A couple months ago I had a conversation how soccer games rarely end 2-2. Was there any science behind this statement? Obviously not.
A lot of this theory likely has to do is when a team goes ahead either 2-1 or 2-0, depending on the time, the opponent usually tends to mail in the rest of the match. So in that regard if you were tuned into Fox Soccer Channel on Sunday the white elephant 2-2 scoreline showed up twice -- Fulham 2, Chelsea 2 and Blackburn 2, Manchester City 2.
The Blackburn/City result was a rare stunner. Even the match commentator (name escapes me, Alan Parry?) wrote off the game and over-and-done when Jason Roberts scored inside of 10 minutes remaining to put the home side ahead 2-0. Nine times of out 10, he's right -- game over. Against type, instead of giving up, City fought back behind substitute Nathan Sturridge, while Blackburn essentially checked off and assumed -- like everyone else -- the three points were in the bag.
So let's simply issue a call to warning to all Premier League announcers -- please refrain from using the phrase "Surely this must be xxx" after a goal unless it comes in the final throes of injury time. Haven't we seen a final second fight-back goal just about every week this campaign? (Again, not science.)
Fulham kept up a run of nine-games unbeaten when American Clint Dempsey headed home to level Chelsea 2-2 at Craven Cottage and ipso facto, put Liverpool ahead by four points heading into 2009 and the FA Cup break.
How Chelsea didn't have a player on the back post -- especially when Dempsey's first goal came at the far post via a Simon Davies freekick -- is hard to believe. Isn't that tactics 101 in protecting a one-goal lead in the final minute?
Credit to Dempsey, though, with a fine looping effort. Let's, as USMNT fans, hope that Dempsey's newly found discipline under Roy Hodgson carries over to the busy 2009 fixture list for the U.S. Dempsey has never seemed to have a set position, but now at Fulham he's a contributor even when he doesn't find the net, playing a more complete role up top.
Fantasy team 'o the week (so far) -- Nicholas Mulch's Prussians & Pistols already has 56 points in the bank thanks to Frank the Tank and Mikel Arteta.
Midway Madness
As is rote, it says I must write a midterm recap type thing or have my license revoked. So here it goes...
Getting back to the Blackburn/City result, coupled with West Brom beating Tottenham 2-0, the bottom half of the table, nay, the entire table is all kinds of crazy. How about Crazy Dogggs kind of crazy. (T-minus one months for new Conchords, nice.)
Let's take the surprising run of Fulham. The Cottages (with a game in hand) are nine points from a place in the Champions League, yet they're also only six points from 18th and eight from the bottom. Suffice to say, all it's going to take is one poor run of form or one good run to get relegated or survive.
When you couple in the credit crisis and the financial difference between Premiership and Championship, the next five months are going to literally become a life-and-death struggle for all but say the Big Four (and Arsenal). Speaking of Arsenal, the Gunners salvaged a 1-0 win over Portsmouth and I do mean salvaged. How did Emmanuel Adebayor miss the open goal in the first half when David James moronically came off his line? (Also, that James for England No. 1 talk should officially be dead, Calamity is back.)
Maybe this is why there are so many last-minute fight-backs?
I planned on listing the storylines to watch for the rest of the season, but there is only one -- the relegation maelstrom. To wit, could a so-called 'big' club plummet and become the next Leeds United? (Cough, cough Spurs, cough) Will the promoted teams survive? Can Hull City remain in the Top 10 (FYI, the Tigers have allowed the most goals in the league yet are currently 8th position.)
The title chase will be fun, too, to see if Liverpool can actually play from out front of the pack or if the looming shadows of Manchester United and Chelsea will make the Anfield cookie crumble.
Other storylines
* Can Aston Villa fend off Arsenal for fourth place?
* Or how about can Arsenal fend off suddenly on-fire Everton for fifth?
* Will Arsene Wenger open up the change purse and buy a veteran player for the next couple months with Cesc Fabregas shelved?
* Are Wigan and Fulham going to Europe?
* Even if it's the Europa Cup?
* Will the financial mess cost Portsmouth and West Ham their Prem League status, or even existence?
* Are we going to see a massive sell-off in three days, or in six months?
* Who will be the next Premmer in a sex scandal?
* Will Manchester City land its world superstar or have to 'settle' for a Marcos Senna type (though that would be a perfect move)?
* Will Newcastle have another manager or at least another Joe Kinnear meltdown?
* Where will Michael Owen care up...if anyone even cares any more?
* Will we end up seeing four English teams in the Champions League semifinals?
* Are Manchester United -- with two games in hand -- lying in the weeds waiting to pounce?
* Something has to be brewing at Chelsea, but what?
* Liverpool, really?
Half season's superlatives
* Best team -- Liverpool, the table doesn't lie, does it?
* Worst team -- Blackburn, at least West Brom didn't get its manager fired.
* Best surprise -- Hull City, by default. Who, like me, didn't have the Tigers pegged for 20th?
* Worst surprise -- Manchester City's floundering. Yes, considering the table City could still make Europe. You'd think with the addition of Robinho and manager Mark Hughes the team would be better. Something is seriously askew when a team is 13th in the league (two above the drop) with a positive 8 goal difference.
* Best hair -- Maroune Fellani, fear the 'fro.
* Worst hair -- Wayne Rooney. The shaved head was the stuff of nightmares. Fact.
* Best teamwork -- Djibril Cisse and Kenwyne Jones dancehall post-goal boogie for Sudnerland.
* Worst teamwork -- Ricardo Fuller for his slap to Andy Griffin, the club captain, on for Stoke on Sunday.
Half season best XI
Goalkeeper -- Manuel Almunia, Arsenal. The Spaniard is much-maligned, but he's made a lot of impressive and important saves to keep the Gunners in hailing distance of the title. (Runner up: Pepe Reina, solid if no spectacular.)
Left back -- Gretar Steinsson, Bolton. Icelander started all 20 games for a semi-decent Bolton team. (Runner up: Alvaro Arbeloa, Liverpool, has made 17 starts which counts for something under Rafa.)
Center back -- Breda Hangelaad, Fulham. Beat Arsenal with a goal. Big reason why Cottagers have only 14 league goals.
Center back -- Nemanja Vidic, Manchester United. Perhaps the one Manchester United player in the midst of a career season. (Runners up: Jamie Carragher, Liverpool, his usual stellar self; Martin Laursen, Aston Villa, not as many goals but better defensively.)
Right back -- Jose Bosingwa, Chelsea. When he's on his game, Chelsea usually wins. (Runner up: Michael Turner, Hull City, not as 'classy' as Bosingwa but possibly better.)
Left midfield -- Ashley Young, Aston Villa. Did anyone think he'd be this good after moving from Watford...and no not talking about his sex antics. (Runner up: Samir Nasri, Arsenal, another guy who when he's on his team usually wins.)
Center midfield -- Steven Gerrard, Liverpool. The once and forever King of the Scousers.
Central midfield -- Mikel Arteta, Everton. If there was an true Most Valuable Player award, he should always win it, or at least finish second to his cross city rival Gerrard. (Runners up: Frank Lampard, Chelsea, a coin flip between him and Arteta. Since this is my list, I go with the player I like. Sorry. ... Gareth Barry, Aston Villa. Boring pick, I know.)
Right midfielder -- Stephen Ireland, Manchester City. Who knew he was this good? Guess making up fake stories about your grandmother has its advantages. (Runner up: Dirk Kuyt, Liverpool. Tireless.)
Forward: Niclas Anelka, Chelsea. Your goal-scoring leader, at the moment, with 14. Still, Chelsea seem more dangerous with Didier Drogba out there up top.
Forward: Amir Zaki, Wigan. Still near the top of the goal-scoring table and Wigan are in seventh place at the time of this post. (Runners up: Gabby Agbonlahor, Aston Villa, he and Young have second careers in porn, for sure if this goal scoring thing doesn't work out. ... Cristiano Ronaldo, Mancehster United, not like last season but still won a few games for United by his lonesome.)
Manager: Roy Hodgson, Fulham. Someone has molded a very sound squad from very average players.
That's about all I could think of on short notice. Happy New Year.
A lot of this theory likely has to do is when a team goes ahead either 2-1 or 2-0, depending on the time, the opponent usually tends to mail in the rest of the match. So in that regard if you were tuned into Fox Soccer Channel on Sunday the white elephant 2-2 scoreline showed up twice -- Fulham 2, Chelsea 2 and Blackburn 2, Manchester City 2.
The Blackburn/City result was a rare stunner. Even the match commentator (name escapes me, Alan Parry?) wrote off the game and over-and-done when Jason Roberts scored inside of 10 minutes remaining to put the home side ahead 2-0. Nine times of out 10, he's right -- game over. Against type, instead of giving up, City fought back behind substitute Nathan Sturridge, while Blackburn essentially checked off and assumed -- like everyone else -- the three points were in the bag.
So let's simply issue a call to warning to all Premier League announcers -- please refrain from using the phrase "Surely this must be xxx" after a goal unless it comes in the final throes of injury time. Haven't we seen a final second fight-back goal just about every week this campaign? (Again, not science.)
Fulham kept up a run of nine-games unbeaten when American Clint Dempsey headed home to level Chelsea 2-2 at Craven Cottage and ipso facto, put Liverpool ahead by four points heading into 2009 and the FA Cup break.
How Chelsea didn't have a player on the back post -- especially when Dempsey's first goal came at the far post via a Simon Davies freekick -- is hard to believe. Isn't that tactics 101 in protecting a one-goal lead in the final minute?
Credit to Dempsey, though, with a fine looping effort. Let's, as USMNT fans, hope that Dempsey's newly found discipline under Roy Hodgson carries over to the busy 2009 fixture list for the U.S. Dempsey has never seemed to have a set position, but now at Fulham he's a contributor even when he doesn't find the net, playing a more complete role up top.
Fantasy team 'o the week (so far) -- Nicholas Mulch's Prussians & Pistols already has 56 points in the bank thanks to Frank the Tank and Mikel Arteta.
Midway Madness
As is rote, it says I must write a midterm recap type thing or have my license revoked. So here it goes...
Getting back to the Blackburn/City result, coupled with West Brom beating Tottenham 2-0, the bottom half of the table, nay, the entire table is all kinds of crazy. How about Crazy Dogggs kind of crazy. (T-minus one months for new Conchords, nice.)
Let's take the surprising run of Fulham. The Cottages (with a game in hand) are nine points from a place in the Champions League, yet they're also only six points from 18th and eight from the bottom. Suffice to say, all it's going to take is one poor run of form or one good run to get relegated or survive.
When you couple in the credit crisis and the financial difference between Premiership and Championship, the next five months are going to literally become a life-and-death struggle for all but say the Big Four (and Arsenal). Speaking of Arsenal, the Gunners salvaged a 1-0 win over Portsmouth and I do mean salvaged. How did Emmanuel Adebayor miss the open goal in the first half when David James moronically came off his line? (Also, that James for England No. 1 talk should officially be dead, Calamity is back.)
Maybe this is why there are so many last-minute fight-backs?
I planned on listing the storylines to watch for the rest of the season, but there is only one -- the relegation maelstrom. To wit, could a so-called 'big' club plummet and become the next Leeds United? (Cough, cough Spurs, cough) Will the promoted teams survive? Can Hull City remain in the Top 10 (FYI, the Tigers have allowed the most goals in the league yet are currently 8th position.)
The title chase will be fun, too, to see if Liverpool can actually play from out front of the pack or if the looming shadows of Manchester United and Chelsea will make the Anfield cookie crumble.
Other storylines
* Can Aston Villa fend off Arsenal for fourth place?
* Or how about can Arsenal fend off suddenly on-fire Everton for fifth?
* Will Arsene Wenger open up the change purse and buy a veteran player for the next couple months with Cesc Fabregas shelved?
* Are Wigan and Fulham going to Europe?
* Even if it's the Europa Cup?
* Will the financial mess cost Portsmouth and West Ham their Prem League status, or even existence?
* Are we going to see a massive sell-off in three days, or in six months?
* Who will be the next Premmer in a sex scandal?
* Will Manchester City land its world superstar or have to 'settle' for a Marcos Senna type (though that would be a perfect move)?
* Will Newcastle have another manager or at least another Joe Kinnear meltdown?
* Where will Michael Owen care up...if anyone even cares any more?
* Will we end up seeing four English teams in the Champions League semifinals?
* Are Manchester United -- with two games in hand -- lying in the weeds waiting to pounce?
* Something has to be brewing at Chelsea, but what?
* Liverpool, really?
Half season's superlatives
* Best team -- Liverpool, the table doesn't lie, does it?
* Worst team -- Blackburn, at least West Brom didn't get its manager fired.
* Best surprise -- Hull City, by default. Who, like me, didn't have the Tigers pegged for 20th?
* Worst surprise -- Manchester City's floundering. Yes, considering the table City could still make Europe. You'd think with the addition of Robinho and manager Mark Hughes the team would be better. Something is seriously askew when a team is 13th in the league (two above the drop) with a positive 8 goal difference.
* Best hair -- Maroune Fellani, fear the 'fro.
* Worst hair -- Wayne Rooney. The shaved head was the stuff of nightmares. Fact.
* Best teamwork -- Djibril Cisse and Kenwyne Jones dancehall post-goal boogie for Sudnerland.
* Worst teamwork -- Ricardo Fuller for his slap to Andy Griffin, the club captain, on for Stoke on Sunday.
Half season best XI
Goalkeeper -- Manuel Almunia, Arsenal. The Spaniard is much-maligned, but he's made a lot of impressive and important saves to keep the Gunners in hailing distance of the title. (Runner up: Pepe Reina, solid if no spectacular.)
Left back -- Gretar Steinsson, Bolton. Icelander started all 20 games for a semi-decent Bolton team. (Runner up: Alvaro Arbeloa, Liverpool, has made 17 starts which counts for something under Rafa.)
Center back -- Breda Hangelaad, Fulham. Beat Arsenal with a goal. Big reason why Cottagers have only 14 league goals.
Center back -- Nemanja Vidic, Manchester United. Perhaps the one Manchester United player in the midst of a career season. (Runners up: Jamie Carragher, Liverpool, his usual stellar self; Martin Laursen, Aston Villa, not as many goals but better defensively.)
Right back -- Jose Bosingwa, Chelsea. When he's on his game, Chelsea usually wins. (Runner up: Michael Turner, Hull City, not as 'classy' as Bosingwa but possibly better.)
Left midfield -- Ashley Young, Aston Villa. Did anyone think he'd be this good after moving from Watford...and no not talking about his sex antics. (Runner up: Samir Nasri, Arsenal, another guy who when he's on his team usually wins.)
Center midfield -- Steven Gerrard, Liverpool. The once and forever King of the Scousers.
