipating the Scot’s game plan.
Pompey does however have some injury problems and like most teams in the world does not have a squad with as much depth as Manchester United to call upon. Portsmouth will be without their inspirational midfielder Niko Kranjcar who is out with an ankle injury and defender Younes Kaboul looks unlikely after tearing fibres in a thigh muscle.
My prediction for tonight is that as Manchester United have an uncanny knack of bouncing back strongly after disappointment (look at their form since the defeats against Fulham and Liverpool), this momentum will be too much for Pompey, who will go down 2:0 at Old Trafford.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Muntari linked with Spurs
Former Pompey midfielder Sulley Muntari has been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur, according to skysports.com.
Now whether this is lazy journalism or not, Muntari is out of favour under Mourinho and with the Inter fans. With more budget at White Hart Lane, Harry Redknapp could be keen to get him back as financial contraints in his previous management role meant that he had to sell the player.
Could be a good signing for the Lily whites, COYS!
Arsenal will be hoping for a moment like this tonight
We loved the way that ITV cocked up the camera view for Adebayor's beautiful goal against Villareal here shown on Youtube.com. For all fans that think that Adebayor is a one trick pony, they should watch more of the Gunners - his link up play has improved massively and with goals like this Wenger saved a few pennies in terms of not buying Didier Drogba prior to his move to Chelsea.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Liverpool v Arsenal 21st April MATCH PREVIEW
Liverpool v Arsenal 20th April Premier League News
It is difficult to predict whether tomorrow night’s battle between 2 of the most talented Premiership teams will be a thrilling clash or whether instead it will actually turn out to be a bit of a damp squib. Both Arsenal and Liverpool have been playing exciting attacking football of late, however after recent exits from cup competitions both teams must to some extent be licking their wounds. After last week’s defeat in the Champion’s League, the Liverpool squad must feel extremely unfortunate after scoring 4 goals against Chelsea, which in almost any other contest would have give them a decisive victory. Equally Arsenal, booted out of the FA Cup on Saturday after a late Drogba strike gave Chelsea a 2:1 win, must be disheartened and wondering what might have been now that Manchester United has followed them out of the competition after being defeated yesterday by Everton on penalties.
Recent history also suggests that Tuesday’s meeting will not be the spirit lifting goal fest that fans of both sides will be hoping for. 4 of the last 5 meetings between the two teams in all competitions have ended in a 1:1 draw, including the same fixture last season and the meeting of the two sides in December. Liverpool fans who know their stats will however be cheered by the fact that Arsenal have not returned with all three points from Anfield since Ocober 2003, when Pires’ stunning second half strike gave the Gunners victory and contributed towards their title win that year. These football geeks will also be happily aware that there has not been an away win in a fixture between Arsenal and Liverpool in 10 league meetings.
Leaving the stats aside, based on squad fitness it looks like Liverpool will be in the strongest position to take the glory. Although the Merseysiders will be missing their Talisman as with Steven Gerrard remains sidelined with a groin injury, the list of sicknotes handed in by the North Londoners continues to grow. In addition to the gaps in the Arsenal defence, only too noticeable on Saturday, the Gunners will also be without Van Persie and Adebayor as the Dutchman sustained a groin problem in the semi final and his team mate is carrying a hamstring complaint. The only bit of light at the end of the tunnel for Wenger is that Sagna is likely to return at the back and Eduardo should be fit to start.
Liverpool fans will be hoping that a combination of these injuries and a lack of focus from Arsenal will hand them victory. With the Gunners ten points off the Premiership pace, many commentators are suggesting that Arsenal will not have the drive to win at Anfield and will instead be prioritising the Champion’s League, although Wenger denies this vehemently and claims he is determined to cut the gap on the Reds to six points and enjoy a strong finish to the domestic campaign. There is however no disputing that Liverpool has absolutely everything to play for in Tuesday’s match as they are out of all cup competitions and are in hot pursuit of a record 19th English top-flight crown, which would not only be their first in 19 years but would also deny their great rivals Manchester United the opportunity to equal their 18 titles. A draw would see Liverpool top the table on goal difference and a win would put them two points clear, although United will have 2 games in hand.
Given Arsenal’s injury list I predict a 2:1 victory for Liverpool, which although not the most exciting of scorelines does add a further twist in one of the most exciting title races in recent years.
It is difficult to predict whether tomorrow night’s battle between 2 of the most talented Premiership teams will be a thrilling clash or whether instead it will actually turn out to be a bit of a damp squib. Both Arsenal and Liverpool have been playing exciting attacking football of late, however after recent exits from cup competitions both teams must to some extent be licking their wounds. After last week’s defeat in the Champion’s League, the Liverpool squad must feel extremely unfortunate after scoring 4 goals against Chelsea, which in almost any other contest would have give them a decisive victory. Equally Arsenal, booted out of the FA Cup on Saturday after a late Drogba strike gave Chelsea a 2:1 win, must be disheartened and wondering what might have been now that Manchester United has followed them out of the competition after being defeated yesterday by Everton on penalties.
Recent history also suggests that Tuesday’s meeting will not be the spirit lifting goal fest that fans of both sides will be hoping for. 4 of the last 5 meetings between the two teams in all competitions have ended in a 1:1 draw, including the same fixture last season and the meeting of the two sides in December. Liverpool fans who know their stats will however be cheered by the fact that Arsenal have not returned with all three points from Anfield since Ocober 2003, when Pires’ stunning second half strike gave the Gunners victory and contributed towards their title win that year. These football geeks will also be happily aware that there has not been an away win in a fixture between Arsenal and Liverpool in 10 league meetings.
Leaving the stats aside, based on squad fitness it looks like Liverpool will be in the strongest position to take the glory. Although the Merseysiders will be missing their Talisman as with Steven Gerrard remains sidelined with a groin injury, the list of sicknotes handed in by the North Londoners continues to grow. In addition to the gaps in the Arsenal defence, only too noticeable on Saturday, the Gunners will also be without Van Persie and Adebayor as the Dutchman sustained a groin problem in the semi final and his team mate is carrying a hamstring complaint. The only bit of light at the end of the tunnel for Wenger is that Sagna is likely to return at the back and Eduardo should be fit to start.
