Poll
Question:
Who will win the EPL in 2013/14?
Option 1: Manchester United
votes: 5
Option 2: Manchester City
votes: 4
Option 3: Chelsea
votes: 10
Option 4: Arsenal
votes: 3
Option 5: Liverpool
votes: 1
Option 6: Everton
votes: 0
Option 7: Tottenham
votes: 2
Option 8: Other
votes: 1
EPL is back this weekend!!!! So keen for it and I'm sure many of you guys are too
Comment your opinions on the upcoming season, and answer these questions.
EPL Premier: (1st)
Champions League Qualifiers: (2nd-4th)
Europa League Qualifier: (5th)
"The Bolters":
"The Sliders":
Relegated Teams:
Golden Boot Winner:
Player with Most Assists:
Golden Glove: (goalkeeper with most clean sheets)
General thoughts for the upcoming season:
* The Bolter: The team or teams that you think will have a much bigger impact than in past years
** The Slider: The team or teams whose performances will slip from last season
EPL Premier:
Manchester City. Four very very good squad additions in Navas, Fernandinho, Jovetic and Negredo give their side a very strong attacking presence, and I am predicting goals aplenty from them. Don't discount Chelsea either, but I think City have the edge, unless Rooney goes to Chelsea, then it will be reallyyyyy hard to split
Champions League Qualifiers:
Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal. In that order as well.
Europa League Qualifier:
Tottenham. With Bale, they can push into the Top 4. Without Bale, they will still push for CL spot, with quality signings like Paulinho, Soldado, Chadli and potentially Etienne Capoue as well, but more likely Europa League.
It will be another intriguing battle between Arsenal and Tottenham for the final CL spot.
"The Bolters":
My team. Swansea. Look at their signings. Look at their pre-season form. Look at their manager. Playing in Europa League as well, which will give them much benefit as well. Bony and Michu could become a lethal combination, while Pozuelo, Shelvey and De Guzman will create dangerous chances. Good depth too. Don't think they'll make the Top 6 but they might give a few teams a fright or two.
Southampton, West Ham and Norwich have all made some very good signings - Wanyama, Carroll, Van Wolfswinkel, etc - so predicting them to rise up the table a bit and push for the top half
"The Sliders":
Hard to pick one. I think Aston Villa potentially, as they still seem to be a tad over-reliant on Christian Benteke, and if he went down they would really struggle. West Bromich Albion may also find it hard to repeat last season's exploiits without 17-goal man Romelu Lukaku, but are looking at another mid-table finish. But one team that could have a more noticable slide...
I'm gonna call it now - Manchester United. If Rooney goes, and they fail to bring back CR7 (or another very good midfielder), and without the mastermind SAF at the helm, United might drop off a bit. God help them if RVP goes down. I'm predicting them to finish third
Relegated Teams:
Hard to see any of the new boys staying up past this season. Not sure what order but Hull, Cardiff and Crystal Palace will go back down for mine. Cardiff have the best chance of staying up, but still unlikely.... Of the established teams, Aston Villa and Fulham look the most vulnerable but I think they'll stay up
Golden Boot:
Robin van Persie
Player with most assists:
Eden Hazard
Golden Glove:
Petr Cech or Joe Hart
General thoughts for the upcoming season:
This is gonna be a really good season. Doubt there will be a runaway winner like there was last year.
Four men hold key to the placements of the Top 6 - Luis Suarez, Wayne Rooney, Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo. If they switch clubs - Suarez to Arsenal, Rooney to Chelsea, Bale to Madrid and Ronaldo to Man Utd - whether they stay or go, all clubs involved will be effected massively, as I've spoken about already
I think a lot of teams - as mentioned in the bolters - are on the up. Liverpool will struggle without Suarez, but Aspas and Sturridge look good. Everton may drop without Moyes, but are still quality, while Newcastle, Stoke, West Brom and Sunderland are looking at mid-table finishes.
This is going to be a very good season and I cannot wait!
EPL Premier:
Chelsea. I think we have a really solid squad for this season with a lot of depth. We also won't play as many games as last year so hopefully that will keep us a bit fresher. I think City will be our main rival for sure, with United still in the mix, but I reckon they will slip a little.
Champions League Qualifiers:
Chelsea
Man City
Man United
Tottenham
Europa League Qualifier:
Arsenal
"The Bolters":
Norwich for me. They have a really soft draw up until they play Chelsea in about the 6th game of the season. They could quite possibly be undefeated up until then. Look at this for an easy starting fixture list. Everton (home), Hull (away), Southampton (home), Aston Villa (home), Stoke (away) before play Chelsea at home.
"The Sliders":
West Brom, West Ham and Fulham.
Relegated Teams:
There's always a shock relegation and I honestly think it might be Fulham this season. I think Hull and Crystal Palace will struggle to stay up as well.
General thoughts for the upcoming season:
Van Persie to win the Golden Boot, Cech to win the Golden Glove and Hazard to be the leading assister. I also think who ever does win the EPL this season will win it by 3 points or less.
Quote from: Chelskiman on August 13, 2013, 02:43:23 PM
General thoughts for the upcoming season:
Van Persie to win the Golden Boot, Cech to win the Golden Glove and Hazard to be the leading assister. I also think who ever does win the EPL this season will win it by 3 points or less.
Thanks Chelski I will definitely add these in!
EPL Premier: As much as I want it to be Chelsea, I think we'll be pipped by Man City.
Champions League Qualifiers: Chelsea, Man City, Man Utd
Europa League Qualifier: Tottenham, Swansea
"The Bolters": Norwich for sure - great additions, proper threat. Southampton - I can feel it, they're gonna do nicely.
"The Sliders": I think Stoke and Sunderland might struggle a bit.
Relegated Teams: As Chelski said, there's always a shock. Villa might be that team. Stekers will help Fulham a lot.
Golden Boot Winner: As much as I don't want it to be, probably RVP.
Player with Most Assists: No idea, probably several players who have a decent chance.
Golden Glove: (player with most clean sheets) Cech should, maybe Mignolet a sneaky chance.
General thoughts for the upcoming season: Should be an interesting season. Keen to see some of the new guys to the EPL like Bony, Deulofeu etc do their thing. Can't wait! 8)
Quote from: Tominator on August 13, 2013, 02:55:35 PM
Quote from: Chelskiman on August 13, 2013, 02:43:23 PM
General thoughts for the upcoming season:
Van Persie to win the Golden Boot, Cech to win the Golden Glove and Hazard to be the leading assister. I also think who ever does win the EPL this season will win it by 3 points or less.
Thanks Chelski I will definitely add these in!
Haha, no worries. Also, I'm interested to know who selected other in the poll, and especially interested to see which team they think is going to win outside of the main contenders.
Quote from: Chelskiman on August 13, 2013, 03:35:23 PM
Quote from: Tominator on August 13, 2013, 02:55:35 PM
Quote from: Chelskiman on August 13, 2013, 02:43:23 PM
General thoughts for the upcoming season:
Van Persie to win the Golden Boot, Cech to win the Golden Glove and Hazard to be the leading assister. I also think who ever does win the EPL this season will win it by 3 points or less.
Wasn't me, I voted for Chelsea. ;D If it was to be a team outside the poll, I'd probably pick Swansea.
Thanks Chelski I will definitely add these in!
Haha, no worries. Also, I'm interested to know who selected other in the poll, and especially interested to see which team they think is going to win outside of the main contenders.
EPL Premier: (1st)
Chelsea to dominate with the lineup and team chemistry further settled, young players having greater impact, and Mourinho doing a master class.
Champions League Qualifiers: (2nd-4th)
1. Chelsea.
2. Man United I feel may falter a little under Moyes.
3. Liverpool to have a few cold patches, but many very hot patches.
4. Man City will struggle to find consistency.
Europa League Qualifier: (5th)
5. Tottenham to be good, but never good enough.
"The Bolters":
Southampton and Swansea.
"The Sliders":
Sunderland and Stoke.
Relegated Teams:
Hull City, Cardiff City and Norwich.
Golden Boot Winner:
Robin Van Persie
Player with Most Assists:
Juan Mata
Golden Glove: (goalkeeper with most clean sheets)
Petr Cech.
General thoughts for the upcoming season:
Arsene Wenger sacked.
Arsenal to disappoint.
BTW, I think it would be nice if we all also made our predictions for the winner of each match for each round.
Gameweek 1 - 17 Aug
(3) Liverpool v Stoke City (0)
(2) Arsenal v Aston Villa (1)
(1) Norwich v Everton (2)
(1) Sunderland v Fulham (1)
(2) West Brom v Southampton (2)
(2) West Ham v Cardiff City (1)
(2) Swansea v Man Utd (3)
(0) Crystal Palace v Tottenham (4)
(4) Chelsea v Hull City (0)
(2) Man City v Newcastle (1)
(3) Chelsea v Aston Villa (1)
EPL Premier: (1st)
I think it will be Man City or Chelsea. Man City have the stronger outfit, but the problem is they will rotate a lot so they might not get into any sort of rhythm, they will still win though in my opinion.
Champions League Qualifiers: (2nd-4th)
1. Man City
2. Chelsea
3. Man Utd
4. Tottenham
Europa League Qualifier: (5th)
5. Arsenal
6. Liverpool
7. Everton
"The Bolters":
Newcastle to start to improve on last year
"The Sliders":
Swansea to do what Newcastle did last season with the extra fixtures.
Relegated Teams:
Hull City, Cardiff City and Fulham.
Golden Boot Winner:
Robin Van Persie
Player with Most Assists:
Eden Hazard
Golden Glove: (goalkeeper with most clean sheets)
Petr Cech.
General thoughts for the upcoming season:
Going to be a close season from 4th to 7th with Tottenham, Arsenal, Liverpool and Everton fighting out for the European spots.
EPL Premier: (1st)
Man United
1. Man United
2. Man City
3. Arsenal
4. Liverpool
Europa League Qualifier: (5th)
5. Chelsea
6. Everton
7. Stoke
"The Bolters":
Wigan to finish 12th
"The Sliders":
Aston Villa
Relegated Teams:
Hull City, Cardiff City and Aston Villa
Golden Boot Winner:
Robin Van Persie
Player with Most Assists:
David Silva
Golden Glove: (goalkeeper with most clean sheets)
Heurelho Gomes
General thoughts for the upcoming season:
One of the big 4 clubs will start badly and will be mid table until the final day when results go their way and they finish 4th
1. Man City
2. Chelsea
3. Man U (have fun with moyes cause your going backwards)
4. Spurs(if bale stays), if not then Everton (really think we can make the jump with Martniez)
5. Everton/Spurs
6. Arsenal
7. Swansea
Bolters
Swansea, Norwich to have great seasons, Newcastle should improve to and Sunderland maybe too
Sliders
Liverpool will be lucky for top 8 at this rate, bought in no one of substance, Suarez will go and Gerrad is a year older
Relegation
Not to sure of relegation, If Benteke stays Villa dont go down, Sunderland will either go close to top 10 or be relegated, look for atleast 2 promoted teams to stay up
Golden Boot
If Rooney leaves RVP should kick enough goals
Most assists
David Silva
Glove
Hart
\
Final thoughts: Could be Wengers last year, look for Everton to score more goals but still keep tight down back
Quote from: Cicjose on August 13, 2013, 09:10:04 PM
"The Bolters":
Wigan to finish 12th
Not sure if joking or not? ???
can somebody please clear this up for me cos I am unsure..... is it just 5th in the EPL that qualifies for Europa League (besides FA Cup and League Cup winners)?
Or do 6th and 7th get a slice of the pie too? I know only 3 English teams go to Europa
http://www.premierleague.com/en-gb/fans/faqs/who-qualifies-to-play-in-europe/
Quote from: Tominator on August 14, 2013, 10:17:37 AM
can somebody please clear this up for me cos I am unsure..... is it just 5th in the EPL that qualifies for Europa League (besides FA Cup and League Cup winners)?
Or do 6th and 7th get a slice of the pie too? I know only 3 English teams go to Europa
Well so many previous years 6th got europa, but no the year Everton 6ths -.-
I voted other. :-[
Love me some Aston Villa and I'm confident/naive. 8)
EPL Premier: (1st) Manchester City
Champions League Qualifiers: (2nd-4th)
1. Manchester City
2. Chelsea
3. Manchester United
4. Tottenham
Europa League Qualifier: (5th)
5. Liverpool....Please!, pretty please! ::)
"The Bolters": Everton and Norwich City to swap between top half and bottom half of the table.
"The Sliders": Everton and Norwich City to swap between top half and bottom half of the table.
Relegated Teams:
Crystal Palace, Hull City, Really unsure on the third... Newcastle - Can score, but can they stop goals?
Golden Boot Winner:
Robin Van Persie
Player with Most Assists:
Juan Mata
Golden Glove: (goalkeeper with most clean sheets)
Joe Hart
General thoughts for the upcoming season:
Steven Gerrard shoulder injury from carrying us too long! ;)
EPL Premier: (1st) Chelsea
Champions League Qualifiers: (2nd-4th) Manchester City,
Europa League Qualifier: (5th)
Swansea
"The Bolters": Swansea, Norwich, West Bromwich Alibon
"The Sliders": Fulham, Newcastle, Sunderland
Relegated Teams: Sunderland, Crystal Palace, Hull City
Golden Boot Winner: Robin Van Persie
Player with Most Assists: Juan mata
Golden Glove: (goalkeeper with most clean sheets) Asmir Begovic
General thoughts for the upcoming season: lets do dis.
EPL Premier: (1st)
Chelsea. Only club apart from Arsenal lead by a PL-winning manager and have added talent in the right places.
Champions League Qualifiers: (2nd-4th)
Chelsea
Man City - Essentially same team as last two years and Jovetic will shine. Might start slowly under Pellegrini.
Tottenham (If they keep Bale) - Soldado up front and Paulinho in the middle and they will be a better team than last year with stable management.
Man Utd - Will struggle without SAF but the ultimate class of their best players will still carry them to a CL spot.
Europa League Qualifier: (5th)
Arsenal (will make CL though if they actually manage to make some signings like Suarez and Gustavo) - Otherwise will stagnate and fall behind Tottenham and also fall out of CL and with it Wenger will leave/be sacked to take over Monaco in the CL instead and Arsenal will have to find a new manager for the first time in over a decade.
"The Bolters":
Newcastle - Have too much talent to stay around the relegation zone and will end up just off Europa League spot.
"The Sliders":
West Brom - Started well last season but then tailed off towards the end and they will drop down this year, especially without Lukaku up front.
Swansea - Due to their small budget don't have the best squad depth and playing Europa League this year will cost them like it cost Newcastle last year.
Stoke - Relied on Pulis' style to keep them up in the past without much talent. Now have Mark Hughes in charge who managed to get QPR relegated last year.
Relegated Teams:
Stoke (All 3 promoted teams getting relegated has only happened once in the 20-odd years of the Premier League)
Hull
Crystal Palace
Golden Boot Winner:
Van Persie
Player with Most Assists:
Mata
Golden Glove: (goalkeeper with most clean sheets)
Hart
General thoughts for the upcoming season:
Will be closest season yet with it being close between more than 2 teams at the top unlike last few years.
less than 24 hours!!!!!!!!!
PUMPED!
I literally cannot sit still, keen as!
Aw yeah !! less then 12 hours til everton play!
Wearing my Jersey :D
Quote from: Hawka on August 14, 2013, 12:14:02 PM
Quote from: Tominator on August 14, 2013, 10:17:37 AM
can somebody please clear this up for me cos I am unsure..... is it just 5th in the EPL that qualifies for Europa League (besides FA Cup and League Cup winners)?
Or do 6th and 7th get a slice of the pie too? I know only 3 English teams go to Europa
Well so many previous years 6th got europa, but no the year Everton 6ths -.-
Are you sure your not thinking of the year Liverpool didn't qualify for the CL through the Premiership, but qualified as holders? From memory an extra spot opened up that year.
United looked pretty good against Swansea last night.
Villa exposed Arsenal as potentially overrated, but Benteke is an absolute freak
Norwich v Everton was a cracking game, both sides will push for Top 7 finishes
Quote from: Tominator on August 18, 2013, 07:38:59 PMBenteke is an absolute freak
He scored twice, but he missed a penalty and was lucky the rebound came back to him and his second penalty wasn't exactly world class either.
Quote from: Chelskiman on August 18, 2013, 08:37:03 PM
Quote from: Tominator on August 18, 2013, 07:38:59 PMBenteke is an absolute freak
He scored twice, but he missed a penalty and was lucky the rebound came back to him and his second penalty wasn't exactly world class either.
Yep, beat me to it. Pretty shocked he got the three bonus points really ???
Quote from: elephants on August 18, 2013, 08:42:53 PM
Quote from: Chelskiman on August 18, 2013, 08:37:03 PM
Quote from: Tominator on August 18, 2013, 07:38:59 PMBenteke is an absolute freak
He scored twice, but he missed a penalty and was lucky the rebound came back to him and his second penalty wasn't exactly world class either.
Yep, beat me to it. Pretty shocked he got the three bonus points really ???
2 goals is 2 goals 8)
Hahah I was talking in Fantasy terms ::)
GAMEWEEK 1 WRAP
I'll do this when I get time to, not sure how often that will be but might turn this into a preview/review thread if people don't wanna post predictions any more. Let me know if you like this or not
Liverpool 1-0 Stoke
Liverpool came away with the three points, and rightfully so, but they did it the hard way. Could easily have piled on another 2 or 3 goals but could only manage the one, albeit a good strike from Daniel Sturridge. Asmir Begovic and Simon Mignolet showed exactly why they were arguably last two season's standout keepers, with Begovic making an astonishing 10 saves and Mignolet 5, including a vital double save right at the death from Jonathon Walters' penalty. When (or if) Liverpool get Luis Suarez back, they will become a much better side, but I personally don't think they are as bad as everybody says they are. Sturridge, Phillipe Coutinho can form a damaging combination with Sturridge, while new signing Iago Aspas could prove to be a good foil as well. Stoke need to find another good midfielder or forward as well, because they do look a little bit inept at times in front of goal. And maybe a new penalty taker too as Walters has missed 3 of his last 5 penalties ::)
West Bromich Albion 0-1 Southampton
Am yet to see the highlights for this one but from what I can gather, it was a cracking game. Luke Shaw is a starlet at left back while Dejan Lovren and Victor Wanyama are both looking like great signings for the Saints. This team is going places and look set for a solid stay in the PL for the short term at the very least. Controversial striker Pablo Osvaldo is on his way from Roma - that is only going to add to their depth. Southampton were the much better side though and deserved the three points, even though the penalty was a very rough call as contact appeared minimal. West Brom didn't create many chances however, but you do feel for them for losing in such dramatic circumstances
West Ham 2-0 Cardiff City
Cardiff performed admirably for their first EPL game but in the end the quality of the Hammers' midfielders just proved too good. Joe Cole and Kevin Nolan both got on the scoresheet but Cardiff never really threatened. Cardiff will need to add to their list if they want to stay in the PL, but while they didn't threaten they weren't utterly terrible, and will definitely progress as the season goes on. 2-0 is probably a fair result given the balance of play
Arsenal 1-3 Aston Villa
Wow. Who saw this coming? For Arsenal, the team that is yet to spend one cent of their 70 million transfer budget, things could not have gone worse. If not for striker Christian Benteke, Villa would have been relegated last season. And that man Benteke scored twice, from penalties (one from a follow-up), while new boy Antonio Luna also scored. Villa came away very convincing winners while Arsenal were booed off by their own fans. With Laurent Koscielny red-carded and suspended, and wide-backs Bacary Sagna and Kieran Gibbs injured, Arsenal's defence is resembling a bomb site. Think I'll ditch Per Mertesacker from my FPL team ::) It will be very interesting to see if Wenger manages to make any signings (out of desperation) before Arsenal's next game at Fulham. Things will get diabolical if they lose that one
Sunderland 0-1 Fulham
The Cottagers got off to a good start with three points against the Black Cats. A host of new signings took the field for the first time under Pablo di Canio's very different team, symbolic of the Italian's extroverted managing. Besides Pajtim Kasami's header, it was far from a riveting game (for the neutral supporter), but Fulham will be very happy to come away with a win, in a game that they didn't really dominate
Norwich 2-2 Everton
Match of the round for mine. Two attacking teams with two respected managers, a draw was a fair result but had fans on the edges of their seats. Came to life in the second half with four goals scored in 20-odd minutes. These two teams will definitely push for top 7 finishes, and should make the top half comfortably. Seamus Coleman and Ross Barkley excelled for the Toffees, both are players to watch this season. For Norwich, Nathan Redmond and Ricky van Wolfswinkel were two of the stars, while a defensive reshuffle saw Steven Whittaker grab an assist and a superb goal from Right Back. Let's not forget that Norwich had three of their best players in Gary Hooper, Seb Bassong and Robert Snodgrass all out injured, due to return over the next couple of weeks. Great game for two teams with big aspirations
Swansea 1-4 Manchester United
This was the game that most neutral observers had their eyes on for various reasons, and didn't David Moyes' men deliver. Danny Welbeck got the starting berth over Wayne Rooney and managed a brace, which bodes well for United fans if Rooney does (as expected) leave the club. Interestingly, when Rooney came on, he played as more of a midfielder than and up-front striker. Robin van Persie proved why he is the best striker in the EPL with two superb goals, and secured a dominant win to start life after Fergie. Swansea were very disappointing, which may come down to their new signings not quite gelling together yet, but starting Jose Canas over Sung Yeung Ki was a bit surprising for me. Wilfried Bony scored once and should have had a second despite being subbed on at Half Time. United dominated the game but Swansea were well below their best.
Crystal Palace 0-1 Tottenham
Tottenham did enough to come away with the three points from Selhurst Park, but it was not the dominant display that many were expecting from them. They deserved the win yes, which came from Roberto Soldado's converted spot-kick, but could easily have had another two or three. For the Blue Eagles, Aussie Mile Jedinak was superb in midfield, quelling many of Tottenham's attacks and setting up several of Palace's. But in the end, Spurs' class proved too much and once their new signings gel together better, life without Bale is looking rosier than first thought.
Chelsea 2-0 Hull City
Chelsea did have one eye on their upcoming fixtures going into this game, hence why they rested Juan Mata and started Kevin de Bruyne, but had enough quality on the field to get the job done. Looked like being a rout early on with Oscar and Frank Lampard both scoring in the first 25 minutes, but to Hull's credit they didn't concede any more goals. Hull's keeper Allan McGregor was a standout saving a Lampard penalty - even the best keepers struggle to do that. Chelsea fans finally have a manager they want in Jose Mourinho and I think this will be a good thing for Chelsea's morale. A cruisy win for the Blues but a good initiation to life in the EPL for Hull, so both teams can take some positives from the game.
Amazing write-up, well done mate 8)
Quote from: elephants on August 20, 2013, 12:00:41 AM
Amazing write-up, well done mate 8)
Thanks Ele!!
So everybody knows - and so you don't get your hopes up ...
DON'T EXPECT ME TO BE ABLE TO DO THAT WRAP EVERY WEEK!!If I can't though I will try and say maybe a "five things we learned from this GW..." or something brief
Too late, we're all expecting it now, and we're all expecting it to be bigger and better each week!
Manchester City 4-0 Newcastle
A game that Manchester City dominated from start to finish, in an ominous warning to their title rivals. Newcastle were simply outclassed by a rampant Blues side, with some intricate passing and a very attacking mindset. Yohan Cabaye was a notable absentee from the Magpies line-up, amid speculation he is on his way to Arsenal.City showed why they are equal favourites for the title, with three of their four goals coming from midfielders David Silva, Yaya Toure and Samir Nasri, in addition to Sergio Aguero's strike. Toure's free kick was world class. Goal of the day for sure. City fans will be very pleased with their side's start, while Newcastle fans will hope that their season doesn't descend into a relegation battle a la last season.
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/q71/s720x720/1098344_503316856413566_1196527641_n.jpg)
please feel free to post any further predictions you have about the season guys
Didn't even see this until now :(
EPL Premier: Man City (as much as it hurts to say that)
Champions League Qualifiers: Chelsea, United, Tottenham
Europa League Qualifier: Liverpool
"The Bolters": Aston Villa (easy to say now, I know, but my god they've looked good in their first two games against good opposition)
"The Sliders": West Brom
Relegated Teams: Sunderland, Cardiff, Hull
Golden Boot Winner: RVP
Player with Most Assists: That guy that kicked the ball boy
Golden Glove: Mignolet! (here's hoping haha)
General thoughts for the upcoming season:
Should be a really entertaining season. Title race wide open between United, City and Chelsea. Don't think anyone else is really up to that standard, although if those Tottenham transfer rumours are true, they could challenge!
The battle for 4th and 5th should be interesting as well. Tottenham, Arsenal, Liverpool, Everton all possibilities.
Quote from: Tominator on August 20, 2013, 03:34:31 PM
Manchester City 4-0 Newcastle
A game that Manchester City dominated from start to finish, in an ominous warning to their title rivals. Newcastle were simply outclassed by a rampant Blues side, with some intricate passing and a very attacking mindset. Yohan Cabaye was a notable absentee from the Magpies line-up, amid speculation he is on his way to Arsenal.City showed why they are equal favourites for the title, with three of their four goals coming from midfielders David Silva, Yaya Toure and Samir Nasri, in addition to Sergio Aguero's strike. Toure's free kick was world class. Goal of the day for sure. City fans will be very pleased with their side's start, while Newcastle fans will hope that their season doesn't descend into a relegation battle a la last season.
Aguero's goal was better imo
PREVIEW GAMEWEEK 2
Fulham v Arsenal
Should be a good game. Arsenal will be buoyed by their CL performance mid-week, but their defensive frailties may mean Fulham find a goal.
MY TIP: 2-1 Arsenal
Hull v Norwich
Can't see where Hull would score, didn't really look like doing it at Stamford Bridge, but that may change seeing as they have a home ground advantage. But it won't be enough to beat Norwich, who are a much improved side from last season. Snodgrass and Bassong to return will make them even better.
MY TIP: 2-0 Norwich
Everton v West Brom
Everton looked really good last week and had some of their young kids shine. West Brom were unlucky to lose to Southampton, but didn't deserve to win, and weren't that attacking. Everton's attack-minded approach means they will score but are more prone to conceding.
MY TIP: 2-1 Everton
Newcastle v West Ham
Should be a decent game this one, between two sides aiming at mid-table finishes. West Ham were good against Cardiff, but home ground advantage may mean Newcastle do better than their appalling display last week.
MY TIP: 1-1 draw
Southampton v Sunderland
Southampton dominated last week while Sunderland looked very lacklustre. Expect new signing Osvaldo to come off the bench for the Saints.
MY TIP: 2-0 Southampton
Stoke v Crystal Palace
Should be another tight contest. Palace were good last week while Begovic was awesome against Liverpool. Won't be a goal-scoring frenzy I don't think.
MY TIP: 1-1 draw
Aston Villa v Liverpool
A lot depends on how Benteke goes. If he is really on, then Villa could snatch an upset. But Liverpool were good last week and should have enough quality to get all three points.
MY TIP: 2-1 Liverpool
Cardiff v Manchester City
City were awesome last week. No other way to describe it. An away trip to Cardiff shouldn't be too difficult, as they have more than enough goal scorers in their team. Should still do it easy.
MY TIP: 3-0 Man City
Tottenham v Swansea City
Both sides coming off big mid-week wins in the Europa League and will be keen to lift on last week's EPL performances. Should be a very attacking game, Bony and Michu being main threats for Swansea, while Soldado will be a constant danger.
MY TIP: 3-1 Tottenham
Manchester United v Chelsea
Match of the round for sure. Both sides to go full strength, Mourinho v Moyes, will be a cracker. RVP will be a big threat, but Chelsea's plethora of attacking midfielders will give them hope of at least a draw.
MY TIP: 2-2 draw
Post your predictions here too
Liverpool scoring two goals may be generous Tommy; we're terrible in front of goal :(
Quote from: My Chumps on August 24, 2013, 10:57:41 PM
Liverpool scoring two goals may be generous Tommy; we're terrible in front of goal :(
Sturridge will bag a hat-trick :P
Quote from: elephants on August 24, 2013, 11:03:44 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on August 24, 2013, 10:57:41 PM
Liverpool scoring two goals may be generous Tommy; we're terrible in front of goal :(
Sturridge will bag a hat-trick :P
It's the only way! :P
Cardiff Beat Man City :o
Quote from: My Chumps on August 24, 2013, 11:05:45 PM
Quote from: elephants on August 24, 2013, 11:03:44 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on August 24, 2013, 10:57:41 PM
Liverpool scoring two goals may be generous Tommy; we're terrible in front of goal :(
Sturridge will bag a hat-trick :P
It's the only way! :P
What'd I tell you guys? Sturridge scores our only goal :P
Still good enough for the win. Best start in an incredibly long time!
GAMEWEEK 2 WRAP
Fulham 1-3 Arsenal
Good game for Arsenal to silence their critics - for now, anyway. Lukas Podolski scored twice and made the most of Jack Wilshere's absence, and striker Olivier Giroud was again very good. Wojciech Szceszny was very good in goal, making numerous diving saves, while Santi Cazorla was also influential, and helped Arsenal maintain control for most of the game. Fulham's loanee Darren Bent came on and pulled one back for the home side, but it was only a consolation goal in the end. This was a good response from their bad loss last week against Villa
Hull 1-0 Norwich
Pretty soft penalty split the two sides come full time. Robbie Brady's first half spot-kick - may I add, a very dubious decision to give the penalty in the first place - was the only goal of the game. Yannick Sagbo was sent off for a bizarre headbutt before half-time, so Norwich really should have capitalised on this extra man advantage, but could not. Nathan Redmond looked very good and was arguably Norwich's best, and may retain his place in the starting side once Robert Snodgrass is fit and firing. Ditching his hideous haircut may help too. Having said that, Hull played out of their skin, and for them to get a win in their first game at home will give them great confidence.
Newcastle 0-0 West Ham
This was quite a bad performance for the home side, especially after their loss to Manchester City, and was met with a chorus of boos after the final whistle. Tim Krul was very busy and was easily Newcastle's best player, as he thwarted many chances created by West Ham. The Hammers were very good but could not find a way past Krul, even though they found a way past the Toon's defence several times. Modibo Maiga had a goal in the 88th minute disallowed for offside, but Newcastle should have won it in injury time when Yoan Gouffran skied a simple tap-in. West Ham did deserve three points, but both sides were wasteful in front of goal
Stoke 2-1 Crystal Palace
Decent game at The Britannia. Maruoane Chamakh put Palace into the lead in the first half with a very well-taken strike, but it was the only goal for the Eagles, as they lacked finesse and wasted their chances. Peter Crouch nearly equalised late in the first half but Stoke scored twice in close succession to edge ahead, through Charlie Adam and Ryan Shawcross on the hour mark. Palace were unlucky to lose, as I thought they performed admirably, and probably deserved a point, but Stoke took their chances better.
Aston Villa 0-1 Liverpool
This game was actually quite an exciting one, despite the scorecard. Daniel Sturridge scored in the opening half with a piece of technical brilliance, dazzling through defenders and rounding the keeper before scoring. He really is becoming a very good replacement for the suspended Luis Suarez, scoring 7 goals in his last 8 EPL games since joining from Chelsea. Christian Benteke was kept quiet in a good display by Liverpool's back four - where Kolo Toure is settling in really well - and Simon Mignolet was quiet but did what he had to when he was needed. While it wasn't the high-scoring game many expected, Liverpool deserved the three points.
Southampton 1-1 Sunderland
New signing from Juventus Emanuele Giaccherini opened the scoring for Sunderland in the early minutes with a header, the midfielder's first goal for the club. Jay Rodriguez looked to have equalised moments later but a 50-50 offside call went against Southampton, who did not equalise until the 88th minute when defender Jose Fonte headed home. Southampton's latest signing Pablo Osvaldo came off the bench and, unsurprisingly (given his controversial history in Italy), got a yellow card. Good game but lacked a real game-changing player, so a draw was a fair result.
