Euro 2008 (Official LOL Vidic Thread)

[2muchket!]

16 points from fab, 6 from abebayor :D

[Cecillianne]

Arsenal got pretty lucky today. they played quite poorly, think their good run should slow down soon enough.

[2muchket!]

ITT Boro gets robbed by those ****ing cockneys :\

[sgrevs]

Good result for L'Pool, finally getting back in the goals. Torres is ****ing on fire, what a great buy.

[Dave de Sylvia]

I don't Arsenal should be too worried. It won't be two easy games for them but Milan's form this season has been inconsistent this season to say the least (even if they win their 3 games in hand they'll be in 5th place and 13 points behind Inter iirc) and they still haven't found a real replacement for Sheva.
They trounced United barely 6 months ago.

United have signed a Striker called Manucho, anyone heard anything about him? He's Angolan and 24 years old, that's all I know.
He'll probably be off on loan for a season or two.

Keane is bollocks! two golden opportunities and he fluffed them! a goal and a pen!
I know, the penalty in particular was terrible. Although in his defence it must be difficult to hold your nerve face-to-face with Sylvster Stallone.

Good result for L'Pool, finally getting back in the goals. Torres is ****ing on fire, what a great buy.
He'd've had a hat trick is Distin hadn't stolen the glory!

[rustysurf84]

I know, the penalty in particular was terrible. Although in his defence it must be difficult to hold your nerve face-to-face with Sylvster Stallone.


Referring to Almunia's lethal hair I suppose?

[2muchket!]

Gotta love the football coverage on the beebs website :')

1256: "'But Anderson is booked for suggesting Howard Webb should book Phil Neville. Good on Mr Webb I say.' Just speechless, do you think you could be a bit more anti-united Mister Fletcher?"
-shop assistant on 606

Shop assistant, I think you're embarrassing yourself in a big way. Unless, of course, you think that players running after the referee waving imaginary cards around is a good thing? Which then filters down to the young kids who watch football and then they start doing it in the school yard. The next thing you know all the little kids are great at waving imaginary cards and no good at football. Which means England will never ever again qualify for a major tournament. Is that what you want?

:lol:

[Mother]

ohhh Barca Vs Real Madrid today

[2muchket!]

Not as bad as 'Boro's Lee Dong-Gook. :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

Aren't you a Southampton supporter ?

[poorquality]

Whew bit lucky there, always gonna be a tough game against Everton, ended their unbeaten run though, and through what a gift :D

What was that defender thinking? Giggs was running into nowhere, he made the wrong call and that attack was amounting to nothing, why oh why would you blindly stick your leg out backwards to trip the player...Moyes will slaughter him.

Ronaldo scored 2, how much is he worth to us at the moment, 16 goals in all competitions i think. First goal was a great finish and the penalty was sublime under that sort of pressure.

Everton played really well though and were unlucky not to get anything from the game, a draw would of been the fair result, but one mistake by their defender cost the entire team their efforts.

Wouldn't want to be in that dressing room >_>

[Cecillianne]

sounds like a stupid pen to concede, then again sounds like United's usual luck. who was the defender?

[badtaste]

Vidukaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!

[Cecillianne]

reeeeefl at Chelsea game. Blackburn's unlucky as hell, should be winning the game right now.

edit: just saw the United Everton game replays. goddamn, Ronaldo's face after scoring the first goal makes me want to punch the TV. cocky bastard. Pienaar wins idiot of the week.

[2muchket!]

Whats that a referee gives a decision against Everton and David Moyes doesn't act like an absolute prick in the post match interview ?

Has the world gone mad !

[Dave de Sylvia]

Leave Moyesy alone, he's a champ.

I couldn't be happier, United win and all 3 of my fantasy players score :-D Just wish I'd picked Ron instead of Fabregas as my captain. But Fabregas had an inspired weekend also :-D :-D

:-D

[Pastorius]

Pienaar you dick

[talk show host]

Good week for my fantasy team too (the midfield at least).

Glad to get the win over Sunderland. Hunt's on fire at the moment, even if he didn't really score i'll take it :D I hope he doesn't go in January. I don't think he will but it's a bit unnerving that all the rumours seem to be of players leaving and not many of players coming in. Matty Taylor would be quite nice though. (can he play central midfield?)

[Dave de Sylvia]

I thought it was in actually. Poor Roy though, they got done harshly on a last minute goal last week too.

[Pastorius]

It was so clearly not in.

[Dave de Sylvia]

From the angles I saw he reached back behind the line.

[talk show host]

I'd like to think it was in but I don't see how the linesman could've been so sure because the angles on motd looked pretty dodgy. And I wouldn't want to argue with Shearer's computer work.

[Pastorius]

The angles I saw one of his hands was behind the line slightly and one was on the line, the whole ball has to cross the line for it to be a goal, it didn't look like it did to me.

[Dave de Sylvia]

I'd like to think it was in but I don't see how the linesman could've been so sure because the angles on motd looked pretty dodgy. And I wouldn't want to argue with Shearer's computer work.
Alan Shearer is wrong about everything- where's the argument?

But yeah there's no way the linesman could have been sure either way. I can only assume he stuck his flag up early thinking there was no chance the keeper would save it, then for whatever reason decided to stand by that decision. And I wouldn't want to argue with Kenny Cunningham's computer work.

Actually it was John Giles repeatedly saying "could we roll it on now, please." It happens rather often actually.

[rik]

1 point from our two games with Derby, pathetic.

[2muchket!]

lulz at the geordies

[Interstate]

I should really change my fantasy team before games. I could have won so many points had I actually changed players around who were actually playing. :(

[VomitStainedCretin]

Aren't you a Southampton supporter ?Um, NO!!! (clue, we lost heavily this weekend)

[rik]

lulz at the geordies

Meh, still in a better position than the smogs.

[radtaste]

good game between Chelsea and Villa.

edit: niceeeeeeeeeee

[Echleon]

Yeah I heard it was a thriller! Cant wait for MOTD tonight.

Might go down the pub and watch Arsenal vs Pompey, but I'm not sure

[radtaste]

Cahill is on absolute fire, pretty much a goal or assist every game.

[The_Passenger]

Does anyone know what the hell Martin O Neill was complaining about after the Chelsea Villa game today? He bitched about the referee for giving desicions Chelsea's way I didn't see it to be honest. For a start he said that Dowd struggled with a straightforward desicion for Cole's sending off but from the replays I've seen I don't see how it was straigthforward to tell whether it was deliberate handball or not. Then there were the complaints about about Chelsea's penalty and free kick and I really fail to see how the referee got these wrong.

This isn't the first time O'Neill has done this, I don't remember him attatching any blame to his players for losing a 4-1 lead against Tottenham or for losing 4-1 at home to Man U thanks to some poor defending. I guess it just irritates me when managers blame officials for points dropped.

[TakeWarning]

Spurs 5 - 1 Fulham

Nice goals from Tom Huddlestone and Ledley King looked good on his return.

[poorquality]

Does anyone know what the hell Martin O Neill was complaining about after the Chelsea Villa game today? He bitched about the referee for giving desicions Chelsea's way I didn't see it to be honest. For a start he said that Dowd struggled with a straightforward desicion for Cole's sending off but from the replays I've seen I don't see how it was straigthforward to tell whether it was deliberate handball or not. Then there were the complaints about about Chelsea's penalty and free kick and I really fail to see how the referee got these wrong.

This isn't the first time O'Neill has done this, I don't remember him attatching any blame to his players for losing a 4-1 lead against Tottenham or for losing 4-1 at home to Man U thanks to some poor defending. I guess it just irritates me when managers blame officials for points dropped.

To be fair it did look like Ballack went over very easily for their penalty. He has done it in the past too.

I like Martin O'Niell, he may not always be right, but it's funny listening to him giving his honest opinion of matters.

[industrialjunkie92]

i aint be really into football this season. i would like to be but i aint got satanta sports or sky. i try to watch MOTD + MOTD2 but i just keep missing them. i support arsenal as well so tickets are pretty hard to get. i love the sport but i just cant seem to keep up with it.

[rik]

Cahill is on absolute fire, pretty much a goal or assist every game.

Same with Petrov for Man City, he's such a good player.

[Pastorius]

Thank god for Stevie Gerrard!

Glad to see Huddlestone getting some goals, he's proper class.

[TakeWarning]

Same with Petrov for Man City, he's such a good player.

Yeah he's quality, one of City's best this season. Every time I see him play I get so frustrated that Spurs turned down the chance to buy him during the last transer window.

[radtaste]

"Barton behind bars - PA Sport

Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton will spend New Year in jail after being refused bail on charges of common assault and affray, a court ruled on Friday.

The 25-year-old was arrested in Liverpool early Thursday after an incident in the city centre.

