Footie Talk

A comeback?

2009-06-10T22:11:00.000+08:00

Maybe.. just maybe

Who do I believe Liverpool need to sign this season?

Pool vs Inter

2008-03-01T18:05:00.002+08:00

And I'm back! After a long disappearance.

A few months ago, people looked at me and gave me no hope that Liverpool will go through to the quarter finals after being drawn with Inter. No one gave them a chance. I keep reminding everyone that they said the same thing 12 months ago when the Opponent then was Barcelona.

Make no mistake. Inter is by far a super formidable team with the best form in Europe. Domestically, another one horse race to the title, a team with perhaps no weaknesses, and possibly seen as a thread to win the Champions League.

Unfortunately they were drawn against Liverpool. A team that is laughable in the League but a force like no other in Europe. A 2-0 win 2 weeks ago is proof that all my peers who laugh at me earlier was wrong.

Hahaha!

Hopefully by the end of this week, I will be continuing my unstoppable laughter

Super Super Sunday

2007-12-16T12:31:00.000+08:00

Super Sunday x2 that is.

Its the clash of the giants on the same night!

I'm talking about Liverpool vs Man Utd and Arsenal vs Chelsea, where like it or not, these are make or break games. These are the games that will get you another step closer to the title. A win here basically means 3 points for yourselves, and denying your opponents a single point. No matter how much anyone plays the situation down, there is absolutely no doubt that this are important big games at important times.

Lets look at Liverpool vs Manchester United. Liverpool are without Agger and Xabi(ok lah, recovering) but they are unlikely to start. Man Utd are without Gary Neville but Owen Hargreaves is set to return in this match. As far as form and pressure goes, Liverpool might be relieved that they made it through the Champions League, but Man Utd are doing very well in the League, besides the defeat to Bolton.

Liverpool might not have a good run of games against Man Utd in recent times, but that was before Fernando Torres wore a red shirt. He will be the difference maker tonight, if there is one.

Its fair enough to predict that tonight's game will end up in a 1-1 draw.

Arsenal vs Chelsea is another big game, where Arsenal are without plenty of important players. Chelsea are without Drogba which is also a major blow. Both teams proved worthy this season but it is also another safe bet that this one would also end up as a draw.

We'l see

So Liverpool made it.

2007-12-13T16:38:00.000+08:00

You know what is funny? Liverpool finish 2nd in a group where they put 4 or more goals past each and everyone of their opponents. Let me put this right. Against the same 3 opponents in the last three matches, Liverpool scored a total of 16 goals while conceding just one. Compare that to the first three games of 2 goals scored while conceding a total of 4.

Put that aside, in this competition, its time to focus on the knock-out rounds, where casualties hit the biggest baddest teams around. With 3 not so good matches, Liverpool's got a mountain right in their paths of European success. With the nature of the competition and the fact that Chelsea and Man Utd won their groups and Liverpool cannot face the group winners of their own group, Porto, the Reds are going to be up against the 5 other group winners.

Namely, Barcelona, Ac Milan, Inter Milan, Real Madrid and Sevilla.

No disrespect to Sevilla but any other team versus Liverpool in the first Knockout round is simply a blockbuster round. Personally, I wish Sevilla will be our opponents, but that is just a 20% chance.

Either this is not the time to be afraid of any opponents thrown at us, and its about time pool make things happen.

That goes for their League Campaign as well. We all know the Christmas crunch time is coming up. Hopefully here we will see Benitez's rotation policy working.

Liverpool vs Marseille

2007-12-12T01:21:00.000+08:00

In a group match where winner takes all, many did not anticipate for this to happen, not to Liverpool anyways. But lets face the truth. Liverpool have their backs against the wall and are going to do whatever it takes to get through to the group stages of this edition of UCL.

Liverpool did throw away their last league game for this match. Personally I will be very disappointed if that gamble fails today. Very! Throwing a good 3 points in a season where we were supposed to focus on the league and failed to progress to the knock out stages of European's premier competition, there is no consolation.

Liverpool's games means more guessing games for their opponents. Its only certain to bet on having Carragher, Reina, Gerrard and Torres to start in this crucial game. The other 7 is anyone's guess. 2 hours to the game, I can only assume that Crouch will be partnering Torres up front. Wait, Benitez could be playing a ground game with Voronin starting, or giving Kuyt a chance to prove himself again. Its all too possible to predict.

There are 2 ways for Liverpool to progress tonight. One is of course winning the game with any score line.

The other is if Besiktas win in Porto, a Marseille-Liverpool draw would also see the Reds progress, along with Besiktas. Porto, Liverpool and Marseille would all have eight points, Marseille's head to head is better than Liverpool's, but Porto's head to head is better than Marseille's - so goal difference would again come into the equation and Liverpool have the best goal difference in Group A.

Sounds simple but its football. And in football, anything can happen. Anything at all.

Dudek wants to leave

2007-12-05T22:06:00.000+08:00

Goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek wants to leave Real Madrid in the January transfer window in search of regular first team action for the rest of the season so he can win a place in the Polish national team for Euro 2008.

I'm sorry. Can someone refresh my memory. Didn't Jerzy Dudek leave Liverpool earlier because he wanted first team football? And of all the clubs in the world, he chose Real Madrid, I assume hoping to get first team football in front of Iker Cassilas.

So should I classify the whole senario as dumb or stupid?

I pick both!

Euro 2008 draw

2007-12-04T12:47:00.000+08:00

I know I'm late, but its always better late than never.

Netherlands
Italy
France
Romania

The whole point to have pots is to avoid situations like this. You will be considered lucky if you are not placed in Pot 1 before the draw. And believe it or not, the best qualifiers gets to be in pot 1.

Does this mean do what Germany probably did, not do so well when they already qualified and make sure they end up in pot 2 to avoid groups like these?

This group will be one for the fans, and I would love to see Romania topping it. I expect a lot of draws so 1 win and not losing is crucial for further advancement.

Truthfully, Italy and France have not been at their best, and this Dutch squad I would classify as weak compared to their seniors from the past. Romania is on good form lately, so don't count them out just yet.

We'll see what happens next summer.

And the Reds go marching onnnnn...

2007-11-29T12:25:00.000+08:00

As of now I'm still feeling lazy so I should just plagiarize from the Liverpool home page. It was a great match by the way, dominating at the beginning and getting the job done at the end.

Fernando Torres struck a magnificent double as Liverpool left it late to clinch a 4-1 win over FC Porto and keep our hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages of the Champions League alive.

The Spain international, who has now scored 10 goals in 16 appearances, struck 12 minutes from time after his first-half opener was cancelled out by a Lisandro Lopez header with a Steven Gerrard penalty and a header from substitute Peter Crouch sealing the win.

The result means that Liverpool will qualify for the last 16 of the competition if they beat Marseille at the Stade Velodrome in an all-or-nothing clash on matchday six.

The Anfield faithful was in good voice ahead of the game and the team responded in kind, with a high-tempo opening that could have been rewarded with a penalty on five minutes, but the referee waived away Yossi Benayoun's appeals after his effort seemed to strike the arm of visiting defender Marek Cech.

Fernando Torres then showed just what he brings to the Liverpool side when he dispossessed Paulo Assuncao on the halfway line and ran at the heart of the Porto defence before unleashing a 20-yard strike that was well held by Helton.

Jesualdo Ferreira's men topped the group at the start of play and seemed content to sit back and soak up the pressure. But that all changed on 19 minutes when Fernando Torres gave Liverpool a deserved lead.

The Spain international rose unmarked to power home Steven Gerrard's corner from the right and claim his ninth goal of the campaign.

It was the perfect start for the Reds and they continued to dominate possession without truly troubling Helton in the Porto goal.

It seemed like they would go in at half-time with a priceless interval lead but on 33 minutes a defensive lapse allowed the away side in to equalise.

Przemyslaw Kazmierczak broke down the left and after evading the challenge of Steve Finnan he sent over a dangerous cross that was met by Lisandro Lopez who guided his header beyond Pepe Reina at the Kop end.

The goal was a bitter blow for the Reds but they did not lose heart and they could have restored their lead a minute later but Torres was thwarted at the last minute after a clever ball form Benayoun.

However, it could have been worse for Rafa and co and hearts where in mouths on 37 minutes when Lisandro Lopez contrived to stab his effort wide of the post after his intelligent run beat the offside trap.

Liverpool began the second period attacking the Kop end but chances were at a premium as the Portuguese outfit maintained their stubborn resistance.

Benayoun squandered the first opening of the half when he sliced his effort wide after good play by Torres before both substitute Harry Kewell and Sami Hyypia went close.

It looked like the visitors would hold on for a hard-fought draw but when Kewell fed Torres on 78 minutes the young forward held off the challenges to guide his effort past the keeper and send the home fans into delirium.

And it got better four minutes later when Steven Gerrard sent Helton the wrong way from the penalty-spot after a Porto defender was adjudged to have handled in the area.

There was even time for substitute Peter Crouch to put rub salt in the visitors' wounds as he headed in Gerrard's corner with Porto's defence all at sea.

Survey

2007-11-28T07:30:00.000+08:00

I got this email on some census done of some 3000 England fans on what they think. I'm going to paste the whole chunk here.

Only 4% Of Fans Back England To Win World Cup

London 27th November 2007 … A Football Fans Census survey of over 3,000 England fans from all Premier and Football League Clubs has revealed that only 4% believe England will win the tournament in 2010.

The survey comes hot on the heels of the FA’s announcement to conduct a 'root and branch review' into the senior England set up following the defeat to Croatia. Fans will be hoping for some positive steps, as only 13% of them currently believe that the side will get beyond the Quarter Final stage in the 2010 World Cup.

England’s Poisoned Chalice?

The majority of fans (54%) believe the England Manager’s job has become a poisoned chalice. 60% of fans think there is too much pressure on the England Manager and 25% think that there is “way too much” pressure.

Worryingly, for everyone who has the best interests of the English national team at heart, 76% of fans feel there is a possibility that the amount of pressure on the England Manager could make it difficult to attract the best candidates.

Others Should Share Responsibility

While 94% of fans endorse The FA’s decision to sack Steve McClaren - they also feel that others should shoulder the responsibility.

When asked who they would blame the most for England's failure to qualify for the European Championships, 45% of fans blame the players - only 6% less than those who blame the manager. In another indictment of the “Golden Generation”, only 35% of fans think that the players still care enough about playing for England, although the majority of fans (58%) do not feel that individual players should be booed.

81% of fans feel it was right to sack Terry Venables, but their discontent does not end in the dressing room; 67% of supporters feel that Brian Barwick, The FA Chief Executive, should take “a lot” (45%) or “full” (22%) responsibility for England's failure to qualify for the European Championships. The majority of supporters (54%) also feel that FA Chairman, Geoff Thompson should take a lot (40%) or full (14%) responsibility.

Nationality Not An Issue

England fans want the best person for the England Manager job, regardless of nationality, and they feel that that person is Jose Mourinho.

The results are a clear indication that the majority of fans want the best man for the job, regardless of nationality. Non-English managers picked up 70% of the total manager vote, while only 14% of fans state that the next manager ‘has to be English’.

Fans were asked who they would like to see appointed as the next England Manager from a choice of 20 of the bookies’ favourite candidates on the day Steve McClaren was sacked.

Jose Mourinho emerges as the clear favourite among England fans as the man they want to succeed Steve McClaren. The “Special One” polled 36% of the vote, and in doing so received over four times as many votes as the two next best placed managers - Martin O’Neill and Harry Redknapp - both on 8% each.

Club & Country

The club v country debate is often central to discussions about the national side. While fans are most loyal to their clubs, they are also signalling that they want football’s decision makers to ensure that future developments in the game strike a balance between club football and the strength of the national side. When asked which is most important for them, a majority of fans 51% said their club, but 43% replied that club and country were equally important to and 6% said their country was most important.

The majority of fans aren’t too concerned about the effect the number of club games played has on the English National side (57% of think that the current amount of club games played has a neutral impact) however there is a significant minority of 31% who do feel that there is a negative impact.

Premier League Power

Fans are also questioning whether The FA has enough power within the game to implement the right strategy, only 14% of fans feel the balance of power between The FA and the Premier League is about right. 54% of fans feel the Premier League has too much power compared to The FA, while only 20% feel The FA has too much power.

Foreign Players

Whilst the quality of play in the Premier League may have benefited from an influx of foreign players, 59% of fans think that the current level of foreign players has a negative impact on the English National side.

Coaching System

There is a feeling that the coaching system is partly to blame for England’s failure in the Euro 2008 campaign, 76% of fans think that the English coaching system is not producing enough good English players, while 66% of fans feel that cutting the number of foreign players training through the club Academy systems would have a positive impact on the English national side.

World of Football

2007-11-27T21:42:00.000+08:00

No I'm not dead. I've just been busy. While I was away, the World Cup qualifying draw was made, Man utd Lost to Bolton, Gerrard scored one of those goals that make your hair stand, and Platini talks about how England should be coached by an English man. Oh and Billy Davis.

More tomorrow, or the day after :)

McClaren Sacked

2007-11-23T14:04:00.000+08:00

No surprises really. Not at all. After the Croatia game, you are either a hero or a villain. 1 goal made McClaren the Villain.

As a manager, McClaren did not do that many mistakes, at least when he did them, he had the guts to correct them. But with everything going on with the squad right now, can anyone actually save the Nation's pride?

Lets face it, the reason why McClaren was hired in the first place is because of his nationality. He's English. I know it punctures the local's ego to see a foreign coach coaching your national side especially if that sport itself is such a tradition in the nation. Imagine an Australian training the Japanese Karate team, or a Russian coaching the national Sepak Takraw team of Malaysia. Same deal.

As thing stands now, think 18 months back, was McClaren the wrong choice?

Could have big Sam done any better? Could Harry Redknapp helped? How about Pearce? McClaren's record exceeds his 'English' counterparts. Had the other English managers been elected then, the outcome would be still the same.

The not qualifying for Euro 2008 part was a total embarrassment. To the point that it doesnt matter who is coming in next, as long as he can save the team.

At a crisis like this one, I mentioned it before, and I will mention it again. When the safe choice does not work, its time to gamble. If Alan Shearer is interested, give him the job. The English game as of now is filled with predictability and routine. Its about time to change things and take a risk. I don't know Alan's coaching credentials but I believe if there is anything he can offer to the English game is motivation. Thats what they need right now anyways.

