Man Utd v Hull - 4:0 - Rooney got United off to an early start (8), scoring off the rebound. Although there were further chances for both sides the game seemed to be moving towards a single goal result until the last few minutes, when Rooney got another three in quick succession (82, 86, 90+3), the first time he has scored four goals in a Premiership game. Rooney’s second goal was a power strike, his third a header from Nani’s, cross and the fourth a low hard drive. Rooney is in full flow at the moment, let’s hope he can maintain this form (injury-free, of course) for England.
Portsmouth v West Ham - 1:1 - West Ham should have won this game, they made far more openings early on, but Portsmouth’s keeper, Begovic, kept a clean sheet until Upson fortuitously chested the ball home (52). Portsmouth were the more adventurous side in the second half, whilst the Hammers seemed to have run out of steam, and Webber finally saved a point for Portsmouth, nut-megging Green for his first Pompey goal (76). Grant - ‘I was pleased (to get a point) because we were 1:0 down but I thought we could have had more.’ Zola - ‘It feels like two points dropped.’
Wolverhampton v Liverpool - 0:0 - To say that Liverpool should have won this game would ignore the fact that Wolves were resolute and defended well. Despite Gerrard’s return Liverpool could not take their chances although Wolves had few of their own. Neither group of fans were happy, but Wolves were the least unhappy. Benitez - ‘It was a tough game, overall… but the most positive thing is that it was another game without losing. In football you have good moments and bad moments, but the thing is to keep doing your best.’ McCarthy (on striker Kevin Doyle) - ‘If you see a better performance from a centre-forward than Doyle showed, I would like to see it. If he had just managed a goal, it would have been one of the best all-round performances.’ Now, how many centre-forwards could we say that about?
Bolton v Burnley - 1:0 - Coyle was abused by the Burnley fans, but was probably happy enough to take it in his stride as Bolton’s victory thrust struggling Burnley into the relegation red zone. This was Coyle’s first win as Bolton’s manager, leaving his successor at Burnley, Brian Laws, still awaiting his. The only goal was scored by Chung-Yong Lee, off the underside of the bar (35). Coyle insensitively strode on to the pitch after the game concluded. His attempts to sympathise with his former players and to applaud the Burnley fans was not appreciated. Coyle (on the Burnley fans’ reaction to him) - ‘I can't complain, they wanted to come and vent their anger. But if we're going to get biblical, then maybe it should be Moses (rather than Judas), because we led them from the wilderness.’ Laws (on Burnley’s injuries) - ‘While we need to defend better, the players are suffering. We could do with some new faces by the end of week.’
Tottenham v Fulham - 2:0 - A comfortable win by Spurs who dominated most of the match, although Zamora forced one good save from Gomes. Crouch got the first goal, poking the ball in past a dozing Chris Smalling from a Modric cross. Bentley, making his first league start since October, got the second (60), curling a free-kick which deflected off Riise past the hapless Schwarzer. Redknapp - ‘The main thing was for us to get the win. We have been playing well recently but have come up against a couple of keepers who have been in great form. I'm pleased with David Bentley's performance, he's got great ability and he showed that tonight. He's been unlucky not to have had more chances because of Aaron Lennon's form but all we can ask is that when he gets his chance he takes it and he did that tonight.’ Hodgson - ‘We were a little unlucky with the goals, the second one in particular because that was a cruel deflection.’ All goals against seem unlucky to the victims, Roy, even cruel.
Everton v Sunderland - 2:0 - Sunderland appear to be on a downward slippery slope as their defensive approach proved to have little effect against a resurgent Everton. Cahill put Everton ahead early with a header (7) from a well-weighted Fellaini cross. Twelve minutes later Donovan
sealed the result with his first Premier League goal, bursting into the area and ramming the ball home after Cahill won the ball in the air once more. Sunderland, without a win in nine league games, have a few home games coming up, but if they fail to take the opportunity to put their season back on course they could soon find themselves in serious relegation trouble. Bruce - ‘We haven’t started the game in the right manner, we didn't defend properly and we have to show a better attitude.’ Moyes (synopsis) - ‘The further up the league we go the more I like the way we are playing.’ (not quite what he said, but what Your Ear thinks he meant to say, nonetheless).
Chelsea v Birmingham - 3:0 - After 35 home games unbeaten and their 11th clean sheet of the season Chelsea returned to the top of the Premiership, having ended Birmingham's 15-match unbeaten run. Malouda got Chelsea off the mark early on with a simple header after good work by Joe Cole down the right wing (5). Lampard snatched the second with an accurate shot from 20 yards (32) and scored late (90) to wrap up a straightforward victory. Meanwhile, Birmingham were outclassed, and had only two shots on goal, which Cech dealt with competently. Chelsea, having scored 17 goals in the four matches without him, do not seem to have missed Drogba. Ancelotti - ‘It's good we are back at the top. We have one more point with a game in hand on United and two points more than Arsenal.’ McLeish - ‘I don't think anyone has won here this season and they have battered better teams than us. Chelsea are a good side, they have the foreign flavour, the keep-ball and movement is excellent. They are one of the favourites for the Champions League, let alone the Premier League. We have kept the ball better than that and were wasteful in possession, but I'll forgive the players this one. There's no disgrace losing here.’
Blackburn v Wigan - 2:1 - Defensive errors were responsible for all three goals in a nervy and uninspiring match. Wigan's defence was severely tested throughout the first half. Pedersen profited from one of Wigan keeper Stojkovic’s many errors (20) before Caldwell’s second-half header made it 1:1 (58). Pedersen headed against the crossbar before his corner kick was headed home by Kalinic (76). Allardyce - ‘We put enormous pressure on Wigan with the quality of our football, pressing them in their own box and it looked like it was going to be a case of dominating the play without scoring. Then all of a sudden Morten came up with an outstanding goal. You’d have to go a long way to see a better goal than that in the Premier League this season.’ Martinez - ‘In the first half we didn't get going… we weren't ourselves and couldn't get two or three passes together and found it difficult. The second half was different. We got the goal, but lapses in concentration meant we lost a football game we needed to get something out of.’
Aston Villa v Arsenal - 0:0 - Arsenal hit the woodwork twice, but failed to return to the top of the League as they were held to a draw by Villa. This was a dour struggle rather than exciting stuff, both sides tried to score but lacked any edge. Agbonlahor saw an early effort saved and Fabregas hit the post. And in the second half Downing headed wide and Rosicky’s close-range strike came off the crossbar. Villa remain in seventh place while Arsenal stay third. O'Neill - ‘We haven't had the points on board we probably deserve from our last four games. We haven't won or scored in four matches but we've had umpteen chances and I'm not concerned. Not just our effort but our play was terrific.’ Wenger - ‘We wanted three points, we got one. Maybe we dropped two. Villa made it difficult. We don't usually miss the chances we missed tonight. We know when we come here what we get and we were not disappointed. They play a very efficient English game with long balls and it is very physical. They are a good side at counter-attacking…’ O'Neill’s response to Wenger's comments - ‘He has made a few ridiculous statements in his time here and that is as good as any. That is an appalling insult. I thought we played splendidly in the game. Their keeper made a great save from Gabby (Agbonlahor) early on and Ashley Young produced some incredible balls into the box that just needed a touch on them.’ Handbags at the ready, gentlemen.
Thursday, 28 January 2010
Thursday, 21 January 2010
Premiership round up - Week 22
Chelsea v Sunderland - 7:2 - Sunderland were totally outclassed from start to finish. Chelsea looked hungry from the outset and relentless pressure in the first half saw four good Chelsea goals before Sunderland had more than a sniff at a chance. Anelka, (8) settled Chelsea's nerves almost walking the ball into the net having 'rounded' the keeper. Ten minutes later Malouda scored an excellent goal, shrugging off two physical challenges and running a third the length of the pitch to slot the ball in across the keeper. Ashley Cole's goal (22) was possibly even better, with great control and a perfect finish from a pin-point Terry forward pass. Lampard got the fourth (34) with an outstretched leg on an Ashley Cole pass following Anelka's through ball. So Chelsea went in 4:0 up at half time and making the game look simple. They proceeded to carry on regardless in the second half with no signs of complacency. Ballack scored with his head from a text book Joe Cole cross (52) and not too much defence in evidence. Zenden (56) scored a tidy goal for Sunderland, his first goal on returning to England from Marseilles. But Anelka got his second and Chelsea's sixth goal less than ten minutes later, making any odd goal scored by Sunderland academic. Lampard got his second goal in the 90th minute and finally Bent scored Sunderland's second (the least celebrated goal of the season) in the second minute of extra time. There were many more chances; Anelka might have scored four and laid off at least a half dozen chances for others and the final tally might have been in double figures, but the Blues were very well pleased with this result. Bruce - 'From the first minute to the ninetieth it was one of them horrible ones… Chelsea were fantastic, we couldn't get anywhere near them. Sometimes you just to hold your hands up and say we've had our backsides well and truly kicked…' Ouch, indeed. Ancelotti 'We played very well… Also, always the people, journalists they are talking about the African players, but I think we did very well also without the African players.' Exhibition stuff.
Man United v Burnley - 3:0 - The score-line belies the first 50 minutes of the game, where United were more than a little lucky not to go one, or even two, behind. In the second half ManU began to apply ever more pressure until finally Rooney put Berbatov through to score a good goal (64). Berbatov had another shot saved, but the ball came out to Rooney who took his time and picked his spot for his 16th goal of the season (69). The game was made safe by Diouf with a nicely timed header in extra time (90+1), his first goal for the club. New Burnley manager, Brian Laws - 'When you come to places like this there's key moments in games and you've got to take those key moments…' Unfortunately for them, Burnley didn't today, producing another dismal away result.
Everton v Man City - 2:0 - Spring-boarding from their good performance at Arsenal the week before, Everton looked good from start to finish, and despite early opportunities for City Everton took the lead with an accurate free kick (Pienaar, 36), the first time Mancini has seen City go behind. It almost loosened his tightly bound supporters scarf, which was not around his neck when he was interviewed later. Saha made it two from a penalty (45+4), having had his shirt pulled in the box by Richards (stupid boy!). Embarrassingly for Robinho he was substituted twice, once to bring him on, then to take him off again. Fellaini, on the other hand, had a very good game, nearly scoring on a couple of occasions and denying Bellamy with some nifty footwork. As Everton steadily climb the table David Moyes is certainly looking happier these days. Not so sure about Mancini; currently Man City have 2 points more than where they stood at the same relative point in time last season, when they finished 9th in the Premiership. Wonder where they will finish.
Stoke v Liverpool - 1:1 - A totally uninspiring game, but after 57 minutes Liverpool's Kyrgiakos managed to bundle the ball home following a free kick Liverpool might not have been given on another day. The match continued in scrappy fashion until Huth finished in almost equally untidy way just before the game ended (90). Both sides might have won the game in extra time but the result was drawn. Rafa - 'The game was very tough, very physical, very difficult… I think the players on the pitch did a very good job. It was very clear we should have had two penalties.' Pulis - 'It was a fair result, it was scrappy… to be fair, Liverpool came at us and were dogged…' As usual for Liverpool, no Gerrard, no Torres = no result and for the first time Rafa answered a question with the words; 'If I am still here…' admitting the possibility that he might not be, soon. But it's not a new manager Liverpool needs, it's a couple of players.
Wolves v Wigan - 0:2 - Wolves should have gone ahead but missed, then Wigan repaid the favour and missed at the other end. Stearman was sent off for a stupid shirt pull when there was no danger of Wigan scoring, reducing Wolves to ten men. But the penalty was saved and the rebound missed. So honours were even at half time. Wigan scored first (McCarthy, 60) after a Wolves defender was blocked from challenging the scorer by the referee (you have to run round them, apparently, treat refs as if they aren't on the pitch, for once). Wolves were given some hope when Hendry Thomas was sent off for a lunging tackle (second yellow) but Wigan kept going forwards until N'Zogbia cooly scored Wigan's second in the 73rd minute. Further chances at either end produced nothing more. McCarthy (on Dave Jones being blocked by the ref) - ' What on Earth could he have done to make an issue of it? He did ask the referee and he said he was trying to get into the best possible position to block him, no sorry, to have a view of N'Zogbia if there'd been a penalty.' Benitez - 'We started strong and got stronger.'
Spurs v Hull - 0:0 - Hull won this fixture last season so it's possible Spurs were lucky to get away with a draw. Maybe they should have done better but Hull's keeper, Myhill, did more than well to keep out early (and late) shots by Palacios, Keane and Defoe. In the second half Keane should have buried a chance, but failed to and Modric missed two, whilst Hull had a couple of near misses themselves. Finally man-of-the-match Myhill stopped a header, then a shot from Crouch, both in extra time. Possession stats were 60% Spurs, 40% Hull but pressure unconverted is no result. Brown - 'When you look at the strength of Tottenham's squad that was a magnificent clean sheet.' St Hal - 'I'm disappointed not to have won, obviously, but we gave everything today… but their keeper today turned in one of the finest performances I've seen in years, He was incredible today.' Myhill - 'I'm quite fortunate I've got a big head - for one of them (saves), I didn't even know nothing about that and to be quite honest with you the game was a bit of a blur…' Humour apart that was quite modest of Myhill, he had a great game.
Bolton v Arsenal - 0:2 - Coyle's first match in charge of Bolton was less than happy. Arsenal were unlucky to be denied a penalty for a challenge on Fabregas, but he scored a good goal in the 28th minute anyway, after some fine close control by the Gunners. He might have scored a couple more in the first half but his touch deserted him. Merida scored Arsenal's second goal (78) with a workmanlike finish. Bolton had their chances throughout the game but Almunia was up to the job, making several good saves. The Bolton faithful are clearly much happier under Coyle's leadership, but they lost anyway. Coyle - 'I think anyone who was here that watched the game would have seen that on a different day that could have been a very different result.' Maybe, but Your Ear doubts it.
Aston Villa v West Ham - 0:0 - West Ham beat Villa last November but were unable to do better than a draw this time out. Villa were more dominant but the Hammers’ dour defending paid off and they kept a clean sheet. Nouble made a fine surging run from his own half but lacked finishing skill. At the other end Agbonlahor turned well and shot but Green made a fine save. Carew was given offside whilst Agbonlahor missed another opportunity. A better result for West Ham than Villa. O'Neil - 'Disappointed with the result but not the effort of the team.' Zola - 'I am really proud, I am fortunate to have players like them.' Nouble - 'I felt good out there, I knew if I was playing up front by myself I had to run about and make sure the defenders never had the time to settle, just be a pest really. I done that.' He did, too, which was not bad for an 18 year-old - he could have a bright England future.
Blackburn v Fulham - 2:0 - Blackburn made early inroads and scored the first goal from a corner (Samba, 25). Fulham do not seem to be on their game at the moment, despite having rested for some 12 days since their last match. Nevertheless, Dempsey made a fine effort with an overhead kick and hit the bar and had another bright moment minutes later in the box, but his shot was saved. Later he was unfortunate to become injured. Nelsen got Blackburn's second (54), with a header from McCarthy's free kick. Allardyce (as both goals were scored by central defenders) - 'We don't mind where we get the goals as long as we get them.' Wise words. Fulham were unlucky today, firstly not to get at least one goal from a penalty decision which failed to go their way, and Blackburn's second goal was probably offside, but not given.
Liverpool v Tottenham - 2:0 - In a game Liverpool could hardly afford to lose Dirk Kuyt did the business for a hungry Liverpool. Liverpool are now only one point behind Spurs, which takes some of the pressure off Rafa Benitez. Kuyt got off to an early start (6) when he picked up a loose ball on the edge of the box and rammed it past Gomes. Spurs were rarely convincing at any time during the match although a goal by Defoe was disallowed. Kuyt’s twice-taken penalty (90+3) sealed Spurs’ fate, after Bassong floored substitute N’Gog in the area. Spurs have not won a league game against any of the ‘big four’ teams for over 16 years, and on the face of it seem unlikely to break their duck this season. A the end of the game The Kop rang to the sound of the fans singing the name of Benitez. You have to admire Liverpool - their fans must be amongst the most faithful of any club.
Arsenal v Bolton - 4:2 - Just to make life interesting Arsenal allowed Bolton to go two up without reply until close to the end of the first half. First Cahill volleyed in a shot (7), then Taylor scored from the penalty spot following a foul by Denilson (28). In reply Rosicky scored from 20 yards (43) and Fabregas slid home a controversial equalizer (52). Vermaelen got the third with his left foot (65) before Arshavin scored from Eduardo’s pass (85). Arsenal needed to win by two clear goals to top the table and they achieved it, demonstrating the hunger and determination Mr Wenger has referred to frequently of late. Bolton were not happy, following a foul not given in the build-up to Arsenal's second goal. Coyle, apparently, was ‘incensed’ by the Gallas challenge on Davies, when play was allowed to continue and Arsenal scored before his striker was stretchered off. Interviewed after the game Wenger responded to Coyle's criticism, saying it was for the referee to stop the game if he thought it necessary and that he would be happy to sit down and go through replays of all challenges made by both sides over their last two games. For once Your Ear would agree - Bolton are a physical side and should have no complaint. Meanwhile, Arsenal move above Chelsea on goals scored whilst Chelsea have a game in hand.
