Wigan 2-0 QPR: Wigan win their first game of the season against the third promoted team. It would seem that QPR cannot play away from home as they have lost 6-0 on aggregate. QPR were unlucky as they hit the woodwork on numerous occasions. Franco Di Santo had only scored twice for Wigan in thirty-two games but scored both goals on 41 and 66 minutes. Wigan remain unbeaten but have only played the promoted sides.
Blackburn 0-1 Everton: Everton win their first game of the season in a tale of three penalties. Blackburn were awarded the first penalty when Formica was tripped by Barkley just a minute into the second half. Hoilett stepped up but Howard saved the spot kick. Blackburn were then awarded a second penalty seven minutes from time when Formica went down easily over a Jagielka leg. Formica stepped up but hit the post to keep it at 0-0. Everton were then awarded their own penalty when Samba put his arms on Fellaini's shoulders to lever himself up to clear the ball. Mikel Arteta stepped up and converted in injury time to give Everton the win.
Liverpool 3-1 Bolton: Liverpool remain unbeaten with two wins and a draw. Jordan Henderson gave Liverpool the lead after fifteen minutes with his first goal at the club. There were two goals in a minute as both Skrtel and Adam found the net on 52 and 53 minutes to make it 3-0. Ivan Klasnic scored his third goal of the season to give Bolton a consolation in injury time.
Chelsea 3-1 Norwich: Chelsea were initially pushed hard by Norwich but the home side remain unbeaten on seven points. Jose Bosingwa gave Chelsea the lead after just six minutes. Norwich then equalised three minutes past the hour when Holt was put through on goal after an error from Ivanovic. Drogba was then knocked unconscious by Norwich keeper Ruddy as he punched a ball away. Drogba was out for six minutes and was stretchered off with a bloodied face. It got worse for Ruddy as he was then sent off ten minutes from time when he brought Ramires down in the box. Lampard stepped up and placed the penalty past substitute keeper Declan Rudd. Chelsea finished the game in injury time with Juan Mata getting a goal on his debut.
Swansea 0-0 Sunderland: Stalemate in Wales as Swansea still haven't scored a goal in the Premiership. Sunderland made a lot of decent chances but failed to convert them.
Newcastle 2-1 Fulham: Newcastle show no signs of missing Barton with the win over Fulham. Leon Best put Newcastle ahead three minutes into the second half before the doubling the score on 66 minutes. Fulham pulled a goal back two minutes before the end through Dempsey but Newcastle held onto the win.
West Brom 0-1 Stoke: West Brom are still without any points with defeat at home to Stoke. Ryan Shotton scored the only goal of the game with a minute left, getting to the ball just before foster could put his hands fully on it.
Tottenham 1-5 Man City: City were looking likely to be top of the table on nine points with a goal difference of plus nine, before rivals United hammered Spurs' rivals Arsenal. Edin Dzeko couldn't hit a barn door last season, but he scored four of the five goals, taking his tally to six already this season. He opened the scoring after 34 minutes before making it 2-0 four minutes before half time. Dzeko then scored his hat-trick ten minutes after the restart before Aguero scored his second of the season on the hour mark to make it 4-0. Kaboul pulled one back for Tottenham after 68 minutes before Dzeko finished off the rout in injury time. Sunday turned out to be a great day for Manchester, an abysmal one for North London.
Monday 29 August 2011
Simply Astonishing
Manchester United line-up: De Gea, Smalling, Jones, Evans Y, Evra (c), Nani (Giggs, 68'), Anderson (Park, 68'), Cleverley, Young Y, Rooney, Welbeck (Hernandez, 36')
Arsenal line-up: Szczesny, Djourou Y, Koscielny, Jenkinson R, Traore, Ramsey, Coquelin (Oxlade-Chamberlain, 62'), Rosicky, Walcott, Arshavin Y, Van Perise (c)
It's not often a game involving two top teams finishes with ten goals and a complete humiliation. Arsenal have been in free fall so far this season and got battered 8-2 by a rampant Manchester United. Arsenal haven't conceded eight since the 1800s and it's their worst defeat since United beat them 6-1 in 2001.
The game started with United on top but not doing enough to alert Szczesny. Arsenal managed to get a foothold on the game after quarter of an hour but Arshavin got booked for studs in challenge on Jones, the first of many poor Arshavin touches. It took twenty-two minutes before the deadlock was broken, Anderson played a chipped ball over the top of the defence, the defenders failed to deal with it and Welbeck headed home from three yards to make it two goals in two.
Arsenal then had a great chance to level the score three minutes later when Evans brought Walcott down needlessly when the ball was going out for a goal kick. The penalty was rightly given and Evans was shown a yellow as it wasn't a goal scoring opportunity. Van Perise stepped up but De Gea came of age as he managed to save the spot kick. Just a minute later, Ashley Young curled a fantastic shot over Szczesny from twenty yards to double United's lead with twenty-eight minutes played. De Gea then kept United a 2-0 with a great double save from Arshavin and Van Perise. Unfortunately, Welbeck had to be substituted with a hamstring injury but Hernandez isn't exactly the worst sub to bring on.
Arshavin continued to have a torrid time and blazed a shot well over the United goal. Jenkinson received his first of two yellow cards five minutes before half-time with a late challenge on Young. The resulting free-kick was curled over the wall and into the net by Rooney to make it 3-0. Arsenal were given a glimmer of hope in injury time however when Walcott's shot went through the legs of De Gea, another blunder by the young Spaniard.
Arsenal started the second half a lot brighter and the next goal was crucial for the outcome of the match. United started playing ambitiously, leading to wasted chances by Nani, Hernandez and Rooney. But De Gea managed to pull off saves from Van Persie to keep the game at 3-1. United then 4-1 up after 64 minutes with Rooney curling in another brilliant free-kick past Szczesny. It was then 5-1 just three minutes later with Rooney feeding Nani in and Nani chipped the ball over the diving Szczesny to heap more humiliation onto Arsenal.
United then made the double substitution as Park and Giggs were introduced to the game. The Korean has enjoyed scoring against Arsenal in recent encounters and it took him just two minutes to make it 6-1 after Rooney had just hit the post following a chip. Park had all the freedom in the box, allowing him to slot the ball into the bottom corner.
But United were guilty of some poor defending and Van Persie managed to earn a second for Arsenal from short range, 74 minutes had been played. If anyone thought it couldn't have got any worse for Arsenal, it did; Jenkinson brought Hernandez down who was clearly through on goal and had to be shown a second yellow card, making it three reds in three games for Arsenal. It was then 7-2 with eight minutes remaining after Walcott tripped Evra in the box for a United penalty, Rooney stepped up and scored his hat-trick. It was then finished off in injury time with Young curling in another fantastic shot to make it 8-2 in this utterly astounding game.
Insparing One-Two For Red Bull
Red Bull earned their first one-two finish since the Turkish Grand Prix. Vettel started first and finished first, but didn't have it quite that easy in a fantastic GP. Webber made the tyres stick to complete the one-two but Button came from thirteenth to grab a podium place. Hamilton crashed out but the ride of the day went to Michael Schumacher who started twenty-fourth and finished fifth.
The news before the race was that Maldonado had been given a five place grid penalty for his part in the coming together with Hamilton in qualifying. After the second corner of the race it was actually Nico Rosberg who led the Grand Prix. Webber had yet another dreadful start which saw him drop to eighth, leaving Massa to take third place. There was a lot of contact through the mid-field on the first turn and Alguersuari had his front wing and left axle broken, leaving him with no option but to retire. Alonso managed to overtake Hamilton on the second lap to move into fourth and Vettel regained the lead a lap later.
By lap five, Massa had fallen to fifth after initially battling Rosberg for second. The big story before the race was yet again the tyres, there had been huge amounts of blistering in the soft compound and Vettel had to pit as early as the sixth lap to change them. During this, Senna and Glock had received drive through penalties for causing a collision during that first corner. Buemi also had to retire to a broken rear wing.
By lap seven, Alonso had the lead with Hamilton in second. But just two laps later Webber had initially overtaken the Ferrari for seventh place but the Spaniard soon repaid the compliment. Vettel had the lead over Alonso and Hamilton by lap twelve but that was all soon to change. Hamilton had pitted and came out behind Kobayashi, Hamilton tried overtaking the Sauber but hadn't quite done enough before turning into the corner, the McLaren was shunted sideways before crashing through two polystyrene sponsor boards and ended up in the tyre wall. This resulted in the Safety Car, during which time Ricciardo also retired.
The Safety Car came in after lap seventeen and Vettel quickly overtook Webber for second place, setting his sights on Alonso who hadn't pitted during the Safety Car. A lap later and Vettel had regained the lead, meanwhile Perez had been given a drive through for causing a collision. Button managed to overtake Massa on lap twenty-five into fifth place and then overtook Rosberg a lap later.
By lap twenty-nine, Perez had retired due to a suspension failure to end his pretty sorry race. Vettel had again regained the lead by lap thirty-two. Webber managed to overtake Alonso due to his fresher tyres on lap thirty-seven to guarantee him second place, Button did the same on lap forty-two to steal the final podium place. Race result in full:
1.Vettel (Red Bull), 2.Webber (Red Bull), 3.Button (McLaren), 4.Alonso (Ferrari), 5.Schumacher (Mercedes), 6.Rosberg (Mercedes), 7.Sutil (Force India), 8.Massa (Ferrari), 9.Petrov (Renault), 10.Maldonado (Williams), 11.Di Resta (Force India), 12.Kobayashi (Sauber), 13.Senna (Renault), 14.Trulli (Lotus), 15.Kovalainen (Lotus), 16.Barrichello (Williams), 17.D'Ambrosio (Virgin), 18.Glock (Virgin), 19.Liuzzi (Hispania), DNF: Alguersuari (Toro Rosso), Buemi (Toro Rosso), Hamilton (McLaren), Ricciardo (Hispania), Perez (Sauber)
The news before the race was that Maldonado had been given a five place grid penalty for his part in the coming together with Hamilton in qualifying. After the second corner of the race it was actually Nico Rosberg who led the Grand Prix. Webber had yet another dreadful start which saw him drop to eighth, leaving Massa to take third place. There was a lot of contact through the mid-field on the first turn and Alguersuari had his front wing and left axle broken, leaving him with no option but to retire. Alonso managed to overtake Hamilton on the second lap to move into fourth and Vettel regained the lead a lap later.
By lap five, Massa had fallen to fifth after initially battling Rosberg for second. The big story before the race was yet again the tyres, there had been huge amounts of blistering in the soft compound and Vettel had to pit as early as the sixth lap to change them. During this, Senna and Glock had received drive through penalties for causing a collision during that first corner. Buemi also had to retire to a broken rear wing.
By lap seven, Alonso had the lead with Hamilton in second. But just two laps later Webber had initially overtaken the Ferrari for seventh place but the Spaniard soon repaid the compliment. Vettel had the lead over Alonso and Hamilton by lap twelve but that was all soon to change. Hamilton had pitted and came out behind Kobayashi, Hamilton tried overtaking the Sauber but hadn't quite done enough before turning into the corner, the McLaren was shunted sideways before crashing through two polystyrene sponsor boards and ended up in the tyre wall. This resulted in the Safety Car, during which time Ricciardo also retired.
The Safety Car came in after lap seventeen and Vettel quickly overtook Webber for second place, setting his sights on Alonso who hadn't pitted during the Safety Car. A lap later and Vettel had regained the lead, meanwhile Perez had been given a drive through for causing a collision. Button managed to overtake Massa on lap twenty-five into fifth place and then overtook Rosberg a lap later.
By lap twenty-nine, Perez had retired due to a suspension failure to end his pretty sorry race. Vettel had again regained the lead by lap thirty-two. Webber managed to overtake Alonso due to his fresher tyres on lap thirty-seven to guarantee him second place, Button did the same on lap forty-two to steal the final podium place. Race result in full:
1.Vettel (Red Bull), 2.Webber (Red Bull), 3.Button (McLaren), 4.Alonso (Ferrari), 5.Schumacher (Mercedes), 6.Rosberg (Mercedes), 7.Sutil (Force India), 8.Massa (Ferrari), 9.Petrov (Renault), 10.Maldonado (Williams), 11.Di Resta (Force India), 12.Kobayashi (Sauber), 13.Senna (Renault), 14.Trulli (Lotus), 15.Kovalainen (Lotus), 16.Barrichello (Williams), 17.D'Ambrosio (Virgin), 18.Glock (Virgin), 19.Liuzzi (Hispania), DNF: Alguersuari (Toro Rosso), Buemi (Toro Rosso), Hamilton (McLaren), Ricciardo (Hispania), Perez (Sauber)
Polish SGP
If Andreas Jonsson had started the Speedway GP series in the same manner since the World Cup break, he'd be challenging Hancock and Hampel for the Championship. The eighth round of the SGP took place in Torun, Poland and the Swede took the chequered flag from Hampel. The final had to be restarted because wildcard and GP debutante, Darcy Ward, false started but all four riders were able to continue. He finished third ahead of Antonio Lindback.
Ward actually beat Jonsson in the semi-finals with both Gollob and Holta missing out on the chance to make it to the final. Hampel and Lindback prevented series leader Hancock from the final but he finished third ahead of Magnus Zetterstrom, who was deputising for the ill Kolodziej.
Heat 1: Hancock got off to the best possible start with a win over Holder, Sayfutdinov and Laguta.
Heat 2: Zetterstrom came back with a bang, beating Bjerre, Ward and Pedersen
Heat 3: Holta went down on the first corner, all four riders restarted and Gollob took the heat. Holta finished second ahead of Crump and Lindback.
Heat 4: Hampel finished ahead of Jonsson in first place. Lindgren beat Harris but the Brit would fail to score any points throughout the meeting.
Heat 5: Zetterstrom made it two from two with Crump second. Laguta actually managed to finish ahead of Harris, earning his only point of the night.
Heat 6: Hampel also made it two wins from two with rival Gollob second. Pedersen finished third with Holder fourth.
Heat 7: Lindback took the heat ahead of Sayfutdinov. Ward finished third with Lindgren fourth.
