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Posted by: ROBOT Apr 24 2011, 09:34 AM

Having seen yesterdays performance - how are Birmingham not going down? Where were their defence? Sure Ben Foster made a few mistakes, just a bad day, but the Maxi header was SO easy, completely unmarked.

Tottenham picking up a draw is promising though, we could still very much get 5th, and we play Tottenham last game of the season, I think?

Posted by: Sabrina. Apr 24 2011, 12:50 PM

LOL at Chelsea fans. One minute it's all "Can we sell Torres back to Liverpool?" and next their singing his name and acting like he's some sort of God

Being a Liverpool fan.. I probably would have rather he didn't score this season, but it was bound to happen sooner or later.
Sky Sports News has been turned off today though. "Torres ends Chelsea drought" as a top story is slightly annoying. Why exactly does a striker scoring need to be headline news ?

Happy with the 5 - 0 win though. & Now hopefully Tottenham can drop some points in upcoming fixtures against Chelsea, Man City & us

Posted by: Sabrina. Apr 24 2011, 04:55 PM

& That's Arsenal officially out of the title race

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Apr 24 2011, 04:57 PM

I think whoever finishes 6th this season has an excellent chance of finishing in the top 4 next year without having a European campaign.

Posted by: Rooney Apr 24 2011, 05:17 PM

I want Liverpool to finish 5th. Can't understand why some 'fans' don't want us not to. Liverpool not playing European football is unheard of. The Europa League is not a Mickey Mouse competition in the latter stages. With some quality editions in the summer Liverpool will have enough in their locker to challenge for al four of the competitions they are in.

If Spurs don't get 4th this season then they are well and truly f***ed for a good few years. Bale and Modric will need to be sold to balance the books. Levy has even admitted as much himself!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Apr 24 2011, 05:20 PM

Bale's vastly over-rated anyway, and if some mug is going to pay more than £30m for him then more fool them. They'd surely save a large amount of money just by cutting down? Getting rid of King, Woodgate, Krancjar, Jenas and maybe one or two more would probably save nearly £15m a year in wages and they'd still have a decent sized squad!

Posted by: Sabrina. Apr 24 2011, 06:28 PM

I want them to finish 5th & The players quite clearly want it too

The fact that we are even fighting for 5th place with an awful start to the season suggests that we will have a very good chance of getting in the top 4 next season. I doubt being part of another competition will affect that too much

Just checked the form table too and based on the last 6 matches.. We would be joint 2nd right now with Man Utd.. & Chelsea at #1. I think it's about time King Kenny got that contract

Posted by: Rooney Apr 24 2011, 06:56 PM

Spurs' squad is so good, yet so bad. I think if Bale ws available there'd be some sort of bidding war - lucky Tottenham if that's the case! A lot of their players are vastly overrated though. I honestly think the reason they're so well recieved in the press is because of 'arry and how they have so many Engllish players. I don't think they're an incredibly good side, they leave a lot of space I've noticed. They just very rarely get punished.

Dalglish will easily get the job. I'm sure it's all been agreed in principle, and it's just waiting to be signed. I'm absolutely positive they'll announce it just before the Spurs game, or moments after Manchester United win the title. That ploy has been used enough time before!

Posted by: Rooney Apr 26 2011, 08:10 PM

why is the man in the iron mask so $h!t

Posted by: Sarah Apr 27 2011, 11:49 PM

Thank u

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Apr 29 2011, 07:51 PM

QPR have asked the FA to investigate The Sun after this morning they claimed QPR would be docked 15 points next week.

I have to say I can't see how anything will be done. They've clearly broken rules which should really push them below (at least) Norwich and Cardiff. But because of the length of time it will take for various appeals to happen, the playoffs would be severely delayed, resulting in more appealing from those clubs involved as it would ruin their close/pre-season.

Alejandro Faurlin joined QPR in July 2009, how come it's taken until 9th March 2011 to find out it was dodgy? And why a further 8 weeks before their hearing, with any punishment being announced less than 24 hours before the end of the season?

As far as I'm concerned there are only two possible options. 1) No punishment 2) A hefty fine

Posted by: Suedehead2 Apr 29 2011, 08:02 PM

The timing of the hearing is ridiculous. This sort of breach of the rules ought to mean a points deduction. However, as you say, QPR would appeal any deduction which would stop them being promoted. Any deduction which didn't prevent their promotion would be seen as a mere slap on the wrists and would probably lead to a protest by whoever comes third.

Posted by: Rooney Apr 30 2011, 11:36 AM

They have been looking in to it since September last year though so I read? I can't see them giving QPR a points penalty this far in to the season, as the timing would be horrific, like you say it's obvious they would appeal. Could it be possible they would incur a points deduction when they're in the Premier League? Can't see anything other than a very hefty fine though, and perhaps a severe warning about future conduct.

Posted by: MancunianGiraffe Apr 30 2011, 11:52 AM

Could be an absolutely pivotal set of fixtures this weekend. Playing City, we are siting ducks for the other teams in the relegattion battle to extend their lead over us - plus we're missing both Parker and Noble. On the up side, Upson is back which means the defence will be a lot better organised. With a bit of luck, and with Tevez missing, we could sneak something.

Assuming we don't, we could do with Bolton, Stoke and Everton beating Blackburn, Blackpool and Wigan respectively. All of which could well happen.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Apr 30 2011, 06:28 PM

But none of them did!

I wanted West Ham to stay up, but now it Forest actually have a chance of going up, I'd rather be in a West Ham and Wolves-less Premier League. Will happily have Blackpool and Wigan in our division next season, regardless of which one it is.

Posted by: Flatcap Apr 30 2011, 07:15 PM

Hope Carlisle can give the home support something to shout about. We win away to Rochdale, then lose away to Dagenham and Redbridge? So much for the much desired ruthlessness that Abbott was asking of the squad earlier in the week...

Posted by: Rooney Apr 30 2011, 08:12 PM

Thought it would be 40 points needed to stay up - looks like it could be more though!? 42 maybe. Huge win for Blackburn today, absolutely massive.

Spurs no chance of 4th now.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Apr 30 2011, 08:15 PM

I thought it would be more than 40, but the bottom so four have suddenly become so awful that 40 could well comfortably keep teams up. You just can't see where West Ham, Wolves and Blackpool could get a win from. A monumental game for Wolves tomorrow.

Posted by: Rooney May 1 2011, 03:43 PM

West Ham going down then.

Posted by: lee wallace May 1 2011, 03:55 PM

Chelsea win at Old Trafford next week they go top of the Premier League!!
I just can't see West Ham getting relegated there team is too good!

Posted by: Rooney May 1 2011, 04:11 PM

If they don't pick up a point against Man City today then they're certs for the drop. Every team around them yesterday picked up a point at least. Says something when Scott Parker is the one doing the team talks...

Posted by: JamesP May 1 2011, 04:19 PM

We didn't turn up today so fair play to Arsenal.

It's still all in our hands though, I firmly believe a point against Chelsea will do.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 1 2011, 06:15 PM

It's in Chelsea's hands too though. The winner of it should take the title. Chelsea going away to Everton is a tougher game than Man Utd have to play but you'd fancy they'd win if the scenario was win and the title was theirs... I also wonder how much the Champions League will drain United. Chelsea have a full week without playing, Man Utd have a day less plus an extra game to play.

Posted by: JamesP May 1 2011, 06:59 PM

Even if Chelsea do beat us, I'm still fairly confident we can get enough past Blackpool on the last day to settle it on goal difference if necessary. But like I say, a draw will do because in theory we should beat Blackburn and Blackpool. We shall see how it pans out....

Posted by: Rooney May 1 2011, 07:13 PM

Gonna be interesting that's for sure. Just as long as Chelsea don't play Torres, I think they could be the favourites. Can't believe Arsenal didn't bottle it though...

Posted by: Sabrina. May 1 2011, 08:50 PM

I'm surprised Arsenal didn't bottle it either, but unfortunately it's too late for them now. I was just sitting there after they scored thinking.. Surely they'll mess it up soon. & They potentially could have conceded a penalty in the closing minutes

at the fact that Michael Owen or Fernando Torres will be getting a winners medal soon for doing basically nothing

Posted by: gilly010 May 1 2011, 09:17 PM

I think that as long as united don't lose to chelsea they have it in the bag

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 2 2011, 05:18 PM

Putting the TV on to see Cardiff are losing 3-0 at home to Middlesbrough after half an hour!

COME ON BORO AND NORWICH! Let's keep the Premier League all English for one more year!

Posted by: Flatcap May 2 2011, 05:49 PM

Was just watching that before, some Cardiff fans were leaving at the 20 minute mark.

Posted by: Rooney May 5 2011, 10:15 PM

Surprise, surprise the inquest is delayed!

Wonder if Neil Warnock is going to throw his dummy out and say QPR should be docked tens of points? Nah thought not! Hypocrite!

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 5 2011, 10:20 PM

Delaying the verdict just makes it an even bigger shambles. To make it even worse, Cardiff have allegedly broken the same rule as QPR. However, they are under the jurisdiction of the Welsh FA which doesn't have the same rule so they can get away with it. Somehow we have different clubs in the same competition subject to different rules.

Posted by: Rooney May 5 2011, 10:33 PM

Really?! Unfair really. If I was a QPR fan I'd be massively pissed off. Something needs to be done about that imo, especially if one of the clubs go in to the Premier League.

I was cynical at first about them not delivering a verdict, but it really does seem Mark (I think he said it) was right that they will delay the verdict until after the play-offss and deduct a suitable amount of points so that they still achieve promotion.

Posted by: ukchartstatsfan May 7 2011, 01:11 PM

QPR escaped a points deduction from the Football League but were gulity over 2 out of the 7 charges against them.

Posted by: Rooney May 7 2011, 01:51 PM

Hate to say it, but can't help but think if QPR were in a different position in the league, the final outcome might have been a lot different.

Posted by: Pablo Honey May 7 2011, 03:12 PM

It annoys me when people constantly say "Arsenal are going to bottle it / lack leadership / poor defence" etc. Yes, in the last month or so we have thrown it away massively, but the fact we were fighting on four fronts until then was still impressive, especially given that we've played with our 3rd and 4th choice centre backs for most of the season. Szcz will be the answer to the goalkeeping problem, but I think our main problem is actually up front. RVP, Chamakh and Bendtner are all great players, but the system Wenger plays only really has room for one of them. Bendtner has been coming on and playing right wing recently and playing in crosses, when he should be the one on the end of them. We do need to clear out some of the dead wood in the squad (Rosicky, Denilson, Diaby etc) and hope that the likes of Ramsey and Wilshere continue to develop. Expect Arsenal to be much stronger next year, and with a bit more luck we might not drop points as ridiculously as this year.

As for QPR, I was really hoping they would get docked points, Norwich and Swansea would get automatic promotion and then Forest win the play-offs. Pity the FA didn't have the bottle to actually do something about it, and I do suspect if they were mid-table they would have been deducted

Posted by: Rooney May 7 2011, 04:35 PM

^ Arsenal have been bottlers for a good few years now. It's not just a recent thing. They have really messed up this season. Perhaps some degree of it is psychological, but it all started with the Carling Cup game. I think the Arsenal team thought it would be an easy victory. It wasn't. Arsenal have a lack of leadership, lots of inexperience which is why I believe they bottle a lot of games. They've a lack of players willing to step it up and take responsibility. They need far more experience in the side. They'll be in contention again next season - but they have to strenghten. Man City, Liverpool and Chelsea will all spend moderate amounts - Arsenal can't just rely on their youth system.

I definitely agree about the striker problem though. Van Persie is not a striker. You need a target man (not necessarily a giant forward, but a Darren Bent style figure). Van Persie would be much better suited behind a proper striker. Only problem I thinmk Arsenal will find is Wenger's reluctance to spend big, and strikers are the most expensive players in football, especially good strikers...

Posted by: Matt Aloud May 7 2011, 04:57 PM

So QPR guilty, and don't get punished. Go figure! Probably didn't want to upset Warnock again

Posted by: Flatcap May 7 2011, 05:02 PM

Lincoln relegated to the Conference, and Dagenham and Redbridge relegated back to League Two.

Disappointing loss at the end of the season for Carlisle. Hope they can fire the players up with momentum over the summer or I can see a relegation battle next season.

Posted by: Damon May 7 2011, 05:17 PM

Felt sorry for Dagenham today, loads of Posh fans stayed at the end to applaud them off which was good. They did well this season, especially considering they were expected to be dead and buried months ago before the season started. They should have scored a few today, but nothing went in for them, had 5/6 good chances!

Posted by: Rooney May 7 2011, 06:22 PM

Looking forward to playing Lincoln in the Conference next season Both them and Stockport are in for a shock next season!

Posted by: Pablo Honey May 7 2011, 06:59 PM

I do agree about the Carling Cup having a psychological blow on the team, but I'm surprised by how bad its actually been for them. As for leaders, Vermaelen would step up to that role nicely, plus maybe a signing of maybe one more experienced player. The RVPs and Sagnas of the team also would make good leaders.

BUT I can't agree with the quote there. 18 goals in 20 appearances this season? I think he's a pretty good striker...

Posted by: Rooney May 7 2011, 07:04 PM

^Only because he's played as a striker imo. Don't believe he's an out and out striker. He doesn't get in to the same positions the likes of proper strikers would. He'd suit Arsenal much better if he played behind the striker. If Arsenal lose Van Persie they have no attacking power really. Chamank (sp?) hasn't done as well as I thought he would, Arshavin seems out of favour and Bendtner is just crap.

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 7 2011, 07:17 PM

They've been fined although that's not exactly going to hurt the owners much. It's also a tiny fraction of the amount they will make from a season in thee Premier League.

I suspect they've done it out of expediency. QPR would have appealed against any points deduction thereby potentially throwing the play-offs into chaos. They really should have dealt with this a lot earlier. As it is they have now set a precedent so other clubs may feel if it's worth the risk if it will help them win promotion.

Even by the usually low standards set by the football authorities this has been a massive cock-up.

Posted by: Rooney May 8 2011, 04:03 PM

Bottled it again today.

Posted by: Pablo Honey May 8 2011, 09:55 PM

It was a shocking performance today, we really really were awful. Arsene seriously needs to sort out our defending from set pieces, its abysmal. Chelsea didn't turn up today either, gifting the title to Fergie. Park was the best player on the pitch by a mile too, so well done him.

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 8 2011, 10:24 PM

Arsenal's defending today was indeed dreadful. It's also true to say that their defending from set pieces has been poor for some time. Their other problem seems to be psychological. A couple seasons ago they never really recovered after that awful injury to Eduardo. This season's turning point seems to have been losing the League Cup final. That really has to be down to the manager.

Man U played like champions today which is something they haven't done much this season. Their home record this season (52 points out of 54) has been phenomenal. The fact that they didn't win the title weeks ago shows just how modest their away form has been. It's hard to say how much Chelsea's performance was affected by going a goal down so early.

Posted by: JamesP May 9 2011, 08:42 PM

I may well be slightly late with this but..

COME BACK WHEN YOU'VE WON 19

Posted by: lee wallace May 9 2011, 09:02 PM

I was gutted that Qpr didin't get deducted any points,yet were found guilty.
I really want Reading to go up for the reason that Dundee United will get 250,000!

Posted by: Rooney May 9 2011, 09:05 PM

Fair play to Man Utd. They've been the best team this season, the only team really in contention. They've been terrible at times mind, and had it not been for some dodgy refereeing decisons and some catastrophic finishinh thigns may have been different, but generally theyve been consistently good (away form is definitely something I'd be highly worried about if I was a Man Utd fan, its awful for a title winning team). Chelsea had a really bad spell for 9/10 games, Arsenal have been terrible since the Carling Cup defeat, Man City have got a pussy for a manager so they were never in contention, despite what the media and 'arry will have you believe they never had a chance, and Liverpool had their worst run post-war. Think next season could be interesting though. Manchester City are obviously going to spend big again now they're in the Champions League.

I'd expect Man Utd to win the title again next season. Think Liverpool will give them a run though. Need to improve greatly in a few areas, but every top club does. Suarez is absolutely magical.

Posted by: JamesP May 9 2011, 09:08 PM

Liverpool will be a huge threat next year. The rate they've improved since January is phenomenal and I wouldn't be surprised in the slightest to see them pip Tottenham to Europa this season.

We definitley need to invest in players if we're to retain it next year; we've ridiculously ridden our luck away from home and our home form is all that's really kept us away from Chelsea. The way we set up on Sunday was incredible; that fighting mentality was evident from the whistle. I trust Fergie with my life. If we go into the European final with that mentality, who knows...

Posted by: Rooney May 9 2011, 09:17 PM

Man Utd played well on Sunday. But things might have been a lot different had Hernandez not got that very early goal. I think it really knocked Chelsea back, caught them off my surprise. Played massively in to Man Utd's hand, as Fergie really does like playing on the counter attack, and Chelsea had to come at Man Utd. European Cup final could be interesting. Can't see Barcelona not winning though. If Man Utd play with a high defensive line then I think they're in for trouble. Think they need to do what Real Madrid tried to do.

Suarez is an absolute beat. Believe me when I say he'll be the best attacker in the league next season. He's going to be up there with Cantona, Begrkamp, Henry, Ronaldo etc. as he's a very very special player.

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 9 2011, 10:01 PM

Man U's home form should have seen them win the title weeks ago. Yesterday's performance against Chelsea was a rare occasion when they looked like they might be capable of beating Barcelona.

Will Liverpool be a threat next season? Under Dalglish they have averaged two points per game. That's good but not quite good enough to win the title. So they need to do a little better and maintain it over a whole season.

Posted by: Sabrina. May 9 2011, 10:39 PM

Great win for Liverpool. Love Luis Suarez so much right now.. Great signing for us

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 16 2011, 09:52 PM

Has anyone been watching the play-offs?

Once again, I'm absolutely gutted. Although I was fully expecting it this time so was far less heartbreaking than the last two times. I wish I watched the game as a neutral though as it was a wonderful game of football. Four fantastic goals, the woodwork hit four times and a couple of penalty appeals, both of which we should have got. I haven't seen the replays for the second one at the death but I read on Twitter the Sky studio reckon it was. The first I wasn't that fussed about at the time, as penalties for shirt pulling aren't often given, but if you're going to book Gunter for what he did within two minutes of it, then that is a stone wall penalty 100% of the time. No consistency once again.

Posted by: Damon May 16 2011, 09:57 PM

I went to Milton Keynes yesterday for MK Dons v Peterborough. Posh are so lucky to still be in the tie tbh, MK Dons should have killed it in the 2nd half but for some reason took their foot off the gas at 3-1, even when Posh went down to 10 men. Really looking forward to the 2nd leg on Thursday, we should be able to see them off at home, but I use should very lightly

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 16 2011, 09:59 PM

I saw bits of the match. I would have preferred Forest to win but obviously npt as much as you would.

Even allowing for the fact that the goalkeeper was nowhere to be seen, Swansea's third goal was a great shot.