Football News - Players To Be Given ‘Stage Names’ - Newscasters and commentators alike have demanded that footballers, particularly Premiership footballers, should adopt ‘stage names’ to avoid confusion. ‘There are many occasions when there is more than one Cahill, and sometimes several Coles on the field of play, to say nothing of sundry McCarthys, Taylors, and Benitezes - the list is (almost) endless. This can be confusing to spectators, commentators, viewers and particularly listeners.’ said a self-proclaimed official FA source. “The solution is that players should adopt ‘pitch’ names, or nicknames if they prefer, like ‘Chucho’ Benitez.’ Fans will be asked to offer suggestions on what names their favourite players should go by. Understandably Wayne Rooney is said to prefer ‘the Priest’, ‘Roo’ ‘The Boy Wonder’ or even ‘Roonaldo’ to ‘Spudface’. Real Bid For Rooney - Rumours that Real Madrid are pursuing Rooney for £60m and £170k per week have been confirmed. This values him at three quarters the price Real paid United for Ronaldo. Sources say that Ronaldo has been asked to sweet-talk Rooney into agreeing the move. Your Ear cannot see these old pals coming together again on the back of that conversation. Ferguson's view (as repeated by a minion) - ‘United won’t sell Rooney before the summer, particularly on his current form. The lad can leave when we’ve signed his son.’ Manchester United Out Of The Cup! One of the few big teams to take non-league and non-Euro games seriously, ManU have been knocked out of the FA Cup, losing 1:0 to lowly Leeds United. ‘It is a great loss,’ said Arsene Wenger.
An open question to ManU supporters - would you see last season's sale of Ronaldo as;
a) £80m in the kitty, a deal well done, or;
b) the 2009/10 season sold down the river?
Answers on a postcard please.
Managers’ New Year Resolutions;
Allardyce - I will lose at least one pound in weight, from my jaws.
Ancelotti - I'm gonna do better than that Portuguese guy.
Benitez - See you next year, probably.
Brown - I agree with Rafa.
Bruce - Mumble, mumble, mumble.
Coyle (at Burnley) - We will win an away game, soon - I am fully committed to this club.
Coyle (at Bolton) - This looks like a nice place - I am fully committed to this club.
Ferguson - I shall nae speak to the BBC, nevermore.
Grant - I will smile three times a week, even if it hurts.
Hodgson - Mr Fayed is happy, so we are all happy.
Hughes - I shall stop counting my severance pay.
Mancini - We're gonna lift the Premiership title this year (dream on!)
Martinez - Wigan - a great place to raise a family.
McCarthy - We shall not be mullahed again.
McLeish - I hope nothing happens to Sir Alex, but I can hardly wait to get to Manchester.
Megson - I shall empathize with the fans, and I will not count Mark Hughes' severance pay.
Moyes - I fully intend to play eleven players in our next match… probably.
O'Neil - I will talk about something other than football, at least once in the next 12 months.
Pulis - I will use my head in an emergency - no, I WON'T use my head in an emergency.
St Hal of Totten Ham - It’s time we made a bit more dosh out of Robbie Keane.
Wenger - I did not see the New Year in, I saw nothing.
Zola - I’m so ‘appy!
One year ago - Fulham owner, Mohamed Al-Fayed was demanding that the Premier League should introduce a cap on transfers and salaries following Manchester City's rumoured £100m-plus pursuit of Kaka. City had been flexing new-found financial muscles, having been taken over by Sheikh Mansour and were willing (apparently) to smash the world transfer record to bring Brazil star Kaka to Eastlands on a salary reputed to be £500,000 a week. Al-Fayed believed such a deal would be detrimental to football, 'It's madness,' he told the BBC, and added he would not pay more than a mere £15 million for any player. Meanwhile, Mark Hughes was 'in a hurry to reinforce Manchester City.' One year on, Hughes has gone, City could hardly be described as 'reinforced', the FA have not introduced any transfer caps, but it has to be said that Fulham are having another pretty good year, nonetheless.
Being There - Your Ear was lucky enough to be gifted a free ticket to watch the last Chelsea match (v Sunderland), and had no problem in supporting the Blues on the day. And what a match to be lucky enough to see (7:2 if you need a reminder). But besides going for the football on the pitch, which was of the highest quality, there is always the supporters’ songs and banter. Frankly some of it is mindless, racist nonsense, but much of it is almost poetic, albeit in the form of lyrics and chants, and beats the hell out of the new wave poetry championed by BBC Radio 4. Most of it, if not all, is good humoured and seems to come out of the crowd spontaneously. Some of it is a little unfriendly, but meant in a friendly way, like when a Chelsea fan shouted; 'Come on, you German bastard!' at Ballack in encouraging fashion. I heard another Chelsea supporter behind me say; 'That shouldn't be funny, but somehow it is.' Then the crowd (after Chelsea were 4 or 5 up, began to sing to Sunderland how ♫we'd love you to stay but we know you have to go♫. But the one which got the most laughs was the lone voice in front of me which, to what sounded like the tune to the scout's fireside song 'The Quartermaster's Store', piped up with; ♫He's here, he's there, he's every-f#¢king-where! Joey Cole, Joey Cole!♫ Scarlet Pimpernel stuff, and accurate too - Cole was playing well and was everywhere. But, (from the transfer rumours) ‘everywhere’ might soon include Tottenham, where, along with John Carew, he will be welcomed. After St Hal has shifted Keane, of course.
The Ear - all the news that's fit to spout.
Man United v Burnley - 3:0 - The score-line belies the first 50 minutes of the game, where United were more than a little lucky not to go one, or even two, behind. In the second half ManU began to apply ever more pressure until finally Rooney put Berbatov through to score a good goal (64). Berbatov had another shot saved, but the ball came out to Rooney who took his time and picked his spot for his 16th goal of the season (69). The game was made safe by Diouf with a nicely timed header in extra time (90+1), his first goal for the club. New Burnley manager, Brian Laws - 'When you come to places like this there's key moments in games and you've got to take those key moments…' Unfortunately for them, Burnley didn't today, producing another dismal away result.
Everton v Man City - 2:0 - Spring-boarding from their good performance at Arsenal the week before, Everton looked good from start to finish, and despite early opportunities for City Everton took the lead with an accurate free kick (Pienaar, 36), the first time Mancini has seen City go behind. It almost loosened his tightly bound supporters scarf, which was not around his neck when he was interviewed later. Saha made it two from a penalty (45+4), having had his shirt pulled in the box by Richards (stupid boy!). Embarrassingly for Robinho he was substituted twice, once to bring him on, then to take him off again. Fellaini, on the other hand, had a very good game, nearly scoring on a couple of occasions and denying Bellamy with some nifty footwork. As Everton steadily climb the table David Moyes is certainly looking happier these days. Not so sure about Mancini; currently Man City have 2 points more than where they stood at the same relative point in time last season, when they finished 9th in the Premiership. Wonder where they will finish.
Stoke v Liverpool - 1:1 - A totally uninspiring game, but after 57 minutes Liverpool's Kyrgiakos managed to bundle the ball home following a free kick Liverpool might not have been given on another day. The match continued in scrappy fashion until Huth finished in almost equally untidy way just before the game ended (90). Both sides might have won the game in extra time but the result was drawn. Rafa - 'The game was very tough, very physical, very difficult… I think the players on the pitch did a very good job. It was very clear we should have had two penalties.' Pulis - 'It was a fair result, it was scrappy… to be fair, Liverpool came at us and were dogged…' As usual for Liverpool, no Gerrard, no Torres = no result and for the first time Rafa answered a question with the words; 'If I am still here…' admitting the possibility that he might not be, soon. But it's not a new manager Liverpool needs, it's a couple of players.
Wolves v Wigan - 0:2 - Wolves should have gone ahead but missed, then Wigan repaid the favour and missed at the other end. Stearman was sent off for a stupid shirt pull when there was no danger of Wigan scoring, reducing Wolves to ten men. But the penalty was saved and the rebound missed. So honours were even at half time. Wigan scored first (McCarthy, 60) after a Wolves defender was blocked from challenging the scorer by the referee (you have to run round them, apparently, treat refs as if they aren't on the pitch, for once). Wolves were given some hope when Hendry Thomas was sent off for a lunging tackle (second yellow) but Wigan kept going forwards until N'Zogbia cooly scored Wigan's second in the 73rd minute. Further chances at either end produced nothing more. McCarthy (on Dave Jones being blocked by the ref) - ' What on Earth could he have done to make an issue of it? He did ask the referee and he said he was trying to get into the best possible position to block him, no sorry, to have a view of N'Zogbia if there'd been a penalty.' Benitez - 'We started strong and got stronger.'
Spurs v Hull - 0:0 - Hull won this fixture last season so it's possible Spurs were lucky to get away with a draw. Maybe they should have done better but Hull's keeper, Myhill, did more than well to keep out early (and late) shots by Palacios, Keane and Defoe. In the second half Keane should have buried a chance, but failed to and Modric missed two, whilst Hull had a couple of near misses themselves. Finally man-of-the-match Myhill stopped a header, then a shot from Crouch, both in extra time. Possession stats were 60% Spurs, 40% Hull but pressure unconverted is no result. Brown - 'When you look at the strength of Tottenham's squad that was a magnificent clean sheet.' St Hal - 'I'm disappointed not to have won, obviously, but we gave everything today… but their keeper today turned in one of the finest performances I've seen in years, He was incredible today.' Myhill - 'I'm quite fortunate I've got a big head - for one of them (saves), I didn't even know nothing about that and to be quite honest with you the game was a bit of a blur…' Humour apart that was quite modest of Myhill, he had a great game.
Bolton v Arsenal - 0:2 - Coyle's first match in charge of Bolton was less than happy. Arsenal were unlucky to be denied a penalty for a challenge on Fabregas, but he scored a good goal in the 28th minute anyway, after some fine close control by the Gunners. He might have scored a couple more in the first half but his touch deserted him. Merida scored Arsenal's second goal (78) with a workmanlike finish. Bolton had their chances throughout the game but Almunia was up to the job, making several good saves. The Bolton faithful are clearly much happier under Coyle's leadership, but they lost anyway. Coyle - 'I think anyone who was here that watched the game would have seen that on a different day that could have been a very different result.' Maybe, but Your Ear doubts it.
Aston Villa v West Ham - 0:0 - West Ham beat Villa last November but were unable to do better than a draw this time out. Villa were more dominant but the Hammers’ dour defending paid off and they kept a clean sheet. Nouble made a fine surging run from his own half but lacked finishing skill. At the other end Agbonlahor turned well and shot but Green made a fine save. Carew was given offside whilst Agbonlahor missed another opportunity. A better result for West Ham than Villa. O'Neil - 'Disappointed with the result but not the effort of the team.' Zola - 'I am really proud, I am fortunate to have players like them.' Nouble - 'I felt good out there, I knew if I was playing up front by myself I had to run about and make sure the defenders never had the time to settle, just be a pest really. I done that.' He did, too, which was not bad for an 18 year-old - he could have a bright England future.
Blackburn v Fulham - 2:0 - Blackburn made early inroads and scored the first goal from a corner (Samba, 25). Fulham do not seem to be on their game at the moment, despite having rested for some 12 days since their last match. Nevertheless, Dempsey made a fine effort with an overhead kick and hit the bar and had another bright moment minutes later in the box, but his shot was saved. Later he was unfortunate to become injured. Nelsen got Blackburn's second (54), with a header from McCarthy's free kick. Allardyce (as both goals were scored by central defenders) - 'We don't mind where we get the goals as long as we get them.' Wise words. Fulham were unlucky today, firstly not to get at least one goal from a penalty decision which failed to go their way, and Blackburn's second goal was probably offside, but not given.
Liverpool v Tottenham - 2:0 - In a game Liverpool could hardly afford to lose Dirk Kuyt did the business for a hungry Liverpool. Liverpool are now only one point behind Spurs, which takes some of the pressure off Rafa Benitez. Kuyt got off to an early start (6) when he picked up a loose ball on the edge of the box and rammed it past Gomes. Spurs were rarely convincing at any time during the match although a goal by Defoe was disallowed. Kuyt’s twice-taken penalty (90+3) sealed Spurs’ fate, after Bassong floored substitute N’Gog in the area. Spurs have not won a league game against any of the ‘big four’ teams for over 16 years, and on the face of it seem unlikely to break their duck this season. A the end of the game The Kop rang to the sound of the fans singing the name of Benitez. You have to admire Liverpool - their fans must be amongst the most faithful of any club.
Arsenal v Bolton - 4:2 - Just to make life interesting Arsenal allowed Bolton to go two up without reply until close to the end of the first half. First Cahill volleyed in a shot (7), then Taylor scored from the penalty spot following a foul by Denilson (28). In reply Rosicky scored from 20 yards (43) and Fabregas slid home a controversial equalizer (52). Vermaelen got the third with his left foot (65) before Arshavin scored from Eduardo’s pass (85). Arsenal needed to win by two clear goals to top the table and they achieved it, demonstrating the hunger and determination Mr Wenger has referred to frequently of late. Bolton were not happy, following a foul not given in the build-up to Arsenal's second goal. Coyle, apparently, was ‘incensed’ by the Gallas challenge on Davies, when play was allowed to continue and Arsenal scored before his striker was stretchered off. Interviewed after the game Wenger responded to Coyle's criticism, saying it was for the referee to stop the game if he thought it necessary and that he would be happy to sit down and go through replays of all challenges made by both sides over their last two games. For once Your Ear would agree - Bolton are a physical side and should have no complaint. Meanwhile, Arsenal move above Chelsea on goals scored whilst Chelsea have a game in hand.
Football News - Players To Be Given ‘Stage Names’ - Newscasters and commentators alike have demanded that footballers, particularly Premiership footballers, should adopt ‘stage names’ to avoid confusion. ‘There are many occasions when there is more than one Cahill, and sometimes several Coles on the field of play, to say nothing of sundry McCarthys, Taylors, and Benitezes - the list is (almost) endless. This can be confusing to spectators, commentators, viewers and particularly listeners.’ said a self-proclaimed official FA source. “The solution is that players should adopt ‘pitch’ names, or nicknames if they prefer, like ‘Chucho’ Benitez.’ Fans will be asked to offer suggestions on what names their favourite players should go by. Understandably Wayne Rooney is said to prefer ‘the Priest’, ‘Roo’ ‘The Boy Wonder’ or even ‘Roonaldo’ to ‘Spudface’. Real Bid For Rooney - Rumours that Real Madrid are pursuing Rooney for £60m and £170k per week have been confirmed. This values him at three quarters the price Real paid United for Ronaldo. Sources say that Ronaldo has been asked to sweet-talk Rooney into agreeing the move. Your Ear cannot see these old pals coming together again on the back of that conversation. Ferguson's view (as repeated by a minion) - ‘United won’t sell Rooney before the summer, particularly on his current form. The lad can leave when we’ve signed his son.’ Manchester United Out Of The Cup! One of the few big teams to take non-league and non-Euro games seriously, ManU have been knocked out of the FA Cup, losing 1:0 to lowly Leeds United. ‘It is a great loss,’ said Arsene Wenger.
An open question to ManU supporters - would you see last season's sale of Ronaldo as;
a) £80m in the kitty, a deal well done, or;
b) the 2009/10 season sold down the river?
Answers on a postcard please.
Managers’ New Year Resolutions;
Allardyce - I will lose at least one pound in weight, from my jaws.
Ancelotti - I'm gonna do better than that Portuguese guy.
Benitez - See you next year, probably.
Brown - I agree with Rafa.
Bruce - Mumble, mumble, mumble.
Coyle (at Burnley) - We will win an away game, soon - I am fully committed to this club.
Coyle (at Bolton) - This looks like a nice place - I am fully committed to this club.
Ferguson - I shall nae speak to the BBC, nevermore.
Grant - I will smile three times a week, even if it hurts.
Hodgson - Mr Fayed is happy, so we are all happy.
Hughes - I shall stop counting my severance pay.
Mancini - We're gonna lift the Premiership title this year (dream on!)
Martinez - Wigan - a great place to raise a family.
McCarthy - We shall not be mullahed again.
McLeish - I hope nothing happens to Sir Alex, but I can hardly wait to get to Manchester.
Megson - I shall empathize with the fans, and I will not count Mark Hughes' severance pay.
Moyes - I fully intend to play eleven players in our next match… probably.
O'Neil - I will talk about something other than football, at least once in the next 12 months.
Pulis - I will use my head in an emergency - no, I WON'T use my head in an emergency.
St Hal of Totten Ham - It’s time we made a bit more dosh out of Robbie Keane.
Wenger - I did not see the New Year in, I saw nothing.
Zola - I’m so ‘appy!
One year ago - Fulham owner, Mohamed Al-Fayed was demanding that the Premier League should introduce a cap on transfers and salaries following Manchester City's rumoured £100m-plus pursuit of Kaka. City had been flexing new-found financial muscles, having been taken over by Sheikh Mansour and were willing (apparently) to smash the world transfer record to bring Brazil star Kaka to Eastlands on a salary reputed to be £500,000 a week. Al-Fayed believed such a deal would be detrimental to football, 'It's madness,' he told the BBC, and added he would not pay more than a mere £15 million for any player. Meanwhile, Mark Hughes was 'in a hurry to reinforce Manchester City.' One year on, Hughes has gone, City could hardly be described as 'reinforced', the FA have not introduced any transfer caps, but it has to be said that Fulham are having another pretty good year, nonetheless.
Being There - Your Ear was lucky enough to be gifted a free ticket to watch the last Chelsea match (v Sunderland), and had no problem in supporting the Blues on the day. And what a match to be lucky enough to see (7:2 if you need a reminder). But besides going for the football on the pitch, which was of the highest quality, there is always the supporters’ songs and banter. Frankly some of it is mindless, racist nonsense, but much of it is almost poetic, albeit in the form of lyrics and chants, and beats the hell out of the new wave poetry championed by BBC Radio 4. Most of it, if not all, is good humoured and seems to come out of the crowd spontaneously. Some of it is a little unfriendly, but meant in a friendly way, like when a Chelsea fan shouted; 'Come on, you German bastard!' at Ballack in encouraging fashion. I heard another Chelsea supporter behind me say; 'That shouldn't be funny, but somehow it is.' Then the crowd (after Chelsea were 4 or 5 up, began to sing to Sunderland how ♫we'd love you to stay but we know you have to go♫. But the one which got the most laughs was the lone voice in front of me which, to what sounded like the tune to the scout's fireside song 'The Quartermaster's Store', piped up with; ♫He's here, he's there, he's every-f#¢king-where! Joey Cole, Joey Cole!♫ Scarlet Pimpernel stuff, and accurate too - Cole was playing well and was everywhere. But, (from the transfer rumours) ‘everywhere’ might soon include Tottenham, where, along with John Carew, he will be welcomed. After St Hal has shifted Keane, of course.
