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World Cup Final
Germany retained the World Cup, which of itself is another record. At this rate they will soon become as famous as their male counterparts. They certainly deserve wholehearted congratulations, for a fine display. Brazil too are to be congratulated, for playing their part in a hard fought match, of contrasting styles.
The Brazilian women play with the sort of flair and ball control that we have come to expect from their nation. They are a joy to watch, and in this particular game, they had far more possession than their opponents. However, the Germans are a wily team, with great strengths, without which they would not have won consecutive World Cups.
The South Americans were full of confidence, after their surprise, but convincing win over the USA, in their semi final. The first half was played at a ferocious pace, and although Brazil went close, they were denied by Germany's strong defence.
After the interval, Germany's legendary captain, Birgit Prinz, beat Brazilian keeper Andreia with a shot that crept under her body, and perhaps should have been saved. Marta, who has been a revelation for Brazil with her exquisite ball skills, beat Angerer, but her shot hit the post. But when Brazil had a great chance of equalising, Marta missed a penalty. That is perhaps too harsh, because it would be fairer to recall that the penalty kick brought a wonderful save from Angerer.
The Brazilians threw everything into attack, and although they were impressive, it was Germany who scored again when Laudehr received a great ball from Lingor.
It was an exciting game of football, with real skills, and real thrills. Germany did not concede a single goal during the whole tournament, which proved what a strong, professional, outfit they are.
This tournament has been a terrific advertisement for women's football, and many millions have watched it on TV.. The Brazilian team have stated that they will do whatever they can, to get Women's Football League recognition back home. Let us hope they are successful, because it has been a joy to watch these accomplished players, from so many nations compete so magnificently.
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Germany Women Vs Brazil Women
soccer and football
World Cup Final
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Birmingham 0 - 1 Manchester United
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United Second Best!
Manchester United won, to go second to Arsenal in the Premiership, after a poor start to the season. However, they didn't have it all their own way, and Birmingham could easily have gone ahead before the interval.
Van der Sar had to get airborne with a diving save to deny Jerome. Then Rio Ferdinand was fortunately on hand, to help out by saving McSheffrey's effort off the line. Afterwards, the busy Van der Sar was injured, and although he struggled on, he was replaced at half time by Tomasz Kuszczak.
About 6 minutes after the interval, Ronaldo pounced to settle the issue, with a fine solo effort. He steered the ball away from Queudrue, and then past goalkeeper Taylor, in one of those individual displays, that set him apart from ordinary mortals! It's a good job that some clubs, at least, value their Portuguese.
Birmingham were not yet beaten, and reserve keeper Kuszczak, had to be at his best to keep out McSheffrey. Towards the end Ronaldo had a chance to put his side further ahead, but was inches wide.
Sir Alex Ferguson suggested that this was their hardest match of the season so far. Steve Bruce thought that if his side had made more of their chances, the result would have been different. True, but the same could be said of almost any team in any game!
West Ham 0 - 1 Arsenal
Arsenal on Top
Arsenal are on top of the world - Well the Premiership anyway! This was not the most exciting match of the day. That was happening elsewhere, with Portsmouth beating Reading by seven goals to four, to set up a Match of the Day Record, for Gary Linaker's programme.
Adebayor almost got the Gunners off to a good start, with an early shot that was just wide. He was again involved, when he held the ball up, before slotting it through to Hleb, whose accurate pass was nodded home by Robin Van Persie, to score the only goal of the match, after 13 minutes.
Van Persie had other chances, and went close in the 54th minute, with Green and the post, just able to keep him out. Then, former Arsenal man Freddie Ljungberg thought he had equalised, but the goal was disallowed when he was deemed to be offside. At the other end Green saved another shot from Adebayor. Drabe and Clichy joined in the attack, and Green had to be on his toes to keep them out.
West Ham retaliated but the excellent Van Persie was able to clear Ashton's header, off the line, and because of him Arsenal just about deserved maximum points.
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Birmingham Vs Man Utd
soccer and football
West Ham Vs Arsenal
United Second Best!
Manchester United won, to go second to Arsenal in the Premiership, after a poor start to the season. However, they didn't have it all their own way, and Birmingham could easily have gone ahead before the interval.
