Why oh why, do football's governing body insist on maintaining there backward stance on the use of technology?
Instead of talking about how well The Republic of Ireland played tonight away in France, Football fans across the country are left with a sour taste over the actions of Thierry Henry.
His blatant act of cheating which directly led to France's decisive goal in extra time completely overshadowed a great performance by Ireland and took away any opportunity they had of making it to South Africa.
After the game, Henry attempted to make up for his ball juggling act by hugging disconsolate Irish players and having a sit down with Richard Dunne, but he is lucky he showed more class than him by not making use of his own hands as a weapon.
And while Henry has no leg to stand on in terms of a defence for his actions, the problem with the whole incident was the referee and linesman, who for whatever reason didn't see what had happened.
Surely now, in the year 2009, when near enough every other sport is using technology to get decisions correct, Football which is the most watched sport in the world, should follow suit. Referees should be helped out by the techology which is available within seconds.
Michel Platini claims that "Video referees would destroy football. You would have to stop the game every 10 seconds, for every decision"
Does he live in a cocoon? Does he not watch any other sport then his own?
In Rugby, most tries are checked on video replay to ensure there are no problems.
In Cricket, decisions which can be challenged are limited to 3 per innings at the discretion of each teams Captain.
In Tennis, players have a limited number of challenges per set. Players use these to ensure momentum changing decisions are correct.
In American Football, coaches have the opportunity to challenge two refereeing decisions per game. If they are correct,and the referees decision is reversed, they keep the challenge to use again. If they are wrong, their number of remaining challenges is reduced to one.
In the last two minutes of halves, questionable decisions are checked without coach challenges to ensure that the decisive moments in the game don't get decided by human error. When there is conclusive evidence for a decision to be changed, it is.
Coaches only have up until the game re-commences to challenge what has happened and give the referee the opportunity to check whether his decision was correct.
Decisions are correctable in a few seconds. Games dont get decided on mistakes and fans aren't left with a bitter taste in their mouths.
If you asked any true footballing fan, the ones who pay money to watch the games, would you rather spend thirty seconds extra in the ground and take home three points or get home five minutes earlier and draw to a last minute goal scored by someone handling the ball, I know what the resounding answer would be.
Platini is wrong. If a manager was given 2 opportunities a game to have a goal checked on replay before his team took the kick off, then the game would be delayed no longer than it would by the carnage that typically ensues when referees get decisions wrong.
If Trappatoni had been given the chance to challenge the decision, he would have. The ref would have booked Henry within 20 seconds and the game would have continued. Irish fans may well be now booking tickets to the World Cup if that were the case.
But it is not. We are left to wonder what it will actually take for FIFA to pull their fingers out.
They couldn't wait to bring action against Arsenal striker Eduardo when he fell over and was awarded a penalty against Celtic in a Champions League qualifier that Arsenal were on the way to winning, but something tells me FIFA and UEFA may take a different approach when dealing with the controversial moments of tonights game.
Will technology be introduced as a result? No. Will Henry be banned? No... Will The Republic be going to the World Cup? No... Sort it out Fifa
18 November 2009
25 October 2009
Liverpool 2 Manchester United 0
An Injury time winner from David N’Gog gave Liverpool and manager Rafael Benitez a vital three points in a dramatic derby victory over rivals Manchester United.
N’Gog scored deep into injury time after replacing Fernando Torres who had given Liverpool the lead earlier in the second half.
Nemanja Vidic and Javier Mascherano again saw red in this fixture in a dramatic last ten minutes in which the game exploded.
Liverpool went into the game looking for a win over their great rivals to ignite a season which has seen them already lose four Premiership games, and more recently four games on the bounce.
Rafael Benitez was under a lot of pressure in recent weeks and was booed during Liverpool’s most defeat against Lyon on Wednesday night.
His side lined up in a 4-4-2 formation which included Fabio Aurelio playing on the left to help keep things tight against in form Antonio Valencia, and Dirk Kuyt partnering the returning Fernando Torres.
They started with the look of a side hungry to avenge recent results but were fortunate when the returning Wayne Rooney had a goal disallowed for United after only two minutes for a marginal offside decision.
United began brightly and kept the ball well but found themselves faced with a strong, combative Liverpool side who were closing them down all over the pitch.
Despite United’s early pressure, the games first chance fell to Liverpool. After a foul by Patrice Evra which earned him a deserved yellow card, a fantastic free kick by Aurelio was destined for top corner before Edwin Van Der Sar produced a top save and got up in time to save the rebound from Dirk Kuyt.
United responded strongly and a flowing move saw Valencia get past Emanuel Insua and put a cross on Rooney’s head only to see his effort saved by Pepe Reina.
United continued controlling the game, keeping the ball nicely without really troubling. Liverpool’s resolute defending was typified by Captain Jamie Carragher’s crunching slide tackle in the penalty area on Michael Carrick.
The best chance of the half fell to Aurelio, after a long defence splitting ball came to Yossi Benayoun, whose cross came nicely for the Brazilian. His header fell straight into the grateful arms of Van Der Sar.
Liverpool finished the half strongly and the crowd started to sense the side were putting their recent poor form behind them. Prior to the game, a protest outside the ground was carried out by Liverpool fans to signal their discontent at the clubs American owners.
It was Liverpool who continued their good first half work at the start of the second half but again failed to make the most of an inviting opportunity.
After an uncharacteristic mistake from Patrice Evra, whose misplaced pass fell straight to Benayoun, he found Dirk Kuyt who inexpicably opted to pull the ball back to the unsuspecting the Israeli, instead of taking on a shot from eight yards out.
Like Kuyt previously, Fernando Torres appeared at a loss for ideas when he raced through down the left only for his eventual product to be neither a shot or cross, instead blazed across the box and out for a throw in.
Liverpool became increasingly dominant and the breakthrough finally came for Liverpool after sixty five minutes.
The ball fell to Benayoun in midfield, who hit a perfectly placed through ball into Torres who held off Rio Ferdinand and fired the ball high past Van Der Sar.
It was no more than Liverpool’s efforts in the game had deserved and the onus was now on United to break down the resolute Liverpool defence.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s response was to introduce Nani and Michael Owen to the game, which was greeted with a chorus of boos and chants of Judas around Anfield following his move to United after Owen’s previously successful career with the Merseyside club.
Their introduction had an immediate impact, with Nani firing a shot at Reina who had been untested for much of the game.
United became increasingly ominous and produced their best opportunity as the last ten minutes approached. Good work from Owen produced a chance for Valencia, but he fired his effort off the cross bar from an acute angle inside the six yard box.
That sparked United into life and a moment of great controversy followed.
Owen again caused havoc in the Liverpool defence when he got through on goal only to be pulled down by Jamie Carragher. Referee Andre Mariner opted to only produce a yellow card, much to the dismay of the United players and particularly Sir Alex Ferguson, who felt Owen was denied a clear goal scoring opportunity.
United’s anger was doubled moments later when Nemanja Vidic was sent off in a similar situation.
His second yellow card for pulling back Kuyt on the half way line when he was clean through on goal was deserved, but questions will be asked about the consistency of refereeing after the decision to only book Carragher moments earlier in a much more threatening situation.
Moments later, Mascherano also saw red for a second yellow after a desperate lunge on United keeper Van Der Sar deep in injury time.
But that wasn’t the end of the drama, as a minute after the allotted 5 minutes injury time was over and United piled forward in search of an equaliser, Liverpool found themselves two on one and David N’Gog slotted away the winner for Liverpool.
The mass celebrations which ensued around Anfield were epitomised by Goalkeeper Reina who ran the length of the pitch to celebrate in front of a jubilant Kop.
The result and performance were exactly what Liverpool manager Benitez needed and desired in recent weeks meanwhile Ferguson will surely be questioning the refereeing decisions despite his sides lacklustre display.
N’Gog scored deep into injury time after replacing Fernando Torres who had given Liverpool the lead earlier in the second half.
Nemanja Vidic and Javier Mascherano again saw red in this fixture in a dramatic last ten minutes in which the game exploded.
Liverpool went into the game looking for a win over their great rivals to ignite a season which has seen them already lose four Premiership games, and more recently four games on the bounce.
Rafael Benitez was under a lot of pressure in recent weeks and was booed during Liverpool’s most defeat against Lyon on Wednesday night.
His side lined up in a 4-4-2 formation which included Fabio Aurelio playing on the left to help keep things tight against in form Antonio Valencia, and Dirk Kuyt partnering the returning Fernando Torres.
They started with the look of a side hungry to avenge recent results but were fortunate when the returning Wayne Rooney had a goal disallowed for United after only two minutes for a marginal offside decision.
United began brightly and kept the ball well but found themselves faced with a strong, combative Liverpool side who were closing them down all over the pitch.
Despite United’s early pressure, the games first chance fell to Liverpool. After a foul by Patrice Evra which earned him a deserved yellow card, a fantastic free kick by Aurelio was destined for top corner before Edwin Van Der Sar produced a top save and got up in time to save the rebound from Dirk Kuyt.
