Euro 2008 (Official Man City LOL Thread)

[Grondahl]

Barnsley are in the Championship, so I don't think Darlo beat them.

And I'm so happy with Preston's form right now. Paul Simpson's done an awesome job, especially considering he lost most of his backroom staff a couple of weeks before the season started, not to mention Claude Davis and Tye Mears being sold and Youl Mawene getting a season-long injury. And Danny Dichio's actually scoring goals!

[RandyfromPennywise]

So I have lived to see us lose to Spurs in League. Had to happen one day. Title race is massively on. Anyway, being philosophical and such, I'd take 1 win for Spurs out of every 33 games, so yeah, not too bad.

Oh yeah, and MAKA! Didn't see that one coming. Neither did Robinson.

Australia v Ghana next week, Australia v Denmark in early February.

[Britney Diva]

English and Scottish cup holders both dumped out tonight.

The Celtic-Falkirk match was a cracker, the best I've seen in a while. Falkirk play some really attractive football, they were passing the ball around their own box and everything. They could have won it outright, but they ended up going through on sudden death penalties.

[Dead Star]

The Celtic game sounded really good, I was right behind Falkirk all the way. Stokes is turning out to be very valuable to them.

Motherwell got beat tonight :(

[Britney Diva]

I went to school with Anto Stokes. I always thought he was crap, which probably goes to show why Arsene Wenger is the manager of Arsenal, rather than me.

[Dead Star]

I went to school with Anto Stokes. I always thought he was crap, which probably goes to show why Arsene Wenger is the manager of Arsenal, rather than me.

Haha, Lee McCulloch (Wigan) and Lee Miller (Dundee Utd) used to go to my school.

I never really knew them though

McCulloch especially seeing as he left way before I started.

[rik]

Pidgely used to go to my school, he was the chelsea reserve keeper. Moved from chelsea at the beginning of the season though I think, can't remember where to.

[RandyfromPennywise]

Pretty sure the Pidge is at Milwall now. He was/is a talent but was never going to be 2nd choice at Chelsea...

I got my mark sheet back for my oral for French today. The comments were: "Interesting magazines and newspapers. Knows a lot about football." Haha.

[rik]

He was/is a talent but was never going to be 2nd choice at Chelsea...
I knew that, I meant he had played for the reserve team, not that he was the first choice reserve after Cech (or Cudicini back when).

[RandyfromPennywise]

I knew that, I meant he had played for the reserve team, not that he was the first choice reserve after Cech (or Cudicini back when).

Yeah, nah I know what you meant, I was just saying that he wasn't going to get a fair go at Chelsea... What other club has a 'keeper as good as Carlo Cudicini as their reserve? Good luck to the lad though, he stayed at Chelsea for a fair few years.

4-0 to the Chels. Well in.

[Britney Diva]

Didn't Villa give Chelsea a really tough game a few weeks ago?

[RandyfromPennywise]

Didn't Villa give Chelsea a really tough game a few weeks ago?

Indeed they did. But we had Wayne Bridge instead of the twat Ashley Cole last night ;) Sounds like Essien was immense again. Played every minute of every match so far, and been in top, top form. What a player he's going to be if he keeps this form up week in, week out. And Sheva scored too. Villa had nothing from the sounds of it.

[matt_h]

McClaren announces his squad for the Holland friendly. Does anyone think there will be some suprises after the last two games? Cant think of anyone of the top of my head, although Joe Cole may be back. Could Walcott possible make a return?

[RandyfromPennywise]

Even God (Sven) knows that Theo isn't ready for full England caps.

[Minus The Flair]

Full squad:
Paul Robinson (Tottenham), Chris Kirkland (Wigan), Ben Foster (Man Utd); Gary Neville (Man Utd), Phil Neville (Everton), Micah Richards (Man City), Rio Ferdinand (Man Utd), John Terry (Chelsea), Ledley King (Tottenham), Jamie Carragher (Liverpool), Wes Brown (Man Utd), Michael Dawson (Tottenham), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Wayne Bridge (Chelsea); Aaron Lennon (Tottenham), Shaun Wright-Phillips (Chelsea), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Michael Carrick (Man Utd), Scott Parker (Newcastle), Jermaine Jenas (Tottenham), Joe Cole (Chelsea), Stewart Downing (Middlesbrough); Wayne Rooney (Man Utd), Peter Crouch (Liverpool), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham), Darren Bent (Charlton), Andrew Johnson (Everton).

Micah Richards eh? He has looked quite impressive this season, despite Man City's **** overall form

[matt_h]

Even God (Sven) knows that Theo isn't ready for full England caps.

I know, but McClaren could have got desperate after the last two matches.

Anyway, squad is just about as expected, though he has chosen a lot of defenders; 3RB(inc. Phil N), 2LB, 6CB. Richardson is the only one to be dropped.
Expected team:
Robinson
G.Neville Terry Ferdinand A.Cole
Lennon Carrick Gerrard J.Cole
Rooney Johnson

5 subs can come on too, he may want to have looks at Bent, Parker, Jenas, Richards, Dawson, SWP, Kirkland (7 I know) as they havent figured much under him.

[RandyfromPennywise]

No Lamps? Eh, England team.

Good to see Patrick Kisnorbo from Leicester in the Aussie squad, same with Ljubo Milicevic. There is also some new guy who is playing in Scnadanvia who I've never heard of, and there aren't many good Aussie players who I haven't heard of, so this one is right out of the blue. Grella to dominate Essien and Aussies to win 2-1.

[Frankie]

Thoughts and predictions on the weekend's games ??

[rik]

Thoughts and predictions on the weekend's games ??
Well Newcastle v Man city kicks off in about 45 mins. I wouldn't like to predict the score, all I know if Newcastle lose, I will cry.

[Dead Star]

No Lamps? Eh, England team.

Good to see Patrick Kisnorbo from Leicester in the Aussie squad, same with Ljubo Milicevic. There is also some new guy who is playing in Scnadanvia who I've never heard of, and there aren't many good Aussie players who I haven't heard of, so this one is right out of the blue. Grella to dominate Essien and Aussies to win 2-1.

Scott McDonald has been dropped from the Aussie side due to injury, which is a shame, as he's our top scorer this year.

[Lord Abortion]

Newcastle-City was predictably wank.

Toughish game tonight, Blackburn away.

Midweek stuff is irrelevant. Can't be arsed cup means **** all.

[rik]

Ugh, our performance against city was awful up until the last 5 minutes. Though we could've easily knicked it right at the end. Can't really complain about a point from that performance though, especially as their disallowed goal should've really stood.

[Frankie]

Not a brilliant peformance but I'll take the 3 points thank you very much. Happy that Macca scored as well.

[Britney Diva]

What does everyone think of Stewie Pearce? I thought he was very impressive last season, but since City's terrible start to the season, critics are falling over themselves to say "I always said he was crap." I don't see an awful lot wrong with his side, he has some very good players, they just don't seem to be gelling right.

[Frankie]

Hes a very good man manager kicks every ball that his team plays and his quintessential english managerial style has to be applauded. Our league needs more of his sort

[ChodaBoy]

His biggest problem is the inability to find a good striker.
Dickov, yeah he works his socks off for 90 minutes, but isnt a natural striker, Bernado Corradi just seems to lack skill. 12 teams in one career isnt a great record. Georgios Samaras can put the ball in the net, when he can be bothered. The same goes for Vassell.

Apparently the board have put given quite a bit of funding for the transfer window, so go out and splash it all on one proven goalscorer.

I would personally like to see Defoe or Bent, but they would never sell at the prices the City board would offer

[Frankie]

Depends on what happens this season. If Charlton go down christ it'll be open season with Bent. Defoe isn't getting his game so if the money is there he could well go.

[Lord Abortion]

1-0, it's all good.

Grinding out results are what wins you titles.

[rik]

So Luque's almost definetly leaving in the January transfer. I really don't see why Roeder hasn't given him more chances, after scoring against Palermo he at least deserved a chance against Watford in the carling cup, especially as we are in desperate need of strikers.

[Kickflip_Burrito]

Arsenal 3 - 0 Liverpool

Quality.

And Phil Neville back in the England squad? Hmm, not too impressed with that.

[Britney Diva]

Phil Neville's probably in the top three performing English footballers right now.

