The Gazza Strip
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not all parties and yachts when you’re a Premiership footballer. At this time of year, most players will face up to four matches in seven days, a schedule so tough, Wayne Rooney will be up and down the motorway living off cold turkey sandwiches. He refuses to moan though, he enjoys an old bird. Man U are unbeaten in nine matches in the league, they’re a must bet at 4/11 at home to Bolton.
Cristiano Ronaldo is worth a little bet to open the scoring. The Portuguese wonder-boy has had a disappointing season; he’s been on a bench more often than Paul Gascoigne. The undisputed King of the unnecessary step-over is back in the starting 11; a return to form is imminent. He’s 9/1 to score the first goal and 5/2 to score at any time.
After going 93 matches for Man U without scoring, Rio Ferdinand has now bagged two in five games, a record that James Beattie can only dream about. Rio’s a 10/1 shot to make that record three in six, stranger things have happened.
It’s not just turkeys that get stuffed over Christmas. David Moyes is in the middle of the most embarrassing run since Paula Radcliffe relieved herself during the London marathon. Everton face a Sunderland team who have just had their best result of the season; their midweek match was called off. Get on the Mackems at 13/8.
Peter Crouch shoved Lee Bowyer to the ground on Boxing Day, an act that would normally receive a red card and a three match ban. The lanky striker can consider himself fortunate to be available for selection against West Brom; he’s not very good at football. Stevie Gerrard is back to his sublime best for the Pool, he’s a 13/8 shot to find the back of the net against Albion. Liverpool are good things at 1/4.
Steve Bruce didn’t endear himself to the Birmingham supporters when he waved to Manchester United fans as the Blues lost heavily in the Cup. If Bruce’s familiarity with opposition supporters is in relation to how badly they get beat, he might end up crowd surfing with the Chelsea fans. Chelsea are a 1/6 certainty.
It’s been widely reported that Graeme Souness wants Alan Shearer to stay on for another season, he probably will; as manager. Souness may have settled the dressing-room squabbling, but he can’t find a cure for their away day blues. The Geordies travel to White Hart Lane; Spurs get the nod at 4/6.
Milan Baros proved to be tasty with his hands against Everton, the Villa could do with a 2nd keeper when the Arsenal come to town. The Gunners are 4/6; they’re home, and almost certainly, hosed.
The weekend specials:
“Cold Turkey” – Emre to be booked 5/2
“Stuffed” – Thierry Henry to score a hat-trick 16/1
“Take the tree down” – Peter Crouch to be booked 3/1
“Hog many” – Wayne Rooney to score a hat-trick 14/1
Quote of the week:
“I’m not sure it was a straight red, maybe a yellow would have been more sensible.”
Steven Gerrard, the day after he ran across the pitch to confront Alan Shearer and Lee Bowyer, pressurising the referee into showing Bowyer a straight red.
Stat, you’re a liberty:
Only Van Nistelrooy and Rooney have scored more league goals for Man Utd than Rio Ferdinand this season.
Acc of the week:
Arsenal, West Ham, Tottenham, Man Utd and Man City make up the weekend accer, it pays out at a tasty 27/1.
Weekend Betting:
Aston Villa v Arsenal Saturday 31st December 12.45 Live on Sky
Aston Villa 7/2
Draw 12/5
Arsenal 4/6
Get on: Arsenal
Arsenal have won their last four matches against the Villa by two clear goals with Thierry Henry scoring in every match. Say no more.
Match Special:
Arsenal to win by two or more goals 13/8
Charlton v West Ham Saturday 31st December 13.00
Charlton 5/4
Draw 9/4
West Ham 7/4
Get on: West Ham
Charlton have lost eight out of their last nine matches, it has to be the Hammers.
Match Special:
Marlon Harewood to score two or more goals 8/1
Chelsea v Birmingham Saturday 31st December 13.00
Chelsea 1/6
Draw 9/2
Birmingham 12/1
Get on: Chelsea
Chelsea have a 100% record at home in the league, Birmingham are the 2nd worst team in the Premiership. Tough call.
Match Special:
Chelsea to win 3-0 13/2
Tottenham v Newcastle Saturday 31st December 13.00
Tottenham 4/6
Draw 12/5
Newcastle 7/2
Get on: Tottenham
Spurs haven’t tasted defeat at the Lane since August; the Toon Army have lost four of their last five matches away from home. Home win.
Match Special:
Tottenham to keep a clean sheet 6/5
Liverpool v West Brom Saturday 31st December 15.00
Liverpool 1/4
Draw 7/2
West Brom 10/1
Get on: Liverpool
The Pool have met Albion four times in the Premiership, the aggregate score? 16-0. Liverpool are aiming for their 10th straight league win, they’re gonna get it.
Match Special:
Liverpool to win 2-0 11/2
Man Utd v Bolton Saturday 31st December 15.00
Man Utd 4/11
Draw 3/1
Bolton 13/2
Get on: Man Utd
It’s seven wins and two draws from their last nine league matches for Man U, Bolton have failed to score in their last two matches away from home. Definite home win.
Match Special:
Van Nistelrooy and Rooney both to score 4/1
Middlesbrough v Man City Saturday 31st December 15.00
Middlesbrough 5/4
Draw 9/4
Man City 7/4
Get on: Man City
Only Sunderland have conceded more goals in front of their own fans than the Boro, only Man U and Chelsea have scored more goals away from home than Man City. Stuart Pearce gave the City players Christmas day off, proving he’s more of a pussycat than a psycho. Away win.
Match Special:
Andy Cole to score two or more goals 8/1
Portsmouth v Fulham Saturday 31st December 15.00
Portsmouth 6/5
Draw 11/5
Fulham 15/8
Get on: Draw
Pompey were absolutely murdered at Highbury in midweek. Fulham haven’t won away from home all season, it’s a draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 1-1 11/2
Sunderland v Everton Saturday 31st December 15.00
Sunderland 13/8
Draw 11/5
Everton 11/8
Get on: Sunderland
Sunderland have won four of their five previous Premiership matches at home to Everton. The Moyes Boys have conceded 11 goals in three matches; the Mackems will never have a better chance.
Match Special:
Sunderland to win 1-0 7/1
Wigan v Blackburn Saturday 31st December 15.00
Wigan 6/5
Draw 11/5
Blackburn 15/8
Get on: Draw
Wigan have won their last four at home; Blackburn have won three of their last four on the road. Score draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 2-2 14/1
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Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Weekly EPL Betting
Weekly EPL Betting
Walking in a win to Sunderland
Betting
You’ve got to be tough with kids, my littlest one threw a strop last week when I didn’t lavish enough praise on him after he sent me a Christmas card. As a result of the little man’s naughtiness, his letter to Santa asking for a puppy, a train set and Rob McCaffrey to stop screaming, “What’s he like!” will now go unanswered.
Jose Mourinho may be a lot older than little Goliath, but he shares his disdain towards those who disrespect a greeting card. The special one’s mood will improve when Chelsea take all three points at home to Fulham, you can get on at 1/5. It would have been 1/8, but it’s been confirmed that Rob Styles will not be officiating.
Frank Lampard has been named the 2nd best player in the World this week. I can only assume that a few of the voters misunderstood the question, believing that ‘Name the greatest footballer’ was in relation to body mass. Super Frank scored in three games against Fulham last season; he’s worth a punt at 11/2 to net the opener.
Michael Essien is proving to be a versatile footballer; he’s added the forearm smash to his already impressive repertoire. He’s a 16/1 shot to see red, but beware; it looks like the only way he’ll ever be sent off is if he pulls out a machine gun.
Michael Owen returns to Liverpool with Newcastle, presumably to try and locate his wheel nuts. Liverpool’s trek to Japan and back can’t have done them any favours; the Geordies are definitely worth an interest at 4/1.
Alan Shearer should be backed at 5/2 to score at any time in the match; he’s just short of Jackie Milburn’s goal scoring record. Michael Owen is a 13/8 shot to find the net; he’s just short.
Alan Curbishley was being tipped as the next England manager a few weeks ago, the way Charlton have collapsed in recent weeks, he’d be lucky to find a job cleaning up in McDonalds, a position normally associated with Lee Bowyer. The Gunners are going to beat up on somebody soon, Charlton are that somebody. Take a piece of the 4/7.
I honestly haven’t been drinking (heavily), but I believe that Sunderland are worth a bet at home to Bolton. The Trotters lost away to Wigan in the Cup last week; they can’t be touched at odds on. The Mackems must be worth a small interest at 11/4; after all, Christmas is a time for miracles.
Thanks to Sky TV for allowing Soccer AM’s Helen Chamberlain to help out on their excellent darts coverage. Remember kids; a dog is for life, not just for Christmas.
The weekend specials follow a festive theme:
“Christmas cracker” – Wayne Rooney to score a hat-trick 16/1
“Carroll singing” – West Ham to keep a clean sheet 2/1
“Christmas pudding” – Emile Heskey to score two or more goals 12/1
“Ding Dong, merry Lee on high” – Bowyer to score with a header 16/1
“Ruud off, the Reds know pain dear” – Van Nistelrooy to be sent off 66/1
Quotes of the week:
“Birmingham have not won a trophy for err…I don’t think they’ve ever won a trophy.”
Alex ‘Rudolph’ Ferguson
“If you try and play football against Arsenal, they’ll beat you; we didn’t do that last week.”
Alan ‘Grumpy’ Shearer
“Paul Scholes is a fantastic midfielder, there’s not a weakness that he hasn’t got.”
Steve ‘Dopey’ Bruce
Stat, you’re a liberty:
The most boring team in Britain are…Liverpool. The matches involving the European Champions only average a total of 1.87 goals, the lowest figure in England & Scotland.
Acc of the week:
Last weeks accer romped in to pay for the Christmas beer, these beauties will get the New Years ale in. Back Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, Newcastle and Blackburn, you’ll be paid out at 45/1.
Weekend Betting:
Charlton v Arsenal Monday 26th December 12.45 Live on Sky
Charlton 9/2
Draw 12/5
Arsenal 4/7
Get on: Arsenal
Arsenal murdered Charlton in both matches last season with Freddie scoring in both games. The Addicks have conceded 19 goals in their last 7 matches. The wounded Gunners will run riot.
Match Special:
Ljungberg to score the first goal 8/1
Chelsea v Fulham Monday 26th December 13.00
Chelsea 1/5
Draw 4/1
Fulham 11/1
Get on: Chelsea
Fulham are winless away from home all season; Chelsea haven’t conceded a goal in 11 _ hours of football. A safe home win.
Match Special:
Chelsea to win 2-0 11/2
Tottenham v Birmingham Monday 26th December 13.00
Tottenham 2/5
Draw 11/4
Birmingham 13/2
Get on: Tottenham
The Spurs have scored three goals in their last three games. The way Birmingham are playing, a 3-0 defeat will be a respectable result.
Match Special:
Tottenham to win 3-0 7/1
Liverpool v Newcastle Monday 26th December 15.00 Live on Premiership Plus
Liverpool 8/13
Draw 12/5
Newcastle 4/1
Get on: Newcastle
The Toon army have only lost one match when Michael Owen has played this season. He’ll be up for this one.
Match Special:
Michael Owen to score two or more goals 7/1
Man Utd v West Brom Monday 26th December 15.00
Man Utd 1/5
Draw 4/1
West Brom 11/1
Get on: Man Utd
Man U are 6-1-0 in their last 7 league matches. The Albion have not won on the road all season. Home banker.
Match Special:
Van Nistelrooy to score a hat-trick 12/1
Middlesbrough v Blackburn Monday 26th December 15.00
Middlesbrough 10/11
Draw 9/4
Blackburn 5/2
Get on: Blackburn
Blackburn strolled to victory in last weeks Cup tie, a repeat is definitely on the cards.
Match Special:
Kuqi to score the first goal 15/2
Portsmouth v West Ham Monday 26th December 15.00
Portsmouth 5/4
Draw 9/4
West Ham 7/4
Get on: Portsmouth
Harry faces West Ham for the first time since he left the club four years ago; with the Hammers leaking goals recently, a home win gets the nod.
Match Special:
Portsmouth to score in both halves 11/4
Sunderland v Bolton Monday 26th December 15.00
Sunderland 11/4
Draw 12/5
Bolton 4/5
Get on: Sunderland
The Mackems will win a home match this season…. possibly.
Match Special:
Sunderland to score two or more goals 5/2
Wigan v Man City Monday 26th December 15.00
Wigan 11/8
Draw 11/5
Man City 13/8
Get on: Wigan
Both teams are capable of playing great football; it’s what the Yanks call a pick-em. City have lost four of their last five away from home, I’ll edge towards Wigan.
Match Special:
Camara to score two or more goals 7/1
Aston Villa v Everton Monday 26th December 17.15 Live on Sky
Aston Villa Evs
Draw 2/1
Everton 5/2
Get on: Aston Villa
The good news: Steven Davis has signed a new contract at the Villa. The bad news: Van Der Meyde has been ruled out for Everton. The good news edges it.
Match Special:
Steven Davis to score at any time 4/1
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Walking in a win to Sunderland
Betting
You’ve got to be tough with kids, my littlest one threw a strop last week when I didn’t lavish enough praise on him after he sent me a Christmas card. As a result of the little man’s naughtiness, his letter to Santa asking for a puppy, a train set and Rob McCaffrey to stop screaming, “What’s he like!” will now go unanswered.
Jose Mourinho may be a lot older than little Goliath, but he shares his disdain towards those who disrespect a greeting card. The special one’s mood will improve when Chelsea take all three points at home to Fulham, you can get on at 1/5. It would have been 1/8, but it’s been confirmed that Rob Styles will not be officiating.
Frank Lampard has been named the 2nd best player in the World this week. I can only assume that a few of the voters misunderstood the question, believing that ‘Name the greatest footballer’ was in relation to body mass. Super Frank scored in three games against Fulham last season; he’s worth a punt at 11/2 to net the opener.
Michael Essien is proving to be a versatile footballer; he’s added the forearm smash to his already impressive repertoire. He’s a 16/1 shot to see red, but beware; it looks like the only way he’ll ever be sent off is if he pulls out a machine gun.
Michael Owen returns to Liverpool with Newcastle, presumably to try and locate his wheel nuts. Liverpool’s trek to Japan and back can’t have done them any favours; the Geordies are definitely worth an interest at 4/1.
Alan Shearer should be backed at 5/2 to score at any time in the match; he’s just short of Jackie Milburn’s goal scoring record. Michael Owen is a 13/8 shot to find the net; he’s just short.
Alan Curbishley was being tipped as the next England manager a few weeks ago, the way Charlton have collapsed in recent weeks, he’d be lucky to find a job cleaning up in McDonalds, a position normally associated with Lee Bowyer. The Gunners are going to beat up on somebody soon, Charlton are that somebody. Take a piece of the 4/7.
I honestly haven’t been drinking (heavily), but I believe that Sunderland are worth a bet at home to Bolton. The Trotters lost away to Wigan in the Cup last week; they can’t be touched at odds on. The Mackems must be worth a small interest at 11/4; after all, Christmas is a time for miracles.
Thanks to Sky TV for allowing Soccer AM’s Helen Chamberlain to help out on their excellent darts coverage. Remember kids; a dog is for life, not just for Christmas.
The weekend specials follow a festive theme:
“Christmas cracker” – Wayne Rooney to score a hat-trick 16/1
“Carroll singing” – West Ham to keep a clean sheet 2/1
“Christmas pudding” – Emile Heskey to score two or more goals 12/1
“Ding Dong, merry Lee on high” – Bowyer to score with a header 16/1
“Ruud off, the Reds know pain dear” – Van Nistelrooy to be sent off 66/1
Quotes of the week:
“Birmingham have not won a trophy for err…I don’t think they’ve ever won a trophy.”
Alex ‘Rudolph’ Ferguson
“If you try and play football against Arsenal, they’ll beat you; we didn’t do that last week.”
Alan ‘Grumpy’ Shearer
“Paul Scholes is a fantastic midfielder, there’s not a weakness that he hasn’t got.”
