The Beta Blog

More of the Beta Blogger

2009-11-07T15:42:00.002Z

No, I haven't forgotten about you all. I'm just, well, busy....ish. If you do need a shot of sporting satire each and every week - and for your sake I hope you don't share my addiction - then you can still read my dedications to the following site www.free-bets-uk.net/sports-betting-review.php

NFL Weeks 6: Picks

2009-10-18T20:50:00.003+01:00

Texans @ Bengals

Lions @ Packers

Rams @ Jaguars

Ravens @ Vikings

Giants @ Saints

Browns @ Steelers

Panthers @ Buccaneers

Chiefs @ Redskins

Eagles @ Raiders

Cardinals @ Seahawks

Titans @ Patriots

Bills @ Jets

Bear @ Falcons

Broncos @ Chargers

Season so far; 58-18

NFL Week 5: Picks

2009-10-11T12:59:00.004+01:00

Browns @ Bills

Patriots @ Broncos

Steelers @ Lions

Colts @ Titans

Cowboys @ Chiefs

Vikings @ Rams

Raiders @ Giants

Buccaneers @ Eagles

Texans @ Cardinals

Falcons @ 49ers

Jaguars @ Seahawks

Redskins @ Panthers

Bengals @ Ravens

Jets @ Dolphins

Season so far; 47-15

NFL Week 4: Picks

2009-10-03T22:24:00.006+01:00

Lions @ Bears - I guess we now have to hold the Lions to the same standards as the rest of the league now that we know that they can win a game. They won one, they don't win this one, they will win another one.

Bengals @ Browns - Things worse than being a Browns fan: Godfather Part III, Hangovers that make you literally try and pull the alcohol out of your brain, reality TV, family holidays after the age of 13, text messages that use the number '8' as anything other than a number and the Jonas Brothers. That's it.

Raiders @ Texans - Things worse than being a Raiders fan: any sort of cheap, tasteless meat, people who claim to be from Persia (you might as well say Mordor), the end of the third Lord of the Rings film, overpriced nightclub beer, seeing your ex when you haven't made it home and look like sh*t and...being a Browns fan. That's it.

Seahawks @ Colts - I suppose Jim Mora will blame his punter, DB coach or dog walker for losing this one. Who do I blame? Why, thanks for asking. I blame Brett Favre...or Michael Crabtree...or...Al Davis? Come on. One of them surely.

Titans @ Jags - The Titans are the best 0-3 team in the league. The Jags are 1-2. So Jacksonville's better. Well, we'll know after Sunday won't we.

Giants @ Chiefs - Do you remember when Arrowhead was one of the hardest places to travel to in the NFL?

Ravens @ Patriots - Two good teams. Two good coaches. Two good QB's. Two reasons why the Pats will win; a. they're at home. b. I told you so. That's literally all I've got. Honestly.

Bucs @ Redskins - A playoff of the two most bizarre coaching hires since Mike Bassett became England's fictional manager. Low on points and quality and excitement and interest and...

Bills @ Dolphins - I won't rip T.O for his outfit; if you're actions don't do the talking and you're mouth won't then that's all the expression you've really got.

Jets @ Saints -Ok, so Mark 'The Sanchise' Sanchez has a better nickname than I could come up with for Drew 'The Master-Keys' Brees but that doesn't mean he'll be quite as cosy this week as he has been as of late. You're going down Sanchez...

Cowboys @ Broncos - So, if Denver is 3-0 behind Kyle Orton then they'd be at least 14-0 with Jay Cutler right?

Rams @ 49ers - Just. Don't. Really. Care.

Chargers @ Steelers - San Diego are 0-13 in Pittsburgh, have been slowly starters under Norv in both year's he has coached the team, have a less than 100% LT, couldn't run on the Steelers with Darren Sproles in the playoffs last year, have lost Jamal Williams for the year and have seen little from (former?) stars Merriman and Cromartie. Yet everybody is backing them. Mistake.

Packers @ Vikings - How exactly do you pronounce that guys name? Favor? Favrey? Faaaaaaaave? Doesn't really matter, can't imagine he'll get much face time.

Season so far; 36-12

NFL Week 3: Thoughts and Notes

2009-10-03T12:37:00.001+01:00

The Brett Favre edition!

The current Minnesota Viking QB, almost 40-something, NFL legend, man’s man and undisputed champion script writer decided it was time to add to his legacy with some late-game heroics/antics in defeating the 49ers and leading the Vikings to a 3-0 record heading into the most hotly anticipated game of the season so far; Packers @ Vikings. Aaron Rodgers, the Packers 1st round draft pick back in the 2005 season (and don’t get me started on him falling to no.22, that’s 21 spots lower than Alex Smith and behind Troy Williamson and Mike Williams amongst others - terrible top-10 if you care to take a look but I digress…) will always be inextricably linked to his former mentor and fellow Packer Favre and this will be their first meeting. I could say more. I don’t need to. Everyone else has done it for me. Good, lets me get back to watching some College Football.

Randy Moss has 9 100+ yard receiving games in the last 20 games Tom Brady has started.
Tony Gonzalez was held to just 1 catch for 16 yards against the Pats, his lowest receiving totals since the start of the 2006 season.

Tampa Bay didn’t gain a 1st down until almost 40 minutes into their game with the Giants. Let’s throw out some stats from this ‘game;’ the Bucs QB’s went a combined 11 or 26 for 58 yards. The Giants had 28 1st downs to the Bucs 5. The Giants went 10/16 on 3rd down, the Bucs were 0/9. The Giants outgained the Bucs 397-86 in total offense, 226-28 on the ground and 43:38-16:22 in time of possession.

The Bucs still haven’t kicked a successful field goal thus far this year.

Mark Sanchez is the first QB since the 1970 merger to win his first 3 games. The Browns could have picked him at no.5 in the draft, instead they traded down twice and got Rookie C Alex Mack, DE Kenyon Coleman (0 sacks, 12 tackles), SS Abram Elam (0 INT’s, 1 sack, 26 tackles), RB James Davis (9 attempts, 15 yards) and QB Brett Ratliff (0 minutes but may get a chance soon the way things are headed) Ouch.

Kerry Collins didn’t complete any of his last 13 passes.

Ryan Mouton, the rookie Titans kick returner and DB, has 4 fumbles on just 7 kick and punt returns this year and helped the Jets get off to their fast start in Tennessee’s latest loss.
The Chiefs were penalised the same number of yards on offense (90) as Matt Cassel was able to throw for.

Brett Favre passed for 301 yards against the 49ers, after just 265 yards passing in their opening two games. He is the first quarterback in the Brad Childress era to throw for more than 300 yards. Greg Lewis, Favre’s dramatic late-game recipient, had not had a catch this season before the game winning catch with 2 seconds to go.

Big games for this week; Titans @ Jags (in an early win or bust matchup), Ravens @ Patriots, Cowboys @ Broncos, Chargers @ Steelers (huge game for Pittsburgh), Jets @ Saints and…Favrebowl - This time its personal. The return of the gunslinger. 2009: A Favre Odyssey. Mutiny on the Bay. Rebel without a cause. Wait, that’s an actual movie. Never seen James Dean and Brett Favre in the same place. Can’t imagine anybody has. Where was I? Packers @ Vikings…Monday Night Football.

Vernon Davis, the 4th year phenom TE, had 7 catches for 96 yards and his best game as a pro.
Pierre Thomas, who ran for 126 yards on just 14 carries against the Bills, has a 5.1 yard per carry career average. Team mate Reggie Bush has a 3.7 ypc average and still only has 1 100+ yard rushing game in his career, when he ran for 126 yards v the Giants in his rookie season.

The Cardinals had 21 1st downs against the Colts, 0 rushing the football and only 24 total yards on the ground. They have the least rushing attempts in the league (57) after 3 weeks and the most fumbles (9), that’s a fumble almost every 6 touches.

Cedric Benson leads the league in rushing attempts with 66 and has the 3rd most yards (293).

Willis McGahee has 6 total TD’s. That’s more than 10 teams.

Marc Bulger has 2 games with a 100+ passer rating since the start of the 2007 season.

Kyle Orton has a 137.5 QB rating in the 4th quarter, the best in the league.

Note to Jim Mora Jr: Olindo Mare kicked FG’s from 37, 39, 46 and 46 yards and provided 13 of your team’s 19 points. You didn’t lose because of your kicker. You lost because you couldn’t turn FG’s into TD’s.

The Lions won. Seriously.

Shaun Rogers, the colossal Browns DT, is a combined 35-96 on teams he’s played for since entering the league in 2001. Rough deal to get drafted by the Lions and then traded to the Browns. And people wonder why he doesn’t always appear to give 100%?

Best division in football? The NFC East and North are both 8-4 while the NFC West is only 4-8.

JaMarcus Russell Watch! He’s still really bad.

T ‘Eldorado’ O Watch! He is flat out pissed. ‘It’s really unfair. It’s my team. It’s my quarterback…’ Oh wait, wrong quote.

Is Brent Celek the new breakout TE? In his position, he’s 1st in receptions (22), 2nd in yards (245), joint 1st in TD’s (2) and joint 1st in 1st downs (12).

3 of the top 4 leaders in pass completion % Drew Brees, Chad Pennington, Peyton Manning. No.1 on the list? Big Ben Roethlisberger.

The Browns have one offensive TD since week 11 of last year. And that was in garbage time at the end of the game. That’s 1 score in 36 quarters and 60 points in 9 games.

The Broncos have only conceded 16 points, 644 total yards and 0 passing TD’s in 3 games. But, then again, they’ve only played the Bengals, Browns and Raiders…

Tom Brady’s QB rating by quarter; 50.8, 68.8, 82.2, 107.9.

DeSean Jackson has 60+ yard TD’s in each game so far this season.

Game of the week - Vikings 27 - 24 49ers. Brett Favre! Brett Favre! Brett Favre! Greg Lewis….doesn’t have quite the same ring to it.

Stat of the week - Here’s how you win a starting job at QB. Apparently. Derek Anderson went 11 for 19 for 92 yards and 3 picks to oust Brady Quinn in Cleveland.

Winner of the week - Brett Favre. Still got it. In Week 3. At Home. In the Dome. In the warmth. Against the 49ers…

Loser of the week - The Skins going down to the team that’s gone down more times recently than mother. In fact, she might do a better job than Jim Zorn right now.

Play of the week - Favre. Lewis. Yup. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=un3B7Og-FS0

Player of the week - Brett Favre? Don’t be silly. Peyton Manning? 24-35, 379 yards, 4 scores and 1 pick in a master class against the Cardinals. Since recovering from his knee injury last year (so let’s say week 6 of 2008 onwards) he has been supreme.

Premiership Power Rankings

2009-10-01T18:42:00.001+01:00

Finally, it was Chelsea and Carlo Ancelotti's turn to taste defeat. Is the honeymoon over? Is 'Scolari syndrome' likely to kick in? Will they be ousted from the top of the Power Rankings? Stay tuned!

Oh, you're here. Um...well, here you go...

1. Chelsea (played 7, points 18, No Change) - Ok, so they lost, they didn't play well and they made Wigan look good. See Burnley v United a few weeks ago...

2. Man Utd (p 7, pts 18, NC) - As if being top of the actual table matters.

3. Man City (p 6, pts 15, NC) - Swept West Ham to the side on Monday night and with Carlos Tevez scoring, Craig Bellamy performing, Roque Santa Cruz back from injury and Emmanuel Adebayor back from suspension only a defeat to Aston Villa on Monday night can dampen the optimism at Eastlands.

4. Liverpool (p 7, pts 15, NC) - Defeat to Fiorentina means that every remaining Champions League group game bears real pressure. As does their visit to Chelsea this Sunday with another defeat severely denting any real title challenge.

5. Arsenal (p 6, pts 12, NC) - Some of the defensive inconsistencies seem to be ironed out and they can celebrate 13 years under Arsene Wenger's stewardship with victory over Blackburn this week. And by getting someone sent off.

6. Tottenham (p 7, pts 15, Up 1) - Rumours of Harry Redknapp's departure are flummoxing; Spurs are young and exciting with abundant creativity and potency in the final third. Although that Portsmouth job might come up again...

7. Aston Villa (p 6, pts 12, Dn 1) - The league's best defensive record will be tested over the coming weeks by home games against Man City and Chelsea, followed by trips to Wolves and Sunderland. I have simply no idea if this team is average, good or even better right now.

8. Sunderland (p 7, pts 12, NC) - Bent and Jones have 10 league goals between them already; Bent with 5 before half time, Jones with 3 after half time. Quite the partnership.

9. Everton (p 6, pts 9, NC) - The Merseysiders have won 5 straight in all competitions and push well into the top-10 with games against Stoke (h), Wolves (h) and Bolton (a).

10. Stoke (p 7, pts 8, NC) - Slumping a little as of late but have now played 3 of the big-4 and have James Beattie and Ricardo Fuller returning. They need them; the team has scored just 5 league goals and has less shots than any other Premiership side.

11. Burnley (p 7, pts 9, Up 1) - They move up the rankings in spite of a 5-0 thumping at White Hart Lane. No need to worry though, they're at home this week to Birmingham.

12. Blackburn (p 6, pts 7, Up 4) - Blackburn visit Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United in their next three away games and are yet to get a point on the road. They host Burnley and Portsmouth in their next couple of home games with 7 points gained at Ewood Park so far. Business as usual then.

13. Wigan (p 7, pts 9, Up 4) - Yes, yes, so they beat Chelsea. Still don't trust them.

14. Fulham (p 6, pts 6, Dn 3) - Lost 4 of 5 but have been competitive and were unfortunate to not get anything out of their game with the Gunners. The Europa League is likely to strain the club's resources over the coming months.

15. West Ham (p 6, pts 4, Dn 2) - They were slow starters after Zola took over in the early stages of the last campaign but could be in trouble if they don't augment their enjoyable football into winning football.

16. Bolton (p 6, pts 7, Up 2) - Unbeaten in 3 league games, including priceless victories at Portsmouth and Birmingham. Problem is, their upcoming schedule; Spurs (h), Man Utd (a), Everton (h), Chelsea (h) and Villa (a). Tamir Cohen isn't bad. Just a thought.

17. Birmingham (p 7, pts 7, Dn 3) - Their only wins come against Hull and Portsmouth, easily the worst 2 teams to this point. And they're dull. And St. Andrews is hardly a fortress. And they've still not scored a goal before the 75th minute of the season which is my favourite stat of the season so far and pretty much the only reason I pay attention to their games.

18. Wolves (p 7, pts 7, Dn 3) - Don't look a whole lot more than a Championship side. Do we really need 20 teams in the Premier League?

19. Hull (p 7, pts 4, NC) - Mauled by Liverpool last weekend and have now conceded 15 goals in their last 4 games, all defeats. Thankfully, a pleasing looking schedule lies ahead; Wigan (h), Fulham (a), Portsmouth (h), Burnley (a), Stoke (h), West Ham (h).

20. Portsmouth (p 7, pts 0, NC) - No change. No arguments. Improving though...

Premiership Prop Bets

2009-09-27T21:39:00.007+01:00

A few provocative thoughts that entered my mind and, seeing as I'm such a good guy, I figured I'd share with you all. Why don't we do this more often? I'll open some wine, put out a platter, dim the lights....

Who scores more goals this season, Darren Bent or Robbie Keane?

The former and current Spurs strikers both scored at the weekend and have begun the season in fine form. Bent has 6 goals to date and Keane has 5 after plundering 4 against hapless Burnley on the weekend.

Over the past 7 years, going back to his first season with Tottenham, Keane has 13, 14, 11, 16, 11, 15 and 10 league goals (the last including 5 goals during his ill-fated stay with Liverpool). Bent, during the same spell, has 12, 16, 20, 18, 13, 6 and 12 league goals (the first 3 taking place in the Championship for Ipswich). Both are consistent performers with Keane averaging a goal every 2.73 games during his Premiership career and Bent averaging a goal every 2.46 games.

Their current employers Spurs (17) and Sunderland (14) have been amongst the top scorers in the division this year although it seems likely the London club will score more over the course of the season. While Tottenham will probably rotate their forwards that much more, Keane is, in the absence of Ledley King, the team captain and will start the majority of games, as should Bent. Neither has struggled with long-term injury.

One point of note would seem to be the mildly different roles they play for their respective employers; Keane more of a creator, Bent as a finisher. The Sunderland man, in the vain of confidence he is currently in and considering the quick accord he has built with Kenwyne Jones, might be favourite to edge the Irishman.

Where do Burnley get their first goal and points away from Turf Moor?

0 goals, 14 conceded and 0 points in their 4 away fixtures so far this term. Their next 6 away fixtures; Blackburn, Man City, West Ham, Portsmouth, Wolves and Everton, their last before the turn of the year. Blackburn, despite a poor start, have only lost 1 of 4 at home and are a physical and experienced Premiership team, Man City should be too strong so...Portsmouth right? Maybe not. The South coast side will surely have lifted their form by them (they can't lose every game this year) and Fratton Park, historically, has been a site of strength.

What about West Ham. They have been vulnerable at home, having lost both their games at Upton Park this season, and have proven inconsistent under Zola - they've won 3 of their last 10 home league fixtures.

Who has more by Christmas; points for Portsmouth or goals for Louis Saha?

Saha scored his fifth goal of the season in toppling Pompey once again, leaving Portsmouth with no points yet from their 7 games played and 11 games before Christmas 2009. Saha, who has missed large chinks of the past 7 years due to groin, knee and hamstring injuries but, when fit and available, is a clinical finisher, as has been seen this season and in the last FA Cup final.

Saha might be expected to score at least another 3 or 4 before the festive period, even considering the return of Yakubu and the fact that he probably won't start every game. Pompey have games against Wolves, Stoke, Hull, Wigan, Blackburn and Burnley as well as Liverpool, Chelsea, Man United and Spurs. Can they pick up 10 points from that schedule? Probably. Go on. Yes.

Which team will be the first to break into the top-4?

Man City and Spurs can claim to be the biggest threats in the early stages of this season. But what if Arsenal, Liverpool, United and Chelsea finish in at the summit once more? Then perhaps Everton or Aston Villa would be in the conversation too.

City, with their resources, would have to be favourites but Everton were the last team to break the monopoly, finishing 4th in the 2004/5 season and are coming off the back of successive 5th place finishes while Spurs and Villa might have the strongest young English nuclei in the division.

Despite their varying credentials, City are the standout prospect. Even if the squad isn't capable of it this season, they can buy those that will.

Will Ryan Giggs win 20 major domestic trophies?

The Welsh wing wizard has 18 - 11 Premier League trophies, 4 FA Cups and 3 League Cups. So, only needing 2 more, the question simply revolves around his longevity and whether United can retain their domestic dominance during his remaining years.

Giggs, now 35, was PFA Player of the Year last term and has shown little inclination to retire. His stamina cannot be questioned and, albeit in a more restricted role, Giggs is still a top player.

David James is 39, fellow Welshman Gary Speed was playing Premiership football at 38 and former United teammate Dwight Yorke was still a Sunderland player at 37 so there is precedent. However, Giggs will finish his career at Old Trafford and almost certainly would not want to remain at the club if he was not capable of performing to a high level. Could he be there for 2 more years? 3? 4? Would he retire if Ferguson retired? What if he won another Champions League? Here's hoping it's safe to pencil into United squads for another couple of seasons.

Well, then he has to be a lock for 20 trophies right? Probably, United have won 4 domestic trophies over the past 3 years, including 3 league titles but, without Ronaldo, with the golden generation heading towards retirement and some of the young players yet to flourish, the Reds might not be the prevalent force atop the mountain of English football in the immediate future.

Giggs should make it. Just.

Will Fernando Torres score more than 100 league goals for Liverpool?

The Spaniard has 46 goals in 64 appearances. Again, it's purely a matter of how long Torres hangs around. At his current rate, he would only need to play until the end of next season, although injuries might restrict him slightly.

What about 120 goals? That would mean playing with Liverpool until the end of the 2011/12 campaign. Will Benitez still be boss? At 27 or 28, would Torres consider leaving to return to Spain? Will Liverpool be in the financial position to reject a monumental offer from one of Europe's richest?

Here's a few more teasers:

Will Wayne Rooney (0) or Steven Gerrard (1) finish with more PFA Player of the Year awards?

Will Michael Owen (146) finish with more Premiership goals than Andy Cole (189) and be second only to Alan Shearer on the all-time list?

Will Frank Lampard (438), keen to play until he's 38, finish with more Premiership appearances than Ryan Giggs (currently 528)?

Will Leeds be a Premiership side again within 5 years?

Who will be the staring goalkeeper for Manchester United on opening day 2011/12?

I'll leave you to muse over those for a while...

NFL Week 3: Picks

2009-09-27T16:19:00.004+01:00

Saints @ Bills - Don't expect a (Jeremy) Shockey here, The Saints should (Drew) Brees through this game and add one (Lance) Moore win or I'm a (Marques) Colston. Reggie Bush. Randall Gay. Ah, fun with words.

Steelers @ Bengals - Last week Ocho Cinco made the Lambeau Leap, will he take on the terrible towel if he scores a TD this week? Last time a Cincy receiver did so (T.J Houshmandzadeh after beating the Steelers in 2005), the Bengals got thrashed in the playoffs, lost their star QB to injury and watched the Steelers win the Superbowl. Think they'll try it again? Child please...of course! playoffs baby!

Redskins @ Lions - $100million of Albert Haynesworth and he can't even play on offense? What a rip off. Lions might win this. Not a typo. Lions might win this. Let me try that once more. Lions might win this.

Broncos @ Raiders -Likely to be about as ugly as Kyle Orton's finger. Or Brandon Marshall's attitude. Or JaMarcus Russel's QB rating, or Al Davis. Pick your favourite.

Packers @ Rams - Just let the Rams play the Browns now, the loser gets relegated to the realms of history and the WNBA.

49ers @ Vikings - Two unbeaten teams. Two in-form running backs. Two good defences. Only one Brett Favre. As far as we know. Maybe that's it, this could be Favre 6.0, greyer and more powerful than ever! Maybe not.

Falcons @ Patriots - Matt Ryan is no Tom Brady. Come on, I've never even heard of his girlfriend?

Titans @ Jets - Let's not get too excited about 'Broadway' Mark 'Dirty' Sanchez. You think Kellen Clemens wouldn't do ok with that defence? Ok, so he wouldn't make it look so good, nor would I now know what a 'filthy fernando' is. Go on, google it...

Chiefs @ Eagles - Kevin Kolb could throw for 500 yards, 10 TD's, cure cancer and save a drowning puppy and it still wouldn't matter; this is all about Mike Vick.

Colts @ Cardinals - Peyton Manning versus Kurt Warner versus the clock. If they even hand off to a tail back one time I'm gonna riot.

Dolphins @ Chargers - Last week the Fins held the ball for over 45 minutes and lost. The fact that ALL their games this season are set for 60 minutes is yet another example of the schedule makers conspiring against them.

Bears @ Seahawks - Cutler was terrible, Seattle were terrific. Cutler was great, Seattle were god-awful. So this week Cutler will be in Seattle and god will be terrifying? I'm confused...

Giants @ Buccaneers - Whats the key storyline here? Dunno, Giants win though. How dull.

Browns @ Ravens - This is already over and the game doesn't start for a few hours.

Jaguars @ Texans - This won't be over until one team manages to throw one final damming interception.

Panthers @ Cowboys - This should be over about 4 in the morning UK time. At least I hope so. Any later and I'll never get the image of Jerry Jones out of my head.

Season so far; 24-8

Premiership Power Rankings

2009-09-24T21:33:00.003+01:00

Last week's 10 games provided 34 goals and bags of entertainment. Pretty much guarantees that this round of games will be about as much fun as listening to David Platt commentate on Carling Cup tie, featuring, oh, say Man Utd and Wolves? Thrilling...

1. Chelsea (played 6, points 18, No Change) - Still winning. Still playing well. Still top. Probably the only team in the league without defensive concerns.

2. Man Utd (p 6, pts 15, NC) - The good: Wayne Rooney's form, Ryan Giggs' longevity, Michael Owen's timing. The bad: Edwin Van der Sar's injury, Rio Ferdinand's fitness, Dimitar Berbatov's profligacy. Yet to convince.

3. Man City (p 5, pts 12, NC) - Their first loss of the year came away from home, at the champions, without arguably their two best players, thanks to a 96th minute goal. No need to panic.

4. Liverpool (p 6, pts 12, NC) - Not making it easy for themselves and not as sturdy at the back as they were last year but, in Fernando Torres, they have the league's premier marksman.

5. Arsenal (p 5, pts 9, Up 1) - 26 goals scored and 11 conceded in their 9 games played so far this year. Can they finish higher than 3rd?

6. Aston Villa (p 5, pts 12, Up 1) - 6 straight wins and 4 straight clean sheets in all competitions. Gabi Agbonlahor has also hit the net in each of the last four - should he be in Capello's squad for the World Cup?

7. Tottenham (p 6, pts 12, Dn 2) - Consecutive defeats to big-four sides may have dented optimism at the lane a little but here's their next four fixtures; Burnley (h), Bolton (a), Portsmouth (a), Stoke (h). Plus, they've got the back-heeling, robot-dancing, sky-reaching Peter Crouch.

8. Sunderland (p 6, pts 9, NC) - Well, everyone loses at Turf Moor...

9. Everton (p 5, pts 6, Up 4) - Seemingly back on track with their comfortable victory over Blackburn. Seemingly prematurely rising these rankings but I'm in a good mood and Phil Jagielka just got robbed; he needs some good news.

10. Stoke (p 6, pts 8, Dn 1) - Survived Blackpool in the Carling Cup but will have to step up if they are to beat their next opponents; Manchester United.

11. Fulham (p 5, pts 6, Dn 1) - 26 goals in 139 games. That's Andrew Johnson, Diomansy Kamara, Erik Nevland and Bobby Zamora's combined goal tally since joining the West Londoners.

12. Burnley (p 6, pts 9, Up 2) - Prediciton I; Burnley lose to Spurs by at least 2 goals this weekend.

13. West Ham (p 5, pts 4, Dn 2) - My favourite Carlton Cole chant (to the tune of 'Gold') Carlton Cole, goal, Always believe in your soul, You've got the power to know, Your indestructible, Always believe in, Carlton Cole, goal...

14. Birmingham (p 6, pts 7, Up 3) - Prediciton II; the Blues will never open Match of the Day this season.

15. Wolves (p 6, pts 7, Up 3) - Michael Kightly and Sylvain Ebanks-Blake are on the way back to lend some needed quality and potency. They go to Sunderland next.

16. Blackburn (p 5, pts 4, Dn 4) - El Hadji-Diouf can't stay out of trouble, Chris Samba can't be a forward and Sam Allardyce can't escape the fans ire.

17. Wigan (p 6, pts 6, Dn 2) - Totally abused by United and Arsenal this year. Let's see what Chelsea do with the lightweight Latics.

18. Bolton (p 5, pts 4, Up 1) - Prediction III; if Wanderers don't beat Birmingham this Saturday, they'll be in the bottom 3 come November.

19. Hull (p 6, pts 4, Dn 3) - I guess if your team plays in Amber and Black, and you're the devoted kind, then you have no choice but to look like a seedy strip club owner from the Costa Brava circa 1983. Not a great look there Phil.

20. Portsmouth (p 6, pts 0, NC) - Performed well at the Villa and earned a second straight Carling Cup victory in midweek. What? They could stay up...honestly...ok, they've gone...sorry about that...yeah...no chance...

NFL Week 2: Thoughts and Notes

2009-09-24T16:52:00.004+01:00

Jerry Jones, Jason Garrett and Jason Witten love him. Jessica Simpson, Drew Bledsoe and Tony Dorsett really don’t. Dorsett, the former Cowboys great, said “the thing is this: You have a guy who hasn't done much, and quarterbacks in the NFL, most of them go through this growing curve. He hasn't gone through that growing curve, but he was anointed this great player all of a sudden. Now he's having to live up to that. And obviously Tony has some deficiencies." Let’s not get to what Simpson or Bledsoe said…

The biggest slight against the anointed Dallas star is his ability to win the big game. A look back at probably the 5 most important games of his career certainly consolidate that theory:

NFC Divisional Game, Sunday, January 13th 2008 vs. New York Giants
18-36, 201 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, lost 21-17.
Cowboys finish 13-3 and are the no.1 seeds in the NFC, fall at home to the Giants.

NFC Wildcard Game, Sunday January 6th 2007 vs. Seattle Seahawks
17-29, 189 yards, 1 TD, lost 21-20.
Romo fumbles the snap on the game-winning field goal attempt.

Week 17, Sunday December 28th 2008 vs. Philadelphia Eagles
21-39, 183 yards, 1 INT, lost 44-6
Cowboys get humiliated in an end of season playoff to make the postseason.

Week 2, Sunday September 20th, 2009 vs. Giants
13-29, 127 yards, 1 TD, 3 INT, lost 33-31
Romo underperforms as the Cowboys open their new stadium against their heated rivals.

Week 7, Monday October 23rd 2006 vs. New York Giants
14-25, 227 yards, 2 TD’s, 3 INT’s, lost 36-22.
Romo comes off the bench to replace Drew Bledsoe; his first pass is tipped for an Interception.

Tony Romo and about 105,000 disconcerted Cowboys fans can be seen this Monday night. In the spotlight. On the jumbo-mumbo-tron. In HD. Fortunately for all concerned, Jake Delhomme and the Panthers are in town to make Romo look good.

The Rams have 7 points after 2 games. They’re on pace for 56 total points.

What a catch by Andre Johnson. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccGFLRMPwUo He caught 10 balls for 149 yards and 3 scores.

Has anyone gained 284 total yards in an easier fashion than Chris Johnson? Untouched on plays of 57, 69 and 91 yards, all for touchdowns. Johnson’s average rush on carries 1-10 is 11.8 yards but on carries 11-20 it is just 1.7 yards.

In his NFL Career, Felix Jones has rushed for 384 yards on 14 carries and carries a 8.93 average yard per carry.

Darren Sproles has 524 all-purpose yards. He’s on pace for 4,192 yards.

The Lions have lost their first 2 games for the past eight straight years. Hasn’t been their decade to be honest. The Matt Millen legacy endures.

Brett Favre’s longest pass play through 2 weeks is 21 yards, his only pass over 20 yards.
Antwan Odom had 5 sacks against the Packers and already has 7 this season. He had only 3 all last year and only 15.5 in his 5 year career coming into 2009.

Greg Jennings, who had 6 catches for 106 yards against the Bears, was held without a single catch against the Bengals. His team have a league-high 8 dropped passes to this point.

Charles Woodson had 2 picks versus the Bengals and now has 21 since 2006.

Kurt Warner completed 24 of 26 passes for 243 yards and 2 TD’s against the Jags to break the all-time single game record for pass completion percentage. Tom Brady holds the post season record for his performance in the 07’ playoffs, going 26 of 28 for 263 yards and 3 TD’s. The opponent? The Jags.

There were 9 fumbles shared between Arizona (5) and Jacksonville (4).

The Chiefs more than doubled the Raiders in yards (409-166) and almost did the same in time of possession (38:39-21:21). They lost 13-10.

The Bengals were 4/4 in the Red Zone.

JaMarcus Russell only went 7 of 24 but 6 were for first downs. He has just a 36.7% passing completion % in the 1st half. That’s excellent compared to his 2nd half performance; 33.3%. Despite this, he has the highest yard per completion average at 16.7%.

The Redskins went 0 for 5 in the Red Zone.

Darren Sharper has 3 INT’s, 176 yards return yards and a TD already this season. He is the active leader in Interceptions (57), Interceptions returned for TD’s (9) and Interception return yards (1,212).

The Bills went 0 for 4 in the Red Zone.

Last year, the Dolphins, Chargers and Vikings all began the season 0-2 and made the playoffs. Of the current crop, the Titans, Panthers, Jags and Dolphins have killer schedules and the Browns, Lions, Bucs and Rams are pretty terrible. That leaves the Chiefs with a new QB, new coach and 4 games coming up against the NFC East. Only 3 teams since 1990 have begun the year 0-3 and qualified for the postseason.

