The Welsh FA have pre-warned the likes of Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey ahead of the 2012 Olympics that should they decide to participate they will be banned from appearing again in the Welsh side.
The fact that this is the year for Euro 2012 and that the Olympics will be sandwiched by the Euros and the new Premier League season 2012/2013 will probably make this element of the Olympics a non-event.
The British side would look good with Bale complimenting some of his Premier League colleagues...wouldn't we want to see it in action? Are the Welsh FA being a little bit harsh?
Friday, December 24, 2010
Monday, December 13, 2010
Monday 13th December Manchester United 1 Arsenal 0 Premier League report
13/12/2010 Manchester United 1 Arsenal 0 Premiership result
Sky Sports determined the awkward Monday evening fixture of the big clash Manchester United against in form Arsenal. Currently the Premier League is wide open with 5 teams in it - with all of the big boys playing each other in the next few weeks you would imagine that this will be down to 3 once the festive period is completed.
26 of the 33 Chilean miners the survived the recent disaster attended this evening's match with a great chaperone in David Beckham
In typical fashion, the Old Trafford crowd witnessed a game of chess as these two giants tested each other mainly in midfield. Arsenal looked dangerous on the break but possibly lacking striking power agianst Vidic and Ferdinand. Nasri showed good poise on the ball, demonstrating that he is the key man currently form wise.
The goal came in the 41st minute for Man Utd from a long ball which Arsenal failed to clear efficiently. Rooney flicked a header over to Nani who moved inside with admirable disguise and Ji-Sung Park cleverly contorted his neck to get into a position where he could loop a header over Wojciech Szczesny. A blow for Wenger as scoring 2 at OT is not the easiest task even when you are the Arsenal.
The Gunners started brightly in the second half with Nasri playing in a more advanced central position. They played grest one touch football with Wilshere, Nasri and Arshavin all providing classy movement and passing.
However Fergie's midfield remained resilient with good grafting from Fletcher and Anderson. The Red Devils flexed their muscle when they needed to but it was a good honest contest with no stupid challenges. Wenger got to the 1 hour mark and decided to take a bit of a risk with so much at stake. A double subsitution followed, Rosicky came off for Cesc Fabregas and Wilshere came off for Robin Van Persie.
Wayne Rooney battled well as the lone striker, showing some signs of his unstoppable form in the 2009/2010 season. Nani also displayed persistent qualities in the 72nd minute inside the box, leading to a harsh penalty where Clichy was to have judged to handled. Rooney stepped up and surprisingly gave it the Chris Waddle 1990 treatment, skying the ball over the Arsenal cross bar giving Wenger's men a lifeline.
Arsenal still seemed a bit short. In the 76th minute, Arshavin was substituted for Theo Walcott in an attempt to increase the pressure on the Man Utd back four. Fergie's midfield packed the centre of the park, protecting their defence impressively. This frustrated the Gunners and forced them into optimistic long range shots as they moved into the last 10 minutes.
Walcott had some nice touches, linking up with Fabregas but the home team seemed to work harder and display more physical strength in the central areas of the pitch. As Manchester United successfully killed off the last few remaining minutes, Old Trafford legend Ryan Giggs came on in the 84th minute.
Rooney had a good chance towards the end, trying to chip Szczesny who got a palm to the ball. Rooney did look incredibly sharp and linked up with Ryan Giggs a couple of times showing that he is very much still a huge part of the Manchester United future.
With 4 minutes of added time, Arsenal struggled to find any space in the final third as they desperately attempted to put pressure on the home team. Walcott had one half chance in the 93rd minute but volleyed over the bar allowing Van der Sar to run down some more seconds. The ref blew up to see the home team grab 3 huge points to make a big move for the Premier League, putting Manchester United top with 34 points.
Sky Sports determined the awkward Monday evening fixture of the big clash Manchester United against in form Arsenal. Currently the Premier League is wide open with 5 teams in it - with all of the big boys playing each other in the next few weeks you would imagine that this will be down to 3 once the festive period is completed.
26 of the 33 Chilean miners the survived the recent disaster attended this evening's match with a great chaperone in David Beckham
In typical fashion, the Old Trafford crowd witnessed a game of chess as these two giants tested each other mainly in midfield. Arsenal looked dangerous on the break but possibly lacking striking power agianst Vidic and Ferdinand. Nasri showed good poise on the ball, demonstrating that he is the key man currently form wise.
The goal came in the 41st minute for Man Utd from a long ball which Arsenal failed to clear efficiently. Rooney flicked a header over to Nani who moved inside with admirable disguise and Ji-Sung Park cleverly contorted his neck to get into a position where he could loop a header over Wojciech Szczesny. A blow for Wenger as scoring 2 at OT is not the easiest task even when you are the Arsenal.
The Gunners started brightly in the second half with Nasri playing in a more advanced central position. They played grest one touch football with Wilshere, Nasri and Arshavin all providing classy movement and passing.
However Fergie's midfield remained resilient with good grafting from Fletcher and Anderson. The Red Devils flexed their muscle when they needed to but it was a good honest contest with no stupid challenges. Wenger got to the 1 hour mark and decided to take a bit of a risk with so much at stake. A double subsitution followed, Rosicky came off for Cesc Fabregas and Wilshere came off for Robin Van Persie.
Wayne Rooney battled well as the lone striker, showing some signs of his unstoppable form in the 2009/2010 season. Nani also displayed persistent qualities in the 72nd minute inside the box, leading to a harsh penalty where Clichy was to have judged to handled. Rooney stepped up and surprisingly gave it the Chris Waddle 1990 treatment, skying the ball over the Arsenal cross bar giving Wenger's men a lifeline.
Arsenal still seemed a bit short. In the 76th minute, Arshavin was substituted for Theo Walcott in an attempt to increase the pressure on the Man Utd back four. Fergie's midfield packed the centre of the park, protecting their defence impressively. This frustrated the Gunners and forced them into optimistic long range shots as they moved into the last 10 minutes.
Walcott had some nice touches, linking up with Fabregas but the home team seemed to work harder and display more physical strength in the central areas of the pitch. As Manchester United successfully killed off the last few remaining minutes, Old Trafford legend Ryan Giggs came on in the 84th minute.
Rooney had a good chance towards the end, trying to chip Szczesny who got a palm to the ball. Rooney did look incredibly sharp and linked up with Ryan Giggs a couple of times showing that he is very much still a huge part of the Manchester United future.
With 4 minutes of added time, Arsenal struggled to find any space in the final third as they desperately attempted to put pressure on the home team. Walcott had one half chance in the 93rd minute but volleyed over the bar allowing Van der Sar to run down some more seconds. The ref blew up to see the home team grab 3 huge points to make a big move for the Premier League, putting Manchester United top with 34 points.
Monday, December 6, 2010
How to not run a football club
>> No.1. Sack a manager with a firm pedigree in achieving top half finishes.
>> No.2. Appoint a flakey manager with a history of walking out if things get tough.
>> No.3 Piss off said flakey manger by appointing Dennis Wise above his head, or by just appointing Dennis Wise full stop.
>> No.4 Act all surprised when said Flakey manager flounces off.
>> No.5. Appoint a manager with a history of heart problems.
>> No.6 Act all surprised when said manager has heart problems.
>> No.7 Appoint a former player who has taken charge of 0 games.
>> No.8 Act all surprised when you get relegated.
>> No.9 Under no circumstances entrust the team to the highly regarded no.2.
>> No.10 Wait until the highly regarded no.2 has got the team into the top half of the table and has the team settled, playing well and liked for the first time in years and sack him.
>> No.11 Act all surprised when you get relegated.
>> No.2. Appoint a flakey manager with a history of walking out if things get tough.
>> No.3 Piss off said flakey manger by appointing Dennis Wise above his head, or by just appointing Dennis Wise full stop.
>> No.4 Act all surprised when said Flakey manager flounces off.
>> No.5. Appoint a manager with a history of heart problems.
>> No.6 Act all surprised when said manager has heart problems.
>> No.7 Appoint a former player who has taken charge of 0 games.
>> No.8 Act all surprised when you get relegated.
>> No.9 Under no circumstances entrust the team to the highly regarded no.2.
>> No.10 Wait until the highly regarded no.2 has got the team into the top half of the table and has the team settled, playing well and liked for the first time in years and sack him.
>> No.11 Act all surprised when you get relegated.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Arsenal v Spurs Saturday 20th November 2010 Premiership preview
Premier League preview: Arsenal versus Tottenham H Emirates 12.45pm 20/11/2010
This is a London derby not to miss, as ex-gooner captain William Gallas travels to the Emirates stadium with his new club Tottenham Hotspur.
The clash will remind football fans of Sol Campbell making his first trip back to White Hart Lane as an Arsenal player, where the abuse and missiles were relentless as the Spurs fans demonstrated the fierce rivalry between these two North London clubs.
To spice up the atmosphere with Gallas even further, French forward Samir Nasri has stated that he will blank Gallas pre-match and not shake his hand. There are rumours that suggest that Nasri has abone to pick with Gallas since the release of his autobiography had references to Euro 2008 and Nasri's supposed negative influence.
The big question for the travelling team will be whether missed forward Jermaine Defoe starts, who is back after an ankle injury. Harry Redknapp has dearly missed Defoe, who yesterday reinforced this fact that missing the England striker for 6-7 games will always mean that you run the risk of dropping points - which has been the case for the lily whites. It is more than likely that Crouch will start and Redknapp will use Defoe as an impact player. Dutch hit Van der Vaart will play a supporting striker role, giving the Spurs team a real added dimension.
Tottenham's staccato league form however is mainly down to their UEFA Champions League debut. Through injury and midweek fatigue, Redknapp has been frustrated by mediocre peformances and forced into regular squad rotation leading to missed opportunities in the form of points.
After recent losses at home against West Brom and Newcastle, Wenger will be keen to show Chelsea and Manchester United that they are a serious Premier League contender in this 2010/2011 campaign - their record in these North London derbies is good when playing at home - most tip the Gunners for a win. Popping into second regularly has given the Arsenal faithful hope - but 3 points today would put them momentarily into 1st - giving their players added belief that this could well be the season to get some silverware.
Jack Wilshere is expected to start, recovering from a back problem which kept him out of the midweek friendly against France.