England Vs Croatia

2007-11-21T15:40:00.000+08:00

With so many injuries and a possible change of Goalkeeper, 1 point is all England need after the weirdest week of football where the Unfairness of football gods got it right for the Universe, giving England a donno how many chances and kicking out Scotland for doing too well. Taking 6 points out of 6 against France is really something.

Another ironic moment is where, by right, England does not need to score tonight. The job is as simple as keeping a clean sheet and thats it. With injuries to Owen and Rooney, maybe this is a smart move. Why risk a partnership that would most likely not work (Crouch, Defoe, Bent, Smith??) than to let Crouch go solo up front and have a pack of midfield to feed him high balls and ensure that their defenders got the simplest of jobs.

Besides, England boast a talented midfield that consist of flair, drive, consistency, and strength. On paper, this is a good combination of doing what a midfield does best, taking the ball from the opponent and feeding it upwards(supposedly where if should belong)

After all that talk, they are going to just make it. Thats what I feel anyways.

Israel did beat Russia

2007-11-18T17:46:00.001+08:00

Looks like the 9 year old did beat up the 14 year old. Next task is to either beat up or make peace with a 15 year old.

Buahahahah!

The Israeli Hope.

2007-11-17T12:47:00.000+08:00

England fans will be supporting Israel tonight, hoping that they will beat Russia so England can qualify for the Euro 2008 tournament. Is this funny or what?

Edit:

Its like when you are a 17 year old, and you are hoping that a 9 year old will beat up a 14 year old who was going to beat you up.

Where are the goals?

2007-11-13T21:49:00.000+08:00

Today we attack Steve Howard from Derby County.

I would excuse you if you don't know who he is, but this man was Derby's top goal scorer last season and voted as player of the season for Derby County by his fans.

This season, in the EPL, Mr Steve Howard has played a total of 13 games scoring 0 goals having just 6 shots on target.

If you want to score, you need to get more than 0.4615 shots on target a game. No excuses if you are with Derby, busy facing your own goal. No excuses.

Where are the goals Howie?

The Torres Difference

2007-11-11T15:15:00.000+08:00

Liverpool won 2-0 in last night's game. For the second time, Benitez names a unchange side, the side that gave Besiktas a good whipping lastWednesday, and it looked like it was going to be another 8-0 victory the way Liverpool was threatening Fulham from all angles.

I have to admit, this weaken Liverpool side looked so strong and yet so entertaining, we are once again seeing the best in Voronin playing up front(effectively), but deeper than I expected, and Benayoun being faster than what most people think. Aberloa and Fabio Aruilleo is proving to be strong wing backs themselves. Hopefully they will develop into world class players.

There were so many Shots and Niemi and the Fulham post was on course to win the man of the match award. Fulham's defense kept it tight, and with all the missed chances, it looked like another home draw for Liverpool. Looked like a game where people are going to watch Liverpool throwing away valuable points away by not scoring against a relatively weaker opponent, no offense to Fulham.

Then on came a striker who can create chances out of nothing. A Quick Reina kick that looked so harmless, was well controlled by the 20 million pound fella, and some slick moves and a tap, suddenly made Niemi's heroics seem like yesterday's news. For years, Liverpool were in need of a striker of this caliber and I'm glad we got one at last.

Crouch was brought down in a goal scoring chance just outside the penalty box but karma works its wonders. Liverpool's been punished by penalties they did not deserve to concede, and this time it goes in their favour(not like it would change the outcome of the match in a significant way anyways) and Captain Gerrard slots it right in the bottom corner, a place where you want to put your penalties in.

Liverpool vs Fulham

2007-11-11T00:01:00.000+08:00

The match is going to start in 1 hour and 15 minutes, but the dying question that no one other than the team itself knows, is that who is going to be in the starting 11 tonight.

After a 8-0 win, it might not be a win against a strong opponent, but I believe the confidence level has built up in Anfield. The team is going to walk into todays game starting to believe their abilities and hopefully this will convert their chances into goals.

The truth is that Pool hasn't done well in the Premiership in terms of winning lately, their record of being unbeaten is often ignored as they lost too many points rather too easily from games they should excel. Its a shame really.

But it is still rather early in the season, and things can change starting from today's Fulham fixture. I really do hope that they dont disappoint me this time.

Greatest ever Players

2007-11-08T20:50:00.000+08:00

A factual list of the Greatest ever players is out! Its a factual list because the criteria judged to get into this list is points based. Points are given to number of games started, goals scored, assists made, cups won, clean sheets, honours won and what not.

Here is the funny part, there are players in the list or are in positions where we find questionable. We are talking about a list of players to be the greatest ever of all time!

Factor no 1, you will notice that most of the players played in the 90s or later. Due to the amount of games played compared to 2 decades ago, it is a bias way to compare but it is what it is.

Questionable players on their positions in the list includes Diego Maradona. We thought he was the best Player of the century. Well, some of us think that he is 2nd only to Pele. But in this list, Maradona is ranked 6. After the likes of Ronaldo, Romario, Luis Figo and Zidane.

We are also talking about no.26, Ali Daei from Iran, no.42 Hakan Sukur, no.44 David Beckham, no.58 Silvian Wiltord, no.61 Davor Suker, no.86 Gary Neville, no.95 Fabian Barthez and no.99 Robert Pires. Yes these are good players, but if you make a list of the top 100 greatest players, will you even consider Ali Daei? Forget the fact that he is the 26th greatest player ever! And you know what, more players in that list other than these mention don't deserve to be in that list either.

Here have a look.

GREATEST EVER PLAYERS

1.Pele (Brazil)
2.Ronaldo (Brazil)
3.Romario (Brazil)
4.Luis Figo (Portugal)
5.Zinedine Zidane (France)
6.Diego Maradona (Argentina)
7.Lothar Matthaus (Germany)
8.Gerd Muller (Germany)
9.Franz Beckenbauer (Germany)
10.Cafu (Brazil)
11.Roberto Carlos (Brazil)
12.Marco van Basten (Holland)
13.Michel Platini (France)
14.Rivaldo (Brazil)
15.Paolo Maldini (Italy)
16.Zico (Brazil)
17.Raul (Spain)
18.Ruud Gullit (Holland)
19.Eusebio (Portugal)
20.Ferenc Puskas (Hungary)
21.Johan Cruyff (Holland)
22.Alfredo di Stefano(Argentina)
23.Bobby Charlton (England)
24.Jurgen Klinsmann (Ger)
25.Kenny Dalglish (Scotland)
26.Ali Daei (Iran)
27.Karl-Heinz Rummenigge (Ger)
28.Gabriel Batistuta (Argentina)
29.Michael Laudrup (Denmark)
30.Hristo Stoichkov (Bulgaria)
31.Dennis Bergkamp (Holland)
32.Frank Rijkaard (Holland)
33.Thierry Henry (France)
34.Pavel Nedved (Czech Rep)
35.Gheorghe Hagi (Romania)
36.Peter Schmeichel(Denmark)
37.Andrei Shevchenko (Ukraine)
38.Sepp Maier (Germany)
39.Didier Deschamps (France)
40.Lilian Thuram (France)
41.Enzo Francescoli (Uruguay)
42.Hakan Sukur (Turkey)
43.Paolo Rossi (Italy)
44.David Beckham (England)
45.Jean-Pierre Papin (France)
46.Kevin Keegan (England)
47.Marcel Desailly (France)
48.Oliver Kahn (Germany)
49.Alessandro Costacurta (Ita)
50.Clarence Seedorf (Holland)
51.Dino Zoff (Italy)
52.Patrick Kluivert (Holland)
53.Jari Litmanen (Finland)
54.Daniel Passarella (Arg)
55.Bixente Lizarazu (France)
56.Gary Lineker (England)
57.Ronaldhino (Brazil)
58.Sylvain Wiltord (France)
59.Bebeto (Brazil)
60.Alessandro Del Piero (Italy)
61.Davor Suker (Croatia)
62.Ryan Giggs (Wales)
63.David Trezeguet (France)
64.Demetrio Albertini (Italy)
65.Patrick Vieira (France)
66.Jurgen Kohler (Germany)
67.Laurent Blanc (France)
68.Michael Owen (England)
69.Youri Djorkaeff (France)
70.Frank De Boer (Holland)
71.Emilio Butragueno (Spain)
72.Hugo Sanchez (Mexico)
73.Rudi Voller (Germany)
74.Djalma Santos (Brazil)
75.Giacinto Facchetti (Italy)
76.Kanu (Nigeria)
77.Franco Baresi (Italy)
78.Gianni Rivera (Italy)
79.Roberto Baggio (Italy)
80.Oscar Ruggeri (Argentina)
81.Gheorghe Popescu(Romania)
82.Jon D. Tomasson (Denmark)
83.Raymond Kopa (France)
84.Carlos Valderrama (Colombia)
85.Rui Costa (Portugal)
86.Gary Neville (England)
87.Edgar Davids (Holland)
88.Claudio Taffarel (Brazil)
89.Paul Scholes (England)
90.Diego Simeone (Argentina)
91.Bryan Robson (England)
92.Roy Keane (Rep of Ireland)
93.Brian Laudrup (Denmark)
94.Henrik Larsson (Sweden)
95.Fabien Barthez (France)
96.Michael Ballack (Germany)
97.Jan Koller (Czech Republic)
98.Edwin van der Sar (Holland)
99.Robert Pires (France)
100.Johan Neeskens (Holland)

Can you count to 8?

2007-11-07T19:55:00.000+08:00

My question to you today is simple. Can you count to 8?

Liverpool-Besiktas-LdC-031107
Uploaded by rory_cabt_die

=D

I know I can!

Liverpool's Judgement day

2007-11-07T00:52:00.000+08:00

Its hard to imagine Liverpool Knocked out by Match Day 4 for the Uefa Champions League. It is true that Liverpool did not get an easy group for this competition, but it is not the hardest either. The group is just filled with pricks and problems that the current Liverpool squad should have no problem overcoming.

Somehow, things just don't go as the universe is meant to be. Its unfortunate, but on the bright side, the next 3 European fixtures will test Liverpool's true strengths. Teams faced might not be modern day European Champions material, but they will be tough obstacles.

Tonight, Besiktas will be making a trip to Anfield, supposedly a fortress when it comes to European nights. The last time a Champions League game was played here, pool lost though.

Things certainly does not look good. With injuries of Torres, Alonso and Agger, conveniently one of each position, it affects Liverpool's game. I hope Benitez does not make silly judgements tonight like he has recently.

He is either a tactical genius or a Soccer *inserts negative word here*. Lets hope he's a genius tonight.

Hutchings sacked

2007-11-05T23:48:00.000+08:00

Wigan just sacked their manager, and as usual, for the wrong reasons as far as this season goes. Mourinho was sacked just because of the rift between himself and Roman, Jol was sacked because Spurs wanted Juan Ramos, Sammy Lee gone because his just not fit for the job, but Hutchings getting sacked, I dont know.

It is true that they lost their last 6 matches in a row, but with a team of mediocre players, what is there to expect. I agree that Wigan is also filled with experienced players, when it comes to the EPL. Koumas, Heskey, Brown, Bent, Sibierski, Kilbane, Sharner, Melchiot, Kirkland and Bramble. Like it or not, these are relegation fighting players.

Where are Wigan in the table? 3rd from the bottom, but only 4 points away from 13th place Fulham.

Either they replace Hutchings with a Top manager from the Championship League, or don't bother. Its not easy to afford foreign talent with their budget anyways.

Arsenal 2 Man Utd 2

2007-11-04T20:12:00.000+08:00

I only have one thing to say about the match. Arsenal's second goal, the way Theo Walcott tried so hard, its just so damn funny!!!

Arsenal vs Man Utd

2007-11-03T16:36:00.000+08:00

It doesnt get any bigger than this. Another match in between the big four and this one is in between the English Champions and the title pretenders.

Before the season, everyone is talking about Man Utd's signings strengthening the squad and how powerful they will be this season. Everyone is also talking about how Henry's departure will leave Arsenal to dry. Well the Young Arsenal squad did prove a lot of people wrong.

This would be a test match, a test for both teams. Arsenal might have a good run thus far, until the Liverpool Match last week, it is safe to say that Arsenal is not tested in the highest level of football just yet. Same goes to Manchester United, although they were involved in a match with a very screwed up then Chelsea.

No need to talk about the rivalry and history between the clubs, everyone knows how big this game is.

My rough predictions for this match would be another 1-1 draw.

Real Madrid 5 Valencia 1

2007-11-01T18:57:00.000+08:00

In case you missed the goals, here is a video

Now how long the the commentator shouted, "goooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaal"

Liverpool 1 Arsenal 1

2007-10-30T19:13:00.000+08:00

It may be a little late for me to write something about this, but I can't help but to write something about it. I didn't write a preview or a match report, so here is just some verdict on the match I did not watch.

Going into the match, the two teams are the remaining teams in the EPL that is still unbeaten. The only difference is that Liverpool conceded too many draws. Other than that, Liverpool went into the game with a Champions League lost, and form that is not something to be proud of, while Arsenal came with a brilliant record. In other words, its the best time to go against Liverpool and the worst time to face Arsenal.

We all know 1-1 is the scoreline, and scored by the individuals of each respective clubs who have the responsibilities of bringing their teams to greater heights. Like what Richard Jolly said, both are incredible by their own, and its hard to replicate such players anywhere else other than their own childhood neighbourhood, with the kind of football they were brought up in.

The out come might be a goal a piece, and a point a piece, but I believe both squads have important things to worry about. Arsenal is going to face a difficult Man Utd this weekend while Liverpool picked up 3 injuries, Torres, Alonso and Marcherano. 3 key injuries in my opinion, and without Agger, looks like its going to get tougher for Pool.

What else can be said, really?

Malaysia out of World Cup 2010

2007-10-30T00:09:00.000+08:00

So much for the dream, after losing 4-1 to Bahrain, looks like we've got to wait another 4 years for our next chance.

Jolless Spurs.

2007-10-27T13:38:00.000+08:00

What do I really think about this?

The reason Tottenham is doing so bad lately is because of the pressure everyone is putting on Jol to succeed. And Robinson's Butter fingers.

