Liverpool destroyed Newcastle by five goals to one, and it could just have easily been ten, but for the goalkeeping of Shay Given. The home side were clearly outclassed as Liverpool maintained their deserved place at the head of the Premiership.
Steven Gerrard, who else, opened the scoring after 32 minutes and then Sami Hypia made it two up, five minutes later. However, when Newcastle levelled just before half time, it didn't seem that they were quite done with. At least not until Ryan Babel made it three five minutes after the interval, as it started to look as though there was no way back. Gerrard scored again after 66 minutes, and Alonso finished off a fine display when he scored from the spot after 77 minutes.
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It seemed that only goalkeeper Given was showing Liverpool any resistance, and when they are in this sort of form, one man simply isn't enough to stop the rot. He made some great saves, and kept the visitors at bay for the first half hour. But it was inevitable that Liverpool's dominance would eventually prove too much, and once they had scored the opposition really caved in!
Other than Given, Newcastle's defence was virtually non-existent, but it gave a confidant Liverpool some excellent shooting practice. Manager Rafael Benitez, must have been delighted on his return from a spell in hospital. It seemed strange that he left out Robbie Keane from the proceedings, as he was a two-goal hero on Boxing Day, but it's difficult to argue with success. However, the ex Spurs man would have welcomed the opportunity to shine again in the post Christmas activity.
At the end you would have to say that Newcastle were pretty appalling, and Liverpool will not always have this much of their own way. However, three points away from home are always worth having, and when presented with a walk in the park, they can save their energy for the greater challenges that are sure to come.
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Newcastle 1-5 Liverpool
soccer and football
Newcastle 1-5 Liverpool
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
Manchester United Champions of the World
Liga De Quito 0-1 Manchester United
Manchester United return home tomorrow as football champions of the world., They beat Liga De Quito, fittingly with a Wayne Rooney goal, that was sufficient to secure victory.
This is just one more honour to a club that had already won just about everything else. There are many who will say that it doesn't matter, and is meaningless compared with victory in the English Premier League. But that would be churlish because the game has never been more international, and triumphs of this sort are like icing on the cake for United's 'all stars'.
It was pity that the performance was a little tarnished when Vidic was sent off shortly after the interval. The Serbian was guilty of interfering with Quito striker Claudio Bieler, with an elbow to the face, and must wait to hear what his punishment will be. It will be decided by UEFA, and not FIFA, because his side were in this competition as winners of the Champions League.
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Things have been progressing at home, in the Premiership, whilst United have been doing their stuff elsewhere. Their next home fixture will be against Hull on Boxing Day, and their manager believes they will return, with some bounce after their success in faraway Japan. It may be a case of watch out Liverpool and Chelsea, as the Champions return to the fray.
It's early days yet, so it is still all to play for in the Premiership. The Christmas fixtures usually have a bearing on what happens thereafter, and it will be interesting to see who emerges with the best results over the festive period. Sir Alex believes his side will use their world success as a springboard for more glory at home, and there are few who would be prepared to argue with him at this stage of the proceedings.
Some United players seem to handle jet lag better than others. None more so than Wayne Rooney, who claims that this particular syndrome doesn't affect him at all. He is on a roll at the moment and was voted man of the tournament in Japan. He will want to emulate that success at home, and has said that when he returns he could easily be ready to play the next day. There is no doubting the confidence of this all-British striker, and Premiership defenders would be wise to take note.
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Manchester United Champions of the World
soccer and football
Manchester United Champions of the World
Manchester United return home tomorrow as football champions of the world., They beat Liga De Quito, fittingly with a Wayne Rooney goal, that was sufficient to secure victory.
This is just one more honour to a club that had already won just about everything else. There are many who will say that it doesn't matter, and is meaningless compared with victory in the English Premier League. But that would be churlish because the game has never been more international, and triumphs of this sort are like icing on the cake for United's 'all stars'.
It was pity that the performance was a little tarnished when Vidic was sent off shortly after the interval. The Serbian was guilty of interfering with Quito striker Claudio Bieler, with an elbow to the face, and must wait to hear what his punishment will be. It will be decided by UEFA, and not FIFA, because his side were in this competition as winners of the Champions League.
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Things have been progressing at home, in the Premiership, whilst United have been doing their stuff elsewhere. Their next home fixture will be against Hull on Boxing Day, and their manager believes they will return, with some bounce after their success in faraway Japan. It may be a case of watch out Liverpool and Chelsea, as the Champions return to the fray.
It's early days yet, so it is still all to play for in the Premiership. The Christmas fixtures usually have a bearing on what happens thereafter, and it will be interesting to see who emerges with the best results over the festive period. Sir Alex believes his side will use their world success as a springboard for more glory at home, and there are few who would be prepared to argue with him at this stage of the proceedings.
Some United players seem to handle jet lag better than others. None more so than Wayne Rooney, who claims that this particular syndrome doesn't affect him at all. He is on a roll at the moment and was voted man of the tournament in Japan. He will want to emulate that success at home, and has said that when he returns he could easily be ready to play the next day. There is no doubting the confidence of this all-British striker, and Premiership defenders would be wise to take note.
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Manchester United Champions of the World
soccer and football
Manchester United Champions of the World
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Liverpool 2 - 2 Hull City
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez was nearly made to eat his words, after declaring that if his side were still top after the Christmas fixtures, they would have an 80% chance of becoming Premiership champions! With Hull City going two up after 22 minutes, Liverpool started off looking anything but champions, and not for the first time it was left to captain, Steven Gerrard to steady the ship.
Gerrard grabbed a goal back after 24 minutes and six minutes later he fired in another, from about six yards out, to level the score. That was the way the match finished, and there was no doubt that newly promoted Hull, who are this season's great success story, deserved at least a draw. Their manager Phil Brown was adamant that the home side were getting away with blatant fouls in front of the Kop, and seemed to think that Alan Wiley was influenced not to blow his whistle by Liverpool supporters in full cry!
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Hull's first goal was a smart effort, when Paul McShane headed home a Marlon King cross. Liverpool had scarcely recovered from the shock when Carragher found his own goal in the face of another Hull attack. Then in strode the majestic Gerrard to stop the rot.
After the break Liverpool regained their confidence and started to assert their authority. Hypia was unlucky not to score, when a good header hit the post. Then the Hull keeper had all on to deny a fine shot from some distance by Riera.
Liverpool strived hard, but unsuccessfully, to get the elusive winning goal. They brought on El Zhar and Babel, but the £20 million Robbie Keane was conspicuous by his absence, and you would have to think that his game will not improve for being sidelined. He is a player of some talent, but if he doesn't fit in at Anfield, or at least with the manager's plans, it would not be that surprising to see him again being transferred.
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Liverpool 2-2 Hull City
soccer and football
Liverpool 2-2 Hull City
Gerrard grabbed a goal back after 24 minutes and six minutes later he fired in another, from about six yards out, to level the score. That was the way the match finished, and there was no doubt that newly promoted Hull, who are this season's great success story, deserved at least a draw. Their manager Phil Brown was adamant that the home side were getting away with blatant fouls in front of the Kop, and seemed to think that Alan Wiley was influenced not to blow his whistle by Liverpool supporters in full cry!
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Hull's first goal was a smart effort, when Paul McShane headed home a Marlon King cross. Liverpool had scarcely recovered from the shock when Carragher found his own goal in the face of another Hull attack. Then in strode the majestic Gerrard to stop the rot.
After the break Liverpool regained their confidence and started to assert their authority. Hypia was unlucky not to score, when a good header hit the post. Then the Hull keeper had all on to deny a fine shot from some distance by Riera.
Liverpool strived hard, but unsuccessfully, to get the elusive winning goal. They brought on El Zhar and Babel, but the £20 million Robbie Keane was conspicuous by his absence, and you would have to think that his game will not improve for being sidelined. He is a player of some talent, but if he doesn't fit in at Anfield, or at least with the manager's plans, it would not be that surprising to see him again being transferred.
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Liverpool 2-2 Hull City
soccer and football
Liverpool 2-2 Hull City
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Chelsea 2 - 1 Cluj
Chelsea did not have things all their own way, but they achieved their mission to reach the last sixteen in the Champions League.
There is no doubt that Luiz Felipe Scolari has a wealth of talent, at his disposal, like being able to introduce the likes of Didier Drogba from the bench, and field a successful team, without the significant skills of the suspended Frank Lampard.
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Chelsea did plenty of attacking but seemed susceptible to probing counter attacks. However, their efforts were rewarded just before half time, when Kalou found space and slotted the ball home.
After the interval it became apparent that Cluj were not done with. In the 55th minute they equalized with what was probably the best attacking move of the game. An accurate pass from Panin, found Kone with time to spare at the far post, and his powerful header gave goalkeeper Petr Cech no chance. So it was still all to play for, with the visitors starting to look more menacing.
Chelsea were determined to recover and reassert their authority, and Joe Cole forced Claro to make a good save. It was not the first time the Cluj keeper had saved the day because he really was in sparkling form. Scolari is nothing if not a master technician, and after 71 minutes he substituted Kalou with the controversial but brilliant Drogba. It was not long before he scored the goal that was to prove to be the winner. He received a good pass from Joe Cole and expertly controlled the ball which he then prodded home with his other foot.
Now that Drogba has returned to form it will be interesting to see how he performs alongside Nicolas Anelka, who had been responsible for ten of fifteen Chelsea goals, before this game. They are both highly talented players, and if anyone can harmonize their skills to serve their brilliant team it must be Luiz Felipe Scolari.
The game was a credit to world soccer, with both sides providing their share of the thrills. Towards the end Chelsea stamped their authority on the match, but Cluj had come to win and for a time the result was in the balance.
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Chelsea 2-1 Cluj
soccer and football
Chelsea 2-1 Cluj
There is no doubt that Luiz Felipe Scolari has a wealth of talent, at his disposal, like being able to introduce the likes of Didier Drogba from the bench, and field a successful team, without the significant skills of the suspended Frank Lampard.
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Chelsea did plenty of attacking but seemed susceptible to probing counter attacks. However, their efforts were rewarded just before half time, when Kalou found space and slotted the ball home.
After the interval it became apparent that Cluj were not done with. In the 55th minute they equalized with what was probably the best attacking move of the game. An accurate pass from Panin, found Kone with time to spare at the far post, and his powerful header gave goalkeeper Petr Cech no chance. So it was still all to play for, with the visitors starting to look more menacing.
Chelsea were determined to recover and reassert their authority, and Joe Cole forced Claro to make a good save. It was not the first time the Cluj keeper had saved the day because he really was in sparkling form. Scolari is nothing if not a master technician, and after 71 minutes he substituted Kalou with the controversial but brilliant Drogba. It was not long before he scored the goal that was to prove to be the winner. He received a good pass from Joe Cole and expertly controlled the ball which he then prodded home with his other foot.
Now that Drogba has returned to form it will be interesting to see how he performs alongside Nicolas Anelka, who had been responsible for ten of fifteen Chelsea goals, before this game. They are both highly talented players, and if anyone can harmonize their skills to serve their brilliant team it must be Luiz Felipe Scolari.
The game was a credit to world soccer, with both sides providing their share of the thrills. Towards the end Chelsea stamped their authority on the match, but Cluj had come to win and for a time the result was in the balance.
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Chelsea 2-1 Cluj
soccer and football
Chelsea 2-1 Cluj
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Villarreal 0-0 Manchester United
Goalless draws are not usually associated with the most exciting matches, but these two sides are getting good at such outcomes. This is the fourth time that they have produced such a result, but it did ensure that both sides progress to the knockout stage.
The Villarreal keeper was kept fairly busy, and it seemed that United were more interested in winning than their opponents, for whom not losing was more imperative. Unsurprisingly it was Ronaldo who came closest to scoring, after being set up by Wayne Rooney, but his fierce shot rattled the crossbar.
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Later on Capdevila was given a straight red card for a challenge, which severely bruised the Portuguese star's knee, and left him writhing in agony. There are some who would question the decision, and consider that a yellow card would have been appropriate. However, Ronaldo has been getting a lot of dubious attention recently, and whenever it is seen as unfair or dangerous, it should be dealt with accordingly. Just because a player is good, does not mean that he should be stopped at any price, otherwise his skills could be short lived, and the fans would lose out as well!
As a spectacle, the game was a bit disappointing. It could have been different if either side had got in front. Rooney had a goal ruled to be offside after eight minutes, but there wasn't really that much in it. Just after the interval the same player was involved in controversy when he appeared to be looking for a penalty. He seemed to go down without any contact, but it was a bit questionable because he is not a natural diver. Neither is it a skill that his many fans would like him to acquire! Later he nearly got a winner, when Capdevila deflected a cross towards goal, off the line.
Villarreal had a few chances on the counter attack, but the best efforts were all United's. At the end a draw was a fair result, although a bit of a yawn for the spectators.
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Villarreal 0-0 Manchester United
soccer and football
Villarreal 0-0 Manchester United
The Villarreal keeper was kept fairly busy, and it seemed that United were more interested in winning than their opponents, for whom not losing was more imperative. Unsurprisingly it was Ronaldo who came closest to scoring, after being set up by Wayne Rooney, but his fierce shot rattled the crossbar.
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Later on Capdevila was given a straight red card for a challenge, which severely bruised the Portuguese star's knee, and left him writhing in agony. There are some who would question the decision, and consider that a yellow card would have been appropriate. However, Ronaldo has been getting a lot of dubious attention recently, and whenever it is seen as unfair or dangerous, it should be dealt with accordingly. Just because a player is good, does not mean that he should be stopped at any price, otherwise his skills could be short lived, and the fans would lose out as well!
As a spectacle, the game was a bit disappointing. It could have been different if either side had got in front. Rooney had a goal ruled to be offside after eight minutes, but there wasn't really that much in it. Just after the interval the same player was involved in controversy when he appeared to be looking for a penalty. He seemed to go down without any contact, but it was a bit questionable because he is not a natural diver. Neither is it a skill that his many fans would like him to acquire! Later he nearly got a winner, when Capdevila deflected a cross towards goal, off the line.
Villarreal had a few chances on the counter attack, but the best efforts were all United's. At the end a draw was a fair result, although a bit of a yawn for the spectators.
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Villarreal 0-0 Manchester United
soccer and football
Villarreal 0-0 Manchester United
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Manchester City 3-0 Arsenal
The score line says it all, but it must be noted that Arsenal were without key players Toure, Adebayor, Walcott, Fabregas, and the controversial William Gallas.
Whatever is going on in the Arsenal camp they are a great club, with a great manager, but their loyal fans deserve more than what seems to be going on at the moment. It becomes critical, when it adversely affects action on the field, but one man does not make a team, and Wenger will have to quickly resolve what is being reported as the Gallas issue.
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City too have had their problems but got it together on this occasion, with recent signing Robinho excelling. However, it was a great team success and despite Arsene Wenger suggesting the result was flattering, with a bit more luck the home side could have doubled their score.
There was not much for either side to crow about in the first half, until just before the interval when Stephen Ireland shot his side ahead. However in the second half it was pretty much one way traffic. City were rewarded when Robinho's superb skill doubled the score in the 56th minute. He received a through ball from the revitalized Wright-Phillips, and chipped the ball over Almunia, in the manner of one of the best players in the world.
Afterwards Robinho thought he had scored again with a back heeled flick, but he was adjudged to be narrowly offside. Then with Almunia beaten, he had another shot cleared off the line by Djourou. At the other end Robin van Persie had a goal disallowed for unsporting behaviour, when he practically kicked the ball out of the keepers hands, as he was about to deliver a goal kick!
At the very end Sturridge was fouled and calmly scored from the spot, to send Arsenal packing after a convincing display by a side eager to prove their worth with the very best.
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Manchester City 3-0 Arsenal
soccer and football
Manchester City 3-0 Arsenal
Whatever is going on in the Arsenal camp they are a great club, with a great manager, but their loyal fans deserve more than what seems to be going on at the moment. It becomes critical, when it adversely affects action on the field, but one man does not make a team, and Wenger will have to quickly resolve what is being reported as the Gallas issue.
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City too have had their problems but got it together on this occasion, with recent signing Robinho excelling. However, it was a great team success and despite Arsene Wenger suggesting the result was flattering, with a bit more luck the home side could have doubled their score.
