tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49405500313257811132024-03-05T10:23:03.188-08:00PhilosofootballJust some posts about various footballing events, will start doing some different sports soon and maybe even some film/gig reviews.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-20839338816236168142012-03-04T06:21:00.000-08:002012-03-04T06:21:58.186-08:00Newcastle 1-1 Sunderland<div class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><img src="http://img2.blogblog.com/img/video_object.png" style="background-color: #b2b2b2; " class="BLOGGER-object-element tr_noresize tr_placeholder" id="ieooui" data-original-id="ieooui" /> <style>
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</style> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:shapedefaults v:ext="edit" spidmax="1026"/> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:shapelayout v:ext="edit"> <o:idmap v:ext="edit" data="1"/> </o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></b><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Super-sub Shola Ameobi equalised in stoppage time to secure Newcastle a point in a feisty encounter at the Sports Direct Arena.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It looked like it would be a game of two penalties as Sunderland scored theirs in the first half and Newcastle failed to convert one of their own in the final ten minutes until Ameobi popped up with the winner in the 91<sup>st</sup> minute.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sunderland were forced to have their backs to the wall as Newcastle spared no expense in the search for an equaliser.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Referee Mike Dean awarded Sunderland a penalty after Mike Williamson was found guilty of shirt pulling in the box on Michael Turner and Sunderland broke the deadlock.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Nicklas Bendtner, on loan from Arsenal, hit the back of the net from the penalty spot giving Sunderland the lead in the first half and meaning there are not the only team yet to score a penalty in the Premier League anymore.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tempers flared throughout the match, between the players and the managers, and the slick, slippery surface did not help the wild challenges flying in. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Patience did snap in the second half and Stephane Sessegnon was shown red for raising his arm against Cheick Tiote in the 58<sup>th</sup> minute. Neither player had the ball but Sessegnon’s left elbow was raised and push backwards into Tiote’s chest.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tiote’s reaction was delayed and he lay clutching his face despite being caught in the chest but you can’t raise your hands and the red card was justified.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There was much made beforehand of these sides’ disciplinary records namely, Tiote and Lee Cattermole who have their share of 46 yellow cards and four reds between them. Three of those reds are contributed by Cattermole and 19 yellows by Tiote.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Both players received yellow cards today for fouls against each other. Cattermole’s came after just 30 seconds and he followed it up by getting a red two minutes after the final whistle for verbally abusing Mike Dean.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Both teams had their fair share of chances with Sunderland looking the more likely to score before half time.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Alan Pardew made one change after the break which saw Hatem Ben Arfa for Davide Santon. Ben Arfa’s first contribution got his side a corner which almost resulted in a Demba Ba equaliser. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">He then almost made the different late in the game as Newcastle put the pressure on Sunderland but his shot was hit straight at Simon Mingolet.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">McClean came agonisingly close to doubling Sunderland’s lead but the tame shot was scrambled away by the leg of Tim Krul. Firstly, Krul kept out Bendtner’s low shot then recovered quick enough to stop the follow up from McClean. Superb goalkeeping and it shows why the ‘keeper was offered a new five-year deal earlier this week.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Newcastle</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> felt they were denied a penalty of their in the final 15 minutes as the ball looked to have hit the had of John O’Shea but contact was minimal.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">They were finally given one of their own when Frazier Campbell, who came on in the 71<sup>st</sup> minute to replace Nicklas Bendtner, took down Ameobi. Demba Ba stepped up to convert the kick but his effort was heroically saved by Mignolet.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">As Newcastle hearts looked as if all hope was gone, the pressure eventually paid off against the ten men of Sunderland and Ameobi grabbed a winner as he smashed his shot past Mingolet in stoppage time.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Despite a fantastic effort by Sunderland to hold their lead for the last half an hour the Magpies finally broke the deadlock to share the spoils.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-4410181409213805412012-02-15T13:53:00.000-08:002012-02-15T13:55:10.760-08:00AC Milan 4-0 Arsenal<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTYzsnvyvoiEshiCpu43ZePqZpOpGTQFWiQKjuzbDfPwRdtsiZrhmX3ZRlXjNnyEoA5MdZGNdyq7zr3SXHhcYIYtnfnPjlEOaEaNRqkPGZg72IxpmFUvTtIEd5DCgwEUJeNKcIsBSQD94/s1600/robinho-ac-milan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTYzsnvyvoiEshiCpu43ZePqZpOpGTQFWiQKjuzbDfPwRdtsiZrhmX3ZRlXjNnyEoA5MdZGNdyq7zr3SXHhcYIYtnfnPjlEOaEaNRqkPGZg72IxpmFUvTtIEd5DCgwEUJeNKcIsBSQD94/s200/robinho-ac-milan.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ROBINHO: Two goals for Milan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Former Manchester City man, Robinho, struck twice to to put an end to Arsenal’s Champions League dreams as AC Milan ended Arsenal's unbeaten run against Italian sides to an embarrassing end.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Former Tottenham man Kevin-Prince Boateng’s stunning strike in the 15<sup>th</sup> minute put the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Rossonieri </i>ahead before Robinho doubled and then trebled their lead.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Ibrahimovic scored a penalty in the 79<sup>th</sup> minute to kill off the game beyond doubt and in doing so ensured that he has scored in every Champions League game he’s played in this season. Ibrahimovic made a nuisance of himself from the kick-off and looked every bit the player he says he is, creating and scoring goals tonight.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Arsenal had a good chunk of the possession in the opening ten minutes but their good spell ended there. Boateng’s strike of the night from the right-hand side rattled the underside of the bar and then the bottom of the net, leaving Szczesny helpless and Arsenal were 1-0 down before they knew it.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The pitch didn’t do either team any favours but it could be suggested that the wide-flanks, where the worst of it was, would affect Arsenal’s play more than the home side.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Arsenal’s defence were at their poorest since the start of the season and Milan’s front three of Ibrahimovic, Boateng and Robinho ran them ragged.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">If things couldn’t get worse for the Gunners’ back line, Laurent Koscielny, who was their best defender by far and away with Vermaelen having a torrid time, had to be replaced with Djourou just before the break.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
AC Milan were troubled by their own injury problems and manager, Allegri found himself having to bring on Urby Emanuelson for the injured Clarence Seedorf just after the 10 minute mark.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Robinho made it 2-0 before half time heading home a perfectly chipped ball from Ibrahimovic from five yards out.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Half time saw changes made from Arsenal and a final Champions League appearance for Thierry Henry who replaced the lacklustre Theo Walcott.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">But the change didn’t rectify the problems and Robinho doubled his tally for the night after an unfortunate Vermaelen slip on the edge of the box allowed him the space to pick his spot and smash his effort towards goal.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Arsenal very nearly got one back just after the 60<sup>th</sup> minute when Henry and Van Persie teamed up to create a rare Arsenal chance which forced a save from ‘keeper Marco Amelia. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The French maestro flicked the ball up with his heel for the prolific Van Persie to strike it on the volley but Amelia did well to tip the shot round the post.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Szczesny’s first save came in the third minute of stoppage time when he was forced to stop a later strike from Pato. Four Milan shots hit the back of the net and the other ten were off-target.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Arsenal have an important couple of weeks ahead with the FA Cup game then Tottenham and Liverpool in the league. If they continue to perform the way they did tonight then their season will be over sooner rather than later.</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-4899926033271378682012-02-06T14:33:00.000-08:002012-02-06T14:39:12.768-08:00Liverpool 0-0 Tottenham<div class="MsoNormal">Gareth Bale missed a late chance to snatch all three points for Tottenham, despite missing their manager, in what was far from a classic at Anfield.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Spurs managed to keep Liverpool at bay and neither team really deserved the victory although the home side marginally had the better of the chances but could not find a way through a resolute Spurs defence.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Redknapp failed to make the journey north, due to court commitments, no doubt, but he would have been proud of the discipline his team showed.</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gyUrCIne4uw/Ti_lNjsKG9I/AAAAAAAADGk/nElDy9XVzKA/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="182" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gyUrCIne4uw/Ti_lNjsKG9I/AAAAAAAADGk/nElDy9XVzKA/s200/2.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SUAREZ: Return spiked with controversy</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">The return of Luis Suarez, who came on to rapturous applause from the Kop, saw him almost make the headlines but he fluffed his header from 6 yards with under ten minutes to go but Bale definitely had the pick of the bunch with his chance.</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Welshman was through on goal after making a bursting sprint for Pepe Reina only to fire his shot straight at the ‘keeper.</div><div class="MsoNormal">A rare sliced shot from Gareth Bale near the six yard box sent a Spurs chance begging just ten minutes after the break.</div><div class="MsoNormal">The first half was also a particularly uneventful affair with a cat making most of the half time headlines. Yes, a moggy ran onto the pitch and caused the game to stop while various stewards, and Brad Friedel, tried to catch the poor animal who was trespassing on the pitch.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Liverpool tried two free-kick takers in the first half, first up Gerard and then Bellamy both with the same outcome; the ball went straight into the wall from a promising position.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The game was scrappy all round actually with both teams struggling to maintain any prolonged period of possession with Jay Spearing and Andy Carroll looking particularly woeful.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Man of the match, Scott Parker, said: “When you come to Anfield it’s difficult, we’ve come here and got a point and that’s the most important thing.”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Suarez’s comeback was not without controversy when he kicked Parker in the box by accident, of course. He protested his innocence but I’m not sure his eyes were on the ball. Maybe the balls more like. Parker confirmed to Andy Burton that his ‘crown jewels’ are in one piece.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The one manager who was present, Kenny Daglish, said: “We are really pleased with the way that the team kept our shape, we have played the top sides and we’ve done really well.”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Despite Liverpool having the lowest conversion rate of chances to goals in the league Daglish insisted that he had nothing to worry about and a cup final to look forward to.