[munky_magik]

Who would you consider the other two to be?

[RandyfromPennywise]

Scott McDonald has been dropped from the Aussie side due to injury, which is a shame, as he's our top scorer this year.

Yeah I reckon he deserves a real run of games in the side, I mean he's consistently scored for Motherwell for a couple of seasons now. He's definitely an exciting prospect for our team, which seriously lacks strikers under 30. Although we do have some good youngsters coming through, but Macca is the only one I can think of who's of proven quality in the middle-age bracket.

Drogba is the form striker in the world in this moment. And Sheva is coming around too. United - Chelsea in two weeks. We will win. :)

Phil Neville's been in good form. Everton have been good this year I reckon, led by the magnificent Timmy Cahill. Unfortunately Carsley cleaned him up and his knee hyper-extended and did not look pretty. Haven't heard yet but I reckon he could be out for a while.

Bleiberg's quit as Queensland gaffer. HAHA!! Ah he was good value for the quotes. Did anyone hear what he said he did after he resigned? Classic. "I watch Mamma Mia so life is good!"

[matt_h]

G.Neville, Bent, Downing, King, Parker, Kirkland, Jenas and Lennon all out. Richardson in. Looks like Lampard wont get dropped.

Edit: But how are we going to play 1 winger... SWP, Richardson?! They are not exactly gonna scare the Dutch. Why does Lennon have to get injured again?

[nitzguy]

check this out
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=391082&cc=5901

[MILF Hunter]

Dowie has been sacked :eek:

Also check out super Martin Smiths goal from Saturday

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZ_BVXV1yhI

[rik]

Dowie has been sacked :eek:

Also check out super Martin Smiths goal from Saturday

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZ_BVXV1yhI
Yep, sacked after 15 games, as oppose to Curbishly's 15 years.

What an amazing goal that was, is he naturally left footed?

[Britney Diva]

Sacking Dowie is a mistake, I think.

[matt_h]

Apparently he ruined the team spirit.

Micah Richards to make his full debut tomorrow.

Robinson
Richards Ferdinand Terry Cole
Gerrard Carrick Lampard Cole
Rooney Johnson

No wide players. In a way understandable because only SWP could play on the right, but then again it could be McClaren not having the guts to drop Lampard. He needs to make his mind up what he is doing, because if he wants to have a wide player when we next play competitively, why isnt one playing against Holland? I dont want to be pessimistic, but he is going against his own word which worries me.

[Britney Diva]

Apparently he ruined the team spirit.
I think all the players being crap might have contributed.

[Frankie]

Players underperform managers get blame. Same old really. Charlton have made a bit of a mistake there like.

[nowhesingsnowhesobs]

McClaren seems a bit dim, tbf. Why doesn't he just drop Lampard?

[Frankie]

Managers have favourites what can I say. Its the same reason Sven didn't drop Beckham, he sells hirts and so does Lampard to be quite honest. That and McClaren is a crap manager with a negative style of managing.

[Timm]

Ballack just scored 1:0 against Cyprus :cool:
75 minutes to go

[Minus The Flair]

1-0. Rooney. Awesome.

[Timm]

wtf 1:1 halftime
lehmann, enke or kahn would had saved that shot :angry:

[matt_h]

You want to cry watching England at times. Why oh why must McClaren act like Sven. Sven =/= Success. Johnson was played out of position all game bar the ten minutes where we played our best football and scored. He is then taken off for a midfielder leaving noone up front. Rooney is a supporting striker not a proper forward. What was McC thinking?! Then instead of bringing Crouch or Defoe on he brings on Richardson. We ended playing a stupid formation and conceded a stupid goal. WTF. Joe Cole fell over whenever the ball came near him and too many long balls were played. Richards played well though and looks the natural successor to Neville. The Dutch were awful and we should have exploited their weakenesses.

Unfortunately, McClaren = Sven and unless he sees sense we have no chance of getting past the quarter finals of a tournament. He needs a slap round the face.

[Frankie]

Yep thats pretty much what McClaren does, Teesside had to put with it for 5 years. Poor decision after poor decision

[nowhesingsnowhesobs]

OK, looks like another half-decade of tedium and plain stupidity. Seriously, they should get rid of McClaren right now. He really doesn't seem sharp enough to manage our national team. I just don't get how he can make so many wrong decisions, so consistently. It would have been a joke if we'd actually won.

First of all, I'd drop Ferdinand and Lampard, for being **** too often. And tell Robinson, which he surely has been told already, not to hoik it into nowhere any time he can.

[Britney Diva]

Unfortunately, McClaren = Sven and unless he sees sense we have no chance of getting past the quarter finals of a tournament.
You have no chance anyway.

wtf 1:1 halftime
lehmann, enke or kahn would had saved that shot
Jesus, Cyprus claim another victim.

[Minus The Flair]

You have no chance anyway.

It's 2 years away. And who won it last time? What were the odds on that. England are ****, but they've always got a chance. It might just be me wanting to believe it, but it feels like almost every England player has had a drop in form right now, which goes eventually.

and nowhesings... I dunno if you mean he's **** in general, but Ferdinand was great in that match. The people that say Ferdinand is overrated, underrate him. Overall, he is pretty overrated but he's still a very good defender.

[Timm]

You have no chance anyway.


Jesus, Cyprus claim another victim.

after the 1:1 the german players were all wtfuzzled for the rest of the game :smash:

[nowhesingsnowhesobs]

I dunno if you mean he's **** in general, but Ferdinand was great in that matchonly if great means 'great at hoofing the ball nowhere in particular'

[Minus The Flair]

Oh no, I mean great at 'defending'. He was the best defender on the England side. Some of his passes went astray, yes, but he did some first class defending.

[matt_h]

He does too much hoofing up field, especially when Crouch is playing. He says you see him and cant help it, but is why players are meant to be disciplined. I would prefer Ledley King to play, or a 3-5-2 formation. And before you say that doesnt work, I mean a 3-5-2 with the 3 being Neville-Terry-Cole, with attacking wingbacks like Venebles used with great success 10 years ago. I hope McClaren goes, if we fail at Euro 08, the FA must get rid and get someone who is unafraid of player power, simple tactics etc. Pity, he seemed to talk the right talk at first, but actions speak louder than words.

[Dead Star]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/r/reading/6153958.stm

gg you injure our keeper ima kill you

[Britney Diva]

It might just be me wanting to believe it, but it feels like almost every England player has had a drop in form right now, which goes eventually.
That's part of it, but I think it's just beginning to sink in that the current crop of players are almost universally overrated. I mean, I can't exactly talk since we hype every Irish player who can run and kick the ball at the same time, but there's a number of England regulars who really aren't all that impressive.

He does too much hoofing up field, especially when Crouch is playing.
I don't know why. With the ball at his feet, he's probably the best centre-half in the world, or close to it. It's the defending part he can't deal with.

[RandyfromPennywise]

I guess the Germany result kind of makes the Irish result against Cyprus not quite so bad, eh?

Great performance from the Aussies in the first half against Ghana on Wensdey. We should have killed the opponent as the Special One would say, but I'm pleased with the performance nonetheless. And I was right about Grella dominating Essien. Vinnie Grella is a really great defensive mid. He would not be out of place at almost any big club. He's been consistently great for the past two years, and always performs in the big matches. He has to leave Parma at the end of this year though if his career is going to get to the heights it deserves. Poor Parma, I wish they were doing better and had some of their players still there. I can see them going down in the next couple of seasons unless they get their act together. Which I hope they do.

So Melbourne continue to blitz the A-League. Dropped five points for the season. Sydney v Adelaide is going to be big on Sunday. COME ON UNITED.

Chelsea v Hammers Scum should be good tomorrow night. I can see Drogba scoring and Chelsea winning by 3+ goals. /arrogant Chelsea wanker.

[Frankie]

^ Aye some thngs don't change the arrognace of Chelsea supporters and england being cr@p

[Britney Diva]

I guess the Germany result kind of makes the Irish result against Cyprus not quite so bad, eh?
No, it just draws more attention :upset: Eh, we put five past San Marino on Wednesday, but it really should have been fifty. I can see how Germany ran out 13-0 winners, but we're really not getting any better in front of goal. Always trying to walk it in instead of just getting the job done.

