Thursday 31 May 2012
Sunday 13 May 2012
An Amazing Final Day of the Premier League
Can any other competition bring the immense excitement and ups and downs of the premier league. The craziness of the season never more encapsulated by the last day with the title going down to the absolute wire and an amazing end to the season. If you're still trying to digest like me, here's a quick wrap up of a hectic final day:
Man City v QPR
Well had everything, a QPR side that went from defensive to absolute-shut-up shop defense with 10 players in the box it seemed at stages. A lucky goal from Zabeleta relieved the tension at the Etihad and with 80% of possession it looked as if Man City had no chance of losing. Till a bad error from Lescott allowed Cisse to blast the equaliser. Then Joey Barton got sent off, if the red card against Tevez was debatable his behaviour afterwards certainly wasn't. Well played Carlos? Then completely against the run of play QPR went ahead. Mancini tried everything Dzeko and Mario on, Toure's injury from earlier was looking to be a big loss. Then a lovely cross in injury time from Silva sent in Dzeko for a perfect header. Then the 38 million pound man Aguero smashed in the equaliser. Cue the moment, cue the man, worth every cent. Then raptures.
Man United v Sunderland
United did everything they needed to do, Rooney with header but the only surprise was that he and also United did not score more from a game that was over pretty early in piece. Shattering to hear about the City result with the game over. They were champions till the last 5 minutes of the league.
Arsenal v WBA
For awhile looked shaky there but Arsenal in the end deservedly finished third. All those Wenger knockers from earlier in the season have gone quiet. Hodgsons last game in charge the work he did with WBA should not be underrated.
Chelsea v Blackburn
No surprises here. Good finish to the season for Di Matteo's possible last game in charge. Blackburn, sad to see you go.
Everton v Newcastle
Newcastle have looked tired this last month, but that shouldn't detract from an excellent season. Everton more to play for with the chance of finishing above Everton and on their budget was no mean feat.
Tottenham v Fulham
Tottenham did what they needed to do, now waiting on Chelsea in Champions League to see if they'll be back.
Swansea v Liverpool
/indicative of both their seasons really. Swansea the surprise packets Liverpool disappointing.
Stoke v Bolton
Bolton have every right to be aggrieved. First goal was a foul on the keeper and that penalty? QPR deserved to stay up but Bolton... this isn't the last you'll hear of this.
Norwich v Aston Villa
Norwich like Swansea impressive, Aston Villa have just done enough to survive. Standard result.
Wigan v Wolves
Not the great relegation battle it could've been, will be great to see Wigan around for another season.
Well that's it from me, what did you think? Leave a comment. Follow me on twitter (https://twitter.com/#!/DMSport1) And take care of yourself
Monday 2 April 2012
Premier League Run home: In brief
7 Rounds to go and the deep end of the season now begins, but there's still enough intrigue at the top and as always the bottom of the table to keep fans interested, here we sum up very briefly each premier league teams chances
1.Manchester United (76pts)
Sir Alex has done it again, 5 points ahead of the Manchester neighbours, everything has came together nicely. Just need to keep doing what they've done so far, winning against every team that comes up against them, the defence even minus Vidic is holding up well and De Gea is looking better by the week. Besides Man City the only teams that could cause trouble for Man United are Sunderland away and possibly Everton. The title looks all but assured now however.
2. Manchester City (71)
Need to rely on Manchester United dropping games, and not just the blockbuster at the Etihad. That's also assuming all the remaining games are won which is no foregone conclusion with the on-fire Arsenal at the Emirates. Going to really regret the dropped points against Stoke city, Sunderland and Swansea the three big 'S''s. Need Aguero back and Silva to rediscover his old form because City are in a lull which will more than likely cost them the title.
3.Arsenal (58)
Need to shore up 3rd place to once again travel to Europe. As much as people rave about Ferguson from less resources what Wenger does with his team is just as incredible. Champions league football will keep on Van Persie and next season who knows? Should be able to finish top 4.
4.Tottenham (58)
Still playing cracking football, with class such as Bale, Modric and Adebayor and the magnificent management of 'Arry will stave off Chelsea and Newcastle to return to Champions League football.
5.Chelsea (53)
Undergone a resurgence under Di Matteo of all people but won't be enough for him to keep his job or enough for Chelsea to make Champions League football in all likelihood. The treasured competition Europa beckons...
6.Newcastle (53)
Have pulled many surprises this season, excellently managed by Pardew, finishing 6th a great result to set up a real play for next season.
7.Everton (43)
Surely David Moyes has got to be headhunted by Tottenham or Chelsea for their next manager? Just does it week-in, week out, probably won't hold off Liverpool but who knows?
8.Liverpool (42)
Been a disappointing premiership, but Kenny Daglish should do enough to put them above rivals Everton, with a FA Cup and Carling Cup a consolation.
9.Sunderland (41)
Have played better than they're results have shown, will stay at 9th.
10.Fulham (39)
Difficult run home, will drop down the table
11. Swansea (39)
Playing beautiful football, will run home their impressive season by finishing in the top10
12. Norwich (39)
Must be cursing their run home, but enough to stay up though will drop a bit down the ladder
13. Stoke City (38)
Whatever you say about the way they play it's effective and will rise to 11th-12th in all likelihood.
14. West Bromwich (36)
Will snatch enough points to just about stay where they are
15. Aston Villa (33)
The luck has not been on Mcleish's mens side but will be worried with a horrible run home
16. Bolton (29)
Will get enough enough points to avoid relegation.
17. Queens Park Rangers (28)
Horrible horrible run home. Hughe's men will be cursing their luck. Hard to pick but expect them just to scrape through.