Heat 8: Jonsson beat Hancock with Holta third and Bjerre fourth.
Heat 9: Jonsson made it two consecutive wins ahead of fellow Swede Lindback. Pedersen finished ahead of Laguta.
Heat 10: Zetterstrom finished last, contrast to his first two heats. Holder took the heat ahead of Holta and Lindgren.
Heat 11: Hampel made it three wins from three. Bjerre came second with Sayfutdinov third and Crump fourth.
Heat 12: Darcy Ward won his first ever GP heat against series leader Hancock, reigning World Champion Gollob and Harris.
Heat 13: The nineteen year old Ward made it two consecutive heats ahead of Hampel. Holta easily beat Laguta.
Heat 14: Lindback won his second heat of the night with Holder second, Bjerre third and Harris fourth.
Heat 15: Gollob also won his second heat of the night. Sayfutdinov beat Jonsson to second whereas Zetterstrom had back to back fourth places.
Heat 16: Crump won his only heat of the night as he failed to qualify for the semi-finals. Hancock finished second with Pedersen third and Lindgren fourth.
Heat 17: Lindgren won the heat. Laguta lost control on the final corner and completely took Gollob off his bike. Fortunately, Gollob didn't suffer any serious damage and the referee awarded him the second place he would have had. Bjerre came third.
Heat 18: Jonsson took his third heat of the day ahead of Ward. Crump beat his fellow Aussie Holder to third place.
Heat 19: Pedersen won his only heat of the night. Holta finished second, Sayfutdinov third and Harris fourth.
Heat 20: Hancock won the final heat with his main Championship rival Hampel finishing fourth. Lindback took second with Zetterstrom third.
Jonsson won the meeting and earned the most points, twenty. Hampel finished on eighteen, five more than Hancock. Ward earned fifteen points in his debut GP. Gollob finished one point behind Hancock with twelve as did Lindback. Holta had eight points with Zetterstrom earning another seven points.
After eight heats, Hancock is still in a strong position at the top with 117 points. Hampel is now only seventeen points behind on the century mark. Gollob has slipped down to fourth on 88 with Jonsson now third on 92. Crump and Sayfutdinov both share 79 points with Holder a further two points behind. Kenneth Bjerre completes the top eight with 71 points. Artem Laguta has earned less points during the whole of this series than Darcy Ward, who has rode this one GP, Thomas H Jonasson, who has rode two GPs and Magnus Zetterstrom.
Ward actually beat Jonsson in the semi-finals with both Gollob and Holta missing out on the chance to make it to the final. Hampel and Lindback prevented series leader Hancock from the final but he finished third ahead of Magnus Zetterstrom, who was deputising for the ill Kolodziej.
Heat 1: Hancock got off to the best possible start with a win over Holder, Sayfutdinov and Laguta.
Heat 2: Zetterstrom came back with a bang, beating Bjerre, Ward and Pedersen
Heat 3: Holta went down on the first corner, all four riders restarted and Gollob took the heat. Holta finished second ahead of Crump and Lindback.
Heat 4: Hampel finished ahead of Jonsson in first place. Lindgren beat Harris but the Brit would fail to score any points throughout the meeting.
Heat 5: Zetterstrom made it two from two with Crump second. Laguta actually managed to finish ahead of Harris, earning his only point of the night.
Heat 6: Hampel also made it two wins from two with rival Gollob second. Pedersen finished third with Holder fourth.
Heat 7: Lindback took the heat ahead of Sayfutdinov. Ward finished third with Lindgren fourth.
Heat 8: Jonsson beat Hancock with Holta third and Bjerre fourth.
Heat 9: Jonsson made it two consecutive wins ahead of fellow Swede Lindback. Pedersen finished ahead of Laguta.
Heat 10: Zetterstrom finished last, contrast to his first two heats. Holder took the heat ahead of Holta and Lindgren.
Heat 11: Hampel made it three wins from three. Bjerre came second with Sayfutdinov third and Crump fourth.
Heat 12: Darcy Ward won his first ever GP heat against series leader Hancock, reigning World Champion Gollob and Harris.
Heat 13: The nineteen year old Ward made it two consecutive heats ahead of Hampel. Holta easily beat Laguta.
Heat 14: Lindback won his second heat of the night with Holder second, Bjerre third and Harris fourth.
Heat 15: Gollob also won his second heat of the night. Sayfutdinov beat Jonsson to second whereas Zetterstrom had back to back fourth places.
Heat 16: Crump won his only heat of the night as he failed to qualify for the semi-finals. Hancock finished second with Pedersen third and Lindgren fourth.
Heat 17: Lindgren won the heat. Laguta lost control on the final corner and completely took Gollob off his bike. Fortunately, Gollob didn't suffer any serious damage and the referee awarded him the second place he would have had. Bjerre came third.
Heat 18: Jonsson took his third heat of the day ahead of Ward. Crump beat his fellow Aussie Holder to third place.
Heat 19: Pedersen won his only heat of the night. Holta finished second, Sayfutdinov third and Harris fourth.
Heat 20: Hancock won the final heat with his main Championship rival Hampel finishing fourth. Lindback took second with Zetterstrom third.
Jonsson won the meeting and earned the most points, twenty. Hampel finished on eighteen, five more than Hancock. Ward earned fifteen points in his debut GP. Gollob finished one point behind Hancock with twelve as did Lindback. Holta had eight points with Zetterstrom earning another seven points.
After eight heats, Hancock is still in a strong position at the top with 117 points. Hampel is now only seventeen points behind on the century mark. Gollob has slipped down to fourth on 88 with Jonsson now third on 92. Crump and Sayfutdinov both share 79 points with Holder a further two points behind. Kenneth Bjerre completes the top eight with 71 points. Artem Laguta has earned less points during the whole of this series than Darcy Ward, who has rode this one GP, Thomas H Jonasson, who has rode two GPs and Magnus Zetterstrom.
Saturday 27 August 2011
Midlands Derby Draw
Aston Villa line-up: Given, Herd, Dunne, Collins, Warnock, Delph Y(Albrighton, 85'), Petrov (c), N'Zogbia (Bannan, 74'), Agbonlahor, Heskey, Bent
Wolves line-up: Hennessey, Johnson (c), Ward, Stearman Y, Berra, Hunt (Elokobi, 67'), Jarvis (Foley, 67'), Henry Y, O'Hara Y, Doyle, Fletcher (Vokes, 90')
Three games played and both Villa and Wolves remain unbeaten. 0-0 was probably just about the right result at Villa Park today as neither team could find that killer instinct. Wolves now have seven points from three while Villa have five.
The first half was a very tight affair. Villa had more possession but Wolves were creating more chances, although Given was never really brought into work. The best chance of the half actually fell to Villa but Heskey's sliding shot just went past Hennessey's right hand post. The man of the match was Chris Herd, playing only his second senior game. He was good throughout but nearly suffered a nasty injury when he collided with the post during a corner.
The second half saw Villa mount pressure onto Wolves. The away side didn't come to life for the first fifteen minutes of the second half but they managed to hold off the Villa attacks. N'Zogbia wasted two or three good opportunities but Hennessey managed to parry a number of crosses where no-one was there to follow it up. When Wolves did fight back, they still didn't call Given into action. They had a penalty claim when Herd jumped into a Wolves striker but referee Martin Atkinson waved play on. After a headed clearance from Johnson after a Dunne header and a great Hennessey save from a Herd header, the two Midlands side had to settle for a hard earned point.
Spa Qualifying
Sebastian Vettel has managed to do it again in a qualifying session that was extremely close. The weather was iffy throughout the session in Spa but Vettel was able to conquer the race track yet again. The resurgance of McLaren took a positive and negative as Hamilton kept up the pace and will start second, but a mix-up between Button and and his garage sees Button start in thirteenth place.
Mark Webber has been given a new contract by Red Bull, just in time for his birthday, and will start third. Massa out-qualified Alonso for only the third time this season as Alonso failed to get to grips with the Spa track, Massa will start fourth with Alonso eighth. Rosberg will start fifth as the positive for Mercedes but they, like McLaren, also face a negative. After poor qualifying in the last few races, Alguersuari put a Toro Rosso into sixth. The big news before the weekend was that Nick Heidfeld has been replaced by Bruno Senna, Heidfeld is seeking legal action but Senna managed to qualify in seventh. Perez and Senna's new team-mate Petrov complete the top ten.
Q2 saw Sutil suffer a crash which saw the session red flagged with just under seven minutes left. He was still managed to qualify in fifteenth as Kovalainen and Maldonado failed to beat his earlier time. Buemi and Kobayashi will start ahead of Button in eleventh and twelfth. Barrichello completes the line up in Q2 and starts fourteenth.
Q1 saw Schumacher crash early on, but the session didn't need to be red flagged as the car was far enough off track. This made it a little easier for everyone as they expected the usual six to fall. That wasn't to be the case and Di Resta was the second surprise faller at Q1 and will start eighteenth. Trulli starts nineteenth ahead of the two Virgin cars, Glock beating D'Ambrosio. Liuzzi again out-qualified Ricciardo into twenty-second.
Mark Webber has been given a new contract by Red Bull, just in time for his birthday, and will start third. Massa out-qualified Alonso for only the third time this season as Alonso failed to get to grips with the Spa track, Massa will start fourth with Alonso eighth. Rosberg will start fifth as the positive for Mercedes but they, like McLaren, also face a negative. After poor qualifying in the last few races, Alguersuari put a Toro Rosso into sixth. The big news before the weekend was that Nick Heidfeld has been replaced by Bruno Senna, Heidfeld is seeking legal action but Senna managed to qualify in seventh. Perez and Senna's new team-mate Petrov complete the top ten.
Q2 saw Sutil suffer a crash which saw the session red flagged with just under seven minutes left. He was still managed to qualify in fifteenth as Kovalainen and Maldonado failed to beat his earlier time. Buemi and Kobayashi will start ahead of Button in eleventh and twelfth. Barrichello completes the line up in Q2 and starts fourteenth.
Q1 saw Schumacher crash early on, but the session didn't need to be red flagged as the car was far enough off track. This made it a little easier for everyone as they expected the usual six to fall. That wasn't to be the case and Di Resta was the second surprise faller at Q1 and will start eighteenth. Trulli starts nineteenth ahead of the two Virgin cars, Glock beating D'Ambrosio. Liuzzi again out-qualified Ricciardo into twenty-second.
Friday 26 August 2011
2011/2012 UEFA Champions League Draw
Group A: This group is one of two possible groups of death. German giants and hosts of this season's final, Bayern Munich, are joined by Villarreal with their star striker Giuseppe Rossi. This group features two debutantes but both can earn results, we all know about Manchester City but Napoli complete this group. Napoli finished third in Serie A last season, players to watch out for are Uruguayan internationals Edinson Cavani and Walter Gargano, vice-captain and Slovak international Marek Hamsik and Turkish international Gokhan Inler. For me, Bayern and City will progress into the knock-out phase but it's going to be a real battle for the Europa League place, I'm going to say Villarreal.
Group B: Inter Milan have a decent group which they should win. They will face CSKA Moscow and Lille. Turkish champions Fenerbache were kicked out of this competition by their FA for match fixing and are replaced by Champions League debutantes Trabzonspor. Trabzonspor have mainly a Turkish side, but their biggest import is former Spurs player, Didier Zokora. Inter shouldn't have much problem winning this group. Moscow should beat Lille to second but unfortunately, I think Trabzonspor will have an unhappy debut campaign.
Group C: Manchester United have been dealt a nice draw. They face their 1968 runners-up Benfica who lost 4-2 to United that year. Swiss side FC Basel and debutantes Otelul Galati from Romania complete the line-up. Galati won the Romanian league last season, two players to look out for are Romanian international Sorin Frunza and Peruvian international Daniel Chavez. United shouldn't really lose a game in this group stage and Benfica should also progress into the knock-out phase. Basel should get Europa league with Galati bringing up the rear.
Group D: Could also be a potential group of death. Real Madrid face Lyon and Ajax. Croatian side Dinamo Zagreb make their second appearance in the competition. Zagreb's player to watch in Croat Jerko Leko. I think Real will win this group, it'll be a tough fight between Lyon and Ajax for second but i think Lyon will just about come on top. Zagreb won't stand much of a chance against these three giants.
Group E: Chelsea have a potentially difficult group this year. Valencia and Bayer Leverkusen have both caused upsets in the past but Chelsea should be able to handle them. Belgian champions Genk complete the group. Portsmouth fans may remember Anthony Vanden Borre who had a loan spell on the South coast. Genk's other notable player is Belgian star Thomas Buffel. Chelsea should win the group but it's an extremely tight contest for second and third, I think Leverkusen will pinch it, leaving Genk in fourth.
Group F: Arsenal have a similar group to Chelsea in that it should be okay but there could be potential upset. Olympique Marseille and Greek giants Olympiakos are joined by German Champions Borussia Dortmund. Arsenal and Marseille should get through but Dortmund will put up a big challenge. Olympiakos will finish last.
Group G: This is a very open group. Europa League winners Porto will face last year's Champions League quarter-finalists Shakhtar Donetsk. Russia's Zenit St.Petersburg make their second appearance as do Cypriot side Apoel Nicosia. For me Nicosia will finish fourth, any one of the other three could win this group. I think Donetsk will just about come out on top with Porto stealing second.
Group H: As the draw progressed, this group started to look like another group of death. Champions Barcelona and AC Milan were paired together but will face BATE Borisov and Czech debutantes Viktoria Plzen. BATE or Plzen could make it into Europa, I think it'll be BATE, but both will be thrashed by Barca and Milan. For me, Barca should win the group.
Group B: Inter Milan have a decent group which they should win. They will face CSKA Moscow and Lille. Turkish champions Fenerbache were kicked out of this competition by their FA for match fixing and are replaced by Champions League debutantes Trabzonspor. Trabzonspor have mainly a Turkish side, but their biggest import is former Spurs player, Didier Zokora. Inter shouldn't have much problem winning this group. Moscow should beat Lille to second but unfortunately, I think Trabzonspor will have an unhappy debut campaign.