[Minus The Flair]

MOTD has had some great goals tonight. Geremi, Henry, Rooney, Dyer, Arteta's especially was amazing. And Ronaldo's miss was hilarious, ahahahaha.

[Frankie]

Christ even Liverpool couldn't beat us yesterday there really on a poor run of form as of late.

[Angry Balled Fists!]

good draw yesterday :D

[RandyfromPennywise]

Always trying to walk it in instead of just getting the job done.That sounds familiar. North London club anyone?

Gudjohnsen just scored for Barcelona, 1-0 up against Mallorca. Zaragoza smashed Gimnastic 3-0 before. Did anyone see Ruud's 4 last week?

Bloody Sydney beat Adelaide today. At least we're still in 2nd. The match against Melbourne in two weeks is going to be huge. I'm gonna give Muscy so much sh*t.

Tugay's goal was a screamer though and though. Not quite as good as his one against Charlton, but close.

Chelsea - Man Utd is going to be huge. But first, a big week of Champo. Real - Lyon is going to be great to watch. I think Bremen will give us a good game too.

[Dead Star]

So my team just suffered the worst defeat I can perhaps imagine on Saturday.

gg Motherwell, 6-1 is the new record.

[munky_magik]

So my team just suffered the worst defeat I can perhaps imagine on Saturday.

gg Motherwell, 6-1 is the new record.

:p

Rangers 1 - 0 Hearts

Not that there's any hope for them this season :-/

I just hope Celtic can beat Man Utd on Tuesday.

[TakeWarning]

God Spurs really suck this season. Mido played terribly today, I don't know why he wasn't taken off about 30 minutes through.

[Pinhead13]

Hmmmmmm...

I never liked that guy.....in my opinion he is an overrated player.

http://sports.yahoo.com/sow/news;_ylt=AilHqGgTvTydqBeE4yRX.I4mw7YF?slug=ap-manunited-adu&prov=ap&type=lgns

[RandyfromPennywise]

I have a few quotes for you all:

"Please don't call me arrogant, but I'm European champion and I think I'm a special one."
"We have top players and, sorry if I'm arrogant, we have a top manager."
"If I wanted to have an easy job...I would have stayed at Porto - beautiful blue chair, the Uefa Champions League trophy, God, and after God, me."

Who said that then? Ah The Special One, always gold with the quotes.

[TakeWarning]

He sure is a character.

[Frankie]

He is indeed. So a cracker of a game tonight with Celtic Vs Man Utd. My grandad being a huge celtic fan (my support is growing fro them) I'll be supporting them tonight.

[Timm]

I guess the Germany result kind of makes the Irish result against Cyprus not quite so bad, eh?


I'm still upset abou that result :(
okay our players were tired after the long year, world cup, liga and everything and we had a couple of injured/ill regulars like schneider, lehmann, mertesacker and podolski who couldn't play but that was cyprus for ****s sake wtf.

meh at least we're doing better than spain and england atm
*giggles*

oh I almost forgot: tonight I can watch my home club getting owned by arsenal london. should be a good time :upset:

[Frankie]

Dunno Hamburg should give 'em a good game.


And can I ask what is it with that avatar ??

[Timm]

Dunno Hamburg should give 'em a good game.


And can I ask what is it with that avatar ??
my avatar?
it's latest internet fashion

concerning Hamburg, out of the last 20 matches they won one. ONE. UNO. UN. EINS.
on the weekend they drawed with mainz. mainz is the worst club in the first bundesliga atm.
if any club on the whole world has a real crisis it's the hsv and on top of that a good portion of bad luck (unjustified penalities against them, no deserved penalities given to them, undeserved red cards) in both championsleague and bundesliga :(

tonight arsenal will wipe the floor with them. unless a miracle happens :upset:

edit: MIES!MIES!MIES! Van der Vaart just scored a brilliant goal :eek: go go HSV c

[Minus The Flair]

Whoever said that Rooney only had pace and nothing else, without absolutely any vision, is retarded. He's showed amazing vision in the first half tonight. I think it was an old Dutch coach. Dumbass.

Edit: I'm not gonna lie. That kid's like prime Beckham with his free kicks. That was amazing. Did it last time, I knew he was gonna do it again. Shouldn't of got that free kick though.

[rik]

That really was another amazing free kick from Nakamura.

I knew Saha was going to miss that penalty for some reason, I can't really see how it was a penalty to be honest.

[Minus The Flair]

The ball was going towards goal and he used his arm, in the box, to stop it going towards goal. I did think it was harsh though. But they didn't deserve that free kick either. And yeh, Saha shouldn't of taken that penalty, because of that miss a couple minutes earlier.

[munky_magik]

Shouldn't of got that free kick though.
Makes up for Man Utd getting that dodgy penalty the first time round.

'Mon the Bhoys :cool:

The penalty is debatable.

[Minus The Flair]

I guess. That free kick was so superb, it was almost worth losing. Wait, no. We were by far the better team.

But seriously, if we go out to Benfica AGAIN, I think I'll shoot myself.

[rik]

The ball was going towards goal and he used his arm, in the box, to stop it going towards goal.
I don't see how he could've got his arm out the way, but you're right, the free kick they scored from was harsh.

[Britney Diva]

Makes up for Man Utd getting that dodgy penalty the first time round.
That was one of the most clear-cut penalties I've ever seen!

The result tonight suits me. If Utd do the business at home to Benfica my 2 favourite teams go through :cool:

[munky_magik]

That was one of the most clear-cut penalties I've ever seen!

:).

[Frankie]

That was one of the most clear-cut penalties I've ever seen!

The result tonight suits me. If Utd do the business at home to Benfica my 2 favourite teams go through :cool:

Ball to hand IMO. Nakamura's free kick was sublime altho' the parkhead crowd did in influence the decision as Jarosik seemed to just fall over. Anyways I'm happy that Celtic are through.

Lyon drew 2-2 with Real Madrid with RVN missing a pena. Arsenal came from behind to dominate Hamburg. Walcott looked good in setting up Baptista for the 3rd.

Milan also lost to Athens :|

[Britney Diva]

Nakamura's free kick was sublime altho' the parkhead crowd did in influence the decision as Jarosik seemed to just fall over.
I think the referee's view was obscured, so it looked like a foul.

[Frankie]

He had a good view for the incident but ya know home team and all he was pressured a wee bit.

[Timm]

Yay Bremen :D

[Cecillianne]

2 - 0, top of the group. **** liverpool play so well at home. even away in CL was decent. they made PSV look almost mediocre. i don't understand how they can suck so much in the premiership.

[Frankie]

Benitez's manging style is suited to the CL. CL football and prem is different you have to appreciate that.

[Minus The Flair]

Appreciate nothing. The guy shouldn't just manage in a way that's suited to one cup/league. He needs to appreciate what you said. He can't just manage in one style.

[Frankie]

Aye if Liverpool plan to win the Prem soon Benitez needs to stop tinkering with the team, but Stevie G in the middle and play Kuyt and Crouch.

[Minus The Flair]

I just do not understand why he doesn't play Crouch most of the time, when he plays he scores. He's in amazing form and it's going to waste.

[Britney Diva]

Aye if Liverpool plan to win the Prem soon Benitez needs to stop tinkering with the team, but Stevie G in the middle and play Kuyt and Crouch.
While I agree Gerrard's best suited to a central role, that's no excuse for how badly he's been playing recently. I know he did really well to score the other day, but he's been otherwise abysmal, and it's not all to do with his position.

[Frankie]

I think hes just abysmal by his standards e.g. he hasn't been carrying Liverpool this season. He's been good but not far and away the best like in previous seasons. And as we all know if Stevie G ain't playing well Liverpool don't play well.

[rik]

Another nice win for Newcastle in the Uefa cup tonight.

If only we could transfer our uefa cup wins into points in the premiership.

[RandyfromPennywise]

I think hes just abysmal by his standards e.g. he hasn't been carrying Liverpool this season. He's been good but not far and away the best like in previous seasons. And as we all know if Stevie G ain't playing well Liverpool don't play well.

