Sunday 31 October 2010
Carling Cup Quarter Final Draw
With eight teams left in this year's Carling Cup and only one non-Premiership side remaining everyone was eager to find out who they were playing in yesterday's draw. Joint favourites Arsenal will have a home tie against Roberto Martinez's Wigan. The tie of the round will be at Villa Park as Aston Villa Host their bitter rivals Birmingham. Avram Grant's West Ham will be hosting the defending champions Manchester United. Leaving West Brom with the only non-Premiership team as they will travel to Portman Road to face Roy Keane's Ipswich.
Introducing Power Snooker
Snooker purists look away now, a new form of the sport has been invented to re-vamp the game in it's entirety. It's called Power Snooker and the debut event took place yesterday in front of a packed O2 Arena. The table dons a new dark green cloth and the rules have been changed; points, not frames, decide the winner as players play flat out for half an hour and whoever has accumulated the most points within that time wins. There are now only nine red balls on the table and are set up like a nine-ball pool rack, diamond shape. The ball in the middle of the pack is called the 'Power Ball' once potted the player gets two points for it and a two minute 'Power Play' which means double points for any ball potted, this is carries on for the whole two minutes allowing both players a possible chance of double points.
Also the break has changed; the person who breaks off stays at the table for the next shot if he manages to get two reds to hit the cushion. The baulk area is now the 'Power Zone' and any ball potted when the cue ball is struck from the Power Zone is also worth double points, so quadruple when potted in a Power Play. If a player manages a century break in the first rack he receives fifty bonus points, if he then gets another century break in the second rack he receives a further 100 points and then 200 in the third. To quicken things up there is also a twenty second shot clock. Ronnie O'Sullivan will demonstrate:
The inaugural tournament consisted of eight players in knock-out format in front of a 'Darting' atmosphere where the crowd were able to shout and sing with the players even getting involved. The first match was between patron Ronnie O'Sullivan and fifteen year old Belgian Luka Brecel, with both players and the referee learning with every shot it was indeed an intriguing game. The Rocket won 338-196 and met Ali Carter in semis after he beat Mark Selby 222-206. The downbeat Ding Junhui participated against veteran Jimmy White and the China man won 331-246. He would meet Shaun Murphy in the semis after he beat World Champion Neil Robertson 331-274. Ronnie went on to beat Carter in the semis 490-234 and he would meet Ding in the final after he beat Murphy 263-132. Carter earned third place by beating Murphy 299-102 before Ronnie took the crown beating Ding 572-258.
The overall reaction to this new game was positive, everybody enjoyed the fast paced game and the audience enjoyed the never-before-allowed banter with the players and referees. As a spectator I also enjoyed the game and found it very entertaining, I think it has a place in the Snooker World and will probably take off like T20 Cricket has done in the Cricketing World. Here's a slice of the action from Ding Junhui in his match against Jimmy White:
Also the break has changed; the person who breaks off stays at the table for the next shot if he manages to get two reds to hit the cushion. The baulk area is now the 'Power Zone' and any ball potted when the cue ball is struck from the Power Zone is also worth double points, so quadruple when potted in a Power Play. If a player manages a century break in the first rack he receives fifty bonus points, if he then gets another century break in the second rack he receives a further 100 points and then 200 in the third. To quicken things up there is also a twenty second shot clock. Ronnie O'Sullivan will demonstrate:
The inaugural tournament consisted of eight players in knock-out format in front of a 'Darting' atmosphere where the crowd were able to shout and sing with the players even getting involved. The first match was between patron Ronnie O'Sullivan and fifteen year old Belgian Luka Brecel, with both players and the referee learning with every shot it was indeed an intriguing game. The Rocket won 338-196 and met Ali Carter in semis after he beat Mark Selby 222-206. The downbeat Ding Junhui participated against veteran Jimmy White and the China man won 331-246. He would meet Shaun Murphy in the semis after he beat World Champion Neil Robertson 331-274. Ronnie went on to beat Carter in the semis 490-234 and he would meet Ding in the final after he beat Murphy 263-132. Carter earned third place by beating Murphy 299-102 before Ronnie took the crown beating Ding 572-258.
The overall reaction to this new game was positive, everybody enjoyed the fast paced game and the audience enjoyed the never-before-allowed banter with the players and referees. As a spectator I also enjoyed the game and found it very entertaining, I think it has a place in the Snooker World and will probably take off like T20 Cricket has done in the Cricketing World. Here's a slice of the action from Ding Junhui in his match against Jimmy White:
Barclay's Premier League Round-Up 30/10/10
Yesterday saw late goals secure wins for the big three and also one shock result in the six fixtures that took place. There were no lunch time kick-offs so everybody had to wait till three o'clock before the action started. Champions Chelsea visited Ewood Park to play Blackburn; in which the hosts took the lead after 21 minutes thanks to Benjani. Anelka stepped in six minutes before half-time to level the score and stop the shock defeat. The draw was looking ominous but six minutes before the end Chelsea nicked all three points courtesy of Branislav Ivanovic.
A solitary goal from Yakubu after 67 minutes was enough for Everton to see of Stoke at Goodison Park. Whereas two goals from Clint Dempsey (after thirty and 44 minutes) gave Fulham a home win over Wigan.
The surprise result came out Molineux as Wolves overcame Manchester City in a game that showed unrest within the City camp. A 23rd minute penalty from Adebayor gave City the lead before Nenad Milijas cancelled it out seven minutes later. David Edwards scored the winning goal for Wolves twelve minutes into the second half. Vincent Kompany and Adebayor were close to a bust up with both players arguing with each other, Yaya Toure also got involved as the City ship may be sinking with two defeats in two games.
Arsenal were also looking to be headed for a draw against West Ham but Alex Song was on hand to give the Gunners all three points with two minutes of normal time remaining. The tea-time kick-off saw Manchester United host Tottenham in a lively affair. Park hit the post early on for United before Van Der Vaart did the same at the other end for Tottenham. He was later subbed with a suspect 'twinge' in his hamstring. United took the lead after 31 minutes when Nani's free-kick was headed in by Nemanja Vidic. Bale came closest to equalising in the second half but the game was won with six minutes to spare in the most farcical of displays; Nani broke free in the Tottenham penalty area, he then went down looking for a penalty which could have been seen as a dive. Referee Mark Clattenburg gave neither and Nani had also handled the ball thinking he was to get a penalty. Again Clattenburg gave nothing as Gomes had the ball in his hands and play could continue, Gomes ran six yards before throwing the ball a further few yards thinking he had a free-kick (which was miles away from the incident). Nani had picked himself up and ran to the 'loose' ball and even had time to look towards Clattenburg, who waved his arms to signal play on, before tapping the ball in the empty net. Between the time Nani had wheeled off into the corner and had finished his back flip linesman Simon Beck had put his flag up to disallow the goal. Clattenburg went over to his assistant before giving the goal, saying he had not blown his whistle and allowed play to go on, thus meaning the goal rightly stood.
A solitary goal from Yakubu after 67 minutes was enough for Everton to see of Stoke at Goodison Park. Whereas two goals from Clint Dempsey (after thirty and 44 minutes) gave Fulham a home win over Wigan.
The surprise result came out Molineux as Wolves overcame Manchester City in a game that showed unrest within the City camp. A 23rd minute penalty from Adebayor gave City the lead before Nenad Milijas cancelled it out seven minutes later. David Edwards scored the winning goal for Wolves twelve minutes into the second half. Vincent Kompany and Adebayor were close to a bust up with both players arguing with each other, Yaya Toure also got involved as the City ship may be sinking with two defeats in two games.
Arsenal were also looking to be headed for a draw against West Ham but Alex Song was on hand to give the Gunners all three points with two minutes of normal time remaining. The tea-time kick-off saw Manchester United host Tottenham in a lively affair. Park hit the post early on for United before Van Der Vaart did the same at the other end for Tottenham. He was later subbed with a suspect 'twinge' in his hamstring. United took the lead after 31 minutes when Nani's free-kick was headed in by Nemanja Vidic. Bale came closest to equalising in the second half but the game was won with six minutes to spare in the most farcical of displays; Nani broke free in the Tottenham penalty area, he then went down looking for a penalty which could have been seen as a dive. Referee Mark Clattenburg gave neither and Nani had also handled the ball thinking he was to get a penalty. Again Clattenburg gave nothing as Gomes had the ball in his hands and play could continue, Gomes ran six yards before throwing the ball a further few yards thinking he had a free-kick (which was miles away from the incident). Nani had picked himself up and ran to the 'loose' ball and even had time to look towards Clattenburg, who waved his arms to signal play on, before tapping the ball in the empty net. Between the time Nani had wheeled off into the corner and had finished his back flip linesman Simon Beck had put his flag up to disallow the goal. Clattenburg went over to his assistant before giving the goal, saying he had not blown his whistle and allowed play to go on, thus meaning the goal rightly stood.
Friday 29 October 2010
Premier League Snooker Week Seven
The table arrived in Penrith, Cumbria, this week for the latest installment of Snooker action, although it was rivalled with a fly squatting contest between the players and the referee. The first two to brave the insect onslaught was the Asian counterparts Ding Junhui and Marco Fu. Ding was playing his final league match and really needed a win especially after receiving a 6-0 whitewash last week at the hands of Neil Robertson. He started brightly with a successful long pot but ended up losing the frame 94-2. Fu then went onto take the second frame 81-17 and Ding's hope of a win were fading fast. They then vanished altogether in the third frame when Fu guaranteed himself a point with a 65-0 win. Ding's hopes of even a solitary point vanished shortly after in the fourth frame when he was now facing down the barrel of a second consecutive 6-0 whitewash, after Fu took the fourth frame 94-0 to guarantee the victory. But Ding did earn £1000 finally in the fifth frame to restore some pride despite not being able to make it into the semi-finals, he took the frame 77-0. The game finished 5-1 however as Fu took the final frame with the only century break of the night, winning it 107-20. The victory for Fu means he goes top of the league with six points from five games, his final match will be against Robertson next week.
The other match was between the two unbeaten players that stood at opposite ends of the league. Mark Williams started the night top of the table with five points from four games, his opponent was Ronnie O'Sullivan who sat at the bottom of the table with three points from three games. Ronnie was in a predatory mood though and quickly set out a 98-0 first frame victory, that quickly turned to 2-0 with Williams still to pot a ball as Ronnie made 123 from two visits. Williams settled down in the third frame and pulled the score back with a 61-16 win. But Ronnie regained a two frame lead and guaranteed himself a point with a 74-38 frame win after Williams missed a red. Ronnie then went onto win his first match of the campaign with a 103-15 win, again with two visits after Williams gave away two fouls on the black ball. But Williams rounded the night off with a second frame win, 78-4. The win now puts O'Sullivan ahead of Williams in the League with five points from four games with Williams on the same amount of points but has played a game more.
The other match was between the two unbeaten players that stood at opposite ends of the league. Mark Williams started the night top of the table with five points from four games, his opponent was Ronnie O'Sullivan who sat at the bottom of the table with three points from three games. Ronnie was in a predatory mood though and quickly set out a 98-0 first frame victory, that quickly turned to 2-0 with Williams still to pot a ball as Ronnie made 123 from two visits. Williams settled down in the third frame and pulled the score back with a 61-16 win. But Ronnie regained a two frame lead and guaranteed himself a point with a 74-38 frame win after Williams missed a red. Ronnie then went onto win his first match of the campaign with a 103-15 win, again with two visits after Williams gave away two fouls on the black ball. But Williams rounded the night off with a second frame win, 78-4. The win now puts O'Sullivan ahead of Williams in the League with five points from four games with Williams on the same amount of points but has played a game more.
Carling Cup 4th Round Part 2
The remaining three ties took place on Wednesday with no real surprises again but some very good action, with two of the ties going into extra time. The first was between West Ham and Stoke, who met a last month in the Premiership which finished a 1-1 draw. The man who got Stoke's equaliser in that match opened the scoring in this one; Kenwyne Jones after just six minutes. This time the man who scored West Ham's opener in the other match got the equaliser in this one six minutes from time, Scott Parker forced extra time. Again six minutes into extra time the game got a third goal from Da Costa for West Ham before Victor Obinna sealed the victory two minutes before the end.