Seriously, Jol is a good manager, no doubt brought Tottenham to great heights, and will continue to do so if given a fair chance.

Look at Tottenham games, the reason why they are not winning is simply due to the fact they concede too many goals, 21 to 10 matches to be exact. The only teams conceding more goals are Reading and Derby. Spurs scored a total of 17 League goals so far, second to only Portsmouth and Arsenal. So tell me, why are they in the bottom 3?

So Jol is sacked, in a very screwed up moment for the club. It would take something close to a miracle to revive them now.

And Megson takes over Bolton. Megson for all I know is a relegation specialist. Funny, Bolton's aim this season is to avoid relegation.

Pool in UCL tonight

2007-10-24T21:31:00.000+08:00

Not many expected a Do or die situation as far as the group stage goes this season, but after the last Champions League game, supposedly the 2nd easiest game out of 6, Liverpool lost. And 1 point out of 6 is bad, by Liverpool's standards anyways.

This time, the opponent is Besiktas. In Istanbul. Istanbul might be memorable for the UCL final win 2 years ago, but the last time Pool came, they lost 3-2 in a meaning less game.

Both team knows that defeat would mean end that they will very well not progress pass the group stages, which means 3 points today brings a lot of significance to the equation.

Liverpool might be still unbeaten in the Premier League this season but are yet to replicate that form in the UEFA Champions League and must make do so without Fernando Torres, ruled out by a thigh injury. Benítez recognises the increasingly urgent need to kick-start a stuttering campaign, explaining: "It is a very short competition and you have to perform well in every game. Both sides want to win and we know the game will played in front of passionate supporters and against tough opponents."

As usual, it is hard to guess who will be starting for Liverpool tonight.

Prediction: 3-1 win to Liverpool.

FM2008 is out everybody!

2007-10-23T19:06:00.000+08:00

For a while already apparently...

Yes that's right. One of the most anticipated football game of the year where players can boast their scouted gems, or they undefeated tactic. Or how their Ronaldinho scored 60 goals a season.

Honestly, I do like the new matchday experience, and it is still gettting realistic as we speak. I like the fact that you get spotted when you attend a match, can adjust the length and width of your field, better response from the other clubs, can set your budget according to your goals of the season, and it is so much faster than the previous versions!

Here is a copied and pasted section for you guys to read.

Match Flow - The largest change to match-day in a Sports Interactive game since the introduction of the second match engine. Match flow brings more atmosphere to match-days with match previews, team talks, opposition player instructions, the match itself, half time and post match. These now seamlessly follow on from one another, with no more pausing to make tactical changes, and a mini-radar pitch whilst making those tactical changes to keep you in touch with what's going on in the match

International Management - The international management gameplay has been completely revamped for Football Manager™ 2008, including, but not limited to, media improvements, international retirements, player interaction, international scouting, improved pool selection, captain selection and a separation of international and club morale for players.

Easier to Use - A much cleaner skin, a brand new advisor system to help players through various areas of the game. A new notes and notebook system, better button positioning for simpler navigation and an updated tutorial and manual. Also, coach reports make taking over a new team easier, and the new calendar system lists all important dates throughout the season. These all help to make Football Manager™ 2008 the easiest Sports Interactive game to use yet.

Confidence - Players can now easily tell what the board and supporters think about their performance in the game through the new confidence section. This gives players feedback not just on their current progress in competitions, but also their financial management and signings.

Transfer Centre - A new way of managing all current transfer and loan bids for a players club, both incoming and outgoing, making it easier to compare bids and reject or accept them.

Match Engine Improvements - A greatly improved match engine, once again utilising the footballing brain of former Republic of Ireland international player Ray Houghton as well as other tools used by real-life managers to make the most accurate simulation of football in a computer game. The ability to change the pitch dimensions at the start of the season to suit players styles of play better has also been added.

Awards re-write - An overhaul of the awards system inside the game which is not only more accurate now, but also includes new awards such as the European golden boot, and a "best eleven", which shows the all-time (in game) best eleven for all teams and nations.

Finances revamp - To reflect the changes in modern day football, Sports Interactive have updated the finance area of Football Manager™ 2008 to better reflect the ever changing football world, with more information available to the manager too, including, but not limited to, corporate match day income, season ticket news, investment funds, improved sponsorships, collective win bonuses, and the ability to move around funds from the wage budget and transfer budget (and vice versa) at any point to help you in your quest for the ideal squad.

Fan days - The board can now arrange fan days to boost ailing attendances, or for matches that are likely to attract a low crowd, with a long term affect to attendances if all goes well.

Expanded media - More media and feedback than ever before, plus more detail in existing media, and a new competition news section to find out what major things are going on in all league competitions

Regenerated player photo's - All in game generated players now have pictures using FaceGen technology to give each player more personality, and the ability for the players to be seen to grow up in front of your eyes as the game is going on.

Faster - Saving and loading is now significantly faster, with network gaming faster and smoother to play, as well as tactical changes and match reports being quicker than ever before.

Make sure you try it out!!

Post mortem of derby

2007-10-21T14:48:00.000+08:00

Everton 1 Liverpool 2 was the final scoreline, and mathematically, that is the only thing that matters.

With a game of 2 red cards and the atmosphere of World War III, it is a typical derby game; expected and fulfilled. Liverpool had a very weird starting line up, with just Dirk Kuyt as the lone striker. Voronin started in a right wing familiar and that is certainly not his best position. Neither Aberloa or Pennant, both who have played in every Liverpool game up to date are not starting, and a flat defensive midfield pairing of Sisoko and Marsherano. It looked like a very negative tactic to me.

Other than Voronin's good chance and Riise's Free kick, Everton looked more dangerous in the first half, with Lescott proving his qualities. I knew the formation wasn't working, the defense looks vulnerable and Everton made a few really good chances for themselves. They might have 0 shots on Target but a mixed up by Hyppia gave the home team the lead when the ex-captain finished the ball in his own net. And the first half ends 1-0. To be honest, most of the referee's decisions favours Everton.

Looks like another disappointing outing for Liverpool as their form drops again. Second half commences and I saw Voronin feeding gerrard, releasing him to a very inspirational run, before getting brought down by Hibbert. Replays showed that Gerrard was brought down outside the penalty box, but nevertheless, it was a 50-50 decision, and a one on one chance meant direct red, no matter what level of football is played. Kuyt stepped up and slotted in his first goal in the EPL this season.

Gerrard continued to play very well, showing that he is back in business until suddenly everyone was shocked that Benitez took the Captain out and replaced him with Leiva Lucas. Leiva Lucas is a bright talent, but in a derby game, level on goals and opponents down to 10 men, its about time to take out one of the defensive midfielders instead and maybe place crouch in front. This substitution makes me question Benitez's tactics. Yes Gerrard had 2 rough England games, and 2 big fixtures is coming up, but this is a much heated derby to rest him that soon.

The substitution almost backfired when Liverpool did make their attacks but wasted their chances. And I have to admit, some players are too greedy for glory instead of putting the team first. But when the sky gets darker and the world seemed doomed, A Leiva had a chance to score in his EPL debut until Phil Neville blocked the shot with his hand, which had gotten him sent off. I don't blame him. Rather risk a red card and hope that the penalty is not converted then a direct goal.

Kuyt once again put the ball behind Howard and 2-1 to Liverpool. Everton Never gave up. A really bad Carragher tackle on Lescott which is a clear penalty on any other day in the last second caused some panic on the reds. But in the end, 2-1 the final score and 3 points coming this way :)

Merseyside Derby

2007-10-20T12:22:00.000+08:00

Its Liverpool traveling to Goodison Park this weekend, after a rough spell of matches in previous games, Liverpool are looking to make things right again. Lets not forget, Everton beaten Liverpool 3-0 in this fixture last year.

Liverpool must take full points from this one, no excuses actually.

Mathematically important, but I am sure every player involved will know how important this match is, traditionally. Besides the matches against the top four teams, Everton is a big fixture for Liverpool fans and players alike. Local Derbies are more important than points in some ways. Its who's the boss of the town.

And will Torres play?

One match to kick start post euro 2008 matches and it had to be this one. Hope it goes to Liverpool's way. I predict a small victory of maybe 1-0 to Liverpool. :)

Britains Euro dreams

2007-10-18T19:56:00.000+08:00

Only a couple of weeks ago, it looked so likely that Northern Ireland (well geographically they are there) and Scotland have brilliant chances to make it to the Euro 2008. And England was picking up so many crucial 3-0 wins, suddenly many feel that the universe was working alright after all.

Then Spain picked up points, and David Healy can't carry the team on his own, so it was up to England and Scotland.

Well, until last night, it still looks bright for both teams. Until England lost 2-1 to Russia and Scotland lost to Georgia 2-0. Off all countries. No disrespect to Georgia, but after taking all 6 out of 6 points from France and is tipped to knock out either one of the World Cup finalist, losing to Georgia is just well, a nightmare. If Scotland does make it through what seems to be an unlikely task now, 50 years down the road, someone might just make a movie out of this.

England's fortunes were not looking good either. They might be ahead of Russia in the tables, but bear in mind, Russia has one game in hand, and could easily overtake England if they win their last 2 fixtures.

It could be a British-less competition next year.

Flashscore.com

2007-10-17T18:45:00.000+08:00

Let me introduce everyone to this amazing site. Its www.flashscore.com. Flash score offers live score updates on soccer matches from all over the world. We are talking about live updates here, so there is no more sitting down waiting for the news, as you can anticipate on all the games that are happening right now!

Live soccer scores available for leagues all round the world, including lesser known leagues like Scandinavia, Singapore or even Chile. This site also features other competitions including the European Cups and International tournaments.

What differs this amazing site from others is that besides up to the second live scores, Flash score offers live odds! Now that is something no other live update site has to offer.

Besides soccer, you can check up on the latest scores on other sports such as hockey, tennis, basketball, baseball and even American Football! Talk about convenience. All updates on one site.

Believe me when I say this. You will want to check this out.

Russia vs England

2007-10-15T14:41:00.000+08:00

That fixture is coming up this week. After a really bad start, and a streak of 3-0 wins, one more win will ensure England's qualifications in the Euro 2008 tournament.

The reverse fixture might be won 3-0 in Wembley but going to Russia to play against a Gus Hiddink Russian side is something else. Furthermore it is going to be played on a plastic ground. This plastic ground is similar to the turf surface that some futsal courts offer. I've played on it before, and personally I think its slippery and little bits of black plastics do get into your shoes and annoy the hell out of you. I heard the Russians are going to wet the field as well, and with the freezing weather, it is going to be hard to ignore the fact that the field is something totally different from what most are used to. And I'm not even talking about ball dynamics.

The English team will be without Ashley Cole after picking up an injury in the previous match while John Terry said to return. The six forward starters should be starting once again.

I do feel England's 3-0 streak will end. They will still be favourites to win this one. My predictions, 2-1 to England. Fair result, and no one bullies or praises McClaren. Wins like these are taken for granted by the press.

International week

2007-10-13T17:20:00.000+08:00

Once again, club managers relax, or should I say panic (cant stop thinking about which one of their players will come back injured)

Tonight a whole new set of matches continues and Big fries like England, Italy, France, Portugal and Spain are still in danger of not qualifying for the tournament. Lets not forget the European Champions Greece.

Sol Campbell is starting. What a surprise. Why not new blood like Michael Dawson. And Steven Gerrard will Captain tonight.

Germany will be the first team to qualify for the Euro 2008 tournament if they win tonight.

Besides Europe, Other parts of the world will start their World Cup qualifying campaign which includes the South American region Brazil will take on Colombia.

Mr Robinson

2007-10-11T20:01:00.000+08:00

Paul Robinson, the man they once said will be THE successor of David Seaman. The man they say will answer England's goalkeeping problems. The man who has great talents in front of him such as Kaboul and Michael Dawson and still concede more goals than any other keeper in the Premiership other than Steven Bywater. If Robinson plays for Derby it could be worse.

Butter fingers Robinson is far from what he is supposed to be. England's no.1. The country have so many goalkeeping prospects with the like of Kirkland, Carson, Ben Foster, and the aging David James pushing for that no.1 spot.

Do you remember this own goal in Croatia?

Personally I think its time for Scott Carson to be the first choice keeper for England. This young lad has done enough to prove that he's ready for the big games. Robinson is a has been even at his age.

Where are the goals?

2007-10-09T20:40:00.000+08:00

I was quite a fan of The beautiful game podcast, but they are not doing any podshows this season, and I would like to carry on their legacy on one of my favourite segments on the show called Where are the goals?

I will do this once a week to showcase a player who should be scoring but isn't.

Our first lucky player to be added in this Wall of Shame would be none other than Andriy Shevchenko.

Let me remind everybody again, that Andriy Shevchenko is once, European player of the year, top goal scorer in the Serie A and a 30 million pounds buy for Chelsea.

Lets forget about last season shall we? Cause there is so much to talk about already.

This season in 5 games, Sheva scored 1 goal, not the kind of stats one like himself would like to have. Not only is he not scoring goals, the Ukrainian is playing at a standard many will not believe that he has a 30 million price tag and earns more than most can imagine.

So Andriy Shevchenko, I've got to ask you, Where are the goals?

Sorry guys

2007-10-08T23:37:00.000+08:00

Sorry for not updating. I've been very busy, and still busy. Its a busy week. Come back tomorrow. Please? :D

Liverpool 0 Marseille 1

2007-10-04T19:55:00.001+08:00

Honestly, what can I say?

I woke up at five thirty and refreshed Livescore.com and found this scoreline.

Liverpool losing in a home game? Everyone expected a win. After a draw with Porto, a win here would be good. And its a home game, we expect to get all 9 out of 9 points in the 3 home games. No excuses really.

I didn't watch the match, so I really can't say much about it. All reports saying that it was Liverpool's worst European night out under Benitez, and stats don't lie, often. Looks like a bad game. So what if the squad was rotated, and Sebastian Leto starting on the left? It doesn't matter, its still a Liverpool squad losing a home game in the group stages.

Liverpool is supposed to be in a group against teams that looked like they will cause a threat but the end story is the other. So far, not too good.

On the bright side, the last time Liverpool lost to a French team, they ended up winning the tournament. And usually 10 points is needed to qualify to the next stage. That means in the next four games, 3 wins are required. As bad as the last 2 games go, 3 wins are highly possible.