Steve ‘Dopey’ Bruce
Stat, you’re a liberty:
The most boring team in Britain are…Liverpool. The matches involving the European Champions only average a total of 1.87 goals, the lowest figure in England & Scotland.
Acc of the week:
Last weeks accer romped in to pay for the Christmas beer, these beauties will get the New Years ale in. Back Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, Newcastle and Blackburn, you’ll be paid out at 45/1.
Weekend Betting:
Charlton v Arsenal Monday 26th December 12.45 Live on Sky
Charlton 9/2
Draw 12/5
Arsenal 4/7
Get on: Arsenal
Arsenal murdered Charlton in both matches last season with Freddie scoring in both games. The Addicks have conceded 19 goals in their last 7 matches. The wounded Gunners will run riot.
Match Special:
Ljungberg to score the first goal 8/1
Chelsea v Fulham Monday 26th December 13.00
Chelsea 1/5
Draw 4/1
Fulham 11/1
Get on: Chelsea
Fulham are winless away from home all season; Chelsea haven’t conceded a goal in 11 _ hours of football. A safe home win.
Match Special:
Chelsea to win 2-0 11/2
Tottenham v Birmingham Monday 26th December 13.00
Tottenham 2/5
Draw 11/4
Birmingham 13/2
Get on: Tottenham
The Spurs have scored three goals in their last three games. The way Birmingham are playing, a 3-0 defeat will be a respectable result.
Match Special:
Tottenham to win 3-0 7/1
Liverpool v Newcastle Monday 26th December 15.00 Live on Premiership Plus
Liverpool 8/13
Draw 12/5
Newcastle 4/1
Get on: Newcastle
The Toon army have only lost one match when Michael Owen has played this season. He’ll be up for this one.
Match Special:
Michael Owen to score two or more goals 7/1
Man Utd v West Brom Monday 26th December 15.00
Man Utd 1/5
Draw 4/1
West Brom 11/1
Get on: Man Utd
Man U are 6-1-0 in their last 7 league matches. The Albion have not won on the road all season. Home banker.
Match Special:
Van Nistelrooy to score a hat-trick 12/1
Middlesbrough v Blackburn Monday 26th December 15.00
Middlesbrough 10/11
Draw 9/4
Blackburn 5/2
Get on: Blackburn
Blackburn strolled to victory in last weeks Cup tie, a repeat is definitely on the cards.
Match Special:
Kuqi to score the first goal 15/2
Portsmouth v West Ham Monday 26th December 15.00
Portsmouth 5/4
Draw 9/4
West Ham 7/4
Get on: Portsmouth
Harry faces West Ham for the first time since he left the club four years ago; with the Hammers leaking goals recently, a home win gets the nod.
Match Special:
Portsmouth to score in both halves 11/4
Sunderland v Bolton Monday 26th December 15.00
Sunderland 11/4
Draw 12/5
Bolton 4/5
Get on: Sunderland
The Mackems will win a home match this season…. possibly.
Match Special:
Sunderland to score two or more goals 5/2
Wigan v Man City Monday 26th December 15.00
Wigan 11/8
Draw 11/5
Man City 13/8
Get on: Wigan
Both teams are capable of playing great football; it’s what the Yanks call a pick-em. City have lost four of their last five away from home, I’ll edge towards Wigan.
Match Special:
Camara to score two or more goals 7/1
Aston Villa v Everton Monday 26th December 17.15 Live on Sky
Aston Villa Evs
Draw 2/1
Everton 5/2
Get on: Aston Villa
The good news: Steven Davis has signed a new contract at the Villa. The bad news: Van Der Meyde has been ruled out for Everton. The good news edges it.
Match Special:
Steven Davis to score at any time 4/1
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Tuesday, December 20, 2005
World Cup - Niko Kranjcar's predictions
Kranjcar mete la pata:
Paraguay echara a Inglaterra!?
"Ronaldo sera la figura del Mundial, Barca pasara al Chelsea"
La estrella de la seleccion croata, Niko Kranjcar, ha realizado una prevision detallada sobre el Mundial, destacando a Brasil como el hexacampeon, Espana como campeona del grupo H y la eliminacion de Inglaterra por Suecia y Paraguay.
"Brasil es el favorito para conseguir un nuevo titulo y el puesto de Ronaldo en el equipo no esta en duda, apuesto a que sera otra vez el mejor jugador del mundo." - opina Kranjcar, a los 20 anos la figura de la Liga croata.
En cuanto a las selecciones europeas, Kranjcar tiene las cosas claras: - "Holanda es el mejor equipo europeo e Inglaterra, que cree que puede ir hasta el fin, ni siquiera pasara la primera ronda," - apunta el hijo del seleccionador croata, subrayando los nombres de Suecia y Paraguay como las selecciones del Grupo B que iran a los octavos de final.
Mientras que opina que del Grupo H progresaran Espana y Ucrania, pronostica otro exito del futbol espanol en los octavos de la Liga de campeones.
"El Chelsea juega el futbol mas pragmatico, pero siempre estoy a favor del Barcelona y adoro ver a Ronaldinho." - explica.
Tocando a la propia seleccion croata y sus posibilidades en el Grupo F, el mediapunta no se ha mordido la lengua.
"?Como alguien puede creer que Croacia y Japon estan al mismo nivel? Croacia esta muy por encima de Japon y de Australia." - ha concluido su prevision el joven jugador, emulando el optimismo de su padre, quien recientemente afirma que habria sido extrano si su seleccion hubiese de temer a Australia. Causando la comprensible ira entre los australianos.
op
Paraguay echara a Inglaterra!?
"Ronaldo sera la figura del Mundial, Barca pasara al Chelsea"
La estrella de la seleccion croata, Niko Kranjcar, ha realizado una prevision detallada sobre el Mundial, destacando a Brasil como el hexacampeon, Espana como campeona del grupo H y la eliminacion de Inglaterra por Suecia y Paraguay.
"Brasil es el favorito para conseguir un nuevo titulo y el puesto de Ronaldo en el equipo no esta en duda, apuesto a que sera otra vez el mejor jugador del mundo." - opina Kranjcar, a los 20 anos la figura de la Liga croata.
En cuanto a las selecciones europeas, Kranjcar tiene las cosas claras: - "Holanda es el mejor equipo europeo e Inglaterra, que cree que puede ir hasta el fin, ni siquiera pasara la primera ronda," - apunta el hijo del seleccionador croata, subrayando los nombres de Suecia y Paraguay como las selecciones del Grupo B que iran a los octavos de final.
Mientras que opina que del Grupo H progresaran Espana y Ucrania, pronostica otro exito del futbol espanol en los octavos de la Liga de campeones.
"El Chelsea juega el futbol mas pragmatico, pero siempre estoy a favor del Barcelona y adoro ver a Ronaldinho." - explica.
Tocando a la propia seleccion croata y sus posibilidades en el Grupo F, el mediapunta no se ha mordido la lengua.
"?Como alguien puede creer que Croacia y Japon estan al mismo nivel? Croacia esta muy por encima de Japon y de Australia." - ha concluido su prevision el joven jugador, emulando el optimismo de su padre, quien recientemente afirma que habria sido extrano si su seleccion hubiese de temer a Australia. Causando la comprensible ira entre los australianos.
op
World Cup 2002 Predictiions
Niko Kranjcar mete la pata:
Paraguay echara a Inglaterra!?
"Ronaldo sera la figura del Mundial, Barca pasara al Chelsea"
La estrella de la seleccion croata, Niko Kranjcar, ha realizado una prevision detallada sobre el Mundial, destacando a Brasil como el hexacampeon, Espana como campeona del grupo H y la eliminacion de Inglaterra por Suecia y Paraguay.
"Brasil es el favorito para conseguir un nuevo titulo y el puesto de Ronaldo en el equipo no esta en duda, apuesto a que sera otra vez el mejor jugador del mundo." - opina Kranjcar, a los 20 anos la figura de la Liga croata.
En cuanto a las selecciones europeas, Kranjcar tiene las cosas claras: - "Holanda es el mejor equipo europeo e Inglaterra, que cree que puede ir hasta el fin, ni siquiera pasara la primera ronda," - apunta el hijo del seleccionador croata, subrayando los nombres de Suecia y Paraguay como las selecciones del Grupo B que iran a los octavos de final.
Mientras que opina que del Grupo H progresaran Espana y Ucrania, pronostica otro exito del futbol espanol en los octavos de la Liga de campeones.
"El Chelsea juega el futbol mas pragmatico, pero siempre estoy a favor del Barcelona y adoro ver a Ronaldinho." - explica.
Tocando a la propia seleccion croata y sus posibilidades en el Grupo F, el mediapunta no se ha mordido la lengua.
"?Como alguien puede creer que Croacia y Japon estan al mismo nivel? Croacia esta muy por encima de Japon y de Australia." - ha concluido su prevision el joven jugador, emulando el optimismo de su padre, quien recientemente afirma que habria sido extrano si su seleccion hubiese de temer a Australia. Causando la comprensible ira entre los australianos.
Copyright Soccerphile
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Paraguay echara a Inglaterra!?
"Ronaldo sera la figura del Mundial, Barca pasara al Chelsea"
La estrella de la seleccion croata, Niko Kranjcar, ha realizado una prevision detallada sobre el Mundial, destacando a Brasil como el hexacampeon, Espana como campeona del grupo H y la eliminacion de Inglaterra por Suecia y Paraguay.
"Brasil es el favorito para conseguir un nuevo titulo y el puesto de Ronaldo en el equipo no esta en duda, apuesto a que sera otra vez el mejor jugador del mundo." - opina Kranjcar, a los 20 anos la figura de la Liga croata.
En cuanto a las selecciones europeas, Kranjcar tiene las cosas claras: - "Holanda es el mejor equipo europeo e Inglaterra, que cree que puede ir hasta el fin, ni siquiera pasara la primera ronda," - apunta el hijo del seleccionador croata, subrayando los nombres de Suecia y Paraguay como las selecciones del Grupo B que iran a los octavos de final.
Mientras que opina que del Grupo H progresaran Espana y Ucrania, pronostica otro exito del futbol espanol en los octavos de la Liga de campeones.
"El Chelsea juega el futbol mas pragmatico, pero siempre estoy a favor del Barcelona y adoro ver a Ronaldinho." - explica.
Tocando a la propia seleccion croata y sus posibilidades en el Grupo F, el mediapunta no se ha mordido la lengua.
"?Como alguien puede creer que Croacia y Japon estan al mismo nivel? Croacia esta muy por encima de Japon y de Australia." - ha concluido su prevision el joven jugador, emulando el optimismo de su padre, quien recientemente afirma que habria sido extrano si su seleccion hubiese de temer a Australia. Causando la comprensible ira entre los australianos.
Copyright Soccerphile
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World Soccer News
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Soccer Books & DVDs
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Monday, December 19, 2005
World Club Championship – Part 5: Show me the way to go home
The Final: Liverpool V Sau Paulo – Yokohama
Tragedy has struck – we’re not talking disaster in epic proportions of course, I’m not commenting on a terrorist strike or a tsunami; but merely a catastrophe within the context of world football. The heartbreaking tale I’m referring to is Liverpool’s ultimately unsuccessful attempt to bring the World Club Championship to Merseyside for the first time. Last night the global crown eluded us once again as the Kings of Europe were subjected to a painful one-nil defeat at the hands of South Americans Champions, Sao Paulo. Victory for the Brazilians on a freezing night in Yokohama means that despite having won our own continental crown on five occasions, we’re still yet to lift the world title: a tragedy indeed.
Liverpool conceded the decisive goal on 27 minutes, when Mineiro coolly slotted home, following a well-executed move. It was the first time the watertight defence had been breached since Boa Morte’s strike in a league meeting with Fulham back in October. The proud record of eleven consecutive clean sheets is now confined to memory however, and more importantly, so is our dream for world domination …well, for a year at least. As with ‘that final’ in Istanbul, which saw Liverpool qualify for this inter-continental competition, the first half display was well below par. On this occasion however, it proved our undoing rather than our inspiration.
The Japanese Workforce
Sao Paulo on the other hand illustrated to the footballing world exactly why they are champions of South America, playing some breathtaking football in the opening period. With Costa Rican outfit Deportivo Saprissa having won the play-off for third place in the warm up game before the final, in front of a largely disinterested crowd, it is the Americas who have best acquitted themselves in this year’s tournament in Japan. Europe has failed to produce a King of Kings once again.
Liverpool were poor at best in the first half, with the Brazilians deserving of the advantage they took into the interval. In the second period however, Sao Paulo were virtually non existent, forced to desperately defend their slender lead. Liverpool spent the entire second half orchestrating wave after wave of attacks, bombarding the Sao Paulo goal from the first whistle until the last. As Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez said after the game: “The first thing I can say is congratulations to my players as we deserved to win. We had 21 shots and 17 corners and hit the bar twice and scored three disallowed goals. We couldn't have done anymore to win.”
You can quote all the statistics in the world though, but the only one that matters is the final score line. One last glimpse at the scoreboard as the referee blew his whistle for a final time confirmed for me and the other 66,000 present that the game finished without us having equalised. Some of the decisions made by the officials may have been harsh, dubious, ridiculous, even scandalous …but the simply fact is that with refereeing judgments you’re as likely to be a beneficiary as a victim. We didn’t score so we deserved what we got: nothing.Liverpool's failure to cancel out the Brazilian’s first half strike outlined our main areas of weakness in terms of personnel, emphasising in the cruelest of contexts, that despite being European Champions we still remain three or four short players of being a truly formidable side. With the transfer window just
around the corner, I can only hope this painful reminder will do more to convince the Liverpool management that further recruitment is required. Without it, it could be a while before I’m
back in Japan to see us do the job properly.
Making Friends with the Locals
The Brazilians came in their droves to see their side secure a famous victory over the mighty Liverpool. I’d love to reflect warmly on them, and praise them for their gracious acceptance of the triumph, but sadly they were not the carnivalesque party-loving South Americans that the media love to portray them as. The vast majority instead seemed to represent more of the Barra Bravas school of football fandom. They set the tone for the evening; it was just a shame the Liverpool team couldn’t muster up a goal to put them in their place.
The song, “where’s your European Cups?” was one of many chants to have been lost on the boys from Brazil. Now Liverpool face a return to reality and the bread and butter of the English League Championship, with Newcastle and a certain Michael Owen to visit Anfield on Boxing Day. This is a club and indeed a player to whom the song in question will prove to be far more stinging. I for one can’t wait.
Saturday, December 17, 2005
Socceroos Undeterred by Samba Kings
Optimism must be running at an all time high for Australian football and this from a nation hardly short on sporting self-belief, writes Marc Fox.
Not even being grouped alongside Brazil, Japan and Croatia for next year's World Cup finals dampened the spirits of a football community right now riding the crest of a wave. Having dispatched FIFA-ranked 18th-placed Uruguay over two intriguing ties last month, who are 15th-ranked Japan and lowly 20th-ranked Croatia to stand in the Socceroos' way?
"Japan and Croatia are not among the world's top 10 teams and if we play to our strengths then we have a good chance of going through to the knockout stages," goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer told Melbourne newspaper The Age.
Meanwhile captain Mark Viduka went one further by suggesting a result against five-times world champions Brazil might be within reach.
"We have got to give ourselves a chance," Viduka told the Sydney Morning Herald after the draw. "I think we are a team that's up for a challenge and obviously our aim is to get to the next round.
"They (Brazil) are all world-class players and they have got the history and pedigree behind them, so it's going to be a great challenge for us. But we have played them before in other tournaments and done well."
And who can blame them?
Like the extravagant Leipzig ceremony on December 9, Australia has a Dutch magician of its own. And with super-coach Guus Hiddink steering the ship any trick appears possible. The tactician who has guided successive nations to the semi-finals stage feels certain the Socceroos have the raw materials to be able surprise either or both of Japan or Croatia.