The other all Premier League affair didn't go into extra time. It was at St. James' Park between Newcastle, who knocked out Chelsea, and Arsenal, who knocked out Tottenham. It looked very close between the sides and was going to go in at half-time goalless until goalkeeper Krul scored an own goal for Arsenal. Arsenal then took the momentum in the second half and doubled their lead eight minutes into it via Theo Walcott. Substitute Nikolas Bendtner netted a third on his return to football after an injury spell seven minutes from the end. Walcott was then on hand to finish off a typical Arsenal move two minutes from time to make the final score 4-0.
The other game of the night saw Aston Villa host Championship side Burnley. Villa thought they had won it at the death when the rejuvenated Emile Heskey scored four minutes from the end. But they were mistaken as Clarke Carlisle forced extra time from a free-kick just before stoppage time. Stewart Downing put Villa back in the lead six minutes into extra time with a stunning strike but were down to ten men four minutes later when Marc Albrighton was given red for last man. Villa held on though and are the final name to be in the draw for the quarter finals on Saturday.
The other all Premier League affair didn't go into extra time. It was at St. James' Park between Newcastle, who knocked out Chelsea, and Arsenal, who knocked out Tottenham. It looked very close between the sides and was going to go in at half-time goalless until goalkeeper Krul scored an own goal for Arsenal. Arsenal then took the momentum in the second half and doubled their lead eight minutes into it via Theo Walcott. Substitute Nikolas Bendtner netted a third on his return to football after an injury spell seven minutes from the end. Walcott was then on hand to finish off a typical Arsenal move two minutes from time to make the final score 4-0.
The other game of the night saw Aston Villa host Championship side Burnley. Villa thought they had won it at the death when the rejuvenated Emile Heskey scored four minutes from the end. But they were mistaken as Clarke Carlisle forced extra time from a free-kick just before stoppage time. Stewart Downing put Villa back in the lead six minutes into extra time with a stunning strike but were down to ten men four minutes later when Marc Albrighton was given red for last man. Villa held on though and are the final name to be in the draw for the quarter finals on Saturday.
Wednesday 27 October 2010
Carling Cup 4th Round Part 1
Five of the eight fourth round ties of the Carling Cup took place yesterday with a whole heap of goal action. The only all Premiership tie was between holders Manchester United and Wolves, as usual Sir Alex Ferguson made a whole host of changes to promote the youth culture. The first half had nothing to cheer about with both teams lacking killer instinct in the final third, however the second half was completely different containing five goals. The first goal took eleven minutes in the second half from a very promising Bebe, he looked very impressive in his first United start and deserved the goal. Although it did take a huge deflection off Elokobi before going just behind the line where Foley was on hand to clear it, but the goal rightly stood. The lead only lasted four minutes when the inexperienced Ben Amos was unable to get to a corner which left the goal gaping for Elokobi to equalise and become the first player for Wolves to score at Old Trafford for thirty years. With twenty minutes left United took the lead again through a very nice finish form Ji-Sung Park but again their failure to hold a lead continued as Foley scored his first goal for Wolves six minutes later to make it 2-2. With extra time looming, Ferguson looked to Javier Hernandez to come off the bench and to save United for the second time in three days. His prayers were answered as the Mexican held his nerve to dummy a defender and put the ball past Hennessey to put United into the quarter finals with a 3-2 win.
Roberto Martinez was treated to a fourth round tie at home against his former club Swansea. He received a frosty reception from the visiting crowd but Wigan would ultimately gain the last laugh as they progressed into the quarter finals. Mauro Boselli scored his first Wigan goal six minutes into the second half to put them ahead before Ben Watson scored from the spot in injury time to win 2-0.
Leicester also succumbed to Premier League opposition in the shape of West Brom. Simon Cox opened the scoring after 21 minutes to give Di Matteo's side the half-time lead. Leicester equalised eight minutes into the second half through an own goal from Nicky Shorey. For the second time in as many weeks Somen Tchoyi was able to capitalise from a goalkeeping error as Logan fumbled the ball into his path after 62 minutes to restore West Brom's lead. Steven Reid made it 3-1 eleven minutes from time before Cox rounded off the scoring in injury time.
The only tie without a Premier League side was between Roy Keane's Ipswich and Northampton, who eliminated Liverpool in the third round. A shock was on the cards again as the League 2 side took the lead through Liam Davis after sixteen minutes. The lead only lasted ten minutes as Carlos Edwards equalised for Ipswich. Damien Delaney then gave Ipswich the lead just before half-time then Tamas Priskin sealed the 3-1 victory two minutes from the end.
After removing Everton in the third round, Brentford were looking to repeat the feat away to Birmingham. Sam Wood gave the League 1 side the lead after 68 minutes and it looked to be enough before veteran Kevin Phillips forced extra time with a last minute equaliser. The match eventually went to penalties which Birmingham won 4-3 to become the fifth name in the quarter final draw which will take place on Saturday.
Roberto Martinez was treated to a fourth round tie at home against his former club Swansea. He received a frosty reception from the visiting crowd but Wigan would ultimately gain the last laugh as they progressed into the quarter finals. Mauro Boselli scored his first Wigan goal six minutes into the second half to put them ahead before Ben Watson scored from the spot in injury time to win 2-0.
Leicester also succumbed to Premier League opposition in the shape of West Brom. Simon Cox opened the scoring after 21 minutes to give Di Matteo's side the half-time lead. Leicester equalised eight minutes into the second half through an own goal from Nicky Shorey. For the second time in as many weeks Somen Tchoyi was able to capitalise from a goalkeeping error as Logan fumbled the ball into his path after 62 minutes to restore West Brom's lead. Steven Reid made it 3-1 eleven minutes from time before Cox rounded off the scoring in injury time.
The only tie without a Premier League side was between Roy Keane's Ipswich and Northampton, who eliminated Liverpool in the third round. A shock was on the cards again as the League 2 side took the lead through Liam Davis after sixteen minutes. The lead only lasted ten minutes as Carlos Edwards equalised for Ipswich. Damien Delaney then gave Ipswich the lead just before half-time then Tamas Priskin sealed the 3-1 victory two minutes from the end.
After removing Everton in the third round, Brentford were looking to repeat the feat away to Birmingham. Sam Wood gave the League 1 side the lead after 68 minutes and it looked to be enough before veteran Kevin Phillips forced extra time with a last minute equaliser. The match eventually went to penalties which Birmingham won 4-3 to become the fifth name in the quarter final draw which will take place on Saturday.
Sunday 24 October 2010
United Hern a Win as Ten Man City Lose
Super Sunday was again right on the money for it's top quality action, there was also a third match thrown in behind the scenes with Liverpool taking on Blackburn, that kicked-off at three o'clock. First up however Stoke against Manchester United at the Britannia Stadium, with the Rooney saga seemingly all tied up United could get back to playing football. It was very lively match from the get go with both teams offering goal threats with Stoke's height and strength and United's skill and speed. It took just under the half hour mark before the deadlock was broken; Javier Hernandez using good improvisation skills to send a backwards header past Sorensen into the top corner. Gary Neville was lucky not to have been sent off in the first half after bringing down Etherington shortly after picking up a yellow after a challenge on the same player, so to avoid any risk Ferguson subbed him at half time. The lack of keeping a lead struck again for United as substitute Tuncay netted a wonderful solo effort with nine minutes to go. But Stoke were level for only five minutes as Hernandez was on hand to tap in an Evra cross to give United all three points.
The second Super Sunday match was a big 'Title' rival derby between Manchester City and Arsenal. It started brightly but City went down to ten men within six minutes when the inexperienced Boyata brought down Chamakh on the edge of the box and was last man. Arsenal didn't take advantage until the 20th minute when Samir Nasri put them ahead, they could have two ahead at half-time but Fabregas' penalty was saved after Vincent Kompany stupidly brought down the Arsenal captain. Alex Song then doubled Arsenal's lead after 66 minutes with a wonderful strike and substitute Bendtner secured the 3-0 win two minutes from time.
Liverpool secured a vital win against Blackburn in the other match today. Sotirios Kyrgiakos put Liverpool ahead three minutes into the second half. However the lead only lasted two minutes as Jamie Carragher put the ball into his own net to put Blackburn level. Fernanado Torres announced his start to his season with the winner in the 53rd minute.
The second Super Sunday match was a big 'Title' rival derby between Manchester City and Arsenal. It started brightly but City went down to ten men within six minutes when the inexperienced Boyata brought down Chamakh on the edge of the box and was last man. Arsenal didn't take advantage until the 20th minute when Samir Nasri put them ahead, they could have two ahead at half-time but Fabregas' penalty was saved after Vincent Kompany stupidly brought down the Arsenal captain. Alex Song then doubled Arsenal's lead after 66 minutes with a wonderful strike and substitute Bendtner secured the 3-0 win two minutes from time.
Liverpool secured a vital win against Blackburn in the other match today. Sotirios Kyrgiakos put Liverpool ahead three minutes into the second half. However the lead only lasted two minutes as Jamie Carragher put the ball into his own net to put Blackburn level. Fernanado Torres announced his start to his season with the winner in the 53rd minute.
Korean Grand Prix Blows Title Race Wide Open
The Korean Grand Prix well and truly opened up the title race with only two races to go. First Championship leader Mark Webber spun out meaning Vettel would take the lead in the standings if he went on to take the chequered flag. But he then went on to suffer an engine failure meaning Fernando Alonso took the chequered flag and the lead in the Championship standings. Button looks well out of contention now after only managing twelfth, here's the result in full:
1. Alonso (Ferrari), 2. Hamilton (McLaren), 3. Massa (Ferrari), 4. Schumacher (Mercedes), 5. Kubica (Renault), 6. Liuzzi (Force India), 7. Barrichello (Williams), 8. Kobayashi (Sauber), 9. Heidfeld (Sauber), 10. Hulkenberg (Williams), 11. Alguersuari (Toro Rosso), 12. Button (McLaren), 13. Kovalainen (Lotus), 14. Senna (Hispania), 15. Yamamoto (Hispania) Retired: Sutil (Force India), Vettel (Red Bull), Petrov (Renault), Glock (Virign), Buemi (Toro Rosso), Di Grassi (Virgin), Trulli (Lotus), Rosberg (Mercedes), Webber (Red Bull)
This leaves Alonso on 231 points, eleven points ahead of Webber who's on 220. Hamilton is now third on 210 with Vettel in fourth on 206. Red Bull still lead the Constructors' Championship on 426 points but McLaren have closed the gap to 399.
1. Alonso (Ferrari), 2. Hamilton (McLaren), 3. Massa (Ferrari), 4. Schumacher (Mercedes), 5. Kubica (Renault), 6. Liuzzi (Force India), 7. Barrichello (Williams), 8. Kobayashi (Sauber), 9. Heidfeld (Sauber), 10. Hulkenberg (Williams), 11. Alguersuari (Toro Rosso), 12. Button (McLaren), 13. Kovalainen (Lotus), 14. Senna (Hispania), 15. Yamamoto (Hispania) Retired: Sutil (Force India), Vettel (Red Bull), Petrov (Renault), Glock (Virign), Buemi (Toro Rosso), Di Grassi (Virgin), Trulli (Lotus), Rosberg (Mercedes), Webber (Red Bull)
This leaves Alonso on 231 points, eleven points ahead of Webber who's on 220. Hamilton is now third on 210 with Vettel in fourth on 206. Red Bull still lead the Constructors' Championship on 426 points but McLaren have closed the gap to 399.
Barclay's Premier League Round Up: 24/10/10
There was not a lot of goals in yesterday's Premier League action but still some interesting results: The lunchtime kick-off was a big match between Everton and Tottenham with Everton looking to bounce up the table following their Merseyside derby win, Tottenham were looking to bounce back from their European defeat on Wednesday. Everton took the lead on 17 minutes through Leighton Baines however their lead only lasted three minutes when man of the moment Rafael Van Der Vaart equalised for Spurs. It finished 1-1 with both teams getting a well deserved point.