On the other UCL matches from last night, I can embarrassedly admit that most of my predictions were wrong.

2 out of 8 matches where correctly predicted. I'm so ashamed.

Man Utd vs Roma

2007-10-02T20:40:00.000+08:00

Remember that 7-1 scoreline from a few months back, in the same fixture? I remembered watching the first leg where Roma won by 2-1. I was happy enough to hope for a draw between the two in the next leg then, and when I woke up a little late and saw Man Utd with a 4 goal lead. Then they scored some more.

It doesn't reflect the quality difference between the teams really. If I could conclude on how that happened in the first place as just pure focus. Lets not forget self belief. After 2 goals, Roma was probably shivering inside, wondering what, how and why they are even alive.

This time I assure everyone it will be different. No matter what, there will be no goal fest, at least not like last season's game.

Roma will walk into this game with injuries and bad form (4-1 lost to Inter) while Man Utd will be heading to this one picking up form (even though they played badly) and with fit again players.

On paper, looks like a 2-1 or 2-0 win for United. Not too difficult.

John Terry needs protection

2007-10-01T21:38:00.001+08:00

Issit just me or does anyone else not find this title amusing?

What KIND of protection?

Wigan 0 Liverpool 1

2007-09-30T12:07:00.000+08:00

Yossi Benayoun scored a real classy goal to end Liverpool's little crisis of drawing 0-0s. I have to admit, after 50 minutes of no goals, and wasted good chances, plus Wigan's decent performance, I was getting worried.

The pre-match hype was all about how Torres should start, especially after a hat trick in mid week and 2 bench appearance in the last 2 EPL games. The Spaniard did start and did make his presence felt. Constantly marked by 3 players, handful of good chances, near goal chances, he did enough to cause panic at the Wigan Defense line. Unfortunately only goals count in games, and he didn't deliver this time.

Substitute Benayoun came on, scored a good goal, contributed by good defending as well, and earned Liverpool 3 points. Wigan did pretty well themselves, performance wise. Without Heskey and Sibierski, Aghahowa and Bent proved good forwards(although lacking in partnership understanding), Sharner and Koumas both dangerous, causing problems and can be proud of their game.

Earlier on, Man City defeated Newcastle 3-1 in a battle for 3 points. Let me just mention that Elano's free kick is one of the best I've ever seen, making the wall practically useless and at that position, no keeper could have saved that. Man City's fans are starting to believe in their team again.

Chelsea drew with Fulham at home and with John Terry picking up an injury and Drogba sent off, this is not the Chelsea team we once hated so much. I know Grant knows his football, but issit just me or did he picked a really weird starting line up. I understand the gambling but, seriously....

Matchday 8

2007-09-29T14:03:00.000+08:00

When I look at the fixtures for this week, I see it as the position maker, known to some as 6 pointers. We're talking about teams that are most likely to finish just 1 rung above another.

Manchester City vs Newcastle

2 upcoming teams, with new management, with so much improvement, they certainly trying to push for more than Just Uefa Cup spots. They are pretty much the dark horses to push for a 4th spot, and I do see potential. We have Elano who is creating chances like never before, and the amazing strike force of Newcastle, containing quality players that can get the job done. Seriously I don't know which way this game will go, but the winner will score 3 very important points for this one.

Derby vs Bolton

Dont underestimate the drama that can take place between these two clubs. We are talking about two teams sitting bottom of the table, fighting for precious points to climb up and out of that relegation zone. The beauty of being at the bottom with the other teams is that one win can take you up by quite a bit, as it is safe to bet that other teams in or near the drop zone will lose their games. Will Anelka lift his mediocre Bolton out of this one? I do think so.

Tottenham vs Aston Villa

Another 2 nearly heavyweights fighting out for good points. Tottenham of course in bad form, and with all the news about Jol's job being unsafe is not helping. Aston Villa has had good fortune with their wins, and as long as they do not get hit by injuries, looks like they will do fine. I see a draw in this game.

With Liverpool traveling to Wigan and Manchester United to Birmingham, both big teams know they must get full points. Especially Liverpool. If they want to mount a challenge, wins must come. The question on whether mid week hat trick hero Torres will start, I think he will. Manchester United just lost to Coventry and its time for their seniors to not repeat the same mistakes.

A look at Italy for this weekend will take us to the clash of Inter and Roma. Both teams are unbeaten so far, topping the table with 11 points a piece. Who will reign supreme after this weekend?

Mickey Mouse Cup Updates

2007-09-27T19:15:00.000+08:00

Let the first sentence of this post be about Man Utd losing to Coventry by a scoreline of 2-0. Lets forget about how unimportant this cup can be, but face it, losing at home to a team in the lower division, especially when you were the English Champions a few months back is just plain bad. What makes it worst is that the score is 2-0, not a game where Man Utd had so many chances but were unlucky and Coventry made 1 good move to steal the game with a 1-0 win.

You know what else, I can't even remember the scorers name. I have sneak into soccernet.com right now, and in a couple of seconds I won't be able to remember his name. You can write it on a sheet of paper and stick it in front of me, and I won't even be able to tell you who he is. I don't even know if I'm pronouncing it right. All I know about him is that he is from Malta.

Man Utd lost 2-0 to Coventry. Just like to point that out one more time :)

So what if its a weak team. Lets not forget Nani and Anderson are playing in this game. Both players cost as much as the whole of Coventry's squad. Simply no excuses.

Wait am I suppose to let you all know about the other scores as well, no need right? Just take a moment to cherish this Man Utd lost :)

Reading 2 Liverpool 4

2007-09-26T15:48:00.000+08:00

I'm embarrassed of the fact that I totally forgotten about this match. No good. Shameful indeed.

It might just be a League Cup, known to some as the Mickey Mouse Cup, because its the least important trophy to be won in the season. Usually, big teams play their youngsters to give them big match experience. Pool did play Lucas, Leto, Hobbs and a keeper whose name I don't know how to pronounce.

Lets look at the goals from Liverpool. Benayoun scored a very very good goal by any standards. It might be just against Reading in the Mickey Mouse Cup, but a goal is a goal and more importantly it s counted.

Torres gotten himself a hattrick. After failing to start the last 2 games, people were wondering what if this is another one of those players that debuts well and not make the cut later. He answered with this hat trick.

Who cares about Reading goals eh.

Man Utd 2 Chelsea 0

2007-09-24T10:25:00.000+08:00

The faces on TV tells the story.

Roman's face shows, "Oh crap what have I done?", Peter Kenyon's face shows pure worry, Grants face shows the sign of being dominated, and Ferguson's face shows signs of pure satisfaction. Its all written in their faces.

Chelsea without Drogba or Lampard, and recently Mourinho, its the best time to play Chelsea. I don't know what good Grant can do to the team, but its the worst time for him to start. The whole squad feels different without Mourinho. That defensive security is gone, there is totally no flair in their attacks, Chelsea were playing like a side fighting for relegation.

It could have been Peter Cech's night. 6 good saves, some really classy ones but a big match like this, it came down to shenanigans. First of was the sending off of John Obi Mikel. I thought the rules changed. Who knew that a good tackle can earn a player a red card these days. Who knew. With 10 men, Chelsea's strike force is very limited. Shev didn't have the muscle or the speed to hold it together up front. Malouda is playing too wide, and Joe Cole's runs end up nowhere.

Second fault, although debatable was the fact that Man Utd's goal was scored after the proposed injury time that was allocated by the forth official. But it came from a corner, so like I said, debatable.

Chelsea made changes, seems like they are changing their approach to more speeds on the wing. But same story goes on, with Vidic and Ferdinand defending, they shouldn't feed in crosses. Not when you've only got 1 all out striker.

And who can or should forget that Saha's horrible balance that he tripped in such a fashion in the penalty box. Its funny how strikers like himself can hold himself together dribbling a ball around players but when someone sticks his leg out, they suddenly have the balance of a one legged blind man.

Oh, goals were scored by Tevez and Saha's penalty. Looks like Chelsea should concentrate on getting the 4th spot this season.

Liverpool 0 Birmingham 0

2007-09-23T11:28:00.000+08:00

Games like that makes me unhappy.

To me, what a Championship winning team must do is win games that they are meant to win, win games that they are meant to draw, draw games that are meant to be lost. No I don't mean on paper, I meant performance on the field.

Last week against Portsmouth, I have to admit, Portsmouth played their best, and they had a penalty. It was a game destined to be lost. There will be matches like that. But somehow, Liverpool hold through and draw a game that was meant to be lost. It might be remembered as 2 points lost, but honestly, its 1 point gained.

This week, I saw total dominance over Birmingham. When I say dominance, I meant on any other occasion it should have been at the very least a 4-0 victory. I saw shots coming in from all over, from everyone, good ones, bad ones, wasted ones, ones that didn't qualify as shots but should have been goals. Birmingham never came close.

The 0-0 scoreline does no justice to the game play, its 2 points lost for this game. As much as we like to boast that we have yet to concede a goal from open play all season, and this is clean sheet number I lost count, the fireworks only happen when you score a goal. It can be the most spectacular volley from 50 yards out, or a simple tap in from a very messy play, or even a controversial one that didn't cross the line, at the end of the season, 3 points earned, by hook or crook is still 3 points earned.

Liverpool squandered chance after chance, when there are no goals scored in a game like that, there should be no excuse. Everyone has to take the blame. As fancy as they played, this is considered a failure. 3 draws in 3 games after an international break, as much as anyone would even consider this as a crisis, it is what it is. If you want to win the title, and not win games like this, it can be one game, it can be 20 games, it IS a crisis.

We need fireworks.

Matchday 7

2007-09-22T15:08:00.000+08:00

Might be matchday 7, but for some its just their 6th game in the EPL.

This is the weekend where everyone wants to go watch Man Utd versus Chelsea and this is the weekend everyone wanted to see what pre-match team talk Mourinho can come up with. Guess that won't happen eh.

Fact is Grant is untested at Chelsea, and this is the best time to face Chelsea, and Man Utd are lucky to be in this position. I would say a small unconvincing win for Man Utd.

Still I can't digest the fact that Mourinho is gone. I have to admit, he's the best man for the job. How's Chelsea going to cope now? We'll see.

Arsenal and Liverpool's got no excuse to lose this week against Derby and Birmingham respectively.

Other interesting matches would be Aston Villa vs Everton. Aston is picking up fast, and Everton is proving that they can push for a top 4 spot. This one is too close to call, at least for me.

Newcastle vs West ham is also another interesting one, watch out for this match.

See you after the goals

Mourinho parts with Chelsea

2007-09-20T19:56:00.000+08:00

Love him or hate him, there is no doubt he brings a comical relief to football fans all over. Put aside his managing skills, Mourinho's been making headlines about sending Christmas Cards, telling people that he is the special one, cursing at his rivals etc etc.

And this morning, Mourinho leaves Chelsea. It might not be a sacking, but he will come down as the first EPL manager to leave the club this season. Honestly the whole thing is quite a shock.

This whole thing started off with the not too good relationship with Rich man Abramovich, last season, signs of him quitting the club was exposed, and in the end he announced that he will be there for the start of the new season. Looks like he's kept his promise.

Then there are the little things that Chelsea's been hiding, including an early exit of Abramovich, and the thing about Michael Ballack. Lets not forget that Shev and Ballack are not really Mourinho's signings. Looks like plenty of happenings in the backroom that didn't become public.

Recent results were also not convincing. 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa, 1-1 draw with Rosenberg, tell the world what you want, but in that office, the word "Crisis" is spelt.

And he's gone.

With the special one gone, don't Chelsea need another special one to take over?

Looks like Avram Grant and assistant manager Steve Clarke will take over, and it looks temporary, until Chelsea employ a proper replacement. Grant is a special one. This fella started managing since he was just 19. Clarke will always be a no.2 in my eyes.

All this happening before the weekend where they play Man Utd. Heh heh.

Chelsea 1 and who? 1

2007-09-19T21:14:00.000+08:00

Chelsea drew Rosenberg at home 1-1.

Now lets look at this in a neutral point of view.

Chelsea's John Terry's weekly wages can probably pay for the whole of Rosenberg's first eleven. wages. Shevchenko's 30 million pound price tag can buy the whole of Rosenberg's first eleven. Heck, add a couple of million pounds and you can own the whole team.

Lets see... Rosenberg traveled to Stamford Bridge to face a mighty Chelsea team. Forget the injuries, Chelsea's back ups are as good as any top Premiership players.

Now let me ask, how can a mighty Chelsea team not win against a Norwegian side that are considered under par in the Champions League (no disrespect to Rosenberg)?

Its so funny.

My bad.

2007-09-18T23:06:00.000+08:00

I just found out I have comments on the preview of Derby County. My bad, I hope you guys are still reading. Anyways, let me paste it here...

There's something about certain newly-promoted clubs and their logos that tell you they're sure to be destined for the drop.
Choo | 08.05.07 - 1:05 am | #

I expect a relegation battle but we will survive.

We will surprise a few people, believe me.
Mike Senger | 08.05.07 - 10:58 am | #

Irrespective of how well Derby may or may not fare in the much-vaunted Premiership, they finished third in last year's Championship and then negotiating a successful path through the playoffs.

Therefore, they have earned their chance to rub shoulders with the rich, the famous and the arrogant more than anyone else except arguably Birmingham and Sunderland.

Watford too earned their chance to mix it with the big boys, despite the tiresome sneering. What would you do - change the rules to include a means test before teams could step up to the top division, or perhaps just have Man Utd, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool in the Prem and screw the rest?
Eddie Sanders | 08.05.07 - 1:23 pm | #

Choo: I remember the Chris Riggot and Malcom Christie days of Derby when they were still in the Prem. Somehow, I don't consider them as newly promoted, eventhough its been years since they were in the big league, and they really did get promoted recently.

Mike Senger: Glad to see a fan being supportive. :) that's the spirit.

Eddie Sanders: I'm not saying that it is a mistake for Derby to be in the EPL, they might not score a single point all season, and I would still say they are worthy of their position. Yes, they did earn their rights to be there, no doubt, and the EPL is for 20 teams. Maybe only a few can challenge for the title, but it is still 20 teams, meaning top 20 for England. Make no mistake, Derby did enough to ensure that they are top 20. But even the top has a bottom, reality is, 3 teams have to go down. Comparatively with the other teams, Derby is short in talent. But they will have good games, they will fight, and I'm sure their fans will have a great year supporting them. I still think they will be relegated though. I won't change the rules, it is a good system. Having just the top 4 in the league is suicide.