"They taught me in Australia 'no worries mate' and sometimes I think it's too relaxed, but this team does not have many worries," Hiddink said from Leipzig after watching the draw unfold alongside Brazilian coach Carlos Alberto Parreira. "Brazil is a clear favourite, no doubt about it, and the other three are more or less equal and they will fight for the second position."
Avoiding an opening round clash with Brazil is a distinct advantage in the race of second. The Socceroos will face Japan first up in Kaiserslautern, a side Hiddink knows plenty about from his time in charge of South Korea. Home advantage in 2002 favoured the Japanese in proceeding from the group phase although they have undergone a period of change since under the tutelage of former Brazilian great Zico. Saying that, they lost just once in World Cup qualifying and have a number of players dotted around Europe.
The group-closing encounter with Croatia has thrown up a cauldron of stories regarding Australian-born defectors Joey Didulica, Ante Seric and Joe Simunic. The trio decided against representing Australia in favour of turning out for their motherland. Simunic, in particular, has proved a worthy acquisition and has already racked up 39 Croatian caps since his debut in 2001.
Out of the three group games, the deciding game with the Croats on June 22 will have the most spice. A win will not only erase the bitter memories of a 7-0 thumping in 1998 prior to Croatia finishing third at the France finals but surely guarantee progression to the knockout stage.
Just try finding any Australian football fan who believes that won't happen.
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Not even being grouped alongside Brazil, Japan and Croatia for next year's World Cup finals dampened the spirits of a football community right now riding the crest of a wave. Having dispatched FIFA-ranked 18th-placed Uruguay over two intriguing ties last month, who are 15th-ranked Japan and lowly 20th-ranked Croatia to stand in the Socceroos' way?
"Japan and Croatia are not among the world's top 10 teams and if we play to our strengths then we have a good chance of going through to the knockout stages," goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer told Melbourne newspaper The Age.
Meanwhile captain Mark Viduka went one further by suggesting a result against five-times world champions Brazil might be within reach.
"We have got to give ourselves a chance," Viduka told the Sydney Morning Herald after the draw. "I think we are a team that's up for a challenge and obviously our aim is to get to the next round.
"They (Brazil) are all world-class players and they have got the history and pedigree behind them, so it's going to be a great challenge for us. But we have played them before in other tournaments and done well."
And who can blame them?
Like the extravagant Leipzig ceremony on December 9, Australia has a Dutch magician of its own. And with super-coach Guus Hiddink steering the ship any trick appears possible. The tactician who has guided successive nations to the semi-finals stage feels certain the Socceroos have the raw materials to be able surprise either or both of Japan or Croatia.
"They taught me in Australia 'no worries mate' and sometimes I think it's too relaxed, but this team does not have many worries," Hiddink said from Leipzig after watching the draw unfold alongside Brazilian coach Carlos Alberto Parreira. "Brazil is a clear favourite, no doubt about it, and the other three are more or less equal and they will fight for the second position."
Avoiding an opening round clash with Brazil is a distinct advantage in the race of second. The Socceroos will face Japan first up in Kaiserslautern, a side Hiddink knows plenty about from his time in charge of South Korea. Home advantage in 2002 favoured the Japanese in proceeding from the group phase although they have undergone a period of change since under the tutelage of former Brazilian great Zico. Saying that, they lost just once in World Cup qualifying and have a number of players dotted around Europe.
The group-closing encounter with Croatia has thrown up a cauldron of stories regarding Australian-born defectors Joey Didulica, Ante Seric and Joe Simunic. The trio decided against representing Australia in favour of turning out for their motherland. Simunic, in particular, has proved a worthy acquisition and has already racked up 39 Croatian caps since his debut in 2001.
Out of the three group games, the deciding game with the Croats on June 22 will have the most spice. A win will not only erase the bitter memories of a 7-0 thumping in 1998 prior to Croatia finishing third at the France finals but surely guarantee progression to the knockout stage.
Just try finding any Australian football fan who believes that won't happen.
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Thursday, December 15, 2005
The Wenger Boys vs. Michael Hackson
Jose Mourinho is like Marmite, his adverts are very annoying. Arsene Wenger is certainly not a lover of the special one, he threatened to sue Jose for an outrageous ‘voyeur’ slur earlier in the year, Mourinho retaliated by threatening to whip out his dossier. With clear animosity between the managers, Arsenal v Chelsea is a potential cracker.
Over the last few weeks, Arsenal have shown that they lack the necessary mental fortitude to compete effectively when the opposition are aggressive in the tackle, or to put it another way, they don’t like it up ‘em. The soft belly of the Gunners will face the ultimate test when they go head to head with Chelsea playmaker and part-time kneecap collector Michael Essien. Tough tackling will win it for Chelsea, an 11/8 steal.
Elsewhere on the coupon, Blackburn look a sound investment at 15/8 to take all three points from the Cottage. Fulham are in danger of dropping into the relegation shake-up, Robbie Savage is in danger of just being dropped.
The hairy Welshman has always excelled at winding up fellow professionals, but until last weekend it was only opposition players on the verge of laying him out. The only surprising element of ‘Caravangate’ was that Robbie didn’t roll on the floor to try and get his goal-keeper sent off. The always popular Savage is a 20/1 shot to receive a long overdue red card against Fulham; it’s 6/4 he goes in the book.
Alex Ferguson petulantly walked out of a press conference this week, adding fuel to the rumour that this will be his last season in the Old Trafford hot seat. I’d like to suggest David Blunkett as a potential replacement; he can hold a lead in Europe. United destroyed Wigan in midweek, they’re 8/11 against a Villa team without Mellberg and with Ridgewell. Fill your winter boots.
It’s ironic that in the week that the name Thatcher was back in the news, a Cole-man was sent off. Andy’s dismissal means that Darius Vassell leads the line for Man City against Birmingham, the ex Villan is worth an interest at 5/1 to open the scoring. Manchester City have been up and down like Peter Crouch in a house with reasonably sized door frames recently, but are a confident selection at 8/11.
Harry Redknapp claims he wouldn’t know how to place a bet online, I’ve glanced at a few of his betting previews, he’s a lucky man. Some believe that Harry’s magic will save Pompey from the drop, unless they’re referring to Harry Potter, I’d have to disagree. The in form Baggies should be backed at 2/1.
The weekend specials may ring a bell.
“Va Va Voom” – Thierry Henry to score two or more goals 6/1
“Nick Cole” – Joe Cole to be booked 7/4
“Papa” – Boupa Diop to score with a header 10/1
“The cream of Manchester” – United to score more than City 13/10
“They're tasty, tasty, very very tasty” – Blackburn to have a player sent off 6/1
“Once you pop, you can’t stop” – Essien to be sent off 25/1
Quote of the week:
“They all think Wayne’s this big fat person who eats burgers every day, which he’s not, and I don’t know where they get it from. It really does my head in because people really believe that. His favourite food is lettuce. He errrrr, loves salad.”
Coleen McLoughlin spills the peas.
Stat, you’re a liberty:
The last time Manchester United kept a clean sheet away from home was……September.
Acc of the week:
Man Utd, Man City, Chelsea and a Middlesbrough draw make up the weekend accer, it pays over 20/1.
Weekend Betting:
Aston Villa v Man Utd Saturday 17th December 12.45 Live on Premiership Plus
Aston Villa 10/3
Draw 9/4
Man Utd 8/11
Get on: Man Utd
United in crisis? They’ve won five of their last six matches in the league, the other was a draw. Away banker.
Match Special:
Van Nistelrooy to score a hat-trick 16/1
Everton v Bolton Saturday 17th December 15.00
Everton 6/5
Draw 9/4
Bolton 9/5
Get on: Everton
Everton are the undisputed Kings of the 1-0, they’ve bagged five already, here comes number six.
Match Special:
Everton to win 1-0 6/1
Fulham v Blackburn Saturday 17th December 15.00
Fulham 6/5
Draw 11/5
Blackburn 15/8
Get on: Blackburn
Blackburn have won on their last three visits to the Cottage, scoring 10 goals in the process. 15/8 appeals.
Match Special:
Paul Dickov to score two or more goals 10/1
Portsmouth v West Brom Saturday 17th December 15.00
Portsmouth 11/10
Draw 9/4
West Brom 2/1
Get on: West Brom
It’s five straight defeats for Portsmouth, the Albion are undefeated in four. The Baggies have won six of their last seven matches against Pompey, it’s an away win.
Match Special:
Kanu to score at any time 9/4
West Ham v Newcastle Saturday 17th December 15.00
West Ham 11/8
Draw 11/5
Newcastle 13/8
Get on: West Ham
The Toon Army struggle at Upton Park, in their last five visits, they’ve earned one point. Man Utd are the only team to take three points off the Hammers at Upton Park since August. Home win.
Match Special:
Harewood and Zamora both to score 10/1
Wigan v Charlton Saturday 17th December 15.00
Wigan 6/5
Draw 9/4
Charlton 9/5
Get on: Charlton
With both teams struggling for form, Charlton get a tentative nod. Darren Bent scored the winner against Wigan when on fire earlier in the season, he’s heating up again.
Match Special:
Darren Bent to score the only goal of the game 33/1
Man City v Birmingham Saturday 17th December 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Man City 8/11
Draw 9/4
Birmingham 10/3
Get on: Man City
Psycho’s men haven’t scored at home since Halloween, a frightening statistic. It won’t be a thriller.
Match Special:
Man City to win 1-0 6/1
Middlesbrough v Tottenham Sunday 18th December 13.30 Live on Sky
Middlesbrough 6/4
Draw 11/5
Tottenham 6/4
Get on: Draw
Spurs don’t like it by the Riverside; they have to go back to 1996 to find a winning trip. Boro are gaining consistency, from their last six matches at home, they’ve won four and drawn two. Spurs are also in good nick, they’ve scored eight goals in their last three games. It’s a draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 2-2 14/1
Arsenal v Chelsea Sunday 18th December 16.00 Live on Sky
Arsenal 13/8
Draw 11/5
Chelsea 11/8
Get on: Chelsea
It’s nearly 15 years since Chelsea won a league match at Highbury. That long wait is nearly over.
Match Special:
Chelsea to keep a clean sheet 7/4
Over the last few weeks, Arsenal have shown that they lack the necessary mental fortitude to compete effectively when the opposition are aggressive in the tackle, or to put it another way, they don’t like it up ‘em. The soft belly of the Gunners will face the ultimate test when they go head to head with Chelsea playmaker and part-time kneecap collector Michael Essien. Tough tackling will win it for Chelsea, an 11/8 steal.
Elsewhere on the coupon, Blackburn look a sound investment at 15/8 to take all three points from the Cottage. Fulham are in danger of dropping into the relegation shake-up, Robbie Savage is in danger of just being dropped.
The hairy Welshman has always excelled at winding up fellow professionals, but until last weekend it was only opposition players on the verge of laying him out. The only surprising element of ‘Caravangate’ was that Robbie didn’t roll on the floor to try and get his goal-keeper sent off. The always popular Savage is a 20/1 shot to receive a long overdue red card against Fulham; it’s 6/4 he goes in the book.
Alex Ferguson petulantly walked out of a press conference this week, adding fuel to the rumour that this will be his last season in the Old Trafford hot seat. I’d like to suggest David Blunkett as a potential replacement; he can hold a lead in Europe. United destroyed Wigan in midweek, they’re 8/11 against a Villa team without Mellberg and with Ridgewell. Fill your winter boots.
It’s ironic that in the week that the name Thatcher was back in the news, a Cole-man was sent off. Andy’s dismissal means that Darius Vassell leads the line for Man City against Birmingham, the ex Villan is worth an interest at 5/1 to open the scoring. Manchester City have been up and down like Peter Crouch in a house with reasonably sized door frames recently, but are a confident selection at 8/11.
Harry Redknapp claims he wouldn’t know how to place a bet online, I’ve glanced at a few of his betting previews, he’s a lucky man. Some believe that Harry’s magic will save Pompey from the drop, unless they’re referring to Harry Potter, I’d have to disagree. The in form Baggies should be backed at 2/1.
The weekend specials may ring a bell.
“Va Va Voom” – Thierry Henry to score two or more goals 6/1
“Nick Cole” – Joe Cole to be booked 7/4
“Papa” – Boupa Diop to score with a header 10/1
“The cream of Manchester” – United to score more than City 13/10
“They're tasty, tasty, very very tasty” – Blackburn to have a player sent off 6/1
“Once you pop, you can’t stop” – Essien to be sent off 25/1
Quote of the week:
“They all think Wayne’s this big fat person who eats burgers every day, which he’s not, and I don’t know where they get it from. It really does my head in because people really believe that. His favourite food is lettuce. He errrrr, loves salad.”
Coleen McLoughlin spills the peas.
Stat, you’re a liberty:
The last time Manchester United kept a clean sheet away from home was……September.
Acc of the week:
Man Utd, Man City, Chelsea and a Middlesbrough draw make up the weekend accer, it pays over 20/1.
Weekend Betting:
Aston Villa v Man Utd Saturday 17th December 12.45 Live on Premiership Plus
Aston Villa 10/3
Draw 9/4
Man Utd 8/11
Get on: Man Utd
United in crisis? They’ve won five of their last six matches in the league, the other was a draw. Away banker.
Match Special:
Van Nistelrooy to score a hat-trick 16/1
Everton v Bolton Saturday 17th December 15.00
Everton 6/5
Draw 9/4
Bolton 9/5
Get on: Everton
Everton are the undisputed Kings of the 1-0, they’ve bagged five already, here comes number six.
Match Special:
Everton to win 1-0 6/1
Fulham v Blackburn Saturday 17th December 15.00
Fulham 6/5
Draw 11/5
Blackburn 15/8
Get on: Blackburn
Blackburn have won on their last three visits to the Cottage, scoring 10 goals in the process. 15/8 appeals.
Match Special:
Paul Dickov to score two or more goals 10/1
Portsmouth v West Brom Saturday 17th December 15.00
Portsmouth 11/10
Draw 9/4
West Brom 2/1
Get on: West Brom
It’s five straight defeats for Portsmouth, the Albion are undefeated in four. The Baggies have won six of their last seven matches against Pompey, it’s an away win.
Match Special:
Kanu to score at any time 9/4
West Ham v Newcastle Saturday 17th December 15.00
West Ham 11/8
Draw 11/5
Newcastle 13/8
Get on: West Ham
The Toon Army struggle at Upton Park, in their last five visits, they’ve earned one point. Man Utd are the only team to take three points off the Hammers at Upton Park since August. Home win.
Match Special:
Harewood and Zamora both to score 10/1
Wigan v Charlton Saturday 17th December 15.00
Wigan 6/5
Draw 9/4
Charlton 9/5
Get on: Charlton
With both teams struggling for form, Charlton get a tentative nod. Darren Bent scored the winner against Wigan when on fire earlier in the season, he’s heating up again.
Match Special:
Darren Bent to score the only goal of the game 33/1
Man City v Birmingham Saturday 17th December 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Man City 8/11
Draw 9/4
Birmingham 10/3
Get on: Man City
Psycho’s men haven’t scored at home since Halloween, a frightening statistic. It won’t be a thriller.
Match Special:
Man City to win 1-0 6/1
Middlesbrough v Tottenham Sunday 18th December 13.30 Live on Sky
Middlesbrough 6/4
Draw 11/5
Tottenham 6/4
Get on: Draw
Spurs don’t like it by the Riverside; they have to go back to 1996 to find a winning trip. Boro are gaining consistency, from their last six matches at home, they’ve won four and drawn two. Spurs are also in good nick, they’ve scored eight goals in their last three games. It’s a draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 2-2 14/1
Arsenal v Chelsea Sunday 18th December 16.00 Live on Sky
Arsenal 13/8
Draw 11/5
Chelsea 11/8
Get on: Chelsea
It’s nearly 15 years since Chelsea won a league match at Highbury. That long wait is nearly over.