Barton, of Foxbank Close in Widnes, appeared at Liverpool Magistrates' Court for a 45-minute bail hearing Friday morning (UK time).

Barton was remanded in custody until January 3 and will miss Saturday's (Sunday AEDT) Premier League match at Chelsea and the visit to Tyneside of former club Manchester City on Wednesday (Thursday AEDT)."


Niiice.

[TakeWarning]

I was reading about that and his past troubles with the law today in the paper.

What a derro.

[poorquality]

Ronaldo is on blistering form at the moment :| United are 1-0 up as of posting this, that's 18 goals this season so far, he's scored 16 in 14 games. That's mental

Glad he's my captain in the fantasy league B)

[talk show host]

Wish I had Berbatov in my team. 4 goals today so far.

Just a shame they're against Reading really :-(

[Minus The Flair]

Ronaldo is on blistering form at the moment :| United are 1-0 up as of posting this, that's 18 goals this season so far, he's scored 16 in 14 games. That's mental

Glad he's my captain in the fantasy league B)

Shame he fluffed a penalty. Shame again that it didn't even go on target as I have Green in goal. Shame again that we lose another two goals, losing the game and losing points for Vidic and Ferdinand.

Sounds like a great game between Reading and Spurs, miss two penalties and still manage to score 6? Thats mental.

[poorquality]

Bah we threw the game, 2 set pieces I believe, we were holding them out until then I believe.

West Ham have now beaten us in the last 3 meetings, Bogey team or what?

I expect Everton to get a draw against Arsenal today though, they're on form and at home, if it happens united still will be on top for new years B) by goal difference.

Also apparently Chelsea lucked out again, their winning goal was well offside apparently but the Lino gave it.

The Spurs game will be amazing to watch on MotD.

Also great Result for Sunderland, 3-1 against Bolton, they needed that result really, I hope they stay up.

[Cecillianne]

lol Ronaldo missed a penalty! football is going to implode now!

i feel sorry for Reading. 4 goals twice and no wins in either. Everton leading at time of posting, some interesting results tonight.

[Dave de Sylvia]

Awesome, another Cahill goal. Keane missed a penalty again? That's insane. I made him my fantasy league captain too :( And I left Upson on the bench and he goes and scores :( And Ronaldo missed a penalty too :(

[rik]

I'm so pissed off about the newcastle result today. Sounds like we really really deserved at least a point, and then 5 minutes before the end Kalou scores a goal when he's 4 yards offside.

What a ****ing pathetic linesman.

[rustysurf84]

Well Arsenal certainly won ugly today.

[Dead Star]

Today during the Motherwell vs Dundee Utd game, our club captain Phil O'Donnell collapsed and was later pronounced dead in Hospital.

I'm absolutely speechless, truly great player and will be missed terribly. :(

RIP Uncle Phil

[The_Passenger]

I'm so pissed off about the newcastle result today. Sounds like we really really deserved at least a point, and then 5 minutes before the end Kalou scores a goal when he's 4 yards offside.

What a ****ing pathetic linesman.

I dunno, looked to me like Given performed heroics and Newcastle's goal was slightly fortunate. At any rate it was a terrible desicion and 'deserving points' is irrelevant anyway.

The Arsenal game was strange. Arsenal have been playing poorly for a while now but I've never seen them resort to long-balls so successfully. It was a bit like when Everton hammered Sunderland, I remember 3/4 of Everton's goals being just long punts up the field.

The Tottenham Reading game was entertaining but doesn't do much for the idea of the Premier League being 'the best in the world' (I assume people mean in terms of quality when they say that). La Liga>Premier League

[Surtr]

****.

Just got the news from Jamie.

I'm a fan by assoiciation more or less, but in the SPL the Well are my team. I usually only check up on stuff on Monday, so I would have missed this by a few days. But christ glad he told me. Really really bad news. :(

RIP O'Donnell

[Bukowski]

a girl I work with was at the Motherwell game today, and saw what happened. Pretty shocking, and a really sad day for Scottish football. Apparently it was a seizure of some kind, and O'Donnell was only 35 and had kids as well. I hope his family get through it fine.

[Surtr]

Mhm it was apparently a seizure on the field.

And I too hope his family gets through it fine. :(

[rustysurf84]

Tragic stuff, this seems like a recurring theme though; didn't someone in Spain have a heart attack earlier this year?

[The_Passenger]

Yeah Puerta I think he was called.

Anyone know if O'Donnell had the same condition as Puerta and Vivien-Foe had? Or is this something unrelated?

[rik]

I dunno, looked to me like Given performed heroics and Newcastle's goal was slightly fortunate. At any rate it was a terrible desicion and 'deserving points' is irrelevant anyway.

Our goal wasn't as fortunate as either of their goals, but yer, deserving points is pretty irrelevant, just really dissapointed in the linesman especially.

[2muchket!]

RIP O'Donnell

I feel for his family.


And ahahahaahah how crap do pompy want to be at home. Good little poached goal from Tuncay yesterday as well.

[Cecillianne]

i don't know who to blame for Liverpool's lack of goals in semi-important games anymore. last night's performance was great, they basically owned Citeh but every shot was either conveniently blocked or fluffed.

[2muchket!]

Blame your crap buys.

The only decent striker you have is Torres. You lot could do with Berba. I hear he wants to leave Spurs.

[Dave de Sylvia]

i don't know who to blame for Liverpool's lack of goals in semi-important games anymore. last night's performance was great, they basically owned Citeh but every shot was either conveniently blocked or fluffed.
Lack of quality.

[sweboy]

Zlatan Ibrahimovic player of the year.

How do u respond?

[Dave de Sylvia]

Nobody who's not Swedish is particularly impressed with him.

[DonMancini]

I'm not swedish and I am :p He's been underrated recently and deserves more praise (and I don't particularly care about inter either).

[radtaste]

Zlatan Ibrahimovic player of the year.

How do u respond?

Close. But no cigarette.

Some trivia: Middlesborough and Aussie goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer has made English Premier League history by becoming the longest-serving foreigner at one club, going past the legendary Bergkamp (316 ovre 315).

[Pastorius]

Ibrahimovic is pretty amazing, very very good player, intelligence and skill coupled with vision, makes for good football.

[talk show host]

lol Sonko is sent off after about 3 minutes :(

Start the year as you mean to go on I guess.

[2muchket!]

Reading are pretty strong at home as well

Ahh well boro used to have a decent home form. That gone to **** now

[VomitStainedCretin]

Hopefully after our drubbing at Anfield and hick up against 'Boro, today's victory is a sign of getting back on track. Now if only we could score at home... ...though we do have Derby next up at Fratton Park, so (HOPEFULLY!) plenty of opportunities to quench the recent drought.

[Interstate]

Eduardo's goal today against West Ham was blinding.

[See You Next Tuesday]

Eduardo's goal today against West Ham was blinding.

That it was, Defoes finish for Spurs was also very good.

United only won 1-0, and were holding on by end of game, shocking as they had so many opportunities to kill it off.

[talk show host]

Adebayor's goal was pretty good too. I don't understand how it went in.

[rustysurf84]

Ronaldo's reaction after he somehow missed from 5 yards away confirms why I hate him and his personality; he looked ready to cry.

[Iai]

He's driven, genuinely wants to win, and actually cares when his performances on the pitch aren't up to scratch.

Remind me why that's something we should hate?

[radtaste]

He can't do a backflip.

[Iai]

He has his Jackson 5 minion to do that for him though.

[Minus The Flair]

Hahaha. And you know that cuts him up. I completely ****ed up on fantasy league with transfers and substitutions :( Damn Mellberg.

Park did well for United yesterday, pleased with him.

[radtaste]

He has his Jackson 5 minion to do that for him though.

Haha indeed.

Hahaha. And you know that cuts him up. I completely ****ed up on fantasy league with transfers and substitutions :( Damn Mellberg.

Park did well for United yesterday, pleased with him.

Oh yeah, forgot about Park coming back, hope he continues to do well.

[rik]

Nice to see Park finally got his hair cut.

[The_Passenger]

Nobody who's not Swedish is particularly impressed with him.

lol this reminded me of Martin O'Neill during the World Cup coverage.

Ibrahimovic is pretty good but not so great as to be player of the year.

[Iai]

Oh yeah, I remember that. Seemed like every time O'Neill was on screen he was rambling about how over-rated he was. Like it was a personal vendetta or something.

[rustysurf84]

He was on the brink of tears, and tried to beat 3 people. All he needed was a cut and a slot into a corner, not dribble around the box and try and blast it home.

[See You Next Tuesday]

What a point for Wigan B)

12 points? Still think they're in it? Not a chance in hell

[Minus The Flair]

Allardyce is surely for it now.