I hope you guys still read footietalk.. hehe

UCL matchday 1

2007-09-18T21:08:00.000+08:00

Woo Hoo! I love the Uefa Champions League. Don't you?

I havent missed a final since Real Madrid beating Valencia 3-0, my most memorable match day 1 was after 911 of 2001 when Real Madrid faced Roma, favourite game goes to that 3-3 Liverpool and Milan draw, which was eventually won by Liverpool, I still remember the magic!

And its all starting again... in a few hours.

Tuesday, September 18, 2007
TIME	HOME		AWAY	STAGE	VENUE
19:45 UK	FC Porto	v	Liverpool	First Phase Group A	Estadio do Dragao
19:45 UK	Marseille	v	Besiktas	First Phase Group A	Stade Vélodrome
19:45 UK	Chelsea	v	Rosenborg	First Phase Group B	Stamford Bridge
19:45 UK	Schalke 04	v	Valencia	First Phase Group B	Veltins-Arena
19:45 UK	Olympiakos	v	Lazio	First Phase Group C	Karaiskaki Stadium
19:45 UK	Real Madrid	v	Werder Bremen	First Phase Group C	Estadio Santiago Bernabéu
19:45 UK	AC Milan	v	Benfica	First Phase Group D	Stadio Giuseppe Meazza
19:45 UK	Shakhtar Donetsk	v	Celtic	First Phase Group D	Shakhtyor

Wednesday, September 19, 2007
TIME	HOME		AWAY	STAGE	VENUE
19:45 UK	Barcelona	v	Lyon	First Phase Group E	Estadio Camp Nou
19:45 UK	Rangers	v	VfB Stuttgart	First Phase Group E	Ibrox Stadium
19:45 UK	Roma	v	Dynamo Kiev	First Phase Group F	Stadio Olimpico
19:45 UK	Sporting Lisbon	v	Man Utd	First Phase Group F	Jose Alvalade
19:45 UK	Fenerbahce	v	Inter Milan	First Phase Group G	Sukru Saracoglu
19:45 UK	PSV Eindhoven	v	CSKA Moscow	First Phase Group G	Philips Stadion
19:45 UK	Arsenal	v	FC Sevilla	First Phase Group H	Emirates Stadium
19:45 UK	Slavia Prague	v	Steaua Bucuresti	First Phase Group H	Evzena Rosickeho Stadium

One to watch would be Porto vs Liverpool. Liverpool's going to play Fernando Torres no doubt, and it would be his European debut. Lets not forget this is a Liverpool away game, and Porto has Quaresma up their sleeves. No one is hoping for a straight win, any amount of points taken from this fixture would be good for pool.

Real Madrid vs Werder Bremen. Its all about Madrid's fantastic start in the La Liga, and Bremen's have good Group stage rounds before.

AC Milan vs Benfica. Defending Champions will start their title defence against a tricky Benfica. As tricky as they are, lets not forget that Milan has a very strong but aging team that can wipe out Benfica in 30 minutes.

Sporting Lisbon vs Man Utd. What does Nani, Cristiano Ronaldo and Chewbacca has in common?

Barcelona vs Lyon. Barcelona has a shaky start and everyone is busy looking for Henry goal clips in a Barcelona jersey, and I think they can't find any.

Big 4's fortunes

2007-09-16T21:47:00.000+08:00

Man Utd pulled off another Houdini, this time against Everton. Its unbelievable how they can play such crappy football and take all 3 points off. And its unbelievable how this always happens to them.

Liverpool drew 0-0 with Portsmouth. This match will be either remembered as 1 point, or not remembered at all. At the end of the day, no one will remember Reina saved a penalty and the game could go either way, and the fact that both teams deserves something out of the game.

Arsenal came from 1-0 with a spectacular free kick from Gareth Bale, to win 3-1 against rivals Tottenham Hotspurs. They are slowly proving their point that there is still life after Henry.

And Chelsea had a goal disallow and proved my point of how Blackburn is a tough opponent.

Other games worth a mention would be Wigan draw Fulham 1 -1 and Bolton failing to win against Birmingham losing 1-0. I had so much hope for Anelka to produce something.

After Scotland vs France...

2007-09-15T10:55:00.000+08:00

I'm trying to work on a html script where i can put the fixtures of upcoming games + times in my sidebar. Haven't really got the time to work on it, and I really don't know that much about html. If someone can help me I would be thankful ;)

Back to the weekend preview of the EPL. In a rare weekend like this one, the big four have games on the same day, against middle table teams that can potentially ruin their weekend.

Everton vs Man Utd, with Ronaldo and Rooney returning to action against a stronger Everton squad this time round. Man Utd might have a rough start, but considering they had players off for a couple of games, they were pretty lucky in points.

Portsmouth vs Liverpool, another one of those ever improving sides, and no one can doubt Harry Redknapp spent his money wisely last summer to improve his squad, and Liverpool will be travelling after a hectic international weekend. Let not forget those Pompey bells that leaves the rings in your ears until you die.

Tottenham vs Arsenal, a north London derby. Is this match ever a boring one? No need to talk about the rivalry, its going to be intense.

Chelsea vs Blackburn, Chelsea gets the best fixture but against a Blackburn side which is difficult to play against. Although Chelsea should win this one.

Other matches worth a mention would be Derby vs Newcastle. Time to add Newcastle United players to your Fantasy football squad.

Euro 2008 qualifiers

2007-09-13T17:17:00.000+08:00

While everyone was waiting to see how England will do against Russia and betting on them to either lose momentum or winning impressively again, Scotland beats France... again.

Remember a couple of months ago, France went to Scotland to play an Euro 2008 qualifier and lost 1-0 to a Steve Caldweld goal?

This time they lose 1-0 in Paris to a James Mcfadden 30 yard strike.

Here are some stats

Match Stats
	France	Scotland
Shots (on Goal)	15(7)	2(2)
Fouls	11	14
Corner Kicks	16	3
Offsides	0	1
Time of Possession	72%	28%
Yellow Cards	2	2
Red Cards	0	0
Saves	3	9

Remember, this is not a weak French squad, and in the modern world, does Scotland ever had a strong squad? We are looking at a team that only had 2 shots, against 15, a team that only had 28% of the possession, and that's probably from Craig Gordon's time wasting goal kicks... haha.

Check out the goal here

Moving along, we see how the Owen Heskey Partnership blossom. In the past, we took for granted that this partnership can be the funniest thing to watch as everyone is betting on how Heskey would not score, how Owen is running too fast and not stopping, how much of a disaster this would be. 3 years later, they came back and this would be one of McClaren's smartest moves.

England beats Russia 3-0. Check out the goals. Owen's scoring good goals again

Drunk Man attacks Ferguson

2007-09-13T00:02:00.000+08:00

Forty-three-year-old Kevin Reynolds pleaded guilty to assaulting the Manchester United manager outside a train station before attacking the officer and racially abusing him.

And he kicked Ferguson in the groin...

Ouch!

Fantasy UCL

2007-09-11T21:08:00.000+08:00

September 19th is the date, and its time for me to pick my squad for my UCL Fantasy game.

Check it out here

I've been participating in this fantasy for years, each time, pushing my luck on a couple of players to shine, and what I really like about this game is the scoring system.

Action	Points
For playing in a game	1
For playing at least 60 minutes in a game (includes playing points mentioned above)	2
For each goal scored by your goalkeeper or defenders	6
For each goal scored by your midfielders	5
For each goal scored by your forwards	4
For each goal assist	3
For your goalkeeper conceding 0 goals (must also play at least 60 minutes)	4
For your defenders conceding 0 goals (must also play at least 60 minutes)	4
For your midfielders conceding 0 goals (must also play at least 60 minutes)	2
For every penalty save	5
For every penalty miss	-2
For every 2 goals conceded by your goalkeeper or defenders	-1
For every yellow card	-1
For every red card (includes any yellow card points)	-3
For every 3 saves	1
For earning a penalty after the referee adjudges that the player had been fouled	1
For conceding a penalty after the referee adjudges that an infringement takes place in the penalty area that results in a kick from the penalty mark	-1

It is clear on what kind of players I should select. Smart idea to put in defenders that can score, or makes crosses, Scoring midfielders, and of course a players from teams that does not concede often. Other important factor would be players with good behaviour. Good to put players that takes free kicks and corners, as they are likely to score assist points. And most importantly, scoring strikers.

Of course you cant have all the stars in the world, you've got a budget to worry about.

Here is my current squad

It was either Cech or Reina. Came down to Cech cause I could only add 2 players from the same team.

Finnan Kromkramp and Cole are wing backs that frequently swing crosses in for potential goals. Vidic is reliable.

Kaka is the most reliable midfielder ever, and I put him captain so his points doubles. Scoring midfielder, creates goals and happens to be in a team that hardly concedes. Gerrard is similar to Kaka in the contribution sense. Great player, and scores. Mendez is someone I put in to cover my budget. Should be reliable enough to play at least 60 mins per game.

Van Piersie is showing his Henry replacement skills, and I gambled Crespo and Vagner Love.

Roux is a keeper to keep my budget intact, never gonna start him anyways, Toulalan is a good backup for a midfielder, and the 2 Steaua players are also there for budget reasons.

Players I would be looking at to add into my squad:

Samir Nasri
Yaya Toure
Kolo Toure - With Arsenal's easy group, they should have cleansheets
Sami Hyypia - Injury to either Agger or Carragher, and I'm getting this guy. He scores goals.
Torres
Van Nisterooy - If Crespo fails

Notice I don't have any Barcelona, Rangers, or Stuttgart regulars, besides a couple of Lyon small fries, its called group of death for a reason.

Feel free to challenge me. My league code is 1750-600

"Hahaha!" said McClaren

2007-09-09T21:42:00.000+08:00

So England won, and France took points home.

The English pattern of qualification continues. Everytime England are in the qualifiers, they get a reasonable draw, fail to beat the "smaller" opponents, screw up, injury strikes, media attacks the manager like crazy, Club vs Country issue, and everyone is betting on them not making through.

In the end, somehow, they qualify, start off well and don't win the tournament.

Sounds too familiar in the modern world no?

Now with the team and fans starting to believe their chances, Russia is coming up on Wednesday. Reality check, Israel is no Russia. But at the end of the day, I do believe that Russia is just another obstacle.

Euro 2008 qualifiers

2007-09-08T20:54:00.000+08:00

All eyes will be on England and whether they can overcome a supposedly easy opponent, Israel, and it is about how the small fries can shock the world. England behind in points are desperate for 2 wins from tonight and Wednesday, to have any realistic hope of qualifying for the Euro 2008.

Its supposed to be Michael Owen's night. With Wayne Rooney out and Peter Crouch suspended, its up to Owen and who ever partners him to represent England in the best way possible. Looks like Gerrard is playing through pain to help out, I do hope nothing happens to him. My guess is England wins by a small margin.

Other big games includes Italy vs France, World cup finalists. Italy is not the team they used to be and neither is France. I think the French will take this game, whether a draw or a victory. It would be worth the trip.

Other games worth mentioning includes Sweden vs Denmark, a fixture that didn't finish the last time due to the fact that a drunk Danish fan attacked the referee.

Portugal vs Poland should be another interesting fixture.

The fixture list for international week is as follows.

Saturday, September 8, 2007
TIME	HOME		AWAY	STAGE	VENUE
19:15 UK	Serbia	v	Finland	Group A	Stadion Crvena Zvezda
21:00 UK	Portugal	v	Poland	Group A
15:00 UK	Scotland	v	Lithuania	Group B	Hampden Park
16:00 UK	Georgia	v	Ukraine	Group B	Lokomotivi Stadium
19:50 UK	Italy	v	France	Group B
15:00 UK	Hungary	v	Bosnia-Herzegovina	Group C	Ferenc Puskas Stadium
18:30 UK	Malta	v	Turkey	Group C	Ta'Qali National Stadium
19:00 UK	Moldova	v	Norway	Group C	Republican Stadium
19:15 UK	San Marino	v	Czech Republic	Group D	Stadio Olimpico Serravalle
19:30 UK	Slovakia	v	Ireland	Group D
19:30 UK	Wales	v	Germany	Group D	Millennium Stadium
16:00 UK	Russia	v	Macedonia	Group E
17:00 UK	England	v	Israel	Group E
19:30 UK	Croatia	v	Estonia	Group E	Stadion Maksimir
17:15 UK	Latvia	v	Northern Ireland	Group F	Stadionas Skonto
19:30 UK	Sweden	v	Denmark	Group F	Nya Ullevi Stadion
21:00 UK	Iceland	v	Spain	Group F	Laugardalsvollur Stadium
16:00 UK	Luxembourg	v	Slovenia	Group G	Josy Barthel Stadium
17:00 UK	Belarus	v	Romania	Group G	Dinamo Stadion
19:30 UK	Netherlands	v	Bulgaria	Group G

Wednesday, September 12, 2007
TIME	HOME		AWAY	STAGE	VENUE
16:00 UK	Kazakhstan	v	Belgium	Group A	Ortalyk Tsentralnyi Stadium
17:00 UK	Finland	v	Poland	Group A	Olympiastadion
21:00 UK	Portugal	v	Serbia	Group A
18:00 UK	Lithuania	v	Faroe Islands	Group B	Zalgiris Stadium
19:45 UK	Ukraine	v	Italy	Group B	Olympic Stadium
20:00 UK	France	v	Scotland	Group B	Stade de France
18:00 UK	Norway	v	Greece	Group C	Ullevaal Stadium
18:30 UK	Turkey	v	Hungary	Group C	Ataturk Olympic Stadium
19:00 UK	Bosnia-Herzegovina	v	Moldova	Group C
17:30 UK	Slovakia	v	Wales	Group D
19:00 UK	Cyprus	v	San Marino	Group D	Ramat Gan Stadium
19:30 UK	Czech Republic	v	Ireland	Group D
17:00 UK	Andorra	v	Croatia	Group E	Estadio Comunal de Aixovall
19:30 UK	Macedonia	v	Estonia	Group E	City Stadium Skopje
20:00 UK	England	v	Russia	Group E
19:00 UK	Denmark	v	Liechtenstein	Group F	Lia Manoilu
19:05 UK	Iceland	v	Northern Ireland	Group F	Laugardalsvollur Stadium
21:00 UK	Spain	v	Latvia	Group F
18:30 UK	Bulgaria	v	Luxembourg	Group G	Vassil Levski Stadion
18:45 UK	Slovenia	v	Belarus	Group G	Petrol Arena
19:45 UK	Albania	v	Netherlands	Group G	Qemal Stafa Stadium

The big deal with Michael Ballack

2007-09-06T19:50:00.000+08:00

Recently, there is a fuss about Michael Ballack not included in the Chelsea squad for the Champions League, even though he is supposedly ready for action by October. If my fingers didn't fail me, that is like 1 month away, possibly 4 out of 6 fixtures to play. Like many others I see a possible transfer in January.