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">He remained characteristically defiant on the Suarez subject, he said: “Fantastic for us to get him back, he should never have been out in the first place.”</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-52901437086767240552012-01-14T14:49:00.000-08:002012-01-14T14:53:54.870-08:00Macclesfield Town 1-2 Torquay UnitedMacclesfield were served up a defeat sandwiched in between their FA Cup ties with Bolton and now have more injuries to contest with after George Donnelly limped off with a groin strain.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">The manager, Gary Simpson, was left disappointed with his team’s ability to cope with set pieces, from which they shipped two goals.</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.football365.com/11/12/800x600/George-Donnelly-Macclesfield-2011_2696829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images.football365.com/11/12/800x600/George-Donnelly-Macclesfield-2011_2696829.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Donnelly</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 48.75pt;">“The most disappointing thing is that we have conceded again from two corners. I wanted my big players and my big defenders to come and deal with stuff and at the minute we’re not doing it,” he said.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Torquay broke the deadlock from a set piece through Ian Morris who headed home a looping header for The Gulls in the 52<sup>nd</sup> minute to score his first goal for the club.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Macclesfield’s defence were caught out again from a set piece giving Mark Ellis the time to position himself correctly and fire an overhead kick into the back of the net less than 20 minutes later.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 48.75pt;">Simpson was sympathetic, he said: “I think sometimes it’s just how it goes and we struggled today. We have one or two struggling from injuries.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 48.75pt;">“I can’t fault the endeavour to try and get back into the game and we kept going and kept going,” said Simpson.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 48.75pt;">“We’ve got a few injuries, George had to go off because he’s got a groin strain and Sam [Wedgbury] is still struggling and we have had to cancel his operation,” he explained.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.skysports.com/11/10/660x350/Ian-Morris_2661382.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="169" src="http://img.skysports.com/11/10/660x350/Ian-Morris_2661382.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super-sub Ian Morris</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">Macclesfield managed to claw one back through an arrowed header from Shaun Brisley after a cross from Elliot Hewitt on right hand side as The Silkmen pushed for a point from the game late on.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=4940550031325781113&postID=5290143708676724055&from=pencil" name="_GoBack"></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">Torquay have now managed four league games unbeaten now and move up to 8<sup>th</sup> place on 41pts, worthy of a play-off place.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 48.75pt;">Gulls’ Boss Martin Ling was pleased with his sides’ tough performance, he said: “It was pleasing to show that we have got a lot of credentials going forward and a lot of character.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 48.75pt;">“They’re strong, they get it forward quickly and we had to match that but you could just see that the gaps were starting to appear and we were always likely to pick them off.”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 48.75pt;">Ling was left with a potential selection problem in the wake of Ian Morris’ good form, he said: “I’m really pleased for Ian he puts it in day in and day out in training and he certainly does the job when he’s given the chance.”</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-62134853915357885242011-12-17T04:36:00.000-08:002011-12-17T04:37:02.740-08:00Tough Tests For Manchester Clubs In Europe<div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">Manchester City and Manchester United face tough ties in the Europa League draw which was made today. </div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"><a href="http://wfcolumns.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/europa-league-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://wfcolumns.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/europa-league-logo.jpg" width="150" /></a>City have drawn the holders, Porto and United face seasoned European competitors, Ajax; a match worthy of Champions League status rather than Europa League.</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">Sir Alex Ferguson, who has never faced Ajax before in European competition in his 25-year tenure, said: “Ajax are a good team, I'm looking forward to it.”</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal">Manchester United Defender, Chris Smalling, said: “It was a massive disappointment going out of the Champions League. This will be a good test. A lot of the teams will be keen to do well.</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">United won’t be taking the Dutch giants lightly and nor they should. The four-time European cup winners are trying to rebuild their place within the continent’s elite and are hoping to cement that status with a win over United.</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">Ajax Commercial Director, Henri Van Der Art, said: “For our fans it is a fantastic match. There are two famous teams who respect each other.”</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">Manchester City, on the other hand, face a Porto side who went unbeaten last season in an impressive run. </div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% white;">The Portuguese team were lead to victory in this competition last year by, now Chelsea manager, Andre Villas-Boas.</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www3.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Chris+Smalling+Bursaspor+Kulubu+v+Manchester+DOtaCYHcpTZl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://www3.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Chris+Smalling+Bursaspor+Kulubu+v+Manchester+DOtaCYHcpTZl.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smalling battling against Bursaspor</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal">Manchester City Administrator Brian Marwood, said: “It's amazing. We've gone through the hardest group in the Champions League and now got the holders of the Europa League.”</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal">Because of the fixture scheduling and the fact that both Manchester clubs may have to play home matches on the same night City will be forced to move their tie.</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal">City will be forced to move because United have a higher UEFA coefficient rating and will probably play their matches on Wednesday nights at 6pm. </div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><br />
This is obviously not great for fans with work commitments wishing to attend but it’s better than the Thursday afternoon option which was discussed earlier this week.</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal">If City proceed they will face either Sporting Lisbon or Legia Warsaw. If Manchester United are successful they face the prospect of either Lokomotiv Moscow or Athletic Bilbao however the Manchester clubs cannot meet each other until the quarter-finals at the earliest.</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="ecxMsoNormal">The first round of games will take place on the 16 and 23 February.</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-19252732090004654302011-08-21T13:17:00.000-07:002011-08-21T13:17:43.411-07:00Arsenal 0-2 Liverpool: Complications and Implications<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/> <w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/> <w:OverrideTableStyleHps/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<div class="MsoNormal">Arsene Wenger admitted that he is familiar with the term “When it rains, it pours” and I’m not surprised; it’s certainly pouring at the Emirates. The feeling is that Wenger’s actions in the next ten days could threaten to destroy or perhaps reinforce his legend at Arsenal Football Club. Liverpool recorded their first win at Arsenal for 11 years and Arsenal finished the match with a team that resembled a Carling Cup side rather than the crucial Premier League encounter this undoubtedly was. Szscensy – Sagna, Miquel, Vermaelen, Jenkison – Lansbury, Ramsey, Nasri – Van Persie, Bendtner was the ten man side that finished the game yesterday and Arsenal looked desperate. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.teamtalk.com/08/09/800x600/Samir-Nasri_1202636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images.teamtalk.com/08/09/800x600/Samir-Nasri_1202636.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nasri: Staying or Going?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">The choice to play Samir Nasri and bring on Nicklas Bendtner from the bench, two players who have publicly expressed their desire to leave the club before the month is over, suggested that Arsenal’s squad is extremely thread bare. It also highlights the fact that no replacements for these players have been purchased; a situation that the Arsenal fans will be hoping their manager rectifies sooner rather than later.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Liverpool, on the other hand, looked very much the opposite; showing their squad’s strength by bringing on Raul Meireles and Luis Suarez on to change the game in the last half an hour. Dalglish has brought in several hard working players of Premier League standard in Carroll, Downing, Suarez. None at a cheap price undeniably, but the players are now available to Dalgish, something Wenger surely envies. Both teams were coping without their inspirational captains, Fabregas having left for Catalonia and Gerrard still nursing an injury, and no doubt Liverpool’s squad was much better equipped to deal with that draw back.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tough Time For Wenger</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">Considering the gulf in experience and value of the two squads the result did flatter Liverpool slightly. Shortly after going down to 10 men after Frimpong was shown a second yellow for a high tackle on Lucas, Arsenal were dreadfully unlucky when a Miquel clearance bounced back into the Gunners’ net off Aaron Ramsey’s chest. Granted, the Welshman didn’t know anything about it but the goal symbolized the way his game had gone. He was caught in possession several times, while his positioning and passing were often wayward. Arsenal had no-one on the bench to come on and put him out of his misery and he was left to struggle on. Arshavin was similarly disappointing and failed to re kindle the form that saw him score 4 against Liverpool a couple of seasons ago, while his opposite wingman Theo Walcott also struggle to make an impact on the game. The only solution Wenger had was to substitute Walcott for centre forward, Bendtner, hardly a game changer.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">There were a few boos at the final whistle, although these were apparently not as audible as the Sky microphones would have you believe. Besides, it seemed they were mostly directed towards the referee Martin Atkinson. The officials undoubtedly had a poor game, failing to notice that Suarez was offside for the first Liverpool goal and that Robin Van Persie should have been awarded a penalty late on after being dragged down in the area by his shirt at the hands of Jamie Carragher.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">There is no doubt that Arsenal’s situation is somewhat unfortunate; the injuries to Wilshere, Koscielny and Djourou certainly have not helped, but the suspensions are entirely their own doing. Song and Gervinho are currently one game into serving a three game ban for entirely avoidable offences, while the impressive and positive Frimpong will now miss the Manchester United game, thanks to is naïve over-enthusiasm. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://answers.bettor.com/images/Articles/thumbs/extralarge/Nightmare-start-for-Kenny-Dalglish-as-Blackpool-complete-a-rare-double-52520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="204" src="http://answers.bettor.com/images/Articles/thumbs/extralarge/Nightmare-start-for-Kenny-Dalglish-as-Blackpool-complete-a-rare-double-52520.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kenny Dalglish: On The Right Track</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Liverpool look like they will develop into a very dangerous side with a bit of time and the right management but they really should have beaten that Arsenal side by more. The struggled draw at home to Sunderland last week shows there is still work to do. The code has not quite been cracked at Anfield but, they certainly look like they will have an input into the race for the Premier League title.