Match Special:
Chelsea to keep a clean sheet 7/4
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Sydney FC v Deportivo Saprissa
Sydney FC v Deportivo Saprissa
On a freezing night at Toyota Stadium, Costa Rica's Deportivo Saprissa defeated Sydney FC 1-0 in an a match that did little to raise the temperature of the subdued 28,503 crowd.
Christian Bolanos scored in the 47th minute for the CONCACAF champions from a long ball from defence and the Costa Ricans could easily have extended their lead on the counter as Sydney desperately pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages.
Sydney's task was made all the harder when defender Alvin Ceccoli was sent off with ten minutes to go for an adjudged elbow on the Saprissa goalkeeper. Dwight Yorke attempted to pull the strings from a deep-lying midfield position for Sydney but lacked support from his team-mates in an uninspired and one-paced midfield.
FC Sydney's Kazu Miura failed to make much of an impression in front of his home fans and Saprissa will now take on European Champions Liverpool in Yokohama on Thursday.
Germany World Cup 2006 Tickets
On a freezing night at Toyota Stadium, Costa Rica's Deportivo Saprissa defeated Sydney FC 1-0 in an a match that did little to raise the temperature of the subdued 28,503 crowd.
Christian Bolanos scored in the 47th minute for the CONCACAF champions from a long ball from defence and the Costa Ricans could easily have extended their lead on the counter as Sydney desperately pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages.
Sydney's task was made all the harder when defender Alvin Ceccoli was sent off with ten minutes to go for an adjudged elbow on the Saprissa goalkeeper. Dwight Yorke attempted to pull the strings from a deep-lying midfield position for Sydney but lacked support from his team-mates in an uninspired and one-paced midfield.
FC Sydney's Kazu Miura failed to make much of an impression in front of his home fans and Saprissa will now take on European Champions Liverpool in Yokohama on Thursday.
Germany World Cup 2006 Tickets
Monday, December 12, 2005
Qualification Highlights WC2006
Soccerphile World Cup Blog
Best of the Qualifying Stage
Najznacajniji trenuci kvalifikacija za Svjetsko prvenstvo 2006.
Kvalifikacije za Weltmeisterschaft u Njemackoj su za nama, ali nece biti zaboravljene. Iznenadjenja, preokreta, incidenata i sudackih previda bilo je dovoljno i za najistancanije ukuse: prvi uspjeh Ukrajine, portugalska "sedmica" Rusiji, engleski poraz kod Sjeverne Irske,
tucnjava u Istambulu, uspon Lihtenstajna, katastrofa Kameruna i napokon ostvarena nadanja Australije...
EUROPA
Skupina 1
Velika Van Bastenova serija
Trostruki osvajac europske Zlatne lopte, Marco van Basten, bio je wunderkind kao igrac, a u kvalifikacijama za Svjetsko prvenstvo pokazao se i kao darovit trener. Izabravsi niz manje poznatih igraca iz nizozemskog prvenstva ostvario je 10 pobjeda u prvih 11 utakmica, a drugi je nerijeseni zabiljezio u zadnjem kolu protiv Makedonije, kad je njegova momcad vec bila sigurno prva u skupini. Njegovi protivnici kazu da je kroz citave kvalifikacije imao i mnogo srece, no mi mu nemamo sto zamjeriti: zahvaljujuci pobjedi Nizozemske u Pragu 8. listopada i Hrvatska je mogla proslaviti proboj u Njemacku, cetiri dana prije no sto smo ocekivali.
Armenija zapanjila Rumunjsku
Bio je 17. studenog 2004. kad je Rumunjska do?la na prag eliminacije na terenu na kojemu se najmanje nadala te?ko?ama: u Jerevanu. Gosti su zapo?eli po planu, vode?im pogotkom Cipriana Marice, no Armenija im je pomrsila planove izjedna?iv?i posredstvom Dorhoyana u 62. minuti. Od tog su trenutka Rumunji zaostali u trci za Nizozemskom i ?e?kom...i nikad se nisu vratili na kolosijek.
U ovoj je skupini pothvat izvela i Andorra, svladav?i Makedoniju s 1:0, tako?er u po?etku natjecanja.
Skupina 2
Adio, Gr?ka
Va?eg novinara nije zbunila pobjeda Grka na Europskom prvenstvu 2004. Prognoza je glasila: "Ne?e se plasirati na Svjetsko prvenstvo. Potro?ili su sre?u za idu?ih 100 godina."
Ve? 9. rujna 2004., Gr?ka je posrnula kod Albanije u Tirani s 1:2. Edvin Murati i Adrian Aliaj pogocima u prvih 11 minuta vratili su Grke tamo gdje spadaju, u europsku osrednjost.
Danska je 8. listopada ove godine, pobjedom od 1:0 u Kopenhagenu, i kona?no zaustavila euro-prvake na putu u Njema?ku. No, i sama je Danska po?inila grijeh, koji ju je kona?no stajao plasmana: 17. studenog pro?le godine odigrala je samo 2:2 u Gruziji i zaostala za odlu?uju?i korak u trci s Ukrajinom i Turskom.
Napokon Ukrajina
Tri je puta Ukrajina ispadala u dodatnim kvalifikacijama: 1997. od Hrvatske s 0:2 i 1:1, 1999. od Slovenije s 1:2 i 1:1 te 2001. protiv Njema?ke s 1:1 i 1:4. Napokon ?e se i ?ev?enko pojaviti na jednom velikom natjecanju. Ne mo?emo re?i da nije zaslu?io.
Skupina 3
Lihten?tajn zaustavio Portugal!
Portugal je europski doprvak i priznata velesila svjetskog nogometa, no skauti Luiza Felipea Scolarija nisu kvalitetno snimili igru sile u nastajanju - Lihten?tajna. Mora da su Portugalci 9. listopada 2004. o?ekivali sigurna tri boda, osobito nakon ?to su nezaobilazni Pedro Pauleta i doma?i igra? Daniel Hasler u prvom poluvremenu postigli 0:2. No, nakon odmora Lihten?tajn je pokazao pravo lice i izjedna?io golovima Burgmeiera i Becka.
I godinu dana kasnije momci iz minijaturne kne?evine namu?ili su Portugal, izvukav?i u Lisabonu ?asnih 1:2 nakon vodstva od 1:0 do kraja prvog dijela!
Sedmica u ruskoj mre?i
Ako nije mogao svladati Lihten?tajn, Portugal se u punoj formi pokazao samo ?etiri dana kasnije protiv Rusije, svladav?i je sa 7:1, uz po dva pogotka Cristiana Ronalda i Petita te po jednim Paulete, Deca i Simaa.
Skupina 4
Nepora?eni Izrael tek tre?i
Niti niz od 10 utakmica bez poraza nije pomogao Izraelu da se izbori barem za dodatne kvalifikacije. Hrabra je bliskoisto?na mom?ad, u nastojanju da se domogne prvog nastupa na Mundialu od 1970., ostala nepora?ena i u Francuskoj i u ?vicarskoj i u Irskoj, no svoje suparnike nije uspjela svladati ni kod ku?e. Minimalne pobjede nad Ciprom i Farskim otocima zadr?ale su Izraelce na tre?em mjestu, s istim brojem bodova kao ?vicarska i s dva manje od Francuske. Mo?da im je za odlu?uju?i korak nedostajao jedan - Giovanni Rosso?
Skupina 5
Slovenci frustrirali Italiju
Italija je velesila, Slovenija je mom?ad obi?nih radnika, no taj odnos snaga nije bio vi?en u Celju u dvoboju susjeda. Slovenija ne samo da nije bila nadigrana, ve? je pobijedila s 1:0, golom glavom tada?njeg Dinamovca Bo?tjana Cesara. Na koncu ?e Italija, dakako, zauzeti prvo mjesto, no "Janezi" ?e se uvijek mo?i tje?iti da su nadma?ili mom?ad 25 puta ve?e dr?ave trostrukih svjetskih prvaka.
Skupina 6
Sjeverna Irska stekla nezavisnost!
Engleska je po nekima favorit Svjetskog prvenstva. Odu?evila je promatra?e pobjedom nad Argentinom u nedavnoj prijateljskoj utakmici. No, u kvalifikacijama ne samo da nije odu?evila, ve? je razjarila vlastite navija?e i, ponekad, nasmijala neutralce. Poraz od vrlo slabe Sjeverne Irske s 0:1 9. rujna ove godine, dok jo? nije osigurala mjesto na Mundialu, naveo je engleski dio publike na skandiranje, "Sack the Swede" (Maknite ?ve?u). Uslijedila je na jedvite jade izborena pobjeda protiv Austrije, iz jedanaesterca i s igra?em manje nakon isklju?enja Beckhama.
Austrijanci u "ekstazi"
Na?im dragim prijateljima i vodi?ima u Europsku uniju naprosto ne ide: Azerbajd?an-Austrija 0:0. Ako ni?ta drugo, u ovim kvalifikacijama Austrijanci nisu "popili" devet pogodaka kao koncem devedesetih od ?panjolske.
Skupina 7
?panjolska u milosti mo?nih
Ve? je u Zenici BiH pokazala da je u stanju nositi se s razvikanom ?panjolskom. Bilo je 1:1. U drugom krugu natjecanja, u Valenciji, 8. lipnja ove godine, Bosanci su vodili s 1:0 pogotkom Mi?imovi?a od 38. minute i taj rezultat dr?ali do 90. minute. I do 92. I do 94. I do 96. No, do pobjede nisu do?li, jer je Marchena ugurao loptu u mre?u kad je ve? po?ela 97. minuta, preciznije 52. minuta drugog poluvremena. Engleski sudac Bennett imao je poseban do?ivljaj dimenzije vremena, a prethodno je isklju?io i dva bosanska igra?a. Uzalud su se Bosanci bunili, jer ta dva klju?na izgubljena boda vi?e nisu mogli nadoknaditi.
I u doigravanju, ?panjolska je imala kvalitetno su?enje. Pobjeda od 5:1 protiv Slova?ke bila je jednako realna kao i nedavni uspjeh njihove ko?arka?ke reprezentacije nad Hrvatskom na Euru u Beogradu.
Skupina 8
Mjuzikl u La Valetti: "Malta, Malta"
Hrvatska je dvaput pobijedila ?vedsku, koja jako, jako rijetko gubi u kvalifikacijama. Ali, Hrvatska je samo jednom tukla Maltu. U Zagrebu. U La Valetti 7. rujna 2005. bilo je te?ko, 1:1. Nakon vodstva golom Nike Kranj?ara, Vatreni su posustali i u 74. minuti primili pogodak direktno iz slobodnjaka. Steve Wellmann zabio je s 30 metara, "kroz u?i" Stipe Pletikose.
Ako je reprezentacija posrnula, nisu i hrvatski navija?i. Na tribinama Ta'Qalija izveli su veli?anstveni spektakl, svladav?i brojna plasti?na sjedala i susjedne navija?e, te hrabro se boriv?i protiv doma?e policije. Sto je Hrvata potom osu?eno za prekr?aj i deportirano, uz molbu da se neko vrijeme ne vra?aju na Maltu.
Majstorija Ibrahimovi?a
Ne mora nam se svi?ati Zlatan Ibrahimovi? kao tip, ali kao nogometa? je "broj 1", ili negdje blizu tog mjesta. Pogodak Ma?arskoj u suda?koj nadoknadi bio je remek djelo nogometnog genija. Suhi dribling u kaznenom prostoru i bomba, iz o?trog kuta, pod pre?ku Gabora Kiralyja.
DODATNE KVALIFIKACIJE
Istambul, opasan grad
Turska je tre?eplasirana nacija s pro?log Svjetskog prvenstva, no ne?e braniti broncu iz Japana i Koreje. U razigravanju sa ?vicarskom nedostajao joj je gol za prolaz. Alpinci su kod ku?e slavili s 2:0, Turci su uzvratili s 4:2. Uzbudljivo je bilo na travnjaku, jo? uzbudljivije na putu prema svla?ionicama. ?vicarci ka?u da su dobili batina te da su ih udarali ne samo doma?i igra?i ve? i redari. FIFA-ina je istraga u tijeku, a Turskoj prijeti drasti?na kazna. Govorka se i o isklju?enju s idu?eg Mundiala, no tako drasti?na valjda ne?e biti. Neka im se naredi da igraju doma?e - u Gr?koj. To bi im bila dovoljno o?tra kazna.
Best of the Qualifying Stage
Najznacajniji trenuci kvalifikacija za Svjetsko prvenstvo 2006.
Kvalifikacije za Weltmeisterschaft u Njemackoj su za nama, ali nece biti zaboravljene. Iznenadjenja, preokreta, incidenata i sudackih previda bilo je dovoljno i za najistancanije ukuse: prvi uspjeh Ukrajine, portugalska "sedmica" Rusiji, engleski poraz kod Sjeverne Irske,
tucnjava u Istambulu, uspon Lihtenstajna, katastrofa Kameruna i napokon ostvarena nadanja Australije...
EUROPA
Skupina 1
Velika Van Bastenova serija
Trostruki osvajac europske Zlatne lopte, Marco van Basten, bio je wunderkind kao igrac, a u kvalifikacijama za Svjetsko prvenstvo pokazao se i kao darovit trener. Izabravsi niz manje poznatih igraca iz nizozemskog prvenstva ostvario je 10 pobjeda u prvih 11 utakmica, a drugi je nerijeseni zabiljezio u zadnjem kolu protiv Makedonije, kad je njegova momcad vec bila sigurno prva u skupini. Njegovi protivnici kazu da je kroz citave kvalifikacije imao i mnogo srece, no mi mu nemamo sto zamjeriti: zahvaljujuci pobjedi Nizozemske u Pragu 8. listopada i Hrvatska je mogla proslaviti proboj u Njemacku, cetiri dana prije no sto smo ocekivali.
Armenija zapanjila Rumunjsku
Bio je 17. studenog 2004. kad je Rumunjska do?la na prag eliminacije na terenu na kojemu se najmanje nadala te?ko?ama: u Jerevanu. Gosti su zapo?eli po planu, vode?im pogotkom Cipriana Marice, no Armenija im je pomrsila planove izjedna?iv?i posredstvom Dorhoyana u 62. minuti. Od tog su trenutka Rumunji zaostali u trci za Nizozemskom i ?e?kom...i nikad se nisu vratili na kolosijek.
U ovoj je skupini pothvat izvela i Andorra, svladav?i Makedoniju s 1:0, tako?er u po?etku natjecanja.
Skupina 2
Adio, Gr?ka
Va?eg novinara nije zbunila pobjeda Grka na Europskom prvenstvu 2004. Prognoza je glasila: "Ne?e se plasirati na Svjetsko prvenstvo. Potro?ili su sre?u za idu?ih 100 godina."
Ve? 9. rujna 2004., Gr?ka je posrnula kod Albanije u Tirani s 1:2. Edvin Murati i Adrian Aliaj pogocima u prvih 11 minuta vratili su Grke tamo gdje spadaju, u europsku osrednjost.
Danska je 8. listopada ove godine, pobjedom od 1:0 u Kopenhagenu, i kona?no zaustavila euro-prvake na putu u Njema?ku. No, i sama je Danska po?inila grijeh, koji ju je kona?no stajao plasmana: 17. studenog pro?le godine odigrala je samo 2:2 u Gruziji i zaostala za odlu?uju?i korak u trci s Ukrajinom i Turskom.
Napokon Ukrajina
Tri je puta Ukrajina ispadala u dodatnim kvalifikacijama: 1997. od Hrvatske s 0:2 i 1:1, 1999. od Slovenije s 1:2 i 1:1 te 2001. protiv Njema?ke s 1:1 i 1:4. Napokon ?e se i ?ev?enko pojaviti na jednom velikom natjecanju. Ne mo?emo re?i da nije zaslu?io.
Skupina 3
Lihten?tajn zaustavio Portugal!