Aye you're right, because Gerrard's standards are so high, him playing an average game makes him look like the worst player on the pitch, when, truth be known, he has probably been playing in the top half of Pool Scum players. It's the same with Lampard. Like Mourinho said "Lampard playing a bad game still plays better than most players" and that's why he doesn't get dropped. Even when he hasn't been in great form (in patches this season) he still works hard and uses his fitness to take up good defensive and offensive positions, so he still adds something to the team. And like I've always said, No Lampard = No Chelsea Win. And what happened agaisnt Bremen? But credit to them, they played us out of the game and did everything they needed to to get the points. Well done to them.

Nakamura's free kick was one of the best from the last few years. It could hardly have been more perfect.

[Britney Diva]

I don't think Gerrard's standards are that high. He's about as consistent as two day-old gravy.

[Kyle]

Another nice win for Newcastle in the Uefa cup tonight.

If only we could transfer our uefa cup wins into points in the premiership.Yeah, came here to say that. It's always nice to see us win in the Uefa Cup, but if we lose to Portsmouth on Sunday then I might cry.

[angry armadillo]

i don't understand how they can suck so much in the premiership.
it is sooooooo annoying !

[Frankie]

Not really I blame down to a manager who doesn't get the english game. Wenger still doesn't to some extents but hes a better manager IMO.

[nowhesingsnowhesobs]

'get the english game' - what?

[Frankie]

It's quite simple really. Why d'you think soo many foreign players come here do pi'ss poor and the bugger off back to spain and italy ? The games are different. Veron when he came was pretty good in the CL (from what I remember) but in the prem he didn't expect to be tackled in his own half of the pitch.

Some managers come here and they don't have a real comphrension for the game. This is why teams like bolton and blackburn beat teams like arsenal. They rely on the aerial ability of players and on set-pieces. Plus the gooners don't have a Plan b in most games so if there passing game doesn't work and their a goal down then they'll lose. It's why arsenal lost like 7 or 8 games last season.

On a side note decent draw for the boro. Stevie G got his first league goal. Reading won today I fancy them to do a 'wigan' this year. Other that MAn Utd Vs Chelsea could decide Utd's season tomorrow.

[Minus The Flair]

Nah, I think it'll decide theirs and Chelsea's season only if they win. 6 points clear, as compared to all level if Chelsea win. Then that will be interesting, although, obviosuly, I want MU to win. I'm just tired of seeing these boring league winners in the Prem because of no real competition, mainly Chelsea. Like last year, went ahead, no-one even really came close. I love the seasons where it's neck and neck all the way down to the last game.

And you have to admit, Arsenal were damn unlucky today.

[badtaste]

WHOA! Anyone see Ronaldinho's overhead goal?!

It was crazy. The guy chests it down from a cross, turns his back to goal and then attempts an overhead turning in a clockwise direction! Damn, I can't describe it, youtube it or something.

[poorquality]

Ronaldinho's goal was amazing indeed, you can't defend against brilliance.

Big match today, Anyone wanna predict the result? As a hardcore united fan i'm going with 2-0...Rooney to score his 50th premiership goal (Utd & Everton) and Saha to get 1 closer to his 100th, which he'll get at Everton midweek :D

Bit biased I know

[angry armadillo]

2-0 for Man U, saha and a Ricardo Carvhalio OG i am going to guess

I want Chelski to win though :(

[Angry Balled Fists!]

Come On Toon We Can Win Today I Think

And Come On Man U Too

[poorquality]

I know I have little to no rep :P But anyone wanna bet on the Utd game?

United win, you rep me, United lose, I rep you...Draw...Nothing

[ChodaBoy]

David James new hair-do is erm...different.

Could never be as bad as Ronaldo's patch

[Cholo]

WHOA! Anyone see Ronaldinho's overhead goal?!

It was crazy. The guy chests it down from a cross, turns his back to goal and then attempts an overhead turning in a clockwise direction! Damn, I can't describe it, youtube it or something.

saw it on tv this morning . . . stunning goal indeed, Anelka's first against Arsenal last night was class as well.

[Timm]

Ronaldinho's goal was amazing indeed, you can't defend against brilliance.


amazing skill. but that poor defense pretty much gave him an invitation to do that, he was all alone in the box when he got the cross :smash:

I know I have little to no rep :P But anyone wanna bet on the Utd game?

United win, you rep me, United lose, I rep you...Draw...Nothing
OK :)

[rik]

A fantastic performance against pompey, really should've scored more. Though i'm just delighted with the three points.

Now I can sit back and enjoy the Utd - Chelsea.

[angry armadillo]

sahas goal was amazing :):(

i want him to score because he is in my fantasy football team but i want chelsea to win!

[rik]

I think if saha didn't head the ball to try and clear Carvalho's goal, Van Der Sar would've saved it.

[poorquality]

I thought that too rik...but hey Saha couldnt of known so he did what he had to do.

1-1...Can't say i'm surprised, we played better in the first half, they played better in the second...I was afraid it'd be a draw....only hope we can draw or scrape a win at Stamford Bridge

[angry armadillo]

chelsea probably played better for longer, although a bad start really sets you back

the right result overall

And i got the goal scorers correct....... kinda \:D/

[RandyfromPennywise]

I don't think Gerrard's standards are that high. He's about as consistent as two day-old gravy.

When he plays to the best of his ability he is arguably the best midfielder in the world (not including Kaká or Ronaldinho as midfielders). When I said standards, what I meant was more the standards every one expects of him and the standards the commentators (9 out of 10 of which want to have his children) say he plays to. I think he's pretty inconsistent, he's been no where this season.

I thought Lamps was excellent in the second half last night. It was as though he made a real effort to involve himself in the game more than usual. He has been known to go missing in big matches - which last night certainly was - and his second half display was great. Demanding the ball, really getting involved, having a few shots. I thought he was one of if not out our best. I think a draw was fair on the night. We were good value for our goal, we'd dominated for long enough there but I don't think either side was significantly better than the other. Chelsea will win the Premiership. Cudicini only needs four more matches to get his medal. Onya Carlo.

[jenlovetv]

i know the colts are gonna take it this year

[Dead Star]

Wrong thread dude.

[Street_Fighting_Man]

I was pissed about Chelsea's goal...I agree that Van Der Sar could've had that without Saha there. And there were a couple great chances with an open net for United, but nobody's foot found the ball... Oh well. A draw is better than a loss, and Man U still has their lead in the tables.

[Frankie]

For how long depends on the weekend tho'. Cos we have a habit of beating you lot at home and then drawing @ Old Trafford.

[Minus The Flair]

Another 1-0 win for Chelsea. Again. I don't wanna hate on them just because of their ridiculously expensive squad but they really do bore me.

3-0 for United though :)

[angry armadillo]

to be fair i would expect much more than a 1-0 win away to bolton

[Britney Diva]

So John O'Gay scored a goal... intentionally. This truly is United's season.

[poorquality]

It's funny how Mourinho thinks he can still try warning United etc. when it is us getting the good results (3-0) and him scraping through against a team we hammered 4-0...to be fair Bolton should of got a draw, they had some good chances throughout the match.


Meh it's still early on yet.

Good week in fantasy league though, 60 points :D

And what a good finish by O'Shea :P flicked over the keeper.

Evras goal was great, lovely finish.

[TakeWarning]

O'Shea scored a goal?!?!?

My first memory of John O'Shea was him getting a tap-in oppurtunity about 2 yards out and hitting the ball straight into row Z.

[munky_magik]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/m/man_utd/6198464.stm

:eek:

[Minus The Flair]

Even more shocking, Liverpool won away! And scored more than 1 goal! 4 in fact! So many exclamation marks! I'm having a heart attack!

And Utd beating Boro is a bit weird aswell. But good.

[Britney Diva]

Wigan's defending was pathetic, but Kuyt's goal was an absolute masterclass in teamwork. Makes you wonder why they're usually so average.

[Frankie]

****ing Portuguese port swilling mother****ing cyunt :angry:


Bastards :angry:

[Lord Abortion]

Haahahahahaha.

the Red Machine marches on.

Apart from the worrying European situation we're on fire atm.

[Frankie]

Haahahahahaha.

the Red Machine *cheats on.

Apart from the worrying European situation we're on fire atm.

;) fix'd

[TakeWarning]

Christiano Ronaldo's dive was shocking. No contact whatsoever. Still, the diving in the Premiership is not too bad compared to the diving in other leagues.

[Lord Abortion]

I really don't understand why the hell he didn't just wait a second until Schwartzer actually brought him down, he would have done anyway.
Bit senseless really, I wish that wasn't part of his game, but there you go.