There was not much for either side to crow about in the first half, until just before the interval when Stephen Ireland shot his side ahead. However in the second half it was pretty much one way traffic. City were rewarded when Robinho's superb skill doubled the score in the 56th minute. He received a through ball from the revitalized Wright-Phillips, and chipped the ball over Almunia, in the manner of one of the best players in the world.
Afterwards Robinho thought he had scored again with a back heeled flick, but he was adjudged to be narrowly offside. Then with Almunia beaten, he had another shot cleared off the line by Djourou. At the other end Robin van Persie had a goal disallowed for unsporting behaviour, when he practically kicked the ball out of the keepers hands, as he was about to deliver a goal kick!
At the very end Sturridge was fouled and calmly scored from the spot, to send Arsenal packing after a convincing display by a side eager to prove their worth with the very best.
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Manchester City 3-0 Arsenal
soccer and football
Manchester City 3-0 Arsenal
Thursday, November 20, 2008
England Beat Germany In Berlin
Germany 1-2 England
In the absence of some of their regular players, through injury, England triumphed over a lack lustre German side, and thoroughly deserved their victory.
This made it five wins in a row for England manager Fabio Capello, and he is in danger of becoming popular, even with the often critical English press. Not everybody would have agreed with the team he selected on this occasion, but they did their job well. That is good for Capello, and good for the team as it ensures that there is increasing competition between players to be included in the squad, and fewer automatic choices.
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Up front Gabriel Agbonlahor and Jermain Defoe, linked well from the start, and were constantly threatening. Downing and Wright-Phillips, were busy creating problems down the wings, that the home side were finding it difficult to handle. Carrick, on his debut, was very strong in midfield, and for much of the game England were in charge.
After 24 minutes, the Germans succumbed to the pressure, and Upson was able to slide home a loose ball in a goal mouth scramble. Although they tried to retaliate David James was up to the task, and at the interval England were in front, but it was still all to play for.
Darren Bent replaced Defoe, who had taken a knock, and should have put England two up but slipped up when he seemed certain to score. It could have been a costly mistake, because at the other end John Terry, and substitute keeper Scot Carson, got into an almighty misunderstanding. It was painful to watch, but not so for Helmes, who took full advantage, with a nutmeg past Carson and onwards into the net. The game was now equal with about two thirds of the time gone.
To their great credit England came back strongly, and it was their captain, John Terry who redeemed himself with a splendid header from Downing's accurate free kick. With 84 minutes gone England were again ahead, and held on, without too much trouble, to secure a notable victory.
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Germany 1-2 England
soccer and football
Germany 1-2 England
In the absence of some of their regular players, through injury, England triumphed over a lack lustre German side, and thoroughly deserved their victory.
This made it five wins in a row for England manager Fabio Capello, and he is in danger of becoming popular, even with the often critical English press. Not everybody would have agreed with the team he selected on this occasion, but they did their job well. That is good for Capello, and good for the team as it ensures that there is increasing competition between players to be included in the squad, and fewer automatic choices.
Please Click Here to visit the Worldsoccer-Online Web Site
Up front Gabriel Agbonlahor and Jermain Defoe, linked well from the start, and were constantly threatening. Downing and Wright-Phillips, were busy creating problems down the wings, that the home side were finding it difficult to handle. Carrick, on his debut, was very strong in midfield, and for much of the game England were in charge.
After 24 minutes, the Germans succumbed to the pressure, and Upson was able to slide home a loose ball in a goal mouth scramble. Although they tried to retaliate David James was up to the task, and at the interval England were in front, but it was still all to play for.
Darren Bent replaced Defoe, who had taken a knock, and should have put England two up but slipped up when he seemed certain to score. It could have been a costly mistake, because at the other end John Terry, and substitute keeper Scot Carson, got into an almighty misunderstanding. It was painful to watch, but not so for Helmes, who took full advantage, with a nutmeg past Carson and onwards into the net. The game was now equal with about two thirds of the time gone.
To their great credit England came back strongly, and it was their captain, John Terry who redeemed himself with a splendid header from Downing's accurate free kick. With 84 minutes gone England were again ahead, and held on, without too much trouble, to secure a notable victory.
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Germany 1-2 England
soccer and football
Germany 1-2 England
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Manchester United 5 - 0 Stoke
It was a case of 50 for Sir Alec; celebrating fifty years in football, but 100 not out for Cristiano Ronaldo, who took his goal tally to 101 since he joined the club in 2003.
They used to say that 'no one could bend it like Beckham', but that is no longer true as the Portuguese winger has proved on many occasions. In this game the long throw 'secret weapon' of Rory Delap was neutralized by the sheer brilliance of the opposition in general, and Ronaldo in particular.
Only three minutes into the game a Faye challenge on Tevez resulted in a free kick from about 25 yards out. Ronaldo strode forward and struck a wicked, curling, swerving, ball past Sorenson and the writing was on the wall. Minutes later he narrowly missed with another shot on goal that was just blocked by Faye.
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Immediately prior to the interval Ronaldo again took a hand in the proceedings, and delivered the ball to Carrick, who obliged with United's second goal. It seemed that the game had slipped away from Stoke which was confirmed when Berbatov made it three up from a Tevez pass in the 49th minute. It was now a question of how much worse their plight would get before the finish.
Tevez and Ronaldo had further chances; before newcomer Welbeck scored a superb goal, and it seems that United have some great new talent eagerly waiting for their chance to emerge. Just before the final whistle Ronaldo stepped up again to deliver another free kick through a rickety wall and into the net. United move up to third in the Premiership and will not surrender their crown without one hell of a battle!
This game wasn't all about Ronaldo, but in this sort of form he is a pleasure to watch, and certainly delivers the goods. Rooney, was missing with a chest infection, and Rio Ferdinand was also on the sidelines. It seems that Fabio Capello will have to manage without them both in the England international against Germany on Wednesday!
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Manchester United 5-0 Stoke
soccer and football
Manchester United 5-0 Stoke
They used to say that 'no one could bend it like Beckham', but that is no longer true as the Portuguese winger has proved on many occasions. In this game the long throw 'secret weapon' of Rory Delap was neutralized by the sheer brilliance of the opposition in general, and Ronaldo in particular.
Only three minutes into the game a Faye challenge on Tevez resulted in a free kick from about 25 yards out. Ronaldo strode forward and struck a wicked, curling, swerving, ball past Sorenson and the writing was on the wall. Minutes later he narrowly missed with another shot on goal that was just blocked by Faye.
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Immediately prior to the interval Ronaldo again took a hand in the proceedings, and delivered the ball to Carrick, who obliged with United's second goal. It seemed that the game had slipped away from Stoke which was confirmed when Berbatov made it three up from a Tevez pass in the 49th minute. It was now a question of how much worse their plight would get before the finish.
Tevez and Ronaldo had further chances; before newcomer Welbeck scored a superb goal, and it seems that United have some great new talent eagerly waiting for their chance to emerge. Just before the final whistle Ronaldo stepped up again to deliver another free kick through a rickety wall and into the net. United move up to third in the Premiership and will not surrender their crown without one hell of a battle!
This game wasn't all about Ronaldo, but in this sort of form he is a pleasure to watch, and certainly delivers the goods. Rooney, was missing with a chest infection, and Rio Ferdinand was also on the sidelines. It seems that Fabio Capello will have to manage without them both in the England international against Germany on Wednesday!
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Manchester United 5-0 Stoke
soccer and football
Manchester United 5-0 Stoke
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United
Arsenal bounced back to form, after a spell in the doldrums, to prove that they are still up there with the best of them. Not that it was ever in doubt by anybody, except, perhaps, a few sports writer's looking for cheap headlines. Arsene Wenger has proved himself at the top of his profession, over and over again, and the silly sniping that followed the odd defeat or two, was unwarranted and foolish.
This was a fine display by the home side, but the same could not be said about their illustrious visitors who were not quite at their best. Both Rooney and Ronaldo had good chances, and missed openings that on other occasions have clinched matches.
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It was a brace of goals from Samir Nasri that settled the issue. He opened the scoring in the 28th minute, when his shot spun in off the usually reliable Garry Neville. Then three minutes after the interval he was at it again. He received a great ball from Cesc Fabregas, which he coolly drove past Van der Sar into the net.
Shortly afterwards Park delivered a good ball to Ronaldo, and Arsenal were greatly relieved as his shot drifted wide. Of course you can never write United off and they continued to press forward, without making the necessary break through. The home side were weakened in the 78th minute, when keeper Almunia was substituted with Fabianski, after an accidental clash with Carrick
United grabbed a goal back after ninety minutes but it looked as though Arsenal had done enough. Then the board came up announcing that there were to be six minutes injury time to play. That would normally be long enough for United to grab at least an equalizer, but this was not their day and the 'Gunners' held on for a deserved victory, at the end of a fine game of football.
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Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United
soccer and football
Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United
This was a fine display by the home side, but the same could not be said about their illustrious visitors who were not quite at their best. Both Rooney and Ronaldo had good chances, and missed openings that on other occasions have clinched matches.
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It was a brace of goals from Samir Nasri that settled the issue. He opened the scoring in the 28th minute, when his shot spun in off the usually reliable Garry Neville. Then three minutes after the interval he was at it again. He received a great ball from Cesc Fabregas, which he coolly drove past Van der Sar into the net.
Shortly afterwards Park delivered a good ball to Ronaldo, and Arsenal were greatly relieved as his shot drifted wide. Of course you can never write United off and they continued to press forward, without making the necessary break through. The home side were weakened in the 78th minute, when keeper Almunia was substituted with Fabianski, after an accidental clash with Carrick
United grabbed a goal back after ninety minutes but it looked as though Arsenal had done enough. Then the board came up announcing that there were to be six minutes injury time to play. That would normally be long enough for United to grab at least an equalizer, but this was not their day and the 'Gunners' held on for a deserved victory, at the end of a fine game of football.
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Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United
soccer and football
Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Roma 3 - 1 Chelsea
Roma Tame Roman's Chelsea!
Roman Abramovitch's Chelsea did not live up to their reputation and came unstuck against a competent Roma side.
Chelsea started confidently but an element of slack defending resulted in Christian Panucci putting the home side ahead after 34 minutes. It would be an understatement, to say that Chelsea were deflated after a good start, when any one of Lampard, Deco, or Malouda could have shot them ahead. However, it was Deco who assisted in starting the rot, with a foul that resulted in the first goal being converted from a free kick. He received his first yellow card for his questionable endeavors.
The pendulum had swung and it was now the home side that seemed the most confident. They were suitably rewarded, 3 minutes after the interval, when Vucinic, rifled the ball past goalkeeper Cech, from some distance, to put Roma two up. Ten minutes later he scored again, and Chelsea were shell shocked at being three goals down, with the game seemingly passed redemption.
John Terry got one back with the easiest of touches in the 75th minute, when he received the ball from Deco. Shortly afterwards, any hope of further recovery by the Premiership league leaders was hampered as Deco received a second yellow card. Of course two yellows equal one red and he was ordered off the pitch.
All in all it was not a good night for Chelsea, but Roma enjoyed themselves as they swept to a convincing victory.
Liverpool 1 - 1 Athletico Madrid
Lucky Liverpool's Late Equalizer
Liverpool had most of the possession and by far the greatest number of shots on goal. However, there will be many who will feel that they were very lucky to snatch an equalizer in the dying minutes.
Madrid had gone ahead with a fine counter strike, when Lopez found Maxi, who hammered the ball past Reina in the 37th minute. Afterwards the visitors defended their lead with some purpose but remained dangerous on the counter attack. After 90 minutes they were still in front and set to bag maximum points.
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In the dying seconds of injury time, Gerrard went down under a challenge from Pernia, that there didn't seem to be that much wrong with. Whether it should have been a penalty is questionable, but the Liverpool captain made no mistake in driving the ball home from the spot, to rescue his side from looming defeat.
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Roma 3-1 Chelsea
soccer and football
Liverpool1-1 Athletico Madrid
Roman Abramovitch's Chelsea did not live up to their reputation and came unstuck against a competent Roma side.
Chelsea started confidently but an element of slack defending resulted in Christian Panucci putting the home side ahead after 34 minutes. It would be an understatement, to say that Chelsea were deflated after a good start, when any one of Lampard, Deco, or Malouda could have shot them ahead. However, it was Deco who assisted in starting the rot, with a foul that resulted in the first goal being converted from a free kick. He received his first yellow card for his questionable endeavors.
The pendulum had swung and it was now the home side that seemed the most confident. They were suitably rewarded, 3 minutes after the interval, when Vucinic, rifled the ball past goalkeeper Cech, from some distance, to put Roma two up. Ten minutes later he scored again, and Chelsea were shell shocked at being three goals down, with the game seemingly passed redemption.
John Terry got one back with the easiest of touches in the 75th minute, when he received the ball from Deco. Shortly afterwards, any hope of further recovery by the Premiership league leaders was hampered as Deco received a second yellow card. Of course two yellows equal one red and he was ordered off the pitch.
All in all it was not a good night for Chelsea, but Roma enjoyed themselves as they swept to a convincing victory.
Liverpool 1 - 1 Athletico Madrid
Lucky Liverpool's Late Equalizer
Liverpool had most of the possession and by far the greatest number of shots on goal. However, there will be many who will feel that they were very lucky to snatch an equalizer in the dying minutes.
Madrid had gone ahead with a fine counter strike, when Lopez found Maxi, who hammered the ball past Reina in the 37th minute. Afterwards the visitors defended their lead with some purpose but remained dangerous on the counter attack. After 90 minutes they were still in front and set to bag maximum points.
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In the dying seconds of injury time, Gerrard went down under a challenge from Pernia, that there didn't seem to be that much wrong with. Whether it should have been a penalty is questionable, but the Liverpool captain made no mistake in driving the ball home from the spot, to rescue his side from looming defeat.
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Roma 3-1 Chelsea
soccer and football
Liverpool1-1 Athletico Madrid
Sunday, November 02, 2008
Rory Delap Makes Arsenal Throw Up!
Stoke 2 - 1 Arsenal
Yet again the incredible and accurate throwing ability of Rory Delap proved to undo the opposition. This time Arsenal were on the receiving end and seemed to have no answer to the Stoke man's unique ability. It seems that a ball can be thrown more accurately than it can be kicked, at least by Delap. He threw a ball in from about 45 yards, and found Fuller in the penalty area who opened the scoring after 11 minutes.
Stoke are not just about throw-ins, and Delap nearly scored himself, but Clichy cleared the ball off the line. Accurate long throw-ins have to be met by people in the box, who can deflect the ball into the net. So Stoke are not a one trick pony, but a side that has found a different and exciting way of achieving a favourable result. It's good fun to watch but not so much for Arsenal et al!
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Arsene Wenger had chosen a side he thought could handle Stoke's physical presence, with Walcott and Van Persie both on the bench. However, they were being missed, and Arsenal were either not at their best, and disrupted by a side they were finding it difficult to handle. Walcott and Van Persie came on as substitutes, but not for long as Van Persie was red-carded for a foolish attack on Stokes goalkeeper. The unfortunate Walcott was stretchered off, and it is to be hoped that his shoulder injury is not too bad.
The Gunners managed to salvage a goal in the 90th minute, but it was too late to make any difference to the result. At the end it was three points, and a notably deserved victory for Stoke, whose tactics outmanoeuvred their more illustrious opponents.
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Stoke 2 - 1 Arsenal
soccer and football
Stoke 2 - 1 Arsenal
Yet again the incredible and accurate throwing ability of Rory Delap proved to undo the opposition. This time Arsenal were on the receiving end and seemed to have no answer to the Stoke man's unique ability. It seems that a ball can be thrown more accurately than it can be kicked, at least by Delap. He threw a ball in from about 45 yards, and found Fuller in the penalty area who opened the scoring after 11 minutes.
Stoke are not just about throw-ins, and Delap nearly scored himself, but Clichy cleared the ball off the line. Accurate long throw-ins have to be met by people in the box, who can deflect the ball into the net. So Stoke are not a one trick pony, but a side that has found a different and exciting way of achieving a favourable result. It's good fun to watch but not so much for Arsenal et al!
