Yo soccer fans!
The season is almost coming to a close and suprisingly, Man Utd seems to slip up towards the end of the season, 2 defeats in a row allow Liverpool to close up the gap to just 1pt although Man Utd did had 1 game in hand. Man Utd must win the 1 game in order to increase the gap to a healthy 4pts. In my opinion, I do Man Utd still had a higher chance of getting the BPL title because of that 1 game in hand, but as a non-liverpool and non-Man Utd fan, I hope that Portsmouth beats Man Utd, because that will make the title race a more interesting one.
Liverpool seems to have consistent performance recently, beating Real Madrid and Man Utd by a big margin and even trashed Aston Villa 5-0. Rafa Benitez seems to had found the best formation for Liverpool, he doesn't really rotate that much and didn't really rely solely on Gerrard, they work as a team and all the 3 positions did contirbute to the current success. Another thing is that Rafa knows who to buy during the transfer window, he brought Torres, Riera,Skrtel, Dossena, Mascherano, N'Gog, EL Zhar,etc did not dissapoint the fans and him.
For Man Utd, they need to make full use of that 1 game in hand to have a higher chance of getting the title. Vidic and Rooney red card really de-morale the whole squad and C.Ronaldo low form really is another reason why Man Utd perform below average in this few matches. I already said (Before the creation of this blog) that Man Utd depends deeply on Ronaldo to win most of the games last season, once he did not perform, there is no one else that can score goal. Rooney, Berbatov and Tevez really had a disappointing match against Liverpool and Fulham. I really do think that Man Utd should not too rely on Ronaldo or maybe a certain player. International break would be a gd one for player to divert their attention away from the defeats but really a risky one because at this crucial period, Man Utd and Liverpool can't afford to have the main players to have any injuries.
Arsenal meanwhile had a gd run of form recently, they finally over take Aston Villa and have increased the gap to 3pts. Arshavin really is a gd addition to the squad and his performance did really helped Arsenal in the victory of some recent games, especially the Blackburn one. All the injured player had return; Walcott, Eduardo, Fabregas and Adebayor will be return after the international break and really increase the chances of getting at least a silverware this season. They reached the FA cup semi-final and Champion league quarter final. I really hope to see Arsenal getting the Champion league title. They face Villarreal which I think many of the Arsenal fans will be delighted, because if Arsenal were drawn to face Bayern Munich, Barcelona or any other English side, the chances of them getting into the semi-final will be lower because they are top clubs. I am not saying Villrreal is not a gd teams, they do have quality players but Arsenal have won them before and this can be an addition confidence for Arsenal. FA cup semi-final against Chelsea will be a hard one but I had full confidence on Arsenal since all the main players have returned.
Aston Villa had a poor run and really if they wants to fight for a Champion league next season, they need to bring in more experienced players to rotate ard so that playes might get to rest to prevent injuries and stamina problems. They do have chances to overtake Arsenal because it is only a 3pts gap but I think that they will had a hard time in chasing back. Aston Villa and Everton will be sitting firmly on the UEFA cup spots, if Aston Villa wants the Champion league spot, they need to start winning games and pray that Arsenal lose pt, especially Arsenal still had other compeition to manage and this might be an advantage for Aston Villa to had any chance of playing Champion league football next season. Agbonlahor , Ashely Young, Petrov, Milner, Heskey, Knight, Brad Friedel will be the players that are crucial in this race to the CL spot.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
As I promised, I will be talking about the relegation battle that involved all the teams that situated at the bottom half of the table.
Stoke City and Portsmouth managed to grab a crucial win and safely out of the relegation zone for the time being, especially for Stoke City, the beat their rival Middlesbrough whose also involed in this relegation dogfight. Hull City, West Bromich, Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Blackburn and Newcastle are the potential teams that will be relegated. If they want to had any chance of playing in the top league next season, they need to produce results and win as many games as possible and hope that other teams fail to win.
Here are the 3 teams that I think will be relegated.
Hull City had a gd start during the early season and failed to produce consistent performance, they will even in the 3rd spot around October 2008 but as the season goes, they can't really goes all the way and from snatching for a Champion league fight to now a relegation fight. Hull City weekend lost to Wigan is really not a gd time to lose, because both Portsmouth and Stoke City have won and closing up the gap, Hull City problem is that their defense is not solid enough, they kept on making silly mistakes and allow opponent to score goal in a gd position, I think with Hull City performance, I do think they will be relegated.
Middlesbrough had a dissappointing season and had a real chance of playing coca-cola championship next season, they failed to win Stoke City on weekend proved to be vital for Boro, Middlesbrough are now 27pts and are 4pts away from the safety zone, although this gaps look small, but with Boro poor performance, this 4pts are going to be hard to close up. Boro main problem is their attacking. 12M signing Afonso Alves fail to perform as expected and so does Aliadiere and Tuncay Sanli. I do think Boro will be relegated
Next up is the bottom of the table West Bromich, they are the only one which I think will confirm relegated because at this stage of the competition, they are 7pts away from the safety zone and really I do think they can't catch up anymore.
This is just my prediction and really every teams that are in the bottom half have a chance to relegation, it depends on the performance from the remaining 8 games and what I list out is the teams that will have a higher chance of relegation (except West Bromich which I do think they will be the first to relegated). Not only the title race is interesting, the relegation battle is as interesting as the title race.
Stoke City and Portsmouth managed to grab a crucial win and safely out of the relegation zone for the time being, especially for Stoke City, the beat their rival Middlesbrough whose also involed in this relegation dogfight. Hull City, West Bromich, Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Blackburn and Newcastle are the potential teams that will be relegated. If they want to had any chance of playing in the top league next season, they need to produce results and win as many games as possible and hope that other teams fail to win.
Here are the 3 teams that I think will be relegated.