Predicted first 11 line-ups
Gunners: Fabianski (GK), Sagna, Squillaci, Djourou, Clichy, Song, Wilshere, Fabregas, Nasri, Walcott, Chamakh.
Spurs: Gomes (GK), Hutton, Gallas, Bassong, Assou-Ekotto, Modric, Palacios, Jenas, Bale, Van der Vaart, Crouch.
Should a a great Premier League derby!
This is a London derby not to miss, as ex-gooner captain William Gallas travels to the Emirates stadium with his new club Tottenham Hotspur.
The clash will remind football fans of Sol Campbell making his first trip back to White Hart Lane as an Arsenal player, where the abuse and missiles were relentless as the Spurs fans demonstrated the fierce rivalry between these two North London clubs.
To spice up the atmosphere with Gallas even further, French forward Samir Nasri has stated that he will blank Gallas pre-match and not shake his hand. There are rumours that suggest that Nasri has abone to pick with Gallas since the release of his autobiography had references to Euro 2008 and Nasri's supposed negative influence.
The big question for the travelling team will be whether missed forward Jermaine Defoe starts, who is back after an ankle injury. Harry Redknapp has dearly missed Defoe, who yesterday reinforced this fact that missing the England striker for 6-7 games will always mean that you run the risk of dropping points - which has been the case for the lily whites. It is more than likely that Crouch will start and Redknapp will use Defoe as an impact player. Dutch hit Van der Vaart will play a supporting striker role, giving the Spurs team a real added dimension.
Tottenham's staccato league form however is mainly down to their UEFA Champions League debut. Through injury and midweek fatigue, Redknapp has been frustrated by mediocre peformances and forced into regular squad rotation leading to missed opportunities in the form of points.
After recent losses at home against West Brom and Newcastle, Wenger will be keen to show Chelsea and Manchester United that they are a serious Premier League contender in this 2010/2011 campaign - their record in these North London derbies is good when playing at home - most tip the Gunners for a win. Popping into second regularly has given the Arsenal faithful hope - but 3 points today would put them momentarily into 1st - giving their players added belief that this could well be the season to get some silverware.
Jack Wilshere is expected to start, recovering from a back problem which kept him out of the midweek friendly against France.
Predicted first 11 line-ups
Gunners: Fabianski (GK), Sagna, Squillaci, Djourou, Clichy, Song, Wilshere, Fabregas, Nasri, Walcott, Chamakh.
Spurs: Gomes (GK), Hutton, Gallas, Bassong, Assou-Ekotto, Modric, Palacios, Jenas, Bale, Van der Vaart, Crouch.
Should a a great Premier League derby!
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Chris Houghton gets the sack?!?!
A formal statement came out from St James Park tonight regarding Chris Houghton's future at Newcastle United. Newcastle confirmed that Chris Houghton will remain in place as manager of the magpies until the end of the season and that his contract would be re-negotiated at this point.
But then...
Ashley sacks Houghton ?!?! This has to be the worst board decision in the history of the premier league...see my latest article
Chris Houghton - you will be rewarded by a good club with a clever chairman, hopefully with a club that will help send your old club down!
Carling Cup 4th round Newcastle 0 Arsenal 4 27th October 2010
A glamour tie for the Geordies this evening as Arsenal made the trek to St James Park in the Carling Cup fourth round.
Wenger selected a decent team - one that you could see in the Premier League which I found refreshing. Why not - it's a day at Wembley for the fans...it potentially silverware that the Arsenal trophy cabinet could do with!
Arsenal assumed their normal fresh, one touch passing system in the first half as the home team managed to maintain rigidity in midfield and defence. Arsenal piled on quite a bit of pressure prior to the half time break and managed to put a corner in resulting in a goalkeeping blunder from rookie Tim Krul, who spilt a catch into his own net. Cruel, it could be said in the 45th minute but this seemed a fair reflection in the 1st half.
In the second half, Arsenal started brightly and managed to double their lead when Theo Walcott found himself in lots of space behind the back four with Nickolas Bendtner scampering out of the way from an offside position. Bendtner collided with one of the Newcastle central defenders and Walcott coolly slotted home past Krul for his 5th goal of the season. Fabio - get this lad back in our England 1st eleven!
Newcastle then brought on Andy Carroll and Enrique and this resulted in a decent spell of pressure lasting 10-15 minutes for the home side. They plugged away but Arsenal defended very well.
Fabregas came on towards the conclusion of this tie for run out but this proved completely academic. Bendtner too advantage of a Guthrie error and went on to smash a third in - great finish...worth a look on the highlights or Youtube. In the 85th minute, Ryan Taylor hit a great free kick stretching Szczesny to his absolute limit.
Walcott grabbed a second goal to make it 0-4 - flattering given the mid game spell that Newcastle United had but the Gunners took their chances well, with great on the break style away tactics.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Champions League Fixtures 20th October 2010: Inter vs Spurs
Champions League October 20th: Inter Milan vs Tottenham
The last time I was at the San Siro in a Spurs top it was during the dark days of Juande Ramos' reign and I was heckled by some fellow British tourists for languishing in the relegation zone. This evening it is a very different story as we take on Inter equal on points in the Champions League table. All the Lilywhites who have made the journey to this great stadium can wear their strips with pride as we are riding high in the Premiership and have shown great spirit and form in recent fixtures, particularly in our outing to Craven Cottage last weekend when we came from behind to claim all three points.
It is a shame that van der Vaart is suspended as he has proved to be a great signing for us and unfortunately Ledley King is injured and joins Defoe, Dawson, O'Hara and Woodgate in the sickbay. Hopefully Gallas and Kaboul will be available however. Additionally to give the game some extra spice both Crouchy and former Inter player Keano are both available to start and both have some personal demons to fight in the shape of demonstrating to Benitez how he hunder-rated them during their spells under him at Liverpool, which should play in Spurs' favour. Inter are also missing one of their strongest players - striker Diego Milito - but unfortunately for the away fans Samual Eto'o is likely to start and having already put 16 in the back of the net this season, he is at the top of his form and is to be feared.
Spurs fans are quick to point out that they were victorious in their last away encounter with a Benitez-managed team (2:1 last season at Anfield) but Inter fans would be just as eager to argue that Inter are just too strong at home for Spurs to pose a serious threat. Their last home defeat in this competition came in November 2008.
Contrary to popular belief Spurs have played in the San Siro before though, although we've never played against Inter. We managed a draw against AC Milan in the 1972 UEFA Cup semi-final, which got us through to the final against Wolves due to having won the home leg with 2 Steve Perryman goals. Carlo Cudicini's father actually played in goal for A.C!
Personally just as in 1972 I'd settle for an away draw and then we'll thrash them at White Hart fortress.
It's an amazing stadium, it's an amazing fixture ... COYS ... COYS
The last time I was at the San Siro in a Spurs top it was during the dark days of Juande Ramos' reign and I was heckled by some fellow British tourists for languishing in the relegation zone. This evening it is a very different story as we take on Inter equal on points in the Champions League table. All the Lilywhites who have made the journey to this great stadium can wear their strips with pride as we are riding high in the Premiership and have shown great spirit and form in recent fixtures, particularly in our outing to Craven Cottage last weekend when we came from behind to claim all three points.
It is a shame that van der Vaart is suspended as he has proved to be a great signing for us and unfortunately Ledley King is injured and joins Defoe, Dawson, O'Hara and Woodgate in the sickbay. Hopefully Gallas and Kaboul will be available however. Additionally to give the game some extra spice both Crouchy and former Inter player Keano are both available to start and both have some personal demons to fight in the shape of demonstrating to Benitez how he hunder-rated them during their spells under him at Liverpool, which should play in Spurs' favour. Inter are also missing one of their strongest players - striker Diego Milito - but unfortunately for the away fans Samual Eto'o is likely to start and having already put 16 in the back of the net this season, he is at the top of his form and is to be feared.
Spurs fans are quick to point out that they were victorious in their last away encounter with a Benitez-managed team (2:1 last season at Anfield) but Inter fans would be just as eager to argue that Inter are just too strong at home for Spurs to pose a serious threat. Their last home defeat in this competition came in November 2008.
Contrary to popular belief Spurs have played in the San Siro before though, although we've never played against Inter. We managed a draw against AC Milan in the 1972 UEFA Cup semi-final, which got us through to the final against Wolves due to having won the home leg with 2 Steve Perryman goals. Carlo Cudicini's father actually played in goal for A.C!
Personally just as in 1972 I'd settle for an away draw and then we'll thrash them at White Hart fortress.
It's an amazing stadium, it's an amazing fixture ... COYS ... COYS
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Champions League 19th October round up
Chelsea are unstoppable and showed flexed their champions league muscle in Moscow tonight with a 2 nil win. Anelka bagged his 50th Chelsea goal and Carlo Ancelotti's side were not put off by the artificial surface. John Terry also got a chance to put the past in it's place as the last time they visited Moscow they were beaten by Manchster United in the final. Chelsea now top their group with 9 points.
Arsenal beat Shaktar Donetsk 5-1 at the Emirates stadium. Wenger will have been delighted that they could go in at half time 2-0 up with Song and Nasri on the goal sheet. Fabregas, Welshere and Chamakh all scored for the Gunners in the 2nd half with ex-Arsenal player Da Silva getting the consolation goal.
Arsenal beat Shaktar Donetsk 5-1 at the Emirates stadium. Wenger will have been delighted that they could go in at half time 2-0 up with Song and Nasri on the goal sheet. Fabregas, Welshere and Chamakh all scored for the Gunners in the 2nd half with ex-Arsenal player Da Silva getting the consolation goal.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Champions League Werder Bremen 2 Tottenham 2
No wonder Harry Redknapp has been strongly linked with the England post which is seemingly vacant from 2012 after the European Championships. Redknapp has clearly delivered at White Hart Lane. Displaying cunning fox-like ways in the transfer market (the latest example Van der Vaart seems to be settling in very quickly) and great player development skills (Lennon and Huddlestone as shining examples) Harry has made Spurs a dominant English side that previously had been labelled a poisoned challice by many pundits in the game. With a superb campaign in the 2009/2010 season where Spurs finished fourth, they didn't wobble against the Young Boys beating them 6-3 on aggregate to delight the Spurs faithful.
So the UEFA Champions League virgins Tottenham Hotspur started explosively, scoring twice in the first 20 minutes.
