On Thursday the eyes of the darting world will once again be focused on the Alexandra Palace in London, as the 2011 Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship gets underway. It's the one tournament of the year which defines careers, and for me at least, it is the sporting event which defines the Christmas period, especially since the BBC took the World's Strongest Man off our screens.
Of course, there is one darting heavyweight that goes into every tournament the huge favourite to win, and that is Phil Taylor. The Stoke legend is 4/7 with the sponsors to win a 16th world title. The Power begins his campaign on the opening night against the winner of the first Preliminary Round tie, either the little known Filipino Juanito Gionzon or more likely the popular American Gary Mawson, a former UK Open finalist. His possible second round opponent is John Part, the one player in the last ten years or so not afraid of the Power, and with the knowledge of how to beat him. I for one am hoping to see a match that if it comes close to their legendary final of 2003, where the Canadian won his second world title, will be one to savour.
Although Taylor comes to the Ally Pally the huge favourite, he doesn't have the form of a player firing on all cylinders. His failure to win the Grand Prix, Grand Slam and the World Cup with England has planted a seed of doubt in some minds, but we have seen before that a written-off Taylor is as dangerous, if not more so, than a Taylor in his prime and he will be more keen than ever to show the world who rules this sport.
His biggest challenger of late has been James Wade. Until England's shock World Cup defeat to Spain earlier this month, Wade's first round draw against Antonio Alcinas went largely unnoticed, and was perhaps considered to be a glorified bye into the last 32. But the Spaniard certainly won admirers in Sunderland, and at the European Championship, where he was narrowly beaten by Mark Walsh, and Wade will have to play well to win, make no mistake. A tricky second round tie would await the Machine against either Michael van Gerwen or the dangerous Austrian Mensur Suljovic, a player more than capable of producing two upsets to reach the last 16 himself. Top players often talk about wanting a tough test early in the tournament, and Wade's certainly got that, but if he gets into the third round, expect him to get a lot further from a relatively comfortable quarter of the draw.
It is fair to say that Raymond van Barneveld has had a difficult few years, on and off the oche, but one thing that darts fans across the world want to see above all others, is to see the Barney of 2006-07 when he won the UK Open and of course the World Championship in what is considered the greatest match of all time against Phil Taylor. Since then we have seen a van Barneveld who has had as many battles with himself as with his opponents. Since he won his 5th World Championship at Purfleet, his record has been disappointing, with a noticable shortage of major individual televised titles. He is however, returning to the scene of two of his greatest moments, the two magical nine-dart legs in each of the last two years so we know he can turn it on here. After last year's disappointment, after which he claimed 2010 was 'already lost', he will be desperate to make amends. He should comfortably make the quarter-finals, where he is likely to meet Mervyn King or Gary Anderson. Time will tell whether he still has the mental strength or the game to defeat either in a nine-set encounter.
This year was the first year where there were no big-name moves from the BDO, so we are lacking the 'dangerous floaters' seen in previous draws in the shape of Anderson, King, Mark Webster, Simon Whitlock and of course Barney, who was seeded 32 at the time of his Circus Tavern win. That means that we may be short of upsets, or stand-out ties in the first round, but for me, the few of the top 32 that could be under threat from the non-seeds are the aforementioned Michael van Gerwen; Jelle Klaasen, who faces the talented Bristolian Steve Brown, and Alan Tabern, who lacks recent TV form and is against a resurgent Richie Burnett, whose floor form of late got him into the draw. The former Embassy winner will fancy his chances in a first round he nearly didn't reach. Terry Jenkins has a very poor record at the Alexandra Palace, with two first round exits, one of which came against shock finalist Kirk Shepherd three years ago, and a third round departure last year. He come up against Joe Cullen of Bradford, who may fancy his chances of adding to his growing reputation as a rising star of the future.
The tournament get underway on Thursday and you can see every dart live on Sky Sports HD. A fantastic year of darts has been building up to these next two weeks, and I for one cannot wait for it to start.
Let me know your thoughts via the best darts group on Facebook, of which I am a member and officer, or via my Twitter page. Game On!
Monday, 13 December 2010
Monday, 18 October 2010
Much to think about in the North West
Sunday's Merseyside derby was a fiery affair, full of passion, commitment and players capable of winning games by themselves. Sadly for Liverpool, those qualities only came from Everton, as Roy Hodgson's side were overrun, overawed, and frankly embarrassed by their neighbours from across Stanley Park as they slipped to 19th in the Barclays Premier League. John Henry had been full of optimism during the week as his New England Sports Ventures finally completed its takeover at Anfield, and that was - albeit cautiously in places - matched by the fans, but by full time at Goodison Park the size of the task that awaits the new regime was all too clear to see.
Robbie Fowler said on Sky Sports' Super Sunday that he thought this Liverpool team was worse than the Leeds United side of 2004 which was relegated. Although I am not too sure about that, one thing is certain; it will not be a quick fix. They are not one or two signings away from putting it right, they are about six or seven. At the moment, Hodgson could do worse than tempt the Kop legend back from Australia; at least he would show more commitment to the cause than Fernando Torres seems to be. He is cutting a lonelier and more forlorn figure as each game goes by, and looks like a player desperate to escape. He must be wondering what might have been, given Chelsea's and Manchester City's interest this past summer.
Another player reportedly desperate to leave his club is Manchester United's Wayne Rooney. The out-of-form England striker has struggled to see eye to eye with Sir Alex Ferguson of late, and his admission of his apparent fitness has riled the boss, who has long insisted that his ankle injury is worse than the rest of us think. He is out of contract at the end of next season, but United, well aware of their awkward financial situation, will not waste any time in offering his services now to those with a £50 million transfer fee to spare in January. I can think of one particular club not too far from Old Trafford who would love to reunite him with an old partner in crime. Of course Ferguson has reminded us before that nobody is bigger than Manchester United with the exits of Roy Keane, David Beckham and Jaap Stam, but like he admitted with the Dutchman, I can't help but feel that any Rooney departure would be a massive mistake for the club, and one from which they could take years to recover from.