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">As for the Gunners, well the next ten days are very important for the club given that the transfer window closes on September 1<sup>st</sup>. They take a slender lead into a tough Champions League qualifier, and the result will surely make or break their season. Arsene Wenger needs to act quickly and decisively. </div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-65973218095545536582011-08-14T03:07:00.000-07:002011-08-17T09:02:01.367-07:00Andre Villas-Boas<div class="MsoNormal">As Chelsea embark on a new season with a new manager, their 5<sup>th</sup> in seven years, it seems right to suggest that this one might be the one they give a little more time to. He’s young, he’s handsome and he did quite well with Porto, ring any bells… </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thtandlcab-football.com/images/Boas2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.thtandlcab-football.com/images/Boas2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Of course the similarities have been apparent between Villas-Boas and Jose Mourinho, the statistics are similar and even John Terry has commented on their similar personality traits. Not surprising since the now Chelsea manager worked with ‘The Special One’ for a number of years. Mourinho even once referred to the youngster as “my eyes and ears” when he was head of the Opponent Observation unit at Stamford Bridge. So, he is no stranger to the English game and is fluent in English due to his time in the UK with Mourinho and an English grandmother on his mother’s side. Such a good student is he that he took Mourinho’s record of 33 matches unbeaten in all competitions with Porto and bettered it by three.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://footballupdatenet.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Villas-Boas-FC-Porto-Manager.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://footballupdatenet.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Villas-Boas-FC-Porto-Manager.jpg" width="150" /></a>At the tender age of 33 there have been doubts expressed about whether this man can take charge of a dressing room filled with egos like Drogba, Terry, Malouda etc. all fighting for places. Yet, he seems to have his players on the same wavelength and seems keen to providing Chelsea owner, Roman Abramovich with what he wants; attractive football. Something else which drew the Russian owner to Villas-Boas is his European Trophy winning experience. After last years success with Porto in the Europa League Villas-Boas took Porto on their longest unbeaten run in Europe. However, that doesn’t guarantee success with his newly inherited Chelsea team. It does guarantee plenty of pressure, though.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Many have called for this to be the time that Abramovich gives his employee at the helm the precious gift of time, many feel that if Villas-Boas is unsuccessful in his first season that his job may be feared for and some pundits think that he is most likely to fall flat on his face given the enormity of the task ahead. Already he has some big decisions to make in terms of personnel in transfers and the squad he will pick to start against Stoke tomorrow.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01359/AVB_12_682x400_1359096a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01359/AVB_12_682x400_1359096a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
The Chelsea manager has made no secret of the fact that he will stick with the 4-3-3 system that worked so well for him at Porto. However, this does leave him with selection problems/privileges depending on which way you look at the situation. A 4-3-3 formation would mean that he will have to decide whether he will start Drogba or Torres and it’s likely that the two will very rarely play together. He will then have to find a way to fit Anelka, Malouda, Kalou, Benayoun, Sturridge and anyone they may sign (possibly Modric) into that mix and find the best fit, no doubt, with the watchful and judgemental eye of Roman Abramovich keeping a close eye on proceedings. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">There is a fantastic <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/chelsea/8699902/Chelsea-manager-Andre-Villas-Boass-footballing-philosophy.html">interview</a> with Andre Villas-Boas in today’s Telegraph on his footballing philosophy. Well worth a read.</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-30003985678036760872011-08-01T11:41:00.000-07:002011-08-01T23:19:18.695-07:00A Case for Nicklas Bendtner<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://www.soccernews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Nicklas-Bendtner-Tattoos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="http://www.soccernews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Nicklas-Bendtner-Tattoos.jpg" width="200" /></a>It has been made no secret that Nicklas Bendtner is keen to secure a move from the Emirates and he seems close to doing just that. The Danish centre-forward has not travelled with the club or taken part in any pre-season friendly matches so far </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">Ask your average Arsenal fan and they will tell you that they’re very happy for Bendtner to be leaving. However the young Dane’s contributions to the Arsenal cause have been far less woeful than his reputation suggests. Often accused of arrogance or ‘over confidence’ by his own fans, Nicklas Bendtner was left in a no win situation at the club. The player said he wanted to play every game; he was criticised. He said he could score goals; he was criticised even more. Tell me, what more do you want a young forward to say?</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01603/nicklas_bendtner2_1603266c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" src="http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01603/nicklas_bendtner2_1603266c.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">The reason Bendtner struggled to score was because he was played out of position for the majority of his time at Arsenal. More often than not he was to be found out on the right hand side putting crosses into the box. Yes, the tallest Arsenal player on the pitch was putting the crosses in to the likes of Arshavin, it's laughable really. However, when he was played in a more central role, most notably in the 2009-2010 season, when Robin Van Persie was injured, he scored several important goals for the club; namely, a 94<sup>th</sup> minute winner against Hull at the Emirates to keep The Gunner’s in the title race. A header from a cross, funnily enough.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12pt;">Yet, it seemed that nothing could win him over with the fans. Constant criticism followed by several relatively fruitless efforts on the right wing eventually ground the player down and with the arrival of Marouane Chamakh he has probably felt forced to look elsewhere for the chance to play regularly.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://totalfootballmadness.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Nicklas-Bendtner-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://totalfootballmadness.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Nicklas-Bendtner-1.jpg" width="212" /></a>Just to put things into perspective slightly, Bendtner has scored 45 goals from 156 appearances and Robin Van Persie has scored 97 from 230 appearances. That’s an average of 3.4 games per goal for Nick, compared to 2.3 for Robin. Now, just to clarify, I am not suggesting that Nicklas Bendtner is on the same level of Robin Van Persie the point of the stats are just an attempt to show that perhaps some of the ill-feeling directly towards Bendtner was a bit hasty. He also played a big part in securing Denmark a place in the 2010 World Cup; a massive achievement for a 20-year-old.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">Before the signing of Chamakh, Bendtner was Arsenal's archetypal centre forward who could be deployed as a change of strategy when their patient passing football was falling short of the mark (See: Ibrahimovic's role for Barcelona). Yet, he was rarely used as an actual plan B, as in, Arsenal would never change their style to suit their target man and the whole thing was a bit limp. More of a bad fit than Bendtner being a bad player.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">Talk of a potential buyer for Nick has been coming from Portugal and there has reportedly been several clubs in contact for him, it’s now down to the player and his agent which is his father to choose the most suitable club. </div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-45029699854651506492011-06-12T05:20:00.001-07:002011-06-12T05:22:30.092-07:00Are England's Players in Need of a Better Football Education?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.racingdiary.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/rooney_england.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.racingdiary.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/rooney_england.jpg" width="257" /></a></div>Today’s England team are often criticised for failing to live up to expectations on the international scale. Many ponder the reasons for this given that the teams do so well on the European scale, although not with a full squad of English players, but many other European domestic teams share a similar line of success as their country. For example, the success of Barcelona and Real Madrid, AC Milan and Inter Milan, Bayern Munich has something of a correlation with their respective countries prospering in European or World Cups. Does anyone think that England’s successes are in correspondence to Manchester United/Arsenal/Chelsea’s? It seems that England players fall short of the mark compared to their continental peers; are they need of a better footballing education? England’s international success does not match the likes of Manchester United’s success in Europe.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">It seems blasphemous to suggest that an Englishman would not receive a substantial education in football. However, when you put aside the notions of ‘heart’ and ‘pride’ on the pitch and think about it seriously, many of Europe’s top teams give a far better all round education to their students of the game. The current Barcelona squad, into which Pep Guardiola has instilled a Cryuff-inspired philosophy, have been widely admired. What most people forget is that it is not simply beautiful football but it has to be perfectly married with an abundance of discipline and understanding of the game. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">Graduates of the Barça school La Masia are taught to think of the pitch divided up into eight boxes; all of which must be occupied by at least one player at all times. If a player sees an empty box he must fill it in order to ensure that the team are always in a good position to defend if they should lose the ball. Even when on the attack they are aware of the possible need to defend; this relies on, not only great discipline and awareness of what the team is doing as a whole but also, an in-depth knowledge of each individual player’s function within the team.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.livefootball4u.com/wp-content/uploads/Barcelona-MF-Sergio-Busquets-to-Play-in-UEFA-Champions-League-Final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://www.livefootball4u.com/wp-content/uploads/Barcelona-MF-Sergio-Busquets-to-Play-in-UEFA-Champions-League-Final.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">Each player knows what part their role plays in the context of the team, Sergio Busquets said recently: “Part of my role is to shuttle between the defence and attacking lines to make sure the ball circulates well and quickly. Often this pivotal position starts the play. Defensively I'm also an intermediate between our back four and the midfield and I try to mark and press so I can isolate the opposition striker from their midfield.”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">Obviously, Barcelona raise the bar high for other teams but this understanding is not uncommon in Europe. Steve McClaren revealed that during FC Twente matches the players left out of the squad or players from the youth team would be asked to write a report on the match as they watch it, ready for submission after the game. Thus, broadening their understanding of the match and identifying the various team formations, changes in tactics etc.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">I get the feeling that if you asked an English player what went wrong during the game and why they had failed to win you’d probably get a response along the lines of, “Well, they just wanted it more than us.” There is no doubt that the desire to win plays a part but you cannot expect players to flourish against more intelligent footballing opponents if they don’t understand the game inside and out.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;"><br />