Birmingham managed to see off Blackpool at St.Andrews; after a couple of fantastic rants from Ian Holloway mid-week his mood wouldn't bettered following this result. Captain Ridgewell put the Blues ahead after 56 minutes and then Nikola Zigic rounded the match off eleven minutes into the second half.
Gerrard Houllier suffered his first defeat as Aston Villa boss away to Sunderland; Richard Dunne scoring an embarrassing own goal after 25 minutes to settle the tie. Fulham lost their second match on the bounce away to West Brom; Scott Carson scored an own goal nine minutes into the match to give Fulham the lead. But they couldn't hold on to it and Yousuff Mulumbu equalised after 17 minutes. Marc-Antoine Fortune put the Baggies ahead five minutes before half-time to secure the three points for Di Matteo's men.
With their main rivals all playing today, Chelsea were able to extend their lead at the top with a win over Wolves at Stamford Bridge. The in form Florent Malouda put Chelsea ahead after 23 minutes and Salomon Kalou finished the game off nine minutes from the end.
Wigan and Bolton held out a 1-1 draw at the DW Stadium; Hugo Rodallega put the home side ahead just under the hour mark. Johann Elmander equalised for Bolton on the 66th minute. The tea time kick-off was between West Ham and Newcastle. Carlton Cole put the Hammers ahead after twelve minutes before Kevin Nolan equalised eleven minutes later. Andy Carroll then won the game for Newcastle after 69 minutes.
Birmingham managed to see off Blackpool at St.Andrews; after a couple of fantastic rants from Ian Holloway mid-week his mood wouldn't bettered following this result. Captain Ridgewell put the Blues ahead after 56 minutes and then Nikola Zigic rounded the match off eleven minutes into the second half.
Gerrard Houllier suffered his first defeat as Aston Villa boss away to Sunderland; Richard Dunne scoring an embarrassing own goal after 25 minutes to settle the tie. Fulham lost their second match on the bounce away to West Brom; Scott Carson scored an own goal nine minutes into the match to give Fulham the lead. But they couldn't hold on to it and Yousuff Mulumbu equalised after 17 minutes. Marc-Antoine Fortune put the Baggies ahead five minutes before half-time to secure the three points for Di Matteo's men.
With their main rivals all playing today, Chelsea were able to extend their lead at the top with a win over Wolves at Stamford Bridge. The in form Florent Malouda put Chelsea ahead after 23 minutes and Salomon Kalou finished the game off nine minutes from the end.
Wigan and Bolton held out a 1-1 draw at the DW Stadium; Hugo Rodallega put the home side ahead just under the hour mark. Johann Elmander equalised for Bolton on the 66th minute. The tea time kick-off was between West Ham and Newcastle. Carlton Cole put the Hammers ahead after twelve minutes before Kevin Nolan equalised eleven minutes later. Andy Carroll then won the game for Newcastle after 69 minutes.
Saturday 23 October 2010
Korean Grand Prix Qualifying
With less than a handful of races left in the season the 'new' Korean grand prix is going to be a crucial one. Red Bull could become constructors champions tomorrow with the right result and if Webber wins then it looks all but over for the McLaren duo to win the drivers' championship. Q1 saw the usual six go out: 24. Senna (Hispania), 23. Yamamoto (Hispania), 22. Di Grassi (Virgin), 21. Glock (Virgin), 20. Kovalainen (Lotus), 19. Trulli (Lotus). The unfortunate one to also go out at this stage was Force India's Liuzzi. The fastest in Q1 was McLaren's Lewis Hamilton.
Q2 again saw the usual contenders fight out for positions with two hopefuls looking to progress into Q3 with the big three and Mercedes. This time it would be Barrichello ahead of Hulkenburg for Williams and Kubica for Renault. The rest finished like this: 17. Buemi (Toro Rosso), 16. Alguersuari (Toro Rosso), 15. Petrov (Renault), 14. Sutil (Force India), 13. Heidfeld (Sauber), 12. Kobayashi (Sauber), 11. Hulkenberg (Williams). The fastest in Q2 was Red Bull's Mark Webber.
Q3 saw the five contenders for the Drivers' Championship all have glimpses of Pole position and it went to the final seconds before the final ten was finally sorted out: 10. Barrichello (Williams), 9. Schumacher (Mercedes), 8. Kubica (Renualt), 7. Button (McLaren), 6. Massa (Ferrari), 5. Rosberg (Mercedes), 4. Hamilton (McLaren), 3. Alonso (Ferrari), 2. Webber (Red Bull), 1. Vettel (Red Bull). So with both Red Bulls on the first row they have a great chance to seal the Constructors Championship and also take the McLaren's almost out of the running for the Drivers' Championship making it just three contenders left.
Q2 again saw the usual contenders fight out for positions with two hopefuls looking to progress into Q3 with the big three and Mercedes. This time it would be Barrichello ahead of Hulkenburg for Williams and Kubica for Renault. The rest finished like this: 17. Buemi (Toro Rosso), 16. Alguersuari (Toro Rosso), 15. Petrov (Renault), 14. Sutil (Force India), 13. Heidfeld (Sauber), 12. Kobayashi (Sauber), 11. Hulkenberg (Williams). The fastest in Q2 was Red Bull's Mark Webber.
Q3 saw the five contenders for the Drivers' Championship all have glimpses of Pole position and it went to the final seconds before the final ten was finally sorted out: 10. Barrichello (Williams), 9. Schumacher (Mercedes), 8. Kubica (Renualt), 7. Button (McLaren), 6. Massa (Ferrari), 5. Rosberg (Mercedes), 4. Hamilton (McLaren), 3. Alonso (Ferrari), 2. Webber (Red Bull), 1. Vettel (Red Bull). So with both Red Bulls on the first row they have a great chance to seal the Constructors Championship and also take the McLaren's almost out of the running for the Drivers' Championship making it just three contenders left.
Friday 22 October 2010
Premier League Snooker: Week Six
Week six of the Snooker Premier League arrived at the Spiceball Leisure Centre in Oxfordshire. The first game of the night saw Neil Robertson secure the first whitewash of the campaign Ding Junhui. China's number one looked very out of sorts and was only given one shot in the first frame as Robertson cleared up to the black ball with a score of 120. Ding was given a few more shots in the second frame but missed easy red which Robertson capitalised on to win 74-33. The pattern occurred again but Robertson did make a few fouls yet still won the frame 72-44. Robertson nearly recorded another century break but missed a brown to win 97-22 in the fourth frame. Ding only scored seven points in the penultimate frame and that was from a foul on the black from Robertson, who went on to score another 87 points to make it 5-0. Ding looked dishevelled at this point and again failed to muster the win in the final despite chances and Robertson won 73-25. This puts Robertson on three points from three games whereas Ding is on four but only has Fu left to play which will be next week.
Like last week the first game was quite a fast pace but the second game was very scrappy, it was between Mark Williams and Marco Fu. Fouls were made throughout the game and Fu just scraped the first frame 63-45. The second frame was Fu's turn to score 45 and lose the frame as Williams scored 54 to equalise. Following the momentum, Williams secured a 104 break to take the lead in the third frame 125-0. But Fu battled back in a game that had draw written all over it, as he won the fourth frame 66-9. Fu then turned the score around again to guarantee himself a point winning 122-3 but only scored a break of 78. Both players deserved a point for an evenly matched game and that's exactly what both players got as Williams comprehensively won the final frame with another century break of 122. The point puts Williams on top of the league with five points from four games and Fu has four points from four games.
Like last week the first game was quite a fast pace but the second game was very scrappy, it was between Mark Williams and Marco Fu. Fouls were made throughout the game and Fu just scraped the first frame 63-45. The second frame was Fu's turn to score 45 and lose the frame as Williams scored 54 to equalise. Following the momentum, Williams secured a 104 break to take the lead in the third frame 125-0. But Fu battled back in a game that had draw written all over it, as he won the fourth frame 66-9. Fu then turned the score around again to guarantee himself a point winning 122-3 but only scored a break of 78. Both players deserved a point for an evenly matched game and that's exactly what both players got as Williams comprehensively won the final frame with another century break of 122. The point puts Williams on top of the league with five points from four games and Fu has four points from four games.
Thursday 21 October 2010
Champions League Round-Up: 20/10/10
The other half of groups entered the half way stage yesterday to give more of an insight of which of the 16 clubs will make it into the knock-out rounds.
Group A: Tottenham were given a nasty European wake-up call but also then nearly recovered in the old 'game of two halves'. Champions Inter Milan were the visiting team and found themselves 1-0 ahead after just two minutes thanks to Javier Zanetti. It got worse for Tottenham as they were reduced to ten men just eight minutes into the game when Gomes was sent off for last man, Eto'o scored the resulting penalty to double Inter's lead. Dejan Stankovic made it 3-0 before 15 minutes and it was 4-0 before half-time when Eto'o scored his second after 35 minutes. Up stepped Gareth Bale in the second half to secure some pride with a second half hat-trick (first after 52 minutes and then two in stoppage time), all three goals were marvellous solo efforts. This leaves Inter top of the group on seven points with Tottenham second on four.
Two late-ish goals in Holland saw FC Twente draw with Werder Bremen; Theo Janssen put the home side ahead with fifteen minutes left before substitute Marko Arnautovic equalised five minutes later. This leaves both teams on just two points at the halfway stage.
Group B: Veteran Spain striker Raul was on hand for Shalke as they won 3-1 at home to Hapoel Tel-Aviv; Raul opened the scoring after just three minutes before adding a second after 58 minutes. Jose Jurado made it 3-0 ten minutes later before Itay Shechter scored a consolation in stoppage time. Shalke are now on six points with Hapoel still seeking their first.
Lyon made it three wins from three at home to Benfica; Jimmy Briand put the French side ahead after 21 minutes. Benfica were reduced to ten men two minutes before half-time when Nicolas Gaitan received a second yellow card. Lisandro Lopez finished Benfica off six minutes into the second half to keep Lyon on top of the group, Benfica only have three points.
Group C: Maurice Edu had a mixed game for Rangers as they hosted Valencia; he put Rangers ahead eleven minutes before half-time and then equalised with an own goal one minute into the second half. This leaves Rangers on five points one ahead of Valencia who are on four.
After the recent headline news coming out of Old Trafford, Manchester United needed a positive result against Bursaspor. Nani scored the solitary goal of the night after six minutes to provide United with the win. It was comfortable but not great from the English giants who are still unbeaten so far this season in all competitions. United are now on seven points with Bursaspor still looking for their first point and goal of their debut Champions League season.
Group D: Panathinaikos and Rubin Kazan played out a goalless draw in Greece. This leaves Panathinaikos bottom of the group with their first point of the campaign whereas Rubin have doubled their tally to two.
Lionel Messi continued his fine form at Barcelona with another two goals, this time against FC Copenhagen. He scored his first just under twenty minutes into the game and rounded the night off in second half stoppage time. Barca are now on seven points on top of group D with Copenhagen sitting in second place on six.
Group A: Tottenham were given a nasty European wake-up call but also then nearly recovered in the old 'game of two halves'. Champions Inter Milan were the visiting team and found themselves 1-0 ahead after just two minutes thanks to Javier Zanetti. It got worse for Tottenham as they were reduced to ten men just eight minutes into the game when Gomes was sent off for last man, Eto'o scored the resulting penalty to double Inter's lead. Dejan Stankovic made it 3-0 before 15 minutes and it was 4-0 before half-time when Eto'o scored his second after 35 minutes. Up stepped Gareth Bale in the second half to secure some pride with a second half hat-trick (first after 52 minutes and then two in stoppage time), all three goals were marvellous solo efforts. This leaves Inter top of the group on seven points with Tottenham second on four.
Two late-ish goals in Holland saw FC Twente draw with Werder Bremen; Theo Janssen put the home side ahead with fifteen minutes left before substitute Marko Arnautovic equalised five minutes later. This leaves both teams on just two points at the halfway stage.
Group B: Veteran Spain striker Raul was on hand for Shalke as they won 3-1 at home to Hapoel Tel-Aviv; Raul opened the scoring after just three minutes before adding a second after 58 minutes. Jose Jurado made it 3-0 ten minutes later before Itay Shechter scored a consolation in stoppage time. Shalke are now on six points with Hapoel still seeking their first.
