Quick, quick, quick today.
Been away from a computer, and thusly, the world of football for four days. Guess I missed a flip-flop at the top. Go figure.
Doubt too many people are wrapped up pre-New Years, but here are the picks for Jan. 1 and Jan. 2, which are the final games before this weekend's FA Cup stuff. Fun.
Tuesday
Fulham 1, Chelsea 2 (Setanta, 9 a.m)
Arsenal 1, West Ham 0 (Setanta Broadband, 10 a.m.)
Manchester United, 3, Birmingham City 1 (FSC, 10 a.m.)
Middlesbrough 1, Everton 2
Reading 1, Portsmouth 3
Aston Villa 2, Tottenham 2 (FSC, noon)
Wednesday
Newcastle United 1, Manchester City 0 (FSC, 2:30 p.m.)
Blackburn 2, Sunderland 1
Bolton 1, Derby 1
Liverpool 3, Wigan 1 (Setanta, 3 p.m.)
Last week: 2-8
Season: 94-103
Been away from a computer, and thusly, the world of football for four days. Guess I missed a flip-flop at the top. Go figure.
Doubt too many people are wrapped up pre-New Years, but here are the picks for Jan. 1 and Jan. 2, which are the final games before this weekend's FA Cup stuff. Fun.
Tuesday
Fulham 1, Chelsea 2 (Setanta, 9 a.m)
Arsenal 1, West Ham 0 (Setanta Broadband, 10 a.m.)
Manchester United, 3, Birmingham City 1 (FSC, 10 a.m.)
Middlesbrough 1, Everton 2
Reading 1, Portsmouth 3
Aston Villa 2, Tottenham 2 (FSC, noon)
Wednesday
Newcastle United 1, Manchester City 0 (FSC, 2:30 p.m.)
Blackburn 2, Sunderland 1
Bolton 1, Derby 1
Liverpool 3, Wigan 1 (Setanta, 3 p.m.)
Last week: 2-8
Season: 94-103
Labels: Prem Picks, Soccer
Everyone loves lists this time of year. They're easy and fun. Plus they create debate. Fun times for all. Maybe cake is served.
In lieu of a list, I decided to go through the entire year's worth of posts from 2007 and cook up a year in review that should be enjoyable. Hell, I could easily figure out when 'Halo 3' came up and the decline of posts.
Could have been a college thesis. Oh well.
Don't hold it against me if I omitted an event. It was a busy year. And yes, there was a Women's World Cup or something. Sue me. If you make it to the end, give yourself a gold star, or at least a pat on the back.
Also note, any video of the Premier Leauge is under Scotland Yard embargo. I don't want Interpol or MI6 or Mr. F hunting me down with deadly, albeit it impractical tools of destruction.
Anyways, enough of my yapping.
January
Little did we know what was in store for us...
* David Beckham does Disney -- The beginning of our national nightmare begins to creep ashore, frosted tips and all.
* DC United signs Luciano Edmilio -- Doesn't quite have the zip as that Beckham guy, but wins the league scoring crown and MVP award. Go figure.
* Jack Bauer returns -- Season Six of '24' never happened. Hear me. Never happened.
* Jan. 20, USMNT 3, Denmark 1 -- Welcome to the world Jonathan Bornstein. Goodbye Marcelo Balboa.
* NOTEWORTHY ITEM OF JANUARY -- Clint Dempsey sold to Fulham -- Surprisingly, has yet to record a jam with Mike Skinner.
February
Shortest month, still not too shabby.
* FIIIIIIIIGHT -- Then-Sevilla coach Juande Ramos hit by a 'missile' in a derny match with Real Betis, thus canceling the match.
* Moustache Alert!! -- First joke made at Manuel Almunia's porn-tastic upper lip.
You summabitch -- Rich Texan Tom Hicks and George Gillett complete their purchase of Liverpool, little do they know what the hell soccer-ball entails.
* Italian disgrace, part I -- Rioting at the Sicilian derby between Palermo and Catania shuts down Serie A after a policeman is killed. Authorities talk about changing the culture and cracking down, aside for a couple weeks of empty stadia, nothing changes.
* If you ever build it, they might come -- Red Bull New York issues its first of many stadium delays, pushing Red Bull Park back to the year Geddy Lee approved date of 2112, or so we think.
* Gooch, gets loose -- Oguchi Oneywu makes his ill-fated debut with Newcastle United. He doesn't last the Purge, led byBen Linus Sam Allardyce.
* Gooners never say die -- The Colorado Rapids are briefly Colorado Arsenal, for about eight seconds.
* Face your fear -- USMNT gets its draw for the Copa America. Little did we know Bob Bradley and Sunil Gulati would send down the butcher, the baker and the candlestick maker to play in Venezuela.
NOTEWORTHY ITEM OF FEBRUARY, USA 2, Mexico 0 -- The Land-o-meter is up, after his breakaway goal seals it. Jimmy Conrad (remember him?) scored the winner on a first half header from a corner. Also worth noting, Oswaldo Sanchez cheap-shots Eddie Johnson and ESPN actually treats the game, a friendly no less, with gravitas. Don't forget, Lando's breakway served as the marketing 101 for the suits in Chicago all year.
SmarchMarch
Shit got real in March.
* Ouch...part I -- David Beckham hurts his leg, crashing into the signage during Real Madrid's game with Getafe.
* FIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHT -- Inter Milan and Valencia put on the most un-manly fight in sports history, putting the Tonya Harding attack on Nancy Kerrigan to shame in the dying moments of a Champions League Round of 16 game. All that was missing was the Benny Hill music.
* Step 1, 2, 3 ... 400 -- AS Roma's Mancini does about 143 step-overs, to juke the Lyon defense out of their pants.
* Pitch Invasion, English style -- A disgruntled, presumably fresh from the Korova Milk Bar Spurs' fan rushes the field at Stamford Bridge to accost Frank Lampard in an FA Cup replay.
* March 11, West Ham 2, Spurs 3 -- Game of the year, probably in the Premier League. A topsy, turvy affair that features some of the best action and drama. Lost a little luster since West Ham avoided the drop.
* Toy recall -- Jay DeMerit and Benny Feilhaber are recalled into the USMNT squad for a friendly with Guatemala.
* Chillin' like Chilavert -- Sevilla keeper Andres Pallop scores a goal against Shanktar Donetsk to keep the holders alive in the UEFA Cup.
* Big month for keepers, continues -- Paul Robinson scores from just inside the halfway line to beat Watford's Ben Foster in a league game. Adding insult to injury, Robbo is ahead of Foster on the England No. 1 pecking order...until a fateful day in November vs. Croatia.
* Buy me, please -- The USMNT debuts another shirt, this one a light blue number that grows on the public, or at least moi.
* NOTEWORTHY ITEM FOR MARCH -- March 25, USA 3, Ecuador 0 -- Lando nets a hat trick in Tampa, Fla., setting the Land-o-meter to unseen heights. Like, Bianca Kajlich on 'Dawson's Creek' heights. Or something to that effect.
* Wee, wee, wee -- For a brief moment in time, David Healy has Northern Ireland atop the Euro 2008 qualification Group F table.
* Mal, mal, mal -- March, 28, USA 0, Guatemala 0 -- Aside from the pairing of the future (Michael Bradley/Feilhaber) this one had 'worst...game...ever' status from the start thanks to the 11-men behind the ball tactics from Guate.
April
Europe built some steam, but mostly a quiet month -- except for a goal for all times.
* Bunny hop, this -- In the latest attempt for MLS to hap into the 'ethnic' (read Hispanic) marketplace, the Chicago Fire ink Cuauhtémoc Blanco to a deal. Actually, it pays off as the petulant Mexican leads the Fire into the playoffs.
* Did these count? -- MLS announced it's 'Game First' initiatives, but most of the clubs seemingly lost the memo midway through the year.
* Perfect day for football -- MLS season XII debuts from frosty Commerce City, Colo. for the debut of 'The Dick' as the Rapids host DC United.
* April 10, Manchester United 7, Roma 1 -- My-a English, issa not so good.
* Columbian waterfall -- America meets the Juan Carlos Toja mullet. Gracias.
* MOMENT FOR HISTORY, April 18, The Golazo -- Messi, Messi, Messi, Messi, Messi, GOLAZO. GOLAZO. GOLAZO. (Warning the clip below will self destruct as soon as you click on it.)
* March, 22 Inter wins the Scudetto -- Ahh, point deductions.
* March 28, Everton 2, Manchester United 3 -- The Red Devils erase a 2-0 deficit and essentially claim the EPL crown as their own.
May
A few winners crowned, business as usual.
* May 1, We meet...again -- Liverpool knocks Chelsea out of the Champions League semifinals on penalty kicks as the teams play for the 532rd time in the last four years.
* May 2, AC Milan 3, Manchester United 0 -- Kaka in the rain equals pain.
* May 4, MLS releases its 2007 salaries -- Get out your microscopes.
* May 5, $70 million goal -- Clint Dempsey breaks through the Liverpool defense and keeps Fulham rolling in the Premier League riches another year.
* These hips don't lie -- Mexican club Necaxa moves a Copa Libertadores match to make way for a Shakira concert.
* May 13, Upstairs, downstairs -- Manchester United officially clinches the title and celebrates. Meanwhile, Sheffield United loses to Wigan Athletic by a goal and is relegation because of that single goal. Crap.
* May 14, let down your hair -- The Galaxy sign Portuguese space-case Xavier.
* May 15, here...take it. -- Bob Bradley is officially named USMNT head coach on a permanent basis. He may or may not have cracked a slight smile. It's yet to be confirmed.
* May 23, AC Milan 2, Liverpool 1, Champions League final, Athens -- Pippo!
* May 27, And now to the Kraftwerk concert -- Stuttgart captures the Bundesliga title and dances like little girls.
* May 28, I was much older then, I'm younger than that now -- Wait, strike that. Derby wins the Championship playoffs. The check was cut immediately.
* F-U, fans -- Word comes out that the Premier League wants to crack down on YouTube videos. For Pete's sake...
June
Just when you think it's a nice, easy, slow summer...
* PITCH INVASION -- A pudgy, pale Dane rushes the field in Copenhagen, takes a swipe at a Swedish player and costs Denmark a shot at Euro 2008, effectively.
* June 3, USA 4, China 1 -- Actually a stunningly good performance. So what about their dominant world economy.
* June 7, USA 0, Guatemala 0, Gold Cup Group Stage -- I hearby ban the USMNT from play Guatemala ever again.
* June 9, USA 2, Trinidad & Tobago 0, Gold Cup Group Stage -- Zzzzz.
* June 12, a day that lives in infamy -- One-year anniversary of the beginning of the end a the 2006 World Cup.
* June, 12 USA 4, El Salvador 0, Gold Cup Group Stage -- At least they come out and play.
June 17, Real Madrid wins La Liga -- The Merengues starting XI that day: David Beckham, Posh Spice, Baby Spice, Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes, Rafa Nadal, Will Smith, Oprah, L. Ron Hubbard's Ghost, Raul and Snopp Dogg.
* June 17, USA 2, Panama 1, Gold Cup quarterfinals -- I was at the game. Don't remember anything. Donovan took a penalty, I think.
* June 21, Au revoir -- Thierry Henry bolts Arsenal for Barcelona. He leaves the Gunners a lifetime supply of Gilette razors. Nice guy.
* June 21, USA 2, Canada 1, Gold Cup semifinals -- Blame Canada? Nah. Blame the refs. The hosers got hosed, but the late would-be equalizer is called offside.
* NOTEWORTHY ITEM FOR JUNE -- June 24, USA 2, Mexico 1 -- Benny....FEILHABER.
* June 27, blah -- Mexico beats Brasil in the Copa America as the world meetts Nery Castillo and his uno-brow.
* June 29, Make it Stop, Argentina 4, USA 1, Copa America Group Stage -- Well, the US had the lead for about 10 seconds.
July
Started off bad, the U-20 redeemed it, however briefly.
* July 3, Paraguay 3, USA 1, Copa Group Stage -- The Kasey Keller game. Why Fulham later signed him is beyond me.
* July 3, USA 6, Poland 1, U-20 Group Stage -- You know, this Freddy Adu kid, he might be pretty good playing against guys his own age.
* July 4, The Torres has landed -- Liverpool, finally, signs Fernando Torres and his tattoos.
* July 5, Columbia 1, USA 0, Copa Group Stage -- Well, that was quick and painless, sort of like a Columbian necktie. Or not at all.
* NOTEWORTHY ITEM OF JULY -- July 6, USA 2, Brasil 1, U-20 World Cup -- Jozy!
* The Eagle has landed -- Beckham lands in Los Angeles. The world goes coocoo bananas for all of a week. Human sacrifice, dogs and cats living together - mass hysteria. LeBron James and Kobe Bryant both decide to quit the NBA for soccer. Jay Mariotti's head explodes. Other than that, a bunch of jerseys are sold.
* July 14, Austria 2, USA 1, a.e.t. U-20 quarterfinals -- Just like the big boys, the U-20s know how to lay an egg.
* July 15, Brasil 3, Argentina 0, Copa America finals -- And to think, some of Brasil's big guns didn't even play.
* Thanks, I guess -- Bryant Gumbell calls out the sports media for their whining on Beckham.
* July 19, Sierra Mist All-Stars defeat Celtic -- And Michael Ian Black did not attend.
* Ankle watch 2007 begins -- Oh the humanity.
* July 21, the Hollywood Beckhams v. Chelsea -- Relive the horror and the pre-bikini pictures Jennifer Love Hewitt here. I honestly still haven't recovered.
* July 26, Iraq wins the Asian Championships -- Even in celebration, people are killed. Sadly.
August
The European season begins a anew, again.
* What's in a name -- The English Premier League becomes, officially, the Barclay's Premier League. Too tired for a rant on commercialism in sports.
* August, 10 Back in business in Merry Olde -- Obi Martins scores on a bicycle kick, in the sun no less. How quaint.
* August 15, Hollywood magic -- Beckham scores on a freekick in a game against DC United in the Interliga. About seven people see it, but it's pretty damn impressive, albeit it fleeting.
* August 18, Beckham takes Manhattan -- I was at the game. Read all about it. For at least a moment, the stars aligned.
* Brasilian for bust -- FC Dallas uses it's 'Beckham Rule' to sign 2002 World Cup winner Denilson, who promptly doesn't do much of anything.
* Signs of future past -- Germany stops England in a friendly at Wembley. Do you smell the omens?
* Aug, 22 Sweden 1, USA 0 -- If you missed this afternoon affair on FSC, you didn't miss much.
September/October
Sorry for the cop out, losing steam, as I bet you are, too.
* Sept. 9, Brasil 4, USA 2 -- Reaction quite varied after this one, though the US acquitted itself rather nicely.
* Women's World Cup, China -- US keeper Hope Solo rightfully calls out coach Greg Ryan after being dropped before the 3-0 semifinal spanking by Marta and Brasil. The moment of insight and candor gets Solo a spot on the bench, and Ryan eventually fired. Arguably the dumbest coaching move of the year. Lost in the shuffle is the world has caught up quickly to the US Women.
* NOTEWORTHY ITEM OF THE FALL, Sept. 19, Jose goodbye -- Jose Mourinho, the Special One, quits Chelsea. Remarkably, the sky doesn't fall.
* Umm...right? -- Landon Donovan is voted Honda US Player of the Year. My vote goes to Michael Bradley.
* Oct. 17, USA 1, Switzerland 0 -- USMNT stops its mini-slide with a late goal by Bradley. Good to get a win after the dismal summer.
* Is it good? -- 'FIFA 08' released. Perhaps its better than I gave it credit for.
November
MLS crowns a champ...England is humiliated. Sounds about right.
* Dy-na-sty -- Sometime in November, on an NFL Sunday, Houston Dynamo beats the New England Revolution...again...in the MLS Cup final in Washington. Houston asserts dynasty status, even though its records from the San Jose days revert back to the revived Earthquakes. The Revs are clearly the Buffalo Bills of MLS.
* Coming/Going -- At the MLS Cup weekend, commish Don Garber outlines expansion plans. Philly and St. Loo are strongly rumored, but nothing concrete even to this day. Yet, Kansas City still has a team.
* Italy riots, Part II -- A cop kills a fan at a highway rest stop. Riots ensue. The Italians talk about cleaning up the game...but don't do anything other than that, talk.
* Nov. 17, USA 1, South Africa 0 -- Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
* Nov. 21, Croatia 3, England 2 -- Scott Carson, you might want to lay low. Find a safe house or something.
December
* The end -- Kaka won player of the year. Some other stuff happened. You should be able to remember it yourself.
To make up for a lack of December, a bonus...
Stories for 2008
** Which happens first: Ronaldinho to Chelsea or Kaka to Real Madrid? (Already growing quite tiresome.)
** Will Jozy Altidore continue to live up to the hype and land at a major European power club come next winter?
** Will MLS ever come to its senses and simply move the Kansas City team to St. Louis and make everybody happy?
** How badly will ESPN butcher its telecasts of Euro 2008?
** Will we get another Greece-like scenario at Austria/Switzerland in June?
** Who the hell is going to win the 2007-08 Champions League? (Barcelona 4 to 1 are the oddsmakers favorites.)
** Will that Beckham fellow play in more game than he has endorsements for the Galaxy this season?
Happy New Year!
___________________
Weekend BPL quick picks.
Saturday
* Birmingham 2, Fulham 0
* Chelsea 1, Newcastle United 0 (FSC, 10 a.m.)
* Sunderland 1, Bolton 1
* Portsmouth 2, Middlesbrough 1
* Tottenham 1, Reading 1
* West Ham 0, Manchester United 2
* Wigan Athletic 1, Aston Villa 1
* Everton 2, Arsenal 1 (FSC, noon)
Sunday
* Derby 1, Blackburn 3
* Manchester City 0, Liverpool 1 (FSC, 11 a.m.)
Last week: 7-2 (one game pending)
Season: 92-94
In lieu of a list, I decided to go through the entire year's worth of posts from 2007 and cook up a year in review that should be enjoyable. Hell, I could easily figure out when 'Halo 3' came up and the decline of posts.
Could have been a college thesis. Oh well.
Don't hold it against me if I omitted an event. It was a busy year. And yes, there was a Women's World Cup or something. Sue me. If you make it to the end, give yourself a gold star, or at least a pat on the back.
Also note, any video of the Premier Leauge is under Scotland Yard embargo. I don't want Interpol or MI6 or Mr. F hunting me down with deadly, albeit it impractical tools of destruction.