The Chargers went 0 for 5 in the Red Zone.

Frank Gore, a week after averaging 1.4 yards per carry, ran for 207 yards on 16 carries, 12.9 yards per carry. His 80 and 79 yard TD runs were the longest two runs of his career.

The Cowboys outrushed the Giants (251-97) and went 4/4 in the Red Zone in comparison to New York’s 0 for 5. And lost of course.

Mario Manningham and Steve Smith have combined for 20 catches and 284 yards. Where’s Plax? Starting his 2-year jail sentence.

Eli Manning’s 330 yards on 25 for 38 passing, plus 2 TD’s, were his fourth most in his career, all achieved away from home. Tony Romo threw for just 127 yards, 13 for 29, 1 TD and 3 INT’s, the second lowest total of his career.

Roy Williams, penned as the Cowboys go-to guy, has just 27 receptions in his last 13 games. No wide receiver had more than a single catch against the Giants.

Matt Forte has 84 yards on 38 carries and just 117 total yards. Steve Slaton has 51 yards on 26 carries and just 111 total yards. Slaton also has a league-leading 3 fumbles.

Johnny Knox, a 22 year old rookie drafted in the 5th round by the Bears, has 152 yards receiving.

Elvis Dumervil, who sacked Brady Quinn 4 times on Sunday, now has 30 career sacks and 7 career multi-sack games.

Miami gained 27 1st downs, were successful in converting 71% of their 3rd downs, 239 rushing yards, 84 total plays and had possession for 45:07 minutes…and lost.

Of all NFL starters, Brett Favre (265) has the least passing yards. Phillip Rivers (688), on the back of 436 yard performance against the Ravens, has the most.

Biggest names on Injured Reserve: Jamal Williams (DT, Chargers), Brad Butler (T, Bills), Shawn Andrews (G, Eagles), Stewart Bradley (LB, Eagles), Harry Douglas (WR, Falcons), Peria Jerry (DT, Falcons), Brian Urlacher (LB, Bears), Adam Carricker (DT, Rams), Walt Harris (CB, 49ers).
Oh, some guy called Mike Vick returns to the NFL this week.

Eli Manning (8) has the most 25+ yard passing plays after week 2. Kyle Orton is second (7) but his longest is just 37 yards, last in the AFC.

Tom Brady is on pace for 800 passing attempts. He has already hurled the rock 100 times and has been sacked only once. That’s the same amount as Antwaan Randle El. He wasn’t sacked against the Jets but was pressured and harried all day, resulting in a lack of rhythm, no touchdowns and his hair being all out of place as he threw his helmet to the floor.

Aaron Rodgers has been sacked 10 times in just 77 pass attempts and has now lost LT Chad Clifton for a couple of games. They will travel to the Vikes (and their dominating D-line) in week 4...

Drew Brees may have the highest pass completion % in the 4th quarter but has only thrown the ball 7 times (6 completions). Ben Roethlisberger is 21/26 in two tough games (including OT) against strong defences, an 80.8 pass completion %.

Mark Sanchez (70%, 7/10) has the highest completion % in the NFL on 3rd down with 8+ yards remaining. Marc Bulger is at the other end of the spectrum, 0 for 9 at 0%. A big reason why the Jets are 2-0 and the Rams are 0-2.

The QB you want on 3rd down in the NFC? Jason Campbell apparently. He has converted 55.6% of pass attempts into 1st downs to lead the conference. And who don’t you want? Kurt Warner so the stats say, only 27.8% of his passes have lead to 1st downs.

Drew Brees has a 146.0 QB rating in the 2nd half of games. Great stat but no surprise. So you want a surprise? Kyle Orton (152.1) and Tony Romo (141.4) lead their conferences in QB rating in the 4th quarter. Another one? Oh go on, I’ll spoil you. Peyton Manning, yes 3-time MVP Peyton Manning, has a 16.7 QB rating inside the Red Zone.

Drew Brees has a 155.6 QB rating from the shotgun. That’s simply ridiculous. Hear me Drew? Ridiculous!

Big games for this week; Falcons @ Patriots, Titans @ Jets, 49ers @ Vikings, Colts @ Cardinals and Panthers @ Cowboys on Monday Night Football.

The Broncos have conceded only 13 points. I thought Josh McDaniels was a defensive guru?
Adrian Peterson (8) has the most 10+ yard runs. Of the next 6 on the list, Chris Johnson (6) and DeAngelo Williams (6) were obvious, Marion Barber (7) and Ronnie Brown (6) were potentials but Cedric Benson (7) and Fred Jackson (6)? Wow.

It’s early in the season but Mike Bell (3/3 on 3rd down and <3 yards) may have helped solve the Saints running woes.

Only 9 backs have rushed more than 20 times in a game so far this season; all but 2 have averages under 4.4 yards on those carries. Fred Jackson has gained an impressive 6.6 yards per carry and Adrian Peterson, yes future MVP Adrian Peterson, has averaged a whopping 18.4 yards per carry. He also has the 2nd highest average on 1st and 10 (10.1) only trailing Frank Gore (13.0).

Terrell Owens; 1 year, $6.5million, 5 catches, 98 yards, 2 drops.

Laveraneus Coles; 4 years, $28million, 3 catches, 20 yards, 3 drops.

Steve Smith has been targeted a league-high 28 times. Unfortunately, and somewhat endemically of his team’s troubles, only has 11 catches.

Game of the week - Giants 33 - 31 Cowboys. Jerry, Jerry, Jerry; not how you wanted that to go now was it?

Stat of the week - only 7 of the winning teams from week 2 outgained their opponents. Numbers eh? What do they mean? Probably not the way to end this piece…

Winner of the week - Jay Cutler and da Bears. Knocking off the Superbowl champs and seeing their star QB look like a star QB.

Loser of the week - The Dolphins. How did they lost that game again?

Play of the week - Ray Lewis shooting the gap to stop Darren Sproles on 4th and 2. That’s a thing of beauty. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldY2pInMyR4&feature=PlayList&p=EF225B6015730439&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=7

Player of the week - 25-39, 357 yards, 4 TD’s @ the Titans. We’ve been fooled before but this could be seen as the coming out party for Matt Schaub and a Texans playoff team.

Upset Alert!

2009-09-22T20:30:00.006+01:00

Now, this may be hard to believe, but I'm not psychic. It's not for a lack of trying. No, in fact I have a psychic coach by the name of 'stargazing' Stella and she says I'm getting close. Real close. And don't you get all cynical on me, I was unsure too before I met her but, that first time we crossed paths, Stella told me that she knew that I'd be coming! Crazy huh?

Anyways, psychic or not, I do consider myself the footballing next-pert (I thought that was real clever, trademark beta blogger) so let's figure out where the upsets may lie in this week's Carling Cup ties. If nothing else, it will be good practice for when the real competitions begin.

A few games to pick at:

Arsenal v West Brom - Why it won't be an upset: Because the Gunners have yet another imperious crop of youngsters for Arsene Wenger to call upon. Because Arsenal have made at least the quarter-finals for the last 6 years and because West Brom, while they do play some delightful football, can't cope with the pace and ability of the Premiership outfit. Because Wilshere and Ramsey are excellent.

Chelsea v QPR - Why it won't be an upset: Because, although Rangers did manage to defeat Aston Villa at Villa Park in the third round last year and are performing well this season, Chelsea are very strong at home and have won every game under Ancelotti. Because Joe Cole and Yuri Zhirkov are set to play and, well, they're a bit good.

Leeds v Liverpool - Why it won't be an upset: Because Liverpool will play a strong team and will have the likes of Gerrard and Torres to call upon if needed. Because it will be on Sky Sports - the home of the un-unpsets. Because I started this late and Liverpool have already kicked off and look pretty decent.

Aston Villa v Cardiff - Why it might be an upset: Because, despite the fact that Villa have lost at home to Championship sides in each of the last two seasons, they have won their last 4 and have kept 3 consecutive clean sheets. Because Cardiff, unfortunately, are not in good form having lost 3 of their last 4 and have not beaten a top-flight team in over 20 years. Because, although they there's little reason to believe they can, Cardiff can claw onto the 'magic' of the (Carling) cup... Why isn't there a sarcasm font on here?

Nottingham Forest v Blackburn - Why it might be an upset: Because Blackburn are low on confidence and are struggling to score goals. Because, in spite of Forest's mediocre start, poor head to head record and recent lack of form in the Carling Cup, this seems prime upset material at the home that Cloughie (a 4-time League Cup winner) built.

Stoke v Blackpool - Why it might be an upset: Just because. Alright?

Preston v Tottenham - Why it will be an upset: Because Spurs are missing Woodgate, Dawson, King and Bassong at the back. Because Preston have begun the year well and have a physical front pairing of Parkin and Mellor. Because Tottenham are due a loss in the competition, having made the last two finals and because Stella thinks so. So there.

Premiership Post Game

2009-09-21T23:30:00.005+01:00

Thoughts from the latest round of Premiership fixtures;

Whatever Carlo Ancelotti may say, Didier Drogba’s calf injury could derail Chelsea’s strong start. The forward has been at his best for three years, leads the line and leads the league in shots. Presuming his injury is as bad as first feared, Nicolas Anelka will be the only natural striker and, without the Ivorian’s physicality, Lampard and Ballack may struggle for the space that has seen the pair, indeed the team, start so fast.

‘3 goals in 33 games for Portsmouth. 2 goals in 35 minutes for Burnley.’ The David Nugent story.

Thomas Vermaelen has 3 goals in 5 games. I thought they signed a centre back?

Burnley have 9 ever presents so far this campaign, more than any other team.

Robbie Keane was absolutely right; if it’s not a penalty - which it looked like it was - then he should be booked. Howard Webb, as so may refs do, took to the easy option. The FA needs to redefine the laws of the game in this regard and add some clarity to these decisions.

Ledley King, determined to work his way into England’s World Cup squad, is far too much of a liability. He can’t train, he is beyond injury prone and, despite his ability, could easily be unavailable for every game England play.

Louis Saha has 4 goals in 4 appearances, all at home. He has not played more than 24 games or scored more than 8 goals in 5 years.

Chelsea, Man United, Arsenal, Man City and Burnley are the only teams with 100% home records.

George Graham can’t be happy. 25 goals have been scored in games involving the Gunners this year, 5 per fixture.

Birmingham City have not scored before the 75th minute of a game this season and only hit the net 3 times in total.

Ok, so there were 6 minutes of injury time in the Manchester derby. Too much? Maybe, even considering the substitution and Craig Bellamy’s equaliser, but it always appears to happen at Old Trafford. It was easy to appreciate Mark Hughes’ anger and anguish but his attention should be turned towards his defence and in particular Micah Richards, out of position for United’s first and last goals.

Michael Owen. Meet the United faithful. Faithful. Meet Michael Owen, worth the manager’s faith with one well-placed, dramatic finish.

Craig Bellamy scored a screamer and earned an equaliser. Oh, and smacked a fan. If ever there was a 90-minute (ish) display of the man‘s talent and temperament, this was it. There’s a 3-match ban in the offing for his moment of madness.

Did anyone else think that Ben Foster, clearly to blame for the first goal, went to ground far too easily for the third? His form has not been as hoped for by his boss at both at either Domestic or International level.

Chelsea have outscored opponents 10-0 in the second half.

Manchester United have outscored opponents 11-2 in the second half.

Liverpool have conceded more goals than any other side in the 15 minutes before the break.

Here's why I think Bolton could be in real trouble; They have no clean sheets to date. Their only points have come from an 89th minute winner at Portmouth and an 89th minute equaliser at home to Stoke. They've already lost to Sunderland and Hull. Who scores the goals? Kevin Davies had a career best 12 league goals a year ago but has never broken into double digits in any other season. Top scorers this term? Matt Taylor and Tamir Cohen with 2. Who's impacting off the bench? The notable participants end after Ivan Klasnic and Ricardo Gardner. The Johan Elmander factor. And their next 6 fixtures? Birmingham (a), Tottenham (h), Man Utd (a), Everton (h), Chelsea (h) and Aston Villa (a). With me?

Portsmouth have not lead in a game this season.

Wigan, in two games against Arsenal and Man United, have been outscored 9-0.

Fulham’s European gamble failed to pay off; after resting 9 first team players in the draw at CSKA Sofia, they were beaten 2-1 by Wolves, their third defeat in four games.

Petr Cech has only had made 7 saves in 6 games this season. I’m not sure that’s good or bad. On that note…

NFL Nicknames and Musings

2009-09-20T20:07:00.007+01:00

In light of the Saints v Eagles game that's just kicked off, I began to focus on the 2006 NFL draft. New Orleans were considered to have stumbled on its birthday, Christmas and Hannukah gifts all in one when Houston selected Mario Williams from North Carolina State, leaving them to pick USC star and Barry Sanders impersonator, Reggie Bush.

In hindsight - and hopefully neither player is near finalising their legacy - the Texans may have made a masterstroke in avoiding the injury-prone and lightweight back in favour of Williams who, after a tough opening year due to injury and a pretty horrendous Texans team, has flourished into an elite DE and a Pro Bowler. Super Mario has 26 sacks, 6 forced fumbles and 77 tackles in the last two seasons whilst starting every game. He is still just 24.

Bush, now essentially a specialist, averages 3.7 yards per carry in his career, has never started more than 10 games a year, never run for more than 581 yards a year, has seen his receptions dip every year and has 24 total touchdowns and 15 fumbles to date. He was one of the most dangerous punt/kick returners last season.

Indeed, the top-10 of what was considered a strong draft pool have struggled to deliver; Vince Young (3) is on the bench - and probably counselling - in Tennessee, D'Brickashaw Ferguson (4) has become a solid but not a star LT for the Jets, A.J Hawk (5) has just 7.5 sacks in three seasons although has played inside regularly and is a strong part of the Packer's linebacking corps, Vernon Davis (6) really hasn't translated his phenomenal athletic attributes to the 49ers or the NFL, Michael Huff (7) has just 1 career INT and has been benched in Oakland, Donte Whitner (8) and Ernie Sims (9), like Huff, have not made enough plays on defence for Buffalo and Detroit respectively and Matt Leinart is cleaning Kurt Warner's boots in Arizona.

The remainder of the first round has delivered some gems though; Jay Cutler (11) is the draft's premier QB, Haloti Ngata (12) is a fierce and destructive force in Baltimore and could be on the verge of being one of the game's dominant players, Antonio Cromartie (19), when healthy, has been a tremendous ball hawk and physical corner, Santonio Holmes (25) was last year's Superbowl MVP for the Steelers and Nick Mangold (29) is amongst the best Centers in the league and also the leader of the Jet's O-Line.

The second round gave us former NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Demeco Ryans (33), Titans steamroller Lendale White (45), San Diego Left Tackle Marcus McNeill (50), Packers Wideout Greg Jennings (52), Bears returnman turned receiver, 'Anytime' Devin Hester (57) and Jaguars RB and all-around living legend, 'Pocket Hercules' Maurice Jones-Drew (60).

The steals of the draft? Round 4; Owen Daniels (98), Jahri Evans (108), Leon Washington (117), Brandon Marshall (119), Elvis Dumervil (126)

Special mention to two of the best at their position drafted in Round 7; the Titans Pro Bowl CB Cortland Finnegan (215) and Saints WR Marques Colston (252).

Oh, and I came up with a bunch of hee-larious nicknames should any of the franchises be renamed today.

AFC East

New England Hoodies - Before Brady and after Brady, there will be Belichik.

New York Hand Me Downs - The Giant’s slow, sexually confused, insecure, little brother. And I don’t even like the Giants.

Miami PLC - What? You don’t own part of this team?

Buffalo Suicide Booths - Even before Leodis McKelvin there was wide right…

AFC North

Cincinnati ochoNFLcinco85 @Twitter.com - Pretty much the only reason to tune in.

Pittsburgh Smugness - Ok, so you’ve won a bunch of Superbowls, have a lengthy list of Hall of Famers, had 3 coaches in about 1,000 years, you’re perfect. Just shut up about it.

Baltimore Ex-Wives - Tough. As. Nails.

Cleveland Browns - Paul Brown, Jim Brown, kinda uninspiring to look at. Sums up the franchise perfectly.

AFC South

Indianapolis Guy’s behind the Guy’s - Peyton might get all the marketing deals but it’s Bill Polian that has built this team.

Jacksonville Blackouts - The future of the franchise. Think it was a mistake starting another team in Florida?

Houston <:attach>

Tennessee Toilers -Titans + Oilers = Toilers. God I hope nobody has thought of that before.

AFC West

San Diego Strippers - Looks great but doesn’t get the job done.

Denver Millenium Bugs - Ah, so Y2K was real. Things were going so well before 2000.

Kansas City Hangovers - Always better at home.

Oakland Anti -Christs - Catchy, but maybe not evil enough for Al Davis.

NFC East

New York Catch Against David Tyree’s Fu*&%ng Helmets - Get over it?! You get fu*&%ng over it!

Dallas Joneses - Write the theme tune, sing the theme tune…

Philadelphia Hoi Polloi - Inappropriately deemed as ‘elite’ and in fact merely the rabble, the masses, the hecklers. Meet the Philadelphia faithful.

Washington Umbrellas - So much money they could make it rain every week.

NFC North

Chicago Fuzzy Kittens - See. Not so scary now are they.

Green Bay No.4’s - In honour of the QB formally known as Brett Favre.

Minnesota Hobbits - Bear with me here. Their season’s so often tell a story reminiscent of the Lord of the Rings trilogy; great start, great middle, terrible ending.

Detroit‘s Other Sports Team - ‘So you play for the Lions huh?…cooooooool….’

NFC South

New Orleans Hurricanes - Too soon?

Atlanta Cat People - Yes. It’s a Mike Vick joke. Breathe. Breathe. Keep breathing…

Carolina Lost - Can’t seem to put good back-to-back seasons together.

Tampa Bay United - Would probably help the Glazers with their paperwork.

NFC West

Arizona Gooding Jr. Ok, so Larry Fitzgerald may be the most famous Wide Receiver in Arizona now…

San Francisco 89ers - They were really good then.

Seattle 5-yard penalties - I’ve checked the rules; having a 12th man is illegal. You’d think they’d try to hide it.

St. Louis Afterthoughts - A little unfair considering their ‘greatest show on turf’ credentials but, in a league of what-have-you-done-for-me-lately and as the last team on this list, it seems apt.

Worth the Money

2009-09-20T05:46:00.004+01:00

Floyd Mayweather has just defeated Juan Manuel Marquez on points. Such a statement does little to display the disparity between the pair. Marquez, a talented and durable fighter, was outclassed, dismantled and dispatched with style by the oh so pretty boy Floyd.

Mayweather was the artist, Marquez the canvas. The Mexican did well to endure 12 rounds and played his part in the absorbing and engaging spectacle but the focus was on the returning showman as he dotted his opponent with jabs, drew blood with a strike to the nose and brushed Marquez' shots aside.

21 months absence did little to dent his confidence, limit his precision, slow his electric hand speed or add uncertainty to his footwork. 'Money' Mayweather was at his hypnotic, ridiculous best.

Pacquiao. Cotto. Mosley. Three possible opponents. One probable result.

NFL Week 2: Picks

2009-09-18T17:13:00.008+01:00

Carolina Panthers @ Atlanta Falcons - Note to Jake; watch Matty. Watch him. You might learn something. Actually, Jake isn't that bad and Carolina might steal this one.

Minnesota Vikings @ Detroit Lions - For the sake of this game, please, please let Brett throw the ball.

Cincinnati Bengals @ Green Bay Packers - What crazy way will the Bengals find to lose this one?

Arizona Cardinals @ Jacksonville Jaguars - Arizona were desperate on the East coast last year. The Jags are desperate for a passing game.

Oakland Raiders @ Kansas City Chiefs - The Matt Cassel Era is ready to burst out of KC. I see posters, mugs, action figures, lunch boxes...

New England Patriots @ New York Jets - So Kerry Rhodes 'called out' the Pats. Is that even news? While the league may have gone soft on the field, it certainly has gone soft off it. The player interviews are so manicured that not even a hard-hitting safety can get me, or his opponents Sunday, fired up. Where's the crazy eyes? Where's the random head bucking? Where's a freaking swear word? Get Rex Ryan on the phone...

New Orleans Saints @ Philadelphia Eagles - If McNabb ain't playing, I ain't buying.

Houston Texans @ Tennessee Titans - Should be close. Should be good. Won't be on tv.

St. Louis Rams @ Washington Redskins - The Rams haven't won since Steven Jackson ran all over a Brad Johnson-lead Cowboys team back in week 7 of 2008 and have averaged 12.4 points a game in that span. Even the Skins can manage 13 points.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Buffalo Bills - Won't be close. Won't be good. Will be on tv.

Seattle Seahawks @ San Francisco 49ers - Early NFC West supremacy on the line in the division nobody really cares about.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Chicago Bears - Note to Jay; If you thought that Packers defence was good...

Cleveland Browns @ Denver Broncos - Last week Cincy, this week the Browns, next week the Raiders. Could Kyle and Josh go 3-0?

Baltimore Ravens @ San Diego Chargers - 'Air Flacco' comes to town in one of the week's most enticing ties. Will LT ever be fit again? Injuries have limited him the last couple of years and, now fit and on my fantasy team, he suffers an ankle injury and will miss the game.

And in the pansy powder blue corner, weighing in at a buck 81 dripping wet, the franchise, Darrrrrrrrrrren Sprolesssssssssss!

New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys - Jamie Dukes asked the question 'do you trust Tony Romo?' Answer; no. Glad we got that one sorted. 50 years from now, they won't be calling it the house that Romo built. Or Jerry for that matter.

Indianapolis Colts @ Miami Dolphins - I can't wait to get to know Jim Caldwell...

Season so far; 14-2

Mayweather v Marquez

2009-09-17T16:42:00.004+01:00

The body of boxing is stacked between 135 and 147lbs; already this year we have seen 'Sugar' Shane Moseley reclaim his spot atop the welterweight division by dismantling Antonio Margarito, Juan Manuel Marquez overpower Juan Diaz to confirm his dominance at Lightweight, Amir Khan rejuvenate his young career with victories over Marco Antonio Barrera and Andreas Kotelnick, Miguel Cotto outlast Joshua Clottey, and pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao destroy Ricky Hatton inside two rounds.

Pacquiao and Cotto will meet in a heavily anticipated bout in November, a contest confirmed after Floyd Mayweather injured his ribs in training and had to postpone his own compelling match-up with Marquez, originally scheduled for July 18th. The pair will finally meet this weekend at a catchweight of 144lbs.

Mayweather has been absent from the sport for nearly two years, his last fight ending in victory over -at the time - fellow undefeated multi-weight champion, Ricky Hatton. He retreated to develop his promotional company, citing a lack of competition and big fights on the horizon but the landscape is much altered; rivals De la Hoya and Baldomir have retired, Gatti is dead and Hatton is close to irrelevancy. Manny Pacquiao, who was fighting at 130lbs the last time Mayweather fought, has bounded to the peak of the pugilistic mountain, winning and winning well.

Mayweather, the former undisputed pound-for-pound champion, would desperately love that title returned to him, indeed it's a fight with Pacquiao that would seem to be driving his restoration. 'Money' Mayweather is flashy, brazen and driven by dollar signs but it's his public perception and legacy that motivate his competitive instinct - while he is happy to declare himself the best ever, he's less happy that he has to continue to remind us of the fact. A victory over either Pacquiao or Cotto - ideally Pacquiao - would cement his spot as the dominant fighter of his era and limit the critics.

But first, there's Marquez.

The Mexican has won his last two fights at 135lbs -against quality operators - and has developed into one of the better technicians in the game. His only defeats this decade have come against Chris John at Featherweight in 2006 and to Manny Pacquiao at Super Featherweight last year, both on points and both in controversial fashion. Marquez also drew with Pac-man back in 2004 and, in many people's minds, should have won both fights. A win for 36-year old, currently ranked no. 2 in The Ring magazine pound-for-pound rankings, would likely catapult him into another superfight in the spring, possibly in a continuation of his rivalry with the Phillipino.

Pacquiao, seemingly linked to this fight at every turn, has proven his ability to move up the weight divisions, defeating larger, stronger opponents whilst retaining his speed and mobility. That will be the challenge for Marquez. Despite fighting most of his 16-year career at Featherweight, he has looked commanding at both Super Featherweight (130lbs) and Lightweight (135lbs) but will be fighting a man who has long since outgrown such weight classes. Mayweather has beaten the best at 140 and 147lbs, outclassing the majority of his adversaries, and beat De la Hoya at 154lbs.

Marquez will have to overcome the size, reach and experience of Mayweather and, presuming there is no ring rust for the perma-fit 'Pretty Boy,' cannot match the speed and power of his assailant. Where Marquez can challenge is with his heart, his endurance and his perseverance. His biggest advantage may simply be that Mayweather hasn't been hit in almost two years.

For both men, this is a pivotal moment in their career; Marquez may seem to have nothing to lose but, if defeated, will probably never have the opportunity to either fight for the pound-for-pound title or battle nemesis Pacquiao again. The returning Mayweather may not be back in the ring for too long - three, possibly four fights - and needs to win on Saturday night to remain unbeaten and to remain in pole position for a fight with Pacquiao (or Cotto, and what a fight that should be).

Floyd has long felt unloved and under appreciated. He has capably played the 'bad guy' in the build up to recent fights but has been nothing but respectful for his opponent on this occasion, praising the tenacity and desire of Marquez

And there can be no disputing that. He has been floored, battered and survived, generally improving as his fights have endured. However, for all his indomitability and fight, it's Mayweather that has the motivation, not to mention the talent, to win. His legacy demands it.

Champions League Gameday 1: Thoughts and Notes

2009-09-17T16:16:00.003+01:00

What did we learn from the opening salvo’s in the champions league?

It is far more valuable to be a team from 'Pot 1' of the draw than a league champion. Teams from Pot 1 won 7 and drew 1 (Barcelona's draw with Inter in Milan, no shame there) of their opening fixtures while 1st place teams from last season won only 4, drew 5 and lost 9. Of course, now with the final qualifying stages split into a 'champions' and 'non-champions' path, more league winners should qualify ahead of placed teams from Europe's stronger nations. Teams from Pot 4 won 1, drew 1 and lost 6 with the only victory coming from German league champions, Wolfsburg.

Including his hat-trick Tuesday night, Grafite now has 41 goals in 54 games for Wolfsburg.

Over the last two seasons, teams that went on to qualify for the knockout stages won 16, drew 7 and lost 8 of their opening fixtures with all 16 teams from Pot 1 getting through. 11 teams from Pot 2, 3 teams from Pot 3 and 2 teams from Pot 4 have also made it through. The likely gatecrashers? The afforementioned Wolfsburg have a chance along with Standard Liege from Pot 4 while Stuttgart, Atletico Madrid, Bordeaux, Marseille and Olympiacos will fancy their chances out of Pot 3.

Maccabi Haifa, Debreceni and APOEL Nicosia have played 6 games to get this far and the Cypriots were rewarded with a point in Madrid. Ranked 190th in the UEFA Rankings, here are a bunch of teams ranked higher than APOEL; Cherno More Varna (179th), Aberdeen (134th), NEC Nijmegen (110th) and…Millwall (107th). In fact Millwall rank above 4 teams in the group stages.

Of the 54 European Cup Finals in history, 23 of them have involved Milan or Real Madrid, both featuring in Group C

Of the 17 Champions League Finals, 9 of them have involved Milan or Real Madrid.

Milan and Real Madrid have never met in a European Cup Final.

10 of the top 11 All-time Champions League scorers are still active, 9 are participating in this years competition and 2 (Pippo Inzaghi of Milan and Raul and Real Madrid) were on target this week.

Arsenal have kept 1 clean sheet in all competitions this season and have conceded 11 goals in 7 games. The pairing of Gallas and Vermaelen introduced themselves in imperious form but the defensive spine has shortcomings.

Cristiano Ronaldo had 10 shots (that’s more than 13 entire teams had), including successful 2 strikes from free-kicks, and now has 20 shots in less than 2 ½ games.

Would you rather have Zlatan Ibrahamovic or Samuel Etoo right now? Me too.

18 of 37 goals in midweek were scored after 70 minutes.

Luis Fabiano should be in the conversation with the likes of Torres, Drogba, Etoo and Ibrahimovic as the best striker in the competition.

Mathieu Flamini, born and bred in Marseille, should be suspended for his atrocious two-footed challenge on Mbia. If you haven’t seen it, it was very, very ugly.

Brazil have the best two right backs in the world currently; It's a loss that Maicon and Daniel Alves probably can't play in the same team.

And finally...the Besiktas fan's performance made a sluggish, routine game all that much more enjoyable. United were fortunate that the Turk's could not match the organisation and flair of their supporters.

Premiership Power Rankings

2009-09-16T02:09:00.004+01:00

That's just what I need. A bunch of the premier protagonists playing each other and forcing me to fiddle with my rankings! Well, in the spirit of Emmanuel Adebayor, let's stamp some authority on proceedings.

1. Chelsea (played 5, points 15, No change) - Hard to argue with their place atop the league table and these rankings. They face Tottenham and Liverpool in two of their next three.

2. Man Utd (p 5, pts 12, NC) - United played by far their best football of the season in defeating the previously unbeaten Spurs at the Lane. You get the feeling this could be Wayne Rooney's year.

3. Man City (p 4, pts 12, Up 3) - They are for real. Victory over Arsenal will be a real boost to the confidence but United loom on the horizon and Adebayor, Robinho and Tevez could all be unavailable.

4. Liverpool (p 5, pts 9, Up 1) - So they beat Burnley 4-0. Big whoop. What's happened to Ryan Babel and Albert Riera?

5. Tottenham (p 5, pts 12, Dn 1) - Jermain Defoe scored but his team were over matched against the Reds. At least Arsenal lost.

6. Arsenal (p 4, pts 6, Dn 3) - The optimism of the opening weeks has been quickly eroded but their schedule softens over the next month. Only 4 teams have conceded more goals and the early season form of William Gallas and Thomas Vermaelen faded in their loss to City.

7. Aston Villa (p 4, pts 9, NC) - An important early-season derby victory has the Villains heading up the table but stifled in the power rankings. Why? Curtis Davies will miss serious time with injury and last year's starlets Ashley Young and Stilian Petrov have yet to overly impress. James Milner has been very good though.

8. Sunderland (p 5, pts 9, Up 2) - They eased past Hull and face newly promoted pair Burnley and Wolves over the next two weekends; can Darren Bent score 20 league goals this year? can Lorik Cana go 20 minutes without picking up a card?

9. Stoke (p 5, pts 7, NC) - They pushed Chelsea close but there was an air of inevitability to their defeat. Needed: A goalscorer part I.

10. Fulham (p 4, pts 6, Up 2) - Is that the same Damien Duff who sauntered around for Newcastle last season? Really? Andy Johnson's swift return is a boon for an ailing attack.

11. West Ham (p 4, pts 4, NC) - They lost. They played nice football. They do that.

12. Blackburn (p 4, pts 4, Up 5) - Comfortably beat Wolves and will hope that the result drives their season forward. First there was Ivan Campo, then Fernando Hierro, now Michel Salgado. Does Big Sam sell the north-east like Florida to former Real Madrid stars?

13. Everton (p 4, pts 3, Dn 5) - Losing Phil Neville might have worse long-term effects than losing to Fulham but, right now, this team needs a result.

14. Burnley (p 5, pts 6, Dn 1) - Scored 2 goals, won 2 games. Bottom 3 within a month?

15. Wigan (p 5, pts 6, Up 3) - Beating West Ham was vital, not only due to their poor recent form but also because they face Arsenal and Chelsea in their forthcoming fixtures.

16. Hull (p 5, pts 4, Dn 2) - Hull have found the net in every game so far but have also let 12 in. A half-time sit down could be in order...