Van der Sar had to get airborne with a diving save to deny Jerome. Then Rio Ferdinand was fortunately on hand, to help out by saving McSheffrey's effort off the line. Afterwards, the busy Van der Sar was injured, and although he struggled on, he was replaced at half time by Tomasz Kuszczak.
About 6 minutes after the interval, Ronaldo pounced to settle the issue, with a fine solo effort. He steered the ball away from Queudrue, and then past goalkeeper Taylor, in one of those individual displays, that set him apart from ordinary mortals! It's a good job that some clubs, at least, value their Portuguese.
Birmingham were not yet beaten, and reserve keeper Kuszczak, had to be at his best to keep out McSheffrey. Towards the end Ronaldo had a chance to put his side further ahead, but was inches wide.
Sir Alex Ferguson suggested that this was their hardest match of the season so far. Steve Bruce thought that if his side had made more of their chances, the result would have been different. True, but the same could be said of almost any team in any game!
West Ham 0 - 1 Arsenal
Arsenal on Top
Arsenal are on top of the world - Well the Premiership anyway! This was not the most exciting match of the day. That was happening elsewhere, with Portsmouth beating Reading by seven goals to four, to set up a Match of the Day Record, for Gary Linaker's programme.
Adebayor almost got the Gunners off to a good start, with an early shot that was just wide. He was again involved, when he held the ball up, before slotting it through to Hleb, whose accurate pass was nodded home by Robin Van Persie, to score the only goal of the match, after 13 minutes.
Van Persie had other chances, and went close in the 54th minute, with Green and the post, just able to keep him out. Then, former Arsenal man Freddie Ljungberg thought he had equalised, but the goal was disallowed when he was deemed to be offside. At the other end Green saved another shot from Adebayor. Drabe and Clichy joined in the attack, and Green had to be on his toes to keep them out.
West Ham retaliated but the excellent Van Persie was able to clear Ashton's header, off the line, and because of him Arsenal just about deserved maximum points.
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Birmingham Vs Man Utd
soccer and football
West Ham Vs Arsenal
Monday, September 24, 2007
Manchester United 2 - 0 Chelsea
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Chelsea Not Special Without Mourinho
There would be many neutrals adding to United's fans wish for a Chelsea defeat. They were not disappointed, but new manager Avran Grant was, although he seemed to think that Chelsea were beaten more by the officials than the opposing players!
There were banners, held high by Chelsea fans, proclaiming the popularity of the departed manager. There is little doubt that football is now as much show business, as it is sport, with the top players enjoying film star status. Jose Mourinho was included in this group, because he was sultry, charismatic, controversial, and something of a heartthrob for female supporters. He had a lot in common with 1940's film stars such as Errol Flynn and Tyrone Power, but like Clark Gable, he has now "Gone With The Wind." By the way, lest we forget, he is also a very talented and highly successful football manager.
The match itself was not a classic, but on the day the best side won, with goals at the end of each half. Rooney was back, and Petr Cech had to be at his best to save a curling shot. Later the striker got a yellow card for dissent, and could have easily got another to make him see red! He will need to try to control his emotions as well as he does the ball, to avoid enforced stretches on the bench!
Obi was sent off with a straight red after 32 minutes, reducing Chelsea to ten men. It seemed an odd decision, as did quite a few of referee Mike Dean's deliberations. However, it was perhaps, balanced when Joe Cole should have been sent off for a blatant foul that brought down Ronaldo.
Tevez got United's first goal after 45 minutes, from a great cross by Ryan Giggs. Shevchenko had gone close for Chelsea, as he frequently does, but near misses don't count!
Saha put United two up, from a penalty, after 90 minutes. He had gone down, somewhat theatrically in the penalty area, but made no mistake from the spot, and that clinched it for United.
This was a game that was as much about the absent Mourinho as anything else. Gary Lineker summed it up succinctly in his post match comment, when he quoted Mourinho as having said that, one day he would return to the Premiership. Gary joked, "Please make it next week", at least it seemed like a joke!
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Manchester United Vs Chelsea
soccer and football
Chelsea Not Special Without Mourinho!
Chelsea Not Special Without Mourinho
There would be many neutrals adding to United's fans wish for a Chelsea defeat. They were not disappointed, but new manager Avran Grant was, although he seemed to think that Chelsea were beaten more by the officials than the opposing players!