Hull City had a gd start during the early season and failed to produce consistent performance, they will even in the 3rd spot around October 2008 but as the season goes, they can't really goes all the way and from snatching for a Champion league fight to now a relegation fight. Hull City weekend lost to Wigan is really not a gd time to lose, because both Portsmouth and Stoke City have won and closing up the gap, Hull City problem is that their defense is not solid enough, they kept on making silly mistakes and allow opponent to score goal in a gd position, I think with Hull City performance, I do think they will be relegated.
Middlesbrough had a dissappointing season and had a real chance of playing coca-cola championship next season, they failed to win Stoke City on weekend proved to be vital for Boro, Middlesbrough are now 27pts and are 4pts away from the safety zone, although this gaps look small, but with Boro poor performance, this 4pts are going to be hard to close up. Boro main problem is their attacking. 12M signing Afonso Alves fail to perform as expected and so does Aliadiere and Tuncay Sanli. I do think Boro will be relegated
Next up is the bottom of the table West Bromich, they are the only one which I think will confirm relegated because at this stage of the competition, they are 7pts away from the safety zone and really I do think they can't catch up anymore.
This is just my prediction and really every teams that are in the bottom half have a chance to relegation, it depends on the performance from the remaining 8 games and what I list out is the teams that will have a higher chance of relegation (except West Bromich which I do think they will be the first to relegated). Not only the title race is interesting, the relegation battle is as interesting as the title race.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
The Champion league Quarter-final had already been decided
Arsenal vs Villarreal
Man Utd vs Porto
Chelsea vs Liverpool
Barcelona vs Bayern Munich
Quite an interesting draw because Chelsea and Liverpool meet again in the Champion League and surely this is the match that many people will be looking forward to. The winner between the Blues and the Reds will be competing against either Barcelona or Bayern Munich in the Semi-final. Bayern Munich set a new record in the Champion league history after beating Sporting Lisbon 12-1 in 2 legs to proceed into the quarter final.
A return for former Arsenal winger Robert Pires, Arsenal will take on Villarreal. This two side had met before in the 2005/6 Champion league where Riquleme penalty miss allowed Arsenal to go to the final. Finally, Man Utd will be please with the draw as they draw a side which I think is the weakest team of all the 8 clubs, they face Porto which I think by Man Utd standard should had no problem in beating them, but after seeing Man Utd suffers 2 defeat in a row in BPL, definitely anything will happen.
BPL weekend
Dramatic weekend for all the BPL fans. Man Utd suffered another defeat which means they had 2 defeat in row, they lost 2-0 at Cratton Cottage and this is not what Man Utd are looking for. Man Utd midfielder Paul Scholes was senf off after a delibrate hand ball, former liverpool player Danny Murphy scored in the penalty spot in just 18minutes. Man Utd seems to lost the standard this 2 weeks, Ronaldo was very quiet and Fulham really doesn't had any threat Man Utd at the first half. Second half was more of "Fulham defend, Man Utd attack" scenario. At about 80+ minutes, Gera cool finishing really sealed all 3 pts for Fulham. Rooney was sent off afterward to throwing the ball angrily, his second yellow of the night.
Liverpool closed up the gap to only 1pt after hammering Aston Villa 5-0, Steven Gerrard with a hat trick. Liverpool performance ytd was probably the best till now. Aston Villa is one of the top side in BPL and Liverpool won by 5 goal margin really sent a warning message to Man Utd. Liverpool got off with a gd start just 8minutes, Gerrard delivered the ball into the penalty box from a free kick and Kyut scored through a wonderful volley. Aston Villa seems messy and really had show no fighting spirit, they conceded another goal in 33minutes, Reina long pass caught Aston Villa off and Riera slammed into the net. Liverpool's captain Steven Gerrard then convert two penalty into goal after reo-coker and Friedel made a mistake inside the penalty box, Friedel in fact was sent off for that challenge, both penalties was scored in 39 and 65minutes. Gerrard in between scored a wonderful free kick.
Arsenal 3-1 win over Newcastle increased the gap by 3pts since Aston Villa had lost ytd. Goals from Bendtner, Diaby and Nasri helped Arsenal to really had a major chance to secure the 4th spot and maybe to go on and get the 3rd spot since Chelsea had lost at White Hart Lane through a Modric wonderful 18 yards goal.
Talk about relegation battle tmr.
Arsenal vs Villarreal
Man Utd vs Porto
Chelsea vs Liverpool
Barcelona vs Bayern Munich
Quite an interesting draw because Chelsea and Liverpool meet again in the Champion League and surely this is the match that many people will be looking forward to. The winner between the Blues and the Reds will be competing against either Barcelona or Bayern Munich in the Semi-final. Bayern Munich set a new record in the Champion league history after beating Sporting Lisbon 12-1 in 2 legs to proceed into the quarter final.
A return for former Arsenal winger Robert Pires, Arsenal will take on Villarreal. This two side had met before in the 2005/6 Champion league where Riquleme penalty miss allowed Arsenal to go to the final. Finally, Man Utd will be please with the draw as they draw a side which I think is the weakest team of all the 8 clubs, they face Porto which I think by Man Utd standard should had no problem in beating them, but after seeing Man Utd suffers 2 defeat in a row in BPL, definitely anything will happen.
BPL weekend
Dramatic weekend for all the BPL fans. Man Utd suffered another defeat which means they had 2 defeat in row, they lost 2-0 at Cratton Cottage and this is not what Man Utd are looking for. Man Utd midfielder Paul Scholes was senf off after a delibrate hand ball, former liverpool player Danny Murphy scored in the penalty spot in just 18minutes. Man Utd seems to lost the standard this 2 weeks, Ronaldo was very quiet and Fulham really doesn't had any threat Man Utd at the first half. Second half was more of "Fulham defend, Man Utd attack" scenario. At about 80+ minutes, Gera cool finishing really sealed all 3 pts for Fulham. Rooney was sent off afterward to throwing the ball angrily, his second yellow of the night.