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</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-48117441404524733042011-05-23T07:53:00.001-07:002011-05-23T07:53:38.988-07:00Is the Respect Campaign failing to Gain Any Respect?<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
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<div class="MsoNormal">The FA and UEFA have implemented a “Respect campaign” in recent seasons with, let’s be honest, minimal effect. The role of such a movement is to address the issue that players’ are too colourful with their language and too brash with their general attitude towards refs.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">A noble attempt, you may say, in trying to dignify the game and prevent the players from coming across as bad role models to young children, since it is the case today that the players as labelled delinquent, bad tempered potty-mouths. Not to say that in some cases this isn’t true but I think the majority of players don’t find it difficult to respect the referee if he earns it.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">That’s the thing about respect; it has to be earned. Not only can it not be brought about by a respect campaign, it certainly cannot be brought about when it is not deserved and the truth of the matter is that some referees just don’t deserve respect.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">A couple of weeks ago The Secret Footballer column in the Guardian discussed referees and not the players behaviour towards them but the referee’s behaviour towards the players. Obviously no names were mentioned but it was confirmed that this player had been spoken to improperly by the referee and that it’s not uncommon to hear the referee’s using profanities as much as the players.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">How can the campaign itself be respected and sincere when the referees, whom this is supposed to benefit, are dishing out their fair share of abuse? </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I think the refs could help themselves more with their actions and reactions on the pitch than any limp campaign, not matter how much it is pushed. I have seen, on several occasions, a player will run over to the official be it referee or linesman simply to ask why the decision was made. It is fair to say that in many cases the players are too aggressive but the official usually attempts to ignore them which sparks further fuel to the already overheated player. Rather than be confident in their decision and explain themselves they back away from confrontation and refuse to engage with the players. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">By not commanding respect on the pitch and using the same language which could get players sent off, the referees are making a mockery and a hypocrisy of the respect campaign causing players and fans to deplore the whole situation even more. </div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-83559396297421735992011-04-27T14:32:00.000-07:002011-04-27T14:32:55.560-07:00Clasico Tres: The Ugly One<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><img src="http://img2.blogblog.com/img/video_object.png" style="background-color: #b2b2b2; " class="BLOGGER-object-element tr_noresize tr_placeholder" id="ieooui" data-original-id="ieooui" /> <style>
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<div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://cristianoronaldofan.net/wp-content/blogs.dir/42/files/cristiano-ronaldo-real-madrid-0-2-barcelona-10-april-2010/cristiano-vs-barcelona-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="http://cristianoronaldofan.net/wp-content/blogs.dir/42/files/cristiano-ronaldo-real-madrid-0-2-barcelona-10-april-2010/cristiano-vs-barcelona-15.jpg" width="200" /></a>Lionel Messi continued his spectacular form by scoring his 51<sup>st</sup> and 52<sup>nd</sup> goals against Real Madrid which broke the deadlock in this tense derby and then put the match beyond the home side.<span style="color: #ff9900;"> </span>The breakthrough came after Barça substitute Afellay put in a dangerous low cross which Messi connected with at the front post after getting ahead of Sergio Ramos by an inch.<span style="color: #ff9900;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">It took 75 minutes for Barcelona to score and it came about after Madrid went down to ten men. It’s the fifth time in a row that a Mourinho team has had a man sent off against the Catalans and Pepe becomes the seventh player sent off in the last six meetings between the clubs; five for Real and two for Barça. Jose then practiced what he seems to preach by getting sent to the stands after unacceptable comments made to the fourth official.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://rainbowfootball.info/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/pepe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="116" src="http://rainbowfootball.info/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/pepe.jpg" width="200" /></a>The match had a Mourinho-esque feel about it in the sense that it lacked dignity, respect and was a downright shameful portrayal of the two clubs, or maybe it was an accurate representation. Yes, Messi’s goal was wonderful but lest we forget that the precious demi-God reacted angrily to a challenge and tried to elbow someone in the leg earlier in the match, which was conveniently brushed over. Pepe’s red card was slightly harsh but the situation had reached boiling point and the Barça players were not going to let this one go as Dani Alves was taken off on a stretcher. He returned to the pitch soon after. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Whether Madrid were happy about it or not, in the first half Barcelona dominated possession and Madrid seemed at ease to let them do so and wait for a slight mistake to pounce on. Pepe, Alonso and Diarra pressurised the Barcelona front line and forced them back. Madrid struggled to keep the ball however, and when they did regain possession it was usually for a short spell. Casillas came to his side’s rescue when Xavi was played through the middle delightfully by Messi.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ndtv.com/news/images/story_page/messi-supercup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://www.ndtv.com/news/images/story_page/messi-supercup.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">The German referee, Wolfgang Stark, was submitted to serious scrutiny every time he blew his whistle; from the managers, commentators and protests from the players and fans. The match was again deterred from the footballing side of things even by half-time when a melee ensued when a few players came together in a slight tussle which resulted in Barcelona’s reserve ‘keeper, Pinto, being sent off. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The second half saw Madrid take the game to Barcelona with more determination to attack and break the Catalans makeshift defence down; Puyol was playing on the left with Mascherano and Pique in the middle. However, it was to no avail. Cristiano Ronaldo had a vague chance when he found himself pushed away from goal and opted for a shot instead of looking for a runner to square the ball to.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">After Pepe was sent off the game was again in Barcelona’s control. Adebayor’s presence was felt but it was too late for <i>los blancos</i>. As it stands, Real Madrid have a mountain to climb at the Camp Nou next week and they will have to do that without Sergio Ramos (suspended), Pepe (suspended) and their manager who will be ordered to the stands again. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://i.eurosport.com/2011/04/17/712516-8497365-317-238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://i.eurosport.com/2011/04/17/712516-8497365-317-238.jpg" width="200" /></a>Pep Guardiola stated that Mourinho had one the verbal war but reminded us all that a football match was to be played and that's where he would make his move, not in the press conference. He will consider Mourinho the winner of the battle but it looks like the war is his. For the neutral it was a frustrating match and one that prompted many questions about why this match had been hyped as a ‘footballing’ spectacle and not for what it was; a cynical war between two sides whose players play out the same rivalry on a stage already set by its history.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">Real Madrid (4-3-3): Casillas; Arbeloa, Albiol, Ramos, Marcelo; Diarra, Pepe, Alonso; Ozil (Adebayor 45), Ronaldo, Di Maria. 4-3-3</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Barcelona (4-3-3): Valdes; Alves, Pique, Mascherano, Puyol; Xavi, Busquets, Keita; Pedro (Afellay 70), Villa (Sergi Roberto 89), Messi.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-87100560564269977222011-04-25T07:43:00.000-07:002011-04-25T08:29:51.844-07:00Ajax 4-1 SBV Excelsior: Show Down For Eredivisie Still On.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhihaZGeVR_1ob-Q90qNyihdNgqFniEPuCGk5qdpAwyxwos4Q_YmfMhvLI1SFFZAB61Io_Hy6_vIj5lAMxmAL6CeVALfpuyGpedqgmVxhaLGMP9pkdW8SG6QuHGO6PCkUYaUkjvT1zms9c/s1600/ams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhihaZGeVR_1ob-Q90qNyihdNgqFniEPuCGk5qdpAwyxwos4Q_YmfMhvLI1SFFZAB61Io_Hy6_vIj5lAMxmAL6CeVALfpuyGpedqgmVxhaLGMP9pkdW8SG6QuHGO6PCkUYaUkjvT1zms9c/s320/ams.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="fn">Lorenzo Ebecilio scored a brace to ensure that Ajax keep up with FC Twente in the mouth-watering Eredivisie title race. The game was rounded off with a superb overhead kick by Siem De Jong making it four, whilst the second came from Christian Eriksen. The Amsterdammers sit just one point behind league leaders Twente on a weekend that PSV dropped points after they were humbled in 3-1 Rotterdam by Feyenoord, finishing the game with 10 men to boot.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://footyroom.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/wp-post-thumbnail/_0QHDX.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://footyroom.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/wp-post-thumbnail/_0QHDX.jpg" /></a><span class="fn">Ajax dominated possession but there was a nervy air around the stadium, something us Arsenal fans can relate too and when SBV Excelsior equalised out of nothing to make it 1-1. Big defender Daan Bovenberg equalised for the away side just after half time and I wonder how many Ajax fans almost gave up the title hopes there and then. But as the news (and video clips) of PSV’s failings filtered through the ground the Ajax faithful were galvanised yet again; huge cheers rang around the arena and the players responded with three goals and real belief.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="fn">De Jong’s final goal was a beauty, a perfectly timed overhead kick from 10 yards out in the 92<sup>nd</sup> minute. The real beauty was that he would have had time to take a touch and bring the ball down but instead he chose to stick it to Excelsior and boot the boot in the only way Ajax know how; with flair. The third goal was largely thanks to Serbian forward Miralem Sulejmani who lifted the ball over the defence straight into the path of Ebecilio who finished off for his second of the evening. The pass was a real treat for the football connoisseur. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="fn">Sulejmani had a fantastic game in the creative forward role under the watchful eye of a former Ajax great in the same position, Tottenham man, Rafael Van der Vaart. The Serb was a constant threat for the wavering Excelsior defence, not often did they play long balls but when he did they were precise and usually consisted of involving wide players, stretching the opponents defence. In fact, so rarely was a long ball seen that even the Ajax goalkeeper insisted on playing the ball short to his full-backs rather than take a long range goal kick.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://lvironpigs.files.wordpress.com/2011/01/1a1a1a12aa1212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://lvironpigs.files.wordpress.com/2011/01/1a1a1a12aa1212.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="fn">Given the crowd's chants of “Ajax kampioen!” it is safe to say that this lot are confident. If they win their next match away to Heerenveen and FC Twente don’t lose to Willem II then it will be a winner-takes-all situation at the Amsterdam Arena when Ajax and Twente face each other on the last day of the season. A draw may not be good enough for Twente because they still have PSV to worry about, despite dropping points at the weekend they can still sneak in and win the title if the win their games and other results go their way.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="fn">Wherever your loyalties lie it’s going to be one hell of a match on May 15<sup>th</sup> in Amsterdam, cameras at the ready; it’s going to be a photo-finish. </span></div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-62820336575775590782011-04-22T06:28:00.000-07:002011-04-22T06:28:44.763-07:00Clasico Dos: The King's CupThe cup final. Not many changes made: pinto for valdes, adriano for puyol arbeloa for albiol, ozil for benzema. Pepe still playing further forward.<br />