Lyon made it three wins from three at home to Benfica; Jimmy Briand put the French side ahead after 21 minutes. Benfica were reduced to ten men two minutes before half-time when Nicolas Gaitan received a second yellow card. Lisandro Lopez finished Benfica off six minutes into the second half to keep Lyon on top of the group, Benfica only have three points.
Group C: Maurice Edu had a mixed game for Rangers as they hosted Valencia; he put Rangers ahead eleven minutes before half-time and then equalised with an own goal one minute into the second half. This leaves Rangers on five points one ahead of Valencia who are on four.
After the recent headline news coming out of Old Trafford, Manchester United needed a positive result against Bursaspor. Nani scored the solitary goal of the night after six minutes to provide United with the win. It was comfortable but not great from the English giants who are still unbeaten so far this season in all competitions. United are now on seven points with Bursaspor still looking for their first point and goal of their debut Champions League season.
Group D: Panathinaikos and Rubin Kazan played out a goalless draw in Greece. This leaves Panathinaikos bottom of the group with their first point of the campaign whereas Rubin have doubled their tally to two.
Lionel Messi continued his fine form at Barcelona with another two goals, this time against FC Copenhagen. He scored his first just under twenty minutes into the game and rounded the night off in second half stoppage time. Barca are now on seven points on top of group D with Copenhagen sitting in second place on six.
Wednesday 20 October 2010
Champions League Round-Up: 19/10/10
Round three of the Champions League group-stage kicked off yesterday with the groups now taking shape as we reach the half-way mark. Some groups are a lot closer than others and with the other half playing tonight we should get a slight idea of the teams likely to progress.
Group E: Roma were on the wrong end of an upset at home to FC Basle; veteran Swiss striker Alexander Frei opened the scoring after twelve minutes. A great through ball from Roma's own veteran Totti found Marco Borriello who went on to equalise nine minutes later. Cameroon international Samuel Inkoom put Basle back ahead just before half time and substitute Cabral wrapped the points up in stoppage time. This leaves both teams on three points from three games.
The other game in the group saw a weakened, due to injuries, Bayern Munich side host CFR Cluj. Cluj took advantage by taking the lead two minutes before the half hour mark thanks to Cadu. However Cluj then made their own downfall as Cadu then scored an own goal just four minutes later. Bayern then went ahead after 36 minutes thanks to another own goal, this time from Cristian Panin. Mario Gomez looked to sealed the points after 77 minutes but Juan Culio pulled one back to set up a nervous final four minutes for Bayern, which they prevailed through. This leaves Bayern with maximum points while Cluj join Basle and Roma and three.
Group F: Saw the an early kick-off due to Russia's time-zone as Spartak Moscow took on Chelsea. Yuri Zhirkov gave Chelsea the lead after 23 minutes with a stunning strike, then Nicolas Anelka sealed the points two minutes before half-time. Chelsea are still on maximum points with Spartak on six.
A solitary goal from Souleymane Diawara three minutes into the second half was enough for Olympique Marseille to see off MSK Zilina. This gives Marseille their first three points of the campaign while Zilina are still to manage any.
Group G: The Amsterdam Arena witnessed the most bizarre sending off in football history as Ajax hosted Auxerre. Demy De Zeeuw put the hosts ahead after just seven minutes, Luis Suarez doubled the lead four minutes from half-time. 56 minutes in and Ajax were reduced to ten men after Andre Ooijer was last man, Auxerre scored from the resulting free-kick by Valter Birsa. Auxerre then were also reduced to ten men four minutes from the end when Dennis Oliech picked up a second yellow card. Auxerre then had another man sent off in injury time but kept ten men on the field, substitute Jean-Pascal Mignot managed to pick up two yellow cards for dissent while on the sidelines warming up! This Ajax on four points with Auxerre struggling with nil points.
The game of the night saw Real Madrid host AC Milan at the Bernabeu. Cristiano Ronaldo put Madrid ahead from a trademark free-kick after thirteen minutes, the points were wrapped up a minute later when Mesut Ozil doubled the lead for Jose Mourinho's side. This gives Madrid maximum points with Milan level with Ajax on four.
Group H: SC Braga managed to see off Partizan Belgrade at home; Lima opened the scoring after 35 minutes before Matheus sealed the victory in second half injury time. This gives Braga their first three points of the campaign with Belgrade yet to find any.
Arsenal had another comfortable night at home to Shakhtar Donetsk. A rare goal from Alex Song put the Gunners ahead after nineteen minutes. Samir Nasri then continued his fine goalscoring form three minutes before half-time to double Arsenal's lead. Returning Arsenal captain Fabregas made it three from the penalty spot on the hour mark. Jack Wilshere made it four after 66 minutes and Chamakh made it five three minutes later. Donestk managed a consolation eight minutes from time thanks to Eduardo who scored against his former club on his emotional return to the Emirates. Arsenal still have maximum points with Donetsk on six.
Group E: Roma were on the wrong end of an upset at home to FC Basle; veteran Swiss striker Alexander Frei opened the scoring after twelve minutes. A great through ball from Roma's own veteran Totti found Marco Borriello who went on to equalise nine minutes later. Cameroon international Samuel Inkoom put Basle back ahead just before half time and substitute Cabral wrapped the points up in stoppage time. This leaves both teams on three points from three games.
The other game in the group saw a weakened, due to injuries, Bayern Munich side host CFR Cluj. Cluj took advantage by taking the lead two minutes before the half hour mark thanks to Cadu. However Cluj then made their own downfall as Cadu then scored an own goal just four minutes later. Bayern then went ahead after 36 minutes thanks to another own goal, this time from Cristian Panin. Mario Gomez looked to sealed the points after 77 minutes but Juan Culio pulled one back to set up a nervous final four minutes for Bayern, which they prevailed through. This leaves Bayern with maximum points while Cluj join Basle and Roma and three.
Group F: Saw the an early kick-off due to Russia's time-zone as Spartak Moscow took on Chelsea. Yuri Zhirkov gave Chelsea the lead after 23 minutes with a stunning strike, then Nicolas Anelka sealed the points two minutes before half-time. Chelsea are still on maximum points with Spartak on six.
A solitary goal from Souleymane Diawara three minutes into the second half was enough for Olympique Marseille to see off MSK Zilina. This gives Marseille their first three points of the campaign while Zilina are still to manage any.
Group G: The Amsterdam Arena witnessed the most bizarre sending off in football history as Ajax hosted Auxerre. Demy De Zeeuw put the hosts ahead after just seven minutes, Luis Suarez doubled the lead four minutes from half-time. 56 minutes in and Ajax were reduced to ten men after Andre Ooijer was last man, Auxerre scored from the resulting free-kick by Valter Birsa. Auxerre then were also reduced to ten men four minutes from the end when Dennis Oliech picked up a second yellow card. Auxerre then had another man sent off in injury time but kept ten men on the field, substitute Jean-Pascal Mignot managed to pick up two yellow cards for dissent while on the sidelines warming up! This Ajax on four points with Auxerre struggling with nil points.
The game of the night saw Real Madrid host AC Milan at the Bernabeu. Cristiano Ronaldo put Madrid ahead from a trademark free-kick after thirteen minutes, the points were wrapped up a minute later when Mesut Ozil doubled the lead for Jose Mourinho's side. This gives Madrid maximum points with Milan level with Ajax on four.
Group H: SC Braga managed to see off Partizan Belgrade at home; Lima opened the scoring after 35 minutes before Matheus sealed the victory in second half injury time. This gives Braga their first three points of the campaign with Belgrade yet to find any.
Arsenal had another comfortable night at home to Shakhtar Donetsk. A rare goal from Alex Song put the Gunners ahead after nineteen minutes. Samir Nasri then continued his fine goalscoring form three minutes before half-time to double Arsenal's lead. Returning Arsenal captain Fabregas made it three from the penalty spot on the hour mark. Jack Wilshere made it four after 66 minutes and Chamakh made it five three minutes later. Donestk managed a consolation eight minutes from time thanks to Eduardo who scored against his former club on his emotional return to the Emirates. Arsenal still have maximum points with Donetsk on six.
Tuesday 19 October 2010
Everton Knock Liverpool's Sox While City Steal Second
Super Sunday and indeed Monday Night Football were held in the North West this week; Super Sunday opened with the biggest Merseyside derby for years and culminated in a 'derby' between Blackpool and Manchester City. Monday Night Football was hosted at Ewood Park as Blackburn took on Sunderland.
Liverpool's new owners were at the game for the biggest Merseyside derby, in terms of league positions, for years. But unfortunately for John Henry and company Liverpool failed to rise to the occasion. Form the get go Everton started the brighter team and looked to attack Liverpool's fragile defence. The usual suspects looked fed up and uninterested in the game for Liverpool and Tim Howard was relatively unchallenged. Everton took full advantage of their great start with a darting run from Seamus Coleman who picked out a cross for Cahill to strike home after 34 minutes. The goal didn't seem to rejuvenate Liverpool and Everton finished the game off five minutes into the second half with a beautiful strike from Mikel Arteta from the edge of a crowded box after a cleared corner. This leaves Liverpool in further turmoil with the owners not looking terribly pleased with their new property.
Manchester City moved into second with more controversial circumstances; Blackpool ironically were much the better team, especially in the first half but missed glorious chances to take the lead. It took till the 67th minute for the deadlock to be broken thanks to a delicate touch from Carlos Tevez past Matt Gilks, however replays showed Tevez was offside and therefore it shouldn't have been allowed. Blackpool equalised in the 78th minute with a delicate back header from substitute Marlon Harewood. But they weren't level for long as City went back up the other end and Tevez scored again, but again there looked to be an infringement as Tevez looked to have fouled the defender and again maybe it shouldn't have been allowed. City then wrapped up the points when substitute David Silva made a fantastic double dummy before using Adam as a wall to guide his shot round into the corner of the net. Blackpool gained another consolation when Gary Taylor-Fletcher netted from close range deep into stoppage time.
Monday Night Football witnessed a poor 0-0 between Blackburn and Sunderland. Blackburn did well to secure a point after Christopher samba was shown a straight red just before half-time. Sunderland couldn't make the man advantage pay with Asamoah Gyan coming closest to scoring, hitting the post in the second half.
Liverpool's new owners were at the game for the biggest Merseyside derby, in terms of league positions, for years. But unfortunately for John Henry and company Liverpool failed to rise to the occasion. Form the get go Everton started the brighter team and looked to attack Liverpool's fragile defence. The usual suspects looked fed up and uninterested in the game for Liverpool and Tim Howard was relatively unchallenged. Everton took full advantage of their great start with a darting run from Seamus Coleman who picked out a cross for Cahill to strike home after 34 minutes. The goal didn't seem to rejuvenate Liverpool and Everton finished the game off five minutes into the second half with a beautiful strike from Mikel Arteta from the edge of a crowded box after a cleared corner. This leaves Liverpool in further turmoil with the owners not looking terribly pleased with their new property.
Manchester City moved into second with more controversial circumstances; Blackpool ironically were much the better team, especially in the first half but missed glorious chances to take the lead. It took till the 67th minute for the deadlock to be broken thanks to a delicate touch from Carlos Tevez past Matt Gilks, however replays showed Tevez was offside and therefore it shouldn't have been allowed. Blackpool equalised in the 78th minute with a delicate back header from substitute Marlon Harewood. But they weren't level for long as City went back up the other end and Tevez scored again, but again there looked to be an infringement as Tevez looked to have fouled the defender and again maybe it shouldn't have been allowed. City then wrapped up the points when substitute David Silva made a fantastic double dummy before using Adam as a wall to guide his shot round into the corner of the net. Blackpool gained another consolation when Gary Taylor-Fletcher netted from close range deep into stoppage time.
Monday Night Football witnessed a poor 0-0 between Blackburn and Sunderland. Blackburn did well to secure a point after Christopher samba was shown a straight red just before half-time. Sunderland couldn't make the man advantage pay with Asamoah Gyan coming closest to scoring, hitting the post in the second half.