Benfica tomorrow night :worried:

[Frankie]

We've been ok in this game but god I hope we get a draw or else things really don't look good. Christmas is always our worst period.

Fu'cking yes Huth's first goal for the boro 1-1 :D:D

2-1 and Boateng has been sent off. FFS summat needs to be done with boro or else we're gonna get relegated. Southgate shouldn't be manager hes got no experience what so ever. :angry:

[Britney Diva]

He was sent off earlier in the season, wasn't he?

[Frankie]

He was sent off earlier in the season, wasn't he?

Don't think so but ever since he was made captian hes played crap

[TakeWarning]

Boateng's sending off wasn't really deserved. But on the other hand, Tottenham won.

[angry armadillo]

and its just successfully been appealed (his sending off)

[RandyfromPennywise]

Christiano Ronaldo's dive was shocking. No contact whatsoever. Still, the diving in the Premiership is not too bad compared to the diving in other leagues.
I disagree. While this was true some years ago, diving is as prevalent in the Premiership as anywhere else in Europe. Every team has players that dive. ****, I've seen John Terry dive. Arjen Robben, Didier Drogba, Cristiano Ronaldo all dive consistently. Rooney dives, Duff dives, everyone dives.

[Britney Diva]

Gary Neville dived once. Traffic stopped.

[RandyfromPennywise]

Gary Neville dived once. Traffic stopped.

You rate Gary Neville too highly, in my opinion.

[Minus The Flair]

Gary Neville is underrated

[badtaste]

Gary Neville is underrated

He's better than Phil Neville.

Sure everyone dives. I reckon diving to bring attention to a foul is alright. But plain diving without any form of fouling is silly. I'm not sure how many people here play club soccer but sometimes when a person fouls you (for example, steps on your foot), it will hurt like crazy. But because you're not in any position to fall over, the referee isn't going to care. Thus, diving can be beneficial.

[Britney Diva]

Did anyone see the Utd-City match? Corradi was sent off in the last minute for one of the worst dives I've ever seen. That's the main reason Graham Poll is picked for the top matches, he makes his fair share of mistakes but he's not afraid to make big decisions.

[Frankie]

He's better than Phil Neville.

Sure everyone dives. I reckon diving to bring attention to a foul is alright. But plain diving without any form of fouling is silly. I'm not sure how many people here play club soccer but sometimes when a person fouls you (for example, steps on your foot), it will hurt like crazy. But because you're not in any position to fall over, the referee isn't going to care. Thus, diving can be beneficial.

I've played as a Striker and a Defensive Midfielder and stepping on someone's foot isn't really a foul IMO. If you get away with it it's ok in my book, where as diving is not. Personally I'd feel more aggrieved if someone dived when I went to tackle them, than say dragging there studs down the back of my leg which is the worst pain I've had in a game hurts like hell. (which is why I adapted into my game :p)

Divving is bare faced cheating where as Studding someone on the legg or foot is gamesmanship and can really psych a player out. I've done it before and later on a player would rather duck out of a challenge rather than get a dig from me.

[badtaste]

I've played as a Striker and a Defensive Midfielder and stepping on someone's foot isn't really a foul IMO. If you get away with it it's ok in my book, where as diving is not. Personally I'd feel more aggrieved if someone dived when I went to tackle them, than say dragging there studs down the back of my leg which is the worst pain I've had in a game hurts like hell. (which is why I adapted into my game :p)

Divving is bare faced cheating where as Studding someone on the legg or foot is gamesmanship and can really psych a player out. I've done it before and later on a player would rather duck out of a challenge rather than get a dig from me.

Studding someone is gamesmanship?! Gee, times sure are changing.

[Frankie]

Not really studding etc is a firm part of English and German gamesmanship. It's been going on for years but is being stamped out along with any form of competitive tackle as Football descends into a not contact sport.

Diving is cheating and I'd rather be labeled a dirty player who roughs people up excessively, than a diver.

[Lord Abortion]

Did anyone see the Utd-City match? Corradi was sent off in the last minute for one of the worst dives I've ever seen. That's the main reason Graham Poll is picked for the top matches, he makes his fair share of mistakes but he's not afraid to make big decisions.

Yeah, I saw it, completely terrible dive.
Decent performance, good goals. Please Arsenal do us a favour.
Is it just me, or are all the goals united concede atm stunners?

Trabelsi, Nelson, Nakamura...

[Angry Balled Fists!]

toon toon.

[Lord Abortion]

Wow, that's what? Two wins now?:p

[Minus The Flair]

Chelsea 1 - 1 Arsenal

I actually thought Arsenal were going to nick it there, finally beating Chelsea at home. Ah well, 8 points ahead will do.

[Britney Diva]

Is it just me, or are all the goals united concede atm stunners?
Yeah, but unfortunately apart from the Nelson one it doesn't mean we're actually defending well. The Trebelsi one was just bad defending, and Nakumura's came from a needless free kick.

Well, that was a fantastic match. Two stunning goals, especially the second, and lots of large men falling over under no apparent force.

[rik]

Essien's goal :eek:, better than Taylor's in my opinion.


Chelsea extremely lucky not to get a second with Essien and Lampard both hitting the woodwork.

toon toon.
So happy at the moment, but once again we lose more important players due to injury. Emre, Solano and Sibierski all injured from that Blackburn game, it's becoming a joke.

Also, does anyone know yet why Siberski's goal against Reading was dissallowed? I saw absolutely nothing wrong with it and haven't found out the reason.

[RandyfromPennywise]

Well that match got the heart going! Haven't been on the edge of my seat like that for a Chelsea match since the Nou Camp a month or two ago. Essien's strike - top 10 for the year? I'd love to score one like that one day.

Drogba and Lehmann were both pathetic as anything tonight. Lehmann is the most immature 37-year-old in England and Drogba does not need to dive, I really don't know why he does - he very rarely wins free kicks from his dives. Not to mention it's probably the worst part about the sport at the moment and all divers should be shot on site, like a race horse. Just bring out the shot gun and put the sheets up and be done with it. If Robben got the treatment, it'd learn the rest of 'em.

Did anyone notice how poorly Shaun Wright-Phillips played tonight? Every time he tried to beat a man he tried to dribble through them, as if they weren't there or something. He didn't shift the ball once. He was absolutely awful. I guess he hasn't been playing much lately so I don't want to be too harsh on him. And Robben, seriously, most over-rated player in England? Ok tonight he had an impact but this is more of a general comment, he is really no good. Two seasons ago I said the same about Ronaldo, now look at him - he's easily one of the best players in the league. Robben's gone the other way. He was amazing at the start of 2004-05, now he does nothing. Chelsea need to buy some quality wide players. Just one, actually. He's called Ronaldinho. Give Barça £70m plus Robben.

Tonight's match really took me back to the Chelsea - Arsenal rivalry of three seasons ago. The matches since then have been a bit predictable, with Chelsea really expected to win (and we did), but tonight, it was as if anything could have happened, Arsenal were at the races and we responded. A really good match to watch skill-wise I thought at times too, Lamps and Essien were great in our midfield and the Arsenal passed it around sharply at times too. Great last 20 minutes.

On the Manchester derby, did anyone see when United had that free-kick and I think Giggo stepped over it and left it for Ronaldo, and some Citeh player was like 3 metres away from the ball before Ronaldo had even kicked it? The City player blocked the free-kick from about 3 metres away and Poll did nothing. Not really having a go at Poll here specifically, it's that rule in general. It's 10 ****ing yards, not as-close-as-I-can-get-without-getting-caught, and the refs should be cracking down on it. It's crap. Ronaldo was denied a clear shot at goal from 20 or so yards.

This year's title race is looking pretty tasty. I'm feeling confident still, but we need United to lose one and draw one before the new year.

[Minus The Flair]

Essien's goal :eek:, better than Taylor's in my opinion.

I didn't see the match, just kept checking the updates, but this can't be true. And if it is, then holy ****. Taylor's goal was just unbelievably good, my goal of the season so far. And the fact he hit one nearly as good last season is amazing.

[RandyfromPennywise]

I didn't see the match, just kept checking the updates, but this can't be true. And if it is, then holy ****. Taylor's goal was just unbelievably good, my goal of the season so far. And the fact he hit one nearly as good last season is amazing.