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Arsene Wenger had chosen a side he thought could handle Stoke's physical presence, with Walcott and Van Persie both on the bench. However, they were being missed, and Arsenal were either not at their best, and disrupted by a side they were finding it difficult to handle. Walcott and Van Persie came on as substitutes, but not for long as Van Persie was red-carded for a foolish attack on Stokes goalkeeper. The unfortunate Walcott was stretchered off, and it is to be hoped that his shoulder injury is not too bad.
The Gunners managed to salvage a goal in the 90th minute, but it was too late to make any difference to the result. At the end it was three points, and a notably deserved victory for Stoke, whose tactics outmanoeuvred their more illustrious opponents.
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Stoke 2 - 1 Arsenal
soccer and football
Stoke 2 - 1 Arsenal
Tottenham's Gain Is Portsmouth's Loss
Spurs 2 - 1 Liverpool
Harry Redknapp already had a good reputation, before his recent departure from the South Coast to London. Now he is in danger of being considered a wizard! Spurs have been transformed back to the team they were always capable of being, but the speed of what is happening fair takes your breath away. The big losers may be Portsmouth, who may not perform so well, in the absence of Harry's undoubted skill at football management.
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This game was played out in appalling weather with torrential rain playing a part in the proceedings. Although it was the same for both sides, you might have thought the writing was on the wall, when Kuyt put Liverpool ahead after only 3 minutes. It was 'salt in the wounds' for Spurs as the able provider was their former striker Robbie Keane. Liverpool had most of the possession, but despite several good efforts, at the interval they had failed to consolidate their lead.
In the second half the Reds started where they had left off. Spurs keeper Gomes was both brilliant and awful on different occasions. He did well to save from Gerrard but then nearly set him up with a short misdirected throw, but the Liverpool captain's shot hit the bar. It seemed only a matter of time before the visitors would go further ahead. However, in succeeding to rise above the opposition, Carragher only managed to divert the ball into his own net, to level the scores on 70 minutes.
Tottenham were now back in the game with Liverpool beginning to look uncomfortable. The home side were rewarded in the final minutes when Pavlyuchenko slid in the winner. It was another good performance for Spurs and 'Arry, who is yet again proving his worth at the highest level.
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Tottenham's Gain Portsmouth's Loss
soccer and football
Tottenham's Gain Portsmouth's Loss
Harry Redknapp already had a good reputation, before his recent departure from the South Coast to London. Now he is in danger of being considered a wizard! Spurs have been transformed back to the team they were always capable of being, but the speed of what is happening fair takes your breath away. The big losers may be Portsmouth, who may not perform so well, in the absence of Harry's undoubted skill at football management.
Please Click Here to visit the Worldsoccer-Online Web Site
This game was played out in appalling weather with torrential rain playing a part in the proceedings. Although it was the same for both sides, you might have thought the writing was on the wall, when Kuyt put Liverpool ahead after only 3 minutes. It was 'salt in the wounds' for Spurs as the able provider was their former striker Robbie Keane. Liverpool had most of the possession, but despite several good efforts, at the interval they had failed to consolidate their lead.
In the second half the Reds started where they had left off. Spurs keeper Gomes was both brilliant and awful on different occasions. He did well to save from Gerrard but then nearly set him up with a short misdirected throw, but the Liverpool captain's shot hit the bar. It seemed only a matter of time before the visitors would go further ahead. However, in succeeding to rise above the opposition, Carragher only managed to divert the ball into his own net, to level the scores on 70 minutes.
Tottenham were now back in the game with Liverpool beginning to look uncomfortable. The home side were rewarded in the final minutes when Pavlyuchenko slid in the winner. It was another good performance for Spurs and 'Arry, who is yet again proving his worth at the highest level.
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Tottenham's Gain Portsmouth's Loss
soccer and football
Tottenham's Gain Portsmouth's Loss
Sunday, October 26, 2008
West Brom 0 - 3 WonderHull City
To say that newly promoted Hull have had a wonderful start in the Premiership is almost an understatement. After hammering West Brom, they are up there at the top of the Premier League with the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool, and what's more they fully deserve it. Twenty points from ten matches says it all, and just goes to show what new boys can achieve with the right approach, even against teams with enormous spending power, in transfer markets.
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As far as this match is concerned Zayatte struck a perfect volley to shoot Hull ahead just after the interval. You might have thought that they would have all on to hold onto a slender lead. But they were having none of it and went two up fifteen minutes later, when Brazilian Geovanni headed home from a brilliant Marlon King flick. Now the game really did look firmly in the visitors hands, but for good measure King bagged a third in the 66th minute, and it was becoming embarrassing for the home side.
It must be said that until the break through after the interval the game was well balanced with West Brom at least holding their own. The first goal was vital and beautifully taken by Zayette. After that it was 'one way traffic' as Hull continued their amazing run, which must be the story of the season so far. There are not many people who do not like to see underdogs doing well, except perhaps those teams who have been beaten by them. Hull City have created something to build on, and shown that in football, as well as elsewhere, team spirit is the vital ingredient.
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West Brom 0 - 3 Hull City
soccer and football
West Brom 0 - 3 Hull City
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As far as this match is concerned Zayatte struck a perfect volley to shoot Hull ahead just after the interval. You might have thought that they would have all on to hold onto a slender lead. But they were having none of it and went two up fifteen minutes later, when Brazilian Geovanni headed home from a brilliant Marlon King flick. Now the game really did look firmly in the visitors hands, but for good measure King bagged a third in the 66th minute, and it was becoming embarrassing for the home side.
It must be said that until the break through after the interval the game was well balanced with West Brom at least holding their own. The first goal was vital and beautifully taken by Zayette. After that it was 'one way traffic' as Hull continued their amazing run, which must be the story of the season so far. There are not many people who do not like to see underdogs doing well, except perhaps those teams who have been beaten by them. Hull City have created something to build on, and shown that in football, as well as elsewhere, team spirit is the vital ingredient.
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West Brom 0 - 3 Hull City
soccer and football
West Brom 0 - 3 Hull City
Wunderland 2 - 1 Newcastle
Roy Keane, who has matured more than any other as a young football manager, must have thought he was in Wonderland as his side strode to their first victory in this local Derby in eight years. Joe Kinnear was singing Keano's praises before the match, seeing him as a future Manchester United boss, and he could just be proved right, in the long run! However, for the time being the ex United captain is at Sunderland, and doing quite nicely.
Djibril Cisse is notably a bit of a character, but Keane was obviously aware of his potential when he signed him from Liverpool. In fact Cisse had not fitted in all that well at Anfield, but he is something of an individual who likes to do his own thing. If doing that results in goals, as it did again here, then he can probably be as individual as he likes. He positioned himself ideally, and stretched out well to put Sunderland ahead after 20 minutes. He celebrated his success with typical aplomb, with a series of acrobatic backward flips. In the shirt swapping procedures after the match, it was plain to see that he has more tattoos than another great football showman, David Beckham.
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The lead was not to last long as Martins teamed up with Ameobi, who levelled the scores on the half hour. From there on the game was finely balanced with both sides having scoring chances. However, it was Richardson, who cruelly had a goal disallowed last week, who scored the winner, after 75 minutes. To say that he blasted it in is an understatement, because it sped home like a cannon shell, with Given having no hope of stopping it.
With minutes to go Kinnear brought on the controversial Joey Barton, who not for the first time has sworn he will behave. He was understandably booed by the visiting fans, but was seemingly pelted with missiles of some sort while on the bench as a sub. Such behaviour is not much better than Barton's has been, but it is to be hoped that ex Manchester City man is as reformed as he says he is, and realizes that for him this really is the last chance saloon.
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Sunderland 2 - 1 Newcastle
soccer and football
Sunderland 2 - 1 Newcastle
Djibril Cisse is notably a bit of a character, but Keane was obviously aware of his potential when he signed him from Liverpool. In fact Cisse had not fitted in all that well at Anfield, but he is something of an individual who likes to do his own thing. If doing that results in goals, as it did again here, then he can probably be as individual as he likes. He positioned himself ideally, and stretched out well to put Sunderland ahead after 20 minutes. He celebrated his success with typical aplomb, with a series of acrobatic backward flips. In the shirt swapping procedures after the match, it was plain to see that he has more tattoos than another great football showman, David Beckham.
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The lead was not to last long as Martins teamed up with Ameobi, who levelled the scores on the half hour. From there on the game was finely balanced with both sides having scoring chances. However, it was Richardson, who cruelly had a goal disallowed last week, who scored the winner, after 75 minutes. To say that he blasted it in is an understatement, because it sped home like a cannon shell, with Given having no hope of stopping it.
With minutes to go Kinnear brought on the controversial Joey Barton, who not for the first time has sworn he will behave. He was understandably booed by the visiting fans, but was seemingly pelted with missiles of some sort while on the bench as a sub. Such behaviour is not much better than Barton's has been, but it is to be hoped that ex Manchester City man is as reformed as he says he is, and realizes that for him this really is the last chance saloon.
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Sunderland 2 - 1 Newcastle
soccer and football
Sunderland 2 - 1 Newcastle
Sunday, October 19, 2008
It's CALM At The Top of the Premiership
It's CALM at the top of the English Premiership. CALM, that is Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United, who all took their places at the top of the world's premier league, although not quite in that order. After an unsettled start, for at least some of the top four clubs, these household names are again in dominating positions.
Just look at the array of talent that was on display yesterday, the18th October. Chelsea scored five, as the consistent Frank Lampard helped to secure their victory over Middlesbrough. Arsenal were out of the traps a bit slowly, before the emerging Walcott and Co. strode into their 3 - 1 defeat of Everton. Liverpool had to recover from a goal deficit as their gamed seesawed, before Gerrard led them to a 3 - 2 win against Wigan. The irrepressible energy of Wayne Rooney was plain to see, as was the artistry of Ronaldo, as United beat West Brom 4 - 0.
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For a feast of international footballing talent there is nothing to beat the Premiership. How lucky we fans are, to be able to see the best players in the world in action, week after week. There is such an international assortment of talent on display, to satisfy even the most critical pundits.
Fortunately, the season is not long underway, and there are many thrills and a few spills to come. There is not only the Premiership, mighty as it is, but favourites to watch in the European Championship as well. Later this week, Manchester United of England, will play Celtic of Scotland, and what a match that promises to be. Such a meeting between Great British football clubs is sure to excite the crowd to full voice. There will be so much to cheer, but the real winner is the British game that plays host to so many wonderful international players.
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It's CALM at the Top of the Premiership
soccer and football
It's CALM at the Top of the Premiership
Just look at the array of talent that was on display yesterday, the18th October. Chelsea scored five, as the consistent Frank Lampard helped to secure their victory over Middlesbrough. Arsenal were out of the traps a bit slowly, before the emerging Walcott and Co. strode into their 3 - 1 defeat of Everton. Liverpool had to recover from a goal deficit as their gamed seesawed, before Gerrard led them to a 3 - 2 win against Wigan. The irrepressible energy of Wayne Rooney was plain to see, as was the artistry of Ronaldo, as United beat West Brom 4 - 0.
Please Click Here to visit the Worldsoccer-Online Web Site
For a feast of international footballing talent there is nothing to beat the Premiership. How lucky we fans are, to be able to see the best players in the world in action, week after week. There is such an international assortment of talent on display, to satisfy even the most critical pundits.
Fortunately, the season is not long underway, and there are many thrills and a few spills to come. There is not only the Premiership, mighty as it is, but favourites to watch in the European Championship as well. Later this week, Manchester United of England, will play Celtic of Scotland, and what a match that promises to be. Such a meeting between Great British football clubs is sure to excite the crowd to full voice. There will be so much to cheer, but the real winner is the British game that plays host to so many wonderful international players.
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It's CALM at the Top of the Premiership
soccer and football
It's CALM at the Top of the Premiership
Monday, October 13, 2008
England 5 - 1 Kazakhstan
England Booed - Then Cheered
At the end this was a comfortable win for England, but for a long time it looked as though it might be a match they would struggle to win. The visitors had the best scoring chances in the first half, and there were some in the restless crowd, who were booing at the interval. The England fans were not sure that their side were delivering up to expectations.
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Kazakhstan nearly went in front shortly after the interval but Nusserbayey thumped a sitter over the bar. England took the lead in the 52nd Minute. Wright-Phillips came on at half time, and seemed to make a difference, with darting runs down the left flank. One such run produced a corner, which found the reliable Captain, Rio Ferdinand who forcefully headed home, to relieve the England squad.
England doubled their score in the 65th minute when Kuchma, harassed by Rooney, headed the ball past his own keeper. So, it was still all to play for until Rooney settled it in the 77th minute, when he smartly put away a smart cross from Brown.
The England fans were now a lot happier, and had managed to get back into cheering mode. In fact when David Beckham came on, in the 79th minute, he got the loudest cheer of the night. Quite rightly so, as it happened, because his pinpoint passes were as good as ever. Sure he hasn't quite the pace of days of old, but strikers need to be fed, and he's very good at that.
Beckham found Rooney in the 86th minute, and he made it two for himself and four for England. The Manchester United man had done enough and was immediately substituted for Defoe, who made it five for the home side in the final minute. It was a good boost for Fabio Capello who is doing well, and seems to be living up to his reputation, but it is still early days!
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England 5 - 1 Kazakhstan
soccer and football
England 5 - 1 Kazakhstan
At the end this was a comfortable win for England, but for a long time it looked as though it might be a match they would struggle to win. The visitors had the best scoring chances in the first half, and there were some in the restless crowd, who were booing at the interval. The England fans were not sure that their side were delivering up to expectations.
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Kazakhstan nearly went in front shortly after the interval but Nusserbayey thumped a sitter over the bar. England took the lead in the 52nd Minute. Wright-Phillips came on at half time, and seemed to make a difference, with darting runs down the left flank. One such run produced a corner, which found the reliable Captain, Rio Ferdinand who forcefully headed home, to relieve the England squad.
England doubled their score in the 65th minute when Kuchma, harassed by Rooney, headed the ball past his own keeper. So, it was still all to play for until Rooney settled it in the 77th minute, when he smartly put away a smart cross from Brown.
The England fans were now a lot happier, and had managed to get back into cheering mode. In fact when David Beckham came on, in the 79th minute, he got the loudest cheer of the night. Quite rightly so, as it happened, because his pinpoint passes were as good as ever. Sure he hasn't quite the pace of days of old, but strikers need to be fed, and he's very good at that.
Beckham found Rooney in the 86th minute, and he made it two for himself and four for England. The Manchester United man had done enough and was immediately substituted for Defoe, who made it five for the home side in the final minute. It was a good boost for Fabio Capello who is doing well, and seems to be living up to his reputation, but it is still early days!
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England 5 - 1 Kazakhstan
soccer and football
England 5 - 1 Kazakhstan
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
Arsenal 4 - 0 FC Porto
Arsenal's Mixed Doubles!
Dutch dynamo Robin van Persie, swept back into form to pulverise Porto with not just one goal, but two. In fact it was the Dutch wingers first European goal for a year. Striker Emmanuel Adebayor also bagged two including a penalty, the first coming from a Van Persie corner. Arsenal completely outshone their opponents who have a dismal record when playing in England.
Arsenal had most of the early possession that set the standard for the whole game. Theo Walcott continuously dazzled the visitors who had no answer to his stunning speed. In fact, he could have been on the score sheet early on, but his tight angled shot was bundled away at the near post.
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Cesc Fabregas too was a constant threat and feeder of accurate passes to his teammates. It has to be said that early on Porto made some smart counter attacks. Rodriguez was unlucky not to score when his diving header hit the bar. Then Lisandro's shot was scrambled away by Cichy with Almunia beaten. If either had gone in, the shape of the game might have been changed, but they didn't and the Gunners continued to attack.
Arsenal went ahead after 31 minutes, when Fabregas fed the ball to Adebayor, who crossed to Van Persie to finish the smart move off with the first goal. The Dutchman then returned the favour when his accurate corner found Adebayor; who forcefully headed home goal number two. Soon after the break Van Persie made it three, and the home side were cruising to what was becoming an easy win.
By the time Adebayor scored from the spot after 71 minutes, Arsenal were all over their opponents. In fact they missed as many chances as they took, and the score line could have been doubled. It didn't matter because this was a fine showing to compensate for a lack lustre performance against Hull last weekend.