Robbie Fowler said on Sky Sports' Super Sunday that he thought this Liverpool team was worse than the Leeds United side of 2004 which was relegated. Although I am not too sure about that, one thing is certain; it will not be a quick fix. They are not one or two signings away from putting it right, they are about six or seven. At the moment, Hodgson could do worse than tempt the Kop legend back from Australia; at least he would show more commitment to the cause than Fernando Torres seems to be. He is cutting a lonelier and more forlorn figure as each game goes by, and looks like a player desperate to escape. He must be wondering what might have been, given Chelsea's and Manchester City's interest this past summer.
Another player reportedly desperate to leave his club is Manchester United's Wayne Rooney. The out-of-form England striker has struggled to see eye to eye with Sir Alex Ferguson of late, and his admission of his apparent fitness has riled the boss, who has long insisted that his ankle injury is worse than the rest of us think. He is out of contract at the end of next season, but United, well aware of their awkward financial situation, will not waste any time in offering his services now to those with a £50 million transfer fee to spare in January. I can think of one particular club not too far from Old Trafford who would love to reunite him with an old partner in crime. Of course Ferguson has reminded us before that nobody is bigger than Manchester United with the exits of Roy Keane, David Beckham and Jaap Stam, but like he admitted with the Dutchman, I can't help but feel that any Rooney departure would be a massive mistake for the club, and one from which they could take years to recover from.
Tuesday, 31 August 2010
That could have been us...
At the end of the 2008-09 season, Nottingham Forest survived relegation back to League One with one game of the league left. It was a difficult year, during which many supporters resigned themselves to falling back into League One, a division the club had spent three dreadful years trying to escape.
After sacking Colin Calderwood and appointing his replacement Billy Davies, Forest just about did enough to secure Championship status. The following summer, he, and the Transfer Acquisitions panel containing Chief Executive Mark Arthur, Chairman Nigel Doughty and David Pleat, sought, and delivered, the new arrivals to bring Forest up to Championship standard.
Last season may have ended in desperate disappointment with defeat to Blackpool in the play-offs, but the fact that Forest were anywhere near a top six finish, never mind 3rd, was evidence of what can happen if a chairman backs his manager and brings enough quality through the doors.
Which leads us to this summer. In any business, but especially football, if you do not go forwards, you go backwards. Forest have stood still and let the league catch up. Ryan Bertrand may have came in on loan from Chelsea, and Radoslaw Majewski's loan is now a permanent deal, but the club has not built on the foundations laid by last season's hard work. More players have gone out than in. Admittedly some are out on loan, and we got (in my opinion) good money for another in James Perch - but it should not be happening that we start this season weaker than last.
The primary mistake was from Mark Arthur was when he declared in public his desire to bring Peter Whittingham and Darren Pratley to the club. Cardiff and Swansea, respectively, were understandably upset about what they claimed to be tapping-up, and promptly raised their asking prices. But from Forest's perspective, a club who should be building a promotion-winning squad should be prepared to raise offers upon rejections, no matter what the circumstances. Another mistake was not having any secondary transfer targets for when the Welsh clubs got fed up of Forest's dallying and said no.
The club obviously can afford to spend money, no club in the Championship spent more twelve months ago, so it makes their failure to do so even more frustrating and disappointing. I renewed my season ticket with a real hope that 2011 could be the year we finally reach the Premier League again. Although the season is only four games old, that dream already looks like just that, a dream. I can't see it becoming as bad as after the 2003 play-off defeat and the infamous 'we're serious about promotion' campaign which resulted in the sacking of Paul Hart and the club getting relegated, because we haven't become a bad side overnight. But it is disheartening to know that whoever goes up, we will think, 'That could have been us.'
After sacking Colin Calderwood and appointing his replacement Billy Davies, Forest just about did enough to secure Championship status. The following summer, he, and the Transfer Acquisitions panel containing Chief Executive Mark Arthur, Chairman Nigel Doughty and David Pleat, sought, and delivered, the new arrivals to bring Forest up to Championship standard.
Last season may have ended in desperate disappointment with defeat to Blackpool in the play-offs, but the fact that Forest were anywhere near a top six finish, never mind 3rd, was evidence of what can happen if a chairman backs his manager and brings enough quality through the doors.
Which leads us to this summer. In any business, but especially football, if you do not go forwards, you go backwards. Forest have stood still and let the league catch up. Ryan Bertrand may have came in on loan from Chelsea, and Radoslaw Majewski's loan is now a permanent deal, but the club has not built on the foundations laid by last season's hard work. More players have gone out than in. Admittedly some are out on loan, and we got (in my opinion) good money for another in James Perch - but it should not be happening that we start this season weaker than last.
The primary mistake was from Mark Arthur was when he declared in public his desire to bring Peter Whittingham and Darren Pratley to the club. Cardiff and Swansea, respectively, were understandably upset about what they claimed to be tapping-up, and promptly raised their asking prices. But from Forest's perspective, a club who should be building a promotion-winning squad should be prepared to raise offers upon rejections, no matter what the circumstances. Another mistake was not having any secondary transfer targets for when the Welsh clubs got fed up of Forest's dallying and said no.