17. Birmingham City (p 5, pts 4, Dn 2) - Winnable games lie ahead for Alex McLeish's side; Hull (a), Bolton (h) and Burnley (a) Needed: A goalscorer part II.

18. Wolves (p 5, pts 4, Dn 2) - Solid in the opening weeks but lacking some guile and ruthlessness upfront. You know what's coming. Needed: A goalscorer part III.

19. Bolton (p 4, pts 3, NC) - Gary Cahill's header gave them their first points but little suggests they will be in for anything other than a relegation scrap once again. Johan Elmander cost almost £10million. That's almost £2million a goal right now. Even Afonso Alves scored more.

20. Portsmouth (p 5, pts 0, NC) - Bottom. No points. No chance? Let's not write them off quite yet but I've already started their online obituary.

NFL Week 1: Thoughts and Notes

2009-09-16T01:10:00.006+01:00

Drew Brees is on pace for 96 TD’s. If he played the Lions every week he might actually get there.

If Peyton Manning was 10 years older, we might be talking about Peyton and Reggie rather than Peyton and Marvin. Wayne had 162 yards on 10 catches while being constantly double teamed in the absence of injured team mate Anthony Gonzalez. Try to name the Colts no. 3 and soon to be no. 2 receiver. Nope? Pierre Garcon. I would have also accepted Austin Collie or ‘who cares? They’ve got Dallas Clark.’

Matt Schaub was healthy. Andre Johnson was healthy. Steve Slaton was healthy. And still the Texans only managed 183 offensive yards. What the hell does Rex Ryan say to those defensive players?

The Bills are still the Bills. Their defeat to the Pats was eerily reminiscent of their 25-24 loss at the hands of the Cowboys two years ago, also on Monday Night Football, also up two scores with only minutes to go, also lost in fan base-destroying circumstances.

Adrian Peterson is on pace for 2880 yards and 48 TD’s. If he played the Browns every week he might actually get there.

Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco, both rookies who played from the first snap of last season, both had strong opening days; Ryan (22-36, 229 yds, 2 TD’s) began slowly but punished the ’Fins turnovers to lead the Falcons to a 19-7 win. Flacco (26-43, 307 yds, 3 TD’s, 1 INT) dissected Kansas City and was allowed more freedom within the offense than at any point last year, finally putting the upstart Chiefs away 38-24. Neither of these young Quarterbacks are near the finish article and both have much to improve on after these performances but the pair are true leaders of their respective offenses and appear to be heading for stardom.

The men following in their footsteps, Mark Sanchez and Matthew Stafford, had differing days; Sanchez threw for 272 yards, a TD and an INT and generally looked calm and controlled in a victory. Stafford went 16/37 for 205 yards and 3 INT’s but was not helped by an anaemic running game and a defence that seemed intent on watching Drew Brees rather than pressuring him (0 sacks while New Orleans were 9-13 on 3rd down).

The Patriots were far from perfect; suspect on the O-line, indifferent on defence and it’s hard to imagine they wanted to expose Tom Brady to 53 passes but they got the ‘W.’

Maybe the Rams, bereft of receivers, could play O.J Atogwe (14 INT’s since 2007) at the position.

Brett Favre had only 4 passing 1st downs and 110 yards passing.

If Richard Seymour plays like he did versus the Chargers every week, the Raiders could, and I never thought I’d be writing this, have one of the better front sevens in the NFL.

Tony Romo has a league leading 140.6 Passer Rating after week 1. No T.O? no problem apparently; Patrick Crayton and Roy Williams combined for 221 yards receiving. The ‘Boys defence was less impressive.

Cadillac Williams almost had a 100-yard game after almost not having a career after consecutive devastating knee injuries.

Note to Jamarcus Russell; you were a no.1 pick, this is your third year, it’s time to produce. Russell went just 12-30 with 1 TD and 2 picks.

Even without Plax, might the Giants have made the Superbowl if Osi Umenyiora was healthy for the playoffs last year? Despite a strong defensive display, New York continued their red-zone struggles from the back end of last year, going 0 for 3. Who’s going to step up for this offense, especially with high impact rookie Hakeem Nicks sidelined?

Wasn’t hard to see the Cardinal’s hangover coming was it? Arizona still can’t run the ball and committed far too many penalties. Their top-2 receivers against the 49ers? Fitz and Boldin? No. Hightower (12 catches for 121 yards) and Urban (5 catches for 74 yards)? Yes.

Patrick Willis, in what should be a decent D this year, could be the early leader for Defensive Player of the Year.

James Laurinaitis, in what might not be such a good D this year, could be the early leader for Rookie Defensive Player of the Year.

Mike Bell, starting only his 4th game in 4 years in the league, ran for 143 yards on 28 carries. He had 45 yards on 19 carries over the last 2 years combined.

33-year old Tony Gonzalez is still the best receiving Tight End in the NFL. He polished his hall of fame resume by becoming only the 21st man to collect over 11,000 receiving yards.

Big games for this week; Pats @ Jets, Saints @ Eagles, Seahawks @ 49ers, Steelers @ Bears, Giants @ Cowboys and, my personal fave, Ravens @ Chargers.

Ryan Succop is no longer Mr. Irrelevant; the 256th and final pick of the 2009 draft kicked a field goal from 53 yards and was successful on all three extra points for the Chiefs.

The injury to Donovan McNabb, a fractured rib suffered running in a 3-yard TD, is the worst possible happening for the Eagles and maybe the most intriguing for the neutral. Jeff Garcia returned on Monday and will join Kevin Kolb and the soon-to-return Michael Vick in the wings.
In his last two starts, against the Cardinals in last year’s playoffs and against the Eagles on Sunday, Jake Delhomme is 24-51 for 278 yards with 1 Touchdown and…wait for it…9 interceptions and 2 fumbles. The only noteworthy news for the Panthers QB between those two performances? A new 5 year, $42.5million contract.

Percy Harvin meet Brett Favre. Brett Favre meet….oh god Brett no! He’s on your team! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24BRveFlcKg

The game between the Eagles and Panthers yielded 48 points (33-10) and just 165 yards passing. The Eagles D, in the absence of Jim Johnson, was electric.

In light of the nightmarish offseason that Broncos fans have been subjected to, not to mention their new Head Coach, perhaps it was fitting that their team pulled off an improbable victory in sublimely ridiculous circumstances. As an encore, former QB Jay Cutler threw 4 picks later in the day.

Dear Brandon, the way to prove you deserve a new deal does involve catching the second most passes between WR’s over the last two years, always involves a hold-out and some toothy-grinned ‘no comments,’ can just about involve getting suspended in the preseason for being an immature non-participator but definitely, definitely does not involve catching 4 balls for 27 yards against the Bengals and not catching a bunch of other passes.

Game of the week - Pittsburgh 13 - 10 Tennessee. I’ve already watched this game 3 times. In fact, let’s finish this quickly so I can watch it again.

Stat of the week - The Niners, the 'smash them in the mouth' Niners, had 21 total rushing yards on 25 carries, 0.8 yards a carry, and still controlled the time of possession and won the game.

Winner of the week - The Jets. The Sanchez and Ryan era’s get off with a win and look good doing it.

Loser of the week - The Bills. The last five minutes of that game could define their season.

Play of the week - Has to be Brandon Stokely’s late game winner for Josh McDaniels and new QB Kyle Orton. Marvin Lewis and the Bengals fans must be used to those kinds of things happening to them by now.

Player of the week - Could easily be Adrian Peterson or Drew Brees, maybe Tony Romo or Reggie Wayne, but the best performance of week 1 came in Foxboro. And no, it wasn’t Tom Brady. Trent Edwards produced a spellbinding performance in the Bills’ no huddle offense, going 15-25 for 205 yards and 2 TD’s whilst under pressure from the Pats defence and T.O’s mouth. Tough loss on a coming-of-age style performance for the third-year QB.

One and done for the Bears?

2009-09-14T23:10:00.006+01:00

Defeat to the Packers on Sunday Night Football. Face, arm and torch bearer of the franchise Jay Cutler threw 4 interceptions. Axis of the defence Brian Urlacher is out for the year after having surgery on a dislocated wrist. Defensive partner Pisa Tinoisamoa will miss several weeks with a strained posterior cruciate ligament. Long snappers have even been calling plays. Is it all over after week 1 of the new NFL season for the Chicago Bears?

The Bears were a trendy pick just a few, short days ago. The strong-armed Cutler joining up with prolific sophomore Matt Forte and a defence that, when healthy, has been amongst the leagues best, particularly against the run. How things change.

Chicago will also have to overcome their division rivals from Minnesota and Green Bay, both of whom now sit at 1-0 and are considered playoff calibre. Urlacher's injury in particular will hurt considering his range and role in the Cover-2 defence and the quality of the likes of Adrian Peterson and Ryan Grant in the running game and Jennings, Driver, Berrian and Harvin in the passing game. On the Lions showing in their opener versus the Saints, they won't factor in the final reckoning but they should improve as the season develops.

The Bears immediate schedule doesn't give them too many breaks despite a meeting with Detroit on the horizon; they host the Superbowl champion Steelers this Sunday before trips to Seattle and Atlanta in the next four weeks. At the end of the year, they face the Cardinals, @49ers, Eagles, @ Ravens, Packers and Vikings twice (plus the Rams and @Lions). If they are to be successful, they may have to run the table within their division in addition to being traditionally stubborn at Soldier Field down the stretch.

Hunter Hillenmeyer will likely fill Urlacher's large boots for the foreseeable future. He knows the offense and, while not having the speed, strength or authority of his fallen comrade, can provide solid play over the coming weeks. The likes of Zach Thomas and Derrick Brooks, both free agents, have been mentioned as potential recruits while Nick Roach, a replacement for Tinoisamoa, might be another option once the strong-side backer is back in the lineup.

But this may not be about Urlacher. Or Tinoisamoa. Or the strength of schedule.

One man has propelled this team to the jaws of potential and edge of sports writer's lips. Jay Cutler. The former Denver QB was (but for Favre and Vick's resurrections) the saga of the summer and has breathed new life into a franchise that, but for a run to a Superbowl in 2006, has not had too much to be excited about; they have won 10+ games in only 3 of the last 18 years and have won just 3 playoff games during that period. Pre-Cutler, the list of Bears starting QB's this decade reads Griese, Orton, Grossman, Krenzel, Quinn, Hutchinson, Stewart, Burris, Chandler and Miller. Combined Pro Bowls at the position with the Bears? 0.

Cutler appeared out of sync with his young receiving corps on Sunday night; Earl Bennett, Devin Hester, Johnny Knox, Desmond Clark and Greg Olsen all had difficulties on some of their routes and were partly responsible for the 4 picks thrown by their new offensive leader. Even with the turnovers and Cutler's less than impressive 43.2 passer rating, the Bears still gained 352 total yards (266 through the air), outgained the Packers by 126 yards and only lost on a 50-yard bomb with minutes remaining. Lovie Smith can surely take solace in the fact that Cutler seemed to improve as the game progressed and that the wideouts will certainly learn from their errors. As should their Quarterback.

If the defence can't limit opponents to less than 300 yards a game and 15-20 points then Jay Cutler will be shouldered with the responsibility of winning games for this franchise, a charge that he faced in Denver with their porous 'D' and, what you have to imagine, he was traded for. The Bears failed to exert their rushing game in the season opener and RB Matt Forte (25 rushes for 55 yards, 2.2 average) had no receptions either, having caught 63 balls for 477 yards a year ago.

Cutler, who worked with a ravaged running game with the Broncos last term, had a talented, deep and reliable group of receivers to sling to previously. While his current team mates may not be quite in the echelon of Marshall, Royal and Stokely, there were portentous signs against the Packers; the speed of Knox (2 catches for 82 yards, including a 68-yard TD when he burned Charles Woodson), the route running of favoured target and former Vanderbilt comrade Earl Bennett (7 catches for 66 yards, 14 targets) and the moments of authentic no. 1 receiver play from Devin Hester (4 catches for 90 yards and a TD). They're young, they're green and they will make mistakes but as long as Cutler, who has not always proven to be careful with the football (41 INT's in 38 career games), can control his temperament and what he asks of them, this offense could yet come to the team's rescue.

No team (well, maybe the Lions) should be written off after the first week of the year. The Bears do face the adversity of injury and the pressure of an early divisional defeat but, in a defence that stifled a powerful and sudden Green Bay attack and an offense that overcame a number of mistakes to almost steal victory in Lambeau field, there are positive signs to take forward. They'll need them. The Steelers await.

UEFA-ilings

2009-09-14T20:33:00.006+01:00

Another classic moment of amateurism from Europe's governing body as Arsenal forward Eduardo's two-game ban has been rescinded. Whether or not he dived - and not to complicate matters but he probably was guilty of 'simulation' at least to the extent as to exaggerate the amount of contact - the reaction by UEFA to suspend the Croatian and then to accept an appeal, annulling the ban, displays the weak will and over-reactionary nature of the group.

The decision to ban Eduardo came 6 days after the event, seemingly enough time to counsel the referee, his assistants, the fourth official and the match video from every possible angle. When the announcement came, and in doing so brandished the Arsenal player a cheat, it should have and indeed appeared to be final. Again, rights and wrongs if the judgement aside, when UEFA dropped the hammer, the matter seemed over.

Not so.

13 days later and UEFA revoke their own authority under pressure from Arsene Wenger and Arsenal, a powerful player on the European stage, and allow the striker to perform in just 2 days against Belgian champions Standard Liege. Why should this surprise anybody? The original action arose after pressure and coercion from the Scottish FA, desperate for some quasi-justice for Celtic being outplayed and defeated by the London club.

It begs the simple question, what's changed UEFA's mind?

The video? The same. The referee's report? Unchanged. The circumstances, the media response, the attitude of one of Europe's central clubs? Ah, now it all becomes clear.

It will get swept under the carpet. It won't really matter. It will be soon forgotten and the next zeitgeist will become blog fodder in cyberspace but if anybody needed ammunition against UEFA and their juvenile and hollow responses to football's day-to-day, here it is. Unsettling. Really unsettling. Isn't this meant to be Sepp Blatter territory?

Pete Sampras wears Roger Federer pyjamas (copyright SL)

2009-09-14T01:09:00.003+01:00

If you failed to catch Roger Federer's semi-final victory over the gallant and magnanimous Novka Djokovic, then you missed this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRo72MUUZnE

That should be illegal. Or improbable. Or at least there should be a minutes silence every other Thursday until next September. Either way, wow.

Djokovic played very well, struck the ball excellently and did not crumble mentally against the awesome power and timing of the Swiss master. The final scoreline, a loss in three sets, does little to represent his valour and performance. But this is Fed.

Federer v Del Potro tomorrow night in a potential cracker.

2008 NFL Statistics

2009-09-13T02:05:00.006+01:00

One or two or sixty-five arresting and intriguing facts from last years NFL season, just in time for them to be completely resigned to history as the new year begins.

The Bears paid a large price to acquire Jay Cutler from Denver over the off-season in an attempt to improve their offense. No surprises then that they were outgained by 1410 yards in the air and 1599 yards overall during 2008. What is a shock, considering the perception of Denver's high powered offense and the weapons within it's 2008 make up, is that Chicago actually scored more points.

The Cincinnati Bengals were bereft of quality QB play due to injury and only failed to settle on a RB when Cedric Benson became the starter late in the season. Despite this, there is simply no excuse for their pitiful 12.75 points per game and just 4 yards per play. Their QB's combined for a dismal 48.8% Pass Completion.

It might not be too difficult to pick 4 of the top 6 offensive teams in terms of total yards from 2008; New Orleans, Denver, Houston and Arizona all had explosive passing attacks and were poor defensively, the hallmarks of high gainers. The other 2? New England with no Tom Brady and everyone and their mother at tailback and Atlanta, rookie QB and all.

A sign of quite how good Kurt Warner was last year; Drew Brees nearly broke the all-time passing mark with 5,069 yards but Arizona had more completions in less attempts than New Orleans (and nearly double of Oakland).

Proof that Carolina fell back in love with the run game (and didn't want to expose Jake Delhomme unduly); they trailed the entire league in passing attempts.St. Louis, Cincinnati and Cleveland just had 11 passing TD's each. The Skins and therefore Jason Campbell, only had 6 picks and at just 1.2% of Passes Attempted, less than any other team.

How on earth did the Pats have the 5th most rushing attacks? Did anyone tell Laurence Maroney? And the most rushing 1st downs! what was I watching all year? Basically, don't want to give anything away here, but for all you Defensive Coordinators out there, watch out for draw plays on 3rd down.

Carolina had 30, yes 30, rushing Touchdowns (and had the least fumbles, 12, despite the 6th most attempts). Cleveland and Cincinnati had 6. Yes. 6. As much as the Saints love, 28th in rushing yards, were 5th in Touchdowns.

The Giants had the highest average yard per carry (I was surprised it was just 5.0, it seemed far more during the season) and Carolina (4.8 ypc) slip in at 4th. The two teams that are sandwiched in between are, incredibly, Denver with their 7 RB's on IR and Kansas freaking City! Neither team ran the ball too often (28th and 29th respectively) but perhaps a few times more would have been smart.

It should be no revelation to anybody that the Colts drafted a RB in the 1st round of the draft; they averaged only 3.4 ypc and struggled in the run game all year.

I can guarantee they won't lead the league in this stat next year under Mike Singletary; San Fran lost 35 turnovers, just ahead of Dallas (33) and Houston (32). The Vikings, who acquired the profligate Sage Rosenfels from turnover-happy Houston and signed free agent gun-slinger-avec-wild-abandon Brett Favre (his Jets led the league in passing interceptions with 23, 4.3% of Pass Attempts, and he joins a fumble happy, 31 last year, group of Running Backs), had 31. Great.

The Giants and Dolphins only gave the ball away 13 times. In fact, if ever there were a signal of playoff intention or a reason to worship Bill Parcells slightly more, 9 of the top 10 teams in terms of Turnovers made the playoffs. The one exception? the Redskins who could be an interesting outside bet this year. Don’t quote me on that. Only about 1 in 5 teams that lost the Turnover battle won in the NFL last year.

The masters of pass protection (aided by some smart, experienced QB's); Denver (12), Tennessee (12), New Orleans (13) and Indianapolis (14) allowed the fewest sacks. That's all about 1 in 40 Pass Attempts or less. The 49ers allowed 55 sacks at a rate of almost 1 in 10 Pass Attempts. The Steelers, Patriots and Vikings were not much better, all averaging about 1 in 12 Pass Attempts.

Breaking News! The Raiders aren't all bad! They returned the most kicks/punts for TD's (5) and and the second highest Punt Return Average. Jonny Lee Higgins shared the league lead with Reggie Bush with 3 Return TD’s.

Breaking News! The Lions aren't all bad! They scored all 8 of their field goals from over 50 yards. Too bad they only had 14 other shots at three points, a league low total of 22 attempts.

The Packers will be debuting a new 3-4 defence under Dom Capers in 2009 but one aspect they shouldn't have to worry about on D is their nose for the end-zone. The Pack led the NFL with 6 Interceptions Returned for scores and added another from a Fumble Recovery. The Ravens (who also added a joint leading 3 Safeties), Jets, Colts and Eagles were close behind.

I'm not sure how many ways there are to measure the futility of the Rams, Browns and Bengals so I'll leave it at this; each of them managed just 20 Total TD's. New Orleans had 57.

Defence wins Championships eh? It certainly gives you a chance. All 12 Playoff teams were in the top-15 in terms of Points Allowed, the Chargers (8-8) at the rear and the Bills, Skins and Bucs crashing the party. The Steelers, Titans, Ravens, Eagles and Giants were the top-5. Weren't they the favourites in the post-season before the Cardinals decided to prompt hell to freeze over?

The Lions allowed the most Yards (6470), Points (517), 1st Downs (350), the highest Yards per Play (6.4) and the highest opponent QB Rating (110.9). Of course.

The Steelers let opponents gain just 3.9 Yards per Play.

The Chargers (411), Bears (383), Jets (368), Seahawks (366) gave up the most passing completions and the four also gave up the most Yards. The Raiders (266), Ravens (276), Bucs (276) and Rams (278) gave up the least completions but it was the defiant Steelers that gave up the fewest Yards. Just 2551 (5.4 Yards per Play, 156.9 Yards per Game), 366 better than their closest rivals, the Ravens (5.9 Yards per Play).

The Ravens limited opposing QB’s to just a 52.3% pass completion rate (and 60.6 QB Rating). The Lions and Colts - at 68.4% - allowed the highest.

The Colts D’s mentality has always been to bend but don’t break and this was evident in the last season. They let opposing QB’s complete 68.4% of passes (a league high) but only 6.7 yards per attempt and just 6 scores (a league low and just 1.2% of all passes attempted). Tony Dungy, the mastermind of so much about that franchise, will be sorely missed. Arizona allowed 36 Passing TD’s (that‘s 7% of all Passes Attempted), 9 more than anyone else.

The Rams allowed 57 Punt Returns. The Pats just 11, and yet 2 of those for touchdowns.

Wondered why Defensive Ends are so highly valued? The Cowboys, lead by Demarcus Ware, sacked the opposing QB 59 times to lead the league. All the top 6 teams in this category made the playoffs. The Chiefs managed just a paltry 10 and none of the bottom 8 teams made the playoffs.

The Lions (4, just 0.9% of all Passes Thrown), Broncos (6), Cowboys (8), Seahawks (9) had the fewest interceptions. The Ravens had the most takeaways with 26, followed by the Browns (23, a league best at 5.2% of Passes Thrown), Bears (22), Packers (22) and Bucs (22).

The Raiders (542), Browns (541), Lions (536), Chiefs (509) and Rams (501) were victims to the most rushing plays. The 5 teams also allowed the most yards. The Vikes, Ravens, Steelers, Eagles and bears were the best teams across the board in defending the Run while the Falcons and Colts were the only 2 playoff teams to rank over the league average in Yards and TD’s conceded.

The Lions opponents ran in 31 scores against them. The Ravens opponents only reached the end-zone on 4 occasions on running plays (and just 58 1st Downs). The Steelers, Eagles, Bucs and Pats were the only other teams that held opponents to under 10 Rushing TD’s.

The Lions adversaries gained 5.1 Yards per Carry, the worst in the NFL, the Chiefs and Broncos predictably followed. In 4th, the Falcons at 4.9 Yards per Carry. The Vikings and Steelers were the most stingy at just 3.3 Yards per Carry. The Bears (3.4), Jets (3.7), 49ers (3.8), Redskins (3.8) and Bengals (3.9) had the lowest ypc amongst non-playoff teams.

Aaron Rodgers and Matt Cassel were the only 2 players to be in the top-10 of times sacked and QB Rating.

Jake Delhomme, derided for his performance in the Playoff loss to the Cardinals, led the league in yards per pass completion, effectively stretching the field better than anybody. I’m sure Smash and Dash version 2.0 as well as a Mr Smith had a part to play. Second on the list? Rookie Matt Ryan. Very Un-rookie like stat that one.

Ryan Grant (1203) was 9th in rushing yards. Never figured that one myself.

Wonder what the odds were on Le’Ron McClain (82) and Lendale White (80), combined weight of about 13,000lbs (approx.), having the 2 longest rushes of the season?

Need a reason to believe that DeAngelo Williams is for real? 1515 Yards, 18 TD’s (plus 2 more receiving) and a whopping 5.5 Yards per Carry.

Eddie Royal had 91 Receptions as a Rookie WR. Can’t imagine he’s in line for quite as many without Jay Cutler.

Calvin Johnson, on an all-time worst Lions team, shared a league best 12 Receiving TD’s with Larry Fitzgerald. Lance Moore had 10, Kevin Walter had 8.

Devery Henderson = fast. 24.8 yards per catch! Bernard Berrian (20.1), Vincent Jackson (18.6), Steve Smith (18.2) and Calvin Johnson (17.1) may have expected to be in the top 6, but at no.2 in the list is…answers on a postcard please…Justin Gage with 19.1 Yards per Catch. Ok, so Kerry Collins can throw the long ball and a lot of teams cheat up against the Titans run game but Justin Gage? Again, didn’t see it coming.

Adrian Peterson (1901) was only 5th on the list of all-purpose yards. The top 4;
Leon Washington (2337), Darren Sproles (2297), Jerious Norwood (2138) and Steve Breaston (1918). A few new contracts there I think.

The curse of 370? Michael Turner has been downgraded in fantasy-land for the upcoming season due to his 376 carries last year but he trailed Adrian Peterson in total touches (385).

Devin Hester may no longer be the best returner in the league, or on his own team. Danieal Manning of the Bears lead the NFL in Yards per Kick Return (29.7).

Garrett Hartley of New Orleans was the only player to score every Field Goal he attempted; the 23 year old went 13 of 13.

The Rams had plenty of opportunity to practice Punts last year and it seemed to pay dividends for Donnie Jones; he lead the league with a 50.0 Yard per Punt Average.

Jay Cutler was only sacked 1.75% of drop backs. Kerry Collins was second at just 1.89%, with Brees (2.01%), Manning (2.46%) and Matty Ice (3.77%) behind.

The Most Yards in a Game in 2008 - Houston Texans (549) v Green Bay Packers.

The Least Yards in a Game in 2008 - Oakland Raiders (77) v Atlanta Falcons.

Most Points in a Game in 2008 - New York Jets (56) - Arizona Cardinals (35)

Drew Brees has completed 883 passes in the last 2 years. 2nd on the list? Brett Favre with 669.

In the last 2 seasons; Drew Brees has thrown 35 INT’s, Ben Roethlisberger has been sacked 93 times, Clinton Portis Portis has rushed 667 times, Adrian Peterson has rushed for 3101 yards, LaDanian Tomlinso has run in 26 TD’s, Wes Welker has 223 receptions, Larry Fitzgerald has 2840 yards receiving, Randy Moss has 24 receiving TD’s, Stephen Gostkowski has kicked 285 points, Jerious Norwood has 4345 total yards, Kurt Warner, Tony Romo and Big Ben have had 23 fumbles, Ed Reed has 16 INT’s, DeMarcus Ware has 34 sacks and New England have a league best 37 wins, despite failing to make the playoffs last year.

And finally...only 3 of last year's 12 playoff teams lost in week 1. None of them lost in week 9. Spooky.

Adebayorful...Adebayrilliant

2009-09-13T01:54:00.004+01:00

What a day for Emmanuel Adebayor. 'Freed' from his cage at Arsenal by the nouveau wealthy Manchester City, the forward managed a clearance off the line, the run of the season so far, a blatant stamp on a former teammate's face, a goal and a subsequesnt celebration that rendered the preceeding strike almost an afterthought as he desperately sprinted 90-yards towards the Arsenal support and slid, arms spread provocatively, towards them, as if he were their saviour. As much as he was booed last season - a likely cause to his frustration and reaction - he has not heard the loudest, most passionate dissent directed towards him.

A goal a game with no lack of alacrity or drama, Adebayor has much still to do to repay the team's financial faith in him. As a spectacle, a topic, a storybook villain, he has already surpassed the attention his fee has brought him.

Champions League Long Shots

2009-09-12T12:04:00.001+01:00

A few provocative parlays for the Champions League, due to start this week.

Porto to win Group D - 7/1

Chelsea and Atletico Madrid are the favourites to qualify and Porto have shifted prized assets Lucho Gonzalez and Lisandro Lopez over the summer, however, here's a few secondary teams that have won groups over the past two years; Panathanaikos, Roma, Sevilla and Porto...twice. Only once on their previous 8 visits to the Champions League group stage have they failed to make the knockout stages and their home record, thwarted memorably by former Sporting player Ronaldo last year, is amongst the continents best.

Lyon to win Group E - 5/2

They demolished Anderlecht in the qualifying phase and have revamped the squad after only finishing 3rd domestically last year. Michel Bastos, Lisandro Lopez, Aly Cissokho and Bafetembi Gomis have all been big money acquisitions over the summer and with Liverpool stumbling early, Fiorentina have not been beyond the group stage in recent years and Debrecen are true outsiders.

Juventus to win the competition - 25/1

The Old Lady is back, venomous glare and all, and in the likes Buffon, Fabio Cannavaro, Giorgio Chiellini, Felip Melo, Claudio Marchisio, Diego and Amauri have the spine to challenge the top teams. The team is full of experience, good depth and abundant matchwinners. They are outsiders behind the English 4, Barca, Real and Inter but it is rarely Europe's best team that wins the trophy.

Robin Van Persie to finish as top scorer - 33/1

Arsenal have a seemingly straightforward group draw featuring a couple of teams that struggle on their travels and a squad that appear to be coming of age. The question mark around the Dutchman has never been talent, more how regularly he can play but, if fit, he could lead the scoring charts (Ronaldo is 7/1 and probably good value at that, Diego Milito is also 33/1...interesting that).

Titans v Steelers

2009-09-11T16:34:00.002+01:00

A few thoughts from the NFL's opening game:

The Steelers running woes continue. Yes, the Titans represent possibly the stiffest defensive line in the league and will be hard to run on all year but 36 rushing yards on 23 carries is fairly pitiful. Roethlisberger was the only Steeler to average over 2 yards a carry (and that on only 1 rush). Willie Parker was benched in the 4th quarter and OT.

Kenny Britt, the first round pick from Rutgers, can be an effective weapon for the Titan's offense. He will need to develop his route-running and alertness but, on a team severely requiring a big-play WR, Britt can prosper.

Chris Hope and Michael Griffin might be the best safety pairing in the league.

Troy Polamalu had as impressive a first-quarter as any defensive player can hope for. Hopefully for the Steelers he can return from his awkward looking knee injury.

The Titans line, anchored by Michael Roos, is really good. Pittsburgh's line has some problems, particularly on the right side.

Daniel Sepulveda, on IR all of last year, gives the Steelers a boost in the kicking game. Stefan Logan, all 5'6 of him, looked explosive on returns.

Will either of these teams throw the ball more than they did in game 1? Collins and Roethlisberger went a combined 55/78 for 607 yards and both looked impressive doing it. Collins appeared to have more freedom than last year while Big Ben has earned all the creative abandon that can be gained on a football field. The Steelers QB is also in the Brady/Manning conversation as to who you might want leading your team in the 4th quarter.

How much did Tennessee miss Albert Haynesworth? They recorded 4 sacks but struggled to pressure Ben in the fourth quarter and OT, particularly when they only rushed 4, a hallmark of 2008's 13-3 season.

Chris Johnson could beat himself in a race. He's that fast.

Heath Miller might be the most underrated TE in the league. So smart, so strong, good hands and an eye for the moment. It's not all about fantasy points in the big leagues.

The champs always win the opener, that's 10 in a row now, but both these teams should be in the running for postseason play.

Finally, Santonio Holmes has an eye for symmetry; 9 catches for 131 yards is exactly the line he had in the Superbowl. He could be on the verge of a true breakout season.

The 12-hour NFL Preview (For all the people in Savannah, Georgia. You know who you are)

2009-09-11T01:34:00.006+01:00

Oh look, another sport ready to blossom as the autumn leaves begin to shake. Goody.

But this ain't tiddlywinks, bowls or even curling. This is the N-F-F'ing-L! Football is back and, to commemorate the commencement of another season of Gridiron, the Beta Blogger (yeah, I'm comfortable referring to myself in the third person, if Chad can do it, so can I) is going to blog for 12 hours straight about everything that's happened since Superbowl XLIII. My self imposed schedule only allows pauses for occasional bathroom breaks, sporadic mounds of junk food, intermittent periods of inner monologues and the odd, casual, 80 minute power nap.

So, lets get started.

If the new season is about to begin, that means the off-season/'hockey, baseball, basketball filler time' has almost finished. So what on earth happened? Well, all the major story lines seemed to center around Quarterbacks. You know, those dreamy, talented millionaires that throw the ball and catch the hearts? (apologies to Marc Bulger, Byron Leftwich...) In fact, I'm pretty sure there was at least one major storyline about a prime passer on every team; lets find out...