18. Blackburn (28)
Might be leaving it too late, if can beat West Brom, Norwich and Wigan will survive.
19. Wigan (28)
Have been great to watch, will be sad to see them go down
20. Wolverhampton Wolves (22)
Are gone.
1.Manchester United (76pts)
Sir Alex has done it again, 5 points ahead of the Manchester neighbours, everything has came together nicely. Just need to keep doing what they've done so far, winning against every team that comes up against them, the defence even minus Vidic is holding up well and De Gea is looking better by the week. Besides Man City the only teams that could cause trouble for Man United are Sunderland away and possibly Everton. The title looks all but assured now however.
2. Manchester City (71)
Need to rely on Manchester United dropping games, and not just the blockbuster at the Etihad. That's also assuming all the remaining games are won which is no foregone conclusion with the on-fire Arsenal at the Emirates. Going to really regret the dropped points against Stoke city, Sunderland and Swansea the three big 'S''s. Need Aguero back and Silva to rediscover his old form because City are in a lull which will more than likely cost them the title.
3.Arsenal (58)
Need to shore up 3rd place to once again travel to Europe. As much as people rave about Ferguson from less resources what Wenger does with his team is just as incredible. Champions league football will keep on Van Persie and next season who knows? Should be able to finish top 4.
4.Tottenham (58)
Still playing cracking football, with class such as Bale, Modric and Adebayor and the magnificent management of 'Arry will stave off Chelsea and Newcastle to return to Champions League football.
5.Chelsea (53)
Undergone a resurgence under Di Matteo of all people but won't be enough for him to keep his job or enough for Chelsea to make Champions League football in all likelihood. The treasured competition Europa beckons...
6.Newcastle (53)
Have pulled many surprises this season, excellently managed by Pardew, finishing 6th a great result to set up a real play for next season.
7.Everton (43)
Surely David Moyes has got to be headhunted by Tottenham or Chelsea for their next manager? Just does it week-in, week out, probably won't hold off Liverpool but who knows?
8.Liverpool (42)
Been a disappointing premiership, but Kenny Daglish should do enough to put them above rivals Everton, with a FA Cup and Carling Cup a consolation.
9.Sunderland (41)
Have played better than they're results have shown, will stay at 9th.
10.Fulham (39)
Difficult run home, will drop down the table
11. Swansea (39)
Playing beautiful football, will run home their impressive season by finishing in the top10
12. Norwich (39)
Must be cursing their run home, but enough to stay up though will drop a bit down the ladder
13. Stoke City (38)
Whatever you say about the way they play it's effective and will rise to 11th-12th in all likelihood.
14. West Bromwich (36)
Will snatch enough points to just about stay where they are
15. Aston Villa (33)
The luck has not been on Mcleish's mens side but will be worried with a horrible run home
16. Bolton (29)
Will get enough enough points to avoid relegation.
17. Queens Park Rangers (28)
Horrible horrible run home. Hughe's men will be cursing their luck. Hard to pick but expect them just to scrape through.
18. Blackburn (28)
Might be leaving it too late, if can beat West Brom, Norwich and Wigan will survive.
19. Wigan (28)
Have been great to watch, will be sad to see them go down
20. Wolverhampton Wolves (22)
Are gone.
Formula 1 - a McLaren year?
This year so far is looking like McLaren's to lose. With a car so much more further through it's development than its rivals Red Bull, Ferrari and Mercedes it looks like McLaren might get enough of a jump before the other teams can catch up.
Dopn't be put off by Ferrari's win, it was a near enough flawless drive by Alonso in weather that hindered McLaren. With 2 championship winning drivers in their cars and with a good all round engine it looks like Red Bull is still a month away (though Vettell and Webber have kept pace very well), Ferrari who knows and Mercedes might get pole's but it can't last the whole race as good as the drivers are.
ps-Perez, undoubtedly one for the future, alongside Riccardio and Grosjean
Problem, Man City? U mad?
Manchester City are in trouble. Not from playing extremely badly as some would have you believe mind but just for the fact that Manchester united are beating all the teams they should. Dzeko "was diving" Balotelli "has lost the respect of his teammates and the manager" and Manchester City are "choking".
Far from the truth. In other circumstances their comeback from 3-1 down against an underatted Sunderland would be sort of heralded, except for the fact it was at home and if Manchester United beat Blackburn they will go ahead by 5 points, meaning more than a derby victory will be needed to win the Premiership. Really Balotelli is who he is, Mancini is a manager who knows how to get the best out of him, and is not afraid to give him a kick up the arse or cuddle him if needed. The main problem is David Silva has lost a bit of his early season flair, unfortunately the knocks on the ankles from hard hitting defenders against the silk master have taken their toll. Also losing the 2 most in form players of the last couple of months in Nasri and Aguero hurts.
Looking harder to win for man city here but undoubtedly they've improved. They need to win every game left this season and hope united stuff up at least twice along the way. And hope Dzeko remembers to kick goals when there's defenders around.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/4233458/Edin-Dzeko-blasts-dive-claims-after-Sunderland-bust-up.html
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/4233375/Alan-Shearer-Mario-Balotelli-is-a-selfish-spoiled-brat.html
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/4233545/Man-City-stars-reckon-Mario-Balotelli-is-costing-them-the-title.html
Sunday 1 April 2012
What's happening Liverpool!?
With the 2-0 loss to Newcastle the Carling Cup winners Liverpool look in real strife more than ever, it was gaining but with Keeper Pepe Reina's incredibly childish sendoff and 35million pound boy Andy Carrol's f-bomb rant towards manager Kenny Daglish the cracks were there for all to see.