Everton 0-0 West Bromich Albion
Pretty dour nil all draw really. Kevin Mirallas came close in the first half when his effort was wonderfully saved by Ben Foster, while Foster was again put to the test by Ross Barkley, Maruoane Fellaini and Steven Pienaar at varying stages of the match. West Brom didn't really come alive until the hour mark, when Shane Long and Graham Dorrans both had shots saved well by Tim Howard. Howard and Foster were both in superb form all day, and didn't look like conceding. However, both sides were very good defensively, and a draw was a fair result.
Cardiff 3-2 Manchester City
What a game!!! Who would have seen this coming? Cardiff were absolutely superb after they went behind. Kim Bo Kyung and Fraizer Campbell were the stars but for Cardiff to get their first win, in their first EPL game in 51 years at their home ground, was like a fairytale. The home fans were in sheer ecstasy - they came for a spectacle, and they got exactly that. City conceded two goals from corners, so their defending from set pieces is a concern. Edin Dzeko's goal was a thunderous strike, and he was arguably City's biggest threat before he got subbed for fellow goalscorer Alvaro Negredo in the second half. But a wonderful performance from Cardiff, it is the feel-good story of the year so far.
Tottenham 1-0 Swansea
Tottenham got the three points but again had to rely on Roberto Soldado from the penalty spot. They were the better side and could easily have won by 3 goals or more if not for some world-class saves by Michel Vorm in Swansea's goal - he is a very underrated keeper IMO. Michu missed a very good chance early on and hasn't really fired, while Wilfried Bony was again a substitute. For Tottenham, Jan Vertonghen was superb in defence, while Paulinho was creative but wasteful in front of goal. Andros Townsend was arguably their best, terrorising the defence, and he drew two fouls in the penalty box from Jonjo Shelvey - the first one was not paid, but the second was, and Soldado converted.
Manchester United 0-0 Chelsea
Bizarre scoreline for a bizarre game. Wayne Rooney as dangerous against his potential new club, arguably United's best. Intriguingly, Chelsea started with no striker, playing Andre Schurrle up front and benching Juan Mata. Bit bizarre by Mourinho given his options, or maybe it was a signal of intent towad Rooney. Both sides managed to create chances but wasted them, although United were the better side. Neither side really deserved to score, although United were the better side, a nil-all draw is a strange but fair result.
Great write up big Tom.
What are your thoughts on Bony getting more of a run? I may have to trade him out for Sturridge or Chamakh by the looks... :-\
Quote from: T Dog on August 27, 2013, 12:22:23 PM
Great write up big Tom.
What are your thoughts on Bony getting more of a run? I may have to trade him out for Chamakh by the looks... :-\
Swansea are just rotating him with Europa League matches to play as well. They paid 12 million pounds for him so he shouldn't be on the bench for too much longer, I think he is just establishing a connection with the playing style, etc. But Michu isn't an out-and-out striker, he is better when playing behind Bony, so that'll come soon.
Hopefully he can get a start.... I'd wait on him at least one more week, unless you're upgrading to Sturridge or somebody
Swansea have a tough start but their draw opens up soon
Man utd vs chelsea was actually really boring. No idea what game you wre watching.....
Great thread you got here Tom :)
LIVERPOOL ;D
I'll try and do a write up tomorrow but I'm a bit busy at the moment
if other people wanna post their opinions on games then they are more than welcome!
Liverpool v Man United
Liverpool got to a quick start and got their result within 4 minutes from a powerful header from Agger from a Gerrard Corner that Sturridge literally ducked under but got the slightest of touches to veer the ball in between Evra and Cleverly i think who were on the goal line. Liverpool continued in the same fashion, with CDMs Carrick and Cleverly unable to intercept many of the balls coming through from Coutinho and Gerrard into Aspas or Sturridge. Aspas needs a lot of improvement in first touch and decision making while with Coutinho unsurprisingly equaled the amount of moments of pure skill to the amount of moments of lack of concentration. Although around the 25 minute mark the game started to get a bit more even. Half time brought a slight halt to United's momentum, but as the game went on, they were looking more likely and likely. The referee was quite strict and dished out quite a few yellow cards, but was at least consistent. Jones had a leg injury, his replacement Valencia got a finger in the eye. Nani provided some good pace off the bench, while if anyone was going to get the breakthrough, it was RVP. He just never prevailed. Liverpool did get a deserving win. Liverpool fans go crazy, while Moyes will be feeling a bit shaky. These big matches are so important early on in the season.
FYI, I'm a Chelsea fan who is not one to go on hating other clubs or players for that. I don't know all about soccer history, but I like to say that i know enough about the modern game, players and tactics. Admittedly i'm merely a youngen.
GAMEWEEK 3 WRAP
Manchester City 2-0 Hull
The scoreline may suggest an easy win but City hardly dominated. Sone Aluko missed a bread-and-butter chance early on, while Danny Graham scored from an offside position before Manchester City had even woken up. From there on though City had most of the chances, with David Silva providing dangerous crosses and through balls. Eventually, Alvaro Negredo scored his second goal for City, before right at the death Yaya Toure doubled the lead with another free kick. Good signs for Hull, they fought hard but City proved too strong.
Cardiff City 0-0 Everton
Three past Manchester City one week, none past Everton the next. Cardiff couldn't manage to find the back of the net against Everton but were probably the better side. For the Toffees, two scoreless draws in a row for Roberto Martinez's side says two things - they have tightened up defensively, but they have also failed to solve their attacking problems. That is until yesterday when they signed Romelu Lukaku, Gareth Barry (both loans) and James McCarthy (permanent), which should give them a more attacking edge, whilst covering Marouane Fellaini's departure. Nikita Jelavic continues to falter in front of goal, while Leighton Baines deserved a penalty and didn't get it. Both sides felt they deserved more.
Norwich 1-0 Southampton
Good game at Carrow Road that may have unearthed a star in Nathan Redmond. Both sides created chances but Redmond was a defender's nightmare - and was not afraid to go alone either, going on darting runs that tore apart the Saints' defence, before eventually scoring in the 67th minute. Southampton dominated possession but John Ruddy was in fine form, while Adam Lallana's volley in the first half rattled off the post. 1-0 is probably not a fair reflection of the scoreline, as both sides should have been given penalties but weren't, especially the foul-not-given on Robert Snodgrass in injury time. But good game and probably a fair result.
West Ham 0-1 Stoke
Stoke were very good in this one - very very good. A common trait of them in the psat has been to have a strong defensive edge, but under Mark Hughes they have added an attacking edge. Stoke dominated much of the game, with some superb saves from Jussi Jaaskelainen thwarting the likes of Kenwyne Jones, Jonathan Walters - who can't seem to score - and Mark Wilson. But with full time approaching, Jermaine Pennant finally broke the deadlock with a free kick, and Stoke got their deserved three points.
Newcastle 1-0 Fulham
Absolute screamer from Hatem Ben Arfa separated the two sides when it also appeared destined for another dour draw. Both sides didn't really look like scoring in the first half, but the game really opened up in the second. The best chances came when Papiss Cisse's header (from Ben Arfa's cross) pounded against the bar, and Bryan Ruiz's free kick did test Tim Krul. Yoan Gouffran was impressive in the latter stages of the game as well. Yohan Cabaye - his first appearance since speculation linking him to Arsenal - was met with cheers and jeers when coming on as a substitute, but it was Ben Arfa that stole the show and was Newcastle's only spark for much of the game, terrorising defenders down the right flank and scoring a crackerjack goal.
Crystal Palace 3-1 Sunderland
This game has announced Crystal Palace's arrival in the Premier League, while it has sharpened the axe above Paolo di Canio's head. Palace were awesome and deserved the three points, while di Canio again lost his head after Sunderland collapsed to another defeat. They haven't looked good so far this season. Palace went ahead after 9 minutes when Gabbidon got the last touch off a post-corner goalline scramble. Stephen Fletcher equalised but when John O'Shea was sent off, Palace converted the penalty and then really looked like scoring again as they dominated from there on. And score again they did when Steven O'Keefe (no not the Australian cricketer ::) ) launched a curling strike into the top corner to send Selhurst Park into ecstasy
West Bromich Albion 0-2 Swansea
Very good display by Swansea to give them their first points for the season. Pablo Hernandez is becoming a very good player down the wing, assisting Ben Davies' beautiful volley in the first half before Hernandez scored himself late in the second. He showed glimpses of his talent last season, but is backing it up with consistency in 2013/14. Michu and Wilfried Bony were finally paired together in a starting XI, showing signs of a growing partnership. For West Brom, struggled for chances and they didn't really threaten. Good result for Swansea, but its not all doom and gloom for the Baggies, with four deadline-day signings to join their line-up.
Liverpool 1-0 Manchester United
No Suarez, no worries? At the moment that is the case Daniel Sturridge scored again to make it three 1-0 wins in three games for Liverpool, and send them atop of the EPL Ladder, with a sweet draw to come. Sturridge's 4th minute goal was the only one of the game, a flick-on coming from Daniel Agger's header from a corner. But in all honesty, Liverpool deserved the three points! They played better than United and created more chances. They frustrated the United midfield - why are they relying on Ryan Giggs, who looks past it, and not Shinji Kagawa, who is rotting on their bench??? - and kept Robin van Persie isolated up forward, hence why he got into tangles with Steven Gerrard and Martin Skrtel. But a very convincing display from Liverpool, and they'll only get better once Suarez returns and their new signings arrive too.
Arsenal 1-0 Tottenham
The North London rivals met - Arsenal having spent $0 in this transfer window (prior to Ozil) and Tottenham having spent 100 million pounds. But it was the Gunners who won the day after Olivier Giroud scored with a classy finish in the opening 7 minutes. Giroud has been in stellar form lately - and I reckon he'll only get better with the brilliant signing of Mesut Ozil. As for Tottenham, they are still a work in progress, and are still gelling together as a team. Erik Lamela showed glimpses off the bench, while Christian Eriksen will also add firepower. However, losing Etienne Capoue to injury will hurt them. A good game in a growing battle between the two neighbours, but Arsenal snatch the three points.
Very nice work there Big Tom
With the consultation of Hawka I've decided to merge this thread into what he had going before...
Both threads were kinda dying down a bit, so we thought we should merge them, hence the new title
So any EPL-related discussion/banter then post here. Feel free to post tips or even your own reviews too, this isn't a one man show in me... the more contributors the better!
PREVIEW GAMEWEEK 4
Manchester United v Crystal Palace
COMMENT: This good be the game that kickstarts United's season. RVP will be licking his chops at a weak-ish Palace defence that is yet to register a clean sheet. Will be interesting to see if Shinji Kagawa and Wilfried Zaha play this one, because they are both due.
KEY PLAYER: Robin van Persie (Manchester United)
MY TIP: 3-0 to Manchester United
Aston Villa v Newcastle
COMMENT: A lot will depend on how the attacking weapons play (Benteke and Ben Arfa). Both sides have been OK this season, showing patches of brilliance but not enough. This game is a good chance for both teams to get a good win.
KEY PLAYER: Hatem Ben Arfa (Newcastle)
MY TIP: 1-1 draw
Fulham v West Brom
COMMENT: An out-of-sorts West Brom have only 1 point from their first three games. They'll need to be switched on if they are to take points off Fulham at Craven Cottage. Darren Bent and Dimitar Berbatov are beginning to click nicely, and will cause problems for the Baggies. But WBA did sign several players late in the transfer window, such as Sessegnon and Sinclair, who could change their fortunes.
KEY PLAYER: Stephane Sessegnon (West Brom)
MY TIP: 1-1 draw
Hull v Cardiff
COMMENT: First time two of the promoted clubs have met this season. If one of the two can get a win then it could be vital to survival come end of the season, so should be a good game. Both sides have attacking options with weak-ish defences that could lead to a high-scoring game.
KEY PLAYER: Kim Bo-Kyung (Cardiff)
MY TIP: 1-1 draw
Stoke v Manchester City
COMMENT: Stoke have started the season very well and face their biggest test at home to a Jekyll-and-Hyde team in Man City. As good as the likes of Begovic and Shawcross have been, City's attacking options get them home
KEY PLAYER: Asmir Begovic (Stoke)
MY TIP: 2-0 to Manchester City
Sunderland v Arsenal
COMMENT: Sunderland are in trouble at the moment. Paolo Di Canio's methods aren't clicking yet, so if Sunderland lose this one heavily then they could be thrown into relegation contention. New signing Mesut Ozil should get his first game for Arsenal too, and Sunderland will struggle to contain him, Giroud and Walcott.
KEY PLAYER: Mesut Ozil (Arsenal)
MY TIP: 3-0 to Arsenal
Tottenham v Norwich
COMMENT: Norwich were very good for much of their last game against Southampton, while Tottenham were unlucky not to get a point against Arsenal. Tottenham are yet to score a goal from open-play this season, but I think they will in this game, with their new signings now all playing.
KEY PLAYER: Ricky van Wolfswinkel (Norwich) ... if he takes his opportunities, Norwich are a chance
MY TIP: 2-1 to Tottenham
Everton v Chelsea
COMMENT: Biggest test for Roberto Martinez's side who have managed three draws to start. Have not scored for last 180 minutes, and will find it tough to do that against Chelsea. Everton signed three players on deadline day (but Lukaku won't be playing this game) so see how their formation may change to accompany that. Samuel Eto'o and Willian may debut for Chelsea too.
KEY PLAYER: Leighton Baines (Everton)
MY TIP: 2-1 to Chelsea
Southampton v West Ham
COMMENT: Another tight game to call. Southampton are normally very good defensively at home, and have been solid all over the park. West Ham will need to take their chances when they come.
KEY PLAYER: Kevin Nolan (West Ham)
MY TIP: 1-0 to Southampton
Swansea v Liverpool
COMMENT: Last game of the round might be the best. Swansea really clicked last week, but Liverpool are in great form at the moment, yet to concede a goal. However, their star man Sturridge might miss through injury, and if he does, the likelihood of Swansea snatching a win is more likely. Swansea are an attacking side, and Jonjo Shelvey faces his former club for the first time. Won't surprise me if Liverpool win 2-1, but if Sturridge is out I'm gonna go with 1-1 draw. Should be a cracking game.
KEY PLAYER: Wilfried Bony (Swansea)
MY TIP: 1-1 draw
If Sturridge is out, I don't know how we're going to score!
I'd like to argue that Jedinak is the key player in the Man Utd vs Palace game. :P
Everton Chelsea will probaly end in a draw, i recall we have lost like once or twice in our last 25ish games
Just wish Lukuaku could play already
yeah hawka.. CANT WAIT FOR LUKAKU
This is how I would like to line up in the future
GK: Howard
DEF: Coleman, Distin, Jagielka, Baines
MID: Mirallas, Barry, Gibson, Deulofeu
Fwd: Barkley (just behind the striker)
Fwd: Lukaku
Bench: Robles, Heitinga, McCarthy, Pienaar, Naismith, Jelavic, Osman
Quote from: BoredSaint on September 14, 2013, 02:23:26 PM
yeah hawka.. CANT WAIT FOR LUKAKU
This is how I would like to line up in the future
GK: Howard
DEF: Coleman, Distin, Jagielka, Baines
MID: Mirallas, Barry, Gibson, Deulofeu
Fwd: Barkley (just behind the striker)
Fwd: Lukaku
Bench: Robles, Heitinga, McCarthy, Pienaar, Naismith, Jelavic, Osman
Agree on that line up mate :)
Deulofeu has 0 defensive work rate. It will be a 4-2-3-1 with barry and givson playing deep.
Is the EPL site correct when it says Rooney is playing LCM?
ANd why is my FPL captain Welbeck not playing? :'(
RVP just hit the bar!!!!!
United yet to score against Palace, 41 minutes gone
Quote from: Tominator on September 14, 2013, 10:33:46 PM
RVP just hit the bar!!!!!
United yet to score against Palace, 41 minutes gone
RVP penalty ! He is my captain
#TeamMesut
Giroud Captain 8) First one right all year.
predictions for the two remaining games?
In case you missed it they are:
Southampton v West Ham
Swansea v Liverpool
Southampton I reckon might get up.
Swansea and Liverpool to draw. ;)
Hoping West Ham don't concede! Need clean-sheets for Reid and Collins. :P Nolan assist or goal wouldn't be too bad either.
Quote from: vinny on September 15, 2013, 06:32:35 PM
Hoping West Ham don't concede! Need clean-sheets for Reid and Collins. :P Nolan assist or goal wouldn't be too bad either.
I don't want Southampton to concede! CS for Shaw would be good
So Nige is right. Draw would be nice but that means Nolan gets pretty much nothing.
Quote from: Tominator on September 15, 2013, 07:17:51 PM
Quote from: vinny on September 15, 2013, 06:32:35 PM
Hoping West Ham don't concede! Need clean-sheets for Reid and Collins. :P Nolan assist or goal wouldn't be too bad either.
I don't want Southampton to concede! CS for Shaw would be good
Yes this! Lukey pls.
lol Chelsea :P
KEY PLAYER: Hatem Ben Arfa (Newcastle)
took your advice on this Big Tom...nice work... ;D
ANyone closer to the spurs have any clue whether Erikson will be a constant starter?
Quote from: chrisuzz on September 16, 2013, 07:39:19 PM
ANyone closer to the spurs have any clue whether Erikson will be a constant starter?
hard to see him getting dropped after last weeks performance
hes pretty much playing the bale role isnt he.. and unless lamela comes up, cant see anyone else replacing
Quote from: NigeyS on September 15, 2013, 06:16:34 PM
Swansea and Liverpool to draw. ;)
8) 8)
Even better? Both Michu and Sturridge scored. ;D
Quote from: BoredSaint on September 17, 2013, 12:26:46 AM
Quote from: chrisuzz on September 16, 2013, 07:39:19 PM
ANyone closer to the spurs have any clue whether Erikson will be a constant starter?
hard to see him getting dropped after last weeks performance
hes pretty much playing the bale role isnt he.. and unless lamela comes up, cant see anyone else replacing
Tottenham have wonderful depth in midfield.
Chadli, Eriksen, Lamela, Paulinho, Dembele playing behind Soldado up front.
then their additional options are Townsend, Sigurdsson, Holtby, Sandro, Lennon and Capoue (who's injured) - I'm probably missing some as well but AVB has assembled a serious midfield
Quote from: NigeyS on September 17, 2013, 08:57:58 AM
Quote from: NigeyS on September 15, 2013, 06:16:34 PM
Swansea and Liverpool to draw. ;)
8) 8)
Even better? Both Michu and Sturridge scored. ;D
Can't say I'm disappointed! Sturridge is ridiculous 8)
Quote from: My Chumps on September 17, 2013, 05:37:36 PM
Quote from: NigeyS on September 17, 2013, 08:57:58 AM
Quote from: NigeyS on September 15, 2013, 06:16:34 PM
Swansea and Liverpool to draw. ;)
8) 8)
Even better? Both Michu and Sturridge scored. ;D
Can't say I'm disappointed! Sturridge is ridiculous 8)
Where would you be without him? ;)
SWANSEA 2-2 LIVERPOOL
Jonjo Shelvey: 1 goal, 3 assists 8)
(http://sphotos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/1236200_608756102516642_1396013020_n.jpg)
GAMEWEEK 4 WRAP
Manchester United 2-0 Crystal Palace
Not the thrashing that everybody expected in this one. Palace managed to match it with United for much of the first half, and could have been ahead late in the half if Dwight Gayle's chip shot was a couple of inches to the left. Ashley Young controversially won United a penalty, which Robin van Persie converted. RVP could have had one earlier if his brilliant volley had not smashed into the crossbar - very reminiscent of "that" goal against Villa last season. Marouane Fellaini made his debut while Adnan Januzaj made his EPL debut off the bench, and was arguably United's most creative player. He won the free-kick which Wayne Rooney converted, to seal the win. United took the three points but Palace performed admirably.
Aston Villa 1-2 Newcastle
If nothing else came out of this match, it is that Hatem Ben Arfa is a very very good player. Scored one and assisted the other, he really is Newcastle's main focal point of attack. Villa have now not kept a clean sheet in 25 games, but Christian Benteke scored his 18th goal in 21 games to equalise for the Villans. He really is a scoring machine and deserves to be playing for a bigger club. Villa had performed well against quality sides like Arsenal and Chelsea, but in this one they did not really turn up, and Newcastle were the much better side, deserving winners after Yoan Gouffran tapped in Ben Arfa's parried shot.
Fulham 1-1 West Bromich Albion
Fulham fans feel very aggrieved after they only managed a draw. Fulham scored THREE disallowed goals - all (correctly) given offside - after Steve Sidwell opened the scoring in the first half, but were largely wasteful in front of goal. Of their 12 shots only 2 were on target. West Brom were also very poor in this game though, and a header in stoppage time from Gareth McAuley salvaged a draw for them. Two sides who have struggled early this year and didn't show an awful lot to disprove their doubters.
Hull 1-1 Cardiff
The first game between the two promoted clubs saw them come away with a point each. Both sides played the game at an attacking pace, and Hull should have gone ahead when Danny Graham blazed over the bar from very close range, with an open goal gaping. Hull were the better side and deservingly took the lead through Curtis Davies just before Half-Time. Cardiff hit back after with a brilliant team goal through Peter Whittingham. Caulker ---> Campbell ---> Cowie ---> Whittingham, from end to end in a matter of seconds. Aron Gunnarsson and Sone Aluko both came close to grabbing the lead, but the match finished a draw.
Stoke 0-0 Manchester City
Another unconvincing display from Manchester City. Manuel Pellegrini changed five of his front six players from the last match against Hull, but it was to no avail, with none of them being able to get past the brick wall that is Asmir Begovic. Stoke were extremely good defensively, and even had a couple of very good chances to get ahead through Jonathon Walters, Kenwyne Jones and new signing Marko Arnautovic who looks a very good signing for just 2 million pounds. Doubt he'll be as good as Michu from Swansea but you never know. Stoke are coming along nicely with Mark Hughes at t and were actually the better sideer side, but City are yet to find their rhythm if they want to win the title.
Sunderland 1-3 Arsenal
The scoreline suggests a very easy win to Arsenal, but in truth it was the opposite. Sunderland made them work for it, and could easily have been ahead if not for some contentious refereeing, which saw Paolo di Canio sent to the stands. New boy Mesut Ozil took just 11 minutes to get his first assist, teeing up Olivier Giroud to fire home his fourth goal in as many games this season. Arsenal dominated the first half but failed to extend on their lead, as Theo Walcott and others blew clear chances. After half-time Sunderland came alive. A foul from Laurent Koscielny saw Sunderland win a penalty and Craig Gardner converted. Sunderland very nearly took the lead when Steven Fletcher scored from an offside position, and nearly took it again when Gardner's free kick bounced off the post. The most controversial moment of the match came when referee Martin Atkinson failed to pay the advantage to Jozy Altidore, who went on to score after Bacary Sagna's challenge, denying Sunderland making it 2-2. Aaron Ramsey's late double continued his fine form, but killed the game off, and for all Sunderland's second half chances they had no points to show.
Tottenham 2-0 Norwich
Tottenham really showed how deep their midfield stocks are in this win over Norwich, who really didn't play well given their glimpses of potential. Tottenham had 23 shots to Norwich's 5, and two of those were goals to fringe player Gylfi Sigudsson. Debutant Christian Eriksen was brilliant all day, showing his technical ability, dazzling defenders and providing an assist, and receiving a standing ovation when being subbed off late in the game. Tottenham cruised to the win, and are now shaping as real Champions League contenders. Life without Bale is looking good down at White Hart Lane.
Everton 1-0 Chelsea
Everton defy the odds yet again to claim a big scalp. Roberto Martinez is undefeated in four starts - 3 draws and now a win. Everton made the most of their limited chances, with Steven Naismith grabbing a goal right on Half-Time. For Chelsea, they were very wasteful in front of goal. Andre Schurrle and Samuel Eto'o were the main culprits, missing some very gettable chances. Gareth Barry won the hearts of Toffees' fans with a goalsaving tackle on Eto'o as he wound up a shot into the open net. Chelsea should have scored 2-3, but Everton kept them blank and hung on for a gutsy win.
Southampton 0-0 West Ham
A game that hardly fits the "Super Sunday" billing. Pretty dour nil-all draw really, for two defensive-orientated sides which have struggled for goals this season. Southampton did create a lot of chances, but veteran Hammers goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen pulled off some terrific saves to keep the match scoreless. James Collins, the centre-back, had the Hammers' best chance of the game, but he skied his shot. For Southampton, Jay Rodriguez was good down the flanks, while Rickie Lambert was a threat as always, but neither side did enough to get on the scoresheet.
Swansea 2-2 Liverpool
Very good game to finish the round. Former Liverpool player Jonjo Shelvey opened the scoring for the Swans after 90 seconds, before barely a minute later, a horrendously-miscued Shelvey backpass saw Daniel Sturridge score the equaliser. Victor Moses was dominant down the left on his debut (on loan from Chelsea), troubling especially Angel Rangel, before intercepting a Shelvey pass and making a darting run on the counter-attack and scoring. Liverpool were 2-1 up at Half-Time, but in the second half they were a different team, switching off. Despite missing Pablo Hernandez, Swansea were more dangerous and created chances. Shelvey was determined to try and make amends, and did so, with a lovely flicked header teeing up Michu to score his first goal of the season. Swansea could have won it but 2-2 is a fair result.
Flowering Fulham. Honestly, we can't play for 90 mins to save our lives. I've been sticking up for Jol on the FB page, but honestly, it's getting hard. Especially when two of our more maligned players, Sidwell and Senderos, contributed to our goal, then WE FLOWERING CHOKE!!!
Life and times of a Fulham supporter lads.
GAMEWEEK 5 PREVIEW
Norwich v Aston Villa
Should be a good game this one. Both sides have attacking weapons but look shaky in defence. A lot depends on how many Benteke can score. Villa also haven't kept a clean sheet in 25 games so expect Norwich to find the back of the net at some stage
KEY PLAYER: Christian Benteke
MY TIP: 1-1 draw
Liverpool v Southampton
Liverpool should win this one comfortably, if Sturridge keeps up his good form. Victor Moses may play in the hole with Coutinho out, while Southampton will find it hard to get past Mignolet and the tight Liverpool defence.
KEY PLAYER: Daniel Sturridge
MY TIP: 2-0 to Liverpool
Newcastle v Hull
Hull have been decimated by injuries, with defenders Maynor Figueroa and Paul McShane both out, and Robbie Brady a 50/50 to play, Hull will struggle to win you feel. Hatem Ben Arfa has been in ripping form and will be the focal point for the Toon again.
KEY PLAYER: Hatem Ben Arfa
MY TIP: 2-0 to Newcastle
West Bromich Albion v Sunderland
Stephane Sessegnon will make his West Brom debut against his old club. Both sides are struggling this season, yet to register a win, and West Brom's first goal of the season came in stoppage time last week. Sunderland showed glimpses of quality last week but yet to put a solid performance together.
KEY PLAYER: Stephane Sessegnon
MY TIP: 1-1 draw
West Ham v Everton
Another potentially low-scoring game this week. Romelu Lukaku will make his debut for Everton and will be motivated to prove Mourinho wrong by doing what he did for West Brom - score goals. West Ham have struggled to do that - score goals - and look a little bit out of sorts without Andy Carroll. Everton's undefeated run looks set to continue
KEY PLAYER: Romelu Lukaku
MY TIP: 1-0 to Everton
Chelsea v Fulham
Chelsea yet to find their rhythm but then again so are Fulham. The likes of Eto'o and Willian will make their home EPL debuts while Fulham will be eager to atone for last week's draw, when they scored three goals from offside positions and conceded in injury time. Although at Stamford Bridge it should prove too tough. Watch to see if Juan Mata plays this week.
KEY PLAYER: Eden Hazard
MY TIP: 3-0 to Chelsea
Arsenal v Stoke
This will be a tighter affair than people are expecting. Stoke have proven tough to get past and are playing well under Mark Hughes, and could easily have beaten Man City last week. But Arsenal's quality - Ozil, Walcott, Giroud, Ramsey - will all be looking to get involved again and should get the three points.
KEY PLAYER: Theo Walcott
MY TIP: 2-1 to Arsenal
Crystal Palace v Swansea
Swansea dominated against Valencia in the Europa League mid-week to win 3-0. Michu and Bony are starting to come into form, and they should easily get past Palace, who are yet to keep a clean sheet, though they played admirably against Manchester United last week. But Swansea will get it done here.
KEY PLAYER: Michu
MY TIP: 2-0 to Swansea
Cardiff v Tottenham
Roberto Soldado will be licking his chops at getting supply from a midfield really starting to gel, with the likes of Eriksen, Sigurdsson, Paulinho and Lamela. Cardiff are playing well so far in the EPL but Tottenham should get three points, and maybe a clean sheet too.
KEY PLAYER: Christian Eriksen
MY TIP: 2-0 to Tottenham
Manchester City v Manchester United
The match of the round. The Manchester Derby. Red vs Blue. And what a game it will be. Very hard to pick a winner, but neither side has shown their true best this season. David Silva will miss again, but Shinji Kagawa may get a start for United. This will be a cracking game - as all Manchester derbies are - that could go either way, so I'll sit on the fence and call a draw.
KEY PLAYER: Wayne Rooney
MY TIP: 2-2 draw
Traded out Sessegnon, but brought in Ramsey. I'm wondering whether that's gonna be the right move long-term now that Sess is at West Brom.
I'm excited, Foxtel is up and running, think ill watch at least 6 games, although could easily watch 10
anyone else got predictions for the games?
I reckon Newcastle vs Hull could be a blowout, and think United will get up in the derby
Lukaku won't push Mirallas out of the XI will he? :\
Thanks for that Tom! Helps with deciding who to play each week :)
Quote from: PowerBug on September 21, 2013, 06:36:34 PM
Lukaku won't push Mirallas out of the XI will he? :\
You'd think he'd come in for Jelavic
My prediction for the Chelsea Fulham game:
Two quick goals in the first half to Bent and Berbatov, no, they'll start on the bench. Make that Sidwell and Ruiz. Then Chelsea kick 5 goals in the second half, leaving Jol with a dumb look on his face.
I'm still flowering powered off...
Quote from: stew42 on September 21, 2013, 07:52:37 PM
My prediction for the Chelsea Fulham game:
Two quick goals in the first half to Bent and Berbatov, no, they'll start on the bench. Make that Sidwell and Ruiz. Then Chelsea kick 5 goals in the second half, leaving Jol with a dumb look on his face.
I'm still flowering powered off...
And hiding it so well Stew... ;D
Aston Villa beat Norwich 1 - 0 in the first game for the night.
That Kozak guy scored after coming on the field for Benteke who came off with a leg injury (I haven't seen the incident). Guzan saved a penalty for Villa amongst some other quality saves.
Hamstring I hear.
I am so flowering lucky..10 second away from bringing him in but it already locked out. :D
Close call there!
Looked like a groin injury to me, he foot slipped as he was trying to jump, and on the sideline he was doing the groin warmup before getting subbed
Aston Villa FC ✔ @AVFCOfficial
Paul Lambert told by his medical team that Christian Benteke has a hip flexor injury. Hopes it's not too serious. #AVFC
12:12 AM - 22 Sep 2013
"Hamstring I hear"... "Looked like a groin injury to me"... Nek minnit... Hip flexor! :(
By the way guys, get around it!
https://www.facebook.com/pages/I-was-alive-when-Mikel-scored-a-goal-for-Chelsea/196761157163712
Quote from: NigeyS on September 22, 2013, 11:06:56 AM
"Hamstring I hear"... "Looked like a groin injury to me"... Nek minnit... Hip flexor! :(
well no ones gonna say oh yeah that's definitely a hip flexor, ;)
Haha yeah.