Left wing wizard Gareth Bale got to the goal line to cross nicely into England striker Peter Crouch who went to slot the ball in displaying goalscorer positioning. However, Werder Bremen Pasanen put the ball in for an unfortunate own goal.
It was Crouchy who scored the second for the lily whites, looping a header home from an Ekotto cross. Great midfield movement and passing from the North London travellers, they really did stretch Werder Bremen. Brilliant header from Peter Crouch, using his size and heading skill. Dominating possession for the whole of the first half, Tottenham Hotspur could have had half a dozen goals, peppering the Werder Bremen goal with shots on target. Gareth Bale was outsanding as was Peter Crouch and new dutch signing Van der Vaart.
The home team managed to steal one against the run of play, with Almeida scoring in the 43rd minute after some sloppy Spurs defending. A great opportunity for Werder Bremen was created from this moment on.
In the second half, the home team started very brightly, with Cudicini making a great save tipping a superb long range shot over the bar. Marin then scored an absolutely exquisite goal, hitting a drive from outside the box.
Marin and Almeida continuted to pile on pressure to the hear of the Tottenham Hotspur defence. This seemed to impact on the visitor's approach to the match early on in the second half, Spurs looked tentative and reluctant to pile forward in the aggressive manner that brought them their 2 goal lead in the 1st half.
Werder Bremen were good for a draw - exciting times for Tottenham Hotspur as they claim their first UEFA Champions League point.
COYS ;-)
So the UEFA Champions League virgins Tottenham Hotspur started explosively, scoring twice in the first 20 minutes.
Left wing wizard Gareth Bale got to the goal line to cross nicely into England striker Peter Crouch who went to slot the ball in displaying goalscorer positioning. However, Werder Bremen Pasanen put the ball in for an unfortunate own goal.
It was Crouchy who scored the second for the lily whites, looping a header home from an Ekotto cross. Great midfield movement and passing from the North London travellers, they really did stretch Werder Bremen. Brilliant header from Peter Crouch, using his size and heading skill. Dominating possession for the whole of the first half, Tottenham Hotspur could have had half a dozen goals, peppering the Werder Bremen goal with shots on target. Gareth Bale was outsanding as was Peter Crouch and new dutch signing Van der Vaart.
The home team managed to steal one against the run of play, with Almeida scoring in the 43rd minute after some sloppy Spurs defending. A great opportunity for Werder Bremen was created from this moment on.
In the second half, the home team started very brightly, with Cudicini making a great save tipping a superb long range shot over the bar. Marin then scored an absolutely exquisite goal, hitting a drive from outside the box.
Marin and Almeida continuted to pile on pressure to the hear of the Tottenham Hotspur defence. This seemed to impact on the visitor's approach to the match early on in the second half, Spurs looked tentative and reluctant to pile forward in the aggressive manner that brought them their 2 goal lead in the 1st half.
Werder Bremen were good for a draw - exciting times for Tottenham Hotspur as they claim their first UEFA Champions League point.
COYS ;-)
Monday, August 16, 2010
Manchester Utd 3 Newcastle Utd 0 Premier League result
Great to see Newcastle Utd back in the big time, travelling away to Old Trafford last night with plenty of topless fat Geordies enjoying the Lancashire August evening sunshine. Chris Houghton had his troops well organised for this glamourous tie against Sir Alex Ferguson's 11, packing the midfield and defence successfully until the 32nd minute where Valencia managed to regain possession and feed Berbatov to slot home the opener for Manchester United in his 3rd season at the Red Devils.
As Houghton's men pushed on, space became apparent for Man Utd and Newscastle started to look weary. You could see a second coming and it did. Nani cleverly feed in to Evra and the cross from the left back was put into the Newcastle net by Fletcher. A deserved 2-0 at the break for Fergie's boys.
In the second half, Manchester United pushed on with bossing the promoted Newcastle. The magpies worked hard to try and build possession in the final 3rd but the front line couldn't get anything to stick. Man Utd started to move the ball around with ease, Scholes particularly showing that he on his day is one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.
Scholes then combined with Giggs to score a superb goal, a well controlled volley going across the Newcastle keeper. A regulation victory for the ex champions and great to see the Man Utd veterans still keeping in great physical condition.
As Houghton's men pushed on, space became apparent for Man Utd and Newscastle started to look weary. You could see a second coming and it did. Nani cleverly feed in to Evra and the cross from the left back was put into the Newcastle net by Fletcher. A deserved 2-0 at the break for Fergie's boys.
In the second half, Manchester United pushed on with bossing the promoted Newcastle. The magpies worked hard to try and build possession in the final 3rd but the front line couldn't get anything to stick. Man Utd started to move the ball around with ease, Scholes particularly showing that he on his day is one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.
Scholes then combined with Giggs to score a superb goal, a well controlled volley going across the Newcastle keeper. A regulation victory for the ex champions and great to see the Man Utd veterans still keeping in great physical condition.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Torres to stay at Liverpool
Fernando Torres will be staying at Liverpool after speaking to new Reds boss Roy Hodgson. This has to be positive news for the financially challenged Premier League giant despite media criticism of the spanish striker during the World Cup 2010. Torres is a proven goalscorer at Premiership level so it is surprising that football journalists to forget his phenomenal goal scoring rate at Liverpool. The obvious challenge to Hodgson is achieving some balance within his front line to allow Torres to get properly fit - something we haven't seen for 2 years. Has this affected the player's chances of moving on? Perhaps, but Hodgson will recognise true class in Torres and will want him to show his devastating physicality and presence once more to get him back to aiming for in excess of 25 goals per season.
Good work Roy of the Reds!
Good work Roy of the Reds!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Uruguay v Holland
Holland haven't reached the World Cup Final in 1978. That year, Holland lost in extra time 3-1 to host nation Argentina. In 2010, most bookies got it wrong when they progressed past the quarter final pushing aside Dunga's Brazil.
Tonight, the Dutch are the favourites. I think Snejder will turn it on again for them - what a player - you'd love to see him in the Premier League. Gooner Robin Van Persie is fit too, not too mention ex Chelsea left footer Robben.
For Uruguay, this is a return to their old World Cup from years back. You have to go back to 1970 for the last time that they made the semi-finals where they finished fourth. It could be said this year they've over achieved to be the only South American team in the last four, especially when they were the lasr team to qualify for South Africa 2010.
Uruguay star man Diego Forlan will relish this evening's challenge - he has had a superb World Cup and this is one player you could imagine coming back to England after a mixed spell with Manchester United.
This semi-final should be a great game - very tight. Good luck to Uruguay!
Tonight, the Dutch are the favourites. I think Snejder will turn it on again for them - what a player - you'd love to see him in the Premier League. Gooner Robin Van Persie is fit too, not too mention ex Chelsea left footer Robben.
For Uruguay, this is a return to their old World Cup from years back. You have to go back to 1970 for the last time that they made the semi-finals where they finished fourth. It could be said this year they've over achieved to be the only South American team in the last four, especially when they were the lasr team to qualify for South Africa 2010.
Uruguay star man Diego Forlan will relish this evening's challenge - he has had a superb World Cup and this is one player you could imagine coming back to England after a mixed spell with Manchester United.
This semi-final should be a great game - very tight. Good luck to Uruguay!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Slovenia 0 England 1 World Cup 2010 RESULT
England were runner's up in Group C with USA topping the group. Were England great in this 0-1 victory against Slovenia? Yes! Especially mid second half, England were electric. Attacking, passing waves of football.
Rooney, Lampard and Gerard were all great - our key players that can make us winning the World Cup. James Milner stroked the ball about in a way that makes you think that he could be key and the other new recruit Jermain Defoe did what he does best - putting the ball into the net to put us into the last 16.
Great form from the Chelsea defenders Cole and Terry. Ashley Cole looks like the best left back in the world and John Terry comes across as an unofficial captain as he rallyed round the players at full time. Nothing like a win to galvanise the boys.
Fabio Capello said "I re-found the team that got qualification." A sharp upturn in form - we will need to keep upping our game but isn't it great to stay in the World Cup??
ENG - GER - LAND !
Rooney, Lampard and Gerard were all great - our key players that can make us winning the World Cup. James Milner stroked the ball about in a way that makes you think that he could be key and the other new recruit Jermain Defoe did what he does best - putting the ball into the net to put us into the last 16.
Great form from the Chelsea defenders Cole and Terry. Ashley Cole looks like the best left back in the world and John Terry comes across as an unofficial captain as he rallyed round the players at full time. Nothing like a win to galvanise the boys.
Fabio Capello said "I re-found the team that got qualification." A sharp upturn in form - we will need to keep upping our game but isn't it great to stay in the World Cup??
ENG - GER - LAND !
Slovenia 0 England 1. Defoe and Milner have a great first half.
England are winning their group match 1-0 against Slovenia. They came close several times to a second and it should come. Good tactical decisions were displayed by Fabio Capello. Amongst the sounds of vuvuzelas in South Africa, England displayed more composure and improved passing skills. Jermaine Defoe scored from a James Milner cross early in the first half of this make or break World Cup group match. Great cross after great cross from James Milner, who will be making it hard for Aaron Lennon to get that right sided midfield slot back again. Gerard was relatively discipline in the first half for England - the formation is better but I think there is more that could be done to make us look like World Cup champions.
James Milner starts for England in Midfield. Come on England
Good luck to Jame Milner of Horsforth today - always great to see a Leeds lad in the first team of England in the World Cup!
James Milner will take the right side of midfield from Aaron Lennon (of Chapeltown, Leeds!) after a below par appearance.
James Milner will take the right side of midfield from Aaron Lennon (of Chapeltown, Leeds!) after a below par appearance.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
10 reasons why England can win the World Cup
Beckenbauer - the kaiser of comedy. I think this will galvanise our boys - I want Robert Green to start and play out of his skin. If we show the form we did in the World Cup qualification process, then we will make the semi-final stage at least.