They are wobbling at 8th even below fierce rivals Everton (who haven't spent on a player since the dark ages) and below Newcastle who have now got a nearly impeachable lead. Where did it all go wrong? This writer still thinks that they will win the FA cup mind but what are they missing?
Torres for 50 mil was a great deal whichever way you look at it, because he had been out of form for a year when he moved to Chelsea although he looked back to the Torres of old. Then he left. Carroll, Suarez et al were brought in. Carroll unfortunately has been a flop, and as solid as the new owners have been even they're starting to look shaky (the Red Sox are in their worst position in 5 years). Liverpool's style of play does not suit Carroll but he hasn't been the biggest impediment.
Luis Suarez in pure playing wise has been a revelation, scoring goals creating chances and annoying opposition teams. But then there is the fact that on the pitch he is an absolutely poor character. First racist towards Evra, (whichever way you put it he shouldn't have said it) then that farcical shirt business by Liverpool then refusing to shake Evras hand after promising too. Making the whole club, one of the greatest Football clubs in the world a laughing stock. Not to mention the 9 games he missed. He has arguably brought more baggage in trouble than that he's lifted with his play. King Kenny needs to lay down the law to his players, win the FA Cup, recruit well over summer and look towards Champions league qualification next season. Anything less is unacceptable. Trade Carroll? either he falls into line or get what you can for him 10-15mil would be a good result.
They are wobbling at 8th even below fierce rivals Everton (who haven't spent on a player since the dark ages) and below Newcastle who have now got a nearly impeachable lead. Where did it all go wrong? This writer still thinks that they will win the FA cup mind but what are they missing?
Torres for 50 mil was a great deal whichever way you look at it, because he had been out of form for a year when he moved to Chelsea although he looked back to the Torres of old. Then he left. Carroll, Suarez et al were brought in. Carroll unfortunately has been a flop, and as solid as the new owners have been even they're starting to look shaky (the Red Sox are in their worst position in 5 years). Liverpool's style of play does not suit Carroll but he hasn't been the biggest impediment.
Luis Suarez in pure playing wise has been a revelation, scoring goals creating chances and annoying opposition teams. But then there is the fact that on the pitch he is an absolutely poor character. First racist towards Evra, (whichever way you put it he shouldn't have said it) then that farcical shirt business by Liverpool then refusing to shake Evras hand after promising too. Making the whole club, one of the greatest Football clubs in the world a laughing stock. Not to mention the 9 games he missed. He has arguably brought more baggage in trouble than that he's lifted with his play. King Kenny needs to lay down the law to his players, win the FA Cup, recruit well over summer and look towards Champions league qualification next season. Anything less is unacceptable. Trade Carroll? either he falls into line or get what you can for him 10-15mil would be a good result.
AFL Round 1-One Sentence report
The first round of football is over and indeed it has served up enough intrigue for the 2 weeks it spanned: Here is our 1 sentence reaction to the first game performance of all 18 teams:
1.Sydney Swans
Well they played GWS who will find it hard and did what they needed to do, not pretty but solid.
2.Adelaide
Like Sydney did what they needed to do, promising start for Sanderson.
3.West Coast
Fine win away against the disappointing fading Bulldogs, midfield and rucks and the infamous "zone" again looking impenetrable at times.
4.Carlton
Showed Richmond that THEY are the real deal and will go far in September.
5.Brisbane Lions
Commendable win away from home against an emotionally tired Melbourne team, will surprise this season very talented crop of young leaders in the midfield coming through but Black is still king.
6. Hawthorn
Excellent win against last years Grand Finalists justified their favourites tag, Cyril and Buddy unstoppable.
7.Port Adelaide
Was baited by Freo and they bought it, will be back.
12.St Kilda
Disappointing to lose to a side that couldn't beat a rabbit with a stick last season, a clean out might be needed?
13.Collingwood
Showed enough and will be better for the experience, players and coach Buckley alike
14.Melbourne
Disappointing but made no excuses for it, need leaders to stand up.
15.Richmond
Hyped again lost again, still a team in progress
16. Western Bulldogs
At least they're not the worst team in the comp with "West" in their name
17.Gold Coast Suns
Not flying high, Ablett show but no one else turned up
18.Greater Western Sydney
Actually played ok gritty footy will be better than many thought...maybe.
1.Sydney Swans
Well they played GWS who will find it hard and did what they needed to do, not pretty but solid.
2.Adelaide
Like Sydney did what they needed to do, promising start for Sanderson.
3.West Coast
Fine win away against the disappointing fading Bulldogs, midfield and rucks and the infamous "zone" again looking impenetrable at times.
4.Carlton
Showed Richmond that THEY are the real deal and will go far in September.
5.Brisbane Lions
Commendable win away from home against an emotionally tired Melbourne team, will surprise this season very talented crop of young leaders in the midfield coming through but Black is still king.
6. Hawthorn
Excellent win against last years Grand Finalists justified their favourites tag, Cyril and Buddy unstoppable.
7.Port Adelaide
They won?
8.Fremantle
Impressive start to season, looked aggressive, inspired and in Fyfe a player who will be top 10 in the competition sooner rather than later
Do they still play this? Heck i love it
9.Essendon
Lucky in the end, but the Kangaroos are never easy to beat.
10.North Melbourne
Kept the rivalry going but were nearly there, loss could really hurt at the pointy end of the season
11.Geelong
12.St Kilda
Disappointing to lose to a side that couldn't beat a rabbit with a stick last season, a clean out might be needed?
13.Collingwood
Showed enough and will be better for the experience, players and coach Buckley alike
14.Melbourne
Disappointing but made no excuses for it, need leaders to stand up.