Essien goal was unbelievable. Lamps lays it off to him ≈28 yards out and he smacks it first-time. It's aiming about two feet wide of the left post and then it curves back and scrapes the inside of the post a foot below the bar, past a hapless and helpless Lehmann. Absolutely awesome. Think Schweinsteiger's second goal in the third-place play-off against Portugal at the World Cup, only Essien's was the other side of the goal, and a first-time hit. A belter.

[rik]

I didn't see the match, just kept checking the updates, but this can't be true. And if it is, then holy ****. Taylor's goal was just unbelievably good, my goal of the season so far. And the fact he hit one nearly as good last season is amazing.
Well wait till you see it to decide. In my opinion Essiens was better (only just), i'm sure a lot of people would dissagree.

[Britney Diva]

8 points clear :-D

[Minus The Flair]

I just watched the goal then and it really was amazing. I still think Taylor's was better, but that's definitely one of my top 5 of the season. So sweetly struck, the curl on it was huge, it was a hell of a goal. I suppose they'll both go into the same gotm anyway. 64mph, wow.

[RandyfromPennywise]

8 points clear :-D

Counting, eggs, hatching. April 14 at the Bridge is looking like one hell of a fixture.

EDIT: Just saw Matt Taylor's goal on the highlights show. Jesus Christ. Goal of the season.

[RandyfromPennywise]

Pardew out. Curbishley is tipped as favourite to succeed. Betdirect has Sven at 6/1 and George Graham at 7/1, after Curbs at 7/4.

[Minus The Flair]

The new owners don't know what they're doing. They should of at least waited till Ashton's return, only a few months ago did Pardew lead them to the FA cup final and a 9th place Premiership spot. I'm actually pissed off at this, but I hope Curbs gets the job.

[angry armadillo]

i'd actually like to see Sven in the prem

but i dont think pardew should have been sacked

[Dead Star]

West Ham have gone downhill ever since Tevez and Mascherano arrived.

Pardew shouldnt have been sacked though tbh.

[Britney Diva]

The new owners don't know what they're doing. They should of at least waited till Ashton's return, only a few months ago did Pardew lead them to the FA cup final and a 9th place Premiership spot. I'm actually pissed off at this, but I hope Curbs gets the job.
I haven't seen any signs of improvement. The team just seems to have no morale whatsoever, and in those situations it's usually the manager who needs to go.

Did anyone see the Bolton vs West Ham? I dunno if BBC showed this, but on the Sky coverage they kept cutting to the new owners, one of whom was burying his face in his jacket with embarrassment.

[Frankie]

Pardew's departure will only lead to bad thing IMO. He can't honestly be blamed when some players aren't trying and resting on their laurels.

On another note I played my first game of football for 5 months on sunday (nasty groin injury). Thinking about joining a mens team in the next few weeks.

[Minus The Flair]

Did anyone see the Bolton vs West Ham? I dunno if BBC showed this, but on the Sky coverage they kept cutting to the new owners, one of whom was burying his face in his jacket with embarrassment.

Yeah that was great. I dunno though, they only just got defeated away to Chelsea 1-0 a couple weeks ago, ever since those Argentinians arrived they've gone downhill so I can't help but feel they're part of the problem. I still don't think WH will go down this year, I still think it'll be Watford, Charlton and SU.

[RandyfromPennywise]

Just quietly, best thread on mx.

[Britney Diva]

I think Charlton will stay up. Watford, West Ham and maybe Sheffield Utd for the drop.

[Minus The Flair]

Really, Charlton? They look a real mess to me at the moment, and they just lost 5-1 to Spurs. So do West Ham though I guess, and they have to play United next. I'm sure Bent will get picked up by another team soon. Well, current score with SU vs AV is 2-2 so that's great for Sheffield.

I'm not watching it, but it says both teams scored the second goal in the same minute, 64', Sheffield first. That's fast.

[Britney Diva]

Well Charlton were dominating that match until Tottenham scored and it all fell apart. I just think they have a stronger squad and if their star players can start firing on all cylinders they'll make it out of the bottom. Defensively, I think they're always liable to be hammered, but they have enough talent to win games if they sort their ship out.

West Ham look like getting Curbishley, but they still won't have an awful lot of money, and it almost seems like the players aren't trying right now. SU may survive too, but I think they'll use their year in the premiership to put away some money and come back up in a couple of years. Watford just don't have what it takes for the premiership. They'll grind out a few draws against bigger teams, but they're probably the only team in the league I feel aren't capable of winning terribly often.

[talk show host]

Hard luck for Pardew. I can't really see Curbishley doing an awful lot better to be honest.

[Minus The Flair]

I think he'll do as well as Pardew would of done. That's avoid relegation, but he's manager now and Pardew's gone. Heard something crazy though, might just be a rumour, but I heard Pardew might be going to Charlton after Reed inevitably get's the sack. Probably not true.

[Frankie]

Reed won't be sacked hes only caretaker. TBF I wouldn't mind Pardew at the boro.

[Minus The Flair]

Oh, I didn't know he was caretaker. What is almost sure to happen though is names like Bent leaving the club for West Ham, because of Curbs.

[rik]

80 minutes into the match against Chelsea and N'Zogbia and Sibierski have both gone off injured.

This injury crisis is becoming a ****ing joke.

[Minus The Flair]

I havn't seen a team in ages with worse luck, injury-wise, than Newcastle this season. God hates the Toon.

[rik]

We deserved a point from that game, the goal was just a really poor shot from Shevchenko that was turned in.

[RandyfromPennywise]

Vital three points. Didn't sound like a good performance, but champions need to win these sorts of games. And Chelsea are champions.

[poorquality]

"Chelsea skipper John Terry says once they get going title rivals Man Utd will be unable to live with them."

I love it, for one thing Terry is making excuses saying they haven't got going yet, and then says United can't "live with them"...I'm sorry but surely we only play them once more this season in the premiership.

It's down to United to keep getting the results, with our 5 point lead and Chelsea not having games in hand anymore, all United need to do is match Chelsea point for point really, concentrate on what they've been doing all season and winning games and scoring goals.

Chelsea may "get going" but I dont see how that will affect United at all, only one premiership game this season will Chelseas form affect united, and that's 4 games from the end or whatever when we play them at Stamford Bridge.

Who knows what the table will be then.

I just hate false threats really :P

[RandyfromPennywise]

"Chelsea skipper John Terry says once they get going title rivals Man Utd will be unable to live with them."

I love it, for one thing Terry is making excuses saying they haven't got going yet, and then says United can't "live with them"...I'm sorry but surely we only play them once more this season in the premiership.

It's down to United to keep getting the results, with our 5 point lead and Chelsea not having games in hand anymore, all United need to do is match Chelsea point for point really, concentrate on what they've been doing all season and winning games and scoring goals.

Chelsea may "get going" but I dont see how that will affect United at all, only one premiership game this season will Chelseas form affect united, and that's 4 games from the end or whatever when we play them at Stamford Bridge.

Who knows what the table will be then.

I just hate false threats really :P
It could affect United psychologically, but obviously you are correct that Chelsea playing well would only directly impact on United if they were to beat them. Meh, it's a typical comment from a captain, really not an unusual statement at all. United will drop points. They are not going to win 20 games straight. Neither will Chelsea. There will be opportunities for both sides to win the League. I just have more confidence in this Chelsea side to take theirs than I do in United. So I think Chelsea will win the Prem... By a couple of points.

[Frankie]

Either way it should be an enthralling title race. On Darren Bent leaving honestly how many strikers do West Ham have. They've got 6 already and Benty would make 7. Does any club need 7 first team strikers ?. If bent does go I think Zamora and Harewood would also leave. Cole too.

[RandyfromPennywise]

Either way it should be an enthralling title race. On Darren Bent leaving honestly how many strikers do West Ham have. They've got 6 already and Benty would make 7. Does any club need 7 first team strikers ?. If bent does go I think Zamora and Harewood would also leave. Cole too.

Yeah, hasn't Carlton Cole's career really failed to ever take off. Didn't get much opportunity at Chelsea and didn't do a lot on his two loans, and now isn't getting much of a chance/doing much at West Spam. Poor lad, he always looked promising. And Chelsea youth products haven't exactly been setting the world on fire either, with the odd exception.