United responded strongly and a flowing move saw Valencia get past Emanuel Insua and put a cross on Rooney’s head only to see his effort saved by Pepe Reina.
United continued controlling the game, keeping the ball nicely without really troubling. Liverpool’s resolute defending was typified by Captain Jamie Carragher’s crunching slide tackle in the penalty area on Michael Carrick.
The best chance of the half fell to Aurelio, after a long defence splitting ball came to Yossi Benayoun, whose cross came nicely for the Brazilian. His header fell straight into the grateful arms of Van Der Sar.
Liverpool finished the half strongly and the crowd started to sense the side were putting their recent poor form behind them. Prior to the game, a protest outside the ground was carried out by Liverpool fans to signal their discontent at the clubs American owners.
It was Liverpool who continued their good first half work at the start of the second half but again failed to make the most of an inviting opportunity.
After an uncharacteristic mistake from Patrice Evra, whose misplaced pass fell straight to Benayoun, he found Dirk Kuyt who inexpicably opted to pull the ball back to the unsuspecting the Israeli, instead of taking on a shot from eight yards out.
Like Kuyt previously, Fernando Torres appeared at a loss for ideas when he raced through down the left only for his eventual product to be neither a shot or cross, instead blazed across the box and out for a throw in.
Liverpool became increasingly dominant and the breakthrough finally came for Liverpool after sixty five minutes.
The ball fell to Benayoun in midfield, who hit a perfectly placed through ball into Torres who held off Rio Ferdinand and fired the ball high past Van Der Sar.
It was no more than Liverpool’s efforts in the game had deserved and the onus was now on United to break down the resolute Liverpool defence.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s response was to introduce Nani and Michael Owen to the game, which was greeted with a chorus of boos and chants of Judas around Anfield following his move to United after Owen’s previously successful career with the Merseyside club.
Their introduction had an immediate impact, with Nani firing a shot at Reina who had been untested for much of the game.
United became increasingly ominous and produced their best opportunity as the last ten minutes approached. Good work from Owen produced a chance for Valencia, but he fired his effort off the cross bar from an acute angle inside the six yard box.
That sparked United into life and a moment of great controversy followed.
Owen again caused havoc in the Liverpool defence when he got through on goal only to be pulled down by Jamie Carragher. Referee Andre Mariner opted to only produce a yellow card, much to the dismay of the United players and particularly Sir Alex Ferguson, who felt Owen was denied a clear goal scoring opportunity.
United’s anger was doubled moments later when Nemanja Vidic was sent off in a similar situation.
His second yellow card for pulling back Kuyt on the half way line when he was clean through on goal was deserved, but questions will be asked about the consistency of refereeing after the decision to only book Carragher moments earlier in a much more threatening situation.
Moments later, Mascherano also saw red for a second yellow after a desperate lunge on United keeper Van Der Sar deep in injury time.
But that wasn’t the end of the drama, as a minute after the allotted 5 minutes injury time was over and United piled forward in search of an equaliser, Liverpool found themselves two on one and David N’Gog slotted away the winner for Liverpool.
The mass celebrations which ensued around Anfield were epitomised by Goalkeeper Reina who ran the length of the pitch to celebrate in front of a jubilant Kop.
The result and performance were exactly what Liverpool manager Benitez needed and desired in recent weeks meanwhile Ferguson will surely be questioning the refereeing decisions despite his sides lacklustre display.
13 October 2009
So Heskey will move on from Villa to secure his England place.... good riddance!
After reading Emile Heskey's comments following England’s defeat in Ukraine on Saturday, fans who attend Aston Villa games regularly will have breathed a collective sigh of relief.
Heskey believes he will need to find a new home in January after making just 5 appearances this season, the majority as a substitute.
And from attending every home game this season, I get the impression that the majority of the boo boys at Villa Park would be willing to drive him to his next club.
During last Monday nights game against Manchester City, Heskey's introduction in the second half didn't exactly trigger an increased level of optimism amongst the Villa faithful.
Heskey's most telling contribution during his stay on the pitch was to collide with his own player, when he had the chance to slide through a team mate for a goal scoring opportunity in injury time.
The jeers and disgust seen around the ground said it all.
Since being signed to boost Villa's Champions League aspirations last January by boss Martin O'Neill, Heskey has managed just 2 goals in 19 appearances.
In that time, his only performance of any repute came against Portsmouth in his debut, where he struck the winning goal and showed signs of developing a promising relationship with fellow England hopeful Gabriel Agbonlahor.
Safe to say that hasn't been the case. Even when selected continuously ahead of fan favourite John Carew last season, Heskey failed to develop any relationship with Agbonlahor. When selected along side Carew, he has looked even worse.
Also in that time, his poor finishing which was highlighted in a recent International against Croatia has blighted both his and Villa's progress.
Despite that, England boss Fabio Capello has picked him consistently, sighting his contribution to the teams overall play.
This attitude directly contradicts Capello's overall ideology that he only picks players who are in form for their respective clubs and has seen him turn his nose up at starting Jermaine Defoe and Agbonlahor, and not even giving a place in the squad to Sunderland's Darren Bent, all of whom have been in fine goal scoring form this season.
Heskey is probably right that he may need to move on to secure his England place, but a message to any potential suitors, beware. The player Capello loves does not turn up 90% of the time at club level. The ability to consistently bully defenders and win headers is not present. Goal scoring is anonymous.
What you are left with is a player who spends more time on his backside, usually down injured, than being a threat in the opposing penalty area.
If that’s what you look for in a Premier League striker, then there is an entire fan base who will give any manager a character reference.
Heskey believes he will need to find a new home in January after making just 5 appearances this season, the majority as a substitute.
And from attending every home game this season, I get the impression that the majority of the boo boys at Villa Park would be willing to drive him to his next club.
During last Monday nights game against Manchester City, Heskey's introduction in the second half didn't exactly trigger an increased level of optimism amongst the Villa faithful.
Heskey's most telling contribution during his stay on the pitch was to collide with his own player, when he had the chance to slide through a team mate for a goal scoring opportunity in injury time.
The jeers and disgust seen around the ground said it all.
Since being signed to boost Villa's Champions League aspirations last January by boss Martin O'Neill, Heskey has managed just 2 goals in 19 appearances.
In that time, his only performance of any repute came against Portsmouth in his debut, where he struck the winning goal and showed signs of developing a promising relationship with fellow England hopeful Gabriel Agbonlahor.
Safe to say that hasn't been the case. Even when selected continuously ahead of fan favourite John Carew last season, Heskey failed to develop any relationship with Agbonlahor. When selected along side Carew, he has looked even worse.
Also in that time, his poor finishing which was highlighted in a recent International against Croatia has blighted both his and Villa's progress.
Despite that, England boss Fabio Capello has picked him consistently, sighting his contribution to the teams overall play.
This attitude directly contradicts Capello's overall ideology that he only picks players who are in form for their respective clubs and has seen him turn his nose up at starting Jermaine Defoe and Agbonlahor, and not even giving a place in the squad to Sunderland's Darren Bent, all of whom have been in fine goal scoring form this season.
Heskey is probably right that he may need to move on to secure his England place, but a message to any potential suitors, beware. The player Capello loves does not turn up 90% of the time at club level. The ability to consistently bully defenders and win headers is not present. Goal scoring is anonymous.
What you are left with is a player who spends more time on his backside, usually down injured, than being a threat in the opposing penalty area.
If that’s what you look for in a Premier League striker, then there is an entire fan base who will give any manager a character reference.
30 September 2009
Tough night ahead
After Liverpool's defeat at the hands of last seasons fourth best Italian side, tonights games also have the potential to be difficult for the English clubs in Champions League action.
Chelsea are looking to bounce back from defeat at Wigan on Saturday against Champions league novices Apoel Nicosia, in what on paper should be a stone waller for the Londoners.
However, so did their game at the weekend. Wigan had never beaten one of the 'big four' clubs in their entire time in the Premiership but managed to turn over a ragged looking Chelsea side.
Factor in the long flight to Cyprus, humid weather conditions and a passionate home support, the easy game on paper reads slightly differently.
The experience in their squad suggests they should be able to handle the game, but results in previous years against teams such as FC Cluj show Chelsea dont always handle such trips with ease.
Tonight is the first true test of Chelsea's credentials under Carlo Ancelotti who will be looking for a reaction from his side as they attempt to bounce back from their first defeat of the season. It will be interesting to see if they react to defeat in the manner which has typified Manchester United's dominance of the Premiership in recent years.
With one eye on the arrival of Liverpool at Stamford Bridge next and no Didier Drogba at their disposal, Ancelotti's men may come up short in Nicosia this evening.
And if they do, we will really see what the Italian and his side are made off against there great recent rivals on Sunday.
Chelsea are looking to bounce back from defeat at Wigan on Saturday against Champions league novices Apoel Nicosia, in what on paper should be a stone waller for the Londoners.