<br />
Mourinho stuck to his guns and came out victorious. Pointed out by Johan Cryuffn in the negative, as being a manager for trophies and not football... I couldn't see any Madristas complaining.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/soccer/blog/dirty-tackle/post/Sergio-Ramos-dropped-Copa-del-Rey-trophy-under-m?urn=sow-wp1029">Despite dropping the cup under the bus</a>, there was no feeling that Madrid didn't enjoy every second of their first copa del rey for 18 years. <br />
<br />
The momentum was with Madrid, chances were almost equal but Madrid had the edge and when players such as Affelay came on late there was no real feeling that they'd win it for the Catalans. <br />
It says a lot that los blancos fans were applauding intently after the league game which almost terminated their title challenge from the relief of not being beaten by their biggest rivals.<br />
<br />
It was a cup game which was intensified by the rivalry of the clubs which was intensified ten fold by the upcoming champions league games. There had to be a winner and I suppose both teams would prefer to lose on penalties. Ronaldo scored the only goal from open play in the two fixtures to secure the win for Real in extra time. Now, the pressure is (wrongly) set upon Mr. Guardiola in the media and the tide is turning in Real's favour.<br />
<br />
Mourinho's pragmatic nature seems to be instilled in his squad and, unfortunately, I think they are the favourites for the champions league tie. Mourinho has already beaten Pep's Barca over two legs in last seasons CL when he won it with Inter Milan, can he do it again to his growth club with their rivals? I can't imagine there's anything he would enjoy more.Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-86657488724863688742011-04-17T05:35:00.000-07:002011-04-17T05:39:46.916-07:00El Clasico Uno: Real Madrid 1-1 Barcelona; Mourinho's tactical changes.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://dailycontributor.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/el-clasico-real-madrid-vs-barcelona-live-stream-free.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://dailycontributor.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/el-clasico-real-madrid-vs-barcelona-live-stream-free.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The thing about Jose Mourinho is that he quickly learns his lesson and last night's performance against Barcelona was a good example of his tactical prowess. Beaten 5-0 at the Camp Nou, Mourinho’s biggest defeat ever as a manager must have cut him deep and it won’t be forgotten. However, despite his Catalan rivals being top of La Liga with an impressive eight-point lead the momentum has shifted seemingly at the right time for Madrid.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">An impressive come back last night has giving his substantial squad a boost, especially with ten men; his <a href="http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11835_6870072,00.html">ten-man strategy</a> paid off, it seems. The first of four encounters saw a particularly defensive Madrid side take the field with Pepe playing defensive midfield along with Alonso and Khedira in the middle. This allowed Barcelona little time and space on the ball; something they enjoyed in the reverse fixture. The first half was fast paced yet lacked many real threats and, uncharacteristically, both sides’ passing was not as sharp as usual. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www3.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Jose+Mourinho+Real+Sociedad+v+Real+Madrid+zIkllD6Hqhxl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www3.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Jose+Mourinho+Real+Sociedad+v+Real+Madrid+zIkllD6Hqhxl.jpg" width="209" /></a>With the second half came both goals, both from the spot. Ronaldo and Messi respectively converted for their teams. The pivotal point was the dismissal of Raul Albiol for his foul on David Villa in the box. Mourinho was left with a big decision to make and his substitutions rescued a point for Real. Instead of moving Pepe from his midfield position back to the centre of defence he brought on Arbeloa who went to right back, allowing Sergio Ramos to move into the middle keeping Pepe in the space between the defence and midfield. This allowed Ronaldo, Ozil and Adebayor to go forward with Khedira linking everything together.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Despite the fightback from Real, Barcelona still remain top and strong favourites for the championship. Next comes the lesser of all the clashes between the two and Real have the squad to put out a stronger team if Barcelona feel like they need to rest players. The team who lift the trophy on Wednesday will receive a massive boost of confidence for the all-important Champions League ties.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://kimmontague.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/el-clasico-image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://kimmontague.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/el-clasico-image.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"> </div><div class="MsoNormal">Madrid: Casillas, Ramos, Albiol (sent off), Carvalho, Marcelo, Alonso (Ozil), Pepe, Khedira, Di Maria (Arbeloa), Ronaldo, Benzema (Adebayor).<br />
<br />
Barca: Valdes, Alves, Pique, Puyol (Keita), Adriano (Maxwell), Busquets, Xavi, Ineista, Pedro (Affelay), Messi, Villa.</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-82097155585238555542011-04-07T12:27:00.000-07:002011-04-07T12:29:20.131-07:00Were the FA right to fine Wayne Rooney and uphold his two match ban?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://sportblog.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/wayne-rooney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://sportblog.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/wayne-rooney.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Of course they were, the man will never learn otherwise. It was a shocking and unnecessary display from a spoiled player. I’m not offended by his language, it was the attention seeking nature of the incident and it’s not the first time. As a youngster I was taken to football matches every weekend and at a young age I was exposed to the "industrial" language that comes as part of the football watching experience, rightly or wrongly. If parents allow their children to watch football then they must face the fact that bad language will be used. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">So, if bad language is part of the game then should Rooney be let off the hook somewhat and have had his two match ban reduced to one as he appealed? Well, Rooney's outburst was pre-meditated in a way. If he had addressed the away section of the fans, or even the home fans and uttered the expletives which the camera microphones had picked up involuntarily then I would say that we have no problem. It would be put down as being an unfortunate error in which much of the questioning would be directed towards the broadcasters to broach the subject of having a time delay on the audio feed for live televised matches.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">However, the expletives were not picked up accidently; they were very purposefully directed at the live audience. Instead, Rooney acknowledged the thousands of viewers watching the live feed, this acknowledgement indicates a disregard for authority and for football and the FA by bringing the sport into disrepute which is not allowed. Lest we forget that Rooney actively sought out the camera on another occasion too; during the 2010 World Cup after England had taken part in a drab draw against Algeria (?) when he directed comments towards the fans. Despite no blue language being used on that occasion it should have been an indication of his potential and readiness to offend and his manager should work on his player’s worrying attitude problem.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-6217594019754826932011-03-18T11:00:00.000-07:002011-03-18T11:00:35.990-07:00Champions League Quarter Finals and Semi-Finals Draw.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.epltalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/320px-uefa_champions_league_logo_2svg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.epltalk.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/320px-uefa_champions_league_logo_2svg.png" width="313" /></a></div><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><img src="http://img2.blogblog.com/img/video_object.png" style="background-color: #b2b2b2; " class="BLOGGER-object-element tr_noresize tr_placeholder" id="ieooui" data-original-id="ieooui" /> <style>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">Tuesday April 5<sup>th</sup>:<span> </span>Wednesday 13<sup>th</sup> April:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Real Madrid v Tottenham Hotspur<span> </span>Schalke ’04 v Inter Milan</div><div class="MsoNormal">Inter Milan<span> </span>v Schalke ’04<span> </span><span> </span>Tottenham v Real Madrid</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Wednesday April 6<sup>th</sup>:<span> </span>Tuesday 12<sup>th</sup> April:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Chelsea v Manchester United<span> </span>Manchester United v Chelsea</div><div class="MsoNormal">Barcelona v Shakhtar Donetsk<span> </span>Shakhtar Donetsk v Barcelona</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The winners of Barca/Shakhtar will play Real Madrid or Tottenham potentially setting up a tantalising semi-final between the two Spanish giants and seeing them face each other 4 times in 10 days with a league game and Copa Del Rey final in the diary around that time too. Talks have been started and the league and Copa games are temporarily suspended until further notice it seems if the teams both progress. However, people may be underestimating the difficulty of going to Ukraine and facing that formidable Shakhtar Donetsk atmosphere, especially going there in the second leg.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">This means that there is no chance of an all-Spanish final but we could still have an all-English final if Tottenham can overcome Madrid then either Barcelona or Shakhtar. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">There is always a tasty story of revenge and payback in the Champions League and none more so than the revenge Chelsea will be looking to take out on Manchester United for the 2008 final when John Terry agonizingly missed his spot kick, handing the trophy to Man United there and then.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Rafael Van der Vaart has expressed his excitement at the prospect of returning to the Bernabeu via his <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/rafvdvaart">Twitter</a>. Not wishing to patronise Spurs but this is definitely a glamour tie for the North London club; the most experienced team and nine time winners, Real Madrid, up against the new boys: Spurs. That’s what the competition is all about, and lest we forget – anything can happen!</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-91415012492463171002011-03-17T10:20:00.000-07:002011-03-17T10:20:14.090-07:00What's Arsenal's problem?<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><img src="http://img2.blogblog.com/img/video_object.png" style="background-color: #b2b2b2; " class="BLOGGER-object-element tr_noresize tr_placeholder" id="ieooui" data-original-id="ieooui" /> <style>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://sportsnathletes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Arsene_Wenger1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="http://sportsnathletes.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Arsene_Wenger1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Arsenal find themselves dumped out of two competitions in less than a week and suddenly the Gunners’ chances of silverware are decreased significantly and now every league game is a cup final, almost (and we know how well Arsenal do in cup finals!). Now, don’t get me wrong, the title race is far from over but do Arsenal have what it takes or is there something of a ‘mental block’ when it comes to obtaining a trophy?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Arsene Wenger may not be highly regarded as one of arsenal’s problems and rightly so but the manager must take responsibility for his teams failures at some point. When players are under-performing and being accused of lacking in effort it’s easy to blame individual players but one must question how much of this attitude is down to the managers style and motivational tactics. For example, it’s difficult to imagine a player under the likes of Ferguson or Moyes playing a full game in a lacklustre fashion without it being pointed out to him, to put it mildly.