Let me preface this by saying that I am by no means a pro at this, and unfortunately my ability to watch Spanish and German football is very limited, but here are my picks for the best XI of 2011. This is surely the highest honor these players will ever receive.
GK--Iker Casillas, Real Madrid
RB--Dani Alves, Barcelona
CB--Vincent Kompany, Manchester City
CB--Nemanja Vidic, Manchester United
LB--Philipp Lahm, Bayern Munich
MF--Yaya Toure, Manchester City
MF--Andres Iniesta, Barcelona
MF--Bastian Schweinsteiger, Bayern Munich
F--Robin Van Persie, Arsenal
F--Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid
F--Lionel Messi, Barcelona
No surprise, my player of the year is Lionel Messi.
I'd like to thank everyone who takes any time to read my little blog. I have a good time writing it, and I hope maybe it at least stimulates some of you to think more and write about the Beautiful Game we all know and love.
I hope the end of 2011 has been good to you all, and that 2012 is better than you can even imagine.
Peace be upon you, good luck in 2012!
--Brandon
Saturday, December 31, 2011
EPL: Norwich vs. Tottenham
About this time last season, those of us that watch the Barclay's Premier League were witnessing the curious case of Blackpool, newly promoted from the Championship and still hanging around the top half of the table come the festive period. Well, we all know how that turned out, unfortunately for the Tangerines.
This season all three of the promoted squads have done alright. QPR has the money a their disposal to try to buy the players to stay up. Swansea has been junk on the road but in very good form at home in Wales. Norwich has played pretty much everybody tough and has garnered my respect as an EPL fan.
This match against Tottenham was always going to be tough though. You'd really be hard pressed to find an EPL side in better form coming than Spurs, and they certainly flexed their muscles against the Canaries, or at least Gareth Bale did. To say that the Spurs really controlled the match would not really be an understatement, they had the possession and the chances.
Norwich fought hard, but really had a hard time getting chances from what possession they did get. Their best chance of the first half came on 16 minutes as David Fox smacked a line drive on goal, only to be easily corralled by Brad Friedel.
The two sides emerged from the half time break still level at nil-nil. That's when Gareth Bale took over. His first goal came on 55 minutes as he took a ball from Adebayor in the center of the area and slotted it home to give Spurs the 0-1 lead. Then in the 67th minute, he put the final nail in the coffin, breaking away after a through ball from Modric and outrunning everyone on the pitch. He beat the 'keeper and put in the back of the Canary net to make it 0-2.
That was more than enough for Spurs. Norwich just could not fashion a real quality chance to save their lives and Tottenham held on for the 0-2 win, giving them an even bigger hold on one of the Champions League spots.
This season all three of the promoted squads have done alright. QPR has the money a their disposal to try to buy the players to stay up. Swansea has been junk on the road but in very good form at home in Wales. Norwich has played pretty much everybody tough and has garnered my respect as an EPL fan.
This match against Tottenham was always going to be tough though. You'd really be hard pressed to find an EPL side in better form coming than Spurs, and they certainly flexed their muscles against the Canaries, or at least Gareth Bale did. To say that the Spurs really controlled the match would not really be an understatement, they had the possession and the chances.
Norwich fought hard, but really had a hard time getting chances from what possession they did get. Their best chance of the first half came on 16 minutes as David Fox smacked a line drive on goal, only to be easily corralled by Brad Friedel.
The two sides emerged from the half time break still level at nil-nil. That's when Gareth Bale took over. His first goal came on 55 minutes as he took a ball from Adebayor in the center of the area and slotted it home to give Spurs the 0-1 lead. Then in the 67th minute, he put the final nail in the coffin, breaking away after a through ball from Modric and outrunning everyone on the pitch. He beat the 'keeper and put in the back of the Canary net to make it 0-2.
That was more than enough for Spurs. Norwich just could not fashion a real quality chance to save their lives and Tottenham held on for the 0-2 win, giving them an even bigger hold on one of the Champions League spots.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Ancelotti Now In Charge at PSG
One of the long expected moves at free spending Paris St. Germain has now come to pass. Today the French side officially named former Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti as their new manager. The deal runs for 2 and half years.
Ancelotti takes over from Antoine Kombouare, who left the job despite the fact that PSG is at the top of the table in France. Ancelotti stated that he wanted to help the Paris club become one of the big clubs in Europe.
Ancelotti has guided both Ac Milan and Chelsea in the Champions League, and won the domestic double in England two years ago with the Blues. PSG has not won Ligue Un since 1994 and has not been in the Champions League in 7 years.
Ancelotti takes over from Antoine Kombouare, who left the job despite the fact that PSG is at the top of the table in France. Ancelotti stated that he wanted to help the Paris club become one of the big clubs in Europe.
Ancelotti has guided both Ac Milan and Chelsea in the Champions League, and won the domestic double in England two years ago with the Blues. PSG has not won Ligue Un since 1994 and has not been in the Champions League in 7 years.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Columbus Crew 2012 Home Jersey
PHOTO: Worldsoccershop.com
Columbus Crew 2012 Authentic Home Soccer Jersey - WorldSoccerShop.com
Looks like the Columbus Crew are going with the collar on their new 2012 Home Jersey. I like. Looks sharp. Check it out at World Soccer Shop.
Central Coast Mariners Losing Matt Simon
Some fairly big transfer news for the Hyundai A-League coming out of Australia tonight, or tomorrow morning local time.
Central Coast Mariners striker Matt Simon has announced that he will be leaving for the K-League side Chunnam Dragons on a 3 year deal. Simon announced that he's always wanted to ply his trade overseas and that he sees this as the next step in his career. His last game in Mariners colors is expected to be January 4 against the Victory.
Simon played on the 2008 Australian Olympic team and has been capped twice for Socceroos. The 25 year old striker has 5 goals in the campaign for Central Coast, good enough for first on the team and 5th overall in the Hyundai A-League.
Best of luck to him as he tries to further his career.
Central Coast Mariners striker Matt Simon has announced that he will be leaving for the K-League side Chunnam Dragons on a 3 year deal. Simon announced that he's always wanted to ply his trade overseas and that he sees this as the next step in his career. His last game in Mariners colors is expected to be January 4 against the Victory.
Simon played on the 2008 Australian Olympic team and has been capped twice for Socceroos. The 25 year old striker has 5 goals in the campaign for Central Coast, good enough for first on the team and 5th overall in the Hyundai A-League.
Best of luck to him as he tries to further his career.
EPL: Liverpool vs. Blackburn
I can't imagine what it's like to be a Liverpool supporter right now. The season got underway with a lot of promise and some high expectations. There's no doubt that since the new owners took over they've put out money into the club in order to get it back to it's former place at the summit of European soccer.
It hasn't quite worked out that way for Reds though, at least not yet. While the results have been better than those of the short and tension filled reign of Roy Hodgson, they haven't been great. Sure, they're unbeaten at Anfield, but even that is tempered by the fact that they've left a whole lot of points on the table with home draws.
Ultimately this fixture against Rovers was no different. It would be more than fair to say that Liverpool dominated the EPL's cellar dwellers, but it didn't translate into goals. Indeed, the Reds held 65 percent possession, out shot Blackburn 27 to 6, and created many more chances. However in the end, the Reds downfall came off of one of their own men.
The soon to be sitting Luis Suarez got Liverpool off to a hot start, getting a trio of chances in the opening minutes. The best of which was probably a free kick that he sent just wide. None of the three found the target however, leaving the Uruguay international frustrated.
Much maligned Liverpool striker Andy Carroll started for the Reds for the first time in several matches and tried to make an impact. He found the back of the net on 30 minutes, but it was ruled no good for offside. Liverpool then tried to claim a penalty as Maxi Rodriguez was brought down in the box, but the offside flag foiled them again.
Blackburn didn't do much all match long, yet they had the lead at half time. Unfortunately for Liverpool, it was from an own goal. Blackburn's Morten Pedersen set up for a corner right before the half, and it found it's way into the Liverpool net off of Charlie Adam to give Rovers the 0-1 lead at half time.
The second half saw more of the same with Liverpool holding the possession and attacking. Liverpool found the equalizer in the 53rd minute as Martin Skrtel put in a cross that was clinically headed in by Maxi Rodriguez to make it 1-1.
That was the way the score would stay until full time, as Liverpool could not capitalize on anymore chances and dropped yet more points at Anfield. The positive for Liverpool is this: Steven Gerrard checking in on 69 minutes and playing well. Unfortunately for the Reds, with a long absence probably upcoming for Suarez, they're going to have find some more goals.
It hasn't quite worked out that way for Reds though, at least not yet. While the results have been better than those of the short and tension filled reign of Roy Hodgson, they haven't been great. Sure, they're unbeaten at Anfield, but even that is tempered by the fact that they've left a whole lot of points on the table with home draws.