Group C: Manchester United have been dealt a nice draw. They face their 1968 runners-up Benfica who lost 4-2 to United that year. Swiss side FC Basel and debutantes Otelul Galati from Romania complete the line-up. Galati won the Romanian league last season, two players to look out for are Romanian international Sorin Frunza and Peruvian international Daniel Chavez. United shouldn't really lose a game in this group stage and Benfica should also progress into the knock-out phase. Basel should get Europa league with Galati bringing up the rear.
Group D: Could also be a potential group of death. Real Madrid face Lyon and Ajax. Croatian side Dinamo Zagreb make their second appearance in the competition. Zagreb's player to watch in Croat Jerko Leko. I think Real will win this group, it'll be a tough fight between Lyon and Ajax for second but i think Lyon will just about come on top. Zagreb won't stand much of a chance against these three giants.
Group E: Chelsea have a potentially difficult group this year. Valencia and Bayer Leverkusen have both caused upsets in the past but Chelsea should be able to handle them. Belgian champions Genk complete the group. Portsmouth fans may remember Anthony Vanden Borre who had a loan spell on the South coast. Genk's other notable player is Belgian star Thomas Buffel. Chelsea should win the group but it's an extremely tight contest for second and third, I think Leverkusen will pinch it, leaving Genk in fourth.
Group F: Arsenal have a similar group to Chelsea in that it should be okay but there could be potential upset. Olympique Marseille and Greek giants Olympiakos are joined by German Champions Borussia Dortmund. Arsenal and Marseille should get through but Dortmund will put up a big challenge. Olympiakos will finish last.
Group G: This is a very open group. Europa League winners Porto will face last year's Champions League quarter-finalists Shakhtar Donetsk. Russia's Zenit St.Petersburg make their second appearance as do Cypriot side Apoel Nicosia. For me Nicosia will finish fourth, any one of the other three could win this group. I think Donetsk will just about come out on top with Porto stealing second.
Group H: As the draw progressed, this group started to look like another group of death. Champions Barcelona and AC Milan were paired together but will face BATE Borisov and Czech debutantes Viktoria Plzen. BATE or Plzen could make it into Europa, I think it'll be BATE, but both will be thrashed by Barca and Milan. For me, Barca should win the group.
Tuesday 23 August 2011
The Boys Did Wel
Man United line-up: De Gea, Smalling, Jones, Evans Y, Evra (c), Nani, Cleverley (Park, 81'), Anderson, Young (Giggs, 81'), Rooney, Welbeck (Hernandez, 81')
Tottenham line-up: Friedel, Walker (Corluka, HT), Dawson (c) Y, Kaboul, Assou-Ekotto, Lennon, Livermore (Huddlestone, 74'), Van Der Vaart, Bale, Defoe Y, Kranjcar (Pavlyuchenko, 74')
With an average age of just 22.9 years, Manchester United fielded their second youngest side ever. But they all put on a fantastic second-half performance to maintain their home unbeaten record which stretches back to April 2010. After their postponement last week, Tottenham were coming to Old Trafford without kicking a ball in the Premiership and performed well for most of the game.
The first half was extremely tight. Both teams enjoyed spells of possession, without creating any clear cut chances. Spurs tried to test De Gea from long range due to his reputation, but none of the shots troubled the young Spaniard. At the other end, Spurs had Friedel in goal who was exactly twice the age of De Gea but was playing just as well. He arguably worked the harder in the first half but only had a great Cleverley shot which Friedel made a better save. It remained goalless at half-time and it was probably the right result.
Young Kyle Walker was feeling under the weather and had to replaced at half-time by Corluka. Again the second half started as the first, with both teams enjoying spells of possession. But whereas Tottenham seemed to miss Modric as they had no real creativity to break United down, United could still step up a gear. This is exactly what they did do and the twenty-two year old Cleverley found a perfect cross which the twenty-one year old Welbeck headed plum into the bottom corner just after the hour. From there the likes of Van Der Vaart, Bale and Defoe became a little invisible and wasted many passing opportunities. Welbeck then turned provider on seventy four minutes when a great passing move saw Anderson get a back-heeled return from Welbeck and the Brazilian netted home, although his dancing needs improving! Every move De Gea made was closely scrutinised by everyone and for the most part he did all right, his foot-work and distribution were very accurate but the young keeper again slipped up two minutes after Anderson's goal; De Gea came out for a cross but missed it, the ball fell to Defoe and he could only hit he post with De Gea in no man's land. United then finished the game off three minutes from time when thirty-seven year old Giggs picked out twenty-five year old Rooney with another peach of a cross, Rooney headed past Friedel with ease. But there was still time for De Gea to cause a worry as he spilt a Huddlestone shot, but managed to jump on the ball before Defoe got there. United make it two wins from two with a second half masterclass from young and old.
Monday 22 August 2011
Second Weekend of the Barclay's Premeirship
Sunderland 0-1 Newcastle: The first big derby of the season was the Tyne-Wear derby. Sunderland impressed against Liverpool in their 1-1 draw last week but Newcastle also earned an impressive point against Arsenal. Ryan Taylor's sixty-second minute free-kick went past everyone to seal the win. No derby would be right without heavy tackles and there could have been a few sendings off. But Phil Bardsley was the only one to see red in the final minute for his second yellow card, but the tackle itself could have been a straight red.
Arsenal 0-2 Liverpool: Arsenal's capitulation continued with this home defeat to Liverpool. Arsenal received their second red card in as many games as Emmanuel Frimpong earned to yellows twenty minutes before time. The opener came after seventy-eight minutes when a defensive clearance ricocheted off Ramsey into his own net. There was a suspicion of off-side as the initial ball was supposed to go to Suarez who was off-side. Suarez finished the game off in injury time with his second goal of the season after a through ball by Meireles.
Everton 0-1 QPR: Cash strapped Everton could be in trouble this season after starting their season off with this home defeat. All credit to QPR though to retaliate after their 4-0 thrashing against Bolton last week. The winner was scored by Tommy Smith just after the half hour mark.
Villa 3-1 Blackburn: Alex McLeish's home debut saw a comfortable win for Villa. Agbonlahor planted a great goal into the top corner after twelve minutes. Heskey then made it 2-0 by sliding the ball in past Robinson after twenty-five minutes. Blackburn got back into the game when Pedersen netted with a glancing header seven minutes into the second half. Villa wrapped the game up after sixty-seven minutes with Bent scoring a poacher's goal.
Wigan 0-0 Swansea: The writing may already be on the wall for Wigan, two draws against the newly promoted sides. Swansea earned a valuable point after their 4-0 thrashing against Man City but worryingly, they have yet to score a goal.
Chelsea 2-1 West Brom: West Brom received a bit of deja vu as a second late goal saw them lose 2-1. Shane Long scored his second of the season after an Alex mistake after four minutes to put West Brom ahead. Chelsea got back into the game and equalised eight minutes into the second half via Anelka. Malouda won the game seven minutes from time after some poor defending. West Brom shouldn't be disheartened as they've only just lost to last season's top two and can start off properly next week.
Norwich 1-1 Stoke: Both teams make it two draws from two games, but it's perhaps better news for Norwich than Stoke. Norwich took the lead through on loan De Laet after thirty-seven minutes. Leon Barnett saw red three minutes after the hour and Stoke levelled in the depths of injury time through Jones to rescue the point.
Wolves 2-0 Fulham: Wolves are only one of two teams, so far, to have played two and won two. Kevin Doyle gave Wolves the lead three minutes before half-time before Jarivs hit the sucker punch in injury time to make it 2-0 at half-time. This is a fantastic start for Wolves but a slightly nervy one for Fulham.
Bolton 2-3 Man City: City went top of the table in this five-goal thriller. Silva gave City the lead via a Jaaskelainen mistake after twenty-six minutes. Barry made it 2-0 with a great finish eleven minutes later. Bolton fought back and made it 2-1 two minutes later through Klasnic. The rejuvenated Dzeko scored his third goal in as many games two minutes into the second half to restore their two goal cushion. But Bolton again fought back with Kevin Davies making 3-2 three minutes after the hour. Six points out of six for City, but those who thought Bolton would struggle this season are looking wrong at the minute as it's six goals in two games.
Arsenal 0-2 Liverpool: Arsenal's capitulation continued with this home defeat to Liverpool. Arsenal received their second red card in as many games as Emmanuel Frimpong earned to yellows twenty minutes before time. The opener came after seventy-eight minutes when a defensive clearance ricocheted off Ramsey into his own net. There was a suspicion of off-side as the initial ball was supposed to go to Suarez who was off-side. Suarez finished the game off in injury time with his second goal of the season after a through ball by Meireles.
Everton 0-1 QPR: Cash strapped Everton could be in trouble this season after starting their season off with this home defeat. All credit to QPR though to retaliate after their 4-0 thrashing against Bolton last week. The winner was scored by Tommy Smith just after the half hour mark.
Villa 3-1 Blackburn: Alex McLeish's home debut saw a comfortable win for Villa. Agbonlahor planted a great goal into the top corner after twelve minutes. Heskey then made it 2-0 by sliding the ball in past Robinson after twenty-five minutes. Blackburn got back into the game when Pedersen netted with a glancing header seven minutes into the second half. Villa wrapped the game up after sixty-seven minutes with Bent scoring a poacher's goal.
Wigan 0-0 Swansea: The writing may already be on the wall for Wigan, two draws against the newly promoted sides. Swansea earned a valuable point after their 4-0 thrashing against Man City but worryingly, they have yet to score a goal.
Chelsea 2-1 West Brom: West Brom received a bit of deja vu as a second late goal saw them lose 2-1. Shane Long scored his second of the season after an Alex mistake after four minutes to put West Brom ahead. Chelsea got back into the game and equalised eight minutes into the second half via Anelka. Malouda won the game seven minutes from time after some poor defending. West Brom shouldn't be disheartened as they've only just lost to last season's top two and can start off properly next week.
Norwich 1-1 Stoke: Both teams make it two draws from two games, but it's perhaps better news for Norwich than Stoke. Norwich took the lead through on loan De Laet after thirty-seven minutes. Leon Barnett saw red three minutes after the hour and Stoke levelled in the depths of injury time through Jones to rescue the point.
Wolves 2-0 Fulham: Wolves are only one of two teams, so far, to have played two and won two. Kevin Doyle gave Wolves the lead three minutes before half-time before Jarivs hit the sucker punch in injury time to make it 2-0 at half-time. This is a fantastic start for Wolves but a slightly nervy one for Fulham.
Bolton 2-3 Man City: City went top of the table in this five-goal thriller. Silva gave City the lead via a Jaaskelainen mistake after twenty-six minutes. Barry made it 2-0 with a great finish eleven minutes later. Bolton fought back and made it 2-1 two minutes later through Klasnic. The rejuvenated Dzeko scored his third goal in as many games two minutes into the second half to restore their two goal cushion. But Bolton again fought back with Kevin Davies making 3-2 three minutes after the hour. Six points out of six for City, but those who thought Bolton would struggle this season are looking wrong at the minute as it's six goals in two games.
Scandinavian Speedway GP: 13/8/11
The Scandinavian GP took place in Malilla, Sweden and was the seventh event on the Speedway calender. Jaroslaw Hampel won the meeting, taking Terenzano's winner Jonsson right on the finish line. Bjerre came third with Sayfutdinov fourth.
The first semi-final saw Jason Crump, who had won all five of his heats, finish third ahead of the wildcard Thomas H Jonasson. Sayfutdinov beat Hampel as they progressed into the final. They were joined by Bjerre who beat Jonsson, series leader Greg Hancock had just sneaked into the semis and finished third ahead of Chris Harris.
Heat 1: 1.Jonsson 2.Lindgren 3.Holder 4.Pedersen
Heat 2: 1.Crump 2.Bjerre 3.Harris 4.Gollob
Heat 3: 1.Hampel 2.Lindback 3.Kolodziej 4.Laguta
Heat 4: Sayfutdinov looked to bring Jonasson down, both riders hit the deck along with Hancock, surprisingly Jonasson was excluded. 1.Sayfutdinov 2.Holta 3.Hancock 4.Jonasson
Heat 5: 1.Crump 2.Lindgren 3.Jonasson 4.Laguta
Heat 6: 1.Bjerre 2.Sayfutdinov 3.Hampel 4.Pedersen
Heat 7: 1.Harris 2.Jonsson 3.Hancock 4.Lindback
Heat 8: 1.Holder 2.Holta 3.Gollob 4.Kolodziej
Heat 9: 1.Bjerre 2.Lindgren 3.Lindback 4.Holta
Heat 10: 1.Crump 2.Hancock 3.Pedersen 4.Kolodziej
Heat 11: 1.Jonsson 2.Sayfutdinov 3.Gollob 4.Laguta
Heat 12: Harris initially false started, all four riders continued. 1.Jonasson 2.Hampel 3.Harris 4.Holder
Heat 13: 1.Sayfutdinov 2.Harris 3.Lindgren 4.Kolodziej
Heat 14: 1.Jonasson 2.Lindback 3.Gollob 4.Pedersen
Heat 15: 1.Crump 2.Jonsson 3.Hampel 4.Holta
Heat 16: 1.Bjerre 2.Holder 3.Hancock 4.Laguta
Heat 17: 1.Hancock 2.Hampel 3.Lindgren 4.Laguta
Heat 18: 1.Harris 2.Pedersen 3.Laguta 4.Holta
Heat 19: Kolodziej fell and was subsequently excluded. The restart saw Bjerre collide with Jonasson on the final lap, no restart was called but Bjerre was excluded post race. 1.Jonsson 2.Jonasson 3.Bjerre 4.Kolodziej
Heat 20: Sayfutdinov brought Lindback down with him and was excluded. The only result that would see Hancock progress happened; 1.Crump 2.Lindback 3.Holder
Although Hampel won the meeting, Jonsson scored the most points with nineteen to Hampel's seventeen. Crump and Bjerre both scored sixteen with Sayfutdinov scoring thirteen. Harris earned ten points with Jonasson and Hancock scoring nine. Gollob scored only three points and looks out of contention with four rounds to go as he drops to third. Standings after seven rounds:
1.Hancock 104
2.Hampel 82
3.Gollob 76
4.Crump 72
5.Jonsson 72
6.Sayfutdinov 72
7.Holder 70
8.Bjerre 66
The first semi-final saw Jason Crump, who had won all five of his heats, finish third ahead of the wildcard Thomas H Jonasson. Sayfutdinov beat Hampel as they progressed into the final. They were joined by Bjerre who beat Jonsson, series leader Greg Hancock had just sneaked into the semis and finished third ahead of Chris Harris.