The club obviously can afford to spend money, no club in the Championship spent more twelve months ago, so it makes their failure to do so even more frustrating and disappointing. I renewed my season ticket with a real hope that 2011 could be the year we finally reach the Premier League again. Although the season is only four games old, that dream already looks like just that, a dream. I can't see it becoming as bad as after the 2003 play-off defeat and the infamous 'we're serious about promotion' campaign which resulted in the sacking of Paul Hart and the club getting relegated, because we haven't become a bad side overnight. But it is disheartening to know that whoever goes up, we will think, 'That could have been us.'
Friday, 13 August 2010
Barclays Premier League preview
A new season of the Barclays Premier League kicks off on Saturday with more teams than ever believing that this could be their year to mount a push for the title.
Nobody has spent more money than Manchester City, for whom nothing less than a genuine championship challenge will do for the owners. They begin with a difficult trip to Tottenham, the side who pipped them to the precious 4th place last season in dramatic circumstances. On paper, City arguably now have the strongest squad in the league, bolstered even further by the big money signings of Yaya Toure, Aleksandar Kolarov, Mario Balotelli, Jerome Boateng, David Silva and probably James Milner. The questions this year, as last year, will be whether the strongest 11 can firstly be found, then gel into a winning unit. Too often last year under Mark Hughes, neither were answered, and it cost the Welshman his job. It took Chelsea two years of the Abramovich era to win the league, so the City owners will expect a lot better than last year's 5th.
Liverpool begin with fresh optimism following the arrivals of Roy Hodgson as manager, and Joe Cole, who will be determined to show Chelsea what they are missing. Add to that the signings of Milan Jovanovic and Christian Poulsen and the squad already looks stronger. The question mark still remains over Fernando Torres' fitness, and the team's ability to cope without him. Jovanovic will need to hit the ground running and far more is needed from David Ngog. One would expect a much improved showing than the disastrous 7th place, some 23 points behind Chelsea, but the championship still looks far further away than their fans can bring themselves to accept.
Arsenal's long wait for the title has produced the same observations year after year. One of them still has not been solved, namely their failure to sign a top class keeper, but they are looking at Mark Schwarzer, who has reportedly handed in a transfer request at Fulham. They have a new centre back in Laurent Koscielny, while getting rid of the dead wood at the back. On the flipside, some may say the outgoings leave them short of cover, but Koscielny and Thomas Vermaelen have the makings of a defensive partnership to rival the best in the country. The club has won its battle - for now - to keep Cesc Fabregas and he, and Robin van Persie, will be instrumental if they both stay fit, which has been a frustrating challenge in the past. Marouane Chamakh is a shrewd investment and his goals will ensure that the Gunners will go very close to ending their six year wait.
Manchester United are looking to youth to win them back the title. Sir Alex Ferguson has been told before he couldn't win anything with kids, but he proved them wrong then and he will be desperate to do it again to win the club a record 19th English league championship. Chris Smalling's signing raised a few eyebrows following his mediocre start to his Fulham career, but he has got a real chance to establish himself in the side while Rio Ferdinand recovers from injury. Javier Hernandez scored his first competitive goal in the Community Shield and looks a real handful. He and Wayne Rooney could be a very dangerous pair. As well as the new arrivals, the likes of Jonny Evans, Fabio and Rafael da Silva and Antonio Valencia will look to put pressure on the likes of Ferdinand and the legendary trio of Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Gary Neville, who may all be playing their last seasons for the club. It may be a transisional period, but write United off at your peril.
The bookies favourites are of course Chelsea. They swept all before them a year ago, scoring a record 103 goals en route to their third title in six years. The squad was written off as too old last year, and although there are still a number of players the wrong side of 30, you cannot dispute the danger and pure class of players such as Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba. The signing of Ramires from Benfica has given them the youth that they haven't had in recent times, and he will look to have the same influence as Deco and Michael Ballack, who have both moved on free transfers. The club's recent success was built on a solid defence, and this year will be no different. John Terry will have to put his troubles behind him and put in a big season, and Alex will be his partner again following the departure of Ricardo Carvalho. They have a comfortable first few fixtures, starting with West Bromwich Albion and a good start will cement their position as the team to beat.
Nobody has spent more money than Manchester City, for whom nothing less than a genuine championship challenge will do for the owners. They begin with a difficult trip to Tottenham, the side who pipped them to the precious 4th place last season in dramatic circumstances. On paper, City arguably now have the strongest squad in the league, bolstered even further by the big money signings of Yaya Toure, Aleksandar Kolarov, Mario Balotelli, Jerome Boateng, David Silva and probably James Milner. The questions this year, as last year, will be whether the strongest 11 can firstly be found, then gel into a winning unit. Too often last year under Mark Hughes, neither were answered, and it cost the Welshman his job. It took Chelsea two years of the Abramovich era to win the league, so the City owners will expect a lot better than last year's 5th.
Liverpool begin with fresh optimism following the arrivals of Roy Hodgson as manager, and Joe Cole, who will be determined to show Chelsea what they are missing. Add to that the signings of Milan Jovanovic and Christian Poulsen and the squad already looks stronger. The question mark still remains over Fernando Torres' fitness, and the team's ability to cope without him. Jovanovic will need to hit the ground running and far more is needed from David Ngog. One would expect a much improved showing than the disastrous 7th place, some 23 points behind Chelsea, but the championship still looks far further away than their fans can bring themselves to accept.
Arsenal's long wait for the title has produced the same observations year after year. One of them still has not been solved, namely their failure to sign a top class keeper, but they are looking at Mark Schwarzer, who has reportedly handed in a transfer request at Fulham. They have a new centre back in Laurent Koscielny, while getting rid of the dead wood at the back. On the flipside, some may say the outgoings leave them short of cover, but Koscielny and Thomas Vermaelen have the makings of a defensive partnership to rival the best in the country. The club has won its battle - for now - to keep Cesc Fabregas and he, and Robin van Persie, will be instrumental if they both stay fit, which has been a frustrating challenge in the past. Marouane Chamakh is a shrewd investment and his goals will ensure that the Gunners will go very close to ending their six year wait.