Ultimately this fixture against Rovers was no different. It would be more than fair to say that Liverpool dominated the EPL's cellar dwellers, but it didn't translate into goals. Indeed, the Reds held 65 percent possession, out shot Blackburn 27 to 6, and created many more chances. However in the end, the Reds downfall came off of one of their own men.
The soon to be sitting Luis Suarez got Liverpool off to a hot start, getting a trio of chances in the opening minutes. The best of which was probably a free kick that he sent just wide. None of the three found the target however, leaving the Uruguay international frustrated.
Much maligned Liverpool striker Andy Carroll started for the Reds for the first time in several matches and tried to make an impact. He found the back of the net on 30 minutes, but it was ruled no good for offside. Liverpool then tried to claim a penalty as Maxi Rodriguez was brought down in the box, but the offside flag foiled them again.
Blackburn didn't do much all match long, yet they had the lead at half time. Unfortunately for Liverpool, it was from an own goal. Blackburn's Morten Pedersen set up for a corner right before the half, and it found it's way into the Liverpool net off of Charlie Adam to give Rovers the 0-1 lead at half time.
The second half saw more of the same with Liverpool holding the possession and attacking. Liverpool found the equalizer in the 53rd minute as Martin Skrtel put in a cross that was clinically headed in by Maxi Rodriguez to make it 1-1.
That was the way the score would stay until full time, as Liverpool could not capitalize on anymore chances and dropped yet more points at Anfield. The positive for Liverpool is this: Steven Gerrard checking in on 69 minutes and playing well. Unfortunately for the Reds, with a long absence probably upcoming for Suarez, they're going to have find some more goals.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Celtic's Joe Ledley's Goal vs. Rangers
So those of us here in the states got skunked on seeing the Old Firm Derby, which is up there with the best rivalries in football. Here is the only goal of the game, a stunning header from Celtic's Joe Ledley. Celtic won the match 1-0 over Rangers.
That's Right, I Said "Split Scrotum."
I'm only posting this because there's not much going on post-Boxing Day, and I feel horrible for the poor guy.
This is injury news that will make every male football fan wince. Chris Whelpdale, a winger for the English club Gillingham, suffered a SPLIT SCROTUM from a high tackle in a Boxing Day match against Crawley. It required 5 stitches to close it back up.
Gillingham manager Andy Hessenthaler said "It's a horrific injury. He's going to be very sore and I'm sure his wife won't be too happy either."
Whelpdale had this to say to Gillingham's official website:
"It's alright to be fair, I had a bit of a shock when I saw it but when it initially happened I thought it was just a normal whack in the area, but then about three or four minutes later it was hurting, I did have a look and that's when I was a bit shocked. I'm hoping to be fit for Friday, I've just been out and bought a jockstrap, so I'll pad it all up and I should be ok to play on Friday."
Whelpdale also reveals to the site that while his teammates and wife did feel sorry for him, they've also poked fun at him, and his wife "had a giggle."
I hope the poor guy is ok in every way. Quite the story. Read the article from Gillingham's website here.
This is injury news that will make every male football fan wince. Chris Whelpdale, a winger for the English club Gillingham, suffered a SPLIT SCROTUM from a high tackle in a Boxing Day match against Crawley. It required 5 stitches to close it back up.
Gillingham manager Andy Hessenthaler said "It's a horrific injury. He's going to be very sore and I'm sure his wife won't be too happy either."
Whelpdale had this to say to Gillingham's official website:
"It's alright to be fair, I had a bit of a shock when I saw it but when it initially happened I thought it was just a normal whack in the area, but then about three or four minutes later it was hurting, I did have a look and that's when I was a bit shocked. I'm hoping to be fit for Friday, I've just been out and bought a jockstrap, so I'll pad it all up and I should be ok to play on Friday."
Whelpdale also reveals to the site that while his teammates and wife did feel sorry for him, they've also poked fun at him, and his wife "had a giggle."
I hope the poor guy is ok in every way. Quite the story. Read the article from Gillingham's website here.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
EPL: Swansea City vs. QPR
This is going to be short. I've been trying to come up with at least one interesting nugget about the match, but it's not really happening.
Swans have been more than formidable at home all season long. This has helped them out quite a bit because they've been total junk on the road. Will home form be enough to keep them up in the EPL? I guess we shall see.
They pretty much dominated the first half, playing their particular brand of possession football. They were working QPR pretty hard, but nothing was really coming of it. Not even a half chance for either side.
However Swansea got the first half's only goal in the 14th minute. Danny Graham took a ball near the top of the area, put two defenders between himself and the 'keeper, and squirted it into the net to give the Swans a 1-0 lead. This was not without controversy though, as the ball pretty clearly struck Graham's arm as he brought it down. The referee deemed it unintentional and let the goal stand. Swansea took the 1-0 lead into half time.
Neil Warnock must have fired up his troops in the locker room, because they really took the fight to Swansea in the second half, and they needed to. Coming into this match, QPR had only taken 1 point out of the last possible 15. They got the equalizer in the 58th minute as Jamie Mackie chested down a ball and volleyed it past the Swansea keeper to make it 1-1.
The controversy didn't end in the first half though. Late in the match Graham was brought down in the area by QPR's Armand Traore. However the referee was not interested and waved play on, Perhaps it was a bit of a make up call for the hand ball, because it appeared, to me anyway, to be a pretty clear penalty.
Swans have been more than formidable at home all season long. This has helped them out quite a bit because they've been total junk on the road. Will home form be enough to keep them up in the EPL? I guess we shall see.
They pretty much dominated the first half, playing their particular brand of possession football. They were working QPR pretty hard, but nothing was really coming of it. Not even a half chance for either side.
However Swansea got the first half's only goal in the 14th minute. Danny Graham took a ball near the top of the area, put two defenders between himself and the 'keeper, and squirted it into the net to give the Swans a 1-0 lead. This was not without controversy though, as the ball pretty clearly struck Graham's arm as he brought it down. The referee deemed it unintentional and let the goal stand. Swansea took the 1-0 lead into half time.
Neil Warnock must have fired up his troops in the locker room, because they really took the fight to Swansea in the second half, and they needed to. Coming into this match, QPR had only taken 1 point out of the last possible 15. They got the equalizer in the 58th minute as Jamie Mackie chested down a ball and volleyed it past the Swansea keeper to make it 1-1.
The controversy didn't end in the first half though. Late in the match Graham was brought down in the area by QPR's Armand Traore. However the referee was not interested and waved play on, Perhaps it was a bit of a make up call for the hand ball, because it appeared, to me anyway, to be a pretty clear penalty.
Monday, December 26, 2011
EPL: Manchester United vs. Wigan
I'm not really sure how to describe this match. All being said, it wasn't much of a match. I think Ian Darke put it best at half time when he said that United had it as "smooth as a ride on Santa's Sleigh." Wigan just looked from the opening whistle like they didn't expect anything from the match, and they certainly didn't play like they did. That's a little odd, Wigan can certainly play with teams when they're up for it, they just obviously weren't up for it.
United dominated the match from the kick off. At one point they had a 97% share of the possession over a 5 minute spell. If that's not a record, I'd be surprised. The Red Devils got the goals going early. In the 8th minute, Patrice Evra slid an easy ball into Ji-Sung Park, who calmly stroked the ball into the net to make it 1-0 to United.
It's really hard to find a bright spot for Wigan. There were a couple of big bumps though. In the 40th minute they were reduced to 10 men as Conor Sammon was hit with a red card for an arm across the face of Michael Carrick. It looked worse than it was, but the ref issued the red card. Then in the 41st minute Dimitar Berbatov scored his first of three to make 2-0 United at the half.
They didn't let up on the 10 man Wigan squad in the second half either. Berbatov again made his presence felt on 58 minutes, blasting a shot into the top shelf of the Wigan goal to make it 3-0. The route was on.
Not to be outdone by Berbatov's searing strike, Antonio Valencia smashed one across the 'keeper in the 74th minute to make it 4-0. It was an absolute laser. Finally the scoring ended in the 78th, as Berbatov easily converted a PK to make it 5-0 and earn his hat trick.
You can't say enough about the way United has responded to their Champions League exit. They've just came out and fought like a rabid, mad animal ever since. If they're not going to be in the running for the European Cup, they damn well want the Premiership. Sorry Man City, I'm not going to bet against them doing it either. Just sayin.
United dominated the match from the kick off. At one point they had a 97% share of the possession over a 5 minute spell. If that's not a record, I'd be surprised. The Red Devils got the goals going early. In the 8th minute, Patrice Evra slid an easy ball into Ji-Sung Park, who calmly stroked the ball into the net to make it 1-0 to United.
It's really hard to find a bright spot for Wigan. There were a couple of big bumps though. In the 40th minute they were reduced to 10 men as Conor Sammon was hit with a red card for an arm across the face of Michael Carrick. It looked worse than it was, but the ref issued the red card. Then in the 41st minute Dimitar Berbatov scored his first of three to make 2-0 United at the half.