Liverpool closed up the gap to only 1pt after hammering Aston Villa 5-0, Steven Gerrard with a hat trick. Liverpool performance ytd was probably the best till now. Aston Villa is one of the top side in BPL and Liverpool won by 5 goal margin really sent a warning message to Man Utd. Liverpool got off with a gd start just 8minutes, Gerrard delivered the ball into the penalty box from a free kick and Kyut scored through a wonderful volley. Aston Villa seems messy and really had show no fighting spirit, they conceded another goal in 33minutes, Reina long pass caught Aston Villa off and Riera slammed into the net. Liverpool's captain Steven Gerrard then convert two penalty into goal after reo-coker and Friedel made a mistake inside the penalty box, Friedel in fact was sent off for that challenge, both penalties was scored in 39 and 65minutes. Gerrard in between scored a wonderful free kick.
Arsenal 3-1 win over Newcastle increased the gap by 3pts since Aston Villa had lost ytd. Goals from Bendtner, Diaby and Nasri helped Arsenal to really had a major chance to secure the 4th spot and maybe to go on and get the 3rd spot since Chelsea had lost at White Hart Lane through a Modric wonderful 18 yards goal.
Talk about relegation battle tmr.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Hi
Arsenal are a step closer to getting at least a silverware after beating Hull City through a controversial goal by Gallas. Arsenal had vela and Van Persie as their striking force, supported by Diaby, Arshavin and Walcott. Things are not looking good for Arsenal especially they kept losing possession and allow Hull City to attack and threaten Fabanski. Hull City get their reward in 13minutes, Dawson passed a through ball to Barmby and his shot was deflected into the net by Djourou. Despite taking the lead, Hull City didn't just rely on that 1 goal deficit, they kept on attacking, hoping to get another goal by second half. Arsenal on the other hand wasn't in their usual form, Van Persie was very quiet and so does Vela. Diaby kept losing possession. Hull City deserved to be 1-0 up at the first half.
Second half saw a more improved side especially Arshavin, he kept threatening and had a few gd passes. Hull City changed their tactic to a more defensive after the second half, Arsenal brought on Bendtner and Nasri to replace Song and Vela respectively and in 74minutes, Arsenal get their reward, Bendtner hardworking effort on the left allow him to get the ball and passed it to Arshavin which is on the left, he calmly passed the ball to Van Persie and he cooly puts it into the net. Hull City was in a mess after they conceded a goal and Arsenal kept on attacking to prevent a replay match. At 84minutes, Arsenal was awarded a free kick on the left, Arshavin crosses it into the penalty and it somehow deflected the ball to Gallas which most of them saying he is on the offside position, he headed in and get the goal. Hull City didn't had much time left to get back and eventually Arsenal won it.
Several incident has happened behind the door, for more information, please read either on Arsenal offical website, news or newspaper.
Mourinho to replace Sir Alex Ferguson?
Reports had said that Mourinho will be the best choice if SAF is gonna to retire, I do feel that he is not the right choice for Man Utd. Mourinho was once a Chelsea manager and had criticised some of the Man Utd players before, therefore, it might create a tension if he is to replace SAF. Mourinho no doubt is one of the best manager in the world but he must learn to be humble sometimes and talk smartly in front of the media, if not, it might affect his popularity.
Reports had said that AC Milan make a bid of 15M for Clichy. AC Milan signed Flamini for a free transfer during summer transfer window and they are now eyeing for another Arsenal player. I think it is normal for big clubs eyeing for Clichy because he is one of the best left-back and more importantly, he is just 23 years old. Arsenal will not let him go easily and Clichy had said that Wenger is a gd manager, therefore, chances of him staying will be high coz of Wenger.
Arsenal are a step closer to getting at least a silverware after beating Hull City through a controversial goal by Gallas. Arsenal had vela and Van Persie as their striking force, supported by Diaby, Arshavin and Walcott. Things are not looking good for Arsenal especially they kept losing possession and allow Hull City to attack and threaten Fabanski. Hull City get their reward in 13minutes, Dawson passed a through ball to Barmby and his shot was deflected into the net by Djourou. Despite taking the lead, Hull City didn't just rely on that 1 goal deficit, they kept on attacking, hoping to get another goal by second half. Arsenal on the other hand wasn't in their usual form, Van Persie was very quiet and so does Vela. Diaby kept losing possession. Hull City deserved to be 1-0 up at the first half.
Second half saw a more improved side especially Arshavin, he kept threatening and had a few gd passes. Hull City changed their tactic to a more defensive after the second half, Arsenal brought on Bendtner and Nasri to replace Song and Vela respectively and in 74minutes, Arsenal get their reward, Bendtner hardworking effort on the left allow him to get the ball and passed it to Arshavin which is on the left, he calmly passed the ball to Van Persie and he cooly puts it into the net. Hull City was in a mess after they conceded a goal and Arsenal kept on attacking to prevent a replay match. At 84minutes, Arsenal was awarded a free kick on the left, Arshavin crosses it into the penalty and it somehow deflected the ball to Gallas which most of them saying he is on the offside position, he headed in and get the goal. Hull City didn't had much time left to get back and eventually Arsenal won it.
Several incident has happened behind the door, for more information, please read either on Arsenal offical website, news or newspaper.
Mourinho to replace Sir Alex Ferguson?
Reports had said that Mourinho will be the best choice if SAF is gonna to retire, I do feel that he is not the right choice for Man Utd. Mourinho was once a Chelsea manager and had criticised some of the Man Utd players before, therefore, it might create a tension if he is to replace SAF. Mourinho no doubt is one of the best manager in the world but he must learn to be humble sometimes and talk smartly in front of the media, if not, it might affect his popularity.