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 16 2011, 10:06 PM

My local team, Bournemouth, really drew the short straw when it came to play-off dates. Their home leg just happened to be played at the same time as Man U were winning the title and just before the Cup final so nobody noticed. After a 1-1 draw Wednesday's second leg (at the same time as the Europa League final) will be difficult.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 16 2011, 10:08 PM

When Camp first went up there there was still 3 1/2 minutes of injury time left! I don't really see the point of doing it that early, may as well keep him half way in our half and send Maloney up. It was a great finish though, as were all the goals. I couldn't help but admire Britton's first.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 16 2011, 10:09 PM

That is a bit unlucky, although does anyone care about the Europa League? I didn't even know it was on!

I'm looking forward to watching some non-Premiership football every night this week.

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 16 2011, 10:31 PM

As it's an all Portuguese affair I doubt there will be much interest in it. It's just unfortunate for Bournemouth (and Huddersfield) that their semi-final has ended up being scheduled against some stiff competition.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 17 2011, 10:50 PM

Cardiff 0 - 3 Reading

Posted by: richie May 19 2011, 09:13 AM

I was hoping Forest would get to the final as it's always nice to see the teams that were in the top division during my youth back in there (yay for QPR and Norwich) so I guess I'll be going for Swansea in the final to replicate their one season wonder in the top league back in 82-83

Posted by: JamesP May 19 2011, 09:32 AM

Did anyone else see the League One playoff last night? I didn't see it all but of what I did and what came before it seemed a thoroughly entertaining match.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 19 2011, 03:50 PM

The play-offs are often some of the best games of the season. The three so far have been fantastic and I don't expect anything less tonight, with Peterbrough 3-2 down from the first leg!

Posted by: Damon May 19 2011, 03:55 PM

Don't know what to expect tonight, I think if Posh haven't scored in the first 15-20mins, MK will start to defend and time waste very early on, it's the way they play. They were even doing it at 3-1 in the first leg after we had a man sent off, when they was killing us beforehand and should have scored more!

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 19 2011, 11:15 PM

I missed most of the.first half but saw the rest. What a cracking match. Shame about the result though. Spare a thought for BBC South. They showed a highlights programme which started less than ten minutes after the end of the penalties. The presenting team hadn't even seen the penalties as they had to prepare for the start of the show.

Posted by: Damon May 20 2011, 09:49 PM

Woo playoff final! Seen lots of people on the net saying they reckon Huddersfield are going to win easily, not particularly sure why. Hope it's a good game

Posted by: Rooney May 21 2011, 11:58 AM

Luton vs Wimbledon today!

Really hate Luton Town, I'd go as far to say they're my most hated club, but if York want to have a chance of automatic promotion next season then Luton need to go up. I think the whole of England is cheering Wimbledon on though. Would be absolutely massive if they were promoted in to the football league.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 21 2011, 12:32 PM

I would prefer Luton to go up. They're a big club who deserve to be in the league, and it will be nice to see them return after their three successive relegations where they never really stood a chance.

Posted by: Rooney May 22 2011, 10:58 AM

WIMBLEDON

I hate Luton for the events of May 2010, but finally now I hope their fans can realise that the Conference is not an easy league to get out of. They may as well start calling the Conference League 3!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 22 2011, 01:51 PM

Manchester United team today:

Van der Sar
Brown
Evra
Smalling
Evans
Scholes
Fletcher
Nani
Top Flight Premiership Footballer
Anderson
Berbatov

Posted by: JamesP May 22 2011, 01:57 PM

I LOL'D

Posted by: Rooney May 22 2011, 02:01 PM

LOL!

Surprising. I thought Fergie might have rested one or two more. If Giggs keeps playing on next season, dear me is he going to get some banter!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 22 2011, 02:03 PM

I've no idea if that's the team or not lol it's just funny!

Posted by: JamesP May 22 2011, 04:58 PM

Blackpool

Posted by: truly talented May 22 2011, 05:50 PM

So happy to see Sunderland top 10, two places above the Mags.

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 22 2011, 05:59 PM

Shame about Blackpool A real roller-coaster of an afternoon though.

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 22 2011, 06:00 PM

And for Arsenal finishing fourth in what was a three horse race only a few weeks ago.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 22 2011, 06:50 PM

What an afternoon!

As a Forest fan I'm so glad, I don't think I'll ever cheer a Wolves goal again that much. I'm positive they would walk that league if they went down. Birmingham on the other hand, are in Europe which will hopefully distract, and so many of their squad are either on loan or out of contract. And their strikeforce is terrible, even ours without Boyd is better! Blackpool without Adam and Vaughan will be nothing, and even they might get into the Europa League as Gera got sent off for Fulham!

Posted by: ukchartstatsfan May 22 2011, 07:11 PM

Chelsea have just sacked Carlo Ancelotti.

Because he has failed their season's expectations.

More information on this: Statement from the club:
http://www.chelseafc.com/page/LatestNews/0,,10268~2364758,00.html

Posted by: Sabrina. May 22 2011, 07:24 PM

They'll continue to do the same every season until they win the Champions League. I can't see them winning it very soon though when they've got the likes of Barcelona to compete with

I have a feeling that Rafa Benitez may get the job now. They may feel he'll be able to get Torres at his best again

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 22 2011, 07:30 PM

And in other news, the Pope said mass today.

Posted by: Rooney May 22 2011, 11:40 PM

Delighted Wolves stayed up. Glad Birmingham went down with their boring ultra-defensive anti-football style of play. Both Blackpool and Birmingham will struggle. I think the likes of DJ Campell, Adam, Garnder, Dann, Foster, Vaughan etc. will leave. Don't think either team will be troubling the Championship next season.

No surprise really Abramovic has spat his dummy out again is it? He's bloody obsessed with that Champions League title. Most Chelsea fans I've seen on the inernet seem gutted Ancellotti has gone. Expect he'll go for Van Basten or Rijjkard, or if he's feeling a bit optimstic Villa-Boas from Porto. Hope they screw up whatever happens. The new manager will have some serious work to do with that squad, it's in major need of an over-haul.

And LOL at Arsenal. They even bottled automatic Champions League qualification. I really think they'll struggle next season. I'm already waiting for the inevitable Fabregas-Barca-Arsenal circus. I think they should just cash in on him, and keep Nasri (as both players will not be at the club for the start of the new season), then invest in some experienced players...

Posted by: Y!kes May 22 2011, 11:49 PM

10th, not a bad season all things considered.

Two new strikers, a centre back and a couple of new fullbacks and N'Zogbia from Wigan this summer please Brucey.

Posted by: MancunianGiraffe May 23 2011, 05:09 PM

Surely Abramovich isn't that stupid there was talk recently of Hiddink coming back with Zola as his assistant - but then again, there's also been talk of Ancelotti joining West Ham

Posted by: Rooney May 23 2011, 06:37 PM

Rafa Benitez is a great manager. He gets slated far too much. Zonal marking is not a bad system. "Rotation" is used by just about every manager out there, and notice Man Utd have become better in Europe since Fergie started following Rafa's tactics, cheap!

Pretty sure Chelsea will get Hiddink. Villa-Boas would be a great appointment though. He was Mourinho's assistant at Porto, and his win rate is something like 70%. Amazing.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 23 2011, 07:21 PM

1 FC Porto 30 27 3 0 73 16 84

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 23 2011, 07:26 PM

I think that counts as quite a good season

Posted by: Damon May 28 2011, 04:09 PM

I bet £5 with a mate after a couple of games gone this season that Stevenage would get relegated...... That went exceedingly well.

Posted by: Rooney May 28 2011, 04:24 PM

I'm delighted for Stevenage. To me it just proves how strong a league the Conference is these days. The top 7/8 teams could EASILY compete in League Two. Crawley will be a short price to go up, but Wimbledon will be an extremely good e/w shout to go up next season as well.

Posted by: Damon May 29 2011, 04:17 AM

Setting off at 6 for Huddersfield v Peterborough! Going so early because we've got to go right up to Middlesbrough to get my mate's brother from Uni haha. I've had about 2 hours sleep so i'm sure the day will be fantastic

Look out for me on TV =D

Posted by: MancunianGiraffe May 29 2011, 09:20 AM

Either Hiddink or Villas-Boas would be excellent. I'm still in the dark as to who we're going to appoint, I've been pushing for Bilic the last two times we've been in this situation but really I want Curbishley back. Poyet could be interesting, apparently Allardyce is the favourite.

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 29 2011, 09:55 AM

Hands off Poyet

Posted by: MancunianGiraffe May 29 2011, 09:57 AM

In reality, how much do you rate him? I don't know a lot about how he's done, I've just heard he's a great up-and-coming manager.

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 29 2011, 10:11 AM

When he took over Brighton were battling against relegation to the fourth division. He kept us up and then won promotion - comfortably - in his first full season. There is now a waiting list for season tickets at the new stadium. What's not to like? If Brighton look set for a mid-table position then Poyet is bound to get offers from other clubs. I just hope he stays for a few seasons to take up the challenge of getting us back into the top division.

Posted by: Rooney May 29 2011, 11:29 AM

New West Ham manager is Allardyce. It's as good as confirmed. Awful choice. West Ham traditionally play football. Carlton Cole is definitely going to become the new Kevin Davies.

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 29 2011, 02:24 PM

I can't see the average West Ham fan being happy with Allardyce.

Posted by: Damon May 29 2011, 09:59 PM

WOO.

Posted by: Thomsen May 29 2011, 10:24 PM

Posted by: MancunianGiraffe May 29 2011, 11:34 PM

He'll do a job, that's all we need right now. We're going under if we don't come back up before the parachute payments stop.

Posted by: JamesP May 30 2011, 04:31 PM

What a fucking brilliant playoff final. These last two years have really turned the playoffs from cagey affairs into exciting, fast paced matches.

And look at the positives, with Swansea promoted to the Premier League, Liverpool can finally fulfill their dream of playing in Europe next season

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 30 2011, 04:35 PM

Play-offs are always exciting. I'm pleased for Swansea because they are a great side and do deserve it. The Englishman in me would've prefered Reading to go up, however the Forest fan in me is pleased it was Swansea.

Posted by: Rooney May 30 2011, 04:38 PM

f***s sake. Backed Reading to win at half-time at 0-3 down, gutting!!!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat May 30 2011, 04:40 PM

What were the odds? I used my Will Hill free bet on Reading pre-match.

Posted by: Rooney May 30 2011, 04:55 PM

Got 65/1 for the draw and 102/1 for the win on Betfair at one point. Btw has anyone heared of Betclick? They're offering a £20 free bet and a 3 month premium spotify account for free if you stake £20.

Posted by: Rooney May 30 2011, 09:55 PM

The M1 must have been busy today

Posted by: lee wallace May 31 2011, 12:39 AM

I really wanted Reading to go up!

Posted by: Suedehead2 May 31 2011, 10:14 AM

To nobody's surprise Paul Scholes has announced his retirement. A great little player, it's a shame he retired from international football when he did.

Posted by: Grandwicky May 31 2011, 10:52 AM

Erm..



Get your facts straight please

Posted by: JamesP May 31 2011, 10:59 AM

Pictures are too easily manipulated for me to take either of those images seriously. But LOL at Nicky owning Rooney all the same.

Posted by: Rooney May 31 2011, 12:58 PM

lol in all seriousness they were expecting 150,000, and not even half of that amount turned up.

No surprise Scholes has retired. Very good player, An almighty twat, but a good player.

Posted by: Grandwicky May 31 2011, 11:39 PM

The lowest figure I've seen is 100,000 from The Guardian Every other place said around 150,000. I don't see exactly where people are gonna stand in your United picture anyway.

Posted by: Rooney May 31 2011, 11:59 PM

^Because it was a tour of the city What good is a tour bus going round the city if there's nobody actually there. I bet the escorts had a brilliant time though!

I can't find the article on the support. It was a good turnout, but you would have expected there to be a parade since Man Utd have just become the club with the most league title wins...

Posted by: Rooney Jun 1 2011, 12:09 AM

From the Manchester Evening News

About 1,500 people from Manchester and Salford took part in the Whit Walks after the start was delayed owing to United’s parade along Deansgate."

"Anticipated crowds of up to 150,000 failed to materialise as driving rain coupled with the Reds’ loss to Barcelona in Saturday's Champions League final hit numbers.

No arrests were made – and supporters were praised by Assistant Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, who oversaw the police operation from GMP’s Sedgley Park command centre.

He said: "We were really pleased with how it went. There were no arrests and everyone behaved incredibly well. Although the numbers were considerably less than we expected it’s testimony to the fans that they have turned out in their thousands on what has been a pretty miserable, wet day in Manchester."

Police were reluctant to release a figure of those who attended the United parade, describing it as ‘in the tens of thousands’.

and The Mirror


Manchester United paraded their Premier League trophy through rain-soaked Manchester today - and were stung by claims of a low turnout.

Appalling weather conditions and the fall-out from Saturday's Champions League defeat by Barcelona meant many supporters stayed away.

The crowds were nothing like the estimated 1million who welcomed treble winners United home to Manchester in 1999 - and looked to have been beaten by the 50,000-plus who packed the streets to hail Manchester City's FA Cup parade a week earlier.

Although police had staffed up for a 150,000-strong crowd, some attendees put the numbers at around 25,000, with most in the Old Trafford area. Others claimed 40,000 had showed up, despite the adverse weather.

dont know what the Guardian writers must have been smoking! probably still in shock from the weekend!!

Posted by: Suedehead2 Jun 2 2011, 05:22 PM

Mark Hughes has resigned as manager of Fulham. I wonder who the next Aston Villa manager will be

Posted by: Rooney Jun 2 2011, 06:27 PM

I always thought Mark Hughes was on a one-year contract anyway?

I wonder who Fulham will get.

Posted by: Sabrina. Jun 2 2011, 08:03 PM

LOL at a comment from a Fulham fan read out on Sky Sports News.. "I hope Mark Hughes does as well at Aston Villa as Hodgson did at Liverpool"

Posted by: Suedehead2 Jun 2 2011, 08:14 PM

As a Brighton fan I know how they feel. We have lost several good managers (Steve Coppell, Peter Taylor etc.) because they have been poached by bigger clubs. I've never blamed the managers. They have just as much right to do what they think is best for their career as you and I.

Posted by: C H A R L I E ? Jun 7 2011, 01:03 PM

Martin Jol joined Fulham - good appointment IMO.

Posted by: Y!kes Jun 17 2011, 01:24 PM

Fixtures released. Liverpool away on the opening day followed by the derby at home. Two football clubs I can't stand, it's shaping up to be a good season.

Posted by: JamesP Jun 17 2011, 01:40 PM

Opening Day Premiership games:

Blackburn v Wolverhampton, 15:00
Fulham v Aston Villa, 15:00
Liverpool v Sunderland, 15:00
Man City v Swansea, 15:00
Newcastle v Arsenal, 15:00
QPR v Bolton, 15:00
Stoke v Chelsea, 15:00
Tottenham v Everton, 15:00
West Brom v Man Utd, 15:00
Wigan v Norwich, 15:00

Posted by: Suedehead2 Jun 17 2011, 01:42 PM

Brighton's first game is at home to Doncaster. So the first competitive match at the new stadium will be against the same opponents as the last visitors to the Goldstone Ground in 1997. The next home game is in the League Cup against Gillingham, Brighton's landlords for a couple years after leaving the Goldstone Ground.

Posted by: Rooney Jun 17 2011, 01:49 PM

I wonder which games Sky will choose? Spurs vs Everton and Man City vs Swansea look big candidates.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Jun 17 2011, 05:09 PM

I'd predict the games involving Man Utd, Arsenal, Spurs and Man City will be the four TV games that weekend.

Posted by: Damon Jun 17 2011, 10:25 PM

Very happy with Peterborough's first 2 games, Palace at home for game 1 is one of the best starts we could have hoped for, and then anything could happen away at Blackpool, probably a 5-5 draw

Posted by: Sabrina. Jun 18 2011, 11:56 AM

Happy with Sunderland at home as an opening fixture. Will probably be a good time to play Arsenal 2nd too as they'll have their champions league qualifying matches around then too

Posted by: C H A R L I E ? Jun 18 2011, 12:10 PM

Home to Cardiff first up, that'll be a good test for us.

Posted by: Damon Aug 6 2011, 11:54 AM

Anyone off to a game today? I'm heading off to Peterborough v Crystal Palace in a while, not expecting much from this season at all. Needed to spend a fair bit of money to compete in this league, but not much has been going on really, only 1 player has been signed for money

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 6 2011, 12:33 PM

It's hard to see Peterborough having anything other than a struggle this season, although it's a decent game to start with.

On my way to Forest now, buzzing this morning that it's arrived!

Posted by: Rooney Aug 6 2011, 01:22 PM

Wish I was! Conference season doesn't start until next week though. So jealous of all the football league fans today!

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 6 2011, 05:20 PM

Glad that everything's nearly underway again but Liverpool away's hardly got me jizzing my pants with excitement. The season for me starts properly on the 20th.

Posted by: grebo69 Aug 6 2011, 06:09 PM

Currently very happy Barnet have actually won on the first day of the season, and an away win at that.

Posted by: Flatcap Aug 6 2011, 06:09 PM

Not a good start to put it politely. 3-0 defeat at home to Notts County.

Posted by: RC741 Aug 6 2011, 09:53 PM

Brilliant start for Derby, 2-1 win against Birmingham

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 7 2011, 01:09 AM

And a win at the new stadium for Brighton

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 7 2011, 01:15 AM

And we drew 0-0 with Hibs in an appallingly poor game and our final pre-season friendly, after which the Hibs fans started going apeshit, culminating in trouble in the city centre and sparking rumours of two of our fans being stabbed

Posted by: Sabrina. Aug 7 2011, 08:51 AM

For once Liverpool don't concede 3 goals in a pre-season match

Lose to Hull City and Vallerenga's B Team, but win and get a clean sheet vs. Valencia? How does that work

Posted by: C H A R L I E ? Aug 7 2011, 01:58 PM

f***ing hell, I just knew we'd lose it at the death. Dave Jones looking rather smug in the studio, we should have put two or three past Cardiff before they scored.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 7 2011, 02:04 PM

Pre-seasons a load of nonsense. I hate it, especially in this modern age. I remember when Spurs had that brilliant season and Craig was proclaiming Spurs were going to be challening for the title ...instead they were involved in a relegation battle for a good few months!

Posted by: Damon Aug 7 2011, 02:04 PM

5th in the league, going up again ha. Can't believe how poor Crystal Palace were, I knew they weren't likely to be anything special but Posh dominated, double the amount of chances and over 60% possession. Great start!

Posted by: Rooney Aug 7 2011, 02:27 PM

Is de Gea usually this shit? Cos at the moment he's looking like a de Failure.

Surprised Arsenal missed out on him tbqh!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 7 2011, 04:24 PM

Amusing that the United fans on Twitter at half time were saying the Community Shield is a nothing trophy and the game doesn't matter were at full time celebrating as if they'd just won the title again.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 7 2011, 05:04 PM

Man City will never win the league under Mancini. There's a mentality problem with them. Man Utd were good in the 2nd half, but Man City just let them take control of the midfield. Mchael Jackson (nani) had a bloody field day. No wonder Man City are interested in Sneidjer.