Anyways, enough of my yapping.
January
Little did we know what was in store for us...
* David Beckham does Disney -- The beginning of our national nightmare begins to creep ashore, frosted tips and all.
* DC United signs Luciano Edmilio -- Doesn't quite have the zip as that Beckham guy, but wins the league scoring crown and MVP award. Go figure.
* Jack Bauer returns -- Season Six of '24' never happened. Hear me. Never happened.
* Jan. 20, USMNT 3, Denmark 1 -- Welcome to the world Jonathan Bornstein. Goodbye Marcelo Balboa.
* NOTEWORTHY ITEM OF JANUARY -- Clint Dempsey sold to Fulham -- Surprisingly, has yet to record a jam with Mike Skinner.
February
Shortest month, still not too shabby.
* FIIIIIIIIGHT -- Then-Sevilla coach Juande Ramos hit by a 'missile' in a derny match with Real Betis, thus canceling the match.
* Moustache Alert!! -- First joke made at Manuel Almunia's porn-tastic upper lip.
You summabitch -- Rich Texan Tom Hicks and George Gillett complete their purchase of Liverpool, little do they know what the hell soccer-ball entails.
* Italian disgrace, part I -- Rioting at the Sicilian derby between Palermo and Catania shuts down Serie A after a policeman is killed. Authorities talk about changing the culture and cracking down, aside for a couple weeks of empty stadia, nothing changes.
* If you ever build it, they might come -- Red Bull New York issues its first of many stadium delays, pushing Red Bull Park back to the year Geddy Lee approved date of 2112, or so we think.
* Gooch, gets loose -- Oguchi Oneywu makes his ill-fated debut with Newcastle United. He doesn't last the Purge, led by
* Gooners never say die -- The Colorado Rapids are briefly Colorado Arsenal, for about eight seconds.
* Face your fear -- USMNT gets its draw for the Copa America. Little did we know Bob Bradley and Sunil Gulati would send down the butcher, the baker and the candlestick maker to play in Venezuela.
NOTEWORTHY ITEM OF FEBRUARY, USA 2, Mexico 0 -- The Land-o-meter is up, after his breakaway goal seals it. Jimmy Conrad (remember him?) scored the winner on a first half header from a corner. Also worth noting, Oswaldo Sanchez cheap-shots Eddie Johnson and ESPN actually treats the game, a friendly no less, with gravitas. Don't forget, Lando's breakway served as the marketing 101 for the suits in Chicago all year.
Shit got real in March.
* Ouch...part I -- David Beckham hurts his leg, crashing into the signage during Real Madrid's game with Getafe.
* FIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHT -- Inter Milan and Valencia put on the most un-manly fight in sports history, putting the Tonya Harding attack on Nancy Kerrigan to shame in the dying moments of a Champions League Round of 16 game. All that was missing was the Benny Hill music.
* Step 1, 2, 3 ... 400 -- AS Roma's Mancini does about 143 step-overs, to juke the Lyon defense out of their pants.
* Pitch Invasion, English style -- A disgruntled, presumably fresh from the Korova Milk Bar Spurs' fan rushes the field at Stamford Bridge to accost Frank Lampard in an FA Cup replay.
* March 11, West Ham 2, Spurs 3 -- Game of the year, probably in the Premier League. A topsy, turvy affair that features some of the best action and drama. Lost a little luster since West Ham avoided the drop.
* Toy recall -- Jay DeMerit and Benny Feilhaber are recalled into the USMNT squad for a friendly with Guatemala.
* Chillin' like Chilavert -- Sevilla keeper Andres Pallop scores a goal against Shanktar Donetsk to keep the holders alive in the UEFA Cup.
* Big month for keepers, continues -- Paul Robinson scores from just inside the halfway line to beat Watford's Ben Foster in a league game. Adding insult to injury, Robbo is ahead of Foster on the England No. 1 pecking order...until a fateful day in November vs. Croatia.
* Buy me, please -- The USMNT debuts another shirt, this one a light blue number that grows on the public, or at least moi.
* NOTEWORTHY ITEM FOR MARCH -- March 25, USA 3, Ecuador 0 -- Lando nets a hat trick in Tampa, Fla., setting the Land-o-meter to unseen heights. Like, Bianca Kajlich on 'Dawson's Creek' heights. Or something to that effect.
* Wee, wee, wee -- For a brief moment in time, David Healy has Northern Ireland atop the Euro 2008 qualification Group F table.
* Mal, mal, mal -- March, 28, USA 0, Guatemala 0 -- Aside from the pairing of the future (Michael Bradley/Feilhaber) this one had 'worst...game...ever' status from the start thanks to the 11-men behind the ball tactics from Guate.
April
Europe built some steam, but mostly a quiet month -- except for a goal for all times.
* Bunny hop, this -- In the latest attempt for MLS to hap into the 'ethnic' (read Hispanic) marketplace, the Chicago Fire ink Cuauhtémoc Blanco to a deal. Actually, it pays off as the petulant Mexican leads the Fire into the playoffs.
* Did these count? -- MLS announced it's 'Game First' initiatives, but most of the clubs seemingly lost the memo midway through the year.
* Perfect day for football -- MLS season XII debuts from frosty Commerce City, Colo. for the debut of 'The Dick' as the Rapids host DC United.
* April 10, Manchester United 7, Roma 1 -- My-a English, issa not so good.
* Columbian waterfall -- America meets the Juan Carlos Toja mullet. Gracias.
* MOMENT FOR HISTORY, April 18, The Golazo -- Messi, Messi, Messi, Messi, Messi, GOLAZO. GOLAZO. GOLAZO. (Warning the clip below will self destruct as soon as you click on it.)
* March, 22 Inter wins the Scudetto -- Ahh, point deductions.
* March 28, Everton 2, Manchester United 3 -- The Red Devils erase a 2-0 deficit and essentially claim the EPL crown as their own.
May
A few winners crowned, business as usual.
* May 1, We meet...again -- Liverpool knocks Chelsea out of the Champions League semifinals on penalty kicks as the teams play for the 532rd time in the last four years.
* May 2, AC Milan 3, Manchester United 0 -- Kaka in the rain equals pain.
* May 4, MLS releases its 2007 salaries -- Get out your microscopes.
* May 5, $70 million goal -- Clint Dempsey breaks through the Liverpool defense and keeps Fulham rolling in the Premier League riches another year.
* These hips don't lie -- Mexican club Necaxa moves a Copa Libertadores match to make way for a Shakira concert.
* May 13, Upstairs, downstairs -- Manchester United officially clinches the title and celebrates. Meanwhile, Sheffield United loses to Wigan Athletic by a goal and is relegation because of that single goal. Crap.
* May 14, let down your hair -- The Galaxy sign Portuguese space-case Xavier.
* May 15, here...take it. -- Bob Bradley is officially named USMNT head coach on a permanent basis. He may or may not have cracked a slight smile. It's yet to be confirmed.
* May 23, AC Milan 2, Liverpool 1, Champions League final, Athens -- Pippo!
* May 27, And now to the Kraftwerk concert -- Stuttgart captures the Bundesliga title and dances like little girls.
* May 28, I was much older then, I'm younger than that now -- Wait, strike that. Derby wins the Championship playoffs. The check was cut immediately.
* F-U, fans -- Word comes out that the Premier League wants to crack down on YouTube videos. For Pete's sake...
June
Just when you think it's a nice, easy, slow summer...
* PITCH INVASION -- A pudgy, pale Dane rushes the field in Copenhagen, takes a swipe at a Swedish player and costs Denmark a shot at Euro 2008, effectively.
* June 3, USA 4, China 1 -- Actually a stunningly good performance. So what about their dominant world economy.
* June 7, USA 0, Guatemala 0, Gold Cup Group Stage -- I hearby ban the USMNT from play Guatemala ever again.
* June 9, USA 2, Trinidad & Tobago 0, Gold Cup Group Stage -- Zzzzz.
* June 12, a day that lives in infamy -- One-year anniversary of the beginning of the end a the 2006 World Cup.
* June, 12 USA 4, El Salvador 0, Gold Cup Group Stage -- At least they come out and play.
June 17, Real Madrid wins La Liga -- The Merengues starting XI that day: David Beckham, Posh Spice, Baby Spice, Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes, Rafa Nadal, Will Smith, Oprah, L. Ron Hubbard's Ghost, Raul and Snopp Dogg.
* June 17, USA 2, Panama 1, Gold Cup quarterfinals -- I was at the game. Don't remember anything. Donovan took a penalty, I think.
* June 21, Au revoir -- Thierry Henry bolts Arsenal for Barcelona. He leaves the Gunners a lifetime supply of Gilette razors. Nice guy.
* June 21, USA 2, Canada 1, Gold Cup semifinals -- Blame Canada? Nah. Blame the refs. The hosers got hosed, but the late would-be equalizer is called offside.
* NOTEWORTHY ITEM FOR JUNE -- June 24, USA 2, Mexico 1 -- Benny....FEILHABER.
* June 27, blah -- Mexico beats Brasil in the Copa America as the world meetts Nery Castillo and his uno-brow.
* June 29, Make it Stop, Argentina 4, USA 1, Copa America Group Stage -- Well, the US had the lead for about 10 seconds.
July
Started off bad, the U-20 redeemed it, however briefly.
* July 3, Paraguay 3, USA 1, Copa Group Stage -- The Kasey Keller game. Why Fulham later signed him is beyond me.
* July 3, USA 6, Poland 1, U-20 Group Stage -- You know, this Freddy Adu kid, he might be pretty good playing against guys his own age.
* July 4, The Torres has landed -- Liverpool, finally, signs Fernando Torres and his tattoos.
* July 5, Columbia 1, USA 0, Copa Group Stage -- Well, that was quick and painless, sort of like a Columbian necktie. Or not at all.
* NOTEWORTHY ITEM OF JULY -- July 6, USA 2, Brasil 1, U-20 World Cup -- Jozy!
* The Eagle has landed -- Beckham lands in Los Angeles. The world goes coocoo bananas for all of a week. Human sacrifice, dogs and cats living together - mass hysteria. LeBron James and Kobe Bryant both decide to quit the NBA for soccer. Jay Mariotti's head explodes. Other than that, a bunch of jerseys are sold.
* July 14, Austria 2, USA 1, a.e.t. U-20 quarterfinals -- Just like the big boys, the U-20s know how to lay an egg.
* July 15, Brasil 3, Argentina 0, Copa America finals -- And to think, some of Brasil's big guns didn't even play.
* Thanks, I guess -- Bryant Gumbell calls out the sports media for their whining on Beckham.
* July 19, Sierra Mist All-Stars defeat Celtic -- And Michael Ian Black did not attend.
* Ankle watch 2007 begins -- Oh the humanity.
* July 21, the Hollywood Beckhams v. Chelsea -- Relive the horror and the pre-bikini pictures Jennifer Love Hewitt here. I honestly still haven't recovered.
* July 26, Iraq wins the Asian Championships -- Even in celebration, people are killed. Sadly.
August
The European season begins a anew, again.
* What's in a name -- The English Premier League becomes, officially, the Barclay's Premier League. Too tired for a rant on commercialism in sports.
* August, 10 Back in business in Merry Olde -- Obi Martins scores on a bicycle kick, in the sun no less. How quaint.
* August 15, Hollywood magic -- Beckham scores on a freekick in a game against DC United in the Interliga. About seven people see it, but it's pretty damn impressive, albeit it fleeting.
* August 18, Beckham takes Manhattan -- I was at the game. Read all about it. For at least a moment, the stars aligned.
* Brasilian for bust -- FC Dallas uses it's 'Beckham Rule' to sign 2002 World Cup winner Denilson, who promptly doesn't do much of anything.
* Signs of future past -- Germany stops England in a friendly at Wembley. Do you smell the omens?
* Aug, 22 Sweden 1, USA 0 -- If you missed this afternoon affair on FSC, you didn't miss much.
September/October
Sorry for the cop out, losing steam, as I bet you are, too.
* Sept. 9, Brasil 4, USA 2 -- Reaction quite varied after this one, though the US acquitted itself rather nicely.
* Women's World Cup, China -- US keeper Hope Solo rightfully calls out coach Greg Ryan after being dropped before the 3-0 semifinal spanking by Marta and Brasil. The moment of insight and candor gets Solo a spot on the bench, and Ryan eventually fired. Arguably the dumbest coaching move of the year. Lost in the shuffle is the world has caught up quickly to the US Women.
* NOTEWORTHY ITEM OF THE FALL, Sept. 19, Jose goodbye -- Jose Mourinho, the Special One, quits Chelsea. Remarkably, the sky doesn't fall.
* Umm...right? -- Landon Donovan is voted Honda US Player of the Year. My vote goes to Michael Bradley.
* Oct. 17, USA 1, Switzerland 0 -- USMNT stops its mini-slide with a late goal by Bradley. Good to get a win after the dismal summer.
* Is it good? -- 'FIFA 08' released. Perhaps its better than I gave it credit for.
November
MLS crowns a champ...England is humiliated. Sounds about right.
* Dy-na-sty -- Sometime in November, on an NFL Sunday, Houston Dynamo beats the New England Revolution...again...in the MLS Cup final in Washington. Houston asserts dynasty status, even though its records from the San Jose days revert back to the revived Earthquakes. The Revs are clearly the Buffalo Bills of MLS.
* Coming/Going -- At the MLS Cup weekend, commish Don Garber outlines expansion plans. Philly and St. Loo are strongly rumored, but nothing concrete even to this day. Yet, Kansas City still has a team.
* Italy riots, Part II -- A cop kills a fan at a highway rest stop. Riots ensue. The Italians talk about cleaning up the game...but don't do anything other than that, talk.
* Nov. 17, USA 1, South Africa 0 -- Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
* Nov. 21, Croatia 3, England 2 -- Scott Carson, you might want to lay low. Find a safe house or something.
December
* The end -- Kaka won player of the year. Some other stuff happened. You should be able to remember it yourself.
To make up for a lack of December, a bonus...
Stories for 2008
** Which happens first: Ronaldinho to Chelsea or Kaka to Real Madrid? (Already growing quite tiresome.)
** Will Jozy Altidore continue to live up to the hype and land at a major European power club come next winter?
** Will MLS ever come to its senses and simply move the Kansas City team to St. Louis and make everybody happy?
** How badly will ESPN butcher its telecasts of Euro 2008?
** Will we get another Greece-like scenario at Austria/Switzerland in June?
** Who the hell is going to win the 2007-08 Champions League? (Barcelona 4 to 1 are the oddsmakers favorites.)
** Will that Beckham fellow play in more game than he has endorsements for the Galaxy this season?
Happy New Year!
Weekend BPL quick picks.
Saturday
* Birmingham 2, Fulham 0
* Chelsea 1, Newcastle United 0 (FSC, 10 a.m.)
* Sunderland 1, Bolton 1
* Portsmouth 2, Middlesbrough 1
* Tottenham 1, Reading 1
* West Ham 0, Manchester United 2
* Wigan Athletic 1, Aston Villa 1
* Everton 2, Arsenal 1 (FSC, noon)
Sunday
* Derby 1, Blackburn 3
* Manchester City 0, Liverpool 1 (FSC, 11 a.m.)
Last week: 7-2 (one game pending)
Season: 92-94
Labels: David Beckham, England, lists, Premier League, Soccer
Like Chris Partlow on the streets of West Baltimore, I'll keep it quick.
Let's start with a pleasant thought.
There are a lot of parallels you can make between Arsenal's dominance over Tottenham. The one that springs to mind is the relationship between Schillinger and Beecher in the first season of HBO's 'Oz.' The term used on the show was 'prag', and that sounds about right. (Isn't it amazing how actor JK Simmons goes from sociopathic skinhead to acting in family films like 'Spiderman.' Bless you Hollywood. Bless you.)
Anyways, Arsenal owns Spurs so bad that they can get goals set up from cheeky back-heels from Cesc Fabregas and later deny Robbie Keane straight-up on a penalty kick. It's almost sad really, like Argentina trying to defeat England in the war over the Falkland Islands.
Meanwhile, while you pity Tottenham's unending futility, theres a difference sort of empathy saved up for a team like Everton, who seem to do things the right way.
Look at Sunday's 2-1 loss at Old Trafford to Manchester United. The Toffees go down on a knuckleball off the foot of Cristiano Ronaldo, only to even it up minutes later on a full-effort header from Tim Cahill. Everton proceeds to hang on for the next hour or so, only to be undone when Steven Pinnear makes a lazy, uncalled for challenge on Ryan Giggs in the 88th minute to lose.
That's the game, I suppose.
In the big picture, that's two straight 'steals' from Manchester United to remain only a point behind Arsenal. There is something to be said for that refusal to lose attitude the holders possess.
As for third place Chelsea, all that needs to be said is seven years into a pro career Nigerian midfielder John Obi Mikel decided his name is really John Mikel Obi. A snide comment isn't even necessary, though I do remember by birth certificate lists my name as O-Tron Randolph Cardillo, but who's splitting hairs.
Overall it was a good, not great weekend in world football.
Inter v. AC Milan was pretty dull and only another gaffe from Dida kept the scoreline for being 1-1. Unfair. Dida gets all the shit, but Paulo Maldini's clearing header went straight to Cambiassso. So there.
Barcelona v. Real Madrid was decent. The goal from Julio Baptista set up by Ruud Von Nistelrooy was sick, sick sick. And if you enjoy hard-rock defenses, the Madrid back four put on a pretty good showing.
Ronaldinho & Co, didn't do much and another flat performance should fuel the Ronnie to Chelsea rumors for the week. You have to wonder if Barcelona have taken too much of a 'Galaxtico' approach to team-building. Then again, maybe it's just a bad day.
More important, into the Christmas break, Real Madrid is seven points clear of Barca, who are only a point in front of Espanyol.
Since everyone loves lists...
PL Best XI (So far)
Goalkeeper: (1)
Robert Green, West Ham -- The Irons have allowed 15 goals, which is fifth best and behind the proverbial 'big four.' Green is the reason why West Ham have managed to stay above the relegation fodder.
Defenders: (4)
* Nemanja Vidic, Manchester United -- The Serb is fanatical about keeping a clean sheet.
* Patrice Evra, Manchester United -- Frenchman stakes claim as best outside defender in England.
* Richard Dunne, Manchester City -- Considering all the City transfers, the Irish International has been a stalwart in the stingy backline along with near-perfect home form.