The thing is, Ballack is earning 130,000 pounds a week, one of the top earning footballers in the world, playing in a team that he doesn't belong. His move to Chelsea is obviously a very bad decision, and the Chelsea's back room staff is also noticing something.

In case you don't know, not playing in the Champions League makes him eligible to play in European competitions next year. Which means, Ballack would be higher priced if some other club wishes to buy this player. At his age, a 7 million pound move back to Germany or Spain would be a wise decision.

Looking back at his Chelsea move, honestly, a move to Manchester United would be a good one then. Filling in for Paul Scholes at times, and actually given the freedom to roam around behind the strikers.

But when I look at Michael Ballack, I remember his days at Bayern Leverkusen. Those were the days when I watched their Champions League games and point out that this one is special and will one day move to England. Well, he did move to England and he WAS special.

Make no mistake, Ballack is a good player, better than most, but is just wasting his time at the wrong club.

Paul Tomkins is my hero

2007-09-05T19:41:00.000+08:00

The title said it.

Check his website here

I feel like buying his books

England's Euro Qualifiers

2007-09-04T09:53:00.000+08:00

With so many injuries to the first team, its going to be a new look for the double header coming up.

Honestly, in the Friendly against Germany a few weeks back, McClaren should have done what Sven did the last time. Experiment with potential players. Its a bloody friendly, make it meaningful by separating the 1 cap players with players that can win games.

I don't know how the training went, but this is the squad England should play against Israel.

Its time to change Robinson. He is no longer the Robinson we use to believe that can replace Seaman. He deserves to be in the squad no doubt, but its time to give Scott Carson a chance to play in goal.

In defense, I believe a Micah Richards, John Terry, Rio Ferdinand and Ashley Cole will do. Maybe Nick Shorey, but anyone else should not start a competitive game just yet.

The midfield is where it starts to get interesting. We have Beckham, Lampard injured, and Gerrard not in a condition to play as of now. I hope McClaren is smart enough to either not play gerrard or give him nothing more than 45 minutes. I know McClaren would like to play with a flat four, but with the injuries going on, what I would do is play a double left wing position. Best part is, its never done before.

I'm talking about Shaun Wright Phillips taking right, Carrick Centre, Gareth Barry a central role, but free to roam in the left, and a Ashley young running the upper part of the wing. Imagine this, the pace of Ashley Young, supported by Barry and Cole, we've never seen it before and its a good time to try. Hit Israel with something they didn't prepare for. Run the wing deeper.

In attack, I believe Michael Owen should start, and with Crouch Suspended, I hope Heskey starts next to him. He's no goal scoring striker, but no doubt a strong teammate. If things don't work out, throw Defoe of Smith later, or maybe pull Young forward.

I just realize Ashley Young and Ashley Cole share the same first name.

Haha, on paper this should be easy, but its never that simple. To save his job, McClaren should gamble. Its time to do so.

Aston villa beats Chelsea!

2007-09-03T21:53:00.000+08:00

The score is 2-0 if you have yet to realize.

They lost to a team that played started with four strikers, playing 2 on the wing. Not common in modern football.

Yes, Chelsea lost.

The scoreline might not do my Fantasy football team well, as far as points go, but after Liverpool's rout, its even better to hear about a rival's failure. What is even more important that in this very fixture, Liverpool took 3 full points.

First goal by Zat Knight! Of all players, this has to be the premiership's best kept secret. So much talent, wasting his months in Fulham, finally gotten himself into a more prolific club and what a fairytale beginning. For a defender to score in a winning game against Chelsea in his debut home game for his favourite team, that is quite something.

And Gabriel Agbonlahor scores the second.

Its funny how this is the stadium that Chelsea has yet to win for 8.5 years (league games i meant).

Reds ate Rams

2007-09-02T12:00:00.000+08:00

Premier League

Final - Anfield

Attendance: 44,076

Liverpool

6 - 0

Derby

Xabi Alonso (27)
Ryan Babel (45)
Fernando Torres (56)
Xabi Alonso (69)
Andrej Voronin (76)
Fernando Torres (78)

Its like having a 90 minute orgasm, unless you are actually rooting for Derby to win.
On any other day, more than half the team deserves to win man of the match award. Let me remind everyone that this is the side without Steven Gerrard or Jamie Carragher. Overall everyone played well, Finnan was consistent, Hyppia and Agger never really gave Derby a chance, Aberloa is showing how much he's matured and how he deserves to be involved in every minute of Liverpool's games so far. In midfield, Xabi was excellent, Marcherano is tackling from behind legally(best tackler I've ever seen), Pennant had a great day, Babel, I thought he was just an extra man after losing possession so many times , until he scored that brilliant goal. Kuyt was working so hard, and Torres simply proved why Liverpool paid so much for him. Hey, even the subs were good, Voronin's first touch was a goal, excellent mins per goal ratio. Lets not forget Reina who watched the match from his goal post.

Elsewhere, Fulham scored 1 fluke and 1 acrobatic bicycle kick to draw 3-3 with Tottenham. Robinson is really not doing well, I hope he is not in your fantasy football team.

Roy Keane and Dwight Yorke returns to Man Utd, and were pretty unlucky to lose to another fluke header by Saha. Man of the match was clearly Craig Gordon with his 9 million pound save(shot by saha). The game ended 1-0.

Oh and Owen scored for Newcastle's first home win.

31st of August Scramble

2007-09-01T16:02:00.000+08:00

31st of August for a couple of Leagues in the Uefa region means that the transfer window will close until January. Usually at this time, managers make panic buys trying to improve their teams before they can do nothing about them for the next 3 months.

This season, the panic buys are not very impressive. Seems like there was no panic involved, and no team feels in a rush to secure another player.

List of player transfers on the transfer dateline.

TRANSFER DEADLINE DAY
Player	From	To	Fee
Caleb Folan	Wigan Athletic	Hull City	£1,000,000
Dejan Stefanovic	Portsmouth	Fulham	£1,000,000
Mohamed Shawky	Al-Ahly	Middlesbrough	£650,000
Stephen Hughes	Leicester City	Motherwell	Undisclosed
Glen Johnson	Chelsea	Portsmouth	Undisclosed
Mikele Leigertwood	Sheffield United	Queens Park Rangers	Undisclosed
Alan Martin	Motherwell	Leeds United	Undisclosed
Lee Bradbury	Southend United	AFC Bournemouth	Free
Jason Euell	Middlesbrough	Southampton	Free
Santiago Aloi	River Plate	Watford	Loan
Marcus Bent	Charlton Athletic	Wigan Athletic	Loan
Chris Birchall	Coventry City	St Mirren	Loan
Curtis Davies	West Bromwich Albion	Aston Villa	Loan
Amdy Faye	Charlton Athletic	Rangers	Loan
Paul Gallagher	Blackburn Rovers	Preston North End	Loan
Andy Gooding	Coventry City	Burton Albion	Loan
Lewis Grabban	Crystal Palace	Motherwell	Loan
Evan Horwood	Sheffield United	Gretna	Loan
Dan Kirkup	Carlisle United	Clyde	Loan
Larrys Mabiala	Paris St Germain	Plymouth Argyle	Loan
David Martot	Le Havre	Brighton & Hove Albion	Loan
David McGoldrick	Southampton	Port Vale	Loan
George O'Callaghan	Ipswich Town	Brighton & Hove Albion	Loan
Eric Odhiambo	Leicester City	Southend United	Loan
Adam Rooney	Stoke City	Chesterfield	Loan
Sam Sodje	Reading	Charlton Athletic	Loan

Elsewhere in Europe, Kluivert moves to lille, and Arouna Kone moves to Sevilla

AC Milan wins Super Cup

2007-09-01T15:55:00.000+08:00

With everyone busy with everything else, we all forgotten about the curtain raiser of Europe. I know I did.

UEFA Super Cup: 2007

Final - Stade Louis II

Attendance: 18,000

AC Milan

3 - 1

FC Sevilla

Filippo Inzaghi (55)
Marek Jankulovski (62)
Kaká (pen miss 87)
Kaká (87)

Dirnei Renato (14)

Sevilla still Mourning the death of Puerta, and it is seriously sad, can't do much about this game. Everyone expected Milan to win anyways. Meaningless friendly

UCL Draw (after the draw of course)

2007-08-31T23:31:00.000+08:00

Group A
Team	P	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
Liverpool - Eng	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Porto - Por	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Marseille - Fra	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Besiktas - Tur	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Full group fixtures

Group B
Team	P	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
Chelsea - Eng	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Valencia - Spa	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Schalke - Ger	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Rosenborg - Nor	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Full group fixtures

Group C
Team	P	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
Real Madrid - Spa	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Werder Bremen - Ger	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Lazio - Ita	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Olympiakos - Gre	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Full group fixtures

Group D
Team	P	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
AC Milan - Ita	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Benfica - Por	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Celtic - Sco	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Shakhtar Donetsk - Ukr	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Full group fixtures

Group E
Team	P	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
Barcelona - Spa	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Lyon - Fra	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Stuttgart - Ger	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Rangers - Sco	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Full group fixtures

Group F
Team	P	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
Manchester United - Eng	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Roma - Ita	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Sporting Lisbon - Por	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Dynamo Kiev - Ukr	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Full group fixtures

Group G
Team	P	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
Inter Milan - Ita	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
PSV Eindhoven - Hol	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
CSKA Moscow - Rus	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Fenerbahce - Tur	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Full group fixtures

Group H
Team	P	W	D	L	F	A	Pts
Arsenal - Eng	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Sevilla or AEK Athens* - Spa/Gre	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Steaua Bucharest - Rom	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Slavia Prague - Cze	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Full group fixtures

Yes, yes I just copy and pasted the whole chunk up there.

Group of Death goes to Group E no doubt. With Barcelona, Lyon, Stuttgart, and Rangers, its a tough position to be in any of the clubs really, although overall, I think all the teams in pot 1 should have no problem making it into the next round. A lot of debate going on about Group E as which team should qualify with Barcelona. Lyon's been good in Europe, Stuttgart is untested, and Rangers, is seen as the dark horse of the group. To me, its going to be Lyon, I don't see Rangers have any chance of making it, maybe a Uefa Cup spot.

Group of Life award goes to Group H with Arsenal, Sevilla or AEK Athens, Steaua and Slavia Prague. And it gets worse if AEK makes it. Group of life means, all the minor teams have every chance in the world to make it through, while pot 1 Arsenal should have no problem playing reserves and scoring points.

Champions League draws are very funny. They bring back the past, give previous losers a second chance. We all know Chelsea's losing streak against Liverpool, this time, we will see Man Utd against Roma again, Milan versus Celtic, and Chelsea against Valencia.

Too early to predict a winner, but I would like Liverpool to win, naturally. And if they don't, I would like a Slavia Prague vs Shakhtar Donetsk final

UCL Draw

2007-08-30T20:06:00.000+08:00

The draw is half as interesting as the games, and we are talking about the Uefa Champions League. One of the only European Club tournaments showing on local non-cable channels from where I live.

The pots for the draw are as follows

Pot 1

AC Milan
Barcelona
Liverpool
Inter Milan
Arsenal
Real Madrid
Chelsea
Manchester United

Pot 2

Valencia
Lyon
Porto
Sevilla/AEK Athens
PSV Eindhoven
Roma
Benfica
Werder Bremen

Pot 3

Celtic
Schalke
Stuttgart
Steaua Bucharest
CSKA Moscow
Sporting Lisbon
Lazio
Marseille

Pot 4

Rangers
Shakhtar Donetsk
Besiktas
Olympiakos
Dynamo Kiev
Fenerbache
Slavia Prage
Rosenborg

So how does this thing work?
Basically there will be groups of 4 and 1 team from each pot will fill 1 position in each group.
The other condition is that any team will not face another team of the same country in the group. For example, AC Milan and Roma, although they are in different pots, they cant be drawn into the same group.

Do the math and calculate your team's chances against different teams. Exciting tournament awaits.

Liverpool in UCL

2007-08-29T19:02:00.000+08:00

I'l let the goal speak for themselves.

Just noting that all first team strikers opened their accounts, and Season is looking good. :)

Leto Debuts for Liverpool tonight

2007-08-29T02:37:00.000+08:00

One of the reasons I'm writing this post is because I cant sleep.

Sebastian Leto will be handed his Reds debut in tonight's Champions League qualifier against Toulouse.

The young Argentine, who will be 21st birthday next week, starts on the left side of midfield, while Yossi Benayoun patrols the right on his home debut.

Brazilian midfielder Lucas Leiva could also make his debut after being named on the bench.

This is the line up

Reina, Arbeloa, Hyypia, Agger, Riise, Benayoun, Leto, Sissoko, Mascherano, Crouch, Kuyt.

Subs: Itandje, Finnan, Torres, Alonso, Pennant, Babel, Lucas.

To be honest, I'm a little worried. Liverpool only hold a 1 goal lead, the job is not done and this is a side that will depend on their wings to attack, namely Leto and Benayoun. I have yet to see both perform for Liverpool and I hope it all goes well.

I believe the game will go Liverpool's way as long as they can feed high balls to Crouch. Simple effective game plan that works in European football.

May Leto and Leiva do wonders and shock the world.

RIP Antonio Puerta

2007-08-28T23:14:00.000+08:00

Sevilla defender Antonio Puerta was in "very serious" condition Sunday after two cardiac arrests during his team's 4-1 win over Getafe a day earlier.