Liverpool fans will be hoping that a combination of these injuries and a lack of focus from Arsenal will hand them victory. With the Gunners ten points off the Premiership pace, many commentators are suggesting that Arsenal will not have the drive to win at Anfield and will instead be prioritising the Champion’s League, although Wenger denies this vehemently and claims he is determined to cut the gap on the Reds to six points and enjoy a strong finish to the domestic campaign. There is however no disputing that Liverpool has absolutely everything to play for in Tuesday’s match as they are out of all cup competitions and are in hot pursuit of a record 19th English top-flight crown, which would not only be their first in 19 years but would also deny their great rivals Manchester United the opportunity to equal their 18 titles. A draw would see Liverpool top the table on goal difference and a win would put them two points clear, although United will have 2 games in hand.
Given Arsenal’s injury list I predict a 2:1 victory for Liverpool, which although not the most exciting of scorelines does add a further twist in one of the most exciting title races in recent years.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Newcastle v Spurs Premier League Preview 19th April
Until the last half of this season, Newcastle and Tottenham have had a lot in common in recent years. Both are well supported clubs who have threatened to break into the Champions League clique in recent years, but sadly for them have not quite managed it. Both clubs also have an unfortunate habit of the board room over-ruling the managers and then sacking them when unsurprisingly results do not go their way. Finally both clubs have not achieved anything like what they had hoped to achieve this season. However since Redknapp's appointment, the performances and aims of the two clubs have looked very different. This Saturday Newcastle United are aiming for their first win under Alan Shearer's reign to pull themselves out of the relegation zone. In contrast, although Tottenham are not as high in the league as they would like to be, their aim is to consolidate their relatively safe position with a view to potentially catching West Ham and landing a European slot.
Tottenham have been in good form of late and have been particularly impressive at home, where they have only lost once since Harry Redknapp took charge in October. They bounced back well from the disappointing 2-1 defeat at Blackburn to beat West Ham 1-0 last weekend. Wilson Palacios is returning following his controversial red card at Ewood Park and is likely to replace Tom Huddlestone in midfield despite a good performance against West Ham. Jermaine Defoe, nursing a stress fracture to his right foot since January, has resumed full training and is a possibility to play. After scoring the winner last week Pavlyuchenko might also be given the opportunity to start up front alongside Keane. The ingredients are all there for a strong end to Spurs' season.
In terms of Newcastle's squad, the Toon Army will be hoping that Viduka's return will be the turning point they're desperate for. Newcastle have also got another couple of key players about to return as Steven Taylor has recovered from his ankle problem and Peter Lovenkrands should be back after the nasty knock he took at Chelsea. The Black and White faithful will also be hoping that Obafemi Martins' groin injury can be managed sufficiently to get him through the rest of the season playing as well as he did against Stoke. Newcastle's favourite son Shearer has gone on record to say how encouraged he was by the performance of Martins and indeed the whole team and that Newcastle would stay up if they could reproduce the same passion and commitment for the rest if the season. However passion and commitment are only part of the story, results are the only measure that really count. Newcastle are currently four points from safety. People say that say three wins will keep Newcastle up, but as they've only won six of the 32 games played this season, this is a big ask.
My money is on a win for Spurs at Fortress White Hart. This juicy tie kicks off on Sky Sports on Sunday at 1.30. Get the beers in.
Tottenham have been in good form of late and have been particularly impressive at home, where they have only lost once since Harry Redknapp took charge in October. They bounced back well from the disappointing 2-1 defeat at Blackburn to beat West Ham 1-0 last weekend. Wilson Palacios is returning following his controversial red card at Ewood Park and is likely to replace Tom Huddlestone in midfield despite a good performance against West Ham. Jermaine Defoe, nursing a stress fracture to his right foot since January, has resumed full training and is a possibility to play. After scoring the winner last week Pavlyuchenko might also be given the opportunity to start up front alongside Keane. The ingredients are all there for a strong end to Spurs' season.
In terms of Newcastle's squad, the Toon Army will be hoping that Viduka's return will be the turning point they're desperate for. Newcastle have also got another couple of key players about to return as Steven Taylor has recovered from his ankle problem and Peter Lovenkrands should be back after the nasty knock he took at Chelsea. The Black and White faithful will also be hoping that Obafemi Martins' groin injury can be managed sufficiently to get him through the rest of the season playing as well as he did against Stoke. Newcastle's favourite son Shearer has gone on record to say how encouraged he was by the performance of Martins and indeed the whole team and that Newcastle would stay up if they could reproduce the same passion and commitment for the rest if the season. However passion and commitment are only part of the story, results are the only measure that really count. Newcastle are currently four points from safety. People say that say three wins will keep Newcastle up, but as they've only won six of the 32 games played this season, this is a big ask.
My money is on a win for Spurs at Fortress White Hart. This juicy tie kicks off on Sky Sports on Sunday at 1.30. Get the beers in.
Man Utd vs Everton Semi Final FA Cup 19th April
Man U vs Everton Semi Final FA Cup Preview
This Sunday Manchester United and Everton will be competing for a spot in the FA Cup final. Given the talent still left in the competition this year, the Toffees are inevitably viewed as the underdogs, but Everton fans will be hoping for a repeat of 1995, when as underdogs they beat United at the old Wembley thanks to a Paul Rideout winner. Although Everton were the favourites to beat relegation battlers Boro in the last round, by beating Liverpool and Villa earlier in the competition Everton hve already proven they are more than capable of punching above their weight in this competition. Plus this season in the league the Toffees drew at Goodison Park and we were only beaten by a late penalty at Old Trafford, so feel more than capable of nicking a goal at the crucial moment.
A victory over United will mean even more to the Everton faithful as Wayne Rooney is expected to start. Rooney was a passionate Everton fan as a boy and was an Everton player when he first found fame as an exceptionally talented teenager. A big money move to United in 2004 did however sour his relationship with Goodison Park. Although Rooney would claim that there is a big part of him that will remain forever blue, he will not allow childhood loyalty to get in the way of going all out to beat former employers. Rooney has already missed out on one cup final this season, a Carling Cup success over Tottenham, and he is keen to shine at Wembley this time around.