Am I the only one that doesn't have him? 8)
Quote from: specky92 on September 22, 2013, 11:14:51 AM
Quote from: NigeyS on September 22, 2013, 11:06:56 AM
"Hamstring I hear"... "Looked like a groin injury to me"... Nek minnit... Hip flexor! :(
well no ones gonna say oh yeah that's definitely a hip flexor, ;)
Any doctors watching might have. :P
Sorry Doctor Nige ;)
How bad is Benteke's injury?
Quote from: Tominator on September 22, 2013, 04:43:15 PM
How bad is Benteke's injury?
Hip Flexor is what I hear, that was Pittards injury at the start of the year and he missed 8 weeks :/
No Walcott will hurt many
4-0 ! Jesus, City running wild. :o
Yaya Toure!! :D
Quote from: vinny on September 22, 2013, 10:53:31 PM
No Walcott will hurt many
Unless you have Barkley on the bench 8)
Di Canio sacked
Manchester United will struggle to make a Champions League spot if they keep playing like they have so far
Quote from: Tominator on September 23, 2013, 11:54:21 AM
Manchester United will struggle to make a Champions League spot
*waits for Man Utd fans to read this and respond*
Quote from: Tominator on September 23, 2013, 11:54:21 AM
Manchester United will struggle to make a Champions League spot
Van Persie comes back and the team is completely different. All it needs is Moyes to make a few tough decisions like getting rid of Welbeck and Young and somehow managing to give Kagawa some game time. Van Persie's absence was the perfect opportunity to play Rooney up front with Kagawa just behind. Carrick and Fellaini should be class. I think Fellaini is a bit confused about what role he should be playing though which really opened up the midfield last night for Toure to dominate it.
There are problems but totally fixable.
United had a promising last 15 minutes, but when the game was in the balance were way too slow going forward, Young was shocking, but at least he was trying to make something happen.
GAMEWEEK 5 WRAP
Norwich 0-1 Aston Villa
Very disappointing performance for Norwich at home, going down to Villa in a game they should have won. Their form so far this season has been patchy at best, despite some signings that promised much. Robert Snodgrass missed a 6th-minute penalty which could have put the Canaries 1-0 up. 28 minutes in, things looked good for the home side when Villa's main man Christian Benteke was subbed off with a hip injury, but his substitute Libor Kozak scored just 2 minutes after coming on. Despite both sides having chances to score after that, Villa kept their first clean sheet in 26 games to get the win.
Liverpool 0-1 Southampton
Disappointing performance from a home side. Liverpool started the game in a flurry, creating several chances, but the defensive wall of Nathaniel Clyne, Jose Fonte, Dejan Lovren and Luke Shaw proved unassailable. Steven Gerrard nearly took the lead with a trademark free-kick, only to be denied by arguably the save of the season so far by Artur Boruc. Liverpool were frustrated in their attacks, and it was Fonte who scored for Southampton early in the second half to give them the lead. Disappointing for Liverpool but full credit to the Saints.
Newcastle 2-3 Hull
Loic Remy scored twice on his home debut for Newcastle, both times giving the lead to the Toon. But Hull were persistent and kept coming, through goals to Robbie Brady, Ahmed el Mohamady and a stunning volley from Sone Aluko. Brady was immense in midfield, providing chances to teammates and creating ones for himself. The game was very attacking, as both sides were vulnerable defensively. Remy had the chance from six yards out in injury time, to complete a hattrick and level the scores, but he just volleyed wide, and Hull came away with a shock win.
West Ham 2-3 Everton
Jussi Jaaskelainen was at his best early on, keeping out Kevin Mirallas' goal-bound shot. Minutes later, Ravel Morrison scored his first PL goal to give West Ham the lead. Mark Noble scored a penalty before being he was sent off late on, which gave Everton the extra man and Leighton Baines' - by far the best man on the pitch - scored two free kicks to keep Everton in the game, not to mention his attacking runs down the left coupled with fantastic defensive pressure. Baines' second came after Noble was sent off, before loanee Romelu Lukaku was at his brilliant best to score on debut and give the Toffees the victory.
West Bromich Albion 3-0 Sunderland
The game that proved to be Paolo di Canio's last as Sunderland manager. They never looked switched on really, and West Brom ran over the top of them once the Black Cats were reduced to 10 men, with late goals to Liam Ridgewell and Morgan Amalfitano to follow from Stephane Sessegnon's opener. Sessegnon - who was on his WBA debut - did not celebrate out of respect for his former club, after leaving Sunderland on Deadline Day. The late goals came after Steven Fletcher went down with a shoulder injury, and Sunderland had used all their subs. Di Canio stood defiantly in front of his fans at the end of the game, but it would prove to be the last time, as he was sacked on Monday.
Chelsea 2-0 Fulham
A cruisy game for the Blues with goals to Oscar and John Obi Mikel sealing the win over Fulham. Incredibly, it was Mikel's first goal for the Blues, in over 182 appearances, and didn't he celebrate it! Surprisingly, and perhaps worringly, Jose Mourinho left out Juan Mata and David Luiz - there has been negative publicity about their relationship with Mou, are they being excluded like Kaka and Iker Casillas were under Mourinho at Madrid? I personally think Mata should leave Chelsea.
Crystal Palace 0-2 Swansea
Comfortable win for the Swans and could easily have been by more. Michu scored his third goal in six days to put Swansea 1-0 up after just 90 seconds, similar to how Jonjo Shelvey scored against Liverpool. It was nearly 2-0 a minute later after Palace conceded a bad corner, and Chico hit the woodwork. Palace's chances were few and far between, and they just looked outclassed by the side that beat Valencia 3-0 midweek. Michu nearly made it 2-0 before Julian Speroni made a brilliant save to keep out Angel Rangel. Just after half-time, Nathan Dyer scored to make it 2-0, and from there the Swans never looked back.
Arsenal 3-1 Stoke
What a player is Mesut Ozil. The German provided the assists to all three of Arsenal's goals - albeit all came from set pieces - and was at his dominant best once again, picking up MOTM honours. Goals to Aaron Ramsey, Per Mertesacker and Bacary Sagna gave Arsenal a comfortable win, while Geoff Cameron managed to score for Stoke. Arsenal's only downside came from the late out of Theo Walcott, whose injury sustained in the warm up will keep him out for 2-4 weeks. But there is plenty to be excited about for Arsenal fans - is this the season they finally win a trophy?
Cardiff 0-1 Tottenham
Great game for Cardiff but Tottenham came away with the win, through a goal to Paulinho in the dying embers of injury time. The man of the match was without a doubt David Marshall, the Cardiff goalkeeper keeping Tottenham at bay when all defenders were beaten. Tottenham created countless chances but were constantly thwarted by Marshall. Aron Gunnarsson had the chance to win it for Cardiff in the 82nd minute, but skied his shot when he found space, and was one of Cardiff's only chances for the game. But they could not hold out, with substitute Erik Lamela providing a low cross for Paulinho, who's neat finish sparked wild celebrations for the Tottenham players.
Manchester City 4-1 Manchester United
Manchester is blue. The 166th Manchester derby was the first for managers of both clubs, but for David Moyes it was one to forget. City were awesome - United were just not switched on. Robin van Persie's late withdrawal rocked United, but popular player Shinji Kagawa was not picked. I have personal doubts over whether Moyes is the man for the job, but I'll give him time before making a judgement. But United ought to stop putting in such unconvincing displays like that. City went ahead through Sergio Aguero as they took advantage of United's slack mentality. Goals within 60 seconds before and after half-time to midfield maestro Yaya Toure - who totally dominated Marouane Fellaini - and Aguero again made it 3-0, before Samir Nasri made it 4-0 just 50 minutes in. City had chances to make it 5 or more, but could not take advantage, and United began to wake up. Wayne Rooney was by far United's best, and it was his free kick that dipped, curled, bended its way into the net. But it was nothing more than a consolation goal, in a game that reminded us of City's quality and United's fraility in the post-SAF era.
I thought Walcott just pulled out because he was feeling sick, :o
Kagawa hasnt been able to settle in United.... shouldnt have moved to the EPL
EPL doesnt suit too many Asian players
Quote from: Cicjose on September 26, 2013, 09:50:24 PM
Kagawa hasnt been able to settle in United.... shouldnt have moved to the EPL
EPL doesnt suit too many Asian players
Park ji-sung and Sun jihai were pretty successful. Besides it's hard to settle when you're hardly getting played
Quote from: lolrocket on September 26, 2013, 10:33:52 PM
Quote from: Cicjose on September 26, 2013, 09:50:24 PM
Kagawa hasnt been able to settle in United.... shouldnt have moved to the EPL
EPL doesnt suit too many Asian players
Park ji-sung and Sun jihai were pretty successful. Besides it's hard to settle when you're hardly getting played
Moyes ignored the perfect chance to play Kagawa in behind Rooney. Not sure why Welbeck was preferred, given he'd only just come back from injury, and Kagawa wasn't even brought on as a substitute
Tottenham well on top of Chelsea at the moment :)
Quote from: CrowsFan on September 28, 2013, 10:22:25 PM
Tottenham well on top of Chelsea at the moment :)
Fought back a little later in the first half, missed a few golden chances though... :(
JOOOOOOOOOOOOOHNNNN TEEEEEERRRRRRRRRRRYYYYYYYYY!!!
That was a bullshower second yellow for Torres...
Which game do you all recommend now? :)
Quote from: NigeyS on September 28, 2013, 11:31:35 PM
That was a bullshower second yellow for Torres...
I dunno, in normal speed you can see why it was given. Jumping towards Vertonghen and leading with his arm. Refs only get one look at it so they have to make a judgement call, they don't get the benefit of replays and slow motion ;)
I'm going out now but my unbias (I'm trying) thoughts on the game:
Spurs deserved to be 2/3 nil up at HT
Chelsea fought back well
Vertonghen is a diving dog (I tried haha)
Torres & Mata were great tonight
Spurs will have a good season
Mike Dean for MOTM after saving Spurs from being torn apart by Torres!
YID ARMY!!!!!
Wtf is going on at Manchester this season?!?! Both losing matches they shouldn't be.
At least Arsenal are staying strong, despite the first week hiccup. :)
Quote from: CrowsFan on September 29, 2013, 12:01:02 AM
Quote from: NigeyS on September 28, 2013, 11:31:35 PM
That was a bullshower second yellow for Torres...
I dunno, in normal speed you can see why it was given. Jumping towards Vertonghen and leading with his arm. Refs only get one look at it so they have to make a judgement call, they don't get the benefit of replays and slow motion ;)
That is true. :(
Quote from: PowerBug on September 29, 2013, 09:17:54 AM
Wtf is going on at Manchester this season?!?! Both losing matches they shouldn't be.
At least Arsenal are staying strong, despite the first week hiccup. :)
Ha, you think Manchester have it bad? Try Fulham losing to Cardiff #JolOut #lifeandtimesofapissedoffFulhamsupporter
We're on a roll down at Villa Park.
Watch out for us! 8)
Manchester United are in some serious trouble - they were absolutely terrible defensively, lacked spark offensively, and were completely outplayed
How's this for a stat: Manchester United have not scored a goal from open play (in the Premier League) since Gameweek 1
- fired blanks against Liverpool and Chelsea
- scored from a penalty and an FK against Crystal Palace
- scored from an FK against Manchester City
- scored from an FK against West Brom
GAMEWEEK SIX PREVIEW (remaining matches)
Stoke v Norwich
Should be another good game between a side who offer a lot defensively (Stoke) and a side who offer a lot attackingly, but have yet to fire this season (Norwich). The home ground advantage will help Stoke, who are traditionally hard to get past, but don't be surprised if Norwich find a goal.
KEY PLAYER: Marko Arnautovic
MY TIP: 1-0 Norwich
Sunderland v Liverpool
Sunderland's first game without Paolo di Canio, it will be interesting to see how the team responds. Liverpool were out of sorts last week, but Luis Suarez is back and all eyes will be on him.
KEY PLAYER: Luis Suarez
MY TIP: 2-0 to Liverpool
Newcastle v Everton
Everton remain the only undefeated team in the competition, while Newcastle will be keen to atone for last week's shock loss to Hull. Newcastle have shown good signs but are yet to fully click as a unit, but if Ben Arfa, Remy and Cisse can all fire on the same day, then Everton will need to be on their guard.
KEY PLAYER: Romelu Lukaku
MY TIP: 2-1 to Everton
Wow...
I was drafting the GW 6 Review, done about 6 games, and the Internet crashed, FF didn't save my work :(
Sorry lads, this Review might be a bit crapper than usual :-\
:(
We forgive you Tommy, excellent work for 5 weeks is impressive enough!
No worries man, been awesome in previous weeks! ;)
Yeah, take it easy Tomma! Your efforts have been stellar to date. 8)
GAMEWEEK 6 REVIEW
Tottenham 1-1 Chelsea
Good game with a fair result. Gylfi Sigurdsson put Tottenham ahead after 19 minutes with a great finish, after some great play from Christian Eriksen in the lead-up. They could have made it 2-0 but Branislav Ivanovic made a goal-saving tackle to deny Paulinho a tap-in. Paulinho hit the woodwork on the edge of half-time, which could have given Tottenham a handy lead at half time. After the break, Jose Mourinho brought on Juan Mata, who gave Chelsea a spark, and would provide the vital assist for John Terry's goal just past the hour mark. Fernando Torres and Jan Vertonghen came to blows several times late in the game, resulting in Torres' being controversially sent-off with 10 minutes to go. But while Tottenham had the extra man, they could not score. The fiery pre-game build-up between the managers in the press, spilled over after the game, with a reluctant handshake from Mourinho, who later labelled Vertonghen a "disgrace", for allegedly staging to give Torres a red card. Mourinho comes across as a bit of a "my way or the highway" jerk IMO.
My prediction was a 1-1 draw, with the key player being Christian Eriksen.
Aston Villa 3-2 Manchester City
No Christian Benteke, no worries? A bizarre result that few would have seen coming. Goals to Yaya Toure and Edin Dzeko put City in front twice, and it appeared to be a straightforward result. Leandro Bacuna was fantastic for the hosts, scoring a stunning free-kick and assisting Karim el Ahmadi, pulling Villa level with City. Just when Villa fans started to believe a miracle was possible, a miracle occurred. Brad Guzan's long kick out slipped past the two centre backs for Andres Weimann and he calmly prodded it under Joe Hart, to give Villa a shock win and send their fans into delirium.
My prediction was 3-0 to City, with the key player being Sergio Aguero.
Hull 1-0 West Ham
A game that will be remembered more for two contentious decisions more than anything. Robbie Brady won a penalty in the 12th minute, despite minimal contact from Joey O'Brien and went on to convert what would be the only goal of the game. With time running out and the Hammers desperate for a goal, a massive appeal for handball was turned down, and West Ham did not get the penalty they deserved. But could the impossible happen? Could Hull survive relegation? They are above Manchester United after all... Who would have guessed that six weeks ago?!
My prediction was a 1-1 draw, with the key player being Kevin Nolan.
Southampton 2-0 Crystal Palace
Cruisy win for Southampton. Palace did well to keep out the Saints in the first half, and very nearly took the lead whenMarouane Chamakh was played in, beat the defence, ronuded the keeper, but instead of having a shot from an angle, he tried to earn a penalty by doing to ground, thus receiving a yellow card for diving. But in the space of four minutes very early in the second half, the game was killed off, with goals to talismen Pablo Osvaldo - his first for the club - and Ricki Lambert - his 200th for the club. Unfortunately, I just don't feel that Crystal Palace are up to the Premier League standard. Akin to Reading last season, they have good players but not enough players of PL quality, and appear destined to be relegated again unless a strong spike in form occurs. They have not found the back of the net for the last three games.
My prediction was a 2-0 win to Southampton, with the key player being Adam Lallana.
Fulham 1-2 Cardiff
The chorus of fans calling for Martin Jol's head grew after Cardiff took three points at the Cottage. After a few weeks of good form, without getting good results, Malky Mackay's men now have another win to show for it, after stealing it in injury time. Bryan Ruiz's curling strike for Fulham was the equaliser right on half-time, cancelling out an early header from Steven Caulker which opened the scoring. The game was scrappy and appeared destined for a draw, but enter Jordan Mutch. His stunning strike from outside the box, similar to Ruiz's but better, was "too mutch" (see what I did there) ;) for David Stockdale, and gave Cardiff their first away win in the PL in over 50 years.
My prediction was a 1-1 draw, with the key player being Darren Bent.
Manchester United 1-2 West Bromich Albion
Wow. I watched this game and was in shock. Manchester United are in some serious trouble - their defence was shambolic, and was without Rafael, Patrice Evra and Nemanja Vidic. A warm round of applause was heard when Shinji Kagawa started, and despite his good first half, he was subbed off at half-time for exciting youngster Adnan Januzaj, who does look to be a player to watch over the next few years. But this is worrying for Kagawa - he just does not seem to rate highly on Moyes' list. Anderson hit the bar in the first half with a header from Kagawa's cross, but that was as close as United got to scoring. Their midfield was well beaten by West Brom's Stephane Sessegnon and Morgan Amalfitano, with the latter scoring to take the lead. Wayne Rooney equalised shortly after, with a free kick, but United were just not sharp and lacked the killer threat. Robin van Persie was good when he came on as a sub, but could not change the game, and West Brom took the lead once again hen youngster Saido Berahino struck one from the edge of the box, to give the Baggies their first win at Old Trafford since 1978. Full credit to West Brom, but United need to sign some players in January - there is no denying that.
My prediction was a 3-1 win to United, with the key player being Wayne Rooney.
Swansea 1-2 Arsenal
Another good game with another fair result - Swansea were good but Arsenal were better. Aaron Ramsey is in the form of his life and scored again to prove that, while he also provided the assist for German teenager Serge Gnabry to score his first goal for Arsenal. Arsenal's midfield play was intricate and exquisite, with the likes of Ramsey, Mesut Ozil, and Jack Wilshere dominating. Gnabry was very impressive in a dour first half, running through the defence of Swansea, and teed up Olivier Giroud just before half time, but he could only fire wide. Swansea responded in the last half hour, but despite a late goal to Ben Davies, the Gunners held on for three points and take a lead of two points at the top.
My prediction was a 2-1 win to Arsenal, with the key player being Mesut Ozil.
Too mutch love it! Ozil was almost too good for us at times and then sometimes he just doesn't look interested, Gnabry was really good for us, creating some spark, runs past defenders with the ball. The gunners game was the only one I watched, :-\
Awesome work Tominator, was a brilliant read, :)
Great work again Big Tom...actually having my best scoring week so far.. ;D
Still have Ben Arfa and Coleman to play...how dumbs that...who do I support in this game?... :o
Hull City's Brady out til 3/11..Hernia...... :-\
GAMEWEEK SIX REVIEW (continued)
Stoke 0-1 Norwich
A game that many people predicted to finish 1-0, but with Stoke winning and not Norwich. Stoke had been playing reasonably well and were hard to get past, but Norwich found a goal through Jonny Howson midway through the first half, albeit a shot that Asmir Begovic should have saved. If anything, it was a frustrating game to watch, as both sides created chances but were very wasteful, and besides Howson's strike neither side really looked like scoring. But with pressure mounting on Chris Hughton, this win fo rNorwich came at a good time.
Sunderland 1-3 Liverpool
The first game back for Luis Suarez showed that he hadn't missed a beat. It was the first time the Suarez-Daniel Sturridge partnership had come into effect and it proved to be deadly, with Suarez scoring twice and Sturridge scoring one as well (his 5th in 6 PL games this season). Liverpool took a commanding 2-0 lead at half-time and could easily have had more, if not for some good saves from Kieran Westwood. Sunderland's best chance was when Sebastian Larsson hit the crossbar from a first-half freekick, but Emmanuel Gierrachini pulled one back early in the second half to give Sunderland fans a glimpse of hope. However, it was not to be, and Suarez scored his second on the stroke of injury time, to maintain Liverpool's great start to the season.
Everton 3-2 Newcastle
Romelu Lukaku is a beast. Chelsea have had much-publicised trouble with finding a good striker, but they may have loaned out their most prolific one. Lukaku was at his best again, scoring two and assisting the other, to prolong Everton's unbeaten start to the season, the only team yet to lose a game. Ross Barkley was also dominant in midfield, scoring a goal himself. It was a free-flowing game, with both sides having 50% possession and over 15 shots. But Everton went into half-time with a 3-0 lead and looked like running away with the game. To Newcastle's credit, they pulled back two goals through Yohan Cabaye and Loic Remy, but Everton managed to - deservedly - get the three points
Excellent work yet again Tommy.
Just thought I'd mention though that Sturridge also got both assists for Suarez's goals; that partnership is looking awesome 8)
Keep it going Big Tom.. ;D
Anyone know how serious Rooneys shin injury is?
Its him or BA on the bench this week
Quote from: T Dog on October 04, 2013, 12:59:39 PM
Keep it going Big Tom.. ;D
Anyone know how serious Rooneys shin injury is?
Its him or BA on the bench this week
Cracked shin from a training tackle, apparently will be OK this Saturday and for Englands qualifiers.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/manchester-united/10351746/Wayne-Rooney-will-be-fit-for-Englands-World-Cup-qualifiers-says-Manchester-United-manager-David-Moyes.html (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/manchester-united/10351746/Wayne-Rooney-will-be-fit-for-Englands-World-Cup-qualifiers-says-Manchester-United-manager-David-Moyes.html)
Thanks TP.. ;D
GAMEWEEK SEVEN PREVIEW
Manchester City v Everton
This will be an interesting game. City have been very Jekyll-and-Hyde this sesaon while Everton have been solid and remain the only side yet to be defeated. Romelu Lukaku the loanee has been immense in his first two appearances, while the attacking prowess of full backs Baines and Coleman down the flanks has been on display. The home ground advantage will help City, so I'm predicting they'll respond from last week and get up. But do not be surprised if Everton manage to snatch a draw or even a win.
KEY PLAYER: Romelu Lukaku
MY TIP: 2-1 to Manchester City - but don't be surprised if it's a draw
Cardiff v Newcastle
Another interesting game. Cardiff have been good against quality sides - Tottenham and Man City - when playing at home, so that should help them against Newcastle. The Toon have been very patchy themselves, so will look to take all three points, with Ben Arfa, Remy and Cisse will all need to contribute. Very tough game to predict though, could seriously be anything :-\
KEY PLAYER: Loic Remy
MY TIP: 1-1 draw
Fulham v Stoke
Another hard game to call. Fulham had their hearts broken by a last-gasp strike to Jordan Mutch from Cardiff last weekend, so will look to atone for that. Stoke were disappointing last week to bring them back down to Earth, after a better-than-expected start. Could very easily be a nil-all draw, but I'll say 1-1.
KEY PLAYER: Asmir Begovic
MY TIP: 1-1 draw
Hull v Aston Villa
I'll say it again - this game could be anything. Amazingly, Villa are yet to lose a game without star striker Christian Benteke (they were 0-0 at Norwich when he went off), who will be absent again. Hull are without their best player so far this season in Robbie Brady, due to a hernia operation, so they will need to find goals from other sources. The likes of Graham and Aluko will really need to step up. But Hull at home is a tough trip for away sides, so Villa will need to be on their game, though they should be buoyed by beating City last week in a thriller.
KEY PLAYER: Andres Weimann
MY TIP: 2-1 to Aston Villa
Liverpool v Crystal Palace
The first game where I am confident in predicting a winner. The Suarez-Sturridge combination could very well have a field day here, and it could get ugly. I personally hope it doesn't - as I have neither in my fantasy team (yet)! Liverpool should continue their good start, but Palace will need to play out of their skin, and hope Liverpool are off their guard, if they are to take anything from Anfield.
KEY PLAYER: Daniel Sturridge
MY TIP: 3-0 to Liverpool (could be more)
Sunderland v Manchester United
This is a danger game for David Moyes an dhis United men. Their form of late has been so unconvincing, but they should comfortably come away with three points from this game - if they don't, the alarm bells will be well and truly ringing. RVP should start after recovering from injury, while I highly doubt they'll rest Evra and Vidic again. Sunderland have shown glimpses of form in games this season, but have been too patchy and only have 1 point to show for it, and that is unlikely to change as United SHOULD win easy.
KEY PLAYER: Wayne Rooney
MY TIP: 2-0 to Manchester United
Norwich v Chelsea
All eyes will be on Mourinho's team selections to see if Juan Mata starts. He came on in the second half last week and earned Chelsea a draw at Tottenham, and his quality is undeniable, so if given the chance he should make an impact. Norwich did well to win last week, however I cannot see the same heroics this time around - but stranger things have happened.
KEY PLAYER: Juan Mata
MY TIP: 2-0 to Chelsea
Southampton v Swansea
Two sides that are on the up meet in a Super Sunday clash. One is very defensive and the other is very attacking. Swansea have had a pretty tough start to the season, and this continues with a tricky trip to Southampton. The Saints are generally very hard to score against at home, so a lot of the Swans' attacks will revolve around Michu and Bony, who is starting to come into great form. Swansea will be a bit more vulnerable defensively without Ashley Williams, but I highly doubt this will be a high-scoring affair. Could be a 1-0'er but more likely 1-1.
KEY PLAYER: Wilfried Bony
MY TIP: 1-1 draw
West Ham v Tottenham
West Ham have been very good defensively for most games this season, but they will have to be at their best to keep a CS against a red-hot Spurs side. Gylfi Sigurdsson has been in great form while Eriksen, Lamela and Paulinho should set up a majority of their attacks again. The Hammers were disappointing at Hull last week but will need to lift if they are to beat Tottenham, which seems very unlikely, but their keeper in Jussi Jaaskelainen has sparkled this season and will need to do so again.
KEY PLAYER: Jussi Jaaskelainen
MY TIP: 2-0 to Tottenham
West Bromich Albion v Arsenal
If Tottenham are red-hot, their cross-town rivals Arsenal are white-hot. Arsenal are in the best form they've been in for a long time, and the likes of Ramsey, Ozil and Giroud will look to sparkle again. I'm unaware if Theo Walcott is back but if he is then Arsenal will benefit greatly. West Brom will definitely be buoyed by beating Manchester United last week, but their task this week does not get any easier. They'll need Amalfitano, Sinclair and Sessegnon to do well, who have undoubtably helped their side since all signing on deadline day, but Arsenal should be too good.
KEY PLAYER: Aaron Ramsey
MY TIP: 2-1 to Arsenal
This would be an absolutely bizarre transfer if this goes ahead - but I guess it shows that Kagawa really does not fit in to David Moyes' plans.
I thought United needed an attacking midfielder - isn't Kagawa just that???
http://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/434104/Manchester-United-ready-to-swap-Shinji-Kagawa-to-sign-Neven-Subotic-from-Dortmund
"MANCHESTER UNITED are lining up a sensational swap deal that would see Shinji Kagawa return to Borussia Dortmund in return for Serbian defender Neven Subotic."
Very nice as usual T!
The big game for me is the very first, City & Everton.
Got Zabaleta, Lukaku, Coleman and Barkley.
Of those Ive decided to play Barkely, Zabaleta and Lukaku. Benching Coleman.
Hoping for a high scoring game so Lukaku and Barkley can make up for Zab.
this is a horrendous week for tipping
The first four games could go absolutely anywhere, and SOT-SWA isn't an easy one to pick either
Feel free to come to Liverpool Shinji ;)
Moyes must be a racist. It's the only explanation!
Just discovered this thread now - a good one too!
Watching MC - Eve atm, 1-1, 2 goals in 2 minutes.
Love the way the English pronounce Lukaku :P
Excellent win by the Liverpuddliens! YNWA LIVERRRPOOOOOOOOLLL
#atouchdrunk
GAMEWEEK SEVEN REVIEW
Manchester City 3-1 Everton
Good game to start the round. Everton started the game well and took the advantage in the 16th minute, when Romelu Lukaku - who else? - scored to put the Toffees in front. City hit back barely a minute later through Alvaro Negredo, and from there the game opened up. Sergio Aguero missed two very gettable chances, before the often-arrogant Matjia Nastasic clearly fouled Lukaku in the box, but the penalty was not given. In injury time during the first half, Aguero shot from a tight angle and managed to score, giving City the lead. James Milner earned a yellow card on Half Time and it should have been red for a wild challenge on James McCarthy. After half-time, City began to dominate, however could not kill the game off. Pablo Zabaleta earned a penalty for the home side, going down under minimal contact from Seamus Coleman (it beggers beliefs that Zab could earn a penalty when Lukaku didn't), and City converted from Aguero's kick - well it was actually an own goal from Tim Howard, as the ball bounced off the post, onto Howard's het and back into the net. City could not score again after that but they had already sealed the victory.
Hull 0-0 Aston Villa
A pretty dour nil-all draw really. Both sides came into the match with good goal-scoring form, but they created and wasted chances to score goals. Without Robbie Brady, Hull were always going to find it tough, but Tom Huddlestone's long shot had to be stopped by Brad Guzan or Hull would have taken a lead. Leandro Bacuna was arguably the best player on the pitch, in the first half at least, as he danced around Hull defenders. Gabby Agbonlahor was also very prominent, and came close when his curling shot just didn't come back far enough. But both managers seemed pretty content with a nil-all draw, and frankly that's all this game deserved.
Fulham 1-0 Stoke
Pretty dour game that appeared destined for a nil-all draw. Lacked spark, and was without clearcut chances. However, there were three clear penalties that were not given in the first half alone, so some strange refereeing was without doubt the major talking point of the game. Robert Huth was an aerial threat from set pieces, sending in two powerful headers either side of half-time, both of which were cleared off the line to keep the game scoreless. But Darren Bent scored with 7 minutes remaining after rounding Asmir Begovic and Huth, and firing home. A vital win for Martin Jol's men - which may have saved his managerial career, at least for now.
Cardiff 1-2 Newcastle
Another game that relieved pressure on an under-fire manager in Alan Pardew. Loic Remy scored another double to give Newcastle a commanding two-nil lead at half-time. The first goal was an outstanding run from the middle of the ground, cutting past two defenders before firing into the bottom corner. The second, just eight minutes later, was another outstanding finish, without taking a touch, just clipping into the far bottom corner. Remy has now scored five of Newcastle's last six goals, in just three league starts. Yohan Cabaye very nearly made it 3, when his long range free kick caught David Marshall unaware and clattered off the post. Cardiff pulled one back in the second half through Peter Odemwingie, but minutes later had to rely on Marshall again to stop Moussa Sissoko from making it 3-1. Jordan Mutch had a chance to equalise late, but Tim Krul managed to parry his attempted chip shot.
Sunderland 1-2 Manchester United
Adnan Januzaj - remember the name. This kid is going to be a star, the kid that saved David Moyes' blushes once more. United did look a bit out of sorts again, going behind early on to Craig Gardner, after a defensive mix-up involving Nemanja Vidic and Phil Jones. Gardner spurned a 3-on-1 chance before Januzaj flashed wide. Emanuele Giaccherini very nearly made it 2-0 when his well-struck header was acrobatically parried by David de Gea, who knows what would have happened if that went in. Adam Johnson set up Giaccherini again, but he hit over the bar. Sunderland led the match up until about 10 minutes into the second half, when Januzaj - in his first PL start - tucked away a side-footed shot into the back of the net to equalise. Then, 8 minutes later, Januzaj doubled his tally and took the lead, when his first-time volley found the bottom corner in a text-book action. Robin van Persie should have made it 3-1 with two minutes to go, but could only fire wide when it appeared harder to miss.