They didn't let up on the 10 man Wigan squad in the second half either. Berbatov again made his presence felt on 58 minutes, blasting a shot into the top shelf of the Wigan goal to make it 3-0. The route was on.
Not to be outdone by Berbatov's searing strike, Antonio Valencia smashed one across the 'keeper in the 74th minute to make it 4-0. It was an absolute laser. Finally the scoring ended in the 78th, as Berbatov easily converted a PK to make it 5-0 and earn his hat trick.
You can't say enough about the way United has responded to their Champions League exit. They've just came out and fought like a rabid, mad animal ever since. If they're not going to be in the running for the European Cup, they damn well want the Premiership. Sorry Man City, I'm not going to bet against them doing it either. Just sayin.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Yaya Toure Wins 2011 African Player of the Year Award
I'd like to extend congratulations to Manchester City's Yaya Toure, who yesterday was named African Player of the year for 2011. The award is handed out by C.A.F., the Confederation of African Football, and was announced in Accra, Ghana.
Toure is an Ivory Coast international as well as a vital part of City's squad. He scored in the last FA Cup final, helping City claim the trophy over Stoke City.
Congratulations Yaya Toure!
Toure is an Ivory Coast international as well as a vital part of City's squad. He scored in the last FA Cup final, helping City claim the trophy over Stoke City.
Congratulations Yaya Toure!
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
EPL: Newcastle vs. West Brom
This was a match that looked almost Italian like in nature, with the home squad dominating stretches and the road side doing work on the counter. West Brom did quite a bit of damage on the counter to Newcastle.
A win over the Baggies could have put Newcastle into the top 5 going into Christmas. This was despite the fact that they were winless in their last 5, which I'm sure Alan Pardew still blames on Chelsea.
The match started somewhat tentatively, with neither side really being all that adventurous in creating chances. Still, Newcastle looked the more dangerous side and started to get their feet under them.
Even though West Brom was clearly on the back foot, they drew first blood in this one. In the 20th minute, Chris Brunt triggered a Baggies' counter with a long but deadly accurate through ball that freed up Peter Odemwingie. The striker then scooted around a defender and slotted it home to make it 0-1 to West Brom.
However Newcastle was not deterred and responded pretty well. After a nervous couple of minutes, they got back on the ball and resumed the attack. This finally paid off for them in the 34th minute, off the foot of Demba Ba. Ba took a free kick from just outside the penalty arc and slammed it in to the corner of the net to equalize 1-1.
You might have been forgiven at that point if you thought the half was out of goals, but you would have been wrong. Newcastle has had some issues defending set pieces this season, and it bit them in the 44th minute. Brunt sent in a gorgeous free kick that found it's way from the head of Gareth McAuley into the back of the net to make it 1-2 Baggies at the half.
Newcastle opened the 2nd half with a flurry of pressure, but couldn't find an equalizer. This led to a golden chance for West Brom to ice the match. In the 53rd minute Shane Long roared up the pitch on the counter, beat the 'keeper, but put his open net shot off the bottom of the crossbar. It really was unbelievable.
It looked like that miss would come back to haunt West Brom as well. Demba Ba was by far the most dangerous Newcastle player, and in fact he's scored over half of the Premier League goals for them so far. In the 81st minute he let a shot loose from just inside the area which zoomed past the West Brom 'keeper and equalized the match at 2-2.
However in the end West Brom were not to be denied the three points. Just 4 minutes after the Ba equalizer, they came up with a Glorious winner. Chris Brunt sent a cross in from the right to Peter Odemwingie, Odemwingie headed the ball back to an onrushing Paul Scharner, and the midfielder finished off the goal to make it 2-3 at full time.
All I can say for the Newcastle supporters is: ouch. However it was a tremendous match and both teams worked their guts out.
A win over the Baggies could have put Newcastle into the top 5 going into Christmas. This was despite the fact that they were winless in their last 5, which I'm sure Alan Pardew still blames on Chelsea.
The match started somewhat tentatively, with neither side really being all that adventurous in creating chances. Still, Newcastle looked the more dangerous side and started to get their feet under them.
Even though West Brom was clearly on the back foot, they drew first blood in this one. In the 20th minute, Chris Brunt triggered a Baggies' counter with a long but deadly accurate through ball that freed up Peter Odemwingie. The striker then scooted around a defender and slotted it home to make it 0-1 to West Brom.
However Newcastle was not deterred and responded pretty well. After a nervous couple of minutes, they got back on the ball and resumed the attack. This finally paid off for them in the 34th minute, off the foot of Demba Ba. Ba took a free kick from just outside the penalty arc and slammed it in to the corner of the net to equalize 1-1.
You might have been forgiven at that point if you thought the half was out of goals, but you would have been wrong. Newcastle has had some issues defending set pieces this season, and it bit them in the 44th minute. Brunt sent in a gorgeous free kick that found it's way from the head of Gareth McAuley into the back of the net to make it 1-2 Baggies at the half.
Newcastle opened the 2nd half with a flurry of pressure, but couldn't find an equalizer. This led to a golden chance for West Brom to ice the match. In the 53rd minute Shane Long roared up the pitch on the counter, beat the 'keeper, but put his open net shot off the bottom of the crossbar. It really was unbelievable.
It looked like that miss would come back to haunt West Brom as well. Demba Ba was by far the most dangerous Newcastle player, and in fact he's scored over half of the Premier League goals for them so far. In the 81st minute he let a shot loose from just inside the area which zoomed past the West Brom 'keeper and equalized the match at 2-2.
However in the end West Brom were not to be denied the three points. Just 4 minutes after the Ba equalizer, they came up with a Glorious winner. Chris Brunt sent a cross in from the right to Peter Odemwingie, Odemwingie headed the ball back to an onrushing Paul Scharner, and the midfielder finished off the goal to make it 2-3 at full time.
All I can say for the Newcastle supporters is: ouch. However it was a tremendous match and both teams worked their guts out.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Now THIS Is An OWN GOAL!
Well if you're going to put the ball into your own net, at least do it in style!
English FA Bans Suarez Eight Matches
The FA today dealt a pretty big blow to Luis Suarez, Liverpool, and Liverpool's supporters. They issued the Uruguay international an eight game ban for "racially abusing" United's Patrice Evra in a match earlier this year.
PHOTO: theaustralian.com.au
Evra claims Suarez "racially abused" him at least 10 times during the match. He reported it to the referee, who did include the allegation in his match report. The FA said they found the charges proven, however, they're suspending the ban for 14 days to allow Suarez to appeal.
Suarez has said that the problem arose because he didn't know that certain language used in Uruguay was considered racist in Europe. Suarez himself is of mixed heritage, and both Evra and the FA have stated that they do not believe Suarez is a racist. Now we wait for the appeal.
PHOTO: theaustralian.com.au
Evra claims Suarez "racially abused" him at least 10 times during the match. He reported it to the referee, who did include the allegation in his match report. The FA said they found the charges proven, however, they're suspending the ban for 14 days to allow Suarez to appeal.
Suarez has said that the problem arose because he didn't know that certain language used in Uruguay was considered racist in Europe. Suarez himself is of mixed heritage, and both Evra and the FA have stated that they do not believe Suarez is a racist. Now we wait for the appeal.
Monday, December 19, 2011
EPL: Wolves vs. Stoke City
Not sure why Fox Soccer elected to show this one. These two teams aren't squads that I check out much. You have to admit though, Stoke City is SOLID. A lot of folks probably don't like their style, but they're getting the job done and picking up the results. In the end of the day, that's what matters.
Stoke had their problems in the first half of this one though, as Wolves certainly had the brighter start. The Potters had plenty of trouble with Matt Jarvis, which is why I picked him for my fantasy team, but they really weren't grinding out a ton of high quality chances. They did get one from Ronald Zubar, who got a shot after a pass from Jarvis, but his shot just scooted by the post.
There was some first half controversy as well. In the 10th minute Jonathan Woodgate got the first yellow card of the match for bringing down the pesky Jarvis. Then in the 16th minute he brought down Jarvis yet again, this time in the area. Wolves were awarded a PK, but the fould really could have, and some would say should have, earned a second yellow and a sending off. However, the ref was lenient. Stephen Hunt hit the penalty and Wolves took the 1-0 lead on 17 minutes.
However it was Wolves finding the back of their own net that let Stoke back into the match. Stoke got a free kick chance in the 58th minute and Glenn Whalen sent it in for the Potters. It took a deflection off of Wolves' Kevin Doyle and shot past the 'keeper to make it 1-1.
Stoke fin ally wrapped up the 3 points in the 70th minute. Matthew Etherington, hero of Stoke's last outing, sent a cross in for Peter Crouch. The England striker got on the end of it and put it far post to make it 1-2 to Stoke, which was the full time result.
Don't look now, but here come the Potters. It was Stoke's 4th straight Premier League win, and they're even taking the Europa League seriously!