Central midfield -- Mikel Arteta, Everton. If there was an true Most Valuable Player award, he should always win it, or at least finish second to his cross city rival Gerrard. (Runners up: Frank Lampard, Chelsea, a coin flip between him and Arteta. Since this is my list, I go with the player I like. Sorry. ... Gareth Barry, Aston Villa. Boring pick, I know.)
Right midfielder -- Stephen Ireland, Manchester City. Who knew he was this good? Guess making up fake stories about your grandmother has its advantages. (Runner up: Dirk Kuyt, Liverpool. Tireless.)
Forward: Niclas Anelka, Chelsea. Your goal-scoring leader, at the moment, with 14. Still, Chelsea seem more dangerous with Didier Drogba out there up top.
Forward: Amir Zaki, Wigan. Still near the top of the goal-scoring table and Wigan are in seventh place at the time of this post. (Runners up: Gabby Agbonlahor, Aston Villa, he and Young have second careers in porn, for sure if this goal scoring thing doesn't work out. ... Cristiano Ronaldo, Mancehster United, not like last season but still won a few games for United by his lonesome.)
Manager: Roy Hodgson, Fulham. Someone has molded a very sound squad from very average players.
That's about all I could think of on short notice. Happy New Year.
Labels: Monday recaps, Prem League, Soccer
Bear with me, typing this roundup/rambling at work with a belly full of Christmas cookies...
What a crazy Friday morning. First of all it offered Premier League soccer, which is always a good thing, even if it leaves this morning pretty barren.
Admittedly, I couldn't get up early enough for the Manchester United win over Stoke. Did see the highlights, err, specifically, it seems, highlight. Good to see Carlos Tevez is still alive. No empirical evidence here, but it seems the hulking Argentine seems to play his best when he's saving United in tight matches.
Ditto for Chelsea, couldn't get up early enough for it...not that I missed much, as the result went to form, well, maybe form from 2005 as Didier Drogba scored from a header and Frank Lampard made a run into the box and tallied. Thought it was interesting that only seven players on the Blues are still around from the back-to-back championship teams under Jose Mourinho -- Petr Cech, Ricardo Carvalho, Joe Cole, Drogba, Lampard, John Terry and Paulo Ferreira. It wasn't that long ago, was it?
When I finally rubbed the sand out of my eyes and moseyed down the stairs, Manchester City had annilated Hull City 4-0, eventually winning 5-1. If it wasn't so trite and cliche, I'd call it a Festivus miracle. Then again, Stephen Ireland set up Felipe Caicedo on nearly identical feeds from the right side. Even though they're near the bottom, can we call City a bully team? And speaking of Ireland, did he buy the shaved-head/beard look off Antoine Sibierski?
At the same time this was happening, Liverpool actually looked good -- specifically like a first place team -- taking care of business against Bolton at Anfield.
Finally, around noon Arsenal kicked off against Aston Villa in a game that was enjoyable throughout. Even though I had to run out for the second half, I recorded it and didn't lose any luster though I already knew the result.
Gutty result for both teams. Arsenal probably needed a win here, but a point is acceptable. The Gunners were lucky not to be down a couple time early, when Steve Sidwell hit the post, Backary Sagna cleared a ball of the line, and finally James Milner hit the woodwork at close range.
Against the run of play, the much maligned by me Denilson stole the ball away at the top of the box, raced in a beat Brad Friedel. It's weird how soccer works like that, one team dominates but the other gets the goal.
Arsenal were on the moon when Abou Diaby put them up 2-0 at the start of the second half, but Villa showed a lot of guts and fought back to draw it on Zat Knight's late goal. That's the second crazy finish for Villa in a month. Maybe it really will be the Villians year.
If I have time this week I'll muscle up a standard Best of/Worst of the first half of the season, if it's necessary.
But first...
Neven, we hardly knew ye -- I actually squeezed out a FanHouse on Christmas night at the office. If you didn't see, Borussia Dortmund defender Neven Subotic decided to play for Serbia instead of the USMNT on the senior international level.
A couple weeks ago I was pretty pissed about this. I'm still upset, but not at Subotic. Can you honestly blame him for wanting to play for Serbia instead of the U.S.? Is it really worth it for him to really across the Atlantic to play with a group of players he has little in common with? It's a stupid reason, but the name Neven Subotic does sound pretty foreign, or Euro if you will. Let's not forget his first choice was to play in Germany -- where he grew up -- before FIFA denied him.
From what I've seen Subotic is a nice player and has a lot of promise at his age. That said, is a central defender going to push the USMNT over the top in the World Cup? Probably not. He could just as easily make the one slip-up to cost a game as Carlos Bocanegra or Oguchi Onyewu -- who are also good at scoring from set plays.
The bigger disappointment is with the USSF in Chicago. Why would a player turn down America? Is it the training or the tactics? That scares me.
Sunday
* Newcastle United v. Liverpool -- (Live, Setanta, 7 a.m.) Liverpool relinquished hold of first place to Chelsea for about 26 minutes Friday. Will that be it the rest of the way? It would be a shame to blow a great, albeit it rocky, 2008 with a stinker before the FA Cup break next weekend...and who is this Robbie Keane character?. Newcastle will make Liverpool work, but Rafa's men get it done. ... Newcastle 0, Liverpool 1
* Arsenal v. Portsmouth -- (Live, Setanta, 9 a.m.) All signs point to Arsenal simply needing to flick its finger in the direction of a teetering Portsmouth side, to push the Southcoaster into the rabbit hole. The fact that Tony Adams is on the opposing touchlines might win some sentiment at the Emirates, but not games. I took some time to realize why Portsmouth's defense is so shoddy (-11 GD), Sol Campbell and Sylvain Distin knee joints calcified at the same time in mid-July. ... Arsenal 2, Portsmouth 0
* Bolton v. Wigan -- Could the winner of this fixture go into 2009 dreaming about the UEFA Cup, or whatever it will be called next year? ... Bolton 1, Wigan 0
* Everton v. Sunderland -- Gun to my head, if I had to pick a team to support in this league it would be Everton. This team has fighting spirit in spades. ... Everton 1, Sunderland 0
* Fulham v. Chelsea -- (Live, FSC, 9 a.m.) Fortress Craven Cottage? Fulham have only lost once at home this season and welcome West London rival this weekend. To my utter surprise, Fulham has held its own against the 'Big Four'...though it's only two matches -- beating Arsenal at home and drawing Liverpool. Sunday should be a good comparison between the high-priced international stars of Cheslea and the mostly home-grown palookas at Fulham. ... Fulham 0, Chelsea 2
* West Brom v. Tottenham -- Seems the initial jolt from Harry Redknapp has cooled at Tottenham. Should be fun to watch the Janaury wheelings and dealings, though. ... West Brom 1, Tottenham 2
* West Ham v. Stoke City -- (Live, Setanta Xtra, 9 a.m.) The seasons and coaches change, but the unpredictability of West Ham never changes. Looks like the 'Please Buy Me' sign got passed to Craig Bellamy Friday. Stoke? Meh, we're almost running out things to say at this point, unless Rory Delap returns. ... West Ham 2, Stoke 1
* Blackburn v. Manchester City -- (Live, FSC, 11:15 a.m.) Should be a good one at Ewood Park, hope Mark Hughes gets a nice reception. He deserves it. City are either good or bad, but it doesn't seem like Blackburn's makeshift defense is enough to bring out the bad. Very intriguing game for both teams fortunes going forward. Can Blackburn string together three positive results under Big Sam, and likewise can City put together a run to get away from the relegation zone? ... Blackburn 0, City 2
Monday
* Manchester United v. Middlesbrough -- (Live, Setanta, 3 p.m.) Manchester United are lurking...always lurking. Sort of like Clint Eastwood these days. You know if he makes a movie it's going to be primed to win some awards. (Sorry, just very pumped for 'Gran Torino.') Meanwhile, 'Boro is spinning its wheels. United seem due for running riot, because it really hasn't kicked much ass this season, perhaps that makes the season the Red Devils had last season all the more impressive. ... Manchester United 3, Middlesbrough 0
Tuesday
* Hull City v. Aston Villa -- (Live, Setanta, 3 p.m.) That's two shit-stampings in a row for Hull. Does this spell the end of the Prem's best story of the year? Haven't we said that before? We'll probably say it until May, when they survive the drop. Villa are doing enough, but ought to bring in some 'squad' players to fill out depth. Three points from games like these are mandatory to hold off Arsenal. ... Hull 1, Villa 2
Last round: 6-4
Season: 79-106
What a crazy Friday morning. First of all it offered Premier League soccer, which is always a good thing, even if it leaves this morning pretty barren.
Admittedly, I couldn't get up early enough for the Manchester United win over Stoke. Did see the highlights, err, specifically, it seems, highlight. Good to see Carlos Tevez is still alive. No empirical evidence here, but it seems the hulking Argentine seems to play his best when he's saving United in tight matches.
Ditto for Chelsea, couldn't get up early enough for it...not that I missed much, as the result went to form, well, maybe form from 2005 as Didier Drogba scored from a header and Frank Lampard made a run into the box and tallied. Thought it was interesting that only seven players on the Blues are still around from the back-to-back championship teams under Jose Mourinho -- Petr Cech, Ricardo Carvalho, Joe Cole, Drogba, Lampard, John Terry and Paulo Ferreira. It wasn't that long ago, was it?
When I finally rubbed the sand out of my eyes and moseyed down the stairs, Manchester City had annilated Hull City 4-0, eventually winning 5-1. If it wasn't so trite and cliche, I'd call it a Festivus miracle. Then again, Stephen Ireland set up Felipe Caicedo on nearly identical feeds from the right side. Even though they're near the bottom, can we call City a bully team? And speaking of Ireland, did he buy the shaved-head/beard look off Antoine Sibierski?
At the same time this was happening, Liverpool actually looked good -- specifically like a first place team -- taking care of business against Bolton at Anfield.
Finally, around noon Arsenal kicked off against Aston Villa in a game that was enjoyable throughout. Even though I had to run out for the second half, I recorded it and didn't lose any luster though I already knew the result.
Gutty result for both teams. Arsenal probably needed a win here, but a point is acceptable. The Gunners were lucky not to be down a couple time early, when Steve Sidwell hit the post, Backary Sagna cleared a ball of the line, and finally James Milner hit the woodwork at close range.
Against the run of play, the much maligned by me Denilson stole the ball away at the top of the box, raced in a beat Brad Friedel. It's weird how soccer works like that, one team dominates but the other gets the goal.
Arsenal were on the moon when Abou Diaby put them up 2-0 at the start of the second half, but Villa showed a lot of guts and fought back to draw it on Zat Knight's late goal. That's the second crazy finish for Villa in a month. Maybe it really will be the Villians year.
If I have time this week I'll muscle up a standard Best of/Worst of the first half of the season, if it's necessary.
But first...
Neven, we hardly knew ye -- I actually squeezed out a FanHouse on Christmas night at the office. If you didn't see, Borussia Dortmund defender Neven Subotic decided to play for Serbia instead of the USMNT on the senior international level.
A couple weeks ago I was pretty pissed about this. I'm still upset, but not at Subotic. Can you honestly blame him for wanting to play for Serbia instead of the U.S.? Is it really worth it for him to really across the Atlantic to play with a group of players he has little in common with? It's a stupid reason, but the name Neven Subotic does sound pretty foreign, or Euro if you will. Let's not forget his first choice was to play in Germany -- where he grew up -- before FIFA denied him.
From what I've seen Subotic is a nice player and has a lot of promise at his age. That said, is a central defender going to push the USMNT over the top in the World Cup? Probably not. He could just as easily make the one slip-up to cost a game as Carlos Bocanegra or Oguchi Onyewu -- who are also good at scoring from set plays.
The bigger disappointment is with the USSF in Chicago. Why would a player turn down America? Is it the training or the tactics? That scares me.
Sunday
* Newcastle United v. Liverpool -- (Live, Setanta, 7 a.m.) Liverpool relinquished hold of first place to Chelsea for about 26 minutes Friday. Will that be it the rest of the way? It would be a shame to blow a great, albeit it rocky, 2008 with a stinker before the FA Cup break next weekend...and who is this Robbie Keane character?. Newcastle will make Liverpool work, but Rafa's men get it done. ... Newcastle 0, Liverpool 1
* Arsenal v. Portsmouth -- (Live, Setanta, 9 a.m.) All signs point to Arsenal simply needing to flick its finger in the direction of a teetering Portsmouth side, to push the Southcoaster into the rabbit hole. The fact that Tony Adams is on the opposing touchlines might win some sentiment at the Emirates, but not games. I took some time to realize why Portsmouth's defense is so shoddy (-11 GD), Sol Campbell and Sylvain Distin knee joints calcified at the same time in mid-July. ... Arsenal 2, Portsmouth 0
* Bolton v. Wigan -- Could the winner of this fixture go into 2009 dreaming about the UEFA Cup, or whatever it will be called next year? ... Bolton 1, Wigan 0
* Everton v. Sunderland -- Gun to my head, if I had to pick a team to support in this league it would be Everton. This team has fighting spirit in spades. ... Everton 1, Sunderland 0
* Fulham v. Chelsea -- (Live, FSC, 9 a.m.) Fortress Craven Cottage? Fulham have only lost once at home this season and welcome West London rival this weekend. To my utter surprise, Fulham has held its own against the 'Big Four'...though it's only two matches -- beating Arsenal at home and drawing Liverpool. Sunday should be a good comparison between the high-priced international stars of Cheslea and the mostly home-grown palookas at Fulham. ... Fulham 0, Chelsea 2
* West Brom v. Tottenham -- Seems the initial jolt from Harry Redknapp has cooled at Tottenham. Should be fun to watch the Janaury wheelings and dealings, though. ... West Brom 1, Tottenham 2
* West Ham v. Stoke City -- (Live, Setanta Xtra, 9 a.m.) The seasons and coaches change, but the unpredictability of West Ham never changes. Looks like the 'Please Buy Me' sign got passed to Craig Bellamy Friday. Stoke? Meh, we're almost running out things to say at this point, unless Rory Delap returns. ... West Ham 2, Stoke 1
* Blackburn v. Manchester City -- (Live, FSC, 11:15 a.m.) Should be a good one at Ewood Park, hope Mark Hughes gets a nice reception. He deserves it. City are either good or bad, but it doesn't seem like Blackburn's makeshift defense is enough to bring out the bad. Very intriguing game for both teams fortunes going forward. Can Blackburn string together three positive results under Big Sam, and likewise can City put together a run to get away from the relegation zone? ... Blackburn 0, City 2
Monday
* Manchester United v. Middlesbrough -- (Live, Setanta, 3 p.m.) Manchester United are lurking...always lurking. Sort of like Clint Eastwood these days. You know if he makes a movie it's going to be primed to win some awards. (Sorry, just very pumped for 'Gran Torino.') Meanwhile, 'Boro is spinning its wheels. United seem due for running riot, because it really hasn't kicked much ass this season, perhaps that makes the season the Red Devils had last season all the more impressive. ... Manchester United 3, Middlesbrough 0
Tuesday
* Hull City v. Aston Villa -- (Live, Setanta, 3 p.m.) That's two shit-stampings in a row for Hull. Does this spell the end of the Prem's best story of the year? Haven't we said that before? We'll probably say it until May, when they survive the drop. Villa are doing enough, but ought to bring in some 'squad' players to fill out depth. Three points from games like these are mandatory to hold off Arsenal. ... Hull 1, Villa 2
Last round: 6-4
Season: 79-106
Labels: Prem Picks, Premier League, Soccer
Credit to the unstoppable Ace Cowboy for tipping me off to the incredible goal dance celebration between Sunderland's Kenwyne Jones and Djibril Cisse. After do some research via the Black Cats message boards and video sites, it turns out it was inspired by Dance Hall music. Go figure. If my photo-shopping skills were better I'd have been Santa Claus hats on them, either way hope it sets up up for the holiday spirit.