There were banners, held high by Chelsea fans, proclaiming the popularity of the departed manager. There is little doubt that football is now as much show business, as it is sport, with the top players enjoying film star status. Jose Mourinho was included in this group, because he was sultry, charismatic, controversial, and something of a heartthrob for female supporters. He had a lot in common with 1940's film stars such as Errol Flynn and Tyrone Power, but like Clark Gable, he has now "Gone With The Wind." By the way, lest we forget, he is also a very talented and highly successful football manager.
The match itself was not a classic, but on the day the best side won, with goals at the end of each half. Rooney was back, and Petr Cech had to be at his best to save a curling shot. Later the striker got a yellow card for dissent, and could have easily got another to make him see red! He will need to try to control his emotions as well as he does the ball, to avoid enforced stretches on the bench!
Obi was sent off with a straight red after 32 minutes, reducing Chelsea to ten men. It seemed an odd decision, as did quite a few of referee Mike Dean's deliberations. However, it was perhaps, balanced when Joe Cole should have been sent off for a blatant foul that brought down Ronaldo.
Tevez got United's first goal after 45 minutes, from a great cross by Ryan Giggs. Shevchenko had gone close for Chelsea, as he frequently does, but near misses don't count!
Saha put United two up, from a penalty, after 90 minutes. He had gone down, somewhat theatrically in the penalty area, but made no mistake from the spot, and that clinched it for United.
This was a game that was as much about the absent Mourinho as anything else. Gary Lineker summed it up succinctly in his post match comment, when he quoted Mourinho as having said that, one day he would return to the Premiership. Gary joked, "Please make it next week", at least it seemed like a joke!
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Manchester United Vs Chelsea
soccer and football
Chelsea Not Special Without Mourinho!
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Porto 1 - 1 Liverpool
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Liverpool Hold Porto
When Jose Reina conceded a penalty, after only 8 minutes and a bright start by Porto, it seemed that Liverpool were up against it. However, try as they did, Porto failed to take advantage, and had to settle for a draw.
Quaresma, in particular, was causing problems for the visitors from the start, but although his side had most of the possession, their attacks seemed to fizzle out. Pennant was booked in the first half, for a tackle on Quaresma, and it began to appear that his forceful tactics might get him into further trouble.
Porto's goal, from the penalty spot, came after Reina was fairly adjudged to have interfered with Sektioul. Gonzalez easily beat Reina with his spot kick, despite the goalkeeper's fine record in saving penalties. The Portuguese side had earned their lead, which could have been more. Reina had not so much saved, as been in the way of another early shot. However, he stood tall in the goalmouth, but was perhaps fortunate in saving his side from possible defeat.
Not long after Porto had gone in front, Dirk Kuyt headed home the equalizer after 17 minutes. It was a smart move, and when Hypia headed across, the Dutchman took full advantage with a powerful header passed Nuno. Liverpool had to play the last third of the game with ten men after Pennant, almost predictably, was sent off. It was obvious from the start that the referee was not going to tolerate anything too physical, but Pennant failed to take note, and paid the price. The muted response of his team mates seemed to indicate that they agreed he was responsible for his own misfortune.
At the end it was not a bad result for Liverpool, who will be expected to put on a better show, in the return match at Anfield. They will need to, because on a night when new star Torres, along with several others, did not shine, they were lucky to share the points. Porto may come to rue it!
Liverpool were not the only Premiership team who did not play up to expectations.
Chelsea 1 - 1 Rosenberg
Chelsea beaten at home by Norwegian underdogs is not the sort of headline to please billionaire owner Roman Abramovich, but it nearly happened!
The visitor's goal was a set piece cracker, when Koppinen met Sapara's free kick, to open the scoring in the 24th minute.
From then on Chelsea exerted a great deal of pressure and went close on several occasions. It was the controversial Shevchenko who put them level, with a fine header in the 53rd minute, but earlier, it had seemed that the big Ukrainian, would again only flatter to deceive.
Rosenberg had wasted an opportunity to consolidate their advantage, when Alexander Tettey's wild shot flew over the bar.
Despite constant pressure, Chelsea were unable to secure maximum points. For sure, they are missing Lampard and Drogba, but you would have expected their class to tell.
So well done to Rosenberg, but has Jose Mourinho got the right answers to the questions, Roman Abramovich will be asking?