Manchester United are looking to youth to win them back the title. Sir Alex Ferguson has been told before he couldn't win anything with kids, but he proved them wrong then and he will be desperate to do it again to win the club a record 19th English league championship. Chris Smalling's signing raised a few eyebrows following his mediocre start to his Fulham career, but he has got a real chance to establish himself in the side while Rio Ferdinand recovers from injury. Javier Hernandez scored his first competitive goal in the Community Shield and looks a real handful. He and Wayne Rooney could be a very dangerous pair. As well as the new arrivals, the likes of Jonny Evans, Fabio and Rafael da Silva and Antonio Valencia will look to put pressure on the likes of Ferdinand and the legendary trio of Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Gary Neville, who may all be playing their last seasons for the club. It may be a transisional period, but write United off at your peril.
The bookies favourites are of course Chelsea. They swept all before them a year ago, scoring a record 103 goals en route to their third title in six years. The squad was written off as too old last year, and although there are still a number of players the wrong side of 30, you cannot dispute the danger and pure class of players such as Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba. The signing of Ramires from Benfica has given them the youth that they haven't had in recent times, and he will look to have the same influence as Deco and Michael Ballack, who have both moved on free transfers. The club's recent success was built on a solid defence, and this year will be no different. John Terry will have to put his troubles behind him and put in a big season, and Alex will be his partner again following the departure of Ricardo Carvalho. They have a comfortable first few fixtures, starting with West Bromwich Albion and a good start will cement their position as the team to beat.
Tuesday, 3 August 2010
A new season, a new start...
The new football season starts this weekend, and I want to know your thoughts, hopes and fears for the upcoming campaign. Using the questions from the FourFourTwo magazine season previews of the past, here are my answers.
As you may know I am a Nottingham Forest fan.
Greatest hope for the season: Finally getting promoted after coming close last season
Biggest fear: Billy Davies leaves and we get dragged into the relegation battle
Most important player: Paul McKenna
Terrace favourite: Guy Moussi, the Moose
Keep an eye out for: It could be a big season for young Matt Thornhill
Have you got the right manager? Yes, he just needs to realise he’s got the right club.
Player you would happily drive to his next club: Our backup goalkeeper Paul Smith
Which team do you most want to beat this season? Derby, this season and every season
Opposition player you despise: Kris Commons, Robbie Savage, Michael Chopra, DJ Campbell, probably loads more
Opposition player you secretly admire: Darren Pratley. Come and play for us please
Where will you finish: Top ten, probably just outside a play-off place
Let me know your season's ambitions either via this blog, or my Facebook or Twitter pages.
Tuesday, 29 June 2010
Transition needed for England; technology needed for FIFA?
I told myself a few weeks ago that I would write this blog on a daily basis to offer my insights into the World Cup, but it hasn't really worked out like that I'm afraid. That said, I shall offer my thoughts on the tournament so far here.
I was disappointed to see England not only lose to Germany, but seemingly accept defeat long before the final whistle. Before the game, I thought the German defence could be got at, and perhaps their young team wasn't as good as others had claimed. How wrong I was. Despite our own shortcomings, one has to give an enormous amount of credit to Joachim Loew's side, who were solid and well organised at the back, and a constant threat on the counter-attack. Jose Mourinho would have been proud of such a display from his Inter side, who played the same style en route to their treble last season.
It is time that England take a good look at themselves. After a couple of days thinking about it, I don't necessarily think that Fabio Capello should go, nor do I think he will leave his post, but time must be up for several of the players for whom time is no longer on their side. The likes of John Terry, Frank Lampard, maybe even Steven Gerrard and Rio Ferdinand, should be considering their international futures now they are reaching the sort of age where players like Alan Shearer and Paul Scholes retired from England. As surprising - at the time - as those decisions were, they were ultimately right for all parties, and the England team, as Germany are finding right now, may benefit from containing youngsters who may not be household names, but who have plenty to prove and perhaps a greater hunger than those who have been there and done it at the highest level. Italy and France, two other teams with poor tournaments this time around, have got to do the same. International football is a cruel business, and name alone is no longer worthy of your selection in squads and teams.
England and Mexico lost their respective second round games despite the controversial decisions, not because of them, but that said, FIFA needs to reconsider its policy surrounding the introduction of technology. We don't need anything fancy like chips in the ball or cameras inside the post. All we need is for the referees to be able to look at the replays of the TV cameras. Maybe the manager could have the option of challenging a call, like in tennis and the NFL. Of course there is a lot to be done regarding rule changes, how games are stopped and restarted for example, but it is work that can be done if not will be. I said after the France v Ireland play-off that all it will take to bring it in is for a team to be cost a World Cup game by a wrong decision. People may say that these controversies may be the straw that has broke Sepp Blatter's back.
As I write, the second round is reaching its conclusion, so there is plenty of life left in this World Cup, but I will put my prediction out there of an Argentina v Brazil final, with Gonzalo Higuain winning the Golden Boot. (Incidentally, before the tournament I believed it would be England v Spain with Milito top scorer) Who would win that final? I look forward to finding out; it may even need penalties. Lets hope so. Although that method has its critics, there is no better way to decide a match, particularly when England aren't involved!
I was disappointed to see England not only lose to Germany, but seemingly accept defeat long before the final whistle. Before the game, I thought the German defence could be got at, and perhaps their young team wasn't as good as others had claimed. How wrong I was. Despite our own shortcomings, one has to give an enormous amount of credit to Joachim Loew's side, who were solid and well organised at the back, and a constant threat on the counter-attack. Jose Mourinho would have been proud of such a display from his Inter side, who played the same style en route to their treble last season.