The one note of controversy related to this tie so far is that although many blues are undoubtedly looking forward to their team playing at one of football's greatest stages, David Moyes and others do not share this view as they think hosting the semis at Wembley dilutes the achievement of reaching the FA Cup Final. As is only too common with football these days, this change was due to money rather than sentiment, with a view to this helping to pay the costs of building the new stadium. However venue aside, the tie is likely to be a thrilling emotive encounter. What a weekend of football ahead!
This Sunday Manchester United and Everton will be competing for a spot in the FA Cup final. Given the talent still left in the competition this year, the Toffees are inevitably viewed as the underdogs, but Everton fans will be hoping for a repeat of 1995, when as underdogs they beat United at the old Wembley thanks to a Paul Rideout winner. Although Everton were the favourites to beat relegation battlers Boro in the last round, by beating Liverpool and Villa earlier in the competition Everton hve already proven they are more than capable of punching above their weight in this competition. Plus this season in the league the Toffees drew at Goodison Park and we were only beaten by a late penalty at Old Trafford, so feel more than capable of nicking a goal at the crucial moment.
A victory over United will mean even more to the Everton faithful as Wayne Rooney is expected to start. Rooney was a passionate Everton fan as a boy and was an Everton player when he first found fame as an exceptionally talented teenager. A big money move to United in 2004 did however sour his relationship with Goodison Park. Although Rooney would claim that there is a big part of him that will remain forever blue, he will not allow childhood loyalty to get in the way of going all out to beat former employers. Rooney has already missed out on one cup final this season, a Carling Cup success over Tottenham, and he is keen to shine at Wembley this time around.
The one note of controversy related to this tie so far is that although many blues are undoubtedly looking forward to their team playing at one of football's greatest stages, David Moyes and others do not share this view as they think hosting the semis at Wembley dilutes the achievement of reaching the FA Cup Final. As is only too common with football these days, this change was due to money rather than sentiment, with a view to this helping to pay the costs of building the new stadium. However venue aside, the tie is likely to be a thrilling emotive encounter. What a weekend of football ahead!
FA Cup Semi Final Chelsea vs Arsenal 18th April
Chelsea vs Arsenal Semi Final FA Cup 2009
Despite the upbeat noises, there is little doubt that Arsenal are limping slightly into their FA Cup semi final clash with Chelsea. Reading like the excuses from a Sunday league side in cold weather, goalkeeper Manuel Almunia is out with a bad ankle, Gael Clichy has a bad back and Gallas and Djourou have bad knees. Sagna and Kieran Gibbs are also concerns. Lucasz Fabianski, who has played excellently in the last few fixtures, will stand in in goal, but filling the left-back role is a little more tricky, although Wenger has the option to play Sagna or Silvestre in that position, The good news for the Gooners is of course that Arshavin and Eduardo are available for Saturday. Wenger will be hoping that these two will be able to penetrate the Chelsea defence as effectively as Liverpool did on Tuesday, whilst at the same time being able to maintain a strong defence against the blues despite all the Arsenal injuries at the back.
Chelsea have had an extra day to recover since their Champion's League thriller against Liverpool and despite the excitement over their stunning victory, they are now fully focused on the FA cup and are hungry for success against Arsenal. Memories of Wenger's men coming from behind to triumph 2-1 at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League earlier in the season with what many claimed was an offside goal are fresh in the minds of both players and fans and knocking their north London rivals out of the cup would be the sweetest revenge. With the talented Hiddink at the helm and after Tuesday's success, many Chelsea fans feel they are invincible. It's going to be a stunning match - roll on Saturday!
Despite the upbeat noises, there is little doubt that Arsenal are limping slightly into their FA Cup semi final clash with Chelsea. Reading like the excuses from a Sunday league side in cold weather, goalkeeper Manuel Almunia is out with a bad ankle, Gael Clichy has a bad back and Gallas and Djourou have bad knees. Sagna and Kieran Gibbs are also concerns. Lucasz Fabianski, who has played excellently in the last few fixtures, will stand in in goal, but filling the left-back role is a little more tricky, although Wenger has the option to play Sagna or Silvestre in that position, The good news for the Gooners is of course that Arshavin and Eduardo are available for Saturday. Wenger will be hoping that these two will be able to penetrate the Chelsea defence as effectively as Liverpool did on Tuesday, whilst at the same time being able to maintain a strong defence against the blues despite all the Arsenal injuries at the back.
Chelsea have had an extra day to recover since their Champion's League thriller against Liverpool and despite the excitement over their stunning victory, they are now fully focused on the FA cup and are hungry for success against Arsenal. Memories of Wenger's men coming from behind to triumph 2-1 at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League earlier in the season with what many claimed was an offside goal are fresh in the minds of both players and fans and knocking their north London rivals out of the cup would be the sweetest revenge. With the talented Hiddink at the helm and after Tuesday's success, many Chelsea fans feel they are invincible. It's going to be a stunning match - roll on Saturday!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
UEFA Cup Semi Final Result Man City 2 Hamburg 1 (aggregate 3-4)
UEFA Cup Semi Final Result Man City 2 Hamburg 1 (aggregate 3-4)
Manchester City started with great spirit and determination, with their awesome fans making the right noise for this UEFA Cup tie. It was Guerrero that in the 12th minute tried to ruin the Eastlands party on the break with a cool finish to make it 1-0 to Hamburg.
Ireland, Elano and Robinho definitely gelled in the first half with slick passing moves getting them into the right areas to push on. Elano scored the equaliser as a result of a handball in the Hamburg box, the Man City forward finished emphatically to get the home team to 2-4 on aggregate.
It was Elano who threatened Hamburg again in the first half with a spectacular 20+ yard free kick, which ricocheted violently against the cross bar sending the ball away from goal. All in all, a good half but boss Mark Hughes will be desperate for the goals.
City started the second half well and then moved up a gear to made when Caicedo made it 2-1 with a neat bit of manoeuvring to get himself a bit of space to coolly steer the ball into the bottom left corner.
Then...unbelievable – Elano hits the word work yet again. This time he rattles the post with a Beckham type free kick that just curled a fraction too much; it left the ‘keeper standing like a spectator. Man City kept piling on the pressure, Caicedo skied the ball from point blank range, Robinho came close also as the home team bossed the game in an attractive, attacking manner. Caicedo was then correctly judged to have been in an offside position when he dribbled around the Hamburg keeper and put it into the net.