Tags:
Porto Vs Liverpool
soccer and football
Chelsea Vs Rsenberg
Liverpool Hold Porto
When Jose Reina conceded a penalty, after only 8 minutes and a bright start by Porto, it seemed that Liverpool were up against it. However, try as they did, Porto failed to take advantage, and had to settle for a draw.
Quaresma, in particular, was causing problems for the visitors from the start, but although his side had most of the possession, their attacks seemed to fizzle out. Pennant was booked in the first half, for a tackle on Quaresma, and it began to appear that his forceful tactics might get him into further trouble.
Porto's goal, from the penalty spot, came after Reina was fairly adjudged to have interfered with Sektioul. Gonzalez easily beat Reina with his spot kick, despite the goalkeeper's fine record in saving penalties. The Portuguese side had earned their lead, which could have been more. Reina had not so much saved, as been in the way of another early shot. However, he stood tall in the goalmouth, but was perhaps fortunate in saving his side from possible defeat.
Not long after Porto had gone in front, Dirk Kuyt headed home the equalizer after 17 minutes. It was a smart move, and when Hypia headed across, the Dutchman took full advantage with a powerful header passed Nuno. Liverpool had to play the last third of the game with ten men after Pennant, almost predictably, was sent off. It was obvious from the start that the referee was not going to tolerate anything too physical, but Pennant failed to take note, and paid the price. The muted response of his team mates seemed to indicate that they agreed he was responsible for his own misfortune.
At the end it was not a bad result for Liverpool, who will be expected to put on a better show, in the return match at Anfield. They will need to, because on a night when new star Torres, along with several others, did not shine, they were lucky to share the points. Porto may come to rue it!
Liverpool were not the only Premiership team who did not play up to expectations.
Chelsea 1 - 1 Rosenberg
Chelsea beaten at home by Norwegian underdogs is not the sort of headline to please billionaire owner Roman Abramovich, but it nearly happened!
The visitor's goal was a set piece cracker, when Koppinen met Sapara's free kick, to open the scoring in the 24th minute.
From then on Chelsea exerted a great deal of pressure and went close on several occasions. It was the controversial Shevchenko who put them level, with a fine header in the 53rd minute, but earlier, it had seemed that the big Ukrainian, would again only flatter to deceive.
Rosenberg had wasted an opportunity to consolidate their advantage, when Alexander Tettey's wild shot flew over the bar.
Despite constant pressure, Chelsea were unable to secure maximum points. For sure, they are missing Lampard and Drogba, but you would have expected their class to tell.
So well done to Rosenberg, but has Jose Mourinho got the right answers to the questions, Roman Abramovich will be asking?
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Porto Vs Liverpool
soccer and football
Chelsea Vs Rsenberg
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Tottenham 1 - 3 Arsenal
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Arsenal Win A Derby!
Tottenham were quick out of the stalls, but Arsenal came with a strong finish, to win the derby!
The home side started well, when Gareth Bale curled in an exquisite free kick, after 15 minutes. However, an in form Paul Robinson had to be on his toes, and showed more than just athleticism, to keep out the extremely active Adebayor. He also made a good save from Hleb, and you might have thought that his endeavours would inspire his team mates, to go further in front. Robbie Keane was adjudged to have handled the ball, but it didn't matter that much because Robinson saved his shot.
After the interval Berbatov should have scored, but lost the ball to Toure, with the goalkeeper already beaten. Then Adebayor missed an equally good chance at the other end, and it seemed destined to be a game of many chances but few goals.
Suddenly Arsenal sprung into life, and drew level in the 65th minute, when Adebayor headed home, from a Fabregas' free kick. Spurs response was not quite good enough, and the Gunners went ahead, when Fabregas' blasted the ball in from some distance. It was perhaps fitting, that Adebayor should score again after 90 minutes.
Arsenal deserved their win even though there were some missed opportunities. Still, you would have to say that if a striker of the calibre of Adebayor, misses at least two goals, and then corrects the equation by scoring two more, he has earned his keep. Arsene Wenger would probably agree, but Martin Jols's position at Tottenham continues to look shaky. It's up to him to make sure that the players bale him out - but is time now on his side?
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Tottenham Vs Arsenal
soccer and football
Tottenham Vs Arsenal
Arsenal Win A Derby!
Tottenham were quick out of the stalls, but Arsenal came with a strong finish, to win the derby!