It is time that England take a good look at themselves. After a couple of days thinking about it, I don't necessarily think that Fabio Capello should go, nor do I think he will leave his post, but time must be up for several of the players for whom time is no longer on their side. The likes of John Terry, Frank Lampard, maybe even Steven Gerrard and Rio Ferdinand, should be considering their international futures now they are reaching the sort of age where players like Alan Shearer and Paul Scholes retired from England. As surprising - at the time - as those decisions were, they were ultimately right for all parties, and the England team, as Germany are finding right now, may benefit from containing youngsters who may not be household names, but who have plenty to prove and perhaps a greater hunger than those who have been there and done it at the highest level. Italy and France, two other teams with poor tournaments this time around, have got to do the same. International football is a cruel business, and name alone is no longer worthy of your selection in squads and teams.
England and Mexico lost their respective second round games despite the controversial decisions, not because of them, but that said, FIFA needs to reconsider its policy surrounding the introduction of technology. We don't need anything fancy like chips in the ball or cameras inside the post. All we need is for the referees to be able to look at the replays of the TV cameras. Maybe the manager could have the option of challenging a call, like in tennis and the NFL. Of course there is a lot to be done regarding rule changes, how games are stopped and restarted for example, but it is work that can be done if not will be. I said after the France v Ireland play-off that all it will take to bring it in is for a team to be cost a World Cup game by a wrong decision. People may say that these controversies may be the straw that has broke Sepp Blatter's back.
As I write, the second round is reaching its conclusion, so there is plenty of life left in this World Cup, but I will put my prediction out there of an Argentina v Brazil final, with Gonzalo Higuain winning the Golden Boot. (Incidentally, before the tournament I believed it would be England v Spain with Milito top scorer) Who would win that final? I look forward to finding out; it may even need penalties. Lets hope so. Although that method has its critics, there is no better way to decide a match, particularly when England aren't involved!
Sunday, 9 May 2010
Barclays Premier League season review
Another season of Premier League football is in the books, with Chelsea winning their first league title since 2006. Carlo Ancelotti emulated the feat of Jose Mourinho, and won the championship for the Blues at his first attempt. Liverpool’s dismal year which began with genuine hope of success let the door open for Tottenham to break into the top four, and at the bottom, Portsmouth, Hull and Burnley were relegated after being cannon fodder for most of the campaign. Here is my review of another pulsating year, starting with a few brief words for each side:
Chelsea (Grade: A+): Title-winning debut season for Ancelotti. A record goals tally of 103, finishing with an 8-0 rout of Wigan, together with another miserly defence was the key. A much improved record against the Big Four was also vital; the wins at Old Trafford and Anfield were the clinchers. Star Man: Didier Drogba
Manchester United (A-): Alex Ferguson once again produced a solid side capable of challenging at the very highest level without it being a great side like previous years Wayne Rooney had probably the best season of his career, They struggled with the loss of Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez and their goals and Dimitar Berbatov and Michael Owen struggled for form and fitness respectively, and they would come up short at home and in Europe. Star Man: Wayne Rooney
Arsenal: (B): Once again looked unstoppable at times, yet once again looked very fragile at times. They produced a great late run to get back into title contention, only to come unstuck with a series of poor away performances away from home. Undoubtedly suffered with long term injuries, most notably to Robin van Persie, but yet again, it’s ‘maybe next year’. Star Man: Cesc Fabregas
Tottenham (A): Terrific achievement to break into the top four, helped along the way with recent victories over Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City. Harry Redknapp built a squad to rival the best in the league, and they all stepped up a gear to reach the holy grail of the Champions League. Star Man: Jermain Defoe
Manchester City (B): The multi-millions spent failed to produce the Champions League place the owners wanted and possibly expected. Mark Hughes was controversially sacked before Roberto Mancini came in. Carlos Tevez showed United what they could have had, and Adam Johnson was one of their best – and cheapest – signings. They will need to do better next year if there are not to be consequences for the boss. Star Man: Carlos Tevez.
Aston Villa (B): Pushed the top four for most of the way before once again falling short and settling for a Europa League place. Despite a win at Old Trafford earlier in the year, their undoing was their form against the title contenders, notably conceding seven at Chelsea. Star Man: James Milner
Liverpool (D): Shocking season for Rafael Benitez and his team, finishing seven points behind Tottenham and 23 behind champions Chelsea. Aside from Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres, who himself missed a chunk of the campaign with injury, they didn't deliver and their lack of strength in depth was there for all to see and it could be a long way back for them. Star Man: Steven Gerrard.