Posted by: JamesP Aug 7 2011, 06:25 PM

HEY NANI NANI

Posted by: Sabrina. Aug 7 2011, 08:18 PM

It shows that having all the money in the world can't buy you the league if you have the wrong manager/tactics and a lack of team spirit

Probably was wrong having City winning the league in the Prediction thread..Although, I'd like to see Aguero in the team before I change that and see if they do bring in anymore players

Posted by: JamesP Aug 7 2011, 08:19 PM

We were insane today. Anyone who says we didn't deserve to win is mad.

Young was on fire, the young players have stepped up incredibly, and just generally we've stepped up so far from our style of play last season. The second goal was pure CLASS. Honestly something you would see from Barca.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 7 2011, 08:56 PM

They must have got the hairdryer treatment from Fergie as Man Utd stepped it up a gear second half. Man City looked tired and jadded in the second half. Both De Jong and Toure looked knackered. The Man Utd players were clearly much fitter. Is premature to judge though as it was a derby game at the end of the day.

de Gea looks like a bit of a mess though. Should have done much better on both the goals. Think he'll be a liability until he settles in fully.

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 7 2011, 09:00 PM

Bit harsh. He couldn't do much for the first goal, United's defence was far too deep so he couldn't have came out for it, but yeah he didn't cover himself in glory for City's second. A keeper shouldn't be getting beaten from that sort of distance, especially when the shot is straight down the middle. I think he'll be fine.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 7 2011, 09:36 PM

I read earlier that last season in La Liga he conceded the most goals from outside the penalty box. It'll be something teams will try to exploit. He'll be a good keeper, as he is. But he was very jittery in the first half. Perhaps it was nerves idk. Couldn't judge in the second half as City only had 1/2 shots on target and they were blasted (wastefully) straight at the keeper.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 7 2011, 10:47 PM

Amusing yes. However, I'm sure Man U fans will have got a lot of satisfaction from coming from 2-0 down against City to win 3-2 even in a meaningless match.

Posted by: JamesP Aug 8 2011, 07:23 AM

BLUE MOON
YOU STARTED SINGING TOO SOON
YOU HAD A TWO GOAL HEAD START
THEN WE PUT THREE PAST JOE HART

Posted by: Sabrina. Aug 8 2011, 08:28 AM

I wouldn't really judge De Gea based on one game. Still think he'll be very good in years to come, but he was always going to be nervous playing one of his very first matches for United at Wembley. Looked very good playing for Spain earlier this Summer

Just switched on Sky Sports News though. United bias begins Please stop talking about them for once !

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 9 2011, 11:41 PM

The Forest vs. Notts County match tonight is probably the best I've ever been to. Seeing your centre-half send a thumping volley into the top corner from 30 yards out in the 123rd minute to equalise really is the stuff of dreams, and then to top it off the thug Lee Hughes had a chance to win for Notts but blazed his penalty well over the bar.

A superb game to watch, brilliant stuff! One for people to catch the highlights off definitely!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 11 2011, 10:42 AM

Tottenham vs. Everton postponed.

Posted by: ramseydawson Aug 11 2011, 10:50 AM

it looks like arsenal won't score against united since we never shoot outside the box

Posted by: Rooney Aug 11 2011, 04:26 PM

Expected really.

So excited for the season now!

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 11 2011, 04:40 PM

Not excited for the first day of the season at all really. Matches at Anfield are usually non-events, although it's nice to finally get the season underway again. The season starts properly on the 20th, buzzing for this season's derbies.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 13 2011, 03:57 PM

Blackburn1-2Wolves
Fulham0-0Aston Villa
Liverpool1-1Sunderland
QPR0-4Bolton
Wigan1-1Norwich

Pleased to see Blackburn lose and Wolves win, Kieran Dyer stretchered off after 5 minutes with a broken foot

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 13 2011, 03:59 PM

1-1 and could have nicked all 3 points, very solid display and a good way to kick off our season. Shame that horrid little prick Suarez scored but it was good to see he missed the penalty. Also, what a goal from Larsson, magic. Wes Brown man of the match by a country mile.

All in all a good day at the office, stands us in good stead for next weekend. Fucking bring it on

Posted by: Klumzee Aug 13 2011, 04:01 PM

Surprised Bolton won by that much! But the rest of the results were fairly predictable.

Posted by: Flatcap Aug 13 2011, 05:10 PM

Carlisle pick up their first league win with their first league goals of the season.

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 13 2011, 06:52 PM

Newcastle v Arsenal ended 0-0, a dull, dull, dull game brought to life by a mass handbagging session. Really wish Song had stamped harder on Barton's leg. And Steven Taylor's face.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 13 2011, 08:26 PM

Looks like Sunderland fitness levels were a lot better than Liverpool's. Didn't see the game, but looking at the team sheet I think Dalglish got the team wrong. Some odd selections considering all things. I guess those players will all be the better for it now though.

Disappointing not to get 3 points, but all in all it's the first game of the season so not going to moan, and besides it could be worse - could be Arsenal

Posted by: Sabrina. Aug 13 2011, 10:43 PM

We were very strong in the first half. Suarez should have scored his penalty, Carroll had a goal disallowed and Downing had a brilliant run and shot at goal.. Would have been a contender for goal of the season imo if it'd gone in

The second half we were poor and in the end Sunderland probably did deserve the point

Kenny definately made a mistake in playing Henderson instead of Kuyt and Flanagan instead of Kelly. You could tell they were nervous and we needed a little more experience

Hoping for a better overall performance vs. Arsenal especially considering they'll be without Wilshere, Nasri, Fabregas, Gervinho and Song

Posted by: Klumzee Aug 14 2011, 01:13 PM

Wigan and Norwich both looked very poor yesterday, and both the goals came from defensive mistakes. I reckon they'll both be relegated.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 14 2011, 02:47 PM

Stoke 0-0 Chelsea

What's the betting Man Utd come and win 5-0 now and Tom Cleverly solves world hunger...

Posted by: Sabrina. Aug 14 2011, 03:15 PM

1 goal. 4 more to go

Posted by: Rooney Aug 14 2011, 05:04 PM

Going to be an interesting season.

de Gea is absolutely useless. Going to be a huge liability.
Man Utd have no presence in central midfield.
Ben Foster is diabolical.
Sky Sports parading Ashley Young as the third coming of Jesus.

Just a shame every other team is still as shit!

Posted by: Sabrina. Aug 14 2011, 05:15 PM

De Gea is lucky he's at United where their more than capable of scoring to make up for his mistakes

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 14 2011, 05:49 PM

Fucking Ashley Young, would have had a perfect 1-1 prediction if he hadn't scored

Posted by: Rooney Aug 14 2011, 05:53 PM

I had £10 @ 13/2 for a 1-1 full-time scorline! Jammy deflected goal. Just my luck.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 14 2011, 06:20 PM

Man U took a long time to find a proper replacement for Schmeichel. If today's blunder is anything to go by, they could be in for another long search.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 14 2011, 06:23 PM

Ashley Young is quality. I think he will do better than both Nani and Valencia, £16m or whatever it was is an absolute steal. I'd put money on him having the highest number of assists this season.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 14 2011, 06:39 PM

Really? I thought he was average today. I know everytime what he's going to do with the ball everytime he recieves it out wide. Complete one-trick pony. Better defences will find him out, and definitely not give him anywhere near as much space as he got today. He was Man Utd's best player today, but no-one really stood out from any team

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 14 2011, 06:43 PM

I've not seen him today but he's always been excellent. An average of 13 PL assists in each of his four Villa seasons, and that's supplying to Heskey, Carew and Agbonlahor! I can only see him getting more in United's team. He doesn't have that much about his game, I agree, but him and Johnson are easily the two best English wingers.

Posted by: JamesP Aug 15 2011, 08:52 PM

So Sergio Aguero is fucking terrifying.

Posted by: C H A R L I E ? Aug 15 2011, 08:53 PM

Aguero looks rather good... Chelsea I think will be breathing down United's necks if Torres starts scoring.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 15 2011, 08:54 PM

It would appear so. Two goals and an assist in a 30 minute debut...

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 15 2011, 08:56 PM

Tonight's lineup shows how little Swansea have strengthened when Augustien (who?) played all 90 minutes and yet in the Championship couldn't get in their team and was farmed out on load to Crystal Palace.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 15 2011, 08:57 PM

Might change my prediction now, reckon Man City will win the league! Aguero looks mental. Going to get them so many crucial goals as long as he stays fit. If they get Nasri they're going to be unbelievable:

De Jong Toure
Nasri Aguero Silva
Dzeko

Then the likes of Ballotelli, Johnson, Milner on the bench.

Bloody hell!

Posted by: JamesP Aug 15 2011, 08:58 PM

I don't think you can really say that yet. Swansea were horrendous and were only at 0-0 at half time by pure luck and the class of their keeper. City will be top two, no doubt about that, but I just can't see them keeping up this performance all season. They'll crumble. If these words come back to haunt me I WILL TAKE IT.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 15 2011, 09:00 PM

Taylor

Onouha Savic Lescott Kolorov

Milner Zabaleta Barry Johnson

Balotelli Santa Cruz

Not bad for a second string XI

Posted by: Rooney Aug 15 2011, 09:05 PM

I thought Swansea were ok. They look dangerous at times. Kompany was an absolute rock for Man City tonight. Chelsea looked ok yesterday, but they lack a creative midfielder. I think they've all about given up on Modric. Perhaps Moutinho from Porto might come in, now Porto have signed that lad from Standard Liege. Aguero is absolute class, and Dzeko looks like a different player. I watched Man Utd yesterday and they didn't impress me at all. I know it's early in the season, but the central midfield looked very very weak, and if Fergie keeps playing Welbeck instead of Berbatov until Hernandez is fit again, well he's more of an idiot than I thought he was!

Posted by: Sabrina. Aug 15 2011, 09:16 PM

Aguero = Incredible

Watching the English Media go overboard over him now.. when he was world class at Atletico Madrid too

Man City have the ability to go and win the league, but if you look back to last year.. Chelsea were also winning matches 6 - 0 at the start

Posted by: C H A R L I E ? Aug 15 2011, 09:42 PM

Chelsea would have won the league at a canter but they had the form of a bottom half team from November until February. I think they and City will be pretty close in May.

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 15 2011, 10:31 PM

I want to see how Aguero performs away from home. He was immense tonight but let's be honest it was against a poor team and it was at home. Will be interesting to see how he does against the likes of Man Utd at Old Trafford or Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

If he can perform to a consistent level both home and away against all pedigree of team then fair play to him, City have one hell of a player on their books, but as good as his debut was i'm reserving judgement on him until i've seen him both home and away.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 15 2011, 10:52 PM

Aguero will piss this league. Mind you, considering he's on about £200k AFTER tax, he bloody well should be doing!

Posted by: Rooney Aug 16 2011, 04:11 PM

Eboue gone to Galatasary.

Gervinho has got a 3 match EPL ban. Song is suspended. Next foour games are: Udinese (x2), Liverpool and Man Utd.

Things don't look too good at the moment for Arsenal! I'd be pissed if I was Van Persie.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 16 2011, 04:14 PM

And on top of that Wilshere is injured, Diaby injured, Rosicky faces a fitness test before tonight, Vela's off to Sociedad, Chichy, Fabregas and Denilson have all gone. RVP and Nasri (not that it matters) suspended tonight!

He's got a lot of work to do before August ends.

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 16 2011, 04:15 PM

We're being linked with Kranjcar now, would like him here but i've no idea how we'd fit all these players into midfield without playing a 3-6-1 or something.

Also found out Howard Webb is the ref for the derby. Great.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 16 2011, 04:23 PM

Think he's going to struggle. They need to strengthen in a LOT of areas. I know for a fact that Arsenal won't spend all of the money they get for Fabregas and Nasri. Think they're going to struggle this season as they've not got much experience in their squad despite their fancy football.

I think loads of clubs buying midfielders (or wanting to) is cos a lot of teams are either wanting to play 4-3-3 or go back to the VERY traditional 4-4-2, not the modern day boring one. It's what Liverpool, Man Utd and Chelsea play at the moment.

On a side note, first home game of the season tonight for York We owe these Lancashire Hotpots a bloody good thrashing!

Posted by: C H A R L I E ? Aug 16 2011, 09:39 PM

BOOM, 4-0 at Watford. Season safely on track, that's the first time in four years that we've recorded back-to-back away wins

Posted by: Rooney Aug 16 2011, 09:48 PM

I love 5th tier football. The ball might aswell be the players!

Posted by: Damon Aug 17 2011, 08:54 PM

The Championship continues to be ridiculously unpredictable then!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 17 2011, 09:01 PM

It's ridiculous!

Derby, Brighton and Southampton the three teams with 100% records!

I'm so please Leicester have lost both home games though, and tonight to two Nicky Maynard goals. I just wish that for once Forest wouldn't still be in pre-season mode in August. We've got four points from three games, only once this century have we bettered that, which seems slightly ridiculous.

Posted by: Damon Aug 17 2011, 09:06 PM

I had a Cardiff/Leicester/Blackpool/Posh (out of hope) accumulator on, went amazingly well. Think I might have to give up the betting for a bit, and hope some sort of predictability starts happening soon

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 17 2011, 09:49 PM

My mother is a life-long Derby supporter so she's going to pretty pleased as well.

Apparently Brighton only had three shots on target tonight and scored from all of them That's what I call efficient

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 19 2011, 03:12 PM

So, so glad we're not back in the Championship. Seriously hate that league, awful.

The big one tomorrow, feeling optimistic although the usual bout of pre-derby jitters have been creeping in since mid-July. Been planning my weekend since a month ago, all it needs is the right result and I probably won't be seen again until Monday morning. Next Monday, that is.

Please don't let me down (Again) Sunderland

Posted by: Flatcap Aug 19 2011, 05:10 PM

Another weekend of football upon us. Hope Carlisle can improve their home form, they are unbeaten away so far this season.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 20 2011, 07:08 PM

Well I'm sure Damon will be happy as Ipswich add a 7-1 defeat at Peterborough to the 5-2 home defeat they got against Southampton in midweek.

Forest again utterly terrible but somehow managed to get a point, although that's because for all their money Leicester are equally as bad and there's a HILARIOUS sending off to watch if you can. Forest were awarded a penalty, Kasper Schmeichel wouldn't give the ball back to the Forest players and the ref booked him, however he'd turned around and said he hadn't realised he'd been booked, as we score the penalty he picks it up out of the back of the net and throws it in the direction of the stand picking up a second yellow barely a minute after his first. Cue much time wasting and injury feigning, mainly from John Pantsil, making sure a throw in he took didn't go in so he could take it again. Paul Konchesky seems to have got even worse since last season.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 20 2011, 07:31 PM

Sven's interview was a brilliant exercise in subtlety. A lesson in how to make it clear that you are angry with a player without actually saying so.

Posted by: RC741 Aug 20 2011, 11:19 PM

Your mum, like me, will be even more pleased now as Derby won again Brilliant 3-0 win against Doncaster and now up to 2nd!! Only behind on goal difference! Keep it up you Rams

Posted by: Sabrina. Aug 21 2011, 09:06 AM

Is that even possible ?

Still scares me thinking that he could have still been at Liverpool alongside the likes of Carlton Cole if Roy Hodgson was still in charge

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 21 2011, 11:04 AM

Derby have started well, four victores but against teams which aren't the strongest, away to Blackpool the only really impressive one. If they want to improve you have to be beating Birmingham and Doncaster at home. And let's not forget they had a great start last year playing even better, Burnley at home and Coventry away next. That's a good chance for six more points before the big game with Forest, I just hope we've improved a bit by then.



Oh he was terrible yesterday, McGugan, Majewski and Gunter ran rings around him in the second half, he looked like a pub player - completely out of his depth. I don't understand how he's fallen so much in such a short space of time. He'd always been a solid Premiership player, not Liverpool quality but for the teams he played for (Charlton, West Ham, Fulham) he was plenty good enough. When we had him last year he was OK but looked a Championship player whereas Shorey and Bertrand had looked like they were too good for this level.

Posted by: Damon Aug 21 2011, 12:28 PM

That was insane, I had no idea what was going on at half time. Best thing is it was 4-1 even before the first red, so i'm not sure that changed the game too much, although obviously the pressure was off in the 2nd half. Not going to get too carried away yet, just hope we can keep the home form up because I can't see us getting many points away from home.

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 21 2011, 02:30 PM

Bottled it. Again.

So fucking annoyed with Bruce. Why play so defensively/cautiously against a team that offered absolutely nothing in an attacking sense apart from set pieces/corners. Total shit yet again.

Posted by: C H A R L I E ? Aug 21 2011, 07:41 PM

Bloody Leeds. I'm a bit concerned with our lack of concentration at home, one point from two games isn't great. At least we've started showing our class away from the Boleyn Ground though.

Posted by: Flatcap Aug 21 2011, 08:03 PM

Carlisle picked up their first home win of the season, hope they can keep this up.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 21 2011, 08:20 PM

I've not seen any of the game, but Steve Bruce seems one of those managers that just doesn't want to lose. Now ok no managers want to lose, but he probably set out for the draw and then got screwed out of it.

Newcastle have f*** all in attack and are weak in defence. Why Bruce just didnt set out to capitulate them I'll never know.

Posted by: gilly010 Aug 21 2011, 10:26 PM

It makes you wonder how Newcastle managed to win 5-1 against Sunderland and 6-0 against Aston Villa last year

Posted by: Rooney Aug 21 2011, 10:35 PM

They've lost their talisman striker, and replaced him with Gabriel Obertan. I'm sure defences all around the country are quaking in their boots over a front three strike force of Obertan, Ranger and Ameobi.

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 23 2011, 02:13 PM

They've been up for it and we haven't. Simple as that.

So, so frustrating. Bruce is from here, you'd think he'd be more than capable of hammering home the importance of derbies to the players and yet he's had three cracks at it now and every time we've been awful. He's either over-awing them to the point of being scared or he's just not motivating them enough. I just can't fathom out how a team can go from disassembling Chelsea at Stamford Bridge to being so utterly shit in a game of such magnitude. Baffling.

Posted by: Severin Aug 23 2011, 05:25 PM

After the first few games have played out I'm predicting Swansea, Norwich and Blackburn to be relegated. Title will go to Manchester but which half I can't decide. Chelsea 3rd, Liverpool 4th.

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 23 2011, 11:17 PM

Proved once again tonight.

Sess as our forwardmost player, nobody up front but three strikers on the bench against a Championship side? I'm baffled, truly baffled.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 23 2011, 11:25 PM

Gotta admit if I was a fan I would be aswell. I thought you'd have a real go at the cup competitions this year cos it's not like you'll be in a relegation battle or anything. Very odd.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 23 2011, 11:37 PM

Sorry but as a Brighton fan all I can say is

Posted by: Sarah Aug 23 2011, 11:40 PM

I didn't think Brighton would win tonight but omg we did yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay (sorry) lol

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 23 2011, 11:45 PM

Sunderland only made three changes from their last league game so it's not like they put up a reserve team

Posted by: Sarah Aug 23 2011, 11:54 PM

Yeah their team looked strong so I thought we had no chance..oh how wrong was I? haha am sooooo gutted I couldn't go to the game..can't wait for the draw now

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 24 2011, 12:05 AM

Our team looked strong? er..