Portugal je europski doprvak i priznata velesila svjetskog nogometa, no skauti Luiza Felipea Scolarija nisu kvalitetno snimili igru sile u nastajanju - Lihten?tajna. Mora da su Portugalci 9. listopada 2004. o?ekivali sigurna tri boda, osobito nakon ?to su nezaobilazni Pedro Pauleta i doma?i igra? Daniel Hasler u prvom poluvremenu postigli 0:2. No, nakon odmora Lihten?tajn je pokazao pravo lice i izjedna?io golovima Burgmeiera i Becka.
I godinu dana kasnije momci iz minijaturne kne?evine namu?ili su Portugal, izvukav?i u Lisabonu ?asnih 1:2 nakon vodstva od 1:0 do kraja prvog dijela!
Sedmica u ruskoj mre?i
Ako nije mogao svladati Lihten?tajn, Portugal se u punoj formi pokazao samo ?etiri dana kasnije protiv Rusije, svladav?i je sa 7:1, uz po dva pogotka Cristiana Ronalda i Petita te po jednim Paulete, Deca i Simaa.
Skupina 4
Nepora?eni Izrael tek tre?i
Niti niz od 10 utakmica bez poraza nije pomogao Izraelu da se izbori barem za dodatne kvalifikacije. Hrabra je bliskoisto?na mom?ad, u nastojanju da se domogne prvog nastupa na Mundialu od 1970., ostala nepora?ena i u Francuskoj i u ?vicarskoj i u Irskoj, no svoje suparnike nije uspjela svladati ni kod ku?e. Minimalne pobjede nad Ciprom i Farskim otocima zadr?ale su Izraelce na tre?em mjestu, s istim brojem bodova kao ?vicarska i s dva manje od Francuske. Mo?da im je za odlu?uju?i korak nedostajao jedan - Giovanni Rosso?
Skupina 5
Slovenci frustrirali Italiju
Italija je velesila, Slovenija je mom?ad obi?nih radnika, no taj odnos snaga nije bio vi?en u Celju u dvoboju susjeda. Slovenija ne samo da nije bila nadigrana, ve? je pobijedila s 1:0, golom glavom tada?njeg Dinamovca Bo?tjana Cesara. Na koncu ?e Italija, dakako, zauzeti prvo mjesto, no "Janezi" ?e se uvijek mo?i tje?iti da su nadma?ili mom?ad 25 puta ve?e dr?ave trostrukih svjetskih prvaka.
Skupina 6
Sjeverna Irska stekla nezavisnost!
Engleska je po nekima favorit Svjetskog prvenstva. Odu?evila je promatra?e pobjedom nad Argentinom u nedavnoj prijateljskoj utakmici. No, u kvalifikacijama ne samo da nije odu?evila, ve? je razjarila vlastite navija?e i, ponekad, nasmijala neutralce. Poraz od vrlo slabe Sjeverne Irske s 0:1 9. rujna ove godine, dok jo? nije osigurala mjesto na Mundialu, naveo je engleski dio publike na skandiranje, "Sack the Swede" (Maknite ?ve?u). Uslijedila je na jedvite jade izborena pobjeda protiv Austrije, iz jedanaesterca i s igra?em manje nakon isklju?enja Beckhama.
Austrijanci u "ekstazi"
Na?im dragim prijateljima i vodi?ima u Europsku uniju naprosto ne ide: Azerbajd?an-Austrija 0:0. Ako ni?ta drugo, u ovim kvalifikacijama Austrijanci nisu "popili" devet pogodaka kao koncem devedesetih od ?panjolske.
Skupina 7
?panjolska u milosti mo?nih
Ve? je u Zenici BiH pokazala da je u stanju nositi se s razvikanom ?panjolskom. Bilo je 1:1. U drugom krugu natjecanja, u Valenciji, 8. lipnja ove godine, Bosanci su vodili s 1:0 pogotkom Mi?imovi?a od 38. minute i taj rezultat dr?ali do 90. minute. I do 92. I do 94. I do 96. No, do pobjede nisu do?li, jer je Marchena ugurao loptu u mre?u kad je ve? po?ela 97. minuta, preciznije 52. minuta drugog poluvremena. Engleski sudac Bennett imao je poseban do?ivljaj dimenzije vremena, a prethodno je isklju?io i dva bosanska igra?a. Uzalud su se Bosanci bunili, jer ta dva klju?na izgubljena boda vi?e nisu mogli nadoknaditi.
I u doigravanju, ?panjolska je imala kvalitetno su?enje. Pobjeda od 5:1 protiv Slova?ke bila je jednako realna kao i nedavni uspjeh njihove ko?arka?ke reprezentacije nad Hrvatskom na Euru u Beogradu.
Skupina 8
Mjuzikl u La Valetti: "Malta, Malta"
Hrvatska je dvaput pobijedila ?vedsku, koja jako, jako rijetko gubi u kvalifikacijama. Ali, Hrvatska je samo jednom tukla Maltu. U Zagrebu. U La Valetti 7. rujna 2005. bilo je te?ko, 1:1. Nakon vodstva golom Nike Kranj?ara, Vatreni su posustali i u 74. minuti primili pogodak direktno iz slobodnjaka. Steve Wellmann zabio je s 30 metara, "kroz u?i" Stipe Pletikose.
Ako je reprezentacija posrnula, nisu i hrvatski navija?i. Na tribinama Ta'Qalija izveli su veli?anstveni spektakl, svladav?i brojna plasti?na sjedala i susjedne navija?e, te hrabro se boriv?i protiv doma?e policije. Sto je Hrvata potom osu?eno za prekr?aj i deportirano, uz molbu da se neko vrijeme ne vra?aju na Maltu.
Majstorija Ibrahimovi?a
Ne mora nam se svi?ati Zlatan Ibrahimovi? kao tip, ali kao nogometa? je "broj 1", ili negdje blizu tog mjesta. Pogodak Ma?arskoj u suda?koj nadoknadi bio je remek djelo nogometnog genija. Suhi dribling u kaznenom prostoru i bomba, iz o?trog kuta, pod pre?ku Gabora Kiralyja.
DODATNE KVALIFIKACIJE
Istambul, opasan grad
Turska je tre?eplasirana nacija s pro?log Svjetskog prvenstva, no ne?e braniti broncu iz Japana i Koreje. U razigravanju sa ?vicarskom nedostajao joj je gol za prolaz. Alpinci su kod ku?e slavili s 2:0, Turci su uzvratili s 4:2. Uzbudljivo je bilo na travnjaku, jo? uzbudljivije na putu prema svla?ionicama. ?vicarci ka?u da su dobili batina te da su ih udarali ne samo doma?i igra?i ve? i redari. FIFA-ina je istraga u tijeku, a Turskoj prijeti drasti?na kazna. Govorka se i o isklju?enju s idu?eg Mundiala, no tako drasti?na valjda ne?e biti. Neka im se naredi da igraju doma?e - u Gr?koj. To bi im bila dovoljno o?tra kazna.
Saturday, December 10, 2005
World Cup Qualification Highlights
Best of the Qualifying Stage
Najznačajniji trenuci kvalifikacija za Svjetsko prvenstvo 2006.
Kvalifikacije za Weltmeisterschaft u Njemačkoj su za nama, ali neće biti zaboravljene. Iznenadjenja, preokreta, incidenata i sudačkih previda bilo je dovoljno i za najistančanije ukuse: prvi uspjeh Ukrajine, portugalska "sedmica" Rusiji, engleski poraz kod Sjeverne Irske,
tučnjava u Istanbulu, uspon Lihtenštajna, katastrofa Kameruna i napokon ostvarena nadanja Australije...
EUROPA
Skupina 1
Velika Van Bastenova serija
Trostruki osvajač europske Zlatne lopte, Marco van Basten, bio je wunderkind kao igrač, a u kvalifikacijama za Svjetsko prvenstvo pokazao se i kao darovit trener. Izabravši niz manje poznatih igrača iz nizozemskog prvenstva ostvario je 10 pobjeda u prvih 11 utakmica, a drugi je neriješeni zabilježio u zadnjem kolu protiv Makedonije, kad je njegova momčad već bila sigurno prva u skupini. Njegovi protivnici kažu da je kroz čitave kvalifikacije imao i mnogo sreće, no mi mu nemamo sto zamjeriti: zahvaljujući pobjedi Nizozemske u Pragu 8. listopada i Hrvatska je mogla proslaviti proboj u Njemačku, četiri dana prije no sto smo očekivali.
Armenija zapanjila Rumunjsku
Bio je 17. studenog 2004. kad je Rumunjska došla na prag eliminacije na terenu na kojemu se najmanje nadala teškoćama: u Jerevanu. Gosti su započeli po planu, vodećim pogotkom Cipriana Marice, no Armenija im je pomrsila planove izjednačivši posredstvom Dorhoyana u 62. minuti. Od tog su trenutka Rumunji zaostali u trci za Nizozemskom i češkom...i nikad se nisu vratili na kolosijek.
U ovoj je skupini pothvat izvela i Andorra, svladavši Makedoniju s 1:0, također u početku natjecanja.
Skupina 2
Adio, Grčka
Vašeg novinara nije zbunila pobjeda Grka na Europskom prvenstvu 2004. Prognoza je glasila: "Neće se plasirati na Svjetsko prvenstvo. Potrošili su sreću za idućih 100 godina."
Već 9. rujna 2004., Grčka je posrnula kod Albanije u Tirani s 1:2. Edvin Murati i Adrian Aliaj pogocima u prvih 11 minuta vratili su Grke tamo gdje spadaju, u europsku osrednjost.
Danska je 8. listopada ove godine, pobjedom od 1:0 u Kopenhagenu, i konačno zaustavila euro-prvake na putu u Njemačku. No, i sama je Danska počinila grijeh, koji ju je konačno stajao plasmana: 17. studenog prošle godine odigrala je samo 2:2 u Gruziji i zaostala za odlučujući korak u trci s Ukrajinom i Turskom.
Napokon Ukrajina
Tri je puta Ukrajina ispadala u dodatnim kvalifikacijama: 1997. od Hrvatske s 0:2 i 1:1, 1999. od Slovenije s 1:2 i 1:1 te 2001. protiv Njemačke s 1:1 i 1:4. Napokon će se i Ševčenko pojaviti na jednom velikom natjecanju. Ne možemo reći da nije zaslužio.
Skupina 3
Lihtenštajn zaustavio Portugal!
Portugal je europski doprvak i priznata velesila svjetskog nogometa, no skauti Luiza Felipea Scolarija nisu kvalitetno snimili igru sile u nastajanju - Lihtenštajna. Mora da su Portugalci 9. listopada 2004. očekivali sigurna tri boda, osobito nakon što su nezaobilazni Pedro Pauleta i domaši igraš Daniel Hasler u prvom poluvremenu postigli 0:2. No, nakon odmora Lihtenštajn je pokazao pravo lice i izjednačio golovima Burgmeiera i Becka.
I godinu dana kasnije momci iz minijaturne kneževine namučili su Portugal, izvukavši u Lisabonu časnih 1:2 nakon vodstva od 1:0 do kraja prvog dijela!
Sedmica u ruskoj mreži
Ako nije mogao svladati Lihtenštajn, Portugal se u punoj formi pokazao samo četiri dana kasnije protiv Rusije, svladavši je sa 7:1, uz po dva pogotka Cristiana Ronaldo i Petita te po jednim Paulete, Deca i Simaa.
Skupina 4
Neporaženi Izrael tek treći
Niti niz od 10 utakmica bez poraza nije pomogao Izraelu da se izbori barem za dodatne kvalifikacije. Hrabra je bliskoistočna momčad, u nastojanju da se domogne prvog nastupa na Mundialu od 1970., ostala neporažena i u Francuskoj i u švicarskoj i u Irskoj, no svoje suparnike nije uspjela svladati ni kod kuće. Minimalne pobjede nad Ciprom i Farskim otocima zadržale su Izraelce na trećem mjestu, s istim brojem bodova kao švicarska i s dva manje od Francuske. Možda im je za odlučujući korak nedostajao jedan - Giovanni Rosso?
Skupina 5
Slovenci frustrirali Italiju
Italija je velesila, Slovenija je momčad običnih radnika, no taj odnos snaga nije bio viđen u Celju u dvoboju susjeda. Slovenija ne samo da nije bila nadigrana, već je pobijedila s 1:0, golom glavom tadašnjeg Dinamovca Boštjana Cesara. Na koncu će Italija, dakako, zauzeti prvo mjesto, no "Janezi" će se uvijek moći tješiti da su nadmašili momčad 25 puta veće države trostrukih svjetskih prvaka.
Skupina 6
Sjeverna Irska stekla nezavisnost!
Engleska je po nekima favorit Svjetskog prvenstva. Oduševila je promatraše pobjedom nad Argentinom u nedavnoj prijateljskoj utakmici. No, u kvalifikacijama ne samo da nije oduševila, već je razjarila vlastite navijaše i, ponekad, nasmijala neutralce. Poraz od vrlo slabe Sjeverne Irske s 0:1 9. rujna ove godine, dok još nije osigurala mjesto na Mundialu, naveo je engleski dio publike na skandiranje, "Sack the Swede" (Maknite Šveđu). Uslijedila je na jedvite jade izborena pobjeda protiv Austrije, iz jedanaesterca i s igračem manje nakon isključenja Beckhama.
Austrijanci u "ekstazi"
Našim dragim prijateljima i vodičima u Europsku uniju naprosto ne ide: Azerbajdžan-Austrija 0:0. Ako ništa drugo, u ovim kvalifikacijama Austrijanci nisu "popili" devet pogodaka kao koncem devedesetih od španjolske.
Skupina 7
španjolska u milosti moćnih
Već je u Zenici BiH pokazala da je u stanju nositi se s razvikanom španjolskom. Bilo je 1:1. U drugom krugu natjecanja, u Valenciji, 8. lipnja ove godine, Bosanci su vodili s 1:0 pogotkom Mišimovića od 38. minute i taj rezultat držali do 90. minute. I do 92. I do 94. I do 96. No, do pobjede nisu došli, jer je Marchena ugurao loptu u mrežu kad je već počela 97. minuta, preciznije 52. minuta drugog poluvremena. Engleski sudac Bennett imao je poseban doživljaj dimenzije vremena, a prethodno je isključio i dva bosanska igrača. Uzalud su se Bosanci bunili, jer ta dva ključna izgubljena boda više nisu mogli nadoknaditi.
I u doigravanju, španjolska je imala kvalitetno sušenje. Pobjeda od 5:1 protiv Slovačke bila je jednako realna kao i nedavni uspjeh njihove košarkaške reprezentacije nad Hrvatskom na Euru u Beogradu.
Skupina 8
Mjuzikl u La Valetti: "Malta, Malta"
Hrvatska je dvaput pobijedila švedsku, koja jako, jako rijetko gubi u kvalifikacijama. Ali, Hrvatska je samo jednom tukla Maltu. U Zagrebu. U La Valetti 7. rujna 2005. bilo je teško, 1:1. Nakon vodstva golom Nike Kranjčara, Vatreni su posustali i u 74. minuti primili pogodak direktno iz slobodnjaka. Steve Wellmann zabio je s 30 metara, "kroz uši" Stipe Pletikose.
Ako je reprezentacija posrnula, nisu i hrvatski navijači. Na tribinama Ta'Qalija izveli su veličanstveni spektakl, svladavši brojna plastična sjedala i susjedne navijaše, te hrabro se borivši protiv domaše policije. Sto je Hrvata potom osušeno za prekršaj i deportirano, uz molbu da se neko vrijeme ne vraćaju na Maltu.
Majstorija Ibrahimovića
Ne mora nam se sviđati Zlatan Ibrahimović kao tip, ali kao nogometaš je "broj 1", ili negdje blizu tog mjesta. Pogodak Mađarskoj u sudačkoj nadoknadi bio je remen djelo nogometnog genija. Suhi dribling u kaznenom prostoru i bomba, iz oštrog kuta, pod prečku Gabora Kiralyja.