The Ear - all the news that's fit to spout.
Monday, 11 January 2010
Premiership round up - Week 21
Stoke City v Fulham - 3:2 - Stoke held off a late Fulham rally to secure a first league win in six games at the Britannia. Awful defending gifted Stoke three goals by half-time. Tuncay started with a neat header (12). Faye slid in from close range (34) and Sidibe half-volleyed the third 3 minutes later. Despite Duff's deflected shot (61) and Dempsey's dipping long-range shot (85) Stoke held on. Pulis - ‘We've played better than today and not got a result. But the longer you go without a win, you get nervous and very uptight.’ Hodgson - ‘We were determined to give a better performance in the second half, and I think we did. In the second half, we showed we are a good football team, but unfortunately there aren't many teams that come back from three down in 45 minutes.’ Spot on.
Arsenal v Everton - 2:2 - Everton started well, and, having been beaten so solidly by Arsenal last time around (6:1), did well to take the lead (Osman, 12). The shock of going behind seemed to wake up the Gunners who pressed forward hard until they equalized (Denilson, 28). Everton, however, would not be kept down and had several chances of their own in heavy snow conditions. With nine minutes to go Pienaar scored with a confident cheeky chip. Rosicksy salvaged a draw for Arsenal in extra time with a deflected shot (90+2). This was a tough game in tough conditions. Arsenal suffered more problems, notably Denilson, who collapsed unchallenged in the second half and was stretchered off with a mystery injury, which is as yet not diagnosed. Arsene Wenger was complimentary to his opponents - 'It was closer to 3:1 (to Everton) than to 2:2.'
Birmingham v Man United - 1:1 - It was -6°C on the pitch but the game went ahead. Fletcher's missed shot sounded an early warning to Birmingham that ManU were well up for this game. Only a good save by Hart kept out Rooney. Nevertheless on their first sight of goal Birmingham put the ball away tidily (Jerome, 39) to gain the lead for the home side. The goal gave Birmingham heart but United levelled the game, forcing an own goal (Dann, 63). The game was end to end stuff thereafter, Fletcher was sent off and Kusack made a great save to make the game a draw for United. Twelve games unbeaten, nine games unchanged for Birmingham - a Premiership record.
Manchester City v Blackburn Rovers - 4:1 - A Tevez hat-trick winched City up to fourth place in the league following an emphatic win over Blackburn. Tevez put City in front from close range in the seventh minute before Richards doubled the lead after a strong 50-yard run (39). Tevez extended City’s lead after the break with a good 20-yard finish (49). Pedersen pulled a goal back for Blackburn (71) before Tevez got his third with a superb finish in extra time (90+1). Tevez looks good for the money now, and is homing in on Rooney’s seasonal tally of goals. Mancini - ‘We don't watch the table. We watch the table (in) two months. Now it is not important. There are 17 games to the end. Now it's important that we continue this way, we continue to play well and we continue to improve.’ Allardyce - ‘I have no complaints that Manchester City have beaten us, but we could have defended properly to stop some of those goals.’
The Ear - all the news that's fit to spout.
Arsenal v Everton - 2:2 - Everton started well, and, having been beaten so solidly by Arsenal last time around (6:1), did well to take the lead (Osman, 12). The shock of going behind seemed to wake up the Gunners who pressed forward hard until they equalized (Denilson, 28). Everton, however, would not be kept down and had several chances of their own in heavy snow conditions. With nine minutes to go Pienaar scored with a confident cheeky chip. Rosicksy salvaged a draw for Arsenal in extra time with a deflected shot (90+2). This was a tough game in tough conditions. Arsenal suffered more problems, notably Denilson, who collapsed unchallenged in the second half and was stretchered off with a mystery injury, which is as yet not diagnosed. Arsene Wenger was complimentary to his opponents - 'It was closer to 3:1 (to Everton) than to 2:2.'
Birmingham v Man United - 1:1 - It was -6°C on the pitch but the game went ahead. Fletcher's missed shot sounded an early warning to Birmingham that ManU were well up for this game. Only a good save by Hart kept out Rooney. Nevertheless on their first sight of goal Birmingham put the ball away tidily (Jerome, 39) to gain the lead for the home side. The goal gave Birmingham heart but United levelled the game, forcing an own goal (Dann, 63). The game was end to end stuff thereafter, Fletcher was sent off and Kusack made a great save to make the game a draw for United. Twelve games unbeaten, nine games unchanged for Birmingham - a Premiership record.
Manchester City v Blackburn Rovers - 4:1 - A Tevez hat-trick winched City up to fourth place in the league following an emphatic win over Blackburn. Tevez put City in front from close range in the seventh minute before Richards doubled the lead after a strong 50-yard run (39). Tevez extended City’s lead after the break with a good 20-yard finish (49). Pedersen pulled a goal back for Blackburn (71) before Tevez got his third with a superb finish in extra time (90+1). Tevez looks good for the money now, and is homing in on Rooney’s seasonal tally of goals. Mancini - ‘We don't watch the table. We watch the table (in) two months. Now it is not important. There are 17 games to the end. Now it's important that we continue this way, we continue to play well and we continue to improve.’ Allardyce - ‘I have no complaints that Manchester City have beaten us, but we could have defended properly to stop some of those goals.’
The Ear - all the news that's fit to spout.
Wednesday, 30 December 2009
Premiership round up - Week 20
Chelsea v Fulham - 2:1 - José Mourinho was in the stands to watch this game. It does not seem that long, but Ancelotti is the fourth manager since the departure of ‘the special one’. Ancelotti made six changes to his previous line-up and Zhirkov, the £18m Russian, made his first start in blue. Gera took advantage of Chelsea’s fragile defence and scored within the first five minutes. In reply Drogba got his 19th goal of the season with a good header (73), largely against the run of play. Fulham lost the game with a most unfortunate own goal by Smalling (75). Chelsea were not at their best but Fulham, as they did in this match, take the game to all their opponents. They also defend well and were unlucky to lose this fixture. After the early Chelsea defensive cock-up, John Motson, commentating for the Beeb, observed; ‘I wonder what Mourinho thinks about that. Those sort of errors did not happen too often when he was manager. ’ Don’t we all wonder, Motty? And it poses the question on whether Mr Abramovich (if he watches them at all) reviews replays of his team’s performances with the commentary turned down, or off. Luckily for Chelsea, with several players about to leave for the Africa Cup of Nations, Anelka is due to make his return shortly.
Wolves v Man City - 0:3 - City home in on the top four as Mancini notches up six points after two games (and two clean sheets) in charge, City's first away win for three months, played in fog at Molineux. Mancini (still sporting his scarf) started Bellamy rather than Robinho. Wolves came off the blocks quickest but do not have the finishing quality of the wealthier teams and could not convert any of their chances. Bellamy missed, unusually, at point blank range, but soon made up for it, his pace and sharp cross allowed Tevez to score by deflection (33). Bellamy missed another sitter in the second half, and Wolves had further good chances which were saved. Tevez sized up a free kick and took attention away from Garrido, who scored City’s second goal (69) infuriating Mr McCarthy, who objected to the free kick being awarded (Bellamy should have been given offside just beforehand). Then it was Tevez’ turn to miss an opportunity after a good City build-up, but he got his second goal (86) after Robinho (on for Bellamy) fired in a long-range low cross. McCarthy - 'I'm not going to comment on it (City's second goal). It might cost me a few quid if I do… But in terms of our performance, I thought the final score-line was very harsh.' Mancini - 'To play like that just two days after beating Stoke makes me very happy because we played very well. In Italy it is impossible to play two games in three days, but this is England and this was a fantastic performance.' Can't play two games in three days? That's why you have so many Bank Holidays over there, Roberto.
Tottenham v West Ham - 2:0 - The last time the Hammers beat Spurs St Hal was their manager. Well, he isn’t now and much as this column respects Zola there was a clear gulf in quality, West Ham, particularly being hit with injuries. Modric opened the account for Spurs (11) after Lennon’s pace sliced through West Ham’s defence like a super-heated knife through easy-spread butter. Crouch might have had another, Defoe a third, Lennon a fourth, Huddlestone a fifth and Crouch a sixth. Finally, after so many missed chances and with some edginess creeping into their game, Defoe settled the outcome with a thudding strike following a save to his first shot (81). St Hal denied rumours that Parker (or any other player) is on his way to White Hart Lane - ‘We’ve got a good squad here.’ He’s right. Zola - ‘I got players out, but, as long as the players give me performance like today, I’m going to be all right.’ Your Ear hopes so.
Stoke City v Birmingham - 0:1 - Beattie started for the first time in five weeks. No doubt his boss was in a good mood. Jerome scrambled in Birmingham’s only goal (50), but Paul Hart made at least three superb saves from good Stoke efforts to keep a clean sheet, Gordon Banks, England’s legendary goal-keeper, was watching this game and would no doubt have approved of Hart’s performance, even though he supports Stoke. Stoke were unfortunate overall to lose this game but were most unlucky to have been denied a good penalty shout. It’s sometimes hard to understand how referees, who are paid to watch the game, after all, can miss the bleedin’ obvious.
Blackburn v Sunderland - 2:2 - Bent opened the scoring from a close range opportunity (52) only for Pedersen to level the match a minute later with Blackburn’s first home goal in five hours of match play. Blackburn missed chances to take the lead, but Bent got his and Sunderland’s second goal in the 65th minute. Big Sam made three substitutions to shake things up and bad boy Diouf came on and scored the equalizer for Blackburn (77). Good saves by Sunderland prevented Blackburn from snatching the winner late in the game. Steve Bruce, almost admiringly, - ‘Blackburn always ask you questions.’
Everton v Burnley - 2:0 - Nugent, a long term Everton supporter, nearly scored an early goal for Burnley nonetheless. Yakubu hit the post before the first half concluded, goal-less. At the start of the second half Nugent again missed, off the post, and his team-mate Jordan was sent off for a second (silly) yellow. A Yakubu header was saved by Jensen and Yakubu had another shot saved before he missed a cross entirely, fortuitously allowing Vaughan (only on the pitch for seconds) to drive the ball home (83). Yakubu provided the second goal for Everton, his through pass being snapped up by Pienaar in extra time (90+2). David Moyes was happy with his ‘edgy’ result. Owen Coyle was less happy, believing Yakubu to be offside for one of the Everton goals. He was wrong, and had obviously forgotten that Burnley were playing away.
Aston Villa v Liverpool - 0:1 - Well, you can't leave it much later than this - Torres scored the only goal in extra time (90+3) to give Liverpool a dramatic victory over Aston Villa. Villa were spirited and dour throughout and Liverpool were unconvincing in snowy conditions, although their recently suspect defence held up well. Both sides had chances but the goalies at either end earned their keep (a small New Year pun). As the match wore on a draw seemed more than likely but Torres pounced on a ricochet and scored. In doing so he set a record for reaching 50 league goals for Liverpool in the fewest appearances. A good last gasp win for Liverpool but very frustrating for the industrious Villa side, who now drop to sixth place, having scored fewer goals than Man City.
Bolton v Hull City - 2:2 - Stephen Hunt scored twice as Hull battled back from 2:0 down to deny fellow strugglers Bolton victory. Klasnic put the hosts ahead on 20 minutes, the lone highlight in a dire first half. A keeper error allowed Davies to head home a second from Robinson's free-kick (61). 10 minutes later Hunt began the comeback when he headed in Fagan's cross and 7 minutes after that Hunt’s acute shot crossed the line to square the match. A point each keeps both sides in the relegation zone, but Phil Brown was certainly the happier of the two managers. In fact this was the match that did for Megson, the fans having had enough. Phil Brown - ‘At 2:0 down you are not staring into the abyss you are staring at ways of getting back into the game.’ Brown, of course, is more expert in being 2 down than 2 up in the Premiership.
Portsmouth v Arsenal - 1:4 - Arsenal increased Portsmouth's demotion difficulties with a comprehensive win. They took the lead when Eduardo's free-kick deflected in off Kaboul (28). Nasri fired in a second 14 minutes later. Ramsey made it 3:0 with a great solo goal, hammered in from 20 yards (69), before Belhadj's close-range strike gave Pompey some hope (74). However, Song headed in a Nasri cross to clinch it for Arsenal (81). The Gunners maintain pressure at the top, moving to within 4 points of Chelsea and staying 2 behind Man United with a game in hand on each. An interesting aside, this last but one league game of the year was a Premiership first in that there was no Englishman in either starting line-up. A sorry state of affairs for any league.
Man Utd v Wigan - 5:0 - Man United’s easy win over Wigan moved them back to within 2 points of league leaders Chelsea. A dominant Rooney performance throughout was rewarded with the first goal (28), a clipped finish from da Silva's cross. Carrick got the second (32) and Rafael the third (45) with a left-footed shot. Just after the break Berbatov tapped in the fourth (50) and Valencia rounded off a terrific performance with a fine chipped fifth (75). It could have been a lot more as Wigan crumbled, leaving the Latics only a point off the relegation zone. But this was more a case of the hosts being good than the visitors being bad.
The Ear - all the news that's fit to spout.
Wolves v Man City - 0:3 - City home in on the top four as Mancini notches up six points after two games (and two clean sheets) in charge, City's first away win for three months, played in fog at Molineux. Mancini (still sporting his scarf) started Bellamy rather than Robinho. Wolves came off the blocks quickest but do not have the finishing quality of the wealthier teams and could not convert any of their chances. Bellamy missed, unusually, at point blank range, but soon made up for it, his pace and sharp cross allowed Tevez to score by deflection (33). Bellamy missed another sitter in the second half, and Wolves had further good chances which were saved. Tevez sized up a free kick and took attention away from Garrido, who scored City’s second goal (69) infuriating Mr McCarthy, who objected to the free kick being awarded (Bellamy should have been given offside just beforehand). Then it was Tevez’ turn to miss an opportunity after a good City build-up, but he got his second goal (86) after Robinho (on for Bellamy) fired in a long-range low cross. McCarthy - 'I'm not going to comment on it (City's second goal). It might cost me a few quid if I do… But in terms of our performance, I thought the final score-line was very harsh.' Mancini - 'To play like that just two days after beating Stoke makes me very happy because we played very well. In Italy it is impossible to play two games in three days, but this is England and this was a fantastic performance.' Can't play two games in three days? That's why you have so many Bank Holidays over there, Roberto.
Tottenham v West Ham - 2:0 - The last time the Hammers beat Spurs St Hal was their manager. Well, he isn’t now and much as this column respects Zola there was a clear gulf in quality, West Ham, particularly being hit with injuries. Modric opened the account for Spurs (11) after Lennon’s pace sliced through West Ham’s defence like a super-heated knife through easy-spread butter. Crouch might have had another, Defoe a third, Lennon a fourth, Huddlestone a fifth and Crouch a sixth. Finally, after so many missed chances and with some edginess creeping into their game, Defoe settled the outcome with a thudding strike following a save to his first shot (81). St Hal denied rumours that Parker (or any other player) is on his way to White Hart Lane - ‘We’ve got a good squad here.’ He’s right. Zola - ‘I got players out, but, as long as the players give me performance like today, I’m going to be all right.’ Your Ear hopes so.
Stoke City v Birmingham - 0:1 - Beattie started for the first time in five weeks. No doubt his boss was in a good mood. Jerome scrambled in Birmingham’s only goal (50), but Paul Hart made at least three superb saves from good Stoke efforts to keep a clean sheet, Gordon Banks, England’s legendary goal-keeper, was watching this game and would no doubt have approved of Hart’s performance, even though he supports Stoke. Stoke were unfortunate overall to lose this game but were most unlucky to have been denied a good penalty shout. It’s sometimes hard to understand how referees, who are paid to watch the game, after all, can miss the bleedin’ obvious.
Blackburn v Sunderland - 2:2 - Bent opened the scoring from a close range opportunity (52) only for Pedersen to level the match a minute later with Blackburn’s first home goal in five hours of match play. Blackburn missed chances to take the lead, but Bent got his and Sunderland’s second goal in the 65th minute. Big Sam made three substitutions to shake things up and bad boy Diouf came on and scored the equalizer for Blackburn (77). Good saves by Sunderland prevented Blackburn from snatching the winner late in the game. Steve Bruce, almost admiringly, - ‘Blackburn always ask you questions.’
Everton v Burnley - 2:0 - Nugent, a long term Everton supporter, nearly scored an early goal for Burnley nonetheless. Yakubu hit the post before the first half concluded, goal-less. At the start of the second half Nugent again missed, off the post, and his team-mate Jordan was sent off for a second (silly) yellow. A Yakubu header was saved by Jensen and Yakubu had another shot saved before he missed a cross entirely, fortuitously allowing Vaughan (only on the pitch for seconds) to drive the ball home (83). Yakubu provided the second goal for Everton, his through pass being snapped up by Pienaar in extra time (90+2). David Moyes was happy with his ‘edgy’ result. Owen Coyle was less happy, believing Yakubu to be offside for one of the Everton goals. He was wrong, and had obviously forgotten that Burnley were playing away.
Aston Villa v Liverpool - 0:1 - Well, you can't leave it much later than this - Torres scored the only goal in extra time (90+3) to give Liverpool a dramatic victory over Aston Villa. Villa were spirited and dour throughout and Liverpool were unconvincing in snowy conditions, although their recently suspect defence held up well. Both sides had chances but the goalies at either end earned their keep (a small New Year pun). As the match wore on a draw seemed more than likely but Torres pounced on a ricochet and scored. In doing so he set a record for reaching 50 league goals for Liverpool in the fewest appearances. A good last gasp win for Liverpool but very frustrating for the industrious Villa side, who now drop to sixth place, having scored fewer goals than Man City.