Heat 1: 1.Jonsson 2.Lindgren 3.Holder 4.Pedersen
Heat 2: 1.Crump 2.Bjerre 3.Harris 4.Gollob
Heat 3: 1.Hampel 2.Lindback 3.Kolodziej 4.Laguta
Heat 4: Sayfutdinov looked to bring Jonasson down, both riders hit the deck along with Hancock, surprisingly Jonasson was excluded. 1.Sayfutdinov 2.Holta 3.Hancock 4.Jonasson
Heat 5: 1.Crump 2.Lindgren 3.Jonasson 4.Laguta
Heat 6: 1.Bjerre 2.Sayfutdinov 3.Hampel 4.Pedersen
Heat 7: 1.Harris 2.Jonsson 3.Hancock 4.Lindback
Heat 8: 1.Holder 2.Holta 3.Gollob 4.Kolodziej
Heat 9: 1.Bjerre 2.Lindgren 3.Lindback 4.Holta
Heat 10: 1.Crump 2.Hancock 3.Pedersen 4.Kolodziej
Heat 11: 1.Jonsson 2.Sayfutdinov 3.Gollob 4.Laguta
Heat 12: Harris initially false started, all four riders continued. 1.Jonasson 2.Hampel 3.Harris 4.Holder
Heat 13: 1.Sayfutdinov 2.Harris 3.Lindgren 4.Kolodziej
Heat 14: 1.Jonasson 2.Lindback 3.Gollob 4.Pedersen
Heat 15: 1.Crump 2.Jonsson 3.Hampel 4.Holta
Heat 16: 1.Bjerre 2.Holder 3.Hancock 4.Laguta
Heat 17: 1.Hancock 2.Hampel 3.Lindgren 4.Laguta
Heat 18: 1.Harris 2.Pedersen 3.Laguta 4.Holta
Heat 19: Kolodziej fell and was subsequently excluded. The restart saw Bjerre collide with Jonasson on the final lap, no restart was called but Bjerre was excluded post race. 1.Jonsson 2.Jonasson 3.Bjerre 4.Kolodziej
Heat 20: Sayfutdinov brought Lindback down with him and was excluded. The only result that would see Hancock progress happened; 1.Crump 2.Lindback 3.Holder
Although Hampel won the meeting, Jonsson scored the most points with nineteen to Hampel's seventeen. Crump and Bjerre both scored sixteen with Sayfutdinov scoring thirteen. Harris earned ten points with Jonasson and Hancock scoring nine. Gollob scored only three points and looks out of contention with four rounds to go as he drops to third. Standings after seven rounds:
1.Hancock 104
2.Hampel 82
3.Gollob 76
4.Crump 72
5.Jonsson 72
6.Sayfutdinov 72
7.Holder 70
8.Bjerre 66
Thursday 11 August 2011
Players Twenty-Three and Under
Everyone always claims how the installment of youth is a key factor to a successful football team. Here's a list of players aged twenty-three and under who are likely to feature in the Barclay's Premiership this season: First Team Regular Squad
Arsenal: Szczesny (21,Poland), Vela (22,Mexico), Walcott (22,England), Ramsey (21,Wales), Song (23,Cameroon), Wilshere (19,England), Jenkinson (19,England), Gibbs (21,England), Traore (21, France), Eastmond (21, England), Oxlade-Chamberlain (17/18, England) 11
Villa: Clark (22, England), Baker (20, England), Lowry (22, Ireland), Albrighton (22, England), Delph (22, England), Bannan (22, Scotland), Hogg (23, England), Herd (22, Australia), Delfouneso (20, England) 9
Blackburn: Olsson (23, Sweden), Formica (23, Argentina), N'Zonzi (23, France), Rochina (20, Spain), Blackman (22, England), Hoilett (21, Canada), Goodwillie (22, Scotland), Hanley (20, Scotland) 8
Bolton: M.Davies (23, England), Alonso (21, Spain), Lee (23, S.Korea) 3
Chelsea: Sturridge (22, England), Bertrand (22, England), Van Aanholt (21, Holland), Kakuta (20, France), McEachran (18, England), Romeu (19, Spain) 6
Everton: Gueye (21, France), Coleman (23, Ireland), Rodwell (20, England), Silva (21, Portugal), Anichebe (23, Nigeria) 5
Fulham: Kasami (19, Switzerland), Gecov (23, Czech Rep.) 2
Liverpool: Carroll (21, England), Pacheco (20, Spain), Henderson (21, England), Wilson (20, Scotland), N'Gog (22, France), Spearing (23, England), Shelvy (19, England), Kelly (21, England), Flanagan (18, England), Eccleston (21, England), Ayala (21, Spain), Insua (22, Argentina) 12
Man City: Boyata (21, Belgium), M.Johnson (23, England), Weiss (22, Slovakia), Balotelli (21, Italy), Aguero (23, Argentina) 5
Man Utd: Anderson (23, Brazil), Cleverley (22, England), Evans (23, N.Ireland), Amos (21, England), Fabio (21, Brazil), Rafael (21, Brazil), Hernandez (23, Mexico), Macheda (20, Italy), Smalling (22, England), De Gea (21, Spain), Jones (19, England), Welbeck (21, England), Pogba (18, France) 13
Newcastle: Krul (23, Holland), Tavernier (20, England), Gosling (21, England), Vuckic (19, Slovenia), Ranger (20, England) 5
Norwich: Vaughan (23, England), Pilkington (23, England), Rudd (20, England), Martin (23, England), Bennett (23, England), Smith (20, England), De Laet (23, Belgium), Naughton (23, England), Adeyemi (20, England), Francomb (20, England) 10
QPR: Taarabt (22, Morocco), Ephraim (23, England), Doughty (18, Wales) 3
Stoke: Arismendi (23, Uruguay) 1
Sunderland: Wickham (18, England), Colback (21, England), Ji (20, S.Korea), Meyler (22, England), Cattermole (23, England), Mignolet (23, Belgium) 6
Swansea: Taylor (22, Wales), Caulker (19, England), Sinclair (22, England), Dyer (23, England), Cornell (20, Wales), Cotterill (23, England) 6
Spurs: Bale (22, Wales), Rose (21, England), Walker (21, England), Livermore (21, England), Sandro (22, Brazil), Townsend (20, England) 6
WBA: Mattock (21, England) 1
Wigan: McCarthy (20, Ireland), Di Santo (22, Argentina), Moses (20, Nigeria), McArthur (23, Scotland) 4
Wolves: Vokes (21, England), Hammill (23, England) 2
Arsenal: Szczesny (21,Poland), Vela (22,Mexico), Walcott (22,England), Ramsey (21,Wales), Song (23,Cameroon), Wilshere (19,England), Jenkinson (19,England), Gibbs (21,England), Traore (21, France), Eastmond (21, England), Oxlade-Chamberlain (17/18, England) 11
Villa: Clark (22, England), Baker (20, England), Lowry (22, Ireland), Albrighton (22, England), Delph (22, England), Bannan (22, Scotland), Hogg (23, England), Herd (22, Australia), Delfouneso (20, England) 9
Blackburn: Olsson (23, Sweden), Formica (23, Argentina), N'Zonzi (23, France), Rochina (20, Spain), Blackman (22, England), Hoilett (21, Canada), Goodwillie (22, Scotland), Hanley (20, Scotland) 8
Bolton: M.Davies (23, England), Alonso (21, Spain), Lee (23, S.Korea) 3
Chelsea: Sturridge (22, England), Bertrand (22, England), Van Aanholt (21, Holland), Kakuta (20, France), McEachran (18, England), Romeu (19, Spain) 6
Everton: Gueye (21, France), Coleman (23, Ireland), Rodwell (20, England), Silva (21, Portugal), Anichebe (23, Nigeria) 5
Fulham: Kasami (19, Switzerland), Gecov (23, Czech Rep.) 2
Liverpool: Carroll (21, England), Pacheco (20, Spain), Henderson (21, England), Wilson (20, Scotland), N'Gog (22, France), Spearing (23, England), Shelvy (19, England), Kelly (21, England), Flanagan (18, England), Eccleston (21, England), Ayala (21, Spain), Insua (22, Argentina) 12
Man City: Boyata (21, Belgium), M.Johnson (23, England), Weiss (22, Slovakia), Balotelli (21, Italy), Aguero (23, Argentina) 5
Man Utd: Anderson (23, Brazil), Cleverley (22, England), Evans (23, N.Ireland), Amos (21, England), Fabio (21, Brazil), Rafael (21, Brazil), Hernandez (23, Mexico), Macheda (20, Italy), Smalling (22, England), De Gea (21, Spain), Jones (19, England), Welbeck (21, England), Pogba (18, France) 13
Newcastle: Krul (23, Holland), Tavernier (20, England), Gosling (21, England), Vuckic (19, Slovenia), Ranger (20, England) 5
Norwich: Vaughan (23, England), Pilkington (23, England), Rudd (20, England), Martin (23, England), Bennett (23, England), Smith (20, England), De Laet (23, Belgium), Naughton (23, England), Adeyemi (20, England), Francomb (20, England) 10
QPR: Taarabt (22, Morocco), Ephraim (23, England), Doughty (18, Wales) 3
Stoke: Arismendi (23, Uruguay) 1
Sunderland: Wickham (18, England), Colback (21, England), Ji (20, S.Korea), Meyler (22, England), Cattermole (23, England), Mignolet (23, Belgium) 6
Swansea: Taylor (22, Wales), Caulker (19, England), Sinclair (22, England), Dyer (23, England), Cornell (20, Wales), Cotterill (23, England) 6
Spurs: Bale (22, Wales), Rose (21, England), Walker (21, England), Livermore (21, England), Sandro (22, Brazil), Townsend (20, England) 6
WBA: Mattock (21, England) 1
Wigan: McCarthy (20, Ireland), Di Santo (22, Argentina), Moses (20, Nigeria), McArthur (23, Scotland) 4
Wolves: Vokes (21, England), Hammill (23, England) 2
From this it looks to be that four players aged twenty-three and under is the optimum number to start in a Premiership XI. This must be mixed with vast experience, which is why Arsenal miss out on the trophies because they put too much emphasis on their youth. Chelsea go to the other extreme and that lack of youth will pay a heavy price at some point. The reason why Manchester United perform so well is because Alex Ferguson gets the balance right; Anderson, Rafael, De Gea and Hernandez will start most games alongside the vast experience of Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Giggs etc. But when push comes to shove, United have the youthful back-up with the likes of Cleverley, Welbeck, Macheda, Jones and Smalling who will provide pace and fitness towards the end of games and in cup competitions.
Tuesday 9 August 2011
2011/2012 Barcaly's Premiership Predictions: Wolves
Transfers In: Johnson (B'ham, £7.8M), De Vries (Swansea, free), O'Hara (Spurs, £5.65M)
Overview: Wolves also needed Survival Sunday to stay up last season. I think they will be involved in the relegation battle again this season but Wolves have bought well enough to avoid the drop. Johnson will provide leadership in the defence which is what Wolves need, O'Hara had a good season on loan last season and could rejuvenate his career here.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Roger Johnson may get a surprise call up but Matt Jarvis has already made an England preliminary squad. Hennessey has impressed in goal and could be a big hit for Wales.
One's to Watch: Stephen Hunt looks back to full fitness so should provide good entertainment. It'll good to keep an eye on O'Hara to see how well he plays.
Prediction: Will be involved in a relegation battle but should finish comfortably outside of the relegation zone. Possibly about sixteenth.
Overview: Wolves also needed Survival Sunday to stay up last season. I think they will be involved in the relegation battle again this season but Wolves have bought well enough to avoid the drop. Johnson will provide leadership in the defence which is what Wolves need, O'Hara had a good season on loan last season and could rejuvenate his career here.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Roger Johnson may get a surprise call up but Matt Jarvis has already made an England preliminary squad. Hennessey has impressed in goal and could be a big hit for Wales.
One's to Watch: Stephen Hunt looks back to full fitness so should provide good entertainment. It'll good to keep an eye on O'Hara to see how well he plays.
Prediction: Will be involved in a relegation battle but should finish comfortably outside of the relegation zone. Possibly about sixteenth.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Wigan
Transfers In: Jones (Wolves, free), Al-Habsi (Bolton, £4.43M)
Overview: Wigan only just stayed up last season and will be another relegation battle if they are not careful. Al-Habsi played well last season on loan and Jones played well for Wolves. It will be a tough season especially without N'Zogbia but if Whelan gives Martinez time, Wigan can improve.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: No Euro 2012 candidates but Ireland's James McCarthy and Conor Sammon impressed in stints along with Ben Watson so they could have bright futures ahead of them.
One's to Watch: Al-Habsi is an under-rated keeper but will go about his business quietly. Rodallega needs to start becoming more consistent if he's to prove how good a player he really is.
Prediction: If one of the three promoted sides do stay then Wigan could be the team to fall. But I think they will just stay up ahead of the promoted teams.
Overview: Wigan only just stayed up last season and will be another relegation battle if they are not careful. Al-Habsi played well last season on loan and Jones played well for Wolves. It will be a tough season especially without N'Zogbia but if Whelan gives Martinez time, Wigan can improve.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: No Euro 2012 candidates but Ireland's James McCarthy and Conor Sammon impressed in stints along with Ben Watson so they could have bright futures ahead of them.
One's to Watch: Al-Habsi is an under-rated keeper but will go about his business quietly. Rodallega needs to start becoming more consistent if he's to prove how good a player he really is.