[See You Next Tuesday]

I hope he doesn't get sacked, how can anyone expect someone to turn around a team in less than 3 months?

He's got to be given a chance, sacking him would be rash, and you need to ask yourself, if they sack him, who can get get that's better who'd be willing to take over? Mourinho? Never.

Guess McClaren is still looking for a job >_>

[Pastorius]

Titus ****ing Scramble.

[Interstate]

Ronaldo's reaction after he somehow missed from 5 yards away confirms why I hate him and his personality; he looked ready to cry.

His face was very amusing. He did so much to beat three players and then miss.

[TakeWarning]

Great result for Wigan. Liverpool just can't turn dominance into goals.

[talk show host]

I don't understand why Benitez doesn't try playing Babel up front with Torres. Isn't striker his favourite position anyway? He seems to score a few from the wing and honestly, he can't be any worse than Kuyt.

[The_Passenger]

^ That's something I've never understood. Kuyt has never looked very good to me, he just seems to run around a lot without really achieving anything, like a Dutch Alan Smith. Liverpool are so limited up front that it amazes me that Babel doesn't get played there.

[radtaste]

http://www.theworldgame.com.au/home/index.php?pid=st&cid=103179

Anelka bitching about wanting to go to a bigger club again, Chelsea in this case. What a funny guy.

[talk show host]

Can't say I blame him for not wanting to stay in Bolton :p

I think it's a done deal basically, and he'd be good for Chelsea.

[radtaste]

Yeah, would be a good deal. Goal scorer goes to dream team, haha.

[2muchket!]

I still don't understand why they bought Pizarro int summer. Hes hardly played and hardly scored. Anelka would do well at Chelsea regardless.

[rik]

Haha, quite a nice goal from Shite-us Shambles.

[2muchket!]

LMAO anyone who watches Soccer Saturday on Sky Sports News will love this

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=eSHruroVuX8

[Iai]

I've already sampled that :)

[The_Passenger]

Jeff Stelling is so much better than Richard Keys, they should swap their jobs so that Stelling gets the 'big game' coverage or somethignt o that affect.

[sgrevs]

Some good FA ties this weekend, Villa v Man Utd will be a good one, even L'pool v Luton will be good, the same fixture last season was 5-3 to 'Pool.

In League One news, has anyone been watching how awesome Leeds are doing? If they hadn't been deducted 15 points for stupid administration reasons they would be top by heaps. I'm very impressed.

[poorquality]

I am also impressed by Leeds, but I also think the only reason they're playing as well as they are is the sheer determination to win because of the point deduction, I just have a feeling that without that deduction we'd see a different leeds team.

Also the FA ties will be good, Away to Villa is a difficult game, though we have an amazing record at Villa Park (Why do United get Prem teams in FA Cup, while Chelski always get Champs, League 1, or League 2 sides? Last season chelsea didn't play anyone difficult up until United in the final).

I hope Luton win, not just because I'm a united fan and want to see Liverpool suffer (I'd rather walk alone etc :P) but it was a brilliant game last season, might be another cracker.

[radtaste]

http://www.theworldgame.com.au/media//5903db3.jpg

Niiiiiice.

[sgrevs]

He's just training. It'd be cool to see him back in the EPL, but he's probably a bit old now. I still rate him though.

[The_Passenger]

I am also impressed by Leeds, but I also think the only reason they're playing as well as they are is the sheer determination to win because of the point deduction, I just have a feeling that without that deduction we'd see a different leeds team.

I agree with this. I haven't seen much of league 1 this season but from what I've heard Swansea are actually the best team. Some of Leeds results since they've got themselves into a decent position have been poor as well.

Also the FA ties will be good, Away to Villa is a difficult game, though we have an amazing record at Villa Park
Villa v Man U is tie of the round, hopefully will be a good game.

(Why do United get Prem teams in FA Cup, while Chelski always get Champs, League 1, or League 2 sides? Last season chelsea didn't play anyone difficult up until United in the final).

You don't consider Tottenham and Blackburn difficult? The way Tottenham were playing in the latter half of last season I'd say they were a more difficult team to get past than anyone Man U faced, but I'll agree Man U had far more difficult ties in th earlier rounds.

I hope Luton win, not just because I'm a united fan and want to see Liverpool suffer (I'd rather walk alone etc :P) but it was a brilliant game last season, might be another cracker.

I'm hopeful but don't think it's going to happen.

Anyone hear about Liverpool not letting cash-strapped Luton have their share of the gate receipts? I know they aren't under obligation to do so but I think that's pretty poor form on Liverpool's part. It's not as if they're desperate for a relatively small amount of cash.

Also, here's hoping Argyle beat Hull today.

[2muchket!]

It'd make more sense if beckham was actually loaned out to a prem club or a team in Serie A over the MLS season break.

[Ganondorf]

He's not allowed by the LA galaxy coach I dont't think.

[poorquality]

Coventry are giant killers :/ Man U in league cup and now Blackburn in FA Cup

[Bukowski]

yeah, that was a shock...but excellent score for Coventry, well done to them. My coupon = busted.

[Dave de Sylvia]

So bookies in Ireland have had to close the betting on Kenny Dalglish getting the national job after a massive surge. Hmm.

[rik]

Ronaldo's hair looks pretty gay in this Villa game.

[poorquality]

Ronaldo's hair looks pretty gay in this Villa game.

He could have a giant purple moheccan for all I care :D Scored again, he's unstoppable

[rustysurf84]

Everton were knocked out, that suprised me a bit.

[Iai]

Anyone hear about Liverpool not letting cash-strapped Luton have their share of the gate receipts? I know they aren't under obligation to do so but I think that's pretty poor form on Liverpool's part. It's not as if they're desperate for a relatively small amount of cash.
Yeah, I cut that crap out of the papers and stuck it up all over the pub I work in. I'm from Luton and everyone else in there is a Liverpool fan, so it's a good opportunity for a wind-up.

It is kinda gay, though. I speak to one of the Luton first-teamers reasonably regularly, and he's totally skint at the minute. Hasn't been properly paid in about 12 weeks or something stupid.

[2muchket!]

if thats true then I'll hate those ****in scousers more than do now

and absolutely loads of premiership teams went out today like

not my boro we did bristol thanks to Wheater

[Pastorius]

That's pretty bunk of Liverpool, and I'm a fan.

Still, we're gonna thump Luton.

So many big teams out today, although possibly the most boring episode of MotD ever. Without Lineker there's just no spark :(

[Bukowski]

I fancy Stoke to get the Toon tae fu'ck tomorrow. C'MON STOKE!

[Collis]

I cannot believe I've not been in this thread before! I shall be at The Brit tomorrow hoping Stoke can beat those pesky Geordies... Mind you, god only knows how we are 4th in the Championship, we are playing woeful, much like the classic old Wimbledon hoof type. But if Fuller is fit and raring, he can win us the match.

Also, apparently in town tonight there has been a lot of trouble with the Toon stirring things up a little, fights left right and centre.

Oh well, come on you POTTERS!

[rustysurf84]

Allerdyce will probably be sacked if Newcastle can't beat Stoke, which is pretty sad.

[Bukowski]

Allardyce is a great manager, he should be given at least one full season to try and get things right at Newcastle. When I was down in England two years ago, everyone I spoke to thought he shoulda been the next England manager instead on McLaren. And well, Mclaren was no success was he? I like big Sam, but I'm still rooting for Stoke tomorrow.

[radtaste]

Ronaldo's hair looks pretty gay in this Villa game.

Cronaldo's merely keeping the hair product industry healthy.

[aria]

still pissed at that ref for screwin us out of the world cup

[poorquality]

Roy Keane needs to sort himself out.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/s/sunderland/7173161.stm

Another ex-united player? He's having a laugh, the reason they're ex-united is they're old and past it, they can't play in the prem anymore. He only seems to sign ex-united players or irish players, most of them old as well...Sunderland are going to go down at this rate.

[rik]

I think Stoke will be a pretty tough match, but I think we will get the win we need. We've actually put in very good performances in our last couple of games, and were unlucky not to get something out of them (especially the Chelsea match).

There will be absolutely huge pressure on Allardyce if we lose this match, but I for one think we need to give him at least a season.

[poorquality]

Luton deservedly got something from the match, was entertaining, and they'll get more revenue from playing replay at Anfield :D

[2muchket!]

Was a well earned draw I thought.

Stoke and Newcastle has been quite boring actually :\

[rik]

A lot of Newcastle matches these days are boring. Stoke could've won it today, they should've scored at least one really.

[Collis]

Was a well earned draw I thought.

Stoke and Newcastle has been quite boring actually :\

I did say that we play the hoof type football.

But I think we should have won! I was at the game so have not seen the chances on TV, but I believe that I could have finished that Parkin effort with my penis.