Liverpool 3-1 Crystal Palace
This game had rout written all over it, and at half time it looked like that. The SAS partnership of Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge was on fire once again. Suarez scored in the 13th minute before Sturridge scored four minutes later. Both of them had chances to add to their tallies but could not. Despite the scoreline, Palace went all-out attack, with Cameron Jerome and Jimmy Kebe both having half-chances. But Liverpool killed the game inside 37 minutes when Raheem Sterling was awarded a penalty, despite the contact appearing to be outside the box, and Steven Gerrard stepped up to the plate and scored. It should have been 4-0 when Moses hit the bar from very close range. Dwight Gayle pulled one back for Palace in the 76th minute, their first goal in 346 minutes, but Liverpool did not let another one in.
Southampton 2-0 Swansea
A very good win for Southampton, a very disappointing one for Swansea. Southampton were the better side in the opening 20 minutes, and were rewarded when Adam Lallana finished the good work he started with a goal. After the goal, Swansea came alive and it really became an open contest. Michu and Wilfried Bony both had big chances saved by Artur Boruc, while Nathan Dyer was extremely unlucky not to score in the 35th minute - his shot went off the post, across the face of the goal, missing the other post by a matter of millimetres before trickling out of play. After half-time, Southampton put the foot down and cemented their authority. Though Swansea created more chances, they were wasteful with the likes of Dyer, Bony and Jonjo Shelvey spurning good chances. It could have been 2-0 early in the second half, when the referee incorrectly awarded a corner, from which Victor Wanyama scored, however this goal was disallowed, as the referee (again, incorrectly) adjudged a foul from a Southampton player in the box. Boruc and Jose Fonte were impenetrable in defence, but it was Jay Rodriguez who scored late to seal the three points. Both goals could easily have been prevented had Chico Flores made more of his clearances, but you cannot blame one player for the loss. Southampton outclassed the Swans and deserved the win.
Norwich 1-3 Chelsea
Chelsea left it late to win it, but they outplayed Norwich for most of the game. Emboaba Oscar scored after just four minutes to put Chelsea in front, after good lead up work from Demba Ba. From there, the game ebbed and flowed, but no side could score, until Anthony Pilkington equalised for Norwich midway through the second half. The game appeared destined to be a draw, but remained exciting, thanks to Nathan Redmond lifting his Norwich side after coming on. Chelsea took the lead on 85 minutes when substitute Eden Hazard scored, but John Ruddy should have saved it. However there was absolutely nothing he could do when fellow substitute Willian scored an absolute SCREAMER from outside the box, just a minute later. The ball spilled loose and Willian latched onto it first time, curling it into the top corner, to ice the cake for Chelsea.
Tottenham 0-3 West Ham
An upset if ever there was one. In the space of 13 minutes, West Ham scored three goals, to bring Tottenham crashing back to earth. Andros Townsend started well for Tottenham, with a long drive going just wide, before setting up Paulinho, who could only flash wide as well. Tottenham dominated the first half and really should been 1-0 up, but couldn't really test Jussi Jaaskelainen. West Ham did well to remain level, and very nearly took the lead when Mark Noble's surprise free kick found Kevin Nolan, whose shot left Hugo Lloris motionless but was off-target. Tottenham continued to waste their chances in the second half when Jermain Defoe fired straight at Jaaskelainen. West Ham then made them pay, first scoring in the 66th minute through Winston Reid from a corner. Ricardo vaz Te made it 2-0 when his shot rebounded off Lloris, onto his leg and into the net. Ravel Morrison then completed the performance, scoring a solo goal to seal the most unlikely of wins.
West Bromich Albion 1-1 Arsenal
West Brom continue to play an attacking brand of football that is holding up against quality sides. They very nearly took the lead through a deflected Saido Berahino shot, but the wrong-footed Wojciech Szcesny managed to save it. Mesut Ozil teed up Kieran Gibbs who could only fire too high, but the likes of Olivier Giroud, Jack Wilshere and Ozil were beginning to influence the game. Aaron Ramsey came close but it was saved well. Just before half time, Morgan Amalfitano's cross found Claudio Yacob, to give the Baggies a surprise lead. Nicolas Anelka had two big chances early in the second-half but could not convert, and Arsenal made them pay. Despite his mid-week smoking controversy, Wilshere fired home midway through the second half to equalise for Arsenal, with his first league goal in 3 years. Billy Jones nearly put the Baggies in front again, but Szcesney saved well. Both sides had great chances to win it, but both goalkeepers pulled off some important saves to keep it a draw.
Very nice again Big Tom. I am surprised and impressed by Southhapton this season. Fonte seems to have made a real difference in defence.
How good was West Ham's win ;D
there is definitely something going on down at Southampton
This is a team that got promoted only last season, yet look at their team
GK | Boruc
DEF | Clyne - Fonte - Lovren - Shaw
MID | Ramirez - Wanyama - Schneiderlin - Lallana
FWD | Osvaldo - Lambert
- Extremely solid defensively (5 Clean Sheets in 7 games)
- Powerful midfielders, both attackingly and defensively
- Two very good strikers
Add to that they have one of the best youth academy set ups in England, that has produced the likes of Bale, Walcott, Oxlade-Chamberlain, etc
This team is going places. Could very well become a force in the PL in years to come
and they play Manchester United next week, should be a cracking match
I called Southampton's rise in the EPL last year. ;)
:o
Simply amazing team goal from Arsenal last night.
Quote from: My Chumps on October 20, 2013, 06:22:20 PM
Simply amazing team goal from Arsenal last night.
Arsenal were the Harlem Globetrotters of soccer
my oh my were Arsenal good.
Boys I'm gonna be very very busy with school over the next couple of weeks. I'll do what I can but I don't have the time right now to do in-depth match analysis'
If anybody else would like to then you are more than welcome :)
i had people tell me that Ozil wasnt a world class player at Real Madrid and was overrated
stats accurate prior to 2013/14 season
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfmY9-VS3cw/UjZRH75jPqI/AAAAAAAAAN4/95cQ_RJG6mg/s1600/Untitled.png)
Yeah Ozil was a gun at Madrid. Love how that pic also shows how unselfish Ronaldo is. Fourth on the list for most assists when everyone says he never passes!
Also amazing that 3 of the top 5 all play(ed) for Madrid!
isn't Dani Alves a right-back??
GAMEWEEK EIGHT REVIEW... of sorts
FIVE THINGS WE LEARNED THIS WEEK
Arsenal can win the title
Where have the #WengerOut haters gone??? Arsenal are playing sublime football and are getting sublime results. Their first goal was absolutely scintillating - it's been described as football porn - while the other three were also far from easy. Their defence seems to be their weakest link, as they fail to keep many clean sheets, but attackingly they are playing the best - and most consistent - football of any side this season. They fully deserve top spot, and with Theo Walcott, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Lukas Podolski still yet to return, and Santi Cazorla yet to reach full fitness, the signs are promising. Wenger once said if Aaron Ramsey starts scoring he won't stop - and hasn't that proven right. The Welshman has scored 9 goals and provided 4 assists in all competitions this season. Jack Wilshere has also scored 2 goals in his last 2 games, after not scoring any for 3 years. Who knows, maybe their trophy drought might come to an end this season? Arsenal fans sure have plenty of reason for excitement
Swansea are not to be underestimated
They may be in the bottom half of the table all season but don't underestimate them. Despite a mixed start to the season, the Swans put in a great display against woeful Sunderland. Swansea may have had a bit of luck, with 2 own goals and a penalty contributing to the 4-0 thrashing, but it was the way they did it that was so impressive. The game was evenly poised at half-time at 0-0, but Swansea went into another level in the second half to completely overrun the Black Cats. Four goals in the space of 23 minutes in the second half turned it into a rout. Jonathon de Guzman's goal was a screamer, with a scintillating curler into the top corner. It could have been worse if not for some fine saves by Sunderland goalkeeper Kieran Westwood. Main man Michu did not score or assist any of them, so Swansea showed they can play scintillating football without relying on him. Ashley Williams and Pablo Hernandez are set to return as well which should bolster them and cover the loss of Ben Davies to injury.
Manchester United are not the same without SAF - yet
Perhaps we already knew this, but they have now only won once in four games at Old Trafford this season. The alarm bells are ringing. The cracks that the managerial brilliance of SAF was able to patch over are now becoming clear once again. Though United fans might find it hard to accept, United's squad lacks quality, in defence and midfield. In my opinion, players like Ashley Young, Tom Cleverley and Chris Smalling aren't up to the top standard required, yet are still getting regular games. It isn't all doom and gloom - the emergence of Adnan Januzaj has been a massive coup for United. However, Moyes could do worse than to use Shinji Kagawa, Wilfried Zaha and Javier Hernandez a bit more. It's still early days but Moyes will need to turn things around - fast. Some signings in January are required to bolster their defence, while they still lack the killer edge required in front of goal. But with Robin van Persie coming back from injury and beginning to find form, hopefully for United fans a change in fortune is just around the corner.
Southampton are on the rise
They are playing like they fear nobody at all. The club from down south are deservedly in the top four after their start to this season. An extremely solid back four - Nathaniel Clyne, Jose Fonte, Dejan Lovren and Luke Shaw - coupled with shot-stopper Artur Boruc has proven to be the backbone of their springboard up the table. Adam Lallana is in amazing form in the midfield, and has been another catalyst for their successes over the last few weeks. He scored the equaliser for the Saints, who could easily have dropped their head after going down 1-0, but kept on fighting and eventually drew level. Their manager has also come out and said that they are aiming for Champions League place. That may not happen, due to the likes of Tottenham and Liverpool performing so strongly, but you get the feeling that if they continue to grow at this rate, a Cup win or Top 7 PL finish may not be out of the question
Crystal Palace need a miracle to survive
Unfortunately for the Mile Jedinak-led Blue Eagles, the task of staying in the PL beyond this season is already looking like too big a task. Having only 1 win from 8 games - no draws, the other 7 are losses - Palace crashed to another defeat, this time to Fulham. They took an early lead through Adrian Mariappa, giving them a great chance to at least get a point on their home ground (where they defeated bottom-ranked Sunderland a few weeks ago). However, Fulham - a side who have struggled for goals this season - managed to put four goals past a woeful Palace defence, which was broken down with ease way too many times, especially from set pieces. Two goals came from corners while another came off a rebound from a free kick. A majority of the Palace players do not seem like they are up to the Premier League standard, as is often the case with newly-promoted clubs. Because of this, they seem destined to go back down to the Championship, unless a major turnaround in form is found.
EDIT: PATJIM KASAMI WHAT A GOAL !!! Better solo goal than Wilshere, but Arsenal had the better team goal
Kasami for goal of the season!!! ;D
You are not wrong about that football porn. That is a goal that a manager dreama bout his team scoring, seeing something like that is why this is a great sport, and it feels good being an Arsenal supporter now. :D however, need to beat Dortmund tomorrow, 5:15am, will make every attempt possible to wake up.
Crystal Palace unfortunately haven't quite settled into the big league yet. Hull have done well understandably as they were in the top flight not too long ago, and Cardiff have done decently, beating City at home was big for them. Hopefully they can find something, I thought they were a chance against Fulham, but those were two freaky pingers this morning aswell.
Nice Big Tom...Southampton top 7...wow... :o
Quote from: T Dog on October 22, 2013, 08:32:20 PM
Nice Big Tom...Southampton top 7...wow... :o
It's possible :o
Look at Newcastle a couple of years ago!
All it takes is one season, that can change a club forever. For better or for worse. Southampton have a serious shot at getting back to the top end of the EPL. I hope they can qualify for Europe at the expense of Man United. ;)
Football porn... oh my. :o
theres plenty of it.... the last i checked the arsenal game was uploaded to such websites
Quote from: Tominator on October 22, 2013, 07:53:25 PM
EDIT: PATJIM KASAMI WHAT A GOAL !!! Better solo goal than Wilshere, but Arsenal had the better team goal
Yet I wouldn't say either were goal of the week. That accolade goes to Ibra for his goal in the French league!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qI8SV0racrY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qI8SV0racrY)
Quote from: CrowsFan on October 23, 2013, 12:02:13 AM
Quote from: Tominator on October 22, 2013, 07:53:25 PM
EDIT: PATJIM KASAMI WHAT A GOAL !!! Better solo goal than Wilshere, but Arsenal had the better team goal
Yet I wouldn't say either were goal of the week. That accolade goes to Ibra for his goal in the French league!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qI8SV0racrY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qI8SV0racrY)
not to mention Tim Cahill scoring a sumptuous volley after just 8 seconds in an MLS game !
Quote from: Tominator on October 23, 2013, 12:20:02 AM
Quote from: CrowsFan on October 23, 2013, 12:02:13 AM
Quote from: Tominator on October 22, 2013, 07:53:25 PM
EDIT: PATJIM KASAMI WHAT A GOAL !!! Better solo goal than Wilshere, but Arsenal had the better team goal
Yet I wouldn't say either were goal of the week. That accolade goes to Ibra for his goal in the French league!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qI8SV0racrY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qI8SV0racrY)
not to mention Tim Cahill scoring a sumptuous volley after just 8 seconds in an MLS game !
Yeah there were some crackers this week, but who else in the world has the audacity to do what Ibra did?
Will be up late tonight, Liverpool v WBA at 1AM AEDT...
Just wanting a second opinion on some tips - win/draw/loss
Villa v Everton? (atm I have Everton win)
SHampton v Fulham (atm I have Fulham win :o )
Quote from: Master Q on October 26, 2013, 08:24:36 PM
Will be up late tonight, Liverpool v WBA at 1AM AEDT...
Just wanting a second opinion on some tips - win/draw/loss
Villa v Everton? (atm I have Everton win)
SHampton v Fulham (atm I have Fulham win :o )
everton & Southampton, :P
i reckon Everton is right
Southampton to win for me
Everton should get up, so should Southampton.
Thanks guys. These are my tips for this week, feel free to post your own. At the moment I am on 42 correct tips.
Arsenal to defeat Palace (2 goals)
Everton to defeat Villa
Liverpool to defeat West Brom
United to defeat MUnited
Norwich to defeat Cardiff
Southhampton to defeat Fulham
Sunderland to DRAW with Newcastle
Chelse to defeat City
Spurs to defeat Hull
Swansea to defeat West Ham
GAMEWEEK NINE PREVIEW
Crystal Palace v Arsenal
MY TIP: 4-0 to Arsenal - could get really ugly
KEY PLAYER: Mesut Ozil
Everton v Aston Villa
MY TIP: 2-1 to Everton
KEY PLAYER: Christian Benteke (he's back this week isn't he?)
Liverpool v West Bromich Albion
MY TIP: 2-1 to Liverpool
KEY PLAYER: Daniel Sturridge
Manchester United v Stoke City
MY TIP: 2-0 to Manchester United
KEY PLAYER: Robin van Persie
Norwich v Cardiff
MY TIP: 1-1 draw
KEY PLAYER: John Ruddy
Southampton v Fulham
MY TIP: 2-0 to Southampton
KEY PLAYER: Adam Lallana
Sunderland v Newcastle
MY TIP: 2-1 to Newcastle
KEY PLAYER: Loic Remy
Chelsea v Manchester City
MY TIP: 2-2 draw ... could be anything though
KEY PLAYER: Eden Hazard
Tottenham v Hull
MY TIP: 2-0 to Tottenham
KEY PLAYER: Roberto Soldado
Swansea v West Ham
MY TIP: 2-1 to Swansea
KEY PLAYER: Miguel Michu
Palace and Arsenal locked at 0-0 at Half Time!!
Palace could have taken the lead on a couple of occasions there, they are playing out of their skin!
Penalty in the first 50 seconds in the second half to Arsenal :(
Stoke 1-0 up at United!!! :o Peter Crouch scores
World class save by Howard :o
Suarez makes me hard.
Sascha, y u do dis?
My super solid bench cover now rubbed out. :(
GAMEWEEK 11 PREVIEW
Aston Villa v Cardiff
KEY PLAYER: Brad Guzan
MY TIP: 2-1 to Aston Villa
Chelsea v West Bromich Albion
KEY PLAYER: Emboaba Oscar
MY TIP: 2-0 to Chelsea
Crystal Palace v Everton
KEY PLAYER: Kevin Mirallas
MY TIP: 2-0 to Everton
Liverpool v Fulham
KEY PLAYER: Daniel Sturridge
MY TIP: 3-1 to Liverpool
Southampton v Hull
KEY PLAYER: Jose Fonte
MY TIP: 2-0 to Southampton
Norwich v West Ham
KEY PLAYER: Ravel Morrison
MY TIP: 1-1 draw
Tottenham v Newcastle
KEY PLAYER: Yohan Cabaye
MY TIP: 2-1 to Tottenham
Sunderland v Manchester City
KEY PLAYER: Sergio Aguero
MY TIP: 3-0 to Manchester City
Manchester United v Arsenal
KEY PLAYER: Aaron Ramsey
MY TIP: 1-1 draw ... but don't be surprised if Arsenal get 3 points
Swansea v Stoke
KEY PLAYER: Wilfried Bony
MY TIP: 0-0 draw ... but I would love it if Swansea got up
Also, sorry that this thread has been quite inactive recently. The last few weeks have been a very busy time for me with school and sport and everything, and the next few weeks will be too.
So yeah I haven't "forgotten" about the thread, it's just that I haven't had the time.
Again, I re-iterate that anybody is more than welcome to post tips and match reviews, as in-depth or as shallow as they like :)
Liverpool vs Fulham 4-0
Flower, out Jol. Flower everything. Out with Jol, we are relegation fodder now. Flower flower flower.
Southampton for premiers!
Quote from: Noz on November 10, 2013, 01:46:21 PM
Southampton for premiers!
extraordinary...wish I had put a few $ on them before the season started... >:(
You know it's amazing that even though United have been playing like absolute shower this year, if they manage to beat Arsenal tonight, then they will only be 5 points behind the leaders. Big IF to beat Arsenal though...
Arsenal?...wont lose...Premiers ths year...go go go... ;D
Quote from: T Dog on November 10, 2013, 07:23:30 PM
Arsenal?...wont lose...Premiers ths year...go go go... ;D
Well Arsenal hasn't beaten United in the league at Old Trafford since 2006 when the won 1 nil. Since that match United have won 5, and drawn 1, including winning the last 4. This of course is counting that beautiful game where United won 8-2 ;)
During this time there were also another 3 matches played at Old Trafford (2 FA Cup, 1 CL), and United won all 3 of them. So not a great ground for the Gunners. Although United are missing SAF of course...
Quote from: CrowsFan on November 10, 2013, 08:57:52 PM
Quote from: T Dog on November 10, 2013, 07:23:30 PM
Arsenal?...wont lose...Premiers ths year...go go go... ;D
Well Arsenal hasn't beaten United in the league at Old Trafford since 2006 when the won 1 nil. Since that match United have won 5, and drawn 1, including winning the last 4. This of course is counting that beautiful game where United won 8-2 ;)
History..looking backwards...Arsenal looking ahead to glory..lol... ;D
Quote from: T Dog on November 10, 2013, 08:59:55 PM
Quote from: CrowsFan on November 10, 2013, 08:57:52 PM
Quote from: T Dog on November 10, 2013, 07:23:30 PM
Arsenal?...wont lose...Premiers ths year...go go go... ;D
Well Arsenal hasn't beaten United in the league at Old Trafford since 2006 when the won 1 nil. Since that match United have won 5, and drawn 1, including winning the last 4. This of course is counting that beautiful game where United won 8-2 ;)
History..looking backwards...Arsenal looking ahead to glory..lol... ;D
As I have Ozil, Ramsey, Giroud and Januzaj, hoping for a goal feast
Why do you have a pic of Glen Robbins TP?
Quote from: T Dog on November 10, 2013, 08:59:55 PM
Quote from: CrowsFan on November 10, 2013, 08:57:52 PM
Quote from: T Dog on November 10, 2013, 07:23:30 PM
Arsenal?...wont lose...Premiers ths year...go go go... ;D
Well Arsenal hasn't beaten United in the league at Old Trafford since 2006 when the won 1 nil. Since that match United have won 5, and drawn 1, including winning the last 4. This of course is counting that beautiful game where United won 8-2 ;)
History..looking backwards...Arsenal looking ahead to glory..lol... ;D
Well as I said, I'm not really expecting anything from this game, United have been playing like shower!
Quote from: T Dog on November 10, 2013, 09:08:03 PM
Why do you have a pic of Glen Robbins TP?
Its Bruce Campbell, had to change it to a neutral non offensive pic as someone has booed me 13 times in last 3 days and I haven't been attacking or confrontational in any of my posts so I suspected they didn't like my sloth pic. What a flowering prick!! So 13 of my 23 boo's are from this prick!!! Not happy >:(
A cheer man... ;D...still looks like a young Glen Robbins... 8)
Quote from: T Dog on November 10, 2013, 09:24:24 PM
A cheer man... ;D...still looks like a young Glen Robbins... 8)
Thanks mate, I'm still praying for another season of Russell Coight, Glen's finest work ;D
Quote from: timmyparso on November 10, 2013, 09:16:03 PM
Quote from: T Dog on November 10, 2013, 09:08:03 PM
Why do you have a pic of Glen Robbins TP?
Its Bruce Campbell, had to change it to a neutral non offensive pic as someone has booed me 13 times in last 3 days and I haven't been attacking or confrontational in any of my posts so I suspected they didn't like my sloth pic. What a flowering prick!! So 13 of my 23 boo's are from this prick!!! Not happy >:(
I think there may have been a boo guy going around. A few people have said similar things.
Didn't really know where to post this, and couldn't be bothered making my own thread for it, but this is probably one of the only decent articles on goal.com, well worth a read on quite a serious topic...
http://www.goal.com/en/news/1717/editorial/2013/11/10/4397004/four-years-on-remembering-robert-enke?ICID=HP_FT_4 (http://www.goal.com/en/news/1717/editorial/2013/11/10/4397004/four-years-on-remembering-robert-enke?ICID=HP_FT_4)
Wow City......
Quote from: T Dog on November 11, 2013, 08:16:03 AM
Quote from: Noz on November 11, 2013, 05:52:00 AM
Wow City......
and Man U... >:(
Wooo! :D
This weekend couldn't have gone much better from a United perspective... A win against the top team, Chelsea and Everton draw, and City and Tottenham both lose :)
And Cardiff next week....yeah,,now your worried.. :P
Gunners, :'(
Quote from: CrowsFan on November 11, 2013, 08:30:33 AM
Quote from: T Dog on November 11, 2013, 08:16:03 AM
Quote from: Noz on November 11, 2013, 05:52:00 AM
Wow City......
and Man U... >:(
Wooo! :D
This weekend couldn't have gone much better from a United perspective... A win against the top team, Chelsea and Everton draw, and City and Tottenham both lose :)
But... LIVERPOOL
Well that's why I said couldn't have gone much better. Obviously if Liverpool had drawn or lost it would have been better. Next round looks good for United though...
Cardiff (14th) vs United (5th)
Everton (6th) vs Liverpool (2nd)
Arsenal (1st) vs Southampton (3rd)
West Ham (16th) vs Chelsea (4th)
Man City (8th) vs Tottenham (7th)
So apart from the Chelsea game, assuming United beat Cardiff they should make up some ground on some of the leaders and put some distance between them and the lower teams...
Yeah, next week should be amazing. The Merseyside derby!
And keen to see Arsenal vs Southampton and City vs Tottenham.
Quote from: My Chumps on November 11, 2013, 06:42:31 PM
Yeah, next week should be amazing. The Merseyside derby!
And keen to see Arsenal vs Southampton and City vs Tottenham.
Unfortunately it's not next week, it's the week after :(
Also did you read that article I linked? Well worth a read :)
Quote from: CrowsFan on November 11, 2013, 07:27:16 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on November 11, 2013, 06:42:31 PM
Yeah, next week should be amazing. The Merseyside derby!
And keen to see Arsenal vs Southampton and City vs Tottenham.
Unfortunately it's not next week, it's the week after :(
Also did you read that article I linked? Well worth a read :)
Oh haha.
Just read it; pretty powerful stuff.
Yeah I remember Enke too, he was definitely a world class keeper! Such a shame he felt he couldn't open up to anyone :(
ROBBED!!! SWANSEA WERE ROBBED!!!!
And West Brom were too .... Two terrible mistakes in one weekend !
Quote from: CrowsFan on November 11, 2013, 08:05:19 PM
Yeah I remember Enke too, he was definitely a world class keeper! Such a shame he felt he couldn't open up to anyone :(
A common shame with depression unfortunately.
Why the flower did SAF not play Pogba more when he was at United. He is exactly the type of player we need at the moment! ::)
Check out these highlights from the short time he has been at Juve... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OAgpKvF1JVA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OAgpKvF1JVA)
Better (BEST) angle of the first goal from the video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iV5klx3ZFd0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iV5klx3ZFd0)
More goals and skills (some overlap), but check out the dribble just after the minute mark - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=en0uehMg04g (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=en0uehMg04g)
Then this amazing goal from the weekend - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JauzVXxhjEA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JauzVXxhjEA)
He's only 20!!! The kid is a freak!
Quote from: CrowsFan on November 11, 2013, 11:08:57 PM
Why the flower did SAF not play Pogba more when he was at United. He is exactly the type of player we need at the moment! ::)
Check out these highlights from the short time he has been at Juve... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OAgpKvF1JVA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OAgpKvF1JVA)
Better (BEST) angle of the first goal from the video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iV5klx3ZFd0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iV5klx3ZFd0)
More goals and skills (some overlap), but check out the dribble just after the minute mark - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=en0uehMg04g (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=en0uehMg04g)
Then this amazing goal from the weekend - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JauzVXxhjEA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JauzVXxhjEA)
He's only 20!!! The kid is a freak!
Haha, I watched Juve vs Real in the Champions League mid-week and damn he looked good.
boys I am back, sorry for the exam-caused absence ... big round of EPL this weekend to look forward to as well!
GAMEWEEK 12 PREVIEW
Everton v Liverpool
The Merseyside Derby. Games rarely get bigger than this. Both teams have big names up front - Lukaku, Suarez, Sturridge, Gerrard - so it could be a high-scorer, but this fixture traditionally is not.
KEY PLAYER: Steven Gerrard
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Liverpool
Arsenal v Southampton
Southampton's biggest test of the season. A point or three here and they will announce themselves as big contenders for a Europa League spot. A 2-or-more goal loss for Arsenal would see them fall behind Soton in the standings.
KEY PLAYER: Artur Boruc
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Arsenal
Fulham v Swansea
A bad loss for Fulham, and Martin Jol could be sacked. But Swansea need a win to avoid slipping into relegation territory. Interesting point in that Swansea have conceded leads in injury time in 3 of their last 4 games.
KEY PLAYER: Ashley Williams
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Swansea
Hull City v Crystal Palace
A very important game for both sides. If Palace win, it would be a huge boost for their survival hopes, but if Hull win, it could go a long way to ensuring their own survival.
KEY PLAYER: Robbie Brady (if he plays)
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to Hull
Newcastle v Norwich
Newcastle have managed to show their best and their worst this season, while Norwich have arguable been this sesaon's biggest disappointment. Big game for both clubs.
KEY PLAYER: Loic Remy
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Newcastle
West Ham v Chelsea
Both these sides have been inconsistent of late. West Ham will need to reproduce their stunning performance at White Hart Lane if they are to beat Chelsea this time.
KEY PLAYER: Ravel Morrison
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Chelsea
Manchester City v Tottenham
Spurs need to consolidate after some indifferent form following their bright start. City however have been flying lately, and should keep that going. Tottenham have struggled up front, but a win against City would stamp their status
KEY PLAYER: Joe Hart (if picked)
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to City
Cardiff v Manchester United
Cardiff will need to play like they did against City, in that famous 3-2 win, if they are going to be any chance. United produced their best display of the season against Arsenal, and are now back in the title race. If Arsenal slip up against Soton, and United win big, then they could be within two points of the Gunners, and no more than three from the top.
KEY PLAYER: Robin van Persie
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-1 to United
West Bromich Albion v Aston Villa
The Baggies have been playing very well lately - win against United and draws against Chelsea and Arsenal, where the latter should have been a win if not for the referee... Villa may get Benteke back, but West Brom should be too good.
KEY PLAYER: Jonas Olsson
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to West Brom
absolutely CRACKING game at Goodison Park !!!
3-2 in the 83rd minute, Lukaku has just bagged two in less than 10 minutes to put Everton in front!!
He didn't play Pogba because Pogba is a headcase. He demanded 100k a week. He was the best talent we have seen in the academy in years ( yes including adnan), but saf will never, ever let anyone tell him that he should be playing. Ever. Elite talent and will be one of the best players in the world, but his attitude is too shower.
GAMEWEEK 13 PREVIEW - Saturday games
Aston Villa v Sunderland
Villa have had mixed home form while Sunderland's away form has been pretty poor. But Gus Poyet has Sunderland playing a good style of football that has netted success recently, though unlucky at Stoke last week.
KEY PLAYER: Andres Weimann
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Villa
Cardiff v Arsenal
After snatching a point at the death against Manchester United last week, Cardiff will have no fear going into this week's game. Cardiff's home form has been fantastic, so Arsenal cannot afford to slip up here, as United and City have done already this season at the venue.
KEY PLAYER: Mesut Ozil
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Arsenal
Everton v Stoke
Will be interesting to see how Everton cope without Leighton Baines, and what Stoke do to try and exploit the left-back position. Stoke will want to use the game to restart a run of form after winning against Sunderland last weekend, but will have to stop Romelu Lukaku if they are to be any chance.
KEY PLAYER: Kevin Mirallas
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Everton
Norwich v Crystal Palace
Palace got a crucial win against Hull last week which drew them level with Sunderland at 7 points each. Still a long way to go before being out of the danger zone, but they could gain a result if they turn up at Norwich, who will need to win this danger game, otherwise Chris Hughton may get the sack.
KEY PLAYER: Mile Jedinak
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to Norwich
West Ham v Fulham
Fulham will want to win to ease the growing pressure on Martin Jol, but West Ham have been far from convincing this season as well. The Hammers lost 3-0 at home to Chelsea last week so will want to bounce back fast. Both sides have quality keepers in Jaaskelainen and Stekelenberg, so the game could easily be a 0-0 draw
KEY PLAYER: Jussi Jaaskelainen
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Newcastle v West Brom
The Magpies have shone recently, winning their last 3 games. West Brom have also patched some decent football together, but they coughed up a 2 goal lead to only draw against Villa last week. The battle of the strikers will be intriguing - and could go a long way to deciding the outcome of the match.
KEY PLAYER: Shane Long
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Newcastle
GAMEWEEK 13 PREVIEW - Sunday games
Tottenham v Manchester United
Crucial game for both sides after below-par performances last week, where United lost in injury time and Tottenham were thrashed 6-0. If one team wins, the losing team's manager will be feeling a lot of heat to salvage the season.
KEY PLAYER: Wayne Rooney
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to United
Hull v Liverpool
Robbie Brady's prolonged hernia issues remain a problem for Hull - the sooner he returns to full fitness the better. Liverpool will be looking to get a win after their draw at Everton last week, while Daniel Sturridge should start.
KEY PLAYER: Steven Gerrard
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-0 to Liverpool
Manchester City v Swansea
This could get ugly. Swansea have been up and down this season while City at the Etihad have been absolutely breathtaking. The partnership of Aguero and Negredo has been nothing short of clinical, while City's plethora of wingers give them fantastic supply. Swansea face a mountainous task to get any points from this one, so the likes of Ashley Williams and Michel Vorm will need to be at their best.
KEY PLAYER: Ashley Williams
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-0 to City ... could be more though
Chelsea v Southampton
Hard game to tip this one. Southampton could trouble Chelsea like West Brom did recently, and they could be the team to break Mourinho's unbeaten run at home. If they do, it'll send a message to the other teams that the Saints deserve their current standing. If they make the most of their attacking chances, and defend resolutely, Chelsea could be in for a shock - Soton only conceded goals via a penalty and a brainfade from Artur Boruc.