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Arsenal 4 - 0 FC Porto
soccer and football
Arsenal 4 - 0 FC Porto
Dutch dynamo Robin van Persie, swept back into form to pulverise Porto with not just one goal, but two. In fact it was the Dutch wingers first European goal for a year. Striker Emmanuel Adebayor also bagged two including a penalty, the first coming from a Van Persie corner. Arsenal completely outshone their opponents who have a dismal record when playing in England.
Arsenal had most of the early possession that set the standard for the whole game. Theo Walcott continuously dazzled the visitors who had no answer to his stunning speed. In fact, he could have been on the score sheet early on, but his tight angled shot was bundled away at the near post.
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Cesc Fabregas too was a constant threat and feeder of accurate passes to his teammates. It has to be said that early on Porto made some smart counter attacks. Rodriguez was unlucky not to score when his diving header hit the bar. Then Lisandro's shot was scrambled away by Cichy with Almunia beaten. If either had gone in, the shape of the game might have been changed, but they didn't and the Gunners continued to attack.
Arsenal went ahead after 31 minutes, when Fabregas fed the ball to Adebayor, who crossed to Van Persie to finish the smart move off with the first goal. The Dutchman then returned the favour when his accurate corner found Adebayor; who forcefully headed home goal number two. Soon after the break Van Persie made it three, and the home side were cruising to what was becoming an easy win.
By the time Adebayor scored from the spot after 71 minutes, Arsenal were all over their opponents. In fact they missed as many chances as they took, and the score line could have been doubled. It didn't matter because this was a fine showing to compensate for a lack lustre performance against Hull last weekend.
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Arsenal 4 - 0 FC Porto
soccer and football
Arsenal 4 - 0 FC Porto
Monday, September 22, 2008
Manchester City 6 - 0 Portsmouth
New Look City Hammer Pompey
As Harry Redknapp said after the game "We don't often get smashed in this manner." He was also bemoaning his sides worst ever defensive display.
Whatever Harry said, should not detract form a wonderful attacking display by Manchester City. On this showing they could be a threat to anybody, including the 'top four'.
The fireworks started with a goal from Jo after 13 minutes, followed by Dunne 20 minutes, Robinho 57 minutes, Wright-Phillips 68 minutes, Evans 78 minutes, and Gelson 83 minutes. Quite a breathless performance by anybody's standards, and more than enough to delight the home fans.
Mark Hughes rightly suggested that the score could have been even higher, and Pompey seemed to have no answer, as they were tantalized by Brazilian trio Robinho, Elano, and Jo. Dazzling as they were this was not just a Brazilian excursion, as the whole City team played their part in creating a miserable afternoon for their visitors.
The first goal from Jo, was the result of an inspired pass from Robinho. Somewhat appropriately, Richard Dunne bagged the second on his 29th birthday.
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After the break, Robinho got his own name on the score sheet, when he curved the ball past David James. Ten minutes later the industrious Wright-Phillips made it four, and another ten minutes later, Evans scored number five. Gelson crowned a great victory against their overwhelmed opponents after 83 minutes.
City's new billionaire owners, who were watching their first game, must be thinking that their money has been well spent. The club has cost them a lot of money, although not all that much by their standards, and it seems like the fans are in for a real treat.
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Manchester City 6 - 0 Portsmouth
soccer and football
Manchester City 6 - 0 Portsmouth
As Harry Redknapp said after the game "We don't often get smashed in this manner." He was also bemoaning his sides worst ever defensive display.
Whatever Harry said, should not detract form a wonderful attacking display by Manchester City. On this showing they could be a threat to anybody, including the 'top four'.
The fireworks started with a goal from Jo after 13 minutes, followed by Dunne 20 minutes, Robinho 57 minutes, Wright-Phillips 68 minutes, Evans 78 minutes, and Gelson 83 minutes. Quite a breathless performance by anybody's standards, and more than enough to delight the home fans.
Mark Hughes rightly suggested that the score could have been even higher, and Pompey seemed to have no answer, as they were tantalized by Brazilian trio Robinho, Elano, and Jo. Dazzling as they were this was not just a Brazilian excursion, as the whole City team played their part in creating a miserable afternoon for their visitors.
The first goal from Jo, was the result of an inspired pass from Robinho. Somewhat appropriately, Richard Dunne bagged the second on his 29th birthday.
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After the break, Robinho got his own name on the score sheet, when he curved the ball past David James. Ten minutes later the industrious Wright-Phillips made it four, and another ten minutes later, Evans scored number five. Gelson crowned a great victory against their overwhelmed opponents after 83 minutes.
City's new billionaire owners, who were watching their first game, must be thinking that their money has been well spent. The club has cost them a lot of money, although not all that much by their standards, and it seems like the fans are in for a real treat.
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Manchester City 6 - 0 Portsmouth
soccer and football
Manchester City 6 - 0 Portsmouth
Saturday, September 20, 2008
John Barnes Goes Back To His Roots
That great international winger, John Barnes formerly of Liverpool and England, has agreed a one year deal to manage Jamaica's national football team. Everybody, who remembers his playing days will wish him well.
Barnes will take over from Rene Simoes, who went the way of many football executives when he was sacked last week. Horace Burrell who presides over football in Jamaica, is obviously delighted to have Barnes on board, and has high expectations of the former international star.
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John Barnes was born in Kingston, and lived with his parents in Jamaica, until his serviceman father was posted to England. That was where he made a name for himself, at Liverpool and as a regular in the England team.
Along with other sporting greats, he has made an appearance in the very popular Strictly Come Dancing TV series. Although he didn't win he performed particularly well, demonstrating quite clearly that he remains as competitive as ever, at whatever opportunity presents itself. He could be just the tonic the Jamaicans require. They are currently last in their World Cup qualifying group with three games to play. Barnes could be just the man they need, and he will not be short of good wishes.
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John Barnes For Jamaica
soccer and football
John Barnes For Jamaica
Barnes will take over from Rene Simoes, who went the way of many football executives when he was sacked last week. Horace Burrell who presides over football in Jamaica, is obviously delighted to have Barnes on board, and has high expectations of the former international star.
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John Barnes was born in Kingston, and lived with his parents in Jamaica, until his serviceman father was posted to England. That was where he made a name for himself, at Liverpool and as a regular in the England team.
Along with other sporting greats, he has made an appearance in the very popular Strictly Come Dancing TV series. Although he didn't win he performed particularly well, demonstrating quite clearly that he remains as competitive as ever, at whatever opportunity presents itself. He could be just the tonic the Jamaicans require. They are currently last in their World Cup qualifying group with three games to play. Barnes could be just the man they need, and he will not be short of good wishes.
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John Barnes For Jamaica
soccer and football
John Barnes For Jamaica
Monday, September 15, 2008
Man City 1 - 3 Chelsea
Money, Money, Money, It's A Rich Man's Game
If Roman Abramovich is a 'has been', his football club Chelsea FC are certainly not. The owner is only a 'has been' in the sense that the new owners of Manchester City are worth considerably more money than he is, so he is no longer the richest owner in the Premier League. Of course the sums involved are enough to make your eyes water, but as they say that's football. There is no doubt that the Premier League has a particular fascination for some very rich men. Back to the game in hand.......
There has been a great deal of publicity associated with super star Robinho's transfer for £32.5 million. It is sometimes difficult for star players to justify themselves in their first appearance but the Brazilian lost no time in showing why he is so highly valued. His free kick, awarded when Carvalho fouled Jo, was exquisite and flew home past Petr Cech. OK it took something of a deflection off Jon Obi Mikel, but City fans wouldn't have been too bothered about that.
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City's ecstasy didn't last long because within three minutes Chelsea were level, when Carvalho easily beat Joe Hart. The visitors ceased the initiative with Malouda heading against the bar, and Hart saving from Anelka, who could have done better. Chelsea were looking good and becoming fluent although City had one or two good chances.
When Frank Lampard is 'on song' he is very good, or perhaps it was because his father was watching! Whatever, he showed a high level of control and skill to bag Chelsea's second goal after 53 minutes.
It was fitting that Anelka put the game beyond doubt when he scored in the 69th minute, whilst Drogba was being prepared for his reappearance. A head bandaged Joe Cole had set the ball up for the striker. Chelsea's fluent performance was marred when John Terry was handed a straight red card after 77 minutes. He was certainly guilty of a foul, but yellow, rather than red, might have been regarded by many as fair dues!
We are going to hear more of Robinho when he settles in, as this was only a taster. However, Chelsea are a polished team and City's new bosses will have to spend more, if their aim is to challenge the best of the Premiership, sometimes known as the top four!
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Manchester City 1 - 3 Chelsea
soccer and football
Manchester City 1 - 3 Chelsea
If Roman Abramovich is a 'has been', his football club Chelsea FC are certainly not. The owner is only a 'has been' in the sense that the new owners of Manchester City are worth considerably more money than he is, so he is no longer the richest owner in the Premier League. Of course the sums involved are enough to make your eyes water, but as they say that's football. There is no doubt that the Premier League has a particular fascination for some very rich men. Back to the game in hand.......
There has been a great deal of publicity associated with super star Robinho's transfer for £32.5 million. It is sometimes difficult for star players to justify themselves in their first appearance but the Brazilian lost no time in showing why he is so highly valued. His free kick, awarded when Carvalho fouled Jo, was exquisite and flew home past Petr Cech. OK it took something of a deflection off Jon Obi Mikel, but City fans wouldn't have been too bothered about that.
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City's ecstasy didn't last long because within three minutes Chelsea were level, when Carvalho easily beat Joe Hart. The visitors ceased the initiative with Malouda heading against the bar, and Hart saving from Anelka, who could have done better. Chelsea were looking good and becoming fluent although City had one or two good chances.
When Frank Lampard is 'on song' he is very good, or perhaps it was because his father was watching! Whatever, he showed a high level of control and skill to bag Chelsea's second goal after 53 minutes.
It was fitting that Anelka put the game beyond doubt when he scored in the 69th minute, whilst Drogba was being prepared for his reappearance. A head bandaged Joe Cole had set the ball up for the striker. Chelsea's fluent performance was marred when John Terry was handed a straight red card after 77 minutes. He was certainly guilty of a foul, but yellow, rather than red, might have been regarded by many as fair dues!
We are going to hear more of Robinho when he settles in, as this was only a taster. However, Chelsea are a polished team and City's new bosses will have to spend more, if their aim is to challenge the best of the Premiership, sometimes known as the top four!
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Manchester City 1 - 3 Chelsea
soccer and football
Manchester City 1 - 3 Chelsea
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Liverpool 2 - 1 Man Utd
A flying start for United, saw new guy Dimitar Berbatov smartly pull the ball back to Carlos Tevez, who side footed it home after only three minutes.
The writing seemed to be on the wall for Liverpool whose starting line-up was weakened by the absence of Gerrard and Torres who were both on the bench. United were almost at full strength, although they are undoubtedly missing 'best in the world' Ronaldo.
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The home side equalised, after 27 minutes with a strange sort of own goal, off Wes Brown. Obviously this sort of goal is never welcome but it wasn't Brown's fault. Goalkeeper, Van der Sar, palmed a ball away, but it rebounded, off Brown, back into his own net and levelled the score for the delighted home side.
Liverpool put on a really determined performance, and seemed to neutralize Berbatov, who despite early promise did not excel later on. He had a fairly frustrating time before his transfer was finally agreed, and was perhaps a little rusty.
If there is one thing that is for sure it is that Liverpool fans never let their side down, and they were in full cry for another goal, when Babel obliged after 77 minutes. Things might have been different when the ever-reliable Ryan Giggs almost beat Reina, who rose to the occasion and just managed to tip the ball over.
Vidic was sent off for a second yellow card, after 90 minutes to add to United's frustrations. However, Liverpool worked hard and deserved their win, which was achieved with a part time Gerrard, and without Torres.
Benitez will be well pleased with his side beating their northern neighbours, but it's early days and United have the firepower to get back on top before too long.
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Liverpool 2 - 1 Manchester United
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Liverpool 2 - 1 Manchester United
The writing seemed to be on the wall for Liverpool whose starting line-up was weakened by the absence of Gerrard and Torres who were both on the bench. United were almost at full strength, although they are undoubtedly missing 'best in the world' Ronaldo.
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The home side equalised, after 27 minutes with a strange sort of own goal, off Wes Brown. Obviously this sort of goal is never welcome but it wasn't Brown's fault. Goalkeeper, Van der Sar, palmed a ball away, but it rebounded, off Brown, back into his own net and levelled the score for the delighted home side.
Liverpool put on a really determined performance, and seemed to neutralize Berbatov, who despite early promise did not excel later on. He had a fairly frustrating time before his transfer was finally agreed, and was perhaps a little rusty.
If there is one thing that is for sure it is that Liverpool fans never let their side down, and they were in full cry for another goal, when Babel obliged after 77 minutes. Things might have been different when the ever-reliable Ryan Giggs almost beat Reina, who rose to the occasion and just managed to tip the ball over.
Vidic was sent off for a second yellow card, after 90 minutes to add to United's frustrations. However, Liverpool worked hard and deserved their win, which was achieved with a part time Gerrard, and without Torres.
Benitez will be well pleased with his side beating their northern neighbours, but it's early days and United have the firepower to get back on top before too long.
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Liverpool 2 - 1 Manchester United
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Liverpool 2 - 1 Manchester United
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Croatia 1 - 4 England
Walcott scores again, and Again, and AGAIN
With a magnificent return to form, England beat Croatia in what can best be described as a Fab, or Fabio, performance. It was a pity that so many England fans were left out of the excitement, because of limited television coverage, but that didn't overshadow a night to remember.
Theo Walcott put England ahead, with a first goal for his country, after 26 minutes. He fortuitously received a rebound off Croatia's Robert Kovac, and smartly whipped the ball past Pletikosa. About a minute later, it required all of the goalkeepers skill, to touch over another shot from the same player.
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After the break the home side were reduced to ten men, when Kovac led with his elbow whilst challenging Joe Cole. He received a red card and Cole was stretchered off with a bleeding head wound, after 55 minutes.
Shortly afterwards England went two goals up when Wayne Rooney set Theo Walcott up for his second. The Manchester United man is sometimes criticized for not scoring more goals, but his unselfish determination to feed better chances to his teammates, is frequently overlooked. However, four minutes later, after 63 minutes of play he was ideally situated to turn in goal number three for England.
England were rampant, and Croatia were on the run, although they did manage to pull a goal back, when Mandzukic beat James after 78 minutes. It was all too late to make much difference, and England restored their three goal advantage when - guess who - Walcott bagged a third, with Rooney again his superb provider.
England will be justly proud of their performance, against a side that had previously beaten them twice, when it mattered. It was a good team effort with Walcott, and perhaps Capello emerging as heroes. For the time being the Press gang will change their tune, for as long as it may continue.
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Croatia 1 - 4 England
soccer and football
Croatia 1 - 4 England
With a magnificent return to form, England beat Croatia in what can best be described as a Fab, or Fabio, performance. It was a pity that so many England fans were left out of the excitement, because of limited television coverage, but that didn't overshadow a night to remember.
Theo Walcott put England ahead, with a first goal for his country, after 26 minutes. He fortuitously received a rebound off Croatia's Robert Kovac, and smartly whipped the ball past Pletikosa. About a minute later, it required all of the goalkeepers skill, to touch over another shot from the same player.
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After the break the home side were reduced to ten men, when Kovac led with his elbow whilst challenging Joe Cole. He received a red card and Cole was stretchered off with a bleeding head wound, after 55 minutes.
Shortly afterwards England went two goals up when Wayne Rooney set Theo Walcott up for his second. The Manchester United man is sometimes criticized for not scoring more goals, but his unselfish determination to feed better chances to his teammates, is frequently overlooked. However, four minutes later, after 63 minutes of play he was ideally situated to turn in goal number three for England.
England were rampant, and Croatia were on the run, although they did manage to pull a goal back, when Mandzukic beat James after 78 minutes. It was all too late to make much difference, and England restored their three goal advantage when - guess who - Walcott bagged a third, with Rooney again his superb provider.
England will be justly proud of their performance, against a side that had previously beaten them twice, when it mattered. It was a good team effort with Walcott, and perhaps Capello emerging as heroes. For the time being the Press gang will change their tune, for as long as it may continue.