Bruce practically played a 2-8-0 and left umpteen-million pounds worth of striking options on the bench? I'll be honest, I fully expected us to go out tonight, Brighton are strong at home, they've got a bit of momentum behind them at the minute, everything's brilliant, yay etc; what I didn't expect was how we went out.

Currently we've got a team of young, talented players who don't know what they're supposed to be doing and a defensive, cautious manager who hasn't got the balls to take risks when needed and has absolutely no plan B (It could be argued he barely has a plan A but we'll leave it there).

A summer of optimism completely wiped out in the space of three days, cheers Steve.

Posted by: Y!kes Aug 27 2011, 04:18 PM

Another awful game, we could still be playing next week and we wouldn't have scored.

Not sure what's wrong with Gyan but he's all over the place atm, had a gilt-edged chance to roll Wickham in to score, he was completely free in the area but Gyan took it on himself and shot it straight at the keeper. Poor play, i'd drop him for Chelsea and start Wickham (If, of course we haven't brought in another striker), who at least looks enthusiastic and interested.

Posted by: Flatcap Aug 27 2011, 04:37 PM

Still unbeaten away from home for Carlisle and their second win on the bounce. Looks good now after a bad start against Notts County at home at the start of the season. Aldershot away in the Carling Cup midweek for us.

Brighton, newly promoted and at the top of the table? Have you gotten back to earth yet Suedehead?

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 27 2011, 05:17 PM

Not quite

And Liverpool at home coming up in the League Cup. That could make a double dose of Brighton on telly that week as the home game against Leeds is already scheduled for the Friday evening (23 Sep). That spoils an anniversary though as Brighton played Leeds on the day I was born (Sep 24 1960).

Posted by: Rooney Aug 27 2011, 05:23 PM

Really pleased for Brighton. I'm surprised they're doing so well, but they've an excellent manager in Poyet (he'll be a Premier League manager in a year whether it is with or without Brighton). Good draw in the league cup as well. Don't think they'll be getting past the third round tho I'm looking forward to the Leeds-Man Utd tie.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 27 2011, 05:55 PM

Losing the manager is always a worry. Poyet's name is bound to be mentioned when Premier League jobs become vacant. The big worry is that the Tottenham job comes up - either because Harry gets the England job next year or his court case goes horribly wrong for him. I'm sure that job would tempt him more than most.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 27 2011, 06:40 PM

I think Redknapp's going to be the FA's number one choice. I'm sure Poyet will be mentioned for the Spurs jon. Be interesting to see what happens. But he is a top manager.

Posted by: ROBOT Aug 27 2011, 07:17 PM

Absolutely delighted with the display from Liverpool today - I was really excited for this season with them, they didn't live up to it with Sunderland. The Arsenal match was a big improvement, but we really shone as a team of eleven today.

Suarez really is a star. Sometimes, people have the potential to be overrated by pundits and commentators - but he really does not stop from start to finish. He looks knackered after like 25 minutes, but is relentless for the whole time he's on the pitch. Superb.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 28 2011, 12:42 AM

Liverpool were very very good. Bolton were very very bad mind. Zat Knight is absolutely atrocious. Up there with the worst central defenders in the league. Liverpool just look so fluqid when Suarez and Kuyt play up front. The front 6 players were all deadly. Every time they advanced with the ball I thought they going to score! Suarez is something special. A born winner, you can see it in him. He hates not scoring though (as seen by today).

Posted by: Sarah Aug 28 2011, 01:30 AM

I can't believe we have Liverpool in Carling Cup thats us out next round!! lol so hope I can get to go to the game though

Another 3 points and top of the Championship..sooooo glad we are doing well..hopefully can keep it up!!

Posted by: Severin Aug 28 2011, 05:06 PM

All due respect for both London clubs but that was hilarious

Posted by: Matt Aloud Aug 28 2011, 05:11 PM

Manchester 13 - 3 North London

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 28 2011, 05:36 PM

As bad as Arsenal are they can throw as much money as they like at it and it won't help unless they sort out their two main problems; injuries and discipline. For years now they've had so many more injuries than all the other top teams. This surely isn't bad luck and it can't be coincidence either, it's something they have to sort. Two weeks into the season they were missing a whole team of players today, three games and three red cards plus another three match ban and Arshavin should've gone today too by all accounts. It's been their problem for such a long time today, they have to sort it. It's surely more of a priority than signing a defender because it's a long-term problem.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 28 2011, 07:25 PM

Well they want Cahill, but imo he's very very average. Certainly not worth the money that's been talked about. Only a few days left of the trasfer window and I don't see them re-investing the money from the two big sales. 8-2 is a very good score, and most United fans I've seen so far have been wanking themselves silly. Of course they deserve all the plaudits, but Arsenal are a mid-table team at the moment AT BEST. They're missing so many players through injury and suspension.

There's a long way to go, but I'd be very surprised if they finished in the Top 4.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 28 2011, 07:55 PM

If I heard right that's the first time Arsenal have conceded eight goals in a match since 1896

Two very odd Manchester v North London games today. City won comfortably not because Tottenham were bad (they weren't) but because they themselves were very good. United weren't that good but Arsenal were very poor and disorganised.

As for their discipline problem, there was a time when they seemed to have sorted themselves out. It started around the time that they got their 50th red card under Wenger and all the bad publicity that stemmed from that. It seemed to shame him into doing something about it. Now things have deteriorated again. OK so today's red card for Jenkinson was for two yellows (both correct decisions) but played 3, red cards 3 (with another retrospective one) is an atrocious start.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 28 2011, 07:59 PM

By leaving it so late in the transfer window Arsenal were always risking seeing prices rise. After today's humiliation, potential sellers will see an opportunity to increase the asking price even more.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 28 2011, 08:05 PM

A lot of it is Wenger's philosophy. He pisses about signing players like Walcott (who's a one-trick pony) and Oxdale-Chameberlain. He needs some experience in his team, as those players took one hell of a beating today. The other side of North London will be happy that Arsenal's humiliation has kept them off the back of the press tomorrow. Arsenal need 2/3 players, although Man Utd today beat an Arsenal reserve team.

Redknapp continues to be a bloody fool as well. Single-handedly destroying Spurs by not letting Modric go. The guy's a bloody idiot.

Posted by: JamesP Aug 28 2011, 10:31 PM

I'd 8-2 be an Arsenal fan right now....

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 28 2011, 11:19 PM

Posted by: Sabrina. Aug 29 2011, 10:08 AM

Awful performance from Arsenal

People will say they had a young/reserve team out, but Coquelin is probably the only player included that you could say isn't 2nd choice. The rest will all play a significant part in the season e.g. injuries to Gibbs/Sagna meaning Traore/Jenkinson are next in line

Edit: and just as I post that I see that Traore is having a medical at QPR today

Posted by: Alias Aug 29 2011, 03:18 PM

I f***ing hate Arsenal, I really do.

Posted by: Rooney Aug 29 2011, 08:53 PM

To be fair to Arsenal they were lacking a lot of players. Their defending really was schoolboyish. It was an amatuerish performance despite how good Man Utd's goals were!

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 29 2011, 09:22 PM

OTOH, three of the missing players were missing because they were suspended. That's not down to bad luck.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 29 2011, 09:29 PM

As I said yesterday though, I don't even think injuries there are bad luck. They never have a full squad. Diaby, Walcott and Van Persie are constantly getting injured, it can't all be down to luck, other clubs suffer but never seems to be either at the same level or for the same length of time. It would be nice to actually see them put out a first choice XI once in a while!

Posted by: Suedehead2 Aug 29 2011, 10:28 PM

It has been pointed out on ESPN that Man U's starting line-up yesterday contained only two of the players who started against Barcelona in the Champions League final. It was also pointed out in the post-match discussion yesterday that the average age both sides' starting 11 was the same, 23.

Posted by: gilly010 Aug 29 2011, 11:12 PM

I think United look a lot better than last year. They seem to have found the formula where they are able to dominate games with free flowing football and score lots of goals. I'm not saying they didn't do that last year, I'm just saying that they haven't seemed to have had to scrap in matches and rely on a late goal from hernandez or whatever to secure a win. It looks like they are back to the 2007/2008 days when they seemed unstoppable

Posted by: Sabrina. Aug 30 2011, 05:56 AM

Even without some of their first team players, they still shouldn't be losing 8 - 2

When a player gets injured, it just seems to be used as an excuse for their performances. Jenkinson and Traore were 2nd choice and should be able to come in and do the job. Just like Jones and Evans did with Vidic and Ferdinand out


West Brom

Reid own goal. 81st minute

Posted by: Rooney Aug 30 2011, 09:34 PM

^Man Utd look very good, and if they're allowed to dictate play then they will, but so far they've not really been tested imo. I don't believe they're stronger then last season. I think their defence is very suspect, Arsenal could have had 3/4 goals past Man Utd. And their central midfield is still awful. If they win the league then I'll hold my hands up and say I was wrong, but a central midfield of Cleverly, Anderson and Carrick is very average. They're missing a top central midfielder still.

Posted by: JamesP Aug 31 2011, 10:58 AM

SO

A little while ago SSN said they had some "very exciting news for United fans", the Web Editor has put on Twitter they're trying to firm it up but it's very big news and Sky's odds on Sneidjer leaving Inter have gone from 7/4 to 11/10 in the last 5 minutes.

FUCK YES

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Aug 31 2011, 11:01 AM

To be honest I'd imagine it's one arm of Sky helping another make some money.

Posted by: JamesP Aug 31 2011, 11:09 AM

From The Telegraph:

11.41 EXCITING RUMOUR ALERT: Wesley Sneijder is on his way to Manchester United for a medical. Telegraph deadline rumours.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Sep 1 2011, 10:13 PM

At least three papers running tomorrow with Steve McClaren resigning....

Posted by: Suedehead2 Sep 1 2011, 10:47 PM

Because he was promised money to spend which wasn't forthcoming?

If it's true then hands off Poyet.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Sep 2 2011, 09:02 AM

It ended up in pretty much every national paper the country has so it's almost certainly true that he's considering it, I just hope he either doesn't or goes this weekend so we might at least have someone in charge for the Southampton game next weekend. I honestly can't see us getting Poyet, I think it would be very much a step sideways and given the circumstances two managers would've left in in the space of the year I don't even know who'd want it. The only NPC manager I think we might possibly have a chance of getting is O'Driscoll - can he really take Doncaster any further?

But you're right about why, he was promised funds to strengthen and he's obviously not had as much as promised. We've spent a net £2m and signed 5 players, but I can't really say they've been the right ones. There aren't many teams in the division who've spent that anyway, maybe just Leicester to be honest and possibly Brighton. Most teams who have spent have also sold players, Brighton (Bennett), Cardiff (Chopra), Ipswich (Wickham), Southampton (Chaimberlain), West Ham (Parker, Ba, Stanislas). He's spent it all on central midfielders and strikers which has made an unbalanced squad even more unbalanced even if what has come in is better than what's gone out. The attacking trio of Derbyshire, Findley and Miller is better than the Boyd, Earnshaw and Adebola one of last year. I'd rather have Reid than Tyson and Greening than McKenna, we've also lost Konchesky (who really is no loss at all), Wilson (half a dozen games last season, didn't play after about October), Garner (on loan all season), Rodney (two sub apps in his career) and Bennett (3 sub apps in 2 1/2 years) so I don't really count those last four as losses. A squad of 22/23 isn't even low for the NPC, we just have very little balance in the squad, how can you compete with more strikers than defenders? We were about to sign Wesley Verhoek for £2m four weeks ago, what happened to that money?

I wouldn't blame him if he left but I think he should stay to prove his credentials. Realistically the squad he has is just as good if not better than it has been in the last two seasons so it should really at least challenge for a play-off position, but I think he might be scared of failure.

Posted by: Damon Sep 2 2011, 10:46 PM

Anyone off to a game tomorrow? I'm using the offer on my Peterborough season ticket and going to watch Histon for free, at home to Stalybridge. Think it's part of some non-league day, no idea if other Prem/Championship clubs are doing it?

Posted by: Rooney Sep 2 2011, 10:51 PM

I would be watching York tomorrow, but I think we must be the only club outside of the top two divisions to have had our game postponed because of international call-ups!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Sep 5 2011, 06:37 PM

After various reports over the weekend saying he'd quite football to look after his sick son who'd been diagnosed with cancer, Steed Malbranque's lawyers have issued a statement saying he doesn't have a son.

Posted by: ramseydawson Sep 5 2011, 09:29 PM

i cant believe arsenals bad start its just awful nd crewe's wats happened 2 them both

Posted by: JamesP Sep 5 2011, 09:34 PM

Oh GOD, do you live in or near Crewe? I dread to think that we live near each other...

Posted by: ramseydawson Sep 5 2011, 09:52 PM

yeh i do live in crewe do u have a prob wit that

Posted by: JamesP Sep 10 2011, 06:11 PM

WHO THE FUCK ARE MAN UNITED?

Posted by: Sabrina. Sep 10 2011, 10:16 PM

I still don't know how Liverpool didn't win today

Expected a lot more from Stoke on the attacking front, but it was just 10 men behind the ball after the penalty

& I really have no idea who'll win the PL out of Man City & United.. Should be an interesting season

Posted by: Suedehead2 Sep 10 2011, 10:28 PM

And, so far, Wayne Rooney has scored more goals than any club except Man C and, obviously, Man U.

Posted by: Y!kes Sep 11 2011, 07:56 PM

Dear lord, we are shit. Long hard season ahead methinks.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Sep 16 2011, 06:08 PM

I know how you feel. We're at home to Derby tomorrow. If we don't win then shit gon' go down.

Posted by: Flatcap Sep 17 2011, 06:26 PM

Disappointing run lately for Carlisle, thought we had turned the corner on Tuesday against Tranmere. Sadly not.

Posted by: Sabrina. Sep 17 2011, 07:04 PM

Arsenal = fail

Posted by: JamesP Sep 18 2011, 12:10 PM

Give Arsenal fans a break, they've had to suffer the 8-2 jokes 4-3 weeks now

Posted by: Y!kes Sep 18 2011, 12:15 PM

Urgh, first time in ages i'll be completely sober when watching Sunderland, and of course it would have to be the game when we're playing Stoke of all teams. I'm sure this will be a joyous experience.

Posted by: Y!kes Sep 19 2011, 03:57 AM

Well, that was... unexpected

Posted by: zero Sep 19 2011, 01:20 PM

I really hate Man Utd but that match was epic. Poor Torres one good goal and then the miss of the 21st century that's his confidence gone again

Posted by: Suedehead2 Sep 20 2011, 09:32 AM

No matter how many times I've seen that Torres miss, it's still hard to believe he didn't score. It wasn't even close

Posted by: Rooney Sep 20 2011, 09:38 PM

It's quite heartbreaking watching him play. I think playing 18 months continually has really taken everything away from him. Dropped from the Spain squad and just not in form at all. 3 years ago he was easily the best striker in the world. Odd.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Sep 24 2011, 06:33 PM

I hope no one else was unfortunate enough to have watched Watford vs Forest this evening!

Posted by: Suedehead2 Sep 24 2011, 08:22 PM

I assume it was a little on the dull side. Unlike last night's Brighton-Leeds game.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Sep 24 2011, 08:46 PM

Oh it was terrible, one of the worst games I've ever watched. Two teams devoid of any confidence or ideas, it was fitting that the only goal of the game came from a mistake.

However two years ago we'd amassed 7 points from our first 8 games before going to Plymouth and playing out an incredibly dull 1-0 victory infront of the TV cameras. It kickstarted our season and we were second just after the new year. Our next three games are Burnley, Birmngham and Coventry. Two of the few sides who are below us in the league and a poor Birmingham side who we play at home three days after they play in Slovenia. History could well repeat itself... I'm hoping for nine points but I'll take 7, I still rate Burnley, to go there and get a point will be decent.

Posted by: Y!kes Sep 26 2011, 11:26 PM

Can't think of a time recently when i've been more angry, more humilated than tonight. Second best to a League One side from first whistle tonight, it was absolutely disgusting.

Nights like tonight just make me think, what's the point? Seriously, what is the point in me spending thousands of pounds to go and support my club when this is what i'm getting in return? Nights like tonight are far too fucking often for this club, i'm sick to the back teeth of the non-performances, the lack of effort from so-called "big name players", the utterly ridiculous way we allow shit players to score against us, the way we make embarressingly average sides look like world beaters, the way we allow abhorrently poor players like Leon fucking Barnett to score the easiest goals they'll ever score in their careers against us, the way we're humilated against League One (At best) teams. What the fuck do the players care? They'll pick up their £30k, £40k, £50k paychecks at the end of the week and think no more of it, but what about the fans who have to suffer the consequences?

Absolutely sick to the back teeth of it, it's a far too regular thing at Sunderland and i'm fed up of pumping money into this club and having to endure woeful defeats like tonight. The lot of them need a good fucking kick up the arse, from the board down to the kit men, because it simply is not acceptable.

And you know what the most sickening thing of all is? Like a total fucking idiot i'll be there on Saturday, cheering us on. Urgh...

Posted by: Rooney Sep 26 2011, 11:40 PM

^I know how you feel mate. I was hontesly feeling that way 2-3 weeks ago with York. But one piece of luck can change that in an instance. I think the biggest thing in football is confidence. You can be a team of world beaters, and get beat by an average side full of confidence. This Sunderland side at the moment is just so inconsistent. You've a good team on paper, but I generally but inconsistence down to confidence. Paul Lambert would have got Norwich fired up today, because you're there for the taking.

I can't see Bruce lasting much longer unless your form picks up, considering the money that's been invested over the summer

Posted by: Y!kes Sep 26 2011, 11:50 PM

I'll be entirely honest here mate, Bruce can go fuck himself. Whether that's the pints talking or whatever, he really can. He consistently fails to get the team motivated and continuously lets the fans down then comes up with shit excuses as to why we've lost. I've not heard his post-match interview but I dare say there'll be another lame reasoning as to why we were so appallingly poor tonight.

He is just such an average, average manager. Why does he take so long to make substitutions? Why does he persist in playing the same, bland formation despite it being clear to everybody that it isn't working? Why does he apparently fail to motivate his players on a matchday? Why hasn't he bought a natural left back or left winger despite us being in dire need of one since 2008? Why doesn't he ever have a plan B? Why is his head so large and inflated? Endless questions, Roo.

The thing with Bruce is that he's bought himself time. He won't be sacked unless we're bottom of the league and the Geordie cunt has got it so cushy that he won't be sacked. I've said before that he's very much a 6/10 manager but now he looks in danger of actually underperforming and putting us in serious danger of relegation.

f***ing sick of everything at the minute like, West Brom next week then I get to escape for two weeks as i'm away at a wedding down in Liverpool. Would have loved to have gone to see Liverpool v Man United (As i'm down there for that match) but apparently it's sold out, bummer

Posted by: Rooney Sep 27 2011, 12:19 AM

I always thought he'd be manager of Man Utd, but that'll never happen. He is very poor. Lacks tactical awareness imo. Very hesitant, never wants to take any risks and he does have SUCH a FAT head. It's a long season mind and a few teams are under-performing/over-performing. You should be (imo) at about the point of Stoke - an established Premier League side, now wanting to push on to a top ten finish every season, and then challenge in the cups and get a Europa League spot.