Though they lag behind in the usual things, like dental care and fine cuisine, you've got to hand it to the English for packing the festive calendar full of games. The players and managers might not love a jam/crammed slate of games, but we fans can relish in it. Is there a better combo than Wayne Rooney and egg nog? I think not.
Friday
* Stoke City vs. Manchester United -- (Live, Setanta 7:45 a.m.) Little know fact, an ancient Japanese sake hangover cure involves the Pulis leaf. ... Stoke 1, Manchester United 2
* Chelsea v. West Brom -- (Live, FSC, 8 a.m.) Chelsea will be without John Terry after his sliding two-foot tackle on Leon Osman. Watching that game, Chelsea were pretty fortunate to leave Goodison Park with a point all things considered. The Blues have sputtered a bit, but even on their best day the Baggies don't have the defensive fortitude to hold out for 90 minutes. ... Chelsea 2, West Brom 0
* Portsmouth v. West Ham United -- Hungry wolves will be circling Fratton Park as soon as this is over to pick through the bones for some January bargains. ... Pompey 1, West Ham 0
* Tottenham v. Fulham -- (Live, Setanta Xtra, 8 a.m.) Mini-London Derby. You'd think Spurs are due a good performance, while Fulham is due a clunker. Get Harry Redknapp a Santa hat for the touchline, please. That's my one Christmas wish. (And for my torn cartilage in my knee to heal on its own.) ... Spurs 2, Fulham 1
* Liverpool v. Bolton -- (Live, Setanta, 10 a.m.) I've actually been very impressed that Liverpool has maintained a top two position considering its weekly Jekyll and Hyde routine. ... Liverpool 1, Bolton 0
* Manchester City v. Hull City -- (Live, FSC, 10 a.m.) Early front runner for the title of the Citeh 2008-09 DVD season review -- "The Curious Case of Manchester City." Hull, after it's ass-whooping by Wigan a few weeks ago, came back and sprung a few upsets. The Tigers have guts. ... Man City 1, Hull City 2
* Middlesbrough v. Everton -- Speaking of guts, Everton have it in spades, while 'Boro could use it -- and an enlargement of their currently Grinch-sized heart. ... 'Boro 0, Everton 1
* Sunderland v. Blackburn (Live, Setanta Xtra, 10 a.m.) All of a sudden this is actually a good game. It might even play out like one too, with the talented striker tandems on each side. ... Sunderland 1, Blackburn 1
* Wigan Athletic v. Newcastle Untied -- Who nets a bigger return when they're eventually sold either next month or in the summer -- Zaki or Owen? ... Wigan 2, Newcastle 1
* Aston Villa v. Arsenal -- (Live, FSC, 12:30 p.m.) Here's a thought. Everyone talks about how young Arsenal is, but how about Aston Villa? James Milner and Gabby Agbonlahor are both 22 and Ashley Young is 23. That should count for something going forward? Is it offset by ancient, though evergreen, American keeper Brad Friedel? As for Arsenal, what is Arsene Wenger asking Père Noël for this Christmas? A replacement for Cesc Fabregas, now out until April? But who? Can Abou Diaby and Denilson keep the Gunners afloat in the league and the Champions League? Can Wenger pry Patrick Viera away from Inter and hope to recapture some magic for three months? Though he's very tricksy, Andrei Arshavin is not the same kind of player as Fabregas, and Arsenal already have plenty of players with his sort of attributes. There is no arguing Fabregas was the glue that's held Arsenal together, so he's pretty much irreplaceable. If this were an American sports team Arsenal would be excused for calling it a lost season, but it can't fold up the tent. The club certainly banks on being in the Champions League every year, so it needs the revenue, but should it sink transfer funds on a quick fix which might not work? Bottom line, Arsenal needs to show up at Villa Park and quash doubters like me, ASAP. ... Aston Villa 3, Arsenal 1
Last round: 4-5
Season: 73-102
Labels: Prem League, Prem Picks, Soccer
"Chicks dig the long ball" -- various.
Consider that my feeble attempt as a lead-in to Sunday's feisty 1-1 draw between Arsenal and Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium. Get it? Both goals came on long balls played over the top.
Perhaps you wouldn't call Samir Nasri's pass to Robin Van Persie a "long ball" considering the Dutchman's sublime first touch and finish right in front of the defense of Jamie Carragher. (Right now can anyone in the Premier League produce a wonder goal at the drop of a hat like Van Persie?)
Robbie Keane's tally, on the other hand, was more of the trademark long ball of English lore due since it came off the foot of defender Daniel 'Arm Tat' Agger. Nice to see Keane show some signs of life. Guess you can take the boy out of White Hart Lane, but not the Hotspur out of the boy. (Wait a second...) It was a bit of delicious irony, that Keane scored whilst manager Rafa Benitiz was absent from the Emirates for a kidney store operation (So thaaaaat explains the furrowed brow at all times.)
Is it worth making a big deal that Emmanuel Adebayor was sent off for a pretty weak second yellow card via a pretty good sell job byEmiliano Insúa Arbeloa. Arsene Wenger was upset -- as usual. The game was at the time 1-1 and ended 1-1 so in that regard, no harm, no foul.
The bigger concern for fifth-place Arsenal is the loss of Cesc Fabregas to a knee injury. The Spaniard wasn't on fire like he was at this time of the season in 2007, but he's still the Gunners most important player.
For Liverpool, will this be the week Chelsea finally retakes first place? The Reds have survived a pretty vanilla run of form, but still only have one loss.
It was probably a blip on the radar, but maybe we'll see teams return to a more direct style of play. Hell, there are probably thousands of high school soccer coaches in American who'd be happy to lend out their playbooks.
(Apologies, due to a fantasy football scenario plus a very busy Sunday night in the office I didn't have time to write this until about 2 a.m.)
Around the league -- James Milner? Seriously? Could you even recreate that fluke goal against West Ham again if you tried? Good teams do make their own luck, right? ... Damien Duff scored the winner for Newcastle against Tottenham, should have had him on the 'What the hell happened' list. Making the feat even more rare -- like an albino unicorn -- Mr. Milkbones Mark Viduka set up the Irishman. ... Nice job by Sam Allardyce in his debut for Blackburn, granted they got a gift wrapped opponent in Stoke, plus a quick penalty. Benni McCarthy, too, showed rare signs of life and an affinity for back heels. Maybe Big Sam will make a couple savvy buys on the cheap next month and save Rovers. ... Sorry to see ex-Rovers boss Mark Hughes continue to flounder. Manchester City is firmly in 18th place, despite a +4 goal difference. Strange. Who would have thought that Svennis and Elano would have made a better impression at this time last year than Hughes and Robinho. Guess the Abu Dabai group is going to have to wait for the Champions League, or at least the UEFA Champions League. ... Ricky Sbragia -- it just looks wrong, but it's working at Sunderland. Crazy, right? ... Bolton and Fulham in the Top 10, probably crazier. ... Anyone else think Manchester United will have a little jet lag coming back from Japan, albeit with the FIFA Club World Cup trophy, and playing Stoke on Sunday and Middlesbrough Monday?
Fantasy team of the week -- Hats off to longtime reader/commentor J. Dunn's '92 Percent Pure Oxygen' with 48 total points, in a low-scoring week. Fulham's Jimmy Bullard and Mark Schwarzer were the top reasons.
If I don't post prior to Thursday -- I'll try my darnedest -- have a Merry Christmas and a happy Holiday season. At least there are plenty of game to offset the tediously awful NCAA bowl game slate.
Consider that my feeble attempt as a lead-in to Sunday's feisty 1-1 draw between Arsenal and Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium. Get it? Both goals came on long balls played over the top.
Perhaps you wouldn't call Samir Nasri's pass to Robin Van Persie a "long ball" considering the Dutchman's sublime first touch and finish right in front of the defense of Jamie Carragher. (Right now can anyone in the Premier League produce a wonder goal at the drop of a hat like Van Persie?)
Robbie Keane's tally, on the other hand, was more of the trademark long ball of English lore due since it came off the foot of defender Daniel 'Arm Tat' Agger. Nice to see Keane show some signs of life. Guess you can take the boy out of White Hart Lane, but not the Hotspur out of the boy. (Wait a second...) It was a bit of delicious irony, that Keane scored whilst manager Rafa Benitiz was absent from the Emirates for a kidney store operation (So thaaaaat explains the furrowed brow at all times.)
Is it worth making a big deal that Emmanuel Adebayor was sent off for a pretty weak second yellow card via a pretty good sell job by
The bigger concern for fifth-place Arsenal is the loss of Cesc Fabregas to a knee injury. The Spaniard wasn't on fire like he was at this time of the season in 2007, but he's still the Gunners most important player.
For Liverpool, will this be the week Chelsea finally retakes first place? The Reds have survived a pretty vanilla run of form, but still only have one loss.
It was probably a blip on the radar, but maybe we'll see teams return to a more direct style of play. Hell, there are probably thousands of high school soccer coaches in American who'd be happy to lend out their playbooks.
(Apologies, due to a fantasy football scenario plus a very busy Sunday night in the office I didn't have time to write this until about 2 a.m.)
Around the league -- James Milner? Seriously? Could you even recreate that fluke goal against West Ham again if you tried? Good teams do make their own luck, right? ... Damien Duff scored the winner for Newcastle against Tottenham, should have had him on the 'What the hell happened' list. Making the feat even more rare -- like an albino unicorn -- Mr. Milkbones Mark Viduka set up the Irishman. ... Nice job by Sam Allardyce in his debut for Blackburn, granted they got a gift wrapped opponent in Stoke, plus a quick penalty. Benni McCarthy, too, showed rare signs of life and an affinity for back heels. Maybe Big Sam will make a couple savvy buys on the cheap next month and save Rovers. ... Sorry to see ex-Rovers boss Mark Hughes continue to flounder. Manchester City is firmly in 18th place, despite a +4 goal difference. Strange. Who would have thought that Svennis and Elano would have made a better impression at this time last year than Hughes and Robinho. Guess the Abu Dabai group is going to have to wait for the Champions League, or at least the UEFA Champions League. ... Ricky Sbragia -- it just looks wrong, but it's working at Sunderland. Crazy, right? ... Bolton and Fulham in the Top 10, probably crazier. ... Anyone else think Manchester United will have a little jet lag coming back from Japan, albeit with the FIFA Club World Cup trophy, and playing Stoke on Sunday and Middlesbrough Monday?
Fantasy team of the week -- Hats off to longtime reader/commentor J. Dunn's '92 Percent Pure Oxygen' with 48 total points, in a low-scoring week. Fulham's Jimmy Bullard and Mark Schwarzer were the top reasons.
If I don't post prior to Thursday -- I'll try my darnedest -- have a Merry Christmas and a happy Holiday season. At least there are plenty of game to offset the tediously awful NCAA bowl game slate.
Labels: Monday recaps, Premier League, Soccer
In a notebook somewhere I have some names scribbled down under the heading, "What the hell happened?" Mainly its pop culture figures who've faded away from the spot light, like Reginald Vel Johnson, aka Carl Winslow on 'Family Matters'. (Guess those Urkel residuals are paying the rent.)
Anyways, why not apply the concept to the Premier League since every clubs seems to have a couple players who've simply -- like Mike Tyson -- faded into bolivian. Would these players be worth buying? Or has their star faded completely away?
The starting point seems natural if you're a longtime reader of this here slice of the Inter-nets...
* Morten Gamst Pedersen, Blackburn -- With 10 goals from the midfield in the 2004-06 season the Norweigan attacker seemed poised to breakout or end up at a massive club. Since then the goals have trickled away and completely dried up this year. Perhaps he'll be reborn under new Rovers boss Sam Allardyce, who never met a set piece goal he didn't like. The lesson here, is probably never record a pop-song if you're a professional athlete.
* Paulo Ferreira, Chelsea -- Maybe the question here was if the Portuguese right back was ever good in the first place? A mainstay in Mourinho's title years in West London, he's made one appearance this season under Phil Scolari, displaced completely by countryman Jose Bosingwa.
* Leighton Baines, Everton -- A revelation at Wigan, a spare part at Everton. His last four showings for the Toffees have been as a substitute after the 85th minute.
* Jermaine Pennant, Liverpool -- Maybe this is a reflection of me, but I thought this was a perfect move when he transferred from Birmingham to Liverpool in 2006. How he's lasted at Anfield this long, is frankly a minor miracle. How he escapes the wrath of Rafa next month would be another miracle. Another word to the wise, don't play games with a ankle monitoring unit.
* Joey Barton, Newcastle United -- Man, this guy had so much promise at Man City and I haven't seen him once this year ... wait ... yeah, you can't much play when you're incarcerated.
* Luís Boa Morte, West Ham -- He used to be pretty spry at Fulham, now seems like a spare part at Upton Park.
So that's my list. Not as long as I thought it would be. Feel free to add any other nominations.
Champions League quickie -- Pretty good matchups for the Round of 16. In fact they seem to have a little more variety than years past. The English clubs definitely have tough roads ahead, with all four drawing legitimate opposition -- three being Italian clubs. It's especially good to see Chelsea get a 'real' opponent in Juventus, because who else would have bet money the Blues would have ended up with Panathinaikos? Also, how much ink will be used to hype Jose Mourinho's return to Old Trafford and how much speculation will there be that he'll be Sir Alex's successor?
Sweet home, Ohio -- There was some speculation where the U.S. v. Mexico World Cup qualifier would be held. The USSF took the obvious choice -- Columbus. Considering people of Mexican descent/Mexicans live everywhere in American there isn't a venue on homesoil where the home team will be the better supported. Maybe some day, but not this February. That said, the only other option is to play it in a colder climate, which makes Columbus make sense. I have no qualms about Ohio's capital and went to the very enjoyable 2-0 win in September 2005 that punched the U.S.'s ticket to Germany. (You can read about it here.)