15.Richmond
Hyped again lost again, still a team in progress
16. Western Bulldogs
At least they're not the worst team in the comp with "West" in their name
17.Gold Coast Suns
Not flying high, Ablett show but no one else turned up
18.Greater Western Sydney
Actually played ok gritty footy will be better than many thought...maybe.
Monday 19 March 2012
RIP Jim Stynes
It's been said already but never will be enough. Champion footballer, president, ambassador & most of all person. What a great man to be lost to Australian sport. Thoughts & prayers with the Stynes family at this difficult time. There will not be another in football like him and never forgotten
Thursday 15 March 2012
Blogging on hold, thanks all
Hey, if you're reading this you've already got my appreciation. Unfortunately due to university commitments I can no longer continue blogging right now. If my blogging was viewed by thousands daily then there would be a responsibility to continue although not badly viewed which is appreciated but that much is nowhere near for me quite obviously (lol) I've enjoyed it heaps and I've gone Out with a Bang with my Grand Prix preview and my Messi 5 goals article being the most viewed, double the next closest, not a surprise because it was topical & posted on YouTube videos and retweeted. In fact everyone who retweeted links to my articles are kind and are absolute legends.
So thanks for everyone who read glanced or linked. Hopefully when I come back to my blog it'll beat the magical 1000 views mark. go the western bulldogs, Man City, Melbourne Victory, Australia and Mark Webber/Riccardio!!!
Wednesday 14 March 2012
Formula 1 returns:Melbourne Grand Prix preview
Yep that's right F1 lovers, after the testing period for the teams some completely changing others tweaking their designs and cars (And in the case of Caterham (Team lotus) their names) the first Formula 1 race is a metter of days away. Will it be Red Bull again lead by the incomparable Vettel and solid Webber or will it be a challenger from McLaren, Ferrari or even Mercedes or Lotus. Here we look at each team and predict who will finish the race in front.
Red Bull
After an extremely successful couple of season, reigning world champ Sebastian Vettel and his restless Auistralian teammate Mark Webber line up again in a very strong car. Expect it to be right on the pace right from the start. If Vettel gets Pole position the race is as good as over, just like his German compatriot Schumacher when he gets ahead he is so quick the race nearly gets boring. Expect Webber at home to challenge very strongly. Anything less than podiums for both would be a disappointment.
McLaren Mercedes
British team lead by two former world champions in Button and Hamilton will challenge extremely strongly. Both now how to win races and come back from difficult positions but they wouldn't want to risk too many of those this year. Button can again be expected to be extremely solid and will challenge till right at the end of the season. However Lewis Hamilton is the most talented driver on the circuit. Always entertaining to watch race (and the tabloids would say off-track) with his aggressive style of racing and his never-say-die attitude. If he can reign it in with a good car he can win anything. Just don't tell Fellipe Massa
Ferrari
The former Italian glamour team have slowly taken a bit of a fall from their usual standing but expect this season for them to comeback hard. With a car overhaul if the engineering fits then Ferrari lead by Fernando Alonso (who is never one lacking for confidence) will jump back onto regular podiums. As a support Nessa can also win races but there's no doubt unlike the other two teams who's boss at Ferrari. Might not challenge for victory in Melbourne but will improve quickly.
Mercedes
The statistically most successful racer in Michael Schumacher's comeback team has not threatened the big three but is however safely established as the fourth best team. Perhaps for not much longer with Team Lotus making gains with Schumacher's successor at Ferrari Raikonnen making a return. Improvement needs to be shown by both Schumacher and Rosenberg for them to keep going and for Mercedes to know it's on the right track. Expect them to start the season slow.
Team Lotus
The team formerly known as renault has made its ambition clear. To become the fourth best team in world racing. As big guns go they don't get much bigger than former world champion Fin Kimi Raikonnen. Expect the enigmatic and quite racer to bring Lotus to a new level. Podiums will be reached during the season
Force India
As a middle team Force India is well placed to again perform strongly. Removing Adrian Sutill however was a surprising move and the still young and inexperienced Resta and Hulkenberg will be interesting to watch
Sauber
What this team's all about? Watching the most entertaining driver in motor sport Kamui Kobayashi show his stuff with his heroic overtaking and fast speed. Expect improvement also from Perez and Sauber.
Toro Rosso
Red Bulls second squad, expect it to stay near the back. However the main reason to watch is the two young talents of Riccardio and Vergne, future top 5 racers.
Williams
The glory days might be long past but for Williams the future is looking up. Bruno Senna will be hoping to prove he has some of his uncles talent.
Caterham
Shame about the name change (It really doesn't sound racey) but with 2 experienced drivers of some very fine cars with Kovalainen and Petrov expect Caterham to surprise.
Hispania Racing Team
Will be fighting to not finish last, has brought in the old hand of Pedro de la Rosa and Karthikeyan to steady the ship but both drivers aren't going to get any better.
Marussia
Formerly Virgin Racing testing has not gone well for them (in fact no testing because of failed crash tests). Expect Timo Glock to fight but it will not be enough to keep them from the bottom.
Melbourne Race Predictions (Top 10)
1.Lewis Hamilton (McLaren)
2.Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull)
3.Jenson Button (McLaren)
4.Mark Webber (Red Bull)
5.Fernando Alonso (Ferrari)
6.Nico Rosenberg (Mercedes)
7.Felipe Massa (Ferrari)
8.Romain Grosjean (Team Lotus)
9.Michael Schumacher (Mercedes)
10.Kimi Raikonnen (Team Lotus)
Red Bull
After an extremely successful couple of season, reigning world champ Sebastian Vettel and his restless Auistralian teammate Mark Webber line up again in a very strong car. Expect it to be right on the pace right from the start. If Vettel gets Pole position the race is as good as over, just like his German compatriot Schumacher when he gets ahead he is so quick the race nearly gets boring. Expect Webber at home to challenge very strongly. Anything less than podiums for both would be a disappointment.