Brett Favre retired, unretired, retired again, signed up for a retirement home, unsigned up, died his hair four different colours but returned to fox-like silver and finally stole back the word 'schism' from the catholic church. They want it back. If all that was lost on you, he signed for the Minnesota Vikings, arch rivals of the franchise he became a three-time MVP, Superbowl champion and icon for.

Jake Delhomme has been spotted rocking slowly, back and forth on his porch, staring at the birds in the distance.

After some thorough research on my part it seems that photogenic Pats QB Tom Brady missed a few games last year and has since returned. I'll get back to you on the details...

Jay Cutler whinged and whined his way out of Denver and, two draft picks, Kyle Orton and a whole bunch of disgruntled Colorado natives later, landed in Chicago with 'da Bears. He's the best QB they've had since Rex Grossman. And a whole bunch of other guys that makes his signing seem far, far more important but then there's no joke there so don't worry your pretty, little head about that.

JaMarcus Russell came into camp at under 300 bills. I kid you not. Matt Schaub isn't injured yet. That's a fact. Trent Edwards has yet to make T.O cry (or vice versa). No word of a lie. Kyle Orton hasn't been confused with Jay Cutler yet. Not once. Brady Quinn hasn't looked confused at being a Quarterback yet. Not on the field anyway. Jason Campbell has, however, been confused by Jim 'zany' Zorn's coaching methods and his teams desire to bring in just about anybody to replace him.

Drew Brees threw for 0 yards in the postseason and off season combined. How very disappointing.

'Big' Ben Roethlisberger was accused of sexually assaulting a woman at a celebrity golf tournament. Nobody made a single comment about standing tall outside the pocket.

Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco are no longer rookies. Just thought you should know.

Michael Vick returned to civilian life from the penal dog house. Bad choice of words? Possibly, but the story of his incarceration has been told and retold to the point of platitude. The new news is that of his signing for Philadelphia, home of brotherly love and disgruntled fellow QB, Donovan McNabb. Apparently no. 5 campaigned for no. 7 to get on board but now feels that Vicks part-time gimmick role interrupts his rhythm. What did he think was going to happen? Vick was going to suffer the ironic fate of becoming team mascot? Not a bad idea that...

Peyton Manning made some commercials. He's got quite good at them now. Hopefully Eli will be one day too.

Arizona's evergreen Kurt Warner got a year older and therefore, technically, a year closer to God.

Three QB's were taken in the first round of the draft; Josh Freeman, who will be a back up in Tampa, Mark Sanchez, who will be a starter and pin up in Jersey and Matthew Stafford, who will be taking a beating in Detroit.

Tony Romo and Jessica Simpson broke up. Makes you wonder if anything in this world is sacred and forever and beautiful and bla bla bla...

Chad Eightfive tried to room with Carson Palmer. Mrs Palmer was less than impressed.

Aaron Rodgers looked really, really, really good in the preseason and hasn't returned any of Brett Favre's phone calls.

Matt Cassel, an overnight sensation up in New England (and Bernard Pollard fan for life - the guy that injured Brady), was traded to Kansas City and subsequently signed a six-year $63million contract. Eli Manning (six-years, $97.5million) and Phillip Rivers (six-years, $92million) also signed new deals and have chipped in a few bucks to help Cassel out at this unfortunate time.

While it would be easy to be drunk on all those exorbitant dollar signs and gags, football suffered a sobering moment with the death of former Oilers, Titans and Ravens signal-caller Steve McNair. McNair was shot by his mistress before she turned the weapon on herself. He was a father, a husband, an adulterer and verging on the Hall of Fame. Former long-time NFL and NCAA coach Lou Saban also passed away in far less dramatic circumstances.

Finally, David Garrard, Shaun Hill and Matt Hasselbeck. There. That's one from every team mentioned. Apologies to the last three (and the aforementioned Marc Bulger and Byron Leftwich) but you haven't really done anything and I don't have all day; There's a game starting soon!

In other news, Albert Haynesworth became the $100million man by signing with the Redskins in free agency (and that doesn't include feeding costs), John Madden retired, Tom Cable allegedly smacked an assistant in the mouth to show the Raiders running game how it's done, Plaxico Burress got sentenced to some real hard time and is currently auditioning for the role of 'bitch no.3' in the state prison's talent show, Terrell Owens landed with the Bills and made a T.errible reality series while his former employers, Dallas, built a new stadium that cost $1.2billion, has been a virtual death trap to the constructors and has a humongous HD screen suspended from the roof that is reachable by plane, air balloon or by punted football.

Eric Mangini (Cleveland), Josh McDaniels (Denver), Jim Schwartz (Detroit), Todd Haley (Kansas City), Rex Ryan (New York Jets), Steve Spagnuolo (St. Louis), Jim Mora (Seattle) and Raheem Morris (Tampa Bay) became head coaches of bad teams while Jim Caldwell (Indianapolis) got the top job of a pretty good team after Tony Dungy retired. Dungy has recently turned down the chance to understudy the Pope after a scheduling conflict.

Here's a list of week 1 match-ups and predictions (winners in bold);

Titans at Steelers - The Superbowl champs play the NFL's best record of last season. Unfortunately, due to injury, might not be the much-publicised 'Nate Washington Bowl.'

Dolphins at Falcons - Two overachievers and playoff teams from 08' battle for the right to not be the biggest underachievers of week 1.

Broncos at Bengals - Might not be a pretty game but could be vital if either franchise are to mount a challenge in their respective divisions this year.

Vikings at Browns - Brett Favre against...whoever’s at quarterback for Cleveland. We don't know yet. Bad sign. Breaking News: It's going to be Brady Quinn. Like I said, bad sign.

Jaguars at Colts - The Jags will be desperate to get back to their 07' form while the Colts will hope for business as usual under a new coach.

Lions at Saints - Put it this way, the Lions have won 1, yes, just 1, of their last 24 games. The Saints are looking for their defence to step up and take them to the next level.

Cowboys at Buccaneers - The Bucs are in a major transitional phase while the Cowboys, without T.O's amateur dramatics, have to win now if Wade Phillips is to retain his job.

Eagles at Panthers - Might have, had it not been for the Jake Delhomme meltdown, been the NFC Championship Game. Both have high expectations again this year.

Chiefs at Ravens - By god the Ravens looked good in preseason. Don't fancy the Chiefs offense on day 1.

Jets at Texans - The biggest slight on the Texans is that Rex Ryan hasn't even tried to start a fight with any of them yet.

Redskins at Giants - If either team are to match their potential, they will have to get production out of a young group of Wide Receivers. Big year for Jim Zorn and Jason Campbell.

49ers at Cardinals - An early test for both team's credentials. Maybe the hardest pick'em as well if the two coaches squared off in a fight.

Rams at Seahawks - I've just got a feeling that this could be really, really ugly for the Rams. Seattle should show marked improvement from last year's 4-12, injury devastated season.

Bears at Packers - Maybe the most intriguing of divisions kicks off with all eyes on the Cutler-lead Bears offense and Dom Capers new look 3-4 Packer defence.

Bills at Patriots - Fred Jackson! Sammy Morris! Bills! Patriots! Monday Night Football!

Chargers at Raiders - The Raider sideshow never gets old. Unless you're a Raider fan. Shawn Merriman would fit in perfectly...Here's how I see the divisions playing out;

AFC East

Patriots (11-5) - The best team not to make the playoffs last year and won 11 games with a QB who hadn't started since kindergarten. Concerns about an ageing defence have been replaced with concerns about a unknown defence after the many of the faces of the franchise were either traded or chose to retire. But Brady's back and he still has Moss and Welker... and Gisele.

Dolphins (8-8) - A tougher schedule and far fewer aghast and surprised looking defensive coordinators (due to the Wildcat no longer being 'what was that?' and more 'not that again'). This team struggled to run the ball down the stretch, has a limp armed albeit savvy QB and was crushed by the Ravens in the playoffs. Much may depend on two of the best players of 2006 - Jason Taylor and Joey Porter.

Jets (6-10) - Rex Ryan embodies what this team will be about; brash, aggressive and slow to get up. Mark Sanchez will be under center and aiming to become the next Derek Jeter (with the girls and the rings and the millions and the adoration...) but it's the run game that will have to fund this team's success, much in the manner of Ryan's Ravens of last year.

Bills (5-11) - That O-Line is more porous than 'insert joke here' (I'm currently going with T.O's brain but I'm looking to upgrade) while the T.O thing is ready to blow up at any time. T.O signed. T.O. T.O. T.O!!!

AFC South

Colts (11-5) - Their record of 12+ win season stops here. Just. Jim Caldwell still has Peyton Manning. He still has Reggie Wayne. He now has Anthony Gonzalez. They're all friends. Isn't that lovely? Donald Brown should help the run game return to prominence but the bigger concern is likely to revolve around the defence.

Titans (10-6) - No more fat Albert and the constant suspicion of whether Vince Young is trying to poison Kerry Collins' drinking water detract from a 13-3 team that has depth in every position except receiver.

Texans (9-7) - Will they finally become a playoff team? Can Matt Schaub stay healthy? Can Andre Johnson lead my fantasy football team to success? All these questions are closely linked.

Jaguars (8-8) - There is no way they can be as troubled on and off the field as last year but the might still struggle offensively with young players on the line, limited options in the passing game and the loss of Fred Taylor. MJD/Merlin/Pocket Hercules has his coach's career on his shoulders and, if you've seen Jack Del Rio recently, that's a tall and overweight order.

AFC North

Ravens (11-5) - Would be in the running for a Superbowl if they didn't wait until 5th-down to the throw the ball but defensively....gaah...wow...they hit, they hurt, they could all be charged with assault by the end of the year.

Steelers (10-6) - The returning Superbowl champions return the majority of starters but if they want to return to the playoffs, must return to their running game of old.

Bengals (8-8) - Uncompetitive? Child please! Coles, Henry and, our sponsor, Chad Ochocinco should be a dynamic passing trio for the returning Carson Palmer. If Marvin Lewis can't motivate this defence, he will be fired.

Browns (3-13) - I didn't think they'd be very good last year. I stand pat on that prediction.

AFC West

Chargers (10-6) - It seems that every year, the Chargers are favourites for the whole thing and I've seen them ordained elsewhere already. Merriman is back, Larry English will help off the edge, Gates is healthy, Tomlinson could be bound for a comeback year and Phillip Rivers is on the cusp of becoming an elite quarterback. But they still have Norv Turner and, therefore, will lose in the playoffs.

Broncos (7-9) - Quite the off season for Josh McDaniels. Pre-Cutler, many were surprised that a 33-year old offensive-minded coach replaced one of the most successful coaches of recent times on a team that has been atrocious defensively for a couple of years. Post-Cutler and pending Marshall-gate 2009, McDaniels has a Bush-like approval rating and far too many hyphenated paragraphs in association with him. This O-Line is still pretty good.

Chiefs (7-9) - Matt Cassel was very good last year. Todd Haley did an impressive job. Scott Pioli is intimately linked to the Pats success of this decade. Doesn't mean it's all going to work out but anything has to be better than Herm Edwards.

Raiders (5-11) - It's the Raiders; You could read anything here and probably believe it.

NFC East

Giants (10-6) - No Plaxico, no problem? Far from it. The G-men are desperate for a leading receiver and are also suffering from some injuries up front.

Eagles (10-6) - A trendy Superbowl pick but injuries on defence, particularly to linebacker and leader Stewart Bradley, the Vick factor and my own personal doubts about Andy Reid (who should invest in a watch) keep me from pushing them that far. I might also be the only person not convinced that Maclin, Jackson and McCoy are going to be offensive behemoths in the coming season.

Cowboys (9-7) - Another team with trouble at receiver; Roy 'there's-no-way-I-could-do-anything-to-match-what-they-paid-for-me' Williams has looked good in the exhibition season but has little support. What they do have is a trio of decent backs and more importantly, no T.O and no Jessica. Maybe those two could get together? Would the world end if that happened?

Redskins (7-9) - I'm not the only one that thinks the Redskins will be better this year. The problem is that, even if they are better, that might not make them good enough in the beastly East.

NFC South

Saints (10-6) - Quite simply, the more phenomenal Drew Brees' stats are, the more problems this team has. If he has to throw for 50,000 yards then the defence isn't playing great and, in this division, if you can't stop the run, you're toast.

Falcons (9-7) - Trading for Tony Gonzalez was a masterstroke, as was drafting Matt Ryan and signing Michael Turner. The franchise has turned the corner after Bobby Petrino and Mike Vick left town and should be competitive for years to come although this defence was protected by their fast starts a year ago and hasn't improved too much over the summer.

Panthers (6-10) - 5 Interceptions. 1 Fumble Lost. Defeat in the NFC Divisional Playoffs. At home. After a 12-4 season. On your birthday? And I thought I didn't like birthdays. Jake Delhomme and the whole Panther fanbase has to recover from that heartache but John Fox's team is notoriously poor in odd years and they've had some limiting injuries already.

Buccaneers (4-12) - As much of a rebuilding season as can be imagined. As long as Raheem Morris can keep the likes of Josh Freeman, Derrick Ward, Kellen Winslow and Antonio Bryant happy (the defence should all be onside for their former DB coach) in addition to his assistants, then they can develop for next year.

NFC North

Packers (11-5) - The only team in the division returning the same QB as last year may have the best. 1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter improvements on defence and 4th quarter on offense will lead them playoff bound.

Vikings (10-6) - Aaron Rodgers he ain't but Brett Favre has to be better than T-Jack and anybody called Sage right? Hardly matters when you have their D and AP.

Bears (8-8) - Cutler has never had a winning season and has nobody to throw to. I don't mean to dampen expectations for 'da Bears but I can't really understand all the optimism regarding this team.

Lions (4-12) - Can't be any worse than last year. New QB, new coach, new optimism? Unfortunately, this is the Lions we are talking about. Somehow, in a rebuilding phase, this team maintains a high average age and a low level of quality.

NFC West

Seahawks (11-5) - Dominated the division before last years mulligan and should return to form under new coach Mora Jr. Playoffs?! His dad would be proud...

Cardinals (8-8) - How do you follow up the best year in the Franchise's NFL history? You don't. Matt Leinart should start a few games this year because no way can Warner stay healthy for 16 games.

49ers (7-9) - Mike Singletary wants winners. Michael Crabtree wants dollars. Frank Gore and Glen Coffee, due to split time at running back, need some kind of cop drama show.

Rams (4-12) - Not much to say. They're not very good. Donnie Avery is a decent cheap fantasy sleeper. That's about it. Ok, Steven Jackson isn't terrible. And Jason Smith should help the line. Chris Long could develop this year. Spagnuolo appears to be competent. Oh god. I nearly talked myself into the Rams...

A few more predictions;

AFC Championship Game - New England v Pittsburgh

NFC Championship Game - Green Bay v New Orleans

MVP - Drew Brees (Saints)

Offensive Player - Aaron Rodgers (Packers)

Defensive Player - Mario Williams (Texans)

Offensive Rookie - Knowshon Moreno (Broncos)

Defensive Rookie - Aaron Curry (Seahawks)

Overachiever - Ray Rice (Ravens)

Underachiever - Deangelo Williams (Panthers)

Breakout Stars - Brandon Meriweather (Patriots), Julian Edelman (Patriots), Jermichael Finlay (Packers), B.J Raji (Packers), Tramon Williams (Packers), Michael Oher (Ravens), Haloti Ngata (Ravens), Quintin Mikell (Eagles), Greg Olsen (Bears), Glenn Dorsey (Chiefs), Chris Henry (Bengals), Keith Rivers (Bengals), Jason Jones (Titans), Melvin Bullitt (Colts), Michael Griffin (Titans), Zach Miller (Raiders), Robert Meachem (Saints), Pierre Thomas (Saints), Malcolm Kelly (Redskins), Laron Landry (Redskins), Glen Coffee (49ers), James Davis (Browns), Rashard Mendenhall (Steelers), Lawrence Timmons (Steelers), David Harris (Jets), Antoine Cason (Chargers), Jerious Norwood (Falcons), Chris Collinsworth (NBC).

The best player to not win an Award - Troy Polamalu (Steelers)/Ed Reed (Ravens). God I love them safeties.

The gone but not forgotten Award - Jim Johnson (Eagles Defensive Coordinator). Much, much missed.

The veteran that could return to former glories Award - Edgerinn James (Seahawks). A hunch and nothing more.

The 'Chad Pennington' proof that arm strength really IS that important in the NFL Award - Matthew Stafford (Detroit). For the right reasons. Brady Quinn (Browns). For the wrong reason.

The topical analysis Award - Whoever first references Lendale White's weight loss and Shawne Merriman's girlfriend in the same breath. Here's a clue. Tequila.

The 'Brett Favre' Award for mercurial QB play - Jay Cutler (Bears). It won't always be good but it will be exciting.

The 'Brett Favre' Award for fading down the stretch - Chris Johnson (Titans). Way, way too quick for his own good.

The 'Brett Favre' Award for not/maybe/definitely coming back next year - Brett Favre (Vikings). He had to win one of these, he was the heavy favourite.

The 'Michael Vick' Award for worst ratio of column inches to productivity - Brett Favre (Vikings). Wait, what? He certainly wasn't favourite for this one.

The 'Lane Kiffin' Award for first coach to be axed - Tom Cable (Raiders). My second favourite would be his replacement.

The game I'm most looking forward to - Favre at Lambeau, Vikings at Packers on November 1st. Call me sentimental but, even with the pandemic of over exposure to 'Favre Watch,' this is a big deal.

Please get this guy a new contract - Brandon Marshall (Broncos). To stop the distractions. Vince Wilfork (Patriots). One of the finest young NT in the league and surely the reason they felt comfortable trading Richard Seymour. Kevin Walter (Texans). You'll thank me later. Jahri Evans (Saints). Arguably the best guard in the league after Steve Hutchinson. Marcus McNeill (Chargers)/Jared Gaither (Ravens). Two very talented LT's which, by the way, aren't easy to come by.

Best Free Agent crop of 2010 - Linebackers. Yes, some of these players will get signed up before they hit the market but imagine if they don't...Demarcus Ware (Cowboys), Shawne Merriman (Chargers), Karlos Dansby (Cardinals), Kirk Morrison (Raiders), Thomas Howard (Raiders), Demeco Ryans (Texans), Thomas Davis (Panthers), Derrick Johnson (Chiefs), Barrett Ruud (Buccaneers), D'Qwell Jackson (Browns).

Certain 2010 NFL Draft No.10 Picks - Sam Bradford (QB, Oklahoma), Colt McCoy (QB, Texas), Ndamukong Suh (DT, Nebraska), Russel Okung (Oklahoma State).

Most interesting potential 1st Round 2010 NFL Draft Picks - Tim Tebow (Florida), Jermaine Gresham (Oklahoma), Taylor Mays (USC), C.J Spiller (Clemson).

Team that picks no.1 in the 2010 NFL Draft - Cleveland Browns

Team that picks no.32 in the 2010 NFL Draft and wins Superbowl XLIV - .....hmmm....games about to start....Al Michaels is warming up....Chris Johnson is stretching....should really have thought of this earlier....I've already changed my mind a few times.........

I think it could be Green Bay. Poetic justice for Favre signing for the Vikings. Can the defence really adjust to the 3-4 in one off season? At least they have the receivers, plus Ryan Grant could be in for a comeback year after dipping last term and home field could be big for them should they make the playoffs. I want to change my mind. I won't. It's the Pack. Or Pats. Or Steelers again. Maybe it's the Eagles or Chargers or Giants after all.

I may have to update this when I haven't been staring at a computer screen for half a day.

England v Croatia

2009-09-09T21:45:00.005+01:00

England were good. Croatia were disorganised and uninspired. A 9-2 aggregate victory over two games against such opponents (no. 9 in the FIFA rankings, World Cup dark horses, arguably as strong a team beyond Holland, Spain, Germany and Brazil in the world between 2006-8) is a startling scoreline and a testimony to the team's development.

A few thoughts;

Jermain Defoe shouldn't be starting. I've said it before. I'll recommend it again. He is a dangerous, livewire striker who can contribute but - and I do not think that Emile Heskey/Carlton Cole are ideal forwards for England - he isn't the best man for the job. He doesn't link the play, he won't hold the ball up, his gifts are not quite so flattering against the very best, he's not as prolific as he may seem right now... I could go on.

8 straight qualifying wins. Only Spain and possibly Germany and Holland have looked better. Leading scorers as well. I'm almost getting excited.

Matthew Upson concerns me. I'm not convinced he is the country's third best centre back, nor that he can be relied upon against the elite that a World Cup will bring. JT would certainly prefer to see RF next to him and so would I.

Robert Green has done everything asked of him in the last few games. He probably won't win any games for England but it doesn't seem like he will lose any either which, considering the failed exploits of Robinson and Carson, isn't a bad thing.

Glen Johnson will improve defensively. Capello will always prefer 2 powerful, offensive full backs and play a holding midfielder to cover for the attacking raids. The problems for Johnson appear more in regards to concentration than to talent.

Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard can't play together? That's so 2006...

I wonder where Joe Cole fits into all this?

Wayne Rooney: Your time is here. I don't even think he has been at his best so far this season but if football were a game purely of statistics (chances created, goals, assists etc...) he'd be leading the charts right now.

Aaron Lennon, who was very impressive in the build up to the last World Cup, has charged his way to the top of the depth chart after tonight, pending the return of Theo Walcott. 'Little Shaun' should be worried about his place on the plane for South Africa.

David Beckham could become the most capped Englishman ever yet merely through picking up caps in garbage time at the end of games. Well, not entirely, he now has 114 caps, but he hasn't been a central figure to the squad for three years and hasn't scored for his country since the last World Cup. The question as to whether he can continue to claim a place in the squad while with the Galaxy may reemerge before next summer.

Steve McManaman looks like he's just come from a wedding.

Andy Townsend looks like he's just come from a tele-sales convention.

Scotland went out. No surprise. They aren't that good. Northern Ireland lost and are now struggling to finish second. France will be in the playoffs. As might Portugal after a vital win in Hungary or Sweden. So will one of Germany and Russia. And quite possibly the Czechs. Could be a tasty few games there.

5-1. That's a great result no doubt about it. It could also be the worst thing that could have happened to us all. Either it will inflate expectations to an insurmountable level and cause our exit in 2010, or we'll win the thing an have nothing to wish for.

Self Promotion

2009-09-07T21:32:00.001+01:00

My latest article; http://www.free-bets-uk.net/sports-betting-review.php

Read it, it's really quite good.

TC and JD (No, not you JD. Read on....)

2009-09-07T15:11:00.004+01:00

This is the wonder of having a blog. On my daily perusal of the same the same 5 websites (in no particular order: BBC, Sports Interactive, ESPN, Sky Sports and today's site in question, The Times) I stumbled over the musings of Tony Cascarino. I've never really cared for his opines greatly and do my best not to read his over-reactive and regrettably a la mode comments in general but couldn't help but gander at his comments regarding Jermain Defoe.

In the eyes of TC (the difference between Cascarino and my favourite TC, Top Cat, is that I'd pay to listen to the footballing judgements of a make-believe, television feline) Mr. Defoe should be leading the line for the English against Croatia on Wednesday night. He doesn't mention whether the Spurs striker should be the central '1' in the recently dominated Heskey/Carlton Cole role, or one of a forward pair in a more traditional 4-4-2 but, irrespective, is the impish forward the man to unlock Croatia? No. Sorry Jermain. Sorry Tony.

Defoe has had a prolific start to the season, 7 goals in all competitions highlighted by a strike against the Slovenians at Wembley on Saturday and two against the Dutch last month, have brought him to the attention of the media as of late but this guy is the same player that we have seen in the Premiership over the last few seasons.

I won't deny that Defoe is a goalscorer, nor that his current form has promoted his claims for a start, but he is under 5'7, lightweight, doesn't possess lightning pace nor elusive movement, isn't the ideal foil for Wayne Rooney and does little to make the players around him better. He has never scored more than 13 league goals in a season and his 11 International goals have featured 5 in friendly matches, 4 against Andorra, 1 against Kazakhstan and 1 against Poland - his first International goal.

Is he a capable Premiership scorer? No doubt. Could he play in the Champions League one day? Quite possibly. Will he be on the plane to South Africa next year? It would seem so. But, is he the man to EVER lead the line against a top opponent? Sorry Jermain. Sorry Tony. No.

Deep Impact: Chelsea's Transfer Blockade

2009-09-04T14:58:00.004+01:00

Armageddon it isn't but FIFA's ruling against Chelsea could leave an irrevocable crater in the future of the London club and the footballing world.

(I imagined Morgan Freeman, the President in the movie, voicing the following lines in his unmatchable stoic and mature style, rather than my furious and juvenile writing style)

The Impact:

1 - The new man in charge at the Bridge, Carlo Ancelotti, has yet to make a significant signing. All managers like to bring in new players and attempt to mould the squad in their image and, while no deals to this end were made in the summer (Zhirkov's addition was approved by Hiddink and Abramovic), the January window and particularly next summer would have been targeted as busy periods in remodelling the side.

2 - Chelsea will lose integral players Essien, Mikel, Drogba and Kalou for the African Nation's Cup without the possibility of replacement.

3 - The Blues have eight players in their squad over 30. Lampard, Carvalho, Ballack, Deco and Drogba will all be over the age of 32 by the time Chelsea can invest in potential substitutes for players at the core of the Abramovich era. John Terry, with all the the wear and tear on his body, will be an 'old' 30 while Ashley Cole, Malouda, Ferreira and Anelka will also be in their fourth decade.

4 - It is hard to imagine that the likes of Franco di Santo, Scott Sinclair, Michael Mancienne, Miroslav Stoch or Slobodan Rajkovic (all currently out on loan) will be able to help ease the pain and contribute, should they be recalled.

5 - What if Chelsea wanted to sell a player to maximise his value? Simply, due to being unable to replenish the squad, they can't.

6 - It would be a misnomer to suggest that this team is as active and extravagant in the transfer market as it used to be. Zhirkov was added for £18m this offseason but the likes of Claudio Pizarro and Ben Sahar were allowed to leave, recouping around £8m. Last year, Chelsea spent £16m on Jose Bosingwa and also added Deco on a free transfer but offloaded Boulharouz, Sidwell and Ben Haim for almost as much and then sold Wayne Bridge to Man City for £14m in January. Squad turnover is a part of the modern game and for all the strength of the group assembled currently, injury, loss of form or a change in coaching philosophy can not be supplemented with new players. In addition, Abramovich is unlikely to sanction a wave of spending once their personal window reopens.

7 - Chelsea have been fined, Kakuta suspended for 4 months. The least of their problems.

8 - The scouting department and front office will be on a tight rope regarding future deals. Can they be as aggressive in going after talent in the future? What would be the next sanction if they were judged guilty again?

9 - This indictment is a serious charge against the morals and appeal of the club. How will this affect sponsorship and their position in the global game?

10 - Perhaps most importantly, how does this affect the game in the long run? What kind of punishments will be levied in the future for similar acts? FIFA need to develop a strategy against the poaching of the world's best young talent and, while this may be the first step, there are limited provisions and set-out rules regarding such offenses. Why not stop all transfers of players that have yet to sign a professional contract? How about a structured tribunal system relating to International caps and competitions played in to reimburse the selling clubs? How about treating everyone in the same manner? Everyone, even the casual fan, knows that this is an endemic part of the modern game and has been rife for years and, not to claim that Chelsea shouldn't be penalised, but shouldn't these punishments be universally matched? Ma Utd, Milan, Real Madrid...your time might be nigh.

Ah well, Chelsea will probably appeal, get a three month ban (ending December 31st), a slap on the wrist and 20 minutes in the corner.

Premiership Power Rankings

2009-09-04T02:50:00.004+01:00

No Premiership football this weekend? No problem. Power rankings time.

1. Chelsea (played 4, points 12, No change) - They might be in crisis off the field thanks to FIFA's pretty bizarre transfer ruling, but they lead the league and have been the most impressive team in the league's infant weeks.

2. Man Utd (p 4, pts 9, NC) - Their result over Arsenal keeps them second here. Their performance doesn't.

3. Arsenal (p 3, pts 6, NC) - Defeat at Old Trafford halted a good start but the International break comes at a good time. Another trip to Manchester to face City will test the Gunner's resolve.

4. Tottenham (p 4, pts 12, NC) - Spurs have full points but will have to cope with the loss of Luka Modric and the upcoming visit of Man Utd. Loving the Kranjcar deal.

5. Liverpool (p 4, pts 6, NC) - Somewhere down the road, we might look at the comeback at Bolton as the turning point of their season. Question marks about the defence are starting to gather momentum.

6. Man City (p 3, pts 9, NC) - A perfect record and many a perfect post game interview from the sky blue superstars. Things seem a little too rosy...

7. Aston Villa (p 3, pts 6, NC) - Very active at the transfer deadline but how long will the likes of Collins, Dunne and Warnock take to gel? There seems to be a hint of panic around Villa Park right now and a trip to cross-city rivals Birmingham might just expose it.

8. Everton (p 3, pts 3, Up 1) - Have they played well yet? No. Are there more than seven better teams in the division right now? Probably not.

9. Stoke (p 4, pts 7, Up 2) -I like their home record since entering the Premiership (12 wins and 5 draws in 21 games). I don't like their chances in their next home fixture versus Chelsea.

10. Sunderland (p 4, pts 6, Dn 2) - Next three weeks; Hull (h), Bunley (a), Wolves (h). Could the Black Cat's be the early surprise package?

11. West Ham (p 3, pts 4, Up 1) - Don't be surprised if they crawl through the next month; this team has a series of very tricky ties and limited squad depth to deal with the injuries that are bound to happen. Rumour has it they rejected a £14m bid for Matthew Upson at the transfer deadline.

12. Fulham (p 3, pts 3, Dn 2) - Difficult to know what to make of the Cottagers at this point; defeats at home to Chelsea and at Villa are nothing to be ashamed of, nor is a victory at Fratton Park anything to be too proud of. They might just nibble around either extreme of the table and settle right in the middle gaining all of about 9 column inches all year.

13. Burnley (p 4, pts 6, NC) - Burnley's tour of England's top club continues this week with a visit to Anfield. I hope they get some souvenirs from the gift shop because they aren't getting any points.

14. Hull (p 4, pts 4, Up 1) - The Tigers appear to have bought well and now boast a surfeit of attacking options. Their issues may lie at the other end of the field and the sale of Michael Turner could unsettle them in the short-term, particularly in their next game, at Turner's new team Sunderland.

15. Birmingham (p 4, pts 4, Up 1) - I've been trying to come up with a catchy name for their derby with Villa; The Spaggheti Junction derby? The Balti Belt derby? The Duran Duran derby? I'm going with the latter. Did you know Birmingham is twinned with Milan? How did that happen?!

16. Wolves (p 4, pts 4, Up 2) - Signing Segundo Castillo, a former midfield partner of Nenad Milijas and an Everton loanee last term, looks good business. Stefan Maierhofer, known as 'the neck,' becomes the tallest player in the league at 6'7. Don't imagine Peter Crouch will mind too much. At Blackburn next.

17. Blackburn (p 3, pts 1, Dn 3) - At home to Wolves next. Coincidently. Really need a win considering their following three games are against Everton, Villa and Arsenal.

18. Wigan (p 4, pts 3, Dn 1) - They have the lowest home attendances in the division to this point, understandably so considering their 0 goals scored, 6 goals conceded and 0 points. The Hammers travel to the DW (for some reason an abbreviation far uglier than JJB) in the next round.

19. Bolton (p 3, pts 0, NC) - A relegation 6-pointer in September! Alert the media! Bolton travel to Portsmouth with the loser just looking a little silly. The capture of Ivan Klasnic is reminiscent of Megson's predecessor Sam Allardyce.