* Jolean Lescott, Everton -- Can play insider or out and has netted at least two game-winners from headers. Solid.
Midfielders (4)
* Cesc Fabregas, Arsenal -- Best player in the league so far, no question.
* David Bentley, Blackburn Rovers -- Will Fabio Capello keep him on the England blacklist?
* Elano, Manchester City -- Essentially the one attacking constant that has helped Citeh into fourth place.
* Cristiano Ronaldo -- Missed some games and still leads the league with 11 goals. Just look at his look when he scores. It's so smug it might make Eric Cantona blush.
Forwards: (2)
* Emmanuel Adebayor, Arsenal -- The bowlegged-one doesn't do much, then finds a way to score. Gets special credit since he's been Arsenal only reliable forward. Also, it seems each of his 10 goals have crushed the opposition.
* Fernando Torres, Liverpool -- Sort of a cop-out, but he does have eight goals and has been brilliant at times.
Bench: Stephen Hunt, Reading; Benjani, Portsmouth; Martin Laursen, Aston Villa; Clint Dempsey, Fulham; Carlos Tevez, Manchester United; Roque Santa Cruz, Blackburn Rovers; William Gallas, Arsenal; Joe Cole, Chelsea; Petr Cech, Chelsea; Slyvin Distin, Portsmouth.
Boxing Day Bonanza
All your previews in one line or less!
* Chelsea v. Aston Villa -- (Live on FSC, 8 a.m.) Think Chelsea will be out for revenge from their September defeat at Villa Park? ... Chelsea 1, Aston Villa 0
* Tottenham v. Fulham -- Script here says goals, lots of them. ... Spurs 3, Fulham 1
* West Ham v. Reading -- (Live, Setanta 8 a.m.) If you were really a betting man, this is the game you'd avoid at all costs, right? ... West Ham 2, Reading 1
* Everton v. Bolton -- (FSC, noon) Bolton is improving every week, but they're not quite at the stage where they're going on the road to a decent team and winning. ... Everton 2, Bolton 0
* Sunderland v. Manchester United -- (Live, Setanta, 10 a.m.) Yeah, you have the whole Roy Keane angle, but this is a total mismatch on paper and on the pitch. ... Sunderland 0, Manchester United 2
* Birmingham City v. Middlesbrough -- (Delayed, FSC 5 p.m.) Perhaps this is the best time to play with your new Christmas presents. ... Birmingham 1, Middlesbrough 0
* Derby County v. Liverpool -- (Live on FSC, 10 a.m.) Wait a second, didn't somebody say this was going to be Liverpool's year after their 6-0 thrashing of Derby in August? ... Derby 0, Liverpool 3
* Wigan Athletic v. Newcastle United -- Instead of this game, how about a figgy pudding eating contest between Steve Bruce and Sam Allardyce? ... Wigan 1, Newcastle 1
* Portsmouth v. Arsenal -- (FSC, 2:30 p.m., live) All the pundits point to this is a tricky game for Arsenal. ... Pompey 2, Arsenal 2
Dec. 27 Bonanza
* Manchester City v. Blackburn Rovers -- Rovers malaise continues. ... City 1, Blackburn 0
Last week: 3-7
Season: 85-92
Year in Review coming Thursday!!!
Let's start with a pleasant thought.
There are a lot of parallels you can make between Arsenal's dominance over Tottenham. The one that springs to mind is the relationship between Schillinger and Beecher in the first season of HBO's 'Oz.' The term used on the show was 'prag', and that sounds about right. (Isn't it amazing how actor JK Simmons goes from sociopathic skinhead to acting in family films like 'Spiderman.' Bless you Hollywood. Bless you.)
Anyways, Arsenal owns Spurs so bad that they can get goals set up from cheeky back-heels from Cesc Fabregas and later deny Robbie Keane straight-up on a penalty kick. It's almost sad really, like Argentina trying to defeat England in the war over the Falkland Islands.
Meanwhile, while you pity Tottenham's unending futility, theres a difference sort of empathy saved up for a team like Everton, who seem to do things the right way.
Look at Sunday's 2-1 loss at Old Trafford to Manchester United. The Toffees go down on a knuckleball off the foot of Cristiano Ronaldo, only to even it up minutes later on a full-effort header from Tim Cahill. Everton proceeds to hang on for the next hour or so, only to be undone when Steven Pinnear makes a lazy, uncalled for challenge on Ryan Giggs in the 88th minute to lose.
That's the game, I suppose.
In the big picture, that's two straight 'steals' from Manchester United to remain only a point behind Arsenal. There is something to be said for that refusal to lose attitude the holders possess.
As for third place Chelsea, all that needs to be said is seven years into a pro career Nigerian midfielder John Obi Mikel decided his name is really John Mikel Obi. A snide comment isn't even necessary, though I do remember by birth certificate lists my name as O-Tron Randolph Cardillo, but who's splitting hairs.
Overall it was a good, not great weekend in world football.
Inter v. AC Milan was pretty dull and only another gaffe from Dida kept the scoreline for being 1-1. Unfair. Dida gets all the shit, but Paulo Maldini's clearing header went straight to Cambiassso. So there.
Barcelona v. Real Madrid was decent. The goal from Julio Baptista set up by Ruud Von Nistelrooy was sick, sick sick. And if you enjoy hard-rock defenses, the Madrid back four put on a pretty good showing.
Ronaldinho & Co, didn't do much and another flat performance should fuel the Ronnie to Chelsea rumors for the week. You have to wonder if Barcelona have taken too much of a 'Galaxtico' approach to team-building. Then again, maybe it's just a bad day.
More important, into the Christmas break, Real Madrid is seven points clear of Barca, who are only a point in front of Espanyol.
Since everyone loves lists...
PL Best XI (So far)
Goalkeeper: (1)
Robert Green, West Ham -- The Irons have allowed 15 goals, which is fifth best and behind the proverbial 'big four.' Green is the reason why West Ham have managed to stay above the relegation fodder.
Defenders: (4)
* Nemanja Vidic, Manchester United -- The Serb is fanatical about keeping a clean sheet.
* Patrice Evra, Manchester United -- Frenchman stakes claim as best outside defender in England.
* Richard Dunne, Manchester City -- Considering all the City transfers, the Irish International has been a stalwart in the stingy backline along with near-perfect home form.
* Jolean Lescott, Everton -- Can play insider or out and has netted at least two game-winners from headers. Solid.
Midfielders (4)
* Cesc Fabregas, Arsenal -- Best player in the league so far, no question.
* David Bentley, Blackburn Rovers -- Will Fabio Capello keep him on the England blacklist?
* Elano, Manchester City -- Essentially the one attacking constant that has helped Citeh into fourth place.
* Cristiano Ronaldo -- Missed some games and still leads the league with 11 goals. Just look at his look when he scores. It's so smug it might make Eric Cantona blush.
Forwards: (2)
* Emmanuel Adebayor, Arsenal -- The bowlegged-one doesn't do much, then finds a way to score. Gets special credit since he's been Arsenal only reliable forward. Also, it seems each of his 10 goals have crushed the opposition.
* Fernando Torres, Liverpool -- Sort of a cop-out, but he does have eight goals and has been brilliant at times.
Bench: Stephen Hunt, Reading; Benjani, Portsmouth; Martin Laursen, Aston Villa; Clint Dempsey, Fulham; Carlos Tevez, Manchester United; Roque Santa Cruz, Blackburn Rovers; William Gallas, Arsenal; Joe Cole, Chelsea; Petr Cech, Chelsea; Slyvin Distin, Portsmouth.
Boxing Day Bonanza
All your previews in one line or less!
* Chelsea v. Aston Villa -- (Live on FSC, 8 a.m.) Think Chelsea will be out for revenge from their September defeat at Villa Park? ... Chelsea 1, Aston Villa 0
* Tottenham v. Fulham -- Script here says goals, lots of them. ... Spurs 3, Fulham 1
* West Ham v. Reading -- (Live, Setanta 8 a.m.) If you were really a betting man, this is the game you'd avoid at all costs, right? ... West Ham 2, Reading 1
* Everton v. Bolton -- (FSC, noon) Bolton is improving every week, but they're not quite at the stage where they're going on the road to a decent team and winning. ... Everton 2, Bolton 0
* Sunderland v. Manchester United -- (Live, Setanta, 10 a.m.) Yeah, you have the whole Roy Keane angle, but this is a total mismatch on paper and on the pitch. ... Sunderland 0, Manchester United 2
* Birmingham City v. Middlesbrough -- (Delayed, FSC 5 p.m.) Perhaps this is the best time to play with your new Christmas presents. ... Birmingham 1, Middlesbrough 0
* Derby County v. Liverpool -- (Live on FSC, 10 a.m.) Wait a second, didn't somebody say this was going to be Liverpool's year after their 6-0 thrashing of Derby in August? ... Derby 0, Liverpool 3
* Wigan Athletic v. Newcastle United -- Instead of this game, how about a figgy pudding eating contest between Steve Bruce and Sam Allardyce? ... Wigan 1, Newcastle 1
* Portsmouth v. Arsenal -- (FSC, 2:30 p.m., live) All the pundits point to this is a tricky game for Arsenal. ... Pompey 2, Arsenal 2
Dec. 27 Bonanza
* Manchester City v. Blackburn Rovers -- Rovers malaise continues. ... City 1, Blackburn 0
Last week: 3-7
Season: 85-92
Year in Review coming Thursday!!!
Labels: Arsenal, manchester United, Premier League, Soccer
Santa Claus, Pier Noel, Saint Nicholas, Sinterklaas... Annual Gift Man, etc.
It's that time of year. The year when the English soccer/football fixture lifts go cuckold bananas as they cram as much holiday cheer as they possibly can for the blokes on Boxing Day. (Possibly my favorite commonwealth holiday aside from Picnic Day in Australia's Northern Territory.)
Now, if you're some greasy chav or some head-shaved, tattoo covered geezer -- this is great. Not only do you get some days off from work/school, you get a bushel-full of games to watch. (Sadly, the English have no concept of the pleasures gained from the Insight.com Bowl, or the Pacific Life Holiday Bowl.)
Where I, as an outside Yank observer, have a problem of the Premier League playing four games inside of 11 days is that it's a gimmick that has nothing to do with sport. Why cram all these games when the top-flight players schedules are already jam packed? Why turbo-charge the matches when the rest of Europe is on winter break?
Naturally, this favors the bigger clubs with larger team sheets. For once, Rafa Benetiz's rotation policy at Liverpool might be a benefit. On the flip side, threadbare teams like Aston Villa have to trot out essentially the same 11 guys for the four-game crunch.
Why, exactly, should I whine about highly-paid professional athletes having to do what they're paid for? Simply because it makes the level of play suffer.
From an American perspective, it does make you wonder, (only a little) if some of these players are injecting some sort of foreign substance to help them recover during these upsurge of games. It seems every sport has been plagued by performance enhancing drugs in one way shape or form. This isn't to insinuate that Wayne Rooney is going to get swoll like newly jacked Dr. Dre. But there's a chance, albeit slight, that guys are taking "B12" shots to maintain energy through the winter slog.
I hope not, but I wouldn't be shocked.
Don't let that spoil your Life Day.
_________________
Champions League draw took place today. Let's take a quick look at the Round of 16 fixtures:
* Celtic v Barcelona -- Barca are the odds on favorites to win it all. The Bhoys might be able to score, but they'll be pressed to keep Barca below six or seven in the two-leg affair, sadly.
* Lyon v Manchester United -- A couple plays have written that this is a cinch for United, not so fast. Lyon are a shell of what they were, but certainly aren't pushovers.
* Schalke v Porto -- This gets a 0.000000 percent chance of being placed on any of the ESPN2 broadcasts.
* Liverpool v Internazionale -- March 11, 2008. Write it down. Benetiz' last stand at the San Siro.
* Roma v Real Madrid -- My call for the must-watch tie of the round.
* Arsenal v Milan -- Milan might be mid-table in Serie A, but Arsenal has to be very careful. Very. The Gunners cannot afford to allow a goal at the Emirates, since it'll be catenaccio in Italy.
* Olympiacos v Chelsea -- On paper, a cakewalk for Chelsea, but winning in Greece could be tricky.
* Fenerbahce v Sevilla -- Zico should led the Turks into the Quarters. Sevilla is on the down swing.
It's too bad we have to wait a solid month, plus for these matches. Maybe some LA Galaxy exhibitions can quench our thirst.
Saturday
** Arsenal v. Tottenham -- (Live, Setanta, 7:30 a.m.) Oh baby! The North London Derby. Adding to intrigue, is the two rivals play each other in the semifinals of the Carling Cup in a few weeks. As you'll recall Arsenal raped Spurs 3-1 in September, after a Gareth Bale free kick actually had Spurs out front. Spurs haven't beaten Arsenal since 1999 on goals from Steffan Iverson and Tim Sherwood. Even though most of the players are mercenaries and don't know about any of this stuff, the voodoo Arsenal has over Tottenham is pretty clear cut year-in, year-out. You hate to think this way, but if you're Spurs, a tie is almost a win. Ultimately, the lack of service and linkage from the midfield to the forwards will cost Spurs, as Arsenal will likely nick a goal at the end of each half. ... Arsenal 2, Spurs 0
** Aston Villa v. Manchester City -- (Live, Setanta, 10 a.m.) Oh baby! The...the...the... game with teams that have light blue in their uniforms? For stat buffs, chew on this: City are fourth in the overall table, but have only won one game away with a -7 goal difference away from the City of Manchester. If the Citizens are seriously going to threaten for a top four spot, they have to get better on the road. Aston Villa aren't great at home -- five wins, four losses. For whatever reason, Villa seems due. ... Villa 1, City 0
** Bolton v. Birmingham City -- About 18 people in America are pissed off this isn't on free television. An outrage! ... Bolton 0, Birmingham 1
** Middlesbrough v. West Ham -- A third straight win for 'Boro could push them outside the fire of the drop zone. West Ham have lost two straight, pushing them further into the mediocre zone. As they like to say, you can throw the books out when these two teams get together. ... 'Boro 0, West Ham 1
** Reading v. Sunderland -- Oops. In my haste didn't pick this one. Maybe the best result.
** Liverpool v. Portsmouth -- (Live, FSC, 10 a.m.) Honestly, I've exhusated all I can about Liverpool. Hopefully David James gets a warm welcome at Anfield, as Pompey is the best away team in the league. If you missed it, Peter Crouch's 'challenge' on John Obi Mikel in the Carling Cup could have been the worst...tackle...ever. ... Liverpool 1, Portsmouth 1
** Fulham v. Wigan -- (Live, FSC, noon) Lawrie Sanchez? Fired? What's next you're going to tell me the moon isn't made out of green cheese? Safe to say, get some last-minute shopping down in lieu of this game. ... Fulham 2, Wigan 1
Sunday
** Manchester United v. Everton (Live, FSC, 7 a.m.) Oh baby! Manchester United back on the channel! (Even better, this is followed by the Milan Derby at 9 a.m.) Hard to see United dropping points here. Everton won't roll over, but they just won't be able to contain the United attack for 90 minutes. One worry, if I was SAF, Edwin Van Der Saar might have to go back to Holland to hang out with Zwarte Piet, permanently. ... United 3, Everton 1
** Newcastle United v. Derby -- (Live, Setanta, 9 a.m) Trivia question: Only team to lose to Derby this season? You guessed it, Newcastle! The Magpies seem to have their act together, while the Rams are probably spending more time making egg nog than training. ... Newcastle 2, Derby 0
** Blackburn v. Chelsea -- (Live, FSC, 11 a.m.) After cleaning up their act, this might be a revert to form for 'Blackeye Rovers.' Rovers have been pretty good against Chelsea in the past, but this has the making of a card-fest. This could end nine-on-nine. ... Blackburn 1, Chelsea 0
Last week: 2-8
Season: 82-85
Note: posting might be sporadic and short the next week or so, don't hold it against me. Don't forget, year in review submissions are still welcomed. Invent a category and I'll run it.
Adios
It's that time of year. The year when the English soccer/football fixture lifts go cuckold bananas as they cram as much holiday cheer as they possibly can for the blokes on Boxing Day. (Possibly my favorite commonwealth holiday aside from Picnic Day in Australia's Northern Territory.)
Now, if you're some greasy chav or some head-shaved, tattoo covered geezer -- this is great. Not only do you get some days off from work/school, you get a bushel-full of games to watch. (Sadly, the English have no concept of the pleasures gained from the Insight.com Bowl, or the Pacific Life Holiday Bowl.)
Where I, as an outside Yank observer, have a problem of the Premier League playing four games inside of 11 days is that it's a gimmick that has nothing to do with sport. Why cram all these games when the top-flight players schedules are already jam packed? Why turbo-charge the matches when the rest of Europe is on winter break?
Naturally, this favors the bigger clubs with larger team sheets. For once, Rafa Benetiz's rotation policy at Liverpool might be a benefit. On the flip side, threadbare teams like Aston Villa have to trot out essentially the same 11 guys for the four-game crunch.
Why, exactly, should I whine about highly-paid professional athletes having to do what they're paid for? Simply because it makes the level of play suffer.
From an American perspective, it does make you wonder, (only a little) if some of these players are injecting some sort of foreign substance to help them recover during these upsurge of games. It seems every sport has been plagued by performance enhancing drugs in one way shape or form. This isn't to insinuate that Wayne Rooney is going to get swoll like newly jacked Dr. Dre. But there's a chance, albeit slight, that guys are taking "B12" shots to maintain energy through the winter slog.
I hope not, but I wouldn't be shocked.
Don't let that spoil your Life Day.
Champions League draw took place today. Let's take a quick look at the Round of 16 fixtures:
* Celtic v Barcelona -- Barca are the odds on favorites to win it all. The Bhoys might be able to score, but they'll be pressed to keep Barca below six or seven in the two-leg affair, sadly.
* Lyon v Manchester United -- A couple plays have written that this is a cinch for United, not so fast. Lyon are a shell of what they were, but certainly aren't pushovers.
* Schalke v Porto -- This gets a 0.000000 percent chance of being placed on any of the ESPN2 broadcasts.
* Liverpool v Internazionale -- March 11, 2008. Write it down. Benetiz' last stand at the San Siro.
* Roma v Real Madrid -- My call for the must-watch tie of the round.
* Arsenal v Milan -- Milan might be mid-table in Serie A, but Arsenal has to be very careful. Very. The Gunners cannot afford to allow a goal at the Emirates, since it'll be catenaccio in Italy.