Prediction: If one of the three promoted sides do stay then Wigan could be the team to fall. But I think they will just stay up ahead of the promoted teams.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predicitons: WBA
Transfers In: Fulop (Ipswich, free), Gera (Fulham, free), Foster (B'ham, loan), Jones (Preston, free), McAuley (Ipswich, free)
Overview: West Brom have done great business by getting Foster in goal this season. Gera played well at West Brom in his first stint and Hodgson has brought him back for a second one. I think Hodgson will do a great at West Brom and they've now been transformed into a mid-table team.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Foster will probably be in the squad for 2012. Chris Brunt and Jerome Thomas could be big hits in the future.
One's to Watch: Odemwingie impressed last season up front. Brunt and Thomas provided some great goals also. But we must watch Foster in the battle for England number one.
Prediction: There are so many teams in that mid-table battle. Some teams will obviously end up in the bottom half and West Brom may end up being one of them, just.
Overview: West Brom have done great business by getting Foster in goal this season. Gera played well at West Brom in his first stint and Hodgson has brought him back for a second one. I think Hodgson will do a great at West Brom and they've now been transformed into a mid-table team.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Foster will probably be in the squad for 2012. Chris Brunt and Jerome Thomas could be big hits in the future.
One's to Watch: Odemwingie impressed last season up front. Brunt and Thomas provided some great goals also. But we must watch Foster in the battle for England number one.
Prediction: There are so many teams in that mid-table battle. Some teams will obviously end up in the bottom half and West Brom may end up being one of them, just.
2011/2012 Barcaly's Premiership Predictions: Tottenham
Transfers In: Friedel (Villa, free)
Overview: Tottenham haven't strengthened the squad so far this season and it may pay a heavy price. They have been in a huge battle to keep Modric and so far they've stuck to their guns. But Tottenham will be in the same boat as Arsenal, if they leave it to the last week to sell Modric to Chelsea they won't have enough time to find a suitable replacement. It could be a tough season for Tottenham and their pre-season hasn't been superb either.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Huddlestone, Jenas and Lennon have all held temporary England places and would surely like to maintain them. Dawson, Crouch and Defoe are the more likely to feature in Euro 2012. Danny Rose looked impressive in the Carling Cup last season, whereas Kyle Walker impressed at Villa, both could be England prospects. Young Brazilian Sandro also impressed against Chelsea. Giovani will be a star for Mexico, but not at Spurs.
One's to Watch: Van Der Vaart and Bale are the obvious candidates but the young stars will be a good watch too.
Prediction: Should be fighting for Champions League but without any strengthening, I fear Tottenham may miss out.
Overview: Tottenham haven't strengthened the squad so far this season and it may pay a heavy price. They have been in a huge battle to keep Modric and so far they've stuck to their guns. But Tottenham will be in the same boat as Arsenal, if they leave it to the last week to sell Modric to Chelsea they won't have enough time to find a suitable replacement. It could be a tough season for Tottenham and their pre-season hasn't been superb either.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Huddlestone, Jenas and Lennon have all held temporary England places and would surely like to maintain them. Dawson, Crouch and Defoe are the more likely to feature in Euro 2012. Danny Rose looked impressive in the Carling Cup last season, whereas Kyle Walker impressed at Villa, both could be England prospects. Young Brazilian Sandro also impressed against Chelsea. Giovani will be a star for Mexico, but not at Spurs.
One's to Watch: Van Der Vaart and Bale are the obvious candidates but the young stars will be a good watch too.
Prediction: Should be fighting for Champions League but without any strengthening, I fear Tottenham may miss out.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Swansea
Transfers In: Vorm (Utrecht, £1.75M), Lita (Boro, £2M), Routledge (QPR, £2M), Moreira (Benfica), Graham (Watford, £3.92M)
Overview: Swansea are very much the unknown package this season. The Welsh side are playing in the Premiership for the first time this season and, on previous history, could do quite well. They will be looking towards Reading and Hull, possibly even Blackpool's start to last season as inspiration.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Again there's probably no Euro 2012 candidates amongst Swansea's squad. But Danny Graham has been snapped up as a future star.
One's to Watch: Former Chelsea youngster Scott Sinclair will be keen to make his mark on the Premiership alongside Nathan Dyer, Graham will look to also play alongside them. Angel Rangel was another of Swansea's stars last season.
Prediction: It is very easy to say that all three promoted sides will go back down, but I do really think they will. But based on previous seasons, Swansea could indeed surprise us all and stay up.
Overview: Swansea are very much the unknown package this season. The Welsh side are playing in the Premiership for the first time this season and, on previous history, could do quite well. They will be looking towards Reading and Hull, possibly even Blackpool's start to last season as inspiration.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Again there's probably no Euro 2012 candidates amongst Swansea's squad. But Danny Graham has been snapped up as a future star.
One's to Watch: Former Chelsea youngster Scott Sinclair will be keen to make his mark on the Premiership alongside Nathan Dyer, Graham will look to also play alongside them. Angel Rangel was another of Swansea's stars last season.
Prediction: It is very easy to say that all three promoted sides will go back down, but I do really think they will. But based on previous seasons, Swansea could indeed surprise us all and stay up.
Monday 8 August 2011
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Sunderland
Transfers In: McClean (Derry, £1.1M), Vaughan (free), O'Shea (Man U, £5M), Brown (Man U, £2.5), Gardner (B'ham, £6.6M), Ji (Chunnam, £1M), Wickham (Ipswich, £9M), Westwood (Coventry, free), Larsson (B'ham, free)
Overview: Sunderland have been the busiest so far this season, bought have bought extremely well. Gardner and Larsson were two of Birmingham's bright sparks and O'Shea and Brown will bring in fantastic experience. Although Frazier Campbell, Phil Bardsley and Kieron Richardson make ex-United player tally five.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Wickham has made big waves and is a future star according to many. Larsson and Gardner will grow with Sunderland and Ji is also making big waves from Korea.
One's to Watch: All of the new signings are exciting at Sunderland and if Gyan stays fit, it could be an intriguing season.
Prediction: Another team in the mid-table mix, but could be the biggest surprise this season with their new players.
Overview: Sunderland have been the busiest so far this season, bought have bought extremely well. Gardner and Larsson were two of Birmingham's bright sparks and O'Shea and Brown will bring in fantastic experience. Although Frazier Campbell, Phil Bardsley and Kieron Richardson make ex-United player tally five.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Wickham has made big waves and is a future star according to many. Larsson and Gardner will grow with Sunderland and Ji is also making big waves from Korea.
One's to Watch: All of the new signings are exciting at Sunderland and if Gyan stays fit, it could be an intriguing season.
Prediction: Another team in the mid-table mix, but could be the biggest surprise this season with their new players.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Prediction: Stoke
Transfers In: Woodgate (Spurs, free)
Overview: Stoke are in Europe this year, as long as win the final play-off round. This may be a distraction which could see Stoke suffer, but Pulis will make sure they keep in check. It'll be hard for Stoke emulate last season but will battle hard in the mid-table.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: It may be a bit late for Pennant to rekindle an England career but has looked good since his return to England. But Shawcross has been inspirational in defence alongside Huth, both of whom have a lot of years left.
One's to Watch: The defensive partnership for sure. Begovic played well in goal last season so keep an eye out again.
Prediction: Another mid-table team in that huge cluster. May finish tenth.
Overview: Stoke are in Europe this year, as long as win the final play-off round. This may be a distraction which could see Stoke suffer, but Pulis will make sure they keep in check. It'll be hard for Stoke emulate last season but will battle hard in the mid-table.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: It may be a bit late for Pennant to rekindle an England career but has looked good since his return to England. But Shawcross has been inspirational in defence alongside Huth, both of whom have a lot of years left.
One's to Watch: The defensive partnership for sure. Begovic played well in goal last season so keep an eye out again.
Prediction: Another mid-table team in that huge cluster. May finish tenth.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: QPR
Transfers In: Campbell (Blackpool), Gabbidon (West Ham, free), Dyer (West Ham, free), Bothroyd (Cardiff, free), Murphy (Ipswich, free)
Overview: QPR have bought well so far, picking players with Premiership experience. Keeping Taarabt was possibly their best business this summer as he will be key if QPR are to stay up this season. DJ Campbell scored well last season for Blackpool and Bothroyd for Cardiff. Gabbidon will provide strength in the defence as well as decent Premiership experience from West Ham
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Taarabt is already growing into a big star and should continue that way if he makes his mark in the Premiership. Routledge may prove how good he really is also.
One's to Watch: If he can stay fit, Kieron Dyer will be a must watch as he makes his comeback. Taarabt is the biggest watch for QPR.
Prediction: Have the best chance out of the promoted clubs to stay up, but I think they may just miss out and go back down.
Overview: QPR have bought well so far, picking players with Premiership experience. Keeping Taarabt was possibly their best business this summer as he will be key if QPR are to stay up this season. DJ Campbell scored well last season for Blackpool and Bothroyd for Cardiff. Gabbidon will provide strength in the defence as well as decent Premiership experience from West Ham
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Taarabt is already growing into a big star and should continue that way if he makes his mark in the Premiership. Routledge may prove how good he really is also.
One's to Watch: If he can stay fit, Kieron Dyer will be a must watch as he makes his comeback. Taarabt is the biggest watch for QPR.
Prediction: Have the best chance out of the promoted clubs to stay up, but I think they may just miss out and go back down.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Norwich
Transfers In: Naughton (Spurs, loan), Pilkington (Huddersfield, £3M), Johnson (Leeds, free), Vaughan (Everton, £2.3M), De Laet (Man U, loan), Bennett (Brighton), Morison (Millwall, £2M)
Overview: It's good to see Norwich back in the top flight, last time we were treated to Delia Smith's 'Let's be 'avin' you!'. They've been heavily involved in the transfer market but only Vaughan has had quality Premiership experience. They've bought well but possibly from the wrong leagues and may suffer for it.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Naughton may look to step up into the senior side at some point. Aaron Wilbraham and Wes Hoolahan look to be stars as Vaughan looks to re-assert himself.
One's to Watch: Must watch Hoolahan supplying Grant Holt up front, now Hoolahan can also supply Vaughan.
Prediction: I can't see them staying up again I'm afraid.
Overview: It's good to see Norwich back in the top flight, last time we were treated to Delia Smith's 'Let's be 'avin' you!'. They've been heavily involved in the transfer market but only Vaughan has had quality Premiership experience. They've bought well but possibly from the wrong leagues and may suffer for it.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Naughton may look to step up into the senior side at some point. Aaron Wilbraham and Wes Hoolahan look to be stars as Vaughan looks to re-assert himself.
One's to Watch: Must watch Hoolahan supplying Grant Holt up front, now Hoolahan can also supply Vaughan.
Prediction: I can't see them staying up again I'm afraid.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Newcastle
Transfers In: Obertan (Man U, £3.3M), Marveaux (Rennes, Free), Ba (West Ham), Cabaye (Lille, £6M)
Overview: Newcastle have lost a key player in Kevin Nolan, again due to Mike Ashley's incompetence. The rift with Barton may also produce a negative effect within the team but it seems that Barton is currently staying. Ba could be a good replacement for Carroll and Obertan will provide youth and pace. It's going to be a tough season for Newcastle as they battle in the mid-table.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Probably have no Euro 2012 candidates. But James Perch, Dan Gosling and Nile Ranger seem to be good prospects. Krul also had a good season last season when he played.
One's To Watch: Steven Taylor has provided a few goals from defence and could be Newcastle's next biggest player. Ba impressed at West Ham and should do the same up north.
Prediction: There's so many teams fighting for the top half of the table. Newcastle should just about manage it but they need the team working together.
Overview: Newcastle have lost a key player in Kevin Nolan, again due to Mike Ashley's incompetence. The rift with Barton may also produce a negative effect within the team but it seems that Barton is currently staying. Ba could be a good replacement for Carroll and Obertan will provide youth and pace. It's going to be a tough season for Newcastle as they battle in the mid-table.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Probably have no Euro 2012 candidates. But James Perch, Dan Gosling and Nile Ranger seem to be good prospects. Krul also had a good season last season when he played.
One's To Watch: Steven Taylor has provided a few goals from defence and could be Newcastle's next biggest player. Ba impressed at West Ham and should do the same up north.
Prediction: There's so many teams fighting for the top half of the table. Newcastle should just about manage it but they need the team working together.
Sunday 7 August 2011
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Man United
Transfers In: De Gea (A.Madrid, £18M), Young (Villa, £16M), Jones (Blackburn, £16M)
Overview: Winners of the Charity Shield, United had a fantastic pre-season including a 2-1 win over Barcelona. The difference with United is that they have another young looking team waiting to perform and are favourites to retain the Premiership. I don't rate Young high enough and don't think he should be wearing Scholes' number. Despite his mistake in the Shield, De Gea has looked promising as has Lindegaard in the battle to replace Van Der Sar. The niggle I had with Jones was his price tag for a player that will probably be on the bench more often than not, but he is a talent.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Ferdinand, Rooney and Young have all played their roles for England. Jones, Smalling, Cleverley and Welbeck will all be hunting down a place in the future as they step up from the U21s. Macheda has also looked bright on his return from Sampdoria.
One's To Watch: Hernandez will be looking to emulate his efforts last season when he returns from his bout of concussion. All the young players will have to be watched.
Prediction: Favourite's for the league in my opinion.
Overview: Winners of the Charity Shield, United had a fantastic pre-season including a 2-1 win over Barcelona. The difference with United is that they have another young looking team waiting to perform and are favourites to retain the Premiership. I don't rate Young high enough and don't think he should be wearing Scholes' number. Despite his mistake in the Shield, De Gea has looked promising as has Lindegaard in the battle to replace Van Der Sar. The niggle I had with Jones was his price tag for a player that will probably be on the bench more often than not, but he is a talent.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Ferdinand, Rooney and Young have all played their roles for England. Jones, Smalling, Cleverley and Welbeck will all be hunting down a place in the future as they step up from the U21s. Macheda has also looked bright on his return from Sampdoria.