Adelaide United v Newcastle United is going to be good tonight. Romário's last game. While he's been good for the club off the field, getting attention and what not, he has been nothing short of an abomination on it. So, really, I'm looking forward to his guest-stint finishing and United getting back on track towards the finals.

[poorquality]

Champions League Draws out, with who I think will get through:

Porto v CHELSEA - Chelsea
CELTIC v AC Milan - AC Milan
PSV Eindhoven v ARSENAL - Arsenal
Lille v MANCHESTER UNITED - Man Utd
Roma v Lyon - Lyon
Barcelona v LIVERPOOL - Barca
Real Madrid v Bayern Munich - Madrid
Inter Milan v Valencia - Milan

[Minus The Flair]

It'll be so good if Porto knock out Chelsea. Tough luck L'pool, but yeah, I'd say I'd agree with your predictions. Although, saying that, there's going to be at least one upset, heres to hoping it's for Celtic.

[angry armadillo]

Porto v CHELSEA
CELTIC v AC Milan
PSV Eindhoven v ARSENAL
Lille v MANCHESTER UNITED
Roma v Lyon
Barcelona v LIVERPOOL
Real Madrid v Bayern Munich
Inter Milan v Valencia



a few matches there that have the potential to go either way tbh

[RandyfromPennywise]

ADELAIDE UNITED! 3-2 win over Newcastle. Great game tonight. Scoring went 1-0, 1-1, 2-1, 2-2 and then Greg Owens scored a cracker in the 80th to win it. Romario scored the first one for Adelaide. It was an awful goal. Ah well, we needed those points massively. Crowd was decent too, more than 12,000.

My favourite game to watch from the Round of 16 in the Champo (apart from watching my team (Chelski) play) will definitely be Roma - Lyon. Two teams I really like watching, full of players I really like. Forza Barça as well! And I think Valencia could upset Inter.

[Minus The Flair]

Oh, Matty Taylor.

Frankie, Les Reed is manager and can/will be sacked, and honestly, after that performance, I really do not see them staying up, not even a chance.

Oh yeah, nad Jaskellainen (sp?) is my favourite keeper in the Prem. Because he's the best.

[Britney Diva]

No, Given is the best, but those were two amazing saves today.

[badtaste]

Barca playing Internacional right now. Looks pretty good, with Ronaldinho pulling out the party tricks.

Any one know the name of that 17 year old right winger from Internacional? They showed footage of the kid juggling the ball on his shoulder while running down the wing... I'm impressed.

[Frankie]

I believe thats Diego. Left winger I think. Know about that lad since CM4 canny little buy he was for me.

[rik]

Both Lampard's and Drogba's goals were ****ing good.

[Angry Balled Fists!]

newcastle are so amazing i love you obafemi.

[Minus The Flair]

No, Given is the best, but those were two amazing saves today.

Yeah, Given aswell. It changes. It's usually Jussi for me though.

And how many times has it been now that Chelsea score in the last few minutes. Unlucky on Everton but awesome winning goal.

And again, what the hell. West Ham 1 - 0 Man United 10 mins left. Curbishley's done... something.

What? 1-0. So that's Chelsea only 5 points behind and a game in hand, so could move to 2 points. Title race is on.

[Britney Diva]

They're working as a team instead of against each other. They've obviously had a huge surge in confidence.

[Minus The Flair]

Probably too early to truely say, but I guess sacking Pardew was the correct decision then. Especially as it was MU.

[poorquality]

Oh dear...1-0...why does it take the other team to score a goal for us to even attempt to play well?

[RandyfromPennywise]

That's why. That's ****ing why.

[Dead Star]

Rangers and Celtic drew 1-1 today.

Dunno if it was a good game or not, seeing as I was out all day.

[Frankie]

Decent game Gravesen scored a cracker tho'. Shame Cel let it slip.

[badtaste]

So Cannavaro won player of the year in front of Zidane and Ronnie. Mmm... I don't rate Cannavaro highly, mainly because I have barely seen him in action. He must be good though, if he is the first defender ever to win the award.

I don't think ZIdane and Ronnie should have been in the top three (well, Ronnie has been playing well, only had a bad Euro Championship final and poor World Cup performance). So who should have been in the top three with Cannavaro?

[Frankie]

Well another game and another ****ing joke of a penalty awarded against us. Thats now 5 in 5 games. Seriously we shouldn't have lost last night. I can see us going down this season unless we get rid of some of the dead wood.

[RandyfromPennywise]

Poor Boro. Oh to be a Boro fan, it must be hell sometimes. A talented team but not getting any results. I hope they start doing better. Good too see the big V-Bomber score a nice goal though.

[Frankie]

Was nice to see Viduka back scoring.

[rik]

So, Wycombe beat Charlton.

[angry armadillo]

Les Reed is gonna get the sack soon enough hahaha

[Frankie]

It's a good thing Charlton are sucking so badly. I reckon boro will finish 17th this season just infront of Watford, Sheff Utd and Charlton. And bent will go for a ransom price to a club in the summer.

[badtaste]

I'm guessing no one cares about the fact that Cannavaro has won FIFA's world player of the year.

Then again, even I don't care. I don't see how any defender should win the award.

[ChodaBoy]

I didnt think any of those nominated deserved to win, no-one has really done anything so special that they should be considered the best. Im not saying they were all bad, just that there was nobody who stood out

[rik]

I was pretty pissed at our defeat to Chelsea yesterday, don't know why the ref let Drogba take the free kick right on the line, when the foul was obviously commited a few yards further back. I also don't know why any of the Newcastle players didn't ask the ref for it to be moved back.

Also Mourinho motioning for the ref to give Butt a card, what a dick.

[Frankie]

Major shake ups look set to be a-happening at t' boro. Whats the chances of the Mags trying to sign Bent in January ?

Put it this way I don't expect him to be at Charlton this time next year.

[RandyfromPennywise]

I was pretty pissed at our defeat to Chelsea yesterday, don't know why the ref let Drogba take the free kick right on the line, when the foul was obviously commited a few yards further back. I also don't know why any of the Newcastle players didn't ask the ref for it to be moved back.

Also Mourinho motioning for the ref to give Butt a card, what a dick.

Agree with you on both points. Roeder said that Nobby was asking for it to be taken at the correct spot but the ref didn't listen. The positioning of free kicks, players being fully 10 yards back at free kicks and diving are all policed poorly in our game. And Mourinho, that was totally uncalled for. I really hate him when he does shyte like that. He should just shut up, there was absolutely no need for a stupid act like that.

Anyway, Drog's free kick was great. He is just unstoppable at the moment. I was so wishing that Lamps' shot from 40 yards went in when Given was out of goal, just the wrong side of the post. I've said it before and I'll say it again, no Lampard = no Chelsea. He is absolutely integral to our side, even more so than Terry or Drogba.

And the fact that Ballack is the highest-paid footballer in the world makes me sick.

[badtaste]

Just heard that some Borello dude from AC Milan has tested positive for taking some drug or something. Oh, poopie.

[Frankie]

So it looks certain that Beckham is gonna leave Real. Who'd want him tho' ?

Seriously of all the positives becks brings the media circus surrounding him would be too much trouble for some clubs. I wouldn't want all that fan fair at the boro we've got enough problems as it is.

[badtaste]

So it looks certain that Beckham is gonna leave Real. Who'd want him tho' ?

Seriously of all the positives becks brings the media circus surrounding him would be too much trouble for some clubs. I wouldn't want all that fan fair at the boro we've got enough problems as it is.

Are you kidding? I reckon tonnes of clubs would want him. Why? MONEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

All his Japanese fans will spend precious money buying new Beckham tops. Plus, Beckham puts out a new hair style every now and then, and I'm sure that'll bring in the dough (somehow).

[Frankie]

Which is why I can see him going to the MLS.

[Untitled]

My team Bury have been kicked out of the FA Cup :eek:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/fa_cup/6186407.stm

Bury have been thrown out of the FA Cup for fielding an ineligible player in their 3-1 second-round replay win over Chester City on 12 December.

Chester have now been reinstated in the competition and will play Ipswich in the third round, as well as receiving the prize due to second-round winners.

Bury can appeal against the decision, and any hearing will take place on Thursday 28 December.