* Olympiacos v Chelsea -- On paper, a cakewalk for Chelsea, but winning in Greece could be tricky.
* Fenerbahce v Sevilla -- Zico should led the Turks into the Quarters. Sevilla is on the down swing.
It's too bad we have to wait a solid month, plus for these matches. Maybe some LA Galaxy exhibitions can quench our thirst.
Saturday
** Arsenal v. Tottenham -- (Live, Setanta, 7:30 a.m.) Oh baby! The North London Derby. Adding to intrigue, is the two rivals play each other in the semifinals of the Carling Cup in a few weeks. As you'll recall Arsenal raped Spurs 3-1 in September, after a Gareth Bale free kick actually had Spurs out front. Spurs haven't beaten Arsenal since 1999 on goals from Steffan Iverson and Tim Sherwood. Even though most of the players are mercenaries and don't know about any of this stuff, the voodoo Arsenal has over Tottenham is pretty clear cut year-in, year-out. You hate to think this way, but if you're Spurs, a tie is almost a win. Ultimately, the lack of service and linkage from the midfield to the forwards will cost Spurs, as Arsenal will likely nick a goal at the end of each half. ... Arsenal 2, Spurs 0
** Aston Villa v. Manchester City -- (Live, Setanta, 10 a.m.) Oh baby! The...the...the... game with teams that have light blue in their uniforms? For stat buffs, chew on this: City are fourth in the overall table, but have only won one game away with a -7 goal difference away from the City of Manchester. If the Citizens are seriously going to threaten for a top four spot, they have to get better on the road. Aston Villa aren't great at home -- five wins, four losses. For whatever reason, Villa seems due. ... Villa 1, City 0
** Bolton v. Birmingham City -- About 18 people in America are pissed off this isn't on free television. An outrage! ... Bolton 0, Birmingham 1
** Middlesbrough v. West Ham -- A third straight win for 'Boro could push them outside the fire of the drop zone. West Ham have lost two straight, pushing them further into the mediocre zone. As they like to say, you can throw the books out when these two teams get together. ... 'Boro 0, West Ham 1
** Reading v. Sunderland -- Oops. In my haste didn't pick this one. Maybe the best result.
** Liverpool v. Portsmouth -- (Live, FSC, 10 a.m.) Honestly, I've exhusated all I can about Liverpool. Hopefully David James gets a warm welcome at Anfield, as Pompey is the best away team in the league. If you missed it, Peter Crouch's 'challenge' on John Obi Mikel in the Carling Cup could have been the worst...tackle...ever. ... Liverpool 1, Portsmouth 1
** Fulham v. Wigan -- (Live, FSC, noon) Lawrie Sanchez? Fired? What's next you're going to tell me the moon isn't made out of green cheese? Safe to say, get some last-minute shopping down in lieu of this game. ... Fulham 2, Wigan 1
Sunday
** Manchester United v. Everton (Live, FSC, 7 a.m.) Oh baby! Manchester United back on the channel! (Even better, this is followed by the Milan Derby at 9 a.m.) Hard to see United dropping points here. Everton won't roll over, but they just won't be able to contain the United attack for 90 minutes. One worry, if I was SAF, Edwin Van Der Saar might have to go back to Holland to hang out with Zwarte Piet, permanently. ... United 3, Everton 1
** Newcastle United v. Derby -- (Live, Setanta, 9 a.m) Trivia question: Only team to lose to Derby this season? You guessed it, Newcastle! The Magpies seem to have their act together, while the Rams are probably spending more time making egg nog than training. ... Newcastle 2, Derby 0
** Blackburn v. Chelsea -- (Live, FSC, 11 a.m.) After cleaning up their act, this might be a revert to form for 'Blackeye Rovers.' Rovers have been pretty good against Chelsea in the past, but this has the making of a card-fest. This could end nine-on-nine. ... Blackburn 1, Chelsea 0
Last week: 2-8
Season: 82-85
Note: posting might be sporadic and short the next week or so, don't hold it against me. Don't forget, year in review submissions are still welcomed. Invent a category and I'll run it.
Adios
Labels: champions league, Prem Picks, Soccer
Funny how things work.
In the winter MLS news is as hard to come by as a pro-Republican stand up comic. Yesterday a couple relatively significant items moved across news wires.
Admittedly, in the post-12 hours since they moved these items have probably been eaten, digested and processed by the vocarious soccer-sphere. All that are left are the by-products, so I'll turn them into SPAM.
Enjoy.
** Item No. 1 -- MLS tweaks foreign allotment spots from seven to eight.
What it means -- With the possibility of four teams entering the league in the next two years -- San Jose, Seattle definite and Philly and St. Loo long-rumored -- there will be a shortage of players, at least domestically. Eighty first-division caliber players aren't simply going to appear overnight.
This makes sense since it makes more sense for the quality of play to bring in some young players from the Americas, ideally already in professional development as opposed to college players.
The rule also gets rid of the difference between senior and youth internationals, which is wise. Teams can also trade the allotment and the wire story mentions the all-Mexican Chivas team and Arsenal fielding an all-non English first XI. (Wait the Gunners actually had some English blokes out there yesterday in the Carling Cups. Gwah!)
The funny thing is that the best players on Chivas USA -- Guzan, Bornstein, Klejstan, etc. are all American. Go figure.
Long term, this going to open the door for more pros from Latin America to come to MLS, not aging Euros like that Beckham fellow. Think about it, if you're a young kid from Honduras or Columbia, like Juan Toja, would you rather play in your homeland and face threats like kidnapping, riots, etc. or come to America where you can buy a huge tub of Ben & Jerry's at Wal-Mart?
Also, buried in the copy is that Landon Donovan, Eddie Johnson and Carlos Ruiz will continued to be grandfathered under the designated player spot for the next two years.
** Item No. 2 -- Red Bulls hire Juan Carlos Osorio for their 452nd coach in 12 years.
What it means -- Remember when I wrote about MLS recycling coaches. They did it again.
Hopefully Osorio is being paid handsomely, because coaching in the Jersey swamp is a coaching graveyard.
The former Fire coach inherits a team with countryman Juan Pablo Angel, rising American phenom Jozy Altidore ... and not much else.
The biggest question for RBNY is if they'll retain Claudio Reyna for the DP spot. Seems like that money would be better used than a broken-down holding midfielder that isn't a gate attraction. But that's just me.
More immediate, is the monumental task of making New Yorkers realize the Red Bulls actually exist. Winning might not even do that.
Good luck.
** Item No. 3 -- CONCACAF Champions Cup Draw.
What it means -- Well, this is DC United's award for being the best during the MLS regular season. Hope they enjoy it.
League champ Houston gets CSD Municipal of Guatemala in a two-leg series. United plays Jamaica's Harbour View. Both MLS teams should win these ties.
The only real threats are Saprissa and Pachuca.
It would be nice for the league to finally win this and get a trip to the Club World Cup, even though that tournament doesn't mean much.
** Non-MLS Item -- Uno-Brow moves to Man City.
What this means -- If you thought I didn't like Sven & Co. before, brace yourself.
The puzzling aspect of this is, why did Shakhtar Donetsk spend 30 million Euros to buy Nery Castillo from Olympiacos, only to loan him out six months later. Perhaps since Shakhtar is owned by Ukraine's richest man, Rinat Akhmetov. Might have something to do with it.
Realistically, it's likely because Castillo hated Ukraine (a shocker), couldn't comprehend the Cyrillic alphabet and the team was knocked out of the Champions League.
Does the move make City a threat for the PL top four? Ehh. Liverpool would really have to suck.
** Non-MLS Item No. 2 -- Adraaaaaaaaaaaaiaaaannnooooooo leaves Inter for Sao Paulo.
What this means -- Yeah, hmm, let's see. The guy is battling alcohol and conditioning issues and he's going to Brasil, before Carnival? This won't end well.
It says something for Inter -- the closest thing there is to a No. 1 team in the world right now -- that they can dump him for nothing and not lose a beat.
Housecleaning Dept. -- Currently working on the ever popular year-end review thingamabob. Users feedback or suggestions is more than wanted. Come up with a category or a video or anything and send it to me and I'll credit you. hoopscardillo at yahoo.com. Thanks in advance.
In the winter MLS news is as hard to come by as a pro-Republican stand up comic. Yesterday a couple relatively significant items moved across news wires.
Admittedly, in the post-12 hours since they moved these items have probably been eaten, digested and processed by the vocarious soccer-sphere. All that are left are the by-products, so I'll turn them into SPAM.
Enjoy.
** Item No. 1 -- MLS tweaks foreign allotment spots from seven to eight.
What it means -- With the possibility of four teams entering the league in the next two years -- San Jose, Seattle definite and Philly and St. Loo long-rumored -- there will be a shortage of players, at least domestically. Eighty first-division caliber players aren't simply going to appear overnight.
This makes sense since it makes more sense for the quality of play to bring in some young players from the Americas, ideally already in professional development as opposed to college players.
The rule also gets rid of the difference between senior and youth internationals, which is wise. Teams can also trade the allotment and the wire story mentions the all-Mexican Chivas team and Arsenal fielding an all-non English first XI. (Wait the Gunners actually had some English blokes out there yesterday in the Carling Cups. Gwah!)
The funny thing is that the best players on Chivas USA -- Guzan, Bornstein, Klejstan, etc. are all American. Go figure.
Long term, this going to open the door for more pros from Latin America to come to MLS, not aging Euros like that Beckham fellow. Think about it, if you're a young kid from Honduras or Columbia, like Juan Toja, would you rather play in your homeland and face threats like kidnapping, riots, etc. or come to America where you can buy a huge tub of Ben & Jerry's at Wal-Mart?
Also, buried in the copy is that Landon Donovan, Eddie Johnson and Carlos Ruiz will continued to be grandfathered under the designated player spot for the next two years.
** Item No. 2 -- Red Bulls hire Juan Carlos Osorio for their 452nd coach in 12 years.
What it means -- Remember when I wrote about MLS recycling coaches. They did it again.
Hopefully Osorio is being paid handsomely, because coaching in the Jersey swamp is a coaching graveyard.
The former Fire coach inherits a team with countryman Juan Pablo Angel, rising American phenom Jozy Altidore ... and not much else.
The biggest question for RBNY is if they'll retain Claudio Reyna for the DP spot. Seems like that money would be better used than a broken-down holding midfielder that isn't a gate attraction. But that's just me.
More immediate, is the monumental task of making New Yorkers realize the Red Bulls actually exist. Winning might not even do that.
Good luck.
** Item No. 3 -- CONCACAF Champions Cup Draw.
What it means -- Well, this is DC United's award for being the best during the MLS regular season. Hope they enjoy it.
League champ Houston gets CSD Municipal of Guatemala in a two-leg series. United plays Jamaica's Harbour View. Both MLS teams should win these ties.
The only real threats are Saprissa and Pachuca.
It would be nice for the league to finally win this and get a trip to the Club World Cup, even though that tournament doesn't mean much.
** Non-MLS Item -- Uno-Brow moves to Man City.
What this means -- If you thought I didn't like Sven & Co. before, brace yourself.
The puzzling aspect of this is, why did Shakhtar Donetsk spend 30 million Euros to buy Nery Castillo from Olympiacos, only to loan him out six months later. Perhaps since Shakhtar is owned by Ukraine's richest man, Rinat Akhmetov. Might have something to do with it.
Realistically, it's likely because Castillo hated Ukraine (a shocker), couldn't comprehend the Cyrillic alphabet and the team was knocked out of the Champions League.
Does the move make City a threat for the PL top four? Ehh. Liverpool would really have to suck.
** Non-MLS Item No. 2 -- Adraaaaaaaaaaaaiaaaannnooooooo leaves Inter for Sao Paulo.
What this means -- Yeah, hmm, let's see. The guy is battling alcohol and conditioning issues and he's going to Brasil, before Carnival? This won't end well.
It says something for Inter -- the closest thing there is to a No. 1 team in the world right now -- that they can dump him for nothing and not lose a beat.
Housecleaning Dept. -- Currently working on the ever popular year-end review thingamabob. Users feedback or suggestions is more than wanted. Come up with a category or a video or anything and send it to me and I'll credit you. hoopscardillo at yahoo.com. Thanks in advance.
Labels: MLS, odds and ends, Soccer
Ugh.
Before I start taking bows for guessing, stress guessing the correct scoreline in the Manchester United/Liverpool game and noting that William Gallas might score for Arsenal against Chelsea, let's examine an astounding 1-7 performance from the Saturday Premier League Picks.
One and seven.
Egads.
That's Derby County level bad.
That's 'The Adventures of Ford Fairlane' bad. (Well, good in a different kind of way.)
That's Spice Girls reunion level bad. (Ah, topical humor, err, humour.)
Anyways, before digging into the big games let's look at went awry Saturday.
** Wigan 5, Blackburn 3. This one deserves a gadzooks, or possibly a kerblooey. Looking back, who didn't see the Latics winning their first league game since August 22?
** Derby 0, Middlesbrough 1. My bad. Why I went with the Rams almost makes my decision to start Selvin Young in my fantasy NFL playoffs seem reasonable. Almost.
** Portsmouth 0, Tottenham 1. Pompey hadn't lost a league match at Fratton Park this season before Saturday. Spurs hadn't won on the road before Saturday. In retrospect, this should have been as clear as when Sir Isaac Newtown was brained by an apple and 'discovered' gravity. (Or when Doc Brown fell and hit his head on the toilet and devised the flux capacitor.)
** Manchester City 4, Bolton 2. Long stated fact, I don't like Sven Goran Eriksson. Stupid.
** All the rest (Fulham 0, Newcastle 1; West Ham 0, Everton 2; Birmingham 1, Reading 1) here's a little (ssh) secret. These were proverbial coin-flip games, except unlike a coin these can land on three sides.
Ok, enough of my self pity and self promotion?
Good.
Let's get this out of the way. During the week I planned to schlep into New York to watch the double-header at the Kinsale. A couple things derailed that plan, in no particular order: crummy weather, my brother's birthday, back pains that would be only made worse by Metro North's trains and a late night of "Rock Band" that made waking up for a 6 a.m. train next to impossible. (No, I was not dancing with Herr Brownstone.)
From what I can tell I didn't miss a classic at Anfield.
Two storyline emerge from this one. The first is easy, Manchester United obviously aren't going away in the title race. This was the kind of result they snatched last season, so it's an encouraging sign for Red Devils fans from Manchester to Milwaukee to Malaysia that Tevez redirected Rooney's worm-burner from a United corner.
The juicer stuff comes from the losing dugout.
Now an astounding 10 points behind leaders Arsenal, Liverpool are closer to tenth place Newcastle than the penthouse. It's not over, but it's over.
After the game Rafa Benetiz met with Tom Hicks and George Gillett, who apparently didn't understand the idea of the January transfer window. How this conversation played out, the erudite Spaniard and the Texas soft drink bottling tycoon would have been more interesting than the game itself. (Sorry, no gross sterotype for George Gillett. If you want one, here's Zwarte Piet -- Sinterklaas' 'slave' in the Netherlands.)
Rafa: "Sirs, you donnot understand. I do not have enough players for my rotation system. We need a first team of at least 50, men who can enjoy sangria with me."
Hicks: "C'mon, now Raffer, we just gave you all that money for that summbitch Tor-rez."
Gillett: "Sorry fellas, I'm deeply engrossed in watching the 'Miracle in Istanbul' DVD again. I bleed for this club. ... Really, I do."
Anyways, you can guess why none of my one-act plays ever made to off-Broadway.
Just thinking out loud, but if Rafa doesn't make at least the semifinals of the Champions League I bet he walks away...paving the door for Jose Mourinho. (Or at least Jose Mourinho rumors.)
Now for the other big game, the one I actually watched -- Arsenal 1, Chelsea 0.
Lots of places to go in this one. First and foremost, Chelsea are not an elite team without Drogba. There's nobody to score. Down a goal Avram Grant waited much too long to bring somebody on for the offensively challenged Claude Makelele. Of course, Claudio Pizzaro is a mug. (Just wondering, what the hell happened to Steve Sidwell? Did ESPN hire some goons to kidnap him for that tackle on Beckham?)
Still, Shaun Wright-Phillips (what a waste of money) missed an absolute sitter on his foot late in the game that would have leveled it.
That meant William Gallas' first half goal that probably could have been saved by Petr Cech held up. No doubt the Faux-Franco-Hawk played a part in the score. (What's the deal with all these athletes and the Mr. T power-hawk anyway?)
Yes, I'm jumping around here but before I forget, as much as I praise Cesc Fabregas, his reaction like he just took a punch from a circa 1986 Mike Tyson after Ashley Coles' Bitch-slap gives footballers a bad name. Take a cue from Randy Macho Man Savage and 'Be a Man.' (On second thought, after clicking that link maybe not.)
The biggest thing I noticed from that game was a lot of excellent saves on both sides from Cech and Manuel Almunia. He might look like a cheap extra from a Euro-porn, but Almunia got his named chanted at the Emirates and was pretty HUSK worthy all day.
Naturally the result of this game left the Premier League in virtually a flat-footed tie bewteen Arsenal and Manchester United with 19 games remaining. Chelsea are rank outsiders trailing by six points. My hated City are in fourth on 33 points and a three-way tie on 30 of Liverpool, Portsmouth and Everton are behind them.
It's a two-horse race, but as always, stay tuned.
** TOP Fantasy team of the week is Del Perkins' DynamoDel with 64 points. Standouts were Kolo Toure, Roque Santa Cruz and Nemanja Vidic. Congrats.
** In an incident non-related to Zwarte Piet, the Dutch police were on strike, thus shutting down the Eredivisie. Make your own joke about wooden shoes here.
** First place won't be on the line, but next weekend Real Madrid plays at Barcelona in the final game of the La Liga before the winter break. Ray Hudson is washing all his underwear in advance, even with Messi out a couple weeks.
** Hopefully you caught the 'Extras' special on HBO last night. It was especially poignant with the Hollywood writers strike and impending wave of reality television crap. Above all, if the interplay between Barry and Darren Lamb doesn't make you bust a gut, well, "I don't get it."
The only drawback was my lack of knowledge of British flash in the pans. Oh right, that George Michael cameo was a riot.
Still, Ricky Gervais/Andy Millman's first starring role in a Hollywood film sounds like a turd.