However, so did their game at the weekend. Wigan had never beaten one of the 'big four' clubs in their entire time in the Premiership but managed to turn over a ragged looking Chelsea side.
Factor in the long flight to Cyprus, humid weather conditions and a passionate home support, the easy game on paper reads slightly differently.
The experience in their squad suggests they should be able to handle the game, but results in previous years against teams such as FC Cluj show Chelsea dont always handle such trips with ease.
Tonight is the first true test of Chelsea's credentials under Carlo Ancelotti who will be looking for a reaction from his side as they attempt to bounce back from their first defeat of the season. It will be interesting to see if they react to defeat in the manner which has typified Manchester United's dominance of the Premiership in recent years.
With one eye on the arrival of Liverpool at Stamford Bridge next and no Didier Drogba at their disposal, Ancelotti's men may come up short in Nicosia this evening.
And if they do, we will really see what the Italian and his side are made off against there great recent rivals on Sunday.
5 September 2009
Charlton 2 Brentford 0
Lloyd Sam’s 3rd goal in two games and Deon Burton’s 3rd of the season gave Charlton victory over Brentford and ensured they maintained their place at the top of League One.
Both sides went into the game with unbeaten records but it was no surprise Charlton, having won every game and sitting top of the table, settled quicker and made an early breakthrough.
Their first goal came after 10 minutes when makeshift Brentford left back Sam Wood failed to deal with a long ball. The outstanding Lloyd Sam capitalised and pulled the ball back to veteran striker Deon Burton who calmly scored his third goal of the season.
Brentford started slowly but were aggrieved after 25 minutes when their first promising moment saw the ball strike Nicky Bailey’s hand in the area but their claims were waved away.
Their grievance was confounded minutes later when Charlton put together a great team move which was finished off by Sam.
A fifteen pass move ended with promising youngster Jonjo Shelvey feeding striker Burton, who flicked the ball to Sam who produced a moment of quality to glide past Sam Wood and slot the ball home.
Just before half time came Brentford’s best moment of the game when Carl Cort headed wide despite it looking easier to score.
That theme continued in the second half, when both sides missed good chances. Carl Cort missed two further headers for Brentford, one of which produced a fine save from Charlton keeper Rob Elliot after 72 minutes.
Ten minutes later David Hunt hit the bar with a thirty yard free kick, but Charlton were able to withstand the pressure put on them in a spirited second half performance from Brentford.
Both sides went into the game with unbeaten records but it was no surprise Charlton, having won every game and sitting top of the table, settled quicker and made an early breakthrough.
Their first goal came after 10 minutes when makeshift Brentford left back Sam Wood failed to deal with a long ball. The outstanding Lloyd Sam capitalised and pulled the ball back to veteran striker Deon Burton who calmly scored his third goal of the season.
Brentford started slowly but were aggrieved after 25 minutes when their first promising moment saw the ball strike Nicky Bailey’s hand in the area but their claims were waved away.
Their grievance was confounded minutes later when Charlton put together a great team move which was finished off by Sam.
A fifteen pass move ended with promising youngster Jonjo Shelvey feeding striker Burton, who flicked the ball to Sam who produced a moment of quality to glide past Sam Wood and slot the ball home.
Just before half time came Brentford’s best moment of the game when Carl Cort headed wide despite it looking easier to score.
That theme continued in the second half, when both sides missed good chances. Carl Cort missed two further headers for Brentford, one of which produced a fine save from Charlton keeper Rob Elliot after 72 minutes.
Ten minutes later David Hunt hit the bar with a thirty yard free kick, but Charlton were able to withstand the pressure put on them in a spirited second half performance from Brentford.
11 August 2009
Bury 0 West Bromwich Albion 2
An early Graham Dorrans strike and an own goal were enough to give Roberto Di Matteo his first win as Baggies boss.
The Midlands club dominated throughout the ninety minutes and never looked like suffering a cup upset from the moment they opened the scoring.
That goal came after only five minutes when Captain Paul Scott failed to clear a long ball forward for Bury. Portuguese winger Filipe Teixeira pounced and the ball fell into the path of Graham Dorrans, who produced a composed finish from the edge of the box.
From then on, the West Bromwich midfield took over the game and it was no surprise when they extended their lead further after 24 minutes.
Bury were enjoying their most promising moment of the game, but after a cross produced nothing the gulf in class between the two teams was epitomised by the clinical nature of the Championship sides counter attack.
Debutant Ruben Reid led the charge, exchanging one twos with Craig Beattie before the Scot fired a ball across goal which was diverted into his own net by back tracking Michael Jones.
Before half time, summer signing Simon Cox had a goal ruled out for a marginal offside, an occurrence which would again deny the striker his first Albion goal in the second half.
Bury enjoyed more of the play in the second half after failing to test Dean Kiely in the first, but first Michael Jones and then Ryan Lowe spurned the best opportunities they created.
The Midlands club dominated throughout the ninety minutes and never looked like suffering a cup upset from the moment they opened the scoring.
That goal came after only five minutes when Captain Paul Scott failed to clear a long ball forward for Bury. Portuguese winger Filipe Teixeira pounced and the ball fell into the path of Graham Dorrans, who produced a composed finish from the edge of the box.
From then on, the West Bromwich midfield took over the game and it was no surprise when they extended their lead further after 24 minutes.
Bury were enjoying their most promising moment of the game, but after a cross produced nothing the gulf in class between the two teams was epitomised by the clinical nature of the Championship sides counter attack.
Debutant Ruben Reid led the charge, exchanging one twos with Craig Beattie before the Scot fired a ball across goal which was diverted into his own net by back tracking Michael Jones.
Before half time, summer signing Simon Cox had a goal ruled out for a marginal offside, an occurrence which would again deny the striker his first Albion goal in the second half.
Bury enjoyed more of the play in the second half after failing to test Dean Kiely in the first, but first Michael Jones and then Ryan Lowe spurned the best opportunities they created.
9 August 2009
Time to shine, Wayne
The season opener at Wembley today will be an interesting watch for football fans around the country.
With a summer of speculation at both clubs, the game today provides will show how two of last seasons top performing teams cope with the upheaval at their respective clubs.
Manchester United will sorely miss the talents of Cristiano Ronaldo as would any club, but the game today offers Sir Alex’s men the perfect chance to put the World Footballer of the year behind them and send a message to the rest of English Football.
Their appears to have been no single replacement for Ronaldo, but between them, Antonio Valencia and Michael Owen can go some way to accounting for the goals and assists which the Portuguese star gave United.
Owen has his doubters, but a partnership with Wayne Rooney would be one that blessed any team in the world. Owen will be eager to make a statement today, on the eve of his omission from the England squad yesterday.
Valencia has serious potential, with electric pace and a fierce shot that is reminiscent of Ronaldo. They will both be looking forward to pulling on United shirts at Wembley today and giving the clubs fans hope for the new season.
Wayne Rooney will finally have his chance to shine at United, having long played a supporting role to Ronaldo, this could be the season he starts to achieve his full potential. Playing him as an out an out striker could prove to be a master stroke by Ferguson if Rooney’s England form is anything to go by.
United’s opponents today have had a summer of change off the field rather than on it.
The arrival of Carlo Ancelotti is the 5th manager in 3 seasons for Chelsea but he looks to be an ideal fit for the ageing Chelsea squad. The Italian achieved great success at Italian giants AC Milan with a team of experienced professionals similar to the current Chelsea side.
Other than the arrival of talent Russian Yuri Zhirkov, their have been few ins and outs at Chelsea this summer. Fortunately for them, they didn’t have to find replacements for their top star, John Terry. He showed the class expected of an England Captain and stayed loyal to his boyhood club, resisting the money on offer from Manchester City.
Chelsea fans will be keen to see how they line up today, with rumours of a subtle new formation being implemented by the new manager. A narrow diamond formation could be effective with the talented central midfielders at his disposal, but Ancelotti could learn the hard way about the difficulty of breaking English teams down without wingers.
After a summer of questions, the answers start today.
With a summer of speculation at both clubs, the game today provides will show how two of last seasons top performing teams cope with the upheaval at their respective clubs.
Manchester United will sorely miss the talents of Cristiano Ronaldo as would any club, but the game today offers Sir Alex’s men the perfect chance to put the World Footballer of the year behind them and send a message to the rest of English Football.
Their appears to have been no single replacement for Ronaldo, but between them, Antonio Valencia and Michael Owen can go some way to accounting for the goals and assists which the Portuguese star gave United.
Owen has his doubters, but a partnership with Wayne Rooney would be one that blessed any team in the world. Owen will be eager to make a statement today, on the eve of his omission from the England squad yesterday.
Valencia has serious potential, with electric pace and a fierce shot that is reminiscent of Ronaldo. They will both be looking forward to pulling on United shirts at Wembley today and giving the clubs fans hope for the new season.
Wayne Rooney will finally have his chance to shine at United, having long played a supporting role to Ronaldo, this could be the season he starts to achieve his full potential. Playing him as an out an out striker could prove to be a master stroke by Ferguson if Rooney’s England form is anything to go by.