Reports had said that AC Milan make a bid of 15M for Clichy. AC Milan signed Flamini for a free transfer during summer transfer window and they are now eyeing for another Arsenal player. I think it is normal for big clubs eyeing for Clichy because he is one of the best left-back and more importantly, he is just 23 years old. Arsenal will not let him go easily and Clichy had said that Wenger is a gd manager, therefore, chances of him staying will be high coz of Wenger.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Yo soccer fans
Arsenal finally secured the 4th place after Aston Villa had lost at Man City at Vill Park. Aston Villa had perform above expectation and find themselves fighting for champion league spot. With this defeat, Aston Villa are now 5 games without a win and they are slowly revealling their weakness and also proves that they are still not ready for Champion League yet. They still had chance of course but it will be a bit difficult for them because their back-ups are not strong. Aston Villa had always rely on the same starting eleven to perform above expectation and gets result, players like Barry, Agbonlahor, Young, Carew, Milner, Knight, Laursen, etc, once any players had injuries or had perform below par, their results will be generally affected. If Martin O'Neill side wants to get into the Champion League, they need to buy in more experience player to increase their back-ups so that they can rotate the players and give the player a much needed rest. It's still a tight battle between Arsenal and Aston Villa for the 4th spot but in term of form, Arsenal are now 15 games unbeaten and things are looking gd for Arsenal especially in a few weeks time, all the main players are back. Walcott and Eduardo are back from injury, Fabregas and Adebayor still need at least a week or so to return to pitch, therefore, I think they might secure the top 4.
10th Man City 35pts
11th Tottenham 35pts
12th Bolton 33pts
13th Hull City 33pts
14th Sunderland 32pts
15th Blackburn 30pts
16th Newcastle 29pts
17th Portsmouth 29pts
18th Stoke City 29pts
19th Middlesbrough 27pts
20th West Bromich 22pts
Relegation battle is much exciting compare to previous season. About 10 teams are fighting for relegation and any point are vital for the teams that are situated at the bottom half of the table. Stoke City had yet again lost against Everton, they are now 18th in the table, same pt with Portsmouth (1 game in hand) and Newcaslte and 1 pt below Blackburn. West Bromich are of course bottom of the table with 22 pts with 1 game in hand in which today they are facing West Ham. Middlesbrough weekend 1-1 draw against Portsmouth means they are now 27pts, just 2 pts below 18th, 17th and 16th place. Sunderland now with 32pts at 14th place, with Hull City and Bolton just 1pt above Sunderland with 33pts. Tottenham and Man City both had 35pts which are quite safe but still need to be cautious because as I said, they are just 6pts clear of relegation zone. You can see clearly how tight it is and it won't be suprise that they need to fight until the very last match to decide whose going to be down and clearly the whole England will be concentrating on their teams regardless of Champion league spot, UEFA cup spots, CHampion or relegation battle.
Arsenal finally secured the 4th place after Aston Villa had lost at Man City at Vill Park. Aston Villa had perform above expectation and find themselves fighting for champion league spot. With this defeat, Aston Villa are now 5 games without a win and they are slowly revealling their weakness and also proves that they are still not ready for Champion League yet. They still had chance of course but it will be a bit difficult for them because their back-ups are not strong. Aston Villa had always rely on the same starting eleven to perform above expectation and gets result, players like Barry, Agbonlahor, Young, Carew, Milner, Knight, Laursen, etc, once any players had injuries or had perform below par, their results will be generally affected. If Martin O'Neill side wants to get into the Champion League, they need to buy in more experience player to increase their back-ups so that they can rotate the players and give the player a much needed rest. It's still a tight battle between Arsenal and Aston Villa for the 4th spot but in term of form, Arsenal are now 15 games unbeaten and things are looking gd for Arsenal especially in a few weeks time, all the main players are back. Walcott and Eduardo are back from injury, Fabregas and Adebayor still need at least a week or so to return to pitch, therefore, I think they might secure the top 4.
10th Man City 35pts
11th Tottenham 35pts
12th Bolton 33pts
13th Hull City 33pts
14th Sunderland 32pts
15th Blackburn 30pts
16th Newcastle 29pts
17th Portsmouth 29pts
18th Stoke City 29pts
19th Middlesbrough 27pts
20th West Bromich 22pts
Relegation battle is much exciting compare to previous season. About 10 teams are fighting for relegation and any point are vital for the teams that are situated at the bottom half of the table. Stoke City had yet again lost against Everton, they are now 18th in the table, same pt with Portsmouth (1 game in hand) and Newcaslte and 1 pt below Blackburn. West Bromich are of course bottom of the table with 22 pts with 1 game in hand in which today they are facing West Ham. Middlesbrough weekend 1-1 draw against Portsmouth means they are now 27pts, just 2 pts below 18th, 17th and 16th place. Sunderland now with 32pts at 14th place, with Hull City and Bolton just 1pt above Sunderland with 33pts. Tottenham and Man City both had 35pts which are quite safe but still need to be cautious because as I said, they are just 6pts clear of relegation zone. You can see clearly how tight it is and it won't be suprise that they need to fight until the very last match to decide whose going to be down and clearly the whole England will be concentrating on their teams regardless of Champion league spot, UEFA cup spots, CHampion or relegation battle.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Yo soccer fans
If you an Liverpool fans, I must say ytd night is a night hat you will rememberred forever in your life.
Liverpool trashed Man Utd by 4-1 at Old Trafford which many didn't expect even The Reds to win it. This was the game that caught the attention of all the world and it didn't dissappoint those who spent their time watching it. Man Utd got the lead in just 23minutes when Reina was fouled, C.Ronaldo scored easily and things are looking gd for Man Utd. However, 5minutes later, A defense error by Vidic allowed Torres to had a 1-1 with the keeper and Torres scored easily. Just before the break, Ferdinand I think brought down Gerrard in the penalty and Gerrard calmly puts it into the nets and The Reds are 2-1 up.
If you though the first half was really exciting, then second half would be more like double the excitment from first half. Man Utd tried to attack but Liverpool defended very well and a counter attack by Liverpool in the 77minutes caught the Man Utd defense and Vidic carelessly brought down Torres, as Vidic was the last man in the back line, the refree didn't hesitate and immediately shown a red card. Aurelio took the free-kick and scored brillantly. Dossena got his second goal for Liverpool and first in BPL by scoring in 88minutes to seal up a big victory for Liverpool. Suprisingly is that, out of the 4 players who scored against Real Madrid in midweek, 3 of them scored again and was in the same order, Torres followed by Gerrard penalty and Dossena before the stoppage time.