Stoke had their problems in the first half of this one though, as Wolves certainly had the brighter start. The Potters had plenty of trouble with Matt Jarvis, which is why I picked him for my fantasy team, but they really weren't grinding out a ton of high quality chances. They did get one from Ronald Zubar, who got a shot after a pass from Jarvis, but his shot just scooted by the post.
There was some first half controversy as well. In the 10th minute Jonathan Woodgate got the first yellow card of the match for bringing down the pesky Jarvis. Then in the 16th minute he brought down Jarvis yet again, this time in the area. Wolves were awarded a PK, but the fould really could have, and some would say should have, earned a second yellow and a sending off. However, the ref was lenient. Stephen Hunt hit the penalty and Wolves took the 1-0 lead on 17 minutes.
However it was Wolves finding the back of their own net that let Stoke back into the match. Stoke got a free kick chance in the 58th minute and Glenn Whalen sent it in for the Potters. It took a deflection off of Wolves' Kevin Doyle and shot past the 'keeper to make it 1-1.
Stoke fin ally wrapped up the 3 points in the 70th minute. Matthew Etherington, hero of Stoke's last outing, sent a cross in for Peter Crouch. The England striker got on the end of it and put it far post to make it 1-2 to Stoke, which was the full time result.
Don't look now, but here come the Potters. It was Stoke's 4th straight Premier League win, and they're even taking the Europa League seriously!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
David Villa Out 5-6 Months
Well, the bad news that Barca fans didn't want to hear came out yesterday. David Villa will have surgery on his broken leg on Monday and will out be out 5-6 months. Some reports are saying 4-5 months, but most of the ones I'm seeing this morning are saying 5-6. Either way, it's going to be a long road back for Villa.
Villa broke his leg against Al Sadd in the Club World Cup in Japan. Earlier today, Barca beat Santos of Brazil 4-0 to claim the Club World Cup title. More on that later.
Villa broke his leg against Al Sadd in the Club World Cup in Japan. Earlier today, Barca beat Santos of Brazil 4-0 to claim the Club World Cup title. More on that later.
A League Action: Melbourne Victory vs. Wellington Phoenix
YES.
I think I can speak for a lot of Melbourne Victory supporters when I say I've been waiting to see this match out of them all season. We know they're capable of finding this kind of form, and it was nice to see them get it done.
The Victory got on the board first in the 5th minute. Costa Rican Carlos Hernandez dished off to Billy Celeski, who put in a great cross for Archie Thompson. Thompson, who has been the star for the Victory all season, headed the ball into goal to put the Victory up 1-0.
Harry Kewell combined with Archie in the tenth to force a save from the Wellington 'keeper. Unfortunately for Kewell, he was yellow carded for diving, trying to secure a PK. Melbourne got their 2nd goal of the match on 22 minutes when Carlos Hernandez's shot deflected off of Wellington's Vince Lia for an own goal.
However, Melbourne wasn't done in the first half and Kewell was involved on the third. On 25 minutes he sent in a cross to Ferreira, who blasted a GOLAZO into the net to give the Victory a 3-0 half time lead.
Unfortunately it wasn't all wonderful news in the second half for the Victory. Kewell had a couple of great chances to score, but he just couldn't quite finish. Celeski was sent off in the 78th minute for his second yellow, and Archie appeared to take a knock to the ankle. Wellington scored a cosmetic goal on 85 minutes and the match ended 3-1.
The result puts the Victory up to 5th place in the table. Their next match is the Christmas derby against the Heart.
PHOTO: footballaustralia.com.au
I think I can speak for a lot of Melbourne Victory supporters when I say I've been waiting to see this match out of them all season. We know they're capable of finding this kind of form, and it was nice to see them get it done.
The Victory got on the board first in the 5th minute. Costa Rican Carlos Hernandez dished off to Billy Celeski, who put in a great cross for Archie Thompson. Thompson, who has been the star for the Victory all season, headed the ball into goal to put the Victory up 1-0.
Harry Kewell combined with Archie in the tenth to force a save from the Wellington 'keeper. Unfortunately for Kewell, he was yellow carded for diving, trying to secure a PK. Melbourne got their 2nd goal of the match on 22 minutes when Carlos Hernandez's shot deflected off of Wellington's Vince Lia for an own goal.
However, Melbourne wasn't done in the first half and Kewell was involved on the third. On 25 minutes he sent in a cross to Ferreira, who blasted a GOLAZO into the net to give the Victory a 3-0 half time lead.
Unfortunately it wasn't all wonderful news in the second half for the Victory. Kewell had a couple of great chances to score, but he just couldn't quite finish. Celeski was sent off in the 78th minute for his second yellow, and Archie appeared to take a knock to the ankle. Wellington scored a cosmetic goal on 85 minutes and the match ended 3-1.
The result puts the Victory up to 5th place in the table. Their next match is the Christmas derby against the Heart.
PHOTO: footballaustralia.com.au
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
New Dynamo Stadium Gets A Name
I love seeing all the brand new stadiums coming to MLS, and the folks in Houston certainly deserve their new digs. Today the club announced that the stadium's official name will be "BBVA Compass Stadium."
Yes, THAT BBVA.
BBVA has a big presence in Houston with some 40 branches and a corporate office. BBVA is also the title sponsor of La Liga, Spain's first division. They also sponsor various individual players including Real Madrid's Iker Casillas.
Congrats to Houston, can't wait to see the stadium on my TV.
Yes, THAT BBVA.
BBVA has a big presence in Houston with some 40 branches and a corporate office. BBVA is also the title sponsor of La Liga, Spain's first division. They also sponsor various individual players including Real Madrid's Iker Casillas.
Congrats to Houston, can't wait to see the stadium on my TV.
Italian Match Thoughts: Inter Milan vs. Fiorentina
I'll be the first to admit as an Inter supporter that there hasn't been too much to cheer about with the Nerazzurri this season. Despite the early coaching change, they've been mired in the bottom half of the Serie A table all season. Now, maybe things are looking up just a bit. Inter won passage into the knockout round of the Champions League, and have strung together a couple of wins in Serie A. One of those came against Fiorentina last weekend at the San Siro.
Really this game was all Inter. Fiorentina never did muster much of a fight, but they did outlast a furious storm from Inter in the opening minutes. Giampaollo Pazzini got one of the best chances in the game in the 4th minute. Coutinho put a great ball in for him and he sliced a shot through at the 'keeper, who barely held on. Pazzini tried again with two headers in the 10 and 18th minutes, both of which narrowly missed wide.
After that it looked like Pazzini was going to be in the goals for Inter. He finally found the back of the net in the 41st minute. Coutinho again put in a ball for him, a ball that honestly wasn't as good as the 4th minute chance. However, Pazzini got to it and just managed to tap it past the 'keeper to make it 1-0 to Inter, which held until the interval.
The traffic in the second half wasn't quite one way like the first, but Inter wrapped up the three points fairly early on. In the 49th minute, two Fiorentina defenders collided going for the ball. That left it easily for Yuto Nagatomo, who calmly tapped it by the thunderstruck 'keeper to make it 2-0 Inter and seal the three points.
That win took Inter a ways from the relegation zone. Then on Tuesday they beat Genoa 0-1. That result puts them all the way up to 7th in the crowded Serie A table.
Really this game was all Inter. Fiorentina never did muster much of a fight, but they did outlast a furious storm from Inter in the opening minutes. Giampaollo Pazzini got one of the best chances in the game in the 4th minute. Coutinho put a great ball in for him and he sliced a shot through at the 'keeper, who barely held on. Pazzini tried again with two headers in the 10 and 18th minutes, both of which narrowly missed wide.
After that it looked like Pazzini was going to be in the goals for Inter. He finally found the back of the net in the 41st minute. Coutinho again put in a ball for him, a ball that honestly wasn't as good as the 4th minute chance. However, Pazzini got to it and just managed to tap it past the 'keeper to make it 1-0 to Inter, which held until the interval.
The traffic in the second half wasn't quite one way like the first, but Inter wrapped up the three points fairly early on. In the 49th minute, two Fiorentina defenders collided going for the ball. That left it easily for Yuto Nagatomo, who calmly tapped it by the thunderstruck 'keeper to make it 2-0 Inter and seal the three points.
That win took Inter a ways from the relegation zone. Then on Tuesday they beat Genoa 0-1. That result puts them all the way up to 7th in the crowded Serie A table.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
United's Fletcher Out Indefinitely
I'd like to pass on well wishes to Manchester United's Darren Fletcher. The 27 year old Scottish international announced today that he will be taking an extended break from football due to medical circumstances.
Fletcher has been diagnosed with Ulcerative colitis. It's a chronic bowel disease with no known cure. The symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood loss, weight loss and fatigue. United's website commented that "Darren's continued desire to play and his loyalty to both his club and country has probably compromised the chances of optimizing his own health and fitness."