Captain Richard Dunne plays the game hard, after riding his luck in the first half received a second yellow card which knocked the stuffing out of Man City. Instantly Hamburg soaked up more possession and created some decent chances.
Micah Richards had a pretty decent chance from a rampage from his right back position, the England defender played upfront for the last 5 but it wasn’t enough and its Hamburg that clinch the UEFA Cup semi final spot.
As a Spurs supporter, I did feel a little chuffed for the well liked Martin Jol – a real gentleman of football who in my opinion can get success at the highest level.
Manchester City started with great spirit and determination, with their awesome fans making the right noise for this UEFA Cup tie. It was Guerrero that in the 12th minute tried to ruin the Eastlands party on the break with a cool finish to make it 1-0 to Hamburg.
Ireland, Elano and Robinho definitely gelled in the first half with slick passing moves getting them into the right areas to push on. Elano scored the equaliser as a result of a handball in the Hamburg box, the Man City forward finished emphatically to get the home team to 2-4 on aggregate.
It was Elano who threatened Hamburg again in the first half with a spectacular 20+ yard free kick, which ricocheted violently against the cross bar sending the ball away from goal. All in all, a good half but boss Mark Hughes will be desperate for the goals.
City started the second half well and then moved up a gear to made when Caicedo made it 2-1 with a neat bit of manoeuvring to get himself a bit of space to coolly steer the ball into the bottom left corner.
Then...unbelievable – Elano hits the word work yet again. This time he rattles the post with a Beckham type free kick that just curled a fraction too much; it left the ‘keeper standing like a spectator. Man City kept piling on the pressure, Caicedo skied the ball from point blank range, Robinho came close also as the home team bossed the game in an attractive, attacking manner. Caicedo was then correctly judged to have been in an offside position when he dribbled around the Hamburg keeper and put it into the net.
Captain Richard Dunne plays the game hard, after riding his luck in the first half received a second yellow card which knocked the stuffing out of Man City. Instantly Hamburg soaked up more possession and created some decent chances.
Micah Richards had a pretty decent chance from a rampage from his right back position, the England defender played upfront for the last 5 but it wasn’t enough and its Hamburg that clinch the UEFA Cup semi final spot.
As a Spurs supporter, I did feel a little chuffed for the well liked Martin Jol – a real gentleman of football who in my opinion can get success at the highest level.
UEFA Cup News 16th April
Ex Premier League manager Martin Jol returns to the UK as visitors Hamburg look to build on their 3-1 lead on Manchester City at Eastlands tonight in the UEFA Cup quarter final second leg. Jol’s German team are third in the Bundesliga, only 3 points off of top, so his objective will be the winning the double. They’ll fancy their chances against an off form Manchester City, that’s for sure.
Strange season for Manchester City really. Loaded with their new owners, Mark Hughes perhaps wouldn’t have rushed into Brazilian virtuoso Robinho who doesn’t look happy. It has been suggested that he is an ‘icing on the cake’ player, that he would have been more suited to a well established team like Chelsea. That said, he is more than capable of wondrous footballing feats, so I wouldn’t be surprised if he scores a goal or creates one tonight. Stephen Ireland has probably been their player of the season and Hughes has bought well but City aren’t performing right now. Defensively, Man City could be exposed tonight and Hamburg in the last half hour will look to counter attack but overall will be looking to stifle the home fans by regimented German defending and playing the possession game.
Hamburg have captain David Jarolim back strengthening the German side that lost on the weekend without him. I think this could be a draw.
Strange season for Manchester City really. Loaded with their new owners, Mark Hughes perhaps wouldn’t have rushed into Brazilian virtuoso Robinho who doesn’t look happy. It has been suggested that he is an ‘icing on the cake’ player, that he would have been more suited to a well established team like Chelsea. That said, he is more than capable of wondrous footballing feats, so I wouldn’t be surprised if he scores a goal or creates one tonight. Stephen Ireland has probably been their player of the season and Hughes has bought well but City aren’t performing right now. Defensively, Man City could be exposed tonight and Hamburg in the last half hour will look to counter attack but overall will be looking to stifle the home fans by regimented German defending and playing the possession game.
Hamburg have captain David Jarolim back strengthening the German side that lost on the weekend without him. I think this could be a draw.
FA Cup News
Unless you've been living in a cave, you'll know that last night's Champion League action has set the scene nicely for an all English semi final. Looking at the stats, the two legs of the tie, on 29 April at Old Trafford and 5 May at the Emirates, will be the first time the two fierce rivals have met on the European stage. However in all other competitions the 2 managers have met 37 times, with the spoils split pretty much evenly (United 14, Arsenal 15, draws 8). Arsenal beat Manchester United 2-1 at The Emirates earlier this season, and the teams will meet at Old Trafford on the penultimate weekend of the Premier League season. Both teams are currently playing well in the FA Cup and the League, with cup semi-finals 10 days before the Old Trafford encounter and challenging end-of-season run-ins.
Arsenal's next match is at Wembley on Saturday, when they face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-finals and they are also playing Liverpool and Middlesbrough in the league before they face Ferguson's team. Both these matches are likely to be tough, with Liverpool desperate to catch Man United at the top to secure some silverware this season and Boro fighting for sheer survival. Arguably United have the slightly easier run in, meeting Everton this weekend in the last four of the FA Cup before facing Portsmouth and Tottenham in the league.
Currently both teams and managers are professing their pleasure at meeting domestic opposition in the Champion's League and are very complementary about each other. However as we approach the ties, I'm sure that the niceties will be replaced with the usual media warfare. Unfortunately the 2 clubs also have a history of conflict on the pitch, with large fines and bans being handed out to Arsenal in Autumn 2003 after certain Gunners decided to rough up Van Nistelrooy for his part in getting Viera sent off. The following year saw "Pizzagate" (also known as "battle of the buffet") when allegedly a slice of Pizza was thrown in the tunnel at Ferguson. Over the years the 2 managers have also let their emotions spill over, but as Wenger once said "What would I do if Sir Alex wasn't around? I would have no one to keep me on my toes or to fight. I enjoy our rivalry. It is good for Arsenal, good for Manchester United and good for both of us."
It is certainly good for the neutral!