McLaren Mercedes
British team lead by two former world champions in Button and Hamilton will challenge extremely strongly. Both now how to win races and come back from difficult positions but they wouldn't want to risk too many of those this year. Button can again be expected to be extremely solid and will challenge till right at the end of the season. However Lewis Hamilton is the most talented driver on the circuit. Always entertaining to watch race (and the tabloids would say off-track) with his aggressive style of racing and his never-say-die attitude. If he can reign it in with a good car he can win anything. Just don't tell Fellipe Massa
Ferrari
The former Italian glamour team have slowly taken a bit of a fall from their usual standing but expect this season for them to comeback hard. With a car overhaul if the engineering fits then Ferrari lead by Fernando Alonso (who is never one lacking for confidence) will jump back onto regular podiums. As a support Nessa can also win races but there's no doubt unlike the other two teams who's boss at Ferrari. Might not challenge for victory in Melbourne but will improve quickly.
Mercedes
The statistically most successful racer in Michael Schumacher's comeback team has not threatened the big three but is however safely established as the fourth best team. Perhaps for not much longer with Team Lotus making gains with Schumacher's successor at Ferrari Raikonnen making a return. Improvement needs to be shown by both Schumacher and Rosenberg for them to keep going and for Mercedes to know it's on the right track. Expect them to start the season slow.
Team Lotus
The team formerly known as renault has made its ambition clear. To become the fourth best team in world racing. As big guns go they don't get much bigger than former world champion Fin Kimi Raikonnen. Expect the enigmatic and quite racer to bring Lotus to a new level. Podiums will be reached during the season
Force India
As a middle team Force India is well placed to again perform strongly. Removing Adrian Sutill however was a surprising move and the still young and inexperienced Resta and Hulkenberg will be interesting to watch
Sauber
What this team's all about? Watching the most entertaining driver in motor sport Kamui Kobayashi show his stuff with his heroic overtaking and fast speed. Expect improvement also from Perez and Sauber.
Toro Rosso
Red Bulls second squad, expect it to stay near the back. However the main reason to watch is the two young talents of Riccardio and Vergne, future top 5 racers.
Williams
The glory days might be long past but for Williams the future is looking up. Bruno Senna will be hoping to prove he has some of his uncles talent.
Caterham
Shame about the name change (It really doesn't sound racey) but with 2 experienced drivers of some very fine cars with Kovalainen and Petrov expect Caterham to surprise.
Hispania Racing Team
Will be fighting to not finish last, has brought in the old hand of Pedro de la Rosa and Karthikeyan to steady the ship but both drivers aren't going to get any better.
Marussia
Formerly Virgin Racing testing has not gone well for them (in fact no testing because of failed crash tests). Expect Timo Glock to fight but it will not be enough to keep them from the bottom.
Melbourne Race Predictions (Top 10)
1.Lewis Hamilton (McLaren)
2.Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull)
3.Jenson Button (McLaren)
4.Mark Webber (Red Bull)
5.Fernando Alonso (Ferrari)
6.Nico Rosenberg (Mercedes)
7.Felipe Massa (Ferrari)
8.Romain Grosjean (Team Lotus)
9.Michael Schumacher (Mercedes)
10.Kimi Raikonnen (Team Lotus)
Thursday 8 March 2012
Sri Lanka the fighters
Sri Lanka ended losing the triangular CUB one-day finals series to the Australian side 2-1, but not after a bit more of the fight typical of the Sri Lankans shown in this series. Although the Australians were well deserved victors although not being a class above but by being the most consistent, Sri Lanka can return home with their heads held high.
Tonight however they just couldn't do it, with a low total to chase impeded by some excellent early Australian bowling early on lead by Clint McKay with a fiver wicket haul. But after the dark couple of months, with Kumar Sangakkara the erudite leader stepping down from the captaincy because of political interference and then Tillkeratne Dilshan stepping into the breach, with a baptism of fire soon enough against Australia at home. Dilshan unfortunately not only suffered through his batting but also through not winning a series as captain. Hence Mahela Jaywardene took over the reigns. And immediately showed why he was earmarked by Ranatunga Sri Lankas only world cup winning captain as a future SL captain.
He has shown calmness and authority holding the captaincy and has been able to get the best out of his players. Dilshan with a hundred in the finals series is also looking back to the cracking form that made him once the most watchable batsman in cricket. It is amazing how Sri Lanka as a country has the orthodoxy and brilliantly classical and technical such as Jaywardene, Sangakkarra, Attapatu, De Silva with the unorthodox and unpredictable with Malinga, Mendis, Murala and Jayasuria for starters. It is this combination of both extremes that make Sri Lanka one of the most watchable teams in the world and perhaps also explain why they've been very successful especially in the limited forms of the game (WC 1996 winners, SF 2003, Finalists 2007 & 2011 and Twenty20 finalists). This also makes it a shame that they are departing, because besides the amazing run chase from India they have been an entertaining and admirable side to watch, they can certainly leave with a real excitement for the future.
Tonight however they just couldn't do it, with a low total to chase impeded by some excellent early Australian bowling early on lead by Clint McKay with a fiver wicket haul. But after the dark couple of months, with Kumar Sangakkara the erudite leader stepping down from the captaincy because of political interference and then Tillkeratne Dilshan stepping into the breach, with a baptism of fire soon enough against Australia at home. Dilshan unfortunately not only suffered through his batting but also through not winning a series as captain. Hence Mahela Jaywardene took over the reigns. And immediately showed why he was earmarked by Ranatunga Sri Lankas only world cup winning captain as a future SL captain.