One's To Watch: Hernandez will be looking to emulate his efforts last season when he returns from his bout of concussion. All the young players will have to be watched.
Prediction: Favourite's for the league in my opinion.
2011/2012 Barcaly's Premiership Predictions: Man City
Transfers In: Pantilimon (Timisoara), Aguero (A.Madrid, £38M), Savic (FK Partizan, £12M), Clichy (Arsenal, £7.75M)
Overview: The beaten Charity Shield side looked in decent nick, especially when they were 2-0 ahead. City have done fantastic business by bringing Aguero in and if Tevez stays, they could be a great partnership. They will challenge for the title this season but more realistically, City may break the stronghold of United and Chelsea as the top two.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Hart, Richards, Lescott, Barry and Milner have all held certain England places. Wright-Phillips will leave this summer and needs to if he's to rekindle his best form. Johnson should stake a claim in the England team. Savic is set to be a future star and Silva is continuing to make big waves.
One's To Watch: We have to watch the farce that is Balotelli. He is an walking ASBO and could City dear in a number of games. Johnson, Silva and Aguero are the must watches.
Prediction: Second or third, either breaking United and Chelsea or falling just behind again.
Overview: The beaten Charity Shield side looked in decent nick, especially when they were 2-0 ahead. City have done fantastic business by bringing Aguero in and if Tevez stays, they could be a great partnership. They will challenge for the title this season but more realistically, City may break the stronghold of United and Chelsea as the top two.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Hart, Richards, Lescott, Barry and Milner have all held certain England places. Wright-Phillips will leave this summer and needs to if he's to rekindle his best form. Johnson should stake a claim in the England team. Savic is set to be a future star and Silva is continuing to make big waves.
One's To Watch: We have to watch the farce that is Balotelli. He is an walking ASBO and could City dear in a number of games. Johnson, Silva and Aguero are the must watches.
Prediction: Second or third, either breaking United and Chelsea or falling just behind again.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Liverpool
Transfers In: Doni (Roma), Downing (Villa, £20M), Adam (Blackpool, £8.4M), Henderson (Sunderland, £14.5M)
Overview: Liverpool have had a poor pre-season and need to counter that for the start of the league. The dilemma for Dalglish is his over-abundance in mid-field. Liverpool have brought in Downing, Henderson and Adam, but Liverpool already have decent mid-fielders in the shape of Lucas, Raul Meireles and Maxi Rodriguez. Gerrard is out for the first couple of months but he will increase this dilemma when he returns. With Carragher getting ever older, Liverpool are missing decent defenders and miss the combination of Carragher and Hyppia.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Johnson, Gerrard, Cole, Downing and Carroll have all been involved under Capello. Henderson will be looking to make the step up from U21 level. Shelvy was bought as a future star but Spearing and Kelly have all looked pretty decent so far.
One's To Watch: Suarez will have a big season this season. We all need to keep an eye on the mid-field battle to see who will get games. Carroll also needs to perform as his price-tag demands.
Prediction: On paper look good enough to challenge for the Champions League place. But based on pre-season they may not have the edge yet. They should finish fourth or fifth to have had a decent season.
Overview: Liverpool have had a poor pre-season and need to counter that for the start of the league. The dilemma for Dalglish is his over-abundance in mid-field. Liverpool have brought in Downing, Henderson and Adam, but Liverpool already have decent mid-fielders in the shape of Lucas, Raul Meireles and Maxi Rodriguez. Gerrard is out for the first couple of months but he will increase this dilemma when he returns. With Carragher getting ever older, Liverpool are missing decent defenders and miss the combination of Carragher and Hyppia.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Johnson, Gerrard, Cole, Downing and Carroll have all been involved under Capello. Henderson will be looking to make the step up from U21 level. Shelvy was bought as a future star but Spearing and Kelly have all looked pretty decent so far.
One's To Watch: Suarez will have a big season this season. We all need to keep an eye on the mid-field battle to see who will get games. Carroll also needs to perform as his price-tag demands.
Prediction: On paper look good enough to challenge for the Champions League place. But based on pre-season they may not have the edge yet. They should finish fourth or fifth to have had a decent season.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Fulham
Transfers In: Kasami (Palermo, £4M), Gecov (Slovan, £780,000), J.A.Riise (Roma), Somogyi (REAC), Burn (Darlington, £1.2M)
Overview: Martin Jol is back in the Premiership and should do a good job at Fulham. They are already into the final play-off round in the Europa League and will look to cement or even progress from that spot this season. Riise brings plenty of Premiership experience with him from his days at Liverpool and should a great signing for the Cottagers.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Zamora and Johnson have both been in previous England squads and a good season from either of them could potentially earn a call up. Gecov has been bought as a star of the future so we will wait and see.
One's To Watch: Dempsey is always a must watch for Fulham with the ever consistent Hangeland. But it will intriguing to see how the Riise brothers play together.
Prediction: I'm sure Fulham have what it takes to make the step up and will be in the battle for Europa League position.
Overview: Martin Jol is back in the Premiership and should do a good job at Fulham. They are already into the final play-off round in the Europa League and will look to cement or even progress from that spot this season. Riise brings plenty of Premiership experience with him from his days at Liverpool and should a great signing for the Cottagers.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Zamora and Johnson have both been in previous England squads and a good season from either of them could potentially earn a call up. Gecov has been bought as a star of the future so we will wait and see.
One's To Watch: Dempsey is always a must watch for Fulham with the ever consistent Hangeland. But it will intriguing to see how the Riise brothers play together.
Prediction: I'm sure Fulham have what it takes to make the step up and will be in the battle for Europa League position.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Everton
Transfers In: Dier (Sporting Lisbon, loan)
Overview: If Everton can start a season they way they've ended the previous two, there's no reason why they can't challenge for fourth place. Although the chemistry will be good, Everton could do with a couple of tweaks to keep the team fresh and fighting. David Moyes has been dealt poor hands with injuries many times at Everton and will be hoping that the likes of Jagielka, Cahill, Arteta and Saha can remain fit this season to be able to push for a champions League spot.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Baines and Jagielka have been in England squads recently and will be looking to continue that trend. Rodwell has already grown a reputation but I think Seamus Coleman will be a big asset to Irish football in the future.
One's To Watch: Rodwell and Coleman will be looking to impress. It will be interesting to see if Beckford can step up this season, also look out for Osman.
Prediction: Will look to battle for fourth place but for me will fail to get there. Poised to finish sixth or seventh.
Overview: If Everton can start a season they way they've ended the previous two, there's no reason why they can't challenge for fourth place. Although the chemistry will be good, Everton could do with a couple of tweaks to keep the team fresh and fighting. David Moyes has been dealt poor hands with injuries many times at Everton and will be hoping that the likes of Jagielka, Cahill, Arteta and Saha can remain fit this season to be able to push for a champions League spot.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Baines and Jagielka have been in England squads recently and will be looking to continue that trend. Rodwell has already grown a reputation but I think Seamus Coleman will be a big asset to Irish football in the future.
One's To Watch: Rodwell and Coleman will be looking to impress. It will be interesting to see if Beckford can step up this season, also look out for Osman.
Prediction: Will look to battle for fourth place but for me will fail to get there. Poised to finish sixth or seventh.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Chelsea
Transfers In: Lukaku (Anderlecht), Romeu (Barcelona B, £5.1M), Courtois (Genk, £9M)
Overview: Chelsea have had a quiet, but positive, pre-season. They won the Barclay's Asia Trophy with Torres scoring in the final. New manager Andre Villas-Boas has a tough job on his hands and will have to provide results or he will also be shown the door. They haven't really added to the squad, Lukaku is the highest-profile name. Chelsea are going to have to battle hard to win the league this season and need Torres to perform in this ageing Chelsea squad.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Cole, Terry and Lampard should all feature in Euro 2012. Sturridge needs to move to retain his reputation otherwise he could face the sub's bench quite often. Josh McEachran looks to be a star of the future.
One's To Watch: All eyes will be on Torres to see if he can deliver this season. If Sturridge gets games, keep a close eye on him.
Prediction: I'm not sure if this ageing squad will have what it takes but they will be challenging. They also face a battle for second if they fail to win the league.
Overview: Chelsea have had a quiet, but positive, pre-season. They won the Barclay's Asia Trophy with Torres scoring in the final. New manager Andre Villas-Boas has a tough job on his hands and will have to provide results or he will also be shown the door. They haven't really added to the squad, Lukaku is the highest-profile name. Chelsea are going to have to battle hard to win the league this season and need Torres to perform in this ageing Chelsea squad.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Cole, Terry and Lampard should all feature in Euro 2012. Sturridge needs to move to retain his reputation otherwise he could face the sub's bench quite often. Josh McEachran looks to be a star of the future.
One's To Watch: All eyes will be on Torres to see if he can deliver this season. If Sturridge gets games, keep a close eye on him.
Prediction: I'm not sure if this ageing squad will have what it takes but they will be challenging. They also face a battle for second if they fail to win the league.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Bolton
Transfers In: Mears (Burnley), Eagles (Burnley), Reo-Coker (Aston Villa, free), Pratley (Swansea).
Overview: Bolton have had a positive pre-season but have been dealt a few blows. Holden is just returning from a broken leg suffered against Man United last year, but both Lee and new boy Mears have suffered broken legs and will miss much of this season. Reo-Coker and Eagles will bring Premiership experience with them as will Pratley so good business done by Owen Coyle. If they can keep hold of Cahill they also benefit strongly and have also hinted at wanting to bring Sturridge back to the Reebok.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Kevin Davies has been involved in Capello's set up and will look to continue for 2012. Cahill will certainly be on the radar in years to come if he keeps growing his reputation.
One's To Watch: It will be interesting to see how Eagles and Reo-Coker fit into Owen Coyle's mid-field whereas Pratley will partner Davies up front. If Holden makes a happy return then keep your eyes peeled for that.
Prediction: Because the league is going to be so tight this season, I think Bolton will be in the mix for a mid-table place. But I fear they may be ones to lose out and sit just in the bottom half of the league.
Overview: Bolton have had a positive pre-season but have been dealt a few blows. Holden is just returning from a broken leg suffered against Man United last year, but both Lee and new boy Mears have suffered broken legs and will miss much of this season. Reo-Coker and Eagles will bring Premiership experience with them as will Pratley so good business done by Owen Coyle. If they can keep hold of Cahill they also benefit strongly and have also hinted at wanting to bring Sturridge back to the Reebok.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Kevin Davies has been involved in Capello's set up and will look to continue for 2012. Cahill will certainly be on the radar in years to come if he keeps growing his reputation.
One's To Watch: It will be interesting to see how Eagles and Reo-Coker fit into Owen Coyle's mid-field whereas Pratley will partner Davies up front. If Holden makes a happy return then keep your eyes peeled for that.
Prediction: Because the league is going to be so tight this season, I think Bolton will be in the mix for a mid-table place. But I fear they may be ones to lose out and sit just in the bottom half of the league.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Blackburn
Transfers In: Anderson (Aberdeen, free), Goodwillie (Dundee United, £3.2M), Petrovic (Partizan Belgrade, £3M), Pavone (Betis, free)
Overview: Blackburn's new owners need to face the facts of life. They believe that Blackburn could reach the Champions League, but for me that is not going to happen for a long time. Goodwillie should be decent signing up front for Blackburn but apart from that nothing has changed from last season. Finished third in the Barclay's Asia Trophy and I feel this season won't be much better than last, especially if they can't hold onto Samba.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Blackburn don't possess any Euro 2012 candidates but Nick Blackman looked good in Asia as did Mauro Formica. Hoillet and N'Zonzi will look to push into the Canadian and French senior sides.
One's To Watch: If they get the chances, Hoillet, N'Zonzi and Formica will be good to watch.
Prediction: They could be involved in another relegation battle but may end up finishing about fifteenth.
Overview: Blackburn's new owners need to face the facts of life. They believe that Blackburn could reach the Champions League, but for me that is not going to happen for a long time. Goodwillie should be decent signing up front for Blackburn but apart from that nothing has changed from last season. Finished third in the Barclay's Asia Trophy and I feel this season won't be much better than last, especially if they can't hold onto Samba.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Blackburn don't possess any Euro 2012 candidates but Nick Blackman looked good in Asia as did Mauro Formica. Hoillet and N'Zonzi will look to push into the Canadian and French senior sides.
One's To Watch: If they get the chances, Hoillet, N'Zonzi and Formica will be good to watch.
Prediction: They could be involved in another relegation battle but may end up finishing about fifteenth.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Aston Villa
Transfers In: Given (Man City, undisc.), N'Zogbia (Wigan, £10.8M)
Overview: Despite losing Downing, Young and Friedel, Villa look fairly strong. New boss Alex McLeish does have a tough job after managing their bitter rivals but he can certainly do a good job. They've bought well so far with Given a top class keeper and N'Zogbia providing good service to the strikers. Finished runners-up in the Barclay's Asia Trophy and for me are just missing a second top class striker, Robbie Keane would be an ideal buy. They could possibly do with a defender but Villa possess a great youth system which will show the likes of Albrighton and Bannan.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Warnock has been included in England squads under Capello so would look to have a shout. Agbonlahor and Bent are probably more likely to feature in an England shirt next year. Delfouneso and Delph will be looking to make the step up from the U21s with Albrighton and Scotland will have Bannan.
One's To Watch: You would probably say Given, back in action after a long time on City's bench. But Albrighton needs to come of age to replace Downing or Young.
Prediction: It's going to be such a tight season at all ends of the table. The mid-table has about eight teams challenging for Europa League football and Villa will be one of them.
Overview: Despite losing Downing, Young and Friedel, Villa look fairly strong. New boss Alex McLeish does have a tough job after managing their bitter rivals but he can certainly do a good job. They've bought well so far with Given a top class keeper and N'Zogbia providing good service to the strikers. Finished runners-up in the Barclay's Asia Trophy and for me are just missing a second top class striker, Robbie Keane would be an ideal buy. They could possibly do with a defender but Villa possess a great youth system which will show the likes of Albrighton and Bannan.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Warnock has been included in England squads under Capello so would look to have a shout. Agbonlahor and Bent are probably more likely to feature in an England shirt next year. Delfouneso and Delph will be looking to make the step up from the U21s with Albrighton and Scotland will have Bannan.