Man Utd are now 4 points ahead of Liverpool with a game in hand. Although Man Utd still had a healthy lead against Liverpool, but in ytd match, you can see the tiredness of the players. Man Utd are still on going for all competition, They still have FA cup semi-final clash against Everton, A quarter final Champion leagues and also the battle for BPL title, therefore, sometimes player stamina and fatigue might not cope with tight schedule. But bear in mind that Ferguson had all the experience in the race of trophy and he knows what the do when it comes to such a important period. I still believe Man Utd can walk away with at least the BPL title.
Arsenal move up to the 4th for the first time in 2009 after trashed Blackburn 4-0. Arshavin performance ytd was brillant and fantastic. Wenger rested Gallas, Van Persie, Eboue and Diaby and they were replaced by Djourou, Bendtner, Walcott and Song. Arsenal got the lead in just 2minutes when Bendtner and Walcott had a one-two pass at the right before walcott provides a low pass to the penalty box, Arhsavin goes for it and it somehow the ball touches Ooijer and goes into the net, Arshavin would have claimed the goal but eventually it was Ooijer own goal. Blackburn did a few chances but Alunmia prevent it from conceding. Arsenal had a scare when Walcott was down due to some injuries, but luckily, nothing much serious. Arsenal are one goal up ahead in the first half.
Second half saw an improved performance by Arsenal and Bendtner misses a dozen of chances, he had a few easy chances but failed to score each of them. in 65th minutes, Denlison sets off a low pass to Arshavin who was on the left which lots of space, he brings it in and goes over Danny Simpson with a bits of trick and curl it in to the right corner, his first goal for Arsenal. Arshavin had a few gd passes and unfortunately, none of them turns into goal. Bendtner, Nasri and Walcott was later being replaced by Vela, Eboue and Diaby. Eboue got a goal in 88minutes after he caught a rebound from Arshavin shot. Later Vela was brought down by Olsson at the side of the penalty box and Eboue converts the penalty into goal and socred his 3th goal in 3 matches.
More comments on next post.
If you an Liverpool fans, I must say ytd night is a night hat you will rememberred forever in your life.
Liverpool trashed Man Utd by 4-1 at Old Trafford which many didn't expect even The Reds to win it. This was the game that caught the attention of all the world and it didn't dissappoint those who spent their time watching it. Man Utd got the lead in just 23minutes when Reina was fouled, C.Ronaldo scored easily and things are looking gd for Man Utd. However, 5minutes later, A defense error by Vidic allowed Torres to had a 1-1 with the keeper and Torres scored easily. Just before the break, Ferdinand I think brought down Gerrard in the penalty and Gerrard calmly puts it into the nets and The Reds are 2-1 up.
If you though the first half was really exciting, then second half would be more like double the excitment from first half. Man Utd tried to attack but Liverpool defended very well and a counter attack by Liverpool in the 77minutes caught the Man Utd defense and Vidic carelessly brought down Torres, as Vidic was the last man in the back line, the refree didn't hesitate and immediately shown a red card. Aurelio took the free-kick and scored brillantly. Dossena got his second goal for Liverpool and first in BPL by scoring in 88minutes to seal up a big victory for Liverpool. Suprisingly is that, out of the 4 players who scored against Real Madrid in midweek, 3 of them scored again and was in the same order, Torres followed by Gerrard penalty and Dossena before the stoppage time.
Man Utd are now 4 points ahead of Liverpool with a game in hand. Although Man Utd still had a healthy lead against Liverpool, but in ytd match, you can see the tiredness of the players. Man Utd are still on going for all competition, They still have FA cup semi-final clash against Everton, A quarter final Champion leagues and also the battle for BPL title, therefore, sometimes player stamina and fatigue might not cope with tight schedule. But bear in mind that Ferguson had all the experience in the race of trophy and he knows what the do when it comes to such a important period. I still believe Man Utd can walk away with at least the BPL title.
Arsenal move up to the 4th for the first time in 2009 after trashed Blackburn 4-0. Arshavin performance ytd was brillant and fantastic. Wenger rested Gallas, Van Persie, Eboue and Diaby and they were replaced by Djourou, Bendtner, Walcott and Song. Arsenal got the lead in just 2minutes when Bendtner and Walcott had a one-two pass at the right before walcott provides a low pass to the penalty box, Arhsavin goes for it and it somehow the ball touches Ooijer and goes into the net, Arshavin would have claimed the goal but eventually it was Ooijer own goal. Blackburn did a few chances but Alunmia prevent it from conceding. Arsenal had a scare when Walcott was down due to some injuries, but luckily, nothing much serious. Arsenal are one goal up ahead in the first half.
Second half saw an improved performance by Arsenal and Bendtner misses a dozen of chances, he had a few easy chances but failed to score each of them. in 65th minutes, Denlison sets off a low pass to Arshavin who was on the left which lots of space, he brings it in and goes over Danny Simpson with a bits of trick and curl it in to the right corner, his first goal for Arsenal. Arshavin had a few gd passes and unfortunately, none of them turns into goal. Bendtner, Nasri and Walcott was later being replaced by Vela, Eboue and Diaby. Eboue got a goal in 88minutes after he caught a rebound from Arshavin shot. Later Vela was brought down by Olsson at the side of the penalty box and Eboue converts the penalty into goal and socred his 3th goal in 3 matches.
More comments on next post.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
First of all, congratulation to all english clubs as they had successfully conquered half of the Champion league quarter final spot. Today Man Utd and Arsenal were in action against two italian giant, Man Utd easily won Jose Mourinho team by 2-0, thx to Vidic 4th minutes and Ronaldo 49minutes heading. Arsenal needed a tonetto penalty miss to ensure a quarter final spot. Barcelona went in to quarter final with a total agg of 6-3, Henry hitting the net twice. Porto booked the quarter final spot with the first leg away goal.