20. Portsmouth (p 4, pts 0, NC) - The takeover got done and the deals got made. I'm just not convinced that the likes of Tommy Smith, Michael Brown, Mike Williamson and the various foreign imports are capable of helping them stay up. Aruna Dindane, a loan signing from Lens, could be an exciting pick up at least.

Top 25 British Transfers of the Summer

2009-09-01T21:36:00.002+01:00

Another contentious and alarmingly immature list. It may take 3, 4, 5 years, if not longer, to fully diagnose the importance and value of the deals conducted during the transfer window but this is the new millenium, we want answers now!

Below are a list of the top 25 transfers made to Premiership clubs since last season ended and attempts to consider potential impact, cost, longevity, statural significance and how necessary their signing was. I say attempts because I've just noticed that Tuncay is no.3 on the list. Well, I'm leaving him there. Don't like it? At least you read it...

1. Gareth Barry (£12m, Aston Villa to Man City) - I can hardly effuse enough about the ‘value’ of this transfer. Not the blockbuster deal that have been the hallmark of the Sheikh Mansour era (whether completed or not) but an adroit addition; Barry should be the leader and heartbeat of this team over the next few years.

2. Thomas Vermaelen (£10m, Ajax to Arsenal) - Looks like he has been there for years and is younger and cheaper than the departed Kolo Toure. Wenger rarely makes lavish signings but appears to have struck gold with Vermaelen and last years major acquitsition Andrei Arshavin.

3. Tuncay Sanli (£5m, Middlesbrough to Stoke) - Highlights Stoke’s ambition that they were able to seal the double deal for Tuncay and Robert Huth with the Turk bringing flair and imagination to the Potters. Also an undoubted team player, hard worker and able to play anywhere across the front. A steal.

4. Emmanuel Adebayor (£25m, Arsenal to Man City) - Two years ago he was worth £30million, last year he was worth about a third of that. City didn’t quite split the difference but, if the languid Togo forward can play to his peak and maintain his motivation, then City have the target man they so sorely missed last term.

5. Lorik Cana (£5m, Marseille to Sunderland) - Quite the coup for Sunderland, Cana was impressing for Marseille in the Champions League in the last couple of years and has already impressed on Wearside with his intelligence, tenacity and distribution.

6. Yuri Zhirkov (£18m, CSKA Moscow to Chelsea) - Not cheap and yet to start but the versatile Russian left-sider should contribute soon. He can provide some much needed width and is the kind of player Ancelotti craves; pacy, diligent and unselfish.

7. Carlos Tevez (£25.5m, Man Utd to Man City via MSI) - Too expensive? Doesn’t score enough goals? Stupid hair bands? All of the above are potential slights but, if nothing else, he proves that City can compete with the elite in terms of potential signings. Put the wind up Fergie also as an added bonus.

8. Glen Johnson (£18.5m, Portsmouth to Liverpool) - A hefty price tag for a right back but Johnson offers far more than his defensive position suggests. He will be an ancillary attacker in many respects, evidenced already by two goals this season, and has developed defensively over the last couple of years, working his way into the England starting XI.

9. Nenad Milijas (£4m, Red Star Belgrade to Wolves) - Easy to imagine that the Serb had no real idea where Wolverhampton was and probably hadn’t heard of any of his team mates. They might respond by suggesting they didn’t know of him but the talented left-footer was the player of the year in his homeland last year, scored 22 goals from midfield and has become an integral part of the national team that are dark horses for next years World Cup. Watch him. He’s good.

10. Sylvain Distin (£5.3m, Portsmouth to Everton) - Another member of the Portsmouth exodus and the replacement for the departed Lescott. Doesn’t possess the upside of Joleon and is nearing the end of his peak but arguably as talented and almost £20million less.

11. Niko Kranjcar (£2m, Portsmouth to Tottenham) - Cheap as chips for a player proven at this level. Expect Harry Redknapp to play him in place of the injured Luka Modric and for the Croatian trio of Corluka, Kranjcar and Modric to propel Spurs to European football.

12. Darren Bent (£10m, Tottenham to Sunderland) - For some reason, it seemed clear that D-Bent would flourish slightly out of the limelight and in a more direct style of play. He’ll score, we won’t notice too much.

13. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov (£9m, Lokomotiv Moscow to Everton) - A commentator’s nightmare but, by all accounts, a managers dream; an excellent professional, a former captain and capable of filling a number of different roles in the team. Moyes will likely play him just behind the forwards or on the left but expect him to have a Fellaini-esque impact after he settles.

14. Sebastien Bassong (£8m, Newcastle to Tottenham) - Cost Newcastle only £500,000 last summer so must have had a hell of a season to develop his value 16-fold. In truth, he didn’t shine to that extent for the Geordies last year but is a young, strong centre-half that fills a much needed void for the Londoners.

15. Joleon Lescott (£24m, Everton to Man City) - The third highest fee ever for a defender and more costly than the likes of Diego, Etoo, Sneijder, Huntelaar, Robben, Diego Milito, Chygrynski, Felipe Melo and many other non-City summer signings. Good? Yes. Worth it? Not quite. In fairness, they needed a defender (sorry Richard Dunne, but no team can win the league with you in it) and the actual monetry sums are hardlya concern.

16. Stephen Warnock (£8m, Blackburn to Aston Villa) - The good; a mobile and adaptable performer that will add to the team on and off the field. The bad; O’Neill finally has to accept that the Nicky Shorey deal was something of a misstep.

17. Stewart Downing (£12m, Middlesbrough to Aston Villa) - Out until Christmas time but, considering how he single handedly kept his former team competitive at times, should be a big player for the Villa.

18. Michael Turner (£6m, Hull to Sunderland) - Hull’s best player three years running and a star during the first half of their first Premiership campaign. On this list partly for his ability and partly due to the Black Cats necessity for a centre-back.

19. John Heitinga (£6.2m, Atletico Madrid to Everton) - Kinda looks like a slightly less conscious Craig Bellamy but don’t let that fool you, the Dutchman is probably his countries best and most accomplished defender. Can play at the heart of the defence but will probably feature more on the right for the Toffees.

20. Stephen Hunt (£3.5m, Reading to Hull) - Makes things happen. Cant believe nobody secured his signature last year. Bound to become best mates with Jimmy Bullard.

21. Jozy Altidore (Loan, Villarreal to Hull) - Still pretty raw (think an American Carlton Cole) but blessed with undisputed physical tools and effort. He’ll have some shockers but has already shown that he can trouble Premiership defenders. Kamel Ghilas, his strike partner, will probably look brilliant until about mid-October. Enjoy it while it lasts.

22. Alberto Aquilani (£20m, Roma to Liverpool) - Xabi Alonso had developed into one of the league’s premier passers and creators and will be fondly remembered by the Liverpool devotees. Aquilani will have to adapt quickly and avoid the bane of injury but has the tools to be a major contributor and replacement for new ‘Galactico’ Xabi.

23. Frederic Piquionne (Loan, Lyon to Portsmouth) - Here’s a list of the other forwards in the Pompey squad; Kanu, John Utaka, Tommy Smith. Piquionne is not much more than a decent striker but fills a massive need and can lead the line.

24. Christian ‘Chucho’ Benitez (£6.5m, Santos Laguna to Birmingham) - Could go either way. Either he’s somewhere between Mauro Zarate and Christophe Dugarry or he’s not fit to clean Marcus Bent’s boots.

25.Michael Owen (Free, Newcastle to Man Utd) - Ronaldo he isn’t but the former England international will score. The big question is whether he scores pretty meaningless strikes like the one against Wigan or whether he can deliver against when the Reds really need him.

No Roque Santa Cruz, no Kolo Toure, no Lee Cattermole, no Allessandro Diamanti and no Richard Dunne amongst many, many other candidates. Only time will tell as to who the best players purchased over the last couple of months were and, with that in mind, I might just update this list at Christmas, if you're lucky.

Premiership Power Rankings

2009-08-29T03:30:00.003+01:00

The football calendar has only just been removed from its packaging but already judgements are being handed down. Far be it from me not to jump on the bandwagon and produce an immature, fairly unthought through and untrustworthy report of the teams strengths and weaknesses; People, I give you the power rankings.

1. Chelsea (played 3, points 9) - Maximum points so far and Burnley the visitors this weekend. Scolari's Chelsea started off well too...

2. Manchester United (p 3, pts 6) - A game against an open and naive Wigan team was just the tonic for the Reds last week. Arsenal will provide a far sterner test.

3. Arsenal (p 2, pts 6) - Their excellent results may have embellished a few weaknesses. We will know more about them after a trip to Old Trafford but the loss of Fabregas and the Eduardo diving saga will not help their focus.

4. Tottenham Hotspur (p 3, pts 9) - Only North London rivals Arsenal have scored more goals and Jermain Defoe, the league's most in-form striker, could add to his early tally against Birmingham at the Lane.

5. Liverpool (p 3, pts 3) - Last season: 38 games, 2 defeats. This season: 3 games, 2 defeats. Liverpool can hardly afford to drop a point over the next few weeks if they are to stay in touch with the leaders but surely they can't play as poorly as they did against Villa again.

6. Manchester City (p 2, pts 6) - They've won twice without playing all that well which is a dangerous sign for the teams above them. The only team yet to concede and with £24million 'worth' of Joleon Lescott added to the ranks this week.

7. Aston Villa (p 2, pts 3) - Getting knocked out of Europe may be a blessing in disguise for this small squad but Martin O'Neill can't be thrilled with his team's inconsistent opening to a year in which they hoped to push their way into the top-4

8. Sunderland (p 3, pts 6) - Steve Bruce has had a decent start and appears to have bought well. Michael Turner could be a member of the Black Cats as they travel to Stoke on Saturday.

9. Everton (p 2, pts 0) - No points but also, now no Lescott. Distin and Bilyaletdinov will strengthen the ranks but it is the returning Yakubu that could be most pivotal in turning their season around.

10. Fulham (p 2, pts 3) - Fulham have been busy in the late summer in bolstering their midfield but will find it difficult to replace the injured Andrew Johnson. Just as difficult will be the game at Villa Park that lies ahead after a long journey back from Russia.

11. Stoke (p 3, pts 4) - Huth and Tuncay add another towering defensive presence and some much needed guile in attack. The loss of Beattie will hurt but there is a lot to like about the way the Potters have built the team over the last year. Even Dave Kitson scored in midweek.

12. West Ham (p 2, pts 6) - Good enough to survive, not good enough to do a whole lot more. They might be better served employing a physio as manager considering the numerous injury-plagued players in their squad. On the plus side, new £6m forward Diamanti could be a Di Canio-esque figure. N.B. Could be.

13. Burnley (p 3, pts 6) - No team may have ever had such a surprising, impactful beginning to their Premiership lives as the Clarets. Their home form will be key to their survival bid, as will early season starlets Wade Elliot and Robbie Blake.

14. Blackburn Rovers (p 2, pts 0) - Rovers are hardly in crisis mode, despite two defeats to open the season, but a victory at home to West Ham would ease the pressure. Nikola Kalinic can not be as bad as he has looked so far (although Jason Robert's facial expressions after each and every miss are priceless).

15. Hull City (p 3, pts 3) - Altidore and Ghilas as a feared front two? Who knew? Wolves away this Saturday in a 'if it were late in the year it would be a big game but right now it's sports page filler' kinda fixture.

16. Birmingham City (p 3, pts 4) - Predictably lost away to Man Utd, predictably beat Portsmouth at home and were predictably held by Stoke last time out. Now a visit to Spurs. Can you predict the result?

17. Wigan (p 3, pts 3) - Their impressive victory over Aston Villa on opening day is a distant memory after their struggles in both the league and League cup since that game. Martinez will have to develop more steel in their lineup if they are to avoid the drop.

18. Wolves (p 3, pts 3) - They performed admirably at the City of Manchester Stadium, almost stealing a draw, but their upcoming game against Hull is far more important. A lack of cutting edge may see Mick McCarthy lean towards Sylvain Ebanks-Blake a little more in the coming weeks.

19. Bolton (p 2, pts 0) - Might be slightly harsh to have them this low but defeats to Sunderland and Hull without any goals do not bode well. A motivated Liverpool team will not make a first point or goal an easy task this weekend.

20. Portsmouth (p 3, pts 0) - Amazing how quickly the FA Cup final squad has been dismantled and, unfortunately for the devout Pompey fans, the quality just doesn't seem to be there. A busy few final days in the transfer window are a must.

Champions League Winners and Losers

2009-08-28T15:56:00.003+01:00

Europe's premier club competition sits teasingly on the horizon, so much so that even the draw is a noteworthy affair. The continent's finest and invariably richest (sorry Man city, you aren't quite there yet) will meet over the next few months to determine who makes the business end of the tournament, you know, when the games actually mean something.

The shake up to this year's qualifying system has seen a number of new clubs make the group stage which, long term, is probably a positive thing however, for this season's version, the big clubs should continue to be fairly untroubled in their saunter to the knockout phase. Last year, none of the elite sides went out before Christmas and only Internazionale troubled unduly. It's been 4 years since an English team fell at the oncoming hurdle; Manchester United were abject in losing 2 of their last 3 games and only beat Benfica at home.

So who will be happiest with Thursday's draw?

The Winners:

Wolfsburg - The German champions were fourth seeds and could have met a number of Europe's most experienced sides in the group stage. As it is, they face Man United, CSKA Moscow and Besiktas and, although they will face tough trips to Russia and Turkey, should have the quality (although maybe not the nouse) to progress.

AC Milan - After a year in the ignominy of the UEFA Cup, now consigned to Cup Winners Cup past, the Italian giants are back amongst European royalty and have the group to prove it; Real Madrid, Marseille and FC Zurich will provide the glitz and glamour that Berlusconi craves.

Samuel Etoo - The other half of the Zlatan Ibrahimovic deal and consistent scorer at this level, Etoo will have the chance to show the Barca faithful what they have been missing. Considering the hefty price tag, there is little that the Swede can offer over the two fixtures to do the same.

Jose Mourinho - More press? A return to Barca? Some random accusations? Bring it on...

Rangers - When they make the group stage, which has been problematic over the last few years, the Scottish champs have performed well and will hope to make the second round for the first time since the 05/06 campaign. They have met Stuttgart twice previously in the Champions League and, on both occasions, won at home and lost away. Other opponents Sevilla and Romanian Liga 1 winners Unirea Urziceni are both beatable.

Arsenal - Great great group. Whatever the say.

The Losers:

Fiorentina - Watch them finish third. Just watch.

Atletico Madrid - Group adversaries Chelsea and Porto are regular qualifiers to the knockout phase. APOEL Nicosia won't be a push over either having dispatched well-funded Danish champions FC Copenhagen in qualifying.

Manchester United - In what could be an uncertain season for the Reds, well seasoned challengers CSKA Moscow and Besiktas, as well as German upstarts Wolfsburg could test their resolve.

Kaka - He may well end up a winner of Real sweep the pair of games with former employers Milan but, for now, he must hold some trepidation in returning to the club he 'loves.'

Sporting Lisbon/Celtic/Aston Villa etc... - This is where you could have been.

The Fans - Early season posturing aside, how much joy can you take from these games?

The Mighty Duck

2009-08-28T14:29:00.004+01:00

The Milan Derby is this weekend and will likely be lit up by its cavalcade of stars. The man I'm most interested in watching? Alexandre Pato.

'The Duck', as he is known, is still only 19 but his pace with the football, his direct yet creative play and his goalscoring exploits are reminiscent of former Milan and Brazil forward Ronaldo.

Currently, Messi, Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo are the undisputed top-3 performers in World football. Beyond this, the likes of Steven Gerrard, Franck Ribery, Michael Essien, Andres Iniesta, Sergio Aguero, Fernando Torres, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and quite a few more reside. Pato is on the verge of this second group but, within a couple of years, might be amongst the very, very best.

By the way, Wesley Sneijder is set to sign for Inter for about 15 million Euros. Is it just me or is a steal? Indeed, Jose Mourinho may have done the best business of the summer with the Zlatan mega-deal, the acquisitions of Etoo, Diego Milito, Thiago Motta and Lucio. This was hardly an impoverished team last year.

Sports Betting

2009-08-28T14:20:00.003+01:00

For your weekly beta blogger sports fix, check out http://www.free-bets-uk.net/sports-betting-review.php

Betting + sports? Who knew...

Arsene's Arsenal

2009-08-28T14:08:00.003+01:00

Having just watched Arsene Wenger's press conference in the wake of the Eduardo diving furor, it appears that his reaction, his unnerving defence of his player, his juvenile defiance against the authorities - and this is far from the first occasion - may bring the game further into disrepute than his player's actions.

Eduardo simulated a foul. Did he dive? Well, in his defence he may have been trying to avoid getting his newly formed leg crushed under a Polish freight train but he certainly wasn't touched, indeed Boruc was attempting to pull out of the challenge. When a player is moving at speed and anticipates a tackle, it is a natural reaction to 'jump' over the outstretched arms or legs; Eduardo barely falls into this category with his heightened fall.

The key to this debate is consistency. If all players deemed to have dived are to be subjected to bans and fines, then so be it. It's an arbitrary accusation unfortunately but so are many other fouls in football.

Wenger is correct in suggesting that the SFA were overly aggressive in pursuing Eduardo for his penalty-winning antics. Scottish football is in fairly dire straights and diverting attention from Celtic's failings will not hide their troubles. The English FA and media's response to Chelsea's far more devastating and ugly defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League Semi-Final last year was far less vociferous and less domestic-centric.

This debate ain't going anywhere soon...

Premiership Review in...Preview?

2009-08-07T15:32:00.003+01:00

Having managed to fashion a time machine out of paint brushes, tomato puree and enthusiasm, I ticked the clock forward until the end of the football season to get a glimpse into what lies in store over the next few months for us football fans. No need to thank me. Here are the highlights:

August

The new football season kicks off with a 90 minute mark of respect for the late Bobby Robson, known as the Community Shield. The score? Unknown.

Real business begins with Chelsea beating Hull in the League opener thanks to a brace from forgotten striker Andrei Shevchenko. The Ukranian forward embraces new coach Carlo Ancelotti after both goals, causing John Terry and Frank Lampard to get into a right strop.
The same day, Arsenal get beaten at Everton and Arsene Wenger sensationally resigns claiming ‘I can’t win anything with this group of players. I don’t know who put this bunch together but they’re not good enough to polish Patrick Viera’s boots! Seriously! That’s why he wouldn’t come back!’ In an equally shocking move, Arsenal appoint Harry Redknapp as their new manager while Spurs react by hiring some foreigner that is apparently ‘really good.’

Man United and Liverpool both open their campaign with 2-0 victories, leading to a war of words between Fergie and Rafa as to who should be higher in the table. Benitez’ charges get the nod but the Liverpool boss is left quickly reeling by accusations that he is Michael Greco’s (Beppe di Marco in EastEnders circa 1998) long lost father. Rafa quickly brings in Greco for Liverpool’s home game with Stoke. Bentiez Jr, as he is now known, scores twice and three more before the end of the month as Liverpool set the early pace ahead of United, Everton and Wolves. The Midlander’s strong start is put down to ‘not being Sunderland’ by surprised manager Mick McCarthy.

September

The transfer window closes with it’s usual flurry of activity; Alex Ferguson breaks the domestic transfer record for Benitez Jr in a move branded as a ‘panic buy’ by the media but the 39 year old Spanish-Italian-English actor-poker player-forward quickly quells the doubters with a goal on his debut. Redknapp brings Defoe, Crouch and Pascal Chimbonda to Arsenal as well as a couple of dodgy DVD’s and some fairly moody looking watches while new Manchester City signing Ashley Cole refreshingly confirms that he moved to Eastlands for the money. Lots of it.

England play their first game of the new season, edging Slovenia at home friendly thanks to a late goal from Steven Gerrard. Fabio Capello looks suitably disinterested. Four days later, England confirm their place in the 2010 World Cup thanks to a 3-0 victory over Croatia at Wembley, leading to a nationwide sense of relief. Scott Carson says it best as he suggests ‘we should be in the World Cup, we’re England. As long as people like me don’t get involved it‘s a no brainer.’ Steve McClaren is seen nodding in the background.

The month’s Premiership action is highlighted by Birmingham’s visit to Burnley; the Turf Moor faithful are treated to not just a football game, but some top-class theatre as both teams endeavour to perform as if they were playing in the Championship. Elsewhere, Man City hold their cross-town neighbours to a draw while all wearing the number 32 and the name ‘Tevez’ on their shirts, Stoke stun Chelsea thanks to a Rory Delap hat-trick of throw-ins and West Ham and Fulham play a delightful 4-4 draw without a single tackle and with both coaches, Zola and Hodgson, holding hands for the entire second half.

The UEFA Champions League group stages begin with a much anticipated rematch between Barcelona and Manchester United; the game ends in a draw but is not without incident as Ji-Sung Park is sent off for ‘trying a little too hard.’ In other action, Michael Ballack rediscovers his form as Chelsea beat Bordeaux in France, Andrei Arshavin leads Arsenal to victories over both Porto and Stuttgart and Liverpool’s Yossi ’the diamond’ Benayoun scores his 15th Liverpool goal, triggering a clause in his contract that allows him more than just half-time oranges for sustenance. He quickly balloons to 300lbs and is last seen guest hosting Israeli Blind Date.

The UEFA Europa League opens with a bang as...stuff…happens...don’t ask me. Nobody cares. Speaking of which, the League Cup gets going…

October

England are back in action as they travel to Ukraine. Difficult weather conditions mar what should have been a thrilling encounter between two teams that have nothing to play for and the game ends in a dull 5-4 victory for the English. Belarus are dispatched a few days later as England maintain their 100% qualifying record under Capello and the Italian is given the freedom of the city of Sheffield. In his words, he is ‘be-mus-ed.’

The Republic of Ireland host Italy. Italy wins.

Liverpool burst into form in the League with Fernando Torres scoring 6 in 4 games, including the winners against rivals Chelsea and Manchester United. Dirk Kuyt is thrilled for him. They top the table by four points as we head into November with the usual suspects close behind. At the bottom, injury-hit Aston Villa have gotten off to their worst start in Premiership history and are joined by Burnley and Portsmouth in the drop-zone.

November

Villa’s woes continue as Ashley Young and John Carew join their wounded. Martin O’Neill laments the lack of squad depth and also reveals that he can’t motivate the likes of Carlos Cuellar and Marlon Harewood as they simply don’t believe him when he tells them ‘they can do it.’ Other strugglers Stoke, Bolton, Burnley, Portsmouth and Birmingham create a pact to draw all their remaining games with each other and to limit South-East Asian aggression in the technology markets.

Bolton have surged into the top-6 with a remarkably continental, open and exciting brand of football. Oh, did I not mention that Gary Megson went on gardening leave a couple of months back and Roberto di Matteo is in charge? Other managerial news includes Alan Curbishley replacing Paul Hart at Pompey and Joe Kinnear holding a nightly vigil outside St. James’ Park, insisting the board promised him his job back in a vision.

December

The festive period is anything but that for Emmanuel Adebayor as he is forced out for the rest of the season with a stomach ulcer from the stress of not being worth £25million. A milder form of the injury spreads quickly in the locker room and City struggle during the month, barely putting out a team of internationals against Sunderland.

The game of the season so far takes place at the Reebok Stadium as Bolton succumb to West Ham; the Hammers twice trail but fight back thanks to three goals from Dean Ashton and eventually run out 4-2 winners. Gianfranco Zola and Roberto di Matteo, former team mates at Chelsea, hold a joint press conference after the game and brand the game a ‘victory for football’ and a ’showpiece of entertainment’ and ‘an illustration of one man’s love for another.’ The journalists in attendance are left punch-drunk from the floral language and homoerotic atmosphere. Days later, the pair are snapped sharing a bottle of wine, some spaghetti a la vongole and a hotel room. Let’s not get into that…

All four English teams qualify from their Champions League groups with apparent ease. Most other European heavyweights also make the Knockout phase with the notable exception of Bayern Munich who labour from the start and finish bottom of their group. Team President Karl-Heinz Rummenigge admits that the club’s efforts to hold on so tightly to Franck Ribery left them exhausted for the upcoming season, ‘in hindsight, I guess it wasn’t such a smart idea having our whole midfield spend pre-season outside Franck’s room with a large crucifix and some holy water. And we also may have made a mistake sacrificing Mario Gomez to the footballing God’s. We’ve yet to see any real return from that.’

Leo Messi wins FIFA World Player of the Year for, traditionally, being the best player in the World until May.

The final action of the year is marked by Man United returning to the top after beating Wigan. Liverpool follow just a point behind with Chelsea, Everton, Tottenham, Blackburn and Arsenal rounding out the top-6. Villa are seven points adrift at the foot of the table, joined in the drop-zone by Burnley and Wolves.

January

The transfer window reopens and Villa are quick to sign out-of-favour Shaun Wright-Phillips. Martin O’Neill believes the former Man City winger will add competition for places on the bench and more balance in their training sessions. The biggest move of the window sees Chelsea spend £26million on Wolfsburg forward Edin Dzeko while Luca Toni moves to West Ham and Harry Redknapp is at it again with the additions of a Latvian tap dancer, a Romanian meteorologist and the ghost of Bobby Moore.

Papa Bouba Diop’s Portsmouth jersey becomes a huge worldwide seller as people realise how cool his name is.

Joey Barton returns to action and barely even touches the four players he assaults in a mass brawl. His disturbance overshadows an excellent month of Premiership football featuring a Peter Crouch-Emile Heskey dance off, a Marouanne Fellaini haircut, Aaron Lennon being sidelined for the rest of the year with an eyebrow injury, a Dimitar Berbatov sprint and a goal for Bobby Zamora. Bless.

There are FA Cup shocks-a-plenty as last year’s finalists Everton head a list of Premiership sides beaten by lower level teams however Newport County, five divisions and one country lower (they’re Welsh) than opposition Stoke, lose in the televised fixture leading to widespread calls that the romance of the competition is dead.

A new competition called the ‘League Cup Semi-Finals’ springs up out of nowhere with four teams competing for a place in a Wembley final and a European qualifying spot. Arsenal beat Spurs in a heated encounter in which Vedran Corluka is sent off for for arguing as to whether his two fingered salute to his own fans is unsporting behaviour or ungentlemanly conduct. In the other Semi, Man United defeats Roy Keane’s Ipswich Town side but it is Keane who wins the moral victory, narrowly out-glaring Ferguson over the two legs.

February

The month’s big news story centres around Michael Owen. The United forward, after a prolific season, is recalled to the England squad but is left on the bench for the friendly against the Dutch and decides to retire from International football after Carlton Cole, Dean Ashton, Les Ferdinand’s 14 year old daughter and a rather lifeless looking courgette are brought on ahead of him. David Beckham also plays in the fixture and empathises with Owen, ‘when I wasn’t in the squad it was tough to watch other players wear my number, miss penalties or get booed by fans. It was like I lost my identity. I feel bad for Michael, I mean, Carlton Cole…wow, that’s cold.’

Mark Hughes is shown the door at City as they sit in mid-table mediocrity and have struggled away from home. Hughes is further criticised for his 4-1-3-Robinho-1 formation which, when Robinho isn’t fit or interested, doesn’t seem overly effective. Sven-Goran Eriksson steps into the breach for a second spell, citing the fact that his Director of Football job at Notts County leaves him plenty of time for an actual job.

Arsenal win the League Cup. Or was it United? I was watching repeats of Frasier at the time.

March

In a staggering move, Rafa Benitez shaves off his goatee in the wake of Liverpool’s defeat at Old Trafford. More controversy follows as he now doesn’t look all that much like his supposed son and Benitez Jr is quickly forgotten by the footballing world despite his record of 38 goals in 24 games, two Oscars and a Nobel Prize for awesomeness. Teammate Wayne Rooney is praised by the press for his goalscoring prowess and managing to persuade a decent looking prostitute to have sex with him.

The month closes with United holding a four point lead at the summit, Phil Brown at number 6 in the charts, Jose Bosingwa leaving to join the circus and Kieron Dyer getting match fit. Ok, I lied about that last one.

April

Liverpool and Chelsea compete in an epic FA Cup Semi-Final with the Blues finally winning the day after Joe Cole’s last minute winner. Unfortunately, Didier Drogba injures himself while diving and is ruled out for the rest of the season and the forthcoming World Cup. Arsenal salvage their season as they beat Manchester City in the other Semi thanks to a goal from Tomas Rosicky. Yeah, I know, forgot about him too.

The Champions League Quarter and Semi Finals see all the English teams knocked out of the tournament. Real Madrid defeat both Chelsea and Manchester United in consecutive games while Arsenal fall to Juventus in the Quarters and Liverpool lose on penalties to Barcelona in the Semis. A mouth-watering final between Real Madrid and Barcelona awaits.

In the league, Villa take 10 points from their 4 games thanks to the returning powers of Ashley Young, Stilian Petrov and Martin O’Neill’s motivation and find themselves eerily close to safety after looking virtually down a few weeks previous. Chelsea are the other big climbers as they take advantage of their European exit to win all their month’s fixtures, including a 2-1 win at Old Trafford, and find themselves right in the title hunt. Everton, Blackburn, Spurs, Man City and a few others resign themselves to another season of finishing somewhere in the middlish.

May

The Premiership season draws to a close with matters at both ends of the table very much up in the air. The penultimate round of fixtures sees Man United held 1-1 at Sunderland thanks to Darren Bent’s 31st goal of the season and ten-man Liverpool hold off Chelsea 1-0 at Anfield. All three teams are locked on 81 points going into the final day with United leading the other pair on goal difference and Andy Gray taken ill with excitement. On the last day, United lead Stoke with 10 minutes to go but, as the players all look at the Old Trafford scoreboard in unison, concede on a hoofed clearance by Amdy Faye with two minutes remaining. Chelsea beat Wigan but it’s left to Liverpool to hoist the Premiership trophy thanks to Steven Gerrard driving his team to victory, then back down the M62 to Liverpool afterwards. Arsenal finish fourth. Again.

At the bottom, Blackburn play a resurgent Aston Villa side for the chance to retain their Premiership status. Early goals from Nigel Reo-Coker and Gabi Agbonlahor give the Villains the win and sends their fans into raptures at their unlikely escape. Blackburn join Hull and Burnley in falling into the newly renamed ‘Sanli Tuncay Memorial Championship’ after the Turk’s virtuoso season with Middlesbrough in which he scores 48 goals, wins the mid-season talent show and leads his team to back to the big time.

The UEFA Europa League Final. The gay, retarded, shy nephew of the Champions League. Ends 4-2. Valencia beat Werder Bremen in an excellent advertisement for the competition. Watch it. You might like it.

The FA Cup Final. The bastion of English sport. The most famous cup competition in the World. Ends 0-0. Chelsea win on penalties after 120 minutes that are the nadir of the entire season. That chick singing the national anthem was pretty smoking though so it’s not a whole loss.

The Champions League Final. The big one. The grand honcho. The zenith of the club calender. Ends 2-1. Barcelona retain their title with a dazzling display of pace, movement, passing and slight of hand magic tricks. The 80,000 Real Madrid fans inside the Santiago Bernabeu are devastated as their plucky, gritty, lionhearted, longshot, home grown bunch of underdogs are defeated, ending their fairytale season. Extra headlines are made after the final whistle as Sepp Blatter and Michel Platini squabble over who gets to stand last in line handing out the medals and Cristiano Ronaldo makes a public plea to former manager Alex Ferguson to bring him back to Manchester. Turns out white isn’t his colour.

Fixture Forecast

2009-08-04T01:09:00.010+01:00

The 20 games that could define the next season for the 20 Premier League Teams:

Saturday August 15th

1. Chelsea v Hull - The 09/10 season begins here with an encounter between a newly-directed Chelsea side that have struggled to match the high standards set by their owner over the last couple of years, and a Hull team that scraped survival last year but began their inaugural Premiership season on fine form. Not sure what Carlo Ancelotti will make of this Phil Brown fella.

Potential Hero - Deco. Just kidding. Frank Lampard is more conceivable.