Everton (C): David Moyes and his team enjoyed a fantastic second half of the season, but will lament their injury crisis which was the reason behind their poor first half of the season that would ultimately cost them their European place. Star Man: Tim Cahill
Birmingham (B+): Alex McLeish was the mastermind behind a fantastic year for Brum, who never looked anywhere near the relegation candidates they were expected to be. A solid defence was the key, helped by a great season from on-loan Joe Hart. Star Man: Joe Hart
Blackburn (C): Sam Allardyce’s team got the top ten finish they would have been expecting, helped by great home form. The Ewood Park crowd only saw three home defeats, yet once again, disappointing away form will be a concern. Star Man: David Dunn
Stoke (B): Great effort from Stoke to maintain their top flight status so convincingly amid the fear of second season syndrome. Their away form was much improved, and like last season, their Britannia bombardment was too much for many visitors to withstand. Star Man: Matt Etherington
Fulham (C): Roy Hodgson once again showed his credentials with another good season, particularly at Craven Cottage. Their magnificent run in Europe meant the league often came second, hence a lower finish than last year. Their away form was another stumbling block. Star Man: Bobby Zamora
Sunderland (C): Decent first year in charge for Steve Bruce, helped with another solid season in front of their home fans. But for a poor winless run of games at the turn of the year, they could have finished higher. Darren Bent’s goals have put him on the periphery of the England squad. Star Man: Darren Bent
Bolton (C-): Ended up comfortably safe after Owen Coyle arrived at the club. Looked like relegation candidates for a long time before a late run of results saw them steer clear of danger. They will be disappointed to only have reached 39 points however. Star Man: Kevin Davies
Wolves (B): Great effort from Mick McCarthy’s team to stay up. Their total of four away wins was four more than their first Premier League season and ultimately those were enough to keep them safe with 38 points. Star Man: Kevin Doyle
Wigan (D): Wigan would have expected to stay up more comfortably than they did, and they were not helped by a very poor defensive record. They conceded 55 away goals, most notably 9 at Tottenham and 8 at Chelsea on the final day. Their unpredictability was illustrated with wins against Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool at the DW Stadium. Star Man: Hugo Rodallega
West Ham (D-): Gianfranco Zola just about kept the Hammers in the league, but the season will no doubt be considered an immense disappointment following a decent showing last year. Off-the-pitch problems cast a shadow and there could be a big summer ahead at Upton Park. Star Man: Scott Parker
Burnley (E): Cannot fault their effort but they just weren’t good enough for this level. Owen Coyle’s untimely departure didn’t help, but Brian Laws’ appointment looked like one for next season in the Championship rather than a survival bid this season. Four points away from home was the same as the hapless Derby achieved in 2008. Star Man: Steven Fletcher
Hull (E): Very poor season from a side who haven’t looked good enough for the Premier League since December 2008 in truth. The stats do not lie; no away wins all season and just 34 goals scored. Iain Dowie always had a tough job and honestly, was never going to succeed. Star Man: Stephen Hunt
Portsmouth (F): In a season which can only be described as a disaster, Portsmouth looked doomed long before their nine-point penalty for going into administration. They have defied the odds by reaching the FA Cup final, and Avram Grant has done a decent job to steady the ship on the pitch amid huge problems upstairs. There is going to be a big, big summer on the south coast. Star Man: Jamie O’Hara
As for my end of season awards, they are as follows:
Player of the Year: Wayne Rooney. 26 goals in the league, plus a work rate second to none.
Manager of the Year: If I include European form I will say Roy Hodgson, but purely from a Premier League point of view I will say Carlo Ancelotti
Goal of the Season: Maynor Figueroa’s wonder strike for Wigan v Stoke from inside his own half, with Danny Rose’s volley against Arsenal a close second.
Signing of the Season: Carlos Tevez, Manchester City. 23 league goals for a new club is rarely seen at this level, and how Manchester United could have done with keeping him. I’ll also pay tribute here to my runner-up Thomas Vermaelen of Arsenal who settled into English football incredibly easily.
Worst signing of the Season: Alberto Aquilani, Liverpool. No explanation necessary.
See you next season!
Friday, 7 May 2010
Down to the wire...
The Barclays Premier League title race has gone, as I expected, to the wire, with Chelsea and Manchester United both hoping the other slips up on the final day. As it stands, the Blues lead by one point, so a win against Wigan will be enough to earn Carlo Ancelotti's men their first title in four years. Any slip-up will surely let in United, who face Stoke at Old Trafford.
Although Stoke will of course be aiming for a top-half finish, which would be a fantastic achievement and easy to overlook given other teams' accomplishments this year, I can't see them challenging on Sunday. They were beaten 7-0 at Chelsea two weeks ago, and their away-day frailties still remain.
Sadly for Sir Alex Ferguson, three points will not be enough, as I cannot see anything but a Chelsea victory, possibly even as emphatic as the aforementioned Stoke win. Although Wigan beat them 3-1 at the DW Stadium earlier in the season, Wigan's away days have been a very different story; who will forget their 9-1 thumping at Tottenham in November?
It's a shame that the relegation scrap has already been decided; as a neutral I probably prefer these on the last day to the title deciders. It would have been very interesting to see, but in all honesty, the three on their way down - Hull, Burnley and Portsmouth - have looked doomed from the start - I for one tipped those three before a ball had even been kicked. What concerns me though is that there are still seven teams on less than 40 points. As exciting as the league is, there are too many teams just happy to survive rather than risk spending some money to progress, and that is something which needs to be looked at, but that's for another post.
I'll be back on Sunday with a review of the season, so let me know what you think of the title race in the meantime via Facebook, Twitter, or this blog.
Although Stoke will of course be aiming for a top-half finish, which would be a fantastic achievement and easy to overlook given other teams' accomplishments this year, I can't see them challenging on Sunday. They were beaten 7-0 at Chelsea two weeks ago, and their away-day frailties still remain.
Sadly for Sir Alex Ferguson, three points will not be enough, as I cannot see anything but a Chelsea victory, possibly even as emphatic as the aforementioned Stoke win. Although Wigan beat them 3-1 at the DW Stadium earlier in the season, Wigan's away days have been a very different story; who will forget their 9-1 thumping at Tottenham in November?
It's a shame that the relegation scrap has already been decided; as a neutral I probably prefer these on the last day to the title deciders. It would have been very interesting to see, but in all honesty, the three on their way down - Hull, Burnley and Portsmouth - have looked doomed from the start - I for one tipped those three before a ball had even been kicked. What concerns me though is that there are still seven teams on less than 40 points. As exciting as the league is, there are too many teams just happy to survive rather than risk spending some money to progress, and that is something which needs to be looked at, but that's for another post.
I'll be back on Sunday with a review of the season, so let me know what you think of the title race in the meantime via Facebook, Twitter, or this blog.