One other short USMNT note, Sweden announced its preliminary roster for its January friendly in California. Included is Henrik Larsson. Can coach Lars Lagerback simply not let go? Has he turned out in front of Larsson's home with the boombox blaring Peter Gabriel?
Saturday
* Blackburn v. Stoke City -- New Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce might just have a tinge of jealousy watching the Potters on set pieces. Still, Rovers get a little boost from the new managerial blood who figures to bunker down and might ever right the ship. ... Blackburn 1, Stoke 0
* Bolton v. Portsmouth -- (Live, FSC, 10 a.m.) Usually when dealing with Bolton my comments range from 'bleach' to 'yuk'. This time I'm actually interested to see what the Trotters have up their sleeves. I like what I've seem from Johann Elmander. ... Bolton 1, Portsmouth 1
* Fulham v. Middlesbrough -- So, yeah, it's Mark Schwarzer against his old team. (Hey, it's better than telling you to find something else to do. Go buy his children's book, why don't ya!) ... Fulham 1, Middlesebrough 0
* Hull City v. Sunderland -- (Live, Setanta, 10 a.m.) Will Hull be tired from taking all those bows after a nice draw at Anfield last weekend? Bigger question, will the club have the depth to survive the crowded holiday fixture dates? Sunderland might have won convincingly last week, but that might be a smokescreen. ... Hull 2, Sunderland 1
* West Ham United v. Aston Villa -- (Live, FSC, 12:30 p.m.) The 'Claret-and-Blue' Bowl! Note to Martin O'Neill -- these are the games a Champions League club wins. ... West Ham 1, Villa 3
Sunday
* West Brom v. Manchester City -- (Live, Setanta, 8:30 a.m.) It's a good thing I don't actually wager money on these things. Who would have thought Sven Goran Ericksson would have had City in better position than Mark Hughes this time last season? ... West Brom 1, City 3
* Newcastle United v. Tottenham -- Hard to say which club has had a rockier start? Both have fired managers. Both have spent the bulk of the season in the relegation zone. Will Harry Redknapp whisper sweet nothings in the ear of Michael Owen and try to convince him that White Hart Lane is his future? ... Newcastle 1, Tottenham 1
* Arsenal v. Liverpool -- (Live, FSC, 11 a.m.) Weird how when these members of the 'Big Four' play there isn't as much acrimony as the other pairings. Maybe it's because of the continental-ness of the managers. This one Sunday should be interesting to see if both sides come out walking on eggshells. Neither club is playing very well, or consistently. The danger, here, might be scoring first since it could let down the intensity, especially if it's Arsenal. If I had to guess, Emmanuel Adebayor scores a goal in massive traffic, yet once again Steven Gerrard rescues Liverpool, like every week. Of course, the man can only do so much. ... Arsenal 1, Liverpool 1
Monday
* Everton v. Chelsea -- (Live, Setanta, 3 p.m.) If you're David Moyes how do you play it? Your defense probably isn't good enough to hold Chelsea to a stalemate for 90 minutes. Your attack, as is, probably isn't enough to scare Chelsea's defense. Can you spring on a counter-attack like West Ham did last weekend? Perhaps it's just anecdotal evidence, but Everton usually seem to wilt, oddly at home, when playing the big clubs. Chelsea lets out a little frustration here. ... Everton 0, Chelsea 2
Last week: 3-7
Season: 69-97
Anyways, why not apply the concept to the Premier League since every clubs seems to have a couple players who've simply -- like Mike Tyson -- faded into bolivian. Would these players be worth buying? Or has their star faded completely away?
The starting point seems natural if you're a longtime reader of this here slice of the Inter-nets...
* Morten Gamst Pedersen, Blackburn -- With 10 goals from the midfield in the 2004-06 season the Norweigan attacker seemed poised to breakout or end up at a massive club. Since then the goals have trickled away and completely dried up this year. Perhaps he'll be reborn under new Rovers boss Sam Allardyce, who never met a set piece goal he didn't like. The lesson here, is probably never record a pop-song if you're a professional athlete.
* Paulo Ferreira, Chelsea -- Maybe the question here was if the Portuguese right back was ever good in the first place? A mainstay in Mourinho's title years in West London, he's made one appearance this season under Phil Scolari, displaced completely by countryman Jose Bosingwa.
* Leighton Baines, Everton -- A revelation at Wigan, a spare part at Everton. His last four showings for the Toffees have been as a substitute after the 85th minute.
* Jermaine Pennant, Liverpool -- Maybe this is a reflection of me, but I thought this was a perfect move when he transferred from Birmingham to Liverpool in 2006. How he's lasted at Anfield this long, is frankly a minor miracle. How he escapes the wrath of Rafa next month would be another miracle. Another word to the wise, don't play games with a ankle monitoring unit.
* Joey Barton, Newcastle United -- Man, this guy had so much promise at Man City and I haven't seen him once this year ... wait ... yeah, you can't much play when you're incarcerated.
* Luís Boa Morte, West Ham -- He used to be pretty spry at Fulham, now seems like a spare part at Upton Park.
So that's my list. Not as long as I thought it would be. Feel free to add any other nominations.
Champions League quickie -- Pretty good matchups for the Round of 16. In fact they seem to have a little more variety than years past. The English clubs definitely have tough roads ahead, with all four drawing legitimate opposition -- three being Italian clubs. It's especially good to see Chelsea get a 'real' opponent in Juventus, because who else would have bet money the Blues would have ended up with Panathinaikos? Also, how much ink will be used to hype Jose Mourinho's return to Old Trafford and how much speculation will there be that he'll be Sir Alex's successor?
Sweet home, Ohio -- There was some speculation where the U.S. v. Mexico World Cup qualifier would be held. The USSF took the obvious choice -- Columbus. Considering people of Mexican descent/Mexicans live everywhere in American there isn't a venue on homesoil where the home team will be the better supported. Maybe some day, but not this February. That said, the only other option is to play it in a colder climate, which makes Columbus make sense. I have no qualms about Ohio's capital and went to the very enjoyable 2-0 win in September 2005 that punched the U.S.'s ticket to Germany. (You can read about it here.)
One other short USMNT note, Sweden announced its preliminary roster for its January friendly in California. Included is Henrik Larsson. Can coach Lars Lagerback simply not let go? Has he turned out in front of Larsson's home with the boombox blaring Peter Gabriel?
Saturday
* Blackburn v. Stoke City -- New Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce might just have a tinge of jealousy watching the Potters on set pieces. Still, Rovers get a little boost from the new managerial blood who figures to bunker down and might ever right the ship. ... Blackburn 1, Stoke 0
* Bolton v. Portsmouth -- (Live, FSC, 10 a.m.) Usually when dealing with Bolton my comments range from 'bleach' to 'yuk'. This time I'm actually interested to see what the Trotters have up their sleeves. I like what I've seem from Johann Elmander. ... Bolton 1, Portsmouth 1
* Fulham v. Middlesbrough -- So, yeah, it's Mark Schwarzer against his old team. (Hey, it's better than telling you to find something else to do. Go buy his children's book, why don't ya!) ... Fulham 1, Middlesebrough 0
* Hull City v. Sunderland -- (Live, Setanta, 10 a.m.) Will Hull be tired from taking all those bows after a nice draw at Anfield last weekend? Bigger question, will the club have the depth to survive the crowded holiday fixture dates? Sunderland might have won convincingly last week, but that might be a smokescreen. ... Hull 2, Sunderland 1
* West Ham United v. Aston Villa -- (Live, FSC, 12:30 p.m.) The 'Claret-and-Blue' Bowl! Note to Martin O'Neill -- these are the games a Champions League club wins. ... West Ham 1, Villa 3
Sunday
* West Brom v. Manchester City -- (Live, Setanta, 8:30 a.m.) It's a good thing I don't actually wager money on these things. Who would have thought Sven Goran Ericksson would have had City in better position than Mark Hughes this time last season? ... West Brom 1, City 3
* Newcastle United v. Tottenham -- Hard to say which club has had a rockier start? Both have fired managers. Both have spent the bulk of the season in the relegation zone. Will Harry Redknapp whisper sweet nothings in the ear of Michael Owen and try to convince him that White Hart Lane is his future? ... Newcastle 1, Tottenham 1
* Arsenal v. Liverpool -- (Live, FSC, 11 a.m.) Weird how when these members of the 'Big Four' play there isn't as much acrimony as the other pairings. Maybe it's because of the continental-ness of the managers. This one Sunday should be interesting to see if both sides come out walking on eggshells. Neither club is playing very well, or consistently. The danger, here, might be scoring first since it could let down the intensity, especially if it's Arsenal. If I had to guess, Emmanuel Adebayor scores a goal in massive traffic, yet once again Steven Gerrard rescues Liverpool, like every week. Of course, the man can only do so much. ... Arsenal 1, Liverpool 1
Monday
* Everton v. Chelsea -- (Live, Setanta, 3 p.m.) If you're David Moyes how do you play it? Your defense probably isn't good enough to hold Chelsea to a stalemate for 90 minutes. Your attack, as is, probably isn't enough to scare Chelsea's defense. Can you spring on a counter-attack like West Ham did last weekend? Perhaps it's just anecdotal evidence, but Everton usually seem to wilt, oddly at home, when playing the big clubs. Chelsea lets out a little frustration here. ... Everton 0, Chelsea 2
Last week: 3-7
Season: 69-97
Labels: Prem League, Prem Picks, Premier League, Soccer
Johnny Carson fans out there? Yeah, me neither. Through osmosis I've picked up that his 'Carnac' bit on late-night DVDs offers and other parodies.
So let me try my hand at the Carnac-bit.
* How Lord Humungus stayed so ripped in the Wasteland?
* Who actually listens and enjoys Britney Spears music?
* Trying to figure out the 2008-09 Premier League season.
Answer -- What are three things that cannot be figured out by science.
Hi-oh.
Not sure what the English equivalent of the Elias Sports Bureau is, but it would be nice to find out when the last weekend was when the so-called 'Big Four' of Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United all drew in the same weekend? Maybe there was some sort of under-the-table collusion, because nobody can really grip.
Liverpool is the biggest winner of the draw-fest, since the Reds retained first place despite a 2-2 result at Anfield against Hull City. They say you need a little luck to win the title, so perhaps fortune is shining on Rafa's men. Of course it's not a total win scenario, because three points would opened up a little gap. And when Steven Gerrard quickly rallied Liverpool on his back to 2-2, who out there didn't think it would be a mini-Istanbul redux and end 3-2?
Again, it's amazing how reliant Liverpool still remains on two players -- Gerrard and Fernando Torres, so in some respect the Reds can be commended for retaining the No. 1 position with the Spaniard on the bench.
Manchester United, too, can be happy since it goes to the World Club Cup without losing too much ground. Then again you can never take the games in hand for granted, even if there against perennial United whipping boys Fulham and Wigan.
Even as it ended 0-0, the Manchester United/Tottenham game was a pretty enthralling affair, with both sides putting forth a good show. It was surprising to see Sir Alex Ferguson walk off the field embracing old Harry Redknapp after a draw -- perhaps they're working on a mutual 'Bucket List' when they retire.
Also, you have to love the ingenuity British fans are when it comes to creating custom t-shirts. Might a recommend a simple design for Spurs fans -- 13 December, 2008 -- I saw Heurelho Gomes make a save. (Which he did on Ryan Giggs late free kick.)
You'd have to label Arsenal and Chelsea as losers from the weekend. Arsenal, simply because the Gunners can't seem to get out of their own way as seen by a 1-1 draw at Middlesbrough. I'm not sure how the clubs finances are and tied in with the construction of the Emirates, but it likely can't afford to miss out on the Champions League. (Aston Villa isn't going away.)
Jérémie Aliadière scored the equalizer -- 'nuff said.
Chelsea had first place right in front of it, but somehow let former legend Gianfranco Zola stroll into Stamford Bridge and let West Ham sneak away with a 1-1 draw. Blues fans' can complain that perhaps Jamie Noble's cross to Craig Bellamy went off his arm before being sent into the box. Then again, Jose Bosingwa doesn't have to stop playing without a whistle.
It doesn't factor into Sunday's result, but maybe there is something to the theory about cliques inside the Chelsea locker room. Either way, Didier Drogba's lingering negativity could be creating a Terrell Owens-esque level of distraction.
Suffice to say, just when you think you have this league figured out -- you don't. (Except for West Brom.)
Karma, baby -- Think Everton didn't feel a sense of relief when Tim Cahill sealed a 1-0 win in the dying seconds away to Manchester City considering what had happened the week before? Speaking of Cahill, he might have jumped, or punched, his way to the top of the Premier League arm tattoo charts with his Pacific Islander inspired elbow art.
As for this game I don't think I've ever seen a more eclectic set of hairstyles in a sporting event. Afros (Maroune Fellani), cornrows (Steven Pienaar, Elano..wtf?), mohawk-lites (Elano), shaved heads (Stephen Ireland)...it was weird.
Line of the weekend -- It goes to Setanta correspondent Andrew Cloud (maybe wrong name can't read my chicken scratch) for his summation of Stoke City 0, Fulham 0 -- "This was the kind of game where the league should deduct points for pure tedium." Well said.
Around the league -- Michael Owen might not come with batteries included, but he's clearly doing he best impression of a must-have Christmas toy, this side of Princess Unicorn. ... Jamie Carragher's own-goal against Hull might have been one of the worst I've seen, considering the stature of the player. ... Is Mikel Arteta arguably the league's MVP? ... It's hard to believe in August we didn't seen this perfect storm brewing at Blackburn -- the club loses it's influential coach (Mark Hughes), it's two best players (Brad Friedel, David Bentley) and bring a neophyte PL coach (Paul Ince), you're telling me we DIDN'T see this coming? Blackburn needs to bring in an experienced manager and hope he can channel his inner Redknahpp or Roy Hodgson. ... Sunderland? Really? Was Kwenye Jones all that was missing? ... Let's give it up for Manchester City, equal on points with 18th-place Sunderland. ...
A word on El Clasico -- In short, after a 2-0 win at Camp Nou Saturday night over Real Madrid, Barcelona cemented itself atop the mythical 'best club in the world' rankings for the time being. (Though that could be debated with the Los Angeles Galaxy, which looked amazing against the Oceania All Stars.)
Also furthering his reputation was Iker Casillas. There is no doubt with Petr Cech's slip in form and Gigi Buffon's prolonged injury, that the Real Madrid No. 1 is the best keeper in the world. That's not hyperbole, just fact.
Speaking of hyperbole, what can we say about GolTV color man Ray Hudson? I know some people adore his over-the-top enthusiasm. Me? It's like a little kid doing a performance at a family get-together. It's cute and entertaining the first time, but loses a it's fun every successive time.
Hudson, personally, detracts from a game like Dick Vitale on ESPN. You're not simply watching a game, you're watching Hudson announce a game.