One's To Watch: You would probably say Given, back in action after a long time on City's bench. But Albrighton needs to come of age to replace Downing or Young.
Prediction: It's going to be such a tight season at all ends of the table. The mid-table has about eight teams challenging for Europa League football and Villa will be one of them.
2011/2012 Barclay's Premiership Predictions: Arsenal
Transfers In: Gervinho (Lille, £10.7M), Jenkinson (Charlton, £1.1M), Campbell (Deportivo Saprissa, £1.1M)
Overview: Arsenal haven't had a great pre-season with a draw against NY Red Bulls and a defeat to Benfica amongst others. They have done well so far to keep hold of Fabregas and Nasri but if they do eventually go, Wenger needs to get it done now to have longer to find replacements. They haven't really added to the squad, Gervinho for me isn't a top class player despite a good season in Ligue 1 last season. They do need players like Arshavin and Walcott to be consistently good this season and need Van Persie to stay fit. Arsenal need a good quality centre back and some seniority but as it stands, I think Arsenal will struggle this season.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Walcott and Wilshere will be looking for a place in the 2012 team and I think Wilshere has the better chance. Craig Eastmond looks to be a star of the future.
One's To Watch: Arsenal look to have a decent keeper now in young Szczesny so keep an eye out, if Van Persie stays fit also watch to see if he has a good season.
Prediction: The highest they will finish is 4th but for me look liable to miss out on Champions League at the end of this season.
Overview: Arsenal haven't had a great pre-season with a draw against NY Red Bulls and a defeat to Benfica amongst others. They have done well so far to keep hold of Fabregas and Nasri but if they do eventually go, Wenger needs to get it done now to have longer to find replacements. They haven't really added to the squad, Gervinho for me isn't a top class player despite a good season in Ligue 1 last season. They do need players like Arshavin and Walcott to be consistently good this season and need Van Persie to stay fit. Arsenal need a good quality centre back and some seniority but as it stands, I think Arsenal will struggle this season.
Euro 2012/Stars of the Future: Walcott and Wilshere will be looking for a place in the 2012 team and I think Wilshere has the better chance. Craig Eastmond looks to be a star of the future.
One's To Watch: Arsenal look to have a decent keeper now in young Szczesny so keep an eye out, if Van Persie stays fit also watch to see if he has a good season.
Prediction: The highest they will finish is 4th but for me look liable to miss out on Champions League at the end of this season.
And It Begins
Manchester City team: Hart, Lescott, Richards (Y), Kompany (c), Kolarov Y (Clichy,74), Milner (Y) (Johnson,67), Silva, de Jong, Toure (Y), Dzeko (Y), Balotelli (Barry, 59)
Manchester United team: De Gea, Ferdinand (Jones, HT), Evra (Y) (Rafael, 72), Smalling, Vidic (c) (Evans, HT), Carrick (Cleverley, HT), Anderson (Y), Rooney, Welbeck (Berbatov, 89), Young, Nani
The nerves, excitement, angst, tension and drama is back as the game of two halves returns with a bang. The traditional curtain raiser, the Community Shield, was like no other as it was the second Manchester derby in the history of the Charity/Community shield. Many claimed that this would be just another pre-season match, but how wrong can they be as this game was a typical derby with every ingredient for a perfect game.
United started the better team and the gloves were off almost from the start as the City players were quick to lunge in and Balotelli squared up to Vidic after a foul. That was followed by Anderson and Dzeko with Dzeko actually pushing Anderson away, both received yellow cards. But it began to look like the FA Cup semi-final and Champions League final as United started very bright without scoring that crucial goal and were caught cold. Evra was getting frustrated with certain decisions and exerted his frustration by bringing down Milner. Silva whipped the ball in from the wide free-kick and Lescott jumped higher than Ferdinand to head past De Ga who was in no man's land. City one-nil up after thirty-eight minutes despite only having thirty-four percent of possession. It got worse for United as Dzeko was allowed to run with the ball (a la Toure in FA Cup and Messi in Champions League), Dzeko struck the ball from thirty yards and De Gea failed to save it when really ought to have done. City two-nil up in first-half injury time.
Alex Ferguson had stated pre-game that he would make the allocated six changes at half-time, this was halved to three as Jones, Evans and Cleverley came on for Ferdinand, Vidic and Carrick. Again United started the brighter after the break, knowing that they needed an early goal to get back into the game. It came seven minutes into the half when Richards brought Evra down. Young floated the free-kick into the box where Chris Smalling poked the ball past Hart to make 2-1. United then equalised six minutes later with a fantastic team goal, Rooney, Cleverley and Welbeck were all involved but the move was started and finished by Nani as he slotted past Hart from a tight angle. From there City looked on the ropes as their players tired, but the game ebbed and flowed as it went from end to end. Then, in true derby fashion, there was a late goal to prevent the game from going to penalties. City played a long free-kick deep into the box where Dzeko had a free header, he couldn't make the most of it and Rooney blasted it clear. Nani was running towards Kompany and managed to win the ball off the last man, Nani then took it around Hart before rolling it home to seal yet another remarkable comeback for Manchester United.
Monday 1 August 2011
World Cup 2014 Qualifying
The draw for the qualifying groups for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil took place on Saturday, producing interesting results. Scotland and Wales were paired together in Group A. Republic Ireland face a tough task against Sweden and Germany in group C. Northern Ireland face Portugal in group F and England face Montenegro again in Group H.
Group A: This could be an extremely close group as both Scotland and Wales will have a decent chance of qualifying. Croatia and Serbia will stand in their way, although Serbia have qualified for the last two World Cups. Belgium could also have a say with the likes of Hazard, Fellaini and Vermaelen. Macedonia are the ranked outsiders. Croatia to win the group.
Group B: Again there's possibly a four way battle for the qualification and play-off spots. Italy and Denmark both qualified in 2010 but didn't cover themselves in any glory. Czech Republic and Bulgaria could potentially have a say. Armenia and Malta are the two minnows. Italy to win the group.
Group C: Republic Ireland will probably look to get second place as Germany are the huge favourites. Ireland face strong competition from Sweden but Austria will probably just finish fourth. Faroe Islands and Kazakhstan will battle it out at the bottom. Germany will win the group.
Group D: Netherlands face quite an easy task to qualify for the World Cup. Turkey, Hungary and Romania will look for that play-off place whereas Estonia and Andorra will be at the bottom. Netherlands will win the group.
Group E: This group is split down the middle. Norway, Slovenia and Switzerland will fight at the top. Albania, Cyprus and Iceland will fight at the bottom. I think Switzerland will actually win this group.
Group F: Northern Ireland look to miss out on this World Cup. Portugal and Russia should get the top two places. Leaving Ireland to fight with Israel for third. Azerbaijan and Luxembourg will be the bottom two. Portugal should win this group, just.
Group G: Greece and Slovakia could be surprised by Bosnia-Herzegovina but it could just be a two way battle at the top. Lithuania and Latvia will fight for fourth with Liechtenstein languishing in last place. I think Slovakia might steal this group.
Group H: England should qualify from this group quite comfortably. Montenegro, Ukraine and Poland will fight for the play-off spot and Moldova and San Marino getting two points from the group. England will win this group.
Group I: A World Cup without France or Spain could never be envisioned. But that is what could happen with this group. The lowest scoring runner-up fails to make the play-offs and with Group I having a team fewer, the runner-up from here will struggle to qualify. Belgium, Georgia and Finland will battle for third. Spain should win this group.
Group A: This could be an extremely close group as both Scotland and Wales will have a decent chance of qualifying. Croatia and Serbia will stand in their way, although Serbia have qualified for the last two World Cups. Belgium could also have a say with the likes of Hazard, Fellaini and Vermaelen. Macedonia are the ranked outsiders. Croatia to win the group.
Group B: Again there's possibly a four way battle for the qualification and play-off spots. Italy and Denmark both qualified in 2010 but didn't cover themselves in any glory. Czech Republic and Bulgaria could potentially have a say. Armenia and Malta are the two minnows. Italy to win the group.
Group C: Republic Ireland will probably look to get second place as Germany are the huge favourites. Ireland face strong competition from Sweden but Austria will probably just finish fourth. Faroe Islands and Kazakhstan will battle it out at the bottom. Germany will win the group.
Group D: Netherlands face quite an easy task to qualify for the World Cup. Turkey, Hungary and Romania will look for that play-off place whereas Estonia and Andorra will be at the bottom. Netherlands will win the group.
Group E: This group is split down the middle. Norway, Slovenia and Switzerland will fight at the top. Albania, Cyprus and Iceland will fight at the bottom. I think Switzerland will actually win this group.
Group F: Northern Ireland look to miss out on this World Cup. Portugal and Russia should get the top two places. Leaving Ireland to fight with Israel for third. Azerbaijan and Luxembourg will be the bottom two. Portugal should win this group, just.
Group G: Greece and Slovakia could be surprised by Bosnia-Herzegovina but it could just be a two way battle at the top. Lithuania and Latvia will fight for fourth with Liechtenstein languishing in last place. I think Slovakia might steal this group.
Group H: England should qualify from this group quite comfortably. Montenegro, Ukraine and Poland will fight for the play-off spot and Moldova and San Marino getting two points from the group. England will win this group.
Group I: A World Cup without France or Spain could never be envisioned. But that is what could happen with this group. The lowest scoring runner-up fails to make the play-offs and with Group I having a team fewer, the runner-up from here will struggle to qualify. Belgium, Georgia and Finland will battle for third. Spain should win this group.
Is Terenzano Good For Speedway?
The latest Speedway GP meeting took place in Terenzano, Italy. Like most designs in Italy, the Terenzano track is built with speed with in mind. Monza is the shortest track on the F1 calender and boasts some of the highest speeds in F1. Terenzano, on the other hand, is one of the longest tracks on the Speedway calender with its long straights.
Although speed is good, it is the name of the sport after all, it reduces equality as the fastest set ups on the bikes gain the advantage. Also, unlike any other track, Terenzano is made out of shale instead of the usual dirt. This gives the track a lighter colour and gives the riders more grip. This can be seen as a good thing as it increases speed, but it decreases the chances of mistakes being punished because the bikes are more likely to stay up. So, in a sense, there's less drama as less mistakes are punished.
The final thought on the Terenzano track is the danger of the shale itself. The shale is drier than normal mud/dirt and the bikes pick it up more often, therefore showering the other riders. This means that for better visibility, the riders have to look down to be able to see which could cause problems in itself. Luckily, there were no serious incidents on Saturday but it does beg the question whether Terenzano is a good track for Speedway.
Although speed is good, it is the name of the sport after all, it reduces equality as the fastest set ups on the bikes gain the advantage. Also, unlike any other track, Terenzano is made out of shale instead of the usual dirt. This gives the track a lighter colour and gives the riders more grip. This can be seen as a good thing as it increases speed, but it decreases the chances of mistakes being punished because the bikes are more likely to stay up. So, in a sense, there's less drama as less mistakes are punished.
The final thought on the Terenzano track is the danger of the shale itself. The shale is drier than normal mud/dirt and the bikes pick it up more often, therefore showering the other riders. This means that for better visibility, the riders have to look down to be able to see which could cause problems in itself. Luckily, there were no serious incidents on Saturday but it does beg the question whether Terenzano is a good track for Speedway.
Hungary For Tyres
It's been said throughout the F1 season that this year's Pirelli tyres would play a pivotal role in the Championship. That certainly happened yesterday as Jenson Button secured his third win of the season in his 200th race.
The race started in light rain conditions, meaning that everyone started on the intermediate tyres. The Ferraris suffered the worst start as both of the Mercedes cars overtook them into fourth and fifth, Alonso had also overtaken Massa. By the third lap both of the Ferraris had overtaken Schumacher. Neither Red Bull car looked to have the race pace again and Hamilton overtook Vettel on the fifth lap. The wet conditions meant that any tyre that touched the wet kerb would surely spin off, Massa found this out on lap eight but was able to continue. Alonso managed to overtake Rosberg a lap later to secure fourth.
By the thirteenth lap, the conditions had dried up enough for the drivers to go onto the super soft tyres. Button and Webber were the first two to take the gamble and Button was able to overtake Vettel into second and Webber overtook Alonso into fourth. Amongst this, Maldonado received a drive through penalty for speeding in the pit lane.
There were three retirements in eight laps as Trulli retired on lap twenty with an oil leak. This was followed by Heidfeld five laps later, his Renault car caught fire just after pitting, the car then blew up from the side but luckily no-one was close enough to get seriously hurt, although a marshall had a near-miss. Schumacher then went for a spin which resulted in a gear box and he retired on lap twenty-eight.
Sergio Perez received a drive through penalty on lap thirty-three for overtaking Kovalainen under yellow flag conditions. By lap forty the super soft tyres were reaching the cliff and Webber, Vettel and Button all decided to go onto the soft tyres for their durability. Alonso had overtaken both Red Bulls during the pitting session but Vettel regained third place five laps later. Hamilton had remained on the super soft tyres and Button was able to catch him and overtake him on lap forty-seven. Webber had also overtaken Alonso, who also remained of the super soft, into fourth.
At this point there were spots of light rain. This caused Button to lose temperature in his soft tyres and Hamilton was able to catch him and regain the lead. A lap later the battle continued until Hamilton pitted because the grip was almost nil. But, because of the light rain, Hamilton asked to go back on the intermediates, as did Webber. This cost them dear, although Webber quickly pitted again to go back onto the soft tyres.