Arsenal's next match is at Wembley on Saturday, when they face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-finals and they are also playing Liverpool and Middlesbrough in the league before they face Ferguson's team. Both these matches are likely to be tough, with Liverpool desperate to catch Man United at the top to secure some silverware this season and Boro fighting for sheer survival. Arguably United have the slightly easier run in, meeting Everton this weekend in the last four of the FA Cup before facing Portsmouth and Tottenham in the league.
Currently both teams and managers are professing their pleasure at meeting domestic opposition in the Champion's League and are very complementary about each other. However as we approach the ties, I'm sure that the niceties will be replaced with the usual media warfare. Unfortunately the 2 clubs also have a history of conflict on the pitch, with large fines and bans being handed out to Arsenal in Autumn 2003 after certain Gunners decided to rough up Van Nistelrooy for his part in getting Viera sent off. The following year saw "Pizzagate" (also known as "battle of the buffet") when allegedly a slice of Pizza was thrown in the tunnel at Ferguson. Over the years the 2 managers have also let their emotions spill over, but as Wenger once said "What would I do if Sir Alex wasn't around? I would have no one to keep me on my toes or to fight. I enjoy our rivalry. It is good for Arsenal, good for Manchester United and good for both of us."
It is certainly good for the neutral!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Champions League results 15th April Porto 0 Manchester United 1
Despite all the pre-match negativity, Ronaldo silenced his critics and the hostile Porto fans after just 5 minutes by scoring a thunderbolt from 40 yards to give Man U the perfect start. Exquisite!! From that point on Man United looked strong affording Porto very few attempts on goal. Just before half time it should have been 2-0 to United with a John O'Shea flick on from Ryan Giggs' corner, however Vidic shot over the bar from five yards. The defender understandably held his head in his hands. Just as at the Emirates, United were controlling the match in the first half but appeared to lack urgency.
Throughout the second half the Porto substitute Mariano caused problems for United, pushing Evra into a number of unnecessary errors. 10 minutes in, Porto had a decent chance as Mariano jumped between John O'Shea and Rio Ferdinand to connect with a deep Raul Meireles cross, which fortunately went wide. Two minutes later Patrice Evra was booked for clattering into Mariano. A nervous Evra again failed to close Mariano down at 85 minutes but fortunately Lopez sidefooted Mariano’s cross straight to Van de Sar. These were tense times for United fans, with both teams painfully aware that United’s lead was very fragile with a single goal from Porto being enough for the home side.
However Manchester United managed to hold on to set up a mouth watering all English semi with Arsenal. For the fifth season in a row English football is guaranteed a representative in the final, which is further evidence of the quality of the beautiful game in our green and pleasant land. If only more of the players in our top clubs were English, but that is a debate for another time ...
Throughout the second half the Porto substitute Mariano caused problems for United, pushing Evra into a number of unnecessary errors. 10 minutes in, Porto had a decent chance as Mariano jumped between John O'Shea and Rio Ferdinand to connect with a deep Raul Meireles cross, which fortunately went wide. Two minutes later Patrice Evra was booked for clattering into Mariano. A nervous Evra again failed to close Mariano down at 85 minutes but fortunately Lopez sidefooted Mariano’s cross straight to Van de Sar. These were tense times for United fans, with both teams painfully aware that United’s lead was very fragile with a single goal from Porto being enough for the home side.
However Manchester United managed to hold on to set up a mouth watering all English semi with Arsenal. For the fifth season in a row English football is guaranteed a representative in the final, which is further evidence of the quality of the beautiful game in our green and pleasant land. If only more of the players in our top clubs were English, but that is a debate for another time ...
Champions League Quarter Final Result 15th April Arsenal 3 Villareal 0
The pre-match ovation for Pires was a nice touch from the Arsenal fans and well deserved by the veteran of over 300 games in the Arsenal kit. Despite his disparaging comments in the week about the youth of Arsenal’s team, Pires also said that if he scored he wouldn’t celebrate out of respect for his old club. The Arsenal fans were of course hoping not to witness that gesture as with only the single away goal under their belts, Arsenal really didn’t want Villareal to score at the Emirates.
Arsenal started very brightly with a handful of attempts on goal in the few minutes and rightfully deserved to go ahead after 10 minutes with Walcott skilfully converting a cheeky flick from Fabregas. Throughout the first half Walcott looked threatening on the right with Adebayor also pushing forward strongly. Arsenal thought they’d scored a second after 28 mins when Adebayor followed up a free kick from Van Persie, but despite howlers from the Villareal defence the ball didn’t quite go over the line.
Villareal did begin to wake up as the half progressed. Although they never looked convincing at the back with Gonzalo in particular making a number of errors, Villareal did start to look dangerous going forward. Arsenal had a nervy end to the first half with Villareal conceding a corner, which fortunately was headed over the crossbar.
Arsenal started well in the second half but hit a nervous patch as the first hour approached by conceding a number of free kicks. However Arsenal answered any accusations of fielding too inexperienced a team when Adebayor got on the end of a great pass from Van Persie and scored just before the first hour.
At 66 minutes Walcott won a penalty after being brought down by Godin. The Villareal players protested strongly with Eguren pushing the referee too far and ending up with a red card for his trouble. Van Persie sent it screaming into the top right corner to shatter 10 man Villareal’s hopes for the tie and to set Arsenal up for a semi final with Manchester United. Should be a great tie!
Arsenal started very brightly with a handful of attempts on goal in the few minutes and rightfully deserved to go ahead after 10 minutes with Walcott skilfully converting a cheeky flick from Fabregas. Throughout the first half Walcott looked threatening on the right with Adebayor also pushing forward strongly. Arsenal thought they’d scored a second after 28 mins when Adebayor followed up a free kick from Van Persie, but despite howlers from the Villareal defence the ball didn’t quite go over the line.
Villareal did begin to wake up as the half progressed. Although they never looked convincing at the back with Gonzalo in particular making a number of errors, Villareal did start to look dangerous going forward. Arsenal had a nervy end to the first half with Villareal conceding a corner, which fortunately was headed over the crossbar.
Arsenal started well in the second half but hit a nervous patch as the first hour approached by conceding a number of free kicks. However Arsenal answered any accusations of fielding too inexperienced a team when Adebayor got on the end of a great pass from Van Persie and scored just before the first hour.