EDIT: yes man praise thee Oceansize :thumb:

[poorquality]

Liverpool may have the easiest replay ever, that is if there are no bids for Luton Town by 5pm tonight, then the club is done for. Selling assets, aka players as they don't own the stadium or anything else. Would be a shame for the club to go completely bust :/ Any multimillionaires on here? :P

[rik]

If we beat Stoke in our replay (not assuming we will, but i'm confident) then our next game will be Arsenal at the Emirates. We always seem to draw hard teams in early rounds.

[poorquality]

If we beat Stoke in our replay (not assuming we will, but i'm confident) then our next game will be Arsenal at the Emirates. We always seem to draw hard teams in early rounds.

Newcastle should be able to do it, though I don't share the same faith agaisnt Arsenal. :\

Full draw for the fourth round of the FA Cup

Arsenal v Stoke City/Newcastle
Coventry v Walsall/Millwall
Oldham v Huddersfield Town
Swindon/Barnet v Fulham/Bristol Rovers
Wigan v Chelsea
Luton/Liverpool v Swansea/Havant & Waterlooville
Southend v Barnsley
Southampton v Norwich/Bury
Man Utd v Tottenham/Reading
Portsmouth v Plymouth
Derby/Sheff Wed v Preston
Watford v Wolves
Peterborough v Charlton/West Brom
Sheff Utd v West Ham/Man City
Mansfield v Middlesbrough
Tranmere/Hereford v Cardiff

Chelsea actually got drawn against a premiership club in the early rounds :o Shock. :P

United get another premiership club...more shock :P

it's all good, I'd prefer Reading to Spurs, but both would be tough :/ atleast it's at home.

1 and a half hours until judgement, Luton may be gone.

[talk show host]

****ing United again.

Ah well, probably get thumped by Spurs anyway.

Roy Keane needs to sort himself out.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/s/sunderland/7173161.stm

Another ex-united player? He's having a laugh, the reason they're ex-united is they're old and past it, they can't play in the prem anymore. He only seems to sign ex-united players or irish players, most of them old as well...Sunderland are going to go down at this rate.

Yeah, he's trying to sign Hunt as well but Coppell's saying no for the minute. Hope he doesn't go.

[The_Passenger]

Still, we're gonna thump Luton.



lulz

If I were a Liverpool fan I would really worry about how poorly the team plays without Gerrard and/or Torres.

Argyle have drawn Portsmouth. Their best players will be off to the ACN and they struggle to score at home anyway. That said they're still a decent team and playing in the division above us. That said I'm cautiously optimistic especially if we can keep Krancjar quiet, who I think will be their biggest threat in the absence of the likes of Muntari and Utaka.

[poorquality]

20 mins till judgement time :'( I cant take the pressure.

I'm a Man U fan living in Luton, I can't stand to see Luton FC disappear...so much footballing history :(

[Bukowski]

...what's the news? I can't find anything online.

My team, Airdrieonians, went out of business about 5 years ago, and it was a dreadful day as there was a lot of history attached to that team as well. Good luck to Luton.

[rik]

Newcastle should be able to do it, though I don't share the same faith agaisnt Arsenal. :\
Yer, we should. But just like we should've beaten Birmingham at the same stage last season at our place and lost 1-5. But yer, we should beat them, i'm confident we will.

[2muchket!]

Well we've got a decent draw at Mansfield realistically we should beat them.

Ya never knowww.

[Echleon]

So it has emerged that Bolton have rejected a bid from Chelsea for Anelka.

Bolton really need to keep hold of him if they want to salvage anything from this season.

[The_Passenger]

Bolton have turned down a bid for Anelka from Chelsea.

I reckon Chelsea probably offered about £10 million and will keep comign back until they get Anelka. God knows they need him. Upfront all they have is Pizzarro, Sinclair and Sahar as far as I'm aware.

EDIT: God damn you Echleon:angry:

[Echleon]

lol :P

Don't they have Sheva aswell? Or is he still injured? Yeah they do need him really, even when Drogba and Kalou are back they do lack a real quality second striker.

EDIT: Passenger I see you are from Plymouth? I live in Cornwall, so Argyle are the closest we have to a local League team.

[poorquality]

...what's the news? I can't find anything online.

My team, Airdrieonians, went out of business about 5 years ago, and it was a dreadful day as there was a lot of history attached to that team as well. Good luck to Luton.

Apparently 2 bids have been recieved and the administrators are looking over them. We can only hope from this point onwards.

[talk show host]

So it has emerged that Bolton have rejected a bid from Chelsea for Anelka.

Bolton really need to keep hold of him if they want to salvage anything from this season.

Bolton haven't got a hope in hell of keeping him and even if they do manage it i'd imagine Anelka would be pretty pissed.

They could probably hold out for 15m or so though I guess.

just saw Reading have signed some Czech midfielder. Never heard of him personally but he's 26 so hopefully he'll be able to slot straight in and not be another Fae/Cisse type.

[The_Passenger]

lol :P

Don't they have Sheva aswell? Or is he still injured? Yeah they do need him really, even when Drogba and Kalou are back they do lack a real quality second striker.

EDIT: Passenger I see you are from Plymouth? I live in Cornwall, so Argyle are the closest we have to a local League team.

Yeah Sheva is injured at the moment. Trust to him to find some form then get injured.

I am indeed from Plymouth. If Plymouth are the closest to a local league team come to Home Park, we look like the Riverside at times :P

[VomitStainedCretin]

Argyle have drawn Portsmouth. Their best players will be off to the ACN and they struggle to score at home anyway. That said they're still a decent team and playing in the division above us. That said I'm cautiously optimistic especially if we can keep Krancjar quiet, who I think will be their biggest threat in the absence of the likes of Muntari and Utaka.Home form is a problem right now but hopefully we can break our duck when Derby visit. Muntari will be a big loss during the ACN and Utaka is a decent forward, though I believe he is less pivotal in the team. Good thing for us Zimbabwe failed to qualify, so we keep Benjani. And Kanu hasn't been in the international picture for a while, I believe, so he can fill the gap left by Utaka.

Hope Luton find the money they need.

[Dead Star]

Airdrieonians, went out of business about 5 years ago, and it was a dreadful day as there was a lot of history attached to that team as well. Good luck to Luton.

lol from a Motherwell fan.

[Iai]

I come from Luton as well. Played in my school team with Dean Brill. Seeing Jamie Redknapp talking about him on TV was surreal.

[radtaste]

Some news:
- Derby have picked up Robbie Savage. Also, picked up Argentinian striker Emanuel Villa a few days ago. Too little, too late methinks.
- Lyon's Fred is pretty much a goner, might be heading to PSG, which would be a shame because he's high quality and PSG suck.
- Hamburg's Van der Vaart is leaving at the end of the season.

[The_Passenger]

I really don't see what Savage will add really. Most of Derby's poor results since Jewell has taken over have been down to indivual errors (really bad ones but indiviual errors none the less) as opposed to just being awful all round like it was 3 months ago.

I've heard Fred might be going to Man City, but then again the same is true of Podolski, Vagner Love (why?) and Cisse (WHY?) at the moment.

[talk show host]

I heard Man City were trying to steal Berbatov from under everyone's noses too. They're linked with everyone at the moment it seems.

[radtaste]

Haha yeah, Man City seem to be at the centre of a lot of trade talks.

I also read before that there was talk linking Palermo and Socceroo player, Bresciano, to Inter Milan. I would **** myself if that trade happened (in happiness mind you, not that I usually do).

[talk show host]

lol Bresciano has been linked to Man City before too hasn't he? I think Sven's quite a fan.

[poorquality]

I hate how quiet it's been at the Man U camp, sure we've been linked to Berb and Anelka, but not as strongly as other clubs...

It reminds me of last time when out of no-where the headlines "United sign Anderson and Nani" sprung up... I'm waiting nervously because I think we need to strengthen...sure our midfield is second to none at the moment, we've got cover coming out of our arses.

I'm worried about wing backs though, Evra is fecking amazing, and if he's injured we've got O'Shea and Silvestre for cover, don't get me wrong, they do the job defensively. But Evra brings that much more to the attack down that wing, we need cover for that.

Also right back, Wes Brown is doing really well there this season, but looks like he might be leaving soon, and with Neville looking like he's never coming back :/ we need someone *cough*AlvesPlease*cough* for that position because I don't think Simpson will cut it (at least not yet, he had a blinder against Roma).

Also upfront, 3 strikers, 2 on form but Saha seemed a little off when he played the other day. Really need a 4th, we won the treble with 4 world class strikers in the team, you need the cover for all the games challenging for 3 competitions involve.

This turned out to be a much longer post than I had intended, either way, I think we need to be active in the market if we want to challenge realistically for Europe and the League. Eventually someones going to get injured, or suspended, and we don't want that to ruin our chance.