Sunday 17 October 2010
Barclays Premier League Round-Up: 16/10/10
After a poor International break for the home nations the Premiership was back in full swing with another programme of controversy. Unusually there was no lunchtime kick-off but six three o'clock kick-offs and a tea time kick-off.
Wolves hosted West Ham in a match that was already dubbed as a relegation battle and this game didn't escape from controversy. Another Rob Green mistake allowed Matt Jarvis to put the ball into the empty net to give Wolves the lead after ten minutes. Eight minutes into the second half Victor Obinna was fouled in the box and West Ham were awarded a penalty, much to Wolves' bemusement, Mark Noble stepped up and levelled for the Hammers. Frederic Piquionne thought he'd won the game in stoppage time when he skilfully made room for himself to score. However referee Mark Clattenburg had judged Piquionne to have handled when controlling the ball, replays looked to show it actually hit his shoulder. The game finished 1-1.
Second half stoppage time again played a big part in the match at the Reebok stadium between Bolton and Stoke. A great finish from Lee Chung-Yong put the home side ahead after 22 minutes, Rory Delap equalised for Stoke just three minutes into the second half. Four minutes of added time was to be played and it was enough time for Ivan Klasnic to score the winner for Bolton and then pick up two yellow cards to then be sent off.
Newcastle came back from 2-0 down to rescue a point at home to Wigan; former Newcastle player Charles N'Zogbia put Wigan ahead after 22 minutes before doubling Wigan's lead just a minute later. Shola Ameobi pulled one back after 72 minutes as Wigan conceded their first away goal of the season. Fabricio Coloccini then equalised for Newcastle in almost the last kick of the game, again in second half stoppage time.
Birmingham took the lead against Arsenal at the Emirates thanks to Nikola Zigic after 33 minutes. Marouane Chamakh won a penalty for Arsenal when he looked to have dived after minimal contact from a Scott Dann challenge, Samir Nasri stepped up to equalise for Arsenal four minutes from half-time. The Moroccan Chamakh then won the game for Arsenal just two minutes into the second half. Second half stoppage was enough time for Jack Wilshere to dive in with his studs showing and then be subsequently sent off for Arsenal.
Fulham hosted Tottenham in another game shrouded in controversy; Diomansy Kamara put Fulham ahead on the half hour mark with questions over whether Dempsey handled before passing to him to lead to the goal. However the lead only lasted a minute as Van Der Vaart played some magnificent skill before hitting the crossbar, the rebound was followed up by Roman Pavlyuchenko. Tom Huddlestone struck a long range shot on 63 minutes that found its way to the net but the linesman flagged to disallow the goal. Referee Mike Dean then went over to his assistant to have a chat about it and then awarded the goal to Tottenham which meant they won the game 2-1.
Manchester United's shocking run of form continued at home to West Brom, but somehow still remain the only unbeaten Premiership side. Sir Alex Ferguson issued a statement by leaving Rooney on the bench, and it looked to pay dividends when Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez gave the home side the lead after five minutes. Nani then doubled the lead twenty minutes later and United were cruising. But failure to hold a lead continued for United when Evra inadvertently put the ball into his own net from a Chirs Brunt free-kick five minutes into the second half. Then dreadful dropped catch from Van Der Sar allowed debutant Somen Tchoyi to equalise five minutes later. Meaning another two points dropped by Manchester United.
This allowed Chelsea to stretch their lead to five points after they were held to a goalless draw at Villa Park against Aston Villa in the tea time kick-off.
Wolves hosted West Ham in a match that was already dubbed as a relegation battle and this game didn't escape from controversy. Another Rob Green mistake allowed Matt Jarvis to put the ball into the empty net to give Wolves the lead after ten minutes. Eight minutes into the second half Victor Obinna was fouled in the box and West Ham were awarded a penalty, much to Wolves' bemusement, Mark Noble stepped up and levelled for the Hammers. Frederic Piquionne thought he'd won the game in stoppage time when he skilfully made room for himself to score. However referee Mark Clattenburg had judged Piquionne to have handled when controlling the ball, replays looked to show it actually hit his shoulder. The game finished 1-1.
Second half stoppage time again played a big part in the match at the Reebok stadium between Bolton and Stoke. A great finish from Lee Chung-Yong put the home side ahead after 22 minutes, Rory Delap equalised for Stoke just three minutes into the second half. Four minutes of added time was to be played and it was enough time for Ivan Klasnic to score the winner for Bolton and then pick up two yellow cards to then be sent off.
Newcastle came back from 2-0 down to rescue a point at home to Wigan; former Newcastle player Charles N'Zogbia put Wigan ahead after 22 minutes before doubling Wigan's lead just a minute later. Shola Ameobi pulled one back after 72 minutes as Wigan conceded their first away goal of the season. Fabricio Coloccini then equalised for Newcastle in almost the last kick of the game, again in second half stoppage time.
Birmingham took the lead against Arsenal at the Emirates thanks to Nikola Zigic after 33 minutes. Marouane Chamakh won a penalty for Arsenal when he looked to have dived after minimal contact from a Scott Dann challenge, Samir Nasri stepped up to equalise for Arsenal four minutes from half-time. The Moroccan Chamakh then won the game for Arsenal just two minutes into the second half. Second half stoppage was enough time for Jack Wilshere to dive in with his studs showing and then be subsequently sent off for Arsenal.
Fulham hosted Tottenham in another game shrouded in controversy; Diomansy Kamara put Fulham ahead on the half hour mark with questions over whether Dempsey handled before passing to him to lead to the goal. However the lead only lasted a minute as Van Der Vaart played some magnificent skill before hitting the crossbar, the rebound was followed up by Roman Pavlyuchenko. Tom Huddlestone struck a long range shot on 63 minutes that found its way to the net but the linesman flagged to disallow the goal. Referee Mike Dean then went over to his assistant to have a chat about it and then awarded the goal to Tottenham which meant they won the game 2-1.
Manchester United's shocking run of form continued at home to West Brom, but somehow still remain the only unbeaten Premiership side. Sir Alex Ferguson issued a statement by leaving Rooney on the bench, and it looked to pay dividends when Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez gave the home side the lead after five minutes. Nani then doubled the lead twenty minutes later and United were cruising. But failure to hold a lead continued for United when Evra inadvertently put the ball into his own net from a Chirs Brunt free-kick five minutes into the second half. Then dreadful dropped catch from Van Der Sar allowed debutant Somen Tchoyi to equalise five minutes later. Meaning another two points dropped by Manchester United.
This allowed Chelsea to stretch their lead to five points after they were held to a goalless draw at Villa Park against Aston Villa in the tea time kick-off.
Friday 15 October 2010
Premier League Snooker: Week 5
This week the snooker table arrived across the border in Inverness where the Scots witnessed a yin and yang night of snooker. The first game of the evening was between Mark Selby and Marco Fu, Selby was playing his fourth match of the campaign whereas Fu was playing his third. Selby flew out of the traps straight from Fu's opening break-off and secured a 90 break to win the first frame. Fu then answered in similar fashion to Selby but only made 68 before Selby tested Fu out with some snookers, Fu prevailed to take the frame 101-24. The third frame saw Selby require three visits to win the frame 98-0 to regain his one frame advantage at 2-1. The fourth frame was the most defensive of the match and Selby secured at least a point, winning the frame 72-40. Fu looked sunk and Selby secured the win with another £1000 added to his bank balance with a break of 131. Selby was then on course to gain another century break but just like in the first frame Selby was ten points away, winning it 90-0. The 5-1 win puts Selby top of the table with four points on frames won and Fu is now on three points from three games.
If that game was free and fast flowing then the other game of the night was the complete opposite. It was between Mark Williams and Neil Robertson with the Welshman playing his third game of the campaign and the Aussie was playing only his second. Both players opted out of playing opening long-ish pots and it turned the first frame into a very scrappy affair, both players also accumulated a foul. Williams just came out on top, winning the frame 59-53. The second frame was just as scrappy and again both players fouled but this time Robertson won the frame with a much higher margin; 79-39. Williams regained the lead in the only whitewash frame of the match with a 78 break, again only to be pegged back in the fourth frame 82-25 with Robertson making a break of 55. Williams then added another £1000 himself with a break of 105 to secure a point with the frame win of 109-7. Robertson deservedly won a point in the final frame with a 73-1 victory to round off a very scrappy match of snooker. The draw leaves Williams on four points and gives Robertson his first point of the campaign.
If that game was free and fast flowing then the other game of the night was the complete opposite. It was between Mark Williams and Neil Robertson with the Welshman playing his third game of the campaign and the Aussie was playing only his second. Both players opted out of playing opening long-ish pots and it turned the first frame into a very scrappy affair, both players also accumulated a foul. Williams just came out on top, winning the frame 59-53. The second frame was just as scrappy and again both players fouled but this time Robertson won the frame with a much higher margin; 79-39. Williams regained the lead in the only whitewash frame of the match with a 78 break, again only to be pegged back in the fourth frame 82-25 with Robertson making a break of 55. Williams then added another £1000 himself with a break of 105 to secure a point with the frame win of 109-7. Robertson deservedly won a point in the final frame with a 73-1 victory to round off a very scrappy match of snooker. The draw leaves Williams on four points and gives Robertson his first point of the campaign.
Monday 11 October 2010
World Darts Grand Prix Final
Sunday witnessed the final of the Darts Grand Prix in Dublin, between Adrian 'Jackpot' Lewis and 2007 winner James 'The Machine' Wade. Like in the semi-final Lewis soon found himself 4-2 behind and just like against Taylor he fired himself up. He won the seventh set 3-0 and looked the better player but unfortunately for Lewis there would be a break which cut his momentum and also quietened the crowd. After the break Wade took the eighth set to go 5-3 ahead and from there only one person was going to win and Wade made sure in the following set to finish the match off at 6-3.
Speedway's Final Grand Prix of the Season
Newly crowned champion Thomasz Gollob was able to celebrate his crowning back at home in Bydgoszcz, Poland. Where the final Grand Prix of the season was taking place, all proceedings were nearly almost dealt with with Gollob already champion and eleven points between 8th and 9th to determine the eight racers guaranteed into next season's Grand Prix circuit. But everyone was still a competitive as ever and even the wild cards were getting involved.
The opening heat was won by Dane Kenneth Bjerre who had a 23 point lead over Andersen (who started ninth) which was now extended to 26. Champion Gollob started the meeting with a win in heat 2 but he was battling through tendon and ligament damage in his right ankle which eventually forced him to retire from the meeting. Sweden's Magnus 'Zorro' Zetterstrom won the third heat with veteran American Greg Hancock extending his lead over the bottom eight after winning the fourth heat.
Heat five had to be restarted due to movement at the start and Gollob's bike packed up in the restart that was won by Polish wild card Piotr Protasiewicz. Great Britain joined the winner's enclosure in hear six thanks to Chris Harris and Sweden's Andreas Jonsson made it seven winners from seven heats.
Denmark's Nicky Pedersen made it eight but then went onto win the ninth heat as well to buck the trend. Heat ten saw the unfortunate retirement of Gollob which was then won by the other Polish wild card Janusz Kolodziej. Protasiewicz continued his excellent night by winning his second heat in heat eleven. Heat twelve saw a ninth heat winner in Sweden's Freddie Lindgren before Rune Holta made it ten in front of his home crowd. Hancock sealed his second heat victory in heat 14 with his sights set on a semi-final place.
Heat 15 saw substitute Przemyslaw Pavlicki take to the track and movement at the start caused a restart, Andreas Jonsson went on to win his second heat of the night. Great Britain had a second heat winner in heat 16 in the form of young Tai Woffinden and Hans Andersen became the next heat winner in heat 17. Kenneth Bjerre packed up in heat 18 which was won by Freddie Lindgren and Brit Chris Harris won his second heat in the penultimate 19th heat. The final heat saw second substitute Artur Mroczka participate but it was won by Aussie Jason Crump.