If you had eagle eyes, you caught the one-and-only Karl Plinkington as an autograph seeker outside the trendy restaurant.
** Finally, a little D-A-P for Wake Forest and Marcus Tracy for winning the NCAA College Cup. While I have little interest or need for the collegiate game, Tracy gets some recognition since he was the first player I wrote a feature on while he was in high school at my current job. See him on some MLS gridiron lines near you.
Before I start taking bows for guessing, stress guessing the correct scoreline in the Manchester United/Liverpool game and noting that William Gallas might score for Arsenal against Chelsea, let's examine an astounding 1-7 performance from the Saturday Premier League Picks.
One and seven.
Egads.
That's Derby County level bad.
That's 'The Adventures of Ford Fairlane' bad. (Well, good in a different kind of way.)
That's Spice Girls reunion level bad. (Ah, topical humor, err, humour.)
Anyways, before digging into the big games let's look at went awry Saturday.
** Wigan 5, Blackburn 3. This one deserves a gadzooks, or possibly a kerblooey. Looking back, who didn't see the Latics winning their first league game since August 22?
** Derby 0, Middlesbrough 1. My bad. Why I went with the Rams almost makes my decision to start Selvin Young in my fantasy NFL playoffs seem reasonable. Almost.
** Portsmouth 0, Tottenham 1. Pompey hadn't lost a league match at Fratton Park this season before Saturday. Spurs hadn't won on the road before Saturday. In retrospect, this should have been as clear as when Sir Isaac Newtown was brained by an apple and 'discovered' gravity. (Or when Doc Brown fell and hit his head on the toilet and devised the flux capacitor.)
** Manchester City 4, Bolton 2. Long stated fact, I don't like Sven Goran Eriksson. Stupid.
** All the rest (Fulham 0, Newcastle 1; West Ham 0, Everton 2; Birmingham 1, Reading 1) here's a little (ssh) secret. These were proverbial coin-flip games, except unlike a coin these can land on three sides.
Ok, enough of my self pity and self promotion?
Good.
Let's get this out of the way. During the week I planned to schlep into New York to watch the double-header at the Kinsale. A couple things derailed that plan, in no particular order: crummy weather, my brother's birthday, back pains that would be only made worse by Metro North's trains and a late night of "Rock Band" that made waking up for a 6 a.m. train next to impossible. (No, I was not dancing with Herr Brownstone.)
From what I can tell I didn't miss a classic at Anfield.
Two storyline emerge from this one. The first is easy, Manchester United obviously aren't going away in the title race. This was the kind of result they snatched last season, so it's an encouraging sign for Red Devils fans from Manchester to Milwaukee to Malaysia that Tevez redirected Rooney's worm-burner from a United corner.
The juicer stuff comes from the losing dugout.
Now an astounding 10 points behind leaders Arsenal, Liverpool are closer to tenth place Newcastle than the penthouse. It's not over, but it's over.
After the game Rafa Benetiz met with Tom Hicks and George Gillett, who apparently didn't understand the idea of the January transfer window. How this conversation played out, the erudite Spaniard and the Texas soft drink bottling tycoon would have been more interesting than the game itself. (Sorry, no gross sterotype for George Gillett. If you want one, here's Zwarte Piet -- Sinterklaas' 'slave' in the Netherlands.)
Rafa: "Sirs, you donnot understand. I do not have enough players for my rotation system. We need a first team of at least 50, men who can enjoy sangria with me."
Hicks: "C'mon, now Raffer, we just gave you all that money for that summbitch Tor-rez."
Gillett: "Sorry fellas, I'm deeply engrossed in watching the 'Miracle in Istanbul' DVD again. I bleed for this club. ... Really, I do."
Anyways, you can guess why none of my one-act plays ever made to off-Broadway.
Just thinking out loud, but if Rafa doesn't make at least the semifinals of the Champions League I bet he walks away...paving the door for Jose Mourinho. (Or at least Jose Mourinho rumors.)
Now for the other big game, the one I actually watched -- Arsenal 1, Chelsea 0.
Lots of places to go in this one. First and foremost, Chelsea are not an elite team without Drogba. There's nobody to score. Down a goal Avram Grant waited much too long to bring somebody on for the offensively challenged Claude Makelele. Of course, Claudio Pizzaro is a mug. (Just wondering, what the hell happened to Steve Sidwell? Did ESPN hire some goons to kidnap him for that tackle on Beckham?)
Still, Shaun Wright-Phillips (what a waste of money) missed an absolute sitter on his foot late in the game that would have leveled it.
That meant William Gallas' first half goal that probably could have been saved by Petr Cech held up. No doubt the Faux-Franco-Hawk played a part in the score. (What's the deal with all these athletes and the Mr. T power-hawk anyway?)
Yes, I'm jumping around here but before I forget, as much as I praise Cesc Fabregas, his reaction like he just took a punch from a circa 1986 Mike Tyson after Ashley Coles' Bitch-slap gives footballers a bad name. Take a cue from Randy Macho Man Savage and 'Be a Man.' (On second thought, after clicking that link maybe not.)
The biggest thing I noticed from that game was a lot of excellent saves on both sides from Cech and Manuel Almunia. He might look like a cheap extra from a Euro-porn, but Almunia got his named chanted at the Emirates and was pretty HUSK worthy all day.
Naturally the result of this game left the Premier League in virtually a flat-footed tie bewteen Arsenal and Manchester United with 19 games remaining. Chelsea are rank outsiders trailing by six points. My hated City are in fourth on 33 points and a three-way tie on 30 of Liverpool, Portsmouth and Everton are behind them.
It's a two-horse race, but as always, stay tuned.
** TOP Fantasy team of the week is Del Perkins' DynamoDel with 64 points. Standouts were Kolo Toure, Roque Santa Cruz and Nemanja Vidic. Congrats.
** In an incident non-related to Zwarte Piet, the Dutch police were on strike, thus shutting down the Eredivisie. Make your own joke about wooden shoes here.
** First place won't be on the line, but next weekend Real Madrid plays at Barcelona in the final game of the La Liga before the winter break. Ray Hudson is washing all his underwear in advance, even with Messi out a couple weeks.
** Hopefully you caught the 'Extras' special on HBO last night. It was especially poignant with the Hollywood writers strike and impending wave of reality television crap. Above all, if the interplay between Barry and Darren Lamb doesn't make you bust a gut, well, "I don't get it."
The only drawback was my lack of knowledge of British flash in the pans. Oh right, that George Michael cameo was a riot.
Still, Ricky Gervais/Andy Millman's first starring role in a Hollywood film sounds like a turd.
If you had eagle eyes, you caught the one-and-only Karl Plinkington as an autograph seeker outside the trendy restaurant.
** Finally, a little D-A-P for Wake Forest and Marcus Tracy for winning the NCAA College Cup. While I have little interest or need for the collegiate game, Tracy gets some recognition since he was the first player I wrote a feature on while he was in high school at my current job. See him on some MLS gridiron lines near you.
Labels: Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, manchester United, Prem League, Soccer
Got your Plinko chips?
Have any spare gigantic wheels lying around?
Perhaps you've got Bob Barker on ice.
...
Ok, enough references to daytime televised game shows.
For fans across the globe of the Premier League, this is a ginormous weekend. Hell, this is the weekend. Sunday gives us Liverpool v. Manchester United followed by Arsenal hosting Chelsea.
Oh baby!
Some of the 1permutations from the possible results make the mind race.
1. Arsenal (37 points) can retain first place by itself.
2. Manchester United (36) can vault into first with a win and a Chelsea win over Arsenal
3. We could end up with a three way tie if United draws Liverpool and Chelsea (34) beats Arsenal.
In other words, get thyself to a pub for the doubleheader.
Let's take an in-depth look at the games, shall we?
Liverpool v. Manchester United, (7:30 a.m, Setanta)
This is actually one of the true, long-standing rivalries in England. There's dislike in each camp about the citizens of both cities. I can't speak on that. What I can mention is the animosity over Liverpool's better track record in Europe compared to United's trophy case full of league titles. A lot of wind ups here, mate.
In recent history, United has won fix of the last six league encounters. Liverpool's last win was in the 2006 FA Cup. Furthermore, Liverpool has not scored against United in the league since before 2004. There last goal in a game against United was an own goal, by either Mikael Silveste or John O'Shea.
Why Liverpool will win -- Two words: Ferando Torres. The Spaniard isn't in form. He isn't in uber-form. He's probably inventing his own, something like mu cliente form. To temper some enthusiasm, Torres does have a habit of getting hurt by falling onto sharp blades of glass.
Why Manchester United will win -- A couple reasons: a strong defense, a clicking attack-force of Rooney, Ronaldo and Tevez. Above all, Sir Alex Ferguson.
What a Liverpool win means -- The Reds still have a game in hand, so a win here is beyond essential to stay in the title race. A loss and and an Arsenal win puts them 10 off the pace.
What a Manchester United win means -- Pretty simple, they're keeping pace or jumping out front.
Gazing into the crystal ball -- Every Liverpool supporter is probably talking himself into why, beyond all recent history the team will string a couple good games in a row. After the convincing win over Marseille most teams would gain some good mojo. Not Liverpool. They're freakin' Paula Abdul, two steps forward one step back. (Yes, Rafa Bentiz is el gato.)
That said, this ought to be a dandy of a game. The atmosphere at Anfield will be unparalleled, and fans should savor it as the grand old girl will be torn down shortly. Reports say Xabi Alonso may return for Liverpool, which is a boost.
This game might boil down, as usual to the forwards vs. the defense.
For some reason I see Jamie Carragher tearing down Cristiano Ronaldo inside the box for another highly controversial penalty decision. If not that, United nets the winner from a set piece from an unlikely character like a Wes Brown.
Also, even money Rooney gets sent off in his Premier League debut with the captain's armband.
Guess: Liverpool 0, Manchester United 1
_________
Arsenal v. Chelsea (Live, FSC 11 a.m.)
While both are parts of the 'Big Four' and located in London, there doesn't seem to be a longstanding hatred between the two clubs. Perhaps both sets of supporters can find solace in each other as clubs most fans love to hate.
Liverpool and Manchester United flash back to the 'classic' English model of football, Arsenal and Chelsea represent the new school.
Why Arsenal will win -- Throughout the season Arsenal has been able to snatch a string of one-goal results when they needed to, why would that stop Sunday?
Why Chelsea will win -- Even with Petr Cech on the sidelines, the Chelsea fortress defense has returned. Since a 2-0 loss to Manchester United on Sept. 23, Cheslea is unbeaten, but more importantly only allowed one league goal (Tim Cahill's late bicycle kick).
What an Arsenal win means -- Mostly a statement. With 17 of the first 18 games done, the Gunners could go through with only one loss, which few expected with the offseason sale of Thierry Henry.
What a Chelsea win means -- We're back, baby.
Gazing into the crystal ball -- A lot of this game could boil down to a pair of players that aren't guaranteed to play -- Cesc Fabregas and Michael Essien. Fabregas heads a contingent of players (Flamini, Van Persie, Hleb) who may or may not play due to injury. Essien is out for Chelsea, along with talismanic forward Didier Drogba. Ricardo Carvalho and Flourent Malouda are questionable.
Chelsea has gotten fat off a lot of the lesser teams in the league and won't simply be able to throw its muscle around at the Emirates. Anyone think Shevchenko shows up for this one? Me neither.
That leaves it up to the all-English brigade of Frank Lampard, Joe Cole and Shaun Wright-Phillips. Should Arsene Wenger opt to re-insert Jens Lehman (w/perm) into the lineup we can chalk up a Lampard deflection, for certain.
Belletti (middle name Haus) has played well for Chelsea, but this is a game he'll likely be neutralized by Arsenal's fine outside backs. We also can't forget about the return of 'Cashley' against his former team.
This could be a game were whoever scores the first goal might be at a disadvantage since it will force the opponent to press super hard for the equalizer.
Overall, it's a shame that some both sides most important and influential players might not be able to play Sunday. Were this game at Stamford Bridge and Arsenal didn't have Cesc it probably would go to Chelsea. Yet since its at the massive Emirates the home Gunners do just enough to secure a point, likely in the final 20 minutes.
I wouldn't rule out William Gallas getting one against his former team.
Guess -- Arsenal 1, Chelsea 1
On Saturday
Birmingham v. Reading -- Huge possible six-pointer at St. Andrews. In the grand scheme of things these are three must-have points for Birmingham it ensure Premier League safety. Both teams have pretty spry attackers, but leave the realm of defense imagination. ... Birmingham 3, Reading 2
Derby County v. Middlesbrough -- You wouldn't get rich, but Derby is getting 13-to-8 odds to win at home. Middlesbrough is the type of team that beats Arsenal then loses to Derby. It's science, people. ... Derby 1, Middlesbrough 0
Manchester City v. Bolton -- (Live on FSC, 10 a.m.) Can City find a way to win without Elano? (Status questionable) They've been pretty solid at home. Bolton has a little momentum working for it. The personal debate here, two hours of this game OR two hours of solid Halo 3? Master Chief v. El Hadj Diouf? Hmmm...if Stelios were still alive, that might change my answer. ... City 1, Bolton 1
Portsmouth v. Tottenham -- (Setanta Broadband, 9:30 a.m.) This should be a fun one at Fratton Park. Spurs are certainly jealous of Pompey's fifth-place standing. If they should turn it around and make a run, they'll need to start here. Still, Tottenham's defense is just too shaky to hold the Portsmouth high-fliers off the board. ... Portsmouth 2, Spurs 0
Sunderland v. Aston Villa -- Not to repeat a theme, but this a three-point must for Sunderland against a beatable Villa team on the road. When it boils down it'll likely be Sunderland/Fulham scrapping until May to avoid the final drop position. ... Sunderland 0, Aston Villa 0
West Ham United v. Everton -- (Setanta, 10 a.m) West Ham is a team you can't predict. They could be a thorn in a lot of sides should Dean Aston continue to remain fit. At this point we can slot in what to expect from Everton. The Toffees aren't pushovers, but they aren't great either. ... West Ham 1, Everton 1
Wigan Athletic v. Blackburn Rovers -- (Delayed, FSC 4:30 p.m.) Here's a question, if you play for Wigan right now do you really give a shit? Or are you busy figuring out where you want to play come August? Yeah, I thought so. ... Wigan 1, Blackburn 2
Fulham v. Newcastle United -- (FSC, noon) Considering their track records, we could be in score for a pretty frisky affair. There's no way that Newcastle can keep up its nice little patch of form over three games, can it? Fulham needs to get its form up at Craven Cottage if it wants to stay up. They're only 2-2-3 at home, which is remarkably shitty. Clint Demspey's name hasn't shown up in any match reports recently, eh? ... Fulham 2, Newcastle 1
Last week: 5-5
Season: 80-77
Have any spare gigantic wheels lying around?
Perhaps you've got Bob Barker on ice.
...
Ok, enough references to daytime televised game shows.
For fans across the globe of the Premier League, this is a ginormous weekend. Hell, this is the weekend. Sunday gives us Liverpool v. Manchester United followed by Arsenal hosting Chelsea.
Oh baby!
Some of the 1permutations from the possible results make the mind race.
1. Arsenal (37 points) can retain first place by itself.
2. Manchester United (36) can vault into first with a win and a Chelsea win over Arsenal
3. We could end up with a three way tie if United draws Liverpool and Chelsea (34) beats Arsenal.
In other words, get thyself to a pub for the doubleheader.
Let's take an in-depth look at the games, shall we?
Liverpool v. Manchester United, (7:30 a.m, Setanta)
This is actually one of the true, long-standing rivalries in England. There's dislike in each camp about the citizens of both cities. I can't speak on that. What I can mention is the animosity over Liverpool's better track record in Europe compared to United's trophy case full of league titles. A lot of wind ups here, mate.
In recent history, United has won fix of the last six league encounters. Liverpool's last win was in the 2006 FA Cup. Furthermore, Liverpool has not scored against United in the league since before 2004. There last goal in a game against United was an own goal, by either Mikael Silveste or John O'Shea.
Why Liverpool will win -- Two words: Ferando Torres. The Spaniard isn't in form. He isn't in uber-form. He's probably inventing his own, something like mu cliente form. To temper some enthusiasm, Torres does have a habit of getting hurt by falling onto sharp blades of glass.
Why Manchester United will win -- A couple reasons: a strong defense, a clicking attack-force of Rooney, Ronaldo and Tevez. Above all, Sir Alex Ferguson.
What a Liverpool win means -- The Reds still have a game in hand, so a win here is beyond essential to stay in the title race. A loss and and an Arsenal win puts them 10 off the pace.
What a Manchester United win means -- Pretty simple, they're keeping pace or jumping out front.
Gazing into the crystal ball -- Every Liverpool supporter is probably talking himself into why, beyond all recent history the team will string a couple good games in a row. After the convincing win over Marseille most teams would gain some good mojo. Not Liverpool. They're freakin' Paula Abdul, two steps forward one step back. (Yes, Rafa Bentiz is el gato.)
That said, this ought to be a dandy of a game. The atmosphere at Anfield will be unparalleled, and fans should savor it as the grand old girl will be torn down shortly. Reports say Xabi Alonso may return for Liverpool, which is a boost.
This game might boil down, as usual to the forwards vs. the defense.
For some reason I see Jamie Carragher tearing down Cristiano Ronaldo inside the box for another highly controversial penalty decision. If not that, United nets the winner from a set piece from an unlikely character like a Wes Brown.
Also, even money Rooney gets sent off in his Premier League debut with the captain's armband.
Guess: Liverpool 0, Manchester United 1
Arsenal v. Chelsea (Live, FSC 11 a.m.)
While both are parts of the 'Big Four' and located in London, there doesn't seem to be a longstanding hatred between the two clubs. Perhaps both sets of supporters can find solace in each other as clubs most fans love to hate.
Liverpool and Manchester United flash back to the 'classic' English model of football, Arsenal and Chelsea represent the new school.
Why Arsenal will win -- Throughout the season Arsenal has been able to snatch a string of one-goal results when they needed to, why would that stop Sunday?
Why Chelsea will win -- Even with Petr Cech on the sidelines, the Chelsea fortress defense has returned. Since a 2-0 loss to Manchester United on Sept. 23, Cheslea is unbeaten, but more importantly only allowed one league goal (Tim Cahill's late bicycle kick).
What an Arsenal win means -- Mostly a statement. With 17 of the first 18 games done, the Gunners could go through with only one loss, which few expected with the offseason sale of Thierry Henry.