Barcelona 5-2 Lyon (Total Agg: Barcelona 6-3 Lyon)
Roma 0-1 Arsenal (Total Agg: Roma 1-1 Arsenal. Penalty Arsenal won 7-6)
Porto 0-0 Atletico Madrid (Total Agg: Porto 2-2 Atletico Madrid, Porto won on away goal rule)
Man Utd 2-0 Inter Milan (Total Agg: Man Utd 2-0 Inter Milan)
Arsenal performance was not as good as expected, they played a rather defensive formation 4-2-3-1, Van Persie as lone striker with Nasri, Bendtner and Eboue supporting behind. Diaby and Denlison both played as defensive midfielder. Roma attacking strategies work since the whistle blows as they kept Arsenal defense busy. Roma got the lead in just 9minutes when Juan scored in just around the penalty box, it's rare mistake made by both Arsenal defense. Arsenal try to use the counter-attacking tactics but it didn't work, Roma keep pressing and pressing, hoping to find the second goal, but Alunmia ensure that no second goal was conceded. Roma had a claim in penalty just before the break when Clichy fouled Motta I think in the penalty box, I think most of the refree would had given a penalty and Arsenal was lucky enough to avoid it.
Arsenal second half performance had a slight improvement and had a few chances, but Roma defended well and Arsenal fluent passing kept intercepted by Roma. Subtistute Julio Baptista had a clear cut chances but missed. Arsenal bring on Walcott and Eduardo to replace Eboue and Bendtner respectively and Arsenal changed back to the original formation which is 4-4-2. Toure had a free heading but headed wide during stoppage time.
Extra time was not as exciting as normal time probably due to the stamina of the players and eventually, it's down to penalty. Eduardo first miss the penalty and Vucinic (Sry for wrong spelling) followed afterwards. Both sides scored all the penalty successfully until Tonetto misses it. I think Roma did a gd job but luck alway plays a part in competition.
Now that all Italian represetative were being knocked out by English teams.
The 8 teams who went to qaurter final are:
Arsenal FC
Chelsea FC
Liverpool FC
Manchester United
Porto FC
Barcelona FC
Villarreal
Bayern Munich
4 English teams1 Portugese team1 German team2 Spainish teams
This shows the strength of BPL !
Barcelona 5-2 Lyon (Total Agg: Barcelona 6-3 Lyon)
Roma 0-1 Arsenal (Total Agg: Roma 1-1 Arsenal. Penalty Arsenal won 7-6)
Porto 0-0 Atletico Madrid (Total Agg: Porto 2-2 Atletico Madrid, Porto won on away goal rule)
Man Utd 2-0 Inter Milan (Total Agg: Man Utd 2-0 Inter Milan)
Arsenal performance was not as good as expected, they played a rather defensive formation 4-2-3-1, Van Persie as lone striker with Nasri, Bendtner and Eboue supporting behind. Diaby and Denlison both played as defensive midfielder. Roma attacking strategies work since the whistle blows as they kept Arsenal defense busy. Roma got the lead in just 9minutes when Juan scored in just around the penalty box, it's rare mistake made by both Arsenal defense. Arsenal try to use the counter-attacking tactics but it didn't work, Roma keep pressing and pressing, hoping to find the second goal, but Alunmia ensure that no second goal was conceded. Roma had a claim in penalty just before the break when Clichy fouled Motta I think in the penalty box, I think most of the refree would had given a penalty and Arsenal was lucky enough to avoid it.
Arsenal second half performance had a slight improvement and had a few chances, but Roma defended well and Arsenal fluent passing kept intercepted by Roma. Subtistute Julio Baptista had a clear cut chances but missed. Arsenal bring on Walcott and Eduardo to replace Eboue and Bendtner respectively and Arsenal changed back to the original formation which is 4-4-2. Toure had a free heading but headed wide during stoppage time.
Extra time was not as exciting as normal time probably due to the stamina of the players and eventually, it's down to penalty. Eduardo first miss the penalty and Vucinic (Sry for wrong spelling) followed afterwards. Both sides scored all the penalty successfully until Tonetto misses it. I think Roma did a gd job but luck alway plays a part in competition.
Now that all Italian represetative were being knocked out by English teams.
The 8 teams who went to qaurter final are:
Arsenal FC
Chelsea FC
Liverpool FC
Manchester United
Porto FC
Barcelona FC
Villarreal
Bayern Munich
4 English teams1 Portugese team1 German team2 Spainish teams
This shows the strength of BPL !
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Yo Soccer fans
Roma midfielder De Rossi is suppended for this match.
Inter Milan might be using Balotelli to pair up front with Ibrahimovic instead of Adriano.
I watched the replay match of the Liverpool vs Real Madrid and I must say the first two goals scored by Liverpool are lucky. Some refree might not allow the Torres's goal because he had fouled Pepe by pulling him back. I think that this should be a foul since Torres had clear contact with Pepe, some might say Pepe delibrately fell down and call for a free kick and in my opinion, I think it is a foul by Torres.
The second goal scored from the penalty spot by Gerrard. I think Henize was unlucky, because the ball touches the shoulder instead of the hand and this is not a delibrate hand ball.
Liverpool victory might boost the morale of the team and be ready for the Man Utd match.
Roma midfielder De Rossi is suppended for this match.
Inter Milan might be using Balotelli to pair up front with Ibrahimovic instead of Adriano.
I watched the replay match of the Liverpool vs Real Madrid and I must say the first two goals scored by Liverpool are lucky. Some refree might not allow the Torres's goal because he had fouled Pepe by pulling him back. I think that this should be a foul since Torres had clear contact with Pepe, some might say Pepe delibrately fell down and call for a free kick and in my opinion, I think it is a foul by Torres.
The second goal scored from the penalty spot by Gerrard. I think Henize was unlucky, because the ball touches the shoulder instead of the hand and this is not a delibrate hand ball.
Liverpool victory might boost the morale of the team and be ready for the Man Utd match.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Yo Soccer fans
Btw, Soccerpluscrap forum had all the results of BPL and Champion league, do go have a look if you want any of the results.