Here are my ten reasons why the mighty England can win the 2010 World Cup:
1. Wayne Rooney. The best in the world.
2. Steven Gerrard. If Kaka had scored that goal against USA the media would still be bleating on about it.
3. Frank Lampard. Stepping up to partner Gerard proving all critics wrong.
4. Aaron Lennon. Looking sharp and every bit a first team choice.
5. Glenn Johnson. Our best defender against the americans.
6. Ashley Cole. Best left back in the world.
7. John Terry. Calm on the ball and tough when off it.
8. Fabio Capello. Flawless tactician and organiser.
9. Emile Heskey. Not there for goals - there for the team.
10. Team spirit. Three lions boys!
Here are my ten reasons why the mighty England can win the 2010 World Cup:
1. Wayne Rooney. The best in the world.
2. Steven Gerrard. If Kaka had scored that goal against USA the media would still be bleating on about it.
3. Frank Lampard. Stepping up to partner Gerard proving all critics wrong.
4. Aaron Lennon. Looking sharp and every bit a first team choice.
5. Glenn Johnson. Our best defender against the americans.
6. Ashley Cole. Best left back in the world.
7. John Terry. Calm on the ball and tough when off it.
8. Fabio Capello. Flawless tactician and organiser.
9. Emile Heskey. Not there for goals - there for the team.
10. Team spirit. Three lions boys!
Friday, June 11, 2010
World Cup 2010 Preview Blog
World Cup 2010 South Africa Preview
How exciting is the World Cup? I vividly remember '86, '90, briefly '94 (I like Graham Taylor but he was never the man for England), '98, 2002 and 2006...all fond memories.
So the South Africa vs Mexico game opens the World Cup today. Brave South Africa have put more work into the training ground and friendlies than any other team...we all hope for a respectable home team performance. It would be great to see the South Africans get through the group stage.
The big guns will have a great scrap at last 16/quarter/semi stages. I fancy Argentina to get to the final - I quite fancy England to get to the semis...and at that point - who knows I guess.
Enjoy the international football feast fellow bloggers!
How exciting is the World Cup? I vividly remember '86, '90, briefly '94 (I like Graham Taylor but he was never the man for England), '98, 2002 and 2006...all fond memories.
So the South Africa vs Mexico game opens the World Cup today. Brave South Africa have put more work into the training ground and friendlies than any other team...we all hope for a respectable home team performance. It would be great to see the South Africans get through the group stage.
The big guns will have a great scrap at last 16/quarter/semi stages. I fancy Argentina to get to the final - I quite fancy England to get to the semis...and at that point - who knows I guess.
Enjoy the international football feast fellow bloggers!
Saturday, May 1, 2010
England's First World Cup Round
England's First World Cup Round
England have qualified for the World Cup in South Africa 2010, and having been matched with the USA, Slovenia, and Algeria – the nation begin their games, against the former, on 12th June 2010 in Rustenburg, in the heart of the Savannah Bushveld. Despite a few exceptions, little is known of the USA squad, however, they did beat European Champions Spain recently, and have a few famous Premiership faces in their lineup.
Tim Howard, the ex Manchester United and now Everton goalkeeper will almost certainly start in goal, with Watford defender Jay DeMerit providing a solid basis for the USA defence. However, England should forget about winning the trophy if they fail to beat a side such as the Americans. DeMarcus Beasley, who is currently playing for Rangers, will probably lineup on the left hand side of midfield, and could cause problems with his base and agility – however, he isn’t particularly proven on the world stage, despite a stint at PSV Eindhoven, and Glen Johnston should keep him relatively quiet. The teenage sensation Freddy Adu, currently plying his trade in Portugal, was tipped to be a footballing sensation. He was due for a trial period at Manchester United, and was eagerly scouted by Europe’s top managers – whether he will start against England is another matter, but if he does, he may well be dangerous. England’s defensive midfield, perhaps Gareth Barry if he starts, will be looking to keep tabs on the USA’s most prolific player, the Fulham playmaker, Clint Dempsey. Dempsey is proven at the highest level, and scores regularly in the Premier League – in the game against England, he’ll be looking to slip into the space behind the strikers and feed balls through. One man who’ll be looking to get on the end of those passes, is Landon Donovan, the USA’s most popular player, and David Beckham’s teammate at Los Angeles Galaxy. Donovan has played on loan at Everton this season and has shown just why he’s considered one of the finest players around.
So, England may not have as an easy as group as first thought, however bookies are certain to see a lot of online betting in favour of England this summer!
England have qualified for the World Cup in South Africa 2010, and having been matched with the USA, Slovenia, and Algeria – the nation begin their games, against the former, on 12th June 2010 in Rustenburg, in the heart of the Savannah Bushveld. Despite a few exceptions, little is known of the USA squad, however, they did beat European Champions Spain recently, and have a few famous Premiership faces in their lineup.
Tim Howard, the ex Manchester United and now Everton goalkeeper will almost certainly start in goal, with Watford defender Jay DeMerit providing a solid basis for the USA defence. However, England should forget about winning the trophy if they fail to beat a side such as the Americans. DeMarcus Beasley, who is currently playing for Rangers, will probably lineup on the left hand side of midfield, and could cause problems with his base and agility – however, he isn’t particularly proven on the world stage, despite a stint at PSV Eindhoven, and Glen Johnston should keep him relatively quiet. The teenage sensation Freddy Adu, currently plying his trade in Portugal, was tipped to be a footballing sensation. He was due for a trial period at Manchester United, and was eagerly scouted by Europe’s top managers – whether he will start against England is another matter, but if he does, he may well be dangerous. England’s defensive midfield, perhaps Gareth Barry if he starts, will be looking to keep tabs on the USA’s most prolific player, the Fulham playmaker, Clint Dempsey. Dempsey is proven at the highest level, and scores regularly in the Premier League – in the game against England, he’ll be looking to slip into the space behind the strikers and feed balls through. One man who’ll be looking to get on the end of those passes, is Landon Donovan, the USA’s most popular player, and David Beckham’s teammate at Los Angeles Galaxy. Donovan has played on loan at Everton this season and has shown just why he’s considered one of the finest players around.
So, England may not have as an easy as group as first thought, however bookies are certain to see a lot of online betting in favour of England this summer!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Well done Gareth Bale - Spurs 2 - Arsenal 1
For scoring tonight against the Gunners when Harry really needed you.
For keeping your head down when the media vultures pulled you apart, highlighting the unfortunate coincidence between your appearances and Premier League failure.
Having the best left foot at Tottenham Hotspur football club.
Not going on loan to a crap team.
....what a superb evening for the lily whites - unlucky Wenger's boys - great derby tonight.
For keeping your head down when the media vultures pulled you apart, highlighting the unfortunate coincidence between your appearances and Premier League failure.
Having the best left foot at Tottenham Hotspur football club.
Not going on loan to a crap team.
....what a superb evening for the lily whites - unlucky Wenger's boys - great derby tonight.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Manchester United result 3-2 - 4-4 agg - Out of the Champions League
A missed opportunity for Manchester United tonight to make the semis of the Champions League. They looked pretty good prior to half time, leading 3-0 but Bayern managed to scrape one back just before the break. Ironically, it was ex Chelsea wing man Arjen Robben who made it 3-2, who was then briskly substituted in the 75th minute having secured the second vital away goal dumping Man Utd out of the Champions League 2010.
Is Messi really that good?
Champions League Result 6th April 2010: Barca 4: Arsenal 1
Last night Arsenal were absolutely battered by a team that Wenger readily admitted is "better than us [Arsenal] and that has the best player in the world". He described Messi as "unstoppable" and "the only player who can change direction at such a pace."
As well as all the accolades from players and commentators alike, there is little argument that Messi's form for Barca this year has been outstanding. Having already hit three hat-tricks in Barca colours in 2010, he upped his game even further against Arsenal and scored four goals in a match for the first time in his career. However Messi refused to bask in his own personal glory and praised the rest of his team.
So given his unquestionable talent and a penchant for modesty and teamwork, is this 22 year old Argentinian the perfect player? Some critics point out than in 18 matches for Argentina, Messi has only managed 4 goals, although those close to the South American game say this is due to weaknesses in the squad as a whole. Gooners currently licking their wounds might point out that he failed to score at the Emirates last week, which is certainly true. These points aside, after tonight's performance, is there a manager in the world who wouldn't pick Messi?
There is no doubt that Messi is an all-time great and fantastic for the neutral to watch. However even a player of his quality needs a good team around him to really shine. Just to rub salt in the Gooner wounds, their all time top scorer and darling of North London, Thierry Henry, didn't even get off the bench in this encounter. That's how strong Barca is.
Last night Arsenal were absolutely battered by a team that Wenger readily admitted is "better than us [Arsenal] and that has the best player in the world". He described Messi as "unstoppable" and "the only player who can change direction at such a pace."
As well as all the accolades from players and commentators alike, there is little argument that Messi's form for Barca this year has been outstanding. Having already hit three hat-tricks in Barca colours in 2010, he upped his game even further against Arsenal and scored four goals in a match for the first time in his career. However Messi refused to bask in his own personal glory and praised the rest of his team.
So given his unquestionable talent and a penchant for modesty and teamwork, is this 22 year old Argentinian the perfect player? Some critics point out than in 18 matches for Argentina, Messi has only managed 4 goals, although those close to the South American game say this is due to weaknesses in the squad as a whole. Gooners currently licking their wounds might point out that he failed to score at the Emirates last week, which is certainly true. These points aside, after tonight's performance, is there a manager in the world who wouldn't pick Messi?
There is no doubt that Messi is an all-time great and fantastic for the neutral to watch. However even a player of his quality needs a good team around him to really shine. Just to rub salt in the Gooner wounds, their all time top scorer and darling of North London, Thierry Henry, didn't even get off the bench in this encounter. That's how strong Barca is.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Arsenal v Barcelona champions league 2010
Is this quarter final the game where the gooners lay to rest the miserable champions league 2006? Playing against his former club Thierry Henry will no doubt know better than anyone how formidable a Wenger side can be in Europe, especially now that they have more physicality in their game this season.
On paper, Barcelona's first 11 is immense and made Manchester United look quite ordinary last season. However, when Arsenal's flowing football kicks in to some of these Champions League this team exhibits world class qualities that can lead to a quick succession of goals. Sol Campbell has helped their back line no end but they still have a bit of uncertainty between the sticks with Almunia. This was illustrated against Birmingham City this weekend with a bit of a howler, where we saw Kevin Philips bagging his 250th goal of his football career...but lets be fair a decent Prem 'keeper would have saved it.
Away at the Nou camp? I can see Barcelona getting an advantage in this 1st leg - maybe 1 goal.