I'm not asking for a stoic, dry EPL announcer or a tedious American like Dan Dierdorf. Yet Hudson paints a picture that non-soccer fans still associate with the game on television -- a crazy Brit huffing and puffing about the game. From where I stand the serious American fans are beyond that standard, sort of like how we don't need an ESPN talking head to say, "Gooooooooooal" on the extremely rare occasion the network shows a soccer highlight.
Fantasy team of the week -- Top honors of 87 points go to Rod McCulloch's MacBoar's RainDogs with another huge week. Top players were Gerrard, Gabby Agbonlahor and Luis Valencia.
So let me try my hand at the Carnac-bit.
* How Lord Humungus stayed so ripped in the Wasteland?
* Who actually listens and enjoys Britney Spears music?
* Trying to figure out the 2008-09 Premier League season.
Answer -- What are three things that cannot be figured out by science.
Hi-oh.
Not sure what the English equivalent of the Elias Sports Bureau is, but it would be nice to find out when the last weekend was when the so-called 'Big Four' of Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United all drew in the same weekend? Maybe there was some sort of under-the-table collusion, because nobody can really grip.
Liverpool is the biggest winner of the draw-fest, since the Reds retained first place despite a 2-2 result at Anfield against Hull City. They say you need a little luck to win the title, so perhaps fortune is shining on Rafa's men. Of course it's not a total win scenario, because three points would opened up a little gap. And when Steven Gerrard quickly rallied Liverpool on his back to 2-2, who out there didn't think it would be a mini-Istanbul redux and end 3-2?
Again, it's amazing how reliant Liverpool still remains on two players -- Gerrard and Fernando Torres, so in some respect the Reds can be commended for retaining the No. 1 position with the Spaniard on the bench.
Manchester United, too, can be happy since it goes to the World Club Cup without losing too much ground. Then again you can never take the games in hand for granted, even if there against perennial United whipping boys Fulham and Wigan.
Even as it ended 0-0, the Manchester United/Tottenham game was a pretty enthralling affair, with both sides putting forth a good show. It was surprising to see Sir Alex Ferguson walk off the field embracing old Harry Redknapp after a draw -- perhaps they're working on a mutual 'Bucket List' when they retire.
Also, you have to love the ingenuity British fans are when it comes to creating custom t-shirts. Might a recommend a simple design for Spurs fans -- 13 December, 2008 -- I saw Heurelho Gomes make a save. (Which he did on Ryan Giggs late free kick.)
You'd have to label Arsenal and Chelsea as losers from the weekend. Arsenal, simply because the Gunners can't seem to get out of their own way as seen by a 1-1 draw at Middlesbrough. I'm not sure how the clubs finances are and tied in with the construction of the Emirates, but it likely can't afford to miss out on the Champions League. (Aston Villa isn't going away.)
Jérémie Aliadière scored the equalizer -- 'nuff said.
Chelsea had first place right in front of it, but somehow let former legend Gianfranco Zola stroll into Stamford Bridge and let West Ham sneak away with a 1-1 draw. Blues fans' can complain that perhaps Jamie Noble's cross to Craig Bellamy went off his arm before being sent into the box. Then again, Jose Bosingwa doesn't have to stop playing without a whistle.
It doesn't factor into Sunday's result, but maybe there is something to the theory about cliques inside the Chelsea locker room. Either way, Didier Drogba's lingering negativity could be creating a Terrell Owens-esque level of distraction.
Suffice to say, just when you think you have this league figured out -- you don't. (Except for West Brom.)
Karma, baby -- Think Everton didn't feel a sense of relief when Tim Cahill sealed a 1-0 win in the dying seconds away to Manchester City considering what had happened the week before? Speaking of Cahill, he might have jumped, or punched, his way to the top of the Premier League arm tattoo charts with his Pacific Islander inspired elbow art.
As for this game I don't think I've ever seen a more eclectic set of hairstyles in a sporting event. Afros (Maroune Fellani), cornrows (Steven Pienaar, Elano..wtf?), mohawk-lites (Elano), shaved heads (Stephen Ireland)...it was weird.
Line of the weekend -- It goes to Setanta correspondent Andrew Cloud (maybe wrong name can't read my chicken scratch) for his summation of Stoke City 0, Fulham 0 -- "This was the kind of game where the league should deduct points for pure tedium." Well said.
Around the league -- Michael Owen might not come with batteries included, but he's clearly doing he best impression of a must-have Christmas toy, this side of Princess Unicorn. ... Jamie Carragher's own-goal against Hull might have been one of the worst I've seen, considering the stature of the player. ... Is Mikel Arteta arguably the league's MVP? ... It's hard to believe in August we didn't seen this perfect storm brewing at Blackburn -- the club loses it's influential coach (Mark Hughes), it's two best players (Brad Friedel, David Bentley) and bring a neophyte PL coach (Paul Ince), you're telling me we DIDN'T see this coming? Blackburn needs to bring in an experienced manager and hope he can channel his inner Redknahpp or Roy Hodgson. ... Sunderland? Really? Was Kwenye Jones all that was missing? ... Let's give it up for Manchester City, equal on points with 18th-place Sunderland. ...
A word on El Clasico -- In short, after a 2-0 win at Camp Nou Saturday night over Real Madrid, Barcelona cemented itself atop the mythical 'best club in the world' rankings for the time being. (Though that could be debated with the Los Angeles Galaxy, which looked amazing against the Oceania All Stars.)
Also furthering his reputation was Iker Casillas. There is no doubt with Petr Cech's slip in form and Gigi Buffon's prolonged injury, that the Real Madrid No. 1 is the best keeper in the world. That's not hyperbole, just fact.
Speaking of hyperbole, what can we say about GolTV color man Ray Hudson? I know some people adore his over-the-top enthusiasm. Me? It's like a little kid doing a performance at a family get-together. It's cute and entertaining the first time, but loses a it's fun every successive time.
Hudson, personally, detracts from a game like Dick Vitale on ESPN. You're not simply watching a game, you're watching Hudson announce a game.
I'm not asking for a stoic, dry EPL announcer or a tedious American like Dan Dierdorf. Yet Hudson paints a picture that non-soccer fans still associate with the game on television -- a crazy Brit huffing and puffing about the game. From where I stand the serious American fans are beyond that standard, sort of like how we don't need an ESPN talking head to say, "Gooooooooooal" on the extremely rare occasion the network shows a soccer highlight.
Fantasy team of the week -- Top honors of 87 points go to Rod McCulloch's MacBoar's RainDogs with another huge week. Top players were Gerrard, Gabby Agbonlahor and Luis Valencia.
Labels: La Liga, Monday recaps, Premier League, Soccer
A couple things that have been on my mind in relation to the world of soccer lately...
* The Champions League, or, how do you spell excitement? Does anyone remember a final day of the Group Stage lacking any drama whatsoever. Tuesday and Wednesday this week there was pretty much nothing at stake -- aside from those 10 minutes where Chelsea looked slightly in danger against CFR Cluj.
I've read a few things of how to tweak the format, but the problem is any changes will be hard to adapt. It's not like the big countries are going to relinquish their spots, nor will automatically adding the league champions of lesser competitions help things along.
Look at this year. England and Spain went 4-for-4 and Italy was 3-for-4. Meanwhile, the rank outsides -- Cluj, BATE Borisov and that team from Cyprus who's name is impossible to type and pronounce (Anorthosis Famagusta) all placed fourth.
That all said, with pretty much the only "unfancied" team left in the competition being Greece's Panathinaikos -- and calling them that is a streatch -- we should be greeted with some juicy prospects come February when the knockout begins.
* Maybe because it's I've been playing entirely too much 'FIFA 09', trying to get Reading promoted back to the Premier League, but let's take a look at the Coca Cola Championship after 22 of its marathon 46 rounds.
It's not rocket science, but teams that can score in this division are going to be the threats for promotion. Wolverhampton is first in both goals scored and first in the table thanks to the duo of Sylvan Ebanks-Blake and Chris Iwelumo (the guy with the all-time worst miss for Scotland). Reading is second in goals and third. Second-place Birmingham is fifth in goals. The only outlier is Watford, which is third in scoring but only 19th in the table. (How these players would adapt to the Premier League is debatable, see West Brom, which was nearly 20 goals better than second place Stoke in winning the Championship, and is now last with only 12 goals.)
Good defense might help you stick around, but it won't get you promoted -- three points are a must and you can't take them at 0-0.
Again, call this a Reading bias, but the demoted Royals have six players in the Championships Top 25 Actim stats rating, including Nos. 1 and 2 in Kevin Doyle and Stephen Hunt. (American keeper Marcus Hahnemann is the top keeper and ninth overall.)
Our third 2007-08 relegated team, the historically awful Derby County is proving that a woefully inept Premiership team equals a pretty poor Championship team, too. The Rams are in 19th place, but at least manager Paul Jewell hasn't made any sex tapes.
Perhaps the most interesting thing looking at the Championship numbers is that Charlton is in last place with a 4-5-13 mark. Remember a couple of seasons ago when Alan Curbishley had the Addicks near the top of the Prem table before Christmas?
* One sentence on the Club World Cup -- it exists.
* For those that don't care about MLS, skip to the Premier League picks, because this is going to be a rant about Michael Parkhurst who left the New England Revolution to go play in Denmark.
Maybe this is a two-toned rant. First, for MLS, why do they continue to let young Americans leave for no money in return? The Revs draft Parkhurst and he develops into the 2007 Defender of the Year, and a year later hes in Denmark for a middling club for no fee. Great business.
Of course, with it's socialist salary structure, MLS can afford to have a few "name" star players (you know who) and then fill in the rest of the league with gray nobodies. You'd think the league would want to build off guys like Parkhurst and develop them into marketable assets, but I guess not.
This is probably a moot point until the league ditches the single-entity system and redraws its salary lines. From a business standpoint, the league has less incentive for its bottom line to give less recognizable guys raises when they can easily be replaced.
As for Parkhurst and a lot of other players, exactly how good is the Danish first division? I have no idea so I'm asking. It must be decent enough, right? Aalborg was able to draw a second-string Manchester United this week. For whatever it's worth, the Super Ligean isn't even among the Top 10 in Europe.
For me, for Americans to simply "play in Europe" doesn't seem to mean that much. Yes, the atmosphere and the training is more advanced and more importantly the pay is better. Until we're actually placing Americans at top clubs in top divisions to play important roles it doesn't really advance the cause. Not to pick on him, but do some denizens of the soccer internets give a guy like Heath Pearce more of a chance because he plays in the 2.Bundesliga over an MLS guys? Hey I'm probably guilty too.
It's at least worth thinking about.
Rant over. Sorry.
Saturday
* Middlesbrough v. Arsenal -- (Live, Setanta, 7:45 a.m.) Most weekends the Riverside Stadium could fill in as a backdrop for the 'Day the Earth Stood Still.' That said, maybe I'll change my tune about Arsenal if they go on the road and win this one. I wouldn't wager on this because it seems Middlesbrough are either absolutely awful against the 'Big Four' or manage to spring the upset. No in-between at all. ... Boro 1, Arsenal 2
* Aston Villa v. Bolton -- (Live, Setanta Xtra, 10 a.m.) That Ashley Young lovefest in the final seconds at Goodison Park have to count for something for Villa, right? ... Villa 2, Bolton 0
* Liverpool v. Hull City -- (Live, Setanta, 10 a.m.) Liverpool is due for dominate game, right? But do the Reds even have that in them? We know Hull won't be scared of playing at Anfield. ... Liverpool 1, Hull City 0
* Manchester City v. Everton -- (Live, FSC, 10 a.m.) Manchester City = doing less with more. Everton = doing more with less. If I were the City board I'd make Everton an offer for Mikel Arteta it can't refuse, instead it looks like the club is obsessed with adding Gigi Buffon, which doesn't make too much sense. Is Buffon that appreciably better than Joe Hart? More specifically, the difference between keepers is more fractional than field players, right? ... City 1, Everton 1
* Stoke City v. Fulham -- Stoke is good at home. Fulham is poor on the road. I'm sticking with the pattern. ... Stoke 2, Fulham 1
* Sunderland v. West Brom -- To say this is a must-win game for both sides might be an understatement. Sunderland's 93-minutes of holding out against Manchester United might have been a mirage, though. ... Sunderland 1, West Brom 1
* Wigan Athletic v. Blackburn Rovers -- Probably the most glamorous fixture the Prem can produce. ... Wigan 1, Blackburn 0
* Tottenham v. Manchester United -- (Live, FSC, 12:30 p.m.) I like the Tottenham offensive chances, but its defensive? About as hopeful as the Auto Bailout in front of Senate Republicans. Little known fact, Cristiano Ronaldo and Arlen Specter are boooooyyyzzzzz. ... Spurs 1, Manchester United 3
Sunday
* Portsmouth v. Newcastle United -- (Live, Setanta, 8:30 a.m.) Buying, selling? Buying, selling? Probably two of the presumably most active January clubs on display at Fratton Park. You have to like Michael Owen in the English version of a "contract year." ... Portsmouth 1, Newcastle 2
* Chelsea v. West Ham -- (Live, FSC, 11 a.m.) Chelsea can start building on its new Stamford Bridge streak here. ... Chelsea 2, West Ham 0
Last week: 6-4
Season: 66-90
* The Champions League, or, how do you spell excitement? Does anyone remember a final day of the Group Stage lacking any drama whatsoever. Tuesday and Wednesday this week there was pretty much nothing at stake -- aside from those 10 minutes where Chelsea looked slightly in danger against CFR Cluj.
I've read a few things of how to tweak the format, but the problem is any changes will be hard to adapt. It's not like the big countries are going to relinquish their spots, nor will automatically adding the league champions of lesser competitions help things along.
Look at this year. England and Spain went 4-for-4 and Italy was 3-for-4. Meanwhile, the rank outsides -- Cluj, BATE Borisov and that team from Cyprus who's name is impossible to type and pronounce (Anorthosis Famagusta) all placed fourth.
That all said, with pretty much the only "unfancied" team left in the competition being Greece's Panathinaikos -- and calling them that is a streatch -- we should be greeted with some juicy prospects come February when the knockout begins.
* Maybe because it's I've been playing entirely too much 'FIFA 09', trying to get Reading promoted back to the Premier League, but let's take a look at the Coca Cola Championship after 22 of its marathon 46 rounds.
It's not rocket science, but teams that can score in this division are going to be the threats for promotion. Wolverhampton is first in both goals scored and first in the table thanks to the duo of Sylvan Ebanks-Blake and Chris Iwelumo (the guy with the all-time worst miss for Scotland). Reading is second in goals and third. Second-place Birmingham is fifth in goals. The only outlier is Watford, which is third in scoring but only 19th in the table. (How these players would adapt to the Premier League is debatable, see West Brom, which was nearly 20 goals better than second place Stoke in winning the Championship, and is now last with only 12 goals.)