DODATNE KVALIFIKACIJE
Istanbul, opasan grad
Turska je trećeplasirana nacija s prošlog Svjetskog prvenstva, no neće braniti broncu iz Japana i Koreje. U razigravanju sa švicarskom nedostajao joj je gol za prolaz. Alpinci su kod kuće slavili s 2:0, Turci su uzvratili s 4:2. Uzbudljivo je bilo na travnjaku, još uzbudljivije na putu prema svlačionicama. Švicarci kašu da su dobili batina te da su ih udarali ne samo domaši igrači već i redari. FIFA-ina je istraga u tijeku, a Turskoj prijeti drastična kazna. Govorka se i o isključenju s idućeg Mundiala, no tako drastična valjda neće biti. Neka im se naredi da igraju domaše - u Grčkoj. To bi im bila dovoljno oštra kazna.
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Najznačajniji trenuci kvalifikacija za Svjetsko prvenstvo 2006.
Kvalifikacije za Weltmeisterschaft u Njemačkoj su za nama, ali neće biti zaboravljene. Iznenadjenja, preokreta, incidenata i sudačkih previda bilo je dovoljno i za najistančanije ukuse: prvi uspjeh Ukrajine, portugalska "sedmica" Rusiji, engleski poraz kod Sjeverne Irske,
tučnjava u Istanbulu, uspon Lihtenštajna, katastrofa Kameruna i napokon ostvarena nadanja Australije...
EUROPA
Skupina 1
Velika Van Bastenova serija
Trostruki osvajač europske Zlatne lopte, Marco van Basten, bio je wunderkind kao igrač, a u kvalifikacijama za Svjetsko prvenstvo pokazao se i kao darovit trener. Izabravši niz manje poznatih igrača iz nizozemskog prvenstva ostvario je 10 pobjeda u prvih 11 utakmica, a drugi je neriješeni zabilježio u zadnjem kolu protiv Makedonije, kad je njegova momčad već bila sigurno prva u skupini. Njegovi protivnici kažu da je kroz čitave kvalifikacije imao i mnogo sreće, no mi mu nemamo sto zamjeriti: zahvaljujući pobjedi Nizozemske u Pragu 8. listopada i Hrvatska je mogla proslaviti proboj u Njemačku, četiri dana prije no sto smo očekivali.
Armenija zapanjila Rumunjsku
Bio je 17. studenog 2004. kad je Rumunjska došla na prag eliminacije na terenu na kojemu se najmanje nadala teškoćama: u Jerevanu. Gosti su započeli po planu, vodećim pogotkom Cipriana Marice, no Armenija im je pomrsila planove izjednačivši posredstvom Dorhoyana u 62. minuti. Od tog su trenutka Rumunji zaostali u trci za Nizozemskom i češkom...i nikad se nisu vratili na kolosijek.
U ovoj je skupini pothvat izvela i Andorra, svladavši Makedoniju s 1:0, također u početku natjecanja.
Skupina 2
Adio, Grčka
Vašeg novinara nije zbunila pobjeda Grka na Europskom prvenstvu 2004. Prognoza je glasila: "Neće se plasirati na Svjetsko prvenstvo. Potrošili su sreću za idućih 100 godina."
Već 9. rujna 2004., Grčka je posrnula kod Albanije u Tirani s 1:2. Edvin Murati i Adrian Aliaj pogocima u prvih 11 minuta vratili su Grke tamo gdje spadaju, u europsku osrednjost.
Danska je 8. listopada ove godine, pobjedom od 1:0 u Kopenhagenu, i konačno zaustavila euro-prvake na putu u Njemačku. No, i sama je Danska počinila grijeh, koji ju je konačno stajao plasmana: 17. studenog prošle godine odigrala je samo 2:2 u Gruziji i zaostala za odlučujući korak u trci s Ukrajinom i Turskom.
Napokon Ukrajina
Tri je puta Ukrajina ispadala u dodatnim kvalifikacijama: 1997. od Hrvatske s 0:2 i 1:1, 1999. od Slovenije s 1:2 i 1:1 te 2001. protiv Njemačke s 1:1 i 1:4. Napokon će se i Ševčenko pojaviti na jednom velikom natjecanju. Ne možemo reći da nije zaslužio.
Skupina 3
Lihtenštajn zaustavio Portugal!
Portugal je europski doprvak i priznata velesila svjetskog nogometa, no skauti Luiza Felipea Scolarija nisu kvalitetno snimili igru sile u nastajanju - Lihtenštajna. Mora da su Portugalci 9. listopada 2004. očekivali sigurna tri boda, osobito nakon što su nezaobilazni Pedro Pauleta i domaši igraš Daniel Hasler u prvom poluvremenu postigli 0:2. No, nakon odmora Lihtenštajn je pokazao pravo lice i izjednačio golovima Burgmeiera i Becka.
I godinu dana kasnije momci iz minijaturne kneževine namučili su Portugal, izvukavši u Lisabonu časnih 1:2 nakon vodstva od 1:0 do kraja prvog dijela!
Sedmica u ruskoj mreži
Ako nije mogao svladati Lihtenštajn, Portugal se u punoj formi pokazao samo četiri dana kasnije protiv Rusije, svladavši je sa 7:1, uz po dva pogotka Cristiana Ronaldo i Petita te po jednim Paulete, Deca i Simaa.
Skupina 4
Neporaženi Izrael tek treći
Niti niz od 10 utakmica bez poraza nije pomogao Izraelu da se izbori barem za dodatne kvalifikacije. Hrabra je bliskoistočna momčad, u nastojanju da se domogne prvog nastupa na Mundialu od 1970., ostala neporažena i u Francuskoj i u švicarskoj i u Irskoj, no svoje suparnike nije uspjela svladati ni kod kuće. Minimalne pobjede nad Ciprom i Farskim otocima zadržale su Izraelce na trećem mjestu, s istim brojem bodova kao švicarska i s dva manje od Francuske. Možda im je za odlučujući korak nedostajao jedan - Giovanni Rosso?
Skupina 5
Slovenci frustrirali Italiju
Italija je velesila, Slovenija je momčad običnih radnika, no taj odnos snaga nije bio viđen u Celju u dvoboju susjeda. Slovenija ne samo da nije bila nadigrana, već je pobijedila s 1:0, golom glavom tadašnjeg Dinamovca Boštjana Cesara. Na koncu će Italija, dakako, zauzeti prvo mjesto, no "Janezi" će se uvijek moći tješiti da su nadmašili momčad 25 puta veće države trostrukih svjetskih prvaka.
Skupina 6
Sjeverna Irska stekla nezavisnost!
Engleska je po nekima favorit Svjetskog prvenstva. Oduševila je promatraše pobjedom nad Argentinom u nedavnoj prijateljskoj utakmici. No, u kvalifikacijama ne samo da nije oduševila, već je razjarila vlastite navijaše i, ponekad, nasmijala neutralce. Poraz od vrlo slabe Sjeverne Irske s 0:1 9. rujna ove godine, dok još nije osigurala mjesto na Mundialu, naveo je engleski dio publike na skandiranje, "Sack the Swede" (Maknite Šveđu). Uslijedila je na jedvite jade izborena pobjeda protiv Austrije, iz jedanaesterca i s igračem manje nakon isključenja Beckhama.
Austrijanci u "ekstazi"
Našim dragim prijateljima i vodičima u Europsku uniju naprosto ne ide: Azerbajdžan-Austrija 0:0. Ako ništa drugo, u ovim kvalifikacijama Austrijanci nisu "popili" devet pogodaka kao koncem devedesetih od španjolske.
Skupina 7
španjolska u milosti moćnih
Već je u Zenici BiH pokazala da je u stanju nositi se s razvikanom španjolskom. Bilo je 1:1. U drugom krugu natjecanja, u Valenciji, 8. lipnja ove godine, Bosanci su vodili s 1:0 pogotkom Mišimovića od 38. minute i taj rezultat držali do 90. minute. I do 92. I do 94. I do 96. No, do pobjede nisu došli, jer je Marchena ugurao loptu u mrežu kad je već počela 97. minuta, preciznije 52. minuta drugog poluvremena. Engleski sudac Bennett imao je poseban doživljaj dimenzije vremena, a prethodno je isključio i dva bosanska igrača. Uzalud su se Bosanci bunili, jer ta dva ključna izgubljena boda više nisu mogli nadoknaditi.
I u doigravanju, španjolska je imala kvalitetno sušenje. Pobjeda od 5:1 protiv Slovačke bila je jednako realna kao i nedavni uspjeh njihove košarkaške reprezentacije nad Hrvatskom na Euru u Beogradu.
Skupina 8
Mjuzikl u La Valetti: "Malta, Malta"
Hrvatska je dvaput pobijedila švedsku, koja jako, jako rijetko gubi u kvalifikacijama. Ali, Hrvatska je samo jednom tukla Maltu. U Zagrebu. U La Valetti 7. rujna 2005. bilo je teško, 1:1. Nakon vodstva golom Nike Kranjčara, Vatreni su posustali i u 74. minuti primili pogodak direktno iz slobodnjaka. Steve Wellmann zabio je s 30 metara, "kroz uši" Stipe Pletikose.
Ako je reprezentacija posrnula, nisu i hrvatski navijači. Na tribinama Ta'Qalija izveli su veličanstveni spektakl, svladavši brojna plastična sjedala i susjedne navijaše, te hrabro se borivši protiv domaše policije. Sto je Hrvata potom osušeno za prekršaj i deportirano, uz molbu da se neko vrijeme ne vraćaju na Maltu.
Majstorija Ibrahimovića
Ne mora nam se sviđati Zlatan Ibrahimović kao tip, ali kao nogometaš je "broj 1", ili negdje blizu tog mjesta. Pogodak Mađarskoj u sudačkoj nadoknadi bio je remen djelo nogometnog genija. Suhi dribling u kaznenom prostoru i bomba, iz oštrog kuta, pod prečku Gabora Kiralyja.
DODATNE KVALIFIKACIJE
Istanbul, opasan grad
Turska je trećeplasirana nacija s prošlog Svjetskog prvenstva, no neće braniti broncu iz Japana i Koreje. U razigravanju sa švicarskom nedostajao joj je gol za prolaz. Alpinci su kod kuće slavili s 2:0, Turci su uzvratili s 4:2. Uzbudljivo je bilo na travnjaku, još uzbudljivije na putu prema svlačionicama. Švicarci kašu da su dobili batina te da su ih udarali ne samo domaši igrači već i redari. FIFA-ina je istraga u tijeku, a Turskoj prijeti drastična kazna. Govorka se i o isključenju s idućeg Mundiala, no tako drastična valjda neće biti. Neka im se naredi da igraju domaše - u Grčkoj. To bi im bila dovoljno oštra kazna.
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Thursday, December 8, 2005
The Lying, the Hitch and the Gnawed Lobe
Often in the past, I’ve been accused of being over careful with money. I refute this allegation, only last week I forked out more than a fiver on the wife’s Christmas present. But why should I spend a fortune taking the little ones to see the new movie ‘Narnia’, when for no cost I can share ‘The chronicles of Harry Redknapp’, an epic fantasy adventure.
It’s a tale so ridiculous, any movie executive worth his white powder would have laughed out loud before binning the script. Harry managed Portsmouth, walked out, joined their fierce rivals, then marched the Saints out of the Premiership. A few mistruths, a snag or two and a word in the ear from Frank Lampard Senior later, and Harry is Frattonising with Pompey once again. You couldn’t make it up.
Every team in the country would fancy their chances against the Portsmouth circus this weekend, the computer has generously handed Spurs the three points. Tottenham at 4/9 are the weekend nap.
Some credit the form of Stevie Gerrard for Liverpool’s excellent recent run of results; others believe Peter Crouch’s battle against adversity has inspired his team-mates to greater heights. Personally, i put it down to Harry Kewell elbowing his Mrs to the other side of the World.
Liverpool’s improved form can be directly linked to Harry’s other half being 10,000 miles away in a rat infested hell-hole; Australia.
Kewell never saw eye to eye with antipodean compatriot Mark Viduka when both played for Leeds, possibly because of Harry’s pro-podean beliefs. Harry’s 5/2 to outscore Viduka on Saturday, a decent looking bet considering Liverpool’s water-tight defence.
May I be one of the first to congratulate Peter Crouch on opening his goal scoring account for the Reds. Crouch’s strike was welcomed by thousands of punters across the land, but it’s not all good news, it means we’re in for another three months of winter. Crouchy can be backed at 11/8 to score at any time against Boro, as the 8/15 Pool take all three points.
Newcastle were outplayed by an average Villa team last weekend; imagine what an on song Arsenal could do. The Gunners are a great bet at Even money, they’re literally a re-mortgage job if Michael Owen is ruled out. Graeme Souness is fighting for his life as the manager of the Toon; the fat lady is clearing her throat.
Birmingham City are going to absurd lengths to try to record their first home win of the season, Emile Heskey even tried a Diego Maradona impression against the Hammers last week, or ‘The hand of God-awful’ as it should be christened. Fulham are the latest visitors to St Andrews who are guaranteed at least a point; back the draw at 11/5.
Put these weekend specials on your shopping list:
“Nuts” – Alan Shearer to score with a header 13/2
“Ketchup” – Man Utd to win from behind 6/1
“Crackers” – Wayne Rooney to score two or more goals 7/2
“A pear” – Thierry Henry to score two or more goals 5/1
“Te Bags” – Vaz Te to score at any time 7/4
Quote of the week:
“I’ve stuck by my job for five or six weeks, I’ve done well.”
Paul Gascoigne should stay away from reporters.
Q & A of the week:
Sky Sports reporter Geoff Shreeves to Stuart Pearce:
“Danny Mills has been dropped from the squad, can you tell us why?”
Psycho:
“He’s broke his leg”
Stat, you’re a liberty:
Liverpool and Everton have scored a total of 25 league goals between them this season; Celtic have scored more than that away from home.
Acc of the week:
Liverpool, Sunderland, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham make up the weekend accer; this cheeky little 5 fold pays out at 28/1.
Weekend Betting:
Liverpool v Middlesbrough Saturday 10th December 12.45 Live on Sky
Liverpool 8/15
Draw 12/5
Middlesbrough 5/1
Get on: Liverpool
Liverpool have kept a clean sheet in their last nine matches in all competitions. The Boro haven’t won at Anfield for nigh on 30 years, it’s not rocket science.
Match Special:
Peter Crouch to score the first goal 5/1
Birmingham v Fulham Saturday 10th December 15.00
Birmingham 6/5
Draw 11/5
Fulham 15/8
Get on: Draw
Fulham have a great record at St Andrew’s, three wins and three draws from their last six visits. Blues can’t win at home, Fulham can’t win away. Draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 1-1 11/2
Blackburn v West Ham Saturday 10th December 15.00
Blackburn 10/11
Draw 9/4
West Ham 5/2
Get on: Draw
Blackburn go goal crazy at home to the Hammers, they’ve scored 25 goals in the last 7 meetings. West Ham are playing well away from home, score draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 2-2 14/1
Bolton v Aston Villa Saturday 10th December 15.00
Bolton 4/5
Draw 9/4
Aston Villa 3/1
Get on: Bolton
Bolton are practically ensured a goal start due to a Ridgewell handball, it’s a home win.
Match Special:
Bolton to win 1-0 6/1
Charlton v Sunderland Saturday 10th December 15.00
Charlton 4/7
Draw 12/5
Sunderland 9/2
Get on: Sunderland
It’s six defeats on the bounce for Charlton and they haven’t kept a clean sheet for 13 matches. Sunderland have never lost at the Valley in the Premiership; 9/2 should tempt.
Match Special:
Sunderland to score two or more goals 10/3
Chelsea v Wigan Saturday 10th December 15.00
Chelsea 1/5
Draw 4/1
Wigan 11/1
Get on: Chelsea
Chelsea were extremely lucky to beat Wigan on the opening day, you can take fortune out of the equation here. Home banker.
Match Special:
Chelsea to win 2-0 11/2
West Brom v Man City Saturday 10th December 15.00
West Brom 7/4
Draw 9/4
Man City 5/4
Get on: Man City
The Baggies are unbeaten in three in the league, but City’s demolition of Charlton makes them worthy favourites.