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2008/04_02/CescWengerES_468x616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2008/04_02/CescWengerES_468x616.jpg" width="243" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Arsene Wenger has seen a number of players come and go over the past 5 trophy-less seasons yet, all the squads seem to have the same problem. Wenger has said before that if his team are losing or have been defeated he never uses the hairdryer method; instead they are made to sit and contemplate their mistakes. This is, no doubt, a tactful and subtle approach yet, it does seem slightly childish to me, like the naughty step or silent treatment method employed by parents. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Perhaps Arsenal would benefit from a more mouthy and brash assistant coach, someone to tell them when they’re flailing around arse over tit. Someone to provide some steel and some of the ‘English grit and determination’ that we’re so often reminded of. Could Wenger’s method be too intellectual for a football team?</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-84630578933781646602011-03-08T08:54:00.000-08:002011-03-08T08:54:22.365-08:00Barcenal v Arselona Pt. 2, Round 2.<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><img src="http://img2.blogblog.com/img/video_object.png" style="background-color: #b2b2b2; " class="BLOGGER-object-element tr_noresize tr_placeholder" id="ieooui" data-original-id="ieooui" /> <style>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.intro-spective.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/arsenal-barcelona-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://www.intro-spective.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/arsenal-barcelona-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"> Arsenal are in Barcelona followed by fans in great numbers ahead of their much anticipated Champions League tie against the Catalan giants. It wont be easy, many of the players will still be haunted by the memories of last year’s clash at the Camp Nou when Arsenal, having fought back from a 2 goal deficit at the Emirates to take a 2-2 score line to the Camp, were demolished by Lionel Messi. Arsenal even took the lead through Nicklas Bendtner and spirits were cautiously high until Messi hit four in front of the Barça faithful. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">This time it’s different, Arsenal take a lead into the second leg and Wenger’s side will be looking to and find that special something in Catalonia. Many walk the streets, serenaded by the winding paths of the Barri Gotic, some search for life itself or love, romance or beauty; everything and nothing. Although Arsenal’s task is more definite in a footballing sense; a coming of age and exercising past demons the reality of beating Barcelona by playing total football is poetry in motion and it would indeed be a thing of great beauty. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.247stream.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Barcelona_v_Arsenal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.247stream.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Barcelona_v_Arsenal.jpg" width="166" /></a>Both sides are hindered with injuries/suspensions so the changes will be rung. Expect Busquets to partner Eric Abidal in the centre of defence in the absence of Puyol and Gerard Pique who is suspended. This is, no doubt, pleasing for the Arsenal team but lest we forget the attacking line up likely to be Villa, Messi, Pedro, Xavi and Iniesta. As for Arsenal, with the exception of Alex Song who is definitely set to miss out, Van Persie and Cesc Fàbregas will have late fitness tests prior to the match with, Arsenal captain, Fàbregas, “90% likely” to start. Jack Wilshere, the man who received rave reviews in the Catalan press after his performance in the first leg when he did not look out of place when up against the world’s best, has declared himself fit via his twitter (http://twitter.com/#!/jack_wilshere) account.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Walcott missing out is a bigger blow than the possible absence of Van Persie. The winger can punish teams with his pace especially a team like Barcelona who often play a high line. Arsenal will not only miss his ability, they will miss his presence; he terrifies defenders. No defender enjoys playing against pace and Walcott would really give the Barça defence a reason to be fearful.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The Arsenal defence have their work cut out for them in the shape of Leo Messi, Pedro and David Villa. Although little praise has befallen Koscielny and Djourou for their solid performance at the Emirates, the Arsenal centre-backs took control of their area and put in a sturdy performance against the tricksters. They must put in a similar performance but that wont be enough, Arsenal will need Lady Luck on their side too.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01607/barca-1a_1607802c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01607/barca-1a_1607802c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Without a doubt, it’s going to be a beautiful game and a very different one from last year’s encounter in that both teams have grown. After Mourinho’s Inter Milan beat Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final last season the Special One claimed: “You cannot play their way and win”, Arsenal will be hoping to prove him wrong tonight.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-30971991625861486302011-02-05T16:22:00.000-08:002011-02-05T16:28:29.184-08:00Oldham 1-1 Dagenham: Post-match thoughts on the North West side.<div class="MsoNormal">It’s exciting times for Oldham Athletic on the pitch even if things haven’t been going their way off it. The Latics have climbed six league places into the play-off places in the past month and manager Paul Dickov is extremely pleased with his young side.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Despite disappointment in the week with the news that their plans for a new stadium have been turned down the team are playing some of their best football and only their momentary lapses in concentration seem to be keeping them at the lower end of the play off places rather than the top.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Dickov has praised his players’ mental strength in recent weeks yet it seems like they just can’t catch a break; every tiny mistake is being punished in the most telling ways. They largely dominated the game against bottom of the league Dagenham and Redbridge yet failed to convert that domination into three points. A combination of a fine goalkeeping performance by Dagger’s ‘keeper Tony Roberts and Oldham’s own lack of concentration saw them concede the equaliser that they wouldn’t overcome.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Man of the match and Oldham player of the month, Chris Taylor set up joint top goal scorer Dale Stephens to open up the scoring for the home side soon after the restart. Taylor looked to come inside onto his right foot and shoot but instead laid the ball off to his oncoming team mate to side foot it into the Dagenham net.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">This gave The Latics some good momentum but they were denied by Roberts on several occasions. Dickov admitted that Taylor was central to their success and the second half didn’t go as well as he’d hoped. “We were a big threat today when we got Taylor on the ball.” </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">“Their goalkeeper has made three or four really good saves – any of them go in and it’s a different game. They came here, defended doggedly, set their shape up to frustrate us and did that for long periods of the game,” said the Scot.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The equaliser came from a throw in – a blink and you miss it moment. Manchester United goalkeeper, Ben Amos fails to clear the ball and allows Dagger’s top scorer Romain Vincelot to head in the goal.</div><div class="MsoNormal">Oldham have held on to their star players in the transfer window, extended loan contracts and made some new signings and the manager is delighted with his young, exciting side. Chris Taylor is coming into his own in the midfield; Dale Stephens is rivalling him for the top scorer’s position. Dominating the left hand side whether it’s at full back or midfield is Arsenal player Cedric Evina who is mastering his trade in the North West.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">“We had enough chances to win two games today. We’re disappointed with the goal we conceded but we’ve got to be more ruthless at the other end.”</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">“We’re all disappointed and it feels like a loss yet again but we have to take the positives out of it. We feel that we’re a good team and we’re delighted about where we are.”</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">That was the note that Dickov signed off on, afterwards making a comment about not making any “fucking excuses” and then apologising to me for his bad language… Paul Dickov being polite and respectful to journalists?? - It has certainly been a weekend of shocks in the football world!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-67885425723765291922011-01-08T14:39:00.001-08:002011-01-08T14:42:27.968-08:00Oldham 2-0 Swindon<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/> <w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/> <w:OverrideTableStyleHps/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/> <m:smallFrac m:val="off"/> <m:dispDef/> <m:lMargin m:val="0"/> <m:rMargin m:val="0"/> <m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/> <m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/> <m:intLim m:val="subSup"/> <m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/> </m:mathPr></w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
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</style> <![endif]--> <div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Chris Taylor’s early strike set Oldham Athletic off to a flying start as they ended their run of four matches without a win against a lacklustre Swindon Town. </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">A dangerous cross by Morais was headed away only as far as Taylor who, with far too much space, curled the ball into the right hand corner from just inside the box.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Paul Dickov was full of praise for the forward, </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">"Chris' all round game today was fantastic. He was threatening when he had the ball and we all know he's got quality when he gets the chance."</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Dale Stephens sealed victory for the home side with a late penalty, after a frustrated Charlie Austin was judged to have handled in the box. Stephens confidently smashed home a penalty as Oldham laid their recent demons to rest. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Swindon striker and top scorer, Charlie </span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Austin had a frustrating game and Dickov praised his centre-backs for their performance.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">"Both centre-backs were excellent. Charlie Austin is one of the best strikers in this division and I thought both of them were fantastic, as all of my team were." </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">"I’m delighted with all the boys. Too many times we've talked about individual errors but there was none from any of my players today."</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">With the inclusion of new arrival goalkeeper Ben Amos, on loan from Manchester United goalkeeper, Dickov has a strong set of players fighting for positions.</span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">"Ben is a great 'keeper, it's going to be a competitive spot for the goalkeeper now. Ben gives us, as a back four, the chance to do well this year", said Oldham full-back Paul Black.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Black reclaimed his place in the squad after being left out on Monday against Rochdale.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">"In most positions there's a competition and there's a great togetherness. Even after two defeats no one's head went down."</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">"I was disappointed to be left out; hopefully I can stay in the team now and get a few more results, starting on Tuesday in a tough match against Southampton."</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">In what was an evenly contested match the Swindon manager, Danny Wilson, felt his team were unlucky to leave without a point but conceded that they were the makers of their own misfortune.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">"All of our great performances have been followed up by an average one and that was exactly the same again today."</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">Swindon had the chance to equalize in the 85<sup>th</sup> minute when Michael Rose’s 25-yard free kick rattled off the post. Sometimes when things aren’t going your way you don’t get a break and this was the case for Swindon today.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">"Playing two back to back games seems to be our problem at the moment. We don’t get out of the blocks; we’re slow in our passing, our tempo, our accuracy. "</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">The win takes Oldham takes up to 9<sup>th</sup> in the League although Black insists that there is no talk of promotion in the dressing room just yet. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: 10pt;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">"We're just taking each game as it comes and we want to win every match. We bounced back today and hopefully we can go on a bit of a run again now."</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Teams:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Oldham Athletic (4-4-2): B. Amos, R. Hazell, D. Furman, C. Taylor, K. Lee, D. Stephens, P. Black, F. Morais (R. Brooke 90), C. Evina (K. Millar 76), O. Tounkara, N. Trotman.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Substitutes not used: R. Jones, J. Jarrett, W. Feeney, D. Brill, A. Holdsworth.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Booked: Lee, Furman.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Goals: Taylor 4, Stephens (pen) 88.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><br />