United’s opponents today have had a summer of change off the field rather than on it.
The arrival of Carlo Ancelotti is the 5th manager in 3 seasons for Chelsea but he looks to be an ideal fit for the ageing Chelsea squad. The Italian achieved great success at Italian giants AC Milan with a team of experienced professionals similar to the current Chelsea side.
Other than the arrival of talent Russian Yuri Zhirkov, their have been few ins and outs at Chelsea this summer. Fortunately for them, they didn’t have to find replacements for their top star, John Terry. He showed the class expected of an England Captain and stayed loyal to his boyhood club, resisting the money on offer from Manchester City.
Chelsea fans will be keen to see how they line up today, with rumours of a subtle new formation being implemented by the new manager. A narrow diamond formation could be effective with the talented central midfielders at his disposal, but Ancelotti could learn the hard way about the difficulty of breaking English teams down without wingers.
After a summer of questions, the answers start today.
27 April 2009
Ryan Giggs, PFA player of the season... you what??
The recipients of the annual PFA awards are always cause for great debate and argument amongst fans and the media alike. Club supporters always feel some of their players are most worthy, and the winner is never completely unanimous.
Last nights announcement that Ryan Giggs has won the Player of the year award, and Ashley Young has received the Young Player equivalent are both up for debate.
Ryan Giggs. There is no way that his greatness as a footballer and person over the last 17 Premiership seasons can ever be questioned. If this award was for Premiership player of the last 17 seasons, he would be the unanimous winner.
However its not. What is the point of a trophy which recognises the best player in the league over the course of a season, being given to someone who has been used as a bit part player at best? He has started only 12 premiership games and featured in just 24. In that time he has scored 1 goal. Surely those sorts of statistics suggest he might not have had the biggest impact.
There is serious argument to say he hasn’t even been Manchester United’s most influential player this season, let alone best in the whole league. Out of the six players nominated, 5 play for league leading United.
Last Years winner, Cristiano Ronaldo is once again Premiership top scorer. While not being as dominating as he was to gain the previous two awards, his 17 goals have been a massive contribution and more marked then Giggs. Even if at times he has left fans enraged at his lack of team ethic, he has still been pivotal in United’s attempts to win 5 trophies this season.
Manchester Uniteds run of games in the middle stretch of the season was a key reason for Edwin Van Der Sar’s nomination for the award. His record breaking run of not conceding a goal in 1,311 minutes, was well worthy of recognition. That contribution over a period where United’s rivals were stuttering has definitely helped United maintain their position at the top of the table. It also has put them in good stead for the run in, as they managed to create enough of a cushion to afford home defeats to rivals Liverpool and at Fulham.
Rio Ferdinand’s role in United’s success has often been overlooked. He has featured in only 24 games this season, the same as Giggs. But his role as captain of the side cannot be overlooked. He has been the leader of the team in their quest for league and European glory once again this season. Together with Nemanja Vidic, they have held United together. Their absence was particularly notable in the recent game against Aston Villa.
At one point this season, Nemanja Vidic was the media darling being given much of the credit for United’s great defensive record this season. In his 30 Premiership appearances this season, United have only conceded 17 goals. His claims to the PFA crown were somewhat diminished after his performance in United’s 4-1 home defeat to Liverpool where he was sent off and at fault for two Liverpool goals.
In that game, Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard were responsible for leading the biggest upset of the season. Torres didn’t make the list, as he was considered to have not played enough games. Incidentally, he has scored 13 goals in 20 league appearances, 4 less then Giggs.
Steven Gerrard did make the list and could perhaps be the most aggrieved not to have won this seasons honour. He has carried the team throughout the season, in pushing United all the way in the title race this season.
His contribution of 13 goals and 7 assists don’t tell the whole story of what has been a fantastic season. He has rescued 7 points with decisive goals, and inspired them to victory with decisive goals at Old Trafford, St. James’ and the Reebok stadium. With Torres’ injury problems throughout the year, Gerrard has been the catalyst for numerous Liverpool performances over the season.
One of the main problems with the PFA system is the nominations are given out in February. It explains why the United players have dominated the nominations, with others such as Lampard, Torres and Everton’s Joleon Lescott having strong arguments for at least receiving nominations for their vital role in their sides this season.
The timing of the nominations also overlooks the most important part of the season in which the destination of trophies is decided. It counts out Torres' role in Liverpools surge up the table, Lampards key performances in Chelsea reverse in fortunes and Lescott' stewardship which has seen Everton reach the FA cup final.
It also explains why Ashley Young won the Young players award. Villa fans will tell you that up until February he was fantastic. The problem has been that Villa’s slump in form has coincided with him not scoring for 5 months prior to last Saturday, as well as a number of lethargic, ineffective displays from the undoubtedly talent winger.
Manchester City’s Stephen Ireland has a strong case for receiving the award, being a key performer for them over the entire season. He in long spells of the season has outshined £32 million Robinho, which in itself speaks volumes for the level of his performances.
Next year, perhaps the PFA will wait till the end of the season to decide the true recipients of the seasonal awards. Perhaps they could also consider giving the awards to someone who has had a massive part to play in the success’ of his side over the course of that season.
Last nights announcement that Ryan Giggs has won the Player of the year award, and Ashley Young has received the Young Player equivalent are both up for debate.
Ryan Giggs. There is no way that his greatness as a footballer and person over the last 17 Premiership seasons can ever be questioned. If this award was for Premiership player of the last 17 seasons, he would be the unanimous winner.
However its not. What is the point of a trophy which recognises the best player in the league over the course of a season, being given to someone who has been used as a bit part player at best? He has started only 12 premiership games and featured in just 24. In that time he has scored 1 goal. Surely those sorts of statistics suggest he might not have had the biggest impact.
There is serious argument to say he hasn’t even been Manchester United’s most influential player this season, let alone best in the whole league. Out of the six players nominated, 5 play for league leading United.
Last Years winner, Cristiano Ronaldo is once again Premiership top scorer. While not being as dominating as he was to gain the previous two awards, his 17 goals have been a massive contribution and more marked then Giggs. Even if at times he has left fans enraged at his lack of team ethic, he has still been pivotal in United’s attempts to win 5 trophies this season.
Manchester Uniteds run of games in the middle stretch of the season was a key reason for Edwin Van Der Sar’s nomination for the award. His record breaking run of not conceding a goal in 1,311 minutes, was well worthy of recognition. That contribution over a period where United’s rivals were stuttering has definitely helped United maintain their position at the top of the table. It also has put them in good stead for the run in, as they managed to create enough of a cushion to afford home defeats to rivals Liverpool and at Fulham.
Rio Ferdinand’s role in United’s success has often been overlooked. He has featured in only 24 games this season, the same as Giggs. But his role as captain of the side cannot be overlooked. He has been the leader of the team in their quest for league and European glory once again this season. Together with Nemanja Vidic, they have held United together. Their absence was particularly notable in the recent game against Aston Villa.
At one point this season, Nemanja Vidic was the media darling being given much of the credit for United’s great defensive record this season. In his 30 Premiership appearances this season, United have only conceded 17 goals. His claims to the PFA crown were somewhat diminished after his performance in United’s 4-1 home defeat to Liverpool where he was sent off and at fault for two Liverpool goals.
In that game, Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard were responsible for leading the biggest upset of the season. Torres didn’t make the list, as he was considered to have not played enough games. Incidentally, he has scored 13 goals in 20 league appearances, 4 less then Giggs.
Steven Gerrard did make the list and could perhaps be the most aggrieved not to have won this seasons honour. He has carried the team throughout the season, in pushing United all the way in the title race this season.
His contribution of 13 goals and 7 assists don’t tell the whole story of what has been a fantastic season. He has rescued 7 points with decisive goals, and inspired them to victory with decisive goals at Old Trafford, St. James’ and the Reebok stadium. With Torres’ injury problems throughout the year, Gerrard has been the catalyst for numerous Liverpool performances over the season.
One of the main problems with the PFA system is the nominations are given out in February. It explains why the United players have dominated the nominations, with others such as Lampard, Torres and Everton’s Joleon Lescott having strong arguments for at least receiving nominations for their vital role in their sides this season.
The timing of the nominations also overlooks the most important part of the season in which the destination of trophies is decided. It counts out Torres' role in Liverpools surge up the table, Lampards key performances in Chelsea reverse in fortunes and Lescott' stewardship which has seen Everton reach the FA cup final.
It also explains why Ashley Young won the Young players award. Villa fans will tell you that up until February he was fantastic. The problem has been that Villa’s slump in form has coincided with him not scoring for 5 months prior to last Saturday, as well as a number of lethargic, ineffective displays from the undoubtedly talent winger.
Manchester City’s Stephen Ireland has a strong case for receiving the award, being a key performer for them over the entire season. He in long spells of the season has outshined £32 million Robinho, which in itself speaks volumes for the level of his performances.
Next year, perhaps the PFA will wait till the end of the season to decide the true recipients of the seasonal awards. Perhaps they could also consider giving the awards to someone who has had a massive part to play in the success’ of his side over the course of that season.