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Croatia 1 - 4 England
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Croatia 1 - 4 England
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Andorra 0 - 2 England
Capello's England Not Convincing
It seems that Andorra were not the minnows they were thought to be, or was it more a case that England were not the sharks? Whatever, the case may be England struggled in the first half and were unceremoniously booed off the pitch.
It should be remembered that Andorra are part timers and ranked 186th in the world. If England had lost, would they have been 187th? In the event that didn't happen and they were fortunate enough to have players of the calibre of Joe Cole on the bench. He came on, as substitute for Downing, after the interval and to Capello's relief changed the course of the game.
England started well enough and you would have to say that new boy Walcott was unlucky to have clipped a shot narrowly over the bar. The Arsenal youngster has plenty of speed, and this experience will help in developing his international potential. However, Andorra had come to defend and did their job well for the first half.
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Enter Joe Cole at half time. The Chelsea player had been left out of recent Capello line-ups, but was not long in making up for lost time. He did not hesitate when he received the ball from Lescott, after a Lampard free kick. He shot England to the front after 49 minutes, to the relief of all concerned, and England began to look like match winners. John Terry was unlucky when he drove a good shot into the side netting.
Shortly afterwards Joe Cole again advertised his credentials, when he received a clever ball from Wayne Rooney and put England two up after 55 minutes. England were firmly in charge and showing the class that was somewhat absent in the first half. Glen Johnson had a goal disallowed because Cole was correctly ruled offside, and Terry again went close.
David Beckham got yet another cap when he came on in the 79th minute but it was John Terry who went the closest to increasing the England score. After a poor start England, as expected, won the game comfortably. They will be more out of their comfort zone when they come up against Croatia on Wednesday. It will be a must win encounter for Capello if he is to stem a flood of criticism from the Press gang!
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Andorra 0 - 2 England Capello's England Not Convincing
soccer and football
Andorra 0 - 2 England Capello's England Not Convincing
It seems that Andorra were not the minnows they were thought to be, or was it more a case that England were not the sharks? Whatever, the case may be England struggled in the first half and were unceremoniously booed off the pitch.
It should be remembered that Andorra are part timers and ranked 186th in the world. If England had lost, would they have been 187th? In the event that didn't happen and they were fortunate enough to have players of the calibre of Joe Cole on the bench. He came on, as substitute for Downing, after the interval and to Capello's relief changed the course of the game.
England started well enough and you would have to say that new boy Walcott was unlucky to have clipped a shot narrowly over the bar. The Arsenal youngster has plenty of speed, and this experience will help in developing his international potential. However, Andorra had come to defend and did their job well for the first half.
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Enter Joe Cole at half time. The Chelsea player had been left out of recent Capello line-ups, but was not long in making up for lost time. He did not hesitate when he received the ball from Lescott, after a Lampard free kick. He shot England to the front after 49 minutes, to the relief of all concerned, and England began to look like match winners. John Terry was unlucky when he drove a good shot into the side netting.
Shortly afterwards Joe Cole again advertised his credentials, when he received a clever ball from Wayne Rooney and put England two up after 55 minutes. England were firmly in charge and showing the class that was somewhat absent in the first half. Glen Johnson had a goal disallowed because Cole was correctly ruled offside, and Terry again went close.
David Beckham got yet another cap when he came on in the 79th minute but it was John Terry who went the closest to increasing the England score. After a poor start England, as expected, won the game comfortably. They will be more out of their comfort zone when they come up against Croatia on Wednesday. It will be a must win encounter for Capello if he is to stem a flood of criticism from the Press gang!
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Andorra 0 - 2 England Capello's England Not Convincing
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Andorra 0 - 2 England Capello's England Not Convincing
Friday, September 05, 2008
Keegan Bows Out - King Kev Dethroned
Well, all the talk has finally come to a head, and 57-year-old Kevin Keegan has parted company with Newcastle United after only eight months. The writing was on the wall, but the biggest blow is to the fans many of whom would have preferred him to stay.
Where Newcastle go from here is not clear but names are already being associated with the vacant position. However, it will be a brave man who takes on the job, which is becoming something of a poison chalice. However, the money is good and there is enough of a challenge for anybody to tackle.
Keegan is reported to have said that he desperately tried to find a solution with the Directors, which in the end proved to be impossible. He believes that a football manager should be allowed to manage, particularly insofar as the players are concerned, and that is something that seems to have been increasingly denied to him.
Statements have been made by the Football Club, expressing regret at the manager's decision to go, and suggesting that they had tried to deal with the situation amicably. There are many fans who will not see it that way and blame others for what appears to be a worsening situation at the club. But as they say, as one door closes.............
It is clear that Keegan believes that those who control the club left him with no alternative other than to leave. It may be little consolation that he is the second Premiership manager to pack his backs in a week, with Alan Curbishley having beaten him, by departing from West Ham.
It is surprising what can happen over the space of a very short time. Keegan only returned for his second spell at Newcastle in January. At the time it was hailed as something like the answer to a prayer. There have been a series of managerial departures in recent years, including, Kenny Dalglish, Ruud Gullit, Sir Bobby Robson, Graeme Souness, Glenn Roeder and Sam Allardyce. It's tough at the top, but as the fans know only too well, it's a dam sight tougher at the bottom!
Where Keegan will go from here is anybody's guess. He may retire into a quiet backwater, but although he has been dethroned, it is doubtful that we have heard the last of King Kev!
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Keegan Bows Out - King Kev Dethroned
soccer and football
Keegan Bows Out - King Kev Dethroned
Where Newcastle go from here is not clear but names are already being associated with the vacant position. However, it will be a brave man who takes on the job, which is becoming something of a poison chalice. However, the money is good and there is enough of a challenge for anybody to tackle.
Keegan is reported to have said that he desperately tried to find a solution with the Directors, which in the end proved to be impossible. He believes that a football manager should be allowed to manage, particularly insofar as the players are concerned, and that is something that seems to have been increasingly denied to him.
Statements have been made by the Football Club, expressing regret at the manager's decision to go, and suggesting that they had tried to deal with the situation amicably. There are many fans who will not see it that way and blame others for what appears to be a worsening situation at the club. But as they say, as one door closes.............
It is clear that Keegan believes that those who control the club left him with no alternative other than to leave. It may be little consolation that he is the second Premiership manager to pack his backs in a week, with Alan Curbishley having beaten him, by departing from West Ham.
It is surprising what can happen over the space of a very short time. Keegan only returned for his second spell at Newcastle in January. At the time it was hailed as something like the answer to a prayer. There have been a series of managerial departures in recent years, including, Kenny Dalglish, Ruud Gullit, Sir Bobby Robson, Graeme Souness, Glenn Roeder and Sam Allardyce. It's tough at the top, but as the fans know only too well, it's a dam sight tougher at the bottom!
Where Keegan will go from here is anybody's guess. He may retire into a quiet backwater, but although he has been dethroned, it is doubtful that we have heard the last of King Kev!
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Keegan Bows Out - King Kev Dethroned
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Keegan Bows Out - King Kev Dethroned
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Would it be WISE to sack KEEGAN?
Kevin Keegan Kwitting
What seems to be without doubt is that there's trouble at Mill, or more precisely at Newcastle United Football Club. Kevin Keegan is no Kwitter, probably because there is no such word. He is certainly a football icon, who decidedly has a mind of his own. Also, it seems that he is still idolized by the fans, who are mindful of previous glories before the days of Mike Ashley.
It seems an odd set up at Newcastle, but it has been reported that Keegan knew that Dennis Wise would be appointed Director of Football, before he accepted the job as manager. However, it appears that Wise may have been involved with player decisions that Keegan would have expected to be his, or at least to be fairly consulted about.
Of course there are vast sums paid to football managers, as well as to the players, and presumably people like Directors of football. It is reasonable to expect them all to earn their keep. However, as with any successful enterprise there must be harmony and trust, because a house that is divided against itself must surely fail. That seems to be at least part of the problem at Newcastle, where strange decisions are taken, including putting the whole team on the transfer market. Not the best way to make friends and influence people.
Mike Ashley is not everybody's cup of tea, but he is the man with the money, and like it or not that is what football is all about, particularly at Premiership level. Manchester City have just been sold to a Middle East organization, with resources far in excess of Mike Ashley's, and even Roman Abramovich. They have lost no time in acquiring the services of Brazilian striker Robinho, whose ambition is to be the best footballer in the world. Watch out Ronaldo, you have a rival, and so might your employers, Manchester United Football Club.
If Keegan were to be sacked it could cost Newcastle millions in compensation, but they have intimated that they have no intention of sacking him. What is Mike Ashley really looking for? He sits in the stands sporting a Newcastle football shirt, looking every inch a supporter, but would he sell out if a very cash rich Arab made an offer. There is only one thing that is certain, in what seems to be a muddled situation, and that is that the 'toon army' of loyal ardent supporters deserve nothing but the best.
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Would It Be WISE To Sack KEEGAN?
soccer and football
Would It Be WISE To Sack KEEGAN?
What seems to be without doubt is that there's trouble at Mill, or more precisely at Newcastle United Football Club. Kevin Keegan is no Kwitter, probably because there is no such word. He is certainly a football icon, who decidedly has a mind of his own. Also, it seems that he is still idolized by the fans, who are mindful of previous glories before the days of Mike Ashley.
It seems an odd set up at Newcastle, but it has been reported that Keegan knew that Dennis Wise would be appointed Director of Football, before he accepted the job as manager. However, it appears that Wise may have been involved with player decisions that Keegan would have expected to be his, or at least to be fairly consulted about.
Of course there are vast sums paid to football managers, as well as to the players, and presumably people like Directors of football. It is reasonable to expect them all to earn their keep. However, as with any successful enterprise there must be harmony and trust, because a house that is divided against itself must surely fail. That seems to be at least part of the problem at Newcastle, where strange decisions are taken, including putting the whole team on the transfer market. Not the best way to make friends and influence people.
Mike Ashley is not everybody's cup of tea, but he is the man with the money, and like it or not that is what football is all about, particularly at Premiership level. Manchester City have just been sold to a Middle East organization, with resources far in excess of Mike Ashley's, and even Roman Abramovich. They have lost no time in acquiring the services of Brazilian striker Robinho, whose ambition is to be the best footballer in the world. Watch out Ronaldo, you have a rival, and so might your employers, Manchester United Football Club.
If Keegan were to be sacked it could cost Newcastle millions in compensation, but they have intimated that they have no intention of sacking him. What is Mike Ashley really looking for? He sits in the stands sporting a Newcastle football shirt, looking every inch a supporter, but would he sell out if a very cash rich Arab made an offer. There is only one thing that is certain, in what seems to be a muddled situation, and that is that the 'toon army' of loyal ardent supporters deserve nothing but the best.
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Would It Be WISE To Sack KEEGAN?
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Would It Be WISE To Sack KEEGAN?
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Arsenal 3-0 Newcastle
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Back to form Arsenal outclassed Newcastle and drove their wealthy owner Mike Ashley to drink! BBC cameras were on Ashley as he downed a pint in a most professional manner, but unfortunately his side could match him with their ability on the field. One thing for sure, is that on this occasion the owner did not have much to celebrate, but nobody would blame him for drowning his sorrows.
On the other hand Arsene Wenger was understandably delighted with his sides performance, as was evident from the broad smile that accompanied each Arsenal goal. Man of the match, Robin van Persie bagged a brace, as the fluent London side made the Northerners look ordinary. The three - nil score line looks good on paper, but on this performance it could easily have been six - nil such was the superiority of The Gunners.
The writing was on the wall, after 14 minutes, when Robin van Persie thumped an unstoppable penalty passed Shay Given. It was Goalkeeper Given who was largely responsible for containing the Arsenal goal count to three. An inconsistent Michael Owen shot wide but after 40 minutes Van Persie was able to put his side two ahead, when he knocked in a neat back heel from Emmanuel Eboue.
After the break Nicky Butt was unlucky when a glancing header hit the bar. It was one of the few chances the visitors had to stop the rot before they were again on the rack. Adebayor and Nasri combined to get the ball to Denilson, who finished it off with a smart shot past Given, to make it three up for Arsenal after 59 minutes. Newcastle brought bad boy Joey Barton on to loud booing from the stands. However, there was nothing they could do to stem the tide and for them, this was not a day to remember. Not for the right reasons anyway.
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Arsenal 3 - 0 Newcastle
soccer and football
Arsenal 3 - 0 Newcastle
Back to form Arsenal outclassed Newcastle and drove their wealthy owner Mike Ashley to drink! BBC cameras were on Ashley as he downed a pint in a most professional manner, but unfortunately his side could match him with their ability on the field. One thing for sure, is that on this occasion the owner did not have much to celebrate, but nobody would blame him for drowning his sorrows.
On the other hand Arsene Wenger was understandably delighted with his sides performance, as was evident from the broad smile that accompanied each Arsenal goal. Man of the match, Robin van Persie bagged a brace, as the fluent London side made the Northerners look ordinary. The three - nil score line looks good on paper, but on this performance it could easily have been six - nil such was the superiority of The Gunners.
The writing was on the wall, after 14 minutes, when Robin van Persie thumped an unstoppable penalty passed Shay Given. It was Goalkeeper Given who was largely responsible for containing the Arsenal goal count to three. An inconsistent Michael Owen shot wide but after 40 minutes Van Persie was able to put his side two ahead, when he knocked in a neat back heel from Emmanuel Eboue.
After the break Nicky Butt was unlucky when a glancing header hit the bar. It was one of the few chances the visitors had to stop the rot before they were again on the rack. Adebayor and Nasri combined to get the ball to Denilson, who finished it off with a smart shot past Given, to make it three up for Arsenal after 59 minutes. Newcastle brought bad boy Joey Barton on to loud booing from the stands. However, there was nothing they could do to stem the tide and for them, this was not a day to remember. Not for the right reasons anyway.
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Arsenal 3 - 0 Newcastle
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Arsenal 3 - 0 Newcastle
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Liverpool 2 - 1 Middlesbrough
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Gerrard to the Rescue
Not for the first time it was Steven Gerrard who came to the rescue and secured the points for Liverpool. It was very late, in the extra time of full time, when he powered the ball into the net in his own inimitable way. You could say that Liverpool were lucky to win, but the truth is that they are lucky to have a player as dedicated as Gerrard, who would never surrender before the final whistle.
Gareth Southgate will rightly believe that this was one game that his side could have, and should have won. They had gone ahead after 70 minutes and were still in front with about five minutes remaining to be played. Boro' striker Mido, seemed as though he might have done enough, when he came off the bench to drive the ball home from about 30 yards. However, most of the drama was still to come and started in the 86th minute as Jamie Carragher equalized, when he drove the ball in off Pogatetz. Time was running out when Gerrard finished the visitors off to the obvious relief of under the pressure manage, Benitez.
Until the end it had seemed that the visitors might log up their first victory at Anfield for 23 years. Indeed Liverpool seemed not to be quite themselves in the first half. Robbie Keane is having something of a slow start and mis-hit a good chance. At the other end Reina had to be up to the mark to keep out a good volley from Andrew Taylor.
Things continued pretty much the same after the break, with Boro' seemingly holding their own. In fact when Mido scored they had every chance of securing maximum points. Whether they suffered a lack of concentration or what is hard to know, but Carraghers opportunistic goal was perhaps a little lucky. The ball flew in off defender Popagetz and suddenly Liverpool were level, and beginning to look dangerous.
At the end it was left to Gerrard to have the final say. As usual he rose to the challenge and slammed the ball home to bring the game to a dramatic climax, in the dying seconds.
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soccer and football Liverpool 2 - 1 Middlesbrough
soccer and football
soccer and football Liverpool 2 - 1 Middlesbrough
Gerrard to the Rescue
Not for the first time it was Steven Gerrard who came to the rescue and secured the points for Liverpool. It was very late, in the extra time of full time, when he powered the ball into the net in his own inimitable way. You could say that Liverpool were lucky to win, but the truth is that they are lucky to have a player as dedicated as Gerrard, who would never surrender before the final whistle.
Gareth Southgate will rightly believe that this was one game that his side could have, and should have won. They had gone ahead after 70 minutes and were still in front with about five minutes remaining to be played. Boro' striker Mido, seemed as though he might have done enough, when he came off the bench to drive the ball home from about 30 yards. However, most of the drama was still to come and started in the 86th minute as Jamie Carragher equalized, when he drove the ball in off Pogatetz. Time was running out when Gerrard finished the visitors off to the obvious relief of under the pressure manage, Benitez.