Hopefully Darren can recover and get back to football for both Manchester United and Scotland.
Fletcher has been diagnosed with Ulcerative colitis. It's a chronic bowel disease with no known cure. The symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood loss, weight loss and fatigue. United's website commented that "Darren's continued desire to play and his loyalty to both his club and country has probably compromised the chances of optimizing his own health and fitness."
Hopefully Darren can recover and get back to football for both Manchester United and Scotland.
Monday, December 12, 2011
MLS, Sporting KC Send Omar Bravo to Cruz Azul
I don't care how you try to spin it, there was some tough news today for Sporting Kansas City fans. Designated Player and 2011 top scorer Omar Bravo has been sent to Cruz Azul in the Mexican Primera Division.
As per league policy, MLS does not comment these deals. Sporting Kansas City manager Peter Vermes said it was purely a business move that benefited Cruz, Sporting, and Omar Bravo. Translated, Cruz probably paid a good chunk of change for the former Mexican international.
Vermes noted that it will give the club more flexibility in going after another DP. He also said that all of their DP targets are attackers.
I hope so, for the sake of Sporting supporters. Right now folks, your left forward is BOBBY CONVEY.
Good luck with that.
As per league policy, MLS does not comment these deals. Sporting Kansas City manager Peter Vermes said it was purely a business move that benefited Cruz, Sporting, and Omar Bravo. Translated, Cruz probably paid a good chunk of change for the former Mexican international.
Vermes noted that it will give the club more flexibility in going after another DP. He also said that all of their DP targets are attackers.
I hope so, for the sake of Sporting supporters. Right now folks, your left forward is BOBBY CONVEY.
Good luck with that.
Congrats to UANL Tigres, 2011 Mexican Apertura Champions!
Congratulations are in order for UANL Tigres, who last night beat Santos to clinch the 2011 Apertura title in the Mexican Primera Division.
Tigres beat Santos 3-1 last night at home after defeating them 0-1 on the road in the first leg of the final. It was a pretty exciting game in the first half, not so much in the second. In the 12th minute, Santos 'keeper Oswaldo Sanchez was shown the red card for a challenge in the area on Tigres' Danilinho. However, the backup 'keeper came in and promptly saved the PK.
Then in the 31st minute Santos hit back. Mexico international Oribe Peralta scored a tap in off of a nice ball to even the aggregate score at 1-1 going into the half.
Tigres came out and put the title away in the second half though. They scored three goals, two by Danilinho and one by Hector Mancilla, to make the final aggregate score 4-1.
The win marks UANL's first title in 29 years. Santos has been runner up in 3 of the last 4 Mexican Primera finals.
Congrats to Tigres, and the 2012 Clausura starts January 6!
Tigres beat Santos 3-1 last night at home after defeating them 0-1 on the road in the first leg of the final. It was a pretty exciting game in the first half, not so much in the second. In the 12th minute, Santos 'keeper Oswaldo Sanchez was shown the red card for a challenge in the area on Tigres' Danilinho. However, the backup 'keeper came in and promptly saved the PK.
Then in the 31st minute Santos hit back. Mexico international Oribe Peralta scored a tap in off of a nice ball to even the aggregate score at 1-1 going into the half.
Tigres came out and put the title away in the second half though. They scored three goals, two by Danilinho and one by Hector Mancilla, to make the final aggregate score 4-1.
The win marks UANL's first title in 29 years. Santos has been runner up in 3 of the last 4 Mexican Primera finals.
Congrats to Tigres, and the 2012 Clausura starts January 6!
Sunday, December 11, 2011
EPL: Arsenal vs. Everton
I would be tempted to describe this match as a snoozefest. However, I think there's a better word to describe it, frustrating. Well, I guess it would be frustrating to a neutral like myself, or to an Arsenal fan. For some reason the Gunners just could not finish in this one. Now, I'm sure that suits Everton's fans just fine.
Everton played real nose to the grindstone football, as they are known to do. They certainly don't generally have the fire power to keep up with the Big Four, so they play the way that gives them the best chance, which is just fine. They played well defensively in this one too, but in the end a lot of Arsenal's misfirings came down to them, not the Toffees.
One thing that Everton did extremely well throughout the match was execute the offside trap. Theo Walcott got caught three times just in the opening minutes. Robin Van Persie ended up getting caught as well. It was flag after flag. However, when Arsenal did manage to stay onside, they created some chances. Aaron Ramsey caused the Toffee defense some problems, but couldn't trouble Tim Howard. He missed the target on his best two chances in the the 29th and 32nd minutes, respectively.
After coming out of half time still scoreless Arsenal continued to pretty much much control the proceedings, but they didn't look really great doing it. Everton did finally get a foothold and create some chances though. Their best run came from about the 65th to 70th minutes with multiple chances from Tim Cahill, Phil Neville, and Marouane Fellaini. However, nothing went in the back of the net.
Arsenal Captain Robin Van Persie finally found the goal in the 70th minute. He took a great ball from Alex Song and tapped the prettiest volley you'll ever see into the far post.
In the end, the goal was all Arsenal would need to wrap up three points against Everton. It came on an appropriate day, as the club marked it's 125 anniversary during the pregame ceremonies.
Here's a Youtube link to the RVP goal
Everton played real nose to the grindstone football, as they are known to do. They certainly don't generally have the fire power to keep up with the Big Four, so they play the way that gives them the best chance, which is just fine. They played well defensively in this one too, but in the end a lot of Arsenal's misfirings came down to them, not the Toffees.
One thing that Everton did extremely well throughout the match was execute the offside trap. Theo Walcott got caught three times just in the opening minutes. Robin Van Persie ended up getting caught as well. It was flag after flag. However, when Arsenal did manage to stay onside, they created some chances. Aaron Ramsey caused the Toffee defense some problems, but couldn't trouble Tim Howard. He missed the target on his best two chances in the the 29th and 32nd minutes, respectively.
After coming out of half time still scoreless Arsenal continued to pretty much much control the proceedings, but they didn't look really great doing it. Everton did finally get a foothold and create some chances though. Their best run came from about the 65th to 70th minutes with multiple chances from Tim Cahill, Phil Neville, and Marouane Fellaini. However, nothing went in the back of the net.
Arsenal Captain Robin Van Persie finally found the goal in the 70th minute. He took a great ball from Alex Song and tapped the prettiest volley you'll ever see into the far post.
In the end, the goal was all Arsenal would need to wrap up three points against Everton. It came on an appropriate day, as the club marked it's 125 anniversary during the pregame ceremonies.
Here's a Youtube link to the RVP goal
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
FA Charges Luis Suarez Over Hand Gesture
PHOTO: telegraph.co.uk
There's never a dull moment when you're Luis Suarez. The Liverpool striker is facing an FA charge for the above hand gesture made at Fulham fans during Liverpool's 1-0 defeat at Craven Cottage.
I think he'll have a tough time denying it.
Suarez also has another FA charge pending against him. United's Patrice Evra has charged that Suarez racially abused him earlier in the season. Both Suarez and Liverpool deny that.
Liverpool is also being charged for failing to control their players in the same Fulham match. The Reds went ballistic after the referee sent off Jay Spearing with a straight red card in the second half.
Apparently Suarez was mad because Fulham fans were chanting "CHEAT" at him throughout the match as they he perceived that we was diving, which he does do once in awhile.
As we all know, Suarez would NEVER DREAM OF CHEATING:
UCL: FC Basel vs. Manchester United
Well what have we here? Earlier in the week Chelsea were taking all kinds of fire in the soccer world for the possibility of being eliminated from the Champions League before the knock out stage. I guess we all thought it was forgone conclusion that United would get through. Well, I guess Basel didn't get the memo, because they showed up BIG TIME.
To be fair, United started pretty well. They controlled the ball in the opening 5 or 6 minutes and looked to be chiseling away at the Basel defense. However, once Basel got possession, they did something with it.
All hell broke loose along the United back line in the 9th minute. Both Smalling and Vidic went up for the same cross in their 18 and collided. Smalling fell dazed, and Basel gathered the ball and sent it back in toward the six, which just seemed to baffle United. Captain Marco Streller hammered the ball past David De Gea, who still doesn't look comfortable, and into the net for the 1-0 lead.
It got worse for the Red Devils before the half as well. Captain Nemanja Vidic went into a challenge and twisted his knee. He went down and started waving his hands for medical attention immediately. Initial reports were not good, suggesting ligament damage that could sideline him for months.
Basel added an insurance goal in the second half. In the 84th minute, Alex Frei headed home a ball to the far post that seemed to assure the Swiss a victory with a 2-0 lead. However, United didn't give up, as Phil Jones knocked the ball barely over the line in the 89th minute to make it 2-1. However, United couldn't come up with any magic during stoppage time, and 2-1 was the full time result.