24 April 2009
This weeks Predictions
Bolton vs. Aston Villa
Bolton need another win to qualm any fears of relegation and they could get it here. Aston Villa have been struggling greatly in the last few months with no win since early February. Their main problems have been defensively and the Reebok Stadium is notorious for teams being put under a lot of pressure in their box, which could lead to a Villa collapse.
Score: 2-0
Everton vs. Man City
Everton are on a massive high at the moment with the upcoming FA Cup final. The chairman has been singing the managers praises, and Moyes, has nothing but compliments for his injury hit squad. They have been on a great run since their poor start to the season, without which they could be pushing Arsenal mighty close for 4th place right now.
City struggle greatly away from home and have nothing to play for now. This could end up the same as Sven’s last game in charge up at Middlesbrough.
Score: 3-0
Fulham vs. Stoke
This encounter features two teams who have performed above all expectations this season. Fulham’s turnaround has been remarkable and Roy Hodgson deserves all the praise for the marvellous job he has done. They play very good football and are very difficult to beat away from home.
In contrast, Stoke have been a disaster away from home, picking up only one win. Tony Pulis has his side’s determined home performances to thank for the clubs expected survival in the Premiership.
Score: 2-0
Hull vs. Liverpool
Hull look in serious trouble. After their astonishing start to the season, their fall from grace has been equally dramatic. They have very difficult fixtures to come and are the team that Newcastle and Middlesbrough will be hoping to overtake.
Liverpool are in great form and are giving the title a real go in the run in. Rafael Benitez will be kicking himself that he didn’t encourage his side to play in a similar fashion earlier on in the season, which has probably cost them the title.
Score: 1-4
West Brom vs. Sunderland
West Brom look like they are going down, but Tony Mowbray will be determined his side don’t do so without a fight. If they have any chance of staying up, they have to win this game. Over the season, their big problems have been in both penalty areas and they will need a dramatic reverse in fortunes if they are going to keep their hopes alive.
Sunderland have had good home wins recently and will see this as an ideal opportunity to secure their Premiership status for another season.
Score: 2-1
West Ham vs. Chelsea
This has the makings of a good game. West Ham play good football and Zola has them playing the right way. He has worked wonders with a squad which has had no luck at all with injuries. The fans will be up for a chance to end Chelsea’s title hopes once and for all.
Chelsea are still plugging away in the league, but look to have left it to late. They may have an eye on the Nou Camp and could take their foot of the gas at Upton Park.
Score: 2-1
Manchester United vs. Tottenham
Its Man United’s title to lose now. They just need to keep churning out results to both retain their title and keep momentum up ahead of their clash with in form Arsenal in the Champions League.
Tottenham are safe now and hoping to get into Europe again next season, which would be a remarkable achievement for Harry Redknapp considering the clubs position when he arrived.
Score: 2-0
Newcastle vs. Portsmouth
The Shearer effect has yet to reap any real words, with only a point at Stoke to show for two spirited second half displays. His side need a win here against a struggling Portsmouth side and will be hoping the return of Mark Viduka can ignite his team going forward.
Equally, Portsmouth need to start picking up some points to avoid being sucked into the relegation spots late in the season.
Score: 1-0
Arsenal vs. Middlesbrough
Arsenal’s return to form has been impressive. They performed well up at Anfield and will feel they threw away the win in the end. They have played some great football going forward and will be hoping they can hold it together at the back ahead for the upcoming Champions League games.
Middlesbrough look to be in dire straights. They could of turned the corner after their win against Liverpool recently but their fortunes have hardly improved. Gareth Southgate has a task on his hands keeping his club in the top flight.
Score: 3-0
Blackburn vs. Wigan
This is set to be a real dogfight. Blackburn are fighting for their lives and Wigan are also a physical side. The game promises to be an old fashioned contest and will not be one for lovers of flowing football.
Sam Allardyce needs a result here or his side could fall through the trap door.
Score: 0-0
Bolton need another win to qualm any fears of relegation and they could get it here. Aston Villa have been struggling greatly in the last few months with no win since early February. Their main problems have been defensively and the Reebok Stadium is notorious for teams being put under a lot of pressure in their box, which could lead to a Villa collapse.
Score: 2-0
Everton vs. Man City
Everton are on a massive high at the moment with the upcoming FA Cup final. The chairman has been singing the managers praises, and Moyes, has nothing but compliments for his injury hit squad. They have been on a great run since their poor start to the season, without which they could be pushing Arsenal mighty close for 4th place right now.
City struggle greatly away from home and have nothing to play for now. This could end up the same as Sven’s last game in charge up at Middlesbrough.
Score: 3-0
Fulham vs. Stoke
This encounter features two teams who have performed above all expectations this season. Fulham’s turnaround has been remarkable and Roy Hodgson deserves all the praise for the marvellous job he has done. They play very good football and are very difficult to beat away from home.
In contrast, Stoke have been a disaster away from home, picking up only one win. Tony Pulis has his side’s determined home performances to thank for the clubs expected survival in the Premiership.
Score: 2-0
Hull vs. Liverpool
Hull look in serious trouble. After their astonishing start to the season, their fall from grace has been equally dramatic. They have very difficult fixtures to come and are the team that Newcastle and Middlesbrough will be hoping to overtake.
Liverpool are in great form and are giving the title a real go in the run in. Rafael Benitez will be kicking himself that he didn’t encourage his side to play in a similar fashion earlier on in the season, which has probably cost them the title.
Score: 1-4
West Brom vs. Sunderland
West Brom look like they are going down, but Tony Mowbray will be determined his side don’t do so without a fight. If they have any chance of staying up, they have to win this game. Over the season, their big problems have been in both penalty areas and they will need a dramatic reverse in fortunes if they are going to keep their hopes alive.
Sunderland have had good home wins recently and will see this as an ideal opportunity to secure their Premiership status for another season.
Score: 2-1
West Ham vs. Chelsea
This has the makings of a good game. West Ham play good football and Zola has them playing the right way. He has worked wonders with a squad which has had no luck at all with injuries. The fans will be up for a chance to end Chelsea’s title hopes once and for all.
Chelsea are still plugging away in the league, but look to have left it to late. They may have an eye on the Nou Camp and could take their foot of the gas at Upton Park.
Score: 2-1
Manchester United vs. Tottenham
Its Man United’s title to lose now. They just need to keep churning out results to both retain their title and keep momentum up ahead of their clash with in form Arsenal in the Champions League.
Tottenham are safe now and hoping to get into Europe again next season, which would be a remarkable achievement for Harry Redknapp considering the clubs position when he arrived.
Score: 2-0
Newcastle vs. Portsmouth
The Shearer effect has yet to reap any real words, with only a point at Stoke to show for two spirited second half displays. His side need a win here against a struggling Portsmouth side and will be hoping the return of Mark Viduka can ignite his team going forward.
Equally, Portsmouth need to start picking up some points to avoid being sucked into the relegation spots late in the season.
Score: 1-0
Arsenal vs. Middlesbrough
Arsenal’s return to form has been impressive. They performed well up at Anfield and will feel they threw away the win in the end. They have played some great football going forward and will be hoping they can hold it together at the back ahead for the upcoming Champions League games.
Middlesbrough look to be in dire straights. They could of turned the corner after their win against Liverpool recently but their fortunes have hardly improved. Gareth Southgate has a task on his hands keeping his club in the top flight.
Score: 3-0
Blackburn vs. Wigan
This is set to be a real dogfight. Blackburn are fighting for their lives and Wigan are also a physical side. The game promises to be an old fashioned contest and will not be one for lovers of flowing football.
Sam Allardyce needs a result here or his side could fall through the trap door.
Score: 0-0
23 April 2009
Glory, Glory Wolverhampton
Matthew Rumble
18th April
One name on the Wolverhampton Wanderers team sheet is always good for a goal. This weekend, club talisman Sylvan Ebanks-Blake proved that point at the most important moment, scoring the goal which sent the club back to the Premiership.
Football league player of the season, Championship top scorer and hero amongst Wolves fans. There was no man better for or more fitting to apply the vital finish.
The see of emotion which swept the Molineux pitch at full time was a clear sign of the importance of such an achievement to the success-starved Wolverhampton public.
It also indicates the scale of what has been achieved by manager Mick McCarthy and his young British squad.
The victory Wolves needed against QPR on Saturday was achieved thanks to Ebanks-Blake’s goal. It confirmed Wolves promotion and, at the same time as barring a Birmingham City miracle, ensured the club will win their first trophy since the 1988 Johnstone’s paint trophy equivalent.
Some may argue the clubs most recent success, their promotion via the 2002-03 play offs, was a trophy of repute. However, the clubs performance this season has been much more worthy of the trophy soon to be acquired from the cabinet of their nearest and dearest, West Bromwich Albion.
The season has marked similarities with their last promotion. Both being achieved by teams entirely British is the least coincidental.