Good defense might help you stick around, but it won't get you promoted -- three points are a must and you can't take them at 0-0.
Again, call this a Reading bias, but the demoted Royals have six players in the Championships Top 25 Actim stats rating, including Nos. 1 and 2 in Kevin Doyle and Stephen Hunt. (American keeper Marcus Hahnemann is the top keeper and ninth overall.)
Our third 2007-08 relegated team, the historically awful Derby County is proving that a woefully inept Premiership team equals a pretty poor Championship team, too. The Rams are in 19th place, but at least manager Paul Jewell hasn't made any sex tapes.
Perhaps the most interesting thing looking at the Championship numbers is that Charlton is in last place with a 4-5-13 mark. Remember a couple of seasons ago when Alan Curbishley had the Addicks near the top of the Prem table before Christmas?
* One sentence on the Club World Cup -- it exists.
* For those that don't care about MLS, skip to the Premier League picks, because this is going to be a rant about Michael Parkhurst who left the New England Revolution to go play in Denmark.
Maybe this is a two-toned rant. First, for MLS, why do they continue to let young Americans leave for no money in return? The Revs draft Parkhurst and he develops into the 2007 Defender of the Year, and a year later hes in Denmark for a middling club for no fee. Great business.
Of course, with it's socialist salary structure, MLS can afford to have a few "name" star players (you know who) and then fill in the rest of the league with gray nobodies. You'd think the league would want to build off guys like Parkhurst and develop them into marketable assets, but I guess not.
This is probably a moot point until the league ditches the single-entity system and redraws its salary lines. From a business standpoint, the league has less incentive for its bottom line to give less recognizable guys raises when they can easily be replaced.
As for Parkhurst and a lot of other players, exactly how good is the Danish first division? I have no idea so I'm asking. It must be decent enough, right? Aalborg was able to draw a second-string Manchester United this week. For whatever it's worth, the Super Ligean isn't even among the Top 10 in Europe.
For me, for Americans to simply "play in Europe" doesn't seem to mean that much. Yes, the atmosphere and the training is more advanced and more importantly the pay is better. Until we're actually placing Americans at top clubs in top divisions to play important roles it doesn't really advance the cause. Not to pick on him, but do some denizens of the soccer internets give a guy like Heath Pearce more of a chance because he plays in the 2.Bundesliga over an MLS guys? Hey I'm probably guilty too.
It's at least worth thinking about.
Rant over. Sorry.
Saturday
* Middlesbrough v. Arsenal -- (Live, Setanta, 7:45 a.m.) Most weekends the Riverside Stadium could fill in as a backdrop for the 'Day the Earth Stood Still.' That said, maybe I'll change my tune about Arsenal if they go on the road and win this one. I wouldn't wager on this because it seems Middlesbrough are either absolutely awful against the 'Big Four' or manage to spring the upset. No in-between at all. ... Boro 1, Arsenal 2
* Aston Villa v. Bolton -- (Live, Setanta Xtra, 10 a.m.) That Ashley Young lovefest in the final seconds at Goodison Park have to count for something for Villa, right? ... Villa 2, Bolton 0
* Liverpool v. Hull City -- (Live, Setanta, 10 a.m.) Liverpool is due for dominate game, right? But do the Reds even have that in them? We know Hull won't be scared of playing at Anfield. ... Liverpool 1, Hull City 0
* Manchester City v. Everton -- (Live, FSC, 10 a.m.) Manchester City = doing less with more. Everton = doing more with less. If I were the City board I'd make Everton an offer for Mikel Arteta it can't refuse, instead it looks like the club is obsessed with adding Gigi Buffon, which doesn't make too much sense. Is Buffon that appreciably better than Joe Hart? More specifically, the difference between keepers is more fractional than field players, right? ... City 1, Everton 1
* Stoke City v. Fulham -- Stoke is good at home. Fulham is poor on the road. I'm sticking with the pattern. ... Stoke 2, Fulham 1
* Sunderland v. West Brom -- To say this is a must-win game for both sides might be an understatement. Sunderland's 93-minutes of holding out against Manchester United might have been a mirage, though. ... Sunderland 1, West Brom 1
* Wigan Athletic v. Blackburn Rovers -- Probably the most glamorous fixture the Prem can produce. ... Wigan 1, Blackburn 0
* Tottenham v. Manchester United -- (Live, FSC, 12:30 p.m.) I like the Tottenham offensive chances, but its defensive? About as hopeful as the Auto Bailout in front of Senate Republicans. Little known fact, Cristiano Ronaldo and Arlen Specter are boooooyyyzzzzz. ... Spurs 1, Manchester United 3
Sunday
* Portsmouth v. Newcastle United -- (Live, Setanta, 8:30 a.m.) Buying, selling? Buying, selling? Probably two of the presumably most active January clubs on display at Fratton Park. You have to like Michael Owen in the English version of a "contract year." ... Portsmouth 1, Newcastle 2
* Chelsea v. West Ham -- (Live, FSC, 11 a.m.) Chelsea can start building on its new Stamford Bridge streak here. ... Chelsea 2, West Ham 0
Last week: 6-4
Season: 66-90
Labels: Prem Picks, Premier League, Soccer
Thank you Ashley Young.
No, not for jackin' it on a webcam. (Yeah, George Michael just called and he wants to duet.)
The thank you goes out for that trilling finish at the absolute death to give your Aston Villa a 3-2 away win against Everton at Ewood Park.
Up until that point there wasn't a whole not noteworthy to talk about from the weekend slate of games. The 'Big Four' won for a change, as Big Phil's men told Bolton it was 'clobberin' time.' (Quick side bar, if the 'Big Four' were the Fantastic Four, which teams would be which members. I'm not sure I can even answer the question since my thoughts on Mr. Fantastic are forever changed after the Venture Bros. pwned him the Colbert-voiced Prof. Impossible. Anyway, to venture a guess...Manchester United = Mr. Fantastic; Liverpool = Human Flame; Chelsea = The Thing and Arsenal = The Invisible Women. Okay, time to stop trying to make this questionable, at best, aside/metaphor.)
Survived my digital version of toxic gamma rays? Here's a decent metaphor for a change. The end of the Everton/Aston Villa match was like a basketball game where one team fights back from, say, a 20 point deficit, to tie it with about three seconds left -- that's Jolean Lescott's overhead Kilgon kick. Meanwhile, out from nowhere Young buries a half-court jumper to spoil the comeback.
Maybe that doesn't do it enough justice. Those wild final three minutes served as a reminded why people around the globe are wrapped up in this crazy little league.
I'm just very conflicted what to think of the Young, Agbonlahor, Laursen man-pile consider Mr. Young's web antics.
Jenga! -- Until Nemanja Vidic's late heroics, Manchester United was going to post the biggest shock result of the season, if it drew 0-0 with a reeling Sunderland. Yeah, it would have been a bigger surprise than Arsenal losing to Stoke or Hull City considering the Roy Keane scenario.
Watching the match, as Sunderland dug in and tried to keep it scoreless, it reminded me of Jenga. The blocks kept stacking higher, and higher and eventually you knew the Black Cats were going to tumble. It's a shame they lost in injury time, but then again when you're out-possessed 85-to-15 in the second half you have nothing to complain about.
Is it crazy to call Vidic the MVP of United? Maybe not.
Paging Marty -- Anyone out there a film buff? Does the name Ernest Borgnine do anything for you? He won an Oscar in the 1950s for Best Actor in a movie called "Marty."
Suffice to say, Liverpool right now is the Marty of the Premier League -- winning ugly. Don't let the 3-1 scoreline Saturday against Blackburn fool you. If not for a little late fortune, the Red are in second place.
Fernando Torres is a great player, no doubt. It's amazing that Rafa Benetiz and his cast of 1,000 faces would all hinge on the freckled Spaniard wunderkind. And selecting El Zhar ahead of Robbie Keane as a second-half sub speaks volumes.
Wonder if rich Uncles George and Tom will have Rafa a late Christmas present in January?
Other stuff -- Chelsea wins on the road, shocker. Nice goal by Deco. ... Arsenal hung on late and very easily could have drawn Wigan, but they didn't so credit to the Gunners. Though the way the announcers made it sound it was as if JD Drew was making his first return to Philadelphia the way the Emirates crowd reacted to Emmanuel Eboue coming off near the end. ... Djibril Cisse's blue mohawk would have been the worst sight of the week, if not for Ashley Young's handiwork. ... I guess Titus Bramble really is as bad as they say. ... Is it just me or do the underdogs seem to play better in the standalone, final game on Saturday?
Fantasy Team O' the Week -- Rod McCulloch's MacBoar RainDogs put up 68 thanks to Stevie G, Bosingwa and Jimmy Bullard. (Yeah, him.)
No, not for jackin' it on a webcam. (Yeah, George Michael just called and he wants to duet.)
The thank you goes out for that trilling finish at the absolute death to give your Aston Villa a 3-2 away win against Everton at Ewood Park.
Up until that point there wasn't a whole not noteworthy to talk about from the weekend slate of games. The 'Big Four' won for a change, as Big Phil's men told Bolton it was 'clobberin' time.' (Quick side bar, if the 'Big Four' were the Fantastic Four, which teams would be which members. I'm not sure I can even answer the question since my thoughts on Mr. Fantastic are forever changed after the Venture Bros. pwned him the Colbert-voiced Prof. Impossible. Anyway, to venture a guess...Manchester United = Mr. Fantastic; Liverpool = Human Flame; Chelsea = The Thing and Arsenal = The Invisible Women. Okay, time to stop trying to make this questionable, at best, aside/metaphor.)
Survived my digital version of toxic gamma rays? Here's a decent metaphor for a change. The end of the Everton/Aston Villa match was like a basketball game where one team fights back from, say, a 20 point deficit, to tie it with about three seconds left -- that's Jolean Lescott's overhead Kilgon kick. Meanwhile, out from nowhere Young buries a half-court jumper to spoil the comeback.
Maybe that doesn't do it enough justice. Those wild final three minutes served as a reminded why people around the globe are wrapped up in this crazy little league.
I'm just very conflicted what to think of the Young, Agbonlahor, Laursen man-pile consider Mr. Young's web antics.
Jenga! -- Until Nemanja Vidic's late heroics, Manchester United was going to post the biggest shock result of the season, if it drew 0-0 with a reeling Sunderland. Yeah, it would have been a bigger surprise than Arsenal losing to Stoke or Hull City considering the Roy Keane scenario.
Watching the match, as Sunderland dug in and tried to keep it scoreless, it reminded me of Jenga. The blocks kept stacking higher, and higher and eventually you knew the Black Cats were going to tumble. It's a shame they lost in injury time, but then again when you're out-possessed 85-to-15 in the second half you have nothing to complain about.
Is it crazy to call Vidic the MVP of United? Maybe not.
Paging Marty -- Anyone out there a film buff? Does the name Ernest Borgnine do anything for you? He won an Oscar in the 1950s for Best Actor in a movie called "Marty."
Suffice to say, Liverpool right now is the Marty of the Premier League -- winning ugly. Don't let the 3-1 scoreline Saturday against Blackburn fool you. If not for a little late fortune, the Red are in second place.
Fernando Torres is a great player, no doubt. It's amazing that Rafa Benetiz and his cast of 1,000 faces would all hinge on the freckled Spaniard wunderkind. And selecting El Zhar ahead of Robbie Keane as a second-half sub speaks volumes.
Wonder if rich Uncles George and Tom will have Rafa a late Christmas present in January?
Other stuff -- Chelsea wins on the road, shocker. Nice goal by Deco. ... Arsenal hung on late and very easily could have drawn Wigan, but they didn't so credit to the Gunners. Though the way the announcers made it sound it was as if JD Drew was making his first return to Philadelphia the way the Emirates crowd reacted to Emmanuel Eboue coming off near the end. ... Djibril Cisse's blue mohawk would have been the worst sight of the week, if not for Ashley Young's handiwork. ... I guess Titus Bramble really is as bad as they say. ... Is it just me or do the underdogs seem to play better in the standalone, final game on Saturday?
Fantasy Team O' the Week -- Rod McCulloch's MacBoar RainDogs put up 68 thanks to Stevie G, Bosingwa and Jimmy Bullard. (Yeah, him.)
Labels: Monday recaps, Premier League, Soccer
Let's channel my inner Jim Cramer and play "Buy buy buy" or "sellsellsellsell" with the 20 clubs in the Premier League a month ahead of the January transfer window. The wintry economic climate obviously will impact this a lot, but if we've learned one thing, it's that Premier League clubs no matter what never issue any financial restraint. That said, the mid-season splurging should be tempered because one little mistake and words like 'bankruptcy' start to creep in.
* West Brom (20th) -- Obviously the Baggies need help, but do they want to sink money into what could already be turning out to be a lost cause? There doesn't seem to be anyone on their roster worth plundering. Besides fringe Premier Leaguers or players on struggling Championship sides, hard to see many viable options for West Brom.
* Blackburn Rovers (19th) -- With every loss the odds on retaining Roque Santa Cruz drop more and more. You'd figure Paul Ince will try to buy something -- likely with the Santa Cruz profits -- but an impact player to keep the club in the top flight? A defender probably couldn't hurt.
* Sunderland (18th) -- God only knows at this point. If Sam Allardyce is appointed, expect wholesale changes as Sunderland takes a defensive approach to hunker down for PL survival. Everybody probably has a price tag hanging off them at this point.
* Newcastle United (17th) -- Obi Martins likely gone, probably to Everton. The Magpies would be well served to add a defensive midfield type to provide cover for Nicky Butt. As usual, it all hinges on Michael Owen's mood of the day.
* Tottenham (16th) -- As sure as the sun rises in the east, Mr. Redknapp will be wheeling and dealing at White Hart Lane. A goalie might be in the mix. Maybe. (Cough, cough Andrei Arshavin.)
* Manchester City (15th) -- Earlier this week the word was City wanted an 'international superstar. (Not sure if Santa Cruz fits the bill.) Who, exactly, wants to join in January with the club firmly mid-table? Yes, money does talk, but you're telling me Kaka is bailing on AC Milan right now? A candidate would have been a guy like Samuel Eto'o, but Barcelona is playing too well right now to sell. The right move would be to snare a top class holding midfielder. Expect daily rumors regardless of what happens.
* Stoke City (14th) -- Tony Pulis has built a side and more importantly an image of how they want to play. It might not be pretty, but it's working Buying for depth wouldn't hurt, but this club probably doesn't want to spend unless it survives the season in the top flight.
* West Ham United (13th) -- There could be some useful players to pillage if the club's Icelandic ownership continues to falter financially. A club is surely going to field a lowball offer for Luis Boa Morte, right? Considering this club doesn't even have a shirt sponsor, speculating on its transfer moves seems silly.