Bolton v Hull City - 2:2 - Stephen Hunt scored twice as Hull battled back from 2:0 down to deny fellow strugglers Bolton victory. Klasnic put the hosts ahead on 20 minutes, the lone highlight in a dire first half. A keeper error allowed Davies to head home a second from Robinson's free-kick (61). 10 minutes later Hunt began the comeback when he headed in Fagan's cross and 7 minutes after that Hunt’s acute shot crossed the line to square the match. A point each keeps both sides in the relegation zone, but Phil Brown was certainly the happier of the two managers. In fact this was the match that did for Megson, the fans having had enough. Phil Brown - ‘At 2:0 down you are not staring into the abyss you are staring at ways of getting back into the game.’ Brown, of course, is more expert in being 2 down than 2 up in the Premiership.
Portsmouth v Arsenal - 1:4 - Arsenal increased Portsmouth's demotion difficulties with a comprehensive win. They took the lead when Eduardo's free-kick deflected in off Kaboul (28). Nasri fired in a second 14 minutes later. Ramsey made it 3:0 with a great solo goal, hammered in from 20 yards (69), before Belhadj's close-range strike gave Pompey some hope (74). However, Song headed in a Nasri cross to clinch it for Arsenal (81). The Gunners maintain pressure at the top, moving to within 4 points of Chelsea and staying 2 behind Man United with a game in hand on each. An interesting aside, this last but one league game of the year was a Premiership first in that there was no Englishman in either starting line-up. A sorry state of affairs for any league.
Man Utd v Wigan - 5:0 - Man United’s easy win over Wigan moved them back to within 2 points of league leaders Chelsea. A dominant Rooney performance throughout was rewarded with the first goal (28), a clipped finish from da Silva's cross. Carrick got the second (32) and Rafael the third (45) with a left-footed shot. Just after the break Berbatov tapped in the fourth (50) and Valencia rounded off a terrific performance with a fine chipped fifth (75). It could have been a lot more as Wigan crumbled, leaving the Latics only a point off the relegation zone. But this was more a case of the hosts being good than the visitors being bad.
The Ear - all the news that's fit to spout.
Sunday, 27 December 2009
Premiership round up - Week 19
Man City v Stoke - 2:0 - Mr Mancini’s first game, and in case the fans (or anyone else) fails to recognize him Roberto always seems to wear a supporter’s light blue and white scarf wrapped tightly around his neck (unsurprisingly), tied in a large knot. Your Ear thinks we will all know him from now on. Petrov got City’s first goal on Mancini’s behalf when he tapped the ball home after a determined City attack (28), although Stoke were unfortunate not to have been in the lead at this point, Given having made a good save from Tuncay. Tevez got City’s second with a fine stretch at shoulder height off Barry’s header to ease the ball past the keeper (45+3). Bellamy replaced Robinho and was unlucky not to have scored or been awarded a penalty. Robinho was first choice over Bellamy in this game. Whether this was because Mancini prefers Robinho’s style or because Bellamy was vocal about his unhappiness at Hughes’ departure is not known. Bellamy is reputedly considering a move, and Spurs might figure in his plans (and St Hal’s of course). When Bellamy was brought on the crowd roared its approval, showing that English football fans appear (as was the case in the Man United Tevez/Berbatov debate) to like honest endeavour and persistence more than flair and even genius. This is an issue for Mancini, although if he follows Sir Alec’s way of thinking Bellamy might be on his way shortly.
West Ham v Portsmouth - 2:0 - Once Portsmouth had conceded a penalty to West Ham after a goal-mouth scramble Diamanti converted it to give the Hammers the lead (23). Collison should have made it two at the end of the half but dragged the ball wide. Portsmouth did not start to threaten until mid-way through the second half but West Ham defended well and had chances of their own. The game was nervy for both sides until Kovac buried a header from a free kick in the 89th minute. Zola - ‘When you play these games there’s a lot of pressure, a lot of tension, you have to suffer until the end.’ Grant - ‘We played well in the second half but football is a game of goals and we did not score.’ There is great footballing wisdom in that statement.
Birmingham v Chelsea - 0:0 - Birmingham have been in good form recently but Chelsea provided all the early initiative and might have gone three or four ahead before Birmingham (Benitez) was denied the first goal by a debatable offside decision. The half ended goal-less. Cech kept Birmingham at bay early in the second half and collided painfully with the post for his trouble. Chelsea might have scored four or five in the second half, but could not put the ball away. Malouda was sent off (two yellows for sliding tackles) but a good league point, in the end, for both sides. Birmingham, who look by far and away the strongest of the three teams promoted last season, should credit their keeper, Paul Hart, for the draw.
Liverpool v Wolves - 2:0 - Liverpool gave Wolves a hard time in pouring rain and sleet in the first half but Wolves kept out good attempts on goal by Gerrard and Torres and had chances of their own. After mistaken identity nearly resulted in the wrong man being warned, Ward was sent off (two yellows), reducing Wolves to ten men. A few minutes later Gerrard scored emphatically with the back of his neck, a great power goal (62). Liverpool continued to harass Wolves and Benayoun duly scored a second (70). Although the scousers’ victory looked comfortable Wolves might have won this game. Mick McCarthy - ‘Liverpool needed a break, and they got one.’
Sunderland v Everton - 1:1 - Everton started slowly and paid the penalty when Bent put Sunderland ahead with a simple header (17) from a good cross. But going behind roused Everton and they dominated the second half until finally Fellaini buried a shot from close range (85). Bruce - ‘You're always disappointed to concede when you get so close to full time… but if someone asked me at the start of the season that we would be 10th at Christmas, I would have taken that.’ Moyes - ‘I thought near enough from the start we just about completely dominated the game. They scored a very good goal and put us back. If we hadn't got anything out of the game it would have been a travesty.’
Wigan v Blackburn - 1:1 - a nervous start nearly produced own goals at either end but McCarthy settled Blackburn by putting them ahead (30) with his first goal of the season. Robinson did well on more than one occasion to deny Wigan but eventually Rodallega scored the equalizer (53) with a very well taken header. The home side always looked more likely to score thereafter, although Kirkland made a fantastic reaction save from a strong overhead kick attempt by McCarthy. Both managers were dissatisfied with the draw - one of them must be wrong.
Burnley v Bolton - 1:1 - This midlands derby was the first meeting between the two teams in top-flight football for 45 years. Honours were fairly even until Taylor scored a fine free kick from distance for Bolton (29). Narrowly missed chances at both ends kept the crowd on edge but it was Burnley, seeking to protect their admirable home record, who were on target (Nugent, header, 56) with the second goal of the match. Burnley had the initiative from then on and missed a few decent chances.
Fulham v Tottenham - 0:0 Another derby, another draw. Gera almost scored a trick goal with a back-heel but Gomes swept it up easily enough and saved a couple more from an aggressive Fulham. Spurs’ best chance was when Crouch put the ball into the net, which did not count as the referee had already blown for a foul on Kranjcar. Fulham hit the bar and had several more chances but Gomes was on great form and made a number of fine saves. Schwarzer did much the same thing at the other end, although he was forced to do so by Spurs on fewer occasions. Spurs kept their defensive shape well in this game, but clearly do not like being pressurized to the extent that Fulham put them under. Both managers were complimentary about their opponents and (separately) agreed that the result was fair. A good day for the keepers.
Arsenal v Aston Villa - 3:0 - After typically dour Villa defending for the first hour or so, Fabregas (brought on after 57 minutes despite a hamstring problem) curled in a 25-yard free kick (65) after being fouled by Dunne. Friedel had previously denied Gallas from point-blank range and saved a shot by Arshavin. Arshavin made the game safe for Arsenal with a quick finish from a Walcott pass (81). A Diaby strike wrapped up the win for Arsenal in extra time (90+1). Although Arsenal won the game it may come at some cost - Fabregas had to be replaced on 84 minutes, having aggravated his injury. Arsenal are closing in on Chelsea and Man United, nonetheless. O'Neil - 'Villa will bounce back… We are up there in the league because we deserve to be. Now it is down to us to see if we can maintain the form which put us there in the first place.' O'Neil is no fool, and what he said applied equally last year, when Villa failed to achieve their target of top four status.
Hull City v Man Utd - 1:3 - Although Hull came prepared for a busy and physical game, Rooney scored first for United on the stroke of half-time. Later he made a bad back-pass which led to a Hull penalty. Fagan levelled from the spot (60), but Rooney’s low cross, which caused Andy Dawson to score an own goal (73), made amends. Berbatov sealed the win following a top-drawer pass from Rooney. This is just the start of the second half of the season when United traditionally begin to hit their stride. However, ManU were not at their best and Hull were unlucky to be denied an early penalty after a strong Vidic challenge on Garcia. As a small aside the penalty shout was denied by Alan Wiley, the referee whose ‘fitness’ was questioned by Ferguson after United drew against Sunderland earlier this season. Well done, ref. Manchester United are now within two points of Chelsea in the race for the Premiership title. Phelan - ‘We're well positioned for title bid.’ Brown - ‘We had Man United rocking.’ Maybe he should have added ‘We could have been a contender.’ Perhaps not.
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West Ham v Portsmouth - 2:0 - Once Portsmouth had conceded a penalty to West Ham after a goal-mouth scramble Diamanti converted it to give the Hammers the lead (23). Collison should have made it two at the end of the half but dragged the ball wide. Portsmouth did not start to threaten until mid-way through the second half but West Ham defended well and had chances of their own. The game was nervy for both sides until Kovac buried a header from a free kick in the 89th minute. Zola - ‘When you play these games there’s a lot of pressure, a lot of tension, you have to suffer until the end.’ Grant - ‘We played well in the second half but football is a game of goals and we did not score.’ There is great footballing wisdom in that statement.
Birmingham v Chelsea - 0:0 - Birmingham have been in good form recently but Chelsea provided all the early initiative and might have gone three or four ahead before Birmingham (Benitez) was denied the first goal by a debatable offside decision. The half ended goal-less. Cech kept Birmingham at bay early in the second half and collided painfully with the post for his trouble. Chelsea might have scored four or five in the second half, but could not put the ball away. Malouda was sent off (two yellows for sliding tackles) but a good league point, in the end, for both sides. Birmingham, who look by far and away the strongest of the three teams promoted last season, should credit their keeper, Paul Hart, for the draw.
Liverpool v Wolves - 2:0 - Liverpool gave Wolves a hard time in pouring rain and sleet in the first half but Wolves kept out good attempts on goal by Gerrard and Torres and had chances of their own. After mistaken identity nearly resulted in the wrong man being warned, Ward was sent off (two yellows), reducing Wolves to ten men. A few minutes later Gerrard scored emphatically with the back of his neck, a great power goal (62). Liverpool continued to harass Wolves and Benayoun duly scored a second (70). Although the scousers’ victory looked comfortable Wolves might have won this game. Mick McCarthy - ‘Liverpool needed a break, and they got one.’
Sunderland v Everton - 1:1 - Everton started slowly and paid the penalty when Bent put Sunderland ahead with a simple header (17) from a good cross. But going behind roused Everton and they dominated the second half until finally Fellaini buried a shot from close range (85). Bruce - ‘You're always disappointed to concede when you get so close to full time… but if someone asked me at the start of the season that we would be 10th at Christmas, I would have taken that.’ Moyes - ‘I thought near enough from the start we just about completely dominated the game. They scored a very good goal and put us back. If we hadn't got anything out of the game it would have been a travesty.’
Wigan v Blackburn - 1:1 - a nervous start nearly produced own goals at either end but McCarthy settled Blackburn by putting them ahead (30) with his first goal of the season. Robinson did well on more than one occasion to deny Wigan but eventually Rodallega scored the equalizer (53) with a very well taken header. The home side always looked more likely to score thereafter, although Kirkland made a fantastic reaction save from a strong overhead kick attempt by McCarthy. Both managers were dissatisfied with the draw - one of them must be wrong.
Burnley v Bolton - 1:1 - This midlands derby was the first meeting between the two teams in top-flight football for 45 years. Honours were fairly even until Taylor scored a fine free kick from distance for Bolton (29). Narrowly missed chances at both ends kept the crowd on edge but it was Burnley, seeking to protect their admirable home record, who were on target (Nugent, header, 56) with the second goal of the match. Burnley had the initiative from then on and missed a few decent chances.
Fulham v Tottenham - 0:0 Another derby, another draw. Gera almost scored a trick goal with a back-heel but Gomes swept it up easily enough and saved a couple more from an aggressive Fulham. Spurs’ best chance was when Crouch put the ball into the net, which did not count as the referee had already blown for a foul on Kranjcar. Fulham hit the bar and had several more chances but Gomes was on great form and made a number of fine saves. Schwarzer did much the same thing at the other end, although he was forced to do so by Spurs on fewer occasions. Spurs kept their defensive shape well in this game, but clearly do not like being pressurized to the extent that Fulham put them under. Both managers were complimentary about their opponents and (separately) agreed that the result was fair. A good day for the keepers.
Arsenal v Aston Villa - 3:0 - After typically dour Villa defending for the first hour or so, Fabregas (brought on after 57 minutes despite a hamstring problem) curled in a 25-yard free kick (65) after being fouled by Dunne. Friedel had previously denied Gallas from point-blank range and saved a shot by Arshavin. Arshavin made the game safe for Arsenal with a quick finish from a Walcott pass (81). A Diaby strike wrapped up the win for Arsenal in extra time (90+1). Although Arsenal won the game it may come at some cost - Fabregas had to be replaced on 84 minutes, having aggravated his injury. Arsenal are closing in on Chelsea and Man United, nonetheless. O'Neil - 'Villa will bounce back… We are up there in the league because we deserve to be. Now it is down to us to see if we can maintain the form which put us there in the first place.' O'Neil is no fool, and what he said applied equally last year, when Villa failed to achieve their target of top four status.
Hull City v Man Utd - 1:3 - Although Hull came prepared for a busy and physical game, Rooney scored first for United on the stroke of half-time. Later he made a bad back-pass which led to a Hull penalty. Fagan levelled from the spot (60), but Rooney’s low cross, which caused Andy Dawson to score an own goal (73), made amends. Berbatov sealed the win following a top-drawer pass from Rooney. This is just the start of the second half of the season when United traditionally begin to hit their stride. However, ManU were not at their best and Hull were unlucky to be denied an early penalty after a strong Vidic challenge on Garcia. As a small aside the penalty shout was denied by Alan Wiley, the referee whose ‘fitness’ was questioned by Ferguson after United drew against Sunderland earlier this season. Well done, ref. Manchester United are now within two points of Chelsea in the race for the Premiership title. Phelan - ‘We're well positioned for title bid.’ Brown - ‘We had Man United rocking.’ Maybe he should have added ‘We could have been a contender.’ Perhaps not.
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Thursday, 24 December 2009
Premiership round up - Week 18
Fulham v Man United - 3:0 - Fulham started well against a United defence plagued with injuries. Zamora chested a fine lay-off for Gera whose brilliant strike was stopped by a top-draw save by Kuszczak, standing in for the injured Van de Saar. After playing so well recently Scholes nodded off in mid-field and was robbed by Danny Murphy who scored a soft goal (22). Zamora nearly stole a second and missed, but was right on target in the first twenty seconds of the second half to get his 10th goal of the season. Duff got Fulham’s third (75) by the same route as they almost got their first, good body control and a lay-off by Zamora. ‘We want four,’ shouted Fulham’s fans, but they were happy with the margin they won by. Not what we expect from United in the run-up to the busy Christmas period; they need to rebuild their defence, fast.
Man City v Sunderland - 4:3 - The burning question before the game started (other than the manager’s fate) was ‘by how many goals do City need to lead before they can consider a game safe?’ Today’s answer was ‘more than two’. Slick passing by Tevez to Bellamy, followed by his fine cross, delivered City’s first; a tap-in for Santa Cruz (4). Five minutes or so later Bellamy was challenged in the box by Nosworthy and fell, rolling in agony. It’s hard to tell, but the challenge did not seem that severe. Bellamy recovered after Tevez put the penalty away (12). Marvellous tonic, a goal. Sunderland (unlike Bellamy) refused to lie down and came back at City four minutes later with a brilliant header (Mensah, 16) and may have had a couple more before Henderson drew Sunderland level, nearly breaking the net with a thumping shot from ten yards after City failed to clear the ball (24). So, four goals in the first half of the first half, more or less. But there was lots more to come. Bellamy (fully recovered) put City back in front with a very well-placed shot across the goal ten minutes later. The fans then had to wait a full 26 minutes for the next goal, a well-worked but poorly defended manoeuvre that Jones used his head to conclude, levelling the match once more. Although there were more chances and a sending off (Turner, 90+2) Santa Cruz had already finished the game off with another tap-in (69).
Portsmouth v Liverpool - 2:0 - Liverpool went to work early and produced a few half-chances but it was Portsmouth who got the advantage with a superb volley from a difficult angle by Belhadj (33). The ground was slippery and Liverpool’s nerves are easily twitched these days, so it was no great surprise when Mascherano went in too heavily on Ben-Haim, did his own knee a nasty, but was sent off nonetheless. Further chances at either end were not taken until Piquionne tapped the ball into the air from a cross and delivered much the same finish as Belhadj, a well-aimed volley from an oblique angle. Not Liverpool’s day, and certainly not their season, although possibly the start of Portsmouth’s, and a great win for Avram Grant, who almost smiled. Rafa Benitez was less happy and said (with the least hint of a tic in his left eye) - ‘The referee was perfect!’