KEY PLAYER: Adam Lallana
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Chelsea ... could be a draw though
Awesome work Tom, I'm watching the Tottenham vs Manchester United now and the camera feels so far away from the play! :-[
The Gunners were really solid at Cardiff, 2 late goals but we never looked like losing.
Stupid Hull :(
GAMEWEEK 13 REVIEW
Aston Villa 0-0 Sunderland
Pretty dour nil-all draw really. Some good saves from both goalkeepers kept it that way, but mainly the chances were not on target. Christian Benteke, Gabriel Agbonlahor and Sunderland's Seb Larsson and Fabio Borini came close. Craig Gardner did score, albeit from an offside position. But the biggest chance of the game was to Emanuele Giaccherini, who somehow shot over the bar when it seemed easier to score. When FT came, the ground erupted in a chorus of boos.
Everton 4-0 Stoke
Comprehensive win for Everton. They are really playing some great football under Roberto Martinez, and this is shown by how both their Left-Back (Bryan Oviedo) and Right-Back (Seamus Coleman) managed to score. Everton also proved they are not purely reliant on Romelu Lukaku, with him contributing only the fourth goal when the game was already sealed. The emergence of Gerard Deulofeu was very exciting, but it could have been much worse if not for Asmir Begovic, who made 8 saves, such was how convincingly Stoke were dominated.
Cardiff 0-3 Arsenal
The former Cardiff man Aaron Ramsey was immense in Arsenal's comprehensive win. The Gunners did what Man City and Man Utd could not - get 3 points at Cardiff. Jack Wilshere nearly scored inside 2 minutes when his curler hit the post/bar, but Ramsey managed to get the away side in front on 29 minutes. He then earned a round of applause from the Cardiff fans, as he did not celebrate any of Arsenal's goals out of respect for his former club. Mathieu Flamini wasn't as reserved in his celebrations after he scored, after Mesut Ozil's second assist of the game, before Theo Walcott teed up Ramsey to score in injury time.
Norwich 1-0 Crystal Palace
Three points for Norwich which eases pressure on Chris Hughton. Nathan Redmond was dominant early, while Johan Elmander very nearly scored one of the goals of the season, his look-away backheel hitting the crossbar. Redmond was immense in setting up Wes Hoolahan to assist Gary Hooper, who scored to give Norwich a deserved 1-0 lead. Barry Bannan had his shot deflected onto the crossbar, before in the second half Seb Bassong nearly got an own goal. But Norwich held on to win 1-0.
West Ham 3-0 Fulham
Fulham's fifth loss in a row was the final straw for Martin Jol, who ended up losing his job as manager. Martin Stekelenberg was forced into a number of saves, under siege all game, as West Ham were easily the dominant side, but could not score in the first half. That changed within the first 90 seconds of the second half as Mohamed Diame scored off a deflection. Shortly after, Stuart Downing hit the bar and Ravel Morrison came close, but West Ham could not finish it off. But after Morrison came on, West Ham scored twice through Carlton Cole and Joe Cole.
Newcastle 2-1 West Bromich Albion
Newcastle's fourth win in a row took them to fifth place in the PL at the end of the game. Newcastle's "Frenchmen Henchmen" were pivotal in the win, with a goal to Yoan Gouffran in the first half giving them the lead. Chris Brunt equalised early in the second for WBA, but Newcastle had the lead with a dazzling strike from Moussa Sissoko from 25-yards out which proved to be the winner.
Tottenham 2-2 Manchester United
A bad loss for Tottenham and AVB may be gone by now. However, Tottenham took the lead twice in the game in what was a spirited performance. Kyle Walker scored from a free kick before gifting Wayne Rooney the equaliser. Tottenham had a number of chances to get 2-0 up, with Roberto Soldado the main culprit, missing a glorious chance to continue his woeful form recently. Sandro scored a screamer to give Tottenham the lead once again, but Hugo Lloris fouled Danny Welbeck in the box, where Rooney converted to level once more.
Hull 3-1 Liverpool
Lose to Palace, win over Liverpool. It's been an unusual couple of weeks for Hull. But they were the better side against Liverpool, and had a lot of chances. Luis Suarez was well below usual standards, while the absence of Daniel Sturridge was felt. Jake Livermore gave Hull the lead with a deflection off Martin Skrtel, but Steven Gerrard stepped up with a trademark free kick minutes later. David Meyler gave Hull the lead again before a Skrtel own goal sent the KC Stadium into raptures.
Manchester City 3-0 Swansea
As expected, a comprehensive win to City at the Etihad. Alvaro Negredo scored from a free-kick inside 8 minutes, and the signs were ominous for the Swans. But to their credit, they fought hard and defended resolutely to keep City at bay, but a second-half double to Samir Nasri killed off the game. The assisters were the effervescent Yaya Toure and right-back Pablo Zabaleta, and the win continued City's epic run of form on their home turf.
Chelsea 3-1 Southampton
Southampton took the lead after just 13 seconds when Michael Essien's backpass fell straight to Jay Rodriguez to give the Saints a dream start. They maintained the lead for the entirety of the first half, but things went pear-shaped in the second. Central defenders Gary Cahill and John Terry both scored before Demba Ba added a third. The Saints have now lost to Arsenal and Chelsea in the last two weeks, denting their title hopes.
GAMEWEEK 14 PREVIEW
Crystal Palace v West Ham
yes I know the result.... this was made before the game though I just forgot to post ::)
KEY PLAYER: Barry Bannan
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to West Ham
Arsenal v Hull
KEY PLAYER: Jack Wilshere
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Arsenal
Liverpool v Norwich
KEY PLAYER: Luis Suarez
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-0 to Liverpool
Manchester United v Everton
KEY PLAYER: Wayne Rooney
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to United
Southampton v Aston Villa
KEY PLAYER: Rickie Lambert
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Southampton
Stoke v Cardiff
KEY PLAYER: Peter Crouch
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Sunderland v Chelsea
KEY PLAYER: Juan Mata
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-0 to Chelsea
Swansea v Newcastle
KEY PLAYER: Yohan Cabaye
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Fulham v Tottenham
KEY PLAYER: Paulinho
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Tottenham
West Bromich Albion v Manchester City
KEY PLAYER: Yaya Toure
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to City
Well after 12 matches of trying David Moyes has finally gotten Everton a win at Old Trafford! ::)
Quote from: CrowsFan on December 05, 2013, 04:48:31 PM
Well after 12 matches of trying David Moyes has finally gotten Everton a win at Old Trafford! ::)
Hehehe. ;D
GAMEWEEK 14 REVIEW
Crystal Palace 1-0 West Ham
A vital win for Palace which boosts their survival hopes. Marouane Chamakh scored his second league goal of the campaign off Barry Bannan's cross, late in the first half. This proved to be the only goal of the game, while it gives Tony Pulis a win in his first game at Selhurst Park. Palace have improved dramatically since Ian Holloway "parted ways" with the club, and they are now level on points with Fulham. Could Palace survive this season?
Arsenal 2-0 Hull
Hull were unable to reproduce their stunning performance against Liverpool on Sunday, going down to Arsenal at the Emirates. Goals from Nicklas Bendtner and the illustrious Mesut Ozil gave Arsenal the three points. The absence of Olivier Giroud was not felt as Bendtner scored within the fist two minutes, and had several chances to grab another. Hull defended resolutely but never really looked like threatening, but a B-String Arsenal side managed to get the job done, and they continue to go from strength to strength.
Manchester United 0-1 Everton
Huge loss for David Moyes' men. They are sitting in 9th after 14 games and are 12 points off the leaders Arsenal, and frankly they don't look like a title-challenging side. Big problems with their squad - but I'll wait til after the Newcastle game before saying anything big. Leighton Baines' injury replacement Bryan Oviedo scored in the 86th minute, while United missed Robin van Persie once again. Wayne Rooney struggled and picked up a yellow card out of frustration, while Romelu Lukaku terrorised the United defence. Tim Howard was absolutely superb in the second half, when United pressed heavily, making some outstanding saves to deny United. Danny Welbeck hit the woodwork with a header that he should have scored. But it was a memorable day for the Toffees, as Roberto Martinez defeated United in his first attempt as Everton manager - something Moyes couldn't do in 11.
Southampton 2-3 Aston Villa
A truly bizarre game. Villa only had 3 shots on target, all 3 of which were goals, and only 22% of possession, but still won. They also took the lead three times in the game. Gabby Agbonlahor scored his first league goal of the season to put Villa 1-0 up, and it stayed this way til the second half when Jay Rodriguez equalised. Libor Kozak scored before Dani Osvaldo equalised once again. But an absolute stunner from Fabian Delph came late in the game, and ultimately saw off the Saints, who fought gallantly, but Villa were more clinical with the few chances they had.
Stoke 0-0 Cardiff
Pretty dull draw in all honesty. Typical Stoke display though - quite blunt, lacking flamboyancy, but solid defensively. Cardiff have a couple of chances, through Jordan Mutch amongst others, but Asmir Begovic made a number of good saves. Charlie Adam looked dangerous at times, but in the end nobody scored and a 0-0 draw was all the game deserved.
Sunderland 3-4 Chelsea
Unlike the previous game, this one had goals aplenty. Jozy Altidore gave Sunderland a surprise lead midway through the first half, but then Eden Hazard came out at his influential best, setting up Frank Lampard to score the equaliser before jagging two himself, either side of John O'Shea's strike. Fernando Torres had a chance to score again but missed horrendously - not quite as bad as "that" miss against Manchester United a few years ago, but not much better. With the game poised at 3-2, Black Cats defender Phil Bardsley managed to score for both sides in a matter of minutes - the first he turned into his own net, before scoring (into the right net) from a corner. But no more goals came, and an emphatic fixture finished 4-3.
Swansea 3-0 Newcastle
Newcastle's run of four straight wins came to a crashing halt when they lost at Swansea. Michael Laudrup's men turned it on in the second half to run out easy victors. Michel Vorm made some superb saves to keep the likes of Loic Remy at bay, and it remained all squared until Nathan Dyer latched onto a loose ball in first-half stoppage time. Jonjo Shelvey was played in by Alejandro Pozuelo to score the second, albeit it was (rightly) deemed an own goal to Mathieu Debuchy. But Shelvey did score the third, a first-touch absolute belter into the top corner, to put the game to bed.
Fulham 1-2 Tottenham
Three points that may have saved AVB's job. When Ashkan Dejagah scored to put Fulham 1-0 up, courtesy of Dimitar Berbatov's sumptuous through-ball, it looked like new manager Rene Meulensteen's first match since replacing Martin Jol would go down as a fairytale start. But that was not the case, as Tottenham hit back twice late, through Vlad Chiriches' shot which fooled everybody, and then Lewis Holtby's long range goal. Had Spurs gone down, Villas-Boas' may have followed Jol out the exit door of EPL managers, but he lives to fight another day.
West Bromich Albion 2-3 Manchester City
A scoreline which probably does not reflect the nature of the game. City led 3-0, through a goal to Sergio Aguero and a brace to midfield maestro Yaya Toure. Some of City's play was blissful, and their wing-backs Aleksandar Kolarov and Pablo Zabaleta both got to the by-line and grabbed assists. WBA hit back twice late on, the first an own goal from Costel Pantilimon and the second being a strike from Victor Anichebe in injury time. But unlike United, Arsenal and Chelsea when they have played WBA (either draws or losses), City come away with 3 points, in a fixture they could easily have lost given their current away form.
Liverpool 5-1 Norwich
Luis Suarez is an absolute freak. Now that Gareth Bale is gone, many argue that Suarez is the most influential player in the Premier League, and that is well-founded. Suarez scored FOUR goals and provided an assist, and all his goals were no flukes at all. His first was a 42-yard strike; his second was a lovely volley from a corner; his third an incredible solo goal; his fourth a world-class free kick. After Bradley Johnson pulled one back for Norwich, Suarez then set up Raheem Sterling to score just before injury-time, to cap off a wonderful night. In the process, Suarez became the first player to score three hattricks against one team - he really loves to play Norwich.
Awesome stuff Tommy, huge next 3 games for Arsenal as we face Everton, Man City and Chelsea, would be stoked if we could retain top spot after those 3, :P
you are becoming a legend with this good work Big Tom..
Quote from: specky92 on December 06, 2013, 01:43:09 AM
Awesome stuff Tommy, huge next 3 games for Arsenal as we face Everton, Man City and Chelsea, would be stoked if we could retain top spot after those 3, :P
Quote from: T Dog on December 06, 2013, 10:44:23 AM
you are becoming a legend with this good work Big Tom..
Cheers lads, means a lot!! :)
I'm trying to do as much for you guys as I can before Year 12 comes around in 2014 ... not sure how much I'll be able to do then but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it ::)
Cracked 200 in Sportal epl this week...Suarez as captain = 104... :o. Beat someone who scored 182 in a league game...would have pi**ed me off..losing with 182.. ;D
GAMEWEEK 15 PREVIEW
Manchester United v Newcastle
KEY PLAYER: Robin van Persie
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Crystal Palace v Cardiff
KEY PLAYER: Barry Bannan
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 0-0
Liverpool v West Ham
KEY PLAYER: Phillipe Coutinho
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-0 to Liverpool
Southampton v Manchester City
KEY PLAYER: Sergio Aguero
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-1 to City
Stoke v Chelsea
KEY PLAYER: Eden Hazard
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Chelsea
West Bromich Albion v Norwich
KEY PLAYER: Saido Berahino
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to West Brom
Sunderland v Tottenham
KEY PLAYER: Hugo Lloris
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Tottenham
Fulham v Aston Villa
KEY PLAYER: Dimitar Berbatov
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Arsenal v Everton
KEY PLAYER: Aaron Ramsey
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Arsenal
Swansea v Hull
KEY PLAYER: Jonjo Shelvey
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Swansea
So first Moyes gives Everton their first win at Old Trafford in 11 years, and now Newcastle have won their first match at Old Trafford in 41 years. FFS Moyes!! >:(
3 own goals in the Liverpool/Hammers game...
Man Utd lose to Newcastle...
Southampton draw with Man City...
And Chelsea lose to Stoke...
I don't even. :o
Yep flowered up every one of my multis this wkend with ridiculous results
Ikea have brought out a Man United lamp. It looks great in the middle of the table.... ;D
Quote from: T Dog on December 09, 2013, 05:21:31 PM
Ikea have brought out a Man United lamp. It looks great in the middle of the table.... ;D
oh damn that's gooooood! ;D ;D
OH EVERTONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN
Havent seen us play this well in a while. Martinez has got the best out of the limited squad we have.
Quote from: BoredSaint on December 09, 2013, 11:58:26 PM
OH EVERTONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN
Havent seen us play this well in a while. Martinez has got the best out of the limited squad we have.
Could Everton make the Top 4??
I reckon Top 3 will be Arsenal, Chelsea and City (probs not that order) and then Everton/United/Liverpool to fight out for 4th spot. Can't see Spurs making CL but if they can gel together then 5th place MAY be possible
Tom. I bow down to you.
I haven't been posting but have been regularly reading and for someone who is often out on Saturday nights and not home in time to catch the games, I can't thank you enough.
These are amazing. You're a legend. Maaaaad props my friend! 8)
Quote from: T Dog on December 09, 2013, 05:21:31 PM
Ikea have brought out a Man United lamp. It looks great in the middle of the table.... ;D
Haha very good ;)
Be careful driving around Old Trafford, a lot of people have been picking up 3 points there recently. :P
I have 2 free trades this week. Does this increase to 3 if not used?
No it doesn't :(
Thanks CF..looks like a hit this to get in Ozil and Hazard..or Aguerro.. :-\
Quote from: elephants on December 11, 2013, 04:02:49 AM
Tom. I bow down to you.
I haven't been posting but have been regularly reading and for someone who is often out on Saturday nights and not home in time to catch the games, I can't thank you enough.
These are amazing. You're a legend. Maaaaad props my friend! 8)
Cheers mate, I really really appreciate it! It's time-consuming but I enjoy doing it. There's nothing better than knowing you people appreciate my work !
I don't watch many EPL games either due to being out on most Saturday nights too but I always check the results on Sunday mornings, and watch the match highlights if possible. That's how I get the material for these write-ups! I don't actually watch the games!!
GW 15 Review will be up later today. Been a bit busy being out with mates the last few days ::)
GAMEWEEK 15 REVIEW
Manchester United 0-1 Newcastle
This is becoming strangely routine at Old Trafford of late. United's recent renaissance in the PL has come to an end with back-to-back defeats at home. Newcastle caught United out numerous times, through the likes of Mathieu Debuchy and Loic Remy, while Yohan Cabaye carved up the United midfield numerous times. United could have earned a penalty when Patrice Evra's goalbound effort was stopped by Vernon Anita's hand. Minutes later, Cabaye put the Baggies 1-0 up, and though United pressed for an equaliser - Robin van Persie had a goal disallowed for offside - but the troubles for David Moyes are set to continue.
Liverpool 4-1 West Ham
A game of misfortune which ended in four own goals out of the five scored, with the evervessent Luis Suarez scoring the only non-own-goal, and assisting two himself. He was by far and away the best player on the pitch and dominated the game. Kevin Nolan was red-carded while Martin Skrtel's own goal was surrounded by three West Ham defenders also registering OG's - Guy Demel, James Collins and Joey O'Brien. Sam Allardyce's woes continue as West Ham manager, but Brendan Rodgers is going very strong at Anfield.
Southampton 1-1 Manchester City
A game of chances to both sides that were ultimately a bit wasteful as City's away form continues to be inconsistent. Sergio Aguero opened the scoring in the 9th minute to send an early message of intent to the Saints, but despite their drop in form lately, Southampton rose to the challenge and created several chances of their own. Their most exquisite was the goal scored by Dani Osvaldo, who left defenders in a maze with his footwork before launching a curler into the top right corner from the left side of the box. An absolute belter and probably goal of the round.
Crystal Palace 2-0 Cardiff
The first battle between the two promoted clubs saw Palace keep their fourth CS in five games and get back-to-back wins for only the second time in their PL history. Cameron Jerome scored his first goal under former boss Tony Pulis, while Marouane Chamakh scored another. David Marshall made some fine saves to keep Cardiff in it, but ultimately Palace were too good on the day.
Sunderland 1-2 Tottenham
Another vital three points for AVB, when it again looked like they might lose. Hugo Lloris's very unusual error proved costly as his bad punch of the ball went straight to Adam Johnson who fired home, to give Sunderland a lead. Paulinho levelled for Tottenham early in the second half, before Spurs replicated their come-from-behind win against Fulham mid-week by claiming the lead late in the second half when John O'Shea conceded an own goal - Sunderland's fifth of the season.
Stoke 3-2 Chelsea
What a win for Stoke! Andre Schurrle's spectacular double was not enough to overcome a very resilient Potters side, who played uncharacteristically attackingly, putting three past Chelsea. Peter Crouch equalised first, just on half-time, before on-loan player Stephen Ireland gave Stoke a 2-1 lead, giving their fans hope of an unlikely victory. Schurrle then equalised it a superb volley, but that was bettered by Oussama Assaidi, whose injury time curler into the top corner sent Stoke's fans into absolute ecstasy.
West Bromich Albion 0-2 Norwich
In the Bromich v Norwich match, the Canaries came out unlikely winners, given their poor form early on this season. WBA attacked relentlessly but bizarrely could not find a goal. Gary Hooper opened the scoring for the visitors on 11 minutes, but after that it was chance after chance for West Brom for the rest of the game. Norwich had their moments and struck again just before injury time when Leroy Fer made it 2-0, in a game where WBA really should have got a point at least.
Arsenal 1-1 Everton
Given the events of the Saturday games, Arsenal could have really capitalised by snatching all 3 points here. That wasn't the case, as a resilient Everton side held the Gunners at bay for much of the game, with Tim Howard making some superb saves. But it appeared it would be in vain when Mesut Ozil scored in the 80th minute. However, the Toffees quickly levelled things up through a great goal to young loanee Gerard Deulofeu. Olivier Giroud very nearly won the game in injury time when his superb volley hit the bar, with Howard beat and defenders left standstill. Everton have emerged with four points in their last two games, when many would expect they'd have got none, to continue their bright start under Roberto Martinez.
Fulham 2-0 Aston Villa
An invaluable three points to the struggling Fulham, especially after Crystal Palace also won this weekend. Fulham went two goals up early in the first half, and never relinquished the lead. Steve Sidwell scored after a couple of one-twos in the build up, before Dimitar Berbatov converted a penalty to double the lead. Berbatov was influential with some mercurial moments, particularly in the first half. Christian Benteke's woes continued as his goalless run continued, though he did create several chances. Crystal Palace and Sunderland have undergone resurgences since parting ways with their original managers - could Fulham do the same?
Swansea 1-1 Hull
A very different Swansea performance after beating Newcastle so impressively mid-week. Given their tough upcoming run, Swansea really could have done with 3 points here. Danny Graham broke his incredible goal drought of 30 games, ironically at his old stomping ground against his former team. Graham struck in the ninth minute to give Hull a surprise early lead. Swansea equalised through Chico Flores - albeit it could have been deemed a foul - in the second-half, but did not play with the same intensity as they did in the Newcastle game. Hull continued to create chances right to the end, and looked the better side, but it ended all squared.
Suarez got one of the goals turnover to become his taking his season tally to 15 ;) Great write up though!!
CMON EVERTON TONIGHT
GAMEWEEK 16 PREVIEW
Manchester City v Arsenal
KEY PLAYER: Sergio Aguero
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-2 to Man City
Cardiff v West Bromich Albion
KEY PLAYER: Fraizer Campbell
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to West Brom
Chelsea v Crystal Palace
KEY PLAYER: Marouane Chamakh - never thought I'd say that ::)
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Chelsea
Everton v Fulham
KEY PLAYER: Tim Howard
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Everton
Newcastle v Southampton
KEY PLAYER: Adam Lallana
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
West Ham v Sunderland
KEY PLAYER: John O'Shea
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to West Ham
Hull v Stoke
KEY PLAYER: Peter Crouch
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Aston Villa v Manchester United
KEY PLAYER: Wayne Rooney
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to United
Norwich v Swansea
KEY PLAYER: Michu
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Swansea
Tottenham v Liverpool
KEY PLAYER: Phillippe Coutinho
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-2 draw
Thanks Tom! This helps me decide my captain and which defenders to play. Keep it up :)
Quote from: vinny on December 14, 2013, 11:04:41 PM
Thanks Tom! This helps me decide my captain and which defenders to play. Keep it up :)
well players like Aguero, Suarez and Lukaku are always key players every week, so I don't wanna list them as that every single GW, nice to mix it up a bit
But glad I'm of some assistance haha
KUN! :D
MESUT! :D
NEGREDO! :(
ZABALETA ASSIST :D
Need Ramsey to score now
ZAB ON FIRE! MIGHT NEED TO JUMP ON.
COME ON RAMSEY AND YAYA,
Aguero limping off!! Might have to be subbed, one to watch closely
EDIT: Aguero subbed off for Navas after 49 minutes
KUNNN :'(
LORD JESUS IS ON.
3-1 CITY !!!!!!!!!
FERNANDINHO CURLS ONE PAST SZCESZNY FROM OUTSIDE THE BOX
Not a 'special goal' but it was a bad turnover from Arsenal and Fernandinho had tons of space. No assist for that goal AFAIK.
very very attacking game unfolding at the Etihad! Arsenal have dominated since the Fernandinho goal. Giroud has had three gilt-edged chances and hasn't converted any of them - all very gettable
There is still time. Giroud has 0 support! :-\
3-2!!!! WALCOTT SCORES! Ramsey assist :D
63 minutes gone - this game could go anywhere!
RAMSEY AND WALLCCCOTTT :D
4-2!!!!! DAVID SILVA, Jesus Navas assist
65 minutes gone
Inteeeennseee
5-2 CITY!!!!!! FERNANDINHOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Nasri assist
IF AGUERO WAS STILL ON
flower YEAH
Had:
Ramsey Assist
Mertesacker Goal
YayaToure Goal
Aguero Goal
Ozil Assist
So lucky for me!
Arsenal legit could of won so easily, linesman had two wrong calls against us as well as another dodgy one where they 'couldn't find the right angle' to show the replay, add to that the handball in the box and all of Giroud and Wilshere's very good chances, could have easily had 10+ goals at Etihad tonight
Quote from: specky92 on December 15, 2013, 02:01:04 AM
Arsenal legit could of won so easily, linesman had two wrong calls against us as well as another dodgy one where they 'couldn't find the right angle' to show the replay, add to that the handball in the box and all of Giroud and Wilshere's very good chances, could have easily had 10+ goals at Etihad tonight
City absolutely dominated the midfield battle, particularly in that second half.
Was a corker of a game.
On the ninth day, God said, "Let there be soccer."
And it was good.
Later on that day, God said, "Let there be one team to rule the others and set the standard for excellence."
God said, "Let it be called the Manchester United."
Later that day, God said, "Even Man U needs idiots."
So HE made their fans.
8)
Liverpool back to second you bloody beauty!
Suraez up to 17 goals now 4 clear then Aguero :D
16 goals noz, so 3 clear of Aguero ;)
Amazingly also has the most number of assists in the league too, with 10!
And he didnt even play the whole season!
We have a horror run coming up so hopefully Suraez and Sturridge can continue their great run of form
We have Cardiff at home then both Man City and Chelsea away :o
Quote from: CrowsFan on December 16, 2013, 11:17:40 PM
16 goals noz, so 3 clear of Aguero ;)
Amazingly also has the most number of assists in the league too, with 10!
no it's 17 I'm fairly sure! He had 14 after the West Ham game but then one of the own goals got re-credited to Suarez which took it to 15, then two at White Hart Lane makes 17 :)
Quote from: Noz on December 16, 2013, 11:34:31 PM
We have a horror run coming up so hopefully Suraez and Sturridge can continue their great run of form
We have Cardiff at home then both Man City and Chelsea away :o
Not a horror run, a challenge! 8)
Andre Villas Boas has been sacked by the Spurs. :o
Quote from: Tominator on December 16, 2013, 11:40:06 PM
Quote from: CrowsFan on December 16, 2013, 11:17:40 PM
16 goals noz, so 3 clear of Aguero ;)
Amazingly also has the most number of assists in the league too, with 10!
no it's 17 I'm fairly sure! He had 14 after the West Ham game but then one of the own goals got re-credited to Suarez which took it to 15, then two at White Hart Lane makes 17 :)
/
Hmm I was just going by what the fantasy site said. So I'm guessing it's 17 goals and 9 assists rather than 16/10?
yeah 17 goals... the guy's a freak
cmon everton.. all the top 4 sides are playing each other in the next few games. time to move up the table ;)
Quote from: BoredSaint on December 17, 2013, 11:55:09 AM
yeah 17 goals... the guy's a freak
cmon everton.. all the top 4 sides are playing each other in the next few games. time to move up the table ;)
Anything short of 15 points from your next 7 is a failure.
Andre Villas-Boas sacked
that's 5 managers sacked in just 15 GWs.
Quote from: Tominator on December 17, 2013, 08:03:54 PM
Andre Villas-Boas sacked
that's 5 managers sacked in just 15 GWs.
Quote from: NigeyS on December 17, 2013, 08:21:01 AM
Andre Villas Boas has been sacked by the Spurs. :o
12 hours too late Tomma. ;) :P
He was useless anyway he would of gotten sacked ages ago, Tottenham only did good when Bale was playing there.
No Bale No Spurs
Quote from: NigeyS on December 17, 2013, 08:53:18 PM
Quote from: Tominator on December 17, 2013, 08:03:54 PM
Andre Villas-Boas sacked
that's 5 managers sacked in just 15 GWs.
Quote from: NigeyS on December 17, 2013, 08:21:01 AM
Andre Villas Boas has been sacked by the Spurs. :o
12 hours too late Tomma. ;) :P
wow how did I miss that .... ???
but still 5 managers gone in 15 GWs seems very very quick. It's rare that 5 go in one season!
Quote from: Tominator on December 17, 2013, 09:33:26 PM
Quote from: NigeyS on December 17, 2013, 08:53:18 PM
Quote from: Tominator on December 17, 2013, 08:03:54 PM
Andre Villas-Boas sacked
that's 5 managers sacked in just 15 GWs.
Quote from: NigeyS on December 17, 2013, 08:21:01 AM
Andre Villas Boas has been sacked by the Spurs. :o
12 hours too late Tomma. ;) :P
wow how did I miss that .... ???
but still 5 managers gone in 15 GWs seems very very quick. It's rare that 5 go in one season!
Got lost amongst the Suarez love.
Zabaleta injured after I got him and took a -4.
Quote from: vinny on December 18, 2013, 04:05:21 PM
Zabaleta injured after I got him and took a -4.
How long will Zabaleta be out for? I made three trades yesterday and Zabaleta was not one of them
GW 16 Review will hopefully be up tonight after my footy training.
Sorry this is a bit late - had a power outage for a lot of today! It's 43C in Adelaide ::)
GAMEWEEK 16 REVIEW
Manchester City 6-3 Arsenal
In a fixture that was traditionally low-scoring, this game certainly wasn't. City are the best team at home, and Arsenal were the best team on the road - something had to give, and City prevailed in a frenzied goal-scoring encounter. Sergio Aguero scored first, on 19 minutes, after Samir Nasri's corner, before Theo Walcott equalised from an uncharacteristic error by Yaya Toure. Minutes later, Alvaro Negredo gave City the lead again and at half-time it was 2-1. An Arsenal turnover led to Fernandinho scoring his first goal for Man City, before Walcott scored again to peg one back. David Silva made it 4-2 before Fernandinho bagged his second to add a fifth. And when it seemed like it was all over, Per Mertesacker got a consolation goal for Arsenal, but then Arsenal conceded a penalty and Toure made it 6-3.
Chelsea 2-1 Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace had never won at Stamford Bridge, yet put in a gallant display. Fernando Torres put the Blues ahead after Willian's shot was parried by Julian Speroni, before Marouane Chamakh scored his third goal in three games to level for Palace. But Chelsea went ahead once again when Ramires scored late in the first half. Chelsea had the better of the second half, but to Palace's credit they kept fighting, defending resolutely with the likes of Eden Hazard, Andre Schurrle, Demba Ba and Oscar having chance-upon-chance, but 2-1 it stayed.
Everton 4-1 Fulham
There's something going on at Everton. The Martinez Effect has seen one loss in 16 games and Everton are right in the tilt for a Champions League spot, after another comfortable win. Leon Osman fired the Toffees ahead in his 300th PL appearance, and very nearly had another soon after. Alex Kacaniklic missed a seemingly-unmissable chance at the other end, before winning a penalty which Dimitar Berbatov duly converted. But from there, Everton piled on three late goals through Seamus Coleman, Gareth Barry and Kevin Mirallas, to run out 4-1 winners.
Cardiff 1-0 West Bromich Albion
A game between two sides whose managers are under pressure - one due to form (Steve Clarke), one due to boardroom friction (Malky Mackay). It was West Brom's fourth loss in a row, as they lacked potency and creativity and were beaten by a better side in Cardiff. Peter Whittingham bobbed up in the second half to score for Cardiff, his header from Craig Noone's inch-perfect cross proving to be the winner. The game proved to be the last for Clarke, as he was sacked hours after in a decision many are describing as very very harsh.
Hull 0-0 Stoke
Another pretty dour draw. Goalless draws seem to be much more common this season, especially amongst battles between lower-ranked sides. Hull were arguably the better side in this fixture, as the ever-reliable Asmir Begovic was forced to make numerous saves, but Hull were also quite wasteful with their chances. Stoke took a while to switch on, but they did come alive late and really pressed the Hull defence. Stephen Ireland scored but was correctly deemed offside, while David McGregor had to make a diving save to keep out Peter Crouch in the dying stages.