The home side started well, when Gareth Bale curled in an exquisite free kick, after 15 minutes. However, an in form Paul Robinson had to be on his toes, and showed more than just athleticism, to keep out the extremely active Adebayor. He also made a good save from Hleb, and you might have thought that his endeavours would inspire his team mates, to go further in front. Robbie Keane was adjudged to have handled the ball, but it didn't matter that much because Robinson saved his shot.
After the interval Berbatov should have scored, but lost the ball to Toure, with the goalkeeper already beaten. Then Adebayor missed an equally good chance at the other end, and it seemed destined to be a game of many chances but few goals.
Suddenly Arsenal sprung into life, and drew level in the 65th minute, when Adebayor headed home, from a Fabregas' free kick. Spurs response was not quite good enough, and the Gunners went ahead, when Fabregas' blasted the ball in from some distance. It was perhaps fitting, that Adebayor should score again after 90 minutes.
Arsenal deserved their win even though there were some missed opportunities. Still, you would have to say that if a striker of the calibre of Adebayor, misses at least two goals, and then corrects the equation by scoring two more, he has earned his keep. Arsene Wenger would probably agree, but Martin Jols's position at Tottenham continues to look shaky. It's up to him to make sure that the players bale him out - but is time now on his side?
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Tottenham Vs Arsenal
soccer and football
Tottenham Vs Arsenal
Everton 0 - 1 Manchester United
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United Scrape Through
In a close fought match, Paul Scholes was both a saviour and a waster. He was perfectly positioned in the goalmouth, to boot Andrew Johnson's header off the line. Then in the 53rd minute he booted over, from about 10 yards out, when looking certain to score.
Rooney was expected to play but remained on the bench, and it may be that he is not quite 'match fit'. Ronaldo was back but didn't seem as effective, or as tricky as usual, except for being booked for a suspected dive! It might have been, or it might not. The trouble is that if you have ever been thought to be a diver, you will not get the benefit of any doubt!
There were few shots of any consequence before the interval. Vidic's shot, after about half an hour was off target. Mikel Silvestre seemed to fall awkwardly, with no other player involved, when his leg apeared to buckle under him. He was stretchered off and replaced by Nani, and it is to be hoped that his injury is not too serious.
Scholes, who was in the midst of controversy, petulantly threw the ball away, and was booked for his trouble. Then, in the second half, he saved Johnson's header, before inexplicably wasting the best chance of the match.
It was beginning to look as though a draw was on the cards, until Vidic powered in a forceful header from Nani's corner, after 83 minutes. Van der Sar then had to be at his best, to save from Scotland hero Janus McFadden, but he was up to the task, and United scraped through.
Sir Alex Ferguson was full of praise for Everton afterwards, stating that any side will find them hard to beat.
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Everton Vs Man Utd
soccer and football
Everton Vs Man Utd
United Scrape Through
In a close fought match, Paul Scholes was both a saviour and a waster. He was perfectly positioned in the goalmouth, to boot Andrew Johnson's header off the line. Then in the 53rd minute he booted over, from about 10 yards out, when looking certain to score.
Rooney was expected to play but remained on the bench, and it may be that he is not quite 'match fit'. Ronaldo was back but didn't seem as effective, or as tricky as usual, except for being booked for a suspected dive! It might have been, or it might not. The trouble is that if you have ever been thought to be a diver, you will not get the benefit of any doubt!
There were few shots of any consequence before the interval. Vidic's shot, after about half an hour was off target. Mikel Silvestre seemed to fall awkwardly, with no other player involved, when his leg apeared to buckle under him. He was stretchered off and replaced by Nani, and it is to be hoped that his injury is not too serious.
Scholes, who was in the midst of controversy, petulantly threw the ball away, and was booked for his trouble. Then, in the second half, he saved Johnson's header, before inexplicably wasting the best chance of the match.
It was beginning to look as though a draw was on the cards, until Vidic powered in a forceful header from Nani's corner, after 83 minutes. Van der Sar then had to be at his best, to save from Scotland hero Janus McFadden, but he was up to the task, and United scraped through.
Sir Alex Ferguson was full of praise for Everton afterwards, stating that any side will find them hard to beat.
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Everton Vs Man Utd
soccer and football
Everton Vs Man Utd
Thursday, September 13, 2007
England 3 - 0 Russia
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England's Survival - Becomes a Revival!