At 66 minutes Walcott won a penalty after being brought down by Godin. The Villareal players protested strongly with Eguren pushing the referee too far and ending up with a red card for his trouble. Van Persie sent it screaming into the top right corner to shatter 10 man Villareal’s hopes for the tie and to set Arsenal up for a semi final with Manchester United. Should be a great tie!
Champions League Quarter Final News 15th April
After last night's champion's league thriller, it's difficult to imagine that tonight's games will be as exciting. However for the fans of both Man United and Arsenal, tonight is definitely a pivotal night in their seasons. Man U of course already have a couple of trophies in the cabinet this season and a fighting chance of winning 3 more, although they've certainly made things difficult for themselves by conceding 2 goals at home to Porto last week. To reach the semi-finals United must win at the Estadio do Dragao, which is something no English side has managed before. However after last night's performances by Liverpool and Chelsea, it feels like anything is possible. United fans will also look to 1999, when United overcame the odds to beat Turin 2:3 after drawing at home and then trailing 0:2 away and then of course went on to win the Champions League final after a dramatic come back against Bayern Munich.
Arsenal only have a mathematical possibility of winning the league this year, although are still in with a chance of winning the FA Cup this year. However the Champions League is particularly poignant to many Arsenal fans, who are still hurting from 2006, when due to Jens Lehman's sending off after 18 minutes, many Gooners feel they never had a proper crack at bringing the trophy back to North London. The 4-1 win against Wigan at the weekend means that, after a poor start to the season, Gunners' only loss this year has been at Roma (a tie they eventually won on penalties). Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger certainly believes his side have the mental strength to beat Villarreal tonight and the Gunners have the advantage of an away goal after drawing 1-1 in the first leg. Arsenal will however be without defenders Johan Djourou and Gael Clichy, which further weakens the Gunners backline in the absence of William Gallas. Goalkeeper Manuel Almunia's ankle also rules him out of tonight's match.
However Villarreal are also under strength, missing midfielder Marcos Senna, the goal scorer of the first leg, who limped off at the weekend with a hamstring injury in a 2-0 defeat by Malaga. The Primera Liga side's midfield is also weakened, with Santi Cazorla injured and wingers Cani and Mati Fernandez doubtful. It will therefore be fascinating night of football. My prediction is that Man United will pull it off tonight by beating Porto 1:2 and that Arsenal will go through by scoring a single goal at the Emirates. So less of a goal fest than last night but all the elements will be in place for a fascinating semi final!
Arsenal only have a mathematical possibility of winning the league this year, although are still in with a chance of winning the FA Cup this year. However the Champions League is particularly poignant to many Arsenal fans, who are still hurting from 2006, when due to Jens Lehman's sending off after 18 minutes, many Gooners feel they never had a proper crack at bringing the trophy back to North London. The 4-1 win against Wigan at the weekend means that, after a poor start to the season, Gunners' only loss this year has been at Roma (a tie they eventually won on penalties). Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger certainly believes his side have the mental strength to beat Villarreal tonight and the Gunners have the advantage of an away goal after drawing 1-1 in the first leg. Arsenal will however be without defenders Johan Djourou and Gael Clichy, which further weakens the Gunners backline in the absence of William Gallas. Goalkeeper Manuel Almunia's ankle also rules him out of tonight's match.
However Villarreal are also under strength, missing midfielder Marcos Senna, the goal scorer of the first leg, who limped off at the weekend with a hamstring injury in a 2-0 defeat by Malaga. The Primera Liga side's midfield is also weakened, with Santi Cazorla injured and wingers Cani and Mati Fernandez doubtful. It will therefore be fascinating night of football. My prediction is that Man United will pull it off tonight by beating Porto 1:2 and that Arsenal will go through by scoring a single goal at the Emirates. So less of a goal fest than last night but all the elements will be in place for a fascinating semi final!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Champions League Football Results 13th April
Football Results - Champions League
Bayern Munich 1 Barcelona 1 (agg 1-5)
Chelsea 5 Liverpool 4 (agg 7-5)
Well as there were 12 goals in total and it was the game I watched, I want to talk about Chelsea's victory against Liverpool. Similarly to the first match it was Liverpool in the first half that bossed the match. However in this match, it was even more accentuated, with one chance for Torres after the first goal from a free kick that left me completely speechless (check this spectacular one out on you tube...Aurelio in the 19th minute) that on a different night would have got them to 2-0. However shortly after that there was a penalty kick awarded to the visitors which I thought seemed a tad harsh - Alonso cracked a great penalty in to get the Reds square on aggregate.
In the second half, Chelsea looked like Guus Hiddink may have had a 'chat' with the players who were out on the football pitch 5 minutes prior to the second half kick off. After some great wing play from substitute Nicola Anelka it was striker that converted the cross from point blank range to get Chelsea right back into this 2nd leg.
Drogba then had a chance to score a second with a fiercely struck free kick that skimmed the side netting. Shortly after this, Chelsea were presented with another free kick which Alex stepped forward to place the ball on the pitch. He unleashed a firebolt of a free kick, smashing the ball into the Liverpool night - again people, you've gotta youtube this one!!
Lampard then made it 3-2 from a close range shot that was nearly saved. Incredibly, Liverpool then netted twice in 81st and 82nd minutes with Lucas and Kuyt respectively. Chelsea stayed resolute for a few minutes, then captain Frank Lampard then made it 4-4 on the night to put it out of the reach with a top class curled effort in the 89th minute.
Probably the best game of the season...its games like this that remind you why we love football.
Bayern Munich 1 Barcelona 1 (agg 1-5)
Chelsea 5 Liverpool 4 (agg 7-5)
Well as there were 12 goals in total and it was the game I watched, I want to talk about Chelsea's victory against Liverpool. Similarly to the first match it was Liverpool in the first half that bossed the match. However in this match, it was even more accentuated, with one chance for Torres after the first goal from a free kick that left me completely speechless (check this spectacular one out on you tube...Aurelio in the 19th minute) that on a different night would have got them to 2-0. However shortly after that there was a penalty kick awarded to the visitors which I thought seemed a tad harsh - Alonso cracked a great penalty in to get the Reds square on aggregate.
In the second half, Chelsea looked like Guus Hiddink may have had a 'chat' with the players who were out on the football pitch 5 minutes prior to the second half kick off. After some great wing play from substitute Nicola Anelka it was striker that converted the cross from point blank range to get Chelsea right back into this 2nd leg.