* Middlesbrough (12th) -- 'Boro came out of nowhere and made a club-record buy for Afonso Alves last January, so another splurge seems very unlikely. Instead, Gareth Southgate will again have to fit off bids for Stewart Downing and the rest of his good players. 'Boro would be wise to build and buy to solidify the midfield.
* Wigan Athletic (11th) -- Talk is that Steve Bruce is going to sell Emile Hesky and that wouldn't be a bad idea. It's like a trade in a fantasy league -- sell high. Most of the Wigan drama will be in June around Amir Zaki, who's cooled off considerably. I'd still expect Bruce to make a couple small, unsexy, unheralded moves to beef up the team.
* Fulham (10th) -- ROy Hodgson probably did all his shopping last January and over the summer. It's not out of the realm of possibility that a club swoops in for Jimmy Bullard, but he seems committed to Fulham for the time being. If I were running the club I'd try to offload Diomansy Kamara (and his chest hair) to club like West Brom to make some easy cash.
* Bolton (9th) -- Another club that did its business in the summer. The Johann Ellmander move is reaping dividends right now and looks like a smart move. If Allardyce does take over Sunderland he might pillage a couple of his old charges.
* Portsmouth (8th) -- All depends on Redknapp, who you'd think would grab a couple players from his old club -- all but Younes Kaboul. Portsmouth is another club teetering with financial solvency so it's unlikely they'll break out the checkbook, but if they do deal with Tottenham players might come back in their direction as part of any deal.
* Everton (7th) -- Need a striker, but if anything Moyes has been prudent and won't jeopardize the club's long term finances for a quick fix.
* Hull City (6th) -- The Tigers could always use some more players, but why would Phil Brown want to risk the chemistry he's built. It's remarkable how the players he brought in like Geovanni and Daniel Cousin have gelled with the old members.
* Aston Villa (5th) -- Villa's first XI is about as solid as they come. The team should look for some bargains or younger players for the future. They'll need something to maintain a prolonged UEFA Cup run and challenge for fourth.
* Arsenal (4th) -- The win over Chelsea probably gets the pressure off Wenger to buy a proven player, namely a striker. The return of Eduardo is essentially as good as a transfer.
* Manchester United (3rd) -- Sir Alex has already pounced on Serbian winger Zoran Tošić. Don't discount this move, both Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra came to Old Trafford in relatively quiet January moves.
* Chelsea (2nd) -- Will they or won't they? What exactly do you buy the team that already has everything? Could Phil Scolari push for one of his ex-Brasil charges? Or how about a guy from Portugal like Joao Moutino? And what about the persistent rumors of Didier Drogba bolting? Or Michael Essien? Chelsea is going to do something one way the other, with another true forward likely the biggest need. Could Chelsea make an offer financially threatened Valencia can't refuse for David Villa? It could happen.
* Liverpool (1st) -- You know, if given the chance, Rafa Bentiz would like to spend a la the '12 Days of Christmas' except it being the '31 Days of January.' And instead of turtle doves and brass rings it would be Spanish midfielders and South American wingbacks. How much money do the American owners have to spend? And how serious is the Fernando Torres injury? David N'Gog isn't winning you the Premier League.
Saturday
* Fulham v. Manchester City -- (Live, Setanta, 7:30 a.m.) So let's figure this out. Fulham splurged on Andy Johnson for about $15 million in the summer, while City made headlines spending close to $55 million on Robinho. Well, for about $40 million less, Fulham are actually two points better in the table. Maybe that's a misleading stat since Fulham are currently 10th in the table because of a suddenly stout defense (Breda Hangeland for Best XI!), which has only allowed 11 goals -- topped by Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United. Now, with only a month before the transfer window open up again, City's fortunes could go two ways -- 1) players looking over their shoulders until the 'international superstar' arrives or 2) players dig in and fight for their spots and raise their level of play. ... Fulham 1, City 1
* Arsenal v. Wigan Athletic -- (Live, FSC, 10 a.m.) Not to sound like Howlin' Pelle Almqvist, but "Hate to say I told you so." Okay, again a little unfair. Arsenal beats Chelsea then loses to Burnley in the Carling Cup, albeit with a cast of characters that probably won't sniff a Premier League pitch any time soon. That means the real test if Arsenal might have turned the corner comes this weekend when it hosts Wigan at the Emirates. Will we get another stinker, flat showing or is all the lip service after beating Chelsea going to stand up? Even at their best, the Latics probably don't have enough to stop the Gunners. ... Arsenal 2, Wigan 0
* Blackburn Rovers v. Liverpool -- (Live, Setanta, 9:30 a.m.) It doesn't need to be said that Liverpool blew a yuge, yoooooooge, chance to show it was for real in the title race with a relatively listless showing against West Ham on Monday. On top of that, we find out Fernando Torres is out until 2009. Good stuff. Lucky for them they get Blackburn this weekend. Also, is it just me or does Steven Gerrard look like he went from about 28 to 48 overnight. Look at the lines in his face, it's like he spent a night playing poker at Kramer's apartment. ... Blackburn 1, Liverpool 2
* Bolton v. Chelsea -- (Live, Setanta Xtra, 10 a.m.) Fox Soccer's Jorge Moran argues Chelsea in in crisis. His points are valid, but let's not forget Chelsea had one dodgy run of form last season during the Mourinho/Grant transition. Of course that run left the title open to Manchester United, which itself sputtered down the stretch. Maybe lost in Moran's argument is that it seems, to me, that Petr Cech has lost a little bit. He's never been the same since the collison with Stephen Hunt. Bolton has been the league's hottest club, winning four out of five matches in Novemeber. Still, Chelsea usually owns Bolton, so obviously something has to give at the Reebook in the weekend's best match. ... Bolton 0, Chelsea 2
* Hull City v. Middlesbrough -- If you're a fan of the New York Mets, you may like this one featuring the orange-and-black stripes of Hull and the blue-and-black stripes of Middlesbrough's away shirt. Sorry, just don't feel like talking on the latest Stewart Downing transfer rumor. ... Hull 1, Boro 1
* Newcastle United v. Stoke City -- A month ago who would have thought Newcastle would the stabler club compared to Sunderland. That, again, might be perception since both clubs sit on 15 points. Somehow Stoke figures to stick around based mainly on home form, but that -10 goal difference is scary. This seems like a match Newcastle should win, but we know what happens when we start thinking like that. .. Newcastle 0, Stoke City 0
* Manchester United v. Sunderland -- (Live, FSC, 12:30 p.m.) Sir Alex Ferguson might had some sympathy in his heart for Sunderland if his old sheriff Roy Keane was patrolling the touchline. There's always the chance the nutjobs like El Hadij Diouf, Pascal Chimbonda, etc. relish the chance to play for somebody not named Keane, but not at Old Trafford. Bottom line, Ronaldo chose the right match to get a red card suspension. ... United 3, Sunderland 0
Sunday
* West Brom v. Portsmouth -- (Live, Setanta, 10 a.m.) If West Brom is ever going to win a game, this is its chance as Portsmouth comes to the Hawthornes after being dumped out of the UEFA Cup on Thursday via David James screw-up. ... West Brom 2, Portsmouth 1
* Everton v. Aston Villa -- (Live, FSC, 11 a.m.) They ought to erect a statue of David Moyes outside Goodison Park if David Moyes can keep the Toffees in the top half of the table without any healthy strikers. (Paging Mikel Arteta!) Villa is new Everton, as in, the team that's most likely to crash the top four. Still, Villa despite a nice record and position in the table seems to be missing a little something that's going to push them past Arsenal for the final Champions League spot. ... Everton 0, Villa 2
Monday
* West Ham United v. Tottenham -- (Live, Setanta, 3 p.m.) Harry Redknapp, Harry Redknapp, Harry Redknapp, Harry Redknapp, Harry Redknapp, Harry Redknapp. ... If you're watching this one, expect that name to be uttered about as much as Plaxico Burress on ESPN this week. Factoring everything, this is the proverbial coin-flip match if there ever was one. ... West Ham 1, Tottenham 1
Last week: 5-5
Season: 60-86
* West Brom (20th) -- Obviously the Baggies need help, but do they want to sink money into what could already be turning out to be a lost cause? There doesn't seem to be anyone on their roster worth plundering. Besides fringe Premier Leaguers or players on struggling Championship sides, hard to see many viable options for West Brom.
* Blackburn Rovers (19th) -- With every loss the odds on retaining Roque Santa Cruz drop more and more. You'd figure Paul Ince will try to buy something -- likely with the Santa Cruz profits -- but an impact player to keep the club in the top flight? A defender probably couldn't hurt.
* Sunderland (18th) -- God only knows at this point. If Sam Allardyce is appointed, expect wholesale changes as Sunderland takes a defensive approach to hunker down for PL survival. Everybody probably has a price tag hanging off them at this point.
* Newcastle United (17th) -- Obi Martins likely gone, probably to Everton. The Magpies would be well served to add a defensive midfield type to provide cover for Nicky Butt. As usual, it all hinges on Michael Owen's mood of the day.
* Tottenham (16th) -- As sure as the sun rises in the east, Mr. Redknapp will be wheeling and dealing at White Hart Lane. A goalie might be in the mix. Maybe. (Cough, cough Andrei Arshavin.)
* Manchester City (15th) -- Earlier this week the word was City wanted an 'international superstar. (Not sure if Santa Cruz fits the bill.) Who, exactly, wants to join in January with the club firmly mid-table? Yes, money does talk, but you're telling me Kaka is bailing on AC Milan right now? A candidate would have been a guy like Samuel Eto'o, but Barcelona is playing too well right now to sell. The right move would be to snare a top class holding midfielder. Expect daily rumors regardless of what happens.
* Stoke City (14th) -- Tony Pulis has built a side and more importantly an image of how they want to play. It might not be pretty, but it's working Buying for depth wouldn't hurt, but this club probably doesn't want to spend unless it survives the season in the top flight.
* West Ham United (13th) -- There could be some useful players to pillage if the club's Icelandic ownership continues to falter financially. A club is surely going to field a lowball offer for Luis Boa Morte, right? Considering this club doesn't even have a shirt sponsor, speculating on its transfer moves seems silly.
* Middlesbrough (12th) -- 'Boro came out of nowhere and made a club-record buy for Afonso Alves last January, so another splurge seems very unlikely. Instead, Gareth Southgate will again have to fit off bids for Stewart Downing and the rest of his good players. 'Boro would be wise to build and buy to solidify the midfield.
* Wigan Athletic (11th) -- Talk is that Steve Bruce is going to sell Emile Hesky and that wouldn't be a bad idea. It's like a trade in a fantasy league -- sell high. Most of the Wigan drama will be in June around Amir Zaki, who's cooled off considerably. I'd still expect Bruce to make a couple small, unsexy, unheralded moves to beef up the team.
* Fulham (10th) -- ROy Hodgson probably did all his shopping last January and over the summer. It's not out of the realm of possibility that a club swoops in for Jimmy Bullard, but he seems committed to Fulham for the time being. If I were running the club I'd try to offload Diomansy Kamara (and his chest hair) to club like West Brom to make some easy cash.
* Bolton (9th) -- Another club that did its business in the summer. The Johann Ellmander move is reaping dividends right now and looks like a smart move. If Allardyce does take over Sunderland he might pillage a couple of his old charges.
* Portsmouth (8th) -- All depends on Redknapp, who you'd think would grab a couple players from his old club -- all but Younes Kaboul. Portsmouth is another club teetering with financial solvency so it's unlikely they'll break out the checkbook, but if they do deal with Tottenham players might come back in their direction as part of any deal.
* Everton (7th) -- Need a striker, but if anything Moyes has been prudent and won't jeopardize the club's long term finances for a quick fix.
* Hull City (6th) -- The Tigers could always use some more players, but why would Phil Brown want to risk the chemistry he's built. It's remarkable how the players he brought in like Geovanni and Daniel Cousin have gelled with the old members.
* Aston Villa (5th) -- Villa's first XI is about as solid as they come. The team should look for some bargains or younger players for the future. They'll need something to maintain a prolonged UEFA Cup run and challenge for fourth.
* Arsenal (4th) -- The win over Chelsea probably gets the pressure off Wenger to buy a proven player, namely a striker. The return of Eduardo is essentially as good as a transfer.
* Manchester United (3rd) -- Sir Alex has already pounced on Serbian winger Zoran Tošić. Don't discount this move, both Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra came to Old Trafford in relatively quiet January moves.
* Chelsea (2nd) -- Will they or won't they? What exactly do you buy the team that already has everything? Could Phil Scolari push for one of his ex-Brasil charges? Or how about a guy from Portugal like Joao Moutino? And what about the persistent rumors of Didier Drogba bolting? Or Michael Essien? Chelsea is going to do something one way the other, with another true forward likely the biggest need. Could Chelsea make an offer financially threatened Valencia can't refuse for David Villa? It could happen.
* Liverpool (1st) -- You know, if given the chance, Rafa Bentiz would like to spend a la the '12 Days of Christmas' except it being the '31 Days of January.' And instead of turtle doves and brass rings it would be Spanish midfielders and South American wingbacks. How much money do the American owners have to spend? And how serious is the Fernando Torres injury? David N'Gog isn't winning you the Premier League.