Swindon Town (4-5-1): P. Smith, M. Rose, A. Frampton (Cuthbert 63), P. Caddis, S. Ferry, D. Prutton, M. Timlin (J. Douglas 57), S. Morrison, A. O’Brien (D. Ball 57), M. Ritchie, C. Austin.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><br />
Substitutes not used: J-P. McGovern,V. Pericard,T. Dossevi, M. Scott.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Booked: Austin, Douglas.<br />
<span> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Referee: D. Drysdale.<br />
<span> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;">Attendance: 3, 573</span></div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-10682322783814750562011-01-03T12:52:00.000-08:002011-01-03T13:01:29.228-08:00Oldham 1-2 Rochdale: Match Report<div class="MsoNormal">Chris O’Grady’s brace against his old club was enough to claim victory for Rochdale in an entertaining local derby. Despite the Latics looking like the hungrier of the two teams, the 'Dale defence was solid and the visitors kept the home side at bay until they went down to ten men.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Oldham captain Reuben Hazell was at fault for both of the goals after fouling Craig Dawson in the box and conceding a penalty. ‘Dale top scorer Gary Jones stepped up to take the spot kick and hit the post but was thankful when Chris O’Grady hit home the rebound. Ten minutes later Hazell played an awful back-pass which O’Grady pounced on and doubled their lead. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The game looked to be out of Oldham’s reach until Scott Wiseman found himself seeing red for a seemingly innocuous foul on Cedric Evina. Furman volleyed one back from 15 yards but the home side were unable to find the equaliser in the dying minutes despite piling immense pressure on their rivals.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The referee had an astonishingly bad game and unfortunately most of the media attention has been focused on his performance rather than the exciting encounter between the sides. Paul Dickov was left frustrated by the decisions he made and ‘Dale manager, Keith Hill, agreed it was “a little bit of a farce”. The red card was so baffling that the Oldham fans began chanting choruses of “You don’t know what you’re doing” towards the man in black with Paul Dickov focusing on this point afterwards and agreeing that the referee had a poor game.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Oldham, as well as the defeat, now have to wait on the medical news concerning centre-back Jean-Yves Mvoto after he was stretchered off. The manager is hoping it won’t be too serious but admits that the player has taken a “bad whack” to his ankle. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Dickov said “I’m disappointed, but delighted with the boys. I feel we were the better team today from start to finish.” </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">“Full of character we are, if we keep playing like that we’ll go up this league”, he added.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">It was a tight encounter and one Rochdale were lucky to leave with all three points rather than just the one as Oldham pressed very hard for an equaliser after reducing the goal deficit by half after Wiseman’s dismissal.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">“It was a bit nervy at the end. I thought we were really good defensively”, said Dale manager, Keith Hill. The manager praised the team’s resoluteness and is pleased with the fact that ‘Dale have notched up 6 points from their two games of the new year. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Rochdale move up to 16<sup>th</sup> in the league just one point behind Oldham who sit in 12<sup>th</sup>.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><u>Teams: </u></div><div class="MsoNormal">Oldham: Brill, Mvoto (Trotman 20), Hazell, Furman, Taylor (Millar 83), Lee, Stephens, Morais, Evina, Tounkara, White (Brook 78). Subs not used: Fleming, Black, Kelly, Feeney.<br />
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Goals: Furman 87 </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Rochdale: Lillis, Wisemen, Widdowson, Holness, Dawson, Kennedy, Barry-Murphy (Done 61), Jones, Thompson (Adams 55), Grant (Akpa Akpro 83), O’Grady. Subs not used: Edwards, T Kennedy, Thompson, Elding.<br />
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Goals: O' Grady 64, 76 </div><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-65397082560175412432010-12-27T14:14:00.000-08:002010-12-27T14:46:07.723-08:00Arsenal 3-1 Chelsea<a href="http://www.freakygossip.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Chelsea-Vs-Arsenal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.freakygossip.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Chelsea-Vs-Arsenal.jpg" width="200" /></a>A fast paced encounter with a largely unexpected, but deserved, outcome saw Wenger's side overcome, at least some of, their demons. Robin Van Persie was given the task of attacking Chelsea with Arshavin and Chamakh starting on the bench at the Emirates. With Frank Lampard, John Terry, Essien and Drogba all starting it was looking to be an uphill battle from the get go.<br />
<br />
Chelsea were cynical to say the least and John Terry may well have been yellow carded first after wrestling with Robin van Persie on the halfway line. Van Persie failed to connect with a Walcott cross in a superb position, it seems Ivanovic done just enough to put the dutchman off.<br />
<br />
After numerous attempts including a well worked free kick by Nasri which Cech done well to hold onto, Arsenal did the unthinkable and took the lead through an unlikely source, Alex Song. The ball was knocked past the Chelsea defence by Wilshere into the feet of Cesc Fabregas who was taken down in the box and amongst the penalty shouts Song, without hesitation, smashed the ball past Petr Cech to put The Gunners ahead.<br />
<br />
The Chelsea defence were as nervy as they've ever been, coupled with the fact that Arsenal are playing, and more importantly defending, as a unit and was not surprising that Arsenal were leading at half time.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/John-Terry-Chelsea.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="http://news.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/John-Terry-Chelsea.gif" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Chelsea's luck did not change after the break, despite taking off Mikel for a more creative central player in Ramires, and they found themsleves 2-0 down. Robin Van Persie's good work in holding the ball up against John Terry paid off, with a bit of luck involved too; Essien chipped in to help his skipper out and inadertedly poked the ball behind the back four into space where it was met by Walcott who slid the ball to Fabregas to finish in front of an open goal.<br />
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Little than two minutes later Arsenal added to their lead. Some good work from Theo Walcott, nicking the ball from a doddling Malouda in his own half. Walcott finished, leaving Cech helpless and frustrated with his back four. Suddenly Chelsea were seeing stars and found themselves 3-0 down at the Emirates.<br />
<br />
Chelsea made another change, this time Kakuta on for Malouda. Just as Arsenal were getting used to a three goal cushion Chelsea narrowed it down to a two goal lead. Branislav Ivanovic headed home a Didier Drogba cross. A sloppy goal for Arsenal to concede and small questions about the 'keeper's decision making as it looked like Fabianski considered coming to claim the ball and stopped halfway leaving himself off his line and at a disadvantage.<br />
<a href="http://img.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2007/10_04/Walcott2410ES1U_468x332.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="http://img.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2007/10_04/Walcott2410ES1U_468x332.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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Arsenal made their first substitution of the evening just after 70 minutes taking off the inspired Theo Walcott and replacing him with Abou Diaby as well as Chamack getting a run out for Robin van Persie who had his first really good game since the start of the season. Van Persie flourished as a forward creative player, made possible by the hard work of his wingers and willingness of Fabregas and Wilshere to get forward.<br />
<br />
Chelsea had a goal not given for offside; a free kick which resulted in a scramble in the box which saw a blocked shot from Drogba then a rebounded goal for Kalou which hit the post and bounced in off Fabianski's back but the linesman saved his blushes as the clocked ticked 90.<br />
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The game finished 3-1 leaving Chelsea with 3 points from a possible 18. Arsenal move up to second place but today was a victory for the Gunners' mentality, tonight's win was more than just three points for Arsenal. <br />
<br />
<u>Teams:</u><br />
Arsenal: Fabianski, Djourou, Koscielny, Sagna, Clichy, Song, Wilshere, Fabregas, Walcott, Nasri, Van Persie. Subs: Szczesny, Chamakh, Bendtner, Diaby, Rosicky, Squillaci, Diaby.<br />
Chelsea: Cech, Ivanovic, Terry, Ferreira, Cole, Essien, Mikel, Lampard, Malouda, Kalou, Drogba. Subs: Turnbull, Kakuta, Ramires, Van Aanholt, McEachran, Bosingwa, Bruma.<br />
<br />
<u>Man of the Match:</u> Theo WalcottMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-82986442837808806512010-12-20T13:22:00.000-08:002010-12-20T13:59:43.863-08:00Real Madrid 1-0 Sevilla<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Real Madrid put on a fascinating performance last night at the Bernabéu when they beat Sevilla by one goal to nil. A game which saw a sending off from each side highlighted the desperation felt by the Spanish giants in their quest to end a three-year trophy drought.</span><br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://photos.peacefmonline.com/photos/news/201008/480190163_527172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://photos.peacefmonline.com/photos/news/201008/480190163_527172.JPG" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Di Maria found the back of the net in the second half when the Seville defence were all at sea in a moment of confusion. Outdone by an over hit pass that was picked up by the Argentine, Sevilla ‘keeper Palop was forced off his line only to allow Di Maria’s shot in between himself and his near post. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The only goal of the game came in the 77<sup>th</sup> minute following several chances for both sides. Although the match remained open throughout it was largely dominated by the home side who failed to penetrate with their final ball. However, one of the first clear-cut chances fell to Sevilla when Negredo was through facing a one on one with Iker Casillas only to lose his composure and blast his shot over the bar. </span><br />