Match Special:
Man City to score three or more goals 9/2
Newcastle v Arsenal Saturday 10th December 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Newcastle 9/4
Draw 9/4
Arsenal Evs
Get on: Arsenal
Newcastle haven’t scored against the Gunners in 6 hours and 20 minutes of football. It’ll be all over Soun.
Match Special:
Arsenal to score three or more goals 7/2
Man Utd v Everton Sunday 11th December 16.00 Live on Sky
Man Utd 2/7
Draw 7/2
Everton 8/1
Get on: Draw
Everton took four points from Man U last season and can be confident of nicking another. It’s four wins out of five for the Moyes Boys, United have a European hangover and Van Nistelrooy misses the match through suspension. A coupon buster is on the cards.
Match Special:
No goal scorer in the match 10/1
Tottenham v Portsmouth Monday 12th December 20.00 Live on Sky
Tottenham 4/9
Draw 13/5
Portsmouth 6/1
Get on: Tottenham
Pompey have lost their last four without finding the net and they concede 3.5 goals a game when they travel to the Lane in the Premiership. Robbie Keane is the hottest striker in the Premiership, as Edgar Davids discovered last week. Home win.
Match Special:
Robbie Keane to score two or more goals 9/2
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It’s a tale so ridiculous, any movie executive worth his white powder would have laughed out loud before binning the script. Harry managed Portsmouth, walked out, joined their fierce rivals, then marched the Saints out of the Premiership. A few mistruths, a snag or two and a word in the ear from Frank Lampard Senior later, and Harry is Frattonising with Pompey once again. You couldn’t make it up.
Every team in the country would fancy their chances against the Portsmouth circus this weekend, the computer has generously handed Spurs the three points. Tottenham at 4/9 are the weekend nap.
Some credit the form of Stevie Gerrard for Liverpool’s excellent recent run of results; others believe Peter Crouch’s battle against adversity has inspired his team-mates to greater heights. Personally, i put it down to Harry Kewell elbowing his Mrs to the other side of the World.
Liverpool’s improved form can be directly linked to Harry’s other half being 10,000 miles away in a rat infested hell-hole; Australia.
Kewell never saw eye to eye with antipodean compatriot Mark Viduka when both played for Leeds, possibly because of Harry’s pro-podean beliefs. Harry’s 5/2 to outscore Viduka on Saturday, a decent looking bet considering Liverpool’s water-tight defence.
May I be one of the first to congratulate Peter Crouch on opening his goal scoring account for the Reds. Crouch’s strike was welcomed by thousands of punters across the land, but it’s not all good news, it means we’re in for another three months of winter. Crouchy can be backed at 11/8 to score at any time against Boro, as the 8/15 Pool take all three points.
Newcastle were outplayed by an average Villa team last weekend; imagine what an on song Arsenal could do. The Gunners are a great bet at Even money, they’re literally a re-mortgage job if Michael Owen is ruled out. Graeme Souness is fighting for his life as the manager of the Toon; the fat lady is clearing her throat.
Birmingham City are going to absurd lengths to try to record their first home win of the season, Emile Heskey even tried a Diego Maradona impression against the Hammers last week, or ‘The hand of God-awful’ as it should be christened. Fulham are the latest visitors to St Andrews who are guaranteed at least a point; back the draw at 11/5.
Put these weekend specials on your shopping list:
“Nuts” – Alan Shearer to score with a header 13/2
“Ketchup” – Man Utd to win from behind 6/1
“Crackers” – Wayne Rooney to score two or more goals 7/2
“A pear” – Thierry Henry to score two or more goals 5/1
“Te Bags” – Vaz Te to score at any time 7/4
Quote of the week:
“I’ve stuck by my job for five or six weeks, I’ve done well.”
Paul Gascoigne should stay away from reporters.
Q & A of the week:
Sky Sports reporter Geoff Shreeves to Stuart Pearce:
“Danny Mills has been dropped from the squad, can you tell us why?”
Psycho:
“He’s broke his leg”
Stat, you’re a liberty:
Liverpool and Everton have scored a total of 25 league goals between them this season; Celtic have scored more than that away from home.
Acc of the week:
Liverpool, Sunderland, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham make up the weekend accer; this cheeky little 5 fold pays out at 28/1.
Weekend Betting:
Liverpool v Middlesbrough Saturday 10th December 12.45 Live on Sky
Liverpool 8/15
Draw 12/5
Middlesbrough 5/1
Get on: Liverpool
Liverpool have kept a clean sheet in their last nine matches in all competitions. The Boro haven’t won at Anfield for nigh on 30 years, it’s not rocket science.
Match Special:
Peter Crouch to score the first goal 5/1
Birmingham v Fulham Saturday 10th December 15.00
Birmingham 6/5
Draw 11/5
Fulham 15/8
Get on: Draw
Fulham have a great record at St Andrew’s, three wins and three draws from their last six visits. Blues can’t win at home, Fulham can’t win away. Draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 1-1 11/2
Blackburn v West Ham Saturday 10th December 15.00
Blackburn 10/11
Draw 9/4
West Ham 5/2
Get on: Draw
Blackburn go goal crazy at home to the Hammers, they’ve scored 25 goals in the last 7 meetings. West Ham are playing well away from home, score draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 2-2 14/1
Bolton v Aston Villa Saturday 10th December 15.00
Bolton 4/5
Draw 9/4
Aston Villa 3/1
Get on: Bolton
Bolton are practically ensured a goal start due to a Ridgewell handball, it’s a home win.
Match Special:
Bolton to win 1-0 6/1
Charlton v Sunderland Saturday 10th December 15.00
Charlton 4/7
Draw 12/5
Sunderland 9/2
Get on: Sunderland
It’s six defeats on the bounce for Charlton and they haven’t kept a clean sheet for 13 matches. Sunderland have never lost at the Valley in the Premiership; 9/2 should tempt.
Match Special:
Sunderland to score two or more goals 10/3
Chelsea v Wigan Saturday 10th December 15.00
Chelsea 1/5
Draw 4/1
Wigan 11/1
Get on: Chelsea
Chelsea were extremely lucky to beat Wigan on the opening day, you can take fortune out of the equation here. Home banker.
Match Special:
Chelsea to win 2-0 11/2
West Brom v Man City Saturday 10th December 15.00
West Brom 7/4
Draw 9/4
Man City 5/4
Get on: Man City
The Baggies are unbeaten in three in the league, but City’s demolition of Charlton makes them worthy favourites.
Match Special:
Man City to score three or more goals 9/2
Newcastle v Arsenal Saturday 10th December 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Newcastle 9/4
Draw 9/4
Arsenal Evs
Get on: Arsenal
Newcastle haven’t scored against the Gunners in 6 hours and 20 minutes of football. It’ll be all over Soun.
Match Special:
Arsenal to score three or more goals 7/2
Man Utd v Everton Sunday 11th December 16.00 Live on Sky
Man Utd 2/7
Draw 7/2
Everton 8/1
Get on: Draw
Everton took four points from Man U last season and can be confident of nicking another. It’s four wins out of five for the Moyes Boys, United have a European hangover and Van Nistelrooy misses the match through suspension. A coupon buster is on the cards.
Match Special:
No goal scorer in the match 10/1
Tottenham v Portsmouth Monday 12th December 20.00 Live on Sky
Tottenham 4/9
Draw 13/5
Portsmouth 6/1
Get on: Tottenham
Pompey have lost their last four without finding the net and they concede 3.5 goals a game when they travel to the Lane in the Premiership. Robbie Keane is the hottest striker in the Premiership, as Edgar Davids discovered last week. Home win.
Match Special:
Robbie Keane to score two or more goals 9/2
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Tags
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Tuesday, December 6, 2005
World Cup Seeds
World Cup Seeding
POT ONE Germany (hosts) Brazil (holders) Argentina England France Italy Mexico Spain
POT TWO Australia Angola Ghana Ivory Coast Togo Tunisia Ecuador Paraguay
POT THREE Croatia Czech Republic The Netherlands Poland Portugal Sweden Switzerland Ukraine
POT FOUR Iran Japan Saudi Arabia South Korea Costa Rica Trinidad & Tobago USA
Special pot: Serbia & Montenegro
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POT ONE Germany (hosts) Brazil (holders) Argentina England France Italy Mexico Spain
POT TWO Australia Angola Ghana Ivory Coast Togo Tunisia Ecuador Paraguay
POT THREE Croatia Czech Republic The Netherlands Poland Portugal Sweden Switzerland Ukraine
POT FOUR Iran Japan Saudi Arabia South Korea Costa Rica Trinidad & Tobago USA
Special pot: Serbia & Montenegro
Bet with Bet 365
World Soccer News
Soccer betting tips
Soccer Books & DVDs
Tags
Soccer News
Sunday, December 4, 2005
Gamba Osaka J1 Champions
Gamba Osaka J.League Champions
Gamba Osaka secured the tighest ever J.league championship race with a 4-2 win away to Kawasaki Frontale. Cross-town rivals Cerezo Osaka failed to gained the win that would have seen them crowned champions when they were held at home to a 2-2 draw by FC Tokyo.
Gamba Osaka fans have something to shout about at last
(c) Soccerphile
Gamba fly the flag for Kansai football (c) Soccerphile
Gamba is the first team from the Kansai area of western Japan to land the J.League title since the championship began in 1993.
J.League 2004-2005 Final Standings
Gamba Osaka P34 Pts 60 (Champions)
Urawa Reds P34 Pts 59
Kashima Antlers P34 Pts 59
JEF United P34 Pts 59
Cerezo Osaka P34 Pts 59
Jubilo Iwate P34 Pts 51
Sanfrecce Hiroshima P34 Pts 50
Kawasaki Frontale P34 Pts 50
Yokohama F Marinos P34 Pts 48
FC Tokyo P34 Pts 47
Oita Trinita P34 Pts 43
Albirex Niigata P34 Pts 42
Ardija Omiya P34 Pts 41
Nagoya Grampus Eight P34 Pts 39
Shimizu S-Pulse P34 Pts 39
Kashiwa Reysol P34 Pts 35#
Tokyo Verdy P34 Pts 30*
Vissel Kobe P34 Pts 21*
*relegated; #relegation/promotion play-off
Results
Kashiwa Antlers 4 Kashiwa Reysol 0
Ardija Omiya 1 Yokohama F Marinos 1
JEF United 2 Nagoya Grampus Eight 1
Tokyo Verdy 4 Oita Trinita 2
Kawasaki Frontale 2 Gamba Osaka 4
Albirex Niigata 0 Urawa Reds 4
Jubilo Iwate 1 Vissel Kobe 0
Cerezo Osaka 2 FC Tokyo 2
Sanfrecce Hiroshima 3 Shimizu S-Pulse 1
J.2
Ventforet's come-from-behind 2-1 win at champions Kyoto Purple Sanga
secured the team from Kofu third place and a play-off spot against Kashiwa Reysol, who finished third-from-last in J.1.
J.2 2004-2005 Final Standings
Kyoto Purple Sanga* P44 Pts 97
Avispa Fukuoka* P44 Pts 78
Ventforet Kofu# P44 Pts 69
Vegalta Sendai P44 Pts 68
Montedio Yamagata P44 Pts 64
Consadole Sapporo P44 Pts 63
Bellmare Shonan P44 Pts 54
Sagan Tosu P44 Pts 52
Vortis Tokushima P44 Pts 52
Hollyhock Mito P44 Pts 52
Yokohama FC P44 Pts 45
Thespa Kusatsu P44 Pts 23
*promoted; #relegation/promotion play-off
Results
Consadole Sapporo 2 Thespa Kusatsu 1
Montedio Yamagata 1 Sagan Tosu 0
Yokohama FC 1 Bellmare Shonan 4
Kyoto Purple Sanga 1 Ventforet Kofu 2
Vortis Tokushima 0 Hollyhock Mito 1
Avispa Fukuoka 1 Vegalta Sendai
J.League News, Match Reports, Analysis and Betting
Saturday, December 3, 2005
European Leagues - Away Record
Who Has The Best Away Record In Europe?
HNL: Naslovi se osvajaju u gostima
Dinamo drugi najbolji gost u Europi!
Sedmom pobjedom u gostima i ukupno 13. u 16 kola Dinamo je zadržao 11 bodova prednosti ispred drugoplasirane Rijeke. Sa sedam pobjeda (od čega šest uzastopnih) u osam gostovanja, Kužeova je momčad u vrhu Europe po broju gostujućih pobjeda. Ispred nje zasad je samo kijevski imenjak, koji je dobio svih osam utakmica izvan svog stadiona, a Dinamo dijeli drugo i treće mjesto s također ukrajinskim Šahtarom.
Kao domaćini, pred Modrima su pali Cibalia (0:4), Inter (0:6), Slaven (0:2), Zagreb (0:4), Međimurje (1:5), Rijeka (0:1) i Varteks (2:5), a jedini je pošteđen ostao Osijek (1:0.)
Prošlu je sezonu maksimirska momčad završila sa skromne tri pobjede na strani, čime je izjednačila svoj najlošiji gostujući učinak, onaj iz 1992. Najviše je gostujućih pobjeda Dinamo imao 1996/97 (13) te 2002/03 (12), dok je Hajduk najbolji učinak zabilježio 2003/04 (11).
Nevjerojatno, međutim, zvuči podatak da je Dinamo na matematičkoj sredini tekućeg prvenstva postigao ukupno onoliko pobjeda koliko i u cijelom prošlom prvenstvu - 13. Da bi paradoks bio još veći, od skromnih 13 prošlogodišnjih pobjeda, Dinamo je tri ostvario u Ligi za ostanak, dakle među slabijim suparnicima. Modri su, recimo i to, sada samo za tri pobjede "kraći" u odnosu na Hajdukov ukupan učinak od 16 pobjeda u cijeloj sezoni 2004/05.
Pobjede u gostima
Dosad je deset puta prvenstvo osvojio klub s najviše pobjeda u gostima, dok 1994., 1995., 1999. i 2002. uspjeh na strani nije donio i naslov prvaka.
U ovom pregledu donosimo broj pobjeda u odnosu na broj odigranih utakmica u gostima te konačni plasman momčadi s najviše pobjeda na tuđim terenima.
Sezona Klub Pobjede Plasman
u gostima
1991/92 Hajduk 8/11 (1.)
1992/93 Dinamo 9/15 (1.)
1993/94 Zagreb 10/17 (2.)
1994/95 Dinamo 7/15 (2.)
1995/96 Dinamo 6/16 (1.)
1996/97 Dinamo 13/15 (1.)
1997/98 Dinamo 8/15 (1.)
1998/99 Rijeka 10/16 (2.)
1999/00 Dinamo 10/16 (1.)
2000/01 Hajduk 8/16 (1.)
2001/02 Hajduk 10/15 (2.)
2002/03 Dinamo 12/16 (1.)
2003/04 Hajduk 11/15 (1.)
2004/05 Hajduk 6/16 (1.)
2005/06 Dinamo 7/8 (1.)
Najbolji europski "gosti"
Tablica donosi broj pobjeda i broj odigranih utakmica u gostima.
1. Dinamo Kijev 8/8
2-3. Dinamo Zagreb 7/8
Šahtar 7/8
4. Hearts 6/7
5-6. Lyon 6/8
Celtic 6/8
7. Žilina 6/9
8-11. Juventus 5/6
Charlton 5/6
Fenerbahce 5/6
Partizan 5/6
12-18. Bayern 5/7
Manchester Utd. 5/7
Feyenoord 5/7
Fehervar 5/7
C. Zvezda 5/7
Galatasaray 5/7
Gaziantepspor 5/7
19. Rijeka 5/8
20. Artmedia 5/9
HNL: Naslovi se osvajaju u gostima
Dinamo drugi najbolji gost u Europi!