Arsenal v Hull - 3:0 - Hull turned Arsenal over in this fixture last season, but no-one expected a repeat this time out. Quite right too, this was a bad-tempered, spiteful game which Arsenal always dominated. Nasri was stupid enough to step on Hunt’s foot and Hunt was stupid enough to roll about as if an elephant had trodden on him. After lots of pushing and shoving both players were carded. Denilson broke the deadlock even whilst the referee was drawing his breath to blow up for half time with a perfectly placed free kick (45+4). Eduardo nearly scored a second for Arsenal before a ludicrous penalty decision went Hull’s way when Fagan fell over (‘he pushed me, he pushed me’ was what Your Ear thought was on his lips, but the referee awarded the penalty for shirt-pulling). The penalty was saved (twice, first Geovanni’s shot was saved, then Hunt, poetic justice, headed wide). Crisis over, Eduardo walked in Arsenal’s second (59, although he might have missed it) before Diaby buried a third goal after a good pass forward by Arshavin (80). Walcott might have made it four with a chip but just missed. Arsenal are chipping away at second spot in the league and would take it if they played and won their game in hand.
Blackburn v Spurs - 0:2 - Reindeer weather seemed to suit Blackburn, who applied all the early pressure. Then it stopped snowing and Defoe almost scored. In stoppage time to the first half (45+2) Crouch, against the run of play, got Spurs the lead. The defender jumped but Crouch stood his ground, with his head still higher than the man next to him. He is a very tall lad, and hardly bothered to get on tip-toe for the header that went in off the underside of the crossbar. Gomes was having one of those ‘sometimes’ days (sometimes they go in, sometimes they don’t) and McCarthy was denied what looked like a drop dead certain opportunity by the back of Gomes’ leg and the post. Blackburn’s eagerness to get forward finally did for them at the back. Crouch found himself in free space and smacked home Spurs second goal (82). Blackburn continued to attack and were unfortunate not to get a draw, at least. Sam Allardyce was understandably disappointed - ‘We were unlucky to come up against Peter Crouch in top, top form… We’re lacking in the final third, but we don’t have £20-30 million to put that right so we have to keep making more chances than the teams at the top…’ St Harold took his players’ booze-up jaunt to Ireland philosophically and with apparent good humour - ‘I told ‘em I didn’t want ‘em to have a party and that’s the only part that disappoints me… but I suppose it’s all part of growing up and we’ll sort ‘em out on Monday.’ Hair-shirts all round, we think.
Aston Villa v Stoke - 1:0 - A dour struggle developed over the course of an hour or so, with Villa having slightly more possession, but no more scoring opportunities, than their opponents. Then Carew, who is incredibly strong in the box, headed in to win Villa the lead and the game (61). Stoke had their chances but their finishing was not of the highest quality, whilst Sidwell missed a clear shooting chance late in the game. Nevertheless, this was a good, hard-fought midlands derby, with both sides fully committed.
West Ham v Chelsea - 1:1 - Chelsea created all the chances in the first half, took none, then Collison was brought down in the box by Cole and Diamante scored from the spot (45). Shortly after the start of the second half Lampard was asked to take the same penalty three times (due to encroachment) in order to equalize (61). It was a poor penalty decision - the man did not have the ball under control, he was not fouled and the defender got the ball, so making Lampard take the penalty three times seems fair (almost). Later another bad decision occurred, a penalty that should have gone the Hammer’s way. Referees’ decisions are getting worse as the year progresses. After the match Zola greeted Ancelotti in a surprisingly friendly way (Ancelotti unloaded Zola from Parma to Chelsea) and said - ‘Maybe one goal less from the other side would have been perfect…’
Everton v Birmingham - 1:1 -The perfect start for Everton - Bilyaletdinov drilled in the opening goal from Saha’s pass at the end of five minutes. Saha was given offside early on (and had a goal disallowed) and Everton had many more of the chances, but it was Birmingham who scored next (Larsson, 22) from a poorly defended cross. In the second half Carr handled the ball (but was not seen) denying Everton another chance on goal. This was a draw Everton should have won, their failure to do so was mainly due to poor refereeing decisions.
Wolves v Burnley - 2:0- Milijas opened the account for Wolves (15) after Jensen failed to hold the ball from a shot. Jensen redeemed himself later, stopping three shots at point blank range (he is a very big man). Doyle was yellow-carded for ‘shirt removal’ after scoring Wolves’ second (50). Mick McCarthy’s strategy to play his ‘B’ team against ManU earlier in the week seems to have been vindicated by this victory.
News of the Week (to keep us in perspective) - In a week when Christmas looms large and a surreal TV advert involving Sven Goran Eriksson selling Kleenex (thus are the mighty fallen) was shown on the box for the first time, we turn to those who might be more in need of a hankie or two for something to keep us awake.
Football Manager News - Hughes Blues - By the long, grim wave he gave the fans after the game ended Mark Hughes knew he had been sacked before he left the field by way of the tunnel. Later City’s chairman said ‘A return of two wins in eleven Premier games is clearly not in line with the targets that were agreed and set…’ He did not say ‘especially after we had spent over £240m.’ Roberto Mancini (who watched the match) takes over immediately with Brian Kidd as his assistant. Mancini won two Italian Cups, two Italian Super Cups and three league titles with Inter Milan between 2005 and 2008, making him the most successful Inter manager for 30 years. He was less successful at the European level. Should we feel sorry for Hughes? Probably not, given the size of his payoff - of double-B (Banker’s Bonus) proportions, we hear. What about City’s squad? We will see what Mancini does with them, although the next three are relatively soft league games for City. But if you are not a City supporter which, if any, of them would you want in your team? Tevez? Bellamy? Not Adebayor, surely, who has done what Mr Wenger suspected he would - played as if on fire for a few matches, then put his feet up. Sylvinho looks a little past his best, Wright-Phillips is a fine player, but never commanding. Maybe they would do better in other teams, but this squad, for all its cost, is (in Your Ear’s opinion) unlikely to lift much silverware.
The Ear - all the news that's fit to spout.
Man City v Sunderland - 4:3 - The burning question before the game started (other than the manager’s fate) was ‘by how many goals do City need to lead before they can consider a game safe?’ Today’s answer was ‘more than two’. Slick passing by Tevez to Bellamy, followed by his fine cross, delivered City’s first; a tap-in for Santa Cruz (4). Five minutes or so later Bellamy was challenged in the box by Nosworthy and fell, rolling in agony. It’s hard to tell, but the challenge did not seem that severe. Bellamy recovered after Tevez put the penalty away (12). Marvellous tonic, a goal. Sunderland (unlike Bellamy) refused to lie down and came back at City four minutes later with a brilliant header (Mensah, 16) and may have had a couple more before Henderson drew Sunderland level, nearly breaking the net with a thumping shot from ten yards after City failed to clear the ball (24). So, four goals in the first half of the first half, more or less. But there was lots more to come. Bellamy (fully recovered) put City back in front with a very well-placed shot across the goal ten minutes later. The fans then had to wait a full 26 minutes for the next goal, a well-worked but poorly defended manoeuvre that Jones used his head to conclude, levelling the match once more. Although there were more chances and a sending off (Turner, 90+2) Santa Cruz had already finished the game off with another tap-in (69).
Portsmouth v Liverpool - 2:0 - Liverpool went to work early and produced a few half-chances but it was Portsmouth who got the advantage with a superb volley from a difficult angle by Belhadj (33). The ground was slippery and Liverpool’s nerves are easily twitched these days, so it was no great surprise when Mascherano went in too heavily on Ben-Haim, did his own knee a nasty, but was sent off nonetheless. Further chances at either end were not taken until Piquionne tapped the ball into the air from a cross and delivered much the same finish as Belhadj, a well-aimed volley from an oblique angle. Not Liverpool’s day, and certainly not their season, although possibly the start of Portsmouth’s, and a great win for Avram Grant, who almost smiled. Rafa Benitez was less happy and said (with the least hint of a tic in his left eye) - ‘The referee was perfect!’
Arsenal v Hull - 3:0 - Hull turned Arsenal over in this fixture last season, but no-one expected a repeat this time out. Quite right too, this was a bad-tempered, spiteful game which Arsenal always dominated. Nasri was stupid enough to step on Hunt’s foot and Hunt was stupid enough to roll about as if an elephant had trodden on him. After lots of pushing and shoving both players were carded. Denilson broke the deadlock even whilst the referee was drawing his breath to blow up for half time with a perfectly placed free kick (45+4). Eduardo nearly scored a second for Arsenal before a ludicrous penalty decision went Hull’s way when Fagan fell over (‘he pushed me, he pushed me’ was what Your Ear thought was on his lips, but the referee awarded the penalty for shirt-pulling). The penalty was saved (twice, first Geovanni’s shot was saved, then Hunt, poetic justice, headed wide). Crisis over, Eduardo walked in Arsenal’s second (59, although he might have missed it) before Diaby buried a third goal after a good pass forward by Arshavin (80). Walcott might have made it four with a chip but just missed. Arsenal are chipping away at second spot in the league and would take it if they played and won their game in hand.
Blackburn v Spurs - 0:2 - Reindeer weather seemed to suit Blackburn, who applied all the early pressure. Then it stopped snowing and Defoe almost scored. In stoppage time to the first half (45+2) Crouch, against the run of play, got Spurs the lead. The defender jumped but Crouch stood his ground, with his head still higher than the man next to him. He is a very tall lad, and hardly bothered to get on tip-toe for the header that went in off the underside of the crossbar. Gomes was having one of those ‘sometimes’ days (sometimes they go in, sometimes they don’t) and McCarthy was denied what looked like a drop dead certain opportunity by the back of Gomes’ leg and the post. Blackburn’s eagerness to get forward finally did for them at the back. Crouch found himself in free space and smacked home Spurs second goal (82). Blackburn continued to attack and were unfortunate not to get a draw, at least. Sam Allardyce was understandably disappointed - ‘We were unlucky to come up against Peter Crouch in top, top form… We’re lacking in the final third, but we don’t have £20-30 million to put that right so we have to keep making more chances than the teams at the top…’ St Harold took his players’ booze-up jaunt to Ireland philosophically and with apparent good humour - ‘I told ‘em I didn’t want ‘em to have a party and that’s the only part that disappoints me… but I suppose it’s all part of growing up and we’ll sort ‘em out on Monday.’ Hair-shirts all round, we think.
Aston Villa v Stoke - 1:0 - A dour struggle developed over the course of an hour or so, with Villa having slightly more possession, but no more scoring opportunities, than their opponents. Then Carew, who is incredibly strong in the box, headed in to win Villa the lead and the game (61). Stoke had their chances but their finishing was not of the highest quality, whilst Sidwell missed a clear shooting chance late in the game. Nevertheless, this was a good, hard-fought midlands derby, with both sides fully committed.
West Ham v Chelsea - 1:1 - Chelsea created all the chances in the first half, took none, then Collison was brought down in the box by Cole and Diamante scored from the spot (45). Shortly after the start of the second half Lampard was asked to take the same penalty three times (due to encroachment) in order to equalize (61). It was a poor penalty decision - the man did not have the ball under control, he was not fouled and the defender got the ball, so making Lampard take the penalty three times seems fair (almost). Later another bad decision occurred, a penalty that should have gone the Hammer’s way. Referees’ decisions are getting worse as the year progresses. After the match Zola greeted Ancelotti in a surprisingly friendly way (Ancelotti unloaded Zola from Parma to Chelsea) and said - ‘Maybe one goal less from the other side would have been perfect…’
Everton v Birmingham - 1:1 -The perfect start for Everton - Bilyaletdinov drilled in the opening goal from Saha’s pass at the end of five minutes. Saha was given offside early on (and had a goal disallowed) and Everton had many more of the chances, but it was Birmingham who scored next (Larsson, 22) from a poorly defended cross. In the second half Carr handled the ball (but was not seen) denying Everton another chance on goal. This was a draw Everton should have won, their failure to do so was mainly due to poor refereeing decisions.
Wolves v Burnley - 2:0- Milijas opened the account for Wolves (15) after Jensen failed to hold the ball from a shot. Jensen redeemed himself later, stopping three shots at point blank range (he is a very big man). Doyle was yellow-carded for ‘shirt removal’ after scoring Wolves’ second (50). Mick McCarthy’s strategy to play his ‘B’ team against ManU earlier in the week seems to have been vindicated by this victory.
News of the Week (to keep us in perspective) - In a week when Christmas looms large and a surreal TV advert involving Sven Goran Eriksson selling Kleenex (thus are the mighty fallen) was shown on the box for the first time, we turn to those who might be more in need of a hankie or two for something to keep us awake.
Football Manager News - Hughes Blues - By the long, grim wave he gave the fans after the game ended Mark Hughes knew he had been sacked before he left the field by way of the tunnel. Later City’s chairman said ‘A return of two wins in eleven Premier games is clearly not in line with the targets that were agreed and set…’ He did not say ‘especially after we had spent over £240m.’ Roberto Mancini (who watched the match) takes over immediately with Brian Kidd as his assistant. Mancini won two Italian Cups, two Italian Super Cups and three league titles with Inter Milan between 2005 and 2008, making him the most successful Inter manager for 30 years. He was less successful at the European level. Should we feel sorry for Hughes? Probably not, given the size of his payoff - of double-B (Banker’s Bonus) proportions, we hear. What about City’s squad? We will see what Mancini does with them, although the next three are relatively soft league games for City. But if you are not a City supporter which, if any, of them would you want in your team? Tevez? Bellamy? Not Adebayor, surely, who has done what Mr Wenger suspected he would - played as if on fire for a few matches, then put his feet up. Sylvinho looks a little past his best, Wright-Phillips is a fine player, but never commanding. Maybe they would do better in other teams, but this squad, for all its cost, is (in Your Ear’s opinion) unlikely to lift much silverware.
The Ear - all the news that's fit to spout.
Thursday, 17 December 2009
Premiership round up - Week 17
Man United v Wolves - 3:0 - Mick McCarthy made ten changes to the team that beat Spurs by a goal last time out. It's hard to understand why - intense United pressure eventually paid off in the form of a penalty for handball, which Rooney duly converted (30). Vidic scored with his head to make it 2 in the first half (43). United's third goal was a beauty (Valencia, 66) after a great build-up. Mick McCarthy seems more concerned to get a few wins against the low-flying clubs than the big boys. Just another day at the office for ManU.
Sunderland v Aston Villa - 0:2 - Although Sunderland started the more brightly of the two sides Heskey put Villa ahead with a well-taken poacher's goal (24). Villa might have scored several more but woodwork, goal saves and slight inaccuracy kept them at bay until England hopeful, Milner, got Villa's second (61) with a powerball from way outside the box. Towards the end of the game Cana was sent off for a second yellow, a foul on Milner. The referee’s name was Mr Friend, but Your Ear refuses to make any cheap jokes about him not being very pally with Cana (etc). Until Arsenal displaced them the following day Villa were third in the table and are looking strong.
Birmingham v Blackburn - 2:1 - Jerome got Birmingham off the mark (12) and also scored their second (48). Blackburn scored third (Nelsen, 69) to get themselves back into contention but Birmingham were strong and kept pushing forward. Blackburn might have got completely back into the game (or at least achieved a draw) with some last ditch efforts in extra time but a good reaction saved denied them. Birmingham then nearly scored a comedy goal at the death, as Blackburn's keeper Robinson, who had come up-field to try for an equalizer, was forced to run the full length of the pitch to stop Birmingham scoring their third. He just about had the puff to do it and made a good save from Larsson’s shot.
Bolton v West Ham - 3:1 - The Hammers poor away form continues. A dour first half yielded nothing for either side and most of the action took place in the second. Lee opened the account for Bolton (64) only for Diamanti to equalize 5 minutes later. At that point the game seemed to hang in the balance, but it was Bolton's day. Another England hopeful, Hammer' keeper, Green, did himself no international favours as he failed to hold the ball, allowing Klasnic to tap in Birmingham's second (77). Despite frantic West Ham efforts Cahill scored Birmingham's third (88). West Ham definitely now look more than a bit fragile and potential relegation candidates. Meanwhile, while Bolton climb out of the bottom three, West Ham fall back in.
Chelsea v Portsmouth - 2:1 - Avram Grant, on his return to Stamford Bridge, was given a warm welcome by both the Chelsea faithful and his ex-players. He looked genuinely pleased to be there, as well. Chelsea applied the early pressure and Kalou nearly scored. Then Anelka was fortunate to be in the path of a deflected cross to get Chelsea's first (23). Portsmouth (Hreidarsson) almost got back at them before the break with a half-chance. But Pompey’s ‘never say die’ approach got them level with a good goal by Piquionne (51) and almost put them in front on more than one occasion. Unfortunately for Portsmouth Wilson made a rash challenge on Ivanovic and Lampard scored from the spot (79) to win the game. Chelsea look a little static while Pompey are very good in attack. In in watching this match you would never think this was top of the league versus the bottom. When they play like this Your Ear refuses to believe that Portsmouth cannot wriggle out of the relegation hole they find themselves in.
Spurs v Man City - 3:0 - Spurs (for once) seemed the more confident side in the early stages. Their aggressive play paid off - Lennon’s speed got him past Sylvinho and a good cross was snapped up and converted by Kranjcar (37). Spurs should have scored more, but ended the first half just one ahead. After half-time Crouch rose (as only he can) to head to Defoe who tapped the ball home for Spurs' second (54). City tried but their best efforts were denied, as was a penalty claim that should have been awarded in their favour. Two bad misses by Adebayor summed up City's miserable evening before Kranjcar scored a great solo effort (90+3). This was a crucial game for Spurs, and a convincing win over their main top 4 rival (although Villa are in that frame as well, now). St Hal - ‘they’re a good side, they’re going to be bang there at the end of the year, and in years to come, I’m sure, with the resources they’ve got… they could end up doing anything in the next couple of years, but tonight we were the better side, there’s no disputing that… everyone worked, we passed well… I told Kranjcar if he don't get man-of-the-match for that tonight he'll never get it…” (he did get it). Mark Hughes - ‘The second goal killed us…’ Your Ear believes it was the first, then the second, then the third, a death by three cuts.