I'm excited for the Man Utd-Liverpool match already. Shaping up to be good. I hope Rooney's injured. Man Utd don't look anywhere near as deadly as they do with him. I wouldn't call them a one man team, but he certainly makes their clock tick. They look horrendously poor against Stoke without him. Still I'd expect it to be an open game, plenty of goals.

Posted by: Y!kes Sep 27 2011, 12:28 AM

You know what it is, we've actually been overtaken by Stoke. What a depressing thought, being overtaken by that awful, average team of ridiculously thuggish knobheads. But yes, I couldn't agree more on the whole afraid to take risks/lacking tactical awareness thing. I just don't get how an established, qualified manager can fail to spot basic faults that a stadium of 48,000 average joes can spot easily? It baffles me tbh.

I'd honestly have loved to have gone and witnessed the Liverpool v Man Utd game first hand, i've still got a slim, slim slither of hope of getting a ticket thanks to "connections" at that end of the country but i'm not pinning my hopes on it really. If worse comes to worst I can always pub it up with my cousins/extended family lolz (Half of whom are reds, half of whom are blues - interesting times ahead).

Posted by: Rooney Sep 27 2011, 12:41 AM

I actually quite admire Stoke. Not in a footballing sense, but with what they've achieved. Nobody wants to go to the Britannia. All the top clubs are scared of it, it's a fortress. They've stuck to a plan as well - hoofball with rough players. They've spent a lot of money, but they've bought some great players that suit their style of play (not so sure about the money they paid for Crouch mind, but I think that's more of a marketing ploy, than just a player!).

It will be a good team. Liverpool's defence is seemingly shocking at the moment, and our midfield should abliterate Man Utd in the centre. A big game already in the season. I have high hopes for a victory if Rooney's not playing!

Posted by: Y!kes Sep 27 2011, 12:56 AM

They play shit football. If I was a season ticket holder at the Britannia i'd be bored to tears watching that tepid shite week in/week out, but fair play, it's worked well for them. But what it does is give me hope that if an average-at-best team of thuggish bullies like Stoke City can elbow and foul their way into a cup final and Europe then someone like Sunderland can do it playing actual football.

Fergie rested Rooney against Stoke, didn't he? If that's the case he's 99.9% certain to play against Liverpool. Massive game for both teams really, and a hard one to call because of how much it means.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Sep 27 2011, 08:45 PM

Well, it's looking like Steve McClaren could be available soon

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Sep 27 2011, 08:46 PM

With any luck!

Posted by: Y!kes Sep 27 2011, 08:55 PM

No thank you.

The novelty of his ridiculous accent would soon wear thin, I think.

Posted by: Y!kes Sep 28 2011, 03:20 PM

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-15093584.

Brilliant, absolutely brilliant. This is exactly the sort of shit we need right now, nice one Titus.

Posted by: Y!kes Sep 29 2011, 04:17 PM

He's now been suspended indefinately by the club.

Idiot, total idiot.

Posted by: JamesP Oct 1 2011, 12:16 PM

So Suarez seems to be going out to remind us what a dirty cheat he is. I don't think I've ever seen a red card that was so blatently not a red card, with the referee stood about 2 feet away.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Oct 1 2011, 01:09 PM

I wouldn't blame Suarez for the red card. There was a collision and Suarez went down. However, it certainly was not a red card. Even Souness (hardly Everton's biggest fan) said it wasn't even a foul. It will be interesting to hear what Kenny "all the big decisions go against us" Dalglish has to say.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 1 2011, 01:15 PM

Probably that it was a red card and Fellaini should've gone too. Also, the goalkeeper dived the right way for the penalty, that's a wrong decision by Tim Howard.

Posted by: Rooney Oct 1 2011, 02:46 PM

Well they generally do! Everton fans seem to have short memories of the Kyriagkos red card that never was! It wasn't a red card, but some of the challenges from those dirty bast*rds were horrible. Someone deserved to be sent off, shame it was Rodwell. But Hibbert definitely should have seen red for his tackle of Adam. Atkinson is an awful ref though. Just shows you that referees don't have a clue. He lost control of the game.

Liverpool very lacklustre until Gerrard and Bellamy came off. I felt that was the doing of the referee though as any sort of bad challenge from a Liverpool player and you know it was going to be a red. Suarez is absolute class.

Posted by: Sabrina. Oct 1 2011, 03:56 PM

I wouldn't blame Suarez for his reaction at all. He was obviously playing for the foul, but I doubt even he expected a red card.. Plus a few other challenges like Hibbert on Adam as Rooney said, should have been

Although, I can understand why opposition fans dislike him

Posted by: Rooney Oct 2 2011, 01:46 AM

Suarez is a c**t full stop. He play acts, because that's the norm where he's from. But he's Liverpool's c**t. It's good to have a player that's hated by other fans. It spurs them on. Just look at Ronaldo. Universally hated by fans, but the best layer in the Premier League.

Posted by: JamesP Oct 2 2011, 07:36 AM

I think you just have to look at 2010 World Cup Quarter Final, i.e. before he was even a Liverpool player so no biased there, to realised what a massive c**t he is.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 2 2011, 08:37 AM

I still don't understand why though, it's not like anyone would've done any differently. And if Asamoah Gyan hadn't completely bottled his penalty I don't think anyone would have made anything of it. The only thing he did wrong really was his reaction, he shouldn't have done that but there was nothing wrong with the handball. In a game that important if that was my team I'd be far more annoyed if the player didn't handball it!

Posted by: Y!kes Oct 2 2011, 01:13 PM

Surely that's Giggs?

As for yesterday, Steve Bruce is a lucky, lucky man. If Bendtner hadn't played so well he'd be out of a job.

Posted by: Sabrina. Oct 2 2011, 01:15 PM

This

If an English player had done it and they got us through to the Semi Finals of the World Cup, I'm sure they'd be seen as a hero

Posted by: Rooney Oct 2 2011, 02:54 PM

Not the best Premier League player ever, but in his time in the EPL Ronaldo was head and shoulders above just about everyone. I can like him now cos he's at Real Madrid. Him and Messi are in a class of their own in terms of talent. Way above the likes of Aguero, Rooney and Suarez.

Posted by: JamesP Oct 2 2011, 06:15 PM

Just to be clear, I was referring to his reaction of running down the touchline cheering more than the actual handball.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Oct 2 2011, 06:55 PM

Suarez's handball was instinctive as much as anything. As others have said, I think any other player would have done the same thing. However, Suarez not only celebrated the missed penalty but went on to boast about it the following day. That's why he's unpopular.

Posted by: Y!kes Oct 2 2011, 07:06 PM

Suarez is a nasty little cunt. [/input]

In more interesting news, Shteve McLaren's resigned as Forest manager after a meeting with the board. Hardly a surprise given how abysmal their start to the season's been.

Nottingham Forest can have Bruce and we'll have Hughes or O'Neill plz

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 2 2011, 07:29 PM

WONDERFUL!

You'd have to sack Bruce first, we wouldn't pay for him! O'Neill the obvious fans favourite, but I can't see that happening.

Nigel Doughty's stepping down too so the fans have got what they wanted. Manager - out, chairman - out, chief exec - please! Like many Forest fans I'm incredibly grateful for the millions upon millions of pounds he's invested over the years, but he's constantly made mistakes and hasn't used it wisely. By staying as the 'financial backer' he'll still be able to do what he wants, own the football club he supports, but we might get someone in to do a better job of actually spending that money than he did!

Fair play to McClaren for resigning though, it's a shame it didn't work out, a shame he was lied to by the board, a greater shame he didn't have it in him, tactically inept.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Oct 2 2011, 07:32 PM

HANDS OFF POYET!!!!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 2 2011, 07:38 PM

Luckilly for you he's not been linked, and given he's signed a 5 year contract, will be far too expensive for us. If we get him I'll faint with shock before I faint with happiness. Realistically the best candidates for us I think would be Mark Robins or Sean O'Driscoll. Martin O'Neill would be a dream come true, but unrealistic. Other ex players who'd show the passion and love for the club, well Stuart Pearce I think we'd all accept, Roy Keane I really hope not. I hope we also stay away from other managers who are unemplyed for a reason; Dowie, Parkinson, Boothroyd, Laws.

Posted by: Y!kes Oct 2 2011, 08:24 PM

Take him for free, i'll piggyback him to Nottingham myself. Infact, we'll pay you to take him. Everybody wins.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 2 2011, 08:40 PM

I've been following Twitter and Radio Nottingham all evening, and I've not heard or seen anyone mention Poyet.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Oct 2 2011, 09:02 PM

There's a relief As you said, that five year contract will make it harder for other clubs to lure him away. The recently unemployed Sean O'Driscoll would be an interesting choice. Even with his Forest (and Clough) links I'd be surprised if they went for Roy Keane. His managerial record isn't great.

How about a player who came off the bench to score four goals against you? Has Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer got the required badges?

Posted by: Sabrina. Oct 2 2011, 09:23 PM

I'm surprised Poyet signed a 5 year contract.. Was expecting him to end up at Spurs next year

Posted by: Suedehead2 Oct 2 2011, 09:32 PM

That could still happen. However, if it does, at least Brighton will get a decent sum in compensation. It's going to put him beyond the reach of a lot of Championship clubs and probably some Premier League clubs as well.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Oct 2 2011, 10:10 PM

Good to hear Lightning Seeds back on Goal of the Month

Posted by: Sarah Oct 3 2011, 12:08 AM

Its a shame Brighton have dipped in form atm though, I know the winning streak wouldn't last but the way we have been playing is awful, need to start concentrating for the whole of 90 mins and not switch off when we score!! hopefully we will bounce back up very soon!! great news about Poyet though

Posted by: C H A R L I E ? Oct 3 2011, 12:34 AM

The rumour that Tevez could come back on loan to West Ham has left me... flabbergasted. Of course it won't happen, and if he did turn up he probably wouldn't play, but imagine... if John Carew can score in the Championship, we'd have won the thing by Easter with Tevez.

Posted by: Y!kes Oct 3 2011, 05:30 PM

Quinn's giving up his role as chairman to be our International identity something or other, handing the reins to Ellis Short.

Apparently it'll be the "same people" running the club, but from what i've heard Short's been bringing in other American shareholders and whatnot. It doesn't seem like a massive change on the face of things, but what I think will be interesting is seeing how long our re-organised boardroom will put up with the dirge we've been producing under Bruce...

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 3 2011, 06:50 PM

If Quinn is now going to be head of International Development or whatever he should show potential fans a video of one of your wins and ask why wouldn't they want to support you?!

Posted by: Y!kes Oct 3 2011, 06:54 PM

Showing us winning and telling people that's what they'd have to look forward to would be classed as false advertising.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 3 2011, 06:55 PM

Still not seen him mentioned, and literally everyone under the sun seems to have been. Billy Davies is now the overwhelming fan favourite, but not from this one. It just wouldn't work again, it's short termist and he'd only be joining for one thing, it would be a huge massage to his vastly overinflated ego. I'd give it 12-15 months before he's found someone else to argue with and something else to moan about. We need someone who can work with what we have and spent the next 1/2/3 seasons with a limited budget, signing good honest lower league players and reducing the wage bill. Billy Davies is not that man, neither is Roy Keane and unfortunately neither is Martin O'Neill.

Karl Robinson is the bookies favourite, he would certainly be an interesting choice. I want someone like that, young(ish), hungry, knows the leagues well, that Forest would the biggest job of their career so far, O'Driscoll, Robins, Robinson, Clark. Any of them will suit me fine. I don't want Davies, Keane, Laws, Bothroyd, Dowie, Curbishley, Alan sodding Shearer!

Solskjaer is an interesting suggestion, he was Man Utd reserve manager where he earned his badges but moved to Norway at the beginning of the year to manage Molde for the new season, they came 11th last season and currently sit 1st 10 points clear after 25 games.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 3 2011, 06:57 PM

I mean that even a win would be winning ugly and wouldn't be much better than boring. If that's the best they could look forward to why would they support you?

Posted by: Y!kes Oct 3 2011, 07:06 PM

I know lads that come over for matches from all over the country, and even from Sweden, Ireland, Scotland etc and i've asked them all why the hell they would willingly choose to support us. It's a strange one. If I hadn't been born into it (Surely there's some form of child cruelty law against it?) and didn't actually come from Sunderland I doubt i'd have strong feelings one way or the other towards us, we're a very unfashionable team who give the fans very little to cheer about.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 3 2011, 07:14 PM

I think every team has fans like that, we have Ebby! http://www.u-reds.com/Fans/Celebrities/ebby_interview.asp - utterly mental!

I don't mind Sunderland, but I don't really have strong feelings of like towards any team other than my own. I tend to prefer managers or players and as a result tend to like the teams they're at.

Posted by: Y!kes Oct 3 2011, 07:25 PM

Eh, we're not a popular team really. I think between ourselves and Newcastle it's usually the Geordies that neutrals prefer to see doing well, just going from what i've seen/heard around. Man United fans sometimes have a bit of a soft spot for us, but that's probably because our last two managers have been ex-United players and we've nicked half of their reserve players.

I'm not usually one for having an affiliation towards a team because of players or managers, an example would be that I like Mick McCarthy, genuine footballing bloke, but i've got no real strong feelings either way towards Wolves.

I've got the slightest soft spot for Everton, as random as that is, and i've no idea why. It certainly isn't because of results because we haven't beaten them in the league since 2001

Posted by: Suedehead2 Oct 5 2011, 03:38 PM

The video being in black and white might be a bit of a giveaway

Posted by: Rooney Oct 10 2011, 12:16 PM

Any idea on who is going to be the new forsest coach yet?

York's manager (Gary Mills) has been linked. Really don't want him to go, but seeing as he's an ex-Forest player, the temptation might be there!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 10 2011, 12:56 PM

I've not seen anything about him.

It's been pretty much rumour overload. It seems that any high-profile ex-player has been linked (Keane, O'Neill/Robertson, Pearce, Clark, Laws, Clough, Cooper, even Stan Collymore!), as has every out-of-work manager with Premiership/Championship experience (Davies, Shearer, O'Driscoll, Curbishley, Blackwell, Jones, Dowie, Ince, Parkinson, O'Leary, Boothroyd) plus any up and coming manager from lower down (Clark, Robinson, Tisdale).

Kevin MacDonald and Mark Robins seem to have definitely been interviewed (but the latter is more likely to go to Bristol City), and I'd be very surprised if John Pemberton wasn't in the frame either. The other name mentioned is Steve Cotterill, I think it'll be between those 4 and Roy Keane to be honest. Of those, I just pray it isn't Keane, I'm not sure who I'd like, any of the first three I suppose.

We did try to get Paul Hart to be Director of Football/Technical Director which would've meant a younger manager working below him but that was blocked because Charlton wanted over £500k in compensation and we weren't willing to pay it. We won't be getting anyone who's a big name.

Posted by: Rooney Oct 10 2011, 01:54 PM

I think he's being mooted as being a part of the coaching staff. Either as assistant or first team manager. I think he'd definitely be tempted, and I'm expecting a lot of interest in top class Conference managers as when they've been poached they've been successful. Saunders looks like he'll do well, and after sticking by Clough it looks like Derby are pushing for the play-offs this season!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 11 2011, 01:52 PM

Clough has always been doing OK at Derby. He's essentially done what's been asked of him consistently, reducing the wage bill to a managable level and turning Derby into a well run club. I think you have to be a good manager at Conference level, it's such a good league and so hard to get out of. You have to be able to get the best out of your squad on a budget because if not you don't have a hope of going up when it's only one promoted.

It looks like it's down to the three now, Cotterill, Robins and MacDonald. Of the three my preference is Robins > MacDonald > Cotterill, although I'd be happy with either of the first two. Steve Cotterill is completely uninspiring though, from what I've read I don't think there's a Pompey fan who would be disappointed to see him leave, the consensus is they play dull, negative hoofball, have terrible fitness levels and they haven't improved at all since he's been there.

Posted by: Flatcap Oct 14 2011, 09:17 PM

Forest appoint Cotterill.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/15256295.stm

Posted by: Rooney Oct 15 2011, 01:51 PM

Very disappointed Liverpool only game away with a point. Everyone will say a draw was a fair result, but Liverpool had all the chances. It's sod's law De Gea plays a blinder. I don't think Liverpool did enough in the wide areas when they had posession. Suarez played an absolute blinder when he was being man marked by both central defenders. If Liverpool had scored in the first half there's no way Man Utd would have come up with a point. Fergie took a risk with his tactics, and annoyingly they paid off.

Posted by: JamesP Oct 15 2011, 05:24 PM

Liverpool really highlighted today that they have some cheaters in their team, Suarez was horrific at times and that kick to Evra's knee was particuarlly vile. Surprised it wasn't picked up on more. Not to mention that diving twat Charlie Adam...

Posted by: Rooney Oct 15 2011, 06:14 PM

Not a chance! Evra diving about like he'd being shot at the kop end was by the worst. Adam did not dive at all, it was a minor clip, but when you're travelling at that speed and you get any sort of contact you're going to go down because of the speed you are travelling at. He was clean through on goal anyway, so I don't see how he could have dived! And Suarez is just a genius. The Man Utd defenders fell for it every time, they were making tackles that they were never going to win. Any slight contacnt and you're going to go down. I'm running out of superlatives to describe Suarez, then man is just a genius footballer. He draws defenders in to making mistakes.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 15 2011, 06:14 PM

IshmaelMiller Ishmael Miller
Listen I don't wanna here anything bout I didn't look interested! Everyone can f*** off in don't like it don't follow me!!!!!!!!!!!


Someone's getting fined by the new boss, hopefully!

Posted by: PurpleNurples Oct 15 2011, 06:43 PM

I was listening to Five Live and not one of the commentators even suggested Charlie Adam dived, they were only going on about how it was lucky Ferdinand didn't get a second yellow card. Meanwhile Evra going down was mocked loudly 'Get up son!' and 'Goodness me, he's obviously broken his back and both legs there' with the way he was rolling around. Evra easily the worst culprit for play acting in this game. They were raving about Suarez but looking at my Twitter timeline at the same time, it's obvious he rubs people up the wrong way.

As for my team today, well we ended an unwelcome club record when we got our first clean sheet in 24 league games Exciting stuff. We're still mediocre though, think our 'glory' days are behind us. Long hard slog this season, but if the Hoops sell Hooper in January to Newcastle/QPR we might get a tidy sell on bonus

Reading got a late winner today blimey, eat your heart out Fergie

Posted by: Rooney Oct 15 2011, 06:55 PM

That's becuase Charlie Adam did not dive. I saw it time and time before with Cristiano Ronaldo going down easily playing for Man Utd in the same way Charlie Adam did. The truth is when you're travelling at such a high speed and the ball's at your feet, ANY sort of contact and you're gonna go to ground whether you want to or not. You can't physically touch yourself. I don't know what Fergie's complaining at tbh. Evra was absolutely disgusing. I hate the guy with a passion. He was caught, but he made such a meal out of it because Suarez made him look like a school boy defender.