What a Chelsea win means -- We're back, baby.
Gazing into the crystal ball -- A lot of this game could boil down to a pair of players that aren't guaranteed to play -- Cesc Fabregas and Michael Essien. Fabregas heads a contingent of players (Flamini, Van Persie, Hleb) who may or may not play due to injury. Essien is out for Chelsea, along with talismanic forward Didier Drogba. Ricardo Carvalho and Flourent Malouda are questionable.
Chelsea has gotten fat off a lot of the lesser teams in the league and won't simply be able to throw its muscle around at the Emirates. Anyone think Shevchenko shows up for this one? Me neither.
That leaves it up to the all-English brigade of Frank Lampard, Joe Cole and Shaun Wright-Phillips. Should Arsene Wenger opt to re-insert Jens Lehman (w/perm) into the lineup we can chalk up a Lampard deflection, for certain.
Belletti (middle name Haus) has played well for Chelsea, but this is a game he'll likely be neutralized by Arsenal's fine outside backs. We also can't forget about the return of 'Cashley' against his former team.
This could be a game were whoever scores the first goal might be at a disadvantage since it will force the opponent to press super hard for the equalizer.
Overall, it's a shame that some both sides most important and influential players might not be able to play Sunday. Were this game at Stamford Bridge and Arsenal didn't have Cesc it probably would go to Chelsea. Yet since its at the massive Emirates the home Gunners do just enough to secure a point, likely in the final 20 minutes.
I wouldn't rule out William Gallas getting one against his former team.
Guess -- Arsenal 1, Chelsea 1
On Saturday
Birmingham v. Reading -- Huge possible six-pointer at St. Andrews. In the grand scheme of things these are three must-have points for Birmingham it ensure Premier League safety. Both teams have pretty spry attackers, but leave the realm of defense imagination. ... Birmingham 3, Reading 2
Derby County v. Middlesbrough -- You wouldn't get rich, but Derby is getting 13-to-8 odds to win at home. Middlesbrough is the type of team that beats Arsenal then loses to Derby. It's science, people. ... Derby 1, Middlesbrough 0
Manchester City v. Bolton -- (Live on FSC, 10 a.m.) Can City find a way to win without Elano? (Status questionable) They've been pretty solid at home. Bolton has a little momentum working for it. The personal debate here, two hours of this game OR two hours of solid Halo 3? Master Chief v. El Hadj Diouf? Hmmm...if Stelios were still alive, that might change my answer. ... City 1, Bolton 1
Portsmouth v. Tottenham -- (Setanta Broadband, 9:30 a.m.) This should be a fun one at Fratton Park. Spurs are certainly jealous of Pompey's fifth-place standing. If they should turn it around and make a run, they'll need to start here. Still, Tottenham's defense is just too shaky to hold the Portsmouth high-fliers off the board. ... Portsmouth 2, Spurs 0
Sunderland v. Aston Villa -- Not to repeat a theme, but this a three-point must for Sunderland against a beatable Villa team on the road. When it boils down it'll likely be Sunderland/Fulham scrapping until May to avoid the final drop position. ... Sunderland 0, Aston Villa 0
West Ham United v. Everton -- (Setanta, 10 a.m) West Ham is a team you can't predict. They could be a thorn in a lot of sides should Dean Aston continue to remain fit. At this point we can slot in what to expect from Everton. The Toffees aren't pushovers, but they aren't great either. ... West Ham 1, Everton 1
Wigan Athletic v. Blackburn Rovers -- (Delayed, FSC 4:30 p.m.) Here's a question, if you play for Wigan right now do you really give a shit? Or are you busy figuring out where you want to play come August? Yeah, I thought so. ... Wigan 1, Blackburn 2
Fulham v. Newcastle United -- (FSC, noon) Considering their track records, we could be in score for a pretty frisky affair. There's no way that Newcastle can keep up its nice little patch of form over three games, can it? Fulham needs to get its form up at Craven Cottage if it wants to stay up. They're only 2-2-3 at home, which is remarkably shitty. Clint Demspey's name hasn't shown up in any match reports recently, eh? ... Fulham 2, Newcastle 1
Last week: 5-5
Season: 80-77
Labels: Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, manchester United, Prem Picks, Premier League, Soccer
Well, that was easy.
The only question, how in the world do all those Scousers get the money to take a quick jaunts to the South of France?
Oh, right.
Drug mules.
Just like Steven Gerrard, it's always the simplest answer.
In closing, looks like Torres paid for himself today.
Labels: champions league, Liverpool, Soccer
Let's go around the globe in under two minutes, shall we?
** There are brain farts and then there are brain farts. Whatever the French equivalent for brain fart is, that's what Arsene Wenger's boys did in a stunning 2-1 away loss at Middlesbrough, ending Arsenal's 15-game unbeaten run to start the season.
Making it worse, the scrub of all scrubs, ex-Gooner Jérémie Aliadière was brought down by Stinger Bell, err, Kolo Toure for a penalty in the fourth minute, converted by Stewart Downing.
Adding insult to injury, Turkish bust (so far at least) Tuncay scored the other 'Boro goal.
As Hirshey told me in an email, without Cesc and Hleb (Eastern Europe's third most popular comedy team) the Gunners have no creativity going forward.
Cesc is the Arsenal big toe, plain and simple.
In any event, shit is going to be wild with Arsenal now only a point ahead of Manchester United and three in front of the Blue menace that is Chelsea.
Sunday ought to be fun, eh?
It's Liverpool v. Manchester United and Arsenal v. Chelsea.
Those are kind of big games, right?
** Lost in the shuffle, at the other end of the table things are taking shape too. Derby is dead and Wigan is on life support with the entire Football League praying for a do-not-resuscitate order. Bolton and Spurs are both creeping ever-so-slightly from the drop zone, leaving a fun Texas Tornado/Musical Chairs with Fulham, Birmingham City, Middlesbrough and Sunderland for the other spot.
** Prem odds and ends -- Obliged to give Yakubu some D-A-P for his hattrick against Fulham. Too bad he'll be on African Cup of Nations call in a month. ... On the same note, most of Portsmouth's team is headed back home for the tournament. That could be the only thing that denies Pompey a top four finish. ... Funny how things work. Newcastle fans are calling for Sam Allardyce's head on a plate, then he draws Arsenal and wins against Birmingham at the death. ... Wonder if the Hatton loss to Mayweather had anything to do with Man City's 2-1 loss at Tottenham. And yes, I do have a cheshire cat grin on my face about the impending City slide down the table. ... If they did a straight Prem League MVP, Cesc, Elano and David Bentley all are in consideration, as all their teams lost without their talismans. ... Manchester United 4, Derby 1, shock result of the weekend. ... I've pimped him in the past, so it's not new that I say Reading's James Harper is a nice little player.
** Fantasy team of the week -- The erstwhile Gil Torpedo, Michael Suppe's Yid Army. Somehow he managed 78 points with a 5-2-3 formation, headed by Sulley Muntari and Carlos Tevez, alongside a high-scoring defense. Congrats.
** Glad to see you're back, Bobby Convey. Mr. Glass himself shined in Reading's 3-1 win over Liverpool. Incisive passes, a couple good cracks from distance coupled with a few nice runs and it was the best the young American has played, probably since the 2005-06 season when Reading was promoted.
More importantly, if he can remain healthy, Convey provides cover on the left side of midfield for the USMNT while DaMarcus Beasley is sidelined with his knee injury. Let's just hope this latest flash isn't just another tease from the former DC United-man.
Oh, and we'll let somebody else lineup the freekicks, too.
** Convey wasn't the only Yank to shine this weekend. The Golden Boy, Michael Bradley, netted a hat trick for Heerenveen in a 4-2 win vs. Gronigen, the biggest derby in the Northern Netherlands. Super Husk points for a speaking Dutch.
It's safe to say a Heerenveen home shirt just vaulted to the top of my Life Day shopping list.
** It only took three months, but there's finally some excitement in the Champions League. The final matchday of the group leaves two groups with everything to play for and a couple stalwarts fighting for their lives.
Group A -- Liverpool are through with a win at Marseille. The Reds can probably survive a draw due to a +9 goal difference. Even Besiktas can advance with a win at Porto. Liverpool is out with a loss. Amazingly, stunningly, miraculously the Liverpool match will be live on ESPN2 in America on Tuesday at 2:45. (during the Reading game on Saturday, the announcer said Liverpool can only advance with a win. I don't comprehend why. There could be three teams on eight points, and Liverpool has the best goal difference by far. Explain!)
Group B -- Chelsea is through. Incredibly, Rosenborg gets through with a draw or win over Schalke in Gelsenkirchen. Schalke gets by with a win. An upset is in the cards, with the first place group winners licking their chops for a chance at the Norwegians, Iverson or not.
Group C -- Absolutely wild. Real Madird and Olympiakos lead with eight. Werder Bremen is on six and Lazio on five. Werder heads to Greece, while Madrid hosts Lazio. There are too many permutations, but the short list is Real, Olympiakos and Bremen advance with wins. Real and Olympiakos advance with ties. Lazio needs to win and get some help on goal difference.
Group D -- Done. Milan, Celtic are through.
Group E -- Believe it or not, Rangers holds all the cards when they host former French juggernaut Lyon at Ibrox. Double wonderful, this one is on ESPN2, too on Wednesday. Rangers advance with a draw because they enter the game +1 on goal difference, while Lyon is -2.
Group F -- Manchester United and Roma are through and play each other, which nine times out of 10 would have been on ESPN2. Somebody is Brisol is awake for a change.
Group G -- Inter is already through and goes to Eindhoven with PSV needing a win and help, as Fenerbache simply needs to win at home vs. CSKA to advance.
Group F -- Surprise, surprise, Arsenal and Sevilla got past Slavia Prague and Steaua Bucharest.
** Bet you didn't know Sports Illustrated Latino existed. It does. It named a Sportsman of the Year, no, not Brett Favre. It's Lionel Messi. Wise choice for the most part. Here's the story by John Carlin. Like most soccer features, it doesn't reveal much. As flashy as Messi's game is, his personality seems just as boring. As long as he keeps doing stuff like below, he could be as wild off the field as Janet Reno.
In La Liga, not a lot of change at the top. Real Madrid and Barcelona both won and remain one, two. The rest of the Spainish top five is a surprise, of sorts. Athletico Madrid (Ewing-theory on Torres?) is third. Villareal (another kit on the Life Day list) is fourth, followed by Espanyol, aka the new Sevilla.
** Not a good weekend in hooliganism. A German policeman was severely hurt in a clash between fans of VfL Bochum and Karlsruher SC. Unfortunate. In France, PSG -- rapidly becoming the most notorious goons in Western Europe -- clashed with fans at Auxurre, with one PSG hooligan arrested for attacking a police. No, his name was not Michel Vick.
** That chill you felt? It's that ESPN is interested in acquiring Premier League rights in Britain come 2009. Read here. Be afraid Britons. Very afraid. Boo-yah!
** Finally, don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Fans in Poland are masculine. Luca Brazi's wildest dreams kind of masculine.
See that guy standing atop the table, he is the actual builder of the Eiffel Tower. He did it with steel and brawn.
Enjoy the new Halo 3 maps...
** There are brain farts and then there are brain farts. Whatever the French equivalent for brain fart is, that's what Arsene Wenger's boys did in a stunning 2-1 away loss at Middlesbrough, ending Arsenal's 15-game unbeaten run to start the season.
Making it worse, the scrub of all scrubs, ex-Gooner Jérémie Aliadière was brought down by Stinger Bell, err, Kolo Toure for a penalty in the fourth minute, converted by Stewart Downing.
Adding insult to injury, Turkish bust (so far at least) Tuncay scored the other 'Boro goal.
As Hirshey told me in an email, without Cesc and Hleb (Eastern Europe's third most popular comedy team) the Gunners have no creativity going forward.
Cesc is the Arsenal big toe, plain and simple.
In any event, shit is going to be wild with Arsenal now only a point ahead of Manchester United and three in front of the Blue menace that is Chelsea.
Sunday ought to be fun, eh?
It's Liverpool v. Manchester United and Arsenal v. Chelsea.
Those are kind of big games, right?
** Lost in the shuffle, at the other end of the table things are taking shape too. Derby is dead and Wigan is on life support with the entire Football League praying for a do-not-resuscitate order. Bolton and Spurs are both creeping ever-so-slightly from the drop zone, leaving a fun Texas Tornado/Musical Chairs with Fulham, Birmingham City, Middlesbrough and Sunderland for the other spot.
** Prem odds and ends -- Obliged to give Yakubu some D-A-P for his hattrick against Fulham. Too bad he'll be on African Cup of Nations call in a month. ... On the same note, most of Portsmouth's team is headed back home for the tournament. That could be the only thing that denies Pompey a top four finish. ... Funny how things work. Newcastle fans are calling for Sam Allardyce's head on a plate, then he draws Arsenal and wins against Birmingham at the death. ... Wonder if the Hatton loss to Mayweather had anything to do with Man City's 2-1 loss at Tottenham. And yes, I do have a cheshire cat grin on my face about the impending City slide down the table. ... If they did a straight Prem League MVP, Cesc, Elano and David Bentley all are in consideration, as all their teams lost without their talismans. ... Manchester United 4, Derby 1, shock result of the weekend. ... I've pimped him in the past, so it's not new that I say Reading's James Harper is a nice little player.
** Fantasy team of the week -- The erstwhile Gil Torpedo, Michael Suppe's Yid Army. Somehow he managed 78 points with a 5-2-3 formation, headed by Sulley Muntari and Carlos Tevez, alongside a high-scoring defense. Congrats.
** Glad to see you're back, Bobby Convey. Mr. Glass himself shined in Reading's 3-1 win over Liverpool. Incisive passes, a couple good cracks from distance coupled with a few nice runs and it was the best the young American has played, probably since the 2005-06 season when Reading was promoted.
More importantly, if he can remain healthy, Convey provides cover on the left side of midfield for the USMNT while DaMarcus Beasley is sidelined with his knee injury. Let's just hope this latest flash isn't just another tease from the former DC United-man.
Oh, and we'll let somebody else lineup the freekicks, too.
** Convey wasn't the only Yank to shine this weekend. The Golden Boy, Michael Bradley, netted a hat trick for Heerenveen in a 4-2 win vs. Gronigen, the biggest derby in the Northern Netherlands. Super Husk points for a speaking Dutch.
It's safe to say a Heerenveen home shirt just vaulted to the top of my Life Day shopping list.
** It only took three months, but there's finally some excitement in the Champions League. The final matchday of the group leaves two groups with everything to play for and a couple stalwarts fighting for their lives.
Group A -- Liverpool are through with a win at Marseille. The Reds can probably survive a draw due to a +9 goal difference. Even Besiktas can advance with a win at Porto. Liverpool is out with a loss. Amazingly, stunningly, miraculously the Liverpool match will be live on ESPN2 in America on Tuesday at 2:45. (during the Reading game on Saturday, the announcer said Liverpool can only advance with a win. I don't comprehend why. There could be three teams on eight points, and Liverpool has the best goal difference by far. Explain!)
Group B -- Chelsea is through. Incredibly, Rosenborg gets through with a draw or win over Schalke in Gelsenkirchen. Schalke gets by with a win. An upset is in the cards, with the first place group winners licking their chops for a chance at the Norwegians, Iverson or not.
Group C -- Absolutely wild. Real Madird and Olympiakos lead with eight. Werder Bremen is on six and Lazio on five. Werder heads to Greece, while Madrid hosts Lazio. There are too many permutations, but the short list is Real, Olympiakos and Bremen advance with wins. Real and Olympiakos advance with ties. Lazio needs to win and get some help on goal difference.
Group D -- Done. Milan, Celtic are through.
Group E -- Believe it or not, Rangers holds all the cards when they host former French juggernaut Lyon at Ibrox. Double wonderful, this one is on ESPN2, too on Wednesday. Rangers advance with a draw because they enter the game +1 on goal difference, while Lyon is -2.
Group F -- Manchester United and Roma are through and play each other, which nine times out of 10 would have been on ESPN2. Somebody is Brisol is awake for a change.
Group G -- Inter is already through and goes to Eindhoven with PSV needing a win and help, as Fenerbache simply needs to win at home vs. CSKA to advance.
Group F -- Surprise, surprise, Arsenal and Sevilla got past Slavia Prague and Steaua Bucharest.
** Bet you didn't know Sports Illustrated Latino existed. It does. It named a Sportsman of the Year, no, not Brett Favre. It's Lionel Messi. Wise choice for the most part. Here's the story by John Carlin. Like most soccer features, it doesn't reveal much. As flashy as Messi's game is, his personality seems just as boring. As long as he keeps doing stuff like below, he could be as wild off the field as Janet Reno.
In La Liga, not a lot of change at the top. Real Madrid and Barcelona both won and remain one, two. The rest of the Spainish top five is a surprise, of sorts. Athletico Madrid (Ewing-theory on Torres?) is third. Villareal (another kit on the Life Day list) is fourth, followed by Espanyol, aka the new Sevilla.
** Not a good weekend in hooliganism. A German policeman was severely hurt in a clash between fans of VfL Bochum and Karlsruher SC. Unfortunate. In France, PSG -- rapidly becoming the most notorious goons in Western Europe -- clashed with fans at Auxurre, with one PSG hooligan arrested for attacking a police. No, his name was not Michel Vick.
** That chill you felt? It's that ESPN is interested in acquiring Premier League rights in Britain come 2009. Read here. Be afraid Britons. Very afraid. Boo-yah!
** Finally, don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Fans in Poland are masculine. Luca Brazi's wildest dreams kind of masculine.
See that guy standing atop the table, he is the actual builder of the Eiffel Tower. He did it with steel and brawn.
Enjoy the new Halo 3 maps...
Labels: Arsenal, champions league, Chelsea, Lionel Messi, Liverpool, Michael Bradley, Soccer
If these videos don't whet your appeitite for season five of 'The Wire' you just aren't 'bout it.' Sorry.
First, let's look at the HBO-produced teaser trailers for some key characters:
McNulty
Yes. Yes. Yes.
Marlo
In the words of Bodie Broadus, "Man, he got to fall."
During the commentary on the DVDs of Season Four, David Simon hints that bad times are coming for Stanfield. Nice.
Carcetti
It's a shame no one pays attention to the acting of Aiden Gillen as Tommy Carcetti. The Irishman pulls off your standard sleazy, but good-intentioned American pol perfectly.