[radtaste]

lol Bresciano has been linked to Man City before too hasn't he? I think Sven's quite a fan.

Indeed, hope he moves to a quality club, don't think he's been playing well this season.

I hate how quiet it's been at the Man U camp, sure we've been linked to Berb and Anelka, but not as strongly as other clubs...

It reminds me of last time when out of no-where the headlines "United sign Anderson and Nani" sprung up... I'm waiting nervously because I think we need to strengthen...sure our midfield is second to none at the moment, we've got cover coming out of our arses.

I'm worried about wing backs though, Evra is fecking amazing, and if he's injured we've got O'Shea and Silvestre for cover, don't get me wrong, they do the job defensively. But Evra brings that much more to the attack down that wing, we need cover for that.

Also right back, Wes Brown is doing really well there this season, but looks like he might be leaving soon, and with Neville looking like he's never coming back :/ we need someone *cough*AlvesPlease*cough* for that position because I don't think Simpson will cut it (at least not yet, he had a blinder against Roma).

Also upfront, 3 strikers, 2 on form but Saha seemed a little off when he played the other day. Really need a 4th, we won the treble with 4 world class strikers in the team, you need the cover for all the games challenging for 3 competitions involve.

This turned out to be a much longer post than I had intended, either way, I think we need to be active in the market if we want to challenge realistically for Europe and the League. Eventually someones going to get injured, or suspended, and we don't want that to ruin our chance.

After reading that, one would be inclined to think that Man U were about to be relegated :lol:

[poorquality]

Indeed, hope he moves to a quality club, don't think he's been playing well this season.



After reading that, one would be inclined to think that Man U were about to be relegated :lol:

Lol seemed a bit pressimistic I know, I think we have every chance of winning the league, and I dont think there's a squad out there that's better than ours (equal yeah, but not better). Our first 11 is as good if not better than any in the world currently. So yeah I think the Champs League is a real possibility.

I'd just hate to see us throw it away because of not enough quality cover if worst comes to worst.

[ChodaBoy]

I heard Man City were trying to steal Berbatov from under everyone's noses too. They're linked with everyone at the moment it seems.

I know he is going to cost a crazy amount, but it would be so good for the team. Game after game there are so many chances being made, with no-one there to put them away. Sven puts Vassell in rather than Bianchi, yet Bianchi always seems more likely to score when he plays.

[talk show host]

Yeah he'd be well good for City. You look like you could get a Champions League spot too with the way Liverpool are at the moment so he might fancy it. He'd be playing more than if he was at United anyway.

[rik]

Also upfront, 3 strikers, 2 on form but Saha seemed a little off when he played the other day. Really need a 4th, we won the treble with 4 world class strikers in the team, you need the cover for all the games challenging for 3 competitions involve.
I really don't think you need another striker. Rooney and Tevez work so well together, and if one is injured/suspended you have Saha, or even better just stick Ronaldo up front like against Birmingham, that seemed to work out nicely. Giggs can also play in the supporting striker role.



I'd like to sign a striker who can really finish. Martins and Owen can't finish for **** this season. Viduka is quite a good finisher, but i'd just love a player like Eduardo, who seems like he scores everytime he gets the oppurtunity.


Looks like we're going in for Lassana Diarra, he'd be a good signing for us though i'm not sure how likely it'll be signing him. If we do he'd hopefully get enough games and stop ****ing moaning about it.

[poorquality]

I really don't think you need another striker. Rooney and Tevez work so well together, and if one is injured/suspended you have Saha, or even better just stick Ronaldo up front like against Birmingham, that seemed to work out nicely. Giggs can also play in the supporting striker role.



I'd like to sign a striker who can really finish. Martins and Owen can't finish for **** this season. Viduka is quite a good finisher, but i'd just love a player like Eduardo, who seems like he scores everytime he gets the oppurtunity.

The funny thing is..Ronaldo has scored something like 18 in 16 games. But the one game we played him upfront, he didn't score :/ lol

[rik]

Haha true, but he had his chances. He should've scored in that match.


I just read that Ramos has told Defoe he can leave this month if he wants, but he apparently wants to stay. I reckon he should leave, he could find himself in a lot of starting positions for many good clubs. He could be good for a team like Man City.

[poorquality]

Once you're told you can go, that's pretty much it, he wants to stay, but he said he wouldn't if he couldn't get games, and since Ramos said he can go, I doubt he'll be getting games. :/

[ChodaBoy]

Between Defoe and Berbatov? Berbatov. Marseille have turned down an offer from City for Cisse, which seems very strange to me. I dont ever remember his name being mentioned, and he is hardly the world-class striker we need.

But for Defoe, he should just accept his time at Spurs is over, and wait for a bid from another club.

[rik]

Once you're told you can go, that's pretty much it, he wants to stay, but he said he wouldn't if he couldn't get games, and since Ramos said he can go, I doubt he'll be getting games. :/
Well the chairman apparently wants him to stay, and if Berba leaves then he could find himself getting more and more games. I for one think he should start over Bent.

Between Defoe and Berbatov? Berbatov.
Well yer, but I don't know if Berba would leave Spurs for City. He's quoted as saying he is happy at Spurs, but would consider a move to a 'bigger' club. Sure, City have had a great season so far and Spurs have had a poor season, but I don't think City are neccaserily a 'bigger' club than Spurs. By what Berbatov has said I can only see him leaving for Arsenal, Man Utd or Chelsea.

That's just what i've made of the situation, I could of course be well wrong.

[2muchket!]

Defoe should leave if he wants to acually have a footballing career. I wouldn't mind seeing someone like him who is a good finisher work alongside either Tuncay/Mido. Infact the big man small man combo with Mido and Defoe would jsut be the answers we have atm. Can't see it happening tho' :(

And for the life of I cant see why City would sign Cisse. Poor player who hasn't been the same since he left Auxerre many years ago.

Also Chelski are preparing to launch an increased bid for anelka. I can see Bolton just squeezing every last bit of worth outta this dealif he does (which looks likely).

[Pastorius]

Christ, imagine Berbatov and Torres. That would be lethal, even though it's never happening.

[Iai]

Defoe should leave if he wants to acually have a footballing career. I wouldn't mind seeing someone like him who is a good finisher work alongside either Tuncay/Mido. Infact the big man small man combo with Mido and Defoe would jsut be the answers we have atm.
My Football Manager game's first season described right here.

[radtaste]

And for the life of I cant see why City would sign Cisse. Poor player who hasn't been the same since he left Auxerre many years ago.

I too am confused. Very confused. There's a host of quality strikers out there, why go for used goods, particularly when they're just about past their footballing expiry date?

[poorquality]

I know what you all mean, but I've got a wierd feeling Sven knows something we don't :/ I mean look at who he's brought in, he knows a good player when he sees one.

[rik]

What the ****!?!? Allardyce has gone. What a ridiculous decision. I'm actually really pissed off at the moment.

[2muchket!]

Pro'a stupid decision there.

[poorquality]

Hm nice...knock down the teams confidence moreso, put a coach in charge temporarily, and your next game is against Man Utd....hm they're not too bright

[rik]

Also, Allardyce is quite a respected manager, he's good for bringing players in. How are we going to sign any players in this window now.

We needed to give Allardyce at least a season or two, our performances had started to pick up over the last few games and now the teams confidence has been shot right back down.

Really bad decision in my opinion, we now need to get a good proven manager and keep him. We really need some continuity at this club.

[The_Passenger]

lol @ the whole Newcastle situation.

So who's next? I say Benitez.

Also, isn't this something like the 10th managerial sacking this season? We're only halfway through. Let's see if Premier League boards can get even more fickle this year and see if 08-09 can see 20 Premier League managers starting their first full seasons with a club.

[ChodaBoy]

Is Gareth Southgate still at Boro? If yes, then he will go next. There have been so many sackings I cant remember who is around

[VomitStainedCretin]

The fact the seemingly completely inexperienced Alan Shearer is favourite to take over from Allardyce makes the Newcastle situation all the more ridiculous.

[talk show host]

Yeah I wonder how long he'll be a Newcastle favourite if he gets the job.

edit: The BBC are saying he's ruled himself out. Probably a smart move.

[2muchket!]

Is Gareth Southgate still at Boro? If yes, then he will go next. There have been so many sackings I cant remember who is around

I don't think he will be.

Or if he is it'll be done at the end of the season. Steve Gibson gives his managers a fair bit of time in the job.

EDIT: Well happy that the boro have made an approach for Fred. Also theres links with Afonso Alves and Defoe. Be happy if any of the 3 come.

[sgrevs]

Apparently Redknapp is another favourite to take over the Toon, though I don't really see that happening, he's been great at Pompey.