Drogba then had a chance to score a second with a fiercely struck free kick that skimmed the side netting. Shortly after this, Chelsea were presented with another free kick which Alex stepped forward to place the ball on the pitch. He unleashed a firebolt of a free kick, smashing the ball into the Liverpool night - again people, you've gotta youtube this one!!
Lampard then made it 3-2 from a close range shot that was nearly saved. Incredibly, Liverpool then netted twice in 81st and 82nd minutes with Lucas and Kuyt respectively. Chelsea stayed resolute for a few minutes, then captain Frank Lampard then made it 4-4 on the night to put it out of the reach with a top class curled effort in the 89th minute.
Probably the best game of the season...its games like this that remind you why we love football.
2nd leg Champions League Chelsea vs Liverpool Quarter final
Champions League 2nd Leg Quarter final at Stamford Bridge 14th April Chelsea vs Liverpool
( first leg score: Liverpool 1-3 Chelsea)
I thought the first leg of Liverpool v Chelsea at Anfield thoroughly lived up to my expectations of top quality Champions League football. I thought that FC Porto are the team of the round so far last week but Chelsea in the second half against Liverpool were back to their best.
John Terry's out because of yellow card offences but with Carvalho joining Alex in the centre of defence I think that Chelsea will hold the Reds to a draw. Steven Gerrard is still out with a groin strain and I think this will allow Chelsea to control the possession enough to slow things up enough from the home team's perspective. Should be a great tie, but I think Chelsea would be happy with it being a relatively dull affair. Liverpool have the best striker in the league for it...Chelsea will need to keep Torres tightly marked and physically challenged as often as possible without picking up yellow cards.
My prediction would be either 0-0 or 1-1.
( first leg score: Liverpool 1-3 Chelsea)
I thought the first leg of Liverpool v Chelsea at Anfield thoroughly lived up to my expectations of top quality Champions League football. I thought that FC Porto are the team of the round so far last week but Chelsea in the second half against Liverpool were back to their best.
John Terry's out because of yellow card offences but with Carvalho joining Alex in the centre of defence I think that Chelsea will hold the Reds to a draw. Steven Gerrard is still out with a groin strain and I think this will allow Chelsea to control the possession enough to slow things up enough from the home team's perspective. Should be a great tie, but I think Chelsea would be happy with it being a relatively dull affair. Liverpool have the best striker in the league for it...Chelsea will need to keep Torres tightly marked and physically challenged as often as possible without picking up yellow cards.
My prediction would be either 0-0 or 1-1.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Saturday 11 April Premier League action
This is my 100th blog! Thank you to any readers that have commented ove the past 6 months on my footie posts - also please note that guest bloggers are welcome to write about any aspect of the beautiful game.
All grounds will be paying tribute to the Hillsborough 20th anniversary today. I still can't believe that sad day happened 20 years ago...we should be thankful that modern football facilities have moved on so much.
Today's games:
Premier League 11th April fixtures
Chelsea v Bolton
Liverpool v Blackburn
Middlesbrough v Hull
Portsmouth v West Brom
Stoke v Newcastle
Sunderland v Man Utd
Tottenham v West Ham
Wigan v Arsenal
Chelsea and Liverpool could put pressure on Sir Alex's men again this weekend, I think they'll both bag 3 points. I think the Tigers will get an away win at the Riverside, Stoke v Newcastle to draw in their relegation scrap.
Big shout for Spurs today at home against the Hammers....COYS!!!
All grounds will be paying tribute to the Hillsborough 20th anniversary today. I still can't believe that sad day happened 20 years ago...we should be thankful that modern football facilities have moved on so much.
Today's games:
Premier League 11th April fixtures
Chelsea v Bolton
Liverpool v Blackburn
Middlesbrough v Hull
Portsmouth v West Brom
Stoke v Newcastle
Sunderland v Man Utd
Tottenham v West Ham
Wigan v Arsenal
Chelsea and Liverpool could put pressure on Sir Alex's men again this weekend, I think they'll both bag 3 points. I think the Tigers will get an away win at the Riverside, Stoke v Newcastle to draw in their relegation scrap.
Big shout for Spurs today at home against the Hammers....COYS!!!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Champions League Quarter Final Latest
Half time Champions League latest Liverpool 1-1 Chelsea ... the Battle of Britain has lived up to its expectations in the Champions League Quarter final tonight. The second half I think will go to the home side.....Bet on this game now
Quarter Final Champions League results 7th April
1st leg Manchester United 2 FC Porto 2
1st leg Villareal 1 Arsenal 1
Intriguing Champions League action tonight, this competition is really starting to come to life...shame you have to endure the group stages really!
Manchester United were outplayed by FC Porto and were fortunate to go in at half time 1-1. FC Porto controlled possession and broke quickly. Ronaldo and Rooney always looked dangerous on the break and Rooney scored from close range in the first half which saw my 'dead cert' Rooney to score anytime bet come in. Tevez scored a tasty little goal from a cool flick on from Wayne Rooney but FC Porto squared it to 2-2 which was the mininum that the visitors deserved.
Arsenal also struggled by all accounts in the first half of their 1st leg away at Villareal, with injuries to Almunia and Gallas rubbing salt into the wounds with Villareal scoring an absolute beauty rom Spanish international Marcos Senna. The Gunners had to be be happy to be in it at half time and were a completely different team in the second half. The could have scored several times but it was Adebayor who acrobatically equalised with a chest trap and bicycle kick finish, definitely one to youtube.
Quarter Final Champions League results 7th April
1st leg Manchester United 2 FC Porto 2
1st leg Villareal 1 Arsenal 1
Intriguing Champions League action tonight, this competition is really starting to come to life...shame you have to endure the group stages really!
Manchester United were outplayed by FC Porto and were fortunate to go in at half time 1-1. FC Porto controlled possession and broke quickly. Ronaldo and Rooney always looked dangerous on the break and Rooney scored from close range in the first half which saw my 'dead cert' Rooney to score anytime bet come in. Tevez scored a tasty little goal from a cool flick on from Wayne Rooney but FC Porto squared it to 2-2 which was the mininum that the visitors deserved.