Burnley v Arsenal - 1:1 - Vermaelen nearly scored an early own goal for Burnley but the game was mostly all Arsenal's. Lots of pussyfooting in the goal area allowed Fabregas to pass the ball into the net (7). Fabregas and Arshavin both nearly scored before Bikey was fouled by Vermaelen after a neat Burnley build-up and Alexander’s penalty levelled the game (28). Burnley grew in confidence and Arsenal seemed half asleep whilst Burnley attacked them repeatedly, but to no profit. Fabregas came off (with a potential back injury) and although Arsenal gradually turned the game around and made a few chances they could gain no further advantage. In the second half Burnley started better, with many chances (off the post, offside, a good shout for handball denied, deemed to be outside the box) and preserved their good home record. Arsenal look a much blunter instrument now than was evident earlier in the season and Burnley deserved the draw. Wenger agrees that his side has problems maintaining momentum if/when they go ahead, something he will need to address if Arsenal’s title challenge is to be maintained. From an Arsenal fan’s point of view this game was frustrating, it looked more like a friendly or a training match.
Liverpool v Wigan - 2:1 - Lively early play by Liverpool presented several chances and after 9 minutes gave them the lead (N'Gog, glancing header from a good cross). Wigan may not be as skilful a side as Liverpool but they are physically imposing and almost retrieved the deficit 4 minutes later. N'Gog might have had a second, but missed narrowly. Kuyt almost scored a blaster but it was saved. N'Gog made way for Torres, who was quiet for a while, but shortly after Scotland should have scored for Wigan (hitting the bar), Torres settled the game, scrambling the ball in after 'rounding' the keeper and almost giving the ball to Bramble (79). This was Torres’ 61st goal in 100 appearances. N'Zogbia got one back in extra time (90+2) but it was too little, too late. This was a good result to help settle frazzled Liverpool nerves.
Sunderland v Aston Villa - 0:2 - Although Sunderland started the more brightly of the two sides Heskey put Villa ahead with a well-taken poacher's goal (24). Villa might have scored several more but woodwork, goal saves and slight inaccuracy kept them at bay until England hopeful, Milner, got Villa's second (61) with a powerball from way outside the box. Towards the end of the game Cana was sent off for a second yellow, a foul on Milner. The referee’s name was Mr Friend, but Your Ear refuses to make any cheap jokes about him not being very pally with Cana (etc). Until Arsenal displaced them the following day Villa were third in the table and are looking strong.
Birmingham v Blackburn - 2:1 - Jerome got Birmingham off the mark (12) and also scored their second (48). Blackburn scored third (Nelsen, 69) to get themselves back into contention but Birmingham were strong and kept pushing forward. Blackburn might have got completely back into the game (or at least achieved a draw) with some last ditch efforts in extra time but a good reaction saved denied them. Birmingham then nearly scored a comedy goal at the death, as Blackburn's keeper Robinson, who had come up-field to try for an equalizer, was forced to run the full length of the pitch to stop Birmingham scoring their third. He just about had the puff to do it and made a good save from Larsson’s shot.
Bolton v West Ham - 3:1 - The Hammers poor away form continues. A dour first half yielded nothing for either side and most of the action took place in the second. Lee opened the account for Bolton (64) only for Diamanti to equalize 5 minutes later. At that point the game seemed to hang in the balance, but it was Bolton's day. Another England hopeful, Hammer' keeper, Green, did himself no international favours as he failed to hold the ball, allowing Klasnic to tap in Birmingham's second (77). Despite frantic West Ham efforts Cahill scored Birmingham's third (88). West Ham definitely now look more than a bit fragile and potential relegation candidates. Meanwhile, while Bolton climb out of the bottom three, West Ham fall back in.
Chelsea v Portsmouth - 2:1 - Avram Grant, on his return to Stamford Bridge, was given a warm welcome by both the Chelsea faithful and his ex-players. He looked genuinely pleased to be there, as well. Chelsea applied the early pressure and Kalou nearly scored. Then Anelka was fortunate to be in the path of a deflected cross to get Chelsea's first (23). Portsmouth (Hreidarsson) almost got back at them before the break with a half-chance. But Pompey’s ‘never say die’ approach got them level with a good goal by Piquionne (51) and almost put them in front on more than one occasion. Unfortunately for Portsmouth Wilson made a rash challenge on Ivanovic and Lampard scored from the spot (79) to win the game. Chelsea look a little static while Pompey are very good in attack. In in watching this match you would never think this was top of the league versus the bottom. When they play like this Your Ear refuses to believe that Portsmouth cannot wriggle out of the relegation hole they find themselves in.
Spurs v Man City - 3:0 - Spurs (for once) seemed the more confident side in the early stages. Their aggressive play paid off - Lennon’s speed got him past Sylvinho and a good cross was snapped up and converted by Kranjcar (37). Spurs should have scored more, but ended the first half just one ahead. After half-time Crouch rose (as only he can) to head to Defoe who tapped the ball home for Spurs' second (54). City tried but their best efforts were denied, as was a penalty claim that should have been awarded in their favour. Two bad misses by Adebayor summed up City's miserable evening before Kranjcar scored a great solo effort (90+3). This was a crucial game for Spurs, and a convincing win over their main top 4 rival (although Villa are in that frame as well, now). St Hal - ‘they’re a good side, they’re going to be bang there at the end of the year, and in years to come, I’m sure, with the resources they’ve got… they could end up doing anything in the next couple of years, but tonight we were the better side, there’s no disputing that… everyone worked, we passed well… I told Kranjcar if he don't get man-of-the-match for that tonight he'll never get it…” (he did get it). Mark Hughes - ‘The second goal killed us…’ Your Ear believes it was the first, then the second, then the third, a death by three cuts.
Burnley v Arsenal - 1:1 - Vermaelen nearly scored an early own goal for Burnley but the game was mostly all Arsenal's. Lots of pussyfooting in the goal area allowed Fabregas to pass the ball into the net (7). Fabregas and Arshavin both nearly scored before Bikey was fouled by Vermaelen after a neat Burnley build-up and Alexander’s penalty levelled the game (28). Burnley grew in confidence and Arsenal seemed half asleep whilst Burnley attacked them repeatedly, but to no profit. Fabregas came off (with a potential back injury) and although Arsenal gradually turned the game around and made a few chances they could gain no further advantage. In the second half Burnley started better, with many chances (off the post, offside, a good shout for handball denied, deemed to be outside the box) and preserved their good home record. Arsenal look a much blunter instrument now than was evident earlier in the season and Burnley deserved the draw. Wenger agrees that his side has problems maintaining momentum if/when they go ahead, something he will need to address if Arsenal’s title challenge is to be maintained. From an Arsenal fan’s point of view this game was frustrating, it looked more like a friendly or a training match.
Liverpool v Wigan - 2:1 - Lively early play by Liverpool presented several chances and after 9 minutes gave them the lead (N'Gog, glancing header from a good cross). Wigan may not be as skilful a side as Liverpool but they are physically imposing and almost retrieved the deficit 4 minutes later. N'Gog might have had a second, but missed narrowly. Kuyt almost scored a blaster but it was saved. N'Gog made way for Torres, who was quiet for a while, but shortly after Scotland should have scored for Wigan (hitting the bar), Torres settled the game, scrambling the ball in after 'rounding' the keeper and almost giving the ball to Bramble (79). This was Torres’ 61st goal in 100 appearances. N'Zogbia got one back in extra time (90+2) but it was too little, too late. This was a good result to help settle frazzled Liverpool nerves.
Premiership round up - Week 16
Chelsea v Everton - 3:3 - The home crowd fell silent at the Bridge after 12 minutes when Saha hit the post for an o/g to bounce in off Cech. They weren’t quiet for long - six minutes later Drogba equalized and five minutes after that Anelka placed the ball nicely in the top right hand corner of the net, following a good lay-off by Ivanovic. But poor Blues’ defending allowed Yakubu to score on the stroke of half time. Much good it did Everton - Drogba got his second (59, another Ivanovic pass) and it looked like Chelsea would go on to score one or two more. But frailty in defence against set pieces let Everton in for their third, cruelly headed out by Drogba to strike an unsuspecting Saha, which lobbed a helpless Ivanovic. Gor blimey, guv, I do not believe Mr Ancelotti was best pleased! But on the sidelines Mr A looked calm and collected, whereas David Moyes was best described as animated. Ballack missed a couple of chances but the game ended in a draw, which, as Moyes said; ‘was a top-notch result, given the team we came to play with today’. Ancelotti (with a small shrug) - ‘football is strange.’ You’re right there, mate.
Spurs v Wolves - 0:1 - Modric was back on the Spurs’ bench after his leg break some months ago, but he was no talisman - after three minutes an implausible free kick awarded against Huddlestone enabled Doyle to open the scoring for Wolves. The half time talk in the Spurs’ dressing room must have been dire, but whatever St Harold said had little effect, and the second half was a repeat of the first, with Wolves digging in and Spurs making little impact, the best chances falling to Huddlestone. After the match Sir H said that Spurs lacked a ‘cutting edge’ and that Wolves ‘defended for their lives’. But that’s what’s needed in the Premiership, a bit of trench warfare mentality. No Christmas party for Spurs this ear, we are told. As an aside, is it Your Ear’s imagination, or is the protection on Defoe’s broken fingers getting larger every week? On Saturday he was sporting what looked like a pair of very fat, white-wrapped frankfurters. If those bandages continue to expand he could end up looking like Mr Michelin.
Man Utd v Aston Villa - 0:1 - Agbonlahor edged Villa in front with a well-taken header (21). United waited for some thirty minutes of this game for their first shot on goal but Friedel saved it well. Shortly after Rooney was cautioned for ‘simulation’ which means taking a dive. Rooney subsequently saw several valiant attempts come to nothing, one off the crossbar, as ManU applied much pressure and shouts of ‘who are ya?’ from Villa seemed more than a little optimistic. But Villa’s defence is dour and on occasion lucky, and Villa took the honours for the first time at
Old Trafford since November 1983. Sir Alex duly shook Martin O’Neill’s hand and with more grace than he berated the linesman for (as he saw it) the lack of extra time allowed.
Bolton v Man City - 3:3 - This match, as Leslie Phillips might have said, was a real ding-dong.
Klasnic (although probably offside) opened the scoring for Bolton (11). Tevez, City’s best player on the day, got the goal back with a neat flick (28). Gary Cahill scored a great goal (43) to put Bolton ahead again but Richards, after a good build-up, levelled the match again in stoppage time at the end of the half. Klasnic got his second goal with a superb strike (53) before Bellamy was sent off (for a second yellow, the first was for dissent, the second, for diving, was completely in error). But even reduced to 10 men City looked the more aggressive side and man-of-the-match Tevez duly earned City a draw with a brilliant long range shot (77). City had to keep coming from behind in this game, but they did; better than conceding a draw from the front and (other than Hughes’ annoyance at Bellamy’s red card) both managers seemed relatively happy with the result.
Stoke v Wigan - 2:2 - The Pulis/Beattie debacle seems to have abated, although Beattie did not start. Boyce’s strong header put Wigan ahead (16) but Tuncay levelled it (37) before the toe of Scharner at full stretch denied the Turkish international what would have been a fine second goal. Then, an extraordinary moment by Wigan’s Figueroa, possibly the goal of the year, when he scored from a quickly taken free kick in his own half (72). You don’t get many of those to the pound, but within two minutes Shawcross had brought Stoke level again. In the 89th minute Huth won a bad penalty decision (he was both offside and not fouled) which Sorenson saved from Rodallega.
Birmingham v West Ham - 1:0 -The first half was fairly even and most of the action was saved for the second. Bowyer scored for Birmingham (52) due to poor defending (although they all have to be put away) and although The Hammers had a few chances they could not get back on terms.
Noble was wrongly sent off for a challenge, a decision which was more than harsh. Afterwards Zola, normally Mr Politeness-Itself - ‘my view is that the referee took the day off’. He was right.
Sunderland v Portsmouth v Burnley - 1:1 – Bent, who always looks formidable on the attack, took a chance well to put Sunderland ahead (23). The game was nip and tuck from then on, but Sunderland let their guard down at the death (90+3) and Kaboul scored, removed his shirt and was promptly sent off, just before the final whistle was blown. Still, a very good point for Pompey.
Burnley v Fulham - 1:1 – This game was mostly Fulham’s but it was 50 minutes before Zamora opened the scoring, (and looked almost looked happy at doing so this week). But a good volley by Elliot off a cross by Jordan earned Burnley another point at home.
Hull v Blackburn - 0:0 -There were few opportunities at either end in a fairly scrappy game. This was the third goal-less draw on the trot for Blackburn. Phil Brown, grinning - ‘a point’s a point!’
Liverpool v Arsenal - 1:2 - The runes did not read well for either side going into this match - in League and Cup Liverpool had won only 3 out of 14 games, while Arsenal had lost 4 of their last 6. And it was, in the fullest sense of the hackneyed phrase, a game of two halves. From the off Liverpool were all over Arsenal and the first half saw a great chance for Torres squandered (lack of fitness and/or match practice?). Meanwhile Gallas got away with two bad challenges that might have led to penalties, until the pressure paid off and Kuyt scored four minutes before half time. In the dressing room Mr Wenger apparently became mildly annoyed, and it’s said he might have thrown a few plastic cups around. It worked, and Arsenal largely owned the second half, with Liverpool running out of steam and ideas. However, Liverpool also got the second goal, a very unfortunate o/g by Glen Johnson (50). Arshavin's star shone briefly (but for long enough) to bury a shot in an instant in the top left hand corner of the net (58) to win Arsenal the match. These games turn on the finest of pivot points, two penalties that might have been and one or two other important decisions, all of which went in Arsenal’s favour. After the game Benitez agreed that it had been ‘an opportunity missed’ whilst Wenger said (of The Gunners’ poor first half) ‘I believe it was a mixture of desire to do well and fear of a big game, they had the first half, we had the second.’ In answer to the question; ‘Are you back in the title hunt?’ the reply was; ‘Mathematically yes, and mentally, certainly.’ Well done, Arsenal, this season gets more interesting by the week - ManU are being forced to look behind themselves now, as well as ahead.
News of the Week (to keep us in perspective) - In a week when Ryan Giggs won the Sports Personality of the Year award in Sheffield and all that Mr Berlusconi wants for Christmas is his two front teeth (the tooth fairy left him €1 per tooth, we are told), we turn to football to lighten both our hearts and the daily load.
Football Headlines of the Week- Watford Fans Stranded - Rumour has it that a group of travelling Watford fans have been stranded abroad by the Globespan travel company collapse. So, an insolvency renders them unable to be at home in time for… their favourite football team to go bust. What a bummer! New Job For Paul Hart - Former Portsmouth boss Paul Hart has been named as the new manager of Queens Park Rangers. Congratulations, and let’s hope he is given a fair run at it. He replaces Jim Magilton who, with his assistant John Gorman, left QPR by mutual consent. This follows an ‘an incident’ on 7 December at Vicarage Road, where QPR lost 3-1 to Watford. Apparently Magilton had a ‘difference of opinion’ with midfielder Akos Buzsaky after the match, but he has denied any wrong-doing. Pulis and Beattie, Magilton and Buzaky, what’s the world coming to? Let’s keep the violence (allegedly) on the pitch! Otherwise we will need referees (maybe boxing referees) in the dressing rooms. QPR currently stand at 12th place in the Championship table. They, along with at least another ten teams, will benefit if Watford are docked the 10 points they will lose for going under financially. It would be good to see QPR (another London club, bless ‘em) back in the top flight, it has been a long time, but this year it’s probably beyond them.
Spurs v Wolves - 0:1 - Modric was back on the Spurs’ bench after his leg break some months ago, but he was no talisman - after three minutes an implausible free kick awarded against Huddlestone enabled Doyle to open the scoring for Wolves. The half time talk in the Spurs’ dressing room must have been dire, but whatever St Harold said had little effect, and the second half was a repeat of the first, with Wolves digging in and Spurs making little impact, the best chances falling to Huddlestone. After the match Sir H said that Spurs lacked a ‘cutting edge’ and that Wolves ‘defended for their lives’. But that’s what’s needed in the Premiership, a bit of trench warfare mentality. No Christmas party for Spurs this ear, we are told. As an aside, is it Your Ear’s imagination, or is the protection on Defoe’s broken fingers getting larger every week? On Saturday he was sporting what looked like a pair of very fat, white-wrapped frankfurters. If those bandages continue to expand he could end up looking like Mr Michelin.
Man Utd v Aston Villa - 0:1 - Agbonlahor edged Villa in front with a well-taken header (21). United waited for some thirty minutes of this game for their first shot on goal but Friedel saved it well. Shortly after Rooney was cautioned for ‘simulation’ which means taking a dive. Rooney subsequently saw several valiant attempts come to nothing, one off the crossbar, as ManU applied much pressure and shouts of ‘who are ya?’ from Villa seemed more than a little optimistic. But Villa’s defence is dour and on occasion lucky, and Villa took the honours for the first time at
Old Trafford since November 1983. Sir Alex duly shook Martin O’Neill’s hand and with more grace than he berated the linesman for (as he saw it) the lack of extra time allowed.
Bolton v Man City - 3:3 - This match, as Leslie Phillips might have said, was a real ding-dong.
Klasnic (although probably offside) opened the scoring for Bolton (11). Tevez, City’s best player on the day, got the goal back with a neat flick (28). Gary Cahill scored a great goal (43) to put Bolton ahead again but Richards, after a good build-up, levelled the match again in stoppage time at the end of the half. Klasnic got his second goal with a superb strike (53) before Bellamy was sent off (for a second yellow, the first was for dissent, the second, for diving, was completely in error). But even reduced to 10 men City looked the more aggressive side and man-of-the-match Tevez duly earned City a draw with a brilliant long range shot (77). City had to keep coming from behind in this game, but they did; better than conceding a draw from the front and (other than Hughes’ annoyance at Bellamy’s red card) both managers seemed relatively happy with the result.