Suarez is not a cheat he's a winner, and one of the most technically gifted footballers in the Premier League. He may make a meal of some challenges, but which players don't these days? The guy is a born winner and an amazing footballer. He draws defenders in to thinking they can win the ball.

Posted by: Rooney Oct 16 2011, 02:11 AM

Suarez apparently racially abused Evra. I'd love to see the evidence.

Posted by: PurpleNurples Oct 16 2011, 12:49 PM

I just saw this on Twitter, Evra says he said a certain word 'atleast 10 times' and 'undoubtedly there are cameras everywhere that will have picked it up'. He waited until speaking to French TV to reveal this and said the ref was made aware at the end of the game. The FA have confirmed they are investigating an incident that was reported to referee Marriner at the end of the game.

Hmm. Surely if it was in English cameras or microphones somewhere will have picked it up by now, if Suarez did say this 10 times, it really shouldn't be difficult to prove. It must be unlikely it was in English though given Suarez barely strings a sentence together, perhaps Evra is misunderstood what he thought he heard if Suarez was speaking Spanish. Somebody has posted 'evidence' on Twitter that shows Suarez and Evra mouthing off at each other but if that's the only evidence, then definitely good luck trying to prove what was said!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 16 2011, 12:57 PM

It'll be very hard to prove, but if it is then Suarez should be banned for a considerable amount of time.

Posted by: Rooney Oct 16 2011, 01:36 PM

If it is true then Suarez should be banned. But I don't think it is. If it had come from another black Man Utd player then perhaps I might have believed it, but it's from Evra. The same guy who has made these accusations THREE times before and nothing have come of them. The same Evra that threw a tantrum and walked out on his national side during the last World Cup. Suarez and Evra had an altercation, that was everyone to see. Suarez made a fool out of Evra, and he got the whole Man Utd team wound up by his actions. It's character assasination. If Evra's crying wolf then he should be banned. If he was called what he was apparently called, then he still had time to roll about on the floor, then kiss his badge in front of the Kop. The guy is a grade A moron.

Posted by: JamesP Oct 16 2011, 01:56 PM

So much love for Evra's badge kissing, I have to say. After he was kicked in the knee by Suarez and made to look a diver (despite making a BIT of a meal of it, the kick was plain for all to see) I don't blame him.

Going back to my point about Adam diving, I'm sorry but I have to completley disagree with you Roo. The reason everyone was saying Ferdinand was lucky to stay on the pitch wasn't because he kicked Adam, it was because if the referee is going to give a free kick, you would assume he thinks there was contact and as such should book Rio, so by that logic he WAS lucky to stay on the pitch, but not for what he did. The contact was the minimalist contact you will ever see, and I don't buy this pace argument either. Comparing Adam's pace to the likes of Ronaldo is laughable.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 16 2011, 01:59 PM

Adam wasn't really going very fast, but Ferdinand got nowhere near the ball and did clip him. However easily he went down it was still a foul and did affect his balance enough initially. When people get more contact and stay on their feet they quite often see their honesty rewarded with nothing; no foul given and they end up losing the ball because their balance has been affected. I don't believe anyone on that pitch would've done any differently to Adam.

Posted by: Rooney Oct 16 2011, 02:18 PM

I don't blame Evra's badge kissing either. The game is a fiery one, and after the respective Merseyside and Manchester derbies, this is the one the fans don't want to lose. Gerrard kissed his badge and gave the five times signal after he scored, so I wasn't surprised Evra did it. Especially cos the Liverpool fans hate him only second to Rooney.

Ferdinand's admitted he touched him. Adam made a meal out of it, and was probably looking for the second booking. Unfortunately this is the case in football these days. All teams do it whether it's league football or bon-league football. You get nothing for being a nice honest player. If you can gain an advatage in any way you're going to go for it. It was a free kick, because Adam would have been through clean on goal had Ferdinand not made the challenge. He made a meal out of tackle, but it was still a foul and a free kick.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 20 2011, 02:29 PM

So the Premier League are trying to kill off football league clubs once and for all. Absolutely and utterly disgusting new rules they've effectively forced through regarding bringing through youth players.

To put it into context Chelsea last week paid MK Dons £1.5m, rising to £2m, for a 14 year old. With the new rules they'll be able to take between 25 and 40 lower league 14 year olds for £2m. Extra money will be paid to Football League clubs for youth development but it's essentially going to be a pittance compared to what they would earn.

With the forthcoming introduction of Financial Fair Play in the whole of the Football League, the development of youth is going to be more crucial than ever as teams will rely more on youth to be in their first team and earn them money in transfer fees. How are they going to be able to do this? A League 2 club can bring through three super talented teenagers which by the time they're 19-20 could earn them around £5m between them, now the work they put in from 9-15 years old can be undone because Man Utd or Chelsea will snap them up with the fee they pay for three combined being less than they give Rooney or Torres in one weeks wages!

Posted by: Rooney Oct 20 2011, 02:42 PM

I agree it's bloody stupid. It's basically a rule so that football league clubs can train players from their area, and if a Premier League club sees fit they can poach them for any sort of price! This only benefits the Premier League clubs. What good is extra funding for football league clubs if the players are just going to get sold on on the cheap?

Posted by: Suedehead2 Oct 20 2011, 02:49 PM

It has also been reported that some owners of Premier League clubs want to end relegation. This is clearly aimed at protecting their investment. I would hope that UEFA could ban English clubs from their competitions if this ever happened.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 20 2011, 02:59 PM

I don't particularly like the system but perhaps it would've been better if something like Italy's co-ownership rules were bought into place instead? This may well see the end of some academies, especially at League 2 clubs. Why bother producing any talent if anyone half decent is going to get poached for a pittance before they're old enough to make the first team? There's no sense in spending money to run an academy, might as well just pick up some of the vast numbers of 18-19 year olds that inevitably get released from big clubs because they've never had a chance?

Posted by: Rooney Oct 20 2011, 03:04 PM

I don't think this is true at all. I am sure the idea of turning the Premier League in to a franchise similar to how the Superbowl works will have been mooted, but there is no evidence whatsoever about these plans. I think it was planned to announce it to the media, just so that everyone knows that the idea is there. And it's worked because it would be a ridiculous idea.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Oct 22 2011, 05:59 PM

Another chapter in that much loved comedy, The Life Of Mario Balotelli

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/oct/22/mario-balotelli-house-fire-fireworks

Posted by: JamesP Oct 22 2011, 06:00 PM

What a dickhead.

Posted by: Rooney Oct 23 2011, 02:28 PM

Man City unbelievable today. 1-6 what a scoreline. Silva'a pass for the last goal was sublime.

The turning point was obviously the sending off, but so many of Man Utd's players went missing today. I said it earlier but Young is so so so overrated. If you mar him out of them game he is useless. Liverpool did it last week, and Man City did it this week.

Posted by: Phil Oct 23 2011, 02:30 PM

yep unbelievable!! 5 points diff at the top, Fergie needs to change things asap

Posted by: Rooney Oct 23 2011, 02:32 PM

Don't think he can. Man Utd's central midfield is beyond awful. Even with 11 men Fletcher and Anderson completely lost the midfield battle.

Posted by: C H A R L I E ? Oct 23 2011, 02:50 PM

Posted this as my Facebook status:

Ridiculous game, well done to City. Assuming they still have some kind of self-destructive tendency (they are City after all, aren't they?) my prediction of Chelsea sneaking through as dark horses could well come true, they'll go 2nd if they beat QPR.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Oct 23 2011, 02:52 PM

The sending off was clearly the turning point but it was the right decision so Utd have no cause for complaint.

Posted by: JamesP Oct 23 2011, 03:10 PM

I feel sick.

Posted by: Horatio Oct 23 2011, 03:39 PM

I feel pretty good. A fine 3-1 victory and all the 8-2 taunts from my Unitedfan friends will likely come to an end.

With that said, the thought of City winning the league thoroughly disgusts me.

Posted by: C H A R L I E ? Oct 23 2011, 04:08 PM

I think it's safe to say that if Chelsea come back from this, they can rightly call themselves contenders. Can they do it?

Posted by: Rooney Oct 23 2011, 05:20 PM

Man City will walk the league now. It's a long way to go, and unless they implode ala Arsenal I can't see them getting beat by too many teams. The derby defeat will be soul destorying to Man Utd, People can try and put on a brave face, but it's really going to effect their mentality. They were second best for the whole game save their early start. The strikers couldn't get in to the game and neither could the midfield. Evra is complete gash, he's completely lost it. The central midfield is where Man Utd really have a problem as it offers no protection to the centre backs. They've been poor for their last 3 games now against Norwich, Liverpool and Man City. The only positive for Man Utd I can see is they've got a game on Tuesday against Aldershot to get the defeat out of their system.

Posted by: JamesP Oct 23 2011, 05:33 PM

Tottenham Hotspurs 4-1 Manchester United 1995/96 (won the league)
Southampton 6-3 Manchester United 1996/97 (won the league)
Newcastle United 5-0 Manchester United 1996/97 (won the league)
Chelsea 5-0 Manchester United 1999/00 (won the league)
Manchester United 1-4 Liverpool 2008/09 (won the league)

This make me feel a bit better. That said, completley agree with basically everything Rooney said. The most sickening thing to take is that it was completley deserved.

Posted by: Rooney Oct 23 2011, 05:38 PM

^Lol you wouldn't have won the league in 08/09 if it wasn't for that little Italian tho ha!

It would be very hard to take any positive out of this as a Man Utd fan. A 6-1 defeat is awful by any margin, but against your biggest rival? Soul destroying. I don't know what Fergie can do to pick his team up now. I think this has sent a lot of Man Utd fans and football pundits back in to reality though after claiming this Man Utd side to be as good as the treble winning team.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 24 2011, 04:01 PM

I was gutted I wasn't watching it, instead I was at the dullest most lifeless stadium I've ever been to, The Emirates.

The thing is, it had kind of been coming. Man Utd have conceded more shots on goal than any other team in the league, they've been very open at the back all season and they were due conceding at least 3 or 4, but against Man City at home? LOL! There are reasons for having such a high amount of shots though, they've played Man City, Chelsea, Spurs, Liverpool and Arsenal already and they're all going to have more shots than the likes of Wolves, Blackburn and QPR who they've not played yet, and De Gea is supposedly weak with shots from distance, so ever since Dzeko 'proved' that theory correct in the Community Shield his goal has been peppered with shots far more than if it were van der Sar still in goal.

Posted by: Rooney Oct 24 2011, 05:12 PM

Yeah the warning signs have been there for a while. They've been quite lucky in the Champions League aswell. They've got big game players like Rooney, Giggs, Nani and Hernandez though who can step it up when it's needed. Gets them out of trouble quite a lot. I don't even think de Gea has been that bad. He's made mistakes, but he gets offered no protection from the midfield. And I don't even think Fergie knows what his best central defensive partnership is yet. I just find them incredibly one dimensional at the moment, and they seriously have such an awful midfield. Full-back is a bit of a problematic area at the moment. I'm not sure why Evra's self-destructed. It might be because Young offers no protection to him, but the amount of times Richards/Balotteli/Silva/Milner made use of the right hand side of the pitch yesterday must surely be worrying!

Posted by: C H A R L I E ? Oct 24 2011, 06:01 PM

Sven has been sacked as manager of Leicester. Anyone surprised?

Posted by: Y!kes Oct 24 2011, 07:56 PM

Not as surprised as I was on Saturday when I witnessed first hand the most rare of all footballing events; one which occurs only when the planets align in a very specific way and the bluest of moons are seen in the sky - a Sunderland away win. And a deserved one at that.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 24 2011, 08:10 PM

Not in the slightest. Their owners said they expected promotion this season and so far they look very average and disjointed. A 3-0 home defeat to Millwall? Dear me. I found it funny that Sven said he'd probably have sacked the manager if he was owner after that result.

Posted by: Pablo Honey Oct 28 2011, 01:06 PM

I hope Terry gets the book thrown at him. Sleeping with your team mates wife, and now this incident, I am mystified as to how Capello and AVB can continue to back him so publicly? The man is scum (and I think he gets away with a bit more than he should on the pitch), and a terrible example to set as both club captain and national captain. Ideally, he'd be hit with a massive ban and stripped of both captaincies. It'll be interesting to see the reaction he gets against Arsenal tomorrow, hopefully a combination of this situation and David Luiz having an ability to self-destruct that would make our defenders jealous will result in a cheeky Arsenal win! Still though, wouldn't be surprised if Chelsea bossed it and won comfortably

Posted by: Rooney Oct 28 2011, 01:25 PM

The problem with the John Terry incident is the whole world seem to have become professional lip readers all of a sudden!


He could have said numerous things apart from black. I hate John Terry, but there is some sort of witch hunt against him. If it's proved he's said it then he deserves a ban, and it will be a lengthy one no doubt. The media seems to have picked up far more on this one than Suarez-Evra. Probably because there's actually a little bit of evidence in the Terry-Ferdinand case but most likely f*** all in the the other case because it was made up.

Posted by: Rooney Oct 29 2011, 01:46 PM

Arsenal 1-2 Liverpool
Man Utd 8-2 Arsenal
Man Utd 1-6 Man City
Tottenham 4-0 Liverpool
Chelsea 3-5 Arsenal
Man Utd 3-1 Chelsea
Tottenham 1-5 Man City

f*** me, and we're not even in November yet!

Posted by: Suedehead2 Oct 29 2011, 01:59 PM

It's completely mad isn't it? Seven games involving the likely top six and only two "normal" results.

Posted by: Pablo Honey Oct 29 2011, 02:57 PM

I am in shock, but delighted!

RVP has 28 in 27 this year. He *should* be in for a shout for player of the year, that record is comparable with Messi / Ronaldo, and he's playing in a supposedly "struggling" team. Phenomenal.

Posted by: Flatcap Oct 29 2011, 06:57 PM

Carlisle 3-0 down, and come back to draw 3-3. The commentary I was listening to made me wonder how the manager and his team survived the second half, let alone the players.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 29 2011, 07:04 PM

I've always thought that if Van Persie actually managed to stay fit he'd be the player he could promise to be. That record is insane.

Posted by: Rooney Oct 29 2011, 07:33 PM

Problem is, I don't know how long he'll stay fit. If Arsenal lose him they really as screwed.

It's turning in to a very interesting race for 3rd and 4th place. Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Spurs - all struggling with consistency.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 29 2011, 07:38 PM

That's the problem. I went to watch them last week. Chamakh is dreadful.

It does look like it will be tight between those four teams. I don't think you can rule anyone out. I'd laugh if Chelsea don't, I just want Arsenal to make it. I admire their policy too much.

Posted by: Damon Oct 29 2011, 07:52 PM

Really was a crazy game, couldn't believe Villas Boas set Chelsea up with such a high defensive line, but then he's been doing that all season. Trying to play like he did at Porto but with a completely different team. Really think Chelsea miss Essien aswell, think they'd be much more solid with him in the team.

Posted by: Rooney Oct 29 2011, 07:54 PM

Both Chelsea and Arsenal's defence look awful. I'm not sure about Chelsea, I'd put money on them to make it, but it looks like their squads age is really catching up with them. Mata aside, I don't think their summer signings were that brilliant. Liverpool haven't got out of 2nd gear yet, and if they took all their chances they'd be up there with the Manchester sides. And Tottenham are looking really good. It's going to be very close. Hope it's Liverpool and Arsenal personally. Arsenal have got so many weak links at the moment unfortunately, Mertsacker and Santos look dreadful. If they can keep Van Persie fit they won't be far away. If they lose him though, I really don't know..

Posted by: Y!kes Oct 29 2011, 09:48 PM

Darren B£nt was shit today

Posted by: Pablo Honey Oct 30 2011, 12:13 AM

I know everyone goes on about keeping RVP fit (glass-ankles!) and how our season would fall apart without him... but can you imagine a major injury to Suarez or Rooney? I think their respective sides would also find goals a bit harder to come by. Gervinho and Walcott are stepping up to the plate nicely, Ramsey is beginning to look the player he was becoming pre-Shawcross, and Park scores a very Henry-esque finish in the CC, will be interesting to see how he develops. Also, I'd give Mertesacker the benefit of a full season before judging him, he's a vastly experienced German international, it'll just take him some time to bed in, look at Koscielny, he's really stepped up this year. Sure, even look at Vidic's start at United before he bedded in! Santos is a bit stop-gap until Gibbs can recover / mature. Chelsea just need to get used to AVB's style of play and they will be fine (and maybe a new CB wouldn't help - JT past it and Luiz is just a rocket).

As for 2nd, 3rd and 4th I think it will be Chelsea and Arsenal fighting it out with Man Utd, with Liverpool 5th and Tottenham 6th. I just feel that the experience of Arsenal and Chelsea of being consistently there will tell over the season, while United's midfield is so average that they could slip back and get caught by the pack. Citeh sadly look just too strong at this stage

Oh, and I watched the Barcelona match tonight, and Messi hadn't scored in his previous 3 appearances, so his goal tally for the year finally dipped below a 1:1 average. A quick hat-trick later and he made it like 72 in 71. MINDBLOWING.

Posted by: Pablo Honey Oct 30 2011, 12:13 AM

Edit: Double Post

Posted by: Rooney Oct 30 2011, 01:07 AM

The thing is with Arsenal is they LOOK like conceding goals. They don't have the players anymore to be able to play like they used to and dictate play. They have to much more precise now and play on the counter attack. They invite pressure on to their defence and their defence at the moment is not strong enough. I would give Mertesacker the benefit of the doubt if he was younger than he is, but like you say he's a German experienced international defender. I have seen him 3/4 times now and he looks too slow. A mistake waiting to happen. Arsenal are always going to be a threat. They've got an easy run on paper now compared to the rest of the top 6. And it's not even Christmas yet, whichg is generally when they f*** it up! It's all very well to say attack is the best form of defence but Arsenal won't be able to score concede 3 goals every game and get away with it.

The Manchester sides will be well ahead of the others imo. They've far too much quality. Man Utd just have lady luck on their side all the time, and Man City are rotating their squad which will come in use much later in the season. I've been impressed with Liverpool, and that's not just because I'm a fan. Liverpool's problem at the moment is they've a lot of new players and competition is so tough for places that players are taking shots on when there are others in much better positions. It's why we've been really wasteful.

Posted by: Pablo Honey Oct 30 2011, 02:42 PM

One of Liverpool's big problems is a lack of playing time for Gerrard, his experience while bedding in Henderson and Adam I think would have prevented you throwing away some of the points you have. I'm interested to see how Newcastle end up doing, I don't think for a second they'll get top 4, but top 6/7 isn't beyond the realms of possibility.

Posted by: Rooney Oct 30 2011, 03:09 PM

Don't know about Gerrard. We've coped really well without him, considering we used to rely on him for inspiration. He's an excellent player still, but he's only played five times I think since March. He's playing a much disciplined role at the moment. I'm please with Liverpool's progress and we've only played one bad game which was against Spurs.