Arsenal also struggled by all accounts in the first half of their 1st leg away at Villareal, with injuries to Almunia and Gallas rubbing salt into the wounds with Villareal scoring an absolute beauty rom Spanish international Marcos Senna. The Gunners had to be be happy to be in it at half time and were a completely different team in the second half. The could have scored several times but it was Adebayor who acrobatically equalised with a chest trap and bicycle kick finish, definitely one to youtube.
Champions League Quarter Finals news
Tonight's Quarter final (first leg) Champions League ties:
Man Utd v FC Porto
Villarreal v Arsenal
After the fun and games at Old Trafford on Sunday, you would think that Rooney will add the spark to the party and United will win at home against FC Porto. 17 year old Maceda's debut goal reminds you of a young Rooney hitting the Premier League scene in an Everton shirt...I think Rooney to score anytime is well worth a bet.
For a quick online SkyBet - click here and register now!
Arsenal have a real tough one away at Villarreal, I really wouldn't want to attempt predicting the result in terms of win/lose/draw but I think an under 2.5 goal bet is worth a go.
Tomorrow's matches:
Wednesday, 8 April 2009 Quarter final 1st Leg Champions League
Barcelona v Bayern Munich (Kick-off time: 19:45)
Liverpool v Chelsea (Kick-off time: 19:45)
Man Utd v FC Porto
Villarreal v Arsenal
After the fun and games at Old Trafford on Sunday, you would think that Rooney will add the spark to the party and United will win at home against FC Porto. 17 year old Maceda's debut goal reminds you of a young Rooney hitting the Premier League scene in an Everton shirt...I think Rooney to score anytime is well worth a bet.
For a quick online SkyBet - click here and register now!
Arsenal have a real tough one away at Villarreal, I really wouldn't want to attempt predicting the result in terms of win/lose/draw but I think an under 2.5 goal bet is worth a go.
Tomorrow's matches:
Wednesday, 8 April 2009 Quarter final 1st Leg Champions League
Barcelona v Bayern Munich (Kick-off time: 19:45)
Liverpool v Chelsea (Kick-off time: 19:45)
Friday, April 3, 2009
Premier League action - Blackburn v Spurs 3rd April 2009
My personal highlight for this weekend's Premier League fixtures will be attending Blackburn Rovers vs Tottenham Hotspur at Ewood Park for a crucial 6 pointer...I still consider Spurs to be in the relegation dog fight. Blackburn Rovers have had a long, hard season with managerial issues. Paul Ince was appointed as Rovers boss in August just before the start of the 2009-2010 season and wasn't given a budget - which was his main complaint when being sacked just before the winter transfer window. Then ex-Bolton boss Sam Allardyce arrived back to Lancashire when Blackburn Rovers were in the bottom three and has definitely steadied the ship but between Pedersen, Santa Cruz and the gang they are still not out of it. This will be my fifth time to this fixture, both teams play good football so it is always easy on the eye. Blackburn's corporate hospitality is excellent, good food and ex-player guest speakers make the day extra special. I've also been pre-warned that we might be approached by one of the corporate hospitality, inviting you on to the football pitch to have a photograph taken with one of the Blackburn Rovers players. Now, my good lady and I are about to have a baby boy - is it fair that I see this as his first chance to go on to a Football pitch...a Premier League one at that?!
Any way, my money will be on with my heart - 0-2 or 1-2 to the Tottenham.
Watch this space for a match report and full details.
Any way, my money will be on with my heart - 0-2 or 1-2 to the Tottenham.
Watch this space for a match report and full details.
Shearer second-coming typical Toon thinking
Newcastle United’s imminent appointment of former hero Alan Shearer as boss until the end of the season will be lauded by the passionate Magpies fans as being a masterstroke – the man who can lead them out of the Premier League relegation mire and, hopefully, help usher in a bright new era at St James’ Park.
Don’t believe a word of it. On the face of it, it seems a logical decision to bring back the striking legend to stir the Geordies – both on and off the pitch –but surely Shearer’s short-term appointment smacks of more Newcastle short-sightedness plucked right out of the ‘Kevin Keegan-quick-fix’ box.
If KK couldn’t do the job second-time around then how they think Shearer, with his complete lack of experience in a role like this, will do any better is beyond me.
The former No.9 is likely to engender a superb atmosphere in the dressing room and will ensure the downbeat fans have something tangible to cling on to in the remaining eight games of the season, that’s for sure. And, while it might work in the next few weeks and Shearer may save their bacon and keep them in the top flight, surely then it’s time for some long-awaited long-term thinking in the north east. How about appointing an experienced, continental coach? And getting hold of Gerard Houllier or Sven Goran Eriksson’s phone numbers might be a start.
From the outside looking in, this huge provincial club always appears to be led by the heart with its all-singing and dancing ‘Toon Army’ dictating the direction. Keegan’s return last year was going to be the catalyst for another rebirth, but it failed dismally. I can’t help but think Shearer’s return will eventually end in similar embarrassment.
Guest Blogger Aidan Perkins is a sports journalist who writes regularly for Betfair.
Don’t believe a word of it. On the face of it, it seems a logical decision to bring back the striking legend to stir the Geordies – both on and off the pitch –but surely Shearer’s short-term appointment smacks of more Newcastle short-sightedness plucked right out of the ‘Kevin Keegan-quick-fix’ box.
If KK couldn’t do the job second-time around then how they think Shearer, with his complete lack of experience in a role like this, will do any better is beyond me.
The former No.9 is likely to engender a superb atmosphere in the dressing room and will ensure the downbeat fans have something tangible to cling on to in the remaining eight games of the season, that’s for sure. And, while it might work in the next few weeks and Shearer may save their bacon and keep them in the top flight, surely then it’s time for some long-awaited long-term thinking in the north east. How about appointing an experienced, continental coach? And getting hold of Gerard Houllier or Sven Goran Eriksson’s phone numbers might be a start.
From the outside looking in, this huge provincial club always appears to be led by the heart with its all-singing and dancing ‘Toon Army’ dictating the direction. Keegan’s return last year was going to be the catalyst for another rebirth, but it failed dismally. I can’t help but think Shearer’s return will eventually end in similar embarrassment.
Guest Blogger Aidan Perkins is a sports journalist who writes regularly for Betfair.
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