Stoke v Wigan - 2:2 - The Pulis/Beattie debacle seems to have abated, although Beattie did not start. Boyce’s strong header put Wigan ahead (16) but Tuncay levelled it (37) before the toe of Scharner at full stretch denied the Turkish international what would have been a fine second goal. Then, an extraordinary moment by Wigan’s Figueroa, possibly the goal of the year, when he scored from a quickly taken free kick in his own half (72). You don’t get many of those to the pound, but within two minutes Shawcross had brought Stoke level again. In the 89th minute Huth won a bad penalty decision (he was both offside and not fouled) which Sorenson saved from Rodallega.
Birmingham v West Ham - 1:0 -The first half was fairly even and most of the action was saved for the second. Bowyer scored for Birmingham (52) due to poor defending (although they all have to be put away) and although The Hammers had a few chances they could not get back on terms.
Noble was wrongly sent off for a challenge, a decision which was more than harsh. Afterwards Zola, normally Mr Politeness-Itself - ‘my view is that the referee took the day off’. He was right.
Sunderland v Portsmouth v Burnley - 1:1 – Bent, who always looks formidable on the attack, took a chance well to put Sunderland ahead (23). The game was nip and tuck from then on, but Sunderland let their guard down at the death (90+3) and Kaboul scored, removed his shirt and was promptly sent off, just before the final whistle was blown. Still, a very good point for Pompey.
Burnley v Fulham - 1:1 – This game was mostly Fulham’s but it was 50 minutes before Zamora opened the scoring, (and looked almost looked happy at doing so this week). But a good volley by Elliot off a cross by Jordan earned Burnley another point at home.
Hull v Blackburn - 0:0 -There were few opportunities at either end in a fairly scrappy game. This was the third goal-less draw on the trot for Blackburn. Phil Brown, grinning - ‘a point’s a point!’
Liverpool v Arsenal - 1:2 - The runes did not read well for either side going into this match - in League and Cup Liverpool had won only 3 out of 14 games, while Arsenal had lost 4 of their last 6. And it was, in the fullest sense of the hackneyed phrase, a game of two halves. From the off Liverpool were all over Arsenal and the first half saw a great chance for Torres squandered (lack of fitness and/or match practice?). Meanwhile Gallas got away with two bad challenges that might have led to penalties, until the pressure paid off and Kuyt scored four minutes before half time. In the dressing room Mr Wenger apparently became mildly annoyed, and it’s said he might have thrown a few plastic cups around. It worked, and Arsenal largely owned the second half, with Liverpool running out of steam and ideas. However, Liverpool also got the second goal, a very unfortunate o/g by Glen Johnson (50). Arshavin's star shone briefly (but for long enough) to bury a shot in an instant in the top left hand corner of the net (58) to win Arsenal the match. These games turn on the finest of pivot points, two penalties that might have been and one or two other important decisions, all of which went in Arsenal’s favour. After the game Benitez agreed that it had been ‘an opportunity missed’ whilst Wenger said (of The Gunners’ poor first half) ‘I believe it was a mixture of desire to do well and fear of a big game, they had the first half, we had the second.’ In answer to the question; ‘Are you back in the title hunt?’ the reply was; ‘Mathematically yes, and mentally, certainly.’ Well done, Arsenal, this season gets more interesting by the week - ManU are being forced to look behind themselves now, as well as ahead.
News of the Week (to keep us in perspective) - In a week when Ryan Giggs won the Sports Personality of the Year award in Sheffield and all that Mr Berlusconi wants for Christmas is his two front teeth (the tooth fairy left him €1 per tooth, we are told), we turn to football to lighten both our hearts and the daily load.
Football Headlines of the Week- Watford Fans Stranded - Rumour has it that a group of travelling Watford fans have been stranded abroad by the Globespan travel company collapse. So, an insolvency renders them unable to be at home in time for… their favourite football team to go bust. What a bummer! New Job For Paul Hart - Former Portsmouth boss Paul Hart has been named as the new manager of Queens Park Rangers. Congratulations, and let’s hope he is given a fair run at it. He replaces Jim Magilton who, with his assistant John Gorman, left QPR by mutual consent. This follows an ‘an incident’ on 7 December at Vicarage Road, where QPR lost 3-1 to Watford. Apparently Magilton had a ‘difference of opinion’ with midfielder Akos Buzsaky after the match, but he has denied any wrong-doing. Pulis and Beattie, Magilton and Buzaky, what’s the world coming to? Let’s keep the violence (allegedly) on the pitch! Otherwise we will need referees (maybe boxing referees) in the dressing rooms. QPR currently stand at 12th place in the Championship table. They, along with at least another ten teams, will benefit if Watford are docked the 10 points they will lose for going under financially. It would be good to see QPR (another London club, bless ‘em) back in the top flight, it has been a long time, but this year it’s probably beyond them.
Thursday, 10 December 2009
Premiership round up - Week 15
Arsenal v Stoke - 2:0 - Arsene Wenger will remember his 500th Premier League game as Arsenal manager (and Arsenal's 100th game at the Emirates - unbelievable, isn't it?) with some fondness as it ends a three match losing streak and (perhaps belatedly) puts the Gunners back on the title-hunt path. And he has Arshavin to thank for it, as the Russian tore Stoke apart with ease to open the scoring (26), although other players might also have scored for Arsenal. Stoke gave the Gunners a few worrying moments, but Arsenal sealed their victory when Aaron Ramsey thumped one home from the edge of the box (79). The win, according to Wenger, helps Arsenal 'start again,' although Arsenal's squad suffered more injuries to Eboue, Gallas and Rosicky. As an aside, Arshavin was quoted as saying that Arsenal need some taller players (they should have kept Adebayor, then). What is he talking about? According to the web, Arshavin himself is somewhere between 1.69-1.72m (around 5'6"-5'8" for those unable to cope with metric). Your Ear thinks he is probably about 4'8", but who cares? - Arshavin is the perfect advertisement for the smaller player.
Aston Villa v Hull - 3:0 - Early Villa pressure finally led to Milner providing for Dunne, who hammered the ball into the roof of the net (13). Unfortunately, shortly after, Hull's Jimmy Bullard limped off with a painful and possibly serious knee injury. Milner doubled Villa's lead with an opportunistic goal, lobbing the Tigers' keeper from 25 yards (29) and substitute John Carew finished off the Villa score line from the spot after Duke brought down Ashley Young (88). The victory was only Villa's second win in seven league matches and Martin O'Neill was very satisfied with his team's performance, which rekindles top 4 aspirations. Hull's defeat ends their run of four unbeaten matches and brings the relegation zone within just 3 points (again). Despite Phil Brown's protestations, the Bullard injury is a great blow to Hull, who Your Ear now forecasts will experience a reversal in fortunes.
Blackburn v Liverpool - 0:0 - Dour, resolute Blackburn defending kept Liverpool at bay for the entire match. Both sides had their chances but Blackburn’s were possibly the better ones. None were taken. To say this is not proving to be Liverpool's season would be a gross understatement, Rafa's side is seventh in the table and it's hard to see how they might finish higher than fifth, even though they might go on one of their famous '20 matches in a row without a defeat' runs. Although Benitez was understandably frustrated with a draw the result delighted Sam Allardyce on his second day back at work after heart surgery. Gerrard played well (on his 500th appearance for the club) but Liverpool also need Torres, and badly!
Man City v Chelsea - 2:1 - After so many uninspiring performances recently City finally came up trumps with this deserved win against Chelsea. It brings the season back to life, and is the best Christmas present City could have given Premiership fans (except, of course, to those who support the Blues). Chelsea got the first goal (o/g, Adebayor, 8) but Adebayor equalized off a Wright-Phillips' shot which was half-blocked by Richards (37). Tevez literally put the boot in with a 20-yard free-kick after 56 minutes to gain the lead for City. Chelsea might have earned a draw from a late penalty but Given was the hero of the day, saving from Lampard. This huge result means that Mark Hughes can breathe a sigh of management relief. Ancelotti is a fan, anyway - he thinks Hughes is 'a good coach'. Wonder if coach means manager, in Ancelotti-speak.
Portsmouth v Burnley - 2:0 - Avram Grant got his first victory with Pompey following a difficult week off the pitch, with Portsmouth's players paid their latest wages only after the club took a loan. Portsmouth were awarded a bad penalty in the 31st minute but Dindane's feeble miss (to Grant's total frustration, as Boateng should have taken it) was fair justice. Other than that Burnley bossed the first hour but their abysmal away record continued when Pompey went in front (Hreidarsson, left foot, 65). Dindane made amends for his penalty attempt and secured victory with a header (84). It's easy to congratulate the goal scorers, but Portsmouth should really thank Kanu, who came on as substitute (and goal creator ) and their Bosnian keeper, Asmir Begovic, for this win.
West Ham v Man Utd - 0:4 - ManU have obviously decided to celebrate Christmas early, and overpowered the Hammers in the second half to keep the pressure on Chelsea. West Ham might have scored (Collison) after a slapdash back-pass by Giggs (must be feeling his age, after so many fine performances recently). But after an indifferent first half, with West Ham defending well, Scholes started the rout when he crashed the ball home (Ferguson - 'a wonderful hit') with the last kick of the half. Giggs set up Gibson to crack in a second (61) then Rooney assisted Valencia for ManU's third (71), before Valencia crossed a minute later for Rooney to finish off the Hammers. Sir Alex is now having to deal with multiple injuries, forcing some of his team to play outside their usual position, particularly Carrick. But one of United's strengths over the years has been an ability to do just that. Zola - 'The first goal changed the story of the game. We were defending well and they didn't create much. We have no complaints - our players gave everything. When you play the champions it's always difficult and if you give them something they will exploit it. The second goal killed us.'
Wigan v Birmingham - 2:3 - A good second-half comeback gave Birmingham their first away win and stretched their unbeaten league run to six games. N'Zogbia's curling effort after good service from Scotland put Wigan ahead (33), but Birmingham came back after half time and Larsson converted a pair of free-kicks (61 & 72) either side of a breakaway goal by Benitez (66). Substitute Jordi Gomez pulled one back for Wigan (89) with a late free-kick. Birmingham's third successive win promotes them to eighth in the Premiership. Manager Alex McLeish - 'We're showing we belong in the Premier League, the players are entitled to feel massively confident because they've earned it.' Your Ear wonders how many of these players will still be there at the end of January if Birmingham go on a transfer spending spree. Martinez - 'It is difficult to explain how we lost the game, we created chance after chance and dominated the first half.' Your Ear would helpfully advise Roberto that Wigan lost the game because Birmingham got more goals.
Wolves v Bolton - 2:1 - Craddock put Wolves ahead with an early volley (3) although he was offside. Milijas got a second after the break with a great 30-yard strike (63). Elmander pulled a goal back when he bundled the ball in from a corner (79), but Wolves survived a tense last few minutes to earn a deserved victory. Wolves' third league win this season leapfrogs them above Bolton in the table. McCarthy was delighted with his 'massive' win, and honestly admitted 'The goal was offside but it was my turn for a bit of luck.' Bolton’s manager Gary Megson, annoyed that his team have yet to keep a clean sheet this season, said 'We have talked about the fact that nine of their 11 goals have come from set-pieces so it's soul-destroying when they score after three minutes from a set-piece. Defending that first set-piece we were poor but nowhere near as poor as the linesman. It was a poor, poor decision. In the last 20 minutes you've seen the away team take the game to the home team. We created a lot of problems, created a lot of chances and they couldn't get out of their half yet we left it too late.' Which was also honest.
Fulham v Sunderland - 1:0 - Zamora's header in the seventh minute put Fulham ahead and it could fairly be said that Fulham owned the first half, although they could not increase their lead. Sunderland, who have only picked up four points away all season, were the better side and made it a good contest in the second period, but could not get back on terms, Bent particularly missing a couple of good chances. Roy Hodgson (on Zamora's unexplained and apparent annoyance at having scored) - 'He can be as aggravated and as angry as he likes, as long as he keeps putting the ball in the back of the net he can rail at the world for all I care.' Steve Bruce - 'We're too easy away from home… we've got to get the monkey off our back.'
Everton v Spurs - 2:2 - Spurs looked the business early on, but they seem to need a lead of at least 3 goals in order not to succumb to nerves. In the early part of the game Crouch could not capitalize on a Lennon pass and Defoe also missed a couple of chances, although Everton had squandered their own opportunities. Spurs (Defoe) broke through in the 2nd minute of the second half and Dawson (59) got a second with a good plunging header. Kranjcar nearly scored a third from a free kick and Crouch might also have added to Spurs' total but missed. Then the heebie-jeebies crept in. Saha gained a foothold for Everton (78) and nearly got another from a great overhead kick attempt. Spurs definitely looked skittish and unsettled, and proved to be so when Cahill equalized with 4 minutes to go. Fate extended Spurs a lifeline when Palacios was flattened in the box and stretchered off in extra time. But Defoe (unusually given his recent form) missed from the penalty spot ('It wasn't to be,' said St Hal, shrugging his saintly shoulders). Spurs should have won this game but Everton’s perseverance served them well for their point.
Boring But Not Completely Uninteresting Trivia - Defoe was not alone in missing a penalty this week, and was in good company. Five penalties were awarded in the last ten Premiership matches. John Carew scored his for Aston Villa, but, besides Defoe, Lampard, Fabregas and Dindane all missed. So, 4:1 in favour of the 'missed penalty fairy'. Conversely, a good week for keepers.
News of the Week (to keep us in perspective) - Royal Harpist Convicted - Although found not guilty of burglary a former royal harpist battling a drug addiction has been convicted of handling stolen goods. Possibly not the right instrument to play, given her potential future in the hereafter.
Football Story of the Week - Viagra For England At World Cup? - A sports scientist says giving England players Viagra at next year's World Cup in South Africa would help them cope with altitude by boosting lung capacity. He said: ‘It's scientifically proven that the process of how Viagra works in the body, by enlarging the blood vessels (Ed. - Oh, is that what it does!), can improve performance of some athletes. Also known as sildenafil, it's been used by football teams in South America and some cyclists because it's not a banned substance.’ Your Ear (who, as soon as he reads the words ‘scientifically proven’ starts rooting around for the emails which might show otherwise) would question why, if it enhances performance, the substance is not banned. However, given the nature of the drug, here are some other questions:
a) will it only be lungs that are ‘boosted’?
b) and will those taking the drug do so purely to boost their lung capacity? (pull the other one)
c) when would players take it? (surely not the night before a match)
d) will it help out-of form strikers to score more? (Ed. - please, readers, this is a serious issue)
e) will it affect post-goal celebrations? (let’s hope not, things could get ugly)
f) if Viagra were to sponsor a team what would their logo be? (Ed. - answers on a postcard please).
Second Best Football Story of the Week – Season Of Goodwill? - James Beattie's future at Stoke is in doubt following a bust-up with potentially potty Potters’ manager, Tony Pulis at Arsenal. Pulis is alleged to have tried to head-butt Beattie after an argument. The story goes (allegedly) that after Saturday’s 2-0 defeat Pulis told his players to report for training on Monday. Beattie reminded Pulis that he had given them the day off (Monday being the day after the team’s Christmas party in London) and protested when Pulis would not change his mind. At which point, witnesses say, Pulis unsuccessfully tried to butt Beattie, who defended himself. The club refused to comment but confirmed that players were expected to report for training. The failed attempts by Pulis to hit Beattie show he is not a seasoned professional Premiership manager. He needs to attend Sir Alex's classes on 'how to hit a world class footballer with a well-aimed boot'.
Funny Football Story of the Week - Goalkeeper Strikers – It’s well known that goalkeepers often score goals. Go here for a few videos on goal-scoring keepers, particularly the first one on ex-Hamburg and Bayer Leverkusen keeper Hans-Jorg Butt. This shows him scoring from the penalty spot, then taking too long in celebrating on returning to his own goal, during which time the opposition kick off and lob him. http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/early-doors/article/217715/
The Ear – all the news that's fit to spout.
Aston Villa v Hull - 3:0 - Early Villa pressure finally led to Milner providing for Dunne, who hammered the ball into the roof of the net (13). Unfortunately, shortly after, Hull's Jimmy Bullard limped off with a painful and possibly serious knee injury. Milner doubled Villa's lead with an opportunistic goal, lobbing the Tigers' keeper from 25 yards (29) and substitute John Carew finished off the Villa score line from the spot after Duke brought down Ashley Young (88). The victory was only Villa's second win in seven league matches and Martin O'Neill was very satisfied with his team's performance, which rekindles top 4 aspirations. Hull's defeat ends their run of four unbeaten matches and brings the relegation zone within just 3 points (again). Despite Phil Brown's protestations, the Bullard injury is a great blow to Hull, who Your Ear now forecasts will experience a reversal in fortunes.
Blackburn v Liverpool - 0:0 - Dour, resolute Blackburn defending kept Liverpool at bay for the entire match. Both sides had their chances but Blackburn’s were possibly the better ones. None were taken. To say this is not proving to be Liverpool's season would be a gross understatement, Rafa's side is seventh in the table and it's hard to see how they might finish higher than fifth, even though they might go on one of their famous '20 matches in a row without a defeat' runs. Although Benitez was understandably frustrated with a draw the result delighted Sam Allardyce on his second day back at work after heart surgery. Gerrard played well (on his 500th appearance for the club) but Liverpool also need Torres, and badly!
Man City v Chelsea - 2:1 - After so many uninspiring performances recently City finally came up trumps with this deserved win against Chelsea. It brings the season back to life, and is the best Christmas present City could have given Premiership fans (except, of course, to those who support the Blues). Chelsea got the first goal (o/g, Adebayor, 8) but Adebayor equalized off a Wright-Phillips' shot which was half-blocked by Richards (37). Tevez literally put the boot in with a 20-yard free-kick after 56 minutes to gain the lead for City. Chelsea might have earned a draw from a late penalty but Given was the hero of the day, saving from Lampard. This huge result means that Mark Hughes can breathe a sigh of management relief. Ancelotti is a fan, anyway - he thinks Hughes is 'a good coach'. Wonder if coach means manager, in Ancelotti-speak.