A revitalised England put Russia firmly in their place, and it seems that the new Wembley is good for them! It had been suggested beforehand, that their task, would be more difficult, than when they easily beat Israel last Saturday, but again they dominated with some panache. They had most of the possession, and all of the goals and played with a confidence that seemed to be lacking in the Russian side, particularly in the first half.
Michael Owen was again paired with Heskey, but it was Gareth Barry's accurate pass, that the striker was able to slide home after only 7 minutes. England had been confidently attacking from the start when Owen got the important first goal, to keep up his sides winning ways.
Shortly afterwards Zhyrianov equalised for Russia, but the goal was harshly disallowed for handball. Most pundits seemed to think that the goal was satisfactory, and should have been allowed to stand. However, it is doubtful whether that would have affected the end result, because England were playing with pace and harmony, that had been lacking until the last week or so.
Michael Owen should perhaps have scored another, when a Heskey shot was blocked by the Russian keeper into his path. But he slipped and that particular chance was missed. Russia had a shot saved by Robinson at the other end, before that man Owen was picked out by Heskey, to fire in his second goal after 31 minutes. It seems that in some perverse way, injuries and suspensions to England's regular players, have allowed head coach Steve McClaren to stumble onto a winning formula!
Russia came out with more purpose in the second half as if to say the game was not yet over. Sychev had a couple of chances, but his side were nothing like as effective as England in front of goal, and their attacks fizzled out.
Rio Ferdinand, of all people, got England's third goal in the 84th minute. He produced a nifty bit of footwork, and fired in a shot that the hapless Russian keeper should have saved. However, it was typical of a match, in which England were the better side making the most of their chances. Their passage to Europe begins to look promising, to the delight of their fans everywhere, including another 86,000 watching at Wembley.
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England Vs Russia
soccer and football
England Vs Russia
England's Survival - Becomes a Revival!
A revitalised England put Russia firmly in their place, and it seems that the new Wembley is good for them! It had been suggested beforehand, that their task, would be more difficult, than when they easily beat Israel last Saturday, but again they dominated with some panache. They had most of the possession, and all of the goals and played with a confidence that seemed to be lacking in the Russian side, particularly in the first half.
Michael Owen was again paired with Heskey, but it was Gareth Barry's accurate pass, that the striker was able to slide home after only 7 minutes. England had been confidently attacking from the start when Owen got the important first goal, to keep up his sides winning ways.
Shortly afterwards Zhyrianov equalised for Russia, but the goal was harshly disallowed for handball. Most pundits seemed to think that the goal was satisfactory, and should have been allowed to stand. However, it is doubtful whether that would have affected the end result, because England were playing with pace and harmony, that had been lacking until the last week or so.
Michael Owen should perhaps have scored another, when a Heskey shot was blocked by the Russian keeper into his path. But he slipped and that particular chance was missed. Russia had a shot saved by Robinson at the other end, before that man Owen was picked out by Heskey, to fire in his second goal after 31 minutes. It seems that in some perverse way, injuries and suspensions to England's regular players, have allowed head coach Steve McClaren to stumble onto a winning formula!
Russia came out with more purpose in the second half as if to say the game was not yet over. Sychev had a couple of chances, but his side were nothing like as effective as England in front of goal, and their attacks fizzled out.
Rio Ferdinand, of all people, got England's third goal in the 84th minute. He produced a nifty bit of footwork, and fired in a shot that the hapless Russian keeper should have saved. However, it was typical of a match, in which England were the better side making the most of their chances. Their passage to Europe begins to look promising, to the delight of their fans everywhere, including another 86,000 watching at Wembley.
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England Vs Russia
soccer and football
England Vs Russia
Sunday, September 09, 2007
England 3 - 0 Israel
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Israel Make England Look Good!
Did Israel make England look good, or did England make Israel look ordinary? Either way it was a good performance by the home side, despite all the nervous prematch comment about who was fit and who wasn't.
Actually the match was a pretty one sided affair, and it did not matter one iota, whether Paul Robinson or David James, was in goal. McClaren opted for Robinson, but the keeper had absolutely nothing to do, and was not called upon to make a single save.
It seemed obvious that Israel new their limitations, and came to defend, and would have been happy with a goalless draw. Granted England had to find a way through, and they succeeded after 20 minutes, when man of the match Wright-Phillips, volleyed Joe Cole's pass past the Israel keeper.