Semi-Final one was between Nicky Pedersen, Andreas Jonsson, Piotr Protasiewicz and Janusz Kolodziej. Surprisingly it was wildcard Kolodziej who won the semi-final and would be joined in the final by Andreas Jonsson. The second semi-final was between Freddie Lindgren, Greg Hancock, Chris Harris and Rune Holta; Holta won it to ensure there would be to Polish riders in the final with Brit Harris joining him. The final was won by Sweden's Jonsson though with Harris second and Kolodziej beating Holta to third. Here's the final standings:
1. Thomasz Gollob (Pol) 166, 2. Jaroslaw Hampel (Pol) 137, 3. Jason Crump (Aus) 135, 4. Rune Holta (Pol) 109, 5. Greg Hancock (USA) 107, 6. Chris Harris (Gbr) 107, 7. Kenneth Bjerre (Den) 106, 8. Chris Holder (Aus) 96, 9. Andreas Jonsson (Swe) 95, 10. Nicky Pedersen (Den) 91, 11. Fredrik Lindgren (Swe) 87, 12. Hans Andersen (Den) 86, 13. Magnus Zetterstrom (Swe) 74, 14. Tai Woffinden (Gbr) 49, 15. Emil Sayfutdinov (Rus) 33 (injured during campaign), 16. Davey Watt (Aus) 19 (injured during campaign).
The opening heat was won by Dane Kenneth Bjerre who had a 23 point lead over Andersen (who started ninth) which was now extended to 26. Champion Gollob started the meeting with a win in heat 2 but he was battling through tendon and ligament damage in his right ankle which eventually forced him to retire from the meeting. Sweden's Magnus 'Zorro' Zetterstrom won the third heat with veteran American Greg Hancock extending his lead over the bottom eight after winning the fourth heat.
Heat five had to be restarted due to movement at the start and Gollob's bike packed up in the restart that was won by Polish wild card Piotr Protasiewicz. Great Britain joined the winner's enclosure in hear six thanks to Chris Harris and Sweden's Andreas Jonsson made it seven winners from seven heats.
Denmark's Nicky Pedersen made it eight but then went onto win the ninth heat as well to buck the trend. Heat ten saw the unfortunate retirement of Gollob which was then won by the other Polish wild card Janusz Kolodziej. Protasiewicz continued his excellent night by winning his second heat in heat eleven. Heat twelve saw a ninth heat winner in Sweden's Freddie Lindgren before Rune Holta made it ten in front of his home crowd. Hancock sealed his second heat victory in heat 14 with his sights set on a semi-final place.
Heat 15 saw substitute Przemyslaw Pavlicki take to the track and movement at the start caused a restart, Andreas Jonsson went on to win his second heat of the night. Great Britain had a second heat winner in heat 16 in the form of young Tai Woffinden and Hans Andersen became the next heat winner in heat 17. Kenneth Bjerre packed up in heat 18 which was won by Freddie Lindgren and Brit Chris Harris won his second heat in the penultimate 19th heat. The final heat saw second substitute Artur Mroczka participate but it was won by Aussie Jason Crump.
Semi-Final one was between Nicky Pedersen, Andreas Jonsson, Piotr Protasiewicz and Janusz Kolodziej. Surprisingly it was wildcard Kolodziej who won the semi-final and would be joined in the final by Andreas Jonsson. The second semi-final was between Freddie Lindgren, Greg Hancock, Chris Harris and Rune Holta; Holta won it to ensure there would be to Polish riders in the final with Brit Harris joining him. The final was won by Sweden's Jonsson though with Harris second and Kolodziej beating Holta to third. Here's the final standings:
1. Thomasz Gollob (Pol) 166, 2. Jaroslaw Hampel (Pol) 137, 3. Jason Crump (Aus) 135, 4. Rune Holta (Pol) 109, 5. Greg Hancock (USA) 107, 6. Chris Harris (Gbr) 107, 7. Kenneth Bjerre (Den) 106, 8. Chris Holder (Aus) 96, 9. Andreas Jonsson (Swe) 95, 10. Nicky Pedersen (Den) 91, 11. Fredrik Lindgren (Swe) 87, 12. Hans Andersen (Den) 86, 13. Magnus Zetterstrom (Swe) 74, 14. Tai Woffinden (Gbr) 49, 15. Emil Sayfutdinov (Rus) 33 (injured during campaign), 16. Davey Watt (Aus) 19 (injured during campaign).
Sunday 10 October 2010
Japanese Grand Prix Result
After bad weather postponed qualifying yesterday in the Japanese Grand Prix, today proved to be a hectic one with qualifying and racing in the same day. Here's the result:
1.Vettel (Red Bull), 2.Webber (Red Bull), 3.Alonso (Ferrari), 4.Button (McLaren), 5.Hamilton (McLaren), 6.Schumacher (Mercedes), 7.Kobayashi (Sauber), 8.Heidfeld (Sauber), 9.Barrichello (Williams), 10.Buemi (Toro Rosso), 11.Alguersuari (Toro Rosso), 12.Kovalainen (Lotus), 13.Trulli (Lotus), 14.Glock (Virgin), 15.Senna (Hispania), 16.Yamamoto (Hispania), 17.Rosberg (Mercedes) Retired: Sutil (Force India), Kubica (Renault), Hulkenberg (Williams), Massa (Ferrari), Petrov (Renault), Liuzzi (Force India), Di Grassi (Virgin).
This leaves Webber still in first place on 220 points but is only 14 points ahead of both Alonso and now teammate Vettel. Hamilton is now 28 points behind and needs to win a race with Webber not scoring and the others to also drop points, Button has the slightest of hopes left on 189, a further three points behind.
1.Vettel (Red Bull), 2.Webber (Red Bull), 3.Alonso (Ferrari), 4.Button (McLaren), 5.Hamilton (McLaren), 6.Schumacher (Mercedes), 7.Kobayashi (Sauber), 8.Heidfeld (Sauber), 9.Barrichello (Williams), 10.Buemi (Toro Rosso), 11.Alguersuari (Toro Rosso), 12.Kovalainen (Lotus), 13.Trulli (Lotus), 14.Glock (Virgin), 15.Senna (Hispania), 16.Yamamoto (Hispania), 17.Rosberg (Mercedes) Retired: Sutil (Force India), Kubica (Renault), Hulkenberg (Williams), Massa (Ferrari), Petrov (Renault), Liuzzi (Force India), Di Grassi (Virgin).
This leaves Webber still in first place on 220 points but is only 14 points ahead of both Alonso and now teammate Vettel. Hamilton is now 28 points behind and needs to win a race with Webber not scoring and the others to also drop points, Button has the slightest of hopes left on 189, a further three points behind.
World Grand Prix Darts: Day 6
The penultimate day of the World Grand Prix witnessed the two semi-finals and also witnessed Phil 'The Power' Taylor lose to his protege Adrian 'Jackpot' Lewis. With the semi-finals now first to five sets Taylor was on the brink of winning the match at 4-2. Only he can know why he ended up losing 5-4 in the end, maybe it was tiredness after his epic battle against Anderson or maybe the partisan crowd got to him this time. But with Lewis into the final it means we are guaranteed a new World Grand Prix champion.
James Wade will be the other man to fight for the crown after he thrashed Barney 5-1; the first two sets went to the deciding leg which Wade won both. Wade then secured the third set before Barney restored some pride with a 170 checkout to seal the fourth set. Wade then went onto win the final two sets and will probably be favourite against Lewis in the final.
James Wade will be the other man to fight for the crown after he thrashed Barney 5-1; the first two sets went to the deciding leg which Wade won both. Wade then secured the third set before Barney restored some pride with a 170 checkout to seal the fourth set. Wade then went onto win the final two sets and will probably be favourite against Lewis in the final.
Saturday 9 October 2010
World Grand Prix Darts: Day 5
Day five was quarter finals day in Dublin yesterday where eight was to become four. The first quarter final was between Adrian 'Jackpot' Lewis and Wayne 'Woody' Jones; the quarter finals was now first to four sets and Lewis stormed to a 2-0 lead. Jones replied in the third set winning it 3-0 but Lewis recovered and won the following two sets to win 4-1.
4-1 was the common result as Van Barneveld also progressed into the semi-finals with that scoreline; he was up against the pride of Wales, Barrie Bates. The Dutchman looked in full control and took the first three sets without breaking sweat. Bates took a consolation in the fourth to avoid being whitewashed but Barney won the following leg to make it to the semi-finals, just one win away from his third successive World Grand Prix Final.
James Wade will be the one to play Barney in the semi-finals after beating Scot Andy Hamilton by that familiar 4-1 scoreline. Wade started poorly and lost the first set but he regained his darting prowess to blitz through the following four sets to progress into the semi-finals.
The last quarter final was probably the best match of the tournament so far, Phil Taylor was in his biggest battle for a long long time against Gary Anderson. For once, Taylor had to suffer booing from the Irish crowd as they were hoping for an Anderson win, which nearly came. Taylor won the first set and looked to carry out another whitewash, however Anderson fought back and broke throw in the second set via a double two to take the second set. Taylor should have gone 2-1 ahead but surprisingly missed darts to finish and Anderson took full advantage to take the 2-1 lead. Anderson then went 2-0 ahead in the fourth set and should have gone 3-1 ahead but nerves got the better of him and Taylor fought back to level the score at 2-2. Again Anderson went 2-0 ahead in the fifth set but Taylor again pegged him back to 2-2 which included the 'Power' being one dart away from the first ever televised nine darter from a 501 double start. But Anderson held his throw and went 3-2 ahead, but it was soon 3-3 as Taylor found a 3-0 sixth set win. Anderson looked tired and without a break in between the sixth and seventh sets he looked to be running on empty; Anderson failed start on his throw and Taylor punished him to win 4-3 and progress into the semi-finals where he'll meet his protege Lewis.
4-1 was the common result as Van Barneveld also progressed into the semi-finals with that scoreline; he was up against the pride of Wales, Barrie Bates. The Dutchman looked in full control and took the first three sets without breaking sweat. Bates took a consolation in the fourth to avoid being whitewashed but Barney won the following leg to make it to the semi-finals, just one win away from his third successive World Grand Prix Final.
James Wade will be the one to play Barney in the semi-finals after beating Scot Andy Hamilton by that familiar 4-1 scoreline. Wade started poorly and lost the first set but he regained his darting prowess to blitz through the following four sets to progress into the semi-finals.
The last quarter final was probably the best match of the tournament so far, Phil Taylor was in his biggest battle for a long long time against Gary Anderson. For once, Taylor had to suffer booing from the Irish crowd as they were hoping for an Anderson win, which nearly came. Taylor won the first set and looked to carry out another whitewash, however Anderson fought back and broke throw in the second set via a double two to take the second set. Taylor should have gone 2-1 ahead but surprisingly missed darts to finish and Anderson took full advantage to take the 2-1 lead. Anderson then went 2-0 ahead in the fourth set and should have gone 3-1 ahead but nerves got the better of him and Taylor fought back to level the score at 2-2. Again Anderson went 2-0 ahead in the fifth set but Taylor again pegged him back to 2-2 which included the 'Power' being one dart away from the first ever televised nine darter from a 501 double start. But Anderson held his throw and went 3-2 ahead, but it was soon 3-3 as Taylor found a 3-0 sixth set win. Anderson looked tired and without a break in between the sixth and seventh sets he looked to be running on empty; Anderson failed start on his throw and Taylor punished him to win 4-3 and progress into the semi-finals where he'll meet his protege Lewis.
Friday 8 October 2010
Premier League Snooker: Week 4
The Premier League headed to Brentwood in Essex for the fourth week of play. The first of two games was between Mark Selby and Ding Junhui, Selby was playing his third game while Ding was playing his fourth. Ding set out the fastest as he secured the first frame 123-0 via two visits, Selby only had two failed long shots. Selby was still without a pot halfway into the second frame as Ding went 44 ahead, but this time Selby took a chance and took the frame 70-49. Ding hit back again in the third with another whitewash of 78 to take a 2-1 lead, he then went onto secure the point in the fourth frame winning it 74-9. The game was over in the fifth frame as Ding secured victory with the first century break of the night, winning 103-1. Selby restored some pride in the final frame but missed out on a possible 147 and had to settle with a 97. This leaves Ding on four points from four games with Selby on two from three.