He has shown calmness and authority holding the captaincy and has been able to get the best out of his players. Dilshan with a hundred in the finals series is also looking back to the cracking form that made him once the most watchable batsman in cricket. It is amazing how Sri Lanka as a country has the orthodoxy and brilliantly classical and technical such as Jaywardene, Sangakkarra, Attapatu, De Silva with the unorthodox and unpredictable with Malinga, Mendis, Murala and Jayasuria for starters. It is this combination of both extremes that make Sri Lanka one of the most watchable teams in the world and perhaps also explain why they've been very successful especially in the limited forms of the game (WC 1996 winners, SF 2003, Finalists 2007 & 2011 and Twenty20 finalists). This also makes it a shame that they are departing, because besides the amazing run chase from India they have been an entertaining and admirable side to watch, they can certainly leave with a real excitement for the future.
Wednesday 7 March 2012
Messi's 5 historical CL goals
Well if you could pick any player in the world currently playing to be the first to kick 5 goals in a Champions League final, Lionel Messi is where you'd start (unless Real Madrid were playing some Ukranian team who lost all their players from the previous season to bankruptcy, then Cristiano Ronaldo wouldn't surprise.(No disrespect to the Ukraine, just the first European country I thought of without a team that immediately springs to mind). Is he the best ever? I'll leave that debate to another time but let's not forget how amazing Diego, Pele and Cryuff were.
Here are the 5 goals:
Goal 1 (25min)
Exquisite pass from Xavi, with control from Messi enough to lob it over the shoulder of the keeper on a 45 degree angle to the goal to the opposite corner of the net,
Goal 2 (42m)
Recieves the ball from Iniesta, runs into the box, dances around 3 defenders and curls a left boot his into the bottom left-hand corner
Goal 3 (49m)
Another lob! From another long pass from Fabregas this time, catching the ball on the volley and chipping it over the keeper again.
Goal 4 (58m)
Goalkeeper leno stopped a shot on the right post only to the deflect to Messi who was running in who easily closed the gap between a laying on the ground Leno.
Goal 5 (84m)
Gathered ball just outside penalty area and shoots from outside left boot to the left side once again, a sublime and trademark finish.
Tuesday 6 March 2012
Chelsea manager rollcall during Roman Abromovich's reign
Chelsea managers June 2003-March 2012
Claudio Ranieri
Games: 200
Games won: 107
Jose Mourhino
Games: 185
Games won: 124
Trophies: 2005-2006 Premier League champions, 2007 FA Cup
Avram Grant
Games:54
Games won: 36
Trophies: (although Champions League final)
Luiz Felipe Scholari
Games: 36
Games won: 20
Ray Wilkins
Games: 1
Games won: 1
Guus Hiddink
Games: 22
Games won: 16
Trophies: 2009 FA Cup
Carlo Ancelotti
Games: 109
Games won: 67
Trophies: 2010 Premier League Champions, 2010 FA Cup
Andre Villas-Boas
Games: 38
Games won: 19
Roberto di Matteo
???
To be honest, Villas-boas should have been given more time, but then again he shouldn't be there because Ancelotti is management royalty and after bagging Chelsea their first double his lack of success in the Champions League told. Though like Mourinho he's already won a Champions League.
ps-I promise this is my last post on Chelsea for awhile
pps-I don't want to seem like I'm out and out bagging the guy, I don't agree with his decisions on Managers but he has brought a lot of success to the club, financial stability, memories that will stay with Chelsea supporters forever and also stopped Manchester United winning more and more trophies, because their financial dominance for too long was overbearing.
Claudio Ranieri
Games won: 107
Jose Mourhino
Games won: 124
Trophies: 2005-2006 Premier League champions, 2007 FA Cup
Avram Grant
Games won: 36
Trophies: (although Champions League final)
Luiz Felipe Scholari
Games: 36
Games won: 20
Ray Wilkins
Games: 1
Games won: 1
Guus Hiddink
Games: 22
Games won: 16
Trophies: 2009 FA Cup
Carlo Ancelotti
Games: 109
Games won: 67
Trophies: 2010 Premier League Champions, 2010 FA Cup
Andre Villas-Boas
Games: 38
Games won: 19
Roberto di Matteo
???
To be honest, Villas-boas should have been given more time, but then again he shouldn't be there because Ancelotti is management royalty and after bagging Chelsea their first double his lack of success in the Champions League told. Though like Mourinho he's already won a Champions League.
ps-I promise this is my last post on Chelsea for awhile
pps-I don't want to seem like I'm out and out bagging the guy, I don't agree with his decisions on Managers but he has brought a lot of success to the club, financial stability, memories that will stay with Chelsea supporters forever and also stopped Manchester United winning more and more trophies, because their financial dominance for too long was overbearing.
Sunday 4 March 2012
And now-Deron Williams!!!
One of those days for NBA where it's all happening, first Linsation and Rondomania and now Deronistation (ok horrible, horrible, please forgive me). But career and NBA season high 57 POINTS and a record for the New Jersey Nets franchise means that they were able to get over the Charlotte Bobcats 104-101.
Sure not one of the best teams to get the points over but still...
(thanks NBA for the great image too)
Sure not one of the best teams to get the points over but still...
Rondomania!!!
Wow. For a player to overshadow Jeremy Lin's heroic return to Boston and fourth quarter must be something special. And Rajon Rondo brought it. 18 points, 20 assists, 17 rebounds including 5 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists in the overtime period.