Saturday
* Fulham v. Manchester City -- (Live, Setanta, 7:30 a.m.) So let's figure this out. Fulham splurged on Andy Johnson for about $15 million in the summer, while City made headlines spending close to $55 million on Robinho. Well, for about $40 million less, Fulham are actually two points better in the table. Maybe that's a misleading stat since Fulham are currently 10th in the table because of a suddenly stout defense (Breda Hangeland for Best XI!), which has only allowed 11 goals -- topped by Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United. Now, with only a month before the transfer window open up again, City's fortunes could go two ways -- 1) players looking over their shoulders until the 'international superstar' arrives or 2) players dig in and fight for their spots and raise their level of play. ... Fulham 1, City 1
* Arsenal v. Wigan Athletic -- (Live, FSC, 10 a.m.) Not to sound like Howlin' Pelle Almqvist, but "Hate to say I told you so." Okay, again a little unfair. Arsenal beats Chelsea then loses to Burnley in the Carling Cup, albeit with a cast of characters that probably won't sniff a Premier League pitch any time soon. That means the real test if Arsenal might have turned the corner comes this weekend when it hosts Wigan at the Emirates. Will we get another stinker, flat showing or is all the lip service after beating Chelsea going to stand up? Even at their best, the Latics probably don't have enough to stop the Gunners. ... Arsenal 2, Wigan 0
* Blackburn Rovers v. Liverpool -- (Live, Setanta, 9:30 a.m.) It doesn't need to be said that Liverpool blew a yuge, yoooooooge, chance to show it was for real in the title race with a relatively listless showing against West Ham on Monday. On top of that, we find out Fernando Torres is out until 2009. Good stuff. Lucky for them they get Blackburn this weekend. Also, is it just me or does Steven Gerrard look like he went from about 28 to 48 overnight. Look at the lines in his face, it's like he spent a night playing poker at Kramer's apartment. ... Blackburn 1, Liverpool 2
* Bolton v. Chelsea -- (Live, Setanta Xtra, 10 a.m.) Fox Soccer's Jorge Moran argues Chelsea in in crisis. His points are valid, but let's not forget Chelsea had one dodgy run of form last season during the Mourinho/Grant transition. Of course that run left the title open to Manchester United, which itself sputtered down the stretch. Maybe lost in Moran's argument is that it seems, to me, that Petr Cech has lost a little bit. He's never been the same since the collison with Stephen Hunt. Bolton has been the league's hottest club, winning four out of five matches in Novemeber. Still, Chelsea usually owns Bolton, so obviously something has to give at the Reebook in the weekend's best match. ... Bolton 0, Chelsea 2
* Hull City v. Middlesbrough -- If you're a fan of the New York Mets, you may like this one featuring the orange-and-black stripes of Hull and the blue-and-black stripes of Middlesbrough's away shirt. Sorry, just don't feel like talking on the latest Stewart Downing transfer rumor. ... Hull 1, Boro 1
* Newcastle United v. Stoke City -- A month ago who would have thought Newcastle would the stabler club compared to Sunderland. That, again, might be perception since both clubs sit on 15 points. Somehow Stoke figures to stick around based mainly on home form, but that -10 goal difference is scary. This seems like a match Newcastle should win, but we know what happens when we start thinking like that. .. Newcastle 0, Stoke City 0
* Manchester United v. Sunderland -- (Live, FSC, 12:30 p.m.) Sir Alex Ferguson might had some sympathy in his heart for Sunderland if his old sheriff Roy Keane was patrolling the touchline. There's always the chance the nutjobs like El Hadij Diouf, Pascal Chimbonda, etc. relish the chance to play for somebody not named Keane, but not at Old Trafford. Bottom line, Ronaldo chose the right match to get a red card suspension. ... United 3, Sunderland 0
Sunday
* West Brom v. Portsmouth -- (Live, Setanta, 10 a.m.) If West Brom is ever going to win a game, this is its chance as Portsmouth comes to the Hawthornes after being dumped out of the UEFA Cup on Thursday via David James screw-up. ... West Brom 2, Portsmouth 1
* Everton v. Aston Villa -- (Live, FSC, 11 a.m.) They ought to erect a statue of David Moyes outside Goodison Park if David Moyes can keep the Toffees in the top half of the table without any healthy strikers. (Paging Mikel Arteta!) Villa is new Everton, as in, the team that's most likely to crash the top four. Still, Villa despite a nice record and position in the table seems to be missing a little something that's going to push them past Arsenal for the final Champions League spot. ... Everton 0, Villa 2
Monday
* West Ham United v. Tottenham -- (Live, Setanta, 3 p.m.) Harry Redknapp, Harry Redknapp, Harry Redknapp, Harry Redknapp, Harry Redknapp, Harry Redknapp. ... If you're watching this one, expect that name to be uttered about as much as Plaxico Burress on ESPN this week. Factoring everything, this is the proverbial coin-flip match if there ever was one. ... West Ham 1, Tottenham 1
Last week: 5-5
Season: 60-86
Labels: Prem Picks, Premier League, Soccer
"It was a big win. In the last 20 minutes we showed a lot of character and discipline so the whole team deserve a big compliment." -- Robin Van Persie to Sky Sports after his two goals down Chelsea for Arsenal Sunday.
“We have beaten Man United, we have beaten Chelsea away and I believe that shows we have potential, we have character, fantastic character in this side." -- Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger after the match.
Yeah...whoo...hoo! Yay Arsenal! Hurrah! You're the best!
With the sarcasm temporarily on hold, there's one thing Arsenal is indeed and that's a soccer/football cocktease. There I said it. The Gunners are that chick in the Ugg boots and hot pants in your college dorm that just wants to be "friends", even if she spends all her spare time "studying" in your room, but when it comes down to "business" is no where to be found. (Enough quote, unquotes for ya?)
Let's not take anything away from a nice 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge, a result that materialized out of nowhere Sunday. It's nice that Arsenal are now in fourth place, only seven behind Chelsea (and temporarily) Liverpool. So yeah, the Gunners are "back" in the race.
You know what would truly be impressive? Arsenal beating Wigan Athletic next weekend at home. Why? Because just as Arsenal has taken the full six points from worldwide powers Manchester United and Chelsea, it's taken a ZERO from promoted Stoke City and Hull Ciy. (Throw enough cold water on those hot-firing cannons yet?)
There's no need to get into the controversial offside call on van Persie's first goal. Did it bounce of Ashley Cole, or as Robbie Earle incredulously insisted "a Chelsea shirt"? (As bad a job as by any typical North American commentator.) From the overhead view the Dutchman looked yards adrift of the mythical line. You know what, if it did bounce off Cole, it couldn't have happened to a better guy. There's no sympathy in these parts for Chelsea -- which never found any type of cohesion Sunday.
Really, when Chelsea went down a goal with almost half an hour left, where was the sustained pressure? Where was the build-up play and incisive passes and or shots? Every Chelsea player seemed to want to take it on his shoulders and launch off target lobs at Manuel Almunia's goal from distance. During it's rise to the upper echelon of world teams, the Blues hallmark have been a comraderie, a fighting spirit, an us-against-the-world Raison d'être.
Call it one bad spell, perhaps, but that's exactly what kept the title away from the Blues last season. Can Liverpool show some guts and take the lead?
Again let's get back to Arsenal. This isn't just to be a snarky, snide asshole behind the keyboard to ruffle feathers of Gooners across the Nets. These results are merely a mirage. We've been down the this road before, deep down telling ourselves this is the time the young Gunners turn the page and become the elite fighting side Monsieur Wenger has envisioned after a nice glass of chardonnay.
There's a good chance I could be wrong. Maybe the William Gallas blow-up and ensuing appointment of Cesc Fabregas as captain is the turning point Arsenal supporters have longed for. Maybe Samir Nasri is the new Robert Pires and can chip in 10 goals from the midfield over the course of the season. Maybe Johann Djourou is the long last answer next to Kolo Toure in defense.
Me, I'm not buying it. Though I haven't read it, the book "A False Spring" by Pat Jordan pops into my mind, except in this case it might read "A False Winter." If that doesn't make any sense (which it may not) how about, "The Boy Who Cried Wolf"?
I will slap you in the mouth -- To Howard Webb, nobody is above the law, not even you Cristiano Ronaldo. In case you missed it, the Portugeezer was sent off in the second half of Manchester United's 1-0 win at Manchester City for a hand ball when he rose to try hit a free kick, except decided to slap the ball away instead. Sir Alex Ferguson claimed he was trying to protect his oh, so beautiful face. (Think Sideshow Luke Perry being shot of a cannon.) Whatever, it was Ronaldo's second yellow card.
At least it gave the Manchester Derby a talking point, because on the field it was pretty hum-drum. Wayne Rooney scored his 100th league goal via the easiest tap-in of his life.
United dominated right up until Mark Hughes decided to throw every forward at the very end, needing a Patrice Evra clearance off the line to preserve the draw. Sadly, we were inches from Rooney scoring a 50-yard goal when he caught City keeper Joe Hart late to get back after he ran up for a corner kick. Hart dove backward just at the last second and even had the balls to laugh about it. Good for him.
Other stuff -- Of the three teams currently in the bottom three -- West Brom, Blackburn and Sunderland -- two probably seem a good bet to make the drop. West Brom just can't get anything going after Kevin Phillips decided to stay in the warm busom of the Championship and move to Midlands rival Birmingham City. Blackburn have been strip mined of everything, with Roque Santa Cruz likely next and Sunderland somehow thought buying Tottenham's surplus parts was a good idea. You'd like Roy Keane can navigate the Black Cats to safety, but it seems unlikely he'll stick around past this season. ... How about a hand for Bolton, which smoked Sunderland 4-1 Saturday. That's three wins out of four for everybody's favorite preseason relegation fodder. ... With Yakubu out for the season, with Everton bite the bullet and sign a guy like Klass-Jan Huntelaar next month? How about Kenny Cooper? ... With a game still in hand against Fulham, Manchester United are only five back of Chelsea, so that's probably the biggest story of the weekend. This has happened without Dmitar Berbatov realling getting uncorked, too. ... Finally my best suggestion, ever. Since West Ham doesn't have a shirt sponsor and Iron Maiden bassist Steve Harris is such a big Irons fan that he has the club logo on his bass, why not get "Eddie" to sponsor the shirts for the rest of the season. And no, this doesn't mean Craig Bellamy would have to change his shirt number to 666.
Best name ever --Miroslav Stoch. Sorry pal, but you're Butters going forward, should you ever crack another Chelsea lineup. Let's just hope Stoch's father never cruised the Colorado bath house scene. Hamburgers.
Fantasy team o' the week -- Rob Varak's Snapjack FC takes top prize this week thanks to RvP and Mikel Arteta. Bravo to you sir.
In closing, check out this pretty sweet goal I notched with Andre Bikey of Reading in FIFA 09. That upper 90 holmes.
“We have beaten Man United, we have beaten Chelsea away and I believe that shows we have potential, we have character, fantastic character in this side." -- Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger after the match.
Yeah...whoo...hoo! Yay Arsenal! Hurrah! You're the best!
With the sarcasm temporarily on hold, there's one thing Arsenal is indeed and that's a soccer/football cocktease. There I said it. The Gunners are that chick in the Ugg boots and hot pants in your college dorm that just wants to be "friends", even if she spends all her spare time "studying" in your room, but when it comes down to "business" is no where to be found. (Enough quote, unquotes for ya?)
Let's not take anything away from a nice 2-1 win at Stamford Bridge, a result that materialized out of nowhere Sunday. It's nice that Arsenal are now in fourth place, only seven behind Chelsea (and temporarily) Liverpool. So yeah, the Gunners are "back" in the race.
You know what would truly be impressive? Arsenal beating Wigan Athletic next weekend at home. Why? Because just as Arsenal has taken the full six points from worldwide powers Manchester United and Chelsea, it's taken a ZERO from promoted Stoke City and Hull Ciy. (Throw enough cold water on those hot-firing cannons yet?)
There's no need to get into the controversial offside call on van Persie's first goal. Did it bounce of Ashley Cole, or as Robbie Earle incredulously insisted "a Chelsea shirt"? (As bad a job as by any typical North American commentator.) From the overhead view the Dutchman looked yards adrift of the mythical line. You know what, if it did bounce off Cole, it couldn't have happened to a better guy. There's no sympathy in these parts for Chelsea -- which never found any type of cohesion Sunday.
Really, when Chelsea went down a goal with almost half an hour left, where was the sustained pressure? Where was the build-up play and incisive passes and or shots? Every Chelsea player seemed to want to take it on his shoulders and launch off target lobs at Manuel Almunia's goal from distance. During it's rise to the upper echelon of world teams, the Blues hallmark have been a comraderie, a fighting spirit, an us-against-the-world Raison d'être.
Call it one bad spell, perhaps, but that's exactly what kept the title away from the Blues last season. Can Liverpool show some guts and take the lead?
Again let's get back to Arsenal. This isn't just to be a snarky, snide asshole behind the keyboard to ruffle feathers of Gooners across the Nets. These results are merely a mirage. We've been down the this road before, deep down telling ourselves this is the time the young Gunners turn the page and become the elite fighting side Monsieur Wenger has envisioned after a nice glass of chardonnay.
There's a good chance I could be wrong. Maybe the William Gallas blow-up and ensuing appointment of Cesc Fabregas as captain is the turning point Arsenal supporters have longed for. Maybe Samir Nasri is the new Robert Pires and can chip in 10 goals from the midfield over the course of the season. Maybe Johann Djourou is the long last answer next to Kolo Toure in defense.
Me, I'm not buying it. Though I haven't read it, the book "A False Spring" by Pat Jordan pops into my mind, except in this case it might read "A False Winter." If that doesn't make any sense (which it may not) how about, "The Boy Who Cried Wolf"?
I will slap you in the mouth -- To Howard Webb, nobody is above the law, not even you Cristiano Ronaldo. In case you missed it, the Portugeezer was sent off in the second half of Manchester United's 1-0 win at Manchester City for a hand ball when he rose to try hit a free kick, except decided to slap the ball away instead. Sir Alex Ferguson claimed he was trying to protect his oh, so beautiful face. (Think Sideshow Luke Perry being shot of a cannon.) Whatever, it was Ronaldo's second yellow card.
At least it gave the Manchester Derby a talking point, because on the field it was pretty hum-drum. Wayne Rooney scored his 100th league goal via the easiest tap-in of his life.
United dominated right up until Mark Hughes decided to throw every forward at the very end, needing a Patrice Evra clearance off the line to preserve the draw. Sadly, we were inches from Rooney scoring a 50-yard goal when he caught City keeper Joe Hart late to get back after he ran up for a corner kick. Hart dove backward just at the last second and even had the balls to laugh about it. Good for him.
Other stuff -- Of the three teams currently in the bottom three -- West Brom, Blackburn and Sunderland -- two probably seem a good bet to make the drop. West Brom just can't get anything going after Kevin Phillips decided to stay in the warm busom of the Championship and move to Midlands rival Birmingham City. Blackburn have been strip mined of everything, with Roque Santa Cruz likely next and Sunderland somehow thought buying Tottenham's surplus parts was a good idea. You'd like Roy Keane can navigate the Black Cats to safety, but it seems unlikely he'll stick around past this season. ... How about a hand for Bolton, which smoked Sunderland 4-1 Saturday. That's three wins out of four for everybody's favorite preseason relegation fodder. ... With Yakubu out for the season, with Everton bite the bullet and sign a guy like Klass-Jan Huntelaar next month? How about Kenny Cooper? ... With a game still in hand against Fulham, Manchester United are only five back of Chelsea, so that's probably the biggest story of the weekend. This has happened without Dmitar Berbatov realling getting uncorked, too. ... Finally my best suggestion, ever. Since West Ham doesn't have a shirt sponsor and Iron Maiden bassist Steve Harris is such a big Irons fan that he has the club logo on his bass, why not get "Eddie" to sponsor the shirts for the rest of the season. And no, this doesn't mean Craig Bellamy would have to change his shirt number to 666.
Best name ever --Miroslav Stoch. Sorry pal, but you're Butters going forward, should you ever crack another Chelsea lineup. Let's just hope Stoch's father never cruised the Colorado bath house scene. Hamburgers.
Fantasy team o' the week -- Rob Varak's Snapjack FC takes top prize this week thanks to RvP and Mikel Arteta. Bravo to you sir.
In closing, check out this pretty sweet goal I notched with Andre Bikey of Reading in FIFA 09. That upper 90 holmes.
Labels: FIFA 09, Monday recaps, Premier League, Soccer