The other game of the night saw Ronnie O'Sullivan take on Shaun Murphy; there was tension in the air as Murphy had branded Ronnie as pathetic and offensive after Ronnie was forced to complete a 147 in the World Open. The tension was very much apparent in the first frame as both players missed easy shots. It looked like Murphy had secured the frame with a fluke but he then missed a blue which allowed Ronnie to win the frame 71-66. Murphy hit back in the second frame with a break of 90 to win 104-5 but Ronnie missed out on a century in the third as he missed the final red on the table and had to settle with 93. Again Murphy equalised in the fourth with a 72 break to Ronnie's 15 and then Murphy secured the point in the penultimate frame after Ronnie missed a green, he played the shot with the rest up in the air to the bemusement of the commentators, this allowed Murphy to win 64-51. However like his previous two matches, Ronnie won the final frame to secure a point and just like against Fu he did it with a century break, this one being a 110. This leaves both players on three points from three games but Ronnie is still yet to win a match.
The other game of the night saw Ronnie O'Sullivan take on Shaun Murphy; there was tension in the air as Murphy had branded Ronnie as pathetic and offensive after Ronnie was forced to complete a 147 in the World Open. The tension was very much apparent in the first frame as both players missed easy shots. It looked like Murphy had secured the frame with a fluke but he then missed a blue which allowed Ronnie to win the frame 71-66. Murphy hit back in the second frame with a break of 90 to win 104-5 but Ronnie missed out on a century in the third as he missed the final red on the table and had to settle with 93. Again Murphy equalised in the fourth with a 72 break to Ronnie's 15 and then Murphy secured the point in the penultimate frame after Ronnie missed a green, he played the shot with the rest up in the air to the bemusement of the commentators, this allowed Murphy to win 64-51. However like his previous two matches, Ronnie won the final frame to secure a point and just like against Fu he did it with a century break, this one being a 110. This leaves both players on three points from three games but Ronnie is still yet to win a match.
World Grand Prix Darts: Day 4
Day four saw the remaining four second ties in Dublin, three of the 'big four' competed and results were very much similar to the previous night. World number two Raymond Van Barneveld took to the stage against Mark Walsh in the opening game; Barney stormed to a 2-0 lead over Walsh and it looked as easy as that. However the Dutchman stepped off the gas in the third set and allowed Walsh to pull a set back. Van Barneveld learnt from that mistake a re-put his foot on the gas to take the fourth set and progress into the quarter finals.
Aussie Simon Whitlock was next of the 'big four' to take to the stage against Scot Andy Hamilton. Whitlock didn't look comfortable with this format in the first round and it showed again here; Whitlock should've took the first set but failed to checkout and thus found himself behind. The Aussie bounced back in the second to level the match and again should've won the third but again ended up losing it. Whitlock did level again in the fourth to take the match to a deciding set which Hamilton won 3-1.
World number three James wade will take on Hamilton in the quarter finals after he beat Colin Osbourne. Wade won the first five legs and should have taken a 2-0 lead but possibly the slowest dart thrower around, Osbourne, came back to win the next three legs and level the score at 1-1. Wade was angered and stormed the next two sets to win 3-1.
The final match of the night saw another nail biter between Wes Newton and Barrie Bates; the Welshman Bates was never behind in the match but was forced to a deciding set by the fighting Newton. Bates took the first leg before being pegged back and Newton won against the throw to make it 2-2. This made Newton the favourite in the final leg as he had the darts, but he couldn't start straight off and Bates took full advantage. Bates won the final leg and will Barney in the quarter finals.
Aussie Simon Whitlock was next of the 'big four' to take to the stage against Scot Andy Hamilton. Whitlock didn't look comfortable with this format in the first round and it showed again here; Whitlock should've took the first set but failed to checkout and thus found himself behind. The Aussie bounced back in the second to level the match and again should've won the third but again ended up losing it. Whitlock did level again in the fourth to take the match to a deciding set which Hamilton won 3-1.
World number three James wade will take on Hamilton in the quarter finals after he beat Colin Osbourne. Wade won the first five legs and should have taken a 2-0 lead but possibly the slowest dart thrower around, Osbourne, came back to win the next three legs and level the score at 1-1. Wade was angered and stormed the next two sets to win 3-1.
The final match of the night saw another nail biter between Wes Newton and Barrie Bates; the Welshman Bates was never behind in the match but was forced to a deciding set by the fighting Newton. Bates took the first leg before being pegged back and Newton won against the throw to make it 2-2. This made Newton the favourite in the final leg as he had the darts, but he couldn't start straight off and Bates took full advantage. Bates won the final leg and will Barney in the quarter finals.
Thursday 7 October 2010
World Grand Prix Darts: Day 3
Day 3 saw the first four second round ties with a split of results; either really close or completely the opposite. There was also an extension as all second round games were first to three sets. The night opened with giant killer Wayne Jones against postman Steve Brown; it looked a little easier for Jones this round as he dispatched Brown 3-0.
It wasn't as easy in the second game as Terry Jenkins took on Adrian Lewis; although Jenkins was never in front in the whole match he did take Lewis into a final leg decider in the fifth set. The first three sets weren't of best darting quality from either player as a lot of legs were won against throw. The final two sets saw some glimpses of darting genius however with Jenkins making 300 in six darts and Lewis taking out a 140 with a treble 20 followed by two double twenties. Lewis managed to win the deciding leg in the fifth set to mark his place in the quarter final for the third time of his career so far, where he will play Jones.
Taylor easy run continued against 'Pieman' Andy Smith; Taylor wasn't at his best by any means in the first set and even dropped a leg. But Smith just wasn't good enough to take advantage of Taylor's poor start and the 'Power' still ran through Smith winning 3-0.
The final match of the night saw another nail biter between Gary Anderson and Kevin Painter to determine who would face Taylor in the quarter finals. Again this match needed a final leg in the fifth set to decide who would progress. The nerves showed as both players missed that vital double to win the match, Anderson had even put his darts back into his pocket expecting Painter to finish it off. He didn't and Anderson, bewildered, stepped back up to the oche and made Painter pay to progress into the quarter final.
It wasn't as easy in the second game as Terry Jenkins took on Adrian Lewis; although Jenkins was never in front in the whole match he did take Lewis into a final leg decider in the fifth set. The first three sets weren't of best darting quality from either player as a lot of legs were won against throw. The final two sets saw some glimpses of darting genius however with Jenkins making 300 in six darts and Lewis taking out a 140 with a treble 20 followed by two double twenties. Lewis managed to win the deciding leg in the fifth set to mark his place in the quarter final for the third time of his career so far, where he will play Jones.
Taylor easy run continued against 'Pieman' Andy Smith; Taylor wasn't at his best by any means in the first set and even dropped a leg. But Smith just wasn't good enough to take advantage of Taylor's poor start and the 'Power' still ran through Smith winning 3-0.
The final match of the night saw another nail biter between Gary Anderson and Kevin Painter to determine who would face Taylor in the quarter finals. Again this match needed a final leg in the fifth set to decide who would progress. The nerves showed as both players missed that vital double to win the match, Anderson had even put his darts back into his pocket expecting Painter to finish it off. He didn't and Anderson, bewildered, stepped back up to the oche and made Painter pay to progress into the quarter final.
Wednesday 6 October 2010
World Grand Prix Darts: Day 2
If the first day of the World Grand Prix seemed rather close then day two was the opposite, as only one game finished 2-1. Three of the four Irish qualifiers competed and like Brendan Dolan on Monday they all suffered the same fate.
Day 2 opened with Andy Hamilton taking on Dennis Priestly; the veteran Preistly made a hard fought go of it but still lost 2-0 to Hamilton. Priestly was ahead in both sets but couldn't keep the lead and that was what ultimately cost him a place in the second round. Mark Walsh then perhaps caused a little surprise when he saw off another veteran in Denis Ovens, again winning 2-0. However it wasn't as close as the previous match with Ovens not taking a leg until the second set.
The only 2-1 finish was Colin Osbourne beating Dutchman Co Stompe; Stompe should have took the opening set from 2-0 ahead but failed before equalising in the second set. Osbourne then went on to win the deciding third set 3-1. Wes Newton probably produced the best form of the night when he demolished Colin Lloyd 2-0; he managed to win six out of seven legs in his most clinical performance on TV.
World number three James Wade also had a comfortable win over Irish qualifier Mick McGowan, Wade also managed to win six out of seven legs though he clearly wasn't at his best. Neither was the World's number two Raymond Van Barneveld who also won six out of seven legs against 69 year old Irish qualifier John MacGowan. The veteran did give one leg away after he miscounted a 49 and checked out a 39!
The penultimate match of the night and possibly the most anticipated of the round was the all Aussie tie between Simon Whitlock and Paul Nicholson. Unfortunately the game didn't really live up to it's prominent build up with both players struggling to start with doubles. Whitlock though did slightly better than Nicholson and saw off the up-and-coming Geordie-Aussie 2-0.
The final game of the night saw the final Irish qualifier beat the dust; Welshman Barrie Bates silenced the partisan crowd beating another up-and-coming star William O'Connor with another 2-0 scoreline. It looked like the pressure of the home crowd got to O'Connor and he looked like a rabbit in the headlights, unfortunately for Ireland.
Day 2 opened with Andy Hamilton taking on Dennis Priestly; the veteran Preistly made a hard fought go of it but still lost 2-0 to Hamilton. Priestly was ahead in both sets but couldn't keep the lead and that was what ultimately cost him a place in the second round. Mark Walsh then perhaps caused a little surprise when he saw off another veteran in Denis Ovens, again winning 2-0. However it wasn't as close as the previous match with Ovens not taking a leg until the second set.
The only 2-1 finish was Colin Osbourne beating Dutchman Co Stompe; Stompe should have took the opening set from 2-0 ahead but failed before equalising in the second set. Osbourne then went on to win the deciding third set 3-1. Wes Newton probably produced the best form of the night when he demolished Colin Lloyd 2-0; he managed to win six out of seven legs in his most clinical performance on TV.
World number three James Wade also had a comfortable win over Irish qualifier Mick McGowan, Wade also managed to win six out of seven legs though he clearly wasn't at his best. Neither was the World's number two Raymond Van Barneveld who also won six out of seven legs against 69 year old Irish qualifier John MacGowan. The veteran did give one leg away after he miscounted a 49 and checked out a 39!
The penultimate match of the night and possibly the most anticipated of the round was the all Aussie tie between Simon Whitlock and Paul Nicholson. Unfortunately the game didn't really live up to it's prominent build up with both players struggling to start with doubles. Whitlock though did slightly better than Nicholson and saw off the up-and-coming Geordie-Aussie 2-0.
The final game of the night saw the final Irish qualifier beat the dust; Welshman Barrie Bates silenced the partisan crowd beating another up-and-coming star William O'Connor with another 2-0 scoreline. It looked like the pressure of the home crowd got to O'Connor and he looked like a rabbit in the headlights, unfortunately for Ireland.
Tuesday 5 October 2010
World Grand Prix Darts: Day 1
Dublin witnessed the opening day to the Grand Prix of Darts, as usual there was all the Darting thrills, spills and upsets that we all enjoy to watch. The Grand Prix incorporates an unusual format in the way that they play 501 with double to start, the first round is first to two sets with a player needing to win three legs to win the set. The players consist of the top 16 players with 12 Players Championship qualifiers along with 4 Irish qualifiers to make the 32 strong field.
The 'Pieman' Andy Smith opened the night against fellow Players Championship qualifier Jamie 'Jabba' Caven. Caven took the opening set and looked set to win the match but Smith equalised in the second set and took the third set 3-2 to progress into the next round.
The first big name player Terry 'The Bull' Jenkins faced a hard first round match against Dutch Players Championship qualifier Vincent Van Der Voort. Van Der Voort went 2-0 ahead in the first set only for Jenkins to recover and take the set. Van Der Voort had no response and soon lost the second set to see Jenkins through to Round 2.
Two up and coming players took to the oche in the shape of Steve Brown and Steve Farmer, Brown eventually won the game 2-1. Adrian Lewis made a hard job against Alan Tabern, Lewis took the first set after losing the first leg but then Tabern equalised. Lewis then romped past Tabern in the deciding set to set up a second round tie against Terry Jenkins.