Sedmom pobjedom u gostima i ukupno 13. u 16 kola Dinamo je zadržao 11 bodova prednosti ispred drugoplasirane Rijeke. Sa sedam pobjeda (od čega šest uzastopnih) u osam gostovanja, Kužeova je momčad u vrhu Europe po broju gostujućih pobjeda. Ispred nje zasad je samo kijevski imenjak, koji je dobio svih osam utakmica izvan svog stadiona, a Dinamo dijeli drugo i treće mjesto s također ukrajinskim Šahtarom.
Kao domaćini, pred Modrima su pali Cibalia (0:4), Inter (0:6), Slaven (0:2), Zagreb (0:4), Međimurje (1:5), Rijeka (0:1) i Varteks (2:5), a jedini je pošteđen ostao Osijek (1:0.)
Prošlu je sezonu maksimirska momčad završila sa skromne tri pobjede na strani, čime je izjednačila svoj najlošiji gostujući učinak, onaj iz 1992. Najviše je gostujućih pobjeda Dinamo imao 1996/97 (13) te 2002/03 (12), dok je Hajduk najbolji učinak zabilježio 2003/04 (11).
Nevjerojatno, međutim, zvuči podatak da je Dinamo na matematičkoj sredini tekućeg prvenstva postigao ukupno onoliko pobjeda koliko i u cijelom prošlom prvenstvu - 13. Da bi paradoks bio još veći, od skromnih 13 prošlogodišnjih pobjeda, Dinamo je tri ostvario u Ligi za ostanak, dakle među slabijim suparnicima. Modri su, recimo i to, sada samo za tri pobjede "kraći" u odnosu na Hajdukov ukupan učinak od 16 pobjeda u cijeloj sezoni 2004/05.
Pobjede u gostima
Dosad je deset puta prvenstvo osvojio klub s najviše pobjeda u gostima, dok 1994., 1995., 1999. i 2002. uspjeh na strani nije donio i naslov prvaka.
U ovom pregledu donosimo broj pobjeda u odnosu na broj odigranih utakmica u gostima te konačni plasman momčadi s najviše pobjeda na tuđim terenima.
Sezona Klub Pobjede Plasman
u gostima
1991/92 Hajduk 8/11 (1.)
1992/93 Dinamo 9/15 (1.)
1993/94 Zagreb 10/17 (2.)
1994/95 Dinamo 7/15 (2.)
1995/96 Dinamo 6/16 (1.)
1996/97 Dinamo 13/15 (1.)
1997/98 Dinamo 8/15 (1.)
1998/99 Rijeka 10/16 (2.)
1999/00 Dinamo 10/16 (1.)
2000/01 Hajduk 8/16 (1.)
2001/02 Hajduk 10/15 (2.)
2002/03 Dinamo 12/16 (1.)
2003/04 Hajduk 11/15 (1.)
2004/05 Hajduk 6/16 (1.)
2005/06 Dinamo 7/8 (1.)
Najbolji europski "gosti"
Tablica donosi broj pobjeda i broj odigranih utakmica u gostima.
1. Dinamo Kijev 8/8
2-3. Dinamo Zagreb 7/8
Šahtar 7/8
4. Hearts 6/7
5-6. Lyon 6/8
Celtic 6/8
7. Žilina 6/9
8-11. Juventus 5/6
Charlton 5/6
Fenerbahce 5/6
Partizan 5/6
12-18. Bayern 5/7
Manchester Utd. 5/7
Feyenoord 5/7
Fehervar 5/7
C. Zvezda 5/7
Galatasaray 5/7
Gaziantepspor 5/7
19. Rijeka 5/8
20. Artmedia 5/9
Thursday, December 1, 2005
A Tutu Thriller
I’m no stranger to pain; I once watched all of Soccer AM. The feeling of hopelessness I experienced that day is similar to the distress that Manchester United supporters now feel, as they face a future without Roy Keane.
Sir Alex believes that Alan Smith may be a long term replacement for the influential head-case, but Smithy is not a midfielder; he’s like the wife on our first date, a little forward.
Even with Smithy and Fletcher in the team, United are good things at home to Portsmouth. Unfortunately, the 1/5 on offer won’t make you rich, unless you’re Roman Abramovic or Rio Ferdinand.
Rio has admitted taking ballet lessons when he was younger; my wife was shocked by the irony of it all, as she used to be a quality centre back. Rio can be backed at 10/1 to break his goal scoring duck against Pompey, but beware; as an experienced ballet dancer, his celebration may involve two pirouettes and a leap. Not that I know what a pirouette is.
Paul Scholes is also overdue a goal, he hasn’t found the net in 19 games this season, a somewhat disappointing return for a goal scoring midfielder. The ginger lad is far more likely to find the back of the net, 9/4 is on the table.
Nobby Solano was Aston Villa’s most impressive player last season, but quickly left the Midlands to rejoin the Toon Army. The advert may say ‘Nobby’s nuts’, but leaving Villa looks to be a sensible decision. Nobby wisely re-signed, something O’Leary is probably considering.
The last time Villa travelled to St James’ Park, Kieron Dyer and Lee Bowyer had their hand-bags out and both received a red card as a result. The way Villa are playing on the road, they’ll need at least three Geordies to be sent off to have a chance of a draw. Newcastle are the nap of the week, let’s play at 4/5.
Everton were 1-0 winners on nine occasions last season, and have chalked up another four this term. James Beattie will probably start the match against Blackburn, so two or more Everton goals can be safely ruled out. Another 1-0 win is on the cards for the blue half of Liverpool; take a piece of the 8’s.
It wasn’t so long ago that David Moyes was courting Robbie Savage, that blonde hair can be confusing after a few beers. Robbie was a naughty boy last week; when the little finger of Jose Reyes flicked his nose, his reaction was to hold his face in his hands as if he’d just been outbid for a new caravan on EBay. Savage somehow avoided a booking for his shameful play-acting, he’s a 5/4 shot to see yellow against Everton.
The weekend specials are in honour of the wife; they’re related to headers.
“Big Brother” – Rio Ferdinand to score with a header 33/1
“Stretch Mark” – Viduka to score with a header 10/1
“The Beat Route” – James Beattie to score with a header 7/1
“Nob Head” – Solano to score with a header 12/1
“Bad Roon Rising” – Wayne Rooney to score with a header 4/1
Quote of the week:
“For the last 20 minutes, it was an embarrassment and a gutless performance.”
Mick McCarthy tells it like it is.
Stat, you’re a liberty:
Fulham have scored the first goal of the game in 9 of their 14 matches, only Chelsea have a better record.
Acc of the week:
Liverpool, Everton, Chelsea , Newcastle and Tottenham.
The 5 fold pays out at over 14/1.
Weekend Betting:
Liverpool v Wigan Saturday 3rd December 12.45 Live on Sky
Liverpool 1/2
Draw 5/2
Wigan 5/1
Get on: Liverpool
Liverpool have kept 7 clean sheets in a row; Wigan have the best defensive record on the road, it’s a narrow home win.
Match Special:
Liverpool to win 1-0 6/1
Blackburn v Everton Saturday 3rd December 15.00
Blackburn 10/11
Draw 11/5
Everton 13/5
Get on: Everton
Everton have won three of their last four, all by a goal to nil. The worm has turned.
Match Special:
Cahill to score the only goal of the game 55/1
Bolton v Arsenal Saturday 3rd December 15.00
Bolton 11/4
Draw 9/4
Arsenal 5/6
Get on: Draw
Bolton have only conceded one goal at home in the league all season, the lowest in the Premiership. Arsenal have won the same amount of games away from home as Sunderland; score draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 2-2 14/1
Chelsea v Middlesbrough Saturday 3rd December 15.00
Chelsea 2/9
Draw 4/1
Middlesbrough 9/1
Get on: Chelsea
Chelsea won both matches against ‘Boro ‘to nil’ last season, Didier Drogba scored every goal. Will Mourinho let the Drog off his leash? As Crespo has scored in Chelsea’s last three matches, probably not.
Match Special:
Chelsea to win 3-0 13/2
Newcastle v Aston Villa Saturday 3rd December 15.00
Newcastle 4/5
Draw 9/4
Aston Villa 3/1
Get on: Newcastle
Man U are the only team to win at St James’ Park this season, file this one under ‘home banker’.
Match Special:
Newcastle to keep a clean sheet 11/10
Tottenham v Sunderland Saturday 3rd December 15.00
Tottenham 3/10
Draw 10/3
Sunderland 8/1
Get on: Tottenham
Sunderland have traveled to White Hart Lane in the Premiership five times, they’ve lost all five. Chelsea are the only team to have won at the Lane, Sunderland aren’t Chelsea.
Match Special:
Tottenham to win 2-0 11/2
West Brom v Fulham Saturday 3rd December 15.00
West Brom 5/4
Draw 9/4
Fulham 7/4
Get on: Draw
The Baggies have turned on the style recently, scoring six goals in their last two league matches. Fulham’s wait for an away win looks set to continue.
Match Special:
Malbranque to score the last goal 11/1
Man Utd v Portsmouth Saturday 3rd December 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Man Utd 1/5
Draw 4/1
Portsmouth 11/1
Get on: Man Utd
It’s three defeats in a row for Pompey with no goals scored, it’s not the best time to be heading to Old Trafford. Rooney has ran the show in the last few matches, if he adds goals to his sparkling performances, he’ll be handy.
Match Special:
Wayne Rooney to score two or more goals 4/1
Charlton v Man City Sunday 4th December 16.00 Live on Sky
Charlton 11/8
Draw 11/5
Man City 13/8
Get on: Charlton
When Charlton host Man City in the Premiership, there are always goals. With both teams out of form, the value lies with the home team at 11/8.
Match Special:
Charlton to win 2-1 8/1
Birmingham v West Ham Monday 5th December 20.00 Live on Sky
Birmingham 5/4
Draw 9/4
West Ham 7/4
Get on: West Ham
Three of the last four league matches at St Andrew’s have been won 1-0 by the away team. A pleasing stat.
Match Special:
West Ham to win 1-0 7/1
Sir Alex believes that Alan Smith may be a long term replacement for the influential head-case, but Smithy is not a midfielder; he’s like the wife on our first date, a little forward.
Even with Smithy and Fletcher in the team, United are good things at home to Portsmouth. Unfortunately, the 1/5 on offer won’t make you rich, unless you’re Roman Abramovic or Rio Ferdinand.
Rio has admitted taking ballet lessons when he was younger; my wife was shocked by the irony of it all, as she used to be a quality centre back. Rio can be backed at 10/1 to break his goal scoring duck against Pompey, but beware; as an experienced ballet dancer, his celebration may involve two pirouettes and a leap. Not that I know what a pirouette is.
Paul Scholes is also overdue a goal, he hasn’t found the net in 19 games this season, a somewhat disappointing return for a goal scoring midfielder. The ginger lad is far more likely to find the back of the net, 9/4 is on the table.
Nobby Solano was Aston Villa’s most impressive player last season, but quickly left the Midlands to rejoin the Toon Army. The advert may say ‘Nobby’s nuts’, but leaving Villa looks to be a sensible decision. Nobby wisely re-signed, something O’Leary is probably considering.
The last time Villa travelled to St James’ Park, Kieron Dyer and Lee Bowyer had their hand-bags out and both received a red card as a result. The way Villa are playing on the road, they’ll need at least three Geordies to be sent off to have a chance of a draw. Newcastle are the nap of the week, let’s play at 4/5.
Everton were 1-0 winners on nine occasions last season, and have chalked up another four this term. James Beattie will probably start the match against Blackburn, so two or more Everton goals can be safely ruled out. Another 1-0 win is on the cards for the blue half of Liverpool; take a piece of the 8’s.
It wasn’t so long ago that David Moyes was courting Robbie Savage, that blonde hair can be confusing after a few beers. Robbie was a naughty boy last week; when the little finger of Jose Reyes flicked his nose, his reaction was to hold his face in his hands as if he’d just been outbid for a new caravan on EBay. Savage somehow avoided a booking for his shameful play-acting, he’s a 5/4 shot to see yellow against Everton.
The weekend specials are in honour of the wife; they’re related to headers.
“Big Brother” – Rio Ferdinand to score with a header 33/1
“Stretch Mark” – Viduka to score with a header 10/1
“The Beat Route” – James Beattie to score with a header 7/1
“Nob Head” – Solano to score with a header 12/1
“Bad Roon Rising” – Wayne Rooney to score with a header 4/1
Quote of the week:
“For the last 20 minutes, it was an embarrassment and a gutless performance.”
Mick McCarthy tells it like it is.
Stat, you’re a liberty:
Fulham have scored the first goal of the game in 9 of their 14 matches, only Chelsea have a better record.
Acc of the week:
Liverpool, Everton, Chelsea , Newcastle and Tottenham.
The 5 fold pays out at over 14/1.
Weekend Betting:
Liverpool v Wigan Saturday 3rd December 12.45 Live on Sky
Liverpool 1/2
Draw 5/2
Wigan 5/1
Get on: Liverpool
Liverpool have kept 7 clean sheets in a row; Wigan have the best defensive record on the road, it’s a narrow home win.
Match Special:
Liverpool to win 1-0 6/1
Blackburn v Everton Saturday 3rd December 15.00
Blackburn 10/11
Draw 11/5
Everton 13/5
Get on: Everton
Everton have won three of their last four, all by a goal to nil. The worm has turned.
Match Special:
Cahill to score the only goal of the game 55/1
Bolton v Arsenal Saturday 3rd December 15.00
Bolton 11/4
Draw 9/4
Arsenal 5/6
Get on: Draw
Bolton have only conceded one goal at home in the league all season, the lowest in the Premiership. Arsenal have won the same amount of games away from home as Sunderland; score draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 2-2 14/1
Chelsea v Middlesbrough Saturday 3rd December 15.00
Chelsea 2/9
Draw 4/1
Middlesbrough 9/1
Get on: Chelsea
Chelsea won both matches against ‘Boro ‘to nil’ last season, Didier Drogba scored every goal. Will Mourinho let the Drog off his leash? As Crespo has scored in Chelsea’s last three matches, probably not.
Match Special:
Chelsea to win 3-0 13/2
Newcastle v Aston Villa Saturday 3rd December 15.00
Newcastle 4/5
Draw 9/4
Aston Villa 3/1
Get on: Newcastle
Man U are the only team to win at St James’ Park this season, file this one under ‘home banker’.
Match Special:
Newcastle to keep a clean sheet 11/10
Tottenham v Sunderland Saturday 3rd December 15.00
Tottenham 3/10
Draw 10/3
Sunderland 8/1
Get on: Tottenham
Sunderland have traveled to White Hart Lane in the Premiership five times, they’ve lost all five. Chelsea are the only team to have won at the Lane, Sunderland aren’t Chelsea.
Match Special:
Tottenham to win 2-0 11/2
West Brom v Fulham Saturday 3rd December 15.00
West Brom 5/4
Draw 9/4
Fulham 7/4
Get on: Draw
The Baggies have turned on the style recently, scoring six goals in their last two league matches. Fulham’s wait for an away win looks set to continue.
Match Special:
Malbranque to score the last goal 11/1
Man Utd v Portsmouth Saturday 3rd December 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Man Utd 1/5
Draw 4/1
Portsmouth 11/1
Get on: Man Utd
It’s three defeats in a row for Pompey with no goals scored, it’s not the best time to be heading to Old Trafford. Rooney has ran the show in the last few matches, if he adds goals to his sparkling performances, he’ll be handy.
Match Special:
Wayne Rooney to score two or more goals 4/1
Charlton v Man City Sunday 4th December 16.00 Live on Sky
Charlton 11/8
Draw 11/5
Man City 13/8
Get on: Charlton
When Charlton host Man City in the Premiership, there are always goals. With both teams out of form, the value lies with the home team at 11/8.
Match Special:
Charlton to win 2-1 8/1
Birmingham v West Ham Monday 5th December 20.00 Live on Sky
Birmingham 5/4
Draw 9/4
West Ham 7/4
Get on: West Ham
Three of the last four league matches at St Andrew’s have been won 1-0 by the away team. A pleasing stat.
Match Special:
West Ham to win 1-0 7/1
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