It appeared that McClaren had made a good decision, in pairing the old England act Heskey and Owen. Considering that Heskey had not played for England since 2004, it was questionable, but justifiable on the day, as his strength in the air was plain to see. However, he should have scored, in the first half, but sent a relatively easy chance over the bar. Owen too, had a good chance, but his shot hit Aouate full in the face, and his second effort, off the rebound, spun wide.
Four minutes after the interval Owen scored, when he swivelled to force home a pass from Gareth Barry. Israel were now out of it and were becoming frustrated and argumentative. It was all over when Richards, headed home another Barry cross, after 66 minutes. This allowed McClaren to replace Steven Gerrard, who was suffering from cramp. He will be needed when England meet Russia next Wednesday, which is not expected to be so much of a pushover.
This was a solid England performance, and the score line could easily have been doubled. They will now meet Russia in confident form, and another Wembley full house will expect them to deliver the goods!
Tags:
England Vs Israel
soccer and football
England Vs Israel
Israel Make England Look Good!
Did Israel make England look good, or did England make Israel look ordinary? Either way it was a good performance by the home side, despite all the nervous prematch comment about who was fit and who wasn't.
Actually the match was a pretty one sided affair, and it did not matter one iota, whether Paul Robinson or David James, was in goal. McClaren opted for Robinson, but the keeper had absolutely nothing to do, and was not called upon to make a single save.
It seemed obvious that Israel new their limitations, and came to defend, and would have been happy with a goalless draw. Granted England had to find a way through, and they succeeded after 20 minutes, when man of the match Wright-Phillips, volleyed Joe Cole's pass past the Israel keeper.
It appeared that McClaren had made a good decision, in pairing the old England act Heskey and Owen. Considering that Heskey had not played for England since 2004, it was questionable, but justifiable on the day, as his strength in the air was plain to see. However, he should have scored, in the first half, but sent a relatively easy chance over the bar. Owen too, had a good chance, but his shot hit Aouate full in the face, and his second effort, off the rebound, spun wide.
Four minutes after the interval Owen scored, when he swivelled to force home a pass from Gareth Barry. Israel were now out of it and were becoming frustrated and argumentative. It was all over when Richards, headed home another Barry cross, after 66 minutes. This allowed McClaren to replace Steven Gerrard, who was suffering from cramp. He will be needed when England meet Russia next Wednesday, which is not expected to be so much of a pushover.
This was a solid England performance, and the score line could easily have been doubled. They will now meet Russia in confident form, and another Wembley full house will expect them to deliver the goods!
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England Vs Israel
soccer and football
England Vs Israel
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Manchester United 1 - 0 Sunderland
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Sunderland Not Keane Enough
This was a close fought match and Roy Keane must have been disappointed not to, at least, share the points. It was a big day for him to come back to the almost sacred place, where he was revered, almost as a football saint - but as a legend anyway. That was proven by the reception he got from the home fans, on his first appearance at Old Trafford as a manager. There are many who consider him to be the managerial heir apparent, for the club he served so well as a player.
United are a team full of star players, with new blood to boot. However, they were not at the best and unable to dominate. They are missing Ronaldo and Rooney, and are not yet performing as the champions they are.
Craig Gordon, in the Sunderland goal, was again busily justifying Keane's decision to pay the high price demanded for his services. Scholes had a good chance, which was deflected and drifted wide. Saha was introduced at half time and spiced things up a bit. He could have put his side ahead, but Gordon was up to it, and made a great one-handed save. He then made a save from Hargreaves, and took a smack from Paul Scholes for his trouble. Some keepers would have reacted, but Gordon took it on the chin, or rather in his face, and accepted it for the accident it probably was.
Roy Keane would probably have been well satisfied with a draw, but it was not to be. In the 72nd minute, Saha scored from a set piece. As Keane admitted at the end, you only need one lapse to lose a Premiership game.
It was the day when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer formerly retired after a longstanding knee problem. He served United well, frequently being introduced as a substitute to rescue his side, when they were underperforming. He was always an exciting player and we wish him well in whatever he now chooses to do.
Tags:
Man Utd Vs Sunderland
soccer and football
Man Utd Vs Sunderland
Sunderland Not Keane Enough
This was a close fought match and Roy Keane must have been disappointed not to, at least, share the points. It was a big day for him to come back to the almost sacred place, where he was revered, almost as a football saint - but as a legend anyway. That was proven by the reception he got from the home fans, on his first appearance at Old Trafford as a manager. There are many who consider him to be the managerial heir apparent, for the club he served so well as a player.