The case relates to Stephen Turnbull, who is a loan signing from Hartlepool.

An FA statement said: "Bury selected Turnbull without receiving the required permission from Hartlepool United and lodging that permission with The FA.

"Bury also failed to comply with the required timescales for registration of players for the FA Cup."


Waheyyyy

[angry armadillo]

my local team chester are back in the cup :D

[Untitled]

my local team chester are back in the cup :D

heh, we're appealing, hopefully we will be reinstated, i cant see it though.

[angry armadillo]

you shoudlnt do tbh, lucky to have an appeal

[Knight_Stalker]

Was surprised to see Bury had been kicked out of the FA Cup, I thought they'd only get a fine.

Looks like Charlton are trying to beat Sunderland's (My team) lowest points record at the minute, they seem woeful.

Was a disappointing defeat for the lads last night, as we ran the game in the first half, but we didn't do much to get back into the game in the second half. Shame as Palace were very poor.

[Frankie]

A boro old boy Hudson sank ya's as well :D:D


Nice win for the Smogies today cruised to a 2-0 win despite Charlton playing with 6 defenders !!

[Knight_Stalker]

A boro old boy Hudson sank ya's as well :D:D


Nice win for the Smogies today cruised to a 2-0 win despite Charlton playing with 6 defenders !!

Really? I never knew he'd played for Boro. Well you learn something new everyday.

Boro are still in a lot of trouble I reckon. Beating Charlton doesn't seem to be much of a task these days. Although I do hope for the best for Boro as one of my mates supports them. Glad to see Julio Arca scored today. How is he doing so far?

[Frankie]

He was pretty crap early on like. Hes improved a lot tho' and is playing well in the attacking central midfield role. Sunderland ain't doing too bad a lot better under Quinn's consortium than Murray tho' ey ?

[Britney Diva]

I haven't been following the Sundies too close, but the match against Crystal Palace was god-awful. I can't believe I didn't just change the channel.

United's attack was immense today. Villa have a decent defence, but we basically just came at them from every angle and they couldn't deal with it.

[Knight_Stalker]

I haven't been following the Sundies too close, but the match against Crystal Palace was god-awful. I can't believe I didn't just change the channel.

United's attack was immense today. Villa have a decent defence, but we basically just came at them from every angle and they couldn't deal with it.

Yeah it was terrible at times I agree, sort of sums up out season so far, considering that the first half was one of our better performances of recent weeks. As recently we've been getting the results, but haven't had the performances. But at the end of the day it's a results business.

He was pretty crap early on like. Hes improved a lot tho' and is playing well in the attacking central midfield role. Sunderland ain't doing too bad a lot better under Quinn's consortium than Murray tho' ey ?

Good to hear about Arca like. He was hyped up to the extreme here, but that was understandable as in recent years, we've not had many skillful players. But he was a very good and committed player for us. I still remember his goal against Bradford for us ran from the edge of our box to the edge of their's before chipping the 'keeper.

I've heard a few rumours about him coming back here in January, but I don't think it will happen, considering how desperate Southgate seemed to be to get him to Boro.

On the Sunderland front it's been frustrating as we seemed to keep on winning yet go nowhere. For example 8 games ago we were 6 points behind the play-offs, now after those 8 games (including a 7 match unbeaten run) we are ... 6 points off the play-offs. We have been terrible to watch this season, apart from the WBA home game and the Leeds away game. we can't even put simple passes together at times. But the fact we are 11th shows how poor a league this is.

[Angry Balled Fists!]

lets face it newcastle just pwn.

[Knight_Stalker]

lets face it newcastle just pwn.
I have no problem admitting that though mate. as for as long as I have supported Sunderland (91/92 age of two, well so says my mum anyway) Newcastle have been the bigger side. I don't actually know how I'd react if Sunderland became bigger than Newcastle.

[poorquality]

Scholes goal was amazing :| to have that control over a ball dropping from that height...perfection...

3-0 Good on the lads.

Anyone else watching it on Sky Sports?

[Minus The Flair]

My God, goals in the English league/cup keep getting better! Scholes' was incredible, looked awesome as it came in off the bar. His celebration proved it was that good lol.

[Frankie]

Bloody hell when Arsenal play like they did yesterday there virtually undefeatable. Fabregas was immense as was Van persie.

[Angry Balled Fists!]

I have no problem admitting that though mate. as for as long as I have supported Sunderland (91/92 age of two, well so says my mum anyway) Newcastle have been the bigger side. I don't actually know how I'd react if Sunderland became bigger than Newcastle.

haha it wasnt directed at you its jsut coz we had another good win.

<33 martins

[badtaste]

Bloody hell when Arsenal play like they did yesterday there virtually undefeatable. Fabregas was immense as was Van persie.

VP 2 goals and 2 assists, right? That must be the best performance I've seen in a while.

[rik]

haha it wasnt directed at you its jsut coz we had another good win.

<33 martins

<33 Dyer.

Well, when he's fit.

[Frankie]

I see good ol' Mary scored for the toon yesterday. Don't worry he'll be 'injured' soon enough. Seriously hes got to be one of the worst professional footballers in the Prem.

[badtaste]

Good on Reading for being able to keep Chelsea to a draw. Go Man U!

[Frankie]

That own goal was one of the most bizarre I've ever seen

[poorquality]

Ronaldo = Best player in Premiership at the moment.

Great result for united...and of course...I love Reading, drawing with Chelski and about to lose to us this weekend :) Top guys.

[RandyfromPennywise]

Drogba is in better form that Ronaldo. Ronaldo's been in great form for 2 months (I mean the blistering, out-of-his-skin form) while Drogba's been ripping it up for 4 months. I think Ronaldo, Drogba and Essien are the form players of the league at the moment, but I'm biased. Fabregas and Rooney have claims as well. But the three I mentioned have been in great form for the whole season, whereas someone like Martins has only been red hot for a month. Interesting to see who can maintain it through to mid-May. Drogba looks on track for 35 goals though, which I doubt many would have thought him capable of two years ago. Shows you what hard work and determination can achieve.

[poorquality]

Shows what the arrival of Shevchenko has done.

He's picked his game up because he had to, or risk being replaced, and now he's eliminated diving from his game (for the most part)... and actually uses his strength (He's a solid bloke, he shouldn't go down when he can beat defenders with his strength)...one of the best strikers in the premiership..or even europe.

All Credit to him, because as you said, two years ago I wouldn't of rated Drogba at all.

[Frankie]

Hard work and determination, no. A kick up the arse cos they'd bought a
£30m striker, yes.

[RandyfromPennywise]

Hard work and determination, no. A kick up the arse cos they'd bought a
£30m striker, yes.

Hard work and determination, no? Bullshit. Of course he's worked harder over the last six months, and his determination to succeed is what's given him the extra drive. Even if Shevchenko's arrival has been the major factor, he's needed the guts to improve himself, which comes from his own determination and will to succeed.

And Ashely Cole is a complete and utter waste of time, space, money and effort. I wish he'd just **** off to Real Madrid or somewhere. Get a right foot you ****ing joke.

Catchya next year peeps.

[Britney Diva]

he's eliminated diving from his game (for the most part)...
hahaha no he hasn't. He's as bad as ever, he's just learned how to score again.

[Frankie]

Nah I haven't seen him dive in a while. Infact hes only dived like once this season that I can remember.

[Britney Diva]

I dunno, maybe he's made up the difference by just lying on the ground for two minutes every time he goes down.

[TakeWarning]

I'd say Christiano Ronaldo is in the best form right now of anyone in the Premiership. He's been scoring like crazy lately.

[Frankie]

I dunno, maybe he's made up the difference by just lying on the ground for two minutes every time he goes down.

Or intimidating referees with St. Terry.

[poorquality]

Speaking of Terry....had a back operation, that should rule him out for 3-4 more weeks atleast...and it shows no matter how big thier squad is, when missing Terry they can't cope....3 games conceded 6 goals without him.

If there was ever a time to play Chelsea...it's now

[Frankie]

There defense was already weak because Cech was out. With terry out I can see the Chelski dropping a few points.

[badtaste]

http://www.premierleague.com/fapl.rac?command=setSelectedId&nextPage=enNewsLatest&id=1586974&type=com.fapl.website.news.NewsItem&categoryCode=NewsSpecialFeatures