The loss puts United into the Europa League, which I'm sure they'll want no part of. It's Thursday fixtures are a drain for the league weekends. Credit to FC Basel, they showed up, while United played like they were in dreamland for most of the match.
To be fair, United started pretty well. They controlled the ball in the opening 5 or 6 minutes and looked to be chiseling away at the Basel defense. However, once Basel got possession, they did something with it.
All hell broke loose along the United back line in the 9th minute. Both Smalling and Vidic went up for the same cross in their 18 and collided. Smalling fell dazed, and Basel gathered the ball and sent it back in toward the six, which just seemed to baffle United. Captain Marco Streller hammered the ball past David De Gea, who still doesn't look comfortable, and into the net for the 1-0 lead.
It got worse for the Red Devils before the half as well. Captain Nemanja Vidic went into a challenge and twisted his knee. He went down and started waving his hands for medical attention immediately. Initial reports were not good, suggesting ligament damage that could sideline him for months.
Basel added an insurance goal in the second half. In the 84th minute, Alex Frei headed home a ball to the far post that seemed to assure the Swiss a victory with a 2-0 lead. However, United didn't give up, as Phil Jones knocked the ball barely over the line in the 89th minute to make it 2-1. However, United couldn't come up with any magic during stoppage time, and 2-1 was the full time result.
The loss puts United into the Europa League, which I'm sure they'll want no part of. It's Thursday fixtures are a drain for the league weekends. Credit to FC Basel, they showed up, while United played like they were in dreamland for most of the match.
Timbers Show Off New Thirds
Here ya go folks:
On Tuesday the Portland Timbers unveiled their new 3rd kits. A retro 70's look with a white theme. Not my thing, but I don't have to like it. If their fans are down with it, good job. John Spencer said it's the best kit they have, and he wants to wear it. Nice.
On Tuesday the Portland Timbers unveiled their new 3rd kits. A retro 70's look with a white theme. Not my thing, but I don't have to like it. If their fans are down with it, good job. John Spencer said it's the best kit they have, and he wants to wear it. Nice.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
UCL: Olympiakos vs. Arsenal
PHOTO: FOXSOCCER.COM/GETTY IMAGES
There's not a lot to really say about this one. I try to make it a point to catch Olympiakos when I can, even if it's a replay of an older match, just because I don't ever get to see the Greek teams. Coming into this home match against Arsenal, they needed to win and hope Marseille didn't win in Germany in order to advance.
The task was quite different for the Gunners. They had already assured themselves a place in the next round, so they left most of their first team back in England. This meant that their reserves were going to get a shot at the Greek champs. However, it was Olympiakos that did most of the shooting.
The match was characterized by all around poor play by Arsenal at the back. Indeed, I'd say most of their wounds were self inflicted. In the 16th minute Rafik Djebbour took advantage of an Arsenal give away, then calmly ran around Lukasz Fabianski and tapped the shot in far post to make it 1-0 to the Greeks. Just six minutes later, Fabianski headed the ball right to Kevin Mirrallas, but the Olympiakos MF missed the target wide. Fabianski was injured in the next sequence and Arsenal brought in their 3rd string 'keeper, Vito Mannone. He played like a 3rd string 'keeper and Olympiakos tacked on a 2nd in the 36th minute to make it 2-0 at the half.
The second half proceeded in a bit of a disjointed manner, but Arsenal did manage a goal. In the 57th Yossi Benayoun sent a volley into the back of the Olympiakos net to make it 2-1. However the Greeks sealed the deal in the 89th as Francois Modesto tapped in a rebound after a corner to make 3-1 at full time. Unfortunately, Marseille beat Dortmund very late, which knocked the Greeks out of the CL knockout stage.
For Arsenal, ugly match. They have a lot to do at the back for their youngsters. Certainly the Greek champs taught them a lesson they won't soon forget.
There's not a lot to really say about this one. I try to make it a point to catch Olympiakos when I can, even if it's a replay of an older match, just because I don't ever get to see the Greek teams. Coming into this home match against Arsenal, they needed to win and hope Marseille didn't win in Germany in order to advance.
The task was quite different for the Gunners. They had already assured themselves a place in the next round, so they left most of their first team back in England. This meant that their reserves were going to get a shot at the Greek champs. However, it was Olympiakos that did most of the shooting.
The match was characterized by all around poor play by Arsenal at the back. Indeed, I'd say most of their wounds were self inflicted. In the 16th minute Rafik Djebbour took advantage of an Arsenal give away, then calmly ran around Lukasz Fabianski and tapped the shot in far post to make it 1-0 to the Greeks. Just six minutes later, Fabianski headed the ball right to Kevin Mirrallas, but the Olympiakos MF missed the target wide. Fabianski was injured in the next sequence and Arsenal brought in their 3rd string 'keeper, Vito Mannone. He played like a 3rd string 'keeper and Olympiakos tacked on a 2nd in the 36th minute to make it 2-0 at the half.
The second half proceeded in a bit of a disjointed manner, but Arsenal did manage a goal. In the 57th Yossi Benayoun sent a volley into the back of the Olympiakos net to make it 2-1. However the Greeks sealed the deal in the 89th as Francois Modesto tapped in a rebound after a corner to make 3-1 at full time. Unfortunately, Marseille beat Dortmund very late, which knocked the Greeks out of the CL knockout stage.
For Arsenal, ugly match. They have a lot to do at the back for their youngsters. Certainly the Greek champs taught them a lesson they won't soon forget.
UCL: Chelsea vs. Valencia
Now this makes me feel a lot better. All day at work I wondered about this match because I didn't have access to my cell phone and soccer score app. I knew Chelsea either needed a win or a scoreless draw to go through, and I just could not FATHOM the Blues not being in the knockout stage. Needless to say, I was thrilled when I saw the full time result.
PHOTO: FOXSOCCER.COM
That photo pretty much says it all. Didier Drogba was the MAN for AVB and Chelsea today. Anybody who thinks Drogba is washed up just needs to check out this match. His strength and will pretty much dominated.
Chelsea got off to cracking start in the opening minutes. In the second minute of the match, Raul Meirles sent in a screamer shot that Valencia 'keeper Diego Alves managed to corral. It was just foreshadowing though. A minute later Juan Mata dished a ball into the 18 for Drogba, who used a side step to beat the Valencia defender and knock a goal inside the far post to make it 1-0 to the Blues.
The Spaniards didn't roll over however. At that point, all they needed was a goal and they tried to grab it. Really the next 5-10 minutes were probably the best in the match for them. In the 5th minute they came close as Jordi Alba struck the post. Then in the 9th minute David Albelda sent a strike in on goal that forced Petr Cech to make a great save to keep it level.
Chelsea weren't done though, and in the 22nd minute they made their situation a lot more comfortable. Drogba was again involved, this time dishing the ball to Ramires, who went through a flabbergasted Valencia defense and scored to make it 2-0 to Chelsea.
The Blues strategy in the second half was to let Valencia have the ball and try to hit them on the counter. They did hit them as well. Daniel Sturridge continued to prove dangerous as he got off a couple of shots but couldn't find pay dirt. Finally in the 76th minute, Chelsea put it away. Juan Mata again hooked up with Drogba, who just managed to roll a shot past Alves and into the goal to make it 3-0 Chelsea.
Valencia never really threatened after that. They were pretty much worn out. The end of the match petered out in a foul fest with a lot of standing around, and Chelsea took the 3-0 win.
Gary Neville thought that this was Chelsea's best performance of the season. I don't know that I'd go that far, but it was certainly better than anything of late. A couple of areas concern me though. One, Daniel Sturridge has been on form and really aggressive, but there were a couple of instances in this one where he took a shot but really should have passed for a better scoring chance. Still, he's looking to score which is great. Hopefully he can put his head up just a little bit more. On the other hand, David Luiz turned in a good solid performance today, and John Terry was really in charge at the back. Hopefully the young Brazilian can keep playing more like he did in today's win.
With the win, Chelsea win group B. That's important, because they'll avoid the likes of Barca in the next round. Still, second place in that group is AC Milan, which is no picnic either.
PHOTO: FOXSOCCER.COM
That photo pretty much says it all. Didier Drogba was the MAN for AVB and Chelsea today. Anybody who thinks Drogba is washed up just needs to check out this match. His strength and will pretty much dominated.
Chelsea got off to cracking start in the opening minutes. In the second minute of the match, Raul Meirles sent in a screamer shot that Valencia 'keeper Diego Alves managed to corral. It was just foreshadowing though. A minute later Juan Mata dished a ball into the 18 for Drogba, who used a side step to beat the Valencia defender and knock a goal inside the far post to make it 1-0 to the Blues.
The Spaniards didn't roll over however. At that point, all they needed was a goal and they tried to grab it. Really the next 5-10 minutes were probably the best in the match for them. In the 5th minute they came close as Jordi Alba struck the post. Then in the 9th minute David Albelda sent a strike in on goal that forced Petr Cech to make a great save to keep it level.