Bubbles
Dude. Waylon. 'Nuff said. Again, Andre Royo deserves some sort of actual physical, award for his work over the five seasons of 'The Wire.' Injustice isn't even a strong enough word when Alan Alda and Bill Shatner are picking up Supporting Actor Emmys. Then again, that's a theme of 'The Wire' -- injustice. (James Hetfield would approve.)
Omar
One concern, let's not go too over-the-top with Omar. He's perhaps the one character where the creators take some liberties and stray from reality. At this point Omar can almost stop bullets headed toward him like Neo in 'The Matrix.'
Next, HBO produced some flashbacks to the the characters. This is simply amazing.
Young Omar
A man got to have a code.
When McNulty met Bunk
Not quite burnt clothes in the tub, but classice nonetheless.
Young Prop Joe
Words don't do this justice.
(Tomorrow, Monday, world soccer roundup.)
First, let's look at the HBO-produced teaser trailers for some key characters:
McNulty
Yes. Yes. Yes.
Marlo
In the words of Bodie Broadus, "Man, he got to fall."
During the commentary on the DVDs of Season Four, David Simon hints that bad times are coming for Stanfield. Nice.
Carcetti
It's a shame no one pays attention to the acting of Aiden Gillen as Tommy Carcetti. The Irishman pulls off your standard sleazy, but good-intentioned American pol perfectly.
Bubbles
Dude. Waylon. 'Nuff said. Again, Andre Royo deserves some sort of actual physical, award for his work over the five seasons of 'The Wire.' Injustice isn't even a strong enough word when Alan Alda and Bill Shatner are picking up Supporting Actor Emmys. Then again, that's a theme of 'The Wire' -- injustice. (James Hetfield would approve.)
Omar
One concern, let's not go too over-the-top with Omar. He's perhaps the one character where the creators take some liberties and stray from reality. At this point Omar can almost stop bullets headed toward him like Neo in 'The Matrix.'
Next, HBO produced some flashbacks to the the characters. This is simply amazing.
Young Omar
A man got to have a code.
When McNulty met Bunk
Not quite burnt clothes in the tub, but classice nonetheless.
Young Prop Joe
Words don't do this justice.
(Tomorrow, Monday, world soccer roundup.)
Labels: HBO, television, The Wire
As the calendar creeps toward 2008, a thought occurred to me: which soccer team is the best in the world right now? Who was the best in 2007?
The answer: sort of like the 2007 NCAA football season, nobody.
Whereas it was easy to identify the year's top players: Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, finding the team of 2007 isn't as simple.
Currently, Arsenal are undefeated in the Premier League but drew a pretty hapless Newcastle team on Wednesday, a result more in line with the 2006-07 season than the current campaign.
Sure the Gunners have flash and panache alongside perhaps the player of 2008 -- Cesc Fabregas. Yet in their heart of hearts are Gooners convinced this team will remain atop the league table come May? This isn't a knock on the red and whites, far from it. Gutty comebacks to get results with Liverpool and Manchester United prove that. It's just, well, is Arsenal really that amazing?
2008 will tell.
And yeah, Manchester United won the Premier League last term. For every hammering, when Rooney and Ronaldo were firing on all cylinders there just as many smash-and-grabs from the likes of John O'Shea. Factor in the drubbing by Milan in the Champions League semifinals and you might have to eliminate the Red Devils, too.
Chelsea certainly underachieved domestically and in Europe. Let's not even dicuss Liverpool, which despite going to the 2007 Champions League final faces a do or die in Marseilles Tuesday. (Better get Popeye Doyle on the phone. 'French Connection II', totally underrated.)
Speaking of Milan, yes the Rosseneiri took home the trophy with the big ears. However their Serie A form was middling at best, regardless of the points deduction.
Their crosstown rivals, Inter, were without par in Serie A but didn't show up in up Europe, losing to Valencia in that famous brawl in the Round of 16. Above all, are Inter anything other than perennial underachievers?
Maybe the most entertaining team in Italy was Roma, but you eliminate them for losing 7-1 to Manchester United, on principal at least.
Around the rest of Europe, Barcelona slumped last year and hasn't set the world on fire as of yet with the addition of Thierry Henry. Real Madrid won La Liga, but with a string of performances that can best be described as forgettable...even with that Beckham fellow.
Again, the most consistent and fun team in Spain might have been Sevilla, which won the UEFA Cup. Yet since Juande Ramos took the money to go to Spurs, Sevilla currently sits closer to last place than first place in the league table.
Germany certainly doesn't have any candidates.
Stuttgart, the 06-07 winners were the proverbial team that got hot at the right time. Mighty Bayern slumped, missed the Champions League and revamped the lineup. Bayern started out like gangbusters, threatening an unbeaten Bundesliga run...but now are just a point ahead of Werder Bremen.
Dutch stalwarts PSV and Ajax were good, not great. Celtic has had a good run in Scotland and Europe, but even the most ardent faced-tattooed Bhoy won't say they're the best in the world.
One-time challenger for best in the world -- Lyon -- broke up the team after winning it's sixth Ligue 1 in a row and might not even make the knockout stages of the Champions League.
Maybe you can tell me some of those Brasilian-laden Eastern European teams are amazing, but how would you know?
Boca Juniors can make a pretty good claim after taking home the Copa Libertadores and featuring the uber-in form Riquelme. In fact they're just as good a candidate as any of these other teams.
The point here?
Umm...good question.
Maybe it's just that thought that the last couple seasons you could pick the best team in the world pretty easily. Right now, maybe because of all the money splashed around you can't. It's all subjective anyway. The Academy awards a 'Best Picture' every year, even if all the candidates in a particular year pale in comparison to those of yesteryear.
Either way, there's a few weeks left for somebody to claim it.
** Ronnie to Chelsea -- Warrants it's own little mention. Soccer rumors are worse than the crap that comes out of baseball's winter meetings. My own personal rule of thumb is until we see his horsey-smile taking pictures in a blue shirt on the Stamford Bridge field, it's simply rumor and speculation.
Theoretically, in this day and age it doesn't take much to start a rumor.
Do Chelsea need the Brasilian ace? Not really.
Will it garner them more headlines? Yep.
Will it win them the league? No.
** Not about football, but worth mentioning. The short HBO series 'Mayweather/Hatton 24/7' proved one thing -- Ricky Hatton is beyond nuts for Manchester City. Every shot of his young son featured the lad in a full City kit. How about the City bedspread and comforter. I was half expecting Richard Dunne to show up to read bedtime stories.
In any event, no surprise here that I'm pulling for Hatton simply because he likes to eat his lards and fats like any good English geezer. And shit, that zit/acne/grow on Hatton's lip might be the only drawback HD televisions possess.
It's also pretty bizarre that a foreigner, a Redcoat if you will, gets the home crowd love in Las Vegas when Mayweather actually lives there.
The question still remains, why does Wayne Rooney carry out the belt? And will Mr. Potato head make the quick flight out to Vegas after his match Saturday to pull the duties again?
Enough of my yappin', time for picks.
Saturday
Aston Villa v. Pompey -- (Live, Setanta 7:45 a.m.) Two flavors of the week meet at Villa Park. After coming close to rape in a few wins, Pompey has actually played to 0-0 draws in three of their last five. Villa seem to play better when no one is paying attention. Perhaps David James can further turn the knife in Scott Carson for the England keeping fiasco against the Croats. ... Villa 1, Pompey 2
Chelsea v. Sunderland -- (Live on FSC, 10 a.m.) Bizarre non-story of the week goes to Flourent Malouda complaining about the Chelsea diet plan, which allows players to drink of all things, gasp, Coke. On a serious note, Didier Drogba is out for around two months. Does Shevchenko still own a uniform? Time for some of Fat Frank's patented luck deflections. ... Chelsea 1, Sunderland 0
Everton v. Fulham -- (Setanta Broadband, 9:30) So Everton gets through to the knockout stages of the UEFA Cup...which is nice. At least Fulham owner Mohammed Al-Fayed is getting some good sales numbers for Christmas at his Harrod's store in London, because his football team doesn't inspire much. Also worth noting that Brian McBride is still weeks away from recovery from his knee injury. Balls. ... Everton 2, Fulham 1
Manchester United v. Derby County -- (Live, Setanta 9:45 a.m) This one is about an even a matchup as the 'Sportscenter' intramural hoops team against those vaunted Bristol Plumbers circa 1996. ... United 3, Derby 0
Newcastle United v. Birmingham City -- (Delayed, FSC 4:30 p.m.) Where would you rather not live, Newcastle or Birmingham? At least the Magpies showed they have a pulse with a 1-1 draw with Arsenal that made SAF smile. City are surprisingly not shitty. As for this game on the other hand... ... Newcastle 1, Birmingham 1
Reading v. Liverpool -- (Live, FSC, 12:15 p.m.) Only question here is if Rafa rests a couple bodies ahead of Tuesday's do-or-die affair in Marseilles? Though, Reading aren't a team you can overlook, especially at home. Speaking of the Royals, has there been a more anonymous season in the league than them? Maybe Steve Coppell and Bob Bradley switched jobs or something. ... Reading 0, Liverpool 1
Sunday
Middlesbrough v. Arsenal -- (Live Setanta, 7:30 a.m.) If they awarded points for listless play, sleepwalking through matches and disinterested fans -- 'Boro would be atop the league. Two years ago Arsenal beat them 7-0 (I think). We could see a repeat, even with Cesc sidelined again. I mean, why would Arsene risk it? ... 'Boro 0, Arsenal 3
Bolton v. Wigan -- Run to the hills...run for your life. ... Bolton 1, Wigan 1
Blackburn Rovers v. West Ham United -- (Live on FSC, 11 a.m.) Both these teams can play fun, exciting games...except in recent games on US airwaves. I'm scared this one could put you to sleep, especially with David Bentley on the sideline for yellow card accumulation. ... Rovers 1, WHU 1
Tottenham v. Manchester City -- (Delayed on FSC, 4:30 p.m.) Spurs = excitement. City fans are going to be pretty hungover from watching the Ricky Hatton/Floyd Mayweather bout which I'd guess airs live around 4 a.m. in England. Considering it's Spurs, they ought to do the unexpected in this one. ... Spurs 3, City 1
Last week: 6-4
Season: 75-72
The answer: sort of like the 2007 NCAA football season, nobody.
Whereas it was easy to identify the year's top players: Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, finding the team of 2007 isn't as simple.
Currently, Arsenal are undefeated in the Premier League but drew a pretty hapless Newcastle team on Wednesday, a result more in line with the 2006-07 season than the current campaign.
Sure the Gunners have flash and panache alongside perhaps the player of 2008 -- Cesc Fabregas. Yet in their heart of hearts are Gooners convinced this team will remain atop the league table come May? This isn't a knock on the red and whites, far from it. Gutty comebacks to get results with Liverpool and Manchester United prove that. It's just, well, is Arsenal really that amazing?
2008 will tell.
And yeah, Manchester United won the Premier League last term. For every hammering, when Rooney and Ronaldo were firing on all cylinders there just as many smash-and-grabs from the likes of John O'Shea. Factor in the drubbing by Milan in the Champions League semifinals and you might have to eliminate the Red Devils, too.
Chelsea certainly underachieved domestically and in Europe. Let's not even dicuss Liverpool, which despite going to the 2007 Champions League final faces a do or die in Marseilles Tuesday. (Better get Popeye Doyle on the phone. 'French Connection II', totally underrated.)
Speaking of Milan, yes the Rosseneiri took home the trophy with the big ears. However their Serie A form was middling at best, regardless of the points deduction.
Their crosstown rivals, Inter, were without par in Serie A but didn't show up in up Europe, losing to Valencia in that famous brawl in the Round of 16. Above all, are Inter anything other than perennial underachievers?
Maybe the most entertaining team in Italy was Roma, but you eliminate them for losing 7-1 to Manchester United, on principal at least.
Around the rest of Europe, Barcelona slumped last year and hasn't set the world on fire as of yet with the addition of Thierry Henry. Real Madrid won La Liga, but with a string of performances that can best be described as forgettable...even with that Beckham fellow.
Again, the most consistent and fun team in Spain might have been Sevilla, which won the UEFA Cup. Yet since Juande Ramos took the money to go to Spurs, Sevilla currently sits closer to last place than first place in the league table.
Germany certainly doesn't have any candidates.
Stuttgart, the 06-07 winners were the proverbial team that got hot at the right time. Mighty Bayern slumped, missed the Champions League and revamped the lineup. Bayern started out like gangbusters, threatening an unbeaten Bundesliga run...but now are just a point ahead of Werder Bremen.
Dutch stalwarts PSV and Ajax were good, not great. Celtic has had a good run in Scotland and Europe, but even the most ardent faced-tattooed Bhoy won't say they're the best in the world.
One-time challenger for best in the world -- Lyon -- broke up the team after winning it's sixth Ligue 1 in a row and might not even make the knockout stages of the Champions League.
Maybe you can tell me some of those Brasilian-laden Eastern European teams are amazing, but how would you know?
Boca Juniors can make a pretty good claim after taking home the Copa Libertadores and featuring the uber-in form Riquelme. In fact they're just as good a candidate as any of these other teams.
The point here?
Umm...good question.
Maybe it's just that thought that the last couple seasons you could pick the best team in the world pretty easily. Right now, maybe because of all the money splashed around you can't. It's all subjective anyway. The Academy awards a 'Best Picture' every year, even if all the candidates in a particular year pale in comparison to those of yesteryear.
Either way, there's a few weeks left for somebody to claim it.
** Ronnie to Chelsea -- Warrants it's own little mention. Soccer rumors are worse than the crap that comes out of baseball's winter meetings. My own personal rule of thumb is until we see his horsey-smile taking pictures in a blue shirt on the Stamford Bridge field, it's simply rumor and speculation.
Theoretically, in this day and age it doesn't take much to start a rumor.
Do Chelsea need the Brasilian ace? Not really.
Will it garner them more headlines? Yep.
Will it win them the league? No.
** Not about football, but worth mentioning. The short HBO series 'Mayweather/Hatton 24/7' proved one thing -- Ricky Hatton is beyond nuts for Manchester City. Every shot of his young son featured the lad in a full City kit. How about the City bedspread and comforter. I was half expecting Richard Dunne to show up to read bedtime stories.
In any event, no surprise here that I'm pulling for Hatton simply because he likes to eat his lards and fats like any good English geezer. And shit, that zit/acne/grow on Hatton's lip might be the only drawback HD televisions possess.
It's also pretty bizarre that a foreigner, a Redcoat if you will, gets the home crowd love in Las Vegas when Mayweather actually lives there.
The question still remains, why does Wayne Rooney carry out the belt? And will Mr. Potato head make the quick flight out to Vegas after his match Saturday to pull the duties again?
Enough of my yappin', time for picks.
Saturday
Aston Villa v. Pompey -- (Live, Setanta 7:45 a.m.) Two flavors of the week meet at Villa Park. After coming close to rape in a few wins, Pompey has actually played to 0-0 draws in three of their last five. Villa seem to play better when no one is paying attention. Perhaps David James can further turn the knife in Scott Carson for the England keeping fiasco against the Croats. ... Villa 1, Pompey 2
Chelsea v. Sunderland -- (Live on FSC, 10 a.m.) Bizarre non-story of the week goes to Flourent Malouda complaining about the Chelsea diet plan, which allows players to drink of all things, gasp, Coke. On a serious note, Didier Drogba is out for around two months. Does Shevchenko still own a uniform? Time for some of Fat Frank's patented luck deflections. ... Chelsea 1, Sunderland 0
Everton v. Fulham -- (Setanta Broadband, 9:30) So Everton gets through to the knockout stages of the UEFA Cup...which is nice. At least Fulham owner Mohammed Al-Fayed is getting some good sales numbers for Christmas at his Harrod's store in London, because his football team doesn't inspire much. Also worth noting that Brian McBride is still weeks away from recovery from his knee injury. Balls. ... Everton 2, Fulham 1
Manchester United v. Derby County -- (Live, Setanta 9:45 a.m) This one is about an even a matchup as the 'Sportscenter' intramural hoops team against those vaunted Bristol Plumbers circa 1996. ... United 3, Derby 0
Newcastle United v. Birmingham City -- (Delayed, FSC 4:30 p.m.) Where would you rather not live, Newcastle or Birmingham? At least the Magpies showed they have a pulse with a 1-1 draw with Arsenal that made SAF smile. City are surprisingly not shitty. As for this game on the other hand... ... Newcastle 1, Birmingham 1
Reading v. Liverpool -- (Live, FSC, 12:15 p.m.) Only question here is if Rafa rests a couple bodies ahead of Tuesday's do-or-die affair in Marseilles? Though, Reading aren't a team you can overlook, especially at home. Speaking of the Royals, has there been a more anonymous season in the league than them? Maybe Steve Coppell and Bob Bradley switched jobs or something. ... Reading 0, Liverpool 1
Sunday
Middlesbrough v. Arsenal -- (Live Setanta, 7:30 a.m.) If they awarded points for listless play, sleepwalking through matches and disinterested fans -- 'Boro would be atop the league. Two years ago Arsenal beat them 7-0 (I think). We could see a repeat, even with Cesc sidelined again. I mean, why would Arsene risk it? ... 'Boro 0, Arsenal 3
Bolton v. Wigan -- Run to the hills...run for your life. ... Bolton 1, Wigan 1
Blackburn Rovers v. West Ham United -- (Live on FSC, 11 a.m.) Both these teams can play fun, exciting games...except in recent games on US airwaves. I'm scared this one could put you to sleep, especially with David Bentley on the sideline for yellow card accumulation. ... Rovers 1, WHU 1
Tottenham v. Manchester City -- (Delayed on FSC, 4:30 p.m.) Spurs = excitement. City fans are going to be pretty hungover from watching the Ricky Hatton/Floyd Mayweather bout which I'd guess airs live around 4 a.m. in England. Considering it's Spurs, they ought to do the unexpected in this one. ... Spurs 3, City 1
Last week: 6-4
Season: 75-72
Labels: Prem Picks, Soccer
The Wire: Know your minor characters
4 Comments Published by Cardillo on December 4, 2007 at 2:00 PM.
Jan. 6 the best show on television -- 'The Wire' returns. How can I say it any other way? It's without par.
Put it this way -- do you want a show that:
a) features logical, non-forced plot lines.
b) makes it's characters pay for their mistakes.
c) doesn't take the easy way out and wrap up everything in a nice little bow.
d) has intelligent writing, characters and doesn't treat you like a moron.
e) paints a picture of modern day American most don't want to look at.