Fair game for a point guard, the coach was full of praise but geez what a game. Boston Celtics are a very successful team with a long and proud history and Rajon Rondo had one of his best games. Offensive and defensive play during the game. Surely he WILL NOT be traded, ridiculous.
Final score Boston 115 New York Knicks 111
http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=espn:7645668&startTime=02:02
Fair game for a point guard, the coach was full of praise but geez what a game. Boston Celtics are a very successful team with a long and proud history and Rajon Rondo had one of his best games. Offensive and defensive play during the game. Surely he WILL NOT be traded, ridiculous.
Final score Boston 115 New York Knicks 111
http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=espn:7645668&startTime=02:02
Roman's Chelsea claims another victim
So obviously the news is everywhere that Roman Abramovich, the billionaire owner of Chelsea has fired yet another coach. Unmercilessly the "next big thing" Andre Villas-Boas wasn't even given the opportunity to see out the season, even though Chelsea (albeit probably not much longer) are still alive in the Champions League and can still make the top 4 in the premier league.
The season has been a shambles, but not as much as the coaching merry go round. AVB should've been given more time, but also so should have Ancelotti and really so should have Mourinho. Even before then. Barcelona won't win La Liga this season but Guardiola's job isn't in any trouble, in fact is being allegedly chased by Chelsea! When will this coaching merry go round end? Sure the money is good but who would take the position when even one bad run will see you fired? Maybe Roman needs to look at the real cause of the problem.
The season has been a shambles, but not as much as the coaching merry go round. AVB should've been given more time, but also so should have Ancelotti and really so should have Mourinho. Even before then. Barcelona won't win La Liga this season but Guardiola's job isn't in any trouble, in fact is being allegedly chased by Chelsea! When will this coaching merry go round end? Sure the money is good but who would take the position when even one bad run will see you fired? Maybe Roman needs to look at the real cause of the problem.
Saturday 3 March 2012
Please End this Clive Palmer, a plea
If you're a follower of the A-League or even read Australian papers you'd know about the stoush between Frank Lowry, billionaire and chairman of Football Federation Australia (the ruling soccer body in Australia) and Clive Palmer, billionaire and owner of Gold Coast united and A-League team. Or should that be former owner of GCU. His licence was revoked after a couple of breaches-
You can read about it here:
http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/news-display/Buckley-releases-statement-on-Clive-Palmer/45828
This is all really sad and I'm sure it can't have been an easy decision for Frank Lowry to make but the way the situation has turned out there's not much more he could do.
Gold Coast have worn shirts proclaiming "Free speech" in a match against an FFA directive, play to no crowds at Skilled stadium, fired their coach or he left after he disagreed with a promotion of a 17 year old to captaincy on the owner Clive's orders. Clive Palmer since then has launched a stinging attack on Frank Lowry, the running of the game and even launched his own organisation called Football Australia and has allegedly been trying to recruit players to form a "rebel league".
Now Clive Palmer's worth $5 billion so I'm sure he can do what he wants, get flown in a helicopter where ever he wants, owner a pet elephant or launch a campaign against a government looking to share some of the wealth himself and Gina Reinhart are acquiring from Australia's natural resources (though I do accept mining is a high risk high investment industry okay just to get that one out of the way).
But in regards to Gold Coast, Mr Palmer please stop it, don't take this to court. You haven't won. It's not good for the game for this to continue being news, so in the interest of the game please stop.
Why Chelsea (and Roman) should persist with André Villas-Boas
Chelsea around 18 months ago were on top of the world. Or at least England. The recent Double winners (the first time in their history) were being coached by one of the best managers in England in Ancelotti, the team was playing entertaining, high scoring and attacking football with scores showing their dominance in competition. Then it all fell away. They had a horrible run near the end of 2010 till 2011, didn't progress in the Champions League and spent a 50 million pound transfer fee (a record in English football for Torres) on one of the world's brightest stars who could not the find the net in a better squad.
Meanwhile a new manager at Porto, ironically enough Mourinho's start in top line management was also starting to make a mark, Andre-villas Boas (or AVB). But enough about the Mourinho comparisons and the fact he worked under him in a fair bit of his success. In his first season as manager of Porto they won 4 titles, the Portuguese Supercup, the Portugues Premiera Liga, the Portugues Cup and most importantly of all the UEFA Europa Cup the second biggest European competition outside the Champions League. It was this that really brought him to everyones attention on the world stage.
Porto played an entertaining brand of football also with exceptional defence that allowed them to remain undefeated throughout the season. It was no surprise that notoriously restless Abramovich moved Ancelotti on and then splurged out the highest transfer fee for a manger in history to lure AVB down to Stamford Bridge.
When signed he seemed a breath of fresh air, combative, emotional highly studios and intelligent, but since the start of the season things haven't gone the way they promised. Chelsea is in 5th position, unable to compete with the top 3 clubs in the league and dropping points against teams from eminently winnable positions. There are rifts within the squad and rumours of disenchantment with the manager, publicly from the likes of Chelsea legends such as Lampard and Anelka, the free-flowing style does not seem to be netting results and dammit Torres just cant seem to fire.
But despite the fact that firing AVB now will be the most expensive 1 season by a manager for a very long time, the fact is that Chelsea is a team in transition. Ultimately this is a team still slowly shedding the shells of mourinho's powerful consecutive Premier League winning team. Some of the young players brought in such as Mata and Sturridge do genuinely look the future of the club and up to it. Drogba, Lampard and Terry are still excellent players some of the best in England but eventually they will have to be moved on and results will suffer, because you can't lose quality such as that and expect a dip. And it seems AVB is aware of this hence why the controversial benching of Drogba and Lampard which don't seem to help results but are a statement to the future. A game one day hoped to be melded on the lovely Barcelona passing game. Lampard and Terry since being English are club legends so to keep them around would be a good idea but perhaps if Drogba wants good game time perhaps moving him on while his currency is still good could be an option. What a player though. AVB is slowly learning on the jobs, more about how to treat personalities in addition to tactics but if he lasts till next season the fruits of his labour might begin to ripen.