Until the end it had seemed that the visitors might log up their first victory at Anfield for 23 years. Indeed Liverpool seemed not to be quite themselves in the first half. Robbie Keane is having something of a slow start and mis-hit a good chance. At the other end Reina had to be up to the mark to keep out a good volley from Andrew Taylor.
Things continued pretty much the same after the break, with Boro' seemingly holding their own. In fact when Mido scored they had every chance of securing maximum points. Whether they suffered a lack of concentration or what is hard to know, but Carraghers opportunistic goal was perhaps a little lucky. The ball flew in off defender Popagetz and suddenly Liverpool were level, and beginning to look dangerous.
At the end it was left to Gerrard to have the final say. As usual he rose to the challenge and slammed the ball home to bring the game to a dramatic climax, in the dying seconds.
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soccer and football Liverpool 2 - 1 Middlesbrough
soccer and football
soccer and football Liverpool 2 - 1 Middlesbrough
Fulham 1 - 0 Arsenal
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Arsenal Run Out Of Ammo'
A disappointing Arsenal were outgunned by this determined Fulham side, who took their revenge for being beaten on the opening day by new boys Hull City.
In a well considered move Bullard crossed the ball to Hangeland who was able to fire the ball home after about 21 minutes. At the end it proved to be the only goal of the match, giving the home side a well deserved victory, over a somewhat subdued Arsenal.
Soon after Fulham went ahead Adebayor had the opportunity to equalize but a fine header was denied by the post. New signing Zamora wasn't far off putting Fulham further in front when he drove a good ball from Ki-Hyeon over the bar.
Arsene Wenger obviously realized that his side were not playing up to standard, and substituted Theo Walcott with Nicholas Bendtner with 65 minutes gone. However, the visitors were not inspired and it seemed that they had left their shooting boots at home. That may have well been the case as you would have to say that the injured Fabregas was sorely missed.
Arsenal could have salvaged a point in the closing minutes, but Adebayors shot was readily saved by goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer.
This was a good win for Fulham but Arsenal will need to pull their socks up if they are to guarantee their 'top four' standing.
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soccer and football Fulham 1 - 0 Arsenal
soccer and football
soccer and football Fulham 1 - 0 Arsenal
Arsenal Run Out Of Ammo'
A disappointing Arsenal were outgunned by this determined Fulham side, who took their revenge for being beaten on the opening day by new boys Hull City.
In a well considered move Bullard crossed the ball to Hangeland who was able to fire the ball home after about 21 minutes. At the end it proved to be the only goal of the match, giving the home side a well deserved victory, over a somewhat subdued Arsenal.
Soon after Fulham went ahead Adebayor had the opportunity to equalize but a fine header was denied by the post. New signing Zamora wasn't far off putting Fulham further in front when he drove a good ball from Ki-Hyeon over the bar.
Arsene Wenger obviously realized that his side were not playing up to standard, and substituted Theo Walcott with Nicholas Bendtner with 65 minutes gone. However, the visitors were not inspired and it seemed that they had left their shooting boots at home. That may have well been the case as you would have to say that the injured Fabregas was sorely missed.
Arsenal could have salvaged a point in the closing minutes, but Adebayors shot was readily saved by goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer.
This was a good win for Fulham but Arsenal will need to pull their socks up if they are to guarantee their 'top four' standing.
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soccer and football Fulham 1 - 0 Arsenal
soccer and football
soccer and football Fulham 1 - 0 Arsenal
Monday, August 18, 2008
Manchester United 1 - 1 Newcastle United
United Miss Portuguese Wonder Boy
Something seemed to be missing from Manchester United's opening game, and guess what he was sitting in the stands. By anybody's reckoning United are an outstanding team but they are even more so when Cristiano Ronaldo is available to help. Unfortunately the Portuguese genius is injured, and unable to figure in the line up at this time, and you would have to say it showed!
Surprisingly Newcastle took the lead after 22 minutes when Martins nodded home a good header. It was surprising not because the visitors didn't deserve it, but because their record at Old Trafford hasn't been that good. On the other hand neither has anybody else's, but the time to catch United out is at the beginning of the season, as they are somewhat slow starters. The lead was short lived because two minutes later Darren Fletcher equalized from an accurate Ryan Giggs cross.
If this was a slow start for United it was a great confidence builder for Kevin Keegan's men, and it has to be said that they looked pretty smart. Keegan, himself, was obviously delighted to share the points at Old Trafford. Much of the credit must go to Newcastle's often brilliant goalkeeper, Shay Given. He was in tip top form including a dynamic double save, first from Rooney, and then from Paul Scholes following up at close range. Magic stuff, and a pleasure to watch.
After the break Martins continued to be a threat and Van der Sar had to be on his toes to keep him out. At the end you would have to say that a draw was a fair outcome. It was probably less than satisfactory for Sir Alex Ferguson, but great for the Newcastle manager, who has started the season well with something to build on.
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soccer and football Manchester United 1 - 1 Newcastle
soccer and football
soccer and football Manchester United 1 - 1 Newcastle
Something seemed to be missing from Manchester United's opening game, and guess what he was sitting in the stands. By anybody's reckoning United are an outstanding team but they are even more so when Cristiano Ronaldo is available to help. Unfortunately the Portuguese genius is injured, and unable to figure in the line up at this time, and you would have to say it showed!
Surprisingly Newcastle took the lead after 22 minutes when Martins nodded home a good header. It was surprising not because the visitors didn't deserve it, but because their record at Old Trafford hasn't been that good. On the other hand neither has anybody else's, but the time to catch United out is at the beginning of the season, as they are somewhat slow starters. The lead was short lived because two minutes later Darren Fletcher equalized from an accurate Ryan Giggs cross.
If this was a slow start for United it was a great confidence builder for Kevin Keegan's men, and it has to be said that they looked pretty smart. Keegan, himself, was obviously delighted to share the points at Old Trafford. Much of the credit must go to Newcastle's often brilliant goalkeeper, Shay Given. He was in tip top form including a dynamic double save, first from Rooney, and then from Paul Scholes following up at close range. Magic stuff, and a pleasure to watch.
After the break Martins continued to be a threat and Van der Sar had to be on his toes to keep him out. At the end you would have to say that a draw was a fair outcome. It was probably less than satisfactory for Sir Alex Ferguson, but great for the Newcastle manager, who has started the season well with something to build on.
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soccer and football Manchester United 1 - 1 Newcastle
soccer and football
soccer and football Manchester United 1 - 1 Newcastle
Chelsea 4 - 0 Portsmouth
Chelsea Trounce Portsmouth
This was just the start new Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari wanted, and would be almost expected by someone of his stature. He does not hold back his feelings, and showed his delight through his animated gestures, when Joe Cole scored the first goal, after 12 minutes, from an accurate Michael Ballack pass.
Chelsea's second goal came in the 26th minute from a forceful Nicolas Anelka header, and the writing was on the wall for a disconsolate Portsmouth. The visitors were weak in defence, with little happening up front as the home side emphasized their superiority.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has insisted that his side produce entertaining football, and under the new manager they seem more than willing to oblige. They went three up when Frank Lampard powered home a penalty after Distin had handled just before half time.
In all fairness the Portsmouth opposition didn't amount to very much. It was a complete contrast to the side that progressed so well last season, and even showed the big boys a thing or two. This time round, new-boy Crouch hardly got a look in, and it remains to be seen how well he partners with Defoe when they meet less formidable opposition.
As if three goals to nil wasn't enough, Deco made it four for Chelsea with a superb swerving shot, in the dying minutes. It gave the out of form James no chance whatsoever, and flew home like a rifle shot.
With seemingly unlimited funds at their disposal, you would expect Chelsea to be very good to excellent. On this performance they fully lived up to such expectations, and their home record is virtually unchallenged. The battle for the Premiership title between the North and South divide has begun, and looks set to provide a football feast that will be hard to emulate anywhere in the world!
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soccer and football Chelsea 4 - 0 Portsmouth
soccer and football
soccer and football Chelsea 4 - 0 Portsmouth
This was just the start new Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari wanted, and would be almost expected by someone of his stature. He does not hold back his feelings, and showed his delight through his animated gestures, when Joe Cole scored the first goal, after 12 minutes, from an accurate Michael Ballack pass.
Chelsea's second goal came in the 26th minute from a forceful Nicolas Anelka header, and the writing was on the wall for a disconsolate Portsmouth. The visitors were weak in defence, with little happening up front as the home side emphasized their superiority.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has insisted that his side produce entertaining football, and under the new manager they seem more than willing to oblige. They went three up when Frank Lampard powered home a penalty after Distin had handled just before half time.
In all fairness the Portsmouth opposition didn't amount to very much. It was a complete contrast to the side that progressed so well last season, and even showed the big boys a thing or two. This time round, new-boy Crouch hardly got a look in, and it remains to be seen how well he partners with Defoe when they meet less formidable opposition.
As if three goals to nil wasn't enough, Deco made it four for Chelsea with a superb swerving shot, in the dying minutes. It gave the out of form James no chance whatsoever, and flew home like a rifle shot.
With seemingly unlimited funds at their disposal, you would expect Chelsea to be very good to excellent. On this performance they fully lived up to such expectations, and their home record is virtually unchallenged. The battle for the Premiership title between the North and South divide has begun, and looks set to provide a football feast that will be hard to emulate anywhere in the world!
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soccer and football Chelsea 4 - 0 Portsmouth
soccer and football
soccer and football Chelsea 4 - 0 Portsmouth
Monday, June 30, 2008
EURO 2008 - GERMANYSPAIN!
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Germany 0 - 1 Spain
The pain was all Germany's as they succumbed to the superior opposition of Spain.
The score line did not accurately reflect the difference between the two sides. Spain had most of the possession, and that combined with their ball skills made Germany look almost sluggish at times. They simply could not hold onto the ball long enough to do anything useful, and there were few, other than captain Michael Ballack, who came up to the expectations of a German National Football Team.
Of course it is easy to criticize, and you would have to commend Germany for even reaching the final, because there were 14 other sides that didn't. The Germans have a fantastic record in international football competitions, but this was not their finest hour (and a half)! They started off well enough, and for the first fifteen minutes or so had Spain on the back foot. However, Torres pounced in the 33rd minute to score a wonderful goal and from then on it was all Spain.
Torres, of Spain and Liverpool, showed speed and tenacity to beat German defender Phillip Lahm and shoot the ball past Lehmann. In all fairness the German goalkeeper was one of their better players, without whom Spain's superiority would undoubtedly have been reflected in more goals.
Ballack was supposedly not fully fit, and a doubtful starter, but he played a captain's role in his sides performance. However, one man could not be expected to deter the Spanish armada. In any event he was probably less fit after a clash of heads with Marcus Senna. Brave and bloodied he carried on, but to no avail.
Torres's was the only goal of the match, but all in all it was fine team effort that won the day for Spain. They were magnificent throughout Euro 2008 and an absolute joy to watch. The name of the game is entertainment and that is just what the Spanish side provided to billions of onlookers throughout the world. It is strange to know that this was the first time they had won the tournament for 44 years. But they are a young side who deserved their triumph, and the odds will be very short on a repeat performance before too long.
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Euro 2008 Germany Versus Spain
soccer and football
Euro 2008 Germany Versus Spain
Germany 0 - 1 Spain
The pain was all Germany's as they succumbed to the superior opposition of Spain.
The score line did not accurately reflect the difference between the two sides. Spain had most of the possession, and that combined with their ball skills made Germany look almost sluggish at times. They simply could not hold onto the ball long enough to do anything useful, and there were few, other than captain Michael Ballack, who came up to the expectations of a German National Football Team.
Of course it is easy to criticize, and you would have to commend Germany for even reaching the final, because there were 14 other sides that didn't. The Germans have a fantastic record in international football competitions, but this was not their finest hour (and a half)! They started off well enough, and for the first fifteen minutes or so had Spain on the back foot. However, Torres pounced in the 33rd minute to score a wonderful goal and from then on it was all Spain.
Torres, of Spain and Liverpool, showed speed and tenacity to beat German defender Phillip Lahm and shoot the ball past Lehmann. In all fairness the German goalkeeper was one of their better players, without whom Spain's superiority would undoubtedly have been reflected in more goals.
Ballack was supposedly not fully fit, and a doubtful starter, but he played a captain's role in his sides performance. However, one man could not be expected to deter the Spanish armada. In any event he was probably less fit after a clash of heads with Marcus Senna. Brave and bloodied he carried on, but to no avail.
Torres's was the only goal of the match, but all in all it was fine team effort that won the day for Spain. They were magnificent throughout Euro 2008 and an absolute joy to watch. The name of the game is entertainment and that is just what the Spanish side provided to billions of onlookers throughout the world. It is strange to know that this was the first time they had won the tournament for 44 years. But they are a young side who deserved their triumph, and the odds will be very short on a repeat performance before too long.
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Euro 2008 Germany Versus Spain
soccer and football
Euro 2008 Germany Versus Spain
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Euro 2008 - An International Football Feast
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Euro 2008
It has been an amazing week for international football, as Euro 2008 burst into life and got well and truly under way.
There have been some wonderful football matches, and stunning solo performances from some of the best footballers in the world.
At this stage of the proceedings it is difficult to predict who is going to emerge as the outright winner of Euro 2008. 'It's still all to play for', as they say, but in the meantime the football feast continues.
Countless thousands of fans are lucky enough to be attending personally, to watch their favourites perform. The worldwide audience from TV and other media coverage is probably a billion or more. That is the measure of just how significant the spectacle of international football has become. You are welcome to keep up with the latest headlines here.
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Euro 2008 A Football Feast
soccer and football
Euro 2008 A Football Feast
Euro 2008
It has been an amazing week for international football, as Euro 2008 burst into life and got well and truly under way.
There have been some wonderful football matches, and stunning solo performances from some of the best footballers in the world.
At this stage of the proceedings it is difficult to predict who is going to emerge as the outright winner of Euro 2008. 'It's still all to play for', as they say, but in the meantime the football feast continues.
Countless thousands of fans are lucky enough to be attending personally, to watch their favourites perform. The worldwide audience from TV and other media coverage is probably a billion or more. That is the measure of just how significant the spectacle of international football has become. You are welcome to keep up with the latest headlines here.
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Euro 2008 A Football Feast
soccer and football
Euro 2008 A Football Feast
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Champions League Final - Manchester United 1 - 1 Chelsea
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A Night To Remember But Chelsea Pay The Penalty!
This was a great night to remember and a triumph for European and British football. At the end it was cruelly decided on penalties, with John Terry missing and Van der Sar saving from Nicolas Anelka, Manchester United were triumphant. It could so easily have gone the other way, because the irrepressible Cristiano Ronaldo was the first to fail to score in the shoot out, but he was saved from total humiliation when John Terry slipped and hit a post.
The game was finely balanced until the penalty shoot out, with United dominating the first half, and Chelsea coming back strongly in the second. In fact it was a game that had everything. Superb skill, high drama, and inevitably Lady Luck, who always shows up, sometimes welcome - other times not!
After a relatively quiet start the game sprang to life after about 20 minutes, when Paul Scholes and Claude Makelele were involved in aerial combat. Whilst neither got shot down, they both received yellow cards with Scholes coming off the worst, with a troublesome bloody nose.
Ronaldo seemed to overwhelm Michael Essien, and was rewarded when he soared above the Chelsea defenders to score from Wes Brown's accurate delivery, after 26 minutes. The goal was nearly cancelled out minutes later, when Rio Ferdinand all but scored for the opposition, but Van der Sar managed to claw the ball away. United counter attacked, and were only thwarted by the brilliance of Petr Cech, thought by many to be the best goalkeeper in the world. He made a great one handed save from Tevez, who is usually deadly at putting such chances away. It was end-to-end stuff and the game was becoming pulsatingly exciting. Shortly afterwards Tevez missed another difficult chance from a fine Rooney pass.
It seemed that dominant United would retire for the interval a goal up, with all guns blazing. However, Chelsea were opportunistically fortunate in the 45th minute. Essien's shot was not particularly dangerous, but Lady Luck was kind and responsible for two deflections, that resulted in the ball becoming available for an alert Lampard, who slotted it home. It was an emotional moment as Frank looked to the heavens, seemingly to dedicate the goal to his mother who died recently.