Liverpool 4-0 Real Madrid (Total Agg: Liverpool 5-0 Real Madrid)
Bayern Munich 7-1 Sporting Lisbon (Total Agg: Bayern Munich 12-1 Sporting Lisbon)
Juventus 2-2 Chelsea (Total Agg: Juventus 2-3 Chelsea)
Panathinaikos 1-2 Villarreal (Total Agg: Panathinaikos 2-3 Villarreal)
I am sure many fans and pundits will be shocked at how liverpool easily trashed Real Madrid at Anfield. Many would thought that this would be a close match but it turn out to be a suprise. I said in last post that Gerrard and Torres will be the biggest threat and both Liverpool stars had got in the socresheet this morning. Torres managed to get a goal in just 16 minutes, Steven Gerrard make his 100 appearances for Liverpool in the Champion league and scored twice including a penalty. Italian full back Dossena scored in 88minutes to seal up a wonderful display by Liverpool.
Bayern Munich managed to easily trashed Sporting Lisbon. The first leg, Bayern Munich managed to get a big 5 goal margin and this home match is more of a relax game, but Bayern Munich put up their first team line-up and just in half-time, they are already 4-1 up. Podolski and Bastian Schweinsteiger scored and the 2nd half was more like a Bayern game. Sporting Lisbon might be wondering why they had lost in such a big margin, their defenders will be the biggest culprit in this big lost.
Juventus knocked out of the Champion league after being held to a draw. this is their 3rd draw against a BPL team. After sidelined for most of the season, Essien return and score in 45minutes after Juventus got the lead by Iaquinta in 19mintues. Drogba then scored his 2nd goal against Juventus in 83minutes to cancel out Del Piero penalty in 74minutes. Guus Hiddink magical management migt allow Chelsea to get some silverwares this season.
As for the Panathinaikos match, I can't comment much because I didn't really watch the match. Villarreal might gone in to next round but I think they will not go any further because quarter final are all the best clubs in Europe.
Today Champion League is also interesting.
Roma vs Arsenal
Man Utd vs Inter Milan
Barcelona vs Lyon
Porto vs Atletico Madrid
Arsenal managed to get a small victory during their home match against Roma by Van Persie penalty, but Roma will try everything at Home to upset Arsenal. Arsenal go in to FA Cup semi-final by beating Burnley 3-0. Eduardo and Walcott both return after injured for a long time and Eduardo wonderful left footed volley goal against Burnley is top class. Walcott seems OK after injury and nearly scored. Both will be available for this away game. Arsenal cannot depend on deep defend, they need to attack to get a 2nd goal to get a healthy lead. Arsenal injured player include Adebayor, Fabregas, Rosicky and Silvestre. Van Persie and Eduardo might pair up in front with Walcott and Nasri both play as winger. Denlison and Diaby performance might be crucial and they will need to keep an eye for De Rossi and Totti.
I predict Arsenal might get a small victory
Roma 0-2 Arsenal
Jose Mourinho vs Sir Alex Ferguson.
Jose Mourinho have all the necessary information about Man Utd because he had face Man Utd several times during his Chelsea period. Ibrahimovic performance is most crucial for Inter. Sissoko might not available because he had injured in the first leg tie. Man Utd seems to be the most on form club at Europe currently. They had fantastic players like C.Ronaldo, Rooney, Carrick, Berbatov. Even in sub bench, Tevez, Evans, Rafael, Scholes, etc . Inter need to really put up a attacking formation and keep providing assist for striker. Man Utd home record is really good and Inter need to put up a very best performance to beat Man Utd, but I still think Man Utd will come up with a victory.
Man Utd 3-1 Inter Milan
Other match
Barcelona 3-0 Lyon
Although Barcelona might gone a bit off recently, but Lyon might not had the ability to upset them.
Porto 0-1 Atletico Madrid
THis is all my personal prediction.
Btw, Soccerpluscrap forum had all the results of BPL and Champion league, do go have a look if you want any of the results.
Liverpool 4-0 Real Madrid (Total Agg: Liverpool 5-0 Real Madrid)
Bayern Munich 7-1 Sporting Lisbon (Total Agg: Bayern Munich 12-1 Sporting Lisbon)
Juventus 2-2 Chelsea (Total Agg: Juventus 2-3 Chelsea)
Panathinaikos 1-2 Villarreal (Total Agg: Panathinaikos 2-3 Villarreal)
I am sure many fans and pundits will be shocked at how liverpool easily trashed Real Madrid at Anfield. Many would thought that this would be a close match but it turn out to be a suprise. I said in last post that Gerrard and Torres will be the biggest threat and both Liverpool stars had got in the socresheet this morning. Torres managed to get a goal in just 16 minutes, Steven Gerrard make his 100 appearances for Liverpool in the Champion league and scored twice including a penalty. Italian full back Dossena scored in 88minutes to seal up a wonderful display by Liverpool.
Bayern Munich managed to easily trashed Sporting Lisbon. The first leg, Bayern Munich managed to get a big 5 goal margin and this home match is more of a relax game, but Bayern Munich put up their first team line-up and just in half-time, they are already 4-1 up. Podolski and Bastian Schweinsteiger scored and the 2nd half was more like a Bayern game. Sporting Lisbon might be wondering why they had lost in such a big margin, their defenders will be the biggest culprit in this big lost.
Juventus knocked out of the Champion league after being held to a draw. this is their 3rd draw against a BPL team. After sidelined for most of the season, Essien return and score in 45minutes after Juventus got the lead by Iaquinta in 19mintues. Drogba then scored his 2nd goal against Juventus in 83minutes to cancel out Del Piero penalty in 74minutes. Guus Hiddink magical management migt allow Chelsea to get some silverwares this season.
As for the Panathinaikos match, I can't comment much because I didn't really watch the match. Villarreal might gone in to next round but I think they will not go any further because quarter final are all the best clubs in Europe.
Today Champion League is also interesting.