On paper, Barcelona's first 11 is immense and made Manchester United look quite ordinary last season. However, when Arsenal's flowing football kicks in to some of these Champions League this team exhibits world class qualities that can lead to a quick succession of goals. Sol Campbell has helped their back line no end but they still have a bit of uncertainty between the sticks with Almunia. This was illustrated against Birmingham City this weekend with a bit of a howler, where we saw Kevin Philips bagging his 250th goal of his football career...but lets be fair a decent Prem 'keeper would have saved it.
Away at the Nou camp? I can see Barcelona getting an advantage in this 1st leg - maybe 1 goal.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
FA Cup 2010 Latest Spurs 3 Fulham 1 24/10/2010
FA Cup Result 24th March 2010 Latest Tottenham 3 Fulham 1
A game of two halves this evening in the sixth round FA Cup replay London Derby at White Hart Lane. An incredible bounce back by home team Tottenham Hotspur as they turned a 1 nil half time deficit in to a 3-1.
This was a great FA Cup night for Spurs. 4 goals, plenty of stress and drama but ultimately bags of talent on show from the home team. And yes, I am a lily white!
With many ex-Spurs players in the visiting team, there was irony in Bobby Zamora's cool, left-footed stroke past Tottenham goalkeeper Gomes. The way that Zamora found the space and executed the through ball speaks volumes about his form and the development that Roy Hodgson has orchestrated at the Cottage.
This evening, I thought Danny Murphy demonstrated the reason why he has the captaincy for Fulham. Industrious but attacking, Murphy helped win the midfield battle in the first half and overall Fulham managed to mute Tottenham Hotspur who have displayed great form this season.
Harry Redknapp put David Bentley and Tommy Huddlestone to begin the second half to galvanise the midfield effort of the home team. The impact was instant, as David Bentley swung in a Beckham like free kick that all defenders, forwards and most importantly the Fulham 'keeper Richard Schwarzer all missed watching it bounce directly into the net.
Spurs grabbed hold of the game, with pure aggressive attacking football. Between Bentley, Modric, Gudjonhson and Pavlyuchenko Tottenham had too much fire power for Fulham in the second half.
Roman Pavlyuchenko scored the second, enjoying such a maginificent run of form and proving to absolutely everyone that he is a major asset to Tottenham Hotspur. On loan forward Eidur Gudjonhson then finished off a superb passing move, scoring his second goal for Tottenham...Harry wants Gudjonhson permanently and he has proven what he can deliver. Sheringham like link up play and classic striker goals.
Pompey next for Tottenham - as Spurs great Jimmy Greaves would say 'its a funny old game'.
A game of two halves this evening in the sixth round FA Cup replay London Derby at White Hart Lane. An incredible bounce back by home team Tottenham Hotspur as they turned a 1 nil half time deficit in to a 3-1.
This was a great FA Cup night for Spurs. 4 goals, plenty of stress and drama but ultimately bags of talent on show from the home team. And yes, I am a lily white!
With many ex-Spurs players in the visiting team, there was irony in Bobby Zamora's cool, left-footed stroke past Tottenham goalkeeper Gomes. The way that Zamora found the space and executed the through ball speaks volumes about his form and the development that Roy Hodgson has orchestrated at the Cottage.
This evening, I thought Danny Murphy demonstrated the reason why he has the captaincy for Fulham. Industrious but attacking, Murphy helped win the midfield battle in the first half and overall Fulham managed to mute Tottenham Hotspur who have displayed great form this season.
Harry Redknapp put David Bentley and Tommy Huddlestone to begin the second half to galvanise the midfield effort of the home team. The impact was instant, as David Bentley swung in a Beckham like free kick that all defenders, forwards and most importantly the Fulham 'keeper Richard Schwarzer all missed watching it bounce directly into the net.
Spurs grabbed hold of the game, with pure aggressive attacking football. Between Bentley, Modric, Gudjonhson and Pavlyuchenko Tottenham had too much fire power for Fulham in the second half.
Roman Pavlyuchenko scored the second, enjoying such a maginificent run of form and proving to absolutely everyone that he is a major asset to Tottenham Hotspur. On loan forward Eidur Gudjonhson then finished off a superb passing move, scoring his second goal for Tottenham...Harry wants Gudjonhson permanently and he has proven what he can deliver. Sheringham like link up play and classic striker goals.
Pompey next for Tottenham - as Spurs great Jimmy Greaves would say 'its a funny old game'.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Arsenal 2 West Ham 0 20/03/2010 Barclays Premier League
Arsenal 2 West Ham 0 20th March 2010 Premier League
Arsenal looked to set this latest Premier League weekend's pace with a 2-0 win over London rivals West Ham United, putting them top for at least the next 20 hours or so.
For the first 30 minutes, the Gunners showed us their dominance up front. It took less than 5 minutes for the home team to take the lead with Denilson strike from just outside the area. The was not a great deal more excitement for the majority of the first half except for perhaps Diamanti and Campbell going in the book, but in the 44th minute the visitors had plenty to shout about when Vermaelen was controversially sent off for a challenge on Guillermo Franco in the box. However despite scoring in the previous 2 encounters between the London rivals, Almunia denied Diamanti his third time lucky. Gooners would say it was a great save, Hammers would point to the fact Almunia was a long way off his line. 1:0 to the home team at half time.
In the second half the Hammers tried their best to make their extra man work for them, but to no avail. Just after 80 minutes a hand ball by ex gunner Matthew Upson handed a penalty to the Arsenal, which Fabregas converted with ease. This galvanised the Wenger boys, who threatened a third for the remainder of the match. However going after 90 minutes top of the premiership is surely result enough for the Gooners. But will they able to play this convincingly against Barcelona??
Arsenal looked to set this latest Premier League weekend's pace with a 2-0 win over London rivals West Ham United, putting them top for at least the next 20 hours or so.
For the first 30 minutes, the Gunners showed us their dominance up front. It took less than 5 minutes for the home team to take the lead with Denilson strike from just outside the area. The was not a great deal more excitement for the majority of the first half except for perhaps Diamanti and Campbell going in the book, but in the 44th minute the visitors had plenty to shout about when Vermaelen was controversially sent off for a challenge on Guillermo Franco in the box. However despite scoring in the previous 2 encounters between the London rivals, Almunia denied Diamanti his third time lucky. Gooners would say it was a great save, Hammers would point to the fact Almunia was a long way off his line. 1:0 to the home team at half time.
In the second half the Hammers tried their best to make their extra man work for them, but to no avail. Just after 80 minutes a hand ball by ex gunner Matthew Upson handed a penalty to the Arsenal, which Fabregas converted with ease. This galvanised the Wenger boys, who threatened a third for the remainder of the match. However going after 90 minutes top of the premiership is surely result enough for the Gooners. But will they able to play this convincingly against Barcelona??
Premier League 20th March 2010 latest fixtures
Premier League 20th March 2010 latest fixtures and lunchtime result
Lunchtime match 20th March 2010 (12:45pm)
Aston Villa 2 Wolverhampton 2 PREMIER LEAGUE RESULT
3 o'clockers
Everton v Bolton, Goodison Park 3pm
Portsmouth v Hull, Fratton Park 3pm
Stoke v Tottenham, Brittania Stadium 3pm
Sunderland v Birmingham, Stadium of Light 2pm
Wigan v Burnley, JJB Stadium 15:00
Evening match
Arsenal v West Ham, Emirates Stadium 5.30pm
Lunchtime match 20th March 2010 (12:45pm)
Aston Villa 2 Wolverhampton 2 PREMIER LEAGUE RESULT
3 o'clockers
Everton v Bolton, Goodison Park 3pm
Portsmouth v Hull, Fratton Park 3pm
Stoke v Tottenham, Brittania Stadium 3pm
Sunderland v Birmingham, Stadium of Light 2pm
Wigan v Burnley, JJB Stadium 15:00
Evening match
Arsenal v West Ham, Emirates Stadium 5.30pm
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Champions League 16th March 2010 2nd leg Chelsea 1 Inter 3 (aggregate 1-3) JOSE'S INTER GO THROUGH
Chelsea 0 Inter Milan 1 (agg. 1-3) Inter Milan progress past the first UEFA Champions League knock out stage
Jose Mourinho revisited his old stomping ground at Stamford Bridge in the 2nd Leg tie, going into the match leading 2-1 after the 1st leg at the San Siro.
The special one had a standing ovation from the Stamford Bridge faithful - Mourinho looked touched but then it was down to business in this knock out Champions League match. After winning 5 trophies in his time at the Bridge, there are still numerous Chelsea fans that would have him back - and who could blame them.
Mourinho's side defended with great strength in the first half, with great blocks preventing shots from Florent Malouda and Nicolas Anelka (42 minutes) from clawing the home side back into the tie. Lucio and Samuel were dynamite in central defence, keeping Drogba under control more than any other.
Eto'o also had a chance in the 35th minute, missing from close range after John Terry had narrowly missed a defensive header.
Although the first half was goal less, Chelsea could have been 1 up easily, after being denied 2 penalty shouts from corner kick action - Ivanovic and Drogba were both uprooted. I would have given them both.
Chelsea kicked off the second half, seemingly drifting more into a 4-4-2 formation with Anelka joining Drogba as well as Malouda assuming an advanced left midfield position. Inter contained them well initially, looking to soak up the home team possession and hit them on the break where possible. Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka piled on the pressure on to Lucio and Samuel - a fantastic offensive-defensive dual to witness.
In the 50th minute, Eto'o had a half chance but didn't manage to get a shot away. Then, within one minute Malouda pulled the trigger on target which was saved for a corner. After the corner, Inter conceded a free kick, taken by Drogba who narrowly missed with his characteristic side foot free kick technique. This was a great spell of this tie, with Chelsea dominating the play as they did just prior to the half time break. Inter worked incredibly hard to stifle the Chelsea midfield and attack - a real gutsy display.
Inter's left footed star Pandev had a great run and shot from a top quality Wesley Sneijder pass but carried the ball a bit too far, allowing Zhirkov a chance to get a foot in.