Southgate is on thin ice at Boro I'd say.
Apparently Benitez is too:( I think he should stay though. But it would be rad if we got someone like Mourinho at the 'Pool.

[angry armadillo]

i think if redknapp went to nufc then he would have the same problems as big sam... he knew what he was doing with his squad at bolton (and pompey for harry) but put them in unfamiliar surroundings and you see the problem sam had, i think it would be just the same for 'appy 'arry.


i think liverpool will have a different manager for next season, i will say it now that i am glad before people jump at me saying i am just blindly supporting what happens, because i think that benitez is tactically inept for a top 4 premiership team.

he is a motivator, that is good for knockout competition and that's why he has a FA cup and such a good champions league record but his coaching style is not suitable for the marathon that is the premiership

there are 2 ways to go about being a top 4 team in the premiership and you can either play 'beautiful' football, when you have the quality of the players that Man U and Arsenal have, or you can do what Mourinho did at Chelsea and play route one football to your target man (drogba equivilant)

quite honestly liverpool dont have the quality all around the pitch that man u and arsenal have, compare kewell, babel, benayoun, to the likes of giggs, ronaldo, nani for example...


the problem liverpool have is the fans beg for the glory days of past success but they just dont have the quality to do it, so benitez sets up the team to play a half hearted game of beautiful football but reverts to route 1 football through torres and gerrard which obviously isnt working.

[sgrevs]

You're right in almost everything, except Kewell, Babel and Benayoun are all better than Nani, who is useless.

[angry armadillo]

i think he is a much more exciting prospect than kewell or benayoun but maybe babel will come good, except for now he is pretty useless.

if you really want exchange him for anderson and point still stands

[Timm]

so lehmann goes to dortmund rofl
what do they want with a 38 year old when he's not significantly better than their current no 1? also they already got a new no 2 keeper this season who did well when he played. and even most of their fans don't want to see lehmann back...

[The_Passenger]

Does anyone know what Serie A game Channel 5 are showing on Sunday. I'm asking because I've heard Milan may be giving Pato a start and I'm interested to see if he's as good as the hype suggests.

[ed_stones_dead]

Apparently Redknapp is another favourite to take over the Toon, though I don't really see that happening, he's been great at Pompey.

I want Redknapp to get it. As a Saints fan it's difficult to see Pompey doing so well. Losing their manager will shake them up a bit.
It's a good thing

[rustysurf84]

Redknapp would have the same problems as Big Sam if you ask me. Mourinho can't coach in England this year right?

[VomitStainedCretin]

I want Redknapp to get it. As a Saints fan it's difficult to see Pompey doing so well. Losing their manager will shake them up a bit.
It's a good thingPersonally I'd rather see you remain suffering in the Championship...

[MILF Hunter]

Jol for Newcastle job maybe?

[ed_stones_dead]

Personally I'd rather see you remain suffering in the Championship...


The championship is still a good standard of football, but i was just used to being in the Premiership. We had a good couple of seasons with Gordron Strachan. We finished 6th and made it to the FA Cup Final.
As soon as he left it went downhill, and here were are, mid table championship.

[The_Passenger]

Jol for Newcastle job maybe?

At least he would continue the longstanding Newcastle tradition of crap defending.

[Collis]

The championship is still a good standard of football, but i was just used to being in the Premiership. We had a good couple of seasons with Gordron Strachan. We finished 6th and made it to the FA Cup Final.
As soon as he left it went downhill, and here were are, mid table championship.

I have to disagree with you there. The football being played in the Championship is awful, minus a couple of teams (Mainly West Brom). Stoke for example (The team I support) are absolutely woeful, we are only 4th due to having a tall and physical outfit, and the majority of goals we score are either set pieces or Fuller-brilliance. And from other games I have seen this season, many teams adopt the same approach.

Also, the difference in class between Premiership and Championship is massive. It's such a shame really...

[Iai]

I agree with the above post. David Nugent is basically all the evidence you need of the gulf in class between the top flight and the Championship.

[angry armadillo]

well there is a difference all the way through football...

in the prem you get:
top 4
europe
top half
a lot of middle teams
relegation fighters

then you kind of get your yo yo teams who go up and down


im sure there is similar ways to split up the championship too

[badtaste]

well there is a difference all the way through football...

in the prem you get:
top 4
europe
top half
a lot of middle teams
relegation fighters

then you kind of get your yo yo teams who go up and down


im sure there is similar ways to split up the championship too

I don't get the 'Europe'? I thought 'Europe' and 'top 4' would have been one and the same.

[Collis]

im sure there is similar ways to split up the championship too
Yeah you do raise a good point. But the weird thing with the Championship is that every team can beat anyone. I think that the 4th placed team and 16th placed team are only separated by 10 points. And the top three are only 4 points off 4th.

So it's a lot more closer than the top flight.

[2muchket!]

I don't get the 'Europe'? I thought 'Europe' and 'top 4' would have been one and the same.

He refers to those who are in UEFA cup. But since that fluctuates a lot (see my club middlesbrough for proof) theres not that much division. I mean pompey up until this season were in the botom half of the tabe almost always. But now they may get a UEFA spot

More like this :
Top 4
Top Half and Middling clubs
Relegation Fighters

[MILF Hunter]

hello fellow smoggie :wave:

unrelated, but loving the amount of Peep show avatars there seems to be these days.

[The_Passenger]

You can't really split the Championship up in the way you can the Premiership, just about any team in the Championship could still get promoted at the moment. You can't say the same abotu teams in the premier League that might finish in Europe.

That's the only thing that is better about the Championship though, the gulf in quality is huge. I watch Argyle play and then see some teams on Sky/Setanta and I wonder how they manage it (Arsenal in particular but just about every team in the top 15 is significantly better than any Championship team).

[2muchket!]

Indeed. WBA look like they'll get promoted and I give them the only chance of surviving if they do come up.

Oh and the deal for Afonso Alves looks almost done. That'd be a ****in amazing signing.

And greetings to my fellow teessider :)

[Iai]

I moved away from Boro about 20 years ago. :(

[radtaste]

I think Anelka's sealed the deal to go to Chelsea. Just read a report on it, can't believe how many decent clubs the guy has been at.

Paris Saint-Germain
Arsenal
Real Madrid
Paris Saint-Germain
→ Liverpool (loan)
Manchester City
Fenerbahçe
Bolton Wanderers
Chelsea*

Talk of Maniche heading to Inter Milan, if the President of the club is anything to go by.

Also, Solskjaer is set to by knighted by the Royalty in Norwegian, good on him.

[rustysurf84]

Good for Solskjaer, seems like a good fellow.

[sgrevs]

Yeah good on him, he was always my favourite player at United, a team i've always loathed.


unrelated, but loving the amount of Peep show avatars there seems to be these days.

Peep show is the ****. Amazing show.

[poorquality]

Predictions lads?

1500 GMT KICK-OFFS
Arsenal v Birmingham (3-0)
Aston Villa v Reading (1-2)
Chelsea v Tottenham (1-2)
Derby v Wigan (2-0)
Everton v Man City (0-1)
Middlesbrough v Liverpool (2-1)
West Ham v Fulham (1-1)

LATER MATCH
Man Utd v Newcastle (1715 GMT) (2-0)

I do honestly think Derby will win today it wasn't a typo :)

[radtaste]

Predictions lads?

1500 GMT KICK-OFFS
Arsenal v Birmingham (3-0)
Aston Villa v Reading (1-2)
Chelsea v Tottenham (1-2)
Derby v Wigan (2-0)
Everton v Man City (0-1)
Middlesbrough v Liverpool (2-1)
West Ham v Fulham (1-1)

LATER MATCH
Man Utd v Newcastle (1715 GMT) (2-0)

I do honestly think Derby will win today it wasn't a typo :)

Not a big fan of predicting scores, only outcomes, so here I go.

Arsenal v Birmingham
Aston Villa v Reading
Chelsea v Tottenham
Derby v Wigan (Hmm, but Derby have all these cool new signings...)
Everton v Man City
Middlesbrough v Liverpool
West Ham v Fulham
Man Utd v Newcastle

Pretty much gone for the safe route, I suck.

[talk show host]

Arsenal v Birmingham 3-1
Aston Villa v Reading 1-1
Chelsea v Tottenham 2-2
Derby v Wigan 0-1
Everton v Man City 2-1
Middlesbrough v Liverpool 1-1
West Ham v Fulham 2-0
Man Utd v Newcastle 3-0

seems ages since we've had premiership games.

also I hope Reading sign a central defender soon. Gunnarsson playing there makes me nervous :|

[MILF Hunter]

Arsenal v Birmingham 3-0
Aston Villa v Reading 2-2
Chelsea v Tottenham 3-2
Derby v Wigan 0-0b]
Everton v Man City 2-0
Middlesbrough v Liverpool 0-1
West Ham v Fulham [b]2-0
Man Utd v Newcastle 4-0

[2muchket!]