I think Newcastle will finish in the top half. I thought they'd really struggle, but they've done anything but that! They've a really solid defence and Cayade (sp?) looks absolutely immense. I think they only paid £4m for him..what a bargin! They've got an unbelieveably tough run coming up now though. It will be interesting to see where they are after the next 4/5 games.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 30 2011, 03:22 PM

I don't know where I stand on Liverpool. Part of me is quite impressed with them but part of me thinks they're quite lucky and rely too much on Suarez. I don't think Gerrard is all that anymore. Influential as a captain still but on the pitch I don't think he'll get back to his best again. Carragher is well past it now though, should be used sparingly.

Newcastle will probably finish top 10, but I do think they've had a reasonably easy start. It'll be interesting to see how they fare at Stoke tomorrow night. I think come the end of the season they'll be fighting with Villa, Everton, Stoke, Sunderland for 7th - 11th. Then I'd say West Brom, Norwich, QPR and Fulham have enough about them to stay up. It's hard to see the three relegation places not being a battle between the current bottom 4 and Swansea. I really thought Wolves would kick on this year, I don't think they'll go down though.

Posted by: Sabrina. Oct 30 2011, 06:35 PM

The problem with Liverpool is that they haven't been clinical enough. The only bad performance was the one vs. Spurs where we started off poorly and then we're down to 9 men very quickly after

Losing points hasn't got anything to do with bedding Henderson and Adam in. Gerrard played vs. Norwich where they had 101 chances and should have won comfortably and yet didn't. Having him in the team didn't make much of a difference

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Oct 31 2011, 09:07 PM

Newcastle 2-0 up at Stoke at half time, Demba Ba with two more goals. I have to say I didn't expect them to be winning that, maybe they won't but still, it would be a superb result and maybe they can challenge for the top 6. I still doubt it, but you never know. It would be quite nice to see.

Posted by: Y!kes Oct 31 2011, 10:35 PM

I'd just like to take this opportunity to say that Newcastle United, Alan Pardew and indeed the people of the city of Newcastle, Tyne and Wear can all go and fuck themselves.

That is all.

Posted by: Rooney Nov 1 2011, 08:36 PM

I don't know how Newcastle are doing so well. Ba's record is really good, and I don't think he won't stop scoring goals. His overall record is just a little bit worse than a goal every game, which is very good. Cabade (sp?) is fantastic. I don't think they'll hold it up though. Played none of the bigger teams yet.

Posted by: PurpleNurples Nov 2 2011, 11:19 AM

Just have to say in an age where footballers are singled out to be money grabbing, couldn't care less types that away from the Premier League prima donna's and unsavory headlines, a real football hero stepped out last night.

Young Doncaster Rovers striker Billy Sharp lost his two day old son Louie on Saturday, last night he led a rapturous minutes applause in memory of his tragic short life, then went out and PLAYED, just three days after his death. He was determined to score for his little boy and he did exactly that, not just any old goal either, but a sweet, sweet volley, one of the best of his career. He celebrated with a simple poignant message on his T Shirt underneath his shirt - 'That's For You Son' and a point to the sky.
Emotional, and absolute kudos to referee Darren Deadman who did NOT book him for taking off his shirt. A rare show of compassion from the referee.

Billy is no stranger to me personally having made his name with my beloved Scunthorpe, goals that gave me so much pleasure and a life time of memories, but I've never been prouder than last night. Such courage to even step out on the pitch, let alone play and score, the measure of character of that man. He's long been a football hero of mine for the contribution to my club but last night I think he became a hero to so many who have never even heard his name before.

The goal:
http://youtu.be/LoZG7ftG1kQ

The celebration - Brought grown men at the game to tears


So much love for this man right now

Posted by: JamesP Nov 2 2011, 03:35 PM

Agreed. I have nothing but respect for that man. Shows the likes of Carlos Tevez what for.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Nov 2 2011, 10:07 PM

I have to say huge respect to him. I kind of met him once and I've thought he was an utter bellend as a result ever since, but not anymore. What courage.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Nov 3 2011, 11:42 AM

As the story now has national coverage, I feel I should post the story of Forest legend Big Wes!

http://www.bigwes.com/blog.php
http://www.thisisnottingham.co.uk/Big-Wes-Mk-2-cheers-Reds-fans-way/story-13741162-detail/story.html
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-nottinghamshire-15561028

Posted by: Suedehead2 Nov 3 2011, 01:34 PM

It's rather like the story of Mr P J Harvey who got lots of congratulatory messages after this year's Mercury Prize.

Posted by: RC741 Nov 5 2011, 02:42 PM

Any Derby fans on here? COYR!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Nov 5 2011, 02:43 PM

No! Come on the Posh!

Posted by: Suedehead2 Nov 5 2011, 03:10 PM

My mother is a Derby fan if that helps

Posted by: RC741 Nov 5 2011, 03:58 PM

Good first half for the Rams, 2-1 lead

Posted by: Flatcap Nov 5 2011, 06:05 PM

Firing blanks for Carlisle's long journey, but my dad told me the team coach went off without the captain who was being interviewed for local radio. He had to go rather abruptly.

Posted by: Damon Nov 5 2011, 06:23 PM

No. Derby were pretty bad really, shocking at shooting, had 3 more good chances to the 2 they scored but blasted them all a mile over! Paul Taylor is a god, so glad we found him and picked him up.

Posted by: Y!kes Nov 5 2011, 06:51 PM

Man United were awful but ground out a 1-0 win. Go figure.

Fulham (H), Wigan (H), Wolves (A), Blackburn (H) next; 10 points plzthx.

Posted by: Damon Nov 16 2011, 07:07 PM

I now work with someone who plays for St Neots Town FC and I go to watch them every now and again haha. Feels weird watching someone you know. Would be nice if he made it far, seems a decent prospect and St Neots are on the rise aswell after getting promoted last year and being top 5 this season so far!

Posted by: Rooney Nov 18 2011, 03:11 PM

LOL Man City!!!!

Single-handedly trying to dismiss UEFAs Fair Play Policy

Posted by: ukchartstatsfan Nov 20 2011, 11:39 AM

Slightly off-topic:

But yesterday was the final time we heard Tim Gudgin who's been reading out the football results at the end of Grandstand and Final Score for 16 years
He began work on Grandstand in 1976, reading out the rugby and racing results and then in 1995 he took over as the broadcaster of the football results when Len Martin died.

Posted by: Rooney Nov 20 2011, 02:09 PM

He had such an iconic voice. It's very understandable though with the BBC moving to Salford. He lives on the South Coast.

Posted by: Rooney Nov 20 2011, 07:37 PM

The race for 3rd / 4th place is going to be highly interesting for the rest of the season!

Spurs, Chelsea, Liverpool and Van Persie all fighting it out!

Posted by: Flatcap Nov 20 2011, 08:36 PM

Plus Tottenham will still have a game in hand after tomorrow evening's game with Villa.

Disappointing result for Carlisle. My uncle supported Sheffield United when he used to live in Sheffield so he was pleased.

Posted by: Rooney Nov 20 2011, 09:03 PM

Spurs have the game against Everton from the beginning of the season aswell. They've looking very strong at the moment. On a brilliant run of form, but so are Arsenal and Liverpool (unbeaten in 9). Chelsea look so vulnerable defensively. The two Manchester sides are well above the other four, but for the other two Champions League places it is going to be so close.

Posted by: Pablo Nov 20 2011, 09:53 PM

I still think United will get sucked back into the dogfight with Arsenal / Tottenham / Chelsea / Liverpool with City romping away. Chelsea were dreadful in defence today, Luiz should be played in midfield; he is in no way, shape or form a centre half.

Posted by: Rooney Nov 26 2011, 07:29 PM

Newcastle get a deserved draw against the champions. I have to laugh at all this nonsense about a controversial penalty being given AGAINST Man Utd. How many times has it happened to them at Old Trafford? Bloody hypocrites! Man Utd never got out of 2nd gear, they were poor and extremely lethargic. Newcastle matched them for long periods. Rooney is in absolutely terrible form.

Got to wonder who will be first to go between Steve Kean and Steve Bruce? The Venkeys seem to want Blackburn to implode, and Sunderland just don't have any consistency.

And Chelsea's crisis is now over considering they won 3-0. At home. To Wolves.

Posted by: JamesP Nov 26 2011, 09:19 PM

Never got out of second gear? Twenty Nine shots on goal tells a different story...

Posted by: Rooney Nov 26 2011, 09:23 PM

Only when you had to though really. Man Utd were very lethargic until they scored. Then they stepped it up a gear. I think there's still more to come from Man Utd, but you just look so average as a team. Definitely the worst Man Utd side that's been around for some time. Newcastle defended really well.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Nov 30 2011, 06:56 PM

Steve Bruce first Premier League manager to be sacked this season, good manager but it's never really gone well for him there. Having a higher win percentage, and by a decent amount, at Wigan is never going to win over anyone. Hughes and O'Neill seem to be initial frontrunners with Benitez just behind.

Posted by: C H A R L I E ? Nov 30 2011, 07:17 PM

The top of the Championship is starting to separate out a bit now, six points between 2nd and 3rd. Looks like a straight fight between Southampton and West Ham. Six points to make up over 27 games sounds like nothing but the Hammers (I hope) have the large squad and the away form to stay ahead of the pack and Southampton have St Mary's as a fortress where they've still got a 100% record.

At the bottom Coventry and Doncaster are seven points adrift but then you've got four teams all on 20 points and three wins could theoretically take Notts Forest from the relegation zone to the playoffs.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Nov 30 2011, 07:35 PM

With Leicester now moving into the top 6 I honestly can't see it changing all season, a bit like last really where it stayed the same for months until Reading overtook Leeds near the end when they fell off dramatically. Cardiff are always there or thereabouts and there's nothing to suggest they won't be again. Leeds are stronger than last season too and battered us last night, by far the best team I've seen this season, but then they lost at home to Barnsley at the weekend, maybe Speed had a significant factor, who knows? Either way I still wouldn't be at all shocked if the top 6 now will be the top 6 at the end of the season. West Ham will easily go up, one of the best managers in the league and with a squad who should be comfortably winning the league.

You are right about how easy it is to climb, but we won 4 out of 6 and had barely climbed out of it, and two defeats later are back in the bottom 3. It's definitely a relegation battle for us, the only saving grace is there are so many shit teams in the league, Derby, Millwall, Watford, Barnsley, Pompey look like they're going to be f***ed now and Ipswich are underperforming but their squad is too full of has-been journeymen. The next couple of years are extremely bleak for us, McClaren has bought so much shit in on decent wages and long contracts that we aren't going to get rid of, I wouldn't be surprised to see McGugan, Camp and Majewski all sold in January, the sad thing is I wouldn't be disappointed either. Coventry and Donny are utter w***, be shocked if either catch up. Donny are signing a load of foreign mercenaries but it's doing no good so far.

Posted by: Rooney Nov 30 2011, 08:07 PM

He was sacked on Sunday. There was a lot of rumours going round that it was the case, but Sunderland didn't want to announce it because of the Gary Speed news. I think in hindisght he made some very poor buys over the summer, and didn't put the money gained from Henderson's sale to good use. You've got the question the Gyan situation aswell.

I know he might not be a popular choice, but Rafa Benitez would be the best choice. He's a bloody brilliant manager and he will turn Sunderland in to a team that's pushing for the top 6 within 3-4 years if he's given the right backing with money. I think he'll go there.

Posted by: Sabrina. Dec 1 2011, 09:08 AM

I can't see Benitez going there. He's already said he wants to be at a team challenging for the PL and CL

He'd be better off waiting for Villas Boas to be sacked as I think he'd be perfect for the Chelsea job.. and knows how to get the best out of Torres

Posted by: Rooney Dec 1 2011, 10:44 AM

He wants to stay in England. No Top 6 club (perhaps is Redknapp gets the England job though) will touch him. If Chelsea sack AVB they will go for Hiddink. Sunderland would be a good move for him. The club has ambitions, and funds available. It looks as though Hughes is the favourite. A good manager, but I'd be surprised if he is ever a top one. It's why Bruce failed at Sunderland. Good motivational skills, but lacks the modern tactical knowledge to ever be a top manager and get the best out of your team.

Posted by: Y!kes Dec 1 2011, 01:16 PM

Bruce's sacking should have came sooner. Performances were abysmal and results were not good enough, he'd well and truly lost the fans so it was pointless keeping him here.

Not sure what you're on about Roo, we'd never get Benitez? Don't get me wrong I would like Benitez in charge but it won't happen. It was a two-way battle between Hughes and O'Neill but we've already interviewed O'Neill for the job and it now looks very likely he'll be put in charge. Sensible imo.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 1 2011, 04:57 PM

Lucas out for the season Absolutely gutted for him. Up there with the top players of the Premier League.

Posted by: Y!kes Dec 1 2011, 06:52 PM

Martin O'Neill to be confirmed as new Sunderland manager by tomorrow morning according to rumours doing the rounds and some bloke from our local paper.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 1 2011, 06:55 PM

Cracking appointment. Good to see him back.

Posted by: Y!kes Dec 1 2011, 07:01 PM

He'd certainly lift the place, he was the majority of fans' first choice.

He'll probably not get us playing the brilliant, flowing attacking football we crave but at least his style is effective, unlike Bruce's dull 'let's stick 10 men behind the ball and hope for a point' hoofball.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 1 2011, 07:02 PM

It'll be interesting how the football is for you. At Villa he did generally favour playing counter attacking football using the electric pace of Young and Agbonlahor, not sure he'd be able to do that at Sunderland.

Posted by: Y!kes Dec 1 2011, 07:05 PM

Like I said, after watching our side under Bruce anything that wins games is an improvement.

It's true we haven't got much pace in the side though, Richardson's probably our fastest attacking player. Or Elmo. But he's shit.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 3 2011, 05:15 PM

If we had someone like Craig Mackail-Smith we'd have battered Brighton today. An undeserved victory for them but much improved after the shambles that was Leeds on Tuesday. Palace, Bristol and P'Boro next three matches, season defining.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Dec 3 2011, 06:23 PM

Did you go? Th impression I got from the reports on Final Score was that Brighton were rather lucky today. it sounded like both sides were poor in the first half but that Forest woke up after half-time while it took Brighton rather longer.

Posted by: Damon Dec 3 2011, 06:41 PM

Ughhhh Peterborough are going down, and it'll feel so disappointing considering the start we've had, even after I expected it before the season started.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 3 2011, 07:17 PM

YORK 7-0 KETTERING

!!!!

Posted by: Suedehead2 Dec 3 2011, 07:33 PM

What sort of side did Kettering put out? They were in danger of losing a lot of players as they hadn't been paid. The result suggests they may have had to put out a team of youngsters which could make the remainder of the season very tough for Kettering.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 3 2011, 07:34 PM

No, I listened on the radio. You had one shot on target, which happened to be the 92nd winner. 2nd half was dreadful with about 1 attempt each, lots of passing but no penetration, 2nd we were much better but just couldn't put it in.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 3 2011, 07:57 PM

Mixture really. All the XI who started were professionals, 4 on non-contract terms. Fleetwood beat then 3-0 on Tuesday night. They still have some good players. York are just really good this season. York were missing their best two players aswell through suspension. Really hope they don't go under. They're doing the right thing at the moment by trying to balance the books, and not worrying about the short term effects.

Posted by: C H A R L I E ? Dec 4 2011, 01:53 AM

Buggery, missed the chance to go top. Bloody Burnley, we had a rather good run going as well.

Posted by: Damon Dec 4 2011, 04:18 AM

My Rushden (who are now out of business) mate says Kettering are doing the exact same thing they did last season at the Nene Park stadium and wouldn't be surprised if they are out of business by the end of the week

Posted by: Y!kes Dec 4 2011, 07:09 AM

O'Neill confirmed as our new manager, three year contract, very, very pleased. It's an appointment that finally shows some ambition by the club, props to Short for both bringing him in in the first place as well the timing of it.

MON will be in the stands at Molineux tomorrow, then he gets a full week of training with the squad before the Blackburn game.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 4 2011, 02:24 PM

Yeah it looks it. There has been interest in some of their non-contract players. It might mean they cannot field a team. Really hope it doesn't happen as York will lose 6 points and 11 goal difference. But I really feel for their fans. I know how horrible it is to see your club on the rocks, and almost go out of business. Hope it doesn't happen to Kettering. Their chairman has really messed them up. Such a shame because like Rushden last year Kettering are a club that were living beyond their money. Too many clubs do it, because to get out of the Conference you have got to be a really really strong team.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 4 2011, 07:47 PM

Well MoN has got his work cut out at Sunderland. I think they need a whole new back four!

Think he'll be a good short term appointment for Sunderland. Not so sure about whether he is the right man for a long term stint though. I don't like the guy.

Posted by: ramseydawson Dec 4 2011, 09:24 PM

Arsenal are doing amazing now except for there draw last week and there loss against city in the carling cup

Posted by: ramseydawson Dec 4 2011, 09:25 PM

Arsenal are so going to beat Leeds in the F.A cup

Posted by: ramseydawson Dec 4 2011, 09:26 PM

The annoying thing is my dad is a Leeds fan so if arsenal loose i am not going to hear the end of it

Posted by: Y!kes Dec 5 2011, 05:54 AM

What a fucking shambles MoN is inheriting here, absolutely sickened by yesterday's result. That's 0 points taken from two of the worst teams in the league, with Blackburn to come on Sunday. Brill.

We have five games before the start of January, if O'Neill can get anything from them working with that shower of shit he deserves the freedom of the city. We are awful, truly awful.

Oh, and Eric Black can fuck off as well.

Posted by: euro music Dec 5 2011, 01:08 PM

Fleetwood Town to be promoted this year!

Posted by: Rooney Dec 5 2011, 02:00 PM

Urgh I hope not. They're a team of mercenaries just like Crawley were. They'll finish in the Top 5. Will be close between Wrexham, Fleetwod & York who wins the league.

Posted by: Sabrina. Dec 7 2011, 07:38 PM

The FA are a joke. Liverpool charged as the players reacted after Spearing was sent off, which evidently wasn't a red card. I don't understand how that's any different to any other game ? It happens all the time

At least if their going to charge clubs.. Be a little more consistent about it as they obviously don't remember this then ?

Posted by: Rooney Dec 7 2011, 08:05 PM

I didn't see the game so I can't comment. The FA are just a full on joke though. No surprise there. Fully expect to see Suarez get a two game ban for what he did. It was wrong, but the likes of Lampard, G.Neville and A.Cole have done it before and got more punishment for it.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Dec 7 2011, 08:07 PM

I thought Spearing deserved the red card but the Liverpool players' reaction was certainly no worse than that of many other teams.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 7 2011, 08:13 PM

Yes I seem to recall Manchester United being outraged the other week against Newcastle when the game didn't go there way. I can accept the charges, but there is just no consistency.

Posted by: Rich Dec 7 2011, 09:37 PM

See ya later City/United

Posted by: Rooney Dec 8 2011, 03:04 AM

hahaha this is actually hilarious

WELCOME TO CHANNEL 5 MANCHESTER UNITED

Posted by: Rooney Dec 8 2011, 03:12 PM

Dalglish is getting a beating on the internet for his comments about Rooney. Even though he's right.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 10 2011, 06:04 PM

For Forest to have got no points from our last two games makes me think we have little chance of surviving. If we can't get points when playing that well and opponents are so poor we'll never win.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 11 2011, 07:58 PM

Surprising day today. Sunderland must have secured a confidence boosting six pointer. O'Shea looks bloody awful though.