When Wolves were promoted their Irish right back, Dennis Irwin, missed a penalty which sent them out of the league cup to Rotherham.
6 years on, young Irish full back Kevin Foley missed a penalty which sent them out of the league cup. Against Rotherham.
He obviously overcame that disappointment, defying his youth by becoming the clubs Fans Player of the Season.
In 2002, Wolves under Dave Jones signed two former Manchester United players Dennis Irwin and Paul Ince to add some experienced know how.
McCarthy’s youthful approach instead led him to sign two players who had much less impact at United.
Those two were David Jones, and a certain Sylvan Ebanks-Blake.
He like the rest of McCarthy’s young side will be a breath of fresh air in the Premiership next season. McCarthy will need to add some quality in defence to the fast, flowing attacking football which will certainly take Premiership sides by surprise.
Wolves fans will be hoping that they will again be celebrating on the pitch at the end of next season, but almost certainly it would be for finishing 16 positions lower then they did this season.
18th April
One name on the Wolverhampton Wanderers team sheet is always good for a goal. This weekend, club talisman Sylvan Ebanks-Blake proved that point at the most important moment, scoring the goal which sent the club back to the Premiership.
Football league player of the season, Championship top scorer and hero amongst Wolves fans. There was no man better for or more fitting to apply the vital finish.
The see of emotion which swept the Molineux pitch at full time was a clear sign of the importance of such an achievement to the success-starved Wolverhampton public.
It also indicates the scale of what has been achieved by manager Mick McCarthy and his young British squad.
The victory Wolves needed against QPR on Saturday was achieved thanks to Ebanks-Blake’s goal. It confirmed Wolves promotion and, at the same time as barring a Birmingham City miracle, ensured the club will win their first trophy since the 1988 Johnstone’s paint trophy equivalent.
Some may argue the clubs most recent success, their promotion via the 2002-03 play offs, was a trophy of repute. However, the clubs performance this season has been much more worthy of the trophy soon to be acquired from the cabinet of their nearest and dearest, West Bromwich Albion.
The season has marked similarities with their last promotion. Both being achieved by teams entirely British is the least coincidental.
When Wolves were promoted their Irish right back, Dennis Irwin, missed a penalty which sent them out of the league cup to Rotherham.
6 years on, young Irish full back Kevin Foley missed a penalty which sent them out of the league cup. Against Rotherham.
He obviously overcame that disappointment, defying his youth by becoming the clubs Fans Player of the Season.
In 2002, Wolves under Dave Jones signed two former Manchester United players Dennis Irwin and Paul Ince to add some experienced know how.
McCarthy’s youthful approach instead led him to sign two players who had much less impact at United.
Those two were David Jones, and a certain Sylvan Ebanks-Blake.
He like the rest of McCarthy’s young side will be a breath of fresh air in the Premiership next season. McCarthy will need to add some quality in defence to the fast, flowing attacking football which will certainly take Premiership sides by surprise.
Wolves fans will be hoping that they will again be celebrating on the pitch at the end of next season, but almost certainly it would be for finishing 16 positions lower then they did this season.
1 April 2009
Another, Saviour has returned.
So the most overdue managerial appointment has finally been made.
In yet another twist to this strangest of Premiership seasons, the battle for survival in the big league now has another interesting element: The Shearer Factor.
Alan Shearer has finally decided to get up from the comfort of the Match of the Day studios and do the job Newcastle United fans, and football fans in general have been waiting to see.
Thousands of desperate Geordies will be hoping that the man deemed as ‘God’ in Newcastle could start to become one of the great English managers of our time by preserving their Premiership status.
One man perhaps more desperate than the thousands of Newcastle fans is Chairman Mike Ashley. He will be hoping by employing Shearer that not only will the club stay up, but the fans may forgive him in part for his disastrous tenure so far.
Keeping Newcastle in the league certainly looks a difficult task, but Shearers timing is a clear sign that he isn’t one to shun a challenge.
To use an expression reminiscent of armchair pundits like Shearer, they really do need to win their home games to have any chance of staying up.
However, his first game as Newcastle boss couldn’t get much harder: Chelsea at home.
That is followed by difficult journeys to relegation rivals Stoke, as well as a trip to play resurgent Tottenham.
Shearer will be relying on the St. James’ faithful to pull his struggling side through in home encounters against fellow strugglers Portsmouth and Middlesboro, as well as Fulham.
Their run looks very difficult, with away trips to Liverpool and Villa also on the cards.
Shearer will be undoubtedly reliant on what will be fantastic support for his side in the run in. There will be joyous scenes on Tyneside at the news their ‘saviour’ has come home.
On the pitch, Shearer will also be desperate for old striking partner Michael Owen to do him a favour and save his side from the drop.
Owen and Shearer together could prove once again to be a fruitful partnership but if it doesn’t times look seriously bleak for Newcastle.
They need a serious shift in fortunes, but if there was ever a man to strike confidence into such a miserable side, it would be ‘God’.
In yet another twist to this strangest of Premiership seasons, the battle for survival in the big league now has another interesting element: The Shearer Factor.
Alan Shearer has finally decided to get up from the comfort of the Match of the Day studios and do the job Newcastle United fans, and football fans in general have been waiting to see.
Thousands of desperate Geordies will be hoping that the man deemed as ‘God’ in Newcastle could start to become one of the great English managers of our time by preserving their Premiership status.
One man perhaps more desperate than the thousands of Newcastle fans is Chairman Mike Ashley. He will be hoping by employing Shearer that not only will the club stay up, but the fans may forgive him in part for his disastrous tenure so far.
Keeping Newcastle in the league certainly looks a difficult task, but Shearers timing is a clear sign that he isn’t one to shun a challenge.
To use an expression reminiscent of armchair pundits like Shearer, they really do need to win their home games to have any chance of staying up.
However, his first game as Newcastle boss couldn’t get much harder: Chelsea at home.
That is followed by difficult journeys to relegation rivals Stoke, as well as a trip to play resurgent Tottenham.
Shearer will be relying on the St. James’ faithful to pull his struggling side through in home encounters against fellow strugglers Portsmouth and Middlesboro, as well as Fulham.
Their run looks very difficult, with away trips to Liverpool and Villa also on the cards.
Shearer will be undoubtedly reliant on what will be fantastic support for his side in the run in. There will be joyous scenes on Tyneside at the news their ‘saviour’ has come home.
On the pitch, Shearer will also be desperate for old striking partner Michael Owen to do him a favour and save his side from the drop.
Owen and Shearer together could prove once again to be a fruitful partnership but if it doesn’t times look seriously bleak for Newcastle.
They need a serious shift in fortunes, but if there was ever a man to strike confidence into such a miserable side, it would be ‘God’.
21 March 2009
A golden week for Rafa
There is a reason the Premiership is known as the most exciting league in the world.
This weekends events so far have proved that nothing is ever certain and teams should never give up whatever goal they are pursuing.
One of the few things football fans until recently would have said to be a formality, is that Manchester United would run away with the title when holding a 7 point and a game in hand advantage over their nearest rivals.
However, last weeks home battering against arch rivals Liverpool hinted that things may not be over.
And now, the champions shock defeat to Fulham today has capped off a fantastic week for Liverpool in their attempts to chase down the leaders.
Liverpool fans across Merseyside are now fully justified in their belief that their side can turn recent European successes into finally seeing their side lift the so far elusive Premiership trophy.
Rafael Benitez will be desperate that his side can capitalise on their late Sunday afternoon kick-off against Aston Villa, with the knowledge that a win would see his side come within a point of the Champions.
The Spaniard will be well aware that his side have difficult games to come, but riding their current wave of momentum the squad will feel the title is now in reach.
Tomorrow afternoons game looks set to be a torrid affair for faltering Villa, who could see themselves as lambs in the slaughter tomorrow afternoon against the resurgent Liverpool.
The time is now for Sir Alex Ferguson to prove that his side are true champions and come back from this remarkable week in Premiership football.
I wouldn't like to be one of the players in their dressing room today and surely the time is now for Liverpool to capitalise.
Sit back and enjoy the ride, because the next few weeks are going to be exciting.
This weekends events so far have proved that nothing is ever certain and teams should never give up whatever goal they are pursuing.
One of the few things football fans until recently would have said to be a formality, is that Manchester United would run away with the title when holding a 7 point and a game in hand advantage over their nearest rivals.
However, last weeks home battering against arch rivals Liverpool hinted that things may not be over.
And now, the champions shock defeat to Fulham today has capped off a fantastic week for Liverpool in their attempts to chase down the leaders.
Liverpool fans across Merseyside are now fully justified in their belief that their side can turn recent European successes into finally seeing their side lift the so far elusive Premiership trophy.
Rafael Benitez will be desperate that his side can capitalise on their late Sunday afternoon kick-off against Aston Villa, with the knowledge that a win would see his side come within a point of the Champions.
The Spaniard will be well aware that his side have difficult games to come, but riding their current wave of momentum the squad will feel the title is now in reach.