West Ham 0-0 Sunderland
A pretty forgetful encounter, but every point is an important point for Sunderland nonetheless. Sunderland were 5 points adrift of 19th place going into the game, and have some bad form on the road. Jussi Jaaskalainen was superb in goal, making a number of fantastic saves in a game where the deadlock never looked like being broken. It was West Ham's fifth goalless draw of the season, the most in the league, which suggests two things - they are very solid defensively, but lack creativity in attack. Both teams deserved a point, but neither deserved a win.
Newcastle 1-1 Southampton
Alan Pardew's men had won 5 of their last 6 games, the best record in the Premier League. After wins against Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham, they had much to look forward to against Southampton. They took the lead on the break when Yoan Gouffran. Steven Davis hit the post with his curling effort, before assisting Jay Rodriguez to equalise not long later. Moussa Sissoko accidentally hit the referee in the face whilst remonstrating with Paolo Gazzaniga, before a melee erupted after a challenge near the dugouts involving players, officials and the ever-controversial Pablo Dani Osvaldo, which resulted in both goalkeeping coaches evicted.
Norwich 1-1 Swansea
Nathan Dyer did well to get on the scoresheet when he lobbed Ashley Williams' long ball over John Ruddy, after a defensive mix-up. Dyer then brought about a long delay just before added time at the end of the first half, when he suffered a nasty ankle injury and was stretchered off. Norwich dominated the last 15 minutes of the first half and went ahead just before the break when Gary Hooper's audacious lob left Michel Vorm no chance. Norwich continued to be the better side in the second half, as Swansea lacked potent up front in a very disappointing display from Michu. He often looked disinterested and was completely shut out of the game - and I'm a Swansea fan as well, but Swansea were lucky to gain a point.
Aston Villa 0-3 Manchester United
After back-to-back losses, United were back on the winners list away from home with a comprehensive win at Villa Park. Danny Welbeck scored a first half double, both goals coming from United counter-attacks after Villa had given the ball away. The wingers, Antonio Valencia and Adnan Januzaj were both very good, while Wayne Rooney interestingly was deployed in a deeper midfield role. Rooney did tee up Tom Cleverley to add a third goal in the second half, but a vital 3 points for United and for David Moyes.
Tottenham 0-5 Liverpool
The Luis Suarez show was in full flight again. Two goals and three assists, in his first game as captain (standing in for Steven Gerrard) for the man who just keeps on scoring. It was a nightmare for Andre Villas-Boas, whose back four again capitulated just weeks after conceding 6 against Manchester City, despite being defensively solid for most of the season. Suarez opened the scoring in the first half, before Jordan Henderson made it 2-0. Paulinho was sent off in the second half, and from there it went from bad to worse, as Jon Flanagan scored his first league goal for Liverpool. Suarez added another to his tally - that's 17 for the season - before Raheem Sterling made it 5-0. Rightly or wrongly, it was the last straw as Villas-Boas was ultimately sacked in the wake of the loss.
This performance, and his recent form, proves that Luis Suarez is without a doubt the best player in the Premier League.
Quote from: Tominator on December 19, 2013, 05:46:58 PM
Tottenham 0-5 Liverpool
The Luis Suarez show was in full flight again. Two goals and three assists, in his first game as captain (standing in for Steven Gerrard) for the man who just keeps on scoring. It was a nightmare for Andre Villas-Boas, whose back four again capitulated just weeks after conceding 6 against Manchester City, despite being defensively solid for most of the season. Suarez opened the scoring in the first half, before Jordan Henderson made it 2-0. Paulinho was sent off in the second half, and from there it went from bad to worse, as Jon Flanagan scored his first league goal for Liverpool. Suarez added another to his tally - that's 17 for the season - before Raheem Sterling made it 5-0. Rightly or wrongly, it was the last straw as Villas-Boas was ultimately sacked in the wake of the loss.
This performance, and his recent form, proves that Luis Suarez is without a doubt the best player in the Premier League.
Damn that's good to read 8)
Excellent write up as usual Tom! Top stuff mate.
Good work again Big Tom... ;D
Top stuff Tom, awesome read. ;)
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 06:04:35 PM
Quote from: Tominator on December 19, 2013, 05:46:58 PM
Tottenham 0-5 Liverpool
The Luis Suarez show was in full flight again. Two goals and three assists, in his first game as captain (standing in for Steven Gerrard) for the man who just keeps on scoring. It was a nightmare for Andre Villas-Boas, whose back four again capitulated just weeks after conceding 6 against Manchester City, despite being defensively solid for most of the season. Suarez opened the scoring in the first half, before Jordan Henderson made it 2-0. Paulinho was sent off in the second half, and from there it went from bad to worse, as Jon Flanagan scored his first league goal for Liverpool. Suarez added another to his tally - that's 17 for the season - before Raheem Sterling made it 5-0. Rightly or wrongly, it was the last straw as Villas-Boas was ultimately sacked in the wake of the loss.
This performance, and his recent form, proves that Luis Suarez is without a doubt the best player in the Premier League.
Damn that's good to read 8)
Excellent write up as usual Tom! Top stuff mate.
You a a liverpool fan as well chumpy?
Quote from: Noz on December 19, 2013, 07:41:36 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 06:04:35 PM
Quote from: Tominator on December 19, 2013, 05:46:58 PM
Tottenham 0-5 Liverpool
The Luis Suarez show was in full flight again. Two goals and three assists, in his first game as captain (standing in for Steven Gerrard) for the man who just keeps on scoring. It was a nightmare for Andre Villas-Boas, whose back four again capitulated just weeks after conceding 6 against Manchester City, despite being defensively solid for most of the season. Suarez opened the scoring in the first half, before Jordan Henderson made it 2-0. Paulinho was sent off in the second half, and from there it went from bad to worse, as Jon Flanagan scored his first league goal for Liverpool. Suarez added another to his tally - that's 17 for the season - before Raheem Sterling made it 5-0. Rightly or wrongly, it was the last straw as Villas-Boas was ultimately sacked in the wake of the loss.
This performance, and his recent form, proves that Luis Suarez is without a doubt the best player in the Premier League.
Damn that's good to read 8)
Excellent write up as usual Tom! Top stuff mate.
You a a liverpool fan as well chumpy?
Yes mate. Yourself, Q, chrisuzz (if he's still about) and I are all Liverpool supporters I believe. Might be forgetting other people too.
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 08:22:05 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 19, 2013, 07:41:36 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 06:04:35 PM
Quote from: Tominator on December 19, 2013, 05:46:58 PM
Tottenham 0-5 Liverpool
The Luis Suarez show was in full flight again. Two goals and three assists, in his first game as captain (standing in for Steven Gerrard) for the man who just keeps on scoring. It was a nightmare for Andre Villas-Boas, whose back four again capitulated just weeks after conceding 6 against Manchester City, despite being defensively solid for most of the season. Suarez opened the scoring in the first half, before Jordan Henderson made it 2-0. Paulinho was sent off in the second half, and from there it went from bad to worse, as Jon Flanagan scored his first league goal for Liverpool. Suarez added another to his tally - that's 17 for the season - before Raheem Sterling made it 5-0. Rightly or wrongly, it was the last straw as Villas-Boas was ultimately sacked in the wake of the loss.
This performance, and his recent form, proves that Luis Suarez is without a doubt the best player in the Premier League.
Damn that's good to read 8)
Excellent write up as usual Tom! Top stuff mate.
You a a liverpool fan as well chumpy?
Yes mate. Yourself, Q, chrisuzz (if he's still about) and I are all Liverpool supporters I believe. Might be forgetting other people too.
Poor blokes :( :P
Quote from: elephants on December 19, 2013, 09:37:13 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 08:22:05 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 19, 2013, 07:41:36 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 06:04:35 PM
Quote from: Tominator on December 19, 2013, 05:46:58 PM
Tottenham 0-5 Liverpool
The Luis Suarez show was in full flight again. Two goals and three assists, in his first game as captain (standing in for Steven Gerrard) for the man who just keeps on scoring. It was a nightmare for Andre Villas-Boas, whose back four again capitulated just weeks after conceding 6 against Manchester City, despite being defensively solid for most of the season. Suarez opened the scoring in the first half, before Jordan Henderson made it 2-0. Paulinho was sent off in the second half, and from there it went from bad to worse, as Jon Flanagan scored his first league goal for Liverpool. Suarez added another to his tally - that's 17 for the season - before Raheem Sterling made it 5-0. Rightly or wrongly, it was the last straw as Villas-Boas was ultimately sacked in the wake of the loss.
This performance, and his recent form, proves that Luis Suarez is without a doubt the best player in the Premier League.
Damn that's good to read 8)
Excellent write up as usual Tom! Top stuff mate.
You a a liverpool fan as well chumpy?
Yes mate. Yourself, Q, chrisuzz (if he's still about) and I are all Liverpool supporters I believe. Might be forgetting other people too.
Poor blokes :( :P
I second this sentiment.
Quote from: NigeyS on December 19, 2013, 10:19:37 PM
Quote from: elephants on December 19, 2013, 09:37:13 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 08:22:05 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 19, 2013, 07:41:36 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 06:04:35 PM
Quote from: Tominator on December 19, 2013, 05:46:58 PM
Tottenham 0-5 Liverpool
The Luis Suarez show was in full flight again. Two goals and three assists, in his first game as captain (standing in for Steven Gerrard) for the man who just keeps on scoring. It was a nightmare for Andre Villas-Boas, whose back four again capitulated just weeks after conceding 6 against Manchester City, despite being defensively solid for most of the season. Suarez opened the scoring in the first half, before Jordan Henderson made it 2-0. Paulinho was sent off in the second half, and from there it went from bad to worse, as Jon Flanagan scored his first league goal for Liverpool. Suarez added another to his tally - that's 17 for the season - before Raheem Sterling made it 5-0. Rightly or wrongly, it was the last straw as Villas-Boas was ultimately sacked in the wake of the loss.
This performance, and his recent form, proves that Luis Suarez is without a doubt the best player in the Premier League.
Damn that's good to read 8)
Excellent write up as usual Tom! Top stuff mate.
You a a liverpool fan as well chumpy?
Yes mate. Yourself, Q, chrisuzz (if he's still about) and I are all Liverpool supporters I believe. Might be forgetting other people too.
Poor blokes :( :P
I second this sentiment.
Our fans are the most loyal in the history of any sport, Plus we are one of the most successful clubs in England 8)
EVERTONNNN
Quote from: NigeyS on December 19, 2013, 10:19:37 PM
Quote from: elephants on December 19, 2013, 09:37:13 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 08:22:05 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 19, 2013, 07:41:36 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 06:04:35 PM
Quote from: Tominator on December 19, 2013, 05:46:58 PM
Tottenham 0-5 Liverpool
The Luis Suarez show was in full flight again. Two goals and three assists, in his first game as captain (standing in for Steven Gerrard) for the man who just keeps on scoring. It was a nightmare for Andre Villas-Boas, whose back four again capitulated just weeks after conceding 6 against Manchester City, despite being defensively solid for most of the season. Suarez opened the scoring in the first half, before Jordan Henderson made it 2-0. Paulinho was sent off in the second half, and from there it went from bad to worse, as Jon Flanagan scored his first league goal for Liverpool. Suarez added another to his tally - that's 17 for the season - before Raheem Sterling made it 5-0. Rightly or wrongly, it was the last straw as Villas-Boas was ultimately sacked in the wake of the loss.
This performance, and his recent form, proves that Luis Suarez is without a doubt the best player in the Premier League.
Damn that's good to read 8)
Excellent write up as usual Tom! Top stuff mate.
You a a liverpool fan as well chumpy?
Yes mate. Yourself, Q, chrisuzz (if he's still about) and I are all Liverpool supporters I believe. Might be forgetting other people too.
Poor blokes :( :P
I second this sentiment.
:P
Honestly I prefer it supporting Liverpool than United/Chelsea/City. Winning the league is obviously the ultimate objective but being a team that's expected to be battling for Champions/Europa league is fun, because if we don't win the league, the seasons not a disappointment, and we don't sack our manager unlike some other premier league clubs... *cough cough :P
http://sportbild.bild.de/SPORT/fussball/2013/12/19/transfer-news/bayer-trifft-de-bruyne-pitroipa-rueckkehr-zum-hsv.html
Bayer Leverkusen has intensified its efforts to oblige the Belgian international's Kevin De Bruyne. As the "kicker" reported is in charge of the Second Bundesliga met on Monday with the attacking midfielder from Chelsea and his adviser Patrick de Koster to an exploratory conversation.
Quote from: My Chumps on December 20, 2013, 12:48:15 AM
Quote from: NigeyS on December 19, 2013, 10:19:37 PM
Quote from: elephants on December 19, 2013, 09:37:13 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 08:22:05 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 19, 2013, 07:41:36 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 06:04:35 PM
Quote from: Tominator on December 19, 2013, 05:46:58 PM
Tottenham 0-5 Liverpool
The Luis Suarez show was in full flight again. Two goals and three assists, in his first game as captain (standing in for Steven Gerrard) for the man who just keeps on scoring. It was a nightmare for Andre Villas-Boas, whose back four again capitulated just weeks after conceding 6 against Manchester City, despite being defensively solid for most of the season. Suarez opened the scoring in the first half, before Jordan Henderson made it 2-0. Paulinho was sent off in the second half, and from there it went from bad to worse, as Jon Flanagan scored his first league goal for Liverpool. Suarez added another to his tally - that's 17 for the season - before Raheem Sterling made it 5-0. Rightly or wrongly, it was the last straw as Villas-Boas was ultimately sacked in the wake of the loss.
This performance, and his recent form, proves that Luis Suarez is without a doubt the best player in the Premier League.
Damn that's good to read 8)
Excellent write up as usual Tom! Top stuff mate.
You a a liverpool fan as well chumpy?
Yes mate. Yourself, Q, chrisuzz (if he's still about) and I are all Liverpool supporters I believe. Might be forgetting other people too.
Poor blokes :( :P
I second this sentiment.
:P
Honestly I prefer it supporting Liverpool than United/Chelsea/City. Winning the league is obviously the ultimate objective but being a team that's expected to be battling for Champions/Europa league is fun, because if we don't win the league, the seasons not a disappointment, and we don't sack our manager unlike some other premier league clubs... *cough cough :P
Resigned to mediocrity, nice Liverpool fans ;)
Leave the Liverpool fans alone. :'( I know dem feels Chumps! :)
Quote from: BoredSaint on December 19, 2013, 11:57:03 PM
EVERTONNNN
Yeah, against us, who fell to another case of "Let slip a goal or two in the last 10 mins" despite a new manager ::)
Still, I'm happy with Fulham atm, showing definite improvement. The game was a lot closer than the scoreline showed.
Quote from: stew42 on December 20, 2013, 12:09:06 PM
Quote from: BoredSaint on December 19, 2013, 11:57:03 PM
EVERTONNNN
Yeah, against us, who fell to another case of "Let slip a goal or two in the last 10 mins" despite a new manager ::)
Still, I'm happy with Fulham atm, showing definite improvement. The game was a lot closer than the scoreline showed.
21 games or something wins against fulham at home...
Quote from: elephants on December 20, 2013, 04:23:38 AM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 20, 2013, 12:48:15 AM
Quote from: NigeyS on December 19, 2013, 10:19:37 PM
Quote from: elephants on December 19, 2013, 09:37:13 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 08:22:05 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 19, 2013, 07:41:36 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 19, 2013, 06:04:35 PM
Quote from: Tominator on December 19, 2013, 05:46:58 PM
Tottenham 0-5 Liverpool
The Luis Suarez show was in full flight again. Two goals and three assists, in his first game as captain (standing in for Steven Gerrard) for the man who just keeps on scoring. It was a nightmare for Andre Villas-Boas, whose back four again capitulated just weeks after conceding 6 against Manchester City, despite being defensively solid for most of the season. Suarez opened the scoring in the first half, before Jordan Henderson made it 2-0. Paulinho was sent off in the second half, and from there it went from bad to worse, as Jon Flanagan scored his first league goal for Liverpool. Suarez added another to his tally - that's 17 for the season - before Raheem Sterling made it 5-0. Rightly or wrongly, it was the last straw as Villas-Boas was ultimately sacked in the wake of the loss.
This performance, and his recent form, proves that Luis Suarez is without a doubt the best player in the Premier League.
Damn that's good to read 8)
Excellent write up as usual Tom! Top stuff mate.
You a a liverpool fan as well chumpy?
Yes mate. Yourself, Q, chrisuzz (if he's still about) and I are all Liverpool supporters I believe. Might be forgetting other people too.
Poor blokes :( :P
I second this sentiment.
:P
Honestly I prefer it supporting Liverpool than United/Chelsea/City. Winning the league is obviously the ultimate objective but being a team that's expected to be battling for Champions/Europa league is fun, because if we don't win the league, the seasons not a disappointment, and we don't sack our manager unlike some other premier league clubs... *cough cough :P
Resigned to mediocrity, nice Liverpool fans ;)
Haha, ouch :P
Quote from: BoredSaint on December 19, 2013, 11:57:03 PM
EVERTONNNN
I do not blame you for being excited about the Toffees! Baines back soon as well. Looking very very strong, even though Lukaku hasn't scored for three games!
The Martinez Effect is having a big impact, if Liverpool weren't doing so well I would have Everton pencilled in for 4th spot, but as long as Liverpool have Suarez they are going to be a huge threat.
The next Merseyside Derby (January 28 I think..?) will be crucial in deciding fourth place - that'll end up as one of those two, or Manchester United.
boys with the Christmas and New Year period coming up, I've got a little conundrum here. Obviously this is an incredibly busy time, for both us and also for the EPL players - there are three GWs in the space of 8 days over XMas - so doing all these write ups is gonna be hard. The Previews and Reviews take time, and with XMas and New Years celebrations, this is probably time I don't really have, given I'll be out with family and friends quite a lot (there is a mate's bday in there too).
Instead of doing Previews and Reviews for every GW, would you guys rather me do a club-by-club mid-year review? Kinda like how their season is going so far, predicted finishes, etc
Also it would probably go into the New Year. They wouldn't be all at once and wouldn't be awfully long, but maybe like 2 or 3 a day?
whatever you have time for mate. :) Shorten the previews maybe? You say mid season review, maybe mention a predicted scoreline for their three games over that time?
Quote from: PowerBug on December 20, 2013, 09:54:44 PM
whatever you have time for mate. :) Shorten the previews maybe? You say mid season review, maybe mention a predicted scoreline for their three games over that time?
sorry I didn't make that clear haha
I'll do the Previews - they take like 5 minutes - predict a scoreline and a key player, boom boom that's it.
But yeah "Mid-Season Review" in place of Gameweek Reviews :)
Yeah I'm cool with that, whatever you'd like to do mate :)
Yeah too easy man, if anything another idea is to do monthly reviews instead of weekly ones anyway after January. :)
Yeah, a mid-season review sounds awesome 8)
Quote from: PowerBug on December 20, 2013, 10:52:54 PM
Yeah too easy man, if anything another idea is to do monthly reviews instead of weekly ones anyway after January. :)
that sounds like a possible idea
I won't be able to keep this up during Year 12 next year that is for sure, so I might look into that. Thanks for the suggestion PB :)
Quote from: Tominator on December 20, 2013, 07:35:30 PM
Quote from: BoredSaint on December 19, 2013, 11:57:03 PM
EVERTONNNN
I do not blame you for being excited about the Toffees! Baines back soon as well. Looking very very strong, even though Lukaku hasn't scored for three games!
The Martinez Effect is having a big impact, if Liverpool weren't doing so well I would have Everton pencilled in for 4th spot, but as long as Liverpool have Suarez they are going to be a huge threat.
The next Merseyside Derby (January 28 I think..?) will be crucial in deciding fourth place - that'll end up as one of those two, or Manchester United.
Everyone says we're only a CHANCE of top 4, but considering that the top 4 teams are all playing each other in the next few weeks around Christmas and new years and we're playing midtable/relegation teams, we have a great chance of challenging almost for the title.
I know I'm being super optimistic but consider our results against the top teams this season:
Chelsea (H) 1:0
Liverpool (H) 3:3
Man City (A) 3:1
Arsenal (A) 1:1
Man U (A) 0:1
Our only loss is to Man City away at Etihad and we grabbed a win against Chelsea and Man U.
If we can strengthen the squad during January and get a few players back from injury, who knows what we can achieve this season. Really looking forward to the coming weeks and how we finish off the second half of the season :D
GAMEWEEK 17 PREVIEW
Liverpool v Cardiff
KEY PLAYER: Luis Suarez (no prizes for guessing that one)
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 4-1 to Liverpool
Crystal Palace v Newcastle
KEY PLAYER: Tim Krul
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Newcastle
Fulham v Manchester City
KEY PLAYER: Samir Nasri
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-1 to City
Manchester United v West Ham
KEY PLAYER: Jussi Jaaskelainen
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to United
Stoke v Aston Villa
KEY PLAYER: Peter Crouch
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Sunderland v Norwich
KEY PLAYER: Sebastien Bassong
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
West Bromich Albion v Hull City
KEY PLAYER: Yannick Sagbo
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to West Brom
Southampton v Tottenham
KEY PLAYER: Jay Rodriguez
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Swansea v Everton
KEY PLAYER: Michu
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Everton. Would love it if Swansea managed to steal a point or three though
Arsenal v Chelsea - MATCH OF THE ROUND
KEY PLAYER: Mesut Ozil ... but there are so many in this game
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-2 draw
His name is Suarez and he wears the famous red
I just can't get enough, I just can't get enough
When he scores a volley or gets one with his head
I just can't get enough, I just can't get enough
He scores a goal and The Kop go wild and i just can't seem to get enough of SUAREZ
one more goal to Suarez and he will be the best ever striker in the EPL of all time between opening day and Christmas
He only needs another 203 goals to become the greatest every goal scorer in the history of the premier league and judging by his form at the moment he will get that by the end of the season :P
Quote from: Cicjose on December 22, 2013, 01:00:30 AM
one more goal to Suarez and he will be the best ever striker in the EPL of all time between opening day and Christmas
did you write that before or after his second goal?
i heard on the telecast it was supposed to be 3 goals to top the list he did only score 2 but yeah after
Kompany's own goal was ridiculous, not even sure how it happened, sooo unlucky
Yeah that was unlucky for Kompany
Anyone see Maicons goal?
Quote from: Noz on December 22, 2013, 04:34:59 PM
Yeah that was unlucky for Kompany
Anyone see Maicons goal?
doesn't Maicon play for AS Roma or Inter Milan or something??
Quote from: Tominator on December 22, 2013, 06:44:22 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 22, 2013, 04:34:59 PM
Yeah that was unlucky for Kompany
Anyone see Maicons goal?
doesn't Maicon play for AS Roma or Inter Milan or something??
Yeah he plays for Roma i saw his goal on Facebook earlier today.
Swansea unlucky to go down overnight. Pretty tough game, but man Ross Barkley is gonna be a star
Quote from: Tominator on December 23, 2013, 10:07:03 AM
Swansea unlucky to go down overnight. Pretty tough game, but man Ross Barkley is gonna be a star
doesnt even practice free kicks lol what a lad
Talks of van Gaal being the new Tottenham manager.
Quote from: NigeyS on December 23, 2013, 09:58:41 PM
Talks of van Gaal being the new Tottenham manager.
if he does become Spurs boss it won't be til after the WC
I read that Tim Sherwood would prefer his old job as a technical director at the club than to remain caretaker coach for the rest of the season. Strong talk that Glenn Hoddle will get the job, but it's still only rumours at this stage
Manchester City play Liverpool on Boxing Day .... you know what this means
The Kolo-Yaya Toure chant!!
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=632016173503949&set=vb.154754394563465&type=2&theater
Here's a couple of longer clips if you don't know what the chant is. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xS1ZaXtgbQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4y4Bop17R4g
Liverpool remain on top!
GAMEWEEK 18 PREVIEW
Hull City v Manchester United
KEY PLAYER: Curtis Davies
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-1 to United
Aston Villa v Crystal Palace
KEY PLAYER: Julian Speroni
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 0-0 draw
Chelsea v Swansea
KEY PLAYER: Whichever striker Chelsea plays (Ba/Torres/Eto'o)
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Chelsea
Cardiff v Southampton
KEY PLAYER: Adam Lallana
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Southampton
Everton v Sunderland
KEY PLAYER: Kevin Mirallas
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-0 to Everton
Newcastle v Stoke
KEY PLAYER: Loic Remy
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Newcastle
Norwich v Fulham
KEY PLAYER: Gary Hooper
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to Norwich
Tottenham v West Brom
KEY PLAYER: Christian Eriksen
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Tottenham
West Ham v Arsenal
KEY PLAYER: Mesut Ozil
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Arsenal
Manchester City v Liverpool
KEY PLAYER: Luis Suarez
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-2 to City ... could be anything
Just you wait, this'll be Fulham's redemption... Check who we played the last 4 ;)
United went 2-0 down at Hull after 13 minutes ... pulled it back to 2-2 on 26 minutes
52 minutes gone, still 2-2
what a showertttt round for fantasy bar a few
Thhhhhhhheeeeeeeeeeooooooooo!
Quote from: vinny on December 27, 2013, 09:56:19 AM
what a showertttt round for fantasy bar a few
Don't sorry vinny, I didn't gain much on you. flowering red card Howard.
Quote from: Tominator on December 27, 2013, 12:59:47 AM
United went 2-0 down at Hull after 13 minutes ... pulled it back to 2-2 on 26 minutes
52 minutes gone, still 2-2
Watched that game. Was a corker. Amazing strike by Rooney to equalise!
Not unhappy with the Liverpool game which I watched this morning. One absolutely bullsh*t offside disallowed a goal. We played well though after being dominated for the first 10 or so minutes. We'd been dominated in the midfield during the previous challenge against Arsenal so it was good to see us hold our own this time against a/the premier club. Even more encouraging considering we're missing Gerrard, Sturridge and Agger, three key players.
Sunderland, Fulham and Crystal Palace all won overnight! Very much livens up the relegation race
MALKY MACKAY SACKED FROM CARDIFF
And Fulham will win a lot more hopefully. Next three are Hull, West Ham and Sunderland. We should be able to be the relegation teams now.
Plus we'll have Clint Dempsey coming in :-*
Oh, and Parker's goal. Thanks Tottenham :)
GAMEWEEK 19 PREVIEW
Tonight marks the halfway point of the EPL season, and a big week of games coming up.
West Ham v West Bromich Albion
KEY PLAYER: Ben Foster
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 0-0 draw
Aston Villa v Swansea
KEY PLAYER: Ashley Williams
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to Swansea
Hull City v Fulham
KEY PLAYER: Dimitar Berbatov
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw ... massive game for the context of the relegation battle
Manchester City v Crystal Palace
KEY PLAYER: David Silva
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 4-0 to Manchester City ... could be more
Norwich v Manchester United
KEY PLAYER: Wayne Rooney (who else?)
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Manchester United
Cardiff v Sunderland
KEY PLAYER: David Marshall
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to Cardiff
Everton v Southampton
KEY PLAYER: Romelu Lukaku .... needs to step up after a quiet run
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Everton
Newcastle v Arsenal
KEY PLAYER: Yohan Cabaye
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Arsenal
Chelsea v Liverpool
KEY PLAYER: Petr Cech
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Chelsea ... would be a massive warning shot if Liverpool took 3 points though
Tottenham v Stoke
KEY PLAYER: Emmanuel Adebayor
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Tottenham
If you look at Liverpool and Chelsea's starting XI's it's hard to see us pulling out a win. Too many good players missing. Still, I'll stay hopeful! haha.
Will be interesting to see who we play with all our guns available at once (if ever ::)). This line up looks pretty scary I reckon,
Szczesny
Sagna, Mertesacker, Kolscieny, Gibbs
Ramsey, Wilshere
Walcott, Ozil, Cazorla
Giroud
Leaves Arteta, Flamini, Bendtner, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Podolski and Vermaelen on the bench, ;D
Well Hull beat Fulham 6-0 ..... who saw that coming?!??!
Quote from: Tominator on December 29, 2013, 12:32:36 PM
Well Hull beat Fulham 6-0 ..... who saw that coming?!??!
valuable in the relegation calculations....but 6 - 0..wow. :o
watched the highlights of the City-Palace game ... Palace actually played very very well, City were the better side but still lucky to get all three points, Palace could easily have scored before Dzeko did
Quote from: Tominator on December 28, 2013, 08:04:48 PM
Chelsea v Liverpool
KEY PLAYER: Petr Cech
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Chelsea ... would be a massive warning shot if Liverpool took 3 points though
Nice call!
Stoked with the 3 points 8)
I'm going away today so I'll do next week's preview now
GAMEWEEK 20 PREVIEW
Swansea v Manchester City
KEY PLAYER: Alvaro Negredo
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-1 to City
Arsenal v Cardiff
KEY PLAYER: Theo Walcott
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Arsenal
Fulham v West Ham
KEY PLAYER: Joe Cole
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-2 draw .... CRUCIAL game for the relegation battle, expect both teams to go very attacking
Crystal Palace v Norwich
KEY PLAYER: Nathan Redmond
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Liverpool v Hull City
KEY PLAYER: Jake Livermore
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-1 to Liverpool
Southampton v Chelsea
KEY PLAYER: Adam Lallana
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Chelsea ... could be a draw
Stoke v Everton
KEY PLAYER: Seamus Coleman ... on fire at the moment!
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Everton
Sunderland v Aston Villa
KEY PLAYER: Brad Guzan
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw ... another crucial game in the relegation battle
West Bromich Albion v Newcastle
KEY PLAYER: Youssuf Mulumbu
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Newcastle
Manchester United v Tottenham
KEY PLAYER: Christian Eriksen
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to United
Flower :(
Where are you Suarez. Where are you
Quote from: Noz on December 30, 2013, 05:56:28 PM
Where are you Suarez. Where are you
I was so glad that Rodgers chose not to bring on Suarez :P
Remember when CF made me that Seamus Coleman wallpaper? (it was like 2 seasons ago)
Would be worth a lot of money now! :D :D :D
BEST RB IN EPL
To bad Coleman will be playing for Arsenal when the transfer window opens if Sagna doesnt re-sign.
Quote from: Noz on December 31, 2013, 05:11:10 PM
To bad Coleman will be playing for Arsenal when the transfer window opens if Sagna doesnt re-sign.
LOLLL good luck with that
Quote from: BoredSaint on December 31, 2013, 05:35:33 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 31, 2013, 05:11:10 PM
To bad Coleman will be playing for Arsenal when the transfer window opens if Sagna doesnt re-sign.
LOLLL good luck with that
Good luck keeping him.
http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/arsenal-plan-seamus-coleman-transfer-2903704 (http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/arsenal-plan-seamus-coleman-transfer-2903704)
http://www.thescore.ie/seamus-coleman-linked-arsenal-move-1212116-Dec2013/ (http://www.thescore.ie/seamus-coleman-linked-arsenal-move-1212116-Dec2013/)
http://metro.co.uk/2013/12/08/arsenal-will-bid-for-everton-defender-seamus-coleman-if-bacary-sagna-does-not-sign-a-new-deal-4222327/ (http://metro.co.uk/2013/12/08/arsenal-will-bid-for-everton-defender-seamus-coleman-if-bacary-sagna-does-not-sign-a-new-deal-4222327/)
http://www.joe.ie/football/football-news/is-seamus-coleman-being-lined-up-for-a-move-to-arsenal/ (http://www.joe.ie/football/football-news/is-seamus-coleman-being-lined-up-for-a-move-to-arsenal/)
http://www.101greatgoals.com/blog/arsenal-target-everton-right-back-seamus-coleman-if-bacary-sagna-leaves-on-a-free-sunday-people/ (http://www.101greatgoals.com/blog/arsenal-target-everton-right-back-seamus-coleman-if-bacary-sagna-leaves-on-a-free-sunday-people/)
http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/11/29/arsenal-set-to-make-surprise-move-for-everton-wide-man/ (http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/11/29/arsenal-set-to-make-surprise-move-for-everton-wide-man/)
http://www.soccernews.com/arsenal-eyeing-seamus-coleman/133798/ (http://www.soccernews.com/arsenal-eyeing-seamus-coleman/133798/)
Quote from: Noz on December 31, 2013, 05:41:01 PM
Quote from: BoredSaint on December 31, 2013, 05:35:33 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 31, 2013, 05:11:10 PM
To bad Coleman will be playing for Arsenal when the transfer window opens if Sagna doesnt re-sign.