Portsmouth v Burnley - 2:0 - Avram Grant got his first victory with Pompey following a difficult week off the pitch, with Portsmouth's players paid their latest wages only after the club took a loan. Portsmouth were awarded a bad penalty in the 31st minute but Dindane's feeble miss (to Grant's total frustration, as Boateng should have taken it) was fair justice. Other than that Burnley bossed the first hour but their abysmal away record continued when Pompey went in front (Hreidarsson, left foot, 65). Dindane made amends for his penalty attempt and secured victory with a header (84). It's easy to congratulate the goal scorers, but Portsmouth should really thank Kanu, who came on as substitute (and goal creator ) and their Bosnian keeper, Asmir Begovic, for this win.
West Ham v Man Utd - 0:4 - ManU have obviously decided to celebrate Christmas early, and overpowered the Hammers in the second half to keep the pressure on Chelsea. West Ham might have scored (Collison) after a slapdash back-pass by Giggs (must be feeling his age, after so many fine performances recently). But after an indifferent first half, with West Ham defending well, Scholes started the rout when he crashed the ball home (Ferguson - 'a wonderful hit') with the last kick of the half. Giggs set up Gibson to crack in a second (61) then Rooney assisted Valencia for ManU's third (71), before Valencia crossed a minute later for Rooney to finish off the Hammers. Sir Alex is now having to deal with multiple injuries, forcing some of his team to play outside their usual position, particularly Carrick. But one of United's strengths over the years has been an ability to do just that. Zola - 'The first goal changed the story of the game. We were defending well and they didn't create much. We have no complaints - our players gave everything. When you play the champions it's always difficult and if you give them something they will exploit it. The second goal killed us.'
Wigan v Birmingham - 2:3 - A good second-half comeback gave Birmingham their first away win and stretched their unbeaten league run to six games. N'Zogbia's curling effort after good service from Scotland put Wigan ahead (33), but Birmingham came back after half time and Larsson converted a pair of free-kicks (61 & 72) either side of a breakaway goal by Benitez (66). Substitute Jordi Gomez pulled one back for Wigan (89) with a late free-kick. Birmingham's third successive win promotes them to eighth in the Premiership. Manager Alex McLeish - 'We're showing we belong in the Premier League, the players are entitled to feel massively confident because they've earned it.' Your Ear wonders how many of these players will still be there at the end of January if Birmingham go on a transfer spending spree. Martinez - 'It is difficult to explain how we lost the game, we created chance after chance and dominated the first half.' Your Ear would helpfully advise Roberto that Wigan lost the game because Birmingham got more goals.
Wolves v Bolton - 2:1 - Craddock put Wolves ahead with an early volley (3) although he was offside. Milijas got a second after the break with a great 30-yard strike (63). Elmander pulled a goal back when he bundled the ball in from a corner (79), but Wolves survived a tense last few minutes to earn a deserved victory. Wolves' third league win this season leapfrogs them above Bolton in the table. McCarthy was delighted with his 'massive' win, and honestly admitted 'The goal was offside but it was my turn for a bit of luck.' Bolton’s manager Gary Megson, annoyed that his team have yet to keep a clean sheet this season, said 'We have talked about the fact that nine of their 11 goals have come from set-pieces so it's soul-destroying when they score after three minutes from a set-piece. Defending that first set-piece we were poor but nowhere near as poor as the linesman. It was a poor, poor decision. In the last 20 minutes you've seen the away team take the game to the home team. We created a lot of problems, created a lot of chances and they couldn't get out of their half yet we left it too late.' Which was also honest.
Fulham v Sunderland - 1:0 - Zamora's header in the seventh minute put Fulham ahead and it could fairly be said that Fulham owned the first half, although they could not increase their lead. Sunderland, who have only picked up four points away all season, were the better side and made it a good contest in the second period, but could not get back on terms, Bent particularly missing a couple of good chances. Roy Hodgson (on Zamora's unexplained and apparent annoyance at having scored) - 'He can be as aggravated and as angry as he likes, as long as he keeps putting the ball in the back of the net he can rail at the world for all I care.' Steve Bruce - 'We're too easy away from home… we've got to get the monkey off our back.'
Everton v Spurs - 2:2 - Spurs looked the business early on, but they seem to need a lead of at least 3 goals in order not to succumb to nerves. In the early part of the game Crouch could not capitalize on a Lennon pass and Defoe also missed a couple of chances, although Everton had squandered their own opportunities. Spurs (Defoe) broke through in the 2nd minute of the second half and Dawson (59) got a second with a good plunging header. Kranjcar nearly scored a third from a free kick and Crouch might also have added to Spurs' total but missed. Then the heebie-jeebies crept in. Saha gained a foothold for Everton (78) and nearly got another from a great overhead kick attempt. Spurs definitely looked skittish and unsettled, and proved to be so when Cahill equalized with 4 minutes to go. Fate extended Spurs a lifeline when Palacios was flattened in the box and stretchered off in extra time. But Defoe (unusually given his recent form) missed from the penalty spot ('It wasn't to be,' said St Hal, shrugging his saintly shoulders). Spurs should have won this game but Everton’s perseverance served them well for their point.
Boring But Not Completely Uninteresting Trivia - Defoe was not alone in missing a penalty this week, and was in good company. Five penalties were awarded in the last ten Premiership matches. John Carew scored his for Aston Villa, but, besides Defoe, Lampard, Fabregas and Dindane all missed. So, 4:1 in favour of the 'missed penalty fairy'. Conversely, a good week for keepers.
News of the Week (to keep us in perspective) - Royal Harpist Convicted - Although found not guilty of burglary a former royal harpist battling a drug addiction has been convicted of handling stolen goods. Possibly not the right instrument to play, given her potential future in the hereafter.
Football Story of the Week - Viagra For England At World Cup? - A sports scientist says giving England players Viagra at next year's World Cup in South Africa would help them cope with altitude by boosting lung capacity. He said: ‘It's scientifically proven that the process of how Viagra works in the body, by enlarging the blood vessels (Ed. - Oh, is that what it does!), can improve performance of some athletes. Also known as sildenafil, it's been used by football teams in South America and some cyclists because it's not a banned substance.’ Your Ear (who, as soon as he reads the words ‘scientifically proven’ starts rooting around for the emails which might show otherwise) would question why, if it enhances performance, the substance is not banned. However, given the nature of the drug, here are some other questions:
a) will it only be lungs that are ‘boosted’?
b) and will those taking the drug do so purely to boost their lung capacity? (pull the other one)
c) when would players take it? (surely not the night before a match)
d) will it help out-of form strikers to score more? (Ed. - please, readers, this is a serious issue)
e) will it affect post-goal celebrations? (let’s hope not, things could get ugly)
f) if Viagra were to sponsor a team what would their logo be? (Ed. - answers on a postcard please).
Second Best Football Story of the Week – Season Of Goodwill? - James Beattie's future at Stoke is in doubt following a bust-up with potentially potty Potters’ manager, Tony Pulis at Arsenal. Pulis is alleged to have tried to head-butt Beattie after an argument. The story goes (allegedly) that after Saturday’s 2-0 defeat Pulis told his players to report for training on Monday. Beattie reminded Pulis that he had given them the day off (Monday being the day after the team’s Christmas party in London) and protested when Pulis would not change his mind. At which point, witnesses say, Pulis unsuccessfully tried to butt Beattie, who defended himself. The club refused to comment but confirmed that players were expected to report for training. The failed attempts by Pulis to hit Beattie show he is not a seasoned professional Premiership manager. He needs to attend Sir Alex's classes on 'how to hit a world class footballer with a well-aimed boot'.
Funny Football Story of the Week - Goalkeeper Strikers – It’s well known that goalkeepers often score goals. Go here for a few videos on goal-scoring keepers, particularly the first one on ex-Hamburg and Bayer Leverkusen keeper Hans-Jorg Butt. This shows him scoring from the penalty spot, then taking too long in celebrating on returning to his own goal, during which time the opposition kick off and lob him. http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/football/early-doors/article/217715/
The Ear – all the news that's fit to spout.
Tuesday, 1 December 2009
Premiership round up - Week 14
Portsmouth v Man Utd - 1:4 - Avram Grant (ex-Chelsea) took over from managerial casualty, Paul Hart - no chance for Portsmouth now, thought Your Ear. However, Pompey got the bit between their teeth early on; Dindane missed three chances before United scored from a penalty (Rooney, 25). Within 7 minutes Vidic engaged in a bit of shirt-pulling and Boateng scored from a penalty at the other end. Rooney got his second from open play near the start of the second half and his hat-trick from another penalty (54). Giggs made it four from a free kick (87), scoring his 100th Premier league goal for ManU the day before his 36th birthday. An example to us all. Portsmouth (Utaka) nearly scored a spectacular goal in extra time, but this was not an auspicious debut match for Portsmouth’s new manager. On the other hand had Pompey taken one of their opportunities in the first half it might have led to a different result. No, that’s wrong, it wouldn’t!
West Ham v Burnley - 5:3 - There were early chances at either end but West Ham began to score freely after 18 minutes (Collison from Parker’s quickly taken free kick). Junior Stanislas squeezed the ball home for West Ham’s second (34). Then Cole scored from a penalty (43). In the second half Franco gave Jensen no chance to save his header from a free kick (51). Finally Jiminez scored from a penalty (64) after Jensen overcommitted himself. At which point, 5:0 up and cruising, West Ham fell fast asleep. Fletcher retrieved one for Burnley (68) with a simple tap home from a cross that sliced the Hammers’ defence in two. Instead of waking up West Ham started to snore more deeply and Burnley did exactly the same again (Fletcher, 74). Burnley’s Caldwell was sent off, but Burnley still got a third goal (Eagles, 90+5). West Ham score many goals (9th best ‘goals for’ in the Premiership) but they also bleed them. Fortunately for the Hammers, so do Burnley, particularly away. Zola celebrates a 3 pointer, at last.
Aston Villa v Spurs - 1:1 - Agbonlahor bundled the ball home after 10 minutes after Spurs missed several attempts. Villa hung on for an hour or so under severe pressure before Dawson equalized (77). St Hal seemed less pleased with a point than Martin O’Neil - ‘We should have won the game, we had 14 shots to their 1,’ (actually it was 15 to Villa’s 9, so St Hal was not infallible on this occasion). Spurs are a stronger side than Villa going forwards, but their defence remains questionable, whereas Villa’s strengths are the reverse. So, a point was well won by both sides.
Man City v Hull - 1:1 - Robinho put himself about a lot with some good looking but fruitless moves. Finally, after many attempts, Wright-Phillips got City ahead by a deflected shot at the end of the half. Bullard crashed home a disputed penalty with 9 minutes to go, then extracted the Michael from his manager in the celebration (the Hull players sat in a circle, mimicking the telling-off Phil Brown gave his players the last time they played away to City). This was the 7th draw in a row for an unconvincing City (and this last sentence is becoming a familiar cut and paste job for Your Ear). City are failing badly in that they have gone ahead in their last four games only to concede a draw. Mark Hughes is beginning to exhibit that look of haunted fatigue that soon-to-be ex-managers often display.
Wigan v Sunderland - 1:0 - Wigan did not look or play like a side that had been thumped right royally the week before. Having said that, Bent nearly nicked an early goal, and (in Your Ear’s view) should at least have won a free kick near the goal line by having forced a pass back to the keeper by Boyce. This game could hardly be described as lively, although Wigan’s Scotland was denied by the post. But after much to-ing and fro-ing, Rodallega broke the deadlock with 14 mins to go. Well done, Wigan, after last week's hammering.
Fulham v Bolton - 1:1 - Bolton went ahead after 35 mins (Klasnic), then withstood everything Fulham threw at them until finally Duff equalized (75). Bit of a yawn, this match.
Blackburn v Stoke - 0:0 - Stoke had the better chances in the first half but there was no score. Sitters were missed at either end and the game ended in a goal-less draw. Neither this nor the Fulham v Bolton game proved to be inspiring matches, but then, they can’t all be 9:1, can they?
Arsenal v Chelsea - 0:3 - Arsenal started the game below full strength, Van Persie is injured and out for several months, Diaby and Bendtner were also missing. The Gunners failed to take a couple of early chances but Chelsea looked strong from the outset. An excellent Ashley Cole pass was seized upon by Drogba, who scored a very good, flicked-on goal (41). A little later, following another piece of cleverness, Chelsea pushed the ball forward awkwardly into Arsenal’s box, forcing an o/g by Vermaelen (45). Arshavin had a goal disallowed and the game was wrapped up by a great free kick by Drogba (86). Chelsea were too good for Arsenal today. They have the most parsimonious (some would say stingy) defence in the Premiership (only 8 goals conceded, 4 better than the next stingiest, ManU on 12). And they were far better than the Gunners up front. Drogba and Anelka are both immensely strong, in any way you like to see it, either on a physical or skill basis. Wenger was quietly incensed, with some justice, on the subject of the disallowed Arshavin goal. Arsene thought the linesman called it rather than the referee, but in any event on being told that the goal was judged to be unfair play (Eduardo’s foot up on Cech’s hand) commented that he had reviewed it and - ‘what is wrong (sic), because I’ve watched that four times and he (the referee) cannot say that (it was unfair) because it’s not true… …you can’t believe referees any more if they tell you things like that.’ He had a point, but on the other hand Anelka was fouled and should have had a penalty early on, so the 3 goal margin might still have applied. Ancelotti seems to be supremely confident, without (to his credit) the least trace of smugness. So, Arsenal failed to do ManU the favour of beating Chelsea before Christmas. Now, as pundit Mark Lawrenson says, January becomes important, with several Chelsea players away for the Africa Cup.
Everton v Liverpool - 0:2 - Mascherano got a lucky deflection early on (o/g, Yobo, 12). Everton looked aggressive and intent but Bilyaletdinov’s miss of a fairly easy chance was typical of their poor fortune. Jo scored, and was given offside, but even though Everton were making all the plays (Jo given offside again) they could not break down Liverpool’s defence-orientated strategy. The second half saw lots of rash challenges by both sides and Reina made a couple of fine saves to deny Everton. It was not Yobo’s day, after a defensive error (by Yobo) Kuyt scored to clinch the game (80). Moyes comment - ‘The difference between the teams was a bit of luck,’ was a fair synopsis. A bad season thus far in scouse-land, though, for both clubs, particularly those in blue.
Wolves v Birmingham – 0:1 - Bowyer scored a cheeky goal with a very well-placed shot after just 3 minutes in this derby. Wolves exerted themselves manfully but to no avail and the following 87 minutes presented relatively routine stuff. Bowyer stood out as the best player on the pitch with one or two other efforts which did not quite deliver. Watching such games shows the gulf in quality between the lower-ranked sides and the top three or four clubs, which is huge. Birmingham are going to need a very large purse to bridge the gap. Wolves just have to grit their teeth, gird their loins, and get on with it. Or maybe they should gird their teeth and grit their loins…
Motoring News Roundup - In a week when Tiger Woods is under investigation for ramming a tree, a German motorist who had just seen the latest Harry Potter movie mistook an underground train tunnel for a road and drove 200 metres along the tracks before realizing what he had done, we turn to the following driver story of the week - Police 'Tase' Great-Grandma - According to the BBC great-grandma Kathryn Winkfein was stopped by deputy sheriff Chris Bieze for driving at 60mph in a 45mph zone in her white pick-up while shopping in Austin, Texas. She resisted arrest and became argumentative. A police video then shows Mr Bieze push Mrs Winkfein before pointing the taser gun at her. ‘If you don't step back, you're going to get tased,’ Mr Bieze said. ‘Go ahead, tase me. I dare you,’ she replied. He did, and the video shows Mrs Winkfein hitting the ground and moaning in pain. This is what gets Americans a bad name, great-grandmas who speed whilst out shopping. Your Ear congratulates the Texas constabulary and their 'zero tolerance' policy to stamp out such anti-social behaviour. This is how the west was won.
Story of the Week (to keep us in perspective) - Vatican Grooves - Pop Pope - The Vatican reacted swiftly to last week’s report (Japan’s PM In Chart Bid), with news that ‘top of the popes’ Benedict XVI could be the big banana in music this Christmas through recordings of his speeches and songs set to original classical music compositions. The music’s three composers, a British agnostic, an Italian Catholic, and a Moroccan born Muslim, say the album's purpose is to promote a communal, worldwide experience, rather than to spread a Catholic message. Albums by acts like The Priests and Monks have sold well over the years and even if a small percentage of the world’s one billion Catholics buy the CD it will be a massive hit. The album will be released on Geffen Records, which has published work by Guns N' Roses, Aerosmith, Joan Rivers, Manowar (Louder Than Hell), Madness, Death Angel, Gutterboy, The Simpsons, Pariah, Eagles (Hell Freezes Over), Snoop Dog, The Cure, Kardinal Offishall, but not The Damned. Geffen Records boss Colin Barlow told Sky News: ‘The beauty of this is people first hear this and say 'no way'. Then it actually starts to dawn on people that it's a really amazing record. I think people will be really blown away when they listen to it.’ Not literally, Your Ear hopes.
Football Headlines – Shirt-Pulling Solution - ‘Why allow this crazy practice?,’ says top fashion designer. ‘It is sooo silly and unnecessary. I have designed special paper-based clothing. It looks good but tears easily, so when a shirt is grabbed a handful comes away and sticks to the offender’s fingers. The evidence of foul play will be clear for all to see, and as the shirts are disposable they will save on laundry bills. And they are recyclable. Voila!’ Several namby-pamby, whinging clubs are known to be interested. Meanwhile, the FA continues to fail to answer why they appear to condone shirt-pulling as part of the sport. If they wanted to eradicate it they could - players get an automatic yellow for taking their shirts off to celebrate, why not reward a handful of shirt with the same? Ferguson Misquoted – When he said (discussing Pompey’s position in the league a week before the match) ‘that Portsmouth’s all heart and it seems nothing can be odder,’ what he actually said was ‘that Portsmouth’s Paul Hart and his team are nothing but cannon fodder.’
The Ear – all the news that's fit to spout.
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