"He is in the intensive care unit where he has been given assisted ventilation and is experiencing hemodynamic instability," a medical statement issued by the Virgen del Rocio hospital said. "The prognosis is very serious."

And he is only 22 years old, and probably has a great future ahead of him. Quality young player as well. Sad moment in football.

Man Utd's first win

2007-08-27T17:50:00.000+08:00

Argh they finally won. But against a very unlucky Tottenham side, and it could have been a disaster for United.

Nani scored a very good looking goal, but truthfully, it was pretty close to the centre just showing how bad Paul Robinson's positioning was. It was a good goal though.

I was waiting for a Man Utd defeat as they were 2nd from the bottom before the game. It could make a good conversation ice breaker to friends that enjoys football like I do.

Arsenal beaten Man City and nearly did not succeed and ended Man City's excellent start.

Weekend of football.

2007-08-25T09:41:00.000+08:00

The Spanish League and the Italian League begins this week.

Spotlight will be on the new Real Madrid taking on city rivals Athelico Madrid. With new signings, new manager, new style of play, on paper, Real Madrid is actually quite strong. But how long before they gel as a team? I really don't know.

Juventus is back in the Serie A and the tussle for the title is wide open again. No more one horse race, but lets rememeber, Juventus is now a weaker side compared to 2 years ago.

EPL matches of the week would be Sunderland against Liverpool, Arsenal against Manchester City and Man Utd against Tottenham.

My pick would be a Liverpool win, Arsenal sharing points with Man City, and Man Utd yet to score their first week, which will spark more articles about their bad start. Heh heh heh.

See you on the other side :)

Mad transfers

2007-08-23T21:08:00.000+08:00

Honestly, I expect deals like Heinze to Real Madrid to have more of a saga, something the press would enjoy. Or at least something done minutes before the transfer window closes. Pretty much something more dramatic.

Suddenly, without any warning, Belletti moves to Chelsea, Robben goes to Madrid, Heinze to Madrid, and Daniel Alves to stay another year?

Smartest move of the lot would be Belletti to Chelsea. This is one classy right back, playing second fiddle to Zambrotta in Barcelona. Coming to Chelsea means first team football and a team that is hungry of trophies. Yes, Alves is an exceptional talent, but he deserves to stay at Sevilla for one more year before moving to Liverpool next season. Ho ho ho.

And Real Madrid, once collecting galacticos, then started to collect Brazilians, then a bunch of use to bes, then prospects, and now the Dutch collection.

Funny isn't it?

What is wrong with Man Utd?

2007-08-21T20:46:00.000+08:00

Out of 3 matches, 2 draws and a loss. One would expect this start for a team battling relegation. It might be just 3 games, but this is the worst start Man Utd have in years. Some are just debating that its the early season jitters. Just a little early bump they say. 16th place as off now. Thats just bad.

The English Champions, making great signings as far as paper goes. Nani, regarded as a Cristiano Ronaldo Clone. Hey, which team wants to handle 2 Cristiano Ronaldos? Anderson is seen as another Paul Scholes, Owen Heargreaves, one of England's best in the previous World Cup, and Carlos Tevez, we all know what he did with West Ham last season.

Put all of these together with the current squad, sounds really good right?

Or so we thought.

I can tell you what is wrong with a couple of keywords.

Hype, aging, expectations.

All leads to failure.

EPL week 2

2007-08-20T16:22:00.000+08:00

I think saikaiball.com said it right.

Liverpool 1 Referee 1.

Okay, I only saw clips, look at stats and read match reports. Let me first say that the Torres goal was really really good.

Then comes the part where Malouda tripped over the ball. 60000 pairs of eyes watching it live in the stadium, millions tuning in at home, and replays to back them, Mr Rob Styles is the only one that saw a foul.

Mr Styles, when a player falls down in front of another player without direct contact, that is not a foul. This game should be won by Liverpool no doubt.

Man City 1 Man Utd 0

When the lights go on, and reality sets in, you shall now all bow to me and say that I was right all along and you should have believed me. Muahaha. As close as Man Utd gets, they are denied by the much better Man City (compared to themselves for the past season). Eriksson's football at its best, not many chances created, a little boring, but can be effective. Worst start for Man Utd, and I believe it could only get worse. Titles are not won or lost in August though.

Another worth mention would be Tony Warner's butter fingers goalkeeping.

At this level, mistakes like that are never forgotten.

The Champions Youth Cup

2007-08-19T15:00:00.000+08:00

In case if you don't know, the finals will be between Man Utd and Juventus.

Let me just say that this competition is held at the wrong time, and the attendance is just pathetic. Yes, even the news was debating on this. We are talking about the future of football, and drawing crowds fewer than matches of the local leagues, I'm not sure whether to be proud or sad.

Both finalist, I have yet to watch a single match on any of them. So my guess of the outcome is as good as any body's. If Liverpool's in this tournament, I believe they will have a good chance of winning, since they are the domestic youth champions for a couple of years already.

Looking at the youth system of both Man Utd and Juventus, both are pretty impressive. Man Utd can churn a talentless Luke Chadwick to peak when he's barely 20. Juve's youngsters are well, they have a history of creating careers for plenty of Italian internationals.

My rough pick would be Man Utd to win the tournament. The best team doesn't always win things like that, it comes down to determination and luck. Good luck!

18/8/07 EPL weekend preview

2007-08-17T17:43:00.000+08:00

Who cares about the other matches, the spot light is on Liverpool vs Chelsea and Manchester City vs Man Utd.

About Liverpool vs Chelsea, Since Mourinho and Benitez was in charge the league record favours Chelsea, and the Cup record favours Liverpool, and this is the League. Statistics will tell us that this match is going Chelsea's way. And mind you, these 2 men I believe are not friends.

Another issue that is brought up would be the spending habits of the both clubs. Liverpool spending 40 million pounds, and Chelsea not in their usual shopping mood but gotten themselves a couple of players. Will this match be decided by the new signings, most probably. Malouda is showing that he's a hell of a player, and with Drogba out, Pizarro wants to prove more of himself, while Ben Haim is trying to prove that he is not Boulahrouz. On the Liverpool's side, I believe the strikers would like to open their EPL accounts, and All eyes will be on Fernando Torres. Will he shine?

Man City vs Man Utd, Local derby, and its not the usual Man City we know. Sven might not do well in the national level, but history is with him at club management. City might not be equipped with Trophy winning materials, but they are one of the surprise packages of the season that I believe a lot of people overlooked.

In this match, with a Rooney and Ronaldoless Man Utd playing, I would love to watch them fall. It will be a preview of Scholes, Giggs and Neville showing that their past is the only thing they can be proud of, Nani showing that he is no Cristiano Ronaldo no matter what people say, Tevez wished he was still in West Ham, O'Shea striking again(hahahahaha) Van der Sar's oily gloves, oh the pleasure!

Beckham scores in debut

2007-08-16T17:02:00.000+08:00

Woo hoo! What a surprise! Confetti can be thrown, parties can be started, and holidays can be announced!

For your info, La Galaxy have yet to score in a long long time, which means that they are winless, for a long long time.

So Beckham starts, scores a free kick, made an assist in Major League Soccer. Let me repeat myself, Major League Soccer!

No offence to the MLS, but I see it as the equivalent to the Championship league in England. And LA Galaxy is comparable to Crewe Alexandra. Once again no offence. I like Crewe.

haha!

Rooney out for 2 months

2007-08-14T11:39:00.000+08:00

Correct me if I'm wrong, but this has to be the third time, Rooney had a foot injury. This time it is only a fracture, but it would take 2 months to heal and probably another month to get back on form.

I think a lot of people will blame it on the boot, Nike's been defending themselves about this. But seriously, 20% of the players in the EPL is wearing this boot. Half of them got a fractured foot? Broken bone?

Can blame it on pure bad luck, but 3 times in 3 years is a little too common I must say. It comes down to this. Hype. Everyone wants to tackle the player that can win games. And when they do it passionately, no body wants to be Wayne Rooney any more.

Personally I hoped that he would be injured for the rest of the season, causing striking problems for Man Utd, hence ending their title reign.

Not too bad.

2007-08-13T23:26:00.000+08:00

Malaysia lost to Bayern Munich 2-1, drew Chelsea 0-0 and lost to PSV 2-0 in the Youth Champions cup.

Not too bad, and I think the team can be proud of their achievements. Teams like Chelsea are filled with players of different nationalities, prodigies or from a very good youth system. Teams like Malaysia is built from players from school standards, and literally villages around the country.

At least we were once above Chelsea in the table... for 2 Match days!

Kudos Malaysia.

Aston Villa 1 Liverpool 2

2007-08-12T11:31:00.000+08:00

Its been quite some time since Liverpool won their first game of the season.

Early on, Liverpool did not start off well, but managed to create good chances against the villains. Soon, Fernando Torres proves his worth by making good runs, making good chances, taking important shots, and showing that he's not a selfish player who wants to score on his debut. Any Liverpool fan can be satisfied by his debut. If he plays like this all Season long, the goals will come.

On the 31st minute, it was Torres' shot that contributed to the first goal, a well taken shot, parried by Stuart Taylor then an excellent hoof by Kuyt sending the ball into the 6 yard box, where Laursen's clearance ended up in the net for a goal. Even if he failed, Torres and Riise was in position to tap the ball into the empty net.

Aston Villa tried to fight back in the second half. Ashley Young is showing everyone why he should be in the England squad soon, and John Carew proving his worth in the air.

Soon, Carew's header ended up hitting Jamie Carragher's hand for a handball in the penalty box, where Gareth Barry scored. This happened in th 85th minute, what many thought would be the decisive goal and both teams share the spoils.

2 minutes later, Steven Gerrard hits an amazing freekick that curled right into the top corner.
Watch it here.

And what a goal it was.

2-1's the final score.

The other signing that impressed me would be Ryan Babel, showing both speed and technique and I believe he can improve Liverpool's game.

In other important games, Sunderland showed spurs that they are a middle sized fish in a big pond with a last minute strike to win 1-0 and Martins scored a superb bicycle kick against Bolton in a game that finished 3-1.

EPL final table prediction

2007-08-11T14:52:00.000+08:00

Don't kill me if I'm wrong.

Chelsea
Man Utd
Liverpool
Arsenal
Tottenham
Newcastle
Everton
Man City
Portsmouth
Aston Villa
Blackburn
Sunderland
West Ham
Bolton
Middlesbrough
Fulham
Reading
Wigan
Birmingham
Derby County

Wigan Athletic Season preview

2007-08-11T14:41:00.001+08:00

haha! I made it before the start of the season!

Last team would be Wigan Athletic. The team that missed out on relegation after the last match day. And its time to go down and out of the EPL.

With the resignation of Paul Jewell, his number 2 Chris Hutchings, steps up to be the boss, and is contending to be one of the first few managers to be sacked. Besides that, an edition of overrated and overpriced players Bramble. Antoine Sibierski(okay, this is a good one), Mario Melchiot and Jason Koumas, Wigan needs a miracle this season to stay up.

I have nothing much to say about Wigan but just enjoy your year. Make some money and see you in the lower divisions.

More Champions Youth Cup results

2007-08-11T10:36:00.000+08:00

I couldn't make it to any more games but these are some of the scores of last night's games.

Malaysia 0 Chelsea 0
Oh my!

Bayern Munich 1 PSV 0
I read about the defensive tactics of Bayern. Well done.

Flamengo 2 Arsenal 1

Ajax 0 Milan 1

West Ham Season Preview

2007-08-11T09:47:00.000+08:00

So much controversies, not so many points, but enough to stay up to fight for another year.

And the fight gets tougher with more high profile sales, including Nigel Reo Coker, Youssi Benayoun, Marlon Harewood and Carlos Tevez.

And replacing them would be Craig Bellamy, Scott Parker, the injured Faubert, Richard Wright and Freddy Ljungberg. But honestly, the game of West Ham this season lies on the shoulder of Last season's survivals such as Matthew Upson and Dean Ashton. Both were sidelined by injuries and are back to prove a point that they are driving forces of the club to bring them away from relegation to the top 10.

Having said that, I would like to mention that West Ham United is a very unpredictable club. One season, they can be so underrated and do excel in the league and another season they can show so much potential earlier on and get themselves into a lot of trouble.

Its hard to predict the outcome of this season, but after last season's circus performances, I would like to make a guess that this season West Ham will doing well enough to secure a mid table position. Its just a guess, like other predictions that are done before this.

Tottenham Hotspurs Season Preview

2007-08-10T11:12:00.000+08:00

Tottenham Hotspurs. Not too long ago, I see this side as a really dull and boring side, where they are simply too good to be in a relegation battle and too weak to fight for an European spot. So many changes since then.

I would like to compare them with Leeds in the early 2000s, not their spending habits though, at least not really. Even though there is a rise in the quality of the team and the football itself, Tottenham never won a trophy or qualified for a Champions League spot. They did secure the tag, 'the best of the rest.' Is Martin Jol's job safe?

Major signings includes Darren Bent (almost the same price as Henry), Gareth Bale, Younes Kaboul, and Kevin-prince Boateng. One to watch would be Gareth Bale. Pleas play him very often, the world wants to see what the hype is al about. We don't want another Theo Walcott.

Overall the squad is very very decent. I believe they have the potential of pushing for 4th place again, but there is all to it. What the fans need is a cup win this season. If not its going to be another so close yet so far season.

Sunderland Season Preview

2007-08-10T10:39:00.000+08:00

Roy Keane is back in the EPL! But this time as a manager.

In the past 2 attempts at the Big League, Sunderland did so badly they probably make Watford look like Overachievers last year.

Which team that just got themselves promoted to the Premiership spends 27million pounds on players, including 9 million pounds on a Scottish keeper?

Craig Gordon. A classy keeper, quality, reliable. But 9 million? Why not just try loan Scott Carson or someone else for the season?

Other players includes Michael Chopra, Dickson Etuhu, Greg Halford, Paul McShane and Kieran Richardson. Not exactly the star lineup but its more or less an acceptable grab for a promoted team that plans to stay up and safe.

I believe this season Sunderland will do well, like many other promoted clubs that shows promise in the first season. In their opening game against Tottenham, Sunderland has the potential to shock us and start well. A good mid term plan for the team is to collect 25 points by Christmas, and I think they can get it done.