LOLLL good luck with that
Good luck keeping him.
http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/arsenal-plan-seamus-coleman-transfer-2903704 (http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/arsenal-plan-seamus-coleman-transfer-2903704)
http://www.thescore.ie/seamus-coleman-linked-arsenal-move-1212116-Dec2013/ (http://www.thescore.ie/seamus-coleman-linked-arsenal-move-1212116-Dec2013/)
http://metro.co.uk/2013/12/08/arsenal-will-bid-for-everton-defender-seamus-coleman-if-bacary-sagna-does-not-sign-a-new-deal-4222327/ (http://metro.co.uk/2013/12/08/arsenal-will-bid-for-everton-defender-seamus-coleman-if-bacary-sagna-does-not-sign-a-new-deal-4222327/)
http://www.joe.ie/football/football-news/is-seamus-coleman-being-lined-up-for-a-move-to-arsenal/ (http://www.joe.ie/football/football-news/is-seamus-coleman-being-lined-up-for-a-move-to-arsenal/)
http://www.101greatgoals.com/blog/arsenal-target-everton-right-back-seamus-coleman-if-bacary-sagna-leaves-on-a-free-sunday-people/ (http://www.101greatgoals.com/blog/arsenal-target-everton-right-back-seamus-coleman-if-bacary-sagna-leaves-on-a-free-sunday-people/)
http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/11/29/arsenal-set-to-make-surprise-move-for-everton-wide-man/ (http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/11/29/arsenal-set-to-make-surprise-move-for-everton-wide-man/)
http://www.soccernews.com/arsenal-eyeing-seamus-coleman/133798/ (http://www.soccernews.com/arsenal-eyeing-seamus-coleman/133798/)
no way we'll sell
Why not just because he still has another 3 years left on his contract his buy out clause wouldn't be much and he is only get what 60k a week from Everton. Arsenal could easily offer him 80-85k a week plus a chance to play in the Champions League.
Quote from: Noz on December 31, 2013, 05:49:58 PM
Why not just because he still has another 3 years left on his contract his buy out clause wouldn't be much and he is only get what 60k a week from Everton. Arsenal could easily offer him 80-85k a week plus a chance to play in the Champions League.
If he's a patient fellow then he might only need to wait another 6 or so months then he can play CL anyway for Everton. :O
Quote from: vinny on December 30, 2013, 06:01:49 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 30, 2013, 05:56:28 PM
Where are you Suarez. Where are you
Should've had a penalty late in the game after Eto'o blatantly blocked him at about the 80th minute mark. He did have a quite one though, was well marked by Cahill.
Quote from: My Chumps on December 31, 2013, 07:47:00 PM
Quote from: vinny on December 30, 2013, 06:01:49 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 30, 2013, 05:56:28 PM
Where are you Suarez. Where are you
Should've had a penalty late in the game after Eto'o blatantly blocked him at about the 80th minute mark. He did have a quite one though, was well marked by Cahill.
Obstruction actually leads to an indirect free-kick so it wouldn't have been a penalty. Plus he launched himself on the ground and the ref was having none of that, just like the Hazard incident in the 1st half. At least there was some consistency :)
Quote from: elephants on January 01, 2014, 12:38:13 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 31, 2013, 07:47:00 PM
Quote from: vinny on December 30, 2013, 06:01:49 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 30, 2013, 05:56:28 PM
Where are you Suarez. Where are you
Should've had a penalty late in the game after Eto'o blatantly blocked him at about the 80th minute mark. He did have a quite one though, was well marked by Cahill.
Obstruction actually leads to an indirect free-kick so it wouldn't have been a penalty. Plus he launched himself on the ground and the ref was having none of that, just like the Hazard incident in the 1st half. At least there was some consistency :)
Oh come on, Eto'o flat out kicked him in the knee and then basically hip and shouldered him. Bit different to the Hazard incident, although I also think that also could've been a penalty. One of those ones that could go either way really.
Eto'o made a number of reckless challenges too. Could've easily collected a couple of yellows.
Quote from: My Chumps on January 01, 2014, 08:44:48 PM
Quote from: elephants on January 01, 2014, 12:38:13 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 31, 2013, 07:47:00 PM
Quote from: vinny on December 30, 2013, 06:01:49 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 30, 2013, 05:56:28 PM
Where are you Suarez. Where are you
Should've had a penalty late in the game after Eto'o blatantly blocked him at about the 80th minute mark. He did have a quite one though, was well marked by Cahill.
Obstruction actually leads to an indirect free-kick so it wouldn't have been a penalty. Plus he launched himself on the ground and the ref was having none of that, just like the Hazard incident in the 1st half. At least there was some consistency :)
Oh come on, Eto'o flat out kicked him in the knee and then basically hip and shouldered him. Bit different to the Hazard incident, although I also think that also could've been a penalty. One of those ones that could go either way really.
Eto'o made a number of reckless challenges too. Could've easily collected a couple of yellows.
Whether you believe there was a free or not is irrelevant. Indirect Free-kick would have ensued due to obstruction ;)
Quote from: elephants on January 02, 2014, 04:22:45 AM
Quote from: My Chumps on January 01, 2014, 08:44:48 PM
Quote from: elephants on January 01, 2014, 12:38:13 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 31, 2013, 07:47:00 PM
Quote from: vinny on December 30, 2013, 06:01:49 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 30, 2013, 05:56:28 PM
Where are you Suarez. Where are you
Should've had a penalty late in the game after Eto'o blatantly blocked him at about the 80th minute mark. He did have a quite one though, was well marked by Cahill.
Obstruction actually leads to an indirect free-kick so it wouldn't have been a penalty. Plus he launched himself on the ground and the ref was having none of that, just like the Hazard incident in the 1st half. At least there was some consistency :)
Oh come on, Eto'o flat out kicked him in the knee and then basically hip and shouldered him. Bit different to the Hazard incident, although I also think that also could've been a penalty. One of those ones that could go either way really.
Eto'o made a number of reckless challenges too. Could've easily collected a couple of yellows.
Whether you believe there was a free or not is irrelevant. Indirect Free-kick would have ensued due to obstruction ;)
Well actually Ele, that's not true.
"If there is obstruction in the penalty area then it would be a Indirect Free Kick but
if there was contact in the process of a player trying to obstruct another player then it would be a penalty kick."
Eto'o made contact with Suarez so it would've been a penalty.
Rubbish performance by United, but how were they not given a penalty when Lloris took out Young in the box? What a rubbish call!! >:(
Then 30 seconds later Januzaj gets body checked outside the box, the Tottenham players stop expecting it to be a free kick, but instead Adnan gets booked for diving. flowering terrible!!
so my mid-season reviews are starting! The aim is to get 2-3 done per day, but that may change with me going away next week. We'll see how we go ay? ::) Hope you enjoy them though! Feedback is very welcome
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- ARSENAL
League Standing: 1st | 45 points (P20 - W14 - D3 - L3) | GD +21
Star Player: Aaron Ramsey
Arsenal have started the season extremely well. Despite a first-game loss to Aston Villa, when fans were calling for Arsene Wenger's head, the arrival of 42 million man Mesut Ozil has transformed the Gunners' season so far. They led the EPL for most of the season, only relinquishing it on the Christmas break before regaining it by the New Year, but they have also finished first in a Champions League group stage, with Napoli and 2012 CL runners up Borussia Dortmund. Their midfield depth is a major strength, with the likes of Ozil, Jack Wilshere, Santi Cazorla, the returning Theo Walcott, and the most improved player in the EPL this season, Aaron Ramsey, who is scoring goals for fun. These players, with the rise of Olivier Giroud, have combined for intricate passing - think back to Wilshere's goal against Norwich - and terrorising opposition defences. However, they are looking to consolidate by adding another striker to their ranks - many say that Nicklas "The Lord" Bendtner is not good enough as a second striker - while another goalkeeper is also on the cards. Arsenal also need to do better in games against big clubs, as they have only managed 1 point in three games against Chelsea and both of the Manchester clubs. But there is a lot of optimism at the Emirates, and if Wenger's men can keep this form up they are right in the frame for a title tilt, and an end to their 8-year trophy drought.
Predicted Finish: 2nd
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- ASTON VILLA
League Standing: 11th | 23 points (P20 - W6 - D5 - L9) | GD -6
Star Player: Brad Guzan
Villa have had a bit of a mixed season so far, recording famous victories against the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City, but also suffered a couple of losses to Fulham and Crystal Palace. Christian Benteke's decision to stay has helped Villa both on and off the pitch, although the big Belgian has struggled a bit more with form and injury more than he did last season. His fellow striker, Czech Libor Kozak has been able to chip in with vital goals here and there to gain tight victories. Fabian Delph has proven himself this season, and his goal against Southampton to seal a 3-2 win was nothing short of spectacular. Villa have traditionally been weak defensively, but Brad Guzan has made vital saves consistently, to keep clean sheets as well as gain points that Villa may have not had if not for him. With 6 managers sacked so far this season, Paul Lambert has done well to hold onto his job - after a shaky period in 2012/13 - and should keep it unless Villa suffer a massive slide of form before May. Villa may be 13th but are still in a very tight relegation battle, so will need to perform well and possibly add a new face or two in January, but I think they should survive.
Predicted Finish: 15th
Quote from: CrowsFan on January 02, 2014, 11:53:27 PM
Rubbish performance by United, but how were they not given a penalty when Lloris took out Young in the box? What a rubbish call!! >:(
Then 30 seconds later Januzaj gets body checked outside the box, the Tottenham players stop expecting it to be a free kick, but instead Adnan gets booked for diving. flowering terrible!!
That was very rough! I reckon Young and (to a lesser extent) Januzaj's reputation as divers hurt them there.
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- CARDIFF
League Standing: 17th | 18 points (P20 - W4 - D6 - L10) | GD -17
Star Player: Stephen Caulker
A very interesting start to the season for Cardiff, their first season in top-flight English football in 51 years. However, the man that got them there, Malky Mackay is now gone, and Ole Gunnar Solksjaer has replaced him. The fractious relationship between Mackay and owner Vincent Tan has been the main talking point for Cardiff, and has threatened to send Cardiff's season into disarray. However, they have had shining lights and bright moments - their 3-2 win against Manchester City, the 2-2 draw against Manchester United, and a 1-0 win against arch rivals Swansea, showed they are a club that has passion instilled into them, and love playing in front of their home fans. They do have a strong spine in keeper David Marshall, centre-back Stephen Caulker, midfielders Pete Whittingham and Gary Medel, and striker Fraiser Campbell. These five will be key to Cardiff's survival hopes, as will any January signings. The sacking of Mackay and the replacement in Solksjaer is the make-or-break moment for Cardiff, and will ultimately have a huge influence on their fate. They are well in the middle of the relegation dogfight, but I think they might just come out of it.... just.
Predicted Finish: 17th
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- CHELSEA
League Standing: 3rd | 43 points (P20 - W13 - D4 - L3) | GD +19
Star Player: Eden Hazard
Jose Mourinho's second coming as Chelsea boss has seen him create a number of headlines, but despite several little bumps on the way, the Blues sit comfortably in the top four. This is despite the disappointing form of their trio of strikers - Samuel Eto'o, Fernando Torres and Demba Ba - who have failed to fire, but defensively they have been very tight, with Petr Cech conceding just 19 goals so far (equal second only to Arsenal). Chelsea have managed to find goals from their plethora of midfielders - Eden Hazard and Oscar have been in superb form - but their best midfielder of the previous two seasons, Juan Mata has barely had an impact at all. Mourinho has frozen out the Spanish playmaker consistently this season I personally think it might come back to bite the Blues if, as expected, he leaves - in favour of summer signings Willian, seemingly signed just to piss Tottenham off, and Andre Schurrle. Fellow midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has also suffered a similar fate to that of Mata. Chelsea will definitely look to add players in January - talks of a new striker are apparently well-founded - even though they have several already on loan, such as Romelu Lukaku, Marko Marin, Victor Moses and others. Through all the controversies and conflicts that have come about, Chelsea have come out of pretty well, and are very well positioned for a title challenge. They are beginning to pick up pace and string together consistent performances, and played well in the UCL. If they can improve their away form, and win some crunch games, they will be in a very good position to gain silverware.
Predicted Finish: 3rd
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- CRYSTAL PALACE
League Standing: 18th | 17 points (P20 - W5 - D2 - L13) | GD -16
Star Player: Mile Jedinak
Palace started the season pretty poorly, conceding goals for fun defensively and not offering much attackingly. This ultimately cost Ian Holloway his job, but once Holloway departed, Palace had a significant lift in form. Tony Pulis has them playing a different brand of football, but one that is tighter defensively and can be deadly on the counter. They were unlucky not to get a point against Manchester City at the Etihad recently, and have managed to string together some fighting results against teams they would have been fancied to struggle against. Dwight Gayle has been a bit disappointing in the first half of the season, but fellow strikers Cameron Jerome and particularly (of late) Marouane Chamakh have managed to score goals regularly under Pulis. Defensively, Danny Gabbidon and goalkeeper Julian Speroni have benefitted from Pulis' defensive-based tactics, keeping four clean sheets in the space of five games recently. Mile Jedinak has been Mr Consistent and an inspirational leader in midfield, while Barry Bannan tries his heart out every game. Though they recently escaped the drop zone (only to fall back in it by the New Year), Palace will most likely drop back down to the Championship at the end of this season - it is likely but far from certain. Anything is possible in this relegation race, but my gut feel is that Palace will drop.
Predicted Finish: 19th
Good to see Mile having such a fine season. He'd have to earn himself a spot in the World Cup on the back of his performance, wouldn't he?
I think Szczęsny has flown under the radar for us, doesn't get a lot of recognition with Ramsey, Ozil, Cazorla and Walcott getting most of the attention but he's improved heaps since last season.
Quote from: My Chumps on January 02, 2014, 01:46:44 PM
Quote from: elephants on January 02, 2014, 04:22:45 AM
Quote from: My Chumps on January 01, 2014, 08:44:48 PM
Quote from: elephants on January 01, 2014, 12:38:13 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on December 31, 2013, 07:47:00 PM
Quote from: vinny on December 30, 2013, 06:01:49 PM
Quote from: Noz on December 30, 2013, 05:56:28 PM
Where are you Suarez. Where are you
Should've had a penalty late in the game after Eto'o blatantly blocked him at about the 80th minute mark. He did have a quite one though, was well marked by Cahill.
Obstruction actually leads to an indirect free-kick so it wouldn't have been a penalty. Plus he launched himself on the ground and the ref was having none of that, just like the Hazard incident in the 1st half. At least there was some consistency :)
Oh come on, Eto'o flat out kicked him in the knee and then basically hip and shouldered him. Bit different to the Hazard incident, although I also think that also could've been a penalty. One of those ones that could go either way really.
Eto'o made a number of reckless challenges too. Could've easily collected a couple of yellows.
Whether you believe there was a free or not is irrelevant. Indirect Free-kick would have ensued due to obstruction ;)
Well actually Ele, that's not true.
"If there is obstruction in the penalty area then it would be a Indirect Free Kick but if there was contact in the process of a player trying to obstruct another player then it would be a penalty kick."
Eto'o made contact with Suarez so it would've been a penalty.
To me that seems like a pretty large grey-area. How do you obstruct without making contact and when does contact become severe enough to deserve a penalty not a free-kick..?
Quote from: CrowsFan on January 02, 2014, 11:53:27 PM
Rubbish performance by United, but how were they not given a penalty when Lloris took out Young in the box? What a rubbish call!! >:(
Then 30 seconds later Januzaj gets body checked outside the box, the Tottenham players stop expecting it to be a free kick, but instead Adnan gets booked for diving. flowering terrible!!
And Howard Webb was ref!! What happened!? Someone forget their bribe payment ;)
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- EVERTON
League Standing: 5th | 38 points (P20 - W10 - D8 - L2) | GD +13
Star Player: Seamus Coleman (sorry Ross Barkley!)
It has been an unbelievable start to the season for new manager Roberto Martinez. The Toffees have only lost twice, on the back of one of the most shrewd defences in the league. Tim Howard has been fantastic in goals, while Sylvain Distin and Phil Jagielka have formed a vital pairing in the heart of defence. Martinez's attacking game plan has allowed wing-backs Leighton Baines, Seamus Coleman and (in the absence of Baines) Bryan Oviedo to get forward and score goals. Coleman in particular has been outstanding this season, particularly in Fantasy Premier League!! The loss of Marouane Fellaini has allowed Everton to purchase up and coming youngster Jack McCarthy, but also afford the wages to seal the loan signings of Gareth Barry, Gerard Deulofeu and the Belgian beast Romelu Lukaku. Lukaku's late double in the thrilling 3-3 Merseyside Derby draw - arguably the game of the season so far - was a highlight. Kevin Mirallas has also been a revelation in recent weeks too, really making an impact in his attacking midfield role. Martinez is beginning to put together a very good team, and this is shown by their early season form. While Lukaku is unlikely to stay beyond this season, Barry may join permanently, and he has really made an impact in midfield in the absence of Darron Gibson. Him and superstar youngster Ross Barkley have formed a formidable pairing, with the latter forcing his way into World Cup calculations with some superb performances, well beyond his years. His contributions in away matches to Swansea and Norwich are two games that come to mind. I think that Everton will fall just short in the race for the Top Four, mainly due to Liverpool having one Luis Suarez, but with Tottenham's inconsistencies and Manchester United floundering, Everton could very well jag a Europa League spot if they maintain their stellar start. However, United generally lift in the latter rounds of the season, so I think the Toffees may just miss out. But they are seriously building something.
Predicted Finish: 6th
Swansea beat Manchester United in the FA Cup :D 8)
And West Ham lost 5-0 to Nottingham Forest ;D ;D
Excellent write up yet again Thomas! Such a good read.
Quote from: Tominator on January 06, 2014, 12:06:36 PM
Swansea beat Manchester United in the FA Cup :D 8)
And West Ham lost 5-0 to Nottingham Forest ;D ;D
How? :o
Posted back in October, but still extremely relevant since United lost to Sunderland this morning...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCYcH0gJjcE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCYcH0gJjcE)
If anyone remembers the show I'm on Setanta Sports, which then became Special 1 TV, I'm pretty sure this is done by the same person. That show was brilliant! If you haven't seen it I'm fairly sure they have the eps on youtube :)
apologies for the lack of reviews, I've been away of late and wrote these BEFORE Gameweek 21
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- FULHAM
League Standing: 16th | 19 points (P20 - W6 - D1 - L13) | GD -21
Star Player: Steve Sidwell
It's been a very disappointing season so far for Fulham to say the least. A run of five straight losses saw the end of manager Martin Jol, replaced by Rene Meulensteen. As is generally the case with new managers - generally, but not always - the team begins to have a spike of better results. Fulham have not looked quite as bad as they did under Jol, except for that absolutely dreadful match against Hull, when they were 0-0 at half time but went on to lose 6-0. Fulham have quality players - Scott Parker, Dimitar Berbatov and Darren Bent all have long and successful Premier League careers - but also have had many underperforming and inconsistent players, such as loan signing Adel Taarabt. This has been a reflection of Fulham's season so far - good at times, but horrendous at others. Steve Sidwell has generally been very good in midfield, arguably their best performer of the season. But their defence has been calamitous at times, conceding 42 goals in 20 games - 9 more than any other team. Maarten Stekelenberg is a fine goalkeeper but his defence has been shambolic. The Cottagers will, once again, be in the thick of the relegation race, and as the season progresses, each game becomes more and more critical. Games against Cardiff, West Ham, Crystal Palace, Norwich (who they have already defeated), and Sunderland will be crucial six-pointers. They must take as many points as possible from those games, which also present a big opportunity for Meulensteen to prove himself as a manager. West Ham are doing more and more to persuade me otherwise, but I sense heartbreak awaits for Fulham and the Craven Cottage fans.
Predicted Finish: 18th
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- HULL
League Standing: 10th | 23 points (P20 - W6 - D5 - L9) | GD -3
Star Player: Allan McGregor
A much better than expected start to the season for Steve Bruce's charges. Amidst the controversies of the debate amongst fans and club hierarchy over whether Hull should be Hull City or Hull Tigers, the players have quietly gone about their business to find themselves in the Top 10 after 20 games. They may only be six points safe from the drop zone, but have performed admirably so far. Highlights of their season include the 3-1 win over Liverpool (where they kept Luis Suarez scoreless) and the 6-0 thrashing of Fulham (when all 6 goals came in the second half). Many pundits tipped Hull to finish in the bottom three, but that now looks unlikely. Full credit must go to the likes of Curtis Davies in the heart of defence, and particularly goalkeeper Allan McGregor, who has consistently made a number of vital saves to keep opposition strikers at bay. These two have had a major influence on why Hull have one of the best home defensive records in the league at the KC Stadium. Former Tottenham boys Jake Livermore and Tom Huddlestone have been formed a solid partnership in midfield, whilst attacking threats Robert Koren. Robbie Brady and Yannick Sagbo have shown glimpses of their potential, but struggled with form and (particularly Brady) injury woes. The likes of those three need to find more consistency in the second half of the season. And that is the key for Hull to maintain their solid start - consistency. A couple more signings in January may be required just to shore things up and secure survival, but Hull may not need that anyway.
Predicted Finish: 13th
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- LIVERPOOL
League Standing: 4th | 39 points (P20 - W12 - D3 - L5) | GD +23
Star Player: Luis Suarez
Brendan Rodgers's men have started 2013/14 in blazing fashion. Who would have seen this coming? Sitting in fourth place, the boys from Anfield are looking like a strong chance to return to European football next season, perhaps even the Champions League. While Rodgers has been a big part of Liverpool's revival - which has finally seen fans begin to look to the future instead of reliving glory days in the past - their rise up the table would not have been possible if not for one man... Luis Suarez. The Uruguayan is an absolute freak. Now that Gareth Bale has gone, I think that Suarez is arguably the best player in the Premier League. Despite missing the first five games of the season due to the suspension from "that" bite, Suarez is atop of the tallies for both goals and assists. He scored four against Norwich - whom he has an additional two hattricks against - whilst also registering hattricks against. Quite simply, he is a class above, and a nightmare for opposition defenders. But though Suarez has (rightfully) taken most of the credit this season, Daniel Sturridge started the season in superb fashion, especially when Suarez was not playing. The "SAS" partnership is blossoming, and although Sturridge has had injury issues of late, they shape as a formidable pairing for the latter half of this season and beyond. Raheem Sterling has overtaken Chelsea loanee Victor Moses in the pecking order, playing some dazzling football and showing much more maturity than last season. However, he may still be loaned to Swansea if (as expected) Mohammed Salah arrives from FC Basel. Simon Mignolet has been a handy acquisition in goals, while Martin Skrtel - despite conceding a few own goals - has been a big improver in defence. But Liverpool are beginning to build a very handy side, which may just be back in the CL next season. I am predicting that they will do exactly that. Rodgers' vision is coming together - watch this space.
Predicted Finish: 4th
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- MANCHESTER CITY
League Standing: 2nd | 44 points (P20 - W14 - D2 - L4) | GD +34
Star Player: Yaya Toure
It has been a mostly-wonderful start for Manchester City so far. Away from home they have been a bit shaky, dropping points they probably shouldn't - 3-2 losses to Cardiff and Aston Villa early in the season are lost points they may come to regret later on. But at the Etihad Stadium, their fortress, they have been nothing short of awesome. In the opening round of the season, they whacked Newcastle 4-0. From there, it has been clinical every time they play there. 4 against Manchester United, 6 against Tottenham, 6 against Arsenal, and 7 against Norwich. Clubs like Swansea did well to keep them to 3; Crystal Palace even better to only go down 1-0. But it isn't hard to see why City have dominated as they have. Summer signings such as Jesus Navas, Fernandinho and in particular Alvaro Negredo have become vital cogs in the oil-money-made Manchester City machine. Negredo's partnership with the ever-consistent Sergio Aguero has been nothing short of devastating. Opposition defences torn apart by City's wealth of attacking options. Samir Nasri has ditched his bench stereotype, starting a majority of games. David Silva has been interrupted by injury but has scored and/or assisted in 8 of his 11 games, while Yaya Toure has become an even more complete player with his stellar free kicks. I am sure there have been some, but of any City game I have watched, I haven't seen Yaya miss a free kick. It started on the opening day, and he has scored 5 or 6 FKs from memory in the EPL so far. Quite staggering. Joe Hart has returned a better player since being dropped mid-season, while City are being to find rhythm defensively as well. City's tie with Real Madrid in the last 16 of the Champions League is looking absolutely mouth-watering. If they cannot get silverware there, they should find silverware in the Premier League (as well as the Capital One Cup). But it seems that a strong CL run is the only thing that could dent City's title tilt - but even then they have such a strong squad that they can easily rotate without losing momentum.
Predicted Finish: 1st
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- MANCHESTER UNITED
League Standing: 7th | 34 points (P20 - W10 - D4 - L6) | GD +9
Star Player: Wayne Rooney
It's been an unexpected 6 months down at Old Trafford. The "Theatre of Dreams" has become the "Threatre of 3 Points to Away Teams" of late - Tottenham, Everton, Newcastle, West Brom and Swansea have won at Old Trafford since August (FA Cup included). United have lost their aura that they had under Sir Alex Ferguson, as the chosen one David Moyes continues to flounder. Admittedly he has inherited a pretty crap team, that is way below the standards of Manchester City or Chelsea. The likes of Anderson, Ashley Young, Nani, Chris Smalling and Tom Cleverley (I could go on) need to be sold if United want to make the Champions League. Ryan Giggs, Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra are past their best, while Wilfried Zaha, Shinji Kagawa and Javier Hernandez have been benched when they should be on the pitch, and incorrectly used when they are. Moyes' biggest problem IMO has been his selections, and his media comments. Too often he'd get his words tangled up and almost accept mediocrity after bad losses - I can't see Jose Mourinho or Arsene Wenger saying some of the things Moyes does. Robin van Persie has struggled on form and injury, while Wayne Rooney has been a standout player yet again. The emergence of Adnan Januzaj is very promising, but too often he has looked like United's most threatening player. With no disrespect intended, you'd hope there would be more potent players in United's first team than an 18 year old. United's transfer window was disastrous, with the club forking out way too much for Marouane Fellaini - and he has barely made an impact at all. Towards the end of December, I thought United were starting to come good, and a spot in the top four was beginning to look possible. But three consecutive 2-1 losses (unheard of at United) to Tottenham in the EPL, Swansea in the FA Cup, and then Sunderland in the League Cup, are beginning to strongly cast doubt over whether United would make Europa. They need quality players - now. Not OK players, world-class players. Players who want out of their clubs, like Juan Mata - he'd be a perfect fit at United. If they wait til after the World Cup, those quality players might not want to come to Old Trafford. I hope Moyes succeeds as a manager, but at the moment he looks very out of his depth. That's why I don't think they will make the Top Four this season.
Predicted Finish: 5th .... but don't get your hopes up United fans; they are doing everything to prove me wrong
Turns out the Refs have money on City here :-X and from one of the would be goals of the year ::)
Quote from: tbagrocks on January 13, 2014, 01:59:40 AM
Turns out the Refs have money on City here :-X and from one of the would be goals of the year ::)
Bullshower
Quote from: tbagrocks on January 13, 2014, 01:59:40 AM
Turns out the Refs have money on City here :-X and from one of the would be goals of the year ::)
Was a cracker of a shot but I think the refs were correct in disallowing it.
Hart had 2 Newcastle players in front of him in offside position and although they were moving to avoid the ball Hart looked to hesitate to dive left to save expecting a deflection from the player at the front. So technically the Newcastle players did influence the play.
Great work here again Big Tom. I may have to seriously look at Sturridge. Lallana in this week...then work on the Suarez / Sturridge double act... ;D
Exciting game at Britannia!
Sturridge and Suarez partnership back up and running 8)
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- NEWCASTLE
League Standing: 8th | 33 points (P21 - W10 - D3 - L8) | GD +2
Star Player: Yohan Cabaye
Newcastle started the season disastrously with a 4-0 thrashing at the Etihad Stadium to Manchester City. But after the Sky Blues smashed Norwich, Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham, conceding 4 doesn't look so bad. Since then, Newcastle have really lifted to be in a good position mid-season. Without the burden of a Europa League campaign, the Toon Army have been able to fully focus on the Premier League, and Alan Pardew's brigade of mostly-Frenchmen have come to the party. Yohan Cabaye is one of those Frenchmen, and he has been instrumental this season. He very nearly left the club in August - and he may yet leave in January - but it was a good move to stay, for all parties concerned. Prolific striker Papiss Cisse has virtually gone missing this season, due to bad form, injury and the rise in the strike-pairing of Loic Remy and Yoan Gouffran. Newcastle won a patch of 7 out of 9 Premier League games, beating United, Chelsea and Tottenham on the way. In the Tottenham game in particular, Tim Krul was a brick wall, making fourteen saves, some of which defied belief. Some January signings will be needed to freshen up the squad and keep it competitive against bigger clubs, but the current squad have been able to hold their own. Newcastle have lost their last three however, so will need to lift a bit, but with a passionate fan base behind them, I cannot see the Toon dropping out of the top half for the rest of the season - there certainly won't be any relegation scares like 2012/13.
Predicted Finish: 8th
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- NORWICH
League Standing: 15th | 20 points (P21 - W5 - D5 - L11) | GD -18
Star Player: Leroy Fer
The summer transfer window for Norwich saw them bring in a lot of players, such as Ricky van Wolfswinkel, Leroy Fer, Gary Hooper, Nathan Redmond and Johan Elmander. However, the Canaries have been a bit of a letdown this season, not having the breakout I predicted them to. They are not playing bad enough to look like being relegated, but there is no doubt they are in the relegation dogfight, only 2 points above the drop zone. The main problem for Norwich is not having enough contributors consistently. Van Wolfswinkel scored a goal on debut against Everton but has done hardly anything since; Hooper has been hampered by injury but did score a wonderful lob against Swansea, and has five to his name now; while Scottish midfielder Robert Snodgrass has not reached the heights he did last season. Sebastien Bassong has struggled with injury as well, and Norwich have missed his presence when he has been out. John Ruddy has dipped a bit from 2012/13 but is still a very good keeper. Norwich just need more from their star players to get more points and avoid any potential relegation shock. The main thing for them is to win the crucial six-pointers against sides below them, and if they do that enough then I think they should survive by about 3-5 points.
Predicted Finish: 15th
Rooney and RVP both out for the Chelsea game for those who don't know .
Quote from: vinny on January 18, 2014, 02:17:10 AM
Rooney and RVP both out for the Chelsea game for those who don't know .
:D
Apparently Zlatan Ibrahimovic had this to say about the game.
Quoteif man united beat chelsea on sunday, i will retire from football.'
I highly doubt he would say that. He knows that football is an extremely unpredictable game at the best of times. Plus why would he even care what's going on over in England?
Quote from: Honey Badger on January 18, 2014, 10:33:37 PM
I highly doubt he would say that. He knows that football is an extremely unpredictable game at the best of times. Plus why would he even care what's going on over in England?
Ibra is known for his wild comments so who knows if this is true.
Ibra is the funniest and most unpredictable guy ever, he probably did say that haha.