Tomorrow afternoons game looks set to be a torrid affair for faltering Villa, who could see themselves as lambs in the slaughter tomorrow afternoon against the resurgent Liverpool.
The time is now for Sir Alex Ferguson to prove that his side are true champions and come back from this remarkable week in Premiership football.
I wouldn't like to be one of the players in their dressing room today and surely the time is now for Liverpool to capitalise.
Sit back and enjoy the ride, because the next few weeks are going to be exciting.
6 March 2009
The faltering pretenders
The Championship has long been known as one of the toughest leagues in Europe. The constant pressures put on players and clubs by the need to reach the Premiership land of riches often results in both a nervy and desperate end to the season.
After last weekend where no side in the top 6 spots managed a win, the midweek round of fixtures saw that trend flipped on its head with only 6th placed Preston failing to pick up 3 points.
If ever one week of football exemplified the nature of a division, this was it. While the Championship is renowned for its topsy-turvy nature, this season has proved to be one of the most bizarre.
Leaders Wolves epitomise this, as they have somehow remained top of the table despite recent league form that has included only 2 wins in the past 12 league games.
The faltering leaders will be counting their blessings as teams below them, such as Reading and Birmingham, have failed to capitalise on the opportunity gifted to them by the leaders.
Manager Mick McCarthy is one of the few people at the club who have experienced a Championship title success, and he will be hoping the Wanderers midweek win against Crystal Palace will act as a turning point for the rest of the season.
On current form, the team look incapable of getting promotion, let alone surviving next season. However, the first half of the season was a complete different story, with McCarthy’s young team running away at the top of the table. That previous form is what McCarthy will be desperate for his side to rekindle in the run in.
A run in which most difficult game appears to be a trip to St. Andrews although the Midlanders were comfortable winners there in the cup earlier this year. If the Black Country side can overcome Birmingham City in that fixture, they could be well on track for a return to the Premiership.
Soccer Saturday pundit Paul Merson claimed that if Wolves were to be promoted they would need another 20 players to stay up. That is surely wrong, with players such as Sylvan Ebanks-Blake and Michael Kightly having the credentials to carry Wolves potential fight to stay up next season. The only problem for the side, and it’s a big one, is their total ineptness when it comes to defending balls into the box.
McCarthy will be rueing the day Michael Mancienne returned to Chelsea, which it is perhaps no coincidence was at the start of Wolves terrible recent fortunes. A return to the big time for Wolves would surely trigger the signing of a centre half of his capabilities, as well as a steadying influence in goal with Wayne Hennessy proving unreliable between the sticks.
Wolves will be hoping that in this most back and forth Championship season, they can flip their recent form on its head and lead the charge in the closing weeks of the season.
Taking into account the season so far, would anyone be surprised??
After last weekend where no side in the top 6 spots managed a win, the midweek round of fixtures saw that trend flipped on its head with only 6th placed Preston failing to pick up 3 points.
If ever one week of football exemplified the nature of a division, this was it. While the Championship is renowned for its topsy-turvy nature, this season has proved to be one of the most bizarre.
Leaders Wolves epitomise this, as they have somehow remained top of the table despite recent league form that has included only 2 wins in the past 12 league games.
The faltering leaders will be counting their blessings as teams below them, such as Reading and Birmingham, have failed to capitalise on the opportunity gifted to them by the leaders.
Manager Mick McCarthy is one of the few people at the club who have experienced a Championship title success, and he will be hoping the Wanderers midweek win against Crystal Palace will act as a turning point for the rest of the season.
On current form, the team look incapable of getting promotion, let alone surviving next season. However, the first half of the season was a complete different story, with McCarthy’s young team running away at the top of the table. That previous form is what McCarthy will be desperate for his side to rekindle in the run in.
A run in which most difficult game appears to be a trip to St. Andrews although the Midlanders were comfortable winners there in the cup earlier this year. If the Black Country side can overcome Birmingham City in that fixture, they could be well on track for a return to the Premiership.
Soccer Saturday pundit Paul Merson claimed that if Wolves were to be promoted they would need another 20 players to stay up. That is surely wrong, with players such as Sylvan Ebanks-Blake and Michael Kightly having the credentials to carry Wolves potential fight to stay up next season. The only problem for the side, and it’s a big one, is their total ineptness when it comes to defending balls into the box.
McCarthy will be rueing the day Michael Mancienne returned to Chelsea, which it is perhaps no coincidence was at the start of Wolves terrible recent fortunes. A return to the big time for Wolves would surely trigger the signing of a centre half of his capabilities, as well as a steadying influence in goal with Wayne Hennessy proving unreliable between the sticks.
Wolves will be hoping that in this most back and forth Championship season, they can flip their recent form on its head and lead the charge in the closing weeks of the season.
Taking into account the season so far, would anyone be surprised??
2 March 2009
After the latest Premiership weekend of surprises, the manager with the biggest smile is one not involved in this weekends league fixtures.
Sir Alex Ferguson must have been overjoyed to see nearest rivals Liverpool fail to turn up against a Middlesboro side who had not won in 14 league games.
More strange team selection from Rafa Benitez, which coincided with a desperately poor second half display, cost Liverpool another 3 points and leaves them 7 points behind their arch enemies.
The decision to play Martin Skrtel at right back seemed bizarre at best, leaving the big centre half to look like a fish out of water against an inspired Stewart Downing.
The England winger was in great form, being involved in all Middlesboro’s good work on the day, and perhaps starting to justify his England team selection.
Meanwhile, the Guus Hiddink effect continued to inspire Chelsea, with the Londoners again leaving it late to put to bed an unlucky Wigan side.
Chelsea now appear to be the only side capable of making any sort of challenge on the leaders, with Real Madrid's chasing down of Barcelona in La Liga proving anything is possible.
The Catalan club were 12 points ahead, but Real Madrid are now only 4 points behind. Chelsea can look on that as inspiration for their title charge.
They will be rueing the disappointing performance at Old Trafford earlier this season, which leaves them relying on a big reverse in fortunes for the Champions if they are going to make an impression on the top of the table.
However that looks unlikely, with United remaining on course for the quintuple by winning the League cup at Wembley yesterday.
Ferguson’s ability to rest key players in a game of such magnitude, will be the envy of other Premiership managers like Martin O'Neill, who saw his Villa side inexplicably throw away a 2-0 lead at home to Stoke.
If ever one event could illustrate the difference between a title winning team and a pretender, the inability of Villa to see out a two goal lead at home to a poor Stoke side, shows that the Midlanders still have a long way to go to fulfil their lofty aspirations.
Ferguson’s sides have notoriously been hard to catch once out in front, and their dominance over the Premiership looks set to continue this season.
Although, after this weekend continued a season of surprises, United throwing away their massive lead would be a fitting end.
Sir Alex Ferguson must have been overjoyed to see nearest rivals Liverpool fail to turn up against a Middlesboro side who had not won in 14 league games.
More strange team selection from Rafa Benitez, which coincided with a desperately poor second half display, cost Liverpool another 3 points and leaves them 7 points behind their arch enemies.
The decision to play Martin Skrtel at right back seemed bizarre at best, leaving the big centre half to look like a fish out of water against an inspired Stewart Downing.
The England winger was in great form, being involved in all Middlesboro’s good work on the day, and perhaps starting to justify his England team selection.
Meanwhile, the Guus Hiddink effect continued to inspire Chelsea, with the Londoners again leaving it late to put to bed an unlucky Wigan side.
Chelsea now appear to be the only side capable of making any sort of challenge on the leaders, with Real Madrid's chasing down of Barcelona in La Liga proving anything is possible.
The Catalan club were 12 points ahead, but Real Madrid are now only 4 points behind. Chelsea can look on that as inspiration for their title charge.
They will be rueing the disappointing performance at Old Trafford earlier this season, which leaves them relying on a big reverse in fortunes for the Champions if they are going to make an impression on the top of the table.
However that looks unlikely, with United remaining on course for the quintuple by winning the League cup at Wembley yesterday.
Ferguson’s ability to rest key players in a game of such magnitude, will be the envy of other Premiership managers like Martin O'Neill, who saw his Villa side inexplicably throw away a 2-0 lead at home to Stoke.
If ever one event could illustrate the difference between a title winning team and a pretender, the inability of Villa to see out a two goal lead at home to a poor Stoke side, shows that the Midlanders still have a long way to go to fulfil their lofty aspirations.
Ferguson’s sides have notoriously been hard to catch once out in front, and their dominance over the Premiership looks set to continue this season.
Although, after this weekend continued a season of surprises, United throwing away their massive lead would be a fitting end.
26 February 2009
Back to reality
After the midweek return of European club Football for the Premierships top clubs, it is back to the battle on the domestic front.
Manchester United face a Wembley encounter with Spurs this weekend, leaving the three successful Champions league teams to start of this weekends league proceedings on Saturday. All are faced with encounters they need to win to make up ground on the champions whose fantastic recent form has seen them pull seven points clear of the chasing pack.
Guus Hiddink’ resurgent Chelsea side face Steve Bruce’ Wigan side, who go into the game on the back of four draws.