United are a team full of star players, with new blood to boot. However, they were not at the best and unable to dominate. They are missing Ronaldo and Rooney, and are not yet performing as the champions they are.
Craig Gordon, in the Sunderland goal, was again busily justifying Keane's decision to pay the high price demanded for his services. Scholes had a good chance, which was deflected and drifted wide. Saha was introduced at half time and spiced things up a bit. He could have put his side ahead, but Gordon was up to it, and made a great one-handed save. He then made a save from Hargreaves, and took a smack from Paul Scholes for his trouble. Some keepers would have reacted, but Gordon took it on the chin, or rather in his face, and accepted it for the accident it probably was.
Roy Keane would probably have been well satisfied with a draw, but it was not to be. In the 72nd minute, Saha scored from a set piece. As Keane admitted at the end, you only need one lapse to lose a Premiership game.
It was the day when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer formerly retired after a longstanding knee problem. He served United well, frequently being introduced as a substitute to rescue his side, when they were underperforming. He was always an exciting player and we wish him well in whatever he now chooses to do.
Tags:
Man Utd Vs Sunderland
soccer and football
Man Utd Vs Sunderland
Liverpool 6 - 0 Derby
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Six of the Best!
Liverpool got six of the best, but in another sense Derby deserved six of the best, because they simply did not perform at Premiership level. They made Liverpool look good, and Liverpool are good, but on this showing you would not give much for Derby's chances of staying in the Premiership.
Alonso's 45-yard free kick opened the scoring in the 27th minute. It was a great shot, but whether it should have finished up in the back of the net, is another story! To say that Derby defended abysmally would be an understatement. Even before Alonso set the ball rolling, the writing was on the wall, because Derby did not perform.
Just before the interval, the impressive Babel made it two for the home side, when he easily beat the Derby defence. Then after the break, Liverpool decided to press home their advantage, when £20 million Torres got their third goal, after 56 minutes. He seemed always to be in the right place at the right time, and Derby had no answer to his pace, although he probably cost as much as all of them put together! There was now no way back for the visitors, but to be fair there never had been.
After 69 minutes Alonso got his second goal, and it became a rapid-fire rout, as Voronin made it five. Then Torres again proved his worth with his second goal that made it six. It is difficult to imagine what Derby can do to improve their chances of staying up, but improve they must. Meanwhile Liverpool have spurted off in the opposite direction, and they are top of the Premier League, at least until after Chelsea's game on Sunday!
The top position keeps changing which is not unusual at this stage of the season. Liverpool though, look as good as they have done for some time, so the other big guns had better watch out!
Tags:
Liverpool Vs Derby
soccer and football
Liverpool Vs Derby
Six of the Best!
Liverpool got six of the best, but in another sense Derby deserved six of the best, because they simply did not perform at Premiership level. They made Liverpool look good, and Liverpool are good, but on this showing you would not give much for Derby's chances of staying in the Premiership.
Alonso's 45-yard free kick opened the scoring in the 27th minute. It was a great shot, but whether it should have finished up in the back of the net, is another story! To say that Derby defended abysmally would be an understatement. Even before Alonso set the ball rolling, the writing was on the wall, because Derby did not perform.
Just before the interval, the impressive Babel made it two for the home side, when he easily beat the Derby defence. Then after the break, Liverpool decided to press home their advantage, when £20 million Torres got their third goal, after 56 minutes. He seemed always to be in the right place at the right time, and Derby had no answer to his pace, although he probably cost as much as all of them put together! There was now no way back for the visitors, but to be fair there never had been.
After 69 minutes Alonso got his second goal, and it became a rapid-fire rout, as Voronin made it five. Then Torres again proved his worth with his second goal that made it six. It is difficult to imagine what Derby can do to improve their chances of staying up, but improve they must. Meanwhile Liverpool have spurted off in the opposite direction, and they are top of the Premier League, at least until after Chelsea's game on Sunday!
The top position keeps changing which is not unusual at this stage of the season. Liverpool though, look as good as they have done for some time, so the other big guns had better watch out!
Tags:
Liverpool Vs Derby
soccer and football
Liverpool Vs Derby
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