Hamilton had no such luck and was overtaken on lap fifty-four by Alonso for fourth. It got worse for Hamilton as he received a drive through penalty for causing Di Resta to go off the track whilst he corrected a spin. Hamilton first pitted to go onto the soft tyres and after he'd done his drive through, he found himself behind Massa and Webber in sixth place. But Massa was still on the super-soft tyres and both Webber and Hamilton overtook the Ferrari on lap fifty-eight. Kovalainen became the fourth retirement on lap sixty before Hamilton was able to overtake Webber on lap sixty-four to earn fourth. Button won the race with his winning strategy of staying on the soft tyres. Result in full:
1.Button (McLaren), 2.Vettel (Red Bull), 3.Alonso (Ferrri), 4.Hamilton (McLaren), 5.Webber (Red Bull), 6.Massa (Ferrari), 7.Di Resta (Force India), 8.Buemi (Toro Rosso), 9.Rosberg (Mercedes), 10.Alguersuari (Toro Rosso), 11.Kobayashi (Sauber), 12.Petrov (Renault), 13.Barrichello (Williams), 14.Sutil (Force India) 15.Perez (Sauber), 16.Maldonado (Williams), 17.Glock (Virgin), 18.Ricciardo (Hispania), 19.D'Ambrosio (Virgin), 20.Liuzzi (Virgin) DNF: Trulli (Lotus), Heidfeld (Renault), Schumacher (Mercedes), Kovalainen (Lotus)
The race started in light rain conditions, meaning that everyone started on the intermediate tyres. The Ferraris suffered the worst start as both of the Mercedes cars overtook them into fourth and fifth, Alonso had also overtaken Massa. By the third lap both of the Ferraris had overtaken Schumacher. Neither Red Bull car looked to have the race pace again and Hamilton overtook Vettel on the fifth lap. The wet conditions meant that any tyre that touched the wet kerb would surely spin off, Massa found this out on lap eight but was able to continue. Alonso managed to overtake Rosberg a lap later to secure fourth.
By the thirteenth lap, the conditions had dried up enough for the drivers to go onto the super soft tyres. Button and Webber were the first two to take the gamble and Button was able to overtake Vettel into second and Webber overtook Alonso into fourth. Amongst this, Maldonado received a drive through penalty for speeding in the pit lane.
There were three retirements in eight laps as Trulli retired on lap twenty with an oil leak. This was followed by Heidfeld five laps later, his Renault car caught fire just after pitting, the car then blew up from the side but luckily no-one was close enough to get seriously hurt, although a marshall had a near-miss. Schumacher then went for a spin which resulted in a gear box and he retired on lap twenty-eight.
Sergio Perez received a drive through penalty on lap thirty-three for overtaking Kovalainen under yellow flag conditions. By lap forty the super soft tyres were reaching the cliff and Webber, Vettel and Button all decided to go onto the soft tyres for their durability. Alonso had overtaken both Red Bulls during the pitting session but Vettel regained third place five laps later. Hamilton had remained on the super soft tyres and Button was able to catch him and overtake him on lap forty-seven. Webber had also overtaken Alonso, who also remained of the super soft, into fourth.
At this point there were spots of light rain. This caused Button to lose temperature in his soft tyres and Hamilton was able to catch him and regain the lead. A lap later the battle continued until Hamilton pitted because the grip was almost nil. But, because of the light rain, Hamilton asked to go back on the intermediates, as did Webber. This cost them dear, although Webber quickly pitted again to go back onto the soft tyres.
Hamilton had no such luck and was overtaken on lap fifty-four by Alonso for fourth. It got worse for Hamilton as he received a drive through penalty for causing Di Resta to go off the track whilst he corrected a spin. Hamilton first pitted to go onto the soft tyres and after he'd done his drive through, he found himself behind Massa and Webber in sixth place. But Massa was still on the super-soft tyres and both Webber and Hamilton overtook the Ferrari on lap fifty-eight. Kovalainen became the fourth retirement on lap sixty before Hamilton was able to overtake Webber on lap sixty-four to earn fourth. Button won the race with his winning strategy of staying on the soft tyres. Result in full:
1.Button (McLaren), 2.Vettel (Red Bull), 3.Alonso (Ferrri), 4.Hamilton (McLaren), 5.Webber (Red Bull), 6.Massa (Ferrari), 7.Di Resta (Force India), 8.Buemi (Toro Rosso), 9.Rosberg (Mercedes), 10.Alguersuari (Toro Rosso), 11.Kobayashi (Sauber), 12.Petrov (Renault), 13.Barrichello (Williams), 14.Sutil (Force India) 15.Perez (Sauber), 16.Maldonado (Williams), 17.Glock (Virgin), 18.Ricciardo (Hispania), 19.D'Ambrosio (Virgin), 20.Liuzzi (Virgin) DNF: Trulli (Lotus), Heidfeld (Renault), Schumacher (Mercedes), Kovalainen (Lotus)
European Championships: Sunday
Sunday in Dusseldorf saw the quarter-finals, semi-finals and the final of the European Championships all in one day. It would be the defending champion Phil Taylor who would win his second televised tournament in the space of a week with a final win over Adrian Lewis. It was Lewis who went 2-0 ahead at the start but Taylor fought back 3-3 and then game remained level up until 8-8. But there was no stopping the Power and Taylor took the next three legs to remain the European Darts champion.
Phil Taylor got to the final by beating Simon Whitlock in the semi-final. Taylor led from the start and after taking a 2-0 lead, he went 6-1 ahead. There was nothing Whitlock could do as Taylor cruised to a 11-4 victory.
Lewis faced Van Barnveld in his semi-final. The game was level at 2-2 before Lewis kicked into gear to lead 6-2. But the Dutchman was able to fight back to 8-7 to keep the game alive. Lewis then hit a nine darter to secure a 10-7 lead before Barney again fought back to 10-10. Barney then left himself on 24 to win but Lewis checked-out 121 to seal his place in the final.
Adrian Lewis took on the dark horse Kim Huybrechts in the first quarter-final of the day. On paper this looked a breeze for the World Champion but Huybrechts fought him all the way. Initially it did look like a breeze for Lewis as he stormed to a 5-0 lead. But the Belgian fought back to 7-5 then 9-8 before Lewis finally saw off the debutant.
The second quarter-final saw a rematch from the quarter-final in Blackpool between James Wade and Van Barneveld. Wade own the tie in Blackpool but the Dutchman was keen to get revenge in Dusseldorf. The game to went to 3-3 before Barney found a crucial break of throw and took a 6-3 lead. Barney then went 9-6 ahead and just needed one leg to win, but Wade wasn't finished and came back to 9-8. Wade then missed a dart at double top to level the match and Van Barneveld punished him by progressing to the quarter-finals 10-8.
The big quarter-final was between Taylor and Nicholson. There's been a little bit of verbal jousting between the pair of them and now it was time to see who was wearing the trousers. It started off with Nicholson as he stormed to a 3-0 lead. But Taylor turned it around and lead 6-4. It was then Nicholson's turn to fight back and the game became level at 7-7. Nicholson ran out of steam as Taylor powered, excuse the pun, to 10-7 to progress.
The last quarter-final saw Simon Whitlock take on Peter Wright. After initially taking the lead, Wright had to fight back to level the match at 3-3. Whitlock then went 6-3 ahead before Wright reduced the deficit to 6-5. It wasn't enough and the Wizard from Oz took the match 10-6.
Phil Taylor got to the final by beating Simon Whitlock in the semi-final. Taylor led from the start and after taking a 2-0 lead, he went 6-1 ahead. There was nothing Whitlock could do as Taylor cruised to a 11-4 victory.
Lewis faced Van Barnveld in his semi-final. The game was level at 2-2 before Lewis kicked into gear to lead 6-2. But the Dutchman was able to fight back to 8-7 to keep the game alive. Lewis then hit a nine darter to secure a 10-7 lead before Barney again fought back to 10-10. Barney then left himself on 24 to win but Lewis checked-out 121 to seal his place in the final.
Adrian Lewis took on the dark horse Kim Huybrechts in the first quarter-final of the day. On paper this looked a breeze for the World Champion but Huybrechts fought him all the way. Initially it did look like a breeze for Lewis as he stormed to a 5-0 lead. But the Belgian fought back to 7-5 then 9-8 before Lewis finally saw off the debutant.
The second quarter-final saw a rematch from the quarter-final in Blackpool between James Wade and Van Barneveld. Wade own the tie in Blackpool but the Dutchman was keen to get revenge in Dusseldorf. The game to went to 3-3 before Barney found a crucial break of throw and took a 6-3 lead. Barney then went 9-6 ahead and just needed one leg to win, but Wade wasn't finished and came back to 9-8. Wade then missed a dart at double top to level the match and Van Barneveld punished him by progressing to the quarter-finals 10-8.
The big quarter-final was between Taylor and Nicholson. There's been a little bit of verbal jousting between the pair of them and now it was time to see who was wearing the trousers. It started off with Nicholson as he stormed to a 3-0 lead. But Taylor turned it around and lead 6-4. It was then Nicholson's turn to fight back and the game became level at 7-7. Nicholson ran out of steam as Taylor powered, excuse the pun, to 10-7 to progress.
The last quarter-final saw Simon Whitlock take on Peter Wright. After initially taking the lead, Wright had to fight back to level the match at 3-3. Whitlock then went 6-3 ahead before Wright reduced the deficit to 6-5. It wasn't enough and the Wizard from Oz took the match 10-6.
European Championships: Saturday
Saturday in Dusseldorf saw the second round of the European Darts Championships take place. It was split into two sessions, four games in the afternoon and four in the evening. Each session saw a shock each as both Anderson and Newton were shown the door and exited the competition.
The afternoon session kicked-off with Simon Whitlock breezing past Colin Lloyd. Whitlock stormed into a 5-0 lead before Lloyd tried to make the scoreline a little more respectable. But Whitlock went onto win 10-2.
It's not often that a neutral has a favourite to win, but everyone wanted Paul Nicholson to beat Terry Jenkins to set up a potential quarter-final showdown with Phil Taylor. It was Nicholson who got the upper hand, leading 2-0. But Jenkins equalised before Nicholson stepped on the gas to lead 6-2. The game went to 9-4 before Nicholson finished the match off to progress into the quarter-finals.
The script was written and the stage was set as Taylor took on Mervyn King for the chance to play Nicholson in the quarter finals. Again it was Taylor who was first out of the blocks, taking a 3-0 lead. King then reduced the deficit to 3-2 before Taylor kicked it up a gear and took the match 10-3.
The final game of the session saw Gary Anderson take on Peter Wright. Anderson has looked out of sorts recently and bought new darts for this game. The game was slow in getting started bu Anderson took a 4-2 lead after the game was level at 2-2. Anderson then began to miss his doubles and the game went to 5-5. After the break, Anderson returned with his old darts and fared no better. If anything he fared worse as Wright secured five legs in a row to win 10-5 and progress at Anderson's expense.
The start of the second session saw Wes Newton against the highly-rated youngster Kim Huybrechts. The game went to 2-2 before the Belgian upset the apple cart and took a 5-2 lead. Newton managed to fight back and the players were locked at 7-7. Huybrechts got the massive break to lead 9-7 and Newton was unable to regain the deficit and lost 10-8.
Adrian Lewis looked to have an easy tie against Dave Chisnall but the were also locked together at 2-2. This then extended to 5-5 before Lewis kicked up a gear to take the next five legs to win 10-5.
After his disappointment in Blackpool, Ronnie Baxter needed a good run in this tournament. He wouldn't have then liked to have seen James Wade up alongside him on the oche in the second round. However, Baxter stormed into a 3-0 lead before Wade fought back to 5-5. Wade managed to get himself in front and there was nothing that Baxter could do, The Machine won the match 10-7.
The final match of the second round saw Van Barneveld take on Mark Walsh. Barney took a 3-1 lead before Walsh fought back to level. But the Dutchman wasn't perturbed and regained a lead 7-3. Walsh tried to fight back again and made 7-5 before Barneveld saw out the match 10-5.
The afternoon session kicked-off with Simon Whitlock breezing past Colin Lloyd. Whitlock stormed into a 5-0 lead before Lloyd tried to make the scoreline a little more respectable. But Whitlock went onto win 10-2.
It's not often that a neutral has a favourite to win, but everyone wanted Paul Nicholson to beat Terry Jenkins to set up a potential quarter-final showdown with Phil Taylor. It was Nicholson who got the upper hand, leading 2-0. But Jenkins equalised before Nicholson stepped on the gas to lead 6-2. The game went to 9-4 before Nicholson finished the match off to progress into the quarter-finals.
The script was written and the stage was set as Taylor took on Mervyn King for the chance to play Nicholson in the quarter finals. Again it was Taylor who was first out of the blocks, taking a 3-0 lead. King then reduced the deficit to 3-2 before Taylor kicked it up a gear and took the match 10-3.
The final game of the session saw Gary Anderson take on Peter Wright. Anderson has looked out of sorts recently and bought new darts for this game. The game was slow in getting started bu Anderson took a 4-2 lead after the game was level at 2-2. Anderson then began to miss his doubles and the game went to 5-5. After the break, Anderson returned with his old darts and fared no better. If anything he fared worse as Wright secured five legs in a row to win 10-5 and progress at Anderson's expense.
The start of the second session saw Wes Newton against the highly-rated youngster Kim Huybrechts. The game went to 2-2 before the Belgian upset the apple cart and took a 5-2 lead. Newton managed to fight back and the players were locked at 7-7. Huybrechts got the massive break to lead 9-7 and Newton was unable to regain the deficit and lost 10-8.
Adrian Lewis looked to have an easy tie against Dave Chisnall but the were also locked together at 2-2. This then extended to 5-5 before Lewis kicked up a gear to take the next five legs to win 10-5.
After his disappointment in Blackpool, Ronnie Baxter needed a good run in this tournament. He wouldn't have then liked to have seen James Wade up alongside him on the oche in the second round. However, Baxter stormed into a 3-0 lead before Wade fought back to 5-5. Wade managed to get himself in front and there was nothing that Baxter could do, The Machine won the match 10-7.
The final match of the second round saw Van Barneveld take on Mark Walsh. Barney took a 3-1 lead before Walsh fought back to level. But the Dutchman wasn't perturbed and regained a lead 7-3. Walsh tried to fight back again and made 7-5 before Barneveld saw out the match 10-5.
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