The pendulum had swung and Chelsea came out to dominate the second half. United were only saved by the woodwork as Lady Luck seemed to change sides. Essien had learned how to deal with Ronaldo, and was confidently making his presence felt. Drogba curled a shot against the post and it was United who were called upon to defend. Giggs replaced a tired looking Scholes who had made a sound contribution.
After 90 minutes the game was still drawn and requiring extra time, and Lampard was soon threatening again as a good shot hit the bar. Then when Giggs seemed certain to score, John Terry headed off the line. Rooney was not most pleased when he was replaced by Nani after 101 minutes. Just before the end of extra time there was something of a fracas, and Drogba foolishly slapped Vidic in the face, leaving the referee no alternative but to send him off. This was high drama, with so much at stake, but with more to come in the penalty shoot out.
Tevez and Carrick for United, and Ballack and Belletti for Chelsea all scored from the spot. United's forty two goal hero, Ronaldo was next, but was guilty of a cheeky bit of showboating, and his shot was saved by the magnificent Petr Cech. Lampard and Ashley Cole, and then Hargreaves and Nani for United, all scored, leaving Chelsea on the brink of victory. All John Terry needed to do was to secure his spot kick and Chelsea had won. But, his nightmare slip threw it all away and the game was level again. After Anderson and Giggs, and Kalou for Chelsea had scored, Van der Sar saved from Anelka to win a remarkable match for United.
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Champions League Final - Manchester United Vs Chelsea
soccer and football
Champions League Final - Manchester United Vs Chelsea
A Night To Remember But Chelsea Pay The Penalty!
This was a great night to remember and a triumph for European and British football. At the end it was cruelly decided on penalties, with John Terry missing and Van der Sar saving from Nicolas Anelka, Manchester United were triumphant. It could so easily have gone the other way, because the irrepressible Cristiano Ronaldo was the first to fail to score in the shoot out, but he was saved from total humiliation when John Terry slipped and hit a post.
The game was finely balanced until the penalty shoot out, with United dominating the first half, and Chelsea coming back strongly in the second. In fact it was a game that had everything. Superb skill, high drama, and inevitably Lady Luck, who always shows up, sometimes welcome - other times not!
After a relatively quiet start the game sprang to life after about 20 minutes, when Paul Scholes and Claude Makelele were involved in aerial combat. Whilst neither got shot down, they both received yellow cards with Scholes coming off the worst, with a troublesome bloody nose.
Ronaldo seemed to overwhelm Michael Essien, and was rewarded when he soared above the Chelsea defenders to score from Wes Brown's accurate delivery, after 26 minutes. The goal was nearly cancelled out minutes later, when Rio Ferdinand all but scored for the opposition, but Van der Sar managed to claw the ball away. United counter attacked, and were only thwarted by the brilliance of Petr Cech, thought by many to be the best goalkeeper in the world. He made a great one handed save from Tevez, who is usually deadly at putting such chances away. It was end-to-end stuff and the game was becoming pulsatingly exciting. Shortly afterwards Tevez missed another difficult chance from a fine Rooney pass.
It seemed that dominant United would retire for the interval a goal up, with all guns blazing. However, Chelsea were opportunistically fortunate in the 45th minute. Essien's shot was not particularly dangerous, but Lady Luck was kind and responsible for two deflections, that resulted in the ball becoming available for an alert Lampard, who slotted it home. It was an emotional moment as Frank looked to the heavens, seemingly to dedicate the goal to his mother who died recently.
The pendulum had swung and Chelsea came out to dominate the second half. United were only saved by the woodwork as Lady Luck seemed to change sides. Essien had learned how to deal with Ronaldo, and was confidently making his presence felt. Drogba curled a shot against the post and it was United who were called upon to defend. Giggs replaced a tired looking Scholes who had made a sound contribution.
After 90 minutes the game was still drawn and requiring extra time, and Lampard was soon threatening again as a good shot hit the bar. Then when Giggs seemed certain to score, John Terry headed off the line. Rooney was not most pleased when he was replaced by Nani after 101 minutes. Just before the end of extra time there was something of a fracas, and Drogba foolishly slapped Vidic in the face, leaving the referee no alternative but to send him off. This was high drama, with so much at stake, but with more to come in the penalty shoot out.
Tevez and Carrick for United, and Ballack and Belletti for Chelsea all scored from the spot. United's forty two goal hero, Ronaldo was next, but was guilty of a cheeky bit of showboating, and his shot was saved by the magnificent Petr Cech. Lampard and Ashley Cole, and then Hargreaves and Nani for United, all scored, leaving Chelsea on the brink of victory. All John Terry needed to do was to secure his spot kick and Chelsea had won. But, his nightmare slip threw it all away and the game was level again. After Anderson and Giggs, and Kalou for Chelsea had scored, Van der Sar saved from Anelka to win a remarkable match for United.
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Champions League Final - Manchester United Vs Chelsea
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Champions League Final - Manchester United Vs Chelsea
Sunday, May 18, 2008
FA Cup Final - Portsmouth 1 - 0 Cardiff
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Harry Catches Cardiff Knapping!
Although Cardiff started off well enough, with plenty of possession, they were fatally uncertain in front of goal, and failed to score.
There was a lot at stake, which contributed to the game being essentially, a low-key affair. Portsmouth were able to demonstrate the difference between a Premiership team, and their Championship rivals.
Man of the match, Kanu, as usual was a joy to behold, although after a stunning piece of individual skill, he hit the post when a goal seemed certain. However, about eight minutes before half time, he took advantage of a fumble by Cardiff's keeper, and in the blink of an eye the ball was in the net. It was the difference between a very ordinary goalkeeper and an extraordinary attacker!
Cardiff were serious underdogs and after a brisk start, that's how the game panned out. Glen Loovens had a goal disallowed in first time injury time. It was a pity, because he smartly lofted the ball over David James and into the net. Unfortunately he had controlled the ball with his arm, and the referee's decision was sound.
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbank seemed only a shadow of his former self, and was not of the class of some of the older Portsmouth players. The only surprise, when he was replaced after 70 minutes, was that it had not been sooner. Parry had a good chance to level the score, but indecisively crossed to McNaughton, who was left with too much to do.
If victory was awarded to ardent fans, both sides would have shared the honours. However, the best side won, and will be represented in Europe next year. Portsmouth have done well since facing relegation two seasons ago. Harry Redknapp is a capable and respected leader, who has crafted a fine team. They were threatening the 'big boys' earlier on, and even after a relatively poor recent run, they still managed to finish eighth in the Premiership, the best football league in the world!
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FA Cup Final Portsmouth Vs Cardiff
soccer and football
FA Cup Final Portsmouth Vs Cardiff
Harry Catches Cardiff Knapping!
Although Cardiff started off well enough, with plenty of possession, they were fatally uncertain in front of goal, and failed to score.
There was a lot at stake, which contributed to the game being essentially, a low-key affair. Portsmouth were able to demonstrate the difference between a Premiership team, and their Championship rivals.
Man of the match, Kanu, as usual was a joy to behold, although after a stunning piece of individual skill, he hit the post when a goal seemed certain. However, about eight minutes before half time, he took advantage of a fumble by Cardiff's keeper, and in the blink of an eye the ball was in the net. It was the difference between a very ordinary goalkeeper and an extraordinary attacker!
Cardiff were serious underdogs and after a brisk start, that's how the game panned out. Glen Loovens had a goal disallowed in first time injury time. It was a pity, because he smartly lofted the ball over David James and into the net. Unfortunately he had controlled the ball with his arm, and the referee's decision was sound.
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbank seemed only a shadow of his former self, and was not of the class of some of the older Portsmouth players. The only surprise, when he was replaced after 70 minutes, was that it had not been sooner. Parry had a good chance to level the score, but indecisively crossed to McNaughton, who was left with too much to do.
If victory was awarded to ardent fans, both sides would have shared the honours. However, the best side won, and will be represented in Europe next year. Portsmouth have done well since facing relegation two seasons ago. Harry Redknapp is a capable and respected leader, who has crafted a fine team. They were threatening the 'big boys' earlier on, and even after a relatively poor recent run, they still managed to finish eighth in the Premiership, the best football league in the world!
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FA Cup Final Portsmouth Vs Cardiff
soccer and football
FA Cup Final Portsmouth Vs Cardiff
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Chelsea Keep The Pressure On Manchester United
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Newcastle 0 - 2 Chelsea
After Manchester United's easy win over West Ham, Chelsea needed to beat Newcastle to stay in the race for the Premiership title. They achieved their objective, and if they can do the same in their final match against Bolton, and rely on Wigan to win or draw against United, the title is theirs! It's a big 'If' though because if they both win, lose, or draw, United will take the honours with their vastly superior goal average.
As far as this match was concerned, Michael Owen had two good chances in the first half, to shoot Newcastle ahead, but on this occasion he misfired. Ballack had a good opportunity at the other end, but he too failed to score. So at the interval a goalless draw seemed a fair result.
Whatever Avram Grant said to his men during the interval seemed to work the oracle. Chelsea emerged, and started to look the better side. Michael Ballack seemed sure to score, but he was denied by a last ditch challenge by Steven Taylor. Afterwards, John Terry was narrowly denied when a fierce header hit the crossbar.
It only seemed a matter of time before Chelsea would take the lead. Sure enough, just on the hour, Ballack rose up to force home a mighty header. To their credit Newcastle did not roll over, but retaliated strongly and first Martins and then Michael Owen, put Cech under some pressure.
Ballack almost got another for the blues, and then in a fine move the same player teamed up with Essien and Lampard to push the ball through to Malouda, who scored after 82 minutes. It was just the tonic they needed, to win the game and keep the pressure on their major adversary.
The fact that it's so close between Chelsea and Manchester United ensures an exciting finale to the season. Still to come is the spectacle of the same two teams in gladiatorial combat, in the European Championship in Moscow. It seems somewhat ironic that England have not qualified for the forthcoming European National Championship! However, many of the players from the Premier League, who also represent their home countries, will be involved. So even the English fans will have something to savour, in what promises to be a football feast.
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Newcastle Vs Chelsea
soccer and football
Newcastle Vs Chelsea
Newcastle 0 - 2 Chelsea
After Manchester United's easy win over West Ham, Chelsea needed to beat Newcastle to stay in the race for the Premiership title. They achieved their objective, and if they can do the same in their final match against Bolton, and rely on Wigan to win or draw against United, the title is theirs! It's a big 'If' though because if they both win, lose, or draw, United will take the honours with their vastly superior goal average.
As far as this match was concerned, Michael Owen had two good chances in the first half, to shoot Newcastle ahead, but on this occasion he misfired. Ballack had a good opportunity at the other end, but he too failed to score. So at the interval a goalless draw seemed a fair result.
Whatever Avram Grant said to his men during the interval seemed to work the oracle. Chelsea emerged, and started to look the better side. Michael Ballack seemed sure to score, but he was denied by a last ditch challenge by Steven Taylor. Afterwards, John Terry was narrowly denied when a fierce header hit the crossbar.
It only seemed a matter of time before Chelsea would take the lead. Sure enough, just on the hour, Ballack rose up to force home a mighty header. To their credit Newcastle did not roll over, but retaliated strongly and first Martins and then Michael Owen, put Cech under some pressure.
Ballack almost got another for the blues, and then in a fine move the same player teamed up with Essien and Lampard to push the ball through to Malouda, who scored after 82 minutes. It was just the tonic they needed, to win the game and keep the pressure on their major adversary.
The fact that it's so close between Chelsea and Manchester United ensures an exciting finale to the season. Still to come is the spectacle of the same two teams in gladiatorial combat, in the European Championship in Moscow. It seems somewhat ironic that England have not qualified for the forthcoming European National Championship! However, many of the players from the Premier League, who also represent their home countries, will be involved. So even the English fans will have something to savour, in what promises to be a football feast.
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Newcastle Vs Chelsea
soccer and football
Newcastle Vs Chelsea
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Champions League Semi Final - Chelsea Vs Liverpool Match Report
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Chelsea 3 - 2 Liverpool (Agg 4 - 3)
Chelsea's hard earned win over Liverpool, means that they now meet Manchester United in the final, to be played in Moscow on the 17th May. Regardless of which side wins on the day, it will be a triumph for the English Premier League, who had three of the last four teams in the semi finals. Just to advertise the supremacy of the Premier League further, the top two teams, from where the winner will surely emerge, are Chelsea and Manchester United. The same teams that contest the European Championship.
After a one all draw in the first leg at Anfield, Chelsea, by courtesy of Riise's own goal were in the driving seat. However, it was never going to be a pushover, as Liverpool are nothing if they are not competitive, particularly in the European Champions League. As it happened, it was Chelsea who bagged the first goal, when Drogba shot the ball home in the 33rd minute. They deserved to move ahead, because they had most of the first half possession, and Drogba was constantly threatening.
Liverpool are a very good side, who have just fallen short of top notch in the Premiership, in recent years. They should never be underestimated, and Petr Cech needed to be up to scratch, to keep out Dirk Kuyt early in the second half. Chelsea had lost their first half fluency, and were fully exposed when Torres turned cleverly, to lash home an equaliser in the 64th minute. So when the full-time whistle blew the game was even, and requiring a period of extra time.
Chelsea went ahead from a penalty about 8 minutes into extra time, after Sami Hypia fouled Michael Ballack. Frank Lampard, making a brave reappearance after losing his mother, took the penalty brilliantly, sending the keeper the wrong way, to thump the ball into the opposite corner.
The mighty Drogba scored again after 105 minutes to seal Liverpool's fate, although Babel got one back for the visitors after 117 minutes. It was a frantic end to a hard fought game, with Chelsea emerging as victors, and with a fine chance of securing a significant trophy.
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Chelsea Vs Liverpool
soccer and football
Chelsea Vs Liverpool
Chelsea 3 - 2 Liverpool (Agg 4 - 3)
Chelsea's hard earned win over Liverpool, means that they now meet Manchester United in the final, to be played in Moscow on the 17th May. Regardless of which side wins on the day, it will be a triumph for the English Premier League, who had three of the last four teams in the semi finals. Just to advertise the supremacy of the Premier League further, the top two teams, from where the winner will surely emerge, are Chelsea and Manchester United. The same teams that contest the European Championship.
After a one all draw in the first leg at Anfield, Chelsea, by courtesy of Riise's own goal were in the driving seat. However, it was never going to be a pushover, as Liverpool are nothing if they are not competitive, particularly in the European Champions League. As it happened, it was Chelsea who bagged the first goal, when Drogba shot the ball home in the 33rd minute. They deserved to move ahead, because they had most of the first half possession, and Drogba was constantly threatening.
Liverpool are a very good side, who have just fallen short of top notch in the Premiership, in recent years. They should never be underestimated, and Petr Cech needed to be up to scratch, to keep out Dirk Kuyt early in the second half. Chelsea had lost their first half fluency, and were fully exposed when Torres turned cleverly, to lash home an equaliser in the 64th minute. So when the full-time whistle blew the game was even, and requiring a period of extra time.
Chelsea went ahead from a penalty about 8 minutes into extra time, after Sami Hypia fouled Michael Ballack. Frank Lampard, making a brave reappearance after losing his mother, took the penalty brilliantly, sending the keeper the wrong way, to thump the ball into the opposite corner.
The mighty Drogba scored again after 105 minutes to seal Liverpool's fate, although Babel got one back for the visitors after 117 minutes. It was a frantic end to a hard fought game, with Chelsea emerging as victors, and with a fine chance of securing a significant trophy.
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Chelsea Vs Liverpool
soccer and football
Chelsea Vs Liverpool
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
United Team Up To Beat Barcelona
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Manchester United 1 - 0 Barcelona
A fine team effort from Manchester United, saw them through to the final of the European Championship, for the first time in nine years. It was a well balanced game that could have gone either way, but it was United who played better as a team to steal the spoils, and book their place in Moscow on the 21st May.