Joe Cole came on in the 61st minute with Ballack substituted to alter the balance of the Chelsea midfield. favouring even more aggressive attacking action. At this point you could see how when Inter did break down the Chelsea possession that they could exploit space in Chelsea's defensive areas as they endeavoured to push on. Inter Milan did push on more in the second half, causing Chelsea problems down the flanks with Mikon and Pandev. Wesley Sneijder started to to boss the midfield play with some great passing and the possession battle started to tip towards the visitors.
Yuri Zhirkov was substituted for Salomon Kalou in the 72nd minute as Carlo started to feel the pressure of this great tie. Kalou had an instant impact, combining with Drogba and Anelka well to no end result but it applied the right level of pressure to give the home team added belief that they could capitalise one of the numerous chances that they were generating.
In the 77th minute Sneijder played a superb first time ball, releasing Mikon who was narrowly offside.
In the 78th minute Sneijder's tried again, this time with his left foot to put Eto'o in on goal. Cameroon international Eto'o drilled it into the bottom corner - Alex played the former Barcelona striker onside to put Inter Milan 3-1 up on aggregate. Inter deserved the goal, working hard in defence but also taking the game to Chelsea with some exciting pass and move football.
In the last ten minutes, Chelsea started to make their play extremely direct, desperate to stay in the Champions LEague.,
In the 85 minute, Mourinho substituted Sneijder for Mariga, making his Champions League debut. Wesley Sneijder for me was easily man of the match, giving a true number 10 midfield maestro play.
Confusingly, Didier Drogba was then sent off for tangling with Thiago Motta in the penalty box. There wasn't a definitive view on Sky Sports but I thought that it looked pretty harsh on Drogba.
Inter played 'keep ball' towards the end, completing a slick, classy away performance knocking out Mourinho's old club making it sting even more for Ancelotti's side.
Materazzi came on for Thiago Motta in the 91st minute, as the special one employed an old technigue of soaking up a few more unwanted moments of footballing action.
Eto'o could have had a second late on, Inter retained possession, frustrating Chelsea and securing
their place in the next Champions League round.
Jose Mourinho revisited his old stomping ground at Stamford Bridge in the 2nd Leg tie, going into the match leading 2-1 after the 1st leg at the San Siro.
The special one had a standing ovation from the Stamford Bridge faithful - Mourinho looked touched but then it was down to business in this knock out Champions League match. After winning 5 trophies in his time at the Bridge, there are still numerous Chelsea fans that would have him back - and who could blame them.
Mourinho's side defended with great strength in the first half, with great blocks preventing shots from Florent Malouda and Nicolas Anelka (42 minutes) from clawing the home side back into the tie. Lucio and Samuel were dynamite in central defence, keeping Drogba under control more than any other.
Eto'o also had a chance in the 35th minute, missing from close range after John Terry had narrowly missed a defensive header.
Although the first half was goal less, Chelsea could have been 1 up easily, after being denied 2 penalty shouts from corner kick action - Ivanovic and Drogba were both uprooted. I would have given them both.
Chelsea kicked off the second half, seemingly drifting more into a 4-4-2 formation with Anelka joining Drogba as well as Malouda assuming an advanced left midfield position. Inter contained them well initially, looking to soak up the home team possession and hit them on the break where possible. Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka piled on the pressure on to Lucio and Samuel - a fantastic offensive-defensive dual to witness.
In the 50th minute, Eto'o had a half chance but didn't manage to get a shot away. Then, within one minute Malouda pulled the trigger on target which was saved for a corner. After the corner, Inter conceded a free kick, taken by Drogba who narrowly missed with his characteristic side foot free kick technique. This was a great spell of this tie, with Chelsea dominating the play as they did just prior to the half time break. Inter worked incredibly hard to stifle the Chelsea midfield and attack - a real gutsy display.
Inter's left footed star Pandev had a great run and shot from a top quality Wesley Sneijder pass but carried the ball a bit too far, allowing Zhirkov a chance to get a foot in.
Joe Cole came on in the 61st minute with Ballack substituted to alter the balance of the Chelsea midfield. favouring even more aggressive attacking action. At this point you could see how when Inter did break down the Chelsea possession that they could exploit space in Chelsea's defensive areas as they endeavoured to push on. Inter Milan did push on more in the second half, causing Chelsea problems down the flanks with Mikon and Pandev. Wesley Sneijder started to to boss the midfield play with some great passing and the possession battle started to tip towards the visitors.
Yuri Zhirkov was substituted for Salomon Kalou in the 72nd minute as Carlo started to feel the pressure of this great tie. Kalou had an instant impact, combining with Drogba and Anelka well to no end result but it applied the right level of pressure to give the home team added belief that they could capitalise one of the numerous chances that they were generating.
In the 77th minute Sneijder played a superb first time ball, releasing Mikon who was narrowly offside.
In the 78th minute Sneijder's tried again, this time with his left foot to put Eto'o in on goal. Cameroon international Eto'o drilled it into the bottom corner - Alex played the former Barcelona striker onside to put Inter Milan 3-1 up on aggregate. Inter deserved the goal, working hard in defence but also taking the game to Chelsea with some exciting pass and move football.
In the last ten minutes, Chelsea started to make their play extremely direct, desperate to stay in the Champions LEague.,
In the 85 minute, Mourinho substituted Sneijder for Mariga, making his Champions League debut. Wesley Sneijder for me was easily man of the match, giving a true number 10 midfield maestro play.
Confusingly, Didier Drogba was then sent off for tangling with Thiago Motta in the penalty box. There wasn't a definitive view on Sky Sports but I thought that it looked pretty harsh on Drogba.
Inter played 'keep ball' towards the end, completing a slick, classy away performance knocking out Mourinho's old club making it sting even more for Ancelotti's side.
Materazzi came on for Thiago Motta in the 91st minute, as the special one employed an old technigue of soaking up a few more unwanted moments of footballing action.
Eto'o could have had a second late on, Inter retained possession, frustrating Chelsea and securing
their place in the next Champions League round.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Tottenham 3 Blackburn 1 13th March 2010 Premier League result
13/03/2010 Spurs 3 Blackburn Rovers 1 Barclays Premiership result
Today's lunchtime Premier League match was at White Hart Lane as Big Sam's Blackburn Rovers took on Harry Redknapp's Spurs who are battling fiercely for that fourth position in the league. OK so as a keen Football Blogger I do self indulge content wise - Spurs are my team. However this was a game with lots of goal mouth incident, tough refereeing calls for Howard Webb to make and 4 goals - it could have so easily been more.
Blackburn Rovers, captained by Chris Samba set a defensive stall out but unfortunately lost ex Tottenham Hotspur 'keeper Paul Robinson after the first 15 mins with a calf injury.
Blackburn remained resilient and managed a handful of attacking breaks, namely David Dunn who clashed with Corluka after a great run - this was a tough call for the ref but without my Spurs scarf on, I think that he did get this one correct - I think Dunn fouled Corluka.
On the stroke of half time, Jermaine Defoe poached a goal in typical goal scorer fashion, tapping in from close range as Corluka Had headed the Modric corner goal wards.
Roman Pavlyuchenko scored the other 2, sandwiching a late goal from captain Chris Samba.
"It's a great win for us," said Harry Redknapp on the Tottenham Hotspur website. "You get a feelings about games and driving to the stadium this morning, I just felt it was going to be difficult day for us against Blackburn because they are so strong.
"We watched re-runs of their match against Liverpool and they gave them a lot of problems so to pick up the three points was great for us.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Chelsea 2 Manchester City 4 28th February 2010
Chelsea 2 Man City 4 Premier League result 28/02/2010
Manchester City took 3 points away from Stamford Bridge today in over 17 years, with a riveting 6 goal match taking Man City into fourth position.
It was unfortunate that this exciting game had an element of tension with the well publicised John Terry and Wayne Brudge friendship bust up. In the team meeting prior to the match kick off, Wayne Bridge did no shake John Terry's outstretched hand which then led to the Chelsea fans booing Bridge for the entire match. All typical pantomime stuff really - Wayne Bridge was a perfect professional about the whole occasion and showed that he has match sharpness after his knee injury. England calls, Mr Bridge - we need you!
At the end of the match, Sky Sports congratulated Carlos Tevez and Craig Bellamy on their goal scoring and away victory. Inevitably they asked about how things had been in the Man City in relation to the Wayne Bridge - John Terry bust up. "You guys (the media) make a lot more of it you know (the fall-out between Terry and Bridge). I know what JT is like and nothing surprises me about it, so I'm not going to comment on that. I think everybody in football knows what the guy is like, but that's off the field. "On it he's an outstanding player. He's a great captain for Chelsea. It's always going to be difficult when you play him and his team."
The last bit of friction was Tevez and John Terry squaring up chest to chest with the referee jumping promptly in to prevent any unsavoury scenes.
The first 40 minutes of this match was dominated by Chelsea, Manchester City had Carlos Tevez back in a lone striker role with a defensive travelling strategy under new boss Roberto Mancini. To be honest, the play was dull so when Frank Lampard took his chance with international class written all over it the neutral football fan benefited almost instantly.
Manchester City managed to equalise with a pivotal moment in the game with Tevez battling on his own against Terry and Carvalho, then managing somehow to scrape a shot past Petr Cech's understudy Henrique Hilario just before half time. Hilario will be criticised for this goal and his performance in general today.
In the second half, Man City had more possession and better quality attacking moves. It was Craig Bellamy that got City's second with a sprint down the left hand flank, dribbling directly at the Chelsea full back and then shooting across Hilario who seemed to get his angles a bit wrong.
Chelsea had Ballack sent off after Carlos Tevez had converted a spot kick where Belleti fouled Gareth Barry from behind clumsily in the penalty box. This period of time killed it for the home team.
Wright-Philips came on towards the end, hit Chelsea on the break to square to Bellamy to make it 1-4. Chelsea lost a second player to a red card late on, finishing the last 5 minutes off with 9 men. Chelsea got a penalty late on which Frank Lampard converted but this was Team Bridge's day, pushing Man City into a Champions League spot in the Barclays Premier League.
As for England, we really need Wayne Bridge - hopefully the emotional hurt that he has heals a little before the World Cup because I want to see this lad play...he's brilliant! John Terry has definitely had a dip in form, looks like he might have lost concentration (understandably) and perhaps a yard of pace. Poor old Capello!
Manchester City took 3 points away from Stamford Bridge today in over 17 years, with a riveting 6 goal match taking Man City into fourth position.