Roma vs Arsenal
Man Utd vs Inter Milan
Barcelona vs Lyon
Porto vs Atletico Madrid
Arsenal managed to get a small victory during their home match against Roma by Van Persie penalty, but Roma will try everything at Home to upset Arsenal. Arsenal go in to FA Cup semi-final by beating Burnley 3-0. Eduardo and Walcott both return after injured for a long time and Eduardo wonderful left footed volley goal against Burnley is top class. Walcott seems OK after injury and nearly scored. Both will be available for this away game. Arsenal cannot depend on deep defend, they need to attack to get a 2nd goal to get a healthy lead. Arsenal injured player include Adebayor, Fabregas, Rosicky and Silvestre. Van Persie and Eduardo might pair up in front with Walcott and Nasri both play as winger. Denlison and Diaby performance might be crucial and they will need to keep an eye for De Rossi and Totti.
I predict Arsenal might get a small victory
Roma 0-2 Arsenal
Jose Mourinho vs Sir Alex Ferguson.
Jose Mourinho have all the necessary information about Man Utd because he had face Man Utd several times during his Chelsea period. Ibrahimovic performance is most crucial for Inter. Sissoko might not available because he had injured in the first leg tie. Man Utd seems to be the most on form club at Europe currently. They had fantastic players like C.Ronaldo, Rooney, Carrick, Berbatov. Even in sub bench, Tevez, Evans, Rafael, Scholes, etc . Inter need to really put up a attacking formation and keep providing assist for striker. Man Utd home record is really good and Inter need to put up a very best performance to beat Man Utd, but I still think Man Utd will come up with a victory.
Man Utd 3-1 Inter Milan
Other match
Barcelona 3-0 Lyon
Although Barcelona might gone a bit off recently, but Lyon might not had the ability to upset them.
Porto 0-1 Atletico Madrid
THis is all my personal prediction.
Yo Soccer Fans
This is my first post in this BrillantGoal blog and today I will be discussing about the champion league which will be held at wednesday and thursday (SG TIME) . 2 of the BPL giants will start off today, Liverpool vs Real Madrid and Juventus vs Chelsea.
Liverpool managed to grab a crucial goal at Bernadeu when Benayoun scored in 82th minutes. It is a crucial victory and it's an away goal. Real Madrid had to win in order to process on to quarter- final. The problem with Real Madrid is that they had many injury problem players, like Robben and Sneijder, but Robben will be available for today. If Real Madrid really wants to grab a victory at Anfield, Lassana Diarra and Gago must keep an eye on Mascherano and Gerrard, they need to stop this two liverpool midfielders first before eyeing for a victory. Although Gerrard might not at his best form since his return from injury, but his experience in Europe competition is much better and sometimes might make something out of nothing.
Another Liverpool threat will be the striking force, because at this period, Kuyt and Benayoun are in their top form and if Real Madrid underestimated both of them, they will be in their deep trouble. Fernado Torres might be available for Liverpool and this is another big threat because Torres is familiar with the spanish gaints because he had represented Atletico Madrid before and had faced time numerous time.
As for Liverpool, their tactic would probably defend deep and depend on counter attack to score. Raul is an experience player and Carragher and sketel must be alert. Robben is another dangerous threat and Liverpool must keep an eye on him.
I predict it will be a close match and Liverpool might be able to go thru to next stage.
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Another Big match ahead is Juventus vs Chelsea. Statistic go against Juventus as they had draw 2 BPL teams before at home, against Liverpool and Arsenal. Chelsea need to just hold on to a draw to go thru to next round. I think Hiddink is a gd manager, since he become the maanger of Chelsea, Hiddink had 100% win record. Many players said that Hiddink provides passion for their players. As for Juventus, I think that they need to really concentrate and keep on attacking to really go thru. Most of their players is over 30 years old and their stamina might not be as good as Chelsea. Drogba is in good form even since his return. Anelka will not be available.
Juventus 0-2 Chelsea
ByeBye
This is my first post in this BrillantGoal blog and today I will be discussing about the champion league which will be held at wednesday and thursday (SG TIME) . 2 of the BPL giants will start off today, Liverpool vs Real Madrid and Juventus vs Chelsea.
Liverpool managed to grab a crucial goal at Bernadeu when Benayoun scored in 82th minutes. It is a crucial victory and it's an away goal. Real Madrid had to win in order to process on to quarter- final. The problem with Real Madrid is that they had many injury problem players, like Robben and Sneijder, but Robben will be available for today. If Real Madrid really wants to grab a victory at Anfield, Lassana Diarra and Gago must keep an eye on Mascherano and Gerrard, they need to stop this two liverpool midfielders first before eyeing for a victory. Although Gerrard might not at his best form since his return from injury, but his experience in Europe competition is much better and sometimes might make something out of nothing.
Another Liverpool threat will be the striking force, because at this period, Kuyt and Benayoun are in their top form and if Real Madrid underestimated both of them, they will be in their deep trouble. Fernado Torres might be available for Liverpool and this is another big threat because Torres is familiar with the spanish gaints because he had represented Atletico Madrid before and had faced time numerous time.
As for Liverpool, their tactic would probably defend deep and depend on counter attack to score. Raul is an experience player and Carragher and sketel must be alert. Robben is another dangerous threat and Liverpool must keep an eye on him.
I predict it will be a close match and Liverpool might be able to go thru to next stage.
Liverpool 0-0 Real Madrid
Another Big match ahead is Juventus vs Chelsea. Statistic go against Juventus as they had draw 2 BPL teams before at home, against Liverpool and Arsenal. Chelsea need to just hold on to a draw to go thru to next round. I think Hiddink is a gd manager, since he become the maanger of Chelsea, Hiddink had 100% win record. Many players said that Hiddink provides passion for their players. As for Juventus, I think that they need to really concentrate and keep on attacking to really go thru. Most of their players is over 30 years old and their stamina might not be as good as Chelsea. Drogba is in good form even since his return. Anelka will not be available.
Juventus 0-2 Chelsea
ByeBye
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