2. Everton v Arsenal - No team has more question marks surrounding them right now than the Gunners. The crux of the discussion centers around whether they a talented young team, ready to mature and win their first trophy in four years or whether the losses of Adebayor and Toure are symptomatic of their decline. Everton will be looking to build on successive 5th places and last season's FA Cup Final.

Potential Hero - Marouanne Fellaini's barber.

Wednesday August 19th

3. Burnley v Man Utd - With no disrespect to Stoke, this is where the big time begins for the Clarets; at home, to the champions. United have not started all that smoothly over the last few years and can't afford to add ammunition to their post-Ronaldo doubters.

Potential Hero - If it's not Brian Jensen then Burnley might have a problem.

Saturday August 29th

4. Man Utd v Arsenal - The first meeting between any of the Premiership's most potent powers.

Potential Hero - Anyone who manages to sit through half an hour of Andy Gray after the game.

Sunday September 13th

5. Birmingham v Aston Villa - The Second City Derby has been an infrequent feature of the Premiership era, despite Villa's constant place in the top flight. The Blues will no doubt already be eyeing this fixture but it's the Villain's that may have more to play for at this stage. Word is that Martin O'Neill may be under a little pressure to propel his team to a top-4 finish and derby defeat could be troubling.

Potential Hero - Martin O'Neill. Love that guy.

Sunday September 20th

6. Man Utd v Man City - A likely barometer of both team's chances of success this year. All eyes on Carlos Tevez.

Potential Hero - Anybody but Carlos Tevez.

Saturday October 3rd

7. West Ham v Fulham - Would have been a very enjoyable game to watch last term, featuring two surprising sides that played good football. Hopefully a encore is in store.

Potential Hero - Gianfranco Zola. He would easily be the best player on the park in this game.

Saturday October 17th

8. Portsmouth v Tottenham - Portsmouth don't have enough players. Tottenham have too many yet it's Savvy Harry that's adding from the Fratton Park stable. Portsmouth need to perform well at home if they are to enjoy Premiership fixtures for another year.

Potential Hero - Peter Crouch or Jermain Defoe.

Sunday October 25th

9. Liverpool v Man Utd - Last year's title contending pair meet for the first time. Liverpool did the double over their rivals last season but saw United equal their record for most League trophies.

Potential Hero - Nemanja Vidic might be due. Torres might be injured. The two could go hand-in-hand.

Saturday October 31st

10. Arsenal v Tottenham - The same fixture finished 4-4 last year in arguably the game of the season (honorable mention to Liverpool 4 - 4 Arsenal and Liverpool 4 - 4 Chelsea in the Champions League). No pressure on this match then.

Potential Hero - Whoever Arsenal sign in the next couple of weeks.

Saturday December 12th

11. Liverpool v Arsenal - Two heavyweights meet days after the final round of Champions League group fixtures. Andrei Arshavin will no doubt be eyeing this fixture.

Potential Hero - See above.

Saturday December 26th

12. Hull v Man Utd - Crazy things tend to happen in the games over the Christmas period and this could be a prime example. Expect a day of abundant goals, red cards and bottom feeders nibbling away at the big fish.

Potential Hero - Jimmy Bullard could be back playing. Michael Owen should already be back scoring.

Monday December 28th

13. Aston Villa v Liverpool - The marquee game in the last round of fixtures for 2009.

Potential Hero - Looks like a Steven Gerrard 'scruff-of-the-neck' kinda game

Saturday January 16th

14. Everton v Man City - City will have to improve away from Eastlands to contend and Everton have more competition than ever to be the best of the rest.

Potential Hero - I'm hoping it's Jo and not Joleon.

Saturday February 20th

15. Blackburn v Bolton - Grit. Determination. Tenacity. Other Synonyms. My money's on a 0-0 and last segment on Match of the Day.

Potential Hero - Whoever commentates and stays excited throughout.

Saturday February 27th

16. Stoke v Arsenal - Stoke's victory over Arsenal launched their season last time around against perennially bullied Arsenal. A benchmark for both teams progress.

Potential Hero - Robin van Persie? I don't know, why you asking me?

Saturday March 6th

17. Wigan v Liverpool - Roberto versus Rafa. Hopefully the Spaniards will be knee-deep in attractive, expansive football as the sun starts to come out. I have my doubts.

Potential Hero - Someone Spanish.

Saturday April 3rd

18. Sunderland v Tottenham - The Darren Bent Bowl.

Potential Hero - Um...Darren....B...Be...Ben...no, I can't bring myself to type that.

Saturday May 1st

19. Liverpool v Chelsea - A six-pointer between two of the main protagonists in the penultimate week of the season. But will it matter?

Potential Hero - Didier Drogba's agent, already working to get his client a lucrative move for the 2010/11 season.

Sunday May 9th

20. Bolton v Birmingham - It's far more likely that the fate of the teams at the foot of the table, rather than the top, will be at stake come the last day of the season. This seems a candidate for some exaggerated Sky Sports video packages about the 'colossal' and 'monumental' nature of survival. Can't wait.

Potential Hero - Any player who doesn't get injured ahead of the 2010 World Cup.

Gym Folks

2009-08-04T01:06:00.002+01:00

I go to the gym. I’ve been going intermittently for about eight years and, more often that, I run and lift and cycle on my own with only some fairly loud, abrasive music for company.

Spend enough time anywhere and the details of the setting will expand upon you. In my gym, there’s one bike that has a loose saddle, a rogue weight that doesn’t match any of the others and a treadmill that is desperate to break under the continued pressure of overweight activity. Perhaps more interestingly, at least I hope so for the purposes of this blog entry, are some of the individuals that frequent the place.

A large proportion of them seem to fall into a few amusing categories:

The Eastern European

He’s 6’3. His name is Yevgeny or Bogdan (I‘ve never asked). He only ever wears a white Sergio Tacchini shell suit with matching cap, never does cardio and balances weights on his neck. He may also growl on occasion.

The Peacock

It doesn’t matter where he is, he will gravitate towards any reflective surface and try to subtly flex. It’s not for the girls, it’s not for the boys, it’s for him. Good for him.

Lady Walks-a-lot

Powerwalking not only looks ridiculous, it’s useless. Try telling her that…

The Chatterbox

Ok, so they work out, but that’s not why they’re there. They linger and when you get tired and can hardly return fire, they strike. What’s sign language for ‘leave me to suffer in peace?’

The Get-Big-Quick-Guy

Despairs at the fact that after two weeks of bicep curls and all the supplements he can buy legally, he still doesn’t look like a ‘Mens Fitness’ cover model. Not to worry, he’ll get bored pretty soon.

The Spotter

They mean well bless ‘em but having someone stand over you and hail abuse at you to ‘push’ you is not always the motivational tool they may think it is. Very likely to have had abusive parents.

The Pro

You’re indoors. Is that skintight bike replica Tour de France jersey doing anything for you other than making you look silly? You want us to look at you and see an athlete. All we see is doofus.

The Show Off

Left to their own devices, harmless. Problematically, the gym is rarely a place for solitude and, as soon as there is another person in close vicinity, those weights are going up and so is the risk of injury. Note; no girl is sleeping with you because you bench 115 kgs….badly.

The Old Man

I don’t know why he’s there. I’m pretty sure he doesn't know either.

That Fella Who Can’t Wait To Get Naked And Stay That Way In The Changing Room

There’s always one…

Sports Betting

2009-07-31T16:11:00.004+01:00

A few tasty tempters for the next few months:

Everton to finish 5th or higher - 5/1 - Everton have finished 5th in the last two seasons and will benefit from the return of Yakubu and Arteta from injury as well as Jo on loan from Man City. City themselves are favourites beyond the top 4 and the likes of Spurs and Villa will be pressing hard but Everton have the experience and structure to pull this off.

Wayne Rooney to finish as league top scorer - 12/1 - Torres and Drogba lead the betting here but both have suffered with injuries and Drogba is likely to miss time with the African Nations Cup. Rooney will have more responsibility this year to score goals and may be a more central presence with the loss of Tevez and Ronaldo. He will play often, is not injury prone (England duty aside) and plays in a team that create chances. Berbatov at 18's and Van Persie at 20's are decent bets here too.

Thor Hushovd to win the 2010 Tour Green Jersey - 6/1 - Cavendish somehow is 1/2 for the points jersey but Hushovd showed his ability to win the numerous points available in the non-flat stages. Cav can't compete in the mountains and may also struggle to match the 6 stage wins he had this year. Again it should be close and there are others that could challenge but the Norwegian's odds are too long to turn down.

Aaron Peirsol to win the World 200m Backstroke Gold - 8/13 - Because he will.

Eric Buchman to win the WSOP Main Event - 4/1 - Meh...why not?

The St. Louis Cards to win the NL Pennant - 7/1 - They may be the team with the least question marks and the most upside. They can hit, pitch and field and, as long as they can make the playoffs (which is no guarantee thanks to the resurgent Cubs) then they have quality in the right places to close out a 5/7 game series (Holliday, Pujols, Carpenter, Wainwright, Pineiro, Franklin).

The Philadelphia Eagles to win the Super Bowl - 14/1 - Ok, I'm buying. They're strong on both offensive and defensive lines. They've got some impact rookies. They've got Andy Reid. Fine, forget the last one but this bet has value when you consider Dallas are 16/1 and Indy are 12/1. Value people!

Why Schumacher Should Not Come Back

2009-07-31T02:12:00.002+01:00

I'm an F1 fan. I'm a Ferrari fan. For me, the two have been inextricably linked since I started watching motor racing with my grandfather as a child and I have been an avid viewer ever since.

The dominance of Ferrari and Michael Schumacher in the early years of the decade were pure bliss for me. I wasn't worried that the sport had become elitist, predictable and monopolized by one man. Schumacher won 5 successive titles from 2000 through to 2004 and I cheered every one.

Yet the news that the mighty German would be returning to the track in Valencia in a few weeks was not met with my accustomed joy at all things Schumi and Ferrari. Here's why:

He's not in race shape. Yes he has stayed physically fit since leaving the cockpit in 2006, yes he has three weeks to practice in and out of the car and yes he may well be as mentally strong as any racing driver ever. But we're talking about the physical demands of Formula 1. Just because Schumacher can remember being hurled around in speeds up to 220 mph and 5 G's doesn't mean he is ready to relive it, especially in light of his neck injury sustained in a motorcycle accident in February. Schumacher was renowned for his fitness and, as we have seen regularly across many sports, returning to a high physical level after years away from full-time training is difficult if not impossible. At 40, Schumacher will be the oldest driver in the race and more than 10 years older than many of his opponents.

He might affect his legacy. The Ferrari's have been off the pace most of the year and have little chance of winning a race (and no chance of winning a Championship). What does Ferrari and Schumi gain from finishing in the middle of the pack in the last 7 races? What if he struggles miserably? What if he gets hurt? He knows what he is getting into and his competitive juices will be flowing as fast as ever but, apart from missing the adrenaline rush and wanting to assist the stricken Felipe Massa and his former employers, what can he achieve?

He could affect team harmony. While he has stayed on with Ferrari as an advisor, his role has not been particularly hands on and he certainly wont have been around Kimi Raikonnen too much. Michael, considered an incredibly diligent and committed driver, was not always considered a tremendous team mate and, albeit Raikonnen could be on his way out at the end of the season, could well upset the camp. It won't be easy for Schumacher to accept second billing to anybody.

Moreover, how does this affect Formula One? The likes of Jenson Button, Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel have earned their places on the podium and on the back pages and while the former may not be troubled by the returning Schumacher, the latter will certainly be. The 2009 season was already in danger of being overshadowed by events off the track and may have just reached tipping point. On the plus side, Michael Schumacher's presence will increase interest and viewers world-wide but, irrespective of his results, the spotlight will be on the record-breaking 7-time World Champion. Is that to his benefit and to the benefit of the sport? In my mind, the answer is no.

MLB Power Rankings

2009-07-31T01:32:00.004+01:00

The hunt for October is really on; The All-Star game is behind us, almost every team has played at least 100 games and the trade deadline is upon us.

Teams will rise and fall between now and the end of the regular season but we now know the identity of the 30 MLB teams. The Nats are terrible, Arizona and San Diego (with the exceptions of Dan Haren and Adrian Gonzalez) are almost as bad but this is about the beasts in the east and the best in the west.

The Power Rankings aim to highlight the teams that should be in the postseason, not the teams that will be (no AL Central teams make the grade on this occasion) or that are necessarily playing the best baseball right now.

1. New York Yankees (62-39) - The most runs, most homers, most RBI, highest OBP, highest SLG, highest OPS…basically, the Bronx Bombers are back. And not just in their home yard park. Jeter and Cano seem close to their best, Teixeira (.941 OPS, 26 HR, 74 RBI) has rebounded from a slow start and is now a serious MVP candidate and A-Rod will likely only improve as he continues to comeback from his hip surgery.

The Yanks do seem a starter light with the loss of the Taiwanese loss accumulator Chien-Ming Wang and the latest news that Joba - who has pitched superbly in his last 3 starts - will be returning to the pen but if A.J Burnett can stay healthy then, along with C.C Sabathia and Andy Pettitte, New York can eat innings and keep winning because few are going to get to their relievers. Mariano is killing it once again, Phil Hughes has been exceptional as a set-up man and Aceves and Coke are both contributing even if Brian Bruney isn’t.

This team could win 100 games and have to be favourites to represent the AL in the World Series.

2. Los Angeles Dodgers (62-39) - Maybe the most balanced team in the Majors this season, the Dodgers rank 1st in opponent BA, 2nd in ERA, BA and OBP and 5th in fielding percentage. Manny is back and seems unphased by his 50-game suspension, Matt Kemp (13 HR, .313 BA), James Loney (63 RBI, .363 OBP) and Andre Ethier (20 HR) have lead this team with the bat from opening day but they rank equal 24th (along with the Astros and Royals) with only 84 Homers in total.

Clayton Kershaw has been a revelation as of late and may be their ace at this stage; behind him are 10-game winner Chad Billingsley and efficient but decision-starved Randy Wolf. Much like the Yankees, the Dodgers would benefit from finding another starter as the 4 and 5 spots in the rotation are wide open but, also like the Yankees, they have a superior bull pen; Troncoso, Belisario, Mota and the imposing closer Jonathon Broxton all have ERA’s under 3 but have all been asked to work often. Can they remain fresh down the stretch? Breaking news is that they’ve just traded for Baltimore reliever George Sherrill…

They’ve been the NL champs in waiting virtually since day 1 and should win the West. Dodger fans will hope not to have peaked prematurely.

3. Philadelphia Phillies (58-41) - To this point, the fighting Phils have been fairly unbalanced; fearsome hitting, strong defence but below-average pitching. We know they can score runs with the likes of Ryan Howard (26 HR, 77 RBI) and Chase Utley (22 HR, .423 OBP) in the lineup but Raul Ibanez (26 HR, 74 RBI, .307 BA) and Jayson Werth (21 HR, .379 OBP) have both pleasantly surprised. Shane Victorino and Pedro Feliz are strong performers and even Jimmy Rollins has started to heat up (.327, 19 RBI since July 2nd). This team are 2nd in Runs and RBI, 3rd in Baseball in HR and 4th in OPS.

For a team with the 2nd best fielding percentage and 5.42 runs in support every game, it shouldn’t take too much from the hurlers to produce a winning team. The Phillies have gone 21-7 over the last month and a few days and now pace the NL East by 6 games but were clearly not convinced (and correctly so) that they had the pitching to close out the division and compete in the postseason. Enter Cliff Lee. Last years AL CY Young winner will head an inconsistent group featuring rising star J.A Happ (7-2, 2.97 ERA), last year's playoff hero but currently underachieving Cole Hamels, the ageless albeit very hittable Jamie Moyer (5.32 ERA) and the rollercoaster Joe Blanton (last 4 games - 29.2 Innings, 4 ER, 3-0. 4 previous games - 24.1 Innings, 11 ER, 0-1). Oh and Brad Lidge, perfect last year, has 20 saves….at an ERA of 7.11. Ugly. And they got Pedro. Nobody is quite sure why.

If Cliff Lee can impact the team the way that previous mid-season Cy Young’s have done (C.C Sabathia, Randy Johnson) then the Phils will be a match for anyone but the rest of the pitching staff will need to recapture last year’s heroics to keep the title in Pennsylvania.

4. Boston Red Sox (58-42) - The sinking Sox (3-7 in their last 10) looked the part of AL Champs right up until the All-Star break. Since then question marks have been raised about their hitting, fielding and pitching. Not a good combination for a successful ball club. The bare numbers don’t look all that terrible; 2nd in Doubles and Strikeouts, 3rd in Complete Games, 5th in OPS, 6th in Runs, 8th in ERA, 9th in Homers…but things have not been quite right. Kevin Youkilis had a fast start but is now hitting below .300, Jason Bay has knocked in 74 Runs but just 5 in his last 29 games, David Ortiz has returned to some prominence but is still only hitting .224 with a Slugging Percentage lower than Chone Figgins and Christian Guzman plus a lack of production from Right Field and Shortstop.

But at least they’ve pitched well. Or have they? Josh Beckett (12-4, 3.44 ERA) has been excellent after a couple of difficult early outings, Tim Wakefield was 11-3 before heading to the DL and Jon Lester has been better than his 9-7 record suggests but…Dice-K (8.23 ERA)…disaster...Brad Penny (5.07 ERA)…purely passable…John Smoltz (7.04 ERA)…shocking. The back end of the rotation needs work, although Clay Bucholz could help stabilise that situation, and so might the much praised bullpen. Again the numbers don’t look too bad for the Red Sox relievers and this group is still amongst the leagues best however closer Jonathon Papelbon has a 1.37 WHIP and can’t seem to buy a 1-2-3 inning while the likes of Ramon Ramirez and Justin Masterson have struggled as of late.

Boston should make the playoffs, at the very least through the Wild Card, but don’t seem quite the unit many had predicted and appear a team without a spark as we head into August. At least they know how to beat the Yankees.

5. Los Angeles Angels (60-40) - This time last year the Halos had the best record in baseball and, despite all the injuries, the tragic death of Nick Adenhart and the loss of the single-season saves leader Francisco Rodriguez, they aren’t far off that pace this year. This years version of the Angels are powered by their offense; 1st in Hits and BA, 2nd in Runs, RBI and OPS and Steals. Erick Aybar (.318 BA), Bobby Abreu (.414 OBP, 68 RBI, 22 SB), Juan Rivera (.310 BA, 17 HR), Chone Figgins (.392 OBP, 79 Runs, 31 SB), Torii Hunter (.938 OPS, 65 RBI, 17 HR) and Kendry Morales (.909 OPS, 20 HR, 60 RBI) are all hitting well and Vlad Guerrero could still catch fire later in the year.

Problematically for this team, particularly if they are to avoid another early exit from the playoffs, their pitching is far less consistent. Jered Weaver (10-3, 3.71 ERA) and Darren Oliver (12 Holds, 2.62 ERA) are the only key contributors that have ERA’s under 4 and although John Lackey (7-4, 4.00 ERA) has improved as of late, Joe Saunders’ form has dipped (8-6, 5.02 ERA) and Ervin Santana (3-6, 7.29 ERA) has been a disaster. But help is on the way; Matt Palmer and Sean O’Sullivan, new to the majors, have a combined 14-1 record, albeit largely behind strong run support. Brian Fuentes does lead the Majors in Saves (30) but has a 1.32 WHIP and 4.29 ERA. Other notable relievers Jose Arredondo (5.55 ERA) and Scott Shields (6.62 ERA) have not been the players they were last year.

The Angels could easily end up with the second best record in the AL and should win the West ahead of Texas. The real test for them will be beating a team from the AL East having been beaten by the Yankees and Red Sox in the first round of the playoffs 3 of their last 4 appearances.

6. St. Louis Cardinals (56-48) - The best player in the game is having a fantastic year and the Cards may have just found the pieces to add to the Championship puzzle. Offensively Albert Pujols leads the team in Games, At Bats, Runs, Hits, Home Runs, Total Bases, RBI’s, Walks, Stolen Bases and of course every average (34 HR, 92 RBI, 78 Walks, .443 OBP, 1.123 OPS - and leads the league in all those categories). Prince Albert aside, the introductions of Matt Holliday, Mark de Rosa and Julio Lugo have added more firepower in the lineup but currently the Cardinals sit right in the middle of most sortable Team Batting Stats.

It’s hard to write a sentence without including Pujols but it will probably the performances of his teammates that will determine whether he gets to play on the biggest stage of all. Holliday (1.313 OPS with the Cards so far) will offer protection behind Albert, Ryan Ludwick (17 HR, 66 RBI) has been hitting close to .400 over the last month and rookie Colby Rasmus (11 HR, 35 RBI) has impressed but St. Louis may live and die by their pitching staff at the end of the season. Chris Carpenter (9-3, 0.96 WHIP, 2.19 ERA), Adam Wainwright (12-6, 2.80 ERA) and Joel Pinero (9-9, 2.84 ERA) are the only trio of starters with sub-3 ERA’s and have all been outstanding as of late. If Kyle Lohse (4-6, 4.35 ERA) or Todd Wellemeyer (7-9, 5.79 ERA) could step up then this team might streak away with the tight Central. The bullpen is underrated and Ryan Franklin (23 Saves, 0.91 WHIP, 1.41 ERA) is having a fine year (yet Franklin has slipped a little since the break).

The Cards won the World Series in 2006 on the back of an 83-win season and, in a pennant race that is likely to go down to wire between up to 4 teams, may look for a similarly unlikely postseason run. If one man can propel them back to glory it’s Pujols.

7. Texas Rangers (56-43) - Currently a couple of games back from Boston in the Wild Card race and 3.5 back from the Angels in the West, the Rangers were not really contenders in many people’s minds in Spring Training due to perceived weaknesses in their pitching staff. We all knew they could hit and their ranks in Home Runs (2nd), Slugging (2nd) and Total Bases (6th) suggest that but, with the exception of their ability to pound the long ball, the Rangers have not been the offensive force many guaranteed. 24th in BA, 25th in Hits and 26th in OBP behind below-par seasons for Josh Hamilton, Chris Davis, Jarrod Saltalamacchia (all below .240 BA and .680 OPS) but Nelson Cruz (24 HR, .543 SLG), Ian Kinsler (23 HR, 63 RBI and 22 SB from the leadoff spot), the ever reliable Michael Young (.321 BA, .514 SLG) and likely rookie of the year Elvis Andrus (.266 BA, 20 SB) have kept the wheels turning for Texas.

Kevin Millwood (9-7, 3.39 ERA) and Scott Feldman (9-4, 3.99 ERA) lead the pitching staff but there’s not a name in their pen that would scare a postseason opponent. This itself may be their biggest strength; Dustin Nippert (3-0, 3.54 ERA) and Tommy Hunter (3-1, 2.00 ERA) have impressed over recent outings and mid-season trades Jason Grilli (1.10 ERA) and Darren O’Day (1.80 ERA) have been excellent acquisitions. At the back end, Frank Francisco (15 Saves, 2.28 ERA) and C.J Wilson (11 Saves, 2.80 ERA) have stabilised the entire pen this year.

Texas will hope to not be the odd one out in the American League. It would be a shock to see them win the World Series but nobody will want to face them over 5 games in the ALDS.

8. Chicago Cubs (53-46) - The Cubbies were 97-game winners last year making even the most pessimistic fans believe that their Championship drought would end at the 100 year mark. It wasn’t to be and they began this year in full hangover mode. However, they’ve gone 18-8 this month and are now tied atop the division. How have they done it? Well, not really with the bat as they rank in the bottom half of most offensive measurements and are home to Milton Bradley (8 HR, .250 ERA, $10million per year - although he has improved as of late). Aramis Ramirez (9 HR, 30 RBI, .343 BA, 1.006 OPS in just 36 games) has reignited the offense as of late and Alfonso Soriano seems to have benefited from moving down the order (3 HR, 9 RBI in the last 5 games).

If they can continue to hit then they can win the division because their pitching has been pretty good all season (yet fielding average at best). 1st in Quality Starts, 3rd in Batting Average Against, 4th in Strikeouts and 5th in ERA. They’ve got 5 good starters; Randy Wells, the least heralded of the 5, is having a great year (7-4, 2.84 ERA) and, along with Zambrano, Dempster, Lilly and Harden, could claim to be in the best rotation around (the Giants might argue that point). Carlos Marmol (23 Holds, 3.10 ERA) and Kevin Gregg (21 Saves, 3.35 ERA) are the 8th and 9th Inning mainstays and have been positively filthy as of late.

This could be their year (Version 101)….

Beefy v Freddy

2009-07-29T03:49:00.002+01:00

Andrew Flintoff is playing his last Test series for his country. His legacy is one of excess, hitting, humiliation, bowling, drunkenness and inspiration. Remind you of anyone?

Ian Botham was England's last world class all rounder and bore many similarities both on and off the field. Both were strong, burly, aggressive batsmen and bowlers and both enjoyed their lives outside the game to the extent that their International futures were questioned and ended for lengthy periods. Both also had their finest moments in Ashes series.

Here's a quick look at their International career stat lines:

Sir Ian Botham

Batting

Tests - 102, 161 Innings - 5,200 Runs at 33.54, HS 208, SR 60.71, 14 100's, 22 50's, 67 6's
ODI's - 116, 106 Innings - 2,113 Runs at 23.21, HS 79, SR 79.10, 9 50's, 197 4's, 44 6's

Bowling

Tests - 102, 168 Innings - 383 Wickets at 28.40, Economy 2.99, 27 5W, 10 10W
ODI's - 116, 115 Innings - 145 Wickets at 28.54, Economy 3.96, 3 4W

Andrew Flintoff

Batting

Tests - 77, 127 Innings - 3,742 Runs at 31.71, HS 167, SR 61.53, 5 100's, 25 50's, 81 6's
ODI's - 141, 122 Innings - 3,394 Runs at 32.01, HS 123, SR 88.82, 3 100's, 18 50's, 93 6's

Bowling

Tests - 77, 133 Innings - 225 Wickets at 32.17, Economy 2.97, 3 5W
ODI's - 141, 119 Innings - 169 Wickets at 24.38, Economy 4.39, 6 4W, 2 5W

Clearly the game changed in the 20-odd years that separated their careers (higher run rates in all forms of the game, better fitness levels and fielding, Botham of course never got the chance to play Twenty20) but the two have eerily similar numbers to add to their similarly chequered pasts (you were drunk....and you fell off a pedalo...?).

The numbers appear to state that Botham was the stronger Test batsman, particularly in converting his starts into centuries (14 to 5), and the better Test bowler, again with his ability to be a match winner (27 5-Wicket Innings to 3 and 10 10-Wicket matches to 0).

Flintoff, however, was/is the more dynamic ODI player; far more centuries, 50's and 6's at a higher strike rate and with a much higher average. As a bowler, he has more wickets at a better average and a few 5-Wicket hauls aswell. An economy of 4.39 in the modern game (and 2.97 in Tests by the way) is incredible.

The better player? Not for me to expand on. Botham was the more dynamic Test player, the finisher over 5 days. Flintoff was and will continue to be the more rounded One Day player, the master of the single afternoon. One thing you don't need stats to know? They were both the heart, soul and stimulus of England victories.

Tour de France

2009-07-29T01:23:00.003+01:00

A few thoughts on Le Tour:

1. Presuming that no drug accusations come out in the next few weeks this will have been one of the best Tours in recent memory. Cavendish winning 6 stages, Hushovd's efforts to win the green jersey, Contador's immense quality, his political struggle with Armstrong, the slew of young talent breaking out...

On that note next year's Tour could be immense; Contador, the Schlecks, Wiggins, Tony Martin, Roman Kreuziger, Cadel Evans, Carlos Sastre, Vincenzo Nibali along with Lance (who could be better with another year post-retirement behind him) vying for the yellow jersey, Armstrong's new team, more of Cavendish...

2. Alberto Contador can win 5+ Tours. There is no more dynamic and proficient a climber in the game, nor has there been for a long time, and now the guy is as good a time-triallist as anybody too. Armstrong claimed that he owes his team a large debt for his victory. I'm not even sure he needs a team.

3. Mark Cavendish's victory on the final stage was Usain Bolt-esque. Has anybody won a bunch sprint (on such a stage) by such a margin? Mark Renshaw's leadout was phenomenal. Having said that, his childish response to being stripped of his green jersey points in the run in to Besancon highlights the difference between his talent and maturity.

4. Cycling commentary on Eurosport is bad. Dull and plain bad.

5. Lance Armstrong gives a great non-interview.

6. Jens Voight's injury was tortuous just to watch.

7. The stage up Mont Ventoux was epic as always but suffered for being so close to the end of the Tour. Had it been a few days earlier when the contenders legs were fresher and the race that much more open, it could have been one of the defining images of the last ten years. Cycling needs some positive ones.

Top 100 Footballers in England

2009-07-29T01:12:00.003+01:00

With the footballing bandwagon about to swing back into action, it seems like a prime time to evaluate the personnel playing in the country today.

Any list like this is, without doubt, both arbitrary and contentious. I’ve tinkered with the players more than Claudio Ranieri ever did. I’ve played with the numbers more than George Graham has been accused of. I’ve gone back and forth more than….well, it hasn’t been easy. I’ll leave the world of Premiership comedy to all the television analysts that can do it equally badly.

The rules of the list: The position of the players is based on what the player can offer to a club now, not two years ago (Gary Neville), not in a few years time (Kiko Macheda), now. Players oft injured over the last few years will be devalued but those currently unavailable but expected to return without any issues will not be. The list is not based purely on performance in the league, but on all-around performance both domestically and abroad and their inherent ability and attitude. Players must be currently contracted to an English club at the time of writing.

Finally, bear in mind that if you showed me this list I’d probably argue with it as vehemently as any reader may. 250 odd players were considered originally and there are a bunch of guys that could well have made the list if it had been extended.

Here goes (hands crossing heart):

1. Steven Gerrard (Liverpool) - Nobody has been as impressive for their club for the period of time Gerrard has since the likes of Henry, Vieira and Keane. Captain, inspiration, goalscorer…not too bad in a scuffle either.

2. Michael Essien (Chelsea) - Mr. Everything to his club and plays the game with joy. Watch him. Loves it.

3. Fernando Torres (Liverpool) - The best striker in Europe. Period.

4. Wayne Rooney (Man Utd) - 315 games for his club and 52 caps (24 goals) for his country all at the tender age of 23. The pressure will be on the boy from Croxteth this year with United’s high profile departures but many (including me…and my buddy Jack) expect him to revel in the responsibility.

5. Frank Lampard (Chelsea) - There are reasons to suggest he had his finest year in Chelsea blue last term but Lamps received little critical acclaim, partly because people are so accustomed to seeing the England midfielder perform at such a high level. His form in Europe has been particularly strong the last few years and he is the key cog to Chelsea’s success since 2004. Excellent technique, stamina, vision and a priceless eye for goal make him one of the most complete players in the league.

6. Cesc Fabregas (Arsenal) - A regular since the age of 17, the Arsenal captain has not been the quite the same player after his knee injury but should return to his best in the coming season. Arsenal will only go as far as he can take them.

7. Robinho (Man City) - On pure talent alone he should be in the top 3 but his maturity, both on and off the field, is a weakness. Will he a better player with the summer reinforcements or will he only produce when the mood takes him?

8. Javier Mascherano (Liverpool) - The ideal modern defensive destroyer; powerful, aggressive, decisive and loves the battle. Liverpool don’t challenge this year if he leaves.

9. Rio Ferdinand (Man Utd) - United have had the fortune of several of the best central defensive pairings in the Premiership years and may have the best one yet with Rio and Vidic. Calm, gallant and a strong leader from the back for the champions.

10. John Terry (Chelsea) - England captain for a reason; a lionhearted, committed centre-back with excellent positioning and discipline. Didn’t have a vintage year in 2008/9 but should return to his best under new coach Ancelotti.