And huge win at the top end of the table. Spurs losing their unbeaten run. Really hope Man City win tomorrow now.

Posted by: Y!kes Dec 11 2011, 09:35 PM

Shame we've got Spurs at WHL next lol.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 11 2011, 09:38 PM

Will be a difficult game. Adebayor, Modric, Bale and Van Der Vaart will probably have your backline for breakfast. BUT Spurs at the back really do not look solid without King. I expect he'll play because he didn't play today, but Spurs look so much weaker without King. Stoke got their tactics spot on today. They took a risk playing a high line, but it nulified the Spurs midfield.

Posted by: Y!kes Dec 12 2011, 01:39 AM

I have to agree with you, the attacking players Spurs have will have a field day with our defence. Blackburn's first goal was absolutely diabolical defensively, it wouldn't have been acceptable at Sunday League under 8 level and it's the sort of thing we need to cut out if we're going to get anywhere in the league.

But yeah, it's annoying because I can't see us winning and it doesn't give us the chance to build any sort of momentum after a good win. Really wish O'Neill had came in after the Fulham game, so that he'd have had Wigan, Wolves and Blackburn to sort things out.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 14 2011, 03:32 PM

Huge result last night in the Premier League with Chelsea beating Man City. It makes everything a little more interesting.

I thought Chelsea showed great tactical awareness. For the first 25 minutes they were played off the park. Then they got a little bit of luck with the penalty decision going their way in the first half.

BUT for Chelsea I personally think this win just sweeps everything under the carpet. There are huge dressing room issues imo. Alex & Anelka wanting out. Lampard now coming out to the press and asking for a reason why he's dropped to the bench. Drogba wanting a longer conract. The list goes on!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 20 2011, 08:01 PM

8 match ban and £40k fine for Suarez.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 20 2011, 08:44 PM

I'm absolutely livid. Mainly the fact that the FA have said they do not think Suarez is racist, in both the charges and in their opening statement.

Liverpool FC's statement is very powerful. Not going to take this lying down. Have the feeling the whole case is going to get very ugly, probably end up in the Crown Court. Liverpool will not accept the charges. It will get even worse if Terry does not get a much higher ban.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 20 2011, 09:15 PM

I'd be extremely surprised that if Terry is found guilty, he wasn't banned for at least the same amount of time.

The thing is, because of the two teams involved, the 'losing' side was always going to feel hard done by. I honestly don't think he would've been found guilty with such a harsh punishment, I was under the impression he had said the word 'negrito', but he wasn't aware of its connotations? Not too sure. But if he did then he deserves everything he gets, he's a fucking idiot. As far as the way verdict has gone, part of me is absolutely delighted, it's fantastic there is a crackdown on it and an 8 match ban is the way to go, if only it were more. It just seems a bit odd what's been said about it from the FA.

As for the FA not suggesting he's racist, you don't have to be a racist to make a racist remark.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 20 2011, 09:33 PM

I don't know. I can't see it. But we'll see. The bigger problem here is the FA have opened up a huge can of worms.

Liverpool Football Club is very surprised and disappointed with the decision of the Football Association Commission to find Luis Suarez guilty of the charges against him.

We look forward to the publication of the Commission's Judgment. We will study the detailed reasons of the Commission once they become available, but reserve our right to appeal or take any other course of action we feel appropriate with regards to this situation.

We find it extraordinary that Luis can be found guilty on the word of Patrice Evra alone when no-one else on the field of play - including Evra's own Manchester United teammates and all the match officials - heard the alleged conversation between the two players in a crowded Kop goalmouth while a corner kick was about to be taken.

The Club takes extremely seriously the fight against all forms of discrimination and has a long and successful track record in work relating to anti-racist activity and social inclusion. We remain committed to this ideal and equality for all, irrespective of a person's background.

LFC considers racism in any form to be unacceptable - without compromise. It is our strong held belief, having gone over the facts of the case, that Luis Suarez did not commit any racist act. It is also our opinion that the accusation by this particular player was not credible - certainly no more credible than his prior unfounded accusations.

It is key to note that Patrice Evra himself in his written statement in this case said 'I don't think that Luis Suarez is racist'. The FA in their opening remarks accepted that Luis Suarez was not racist.

Luis himself is of a mixed race family background as his grandfather was black. He has been personally involved since the 2010 World Cup in a charitable project which uses sport to encourage solidarity amongst people of different backgrounds with the central theme that the colour of a person's skin does not matter; they can all play together as a team.

He has played with black players and mixed with their families whilst with the Uruguay national side and was Captain at Ajax Amsterdam of a team with a proud multi-cultural profile, many of whom became good friends.

It seems incredible to us that a player of mixed heritage should be accused and found guilty in the way he has based on the evidence presented. We do not recognise the way in which Luis Suarez has been characterised.

It appears to us that the FA were determined to bring charges against Luis Suarez, even before interviewing him at the beginning of November. Nothing we have heard in the course of the hearing has changed our view that Luis Suarez is innocent of the charges brought against him and we will provide Luis with whatever support he now needs to clear his name.

We would also like to know when the FA intend to charge Patrice Evra with making abusive remarks to an opponent after he admitted himself in his evidence to insulting Luis Suarez in Spanish in the most objectionable of terms. Luis, to his credit, actually told the FA he had not heard the insult.

Evra said something to Suarez aswell (many things have been suggested, but noone will know until the FA reveal the case). But anytime something is said to Liverpool players be it racist, insulting etc. they will report it. The Man Utd fans are already annoyed with the Liverpool statement, but what can you expect really. An allegation of this magnitude, nobody is going to take it seriously. If the club seriously thought Suarez was a racist they would not stick by him.

I don't even think Liverpool will appeal the verdict. Liverpool obviously know what the evidence is (and it's been suggested it literally is Evra's word against his, and Suarez addmitting he said something). An 8 game ban though, beyond ridiculous.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 21 2011, 03:06 PM

Terry as well! The CPS have recommended he's be charged with using racist language, prosecuted for racially aggravated public order offence.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 21 2011, 03:37 PM

Hmmm. Is getting a bit farcical imo.

The FA are just on a power trip as usual (I know the Terry thing and him being prosecuted has nothing to do with it), but they've been gunning for blood ever since Blatter came out with his racism comments. The Uraguay team are now getting involved, I don't think it will be too long until their FA get involved either. The FA need to hurry up and release the evidence. Taken too long as it is.

Posted by: ramseydawson Dec 21 2011, 09:05 PM

Yes 8 match ban for suarez so happy plus 40,000 pound fine just to top it off he desirved that racist, cheat

Posted by: Rooney Dec 21 2011, 10:19 PM

See this is the problem. He ISN'T a racist. This is the problem the FA have got. They've said he used a racist term, but not in a racist manner. That doesn't make sense. It's why ultimately imo the FA will have to see this in court. This goes way further than a ban - it's someone's reputation at stake. I am fully against racism for the record, but the FA have not done themselves any favours so far.

Posted by: ramseydawson Dec 21 2011, 10:25 PM

True but he still said it so as soon as he said it he faced getting banned as evra was obviosly going to take it the wrong way

Posted by: Rooney Dec 21 2011, 11:08 PM

Yes he took it so strongly that even though it took him until he final whistle to even mention the incident. He made no contact with the referee. Only to his manager. And then to the French media. Evra's an absolute bellend. He's no saint in this story either.

Posted by: ramseydawson Dec 21 2011, 11:16 PM

I can't stand evra to be honest but Suarez was always getting getting banned as soon as evra mentioned it to any1

Posted by: ramseydawson Dec 21 2011, 11:18 PM

I find it wierd how suarez gets an 8 match ban nd 40,000 pound fine and terry only possibly gets a max 2,500 fine it is a bit stupid as they have both apparantly been racist

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 22 2011, 12:00 AM

That's because you're an idiot. I don't understand how so many people seem to have failed to comprehend that Luis Suarez was fined and charged by the FA. They can do what they want. John Terry has so far only been charged by the Police, and by law the maximum they can fine him is £2,500. The FA have not, and cannot, do anything with Terry until he's been charged and had his hearing with the law. Then they can do whatever they see punishment. I'd be very surprised if his fine isn't greater and his ban not longer.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 22 2011, 12:08 AM

But surely you can do something which is racist without being A racist? Luis Suarez himself may not be racist, but that doesn't mean to say what he did wasn't. I think it's pretty much clear that he did say the word negro or some variation of it, and it shouldn't be allowed here. I read the stuff about cultural differences and that it's not offensive in Uruguay and I just think it's a lame, bollocks excuse. He lives and works here, where the term can be, and is, offensive, he did it here. So what they call black players 'the monkey' over there, we don't do that here. Does he call Glenn Johnson monkey? If I were to go abroad and commit a crime which wasn't punishable in the UK, I wouldn't expect to get off. If he'd said that in a normal job he'd have been fired. If he was a fan shouting it to a player he'd be banned for life.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 22 2011, 12:09 AM

I'm still not sure what the outcome of Terry's hearing will be. It has to be greater really. The FA have given Suarez an 8 game ban, on what appears to be his own account of what was said. Even if he admitted saying something, and 8 game ban is still bloody ridiculous. The England captain being banned for a large amount of games for racism is not going to be a good PR move.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 22 2011, 12:42 AM

I think Alan Hansen has this evening proved that you don't have to be a racist to do or say something that can be seen as racism. I doubt there's a single person who truly believes that Alan Hansen IS racist, but saying racism is not a problem because of the success of coloured players isn't exactly the best way to phrase that, using a word that can be seen as racist and offensive.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 22 2011, 01:14 AM

Yeah and it's why everything is so f***ing stupid. It's ok for Rooney to be referred to as the White Pele though. If he gets sacked then it's farcical.

Posted by: jaynesangel Dec 22 2011, 09:04 PM

If Suarez is banned for 8 games, will the FA consistently ban every player who makes offensive, racist remarks for 8 games?

I've heard people talking about sending a message ... how this will act as a deterrent ... again, will this be consistently applied to every footballer who makes offensive and racist comments? For example, if the exact same incident happened in a League 2 match, would the player be banned for 8 games and fined £40,000?

If a player insults, for example, Craig Bellamy using 'Welsh' as an insult would the player be banned and fined for insulting him?

Posted by: Rooney Dec 23 2011, 12:37 AM

The FA have no consistency. Suarez got an 8 game ban for whatever he did. Bearing in mind nobody bar Evra heard what was said. Whilst I'm pretty sure Ben Thatcher got an 8 game ban for almost killing someone. There's just no consistency. And there never will be whilst the same old dinosaurs from the 1970s are at the helm of the organisation.

Like I said before it's a politcal move by the FA to show the world about racism. Wigan's chants last right were pathetic, some of them very disturbing infact.

Posted by: Suedehead2 Dec 23 2011, 04:25 PM

I don't think anyone is calling for Hansen to be sacked. As Mark said he apologised as soon as the issue was raised and nobody is suggesting that he's a racist. He simply used a term which was once considered acceptable (more so than black at the time) but is now considered offensive.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 23 2011, 06:01 PM

There were a few people on Twitter calling Hansen to be sacked. Our country has a lot of problems to do with racism, but making issues about the situation when there is none is what we as a country are best at. The response to the situation in general has been sickening. Black footballers saying if if they were Glen Johnson they would have thrown their shirt on the fall - they have no right to say that. Utterly disgusting behaviour. So much hypocrisy aswell from a lot of people. Notice in the media this morning how a lot of journalosts were calling John Terry a hero for his actions last night in the Spurs match.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 26 2011, 05:56 PM

6 games without scoring, can't even stick one past Peterborough! We are utterly w***.

If Damon reads this then Paul Taylor is the best player I've seen at the City Ground this season, and I remain jealous that George Boyd doesn't play for us.

Posted by: Damon Dec 26 2011, 07:13 PM

Paul Taylor is absolutely amazing. Wasn't at the game today but he's been brilliant this season, so glad we got him in last season from Belgium! Apparently has Premiership clubs looking at him already, not too surprised by that really.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 28 2011, 05:56 PM

So a 1 game ban for Suarez for the finger gesture, and Liverpool told there fine for crowding the referee must stand.

I really have no respect for the FA. I know I am slightly biased, but it's a complete bloody joke fining the club. Can somebody point out a game when players DON'T crowd the referee after something they don't like? I saw it 3/4 times yesterday in the Arsenal-Wolves match!

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 29 2011, 10:39 AM

To be honest I'd not seen the crowding until yesterday but I think I possibly agree with that and not others. Crowding is different to controlling the players, and whilst yes most teams do crowd and moan at the ref it's not usually to the aggressive level that a lot of the Liverpool players showed, and if it wasn't the whole team there could only have been one who hadn't gone over to him. I'm not saying it's right but at the same time I can see why they were fined for something that a lot of the time teams will get away with.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 29 2011, 08:51 PM

Nah I disagree completely. The Wolves players went mad (was the same tackle as Spearing's) at the ref against Arsenal. I don't mind the punishements, but the FA needs to be consistent, which they are not. Every now and again they like to give out a punishment to show their authority.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 30 2011, 05:44 PM

But as I said, there's a difference between crowding the ref and what Liverpool were fined for. In terms of numbers, proximity to the ref and aggression Liverpool's was definitely worse than Wolves.

Posted by: Flatcap Dec 30 2011, 06:45 PM

Do we need another thread for this?

Anyway, exciting game for Carlisle on Boxing Day, both teams went for it and ended in a draw. Next up, Huddersfield tonight.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 30 2011, 06:57 PM

I've moved a load of old posts to keep this one going...

Posted by: Pablo Dec 31 2011, 02:46 PM

KEAN IN. Hilarious.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 31 2011, 02:51 PM

OMG absolutely hilarious. The Blackburn fans are numpties. I've seen a few of their games this season and they haven't even played THAT badly. Just very unlucky. Kean is not a brilliant manager, but they're not going to be able to attract anyone better at present.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 31 2011, 05:31 PM

FA have released the Suarez report. As suspected, it's one man's word against another. Evra said he told the referee, yet no collection of it in the referee's report. Both stories are completely different. In short how the f*** the FA can decide on an eight match ban when there's no evidence at all is beyond me.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Dec 31 2011, 06:25 PM

It says Andre Mariner took it higher rather than including it in his report, a Extraordinary Incident Report Form. The jist of it is that the evidence Suarez gave doesn't add up and is contradictory, and was 'seriously undermined' by video evidence. Therefore his word is far less believable than Evra's who's evidence added up throughout and was more reliable against video evidence and other witnesses. I don't Liverpool have a leg to stand on really with the reasoning that's been given.

Posted by: Rooney Dec 31 2011, 06:46 PM

Neither of the player's evidence adds up. I've read about fifty pages, and it's all completely laughable. My favourite quote is from Mr. Ferguson saying "more than ten times" is a French saying (as this how many times Suarez allegedly called Evra a n*****". What a complete joke. Both players change their stories. It's one man's word against another. Evra was looking for a fight right from kick-off. Aruging the coin toss, telling the referee that he was booking him because he was black. Evra said Suarez called him a "n*****" initially, bu there's no mention of this in the repot. Suarez called him a "negro" in Spanish, yet the FA have interepreted the English meaning of the word. Further in the report, Evra again mentions something to Suarez in Spanish, that is translated to something along the lines of "I'm f***ing your sister's c**t". Yet the FA have interepreted this as "f*** off". Calling Evra a "more reliable witness" is laughable. Dirk Kuyt gives evidence as well, so they are basically saying he is wrong aswell.

It's one man against another. Suarez has admitted using the word "negro" in Spanish and it seems that the FA have taken this as fact what Suarez said is allegedly true. You cannot take one man's word against another, whether it is a civil court or a crown court. It's completely laughable. This video evidence aswell, for such an important piece of evidence, it has not been mentioned at all. Evra and the FA have said Suarez is not racist, and what he said makes him no way racist at all. I'm sorry but saying they won't speak to someone because they're black, or calling someone "blackie blackie blackie" is extremely racist. Liverpool's laywers will take the "evidence" to pieces.

I'm sorry Mark, but this report is a complete joke. If Suarez said what he is alleged to have said then I support a ban, but there is no evidence at all. To take one man's word against another with no concrete evidence, and judging reliability from the player's statements and the aftermath of the event (says in the report Evra got a lot of abuse from the media and Twitter which really offended him) is a complete farce.

Posted by: Rooney Jan 1 2012, 05:01 PM

What an odd, odd weekend of Premier League football.

Posted by: 2 0 1 2 ? Jan 3 2012, 12:36 PM

VERY satisfactory day for West Ham. Ground a solid win and Middlesbrough and Southampton both lost. Cardiff beating Reading means it's now effectively a top 4 with a six point cushion.

Posted by: ramseydawson Jan 4 2012, 12:16 PM

how on earth did arsenal loose to fulham just shocking

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Jan 4 2012, 12:19 PM

Because bringing on Squillaci you may as well have gone down to 9 men.

Posted by: ramseydawson Jan 4 2012, 12:20 PM

SQUILLACI IS BETTER THAN HAVIN ONLY 3 DEFENDERS

Posted by: ramseydawson Jan 4 2012, 12:20 PM

i think arsenal lost because we took off walcot

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Jan 4 2012, 12:24 PM

Surely just moving Song to the back would've been better? I'd rather play him there with Ramsey, Rosicky and Arteta in midfield. Surely Wenger will use Miquel over him? He's a liability.

Taking Walcott off didn't help, didn't give them any outlet.

Posted by: ramseydawson Jan 4 2012, 12:24 PM

wat was pepe riena doing lol how didnt he save it

Posted by: Rooney Jan 4 2012, 05:59 PM

Race for 4th now is beyond a joke. Liverpool, good team but no end product. Arsenal, over reliant on Van Persie and the defence is a mess. And Chelsea are just a mess full stop.

Posted by: Rooney Jan 4 2012, 10:00 PM

PHIL JONES Absolutely useless.

Karma's a bitch.

Posted by: 2 0 1 2 ? Jan 4 2012, 10:00 PM

That was rather hilarious!

Posted by: Suedehead2 Jan 4 2012, 10:07 PM

It was a farcical own goal which capped a pretty poor Man U performance.

Posted by: Rooney Jan 4 2012, 10:15 PM

They've been poor all year. Teams often have a defeatist attitude when they play them. Blackburn showed how Man Utd can be got at, and Newcastle followed.

Still bloody hilarious though.

Posted by: Rooney Jan 7 2012, 05:24 PM

Yadda yadda yadda. More bullshit from the press. The Levinson enquiry has taught them nothing.

Posted by: RabbitFurCoat Jan 7 2012, 07:11 PM

Assuming you're talking about the Oldham player? Having seen the video he's clearly very upset with something he's seen or heard, but you can't really jump to conclusions. It doesn't help though that the TV camera cuts to fans nearby in Suarez t-shirts as the crowd erupts into a chant defending the player.