Or, do you want a show with David Caruso no-liners? Or competing church choirs singing today's hits?
You know how I roll.
We continue the countdown of lesser characters today with one of the best -- Dennis 'Cutty' Wise.
Name: Dennis Wise
Street name: Cutty
Role: Ex-Westside hitter turned, 'the next Angelo Dundee.'
Claim to fame: To say Cutty is old-school might be an insult. He built the school, with mortar...and brawn. In an corner war in the 80s, Cutty clipped a rival then called the police himself. "I just shot a nigger. Come get him." Cutty adhered to the old-school ways of honor and respect, albeit in the drug 'game', that Marlo and other young bucks spit in the face of. A man got to have a code.
Other career highlights: Jails a Jessup for 14 years with 'Cut Buddy' Wee-Bay, doesn't spill any beans. ... Teaches two of the denser Barksdale soldiers -- Sappar and Gerrard -- that a dealer is thieving since he's flashing a Wes Unseld Mitchell & Ness throwback. ... Beds nearly have the Westside single mothers who come past his gym. ... Turns a young hopper, Justin, from a Utz chip snackin' slob, into a fierce young welterweight. .. Gets a load of cash from Avon for his Westside boxing gym, that actually takes off and gets kids off the corner...except Michael Lee.
Career lowlights: Upon returning from Jessep, gets a package and has Fruit work it. Of course, Fruit takes the money and tells Cutty to fuck off (a growing trend on the new streets of West Baltimore.) Fruit actually says the pack was stolen, prompting Cutty to ask for the BPD arrest number. (Old school) ... Doesn't know how to prime a lawnmower. ... Is thoroughly re-buffed by former flame Grace Sampson after getting release from jail. ... While employed as truant officer at Tilhman Middle, catches a bunch of kids simply hurling bottles at a crumbling wall. Cutty is dismayed at the city youth and working a wrangler isn't enough, but when he asks for a better job from Miss Donnelly, he again, is rebuffed.
Defining moment 1: In the early stages of the Barksdale/Stanfield war, organizes a hit with Slim Charles (including a pimp-a-licious all-black hit outfit). Saying nothing of the botched drive-by from Sappar, eventually Slim blasts a kid with an asthma inhaler, leaving Cutty with a 1-v-1 on a prone Fruit, but the old killer couldn't pull the trigger, although he was 'close enough to take off his Kangol and half his dome with it.' Slim thinks he gets in the way of the shot. It leads to Cutty telling Avon that he just can't be a ganster anymore. (Watch the clip.)
Defining moment 2: For all that Cutty is, he isn't too bright. He actually thought his rundown gym could compete with the bling of Marlo's crew. Cutty confronts a torn Michael Lee in front of a Korean grocer...only to end up leg-shot by Monk Metcalf. The upside of the shooting is that a) he helps Bunny Colvin get with Wee-Bay about Namond. b) he earns the charms of the foxy nurse, who thought he was a ganster, but falls for him when Colvin tells how Cutty was shot, "for trying to get a boy off the corner."
Secret abilities: Can curse in Spanish. ... A cold-chillin' dresser. ... Won't train girls to box, he's old-fashioned like that.
Guilty pleasures: "Benson" re-runs. ... Curtis Mayfield tunes. ... Prefers football to televised mayoral debates.
Quotable: "What is this foolishness?" ... "Any of y'all seen Spider? Tell him he needs to come past my gym." ... "I can't vote. ... Move along." ... "Nah man, school's, school." ... "Look at your face! Man, that boy was high as hell and anything can jump off then." ... "The game done changed."
Bottom line: Cutty, unlike most of the characters on 'The Wire' shows some signs of grow and...gasp... a possible happy ending. Yeah, he was shot in the proces, but still.
Cutty is a very interesting character, rare for television, as he's a tried-and-true gangster trying to go straight. It's not a cartoon characterization either, as Cutty truly struggles to walk the straight and narrow path.
Either way, every line from Cutty is pure old-school gold.
Up next: Sgt. Jay Landsman
Put it this way -- do you want a show that:
a) features logical, non-forced plot lines.
b) makes it's characters pay for their mistakes.
c) doesn't take the easy way out and wrap up everything in a nice little bow.
d) has intelligent writing, characters and doesn't treat you like a moron.
e) paints a picture of modern day American most don't want to look at.
Or, do you want a show with David Caruso no-liners? Or competing church choirs singing today's hits?
You know how I roll.
We continue the countdown of lesser characters today with one of the best -- Dennis 'Cutty' Wise.
Name: Dennis Wise
Street name: Cutty
Role: Ex-Westside hitter turned, 'the next Angelo Dundee.'
Claim to fame: To say Cutty is old-school might be an insult. He built the school, with mortar...and brawn. In an corner war in the 80s, Cutty clipped a rival then called the police himself. "I just shot a nigger. Come get him." Cutty adhered to the old-school ways of honor and respect, albeit in the drug 'game', that Marlo and other young bucks spit in the face of. A man got to have a code.
Other career highlights: Jails a Jessup for 14 years with 'Cut Buddy' Wee-Bay, doesn't spill any beans. ... Teaches two of the denser Barksdale soldiers -- Sappar and Gerrard -- that a dealer is thieving since he's flashing a Wes Unseld Mitchell & Ness throwback. ... Beds nearly have the Westside single mothers who come past his gym. ... Turns a young hopper, Justin, from a Utz chip snackin' slob, into a fierce young welterweight. .. Gets a load of cash from Avon for his Westside boxing gym, that actually takes off and gets kids off the corner...except Michael Lee.
Career lowlights: Upon returning from Jessep, gets a package and has Fruit work it. Of course, Fruit takes the money and tells Cutty to fuck off (a growing trend on the new streets of West Baltimore.) Fruit actually says the pack was stolen, prompting Cutty to ask for the BPD arrest number. (Old school) ... Doesn't know how to prime a lawnmower. ... Is thoroughly re-buffed by former flame Grace Sampson after getting release from jail. ... While employed as truant officer at Tilhman Middle, catches a bunch of kids simply hurling bottles at a crumbling wall. Cutty is dismayed at the city youth and working a wrangler isn't enough, but when he asks for a better job from Miss Donnelly, he again, is rebuffed.
Defining moment 1: In the early stages of the Barksdale/Stanfield war, organizes a hit with Slim Charles (including a pimp-a-licious all-black hit outfit). Saying nothing of the botched drive-by from Sappar, eventually Slim blasts a kid with an asthma inhaler, leaving Cutty with a 1-v-1 on a prone Fruit, but the old killer couldn't pull the trigger, although he was 'close enough to take off his Kangol and half his dome with it.' Slim thinks he gets in the way of the shot. It leads to Cutty telling Avon that he just can't be a ganster anymore. (Watch the clip.)
Defining moment 2: For all that Cutty is, he isn't too bright. He actually thought his rundown gym could compete with the bling of Marlo's crew. Cutty confronts a torn Michael Lee in front of a Korean grocer...only to end up leg-shot by Monk Metcalf. The upside of the shooting is that a) he helps Bunny Colvin get with Wee-Bay about Namond. b) he earns the charms of the foxy nurse, who thought he was a ganster, but falls for him when Colvin tells how Cutty was shot, "for trying to get a boy off the corner."
Secret abilities: Can curse in Spanish. ... A cold-chillin' dresser. ... Won't train girls to box, he's old-fashioned like that.
Guilty pleasures: "Benson" re-runs. ... Curtis Mayfield tunes. ... Prefers football to televised mayoral debates.
Quotable: "What is this foolishness?" ... "Any of y'all seen Spider? Tell him he needs to come past my gym." ... "I can't vote. ... Move along." ... "Nah man, school's, school." ... "Look at your face! Man, that boy was high as hell and anything can jump off then." ... "The game done changed."
Bottom line: Cutty, unlike most of the characters on 'The Wire' shows some signs of grow and...gasp... a possible happy ending. Yeah, he was shot in the proces, but still.
Cutty is a very interesting character, rare for television, as he's a tried-and-true gangster trying to go straight. It's not a cartoon characterization either, as Cutty truly struggles to walk the straight and narrow path.
Either way, every line from Cutty is pure old-school gold.
Up next: Sgt. Jay Landsman
Labels: HBO, television, The Wire
Memo to the programmers at Fox Soccer Channel -- put Tottenham on each weekend.
It's that simple. Every game Spurs play turns into an absolute thrill ride.
Sunday we all saw it again in their shocking 3-2 loss at home to Birmingham City, the first game mind you under Alex McLeish for the visitors.
Falling behind 1-0, Spurs rally behind Robbie Keane to get up 2-1 in the second half only to be undone by a pair of awesome goals on individual displays from Cameron Jerome and Sebastian Larsson.
Again, the same old story for Spurs. No defense. None. (Why not resort to some Wile E. Coyote tactics and install some trapdoors and such in front of goal. It couldn't be much worse?)
It'll probably happen in a month when the transfer window opens, but it's time to tear it down, completely. Sell everything that isn't bolted down other than Gareth Bale and Tom Huddlestone. In its current incarnation it simply isn't going to work.
For some reason this analogy has been kicking around my head as to Spurs and Arsenal. Spurs are like Microsoft's Zune media player. They can pump as much money and marketing into the thing, but it'll never, ever be the iPod -- the Arsenal, if you will of North London.
In the interim, enjoy the rollercoaster. It's always fun, even if it makes Steve Nash cry.
On target, again -- Speaking of Arsenal, are they ever going to lose? Seriously?
Down 0-1 at Villa Park was hardly reason for concern for Arsene's boys.
Though the Gunners overall unbeaten string was snapped by Sevilla in a meaningless Champions League game during the midweek, is Arsenal is a pretty good bet to finish the 2007 calendar season without a loss in the league?
Witness the upcoming fixture list:
Wednesday: at Newcastle
Sunday: at Middlesbrough
Dec. 16: v. Chelsea
Dec. 22: v. Spurs
Dec. 26: at Portsmouth
Dec. 29: at Everton
It starts soft but gets rather challenging. It might take until the trip to Fratton Park against a slew of ex-Gunners to end the run.
For those keeping track at home, the fixtures for Manchester United to close out the year are: v. Derby; at Liverpool; v. Everton; at Sunderland; at West Ham.
No. 1 with a bullet -- Better blast? Larsson's 92nd minute winner for Brum or Mathieu Flamini's leveler against Villa? I'll go with the Danish dy-no-mite! Then again, David Bentley's worm-burner was sick in its own right. (Not to beat a thoroughly dead and bloated horse, but why didn't the Blackburn standout get any consideration for England? Just because he skipped that U-23 game? Enjoy your summer.)
Group della Morte So much for my theory of Romania surprising at Euro 2008. The Lions of Carpathians were drawn with the Netherlands, France and Italy in Group C. This will simply be must see television. Only two get through, so I'll stick with Romania (my heart pick) and France (my head pick).
All thiscould will change in the coming months.
Other groups (advance guesses in bold, don't hold me to it):
Group A: Switzerland, Czech Republic, Portugal, Turkey -- Nearly as tough as Group C, seriously. Usually you give the host nation at advantage, but I'm guessing they'll be as many Turks at St. Jakob Park in Basel on June 11 as Swiss nationals. Both the Czechs and Portuguese enter as tournament hopefuls. This one should be fun.
Group B: Austria, Croatia, Germany, Poland -- Call this one your WWI/Great War Special. Germany are instantly, in my mind, tournament favorites playing essentially on home soil in Austria...or at least it once was. (Anschluss anyone?) Croatia is taking bows for knocking off England, but my thought is up-and-coming Poland in its debut in the competition becomes the surprise team.
Group D: Greece, Sweden, Spain, Russia -- Consider this the most unpredictable. How good are the holders Greece? Same for Russia? Can you ever count on Spain to make it easy? Sweden, not flashy but usually gets through group stages.
Housekeeping: I'll be doing some sort of Euro 2008 preview as the event approaches. The tough part will be coming up with an idea to keep it fresh since the new Futurama DVD stole all my good Charles de Gaulle jokes. Any contributions are welcome, as are suggestions.
Overall, the way these groups broke I'm infinitely more excited about the tournament than I was 24 hours ago.
Get me a Scotch, make a double -- If you wondered why on the Friday preview post I omitted anything about DaMarcus Beasley's knee surgery, well it's because it was frankly way too depressing to think about. Maybe it was wishful thinking, but 2008 seemed prime to be the year DMB could have turned the USMNT into his own. Now, facing a lengthy time on a shelf, who knows?
One big knock on the pacey left footer is his frailty.
It's unfortunate his deputy (at least in theory) on the USMNT on the left has bones of glass himself -- Bobby Convey.
Beasley will be out a couple months, ruling him out for at least the first round of CONCACAF qualifiers.
Coach Bob Bradley might have to rethink his tactics and formation some.
Christ, who would have thought Eddie Lewis might still be useful?
In case you weren't paying attention -- Werder Bremen has crept within a point of Bayern in the Bundesliga.
PL Fantasy teams of the week -- Three, count 'em three teams hit for 73 points this week. The common denominator -- Steven Gerrard. Honored in this spot are: John Knapp's NancyBoys; Jason Freitag's Raketemensch FC; and drum roll, the best name...ever C B's Flux Capacitors.
1.21 gigawatts? 1.21 gigawatts? Great Scott!
Adios.
It's that simple. Every game Spurs play turns into an absolute thrill ride.
Sunday we all saw it again in their shocking 3-2 loss at home to Birmingham City, the first game mind you under Alex McLeish for the visitors.
Falling behind 1-0, Spurs rally behind Robbie Keane to get up 2-1 in the second half only to be undone by a pair of awesome goals on individual displays from Cameron Jerome and Sebastian Larsson.
Again, the same old story for Spurs. No defense. None. (Why not resort to some Wile E. Coyote tactics and install some trapdoors and such in front of goal. It couldn't be much worse?)
It'll probably happen in a month when the transfer window opens, but it's time to tear it down, completely. Sell everything that isn't bolted down other than Gareth Bale and Tom Huddlestone. In its current incarnation it simply isn't going to work.
For some reason this analogy has been kicking around my head as to Spurs and Arsenal. Spurs are like Microsoft's Zune media player. They can pump as much money and marketing into the thing, but it'll never, ever be the iPod -- the Arsenal, if you will of North London.
In the interim, enjoy the rollercoaster. It's always fun, even if it makes Steve Nash cry.
On target, again -- Speaking of Arsenal, are they ever going to lose? Seriously?
Down 0-1 at Villa Park was hardly reason for concern for Arsene's boys.
Though the Gunners overall unbeaten string was snapped by Sevilla in a meaningless Champions League game during the midweek, is Arsenal is a pretty good bet to finish the 2007 calendar season without a loss in the league?
Witness the upcoming fixture list:
Wednesday: at Newcastle
Sunday: at Middlesbrough
Dec. 16: v. Chelsea
Dec. 22: v. Spurs
Dec. 26: at Portsmouth
Dec. 29: at Everton
It starts soft but gets rather challenging. It might take until the trip to Fratton Park against a slew of ex-Gunners to end the run.
For those keeping track at home, the fixtures for Manchester United to close out the year are: v. Derby; at Liverpool; v. Everton; at Sunderland; at West Ham.
No. 1 with a bullet -- Better blast? Larsson's 92nd minute winner for Brum or Mathieu Flamini's leveler against Villa? I'll go with the Danish dy-no-mite! Then again, David Bentley's worm-burner was sick in its own right. (Not to beat a thoroughly dead and bloated horse, but why didn't the Blackburn standout get any consideration for England? Just because he skipped that U-23 game? Enjoy your summer.)
Group della Morte So much for my theory of Romania surprising at Euro 2008. The Lions of Carpathians were drawn with the Netherlands, France and Italy in Group C. This will simply be must see television. Only two get through, so I'll stick with Romania (my heart pick) and France (my head pick).
All this
Other groups (advance guesses in bold, don't hold me to it):
Group A: Switzerland, Czech Republic, Portugal, Turkey -- Nearly as tough as Group C, seriously. Usually you give the host nation at advantage, but I'm guessing they'll be as many Turks at St. Jakob Park in Basel on June 11 as Swiss nationals. Both the Czechs and Portuguese enter as tournament hopefuls. This one should be fun.
Group B: Austria, Croatia, Germany, Poland -- Call this one your WWI/Great War Special. Germany are instantly, in my mind, tournament favorites playing essentially on home soil in Austria...or at least it once was. (Anschluss anyone?) Croatia is taking bows for knocking off England, but my thought is up-and-coming Poland in its debut in the competition becomes the surprise team.
Group D: Greece, Sweden, Spain, Russia -- Consider this the most unpredictable. How good are the holders Greece? Same for Russia? Can you ever count on Spain to make it easy? Sweden, not flashy but usually gets through group stages.
Housekeeping: I'll be doing some sort of Euro 2008 preview as the event approaches. The tough part will be coming up with an idea to keep it fresh since the new Futurama DVD stole all my good Charles de Gaulle jokes. Any contributions are welcome, as are suggestions.
Overall, the way these groups broke I'm infinitely more excited about the tournament than I was 24 hours ago.
Get me a Scotch, make a double -- If you wondered why on the Friday preview post I omitted anything about DaMarcus Beasley's knee surgery, well it's because it was frankly way too depressing to think about. Maybe it was wishful thinking, but 2008 seemed prime to be the year DMB could have turned the USMNT into his own. Now, facing a lengthy time on a shelf, who knows?
One big knock on the pacey left footer is his frailty.
It's unfortunate his deputy (at least in theory) on the USMNT on the left has bones of glass himself -- Bobby Convey.
Beasley will be out a couple months, ruling him out for at least the first round of CONCACAF qualifiers.
Coach Bob Bradley might have to rethink his tactics and formation some.
Christ, who would have thought Eddie Lewis might still be useful?
In case you weren't paying attention -- Werder Bremen has crept within a point of Bayern in the Bundesliga.
PL Fantasy teams of the week -- Three, count 'em three teams hit for 73 points this week. The common denominator -- Steven Gerrard. Honored in this spot are: John Knapp's NancyBoys; Jason Freitag's Raketemensch FC; and drum roll, the best name...ever C B's Flux Capacitors.
1.21 gigawatts? 1.21 gigawatts? Great Scott!
Adios.
Labels: DaMarcus Beasley, Premier League, Soccer