11. Nemanja Vidic (Man Utd) - Before getting embarrassed by Fernando Torres and Liverpool, Vidic was the standout player of the season. His form dipped to the point where he looked uncomfortable on a number of occasions but we should class this as an aberration for the physical and uncompromising defender.

12. Xabi Alonso (Liverpool) - May well not be with his current employers much longer but the bidding war surrounding him shows his worth. Makes the game look easy and conceivably the smartest player on the field of play every week.

13. Robin Van Persie (Arsenal) - Arguably the most technically gifted player in the division, the Dutchman would be higher but for his constant slew of injuries. On his day, world class.

14. Didier Drogba (Chelsea) - Don’t write him off just yet. Another who has struggled with the revolving door of managers at the London club but he is exactly the style of forward that Capello craves. Strong, physical, aggressive and more intelligent on the field than people think. If he wasn’t so good he wouldn’t be so despised by opposing fans.

15. Andrei Arshavin (Arsenal) - Rarely has a player made such a quick impact after moving to the Premiership as the diminutive Russian. 6 goals in 12 league games including a fabulous 4 at Liverpool has removed any doubt that his ability wouldn’t translate to English football and he could be better in his first full season with the Gunners.

16. Carlos Tevez (Man City) - Quite the coup for City, stealing away the Argentinian pit bull from their cross-town neighbours. Tevez and Kuyt are two of the best non-prolific forwards in the game due to their work rate, selflessness and passion. Tevez is the better footballer and may still not have peaked.

17. Joe Cole (Chelsea) - Injury-riddled as of late but was Chelsea’s player of the year a couple of years back, has 53 caps for England and is still only 27. Ancelotti will love this guy.

18. Dimitar Berbatov (Man Utd) - Just imagine how good he would be if he actually tried… Actually his lethargic style may be a misnomer; he does in fact run, does hold up the ball, is decent in the air and should improve with a years experience in the United team.

19. Ashley Young (Aston Villa) - Had as impressive a first half as anybody last year and won the PFA Young Player of the Year for his efforts. Tired later in the year but developing into a constant menace for the league’s elite defenders.

20. Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea) - Surely soon to exit but should be fondly remembered by the Chelsea faithful for his partnership with John Terry. Injuries limited his starts last year but shouldn’t rob him of his greatest strength; his ability to read the game.

21. Petr Cech (Chelsea) - Not the best keeper in the World, repeat, not the best keeper in the World but still a formidable presence between the sticks and you would imagine will return to close to his best as the hours, weeks and years pass from his fractured skull.

22. Gareth Barry (Man City) - Now an England regular, Barry had been one
of the keys to Villa’s resurgence and will look to push Man City into title contention over the next couple of years. Unselfish, consistent and a leader on the field.

23. Emmanuel Adebayor (Man City) - Underperformed last year but with renewed motivation could be back to the original version that was worth £30m to a non-Man City side last summer. Waiting for him to say that he grew up a Uwe Rosler and Paul Dickov fan.

24. Theo Walcott (Arsenal) - His hat-trick in Croatia gave us a feature length trailer as to his potential. He’s not the complete player yet but, if he can avoid injury, should be given a larger part in the Arsenal attack and could be about to take his game to the next level just in time for the 2010 World Cup.

25. Michael Carrick (Man Utd) - Another sophisticated product of the West Ham youth system and a key man for United in their title run last year. He is very good. If only he added a little extra in the tackle or a few more goals…

26. Jamie Carragher (Liverpool) - Robin to Gerrard’s Batman. Carragher has been as consistent and important a defender as there has been this decade and will retire a Liverpool legend.

27. Dirk Kuyt (Liverpool) - Oh Dirk, you are probably the finest teammate in the history of sports and I’m certain you’d give me 40p for the bus if I ever needed it. Not a bad right winger either. Although not a striker.

28. Florent Malouda (Chelsea) - The most improved player in the second half of the season. The Frenchman offered pace, goals and width to a team in desperate need of all three but may find his role altered under new management and playing time shared with Yuri Zhirkov.

29. Patrice Evra (Man Utd) - Probably the best left back in the league but was not at his best for periods last term. Has tremendous pace and fitness but hasn’t yet developed into the attacking threat that his talent suggested.

30. Mikel Arteta (Everton) - Was having a tremendous year before it was curtailed by a knee ligament injury. Provides the artistry and flair in a team full of diligence and energy.

31. Jose Bosingwa (Chelsea) - Could the uni brow be the source of his powers? If so, other full-backs should take note because the former Porto player was a revelation in his first season showing energy, defensive acumen and a willingness to burst up the right side.

32. Ryan Giggs (Man Utd) - Not the best player in the league last year (stand up Stevie G) as the PFA contended but still an important piece for the champions. May see his playing time actually increase this year with the loss of Ronaldo and, while he won’t be skinning defenders anymore, he has replaced his pace with guile. Still a threat to any opponent.

33. Pepe Reina (Liverpool) - Prone to the odd mistake but a premier shot stopper and has arguably outperformed Petr Cech since his injury.

34. Joleon Lescott (Everton) - The high level of interest surrounding the goalscoring defender is well deserved. Lescott has been excellent for the last couple of years and is still only 26. Might yet be the next on line to start at centre-back for his country after Terry and Ferdinand.

35. Robbie Keane (Tottenham) - 112 goals in 268 games and countless moments of inspiration for Spurs. Just pretend he never joined Liverpool.

36. Steven Ireland (Man City) - The Irish Tim Cahill. Only better.

37. Nicolas Anelka (Chelsea) - The embodiment of the footballing mercenary but, wherever he goes, he scores goals.

38. Ashley Cole (Chelsea) - No I don’t like him either and yes, I do take some pleasure in the fact that he isn’t quite as good as he used to be. Either way, he’s England’s best left sided defender.

39. Anderson (Man Utd) - Industrious and ever so comfortable on the ball. Might play a little further forward this season and should score a goal for the Reds. Finally.

40. Stiliyan Petrov (Aston Villa) - His club’s player of the year and potential captain after the departure of Gareth Barry. Will be required to play an even bigger role this year without Barry and is the central foil to the winged wizards of Young, Milner and Downing.

41. Michael Ballack (Chelsea) - On the downward curve and hasn’t really ever shone for Chelsea the way that he has for German clubs and country but still a classy operator. Efficient….German.
42. Bacary Sagna (Arsenal) - Had a quiet 08/09 campaign after impressing everybody in his debut season, however Sagna may be the best player in the current Arsenal back four. A quick, strong, savvy defender who plays hard every week.

43. Jermaine Jenas (Tottenham) - Steven Gerrard light. If England B team needed a captain, it would be Jenas.

44. Roque Santa Cruz (Man City) - Not entirely sure how he is still worth £18m in the current climate after a year in which he hardly played and hardly scored but this is the Chelski for the next decade I guess. Physical, direct, strong in the air and a decent finisher, Santa Cruz should enjoy being reunited with Mark Hughes but is basically a milder, more pleasant Didier Drogba.

45. Yakubu (Everton) - Sorely missed by Everton last year, as was every other forward. An excellent goal ratio (103 goals in 241 games while in England) and extra conditioning training as part of his comeback from an achilles injury will make any defence wary of ‘the Yak.’

46. Glen Johnson (Liverpool) - Was an underrated talent until Liverpool coughed up the big bucks to sign him last month. Attacks like a winger and a better defender than many give him credit for while just 24 years old. The heir apparent to the right back slot for his country.

47. Stewart Downing (Aston Villa) - Was the best player in the Championship for a few weeks but is now another young Villa winger on the edge of the England team. Didn’t score a league goal last year but has commonly been the best player on the park in games over the last few years.

48. Marouanne Fellaini (Everton) - What is there not to like? An instant cult hero for the blue half of Mersyside for his goals, unselfish play and tireless running. That and the hair.

49. Alex (Chelsea) - One of the best defenders in the league last year, the ‘tank’ is just what his name suggests. And have you seen those free kicks? He is Brazilian after all…

50. Darren Fletcher (Man Utd) - Plays up to the occasion, scores vital goals, works hard box-to-box and yet constantly underrated. Apparently being Scotland’s best player doesn’t carry that much weight anymore.

51. Elano (Man City) - Certain lo leave in the coming weeks but, despite a quiet persona, has left an imprint on the English game with his style, set pieces and passing ability.

52. Phil Jagielka (Everton) - Cruelly ruled out of the Cup final with injury last year after an excellent season that saw him make his International debut. Unlikely to return before the new year from a ruptured ACL. Everton will just hope he recovers fully to recapture his 08/09 form.

53. Samir Nasri (Arsenal) - The young man adapted quickly to the English game and rapidly endeared himself to the North London faithful with two goals against Man United. A typical Arsene Wenger signing combining speed, invention and, naturally, excellent technical ability.

54. Tim Cahill (Everton) - Played as an emergency striker last season but is more dangerous running from deep, a position he should regain in the upcoming season.

55. Luka Modric (Tottenham) - A natural playmaker who will only get better as he adapts to the physicality and pace of the English game.

56. Kolo Toure (Arsenal) - Great fun to watch even when he isn’t playing particularly well.

57. Eduardo (Arsenal) - Without the horrendous, near-career-ending injury suffered a couple of years ago, Eduardo may have already established himself as a top-20 player on this list. As it is, for all the positive signs seen in limited appearances last year, nobody knows if the Brazilian will ever be the same clinical finisher he was before.

58. Peter Crouch (Tottenham) - Joining Harry Redknapp for a third time. Has developed into a true no.9 and was a big reason why Portsmouth didn’t slip out of the division.

59. Gael Clichy (Arsenal) - Kieron Gibbs performed admirably in his stead but there is no question that Clichy is first choice at the Emirates. His injury history holds him back a little.

60. Micah Richards (Man City) - Had a phenomenal start to the 07/08 campaign under Sven before fading and suffering injury. Easy to forget he is just 21 and should continue to mature beyond the point where his physical gifts will get him out of trouble. But what’s his best position?

61. Jermaine Defoe (Tottenham) - A classic example of a very good Premiership player but limited on the international stage. 7 of his 8 England goals have come against Andorra (4), Trinidad & Tobago (2) and Kazakhstan (1).

62. Shay Given (Man City) - The starting goalkeeper on the Premiership all-decade team. Must have been a little freaked out after moving to City and not having to make several amazing saves to win games.

63. Yuri Zhirkov (Chelsea) - Capable of playing anywhere down the left flank, Zhirkov will have to impress to earn playing time but could be a key figure for Chelsea. Abrahmovic and Hiddink (who will still retain some influence over the owner at least) love his work ethic and drive so expect him to find his way into the first team at some stage. Also has the odd spectacular goal in him.

64. Owen Hargreaves (Man Utd) - Either should not be on the list due to surgery on both knees and so little football over the last two years or a top-20 player player for his ability, his harassing style, his intelligence and his passing. He sits somewhere in the middle for now.

65. Jon Obi Mikel (Chelsea) - Claude Makelele he is not, nor is he worth the £16m that Chelsea somehow ended up paying for him. However he is developing into a mature, strong, imposing figure in the middle who fills an important role within the Chelsea midfield.

66. Martin Skrtel (Liverpool) - Fierce and strong in the tackle, Skrtel performed resolutely for the Reds last year however, his ceiling may not be as high as his understudy Agger.

67. Niko Kranjcar (Portsmouth) - Didn’t seem to fancy the relegation battle but is more than a luxury player. Adroit with the ball at his feet and stronger than his frame suggests; can Portsmouth hold onto him?

68. Wes Brown (Man Utd) - Capello’s first choice right back when fit and long renowned as an elite defender. The modern full-back seems to be attacking cavalry first, last line of defence second but Brown is still good enough at the latter to be first choice for his team, at least until Fabio da Silva has matured.

69. Vincent Kompany (Man City) - Could move to his favoured central defensive spot with the arrivals of Nigel de Jong and Gareth Barry. Wherever he plays, Kompany’s strength and composure will be an asset to the Citizens this year.

70. Brede Hangeland (Fulham) - Pretty stylish for a 6’5 central defender. He, more so than any other, seemed to be the biggest reason why Fulham conceded 24 goals less last season than the year previous.

71. James Milner (Aston Villa) - Could well be in for the breakout season enjoyed by teammate Ashley Young last year. Dynamic and direct, Milner has been on the cusp of being a top player for a few years now.

72. Steed Malbranque (Sunderland) - The Wearsiders were not a pretty team to watch for most of last year but Malbranque was a standout for his vision and craft.

73. Aaron Lennon (Tottenham) - Like colleague Bentley, had been touted as England’s next no.7. Seems to be maturing but his ceiling doesn’t appear to be as high as thought previously and is unlikely to ever be a top 25 performer.

74. Michael Owen (Man Utd) - Success in team sports is so often about fit. The right team, the right manager, the right time. Newcastle was not it for Owen but United could just be. Time will tell.

75. Gabriel Agbonlahor (Aston Villa) - Another who suffered with his teams poor form down the stretch. Gabi may already be close to the finished article at 22 and may never be a standout on the International stage but is one of the players Villa are banking on to make them a top-4 team.
76. Wilson Palacios (Tottenham) - Seems to collect yellow cards like some people collects stamps but his combative approach was much needed by Tottenham last year and will allow some of the flair players the freedom they need.

77. Sanli Tuncay (Middlesbrough) - Due to leave any day now but few English fans would want the flamboyant and talented Turk to leave for foreign shores.

78. Matthew Upson (West Ham) - Its taken time but Upson is now the composed, controlled centre-back that his potential suggested he would become. His form has been extremely good for the last two seasons.

79. Emile Heskey (Aston Villa) - Fabio Capello seems to think that he is England‘s best forward after Wayne Rooney. Enjoying somewhat of an Indian summer in the eyes of the press but has always been a favourite of teammates.

80. Scott Parker (West Ham) - An English Xabi Alonso. Only not as good.

81. Antonio Valencia (Man Utd) - Ferguson doesn’t swing and miss very often and it is doubtful that he has here. The Ecuadorean is skilful, quick and agile and will be a great threat on the counter attack next season.

82. Phil Neville (Everton) - It only took about 10 years to find out that his best position is as a defensive midfielder. May have been more fondly remembered if he had left Old Trafford sooner.

83. Jussi Jaaskelainen (Bolton) - How he has been ignored by Europe’s top sides is beyond me. The one-man goalkeeping highlight reel has been Bolton’s best Premiership player and is still in his prime.

84. William Gallas (Arsenal) - Would not be thrilled to see himself clawing onto the tails of this list… he doesn’t seem the type to take criticism well. Not playing his best football and a constant off-field distraction detract from his defensive credentials.

85. Daniel Agger (Liverpool) - ‘The Dagger’ has just signed a new contract and will be confident of regaining his starting place in the team this year. Cultured, aggressive and uncompromising, the Dane has the potential to be a star.

86. John O’Shea (Man Utd) - Mr. Versatile started in the Champions League Final and had his best ever season in 08/09. Seems to play well wherever he plays due to his work rate, strength and team ethic.

87. Jonny Evans (Man Utd) - One of the best young defenders in Europe. Evans learnt quickly from his spell at Sunderland plus his first team exposure last year but is stuck behind Vidic and Ferdinand in the United pecking order.

88. Yossi Benayoun (Liverpool) - The best impact substitute in the league last term. Has no right to get in the positions he does but his direct, effective game yielded 8 goals in just 21 starts.

89. John Carew (Aston Villa) - Scores a goal every 2.5 games for Villa and is clearly one of the most intimidating strikers in the game. Might struggle for playing time in the coming season with Heskey in the squad and a strained relationship with Martin O’Neill.

90. Steven Warnock (Blackburn) - Had a very good year in spite of Blackburn’s problems. Committed, and tough and a rare driving force from left back.

91. Steven Pienaar (Everton) - Didn’t look out of place against the best at the Confederations Cup and bears a hall of fame nickname…‘the mighty peanut.’ Don’t ask.

92. Abdoulaye Faye (Stoke) - A formidable presence and a bone-crunching tackler, Faye is scary good. Well, he’s at least both scary and good.

93. David James (Portsmouth) - Could be on the decline with his 39th birthday approaching in the next few days but still England’s no.1 and has been one of, if not the, most impressive keepers in the division since moving to the south coast.

94. Sylvain Distin (Portsmouth) - Had a down year last time around and won’t be helped by the loss of Glen Johnson or Sol Campbell (on a side note I looked on the Portsmouth website at their first team profiles - only 17 of them. And half of them are nobodies. Doesn’t bode well). He will need to be the rock at the heart of Paul Hart’s backline if Portsmouth are to avoid the drop.

95. Shaun Wright-Phillips (Man City) - Still yet to match the form he showed in his first stint at City but, presuming a replacement is not signed (which is no given) is in line to showcase his best.

96.Craig Bellamy (Man City) - Unpopular. Nomadic. Annoyingly effective.

97. Lucas Leiva (Liverpool) - Dear friend and devoted reader Mr. Purchase thinks this guy should be starting for Brazil. That’s not the only reason he makes this list but may have just edged him in ahead of a few others in contention. Needs to play more often to rise on the list.

98. David Bentley (Tottenham) - A woeful year for Spurs has sent his value and reputation tumbling but he was considered one of the nation’s best prospects this time last year. His tremendous goal against Arsenal highlights his ability but he might need to move from North London to fulfil his potential.

99. Dean Ashton (West Ham) - Has to avoid ankle trouble but, when fit, looks the part of a top 50 player.

100. Gary Cahill (Bolton) - The archetypal English centre-half who, if he can refine his game to match his physical tools, could be a future International.

All-Star Soccer?

2009-07-17T01:32:00.001+01:00

It's an American concept, no doubt. The National Football League, National Hockey League, National Basketball Association, Major League Soccer and Major League Baseball (and others) all have All-Star games in their calendar; a celebration of the best in the game and a commemoration of its history.

While it is true that the various All-Star events are undeniably commercial and are not always competitive in the truest sense of professional sports, there are many reasons why these games are a loved staple of American sporting culture.

Firstly, the players enjoy them; in some cases it ties in with a mid-season break, in others it is a post-season festivity but whenever the game occurs, it gives the players a chance to mingle with their peers, to talk to them, to learn from them. Players bring their wives and children, meet with ex-teammates and woo potential free agents. Many also get autographs from their own heroes - past and present. Professional sports are so often labeled, and sometimes rightly so, as callous, distant and played by mercenaries but the nature of All-Star affairs relaxes the players, not just on the field but also in their interaction with fans and the media.

They enjoy playing, we enjoy watching. The fans gain a brief insight into potential matchups that may never see otherwise. In Baseball you might get to see Mariano Rivera pitch to Albert Pujols. In Basketball you can watch LeBron and Kobe hook it up. In the NFL Probowl you can see....well, not much as it's usually pretty dull (although the NFL are trying to tweak it to add an edge to it). Moreover, the fans can see what these guys would be like playing together; What if Randy Moss and Terrel Owens lined up across from each other? Who would whinge more about the lack of balls thrown their way? I wan't to know!

And it's not just the game itself; the shindig often combines various skills competitions that are at least mildly entertaining to sport-starved fans as well as the chance to hear from players, managers and owners that wouldn't talk openly during the season. All-Star events can create their own legacy; Josh Hamilton and Dwight Howard have both enhanced their stature hugely with their performances in the Home Run Derby and Slam Dunk Competition respectively.

Furthermore, an invitation to the show in itself is a great marker as to the ability, consistency and longevity of an athlete's career. Being voted into the game by your peers and fans may be somewhat of a popularity contest but, with the amount of media available even to the casual viewer, people are more knowledgeable than ever about sportsmen's performances. Nobody needs to know that Derek Jeter has 10 All-Star appearances to know that he's a potential MLB Hall of Famer or that Rod Woodson went to 11 Pro-Bowls as proof that he was one of the best defensive backs of all time and a deserving soon-to-be-inductee into the NFL Hall of Fame. But, what about in 30 years time? What if you never saw these guys play? Their number of appearances is a hint to their talent and performance.

So why is this concept so alien to English sports? Europe has some precedent; Greek football has a version, as does the European Basketball League. In England, there are regular exhibition games; pre-season friendlies, testimonials, the league cup....wait, scratch that last one. So how about an All-Star game in English football?

This biggest problem is logistical. When on earth in the crowded footballing calendar would such a game be feasible? The best players already have limited free time in the summer and the domestic game is littered with fixtures that restricts performance over the season. A winter break? well, yeah, that's the idea - it's no coincidence that most other major European leagues have them - but chances are that the Premier League members will not vote for two of their number to be resigned to the Championship or the FA to resign the League Cup to history to create the space in the fixture list.

But what if it replaced a game already out there, like the Charity Shield? The game means nothing other than to cut the ribbon on the oncoming season. How about a Domestic v Foreigners match with 22-man squads - as voted for by fans, journalists and players from the previous season - and limitless substitutions. Don't know about you but I'd quite fancy seeing Terry, Gerrard and Rooney versus Torres, Essien and Vidic.

The European Super Cup is similarly unimportant. The idea might work better on the international level; the European Champions could face a team made up of the best in Europe from the past season. Throw in a hardest shot, penalties and one on one competition with some wembley doubles and you've got a weekend in Monaco that people would actually care about and want to watch. Just an idea. Could be fun.

City Sights Set High

2009-07-15T15:21:00.003+01:00

Given, Richards, Kompany, Dunne, Bridge, Barry, Ireland, Wright-Phillips, Robinho, Tevez, Santa Cruz. This, as it stands, appears to be Manchester City's strongest line-up for the start of next season's Premier League. The likes of Elano, Zabaleta, Petrov, De Jong, Bellamy and Onouha may have something to say about that, as will most Mark Hughes who seems intent on landing at least a centre back - Kolo Toure, Joleon Lescott and England captain John Terry have been mentioned - and a centre forward - Emmanuel Adebayor could already be close to securing a deal.

Under the assumption that Adebayor concludes his deal and that Hughes manages to persuade on experienced Premiership defender to join the ranks, then City will boast an impressive team sheet. One of their biggest concern last year was the lack of goals from the forward position - their less-than-prolific strikers in the tallied just 16 league goals between them; Caicedo (5), Sturridge (4), Bellamy (3), Benjani (1), Evans (1), Jo (1), Bojinov (1). Despite their profligacy in front of goal, City were still 5th top scorers in the league and their 40 home goals and 39 home points placed third to only their cross-town neighbours and Liverpool.

Unfortunately for the Citizens, they could only score 18 goals away from The City of Manchester Stadium and picked up just 11 points; 8 teams scored less goals but only 3 amassed less points. A large factor in this discrepancy between home and away form was the impact of Robinho, splendid at home (11 goals) but often anonymous on the road (just 3 goals). If City are determined to break into the top four this year, and the calibre of players they are signing points to this, then they must be better on their travels.

While they certainly conceded too many goals away from home - 32, more than every team except Spurs in the top 10 - their inability to hold onto possession may have been their biggest weakness. Hughes signed Nigel De Jong to be a physical presence in the middle of the park and to win the ball back but, while he did impact the team, he could not alleviate the root of the problem. City lacked an experienced, physical striker that could hold up the ball and were exposed for their maverick personality -great one day, shocking the next. On the wish list for the summer? Leadership and such a forward.

Of last years crop of forwards, Sturridge and Jo are already signed up for different teams come the opening day and Benjani, Caicedo and Evans could all well be on their way out of the club or see limited playing time next term. Valeri Bojinov has suffered terribly with injury since signing two years ago, appearing just 11 times, and cannot be relied upon while Craig Bellamy is an impish, pacy striker who needs a partner to profit. Santa Cruz and Adebayor should fill this void while Carlos Tevez is the kind of player that any team would want.

But there are potential issues to these deals; Firstly, Tevez, Santa Cruz and Adebayor combined for only 19 league goals last year. Tevez, since moving to England, has not been a regular scorer, nor has he proved so at international level. What he will do is harry, chase, create and provide an identity to the team both at home and away.

In the cases of Adebayor and Santa Cruz, City are gambling that the two can recapture the form they showed two seasons ago, when they were two of the most dangerous strikers in the country. If they buy in to the work ethic that Hughes summoned at Blackburn Rovers and regain the goal scoring touch then Man City could well be challenging for a coveted top four spot. If they don't, well, they'll probably just buy two new players that can.

But the biggest signing of the summer to date for this team? Gareth Barry. This team lacked maturity, both in terms of age and playing style, last season but in Barry have a former captain, an England regular and an unassuming player that can direct the team from its core. The likes of Robinho, Elano, Ireland, Wright-Phillips and the new additions will benefit from Barry's passing, his vision and his attitude more than perhaps any other.

Teams take times to come together. This team has likely not finished transforming into next year's version. It would still be an upset for any side to break the monopoly on the top four but City are addressing their past problems and, if they can persuade an elite defender to join the fray, will be laying down the gauntlet in the pre-season-potential league. As for the real season? Decision pending until they play Arsenal and United in consecutive fixtures in mid-September.

Manny being (more than) Manny

2009-07-15T00:52:00.002+01:00

Manny Ramirez, recently returned from his 50 game suspension, will not be playing in his 13th All-Star Game in St.Louis tonight. But, consider this; this season he has a .355 Batting Average, .487 On Base Percentage, .669 Slugging Percentage and a 1.156 OPS to go along with 9 Home Runs and 29 RBI's in just 121 At Bats.

An All-Star calibre season with the obvious exemption of his 50 game hiatus due to a violation of MLB's Performance Enhancing Drug Policy. So, off the juice he has struggled to keep up his early season form? Um...No.

Since returning with mildly inappropriate fanfare, Manny has played 9 games - the Dodgers have gone 6-3 during this period - and has 11 hits in 29 At bats, 3 Home Runs, 9 RBI's and has seen his AVG, SLG and OPS rise. It's a small sample size but Ramirez has clearly not suffered from his enforced break from Baseball and, considering the strength and form of the players hitting around him, could produce one of the game's best shortened-season performances.

Joe Mauer, who missed the first month of the season with injury, has been lauded for his form since his return and is bidding for the first .400 season since Ted Williams achieved the feat in 1941. Mauer has just over twice as many At Bats as Ramirez and is hitting 18 points higher in Batting Average but, that and 1 Stolen Base aside, has lesser numbers than Manny considering the games they'be played. Lower OBP, lower SLG, lower OPS and less Home Runs and RBI's per At Bat.

Mauer could still yet be in line for an MVP award by the end of the year (he is also a phenomenal defensive Catcher) and Albert Pujols is a prohibitive favourite for the award in the National League. Manny won't be getting any love in award world come the end of the year, nor should he considering his offense. However, considering his tenure in MLB may only have a couple more years to run, one of the Baseball's best ever hitters and clutch performers could be about to turn an infamous 2009 season into one of his, and the Dodgers, most memorable.

The Toughest Sporting Defeats

2009-07-13T04:55:00.004+01:00

In the wake of Andy Roddick’s desperate defeat at the hands of quite possibly the best tennis player (and almost certainly the least disguised superhero) ever, Roger Federer, I got to thinking of some of the most difficult defeats to take in the recent history of sport. As if it wasn’t bad enough just to lose…

The ‘It‘s like Rain, on your wedding day - You messed up your one chance’ Division
Chesterfield v Middlesbrough FA Cup Semi Final 1997 - Little Chesterfield were 2-1 up against a 10-man Boro team containing the likes of Juninho, Emerson and Ravanelli before having a ‘good’ goal disallowed. The game finished 3-3, the Spirites lost in a replay and the dream was over.

Tim Henman v Goran Ivanisevic Wimbledon Semi-Final 2001 - That was to be his year. No Sampras and a victory over his conqueror, the soon-to-be-king Federer, lead Henman to an encounter with the world no. 125 in the semi final of the tournament he, and a nation, craved . A combination of rain, miracle shots and quite possibly god were to resign him to defeat once more.
Portugal v Greece European Championships Final 2004 - The Portuguese have never won a major title. Greece have. Al Pacino won an Oscar for his role in Scent of a Woman. Strange World.

Arizona Cardinals v Pittsburgh Steelers Superbowl 2009 - Some teams are just never meant to get to the big show. What happens if they do? Much like a stripper , they look good for a couple of hours but don’t get the job done. What? There’s strippers that do? I’ve wasted my life….

Red Sox v Mets World Series 1986 - The Sox were one out away from breaking the curse of the bambino and lifting a coveted title. But the curse hit back with one of the most iconic images in sports history as Mookie Wilson singled through the leg of First Baseman Bill Buckner to send the series to a 7th Game in which, naturally, the Mets emerged triumphant.

Utah Jazz v Chicago Bulls NBA Finals 1998 - Ok so Michael Jordan single handedly beat plenty of teams over the years but this wasn’t just MJ (not the dead one); The officials missed a couple of vital calls, including a push off on Jordan’s winning bucket and Utah still await their first NBA title.

Jean Van de Velde British Open 1999 - Journeyman Jean was moments from becoming Open Champion as he stepped up onto the 18th tee. 3 shots clear of the pack, he managed to hit everything except the fairway and even managed to go paddling. He finished with a 7 and lost in a playoff. Oh Jean, you are the reason people believe they can win and fear they may lose.

Brazil v Uruguay World Cup Final 1950 - 200,00 Brazilians turned out to watch their team win their first World Cup. Yet, needing only a draw to win the tournament, Uruguay stunned the hosts with a 2-1 victory and spoilt the party. Don’t feel too bad; their Brazilian, they probably had a top party anyway.

USA v Brazil Confederations Cup 2009 - They aren’t winning the World Cup any time soon and they send a ‘b’ team to the Gold Cup so that clearly doesn‘t matter all that much. Now I can see why they were so upset.

Phil Mickelson/Colin Montgomerie US Open 2006 - Mickelson has five second placed finishes in the US Open. Montgomerie may never come closer to winning that elusive major that his career deserves. Both Montgomerie and Mickleson entered the 18th a stroke ahead of eventual winner Geoff Ogilvy but managed to double bogey their way to joint second. And you thought golf was relaxing…

The ‘It's meeting the man of my dreams, and then meeting his beautiful wife - Kick in the teeth’ Division

Australia v England Rugby World Cup Final 2003 - Losing in extra time to your greatest rivals in the tournament your hosting? It can even happen to the Aussies.

France v West Germany World Cup Semi Final 1982 - So feelings can get hurt, but losing a few teeth, damaging vertebrae and falling into a coma hurts a little more. Harald Schumacher essentially assaulted Patrick Battiston after 70 minutes when the Frenchman was through on goal and was not even called for a foul. France lead 3-1 in extra time but the pesky Germans came back to force a penalty shoot out and…wait for it…the Germans nicked it thanks to Schumacher’s key save.

USA v USSR Olympic Ice Hockey Medal Round 1980 - The Soviets had won every gold medal in men’s hockey since 1964 and thrashed the Americans 10-3 in a warm up game. Didn’t matter, they’re on the list because they lost to their Cold War rivals in the termed ‘Miracle on Ice.’
Cincinnati Bengals v Pittsburgh Steelers AFC Wild Card Game 2005 - This game not only saw the end of the Bengals improbable run to the playoffs, their first in 15 years, but the loss of their franchise QB Carson Palmer. He hasn’t been the same since and the Bengals have yet to return to the playoffs.

Yankees v Red Sox ALCS 2003 - A classic game in the history of one of sport’s great rivalries came down to extra innings in game 7, with the winner earning a place in the World Series. The Yankees won on the back of an Aaron Boone walk-off home run in the 11th and Red Sox nation mourned one final time.

Yankees v Red Sox ALCS 2004 - Redemption. The Yankees appeared set to continue their dominance over their fiercest foe after taking a 3-0 lead in the series but the Sox would fight back and this time it would be Yankee fans and players that would be left in shock. The Sox would sweep the Cardinals in the World Series and fans were provided with a classic ‘Manny being Manny’ quote; ‘I don't believe in curses, I believe you make your own destination.’

The ‘It's like ten thousand spoons, when all you need is a knife - Frankly ridiculous’ Division

Fabrice Santoro v Arnaud Clement French Open 2004 - The longest tennis match in the open era took one Frenchman over six and a half hours to win and the other Frenchman over six and a half hours to lose.