It was Paul Scholes who fittingly delivered the killer blow, in the 14th minute. Zambrotta's abortive attempt to clear resulted in the ball landing at Scholes's feet. In such situations there could be not greater danger, because there is no finer striker of the ball, than the diminutive midfielder. He does not score that many goals these days, as he is usually kept busy helping out with other matters. However, gifted this chance he did not hesitate, and rifled the ball into the net from about 25 yards, to the rapturous applause of the packed stands.
Things could have started differently, as Messi moved forward menacingly, in the early minutes of the game. He was tripped, by Scholes on the edge of the box to concede a free kick. It was only just outside the box, so it was as well that the German referee only awarded a free kick. It was the right decision, but there have been many instances when penalties have been awarded, when fouled players have fallen into the box!
Until the Scholes goal, Barcelona had appeared more settled and stronger. But although they posses great individual skills, somehow they didn't present themselves as a team. Messi was a constant danger, but he was not as closely marked, as was Ronaldo by Barcelona. The Portuguese star was not given much space, but he was an integral part of his side's team effort.
With the away goals ruling, if Barca had got an 'equaliser' they would have won. Van der Sar was on his toes to save from Messi, but Park should have done better when he received a telling ball from Ronaldo. Deco went close on a couple of occasions, so both sides had good chances, with Nani missing from close up, just before the interval.
Barcelona attacked continuously in the second half, but they were repelled by a solid United defence, led by Ferdinand, Wes Brown, and, of course, Van der Sar. It seemed somewhat strange that Thierry Henry didn't come on until the 60th minute, when he replaced Iniesta. He had two good chances, from head and boot, but fortunately for United, seemed not to have quite the sparkle of his Arsenal days. There have been rumours that he has not fully settled at Barca, and that he could return to London!
United were uplifted by their magnificent fans, whose roars of encouragement were, perhaps, the real difference between these two great sides!
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Manchester United Vs Barcelona
soccer and football
Manchester United Vs Barcelona
Manchester United 1 - 0 Barcelona
A fine team effort from Manchester United, saw them through to the final of the European Championship, for the first time in nine years. It was a well balanced game that could have gone either way, but it was United who played better as a team to steal the spoils, and book their place in Moscow on the 21st May.
It was Paul Scholes who fittingly delivered the killer blow, in the 14th minute. Zambrotta's abortive attempt to clear resulted in the ball landing at Scholes's feet. In such situations there could be not greater danger, because there is no finer striker of the ball, than the diminutive midfielder. He does not score that many goals these days, as he is usually kept busy helping out with other matters. However, gifted this chance he did not hesitate, and rifled the ball into the net from about 25 yards, to the rapturous applause of the packed stands.
Things could have started differently, as Messi moved forward menacingly, in the early minutes of the game. He was tripped, by Scholes on the edge of the box to concede a free kick. It was only just outside the box, so it was as well that the German referee only awarded a free kick. It was the right decision, but there have been many instances when penalties have been awarded, when fouled players have fallen into the box!
Until the Scholes goal, Barcelona had appeared more settled and stronger. But although they posses great individual skills, somehow they didn't present themselves as a team. Messi was a constant danger, but he was not as closely marked, as was Ronaldo by Barcelona. The Portuguese star was not given much space, but he was an integral part of his side's team effort.
With the away goals ruling, if Barca had got an 'equaliser' they would have won. Van der Sar was on his toes to save from Messi, but Park should have done better when he received a telling ball from Ronaldo. Deco went close on a couple of occasions, so both sides had good chances, with Nani missing from close up, just before the interval.
Barcelona attacked continuously in the second half, but they were repelled by a solid United defence, led by Ferdinand, Wes Brown, and, of course, Van der Sar. It seemed somewhat strange that Thierry Henry didn't come on until the 60th minute, when he replaced Iniesta. He had two good chances, from head and boot, but fortunately for United, seemed not to have quite the sparkle of his Arsenal days. There have been rumours that he has not fully settled at Barca, and that he could return to London!
United were uplifted by their magnificent fans, whose roars of encouragement were, perhaps, the real difference between these two great sides!
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Manchester United Vs Barcelona
soccer and football
Manchester United Vs Barcelona
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Chelsea Worry Injury Prone United
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Chelsea 2 - 1 Manchester United
Chelsea had to win this game to keep their Premiership title hopes alive, and they did!
Let it be said that both these sides field some very talented footballers, but there are one or two who should not be left out, no matter what the situation might be. Sir Alec Ferguson's decision to start with Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench must be questioned. How can you leave out of such a crucial game, somebody who has contributed so much to every game? Sure, United were unfortunate to have Vidic and Rooney injured. The thinking may have been, that if Ronaldo had played 90 minutes, he might have suffered the same fate, but that is true of any player in any game. Ronaldo is a match winner, and should have been on from the start.
As it was Chelsea started off the strongest, and were allowed to dominate the first half. Their goal, on the stroke of half time, was hugely deserved, and brilliantly executed. Drogba spotted Ballack in the penalty area and sent over a ball that was fiercely headed home. Not the most likely combination, as there seemed to be some dissent later with regard to which one of them should take a free kick, but they played well to snatch a deserved lead.
Chelsea started the second half as they had the first, and looked the better side until Carvalho made a dreadful mistake in the 57th minute. He casually directed the ball towards Terry, but Rooney who was injured at the time, sped forward on pure adrenaline, to thump a low drive into the net. United had equalised, and that would almost surely have killed off any chance of Chelsea stealing the Premiership!
Rooney was obviously uncomfortable with his injury and was replaced by Ronaldo in the 63rd minute. You would have to wonder how different the game might have been, if the two of them had been on from the start. Ronaldo's presence seemed to lift his side, although Ballack was interfering with him off the ball, in a petty sort of way that deserved a booking. Giggs had a powerful shot saved by Petr Cech, whilst at the other end a fine Drogba free kick required an equally good stop from Edwin van der Sar.
United were now dominant and seemed that they would least hold on to a draw. However, Carrick was penalised in the 86th minute for using his arm in the penalty area, and the controversial Ballack made no mistake from the penalty spot, to shoot Chelsea ahead once more.
It was not quite over as United came back strongly, but Cole and Shevchenko both cleared from the line to consolidate their side's success, and ensure that there will be an exciting end to a season in which United are still ahead, but only on goal average.
Tags:
Chelsea Vs Manchester United
soccer and football
Chelsea Vs Manchester United
Chelsea 2 - 1 Manchester United
Chelsea had to win this game to keep their Premiership title hopes alive, and they did!
Let it be said that both these sides field some very talented footballers, but there are one or two who should not be left out, no matter what the situation might be. Sir Alec Ferguson's decision to start with Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench must be questioned. How can you leave out of such a crucial game, somebody who has contributed so much to every game? Sure, United were unfortunate to have Vidic and Rooney injured. The thinking may have been, that if Ronaldo had played 90 minutes, he might have suffered the same fate, but that is true of any player in any game. Ronaldo is a match winner, and should have been on from the start.
As it was Chelsea started off the strongest, and were allowed to dominate the first half. Their goal, on the stroke of half time, was hugely deserved, and brilliantly executed. Drogba spotted Ballack in the penalty area and sent over a ball that was fiercely headed home. Not the most likely combination, as there seemed to be some dissent later with regard to which one of them should take a free kick, but they played well to snatch a deserved lead.
Chelsea started the second half as they had the first, and looked the better side until Carvalho made a dreadful mistake in the 57th minute. He casually directed the ball towards Terry, but Rooney who was injured at the time, sped forward on pure adrenaline, to thump a low drive into the net. United had equalised, and that would almost surely have killed off any chance of Chelsea stealing the Premiership!
Rooney was obviously uncomfortable with his injury and was replaced by Ronaldo in the 63rd minute. You would have to wonder how different the game might have been, if the two of them had been on from the start. Ronaldo's presence seemed to lift his side, although Ballack was interfering with him off the ball, in a petty sort of way that deserved a booking. Giggs had a powerful shot saved by Petr Cech, whilst at the other end a fine Drogba free kick required an equally good stop from Edwin van der Sar.
United were now dominant and seemed that they would least hold on to a draw. However, Carrick was penalised in the 86th minute for using his arm in the penalty area, and the controversial Ballack made no mistake from the penalty spot, to shoot Chelsea ahead once more.
It was not quite over as United came back strongly, but Cole and Shevchenko both cleared from the line to consolidate their side's success, and ensure that there will be an exciting end to a season in which United are still ahead, but only on goal average.
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Chelsea Vs Manchester United
soccer and football
Chelsea Vs Manchester United
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Lack Lustre Chelsea Beat Unlucky Liverpool
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Lack Lustre Chelsea Beat Unlucky Liverpool
Liverpool 1 - 1 Chelsea
Although this first leg of their semi-final was drawn, Chelsea were the fortunate winners, because of the importance attached to away goals.
Chelsea started confidently enough with most of the early possession, but for all their so called super stars, it was a below average performance. They did not seem to gel as a team, and there were a few players whose contribution was distinctly poor. The Coles, both Joe and Ashley, were not at their best, and Frank Lampard barely got a mention, until a glaring error just before half time allowed Liverpool to take the lead.
Lampard should have cleared the ball out of the penalty area, but his failure was compounded by Mascherano's mis-kick, which allowed Dirk Kuyt to shoot the ball through Petr Cech's legs. Nevertheless, the big fellow was one of Chelsea's better performers, as but for a number of impressive saves Liverpool would have been home and dry. He saved a Gerrard shot after only seven minutes, but later on a save from Torres was quite brilliant.
Liverpool were allowed to dominate the second half, and Babel's shot after 58 minutes was just wide. Avram Grant read the danger signs, and substituted the below par Joe Cole with Kalou after 63 minutes. He was getting even more desperate by the 86th minute, when he substituted Anelka for Ballack. You don't normally expect to see Anelka and Drogba playing together, but desperate situations require desperate measures. Cech was called on again to make a good save from Torres. He also made a wonderful one handed save from Gerrard.
The most dramatic moment came in the last of five minutes extra time. Kalou delivered a cross that sparked confusion in the Liverpool goalmouth. Substitute Riise, might have applied a toe to boot the ball away, but instead he sort of crouched down to head it. Unfortunately, it spun into his own goal, to score the largely undeserved 'winner' for Chelsea, if you consider the away goals syndrome.
Liverpool now have to go one better at Stamford Bridge, which should not be that difficult if Chelsea don't pull their socks up. You would have to say that they don't seem to enjoy their football as much as Manchester United do. If they did, they might just be first, instead of second in the Premiership, which could even work out in the European championship as well!
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Liverpool Vs Chelsea
soccer and football
Liverpool Vs Chelsea
Lack Lustre Chelsea Beat Unlucky Liverpool
Liverpool 1 - 1 Chelsea
Although this first leg of their semi-final was drawn, Chelsea were the fortunate winners, because of the importance attached to away goals.
Chelsea started confidently enough with most of the early possession, but for all their so called super stars, it was a below average performance. They did not seem to gel as a team, and there were a few players whose contribution was distinctly poor. The Coles, both Joe and Ashley, were not at their best, and Frank Lampard barely got a mention, until a glaring error just before half time allowed Liverpool to take the lead.
Lampard should have cleared the ball out of the penalty area, but his failure was compounded by Mascherano's mis-kick, which allowed Dirk Kuyt to shoot the ball through Petr Cech's legs. Nevertheless, the big fellow was one of Chelsea's better performers, as but for a number of impressive saves Liverpool would have been home and dry. He saved a Gerrard shot after only seven minutes, but later on a save from Torres was quite brilliant.
Liverpool were allowed to dominate the second half, and Babel's shot after 58 minutes was just wide. Avram Grant read the danger signs, and substituted the below par Joe Cole with Kalou after 63 minutes. He was getting even more desperate by the 86th minute, when he substituted Anelka for Ballack. You don't normally expect to see Anelka and Drogba playing together, but desperate situations require desperate measures. Cech was called on again to make a good save from Torres. He also made a wonderful one handed save from Gerrard.
The most dramatic moment came in the last of five minutes extra time. Kalou delivered a cross that sparked confusion in the Liverpool goalmouth. Substitute Riise, might have applied a toe to boot the ball away, but instead he sort of crouched down to head it. Unfortunately, it spun into his own goal, to score the largely undeserved 'winner' for Chelsea, if you consider the away goals syndrome.
Liverpool now have to go one better at Stamford Bridge, which should not be that difficult if Chelsea don't pull their socks up. You would have to say that they don't seem to enjoy their football as much as Manchester United do. If they did, they might just be first, instead of second in the Premiership, which could even work out in the European championship as well!
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Liverpool Vs Chelsea
soccer and football
Liverpool Vs Chelsea
Monday, April 21, 2008
Blackburn Upset United - Nearly!
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Blackburn 1 - 1 Manchester United
You would have to say that Brad Friedel nearly won this game single-handedly, with a number of remarkable saves, after Santa Cruz shot Blackburn ahead in the 21st minute. But Friedel was not single handed, as he made saves with practically all parts of his body, to keep his side in front!
In the earlier part of the game Thomas Kuszczak, deputising for Edwin van der Sar, had his work cut out. He had all on, to keep out Jason Roberts shot after 6 minutes. Wayne Rooney responded with a smart cross to Tevez, who failed to put the ball away. They were made to pay, when Santa Cruz slid the ball home, to give Blackburn a deserved lead. Then David Bentley, forced a smart save from Kuszczak, with a powerful shot from about 25 yards out.
Wayne Rooney had a point, when he thought he deserved a penalty, after being brought down by Steven Reid. It was an awkward tackle, but the striker didn't seem to really stumble, until the chance had gone. He still appeared to be seething, when he made an ugly two-footed tackle on Samba, leaving it to referee Rob Styles to make the point, with a yellow card. Ronaldo was denied by the magnificent Friedel just before the interval.
After the break United took the initiative, and launched a non-stop attack, with Ronaldo again going close when he struck an upright. Rooney and Tevez then had good chances, but Friedel's goal was like an impenetrable fortress. Carrick's header seemed to be stopped by Emerson's arm, but no penalty was given. Rooney seemed sure to score, but yet again Friedel saved the day.
By this time the Rover's goal was under almost continuous assault. With only two minutes to go United were rewarded with an equaliser. Nani's corner found Scholes, who was able to divert the ball to Tevez, who redeemed his earlier efforts with an unstoppable header.
It was a game that United would dearly have liked to have won. If they had, the Premiership title was theirs for the taking. It might still be, but Chelsea will be in no mood to concede!
Tags:
Blackburn Vs Manchester United
soccer and football
Blackburn Vs Manchester United
Blackburn 1 - 1 Manchester United
You would have to say that Brad Friedel nearly won this game single-handedly, with a number of remarkable saves, after Santa Cruz shot Blackburn ahead in the 21st minute. But Friedel was not single handed, as he made saves with practically all parts of his body, to keep his side in front!
In the earlier part of the game Thomas Kuszczak, deputising for Edwin van der Sar, had his work cut out. He had all on, to keep out Jason Roberts shot after 6 minutes. Wayne Rooney responded with a smart cross to Tevez, who failed to put the ball away. They were made to pay, when Santa Cruz slid the ball home, to give Blackburn a deserved lead. Then David Bentley, forced a smart save from Kuszczak, with a powerful shot from about 25 yards out.
Wayne Rooney had a point, when he thought he deserved a penalty, after being brought down by Steven Reid. It was an awkward tackle, but the striker didn't seem to really stumble, until the chance had gone. He still appeared to be seething, when he made an ugly two-footed tackle on Samba, leaving it to referee Rob Styles to make the point, with a yellow card. Ronaldo was denied by the magnificent Friedel just before the interval.
After the break United took the initiative, and launched a non-stop attack, with Ronaldo again going close when he struck an upright. Rooney and Tevez then had good chances, but Friedel's goal was like an impenetrable fortress. Carrick's header seemed to be stopped by Emerson's arm, but no penalty was given. Rooney seemed sure to score, but yet again Friedel saved the day.
By this time the Rover's goal was under almost continuous assault. With only two minutes to go United were rewarded with an equaliser. Nani's corner found Scholes, who was able to divert the ball to Tevez, who redeemed his earlier efforts with an unstoppable header.
It was a game that United would dearly have liked to have won. If they had, the Premiership title was theirs for the taking. It might still be, but Chelsea will be in no mood to concede!
Tags:
Blackburn Vs Manchester United
soccer and football
Blackburn Vs Manchester United
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