Chelsea weren't done though, and in the 22nd minute they made their situation a lot more comfortable. Drogba was again involved, this time dishing the ball to Ramires, who went through a flabbergasted Valencia defense and scored to make it 2-0 to Chelsea.
The Blues strategy in the second half was to let Valencia have the ball and try to hit them on the counter. They did hit them as well. Daniel Sturridge continued to prove dangerous as he got off a couple of shots but couldn't find pay dirt. Finally in the 76th minute, Chelsea put it away. Juan Mata again hooked up with Drogba, who just managed to roll a shot past Alves and into the goal to make it 3-0 Chelsea.
Valencia never really threatened after that. They were pretty much worn out. The end of the match petered out in a foul fest with a lot of standing around, and Chelsea took the 3-0 win.
Gary Neville thought that this was Chelsea's best performance of the season. I don't know that I'd go that far, but it was certainly better than anything of late. A couple of areas concern me though. One, Daniel Sturridge has been on form and really aggressive, but there were a couple of instances in this one where he took a shot but really should have passed for a better scoring chance. Still, he's looking to score which is great. Hopefully he can put his head up just a little bit more. On the other hand, David Luiz turned in a good solid performance today, and John Terry was really in charge at the back. Hopefully the young Brazilian can keep playing more like he did in today's win.
With the win, Chelsea win group B. That's important, because they'll avoid the likes of Barca in the next round. Still, second place in that group is AC Milan, which is no picnic either.
Monday, December 5, 2011
EPL: Newcastle vs. Chelsea
To put it mildly, there was some, shall we say controversy in this match. Newcastle has been off to an amazing start this season, even taking a point off of Manchester United at Old Trafford last week. On the other hand, the Blues have been struggling under new head man Andre Villas Boas. Their Champions League hopes took a huge hit with a loss earlier in the week, and traveling to St. James Park stood to be a tall order in the league as well.
The big controversy came pretty much right away. In the 4th minute, David Luiz brought down Newcastle's Demba Ba just outside the 18. It was clearly a denial of a goal scoring opportunity, and should have been a red card. Yes, as a Chelsea supporter, I'll admit that it should have been red. However, the ref only gave Luiz a yellow, and The Blues kept all eleven men on the field.
More controversy came about in the 13th minute, this time at the other end of the pitch. Cabaye brought down Daniel Sturridge in the box, and Chelsea were awarded a PK. Lampard struck the spot kick, only to have it saved by Tim Krul. Replays showed that Krul came off his line by a good yard to make the save, but it was admittedly a poor penalty from Lamps.
Krul continued to perform miracles in net for Newcastle, especially when it came to Daniel Sturridge. Sturridge tested the 'keeper all day long, but Krul saved shot after shot. Finally in the 38th minute, his luck ran out as Didier Drogba headed in a gorgeous cross from Juan Mata to make it 0-1 to Chelsea at the break.
Newcastle piled the pressure on the Chelsea goal in the second half in search of the equalizer. Petr Cech was forched into saves from shots by both of the Ameobi brothers, and Demba Ba hit the crossbar on 55 minutes. Newcastle nearly leveled in the 74th minute, but Captain John Terry came to the rescue and cleared Sammy Ameobi's shot off the goal line at the last second.
Chelsea eventually put the game away rather late. Solomon Kalou took a pass from Fernando Torres in the 89th minute and slotted it past Krul to make it 0-2. Then, 2 minutes into stoppage time, Sturridge finally managed to beat Krul as he smashed in the last goal of the match to make the full time result 0-3.
Newcastle certainly has a right to feel hard done by. Luiz really should have been sent off, and Chelsea would have virtually had to play the whole match down a man. I don't know what Luiz's problem is, he's looked horrid lately. He's been reminding me of a Brazilian version of Tim Ream. He is going to cost the Blues points if he doesn't get his head in the game. However, sometimes the football gods smile on you, and sometimes they don't. Newcastle's PK against United last week that got them the point at Old Trafford was pure BS. So, some things go your way, some don't. Perhaps the worst thing for Newcastle is that they lost Ryan Taylor to injury for the rest of the season.
The big controversy came pretty much right away. In the 4th minute, David Luiz brought down Newcastle's Demba Ba just outside the 18. It was clearly a denial of a goal scoring opportunity, and should have been a red card. Yes, as a Chelsea supporter, I'll admit that it should have been red. However, the ref only gave Luiz a yellow, and The Blues kept all eleven men on the field.
More controversy came about in the 13th minute, this time at the other end of the pitch. Cabaye brought down Daniel Sturridge in the box, and Chelsea were awarded a PK. Lampard struck the spot kick, only to have it saved by Tim Krul. Replays showed that Krul came off his line by a good yard to make the save, but it was admittedly a poor penalty from Lamps.
Krul continued to perform miracles in net for Newcastle, especially when it came to Daniel Sturridge. Sturridge tested the 'keeper all day long, but Krul saved shot after shot. Finally in the 38th minute, his luck ran out as Didier Drogba headed in a gorgeous cross from Juan Mata to make it 0-1 to Chelsea at the break.
Newcastle piled the pressure on the Chelsea goal in the second half in search of the equalizer. Petr Cech was forched into saves from shots by both of the Ameobi brothers, and Demba Ba hit the crossbar on 55 minutes. Newcastle nearly leveled in the 74th minute, but Captain John Terry came to the rescue and cleared Sammy Ameobi's shot off the goal line at the last second.
Chelsea eventually put the game away rather late. Solomon Kalou took a pass from Fernando Torres in the 89th minute and slotted it past Krul to make it 0-2. Then, 2 minutes into stoppage time, Sturridge finally managed to beat Krul as he smashed in the last goal of the match to make the full time result 0-3.
Newcastle certainly has a right to feel hard done by. Luiz really should have been sent off, and Chelsea would have virtually had to play the whole match down a man. I don't know what Luiz's problem is, he's looked horrid lately. He's been reminding me of a Brazilian version of Tim Ream. He is going to cost the Blues points if he doesn't get his head in the game. However, sometimes the football gods smile on you, and sometimes they don't. Newcastle's PK against United last week that got them the point at Old Trafford was pure BS. So, some things go your way, some don't. Perhaps the worst thing for Newcastle is that they lost Ryan Taylor to injury for the rest of the season.
RSL Legend Andy Williams Retires
Today was a bittersweet day for us Real Salt Lake fans. Veteran midfielder Andy Williams, aka "bommadog" announced his retirement from MLS after 14 seasons. Williams was eligible for the re-entry draft, and chose to retire but stay with the RSL family. He'll be joining the technical staff as a scout.
Williams spent the last 7 seasons in Salt Lake. He was drafted with RSL's first pick in the 2004 expansion draft. He is the last of original RSL 2005 team. This last season he notched two goals, one assist, and logged 1970 minutes in 31 games.
Williams was also a big part of the Jamaican National Team "The Reggae Boyz." He was capped 92 times and played in the 1998 FIFA World Cup. He scored 13 international goals in his career.
Williams also won the US Open Cup as a member of the Chicago Fire in 2003.
Personally, I'm sad to see him hang up the boots, but I'm really glad he is going to continue to be a part of RSL.
Williams and Javy Morales
PHOTO: rsltothecore.com
Williams spent the last 7 seasons in Salt Lake. He was drafted with RSL's first pick in the 2004 expansion draft. He is the last of original RSL 2005 team. This last season he notched two goals, one assist, and logged 1970 minutes in 31 games.
Williams was also a big part of the Jamaican National Team "The Reggae Boyz." He was capped 92 times and played in the 1998 FIFA World Cup. He scored 13 international goals in his career.
Williams also won the US Open Cup as a member of the Chicago Fire in 2003.
Personally, I'm sad to see him hang up the boots, but I'm really glad he is going to continue to be a part of RSL.
Williams and Javy Morales
PHOTO: rsltothecore.com
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Anelka and Alex Request Transfers From Chelsea
It looks like Chelsea will be doing some dealing in the transfer market come January. According to manager Andre Villas Boas, both Nicolas Anelka and Alex have formally requested a transfer from the EPL side, and the club is prepared to grant their requests.
Anelka has been generating buzz for awhile, but Ives Galarcep has a particularly interesting take on this in his latest Fox Soccer column. According to Galarcep, MLS Expansion side Montreal Impact are in talks with Anelka. They hope bringing in the Frenchman will help appeal to the French-Canadian population in Montreal, as well as give them a top name going into their first MLS season.
At any rate for Chelsea fans, it would free up a couple of spots for more moves in January.
Check out Galarcep's column HERE
You can follow Ives on twitter for some fantastic soccer reporting by following @SoccerbyIves.
Anelka has been generating buzz for awhile, but Ives Galarcep has a particularly interesting take on this in his latest Fox Soccer column. According to Galarcep, MLS Expansion side Montreal Impact are in talks with Anelka. They hope bringing in the Frenchman will help appeal to the French-Canadian population in Montreal, as well as give them a top name going into their first MLS season.