Good Luck Sunderland, one for the neutrals.

Reading Season Preview

2007-08-10T00:29:00.000+08:00

Reading. Haha. Weird name

Anyways, many promoted clubs that does well in the first season will agree that the second time round is always tougher. And if they survive this season, they can pretty much secure their Premiership status for a couple of years to come, as long as they make the right moves. Last time, Reading was too decent, this is the true test of what they are made off.

Whats worst? Losing star player Steve Sidwell to Chelsea, or losing Sidwell to Chelsea? I don't need an oracle to tell me that shit is coming this way.

Signing of the season would be Kalifa Cisse. Because he's the only one. I've seen clips and he plays like Sisoko. Offers a lot to the midfield, but nothing in the attack. Pressure on Kevin Doyle and Leroy Lita.

Yeap, looks like relegation battle to me.

The Champions Youth Cup Kuching 08/08/07

2007-08-09T08:20:00.001+08:00

I spent a good RM12 for some quality football last night.

I was a little surprised that one match is only 70 minutes instead of 90, but we have to remember that these are basically kids playing.

Kuching is Hosting Group G that includes Bayern Munich, Chelsea, PSV Einhoven and Malaysia.

Its a safe bet to say PSV and Chelsea are the favourites to go through because these clubs have a very good youth system. Even so, you can have the best system in the world, but you can make talent, they have to be discovered.

Here are some pictures.

PSV players drinking water.. (oooo)

Bayern Munich warming up.

The start of the Malaysia vs Bayern Munich

Half time, people filling holes with sand. What???

Shevchenko?

Match one was Bayern Munich vs Malaysia. I've heard about our under-19 team being rather strong, eased my fears of watching my home side getting trashed. And nope, that didn't happen. Although Bayern was attacking most of the time, holding possession a little longer, it took them 35 minutes to finally score a goal, right before the end of the first half. In the second half, Malaysia bounced back with a quick counter and I actually get to use my flag! When it looks like 1-1 would be the final scoreline, a completely embarrassing mix up near the end gave Bayern an easy goal to win 2-1.

Malaysia can leave the pitch with no shame and their heads held high, heroes of the day. The goal scorer can walk around telling everyone that he scored a goal against Bayern Munich and no one can take that away from him.

Second match of the night was Chelsea vs PSV Einhoven. Now this is a match to remember. You can really experience the beauty of the game, and the intelligent plays that you take for granted all the time on tv. It was a close game with PSV scoring one goal to win 1-0.

Now lets talk about the players that were somewhat impressive last night and might have a good future in professional football.

From Bayern Munich I can pick out one that can be potentially good, but not great.

This is 18 year old Thomas Müller, looks younger in real life. What he can do is to get into space and make intelligent runs. He even assisted the first Bayern Munich goal.

18 year old Miroslav Stoch from Chelsea. This is one fast dude, and when I say fast I meant really really fast. Fast = dangerous = fast.

And this is 16 year old Gael Kakuta. From last night, this French player is the next Mekelele. No joke, he's a really good complete midfielder. No joke, really no joke. Really, really.

17 year old Nigel Hasselbaink. I was told he is Jimmy Floyl Hasselbaink's sone. This kid has poor fitness, but he makes up in his unique dribbling skills.

Mr Sunsilk here is 17 year old Stijn Wuytens from Belgium. He has the word playmaker written all over him, what do you mean you cant see? Creates chances for team mates and isn't afraid to take some of them.

Hopefully we will see these kids again on tv in a few years time.

Portsmouth Season Preview

2007-08-08T17:06:00.000+08:00

6 more teams to go. Sorry about the lack of quality lately <:D

They have a very weird Emblem. Crest and Star, can be found in a Malaysian Flag in the same colour that represents our King and Islam as a national religion.

Ever since Portsmouth came to the EPL, they always struggle to keep up. Last Season, they never look like they were in danger, at all. Scoring 54 points in 38 games finishing 9th position, fans can be very proud of their club and players.

Most talked about signing would probably be David Nugent. Its been a while since a Championship player play for the English first team and scores. A lot of people are waiting to see what he can do in the EPL itself.

Okay, Sulley Muntari is quite something, but who's heard of him?

Overall what could be expected of Portsmouth is more or less the repeat of last season, hopefully maybe better. Maybe a UEFA cup spot by the end of the season...

Newcastle United Season Preview

2007-08-08T16:30:00.000+08:00

So Alan Shearer is long gone. But just look at the striker's line up for this season.

Obafemi Martins, Michael Owen, Alan Smith, Albert Luque, Shola Ameobi, Mark Viduka and Andrew Carroll. Wait what am I talking about? Luque is a joke in England, and Owen's always injured.

Hey, Andrew Carroll is an upcoming new quality player that might not get a lot of action this season. Better get a loan deal somewhere.

Okay, enough talking about the strikers. Lets talk about the managers. As far as I remember, in the past 10 years, none of the high profil men in black won anything with Newcastle. And they all got sacked one by one. We all know Big Sam's success from Bolton, is he the man that can bring this big club back to the top 5? Shoestring budget with Bolton and European football, what about Newcastle with a lot of money would mean Champions League football?

Overall I'm pretty confident with the direction this club is going. Its going to take a damn lot of time for any trophy success, but at least I firmly believe Newcastle is heading back to the European scene.

With all the new signings, you've got to be impressed.

MIddlesbrough Season Preview

2007-08-08T15:23:00.000+08:00

Honestly I'm surprised that Gareth Southgate was not sacked last season. Good news for him, he's got a second chance, and not everyone gets a second chance.

Inconsistency is the team's middle's name. One day they beat chelsea, another they get thrashed 4-0 by portsmouth, Oh i even remember those days. Last season, smart move no.1 was Jonathan Woodgate, coming back to England and getting his career back. Middlesbrough finished 11th last time, not that bad, a little too good for relegation, but honestly they should be pushing for European football after appearing in the UEFA cup final the year before.

I like to see last season as beginners luck for Southgate, not screwing up to bad, but still underachieving, and this season, they will struggle like Charlton a few months back.

The promising signing award goes to Sanli Tuncay. He is another one of those FM game greats thriving to prove them self in reality.

But at the end of all the struggle, you know what, they are just too good to go down. Finishing near the bottom, safely, another year of under achievement.

Manchester United Season Preview

2007-08-07T19:31:00.000+08:00

The Champions are going to defend their title this time around.

I don't like Manchester United, and my reason is that A lot of United fans are not sincere, (not all) but there are a lot who just wants to support them because of glory. Same goes to Chelsea fans too. I could never understand how this person who is a Man Utd fan 4 years ago, suddenly became a Chelsea fan and finally a Man Utd fan all over again. No loyalty.

Last season, two names brought United the title, Rooney and Ronaldo. Both have a heavy burden to bear again this season. This season, new signings, Anderson, Nani, Owen Hargreaves and the not yet signed Tevez, just made the team sound so darn strong on paper. Nani's the new Ronaldo, Tevez, we know him too well, bla bla bla. Great hype comes great expectations.

And I would like to see them fail like crazy!

Haha!

I think the worst they could finish is probably a 3rd spot in the League and I hope they do. How? Screw up the first few games, injuries to strikers meant that United will be forcing the goals out of their midfield, and we will see Giggs and Scholes slowing down to grandpa's pace, plus over ambitious Ferguson starting to play midfielders as strikers, and defenders as midfielders. The Charity shield will be the only trophy they will win all season!

muahhahahah!

Manchester City's Season Preview

2007-08-07T09:24:00.000+08:00

Yes I know I'm running out of time before the League starts but I plan to do a few teams today to catch up with procrastination.

With Stuart Pearce sacked, Joey Barton gone, Distin gone, new Chairman, new manager and so many new signings, this is definitely an all new team to watch this season. I'm sure its a safe bet that the team will score more than 10 goals at home this season, and the fans can only get happier.

I believe soccernet has a very good description on the new signings.

His spending so far, surely not at an end, has been prolific if curious. £8.8m for Rolando Bianchi, a player who impressed for struggling Reggina after being largely scoreless at Atalanta and Cagliari, does not completely have the look of the signing an out-an-out goalscorer to soothe the goal-starved stomachs of the City faithful.

Geovanni, a Brazilian most famed in the football world for a brief and unflattering spell at Barcelona at the start of this decade, looks an intriguing signing, though the record of South Americans settling in Manchester is not good. One thing in his credit account among City fans would be a goal that ended United's participation in the 2005/6 Champions League. Very much a 'wait and see' player, Geovanni has as much as anyone to prove at City. In enticing winger Martin Petrov from Atletico Madrid, Eriksson showed he still possesses some standing in the transfer market. Petrov has been a genuine star for club and country and his explosive approach could add some zest into City's previously somnambulent attack.

And John Berwin is right! Petrov in the EPL! finally!

Of course other signings like Elano and Valery Bojinov whom excelled in the football manager world. Wonder how they will do in reality tv. ho ho ho.

It would take nearly forever for Man City to outdo their city rivals, but this season is going to be better than the last. However, I believe Man City will not make it to European football just yet but finishing in a more respectable League position.

Liverpool's Season Preview

2007-08-06T23:45:00.000+08:00

I might be a fan but I'll try to have a neutral view on this.

Emblem is not up yet cause I have problems with it putting it up now. So might have it up later.

Okay, its Rafa Benitez's forth season with the club. By right, its about time that this rafalution wins the EPL. I'm not sure if they will this season, but what I and most realistic Liverpool fans expect is a strong challenge to the title.

It comes down to focus. Benitez likes to focus on one tournament. And then uses his superpowers to bring success to the club. In the past, its all about European Glory. Love them or hate them, it was a successful fun. 2 finals in 3 years is no fluke, its no joke. Such achievements can only make Mourinho jealous.

But its about time we have a strong domestic League challenge.

New major signings are heard about everywhere. Fernando Torres, Ryan Babel, Voronin, and Benayoun.

Torres is obviously a gamble. For so much money, everyone expects so much. Make no mistake, gambles do pay off.

Ryan Babel is a very interesting player. I love to watch his progress with Liverpool, Voronin can be a surprise package, and Benayoun is a fringe player, good but not great.

How will they do this season?

I secretly hope Liverpool can win the title this season, but if they start strongly in the first 10 games, Liverpool should have enough quality to push either Man Utd or Chelsea for that valuable second spot. I hope for good cup runs, and cup wins on the way.

Manchester United wins Charity Shield

2007-08-06T07:52:00.000+08:00

After a 1-1 draw, Man Utd won the game by penalties. 3-0 is the scoreline.

But lets look at the game first. Man Utd, having an average game, open the scoring with Ryan Giggs unmarked, blasting the top corner of the goal, leaving the defense helpless, while Malouda is showing a lot of promise with his effort that got him the goal a few minutes later.

Other players that shined includes Shaun Wright Phillips. My only concern is that this young dude does not look at where he's crossing.

With Terry out as well, we get to see Ben Haim. And he plays like Boulahrouz!

In the end, I confirmed my knowledge that Chelsea does not know how to take penalties in a shootout. 3 misses out of 3 is weak in any level.

What Chelsea can be satisfied about is the fact that the Charity Shield winner usually does not win the EPL. We'll see.

Fulham Football Club Season Preview.

2007-08-05T11:01:00.000+08:00

Fulham is another one of those dull sides I don't mind to see relegated this season.

Lawrie Sanchez took over near the end of last season trying to save Fulham from relegation, and he did it with a very poor streak. Okay, I take that back, its just not convincing.

But at the end of the day, they finished fifth from the bottom winning only 8 games all season, winning more games then Watford. What kept them up was the number of draws, 15 draws in total, second only Aston Villa the other draw specialist.

For such a small club in the League(really really) spending 20 million on players is a very very big deal. The clubs was once filled with players like Louis Saha, Sean Davis, Steed Malbranque, Steve Finnan and Luis Boa Morte is now replaced with David Healy, Lee Cook, Chris Baird, Paul Konchesky, Adam Watts and Diomansy Kamara. Only Paul Konchesky shows real promise.

Lawrie might have a good run in Northern Ireland before this but over here, another contender as one of the first few managers to get sacked. Its even easier when he spent so much money on a bunch of lower league players.

I hope they get relegated if no drastic change is made

Everton Season Preview

2007-08-04T14:15:00.000+08:00

Last Season, Everton did fairly well overall, finishing as the second best of 'rest'.

What can we expect this Season.

Like many clubs, their seasons depend on how they start the whole tournament, how they do in the first 10 games of the league. From there, they become pretty consistent until July. For Everton, this is usually the case.

Everton has a decent squad, one that is good enough to compete in Europe

Signings this season includes Steven Pienaar and Phil Jagielka. And I would love to see the progress of Steven Pienaar in England. This player is one to watch.

Of course about Everton, the weakness comes in the lack of offensive power. Last season's flop, James Beattie has just left the club leaving Andrew Johnson and the only high profile striker left in the club. I doubt James Mcfadden and James Vaughan would be scoring enough. They should, and I hope they will sign a striker a little better than Andrew Johnson if Everton is looking for any chance to break into the top four this time around.

That being said, Everton has a very good midfield. Or at least the squad contains good midfielders on paper. Let hope David Moyes didn't plan to flood the center the pitch and play a boring 1 striker game.

Overall, I think Everton will finish somewhere near the top and has a small but hopeful chance of breaking the top 4. European football for the Season after that is pretty possible. As long as they don't screw up each game like the one against Man Utd the last time.

Derby County Season preview.

2007-08-04T12:01:00.000+08:00

I don't even need to say anything and everybody knows that this team is the next Watford. Well done for entering the EPL. Goodbye and come again by the end of April.

New signings includes Claude Davis, Andy Todd, Robert Earnshaw, Lewis Price and Ben Hinchliffe. At the premiership level, all of these names except Robert Earnshaw are John Does. And they will stay that way.

What can be expected from the current squad in the upcoming EPL?

Nothing!

Except a season where they will be constantly thrashed and have games where they can nearly win but just not close enough, and a few point snatches, and a good game or 2 against another Premiership struggler.

Just enjoy your moments, cherish your rare wins, play your best, and thats it. My prediction is very simple. At the end of the Season, they are Rock bottom, collecting less than 30 points.

If Derby County can get 17th position or higher at the end of the Season, I'm going to chop of my.................