Friday, 9 April 2010
My Grand National thoughts and tips
This weekend sees Merseyside play host to a sporting event which, for just a few short minutes, has the world interested. But enough about Liverpool v Fulham, I'm here to talk about the John Smith's Grand National at Aintree.
For me, it is one of our country's greatest sporting events, and one that I always look forward to for the whole year. I am not a massive racing fan, although its a sport I like to think I know a bit about. This year will be slightly different for me, however. For the first time in living memory, I will not be watching the great race live due to my Nottingham Forest season ticket (rightly) taking priority. Lets hope Forest can last the course and distance in the next few weeks, but that's for another time.
My earliest memory of the race as a kid was probably watching Seagram power past Garrison Savannah to take the money in 1991, when I was just five. Since then, I have witnessed many ups and downs, backed two winners (1996, 2004) and many, many losers. But, no matter what horse you are on, where your money is won or lost, it is a Saturday like few others in the British sporting calendar for drama, anticipation and excitement.
As for this year's renewal, there are plenty of runners in with a chance. All of the first six home last year are back again, including Comply Or Die and Mon Mome, both of which have genuine hopes of becoming the first horse since 1974 (Red Rum, of course) to win it more than once.
I am going to back three of those first six from last year in My Will, State Of Play and Cerium, who only scraped into the race today (Friday) but has had a surge of interest since it was initially named a reserve.
My Will came close last year, and this time carries less weight (11-2) than last year. he should have another decent run following similar preparation. State Of Play has a great chance in my opinion despite a quiet season. He has won over the big fences in the past, and experience like that is invaluable. I thought it was tough not to select at 16/1. As for Cerium, he was 5th last year at incredibly long odds, and was not even fully fit. His long price of 66/1 suggests it will take another monumental effort, but you never know, it is Aintree after all.
Enjoy the race!
For me, it is one of our country's greatest sporting events, and one that I always look forward to for the whole year. I am not a massive racing fan, although its a sport I like to think I know a bit about. This year will be slightly different for me, however. For the first time in living memory, I will not be watching the great race live due to my Nottingham Forest season ticket (rightly) taking priority. Lets hope Forest can last the course and distance in the next few weeks, but that's for another time.
My earliest memory of the race as a kid was probably watching Seagram power past Garrison Savannah to take the money in 1991, when I was just five. Since then, I have witnessed many ups and downs, backed two winners (1996, 2004) and many, many losers. But, no matter what horse you are on, where your money is won or lost, it is a Saturday like few others in the British sporting calendar for drama, anticipation and excitement.
As for this year's renewal, there are plenty of runners in with a chance. All of the first six home last year are back again, including Comply Or Die and Mon Mome, both of which have genuine hopes of becoming the first horse since 1974 (Red Rum, of course) to win it more than once.
I am going to back three of those first six from last year in My Will, State Of Play and Cerium, who only scraped into the race today (Friday) but has had a surge of interest since it was initially named a reserve.
My Will came close last year, and this time carries less weight (11-2) than last year. he should have another decent run following similar preparation. State Of Play has a great chance in my opinion despite a quiet season. He has won over the big fences in the past, and experience like that is invaluable. I thought it was tough not to select at 16/1. As for Cerium, he was 5th last year at incredibly long odds, and was not even fully fit. His long price of 66/1 suggests it will take another monumental effort, but you never know, it is Aintree after all.
Enjoy the race!
Friday, 2 April 2010
A crucial day for the title race - my thoughts
This Saturday is likely to be the biggest day of the season so far in the Barclays Premier League, as champions and leaders Manchester United host Chelsea, who sit just a point behind. The game is being billed as the title decider, which is fair enough - there are only five games left after this one - but I only think the championship can be lost this weekend, and even then I'm not too certian if that will be the case.
Chelsea, despite playing catch-up currently, know that six wins will win them their first league title since 2006. Their problem is that Manchester United are in exactly the same position. The game therefore has to be played like a cup-tie for my money. Had Arsenal not roared back into contention, Sir Alex Ferguson's side would have been very happy not to lose the game, whereas Chelsea need to win whatever the circumstances. The Gunners' surge of late, and their so-called easier run-in however, means that United need to go all out for a victory.
Arsene Wenger will be praying that it is a draw at Old Trafford, the game finishing just minutes before his side entertain Wolves at the Emirates Stadium. On paper, Wolves at home is one of the more winnable games in this league, but just how much will Wednesday's game against Barcelona have taken out of them? Of course, they are without Cesc Fabregas for the remainder of the campaign, the talisman behind their blistering form since their home defeat to Chelsea which appeared to knock them out of contention, but they should be good enough for three points.
That would leave them on 71 points, possibly just two behind United at close of play. They could however be five behind if United and Wolves record wins, and that would be too large a gap to close in my opinion.
These two games will go a long way to deciding just how many teams are still in the title race. Personally, I think we will still have as many questions as answers, and all three teams will fight it out a little while longer.
Chelsea, despite playing catch-up currently, know that six wins will win them their first league title since 2006. Their problem is that Manchester United are in exactly the same position. The game therefore has to be played like a cup-tie for my money. Had Arsenal not roared back into contention, Sir Alex Ferguson's side would have been very happy not to lose the game, whereas Chelsea need to win whatever the circumstances. The Gunners' surge of late, and their so-called easier run-in however, means that United need to go all out for a victory.
Arsene Wenger will be praying that it is a draw at Old Trafford, the game finishing just minutes before his side entertain Wolves at the Emirates Stadium. On paper, Wolves at home is one of the more winnable games in this league, but just how much will Wednesday's game against Barcelona have taken out of them? Of course, they are without Cesc Fabregas for the remainder of the campaign, the talisman behind their blistering form since their home defeat to Chelsea which appeared to knock them out of contention, but they should be good enough for three points.