The biggest game of the night saw Scot Gary Anderson take on The 'Rocket' Ronnie Baxter. Baxter won the first set and took a 2-0 lead in the second, however Anderson fought back to win 2-1 to put Baxter out at the first hurdle.
Defending Champion Phil Taylor whitewashed Brendan Dolan, Taylor won all six legs with considerable ease to set up a second round tie against Andy Smith. Kevin Painter just about held his nerve to see off Mark Dudbridge, Painter came through winning 2-1 with the match going into a third set decider.
The shock and final game of the night saw Mervyn King lose to Welshman Wayne Jones 2-1 after Mervyn King took the first set.
The 'Pieman' Andy Smith opened the night against fellow Players Championship qualifier Jamie 'Jabba' Caven. Caven took the opening set and looked set to win the match but Smith equalised in the second set and took the third set 3-2 to progress into the next round.
The first big name player Terry 'The Bull' Jenkins faced a hard first round match against Dutch Players Championship qualifier Vincent Van Der Voort. Van Der Voort went 2-0 ahead in the first set only for Jenkins to recover and take the set. Van Der Voort had no response and soon lost the second set to see Jenkins through to Round 2.
Two up and coming players took to the oche in the shape of Steve Brown and Steve Farmer, Brown eventually won the game 2-1. Adrian Lewis made a hard job against Alan Tabern, Lewis took the first set after losing the first leg but then Tabern equalised. Lewis then romped past Tabern in the deciding set to set up a second round tie against Terry Jenkins.
The biggest game of the night saw Scot Gary Anderson take on The 'Rocket' Ronnie Baxter. Baxter won the first set and took a 2-0 lead in the second, however Anderson fought back to win 2-1 to put Baxter out at the first hurdle.
Defending Champion Phil Taylor whitewashed Brendan Dolan, Taylor won all six legs with considerable ease to set up a second round tie against Andy Smith. Kevin Painter just about held his nerve to see off Mark Dudbridge, Painter came through winning 2-1 with the match going into a third set decider.
The shock and final game of the night saw Mervyn King lose to Welshman Wayne Jones 2-1 after Mervyn King took the first set.
Sunday 3 October 2010
Barclays Premier League Round-Up: 2-3/10/10
Another big weekend in the Premier League took place this weekend with more shock results and a few questionable decisions. All teams now have a two week international break so they can take stock and build from their start to this season's campaign:
Saturday's early kick-off saw struggling Wigan take on 'Dirty' Wolves at the DW Stadium. Mick McCarthy had defending his team's 'physical' nature and told everyone that Wolves were not a dirty team. However that speech went down the drain after just ten minutes when captain Karl Henry saw red after a reckless challenge that Jordi Gomez was lucky to walk away from. That man advantage didn't pay off though until the 65th minute when Gomez put Wigan ahead. Hugo Rodallega finished the game off five minutes from the end to give Wigan a good Saturday all round.
Rafael Van Der Vaart was in the mix again at White Hart Lane as Tottenham took on Aston Villa. Marc Albrighton put the visitors off before Heskey had to leave the field due to injury. Van Der Vaart equalised for Spurs just before half-time and then won the game fifteen minutes from the end.
West Brom and Bolton shared the spoils at The Hawthorns; Johann Elmander put the visitors ahead after 64 minutes. James Morrison provided the equaliser twelve minutes from time. West Ham and Fulham also finished 1-1; Rob Green met his World Cup nemesis again as Clint Dempsey put Fulham ahead after 33 minutes. Frederic Piquionne Equalised for the Hammers six minutes into the second half.
Everton won their first game of the season away to Birmingham City; Roger Johnson scored an own goal in a scramble nine minutes into the second half. Tim Cahill sealed the victory in stoppage time to take Everton out of the bottom three on goal difference. Jonathan Walters' first Premier League goal in the 48th minute saw Stoke beat Blackburn 1-0 at the Britannia.
The final game on Saturday started twenty minutes after everybody else at the Stadium of Light. Visitors Manchester United had a burst pipe in their dressing room which caused the delay. However the game wasn't a classic and in fact Sunderland were unlucky not to win as Manchester United somehow remain unbeaten with a 0-0 draw here.
Sunday's opening game saw Manchester City move into second place with a controversial win against Newcastle. City were awarded a penalty for a tackle that was clearly outside the box and even questionably a foul. Tevez stepped up and converted the penalty after 18 minutes. Jonas Gutierrez equalised for Newcastle after 24 minutes with a beautiful half volley. Newcastle were then unlucky not to be awarded a penalty themselves in the second half before substitute Adam Johnson scored a magnificent solo goal with quarter of an hour remaining, just minutes after coming on.
Liverpool's season got even worse as Blackpool secured a 2-1 win at Anfield. Captain Charlie Adam scored a penalty just before the half hour mark, Luke Varney then doubled Blackpool's advantage just before half-time. Sotirios Kyrgiakos pulled one back for Liverpool after 53 minutes but they couldn't muster a equaliser as Liverpool now slip into the bottom three.
The big game saw Chelsea take on Arsenal at Stamford Bridge; Arsenal started the batter but Didier Drogba score a fortuitous opener after 39 minutes. Arsenal had no reply and Alex scored a screamer of a free-kick to seal the win with five minutes remaining.
Saturday's early kick-off saw struggling Wigan take on 'Dirty' Wolves at the DW Stadium. Mick McCarthy had defending his team's 'physical' nature and told everyone that Wolves were not a dirty team. However that speech went down the drain after just ten minutes when captain Karl Henry saw red after a reckless challenge that Jordi Gomez was lucky to walk away from. That man advantage didn't pay off though until the 65th minute when Gomez put Wigan ahead. Hugo Rodallega finished the game off five minutes from the end to give Wigan a good Saturday all round.
Rafael Van Der Vaart was in the mix again at White Hart Lane as Tottenham took on Aston Villa. Marc Albrighton put the visitors off before Heskey had to leave the field due to injury. Van Der Vaart equalised for Spurs just before half-time and then won the game fifteen minutes from the end.
West Brom and Bolton shared the spoils at The Hawthorns; Johann Elmander put the visitors ahead after 64 minutes. James Morrison provided the equaliser twelve minutes from time. West Ham and Fulham also finished 1-1; Rob Green met his World Cup nemesis again as Clint Dempsey put Fulham ahead after 33 minutes. Frederic Piquionne Equalised for the Hammers six minutes into the second half.
Everton won their first game of the season away to Birmingham City; Roger Johnson scored an own goal in a scramble nine minutes into the second half. Tim Cahill sealed the victory in stoppage time to take Everton out of the bottom three on goal difference. Jonathan Walters' first Premier League goal in the 48th minute saw Stoke beat Blackburn 1-0 at the Britannia.
The final game on Saturday started twenty minutes after everybody else at the Stadium of Light. Visitors Manchester United had a burst pipe in their dressing room which caused the delay. However the game wasn't a classic and in fact Sunderland were unlucky not to win as Manchester United somehow remain unbeaten with a 0-0 draw here.
Sunday's opening game saw Manchester City move into second place with a controversial win against Newcastle. City were awarded a penalty for a tackle that was clearly outside the box and even questionably a foul. Tevez stepped up and converted the penalty after 18 minutes. Jonas Gutierrez equalised for Newcastle after 24 minutes with a beautiful half volley. Newcastle were then unlucky not to be awarded a penalty themselves in the second half before substitute Adam Johnson scored a magnificent solo goal with quarter of an hour remaining, just minutes after coming on.
Liverpool's season got even worse as Blackpool secured a 2-1 win at Anfield. Captain Charlie Adam scored a penalty just before the half hour mark, Luke Varney then doubled Blackpool's advantage just before half-time. Sotirios Kyrgiakos pulled one back for Liverpool after 53 minutes but they couldn't muster a equaliser as Liverpool now slip into the bottom three.
The big game saw Chelsea take on Arsenal at Stamford Bridge; Arsenal started the batter but Didier Drogba score a fortuitous opener after 39 minutes. Arsenal had no reply and Alex scored a screamer of a free-kick to seal the win with five minutes remaining.
Friday 1 October 2010
Premier League Snooker: Week 3
Yesterday the Premier League Snooker arrived in Preston at the Guild Hall. After taking a week's break because of the World Open last week there were three games to wet the appetite. The first was between Marco Fu and defending champion Shaun Murphy; Fu looked a little uncomfortable in the first frame when one of his opening shots was missed because of the dreaded beeps from the shot clock. Murphy could only make a 55 break which wasn't enough as Fu came back to win the first frame 76-55. Murphy hit back in the second frame requiring two visits before winning 84-0. He then took the lead after Fu wasted a time-out which allowed Murphy to take the frame 83-0. The fourth frame was a real battle of snooker as both players were snookering each other at every available opportunity, Fu just managed to level the scores again winning 68-54. Fu then guaranteed himself a point after taking the fifth frame 72-1 and then Murphy missed a frame winning pink to draw the match which allowed Fu to take both match points with a 60-55 win. Fu now has three points from two games and Murphy has two.
The second match was a re-match of last week's quarter final between Ding Junhui and Mark Williams, the Welshman won the World Open match 3-2. Ding missed a red which ultimately cost him the first frame as Williams won 76-36. A 73 break saw Williams take a two-nil lead winning the frame 90-0. Ding fought back to win the third frame 68-21 and then levelled it a 2-2 after Williams missed a black to let Ding win 65-16. Just like last week Williams then earned himself at least a point in a scrappy frame, winning it 16-63 to take it to 3-2. However unlike last week there was still a frame to play and Ding won it 77-5 to finish the score off at 3-3. This gives Ding two points from three games and Williams has three points from two games.
The final game of the night saw World Champion and last week's World Open winner Neil Robertson start his Premier League campaign against the Masters Champion Mark Selby. It was a real old fashioned snooker game and Robertson failed to get going in the first frame as Selby won it 67-25. The second frame had a threat of a re-rack as both players were playing ultra defensively, eventually Robertson took the frame 79-8. The third frame didn't get any more offensive but when Selby was given an opportunity he took it with both hands, winning it 108-0 with a 104 break, the first century break of the night. Selby then guaranteed himself a point winning yet another defensive frame 74-55. Robertson kept his hopes of a point alive winning the fifth frame 78-0. However the chances of the 'Thunder From Down Under' levelling the score was lowered straight form the break as he potted the cue ball. Selby then took the final frame with a second century break of 119 to win 123-0 in the frame and 4-2 overall. This leaves Robertson without a point after just one match and Selby on two points from two games.
The second match was a re-match of last week's quarter final between Ding Junhui and Mark Williams, the Welshman won the World Open match 3-2. Ding missed a red which ultimately cost him the first frame as Williams won 76-36. A 73 break saw Williams take a two-nil lead winning the frame 90-0. Ding fought back to win the third frame 68-21 and then levelled it a 2-2 after Williams missed a black to let Ding win 65-16. Just like last week Williams then earned himself at least a point in a scrappy frame, winning it 16-63 to take it to 3-2. However unlike last week there was still a frame to play and Ding won it 77-5 to finish the score off at 3-3. This gives Ding two points from three games and Williams has three points from two games.
The final game of the night saw World Champion and last week's World Open winner Neil Robertson start his Premier League campaign against the Masters Champion Mark Selby. It was a real old fashioned snooker game and Robertson failed to get going in the first frame as Selby won it 67-25. The second frame had a threat of a re-rack as both players were playing ultra defensively, eventually Robertson took the frame 79-8. The third frame didn't get any more offensive but when Selby was given an opportunity he took it with both hands, winning it 108-0 with a 104 break, the first century break of the night. Selby then guaranteed himself a point winning yet another defensive frame 74-55. Robertson kept his hopes of a point alive winning the fifth frame 78-0. However the chances of the 'Thunder From Down Under' levelling the score was lowered straight form the break as he potted the cue ball. Selby then took the final frame with a second century break of 119 to win 123-0 in the frame and 4-2 overall. This leaves Robertson without a point after just one match and Selby on two points from two games.
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