It was unfortunate that this exciting game had an element of tension with the well publicised John Terry and Wayne Brudge friendship bust up. In the team meeting prior to the match kick off, Wayne Bridge did no shake John Terry's outstretched hand which then led to the Chelsea fans booing Bridge for the entire match. All typical pantomime stuff really - Wayne Bridge was a perfect professional about the whole occasion and showed that he has match sharpness after his knee injury. England calls, Mr Bridge - we need you!
At the end of the match, Sky Sports congratulated Carlos Tevez and Craig Bellamy on their goal scoring and away victory. Inevitably they asked about how things had been in the Man City in relation to the Wayne Bridge - John Terry bust up. "You guys (the media) make a lot more of it you know (the fall-out between Terry and Bridge). I know what JT is like and nothing surprises me about it, so I'm not going to comment on that. I think everybody in football knows what the guy is like, but that's off the field. "On it he's an outstanding player. He's a great captain for Chelsea. It's always going to be difficult when you play him and his team."
The last bit of friction was Tevez and John Terry squaring up chest to chest with the referee jumping promptly in to prevent any unsavoury scenes.
The first 40 minutes of this match was dominated by Chelsea, Manchester City had Carlos Tevez back in a lone striker role with a defensive travelling strategy under new boss Roberto Mancini. To be honest, the play was dull so when Frank Lampard took his chance with international class written all over it the neutral football fan benefited almost instantly.
Manchester City managed to equalise with a pivotal moment in the game with Tevez battling on his own against Terry and Carvalho, then managing somehow to scrape a shot past Petr Cech's understudy Henrique Hilario just before half time. Hilario will be criticised for this goal and his performance in general today.
In the second half, Man City had more possession and better quality attacking moves. It was Craig Bellamy that got City's second with a sprint down the left hand flank, dribbling directly at the Chelsea full back and then shooting across Hilario who seemed to get his angles a bit wrong.
Chelsea had Ballack sent off after Carlos Tevez had converted a spot kick where Belleti fouled Gareth Barry from behind clumsily in the penalty box. This period of time killed it for the home team.
Wright-Philips came on towards the end, hit Chelsea on the break to square to Bellamy to make it 1-4. Chelsea lost a second player to a red card late on, finishing the last 5 minutes off with 9 men. Chelsea got a penalty late on which Frank Lampard converted but this was Team Bridge's day, pushing Man City into a Champions League spot in the Barclays Premier League.
As for England, we really need Wayne Bridge - hopefully the emotional hurt that he has heals a little before the World Cup because I want to see this lad play...he's brilliant! John Terry has definitely had a dip in form, looks like he might have lost concentration (understandably) and perhaps a yard of pace. Poor old Capello!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Has Bridge made the right decision to quit England?
World Cup News 25/02/10 Wayne Bridge rules himself out of the World Cup Squad dor 2010
In an announcement made today through his lawyers, Wayne Bridge stated his intention to withdraw from the national squad as his position had become "untenable and potentially divisive". No doubt Bridge has had a difficult few weeks since his ex-fiancee's affair with the former England captain John Terry has become tabloid fodder and it is sad to see a talented player rule himself out of such a prestigious tournament for such reasons.
There is no doubt that Wayne Bridge is a good player, although his international career and his time at Man City have not quite fulfilled the promise of his performances at Chelsea. However although Ashley Cole is a doubt for South Africa with his injured ankle (thankfully his extra-marital activities do not appear to have been with team mates' partners) Capello does still have options at left back, including Everton's Leighton Baines and Villa's Stephen Warnock.
My worries however are that Bridge's actions suggest there have already been damaging repercussions to Terry's behaviour in the England camp. After 44 years without a win, the pressure on Team England is immense and none of the players or serious fans would welcome media speculation about whether Team Bridge were playing well with Team Terry. Barring injury Terry will definitely be on the plane to South Africa, so hopefully the rest of the squad can draw a line under "Terrygate" and focus on bringing back the World Cup. Wayne Bridge deserves our sympathy and now at least he can be confident now that any failure of the England squad to perform will not be laid at his door.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Should John Terry stay as England captain?
For those of you living in a cave, it was revealed this weekend that John Terry has been bonking the ex girflriend of Wayne Bridge, who is also the mother of Wayne's child. Some are saying that this act of betrayal will so undermine respect for John Terry within the England squad, Terry has to surrender his captaincy. Others argue that this is a private matter, which has absolutely no bearing on Terry's professional life. It is certainly a topic that will run and run in the countdown to South Africa.
My view is that although Wayne Bridge can be none too pleased at the revelations, if as reported his relationshop with his ex was well and truly over before her affair with Terry kicked off, Terry's acts, although a betrayal of his wife (for which she deservedly should red card him if she sees fit) but not a betrayal of his team mate. Bridge's concerns for his son are understandable, but Terry did do his best to gag the media. I do not want to see England lose a captain because of Wayne Bridge's hurt pride. If every footballer who had an affair was demoted, the conference would be full of world class talent.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Tottenham Fulham score - Spurs 2 Fulham 0
As Spurs have their UEFA Champions League dream this season, Fulham also look to push themselves into this hunting pack between 4th and 6th in the Premier League.
Both London sides started brightly with Zamora taking up good positions against the Spurs back four and Modric dictating alot of the Tottenham possession. If anything though it was the home team that looked dangerous, with Damien Duff making things difficult for Corluka down the left flank. Zamora had a big chance but fluffed it; a big moment in the 1st half for the former Spur who had passed a late fitness test after recovering from a broken collarbone.
Un the 27th minute Peter Crouch used his height to open the scoring, nodding a left footed David Bentley cross from the right hand side as he cut inside. A neat header but a possible lack of judgement from Fulham 'keeper Schwarzer as he came some length for the cross. Then Modric battled to get the original looping header back to Crouch who poked the ball into the net. A good 45 minutes for ex-Blackburn Rovers player David Bentley who was deputising for the pacey Aaron Lennon. Bentley seemed to enjoy alot of space in the first half and looked pretty neat for the home side.
In the 45th minute Luca Modric had a great chance within the penalty area after some neat dribbling but blasted his shot just over the cross bar.
In the second half Tottenham Hotspur played smooth, attacking football, piling on the pressure to build on thier 1-0 lead. The goal came eventually with a deflected free kick from David Bentley. Unlucky for the away side but Spurs were definitely good for it, with the industry of Huddlestone/Palacios and Modric's wizardry in midfield.
For Tottenham, it was good to see the confidence gradually trickle back into both David Bentley and Gareth Bale. Dawson failed to get a header on target from a great Bentley cross and Bale tirelessly bombed up and down the left flank, looking every bit a Premier League quality wing back.
Fulham took Zamora off and he would have been dissapointed to get his goal at White Hart Lane. Fulham had some nice attacking moves in the last ten minutes and Redknapp took the decision to put on the athletic Robbie Keane in order to counter balance this possession.
The home side killed it to win 2-0 to get a great 3 points to fight off Liverpool from muscling the 4th position off them.
Both London sides started brightly with Zamora taking up good positions against the Spurs back four and Modric dictating alot of the Tottenham possession. If anything though it was the home team that looked dangerous, with Damien Duff making things difficult for Corluka down the left flank. Zamora had a big chance but fluffed it; a big moment in the 1st half for the former Spur who had passed a late fitness test after recovering from a broken collarbone.
Un the 27th minute Peter Crouch used his height to open the scoring, nodding a left footed David Bentley cross from the right hand side as he cut inside. A neat header but a possible lack of judgement from Fulham 'keeper Schwarzer as he came some length for the cross. Then Modric battled to get the original looping header back to Crouch who poked the ball into the net. A good 45 minutes for ex-Blackburn Rovers player David Bentley who was deputising for the pacey Aaron Lennon. Bentley seemed to enjoy alot of space in the first half and looked pretty neat for the home side.
In the 45th minute Luca Modric had a great chance within the penalty area after some neat dribbling but blasted his shot just over the cross bar.
In the second half Tottenham Hotspur played smooth, attacking football, piling on the pressure to build on thier 1-0 lead. The goal came eventually with a deflected free kick from David Bentley. Unlucky for the away side but Spurs were definitely good for it, with the industry of Huddlestone/Palacios and Modric's wizardry in midfield.
For Tottenham, it was good to see the confidence gradually trickle back into both David Bentley and Gareth Bale. Dawson failed to get a header on target from a great Bentley cross and Bale tirelessly bombed up and down the left flank, looking every bit a Premier League quality wing back.
Fulham took Zamora off and he would have been dissapointed to get his goal at White Hart Lane. Fulham had some nice attacking moves in the last ten minutes and Redknapp took the decision to put on the athletic Robbie Keane in order to counter balance this possession.
The home side killed it to win 2-0 to get a great 3 points to fight off Liverpool from muscling the 4th position off them.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Does Wenger's selection mean another trophyless season for the Gooners?
FA Cup Result 24/01/10 Stoke 3: Arsenal 1
While most of Arsenal's first team were rested to concentrate on the league, Wenger's second choice selection of young talent plus former legend Sol Campbell crashed out of the FA cup at the Britannia Stadium yesterday. Although at 67 minutes and at 1:1 Wenger brought on the big guns of Arshavin and Eduardo plus the talented youngster Aaron Ramsey, this triple change was too little, too late. Ironically Stoke, who played well throughout and deserved their win, played even better after Wenger's change. The Arsenal manager had wanted to avoid a replay but got his wish granted somewhat differently than he had hoped when Fuller whacked in a second goal for the home team and Etherington got the third.
Many Gooners are bemoaning Wenger's team choice as they saw the cup competition as Arsenal's best chance of winning silverware this year. However as I wrote last week, I believe Arsenal do still have a reasonable chance of winning the league this year if they can continue their unbeaten run through their next few fixtures. In the next couple of weeks Arsenal are playing Villa, Man U, Chelsea and Liverpool and understandably Wenger did not want to add to his injury list for this challenging run in. These tough choices around team selection are unfortunately the reality for clubs who don't have owners with deep deep pockets.
Plus although the FA Cup is a great competition, winning the Premiership is a far superior prize. It was only 2 years ago that Portsmouth won the cup but have been pretty much in freefall since. This year Man United and Liverpool are already missing from the competition, which in my view would devalue the win somewhat (unless of course you are a Leeds fan)! So in my view Wenger did the right thing by resting his first team, although I am not convinced that Sol Campbell is the answer to Arsenal's defensive problems!