That would leave them on 71 points, possibly just two behind United at close of play. They could however be five behind if United and Wolves record wins, and that would be too large a gap to close in my opinion.
These two games will go a long way to deciding just how many teams are still in the title race. Personally, I think we will still have as many questions as answers, and all three teams will fight it out a little while longer.
Friday, 26 February 2010
A turbulent week off the pitch...again
It has been a turbulent week in English football in more ways than one this week, one that has come as a reminder to us that players are human after all, and football clubs are not as invincible as we would like to think.
Of all the players to suffer a World Cup threatening injury in the past couple of weeks, it had to be Ashley Cole, the one player who would have prevented a potential flare up in the starting XI between former captain John Terry and Cole's understudy Wayne Bridge, whose ex Vanessa Perroncel is at the centre of the 'other' story.
Cole's injury left the door wide open for the Manchester City man, although he has, in my opinion sadly, let his heart rule over his head. In every walk of life, one has to work alongside colleagues they do not like or even respect, although it could be argued that professional football is not just another job. I would have fully understood his decision if it was to declare himself unavailable for England's friendly on Wednesday against Egypt - especially as Manchester City play Chelsea this weekend - but to do so indefinitely seems rash.
Speaking of Ashley Cole, we all hope he will be fit for South Africa, but it is of course his off-the-field form which has caught the eye. I don't have a great deal of sympathy for him, he has after all cheated more than once on one of the world's most desirable women, but plenty more people have thrown their two pennies in inside the front pages, so I'll stick to the football side here.
The financial crises in the leagues have reminded us that clubs cannot continue overspending beyond their means. Portsmouth's move into administration, and their soon to be confirmed nine-point penalty, certainly means the end of their immediate Premier League life, and probably any hope of returning there in the next two to three years. It is becoming a cliche to say look at Leeds United, Nottingham Forest, Norwich and the other clubs who have plummeted through the leagues, but Pompey, its administrator and fans, will hope that their name is not added to the list. On the other hand, maybe the club's very existence is the ultimate goal, no matter which division they end up in.
Notts County have avoided administration after a very difficult few weeks, but the job that new chairman Ray Trew and manager Steve Cotterill have to stablise the club looks a far bigger one than even they thought. Of course, the club has one prized asset above any others, that being goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, but even his likely sale in the summer will probably be at a huge loss compared to the money that Munto Finance was throwing around, or should I say promising to throw around, at the start of the season. The dreams of becoming the next big force in English football sadly look a long way off as far as the supporters are concerned, even promotion to League One this season looks increasingly unlikely, although in Cotterill the club has a manager more than capable at that level of being a success.
Of all the players to suffer a World Cup threatening injury in the past couple of weeks, it had to be Ashley Cole, the one player who would have prevented a potential flare up in the starting XI between former captain John Terry and Cole's understudy Wayne Bridge, whose ex Vanessa Perroncel is at the centre of the 'other' story.
Cole's injury left the door wide open for the Manchester City man, although he has, in my opinion sadly, let his heart rule over his head. In every walk of life, one has to work alongside colleagues they do not like or even respect, although it could be argued that professional football is not just another job. I would have fully understood his decision if it was to declare himself unavailable for England's friendly on Wednesday against Egypt - especially as Manchester City play Chelsea this weekend - but to do so indefinitely seems rash.
Speaking of Ashley Cole, we all hope he will be fit for South Africa, but it is of course his off-the-field form which has caught the eye. I don't have a great deal of sympathy for him, he has after all cheated more than once on one of the world's most desirable women, but plenty more people have thrown their two pennies in inside the front pages, so I'll stick to the football side here.
The financial crises in the leagues have reminded us that clubs cannot continue overspending beyond their means. Portsmouth's move into administration, and their soon to be confirmed nine-point penalty, certainly means the end of their immediate Premier League life, and probably any hope of returning there in the next two to three years. It is becoming a cliche to say look at Leeds United, Nottingham Forest, Norwich and the other clubs who have plummeted through the leagues, but Pompey, its administrator and fans, will hope that their name is not added to the list. On the other hand, maybe the club's very existence is the ultimate goal, no matter which division they end up in.
Notts County have avoided administration after a very difficult few weeks, but the job that new chairman Ray Trew and manager Steve Cotterill have to stablise the club looks a far bigger one than even they thought. Of course, the club has one prized asset above any others, that being goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, but even his likely sale in the summer will probably be at a huge loss compared to the money that Munto Finance was throwing around, or should I say promising to throw around, at the start of the season. The dreams of becoming the next big force in English football sadly look a long way off as far as the supporters are concerned, even promotion to League One this season looks increasingly unlikely, although in Cotterill the club has a manager more than capable at that level of being a success.
Monday, 22 February 2010
A new start
Hi guys
I am fully aware that I have neglected this Blog and its fans for too long, so I thought I would give it a bit of a makeover and a new title. Although 'Adam's Blog' was an understandable choice for a name origianlly, given it is a Blog written by Adam, it's not particularly imaginative. Hopefully the new name gets the page noticed more. That said, any new names you want to throw out there wil be considered.
Plenty of stuff to write about in the sporting world, so hopefully I'll be back soon with that and maybe an update or two from my world.
Adam
I am fully aware that I have neglected this Blog and its fans for too long, so I thought I would give it a bit of a makeover and a new title. Although 'Adam's Blog' was an understandable choice for a name origianlly, given it is a Blog written by Adam, it's not particularly imaginative. Hopefully the new name gets the page noticed more. That said, any new names you want to throw out there wil be considered.
Plenty of stuff to write about in the sporting world, so hopefully I'll be back soon with that and maybe an update or two from my world.
Adam
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