Buffalo Bills v Houston Oilers AFC Wild Card Game 1993 - 32 point deficit? backup QB? It’s only the biggest comeback in NFL history

Milan v Liverpool Champions League Final 2005 - How many lists will this game be on? But seriously, to go in at half time with a 3-0 lead and the aura of Italian defending at your back and then to find yourself watching another team lift the trophy? Tough. Really, really tough.

Man Utd v Bayern Munich Champions League Final 1999 - And you thought Liverpool fans hated United.

Green Bay Packers v Philadelphia Eagles NFC Divisional Playoffs 2004 - 4th and 26. If there’s an entrance on Wikipedia of a sporting incident it probably didn’t end well for one of the teams.

Buffalo Bills v New York Giants Superbowl 1991 - Wide right. See above.

Greg Norman US Masters 1996 - Being 6 strokes ahead overnight going into the final round of the Masters must be a dream for any golfer. Finishing 2nd and losing the biggest lead ever in the majors must be a nightmare.

The An old man, turned 98, he won the lottery, and died the next day - So close and yet so far’ Division

Roger Federer v Rafael Nadal Wimbledon Final 2008 - We would all like to play in the greatest match of all time. Just don’t lose it…

Roger Federer v Andy Roddick Wimbledon Final 2009 - It was like a week go. Watch more sport people.

Charlton v Sunderland 1st Division Playoff Final 1998 - Just a crazy game of football at about the time people began to realise the financial importance of promotion to the Premier League. 4-4 and penalties. How were the strike force of Kevin Phillips and Niall Quinn outgunned by Clive Mendonca and Steve Jones.

Man Utd v Chelsea Champions League Final 2008 - Just for JT. (odds on him being asked to take a penalty next summer?)

Liverpool v Arsenal Premier League 1989 - Sky would kill to have this game now. Last game of the season and the top two teams meet with Arsenal needing to win by two goals at Anfield to steal the title (appropriate term for a game in Liverpool). Brian Moore said it best: ‘Arsenal come streaming forward now in surely what will be their last attack. A good ball by Dixon, finding Smith, for Thomas, charging through the midfield. Thomas, it's up for grabs now!’ Liverpool 0 - 2 Arsenal. Smith 52’, Thomas 92’

New England Patriots v New York Giants Superbowl 2008 - No perfect season. No place in the conversation of best teams ever. No Superbowl. Oh and throw in that Boston v New York rivalry thing.

Germany v Italy World Cup Semi Final 2006 - About the only time an Englishman could feel sorry for a German sporting team.

Italy v Australia World Cup Second Round 2002 - About the only time an Englishman could feel sorry for an Australian sporting team.

Holland v Italy European Championships Semi Final 2000 - The tournament hosting Dutch played most of the game against ten men and were awarded two penalties in normal time but the Italians refused to lose. Hands up if you watched the game and thought Italy would win the penalty shoot out? Yup, sport is that predictable sometimes.

Oakland Raiders v New England Patriots AFC Divisonal Playoffs 2002 - Talk to any Raiders fan and this may suggest that this is the most desperate of all. On the verge of winning the game after soon-to-be Hall of Famer Rod Woodson sacked Tom Brady (before he was Tom Brady) and Oakland recovered. The play was reviewed, the call was reversed (due to a little known rule called the Tuck Rule) and Raider nation had one more reason to think that the NFL hated them.

Minnesota Vikings v Atlanta Falcons NFC Championship Game 1998 - There are not many ‘sure things’ in sport but, during the 1998 season, Gary Anderson was just that. The kicker was and is the only place kicker to ever successfully kick every Field Goal and PAT in an NFL regular season. In the dying minutes of their NFC Championship game against the Falcons, Anderson was wheeled out to tie up the game and send the Vikings to their first Superbowl in 22 years. He missed, The Falcons won the game in OT and the Vikes have still yet to get to the big game.

The ‘A traffic jam when you’re already late - Just a massive F$%* off to England football fans’ Division

England v USA World Cup Group Stage 1950 - Lost 1-0. People thought they read a misprint in the papers.

England v West Germany World Cup Quarter Final 1970. Lead 2-0, lost 3-2 after extra time.

England v Poland World Cup Qualifying 1973 - Failed to qualify for the World Cup for the first time due to an inspired goalkeeper. Poland ended up coming third. Well done them.

England v Argentina World Cup Quarter Final 1986 - Lost 2-1. He already had a divine left foot but apparently had to add a hand of God to his collection. Had to be against England didn’t it…

England v Germany World Cup Semi Final 1990 - Once.

England v Germany European Championships 1996 - Twice

England v Germany World Cup Qualifying 2000 - Three times a lady. And the last game at the old Wembley. (and the last game of Kevin Keegan’s tenure so I guess we’re even)

Germany v England World Cup Qualifying 2001 - Don’t really remember this one myself. Vague memories of Emile Heskey Djing, Michael Owen scoring some goals and Stevie G sliding to the corner flag. *cough* 5-1. Didn’t hear me? 5-1. Once more for luck. 5-1.

Soundtrack kindly provided by Alanis Morissette

Men v Women

2009-07-12T21:36:00.001+01:00

Part 1: Sex

A couple are playing truth or dare over the phone. God knows how or why.

Jill: Ok Ok, your turn. Truth or Dare?
Jack: Truth, obviously
Jill: Hmmmm…ok…how many people have you slept with?
Jack: Wow…wow, you really want to know that?
Jill: Yes
Jack: Ok…well let me preface this by saying that I was young and stupid and drunk for a fair few years
(silence)
Jack: And that in the last couple of years the answer is like, tiny
(silence)
Jack: And, just to reiterate, I was drunk for like…
Jill: You don’t have to tell me
Jack: No it’s ok….ok….I don’t exactly know the number, I don’t really keep track, but I’m thinking like…70...?
Jill: 70?
Jack: Yeah but I’m not really sure of the numbers and most were ages ago
(silence)
Jack: And your magic number…baby?
Jill: Just 3
Jack: 3 huh….cool…
(silence)
Jack: It’s not like I’m proud of it, just kinda happened
(silence)
Jack: And it’s not as though I even remember all 80 of them
Jill: So it’s 80 now?
Jack: Well it may be closer to 80...or 70, just not sure
Jill: They meant that much to you huh?
(silence)
Jill: Listen baby I’m glad you told me, I’m glad you feel like you can tell me
Jack: Me too baby
Jill: Awwww
(silence)
Jack: So…who were the other two guys?
Jill: Just…guys…
(silence)

The (Under) Standings

2009-07-05T04:33:00.003+01:00

A league table of things you should know about yourself.

12. Where do you want to live? - About the only ‘where’ you really need to think about. I suggest Barcelona.

11. What are you like when you’re drunk? - Harder to find out than you think but well worth evaluating. Perhaps the more pertinent question is whether you can accept what the drunk version of you does.

10. What do you truly detest? - Hopefully not too much to think about but even the best days can be ravaged by a single moment of repudiation.

9. What is likely to kill you? - Morbid yes. Valuable…yes.

8. When do you want responsibility? - Less of a date and more of a mindset. In reality responsibility will find you whether you are ready or not (probably not) but planning it can soften the blow of maturity’s anvil.

7. What do you like in bed? - Don’t be shy. You never know until you ask.

6. How far is your limit? - What will you do to get what you want and what will you accept to maintain your principles? Ask yourself the questions but be prepared not to like the answers.

5. What are you passionate about? - Figure out what you like. Not what you think you should like but what really makes you tick. Find a way to incorporate it into your life. Easy.

4. What do you like about yourself? Confidence is an attractive trait. Fuel it.

3. If you died today, what would you miss most? - You don’t want to be the richest dead guy in the world so it aint money. Family? Friends? Fun? I’m just asking the questions…

2. Who are your friends? - Not a lot more important than this. Find the ones that matter and keep them around. Yes, even when they aren't your bestest buddies.

1. What’s your destiny?/Why are you here? - These questions tend to lead to a tributary of other questions themselves. What a bonus.

Michael to Manchester

2009-07-03T02:51:00.002+01:00

Newspaper reports suggest Michael Owen, formerly of Liverpool, Real Madrid, Newcastle United and England, is on the verge of joining English champions Manchester United. Yes, you read that correctly; the injury prone, past it, not good enough to beat out Carlton Cole in the England squad, couldn’t score a single goal in Newcastle’s run in to save keep them up, no goals since January…Michael Owen.

But here’s why Owen could actually help United:

Before his injuring his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) at the 2006 World Cup, Owen scored 165 goals in 308 games for English clubs, as well as 16 in 43 largely from the bench for Real Madrid. He was European footballer of the year in 2001, the top scorer in the league in 1998 and 1999 and one of the most feared forwards in the world.

Long time ago. Long, long time ago.

Is he as quick as the precocious youngster that burst on the scene in 1997 with a well taken goal at Wimbledon (remember that - I do) and went on to star in the 1998 World cup when he scored that goal in that game which also featured that David Beckham moment? No. Does he appear to have the same nose for goal that saw him score a hat-trick against the Germans in Munich and scored 40 goals in 89 games for England? No. Does the brochure that ‘sells’ his accomplishments to prospective clubs by his management group WMG reek of confidence? Not entirely. But he might not finished quite yet.

Sam Allardyce commented that he didn’t want Michael Owen, his former charge at Newcastle, because he felt he needed ‘a striker that's going to be available for 30 games next season.’ Its hard to doubt the Blackburn managers eye for talent but in the case of Owen, his only experience of the player first hand was during an injury prone (one of many recently) spell at the start of the 2007/8 season when the whole team were struggling (again, a recent theme).

Should United or indeed anybody sign him, it will only be after a thorough medical. Most players take upwards of two years to recover from the kind of ACL injury he suffered against Sweden in 2006 and there have been further complications along the way that have clearly damaged his fitness and his confidence. The sooner the former Kop hero can sign with a new club, the better his chances of completing a full pre-season and strengthening his body to play regularly.

The benefit of signing for Manchester United rather than the likes of Stoke or Hull, who have also expressed an interest, is not simply fiscal for a man used to hauling in over £100,000 a week. More importantly, Owen would have the advantage of one of the best medical teams in the game, a manager with a history of taking chances on maverick or oft-injured players that others wouldn’t (stand up Mr. Cantona and Mr. Larsson), and the chance to be part of a rotation of forwards that wont rely on him being the saviour.

For United, he could appear 30-40 times during the season - Owen has played 31 games in each if the last two seasons and more games in the league last year than Carlos Tevez, Fernando Torres, Robin Van Persie, Emmanuel Adebayor and Didier Drogba. With the transfer of Cristiano Ronaldo, the defection of Tevez and the likely sale of Fraizer Campbell, Man Utd are in need of depth at the striking position with only young players like Macheda and Welbeck to back up Rooney and Berbatov. Michael Owen could build up his conditioning and confidence in a team that create a hatfull of chances and would only need to be part of the attack, not the focal point. He also provides a variation to anybody else currently on staff and has linked well with Wayne Rooney in the past.

It should also be remembered that Owen, playing for a desperate team and never fully fit - one would hope he can be again - scored more goals a game (8/28) and had a higher shots on target percentage (48.5%) in the league than Tevez (and Drogba and Heskey and Santa Cruz and Dirk Kuyt and Peter Crouch).

He can’t be the star he once he was, but for the Red Devils, he wouldn’t need to be. Will he replace a departing member of the squad? Not really but nor will recent signee Antonio Valencia. But can he effective? Can Owen still score goals in the Premiership? Yes.

What is clear is that Manchester would be a fantastic place to land for Michael and if there is one place that would give him the best chance of success, then he might be on the verge of finding it.

What I'd like to see (part 1)

2009-06-28T23:59:00.003+01:00

What I’d like to see in the world of sport over the next 12 months:

England U21’s to beat Germany U21’s - If the Confederation Cup is a ‘major international tournament’ then so is this. England have won this tournament on two previous occasions but not for 25 years and the senior side has not been in a final during that period either. Just making the final is a good omen (the successful Greek, Czech, Spanish, Portuguese and Italian teams of the last decade can all be traced back to teams that were finalists in this tournament) but to beat the old enemy would make lifting the trophy that little bit sweeter. I just hope people watch the final.

Chance of happening - 6/10

Kobe Bryant to change his jersey number to 22 - We get it. Jordan wore 23, you wear 24. Ok, you’ve won 4 titles and an MVP but you should feel lucky that I’m offering you 22.

Chance of happening - Kobe has stopped returning my calls

A drug-free Tour de France - I grew up looking forward to the first few weeks of July for the Tour. In fact any kid who can watch seven odd hours of cycling for three weeks on TV in the middle of summer is almost certainly going to grow up as an avid sports viewer. Over the last few years, the race has become somewhat of a farce; numerous cyclists getting banned, teams withdrawing in shame, allegations that have overshadowed the race basically every year. And yet, from the darkness comes light in the shape of arguably the greatest cyclist ever, Mr. Lance Armstrong. I just hope, whether he embodies the light in the form of the yellow jersey or not, his and his fellow cyclists exploits on the road take all the headlines.

Chance of happening - 2/10

Jenson Button to win the F1 Championship - He’s endured slow cars and been overshadowed by team mates only to finally find the right situation in this years tumultuous and uneven championship.

Chance of happening - 8/10

Roger Federer to win his 15th Slam - This could take a week, a couple of months, or maybe the best part of the year but it seems like an inevitable accomplishment for the 4-time Swiss sports personality of the year (and I thought I’d never get a chance to use that stat).

Chance of happening - 15/10

Mayweather v Pacquiao v Cotto - Not sure how this will all play out but at least one, if not both Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Miguel Cotto will get their shot at the best pound-for-pound fighter in the game. Pacquiao has been so impressive over the past few years and equally as entertaining. The Cotto fight may be the more likely and the better spectacle but there can be few fight fans who wouldn’t want to see who would come out on top between ‘Pacman’ and the undefeated and former pound-for-pound king ‘Money’ Mayweather.

Chance of Pacquiao v Cotto happening - 8/10
Chance of Pacquiao v Mayweather happening - 5/10

Me watching England in the World Cup - I made a drunken promise to another drunken man. Essentially unbreakable.

Chance of happening - Ask me in a year.

Kevin Pietersen not to lead England to victory in the Ashes - It’s not that I don’t want to see England win, in fact I think they have a decent chance against a waning Australian side and would enjoy seeing them return the Ashes to these shores, but it can’t be all about KP. England are overly reliant on the batsman and while it may be hard to see them winning without Pietersen being the catalyst, it would be fantastic to see someone else step up.

Chance of happening - 5/10

Freddie Flintoff not to lead England to victory in the Ashes - So 4 years ago.

Chance of happening - 1/10

My Fantasy Baseball team to turn the corner - Don’t ask.

Chance of happening - I said don’t ask

Lyoto Machida v Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson - Marquee UFC fights are often advertised but this would be as intriguing a match up as any between the unbeaten Machida and the dynamic Jackson. ‘Rampage’ is scheduled to fight Rashad Evans next, the man Machida dismantled for the Light Heavyweight title, but, assuming he comes through that unscathed, would likely challenge the Brazilian at the end of the year or the start of next. Machida has a bout with Mauricio ‘Shogun’ Rua at UFC 104 to immediately contemplate but must know that Rampage, who has only lost to Forest Griffin while beating the likes of Dan Henderson, Wanderlei Silva and Chuck Liddell in the last four years, is the main challenge to his mantle.

Chance of happening - 6/10

The next great Italian defender/midfielder/forward to introduce himself - Needed. One sign of hope. Just one.

Chance of happening - 4/10

An exciting heavyweight boxer - Yes Wladimir Klitschko is a very effective pugelist. Yes I did watch him outclass the previously unbeaten Ruslan Chagaev. Yes I know he hasn’t lost in five-ish years. Unfortunately, the only interesting fight out there for him would be against his brother and that won’t happen and the two Ukranians are the only two vaguely elite heavyweights that have been on the scene since Lennox Lewis.

Chance of happening - 2/10

A rookie wage scale in the NFL - Maybe we should keep the current system in which players who have never played a minute of the professional game become the highest paid players. Who knows, it may spread to blogging.

Chance of happening - 3/10

The FA to retire the League Cup - The football calendar is overly congested as it is and few would miss the tournament. It is demeaned by the near ambivalence it is shown until the quarter-final stage and offers a European reward that would be a better prize for the 7th placed team in the Premiership. The football calendar is overly congested as it is.

Chance of happening - 1/10

UEFA to return the Europa League to a knockout tournament - Talking of cups that people don’t care about until nearing the finish line…

Chance of happening - see above

A female sport’s star that makes me want to watch them play - The odd athlete, the occasional swimmer and a few tennis players have been close but really, when would you turn over the TV from a men’s sporting event to watch the women’s equivalent?

Chance of happening - 36DD/10...kidding…kidding!

Beta Blagging: Bar Essentials

2009-06-24T14:31:00.007+01:00

I don't maintain a home bar, more of a selection of flasks hidden in cupboards so that I don't find them all should I bring people back at 3 in the morning when all sensibility is gone.

Unlike food, where freshness is key, liquor maintains for an extended period - not 'forever' as some people imagine but long enough for the right occasion to occur. As such it's easy to build up a bit of a collection when you have the funds and enjoy it when you don't.

Anybody who reacts to the following list by questioning the 'essential' nature of the items needs to grow up. Fast.

Spirits/Liqueurs

Young Cuban Rum (e.g. Havana Club, Matusalem) - Dry, fresh, citrusy and the perfect answer to a hot, sunny day. The bottle really should say 'just add lime.'

If it were a sportstar: Cuban all star high jumper Javier Sotomayor - lively, zesty and, in his field, unmatched.

Peaty Islay Malt (e.g. Lagavulin, Ardbeg) - Full of character and conversation.

If it were a sportstar: Scottish former Liverpool manager Bill Shankly - Fiery and assertive but after the initial venom, makes perfect sense.

Aperol - Maybe it's just me, but I adore this stuff. Made with bitter orange and rhubarb and, at just about 11% ABV, essentially harmless.

If it were a sportstar: Former Italian footballer and current West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola - lightweight and a little camp but pound-for-pound genius.

Dry Gin (e.g. Tanqueray, Millers) - Not just for your gran.

If it were a sportstar: Gold medal ice skater Jayne Torvill - Classically English, reserved, elegant and always better on ice with a partner.

Something Special - It's no fun if there's not one item that makes you salivate at the thought of its rare nectar. Perhaps a 20 year old Brora or Chateau Audry XO or some Grappa (notes taken from last year's letter to Santa).

If it were a sportstar: Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo - Seems like a luxury at first and you always pay through the nose but worth every penny.

Wines

Brut Champagne (e.g. Henriot, Billecart-Salmon, Ruinart) - Even cheap champagne is reasonably expensive and the market is full of pretty average mass produced options. If you get it right, you'll forget the need for a celebration.

If it were a sportstar: Former world's most expensive footballer Zinedine Zidane - Undeniably French despite roots elsewhere, travels well and definitely the man for the big occasion.

Alsatian Riesling (e.g. Weinbach, Zind-Humbrecht) - Pure, steely focused white wines that match so many dishes and are also delicious on their lonesome.

If it were a sportstar: Five-time Tour de France and Giro d'Italia winner Eddy Merckx - Racy, intense, classy and versatile.

Chianti (eg. Montegiachi, Cellole) - Perfect food wines made from Sangiovese and now, particularly from the 01' and 04' vintages, fantastic value.

If it were a sportstar: Inter Milan- Did not offer a lot in the eighties and nineties but now, with new direction, better than ever.

Australian Cabernet Sauvignon (e.g. Mitolo, Heartland) - Ripe, voluptuous stand-alone wines to savour.

If it were a sportstar: Aussie swimmer and triple gold medalist Stephanie Rice - Dark, muscular, sexy and at the height of her powers.

Red Burgundy (e.g. Antonin Rodet, Rollin) - Delicate and brilliant wines that can stretch the purse strings but everybody, everybody should get the chance to try some of the best wines from the region.

If it were a sportstar: Refined waistcoat wearing Tennis ace Roger Federer - Best. Ever.

Fortified

Dry Sherry (e.g. Lustau) - Daphne: What about someone from your wine club?
Frasier: Oh well truth be told Daphne, those people are insufferable bores unless they have a glass in their hands. Sherry, Niles?
Niles: Please.

If it were a sportstar: Former Spanish footballer Luis Suarez - Almost forgotten now but used to be all the rage and even in modern viewing, genius.

Single Quinta Port (e.g. Vesuvio, Roriz) - Bold, rich and modern wines that are an inexpensive alternative to proper vintage port.

If it were a sportstar: Inter Mialn boss Jose Mourinho - Not been around long but here to stay and always good value.

Recioto/TBA/Sauternes/PX....or some such sticky dessert wine - As a fan of seemingly everlasting dinners, an excuse for another course or drink is too good to pass up.

If it were a sportstar: Golfer Miguel Jimenez - Good fun and always better with a cigar.

Beta Blagging: Kitchen Essentials

2009-06-23T23:17:00.004+01:00

I found myself cooking earlier and became mildly enraged at the lack of ingredients that I presumed would be in my kitchen. I blame the anger on the heat emitting from the stove but either way, once I’d cooked and eaten my dinner I decided to write a shopping list for tomorrow to replenish the larder.

Here’s the list, supplemented by the items that I find equally essential:

Bottles

Olive Oil - Can’t remember the last time I cooked and didn’t use some. Probably never.
Balsamic Vinegar - For salads and strawberries. Trust me on the latter.
Sherry Vinegar - Amazing stuff. Makes the mediocre instantly interesting.
Red Wine Vinegar - Only started using it a couple of years ago. I resign the previous years to amateurism.
Vermouth - Far more useful than white wine in my opinion.
Soy Sauce - The Asian sensation. Soy + Tuna = Always good.
Tabasco - Spicy wonderfulness. It’s about flavour people.

Herbs/Spices

Sea Salt - What will kill me. Totally worth it.
Pepper - It won’t kill me. But I’d let it.
Paprika - Spanish for ‘yes please.’ Also a part of my not so secret olive marinade recipe.
Fresh Basil/Parsley/Rosemary/Thyme/Oregano - More important than most people think. Dried substitutes tend to lack flavour and any fresh herb can enliven fresh fish and seafood more than any other ingredient.

Fruit/Vegetables

Limes - Ok, so I’m more common to seeing them accompanying Rum, Gin, Tequila…but they offer a more subtle and often more appropriate citrus alternative to lemon.
Lemons - Can you imagine a world without it?
Tomatoes - For everything.
Red Pepper - For everything part II.
Melon - More of a luxury, but, when in season, irresistible
Broccoli - Underrated.
Garlic - I am Italian…
Celery - Not just for the health conscious. Peppery, crunchy and energising. Really.
Red Onion - A Mediterranean staple.
Avocado - Full of good fats, potassium and fibre. More importantly, full of options.
Aubergine - Cook the hell out of it. Then cook it some more.
Cucumber - Preferably Mediterranean or Persian as they pack that much more punch.
Potatoes - A thousand ways to cook them and they all taste good.

Preserved

Tinned Anchovies - Far more than a pizza topping.
Dried Chilli - Spice is not always to be over subscribed to but most chillies aren’t all that hot.
Canned Tomatoes - For sauces.
Capers - More…more…a little more…more…
Chicken Stock - I’ve made my own stock a few times but hey, I’m a very part-time blogger now so who’s got the time?
Dijon Mustard - It stings the nostrils…

Meat/Fish

Bacon - Just the fat alone is a necessity. Pretty good for bacon sarnies too.
Parma Ham/Iberico Ham - Don’t wrap stuff in it. Just eat it.
Tuna Steaks - Any fresh fish is great but in the absence of a local monger or market, tuna keeps well and is very versatile.
Ribeye Steak - Having been a vegetarian for my formative years, I find myself still getting excited by steak pretty much daily. Ribeyes offer an excellent balance between flavour, fat and price.

Dairy

Feta - Simon, Jason…this is for you. And so much more.
Creme Fraiche/Greek Yoghurt - Making your own tzatziki or salad dressing begins here. Also a fantastic replacement for milk in scrambled eggs (more to come on that).
Mozzarella - I could add parenthesis to the end of each statement stating…(quality of ingredient is key)…applies here as much as anywhere.
Butter - Fat is good. Not too much but don’t be afraid of it.
Milk - Add cereal and eat morning, noon and night.

Grains

Arborio Rice - For Risotto’s, king of dishes.
Pasta - Came home one day when there wasn’t any. It was hard to even type that.
Fresh Bread - Sandwiches aren’t snacks, they’re a way of life.
Ramen Noodles - Quick, easy and delicious.

Other

Hummus/Pesto - Neither are difficult to make but both sit in tubs in my fridge.
Eggs - Scrambled would be my preference if you’re thinking of making breakfast.
Brown Sugar - I prefer savoury to sweet but many sauces need sugar for balance.
Pine Nuts - Always berated my mother for putting them in everything but it seems to have rubbed off. She’ll be glad something did.

The Top Twenty of Twenty20

2009-06-22T16:19:00.002+01:00

The top 20 players from the twenty20 world cup

20. Abdul Razzaq, Pakistan - Not even in the original squad, Razzaq was one of the catalysts for Pakistan’s run of form to the title and took 3 key wickets to restrict the Sri Lankans in the final.

19. Niall O’Brien, Ireland - An aggressive presence who always seems to perform when his country upset the major powers. 6 dismissals and 81 runs including an excellent 40 in beating Bangladesh.

18. Kevin Petersen, England - The only English batsman that appeared to truly grasp the nature of twenty20 at this level. His side’s top scorer in their two victories and not present in their humbling defeat to the Dutch.

17. Dale Steyn, South Africa - Took wickets in every game (9 in total) and, along with Wayne Parnell, formed a formidable and slightly moody opening pairing for the Proteas.

16.Yuvraj Singh, India - Hit the most sixes (9) and furthered his reputation as one of crickets most fearsome hitters but couldn’t quite match his feats from the last World Cup and fire the 2007 champions to another final. Stuart Broad can probably sleep easy now.

15. Muttiah Muralitharan, Sri Lanka - He may not be quite as terrifying as the Murali of old but even at the age of 37 managed to take 9 wickets at an economy rate of 5.85. Something about form being temporary but class...

14. Kumar Sangakkara, Sri Lanka - Unfortunate to be on the losing side after such a strong, mature innings in the final (64 off 52 when his team were floundering) but captained his side well throughout and had 9 dismissals.

13. Roelof Van der Merwe, South Africa - 10 wickets at under a run a ball combined with some great catches for the burly spinner.

12.Wayne Parnell, South Africa - Given a large level of responsibility at the tender age of 19 and returned the faith shown with 9 wickets at a rate of under 6 an over. Surely a star of the future.

11. Younis Khan, Pakistan - Retired immediately after the tournament citing being ‘too old for this kind of cricket.’ Held together numerous innings throughout and, with a few exceptions, did a stellar job of captaining a team that appears unmanageable at times.

10. Lasith Malinga, Sri Lanka - ‘The Slingers’ lethal combination of yorker, bouncer and particularly his slower ball made fools of opposing hitters and brought him 12 wickets.

9. AB de Villiers, South Africa - A wonderfully gifted player who exemplifies the modern game. Dynamic with the bat (strike rate of 155 lead all players who scored more than 60 runs) and in the field (5 catches), he puts virtually every opposition bowler and batsmen under duress.

8. Chris Gayle, West Indies - 151 runs came in just two innings, the West Indies first and last of the tournament, but there is arguably no more likely a match winner in world cricket. Oh yeah, and he can hit the ball really, really hard.

7. Saeed Ajmal, Pakistan - The off-spinner is a late arrival to the international scene but looked anything but out of place as he accrued 12 wickets with an economy rate of 5.82. Along with Afridi, held the key to the middle-over pressure created by Pakistan.

6. Dwayne Bravo, West Indies - The energy of the team. 154 runs, 66 not out off just 36 balls in their victory over India, and 10 wickets. Another who seems at home in the twenty20 format.

5. Jacques Kallis, South Africa - 2nd highest run scorer (238 runs at an average of 59.5) and kept his team in their semi-final against Pakistan. Chipped in with 3 wickets and appears to be getting back to his best after a poor 2008.

4. Ajantha Mendis, Sri Lanka - A real find over the past year. His deliveries were seemingly impossible to read, backed up by an economy rate of 5.5 and 12 wickets at an average of 11.91.

3.Umar Gul - Bowler of the tournament. Took the most wickets (13) for the second straight World Cup, including a record 5 for 6 against New Zealand, and was incredibly consistent in the high-pressure late innings.

2. Dilshan Tillakaratne, Sri Lanka - Lead the competition with 317 runs including a tournament best 96 not out in their semi-final victory over the West Indies. All this and still able to ‘invent’ a new shot - The Dilshan (although its just an incarnation of ‘the ramp’ if you ask me). Should be remembered for everything but his duck in the final.

1. Shahid Afridi, Pakistan - Batsman, bowler, talisman, fairytale hero. This version of the game seems tailor made for ’Boom Boom’ and, with 11 wickets at a miserly 5.32 economy rate, 176 runs and match-winning performances in both the semi-final and final, unquestionably the man of the tournament.

Breaking News: Cavs to sign Adam Morrison

2009-06-18T02:44:00.005+01:00

The Cleveland Cavaliers have traded for Adam Morrison and proclaimed him the 'missing link' to their championship dreams.

GM Dan Ferry crowed 'What more could we ask for? He's a former no. 3 pick, he was drafted by Michael Jordan and he just won the NBA title. The guy is clearly a winner and we see him as a cornerstone of our franchise.'

Cleveland gave up Sasha Pavlovic, Anderson Varejao, Zydrunas Illgauskus, Wally Szczerbiak and J.J Hickson for Morrison. On the seemingly steep price, Ferry said 'Hey, we got Lebron. If we only start four guys a game then we've got two of the best; Lebron and Adam Morrison...Adam Morrison people!'

Lebron James refused to comment.

Breaking News: Usain Bolt 'doesn't have time for 100 metres'

2009-06-18T01:49:00.004+01:00

In a remarkable report out of Kingston, Jamaica, Usain Bolt has divulged that he is too busy with sponsors to run the 100m anymore.

Usain, the world record holder in both the 100m and 200m, has said 'You know what, I wish I had the time for these races. If they want to add an extra minute in the day then, hey, maybe I can move some things around but if not, my hands are tied.'

Bolt has become such a star after his feats at the Olympics and since that his sponsors - Puma - have declared all 24 hours of his days as 'promotional time,' which leaves none remaining for any actual running.

Bolt seemed relaxed while signing autographs of his former glories. 'When I was young, I never thought about anything but sports. Now I get to think about them all the time.'

Breaking News: Kobe requests personal parade

2009-06-18T01:30:00.003+01:00

The Los Angeles Lakers celebrated their 15th NBA Championship but even this is was not enough to satisfy Kobe Bryant.

Bryant was said to be 'kinda pissed' to find out that many of his teammates will also be receiving a ring and will be attending the victory parade in LA.

Kobe screamed from his trophy shaped tower 'this is god damned ridiculous. I won that title! Me! And Derek Fisher, Andrew Bynum...these guys don't deserve to even give me my ring!'

He proceeded 'I've never even seen D.J Mbenga.'

Bryant has requested his own personal parade in LA, the day before the official team parade. 'And everybody better be there and they better be smiling' Kobe asserted while not raping anybody.

Breaking News: Zidane to sue Egyptian forward

2009-06-18T01:10:00.003+01:00

Former FIFA World Player of the Year and World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane is to sue Egyptian footballer Mohammed Zidan over copyright infringement.

Zidane, talking from his Madrid hideout claimed 'I don't know who this guy thinks he is but he is just taking the biscuit. I could just about handle the fact that his parents have a similar surname to mine but then to score two goals against Brazil? That's my thing! I'm outraged!'

Mohammed Zidan said through his interpreter 'he's doing what now?'