Meanwhile a new manager at Porto, ironically enough Mourinho's start in top line management was also starting to make a mark, Andre-villas Boas (or AVB). But enough about the Mourinho comparisons and the fact he worked under him in a fair bit of his success. In his first season as manager of Porto they won 4 titles, the Portuguese Supercup, the Portugues Premiera Liga, the Portugues Cup and most importantly of all the UEFA Europa Cup the second biggest European competition outside the Champions League. It was this that really brought him to everyones attention on the world stage.
Porto played an entertaining brand of football also with exceptional defence that allowed them to remain undefeated throughout the season. It was no surprise that notoriously restless Abramovich moved Ancelotti on and then splurged out the highest transfer fee for a manger in history to lure AVB down to Stamford Bridge.
When signed he seemed a breath of fresh air, combative, emotional highly studios and intelligent, but since the start of the season things haven't gone the way they promised. Chelsea is in 5th position, unable to compete with the top 3 clubs in the league and dropping points against teams from eminently winnable positions. There are rifts within the squad and rumours of disenchantment with the manager, publicly from the likes of Chelsea legends such as Lampard and Anelka, the free-flowing style does not seem to be netting results and dammit Torres just cant seem to fire.
But despite the fact that firing AVB now will be the most expensive 1 season by a manager for a very long time, the fact is that Chelsea is a team in transition. Ultimately this is a team still slowly shedding the shells of mourinho's powerful consecutive Premier League winning team. Some of the young players brought in such as Mata and Sturridge do genuinely look the future of the club and up to it. Drogba, Lampard and Terry are still excellent players some of the best in England but eventually they will have to be moved on and results will suffer, because you can't lose quality such as that and expect a dip. And it seems AVB is aware of this hence why the controversial benching of Drogba and Lampard which don't seem to help results but are a statement to the future. A game one day hoped to be melded on the lovely Barcelona passing game. Lampard and Terry since being English are club legends so to keep them around would be a good idea but perhaps if Drogba wants good game time perhaps moving him on while his currency is still good could be an option. What a player though. AVB is slowly learning on the jobs, more about how to treat personalities in addition to tactics but if he lasts till next season the fruits of his labour might begin to ripen.
Friday 2 March 2012
Anzhi Makhachkala-It's not just about the money, money money
With former Blackburn star Chris Samba signing a £12 million deal to play for the newest extremely-rich-owner team on the block, means another big statement from Anzhi Makhachkala (great to say also). Playing in the Russian Premier League it is owned by billionaire Sulyeman Kerimov who bought the club only in January last year. Makhachkala is the capital of the republic of Dagestan and plays in a stadium with a capacity of only 15,000. The streets around the stadium are not well kept and Dagestan is a country struggling with ethnic tensions, terrorism and in some parts poverty. Although only 5% of the population now are ethnic Russians, the country is still under Russian authority.
So why did Sulyeman buy such a small team in not exactly a well-known sporting location in Makhachkala? He is going to pump $200 million into stadium infrastructure and in the surrounding area to get the stadium to UEFA regulations of a 40,000 capacity. The country is unsafe enough that the squad is still flown in on home games and their training takes place in Moscow, not exactly next door. Sulyeman is a noted philanthropist, setting up a charity with his name to help in developing Russian communities and is spending $100 million on a top class school for gifted students west of Moscow. He obviously feels that if the Makhachkala residents had something to bring them together, say a successful squad (Football being a great bridger) then harmony in the region can be slowly worked towards. One things for sure, with the money being spent, they won't fail as both Manchester clubs, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona, and PSG show that money does equate to success, which ever way you look at it.
Anzhi Makhachkala's big signings:
Guus Hiddink
(PSV Eindhoven, The Netherlands, Real Madrid, Real Betis,South Korea, Australia, Russia, Turkey, Chelsea)
Samuel Eto'o
(Mallorca,Inter Milan, Cameroon)\
Roberto Carlos
(Brazil, Inter Milan, Real Madrid)\
Christopher Samba
(Congo, Blackburn Rovers)
So why did Sulyeman buy such a small team in not exactly a well-known sporting location in Makhachkala? He is going to pump $200 million into stadium infrastructure and in the surrounding area to get the stadium to UEFA regulations of a 40,000 capacity. The country is unsafe enough that the squad is still flown in on home games and their training takes place in Moscow, not exactly next door. Sulyeman is a noted philanthropist, setting up a charity with his name to help in developing Russian communities and is spending $100 million on a top class school for gifted students west of Moscow. He obviously feels that if the Makhachkala residents had something to bring them together, say a successful squad (Football being a great bridger) then harmony in the region can be slowly worked towards. One things for sure, with the money being spent, they won't fail as both Manchester clubs, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona, and PSG show that money does equate to success, which ever way you look at it.
Anzhi Makhachkala's big signings:
Guus Hiddink
(PSV Eindhoven, The Netherlands, Real Madrid, Real Betis,South Korea, Australia, Russia, Turkey, Chelsea)
Samuel Eto'o
(Mallorca,Inter Milan, Cameroon)\
Roberto Carlos
(Brazil, Inter Milan, Real Madrid)\
Christopher Samba
(Congo, Blackburn Rovers)
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