Arsenal v Birmingham (3-0)
Aston Villa v Reading (2-0)
Chelsea v Tottenham (2-0)
Derby v Wigan (1-0)
Everton v Man City (1-1)
Middlesbrough v Liverpool (2-1)
West Ham v Fulham (1-1)

LATER MATCH
Man Utd v Newcastle (1715 GMT) (3-0)

[ChodaBoy]

SVEN! WTF! He keeps playing Vassell over Bianchi who is a much better striker, and SCORES.

P.S. I truely hope Vassell shows me up with a hat-trick

[Minus The Flair]

**** me, Ronaldo. First hat-trick for United, a winger getting 22 goals since the start of the season, in what like, 19 appearances? That is incredible.

Newcastle better get a new boss quick. Came at the perfect time for United though, haha, 6-0.

[Spiney_Norman]

Oh dear, Man U 6-0 Newcastle...
Allardyce back? :D I love how the commentators were slagging Ronaldo off even though he scored a hat-trick. :)

[Echleon]

Wow, Man U totaly destroyed Newcastle in the second half.

Funny to think it was 0-0 at half time.

Ronaldo is on fire! 16 goals in the premiership this season. He got 17 last season and that was a record!

[Dave de Sylvia]

lel newcastle

I made Ronaldo captain in my fantasy team and dropped Given in preparation :-D Although it sounds like Given performed heroics so he probably got more points than Gordon will anyway.

[rik]

We got absolutely destroyed in that second half, I walked out of the pub at 3-0. I was impressed with how we played in the first half though, and Owen's goal should've stood. It all might've been different had we gone 1-0 up.

My slight consolation is I had Tevez, Ronaldo and Ferdinand in my fantasy team. All scoring highly and Ronaldo getting me 42 points.

[Pastorius]

Do you guys have any real fantasy teams or is it all free ones?

It doesn't matter unless there is money on it.

[Pastorius]

Do you guys have any real fantasy teams or is it all free ones?

It doesn't matter unless there is money on it.

[Untitled]

Oh dear, Man U 6-0 Newcastle...
Allardyce back? :D I love how the commentators were slagging Ronaldo off even though he scored a hat-trick. :)

Because hes a twat, i dont care how good he is, hes a twat, i hate him. Cocky little cunt. And how does he get off running into someone in the box and claiming a penalty? when hes the stupid twat who didnt move ran into him.

[rik]

Do you guys have any real fantasy teams or is it all free ones?

It doesn't matter unless there is money on it.

Free, but theres money in it between me and mates i'm in a league with.

[benfan]

Because hes a twat, i dont care how good he is, hes a twat, i hate him. Cocky little cunt. And how does he get off running into someone in the box and claiming a penalty? when hes the stupid twat who didnt move ran into him.


Scummy Man U pricks.

Owens goal was legit, and that could of changed the game for us.

I dont think the luck is on our side atm!

Toon Army !

[The_Passenger]

The way Newcastle capitualted after the first goal was incredible and very unprofessional. That has to be the worst 45 minutes by a Premiership team I've seen. I wish we could've swapped opposition with Man U and they got Burnely.

Regarding Ronaldo, brilliant player, but he does come across as a very dislikable man in more than one way, and thus no matter how well he plays people will always criticise him. He dived at least twice today from my recollection.

[poorquality]

What I like about the disallowed goal for Newcastle, is granted it may of been a goal, I mean one on one, surely he'd of scored anyway? WRONG! He put it in the net, with no real effort by VDS to save it, why? Flag.

He shouldn't of been given offside no, but if he hadn't there's no guarentee he would of put the ball away.

Even if he did, it's obvious SAF team talk at half time was the reason for our second half performance, now that's what we do to you at 0-0, be happy you didn't go in at 1-0.

(Oh and by the way...5 shots in the opening 10-15 minutes? 3 on target? You're lucky it was even 0-0 before that even happened)

Normally I don't slate a teams performances but some peoples opinions over a thing like that are a joke, it could of easilly been 8 or 9 goals, Newcastle's players weren't anywhere near the same league as Uniteds in the second half, Arsenal say United run out of steam with 15 or so minutes to go. It appears Newcastle are a 45 minute team.

You honestly think that had you gone in 1-0, we wouldn't of just done exactly the same thing? Your defence was shot, your players weren't putting in the effort, and as such you couldn't stop our attacking play, our third goal for example, 4 players simple passing, while Newcastle players sort of just watched it happen.

You might want to check the workrate of your own players before fathoming the idea you actually stood a chance in that second half.

[rik]

What I like about the disallowed goal for Newcastle, is granted it may of been a goal, I mean one on one, surely he'd of scored anyway? WRONG! He put it in the net, with no real effort by VDS to save it, why? Flag.

He shouldn't of been given offside no, but if he hadn't there's no guarentee he would of put the ball away.

Even if he did, it's obvious SAF team talk at half time was the reason for our second half performance, now that's what we do to you at 0-0, be happy you didn't go in at 1-0.

(Oh and by the way...5 shots in the opening 10-15 minutes? 3 on target? You're lucky it was even 0-0 before that even happened)

Normally I don't slate a teams performances but some peoples opinions over a thing like that are a joke, it could of easilly been 8 or 9 goals, Newcastle's players weren't anywhere near the same league as Uniteds in the second half, Arsenal say United run out of steam with 15 or so minutes to go. It appears Newcastle are a 45 minute team.

You honestly think that had you gone in 1-0, we wouldn't of just done exactly the same thing? Your defence was shot, your players weren't putting in the effort, and as such you couldn't stop our attacking play, our third goal for example, 4 players simple passing, while Newcastle players sort of just watched it happen.

You might want to check the workrate of your own players before fathoming the idea you actually stood a chance in that second half.
Seriously man, you obviously don't know what being a goal up can do to a team.

No ones saying that if our goal had been allowed (which it should've been), that we would've won. But if we had gone in a goal up at half time we might've come out with a whole different mentality. And even you, a united fan, can't say a 6-0 win wasn't a flattering scoreline.

I expected us to get beaten today, but i'm actually proud of the players for their first half effort, and when you go down 2-0 down at old trafford its hard to keep your heads high.

You don't know what would've happened had we gone in 0-1 at half time. Anyway, i'm chatting mess now i'm pretty battered. But yer, we're ****ed. We need a good manager with some continuity, we need to keep a manager.

[clairvoyant]

Damn Arsenal. Unless Robin van Persie gets back soon we are done. Fabregas is playing terrible, and Theo Walcott is just plain terrible...I cannot believe he even plays for Arsenal.

[The_Passenger]

Tbh Newcastle's goal being disallowed is evened out by Man U being denied two penalties. (Giggs and Ferdinand), one of which came before Owen put the ball in the net.

[radtaste]

Nice goal by Belleti, a defender capable of such shooting is always a nice addition. Nice look by Anelka as well, unlucky not to have grabbed a goal.

[poorquality]

Seriously man, you obviously don't know what being a goal up can do to a team.

No ones saying that if our goal had been allowed (which it should've been), that we would've won. But if we had gone in a goal up at half time we might've come out with a whole different mentality. And even you, a united fan, can't say a 6-0 win wasn't a flattering scoreline.

I expected us to get beaten today, but i'm actually proud of the players for their first half effort, and when you go down 2-0 down at old trafford its hard to keep your heads high.

You don't know what would've happened had we gone in 0-1 at half time. Anyway, i'm chatting mess now i'm pretty battered. But yer, we're ****ed. We need a good manager with some continuity, we need to keep a manager.

Ooo First, it wasn't the goal that was disallowed, it was Owen being ruled offside, the flag was up well before he scored, Rio had stopped his pursuit of Owen, and VDS made a half-assed attempt to keep it out because everyone saw the flag, even Owen knew the flag was up as soon as the ball hit the net. Otherwise..

I really don't think it would of done much to be honest, sure your first half display was good, but when the teams came out in the second half there was a distinct difference in quality, Newcastle just didn't have the ability to compete, they had I think 1 effort in the second half.

Also I don't think 6-0 was flattering at all, it could of easilly been 8 or 9, goal line clearances, Given had a good game keeping us out a few times...the stats show we were completely on top, we had 16 corners to your 1.

But I think even had you gone in at 1-0 you would of still suffered the same shortness of form in the second half, your players were knackered, they just gave up most of the time and we just took the opportunities that were given.

I think 3 of our goals were in the last 10-15 minutes or so? Fatigue hit you guys hard.

Also about the penalties someone else mentioned, while the guy technically fouled Ronaldo by leaving his leg there, Ronaldo made the most of it and I personally wouldn't of given it.