The Russian manager will see the game as an ideal opportunity to make up lost ground on Alex Ferguson’s men, with Wigan still coming to terms with the loss of Emile Heskey and Wilson Palacios.
Bernabeau conquerors Liverpool will be bought back down to Earth with a trip to the Riverside, to face a Middlesboro side battling for their lives at the foot of the table. Manager Gareth Southgate will be hoping his sides league form will get a much needed shot in the arm by their own midweek cup win.
Rafa Benitez will surely be desperate to put pressure on his Old Trafford counterparts this weekend with a win in the North-East, which would close the gap to four. He will be hoping to stay in touching distance of United ahead of their upcoming clash.
Meanwhile Arsenal will be hoping for no more slip ups in their chase for fourth spot, as they entertain Fulham at the Emirates. Arsene Wenger will be hoping his side can exact some revenge on their London neighbours, who upset the Gunners earlier this season but are yet to win away from Craven Cottage this season. At the same time, he will see this as an opportunity to draw closer to Aston Villa, who currently occupy fourth.
Sunday brings a difficult home game for Villa, against a Stoke side looking for their first away win of the season. Villa will be hoping to maintain their six point lead over the Gunners by Sunday night, with Martin O’Neill signalling his intentions by resting eight first team regulars for their midweek trip to Moscow.
At the foot of the table, Villa’s midland rivals West Brom face a difficult Saturday lunchtime trip to Goodison Park, to face an Everton side with their own European aspirations. Tony Mowbray’s men have done well to reel in the rest in recent weeks but the trip to Merseyside looks a difficult one.
Blackburn will see a trip to faltering Hull as an opening to get out of the bottom three, attempting to capitalise on Hull’s poor recent form.
So this weekend will be a nervy test for sides at the top and bottom of the league. Any slip ups here could prove vital for sides such as Liverpool and Aston Villa, who are set to showdown in March, whilst potentially giving relegation battlers Stoke and Boro the chance to escape the foot of the table.
The title race looks set to hot up in March and the sides at the top will be hoping for no slip ups this weekend.
Manchester United face a Wembley encounter with Spurs this weekend, leaving the three successful Champions league teams to start of this weekends league proceedings on Saturday. All are faced with encounters they need to win to make up ground on the champions whose fantastic recent form has seen them pull seven points clear of the chasing pack.
Guus Hiddink’ resurgent Chelsea side face Steve Bruce’ Wigan side, who go into the game on the back of four draws.
The Russian manager will see the game as an ideal opportunity to make up lost ground on Alex Ferguson’s men, with Wigan still coming to terms with the loss of Emile Heskey and Wilson Palacios.
Bernabeau conquerors Liverpool will be bought back down to Earth with a trip to the Riverside, to face a Middlesboro side battling for their lives at the foot of the table. Manager Gareth Southgate will be hoping his sides league form will get a much needed shot in the arm by their own midweek cup win.
Rafa Benitez will surely be desperate to put pressure on his Old Trafford counterparts this weekend with a win in the North-East, which would close the gap to four. He will be hoping to stay in touching distance of United ahead of their upcoming clash.
Meanwhile Arsenal will be hoping for no more slip ups in their chase for fourth spot, as they entertain Fulham at the Emirates. Arsene Wenger will be hoping his side can exact some revenge on their London neighbours, who upset the Gunners earlier this season but are yet to win away from Craven Cottage this season. At the same time, he will see this as an opportunity to draw closer to Aston Villa, who currently occupy fourth.
Sunday brings a difficult home game for Villa, against a Stoke side looking for their first away win of the season. Villa will be hoping to maintain their six point lead over the Gunners by Sunday night, with Martin O’Neill signalling his intentions by resting eight first team regulars for their midweek trip to Moscow.
At the foot of the table, Villa’s midland rivals West Brom face a difficult Saturday lunchtime trip to Goodison Park, to face an Everton side with their own European aspirations. Tony Mowbray’s men have done well to reel in the rest in recent weeks but the trip to Merseyside looks a difficult one.
Blackburn will see a trip to faltering Hull as an opening to get out of the bottom three, attempting to capitalise on Hull’s poor recent form.
So this weekend will be a nervy test for sides at the top and bottom of the league. Any slip ups here could prove vital for sides such as Liverpool and Aston Villa, who are set to showdown in March, whilst potentially giving relegation battlers Stoke and Boro the chance to escape the foot of the table.
The title race looks set to hot up in March and the sides at the top will be hoping for no slip ups this weekend.
17 February 2009
Villa vs CSKA
When Aston Villa entered the Inter 'two bob' toto cup at the start of this season many eyebrows were raised. Previous entrants had gone on to crash out of
However, this season Martin O’Neill’s side have shown the benefit an early start to the season can have for his side who now sit 3rd in the Premiership as well as being in the last 32 of the UEFA cup.
The game itself provides an interesting proposition for the Russian side in particular, for whom this game is their first since November after a winter break which has seen them lose their manager.
The Russian side, who were the only team to win all four group games in this seasons group stages, are now under the stewardship of Brazilian legend Zico who took over from the previous manager during the winter break. Recent events at
Despite Zico's greatness as a player, he has been somewhat a journeyman as a manager, taking charge of a range of club and international sides. His job breaking down a talented Villa side will be made easier by the potential return of fellow Brazilian Daniel Carvalho, who has returned from a loan spell in
The task facing CSKA on Wednesday night is made easier by the injuries and suspensions which have hit Villa at once. Their defence is particularly struggling, missing key figures such as club captain Martin Laursen and Wilfred Bouma long term. They are struggling further with injury doubts surrounding Carlos Cuellar, Curtis Davies, Nigel Reo-Coker and Emile Heskey.
The first leg will hold the key to this tie, with Villa needing some kind of lead to hold onto away at the Luzhniki stadium. They will be looking to capitalise on their match freshness and put CSKA to the sword at
This promises to be one of the ties of the round for the neutral and I hope for the resurgent Villa they can continue their good performances of this season.
16 February 2009
Welcome
If you're wondering why I used the word agenda as my title, it has become somewhat a buzzword for me recently. I came to realise when thinking of Sport and the Media, and life in general to an extent, the people involved always seem to have some sort of agenda with regards to different situations. I then realised this blog clearly represent my agenda to become a Sports Writer and so the title for the blog seemed quite appropriate.
Anyway, one recent sporting event was the Football match between Spain and England. Spain, the FIFA recognised number one side in the world, represented a tough challenge for an England side still rebuilding after a failed attempt to qualify for Euro 2008, which Spain duly won.
England actually played fairly well during the opening stages, and were definetly unlucky to not have at least a man advantage if not a goal, when Emile Heskey was inexplicably given offside when pulled down by the last Spanish defender. The ref clearly didnt fancy giving a red card in a friendly game, and decided along with his flag happy assistant that giving a player who was one yard onside as offside was a much easier decision.
Such a pivotal moment in the game was overshadowed by mistakes by two stand in centre halves for England which led to two goals for Spain. Two goals I have clear reservations whether they would have happened if Rio Ferdinand was in the side.
Listening to media coverage after the game, you would have thought that England had been totally dominated and outclassed. Clearly, Spain are a good side and there was a 20 minute period in the second half where England were chasing shadows, but it shouldnt be overlooked that they had a man advantage in midfield after the withdrawal of Torres, and this coincided with their best spell in the match. After the introduction of Daniel Guiza and a return for Spain to a 4-4-2 formation, England once again came into the game and had the better of the closing stages.
Perhaps what I'm getting at is that the performance of a definitely under strength England side, should be commended and looked on positively. The only question mark I have after the game is, how does Stewart Downing continue to wear an England shirt?
Anyway, one recent sporting event was the Football match between Spain and England. Spain, the FIFA recognised number one side in the world, represented a tough challenge for an England side still rebuilding after a failed attempt to qualify for Euro 2008, which Spain duly won.
England actually played fairly well during the opening stages, and were definetly unlucky to not have at least a man advantage if not a goal, when Emile Heskey was inexplicably given offside when pulled down by the last Spanish defender. The ref clearly didnt fancy giving a red card in a friendly game, and decided along with his flag happy assistant that giving a player who was one yard onside as offside was a much easier decision.
Such a pivotal moment in the game was overshadowed by mistakes by two stand in centre halves for England which led to two goals for Spain. Two goals I have clear reservations whether they would have happened if Rio Ferdinand was in the side.
Listening to media coverage after the game, you would have thought that England had been totally dominated and outclassed. Clearly, Spain are a good side and there was a 20 minute period in the second half where England were chasing shadows, but it shouldnt be overlooked that they had a man advantage in midfield after the withdrawal of Torres, and this coincided with their best spell in the match. After the introduction of Daniel Guiza and a return for Spain to a 4-4-2 formation, England once again came into the game and had the better of the closing stages.
Perhaps what I'm getting at is that the performance of a definitely under strength England side, should be commended and looked on positively. The only question mark I have after the game is, how does Stewart Downing continue to wear an England shirt?
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