While most of Arsenal's first team were rested to concentrate on the league, Wenger's second choice selection of young talent plus former legend Sol Campbell crashed out of the FA cup at the Britannia Stadium yesterday. Although at 67 minutes and at 1:1 Wenger brought on the big guns of Arshavin and Eduardo plus the talented youngster Aaron Ramsey, this triple change was too little, too late. Ironically Stoke, who played well throughout and deserved their win, played even better after Wenger's change. The Arsenal manager had wanted to avoid a replay but got his wish granted somewhat differently than he had hoped when Fuller whacked in a second goal for the home team and Etherington got the third.
Many Gooners are bemoaning Wenger's team choice as they saw the cup competition as Arsenal's best chance of winning silverware this year. However as I wrote last week, I believe Arsenal do still have a reasonable chance of winning the league this year if they can continue their unbeaten run through their next few fixtures. In the next couple of weeks Arsenal are playing Villa, Man U, Chelsea and Liverpool and understandably Wenger did not want to add to his injury list for this challenging run in. These tough choices around team selection are unfortunately the reality for clubs who don't have owners with deep deep pockets.
Plus although the FA Cup is a great competition, winning the Premiership is a far superior prize. It was only 2 years ago that Portsmouth won the cup but have been pretty much in freefall since. This year Man United and Liverpool are already missing from the competition, which in my view would devalue the win somewhat (unless of course you are a Leeds fan)! So in my view Wenger did the right thing by resting his first team, although I am not convinced that Sol Campbell is the answer to Arsenal's defensive problems!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Tevez and Neville - sort yourselves out!
Who wants to be a millionaire? Who wants to be a millionaire whose vocation in life is being a Premier League footballer for either Manchester United or Manchester City?
ALL OF US!
Carlos Tevez and Gary Neville have lacked class and taste with their recent spate of name calling in the media. In my 2nd favourite sport, cricket, you would not win any friends from such vocal behaviour and indeed would compromise your position long term.
I would love football to have more honour and respect in it - both on the field and off of the pitch. Surely the two are intrinsically linked. As football has become progressively non-contact, I think the pent-up anger in the stands has got worse in some ways. As a spectacle football is ahead of both cricket and rugby in terms of popularity but lots of parents that look to take their kids to sporting events will shy away from subjecting them to a barrage of swearing and friction between opposing fans and assault slinging towards prima donnas like Tevez and Neville.
Do footballers take their positions seriously enough? Their actions have a huge influence on millions of football enthusiast youngsters.
Grow up chaps.
ALL OF US!
Carlos Tevez and Gary Neville have lacked class and taste with their recent spate of name calling in the media. In my 2nd favourite sport, cricket, you would not win any friends from such vocal behaviour and indeed would compromise your position long term.
I would love football to have more honour and respect in it - both on the field and off of the pitch. Surely the two are intrinsically linked. As football has become progressively non-contact, I think the pent-up anger in the stands has got worse in some ways. As a spectacle football is ahead of both cricket and rugby in terms of popularity but lots of parents that look to take their kids to sporting events will shy away from subjecting them to a barrage of swearing and friction between opposing fans and assault slinging towards prima donnas like Tevez and Neville.
Do footballers take their positions seriously enough? Their actions have a huge influence on millions of football enthusiast youngsters.
Grow up chaps.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Toni given World Cup hope by Lippi
Luca Toni's move back to Italy could put him in the reckoning to play for the Azzurri in the World Cup this summer.
The veteran striker has made a loan move to Roma following a frustrating period at Bayern Munich and got his first start back in Serie A in his new side's 1-0 victory over Chievo.
Toni has not played for Italy since the Confederations Cup in the summer of 2009, but Marcelo Lippi has opened the door for him to return if he can regain fitness and show some good form before the end of the season.
However, Lippi did warn that he can only have 23 players on the plane to South Africa and he remains "happy and convinced" he will be able to choose from a large number of players in the coming months.
Indeed, this wide pool of players should help ensure Italian are among the favourites when it comes to World Cup football betting.
Speaking about Toni's first appearance back in Serie A, Lippi said: "I saw a great performance by Toni. I was very impressed considering he had not played for several months."
"I follow all the games. I am monitoring everything," he added.
Toni's new teammate Francesco Totti recently said he would be willing to return from international retirement for Italy is he was fit and selected by Lippi.
The veteran quit after Italy's World Cup 2006 victory but now has said he will go to South Africa is Lippi wants him as part of the squad.
Can Arsenal win the premiership?
Premiership result 20/01/10 Arsenal 4: Bolton 2
Although the Gallas challenge on Mark Davies is still the subject of controversy (Bolton fans argue that play should have been stopped; instead it set up the Fabregas equaliser) the superiority of Arsenal over Bolton last night is not. In addition few would dispute that the ability of the Arsenal team to turn over a 2 goal deficit and make it look easy shows that morale is high in the Gooner camp. Walcott's appearance for the first time since Christmas was also good news for the Emirates' faithful, who have been mourning the loss of Van Persie's pace since he injured his ankle in an international friendly in November.
Arsenal are currently riding high at the top of the table by virtue of goals scored, although Chelsea in second do have as game in hand. Arsenal and Chelsea are also due to meet again on 7th February, which given the Blues' 3-0 hammering of the Gooners when they met in November at the Emirates, is not a fixture Arsenal will be counting on 3 points from.
For the past few seasons Wenger has claimed until the very very last minute that the Arsenal are still in contention for the premiership, but at this point in time in this season it would be difficult to dispute. Of course Chelsea remain the hot favourites and have played some absolute cracking football this season, but even teams of their calibre are not immune to slipping up - remember the Wigan result in September (3:1 to Wigan)!!
Although the Gallas challenge on Mark Davies is still the subject of controversy (Bolton fans argue that play should have been stopped; instead it set up the Fabregas equaliser) the superiority of Arsenal over Bolton last night is not. In addition few would dispute that the ability of the Arsenal team to turn over a 2 goal deficit and make it look easy shows that morale is high in the Gooner camp. Walcott's appearance for the first time since Christmas was also good news for the Emirates' faithful, who have been mourning the loss of Van Persie's pace since he injured his ankle in an international friendly in November.
Arsenal are currently riding high at the top of the table by virtue of goals scored, although Chelsea in second do have as game in hand. Arsenal and Chelsea are also due to meet again on 7th February, which given the Blues' 3-0 hammering of the Gooners when they met in November at the Emirates, is not a fixture Arsenal will be counting on 3 points from.
For the past few seasons Wenger has claimed until the very very last minute that the Arsenal are still in contention for the premiership, but at this point in time in this season it would be difficult to dispute. Of course Chelsea remain the hot favourites and have played some absolute cracking football this season, but even teams of their calibre are not immune to slipping up - remember the Wigan result in September (3:1 to Wigan)!!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Carling Cup semi-final 1st leg Manchester City 2 Manchester United 1
League Cup Man City 2 Man Utd 1 : 1st leg semi final at Eastlands
Roberto Mancini's Manchester City took the 1st leg to the Premier League champions Manchester United, winning 2-1 at Eastlands.
BBC Sports Personality of the Year winner Ryan Giggs scored early on in the 17th minute, shooting from close range placing the ball into the centre of the goal.
Carlos Tevez looked sharp, the Argentinian scored a well struck penalty to equalise and then shortly after the break he got his brace in the 65th minute, scoring with his head. Shortly after that Tevez was substiuted but got BBC man of the match which was well deserved.
Manchester United finished strongly but they couldn't quite get the equaliser, setting up a great second leg at Old Trafford.
Roberto Mancini's Manchester City took the 1st leg to the Premier League champions Manchester United, winning 2-1 at Eastlands.
BBC Sports Personality of the Year winner Ryan Giggs scored early on in the 17th minute, shooting from close range placing the ball into the centre of the goal.
Carlos Tevez looked sharp, the Argentinian scored a well struck penalty to equalise and then shortly after the break he got his brace in the 65th minute, scoring with his head. Shortly after that Tevez was substiuted but got BBC man of the match which was well deserved.
Manchester United finished strongly but they couldn't quite get the equaliser, setting up a great second leg at Old Trafford.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Birmingham City 1 Manchester United 1 Premier League Latest
As one of only two fixtures that survived the cold snap today, lots of smug ESPN subscribers (including myself) will have enjoyed the match at St Andrews today where home team Birmingham managed to get a point against current Premier League champions Manchester United.
Bad result for Man Utd - I think it now has to be Chelsea's to lose.
Snow has disrupted many industries, including football particularly in lower leagues. However Man Utd played last week in the FA Cup against Leeds and took a big knock in that game at home. Looking to bounce back today, for 30 minutes in the first half Birmingham City could hardly get a touch of the ball as the red devils were truly awesome in ther mastery of attacking football. No goals from it though. Jerome scored first against the run of play (one of my top five football clichés) with a scrappy goal coming from a corner.
In the second half after some more dominating football, it was Manchester United's turn for a scrappy goal. As the cross came in and the ball went in the net after blocked shots from both Rooney and Scholes, Rooney gingerly claimed the goal but then there was hesitation with the officials as the Birmingham players and fans piled on the pressure claiming an offside. However, it was then clear that the goal was to stand because it was actually an own goal.
Bad result for Man Utd - I think it now has to be Chelsea's to lose.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Leeds United - they've beaten the Champions - can they beat Spurs?
All across the city of Leeds, West Yorkshire there were triumphant Leeds United fans on Sunday after their incredible FA Cup upset, travelling back over the Pennines having turfed out Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United.
Leeds took 9,000 to Old Trafford, what a memorable day for those fans. The first away win against Man Utd since 1981, they now face Tottenham Hotspur - away again down at White Hart Lane.
I wonder if they can do it again - with Jermaine Beckford upfront the League One leaders are a handful...a fixture that Harry Redknapp's Spurs will definitely be weary of.
Leeds took 9,000 to Old Trafford, what a memorable day for those fans. The first away win against Man Utd since 1981, they now face Tottenham Hotspur - away again down at White Hart Lane.
I wonder if they can do it again - with Jermaine Beckford upfront the League One leaders are a handful...a fixture that Harry Redknapp's Spurs will definitely be weary of.
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