But when Smith brought down Giggs I think it was, that was a penalty, but it's easy to just ignore it when you win 6-0. I'm not too fussed to be honest though. Still think it was a great second half performance.

[The_Passenger]

. And even you, a united fan, can't say a 6-0 win wasn't a flattering scoreline.


lol I just saw this.

I never thought I'd be saying this but 6-0 is probably the minimum Newcastle could've got away with. Not flattering at all. This is coming from a neutral.

[rik]

Meh, like I say I left at 3-0, and was out for motd. So didn't even see the whole second half. Never anything wrong being a bit biased towards you're own team.

But our sudden lack in form in the second half I think had a lot to do with the first two goals. The first one, the free kick, shouldn't have been a free kick, I knew it was going to be a goal as soon as the ref gave it. And the second one, albeit comical definding, was unlucky that Given's clearence hit Cacapa and fell straight to a Man Utd player.

Anyway, we got caned, I always knew we were going to. Sacking Allardyce was a mistake, the owner should at least have had another manager lined up before he did it.

[Collis]

I'm feeling pretty confident that we can beat the Toon on Wednesday now, bring on the Arsenal!!!

[poorquality]

Nothing wrong with team bias at all, I <3 team bias :)

Our first two were lucky yeah, things like that happen though. (To be fair the free kick itself was a touch of class from ronaldo, assuming the wall would jump as all his free kicks are over the wall, then slotting it home under it was brilliant).

Second was lucky yeah, simplest goal Tevez will ever score.

Our third was a brilliant piece of play though, lovely passing movement, an amazing first touch by Ronaldo which I still don't know how he controlled it so well :/

I hate the Newcastle board for sacking Big Sam, I loved him at Bolton he is an amazing manager, and to be given 8 months to turn that team around is shocking.

Who's gonna want to take the job now? Managers know what other managers are like in terms of quality, and Sam is highly rated, and he was turfed out, who's going to want to take the job knowing the limited time they expect results in? No-one top quality.


I hear McClaren is still on the market :) I would feel so sorry for you rik if he became manager....

[rik]

Haha, trust me, Mclaren won't be our next manager. I had always liked Sam when he was at Bolton, and was gutted when I heard he'd been sacked. But to be fair to the chairman, Allardyce wasn't his signing, and when you buy a club you have a right to have your choice of manager leading the team.

The timing of it all was ridiculous though, i've pretty much already given up on this season. I can't see us doing anything that'll be worth mentioning this season.

[poorquality]

That's true, but I wouldnt change the management if they're doing alright, and 11th was a safe space to be in considering where you finished last season and still time left this season to do better.

Atleast you aren't in danger of relegation. Build next season I guess you're right there.

[rik]

Nolan just scored a siiick volley.

[poorquality]

Nolan just scored a siiick volley.

Yeah that was wiiicked, against the Run of play perhaps but immense finish

[talk show host]

With Sunderland winning today it's getting awfully tight at the bottom of the table. It's a bit concerning really :(

[Minus The Flair]

Get in Richardson, that's a fair few fantasy points. I feel greedy that he didn't get the hat-trick with the one that hit the bar.

[2muchket!]

Damn Arsenal. Unless Robin van Persie gets back soon we are done. Fabregas is playing terrible, and Theo Walcott is just plain terrible...I cannot believe he even plays for Arsenal.

Walcott's only young so don't expect all that much. And hes being played out of position.

As for Fabregas hes been probably the best, 2nd best player in the premiership this season. Hes had a dip lately but he'll back to his supreme best soon.

As for Van Persie unless you want him left wing why would want to break up the partnership of Eduardo and Adebayor who are scoring for fun atm :confused:

[ed_stones_dead]

lol pompey
love watching them lose

[The_Passenger]

Walcott's only young so don't expect all that much. And hes being played out of position.



Tbh I've seen nothing encouraging about Walcott except his pace. His first touch is poor and he won't get away with that if he's playing in his natural position as a striker.

In other news, I see Pato did score on his debut. This makes me wonder a bit about Arsenal's chances of progressing the the ECL 1/4 finals because tbh I've thougth all the season that the only thing Milan have been lacking was a decent centre-forward. Ronaldo also bagged a brace as well.

[clairvoyant]

Walcott's only young so don't expect all that much. And hes being played out of position.

As for Fabregas hes been probably the best, 2nd best player in the premiership this season. Hes had a dip lately but he'll back to his supreme best soon.

As for Van Persie unless you want him left wing why would want to break up the partnership of Eduardo and Adebayor who are scoring for fun atm :confused:

Well Wenger did run the 4-4-2 but usually hes been running thr 4-5-1 while RVP has been out, with Adebayor at lead, but I feel like its just not as efficient as a 4-4-2 with RVP/Adebayor.

Fabregas was one of the best players in premiership, but since his injury he just hasn't been the same.

[Dead Star]

23 points off of top spot in the fantasy league :)

[talk show host]

You took my second spot :(

[Minus The Flair]

I think I climbed about 8 places, and got the highest score this week, passing the 100 mark. Not bad, but still 11th. Though it's lucky that they're saying that Santa Cruz got an assist, Roberts ran half the pitch on his own!

[madtaste]

I think I climbed about 8 places, and got the highest score this week, passing the 100 mark. Not bad, but still 11th. Though it's lucky that they're saying that Santa Cruz got an assist, Roberts ran half the pitch on his own!

Without Santa Cruz, I doubt Roberts would have scored, haha.

Was looking at a soccer website I browse, Liverpool have admitted to talking to Klinsmann about taking over the reigns. This was back in November. But yeah, Hicks is saying some crap about Benitez having their full support now.

Speaking of Klinsmann, you might have heard that he's taking over Bayern Munich next season.

[talk show host]

You've got to wonder how long Benitez is going to last at this rate. It's obvious the owners don't want him there and the excuses given for talking to Klinsmann are just blatantly untrue.

I'm quite curious how Klinsmann will do at Bayern. He did a good job with Germany but as far as i'm aware they weren't that great before the tournament itself where the home crowd would've helped a lot.

[VomitStainedCretin]

Benitez has done very well at Liverpool (i.e. Champs League & final) but under him the team have never really been in the title race (though Liverpool haven't come close to winning the league for close to a couple of decades tbh)

[Timm]

I'm quite curious how Klinsmann will do at Bayern. He did a good job with Germany but as far as i'm aware they weren't that great before the tournament itself where the home crowd would've helped a lot.
löw did pretty much all the tactical work, for the rest klinsmann had assistants. all klinsmann did was basicly supervising the whole thing (with löw) and motivating the players which is a quite different issue at events such as a worldcup than a whole league season. so yeah this will be interesting. especially since bayern finally spends big money for big players (well, big for the bundesliga where no club is owned by some rich twat :p )
concerning the pre world cup games; creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes, art is knowing which ones to keep :D

anyone going to the euro? I'd love to but it's pretty much impossible to get hold of tickets. damn tiny austrian stadiums :(

[Collis]

If England were in it then I would have considered it.

[poorquality]

I'd love to go to any Euro match, regardless of Englands inability to qualify, some of those matches will be immense to watch.

[rustysurf84]

Germany v. Poland anyone?

[2muchket!]

ahaha so Keegan's been appointed Newcastle manager again.

[The_Passenger]

Keegan is an odd signing for me.

Newcastle's problems are mostly at the back, although they have been a bit clueless going forward recently. Everyone knows that defending is hardly Keegan's strong point. Combine that with the fact that Newcastle's frontline is nowhere near as good as it was back in '96 and I don't see how Newcastle's situation will improve.

Says to me that the Geordies would rather see a 4-3 loss than a 1-0 win.

Benitez has done very well at Liverpool (i.e. Champs League & final) but under him the team have never really been in the title race (though Liverpool haven't come close to winning the league for close to a couple of decades tbh)
Champions League was a fluke. Milan fell to sleep in the 2nd half and if it weren't for Liverpool's shocking first half performance (which everyone seems to forget about) Rafa would've never told Liverpool to forward as much as they did (case in point, he played 4-5-1 against Wigan at Anfield). Also, any other day Shevchenko would've kept his wits about him and scored that rebound instead of blasting it at about as good a height as he could've from Dudek's point of view.

Then again I may be biased because I've never really liked Benitez for some reason.

[2muchket!]

He'll never win the premiership imo.

He may win Liverpool another Champions League (which he seems bothered about) or FA cup but thats it.

[Collis]

Gah why couldn't announce Keegan tomorrow!?

I think the fans will be well up for the game tonight now, ah well, they'll always be shite at the back. COME ON STOKE!!!

[rik]

I'm really excited about Keegan, i'm not going to get ahead of myself, but at least now we have a manager the whole toon will get behind. Bring in Shearer as well now I say.



TOOON