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</span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The signs were looking good for the visitors when, shortly after, Ricardo Carvalho saw red for a second yellow card for leading with his elbow in an aerial challenge with Negredo. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The final five minutes descended into chaos; carrying on the ill-feeling that was apparent at half time when words, and fists, were exchanged between opposing club officials. Di Maria was guilty of exaggerating a facial injury in the 85th minute which lead to a mass brawl as the players were outraged at his juvenile attempt to get opponents sent off. However, it worked a few minutes later when Mohamadou Dabo followed through with a challenge on Di Maria, catching him in the thigh.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://u.goal.com/113500/113551_hp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://u.goal.com/113500/113551_hp.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Overall, the feeling of desperation on the pitch and in the stadium was evident as the minutes counted until Real scored. Ronaldo’s free kicks were poor and he was shooting from ridiculous distances, even by his standards. The failure to successfully break through the Sevilla defence highlighted the fact that most of these players are yet to really gel as a team and as a unit. Already influenced by Mourinho’s arrogance, nine players received bookings in the match and none seemed particularly apologetic afterwards. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://static1.purepeople.com/articles/6/27/77/6/@/190304-karim-benzema-bientot-dans-un-clip-au-637x0-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://static1.purepeople.com/articles/6/27/77/6/@/190304-karim-benzema-bientot-dans-un-clip-au-637x0-3.jpg" width="145" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">A distinct lack of respect whether brought on by their situation or their manager, or maybe both; it was despicable nonetheless. I paid particular attention to the performance of Karim Benzema who looked lazy and disinterested. Caught offside on several occasions, the Frenchman was not only guilty of missing chances but also of giving the ball away in the final third. His runs were unimaginative and his touch poor which was surprising since I thought he had quite a good game for France against England which might have helped turn his fortunes around. With Higuaín set to be out for another six weeks or so, there is no wonder than Mourinho is concerned about his striking options.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Madrid now sit two points behind Guardiola's Barcelona. This is probably the most difficult task The Special One has taken on although the chances of winning the league are 50/50 they are up against a</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> Barça</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"> side that have a goal difference of +42 after 16 league games. That’s an average winning margin of 2.6 goals per game. Bona sort, Jose.</span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Starting line-ups:</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"> Real Madrid (4-2-3-1): <i>Casillas, Arbeloa, Carvalho, Pepe, Ramos, Diarra, Khedira, Di Maria, Ozil, Ronaldo, Benzema.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Sevilla (4-4-2): <i>Palop, Navarro, Escude, Caceres, Dabo, Capel, Zokora, Romaric, Konko, Negredo, Fabiano.</i></span></div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-91388054706857073602010-12-11T15:41:00.000-08:002010-12-11T15:43:37.227-08:00Stockport County 3-3 Crewe Alexandra<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tansy 24 Donaldson 45+1</span> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Poole</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> 74 Donaldson 47</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tansy (pen) 72 Shelley 64</span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span> <br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stockport</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> County</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">’s Man of the Match Greg Tansy has now bagged four goals in five games after his brace against Crewe Alexandra.</span><br />
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</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://web.orange.co.uk/images/ice/sports/tt_image_346016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://web.orange.co.uk/images/ice/sports/tt_image_346016.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greg Tansy</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“It’s frustrating because we thought we dominated the first half and our lapses of concentration either side of half time have cost us,” said the midfielder.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“We’re disappointed; it feels like two points dropped to be honest. Their goals were poor goals on our part. We’re disappointed but on the other hand we’re happy that we’ve shown the mental strength to get the point.”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tansy popped up with Stockport’s first goal, as well as putting away a penalty to level the score at 3-3 after Shelley’s 35-yard free kick put the visitors ahead once again. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stockport took the lead after a lively start which saw The Hatter’s control much of the game and exploit the Crewe defence. Adam Griffin was in for the suspended Robbie Williams and the full-back made use of all the width of the pitch in attacks down the flanks.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A nervy match saw Crewe take the lead twice after coming back from a goal down by scoring at either side of the break. Clayton Donaldson proved tough work for County’s centre-back pairing of loan-signing, Tom Aldred and Mansour Assoumani.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Assoumani also found himself troubling his defensive counterparts as he was drafted in to loiter upfront and use his towering height and strength to gain possession in dangerous areas. It was his control and flicked pass to Wes Fletcher which lead to Stockport’s first goal midway through the first half. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Crewe</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">’s defence left a lot to be desired as clear weaknesses were apparent at all set pieces. Stockport’s second game stemmed from a scramble in the box in which David Poole got the last touch when he headed the ball up into the roof of the net to bring the scores level at 2-2. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A 35-yard free kick from Shelley saw the visitors lead 2-3 before a penalty converted by Tansy levelled it up once and for all.</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i.thisis.co.uk/274136/article/images/584893/601709-vlarge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://i.thisis.co.uk/274136/article/images/584893/601709-vlarge.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shelley celebrates</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“A great game for the neutral, but we’re still in trouble and we have to show character. We have to build on it now and make sure that this is as low in the league as we go,” remarked Paul Simpson.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Stockport manager also reiterated the need to sign some new players in the January transfer window. “We’re still in trouble and we have to show character. We have to build on it now and make sure that this is as low in the league as we go.”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“We need to improve the squad. We need to get some fresh faces in there to give everyone a lift.”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">More so than the need for fresh faces there is the impending issue of several key players’ loan deals potentially coming to an end in January including top scorer, George Donnelly. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Crewe</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> manager Dario Gradi was scathing of his team afterwards: “We don't do well enough with the chances we get.”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.football.co.uk/Dynamic/News/400x400/1239378373_spt_ai_buryvshrewsbury_06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images.football.co.uk/Dynamic/News/400x400/1239378373_spt_ai_buryvshrewsbury_06.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simpson</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">"We know before the game that we are going to create chances and perhaps concede goals too.”</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt;">Stockport: Glennon, Griffin, Assoumani, Aldred, Halls, Turnbull, Poole, Tansey, Simpson, Fletcher (Salem 75), Donnelly. Subs: Vincent, Conlon, Pulis, Pilkington, Rose, Ormson, Salem.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt;">Crewe: Taylor, Tootle, Blanchett, Westwood, Artell, Murphy, Moore, Shelley, Dugdale (Ada 57), Miller, Donaldson. Subs: Fogler, Ada, Grant, Mellor, Davis, Powell.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4940550031325781113.post-57488145853808948562010-12-09T10:14:00.000-08:002010-12-09T10:17:38.481-08:00Premier League Round Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.metro.co.uk/i/pix/2008/08/NasriAction180808_450x390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="http://img.metro.co.uk/i/pix/2008/08/NasriAction180808_450x390.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
<b>Arsenal Hit The Top</b><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Arsenal are top of the league after their win against Fulham at the Emirates. United sit just one point below The Gunners’ with a game in hand after their game against Blackpool was called off due to the bad weather. Despite the win, Arsenal fans remain frustrated at the inability to keep a clean sheet. It has been almost a month since Arsenal kept the opposition off the score sheet in the league when the beat Wolves at Molineux. With Thomas Vermaelen out until January at least the Gunners' will have to continue with operation we'll-score-more-than-you. However, usually the league winners consist of the team who have had the best defence throughout a season which might worry fans slightly. Next up for Arsenal is Manchester United at Old Trafford and although Samir Nasri has been outstanding there is talk of Cesc Fabregas returning to fitness in time for the match which would give Wenger's side a huge boost.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
<b>Hughton Down and Out</b></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://directoryofnewcastleupontyne.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/chris_hughton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://directoryofnewcastleupontyne.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/chris_hughton.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He's even got Newcastle hair</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNormal">Newcastle United sack Chris Hughton and appoint Alan Pardew. I know what you're thinking. Me too. What on earth is going on? This is a difficult subject to comment on since it's not a decision that can be made sense of in footballing terms. Pardew, having last been sacked by League One side Southampton must have jumped at the chance to manage a Premier League club. So, why did Hughton get the boot? “Lack of Premier League experience”, claims Newcastle owner Mike Ashley. I would like to know how much Premier League experience you need to take a newly promoted team to 19 points before Christmas including wins over rivals Sunderland, a 6-0 win over Aston Villa and a victory at the Emirates. It seems that, inexplicably, Ashley has been looking for an excuse to sack Hughton for some time now. How are new managers supposed to gain relevant experience these days if not given the chance? Alan Pardew’s reign at West Ham United ended in sacking and saw West Ham through their worst run in 70 years, not all-in-all great experience one might think.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
<b>Dutch Courage for Liverpool</b><br />
<br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://live-score.tv/wp-content/plugins/wp-o-matic/cache/b5948_Dirk-Kuyt-Liverpool-FC-Lucerne-Pre-Season-Fri_1047275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://live-score.tv/wp-content/plugins/wp-o-matic/cache/b5948_Dirk-Kuyt-Liverpool-FC-Lucerne-Pre-Season-Fri_1047275.jpg" width="146" /></a>Liverpool completed the weekend’s fixtures on Monday night when they made easy work of an under-strength Villa side at Anfield. Ryan Babel started the match in a central forward role and the young Dutchman finally looked as if he may live up to all the hype after all – something which never looked likely under Rafa Benitez. The forward was lively and showed exceptional skill when he controlled the ball with a deft touch of the shoulder while on the turn and then smashed it across Brad Friedel into the net in what was Liverpool’s second of the evening. The importance of Dirk Kuyt was again reiterated; the first goal coming from a corner which Kuyt won after chasing down a nothing ball and forcing the Villa defence to concede a corner which lead to the opening goal for The Reds. As Liverpool get back to full strength hopefully a better reflection of Roy Hodgson as a manager will begin to shine through. </div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02456027822838160143noreply@blogger.com0