At any rate for Chelsea fans, it would free up a couple of spots for more moves in January.
Check out Galarcep's column HERE
You can follow Ives on twitter for some fantastic soccer reporting by following @SoccerbyIves.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Italian Match Thoughts: Genoa vs. AC Milan
This particular match up has a history of some bad behavior by fans and players alike. Unfortunately, that reared it's head again in this one, causing a delay in proceedings. Luckily we were treated to a couple of goals and another impressive performance from the defending champions.
Nocerino proved to be a thorn in the side of Genoa from the early going, breaking into their 18 a few times in the opening minutes. In the 12h minute, he had a shot that was just saved, and Genoa looked like they had no answers for the AC Milan midfielder.
About the 16th minute, a cloud descended over the match. Literally. At first it appeared that a smoke bomb had been set off in the stands. However, fans started to vacate the area and cover their faces. The cloud descended onto the pitch and several players had to cover their faces from what appeared to be tear gas. The ref stopped the game for about 10 minutes, until the air could be cleared and the players could be attended to.
Even after the restart, Genoa had a tough time getting things going. Their best chance of the first half came in the 34th minute. Miguel Veloso sent a free kick in at the AC Milan goal, only to have Marco Amelia tip it over the bar. The two teams went to the half time break still tied at 0-0.
Milan took control of the match in the second half. Kakha Kaladze picked up two yellows for Genoa within 7 minutes in the second half to get sent off. The second was a conceded PK in the 54th. Zlatan Ibrahimovic nailed home the PK to make it 0-1.
Genoa really couldn't muster much over the remainder of the match, especially being down to ten men. Nocerino reared his pesky head again in the 80th minute, knocking in a cross from Kevin Prince-Boateng to make 0-2, which was the full time result.
If I'm honest with you, it wasn't Milan's best performance. However, Genoa just appeared to be toothless in attack all night. In the end, the defending Serie A champs did enough to pick up a vital 3 points on the road, keeping up the pressure on Juventus.
Nocerino proved to be a thorn in the side of Genoa from the early going, breaking into their 18 a few times in the opening minutes. In the 12h minute, he had a shot that was just saved, and Genoa looked like they had no answers for the AC Milan midfielder.
About the 16th minute, a cloud descended over the match. Literally. At first it appeared that a smoke bomb had been set off in the stands. However, fans started to vacate the area and cover their faces. The cloud descended onto the pitch and several players had to cover their faces from what appeared to be tear gas. The ref stopped the game for about 10 minutes, until the air could be cleared and the players could be attended to.
Even after the restart, Genoa had a tough time getting things going. Their best chance of the first half came in the 34th minute. Miguel Veloso sent a free kick in at the AC Milan goal, only to have Marco Amelia tip it over the bar. The two teams went to the half time break still tied at 0-0.
Milan took control of the match in the second half. Kakha Kaladze picked up two yellows for Genoa within 7 minutes in the second half to get sent off. The second was a conceded PK in the 54th. Zlatan Ibrahimovic nailed home the PK to make it 0-1.
Genoa really couldn't muster much over the remainder of the match, especially being down to ten men. Nocerino reared his pesky head again in the 80th minute, knocking in a cross from Kevin Prince-Boateng to make 0-2, which was the full time result.
If I'm honest with you, it wasn't Milan's best performance. However, Genoa just appeared to be toothless in attack all night. In the end, the defending Serie A champs did enough to pick up a vital 3 points on the road, keeping up the pressure on Juventus.
Sunderland Appoint Martin O'Neill As New Manager
The wait to see who would follow Steve Bruce as manager at Sunderland wasn't long. Various outlets began reporting that Martin O'Neill was the favorite, and the club confirmed it today. The former Aston Villa manager signed a 3 year deal.
O'Neill will not manage the club Sunday at Wolves. He will officially take over on Monday.
O'Neill won the European Cup as a player, and has managerial experience with other clubs including Norwich and Celtic, as well as Villa.
O'Neill will not manage the club Sunday at Wolves. He will officially take over on Monday.
O'Neill won the European Cup as a player, and has managerial experience with other clubs including Norwich and Celtic, as well as Villa.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Euro 2012 Group Stage Draw
Here are the results from UEFA's Euro 2012 Group Stage Draw held about one hour ago:
GROUP A:
Poland (host)
Greece
Czech Republic
Russia
GROUP B:
The Netherlands
Denmark
Germany
Portugal
GROUP C:
Spain
Italy
Republic of Ireland
Croatia
GROUP D:
Ukraine (host)
France
Sweden
England
So there you have it. Group B is clearly the group of death. England has a decent draw into group D. Russia will be THRILLED to be in group A.
Italian Match Thoughts: Lazio vs. Juventus
For some reason I've been on this kick for watching Juventus lately. It couldn't be because they're playing some of the best football in Italy, could it? Yes, it probably could.
This one was really fun to watch as well. The low scoreline is a bit deceptive. Both sides created quite a few quality chances. It really was an example of some of the best that Serie A has had to offer so far this season.
The first 20 minutes pretty much belonged to Juventus. Claudio Marchisio got things started with a bang in the 10th minute as just BARELY missed with a header over the Lazio crossbar. He really should have scored. Andrea Pirlo stood up to take the next chance on 13 minutes, but found his shot blocked. He tried again with an absolutely gorgeous free kick in the 16th, that was only kept out by an equally brilliant save from the Lazio 'keeper.
After weathering the opening storm from Juve, Lazio got their feet. In the 21st minute they were helped out by a Juve defensive blunder which Tommaso Rocchi turned into a shot that was neatly saved by Buffon. However, just seconds later, Cristian Ledesma sent in a wonder strike that looked bound for the back of the net but somehow crept wide.
Lazio's failure to convert some of their chances in the first half eventually came back to haunt them. In the 34th minute, Juve sparked a counter and Matri managed to find Pepe with a beautiful cross. Pepe promptly banged it into the back of the net to give Juve the 0-1 lead at the half.
The second half slowed just a little bit, but again both sides had chances. Lazio went on a great run of attack from about the 60th-70th minutes. It featured great chances from Hernanes, who hit the post, and Miroslav Klose, who forced a quality save from Buffon. However in the end, they couldn't convert and Juve held on to the 0-1 win.
Juventus takes the three points and continues their great top of the table run, Lazio played a great game however, and gave the Old Lady all they could handle. I expecy both of these teams to be in the mix for the Champions League spots, if not for the Scudetto itself. Great match.
This one was really fun to watch as well. The low scoreline is a bit deceptive. Both sides created quite a few quality chances. It really was an example of some of the best that Serie A has had to offer so far this season.
The first 20 minutes pretty much belonged to Juventus. Claudio Marchisio got things started with a bang in the 10th minute as just BARELY missed with a header over the Lazio crossbar. He really should have scored. Andrea Pirlo stood up to take the next chance on 13 minutes, but found his shot blocked. He tried again with an absolutely gorgeous free kick in the 16th, that was only kept out by an equally brilliant save from the Lazio 'keeper.
After weathering the opening storm from Juve, Lazio got their feet. In the 21st minute they were helped out by a Juve defensive blunder which Tommaso Rocchi turned into a shot that was neatly saved by Buffon. However, just seconds later, Cristian Ledesma sent in a wonder strike that looked bound for the back of the net but somehow crept wide.
Lazio's failure to convert some of their chances in the first half eventually came back to haunt them. In the 34th minute, Juve sparked a counter and Matri managed to find Pepe with a beautiful cross. Pepe promptly banged it into the back of the net to give Juve the 0-1 lead at the half.
The second half slowed just a little bit, but again both sides had chances. Lazio went on a great run of attack from about the 60th-70th minutes. It featured great chances from Hernanes, who hit the post, and Miroslav Klose, who forced a quality save from Buffon. However in the end, they couldn't convert and Juve held on to the 0-1 win.
Juventus takes the three points and continues their great top of the table run, Lazio played a great game however, and gave the Old Lady all they could handle. I expecy both of these teams to be in the mix for the Champions League spots, if not for the Scudetto itself. Great match.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Liverpool's Lucas Out For the Season
Some bad news came down the pipe today for Liverpool and it's supporters. Star midfielder and Brazilian International Lucas Leiva has been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign.
Lucas picked up the injury during the second half of Liverpool's Carling Cup win over Chelsea. The Red's medical staff confirmed that he damaged his ACL in his left knee. The required surgery will put him out for the season.
This isn't good news for Liverpool as they are again without the services of Steven Gerrard, who continues to miss time with an ankle infection.
Lucas picked up the injury during the second half of Liverpool's Carling Cup win over Chelsea. The Red's medical staff confirmed that he damaged his ACL in his left knee. The required surgery will put him out for the season.
This isn't good news for Liverpool as they are again without the services of Steven Gerrard, who continues to miss time with an ankle infection.
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