GAMEWEEK 22 PREVIEW
Sunderland v Southampton
KEY PLAYER: Artur Boruc
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Southampton
Arsenal v Fulham
KEY PLAYER: Olivier Giroud
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-1 to Arsenal
Crystal Palace v Stoke
KEY PLAYER: Danny Gabbidon
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to Stoke
Manchester City v Cardiff
KEY PLAYER: Alvaro Negredo
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 4-1 to Manchester City
West Ham v Newcastle
KEY PLAYER: Yohan Cabaye
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Newcastle
Norwich v Hull
KEY PLAYER: Ricky van Wolfswinkel
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Norwich
Liverpool v Aston Villa
KEY PLAYER: Daniel Sturridge (I can't say Suarez every week!)
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 4-1 to Liverpool
Chelsea v Manchester United
KEY PLAYER: Eden Hazard
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Chelsea
Swansea v Tottenham
KEY PLAYER: Christian Eriksen
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Tottenham
West Bromich Albion v Everton
KEY PLAYER: Kevin Mirallas
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Everton
wats the game i should be watching?
Not many great blockbuster games at 2 this week but I think you can expect quite few goals in the Arsenal & Fulham game or the ManCity Cardiff game
cheers the Bundesliga's not back for another week so trying to get my football fix and its only 11pm in WA :P
Quote from: Cicjose on January 19, 2014, 01:51:32 AM
wats the game i should be watching?
Turns out the first game was the best one! I would have said the City game because goals are aplenty at the Etihad
If you're staying up tonight, have a look at the Chelsea-ManUtd game. Always a big clash
(http://www.youngisthan.in/userfiles/meme/david-moyes-records.jpg)
Spurs to get into top 4?...Adebeyor on fire... ???
Tottenham have a huge game next week against Man City that should tell us if they are really a top 4 team this season i really don't think they are though.
I know this isn't the place for it, but has anyone seen Messi's creepy smile/grin/face in the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 ad on TV? :o :P
I like that ad. :)
Quote from: PowerBug on January 20, 2014, 08:10:02 PM
I like that ad. :)
I do too, but Messi's smile is weeiiiiiiirdd.
Quote from: NigeyS on January 20, 2014, 08:07:40 PM
I know this isn't the place for it, but has anyone seen Messi's creepy smile/grin/face in the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 ad on TV? :o :P
no :o
(http://nesncom.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/lionel-messi-samsung-galaxy.jpg)
Quote from: Noz on January 21, 2014, 11:00:47 PM
(http://nesncom.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/lionel-messi-samsung-galaxy.jpg)
"Hyuk Hyuk Hyuk...gues what I am thinking...Hyuk Hyuk Hyuk"
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- SOUTHAMPTON
League Standing: 9th | 31 points (P22 - W8 - D7 - L7) | GD +4
Star Player: Adam Lallana
Southampton have started the season extremely well, much better than anybody predicted. They strengthened well in the Transfer Window, signing defender Dejan Lovren, midfielder Victor Wanyama, and flamboyant striker Pablo "Danny" Osvaldo. The side has also been galvanised by the likes of youngsters Luke Shaw, James Ward-Prowse, Jay Rodriguez, Callum Chambers and Nathaniel Clyne really stepping up this season. Players like these are the reason that Southampton have one of the most famed youth academies in England. The form of Adam Lallana has been exceptional - either side of the 10 weeks I had him in my Fantasy Premier League team, when he did crap all - who has been responsible for a lot of Southampton's attacking returns, while the addition of Lovren has created an extremely solid defence made up of Shaw, Lovren, Jose Fonte and Clyne. This is coupled with one of the best keepers in the Premier League, Artur Boruc, in goals. The Polish shot-stopper has suffered with injury a bit this season, and as a result the Saints defence conceded more goals and looked less assured. But now that Boruc is back this will most likely change. His performance against Swansea was a standout, making a number of spectacular saves. Chairman Nicola Cortese recently resigned from the club, leaving doubts over whether Mauricio Pochettino will stay on as manager and creating uncertainty in January, when a number of clubs will come after their players. But Southampton have started incredibly well this season - they now must maintain their run, and not let what is going on in the boardroom affect them on the pitch.
Predicted Finish: 9th
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- STOKE
League Standing: 14th | 22 points (P22 - W5 - D7 - L10) | GD -14
Star Player: Peter Crouch
Hard to pick a star player for Stoke this season, as it has been a typical season for the Potters - OK performances but bloody boring to watch. Peter Crouch has bobbed up with goals every now and then but Charlie Adam has surprised most by managing to find the back of the net 5 times. The loan signing of Marko Arnautovic has also proven to be a handy acquisition, with him adding attacking quality (albeit only scoring 1 goal). Stephen Ireland, Jonathan Walters and Ousamma Assaidi have all shown glimpses this season but need to be more consistent. Ryan Shawcross aside, the Stoke defence has looked too fragile and has has to rely on goalkeeper Asmir Begovic to get them out of trouble. Begovic has been good this season, arguably the main reason Stoke have managed to get a point or three from some of their games. He even scored a goal against Southampton! Stoke have played well in patches - like the 0-0 draw with Manchester City, and fought admirably in the 5-3 loss to Liverpool and the 3-2 loss at Manchester United - but consistency is the key. They cannot afford to keep losing crunch games, as they have lost 1-0 to Fulham, Norwich and Crystal Palace. Discipline is key as well, as Stoke have a reputation - Adam in particular - of lunging in with dangerous tackles and playing 'dirty'. In reality, only the top 9 teams are safe from the relegation battle, so Stoke will have to fight to survive. But I actually think they'll do it comfortably.
Predicted Finish: 11th
These all are awesome write ups man, keep it up!
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- SUNDERLAND
League Standing: 19th | 18 points (P22 - W4 - D6 - L12) | GD -15
Star Player: Vito Mannone
Not long ago it widely agreed that Sunderland were certain to drop, but the seemingly-impossible has now become possible. Gus Poyet's men have produced some inspired football over the last month or two, providing fans with a glimmer of hope, sitting just one point away from safety. When Paolo di Canio was sacked by club hierachy, the club was in crisis, sitting deep in relegation with no win to date in 9 games, the most crucial being a 3-1 loss at Crystal Palace. Since Poyet arrived, the team has been playing with more solidarity; more desire, and more players are standing up. Phil Bardsley has been a revelation as an attacking defender, whilst Adam Johnson has come alive in 2014, scoring 4 goals in the last 2 games. Steven Fletcher has been out with injury, but Fabio Borini is playing with more freedom as a striker, his highlight coming against Newcastle when his curler sealed an upset win in the Tyneside Derby. Vito Mannone has been a revelation in goals; Emanuele Gierracherini has shown patches of brilliance and Ki Sung-Yeung has been a star, on loan from Swansea. Sunderland need these players to keep producing week-in week-out if they are to survive. All three teams in the relegation zone - West Ham, Sunderland and Cardiff - have a 4-6-12 record and all sit on 18 points, but such is the tight nature of the league, Aston Villa in 10th place are only six points ahead. I had intially predicted Sunderland to drop, but if they keep playing the way they are I don't think they will.
Predicted Finish: 17th
Just hit 4000 views while writing this, cheers lads 8)
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- SWANSEA
League Standing: 15th | 21 points (P22 - W5 - D6 - L11) | GD -6
Star Player: Wilfried Bony
Onto my team, the Swans. Swansea have been quite disappointing this season, after a very strong transfer window. To put it into context... Manchester United signed two players - Swansea signed about seven! Of those players, Wilfried Bony and Jonjo Shelvey have been the two best. Jose Canas and Alex Pozuelo have been solid, but not spectacular, in midfield, while Jordi Amat has been a reliable third-choice Centre Back. It has been hard to put a finger on why Michael Laudrup's side find themselves just 3 points above the relegation zone. Injuries have hurt the side, no doubt about that, with a lot of key players missing at various parts of the season, including Michu who has been very disappointing in his second season. But he is still a very good player, and the sooner he comes back the better. Michel Vorm was good in goals until he got injured, while Gerhard Tremmel has been OK as back-up. The defence of Chico Flores and Ashley Williams is very good but has lacked consistency this season. Michu and Bony are beginning to find their feet as a pairing, with Shelvey playing behind the trio can be very dangerous. After a slow start, Bony has been on a hot streak of late, scoring the winner against Manchester United at Old Trafford - United losing at OT? That's new!! ;D - to knock them out of the FA Cup earlier this year, in addition to 7 Premier League goals this season. But in the Premier League, where they haven't won in 8 games, the side has failed to pick up points against big clubs - in their 12 games against the current Top 10, they have only picked up 4 points, a 3-0 win against Newcastle and a 1-1 draw at Aston Villa. Their only other loss was against Cardiff - the Wales Derby which (locally) holds as much value as the Manchester Derby - but they have failed to put away teams like Norwich, Villa and West Ham, which has hurt them points-wise. Swansea are in the relegation battle, but I think their squad is much better than a few teams above them, and once their players return from injury, the rest of the League will see that.
Predicted Finish: 10th
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- TOTTENHAM
League Standing: 5th | 43 points (P22 - W13 - D4 - L5) | GD +3
Star Player: Andros Townsend
Been a mixed bag for Tottenham this season. As we all know, they sold Gareth Bale to Real Madrid, while gave them the ability to go on a 120m spree in the summer. The likes of Christian Eriksen, Roberto Soldado, Erik Lamela and Nacer Chadli arrived - amongst others - and the squad entered the season full of optimism. Two 1-0 victories of Crystal Palace and Swansea, both courtesy of Soldado penalties, gave them a good start, but after that it slowly began to unravel. Even though Spurs were off to a record start, they weren't well entrenched in the Top Four, as hoped, due to the likes of Liverpool, Everton and (to a lesser extent) Southampton playing so well. Two heavy thrashings at the hands of Manchester City (6-0 at the Etihad) led to pressure on Andre Villas-Boas to keep his job, amidst rumours of a rift with trigger-happy chairman Daniel Levy. After a couple of hard fought victories and a 2-2 draw with Manchester United, Liverpool came to White Hart Lane and thrashed Spurs 5-0. That was the nail in AVB's coffin. Then-assistant coach Tim Sherwood took over, and since then things are going rosy, with the new boss winning 5 of his first 6 games. A chnange in formation to a 4-4-2 has seen Eriksen transform, and the return of Emmanuel Adebayor - frozen out under AVB - has brought about goals, with him and Soldado forming a dangerous duo up front. Lamela was Tottenham's record signing, but was consigned to the bench under AVB, as Andros Townsend was playing too well to get dropped. He cut a lonely figure on the bench, and still does, but it remains to be seen whether under Sherwood he will get more of a run. Jermain Defoe may have signed for Toronto FC but doesn't leave until the end of February, and is still scoring every now and then. Tottenham don't quite have the goods for fourth place yet, and I still believe United will finish 5th, so Tottenham will most likely miss out on Europa qualification. But watch out next season.
Predicted Finish: 6th or 7th
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- WEST BROMWICH ALBION
League Standing: 13th | 22 points (P22 - W4 - D10 - L8) | GD -5
Star Player: Liam Ridgewell
Like Tottenham, West Bromwich Albion have also had a mixed bag this season. They have performed very well against some very big clubs - they beat Manchester United 2-1 at Old Trafford, they drew 1-1 with Arsenal, they drew 2-2 against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge (and should have won if not for a ludicrous penalty), and held Tottenham to a 1-1 draw away as well - but haven't been able to match that against smaller teams - losing 1-0 to Cardiff and 2-0 to Norwich. West Brom have had a number of strikers pop up every now and then, but none who have yet replicated the efforts of Romelu Lukaku last season. Shane Long (now at Hull), Nicolas Anelka (now under investigation for an obscene goal celebration), [/b]Matej Vydra, Victor Anichebe[/b] and young gun Saido Berahino have all scored, but none have been able to make the striker position their own. Defensively, Jonas Olsson, Gareth McAuley and Liam Ridgewell have been resolute, whilst goalkeeper Boaz Myhill performed admirably in the absence of Ben Foster through injury. Steve Clarke was very very stiff to get sacked, after a run of 4 losses, but West Brom weren't playing that badly. Pepe Mel is the new manager so it will be interesting to see if the club's fortunes change. I think that West Brom will not get relegated, although they won't survive by much, but the Bottom 11 teams will be very close, and West Brom have a good enough squad to survive.
Predicted Finish: 12th
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- WEST HAM UNITED
League Standing: 18th | 18 points (P22 - W4 - D6 - L12) | GD -11
Star Player: Liam Ridgewell
A very disappointing start for West Ham, which has put pressure on Sam Allardyce to keep his job. I don't think they would have predicted this at the start of the season. Up front, West Ham have struggled very badly, with the record signing of Andy Carroll yet to start a game since joining from Liverpool. They need him fit and firing desperately, because they have looked often-inept in front of goal, as the likes of Modibo Maiga and Ricardo Vaz Te haven't cut the mustard. Carroll returned in the vital 2-0 win against Cardiff and though he was on the pitch for 20 minutes, managed to grab an assist. He is the key to West Ham's survival. Ravel Morrison has provided a lot of flair for the Hammers, but also moments of madness and proving that he is still very immature (which is why Manchester United sold him in the first place). Joe Cole has battled fitness and form, but has proven handy at times, whilst the midfield duo of Kevin Nolan and Mark Noble haven't reached the heights of last season, but have been far from West Ham's worst players. But their star player has been their keeper, Jussi Jaaskelainen. The veteran goalkeeper has made some superb saves to give West Ham points they don't always deserve. West Ham have been part of 5 or 6 scoreless draws, and it has largely been due to Jaaskelainen's influence between the sticks, coupled with their lack of attacking options. If Carroll can get back fit and firing, West Ham might survive. If not, West Ham might drop, and Big Sam will get the sack. They will only just survive in my opinion.
Predicted Finish: 16th
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- PREDICTED TABLE
Made a few tweaks to what I'd posted in previous MSRs but this is my final Predicted Table! But 10th-20th could be absolutely any order at all ::)
Feel free to post yours.
1st - Manchester City
------------------------------------------
2nd - Chelsea
3rd - Arsenal
4th - Liverpool
------------------------------------------
5th - Manchester United
------------------------------------------
6th - Tottenham
7th - Everton
8th - Newcastle
9th - Southampton
10th - Swansea City
11th - Stoke City
12th - West Bromwich Albion
13th - Hull City
14th - Aston Villa
15th - Norwich City
16th - West Ham United
17th - Sunderland
------------------------------------------
18th - Crystal Palace
19th - Cardiff
20th - Fulham
1. Arsenal
2. Manchester City
3. Chelsea
4. Liverpool
5. Everton
6. Manchester United
7. Tottenham
8. Newcastle
9. Southampton
10. Stoke
There's my top 10, bias with Arsenal on top, realistically I think Man City will overtake us eventually, we seem to drop points against the mid to low ranked teams that we should be beating.
(https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRXw7b-wAcet3RBgYXu5hmghDaE6A1OQXsN6XQMgkRWSfgE2Pgy)
Welcome my friend.
Quote from: Tominator on January 22, 2014, 01:50:41 PM
Tominator's Mid-Season Review -- PREDICTED TABLE
Made a few tweaks to what I'd posted in previous MSRs but this is my final Predicted Table! But 10th-20th could be absolutely any order at all ::)
Feel free to post yours.
1st - Manchester City
------------------------------------------
2nd - Chelsea
3rd - Arsenal
4th - Liverpool
------------------------------------------
5th - Manchester United
------------------------------------------
6th - Tottenham
7th - Everton
8th - Newcastle
9th - Southampton
10th - Swansea City
11th - Stoke City
12th - West Bromwich Albion
13th - Hull City
14th - Aston Villa
15th - Norwich City
16th - West Ham United
17th - Sunderland
------------------------------------------
18th - Crystal Palace
19th - Cardiff
20th - Fulham
:'(
Heard on the radio that Man Cities owners have bought Melbourne Heart.
http://www.smh.com.au/sport/soccer/manchester-city-buy-aleague-club-melbourne-heart-20140123-319zz.html
Quote from: Andrew3737 on January 23, 2014, 09:06:36 AM
(https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRXw7b-wAcet3RBgYXu5hmghDaE6A1OQXsN6XQMgkRWSfgE2Pgy)
Welcome my friend.
confirmed or just rumour?
Quote from: timmyparso on January 23, 2014, 02:32:10 PM
Quote from: Andrew3737 on January 23, 2014, 09:06:36 AM
(https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRXw7b-wAcet3RBgYXu5hmghDaE6A1OQXsN6XQMgkRWSfgE2Pgy)
Welcome my friend.
confirmed or just rumour?
Fee agreed apparently at 60mil pounds............
Thats a rumour for sure. He should go to United.
United prepared to bid 40 million for Mata.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-01-23/manchester-united-reportedly-bid-for-mata/5214234
http://wwos.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=8788006
http://wwos.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=8788006
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/manchester-united/10590820/Juan-Matas-37million-transfer-to-Manchester-United-accepted-by-Chelsea.html
It's all rumours, absolutely nothing confirmed yet.
Posted this in the transfer thread, it deserves a double post ;)
Quote from: elephants on January 23, 2014, 03:33:21 PM
I don't think we would sell Mata to title rivals... Oh, wait :P
I know this isn't the place to post this but has anyone been keeping up with the Mourinho/Moyes prank call videos?
Mata to United is pretty much done. Just need 100% from either club.
Quote from: Noz on January 23, 2014, 06:23:20 PM
I know this isn't the place to post this but has anyone been keeping up with the Mourinho/Moyes prank call videos?
The Terry Fahy ones? Pretty sure CF (or HB as he's now called) mentioned it in another thread earlier today. I watched a heap of them, can't go past Mourinho's "roar" song. :P Oh and btw guys, I'm coming down with tozl. "top of ze league" 8)
Quote from: PowerBug on January 23, 2014, 10:23:52 PM
Quote from: Noz on January 23, 2014, 06:23:20 PM
I know this isn't the place to post this but has anyone been keeping up with the Mourinho/Moyes prank call videos?
The Terry Fahy ones? Pretty sure CF (or HB as he's now called) mentioned it in another thread earlier today. I watched a heap of them, can't go past Mourinho's "roar" song. :P Oh and btw guys, I'm coming down with tozl. "top of ze league" 8)
Love those!
Drunk United fan calling the cops wanting to speak to Fergie
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=548994875196197&set=vb.322690241159996&type=2&theater
Quote from: Tominator on January 24, 2014, 11:38:14 AM
Quote from: PowerBug on January 23, 2014, 10:23:52 PM
Quote from: Noz on January 23, 2014, 06:23:20 PM
I know this isn't the place to post this but has anyone been keeping up with the Mourinho/Moyes prank call videos?
The Terry Fahy ones? Pretty sure CF (or HB as he's now called) mentioned it in another thread earlier today. I watched a heap of them, can't go past Mourinho's "roar" song. :P Oh and btw guys, I'm coming down with tozl. "top of ze league" 8)
Love those!
Drunk United fan calling the cops wanting to speak to Fergie
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=548994875196197&set=vb.322690241159996&type=2&theater
Haha oh dear, I hope he got to speak with him.
You know, Mark Hughes may not have been the best manager whilst at City, but he definitely still had the skills as a player!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6LvYRab2U8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6LvYRab2U8)
I'm sure many of you have seen this before since it happened a few years ago, but still it's an amazing hit!
Chelsea have verbally agreed on a deal with Costa.
Quote from: Noz on January 27, 2014, 12:34:34 AM
Chelsea have verbally agreed on a deal with Costa.
seems likely that they'll also get Salah.
pretty dirty about it too, been chasing the bloke for months and he's gonna replace Mata on the bench.
@Mata to Man UTD.
i dont think he'll have the impact that most UTD fans are expecting.
they've already got a pretty decent attacking mid in Kagawa but dont use him properly.
Kagawa has been used properly all year. He just hasnt been that good. Mata is a lot better than Kagawa and can actually play from the wide areas efficiently. Mata is a huge upgrade on any attacking player we have that isnt Rooney or RVP.
how can you be good or build form if you rarely get used??
he was a beast at dortmund coz they played him in the right position, sure the PL is a bit more physical and him being a tiny fella doesnt help but c'mon, play the guy, and play him right.
he sits behind the fwds not out wide.
i think UTD will miss europe. Being a LFC fan i've Kopped it for years from mates who "follow" united.
nice to be able to give it back.
guys, with school going back this week - Year 12 no less - finding time to commit to this thread is going to be very hard
I hope you guys all enjoyed the Mid-Season Reviews because I did put a lot of time and effort into them, and I enjoyed writing them too. But with the demands of school and sport and all that, I won't be able to give this thread the time I have in the past
I'll still do weekly previews and tips but the Reviews will unfortunately have to go.
But this thread is still a discussion thread so is completely open for banter and any EPL-related chat
Hope you guys have enjoyed it so far and if anybody wants to take over feel free (though I'm not expecting or asking anybody to do so). I'll still be active but just nowhere near as much, as my studies will have to take precedence :)
No worries Tom, you've done an unreal job this season, thoroughly enjoyed the reviews and previews, good luck with year 12 mate.
Arsenal will be undefeated for the remainder of the season
#banter
Quote from: specky92 on January 27, 2014, 02:27:47 PM
No worries Tom, you've done an unreal job this season, thoroughly enjoyed the reviews and previews, good luck with year 12 mate.
What he said. Cheers for all the work Tom.
Quote from: specky92 on January 27, 2014, 02:27:47 PM
Arsenal will be undefeated for the remainder of the season
#banter
Haha, have you seen your upcoming fixture?! :P
Liverpool to win the FA Cup and win a champions league place #banter
Quote from: My Chumps on January 27, 2014, 03:38:06 PM
Quote from: specky92 on January 27, 2014, 02:27:47 PM
No worries Tom, you've done an unreal job this season, thoroughly enjoyed the reviews and previews, good luck with year 12 mate.
What he said. Cheers for all the work Tom.
What these guys said, well done man was awesome stuff. good luck with year 12. :)
Quote from: My Chumps on January 27, 2014, 03:38:06 PM
Quote from: specky92 on January 27, 2014, 02:27:47 PM
Arsenal will be undefeated for the remainder of the season
#banter
Haha, have you seen your upcoming fixture?! :P
Liverpool to win the FA Cup and win a champions league place #banter
hahah, yeah, Liverpool, United, Liverpool and Bayern but 3 at home so not all bad.
Quote from: specky92 on January 27, 2014, 06:48:53 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on January 27, 2014, 03:38:06 PM
Quote from: specky92 on January 27, 2014, 02:27:47 PM
Arsenal will be undefeated for the remainder of the season
#banter
Haha, have you seen your upcoming fixture?! :P
Liverpool to win the FA Cup and win a champions league place #banter
hahah, yeah, Liverpool, United, Liverpool and Bayern but 3 at home so not all bad.
not even difficult :P
Quote from: vinny on January 27, 2014, 03:47:51 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on January 27, 2014, 03:38:06 PM
Quote from: specky92 on January 27, 2014, 02:27:47 PM
No worries Tom, you've done an unreal job this season, thoroughly enjoyed the reviews and previews, good luck with year 12 mate.
What he said. Cheers for all the work Tom.
What these guys said, well done man was awesome stuff. good luck with year 12. :)
You're all legends 8)
GAMEWEEK 23 PREVIEW
Manchester United v Cardiff City
KEY PLAYER: Juan Mata
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-1 to United
Norwich City v Newcastle United
KEY PLAYER: Loic Remy (in the absence of Yohan Cabaye)
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Newcastle
Southampton v Arsenal
KEY PLAYER: Artur Boruc
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Arsenal
Swansea City v Fulham
KEY PLAYER: Wilfried Bony
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Swansea .... massive game for both clubs, come on Swans!!
Liverpool v Everton
KEY PLAYER: Luis Suarez
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-2 to Liverpool .... MASSIVE game for both sides!
Crystal Palace v Hull City
KEY PLAYER: Curtis Davies
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Aston Villa v West Bromwich Albion
KEY PLAYER: Christian Benteke
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to West Brom
Sunderland v Stoke City
KEY PLAYER: Vito Mannone
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Chelsea v West Ham United
KEY PLAYER: Nemanja Matic
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-0 to Chelsea
Tottenham v Manchester City
KEY PLAYER: Hugo Lloris
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Manchester City
Go Tottenham! Get your shower together and give the gunners a buffer! Ox to come on and score a hatrick! 8)
COYB
So glad i got up to watch the boys destroy Everton.
Quote from: Noz on January 29, 2014, 08:16:46 AM
So glad i got up to watch the boys destroy Everton.
I know. Great game.
Only one thing better than seeing the ladder leaders drop points and that Chelsea having a win to go equal top! C'mon lads, make it happen!
:'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
another injury to add to the list.. we're struggling to make up numbers for the bench
GAMEWEEK 24 PREVIEW
Newcastle v Sunderland
KEY PLAYER: Adam Johnson
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Newcastle (yet as I type this Sunderland lead 2-0 of course!)
West Ham United v Swansea City
KEY PLAYER: Wilfried Bony
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Swansea (yet as I type this West Ham lead 1-0!)
Cardiff City v Norwich City
KEY PLAYER: Wilfried Zaha
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Fulham v Southampton
KEY PLAYER: Lewis Holtby
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Southampton
Everton v Aston Villa
KEY PLAYER: Kevin Mirallas
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Everton
Hull City v Tottenham
KEY PLAYER: Nikita Jelavic
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Tottenham
Stoke City v Manchester United
KEY PLAYER: Robin van Persie
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to United
West Bromwich Albion v Liverpool
KEY PLAYER: Daniel Sturridge
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-1 to Liverpool
Arsenal v Crystal Palace
KEY PLAYER: Mesut Ozil
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Arsenal
Manchester City v Chelsea
KEY PLAYER: Edin Dzeko
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-2 to City ... but Chelsea could jag one point or even three
Oh dear Newcastle
yawn. std united.
United lost, again..... I can't see them making Top Four!!
And as for my tips well, 2 out of 7!!
I need good games out of Dzeko, Hazard, Suarez, Sturridge, Silva & a CS for Arsenal. Sagna assist would be good top.
not EPL related but Leeds manager Brian McDermott was apparently sacked, then unsacked, and has now been reinstated as Leeds manager. Go figure.
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25986093
Aguerro... :'(
http://www.espn.co.uk/football/sport/story/278733.html
City scoreless at home :o
City lost at home :o
Holy shower we are playing irresistible football right now!
Please don't lose by double figures Arsenal, :-\
This is Amazing
GAMEWEEK 25 PREVIEW
Liverpool v Arsenal
KEY PLAYER:
TOMINATOR'S TIP: I had a 2-2 draw but as I type Liverpool lead 5-0....!!
Southampton v Stoke City
KEY PLAYER: Adam Lallana ... he's burning me for not having him in FPL so I pray he doesn't keep destroying
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Southampton
Chelsea v Newcastle
KEY PLAYER: Gary Cahill
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Chelsea
Aston Villa v West Ham United
KEY PLAYER: Kevin Nolan
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Villa
Sunderland v Hull City
KEY PLAYER: Fabio Borini
TOMINATOR'S TIP: Bit left-field but I'm going for a 2-1 Sunderland win
Norwich City v Manchester City
KEY PLAYER: Yaya Toure
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-1 to City
Crystal Palace v West Bromwich Albion
KEY PLAYER: Julian Speroni
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to Palace
Swansea City v Cardiff City
KEY PLAYER: Ashley Williams
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw .... but God I hope Swansea get up!!
Tottenham v Everton
KEY PLAYER: Emmanuel Adebayor
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-2 draw
Manchester United v Fulham
KEY PLAYER: Wayne Rooney
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-1 to United ... but if they lose then Moyes is in big trouble
Chelsea top! 8)
So Manchester United draw, Arsenal get demolish, Man City draw only thing that could of made this week better is if Chelsea had of lost. We are coming.
Crouch is also on the way on breaking the record for the most header goals in the EPL.
Perhaps SAF predicted the demise of United and decided he didn't want to be apart of it so he left.
IMHO, as much as I want him to do well, Moyes has to go at the end of the season. He isn't up to the top job at Manchester United.
FULHAM!!! COYW!!!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! FLOWER YES!!!
Bloody hell, about time Bent did something useful ::)
Moyes been sacked yet?
http://www.hasmoyesbeensacked.com/
thanks for the update
whatta f*cking game... stressing hard.
4 points of the top with 12 games to go.
chance to win the league?? ;D
Dear Liverpool fans,
Let's face it, you only got the win because Spudrez kicked Stekkers in the face. Consider yourselves veeeeeeery lucky >:(
Dear rest of the comp,
Beware.
COYW!!!
Quote from: stew42 on February 13, 2014, 09:23:15 AM
Dear Liverpool fans,
Let's face it, you only got the win because Spudrez kicked Stekkers in the face. Consider yourselves veeeeeeery lucky >:(
it was a 50/50, Suarez had eyes on the ball, and your GK was brave as f*ck going in.
unlucky to get KO'd but still a fair call.
Quote from: stew42 on February 13, 2014, 09:23:15 AMDear rest of the comp,
Beware.
COYW!!!
hey, no doubt.
glad we got a win and dont have to play you's again.
12 games to go, you'll be out of the relegation zone.
You have no idea how relieved I am to hear that :P
Certainly can't be called the worst team in the league now, drawing with MU and just missing out to Liverpool in our past two. ;D
Quote from: Keeper27 on February 13, 2014, 09:29:17 AM
hey, no doubt.
glad we got a win and dont have to play you's again.
12 games to go, you'll be out of the relegation zone.
Never seen anyone use an apostrophe when writing yous. Still doesn't make it right though :P
Quote from: Honey Badger on February 13, 2014, 09:47:19 AM
Never seen anyone use an apostrophe when writing yous. Still doesn't make it right though :P
meh..
GAMEWEEK 27 PREVIEW
Chelsea v Everton
KEY PLAYER: John Terry
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Chelsea ... big game for both the title race and the fourth place race
Arsenal v Sunderland
KEY PLAYER: Adam Johnson
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Arsenal ... as good as Sunderland are playing, Arsenal haven't conceded a goal at home since Decmeber 8
Cardiff City v Hull City
KEY PLAYER: Wilfried Zaha
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Hull ... a Cardiff loss would put them in big trouble with relegation
Manchester City v Stoke City
KEY PLAYER: Vincent Kompany
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Man City
West Bromwich Albion v Fulham
KEY PLAYER: Darren Bent
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to WBA
West Ham United v Southampton
KEY PLAYER: Jay Rodriguez
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Southampton
Crystal Palace v Manchester United
KEY PLAYERMANAGER: David Moyes
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw ... Moyes isn't changing his tactics and Palace are very good at home, strong defensively and can score too
Liverpool v Swansea City
KEY PLAYER: Daniel Sturridge
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Liverpool ... Swansea played very well against Napoli mid-week but are going have to replicate that to be any chance
Newcastle v Aston Villa
KEY PLAYER: Brad Guzan
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Newcastle
Norwich v Tottenham
KEY PLAYER: Paulinho
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to Tottenham
Sturridge....go go go... ;D
GAMEWEEK 29 PREVIEW
West Bromwich Albion v Manchester United
Massive game for United and particularly David Moyes after another tumultuous couple of weeks. A loss here would put them in doubt of qualifying for Europa
KEY PLAYER: Juan Mata
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to United
Cardiff City v Fulham
A big game; a crunch six-pointer. Expect both sides to throw everything at this one, as it could play a big role in the relegation results come May.
KEY PLAYER: Jonny Heitinga
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-2 draw
Norwich City v Stoke City
A win for Norwich would really boost relegation fears, coming off the back of a 1-0 triumph over Spurs. Stoke have been inconsistent but were excellent against Arsenal, and will be without Charlie Adam for another suspension.
KEY PLAYER: Gary Hooper
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to Norwich
Crystal Palace v Southampton
Palace are defensively solid at home, while Southampton have had four players coming off England international duties, but that added quality should prove too strong.
KEY PLAYER: Julian Speroni
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Southampton
Chelsea v Tottenham
Biggest game of the round - a win for Chelsea would put them 7 points clear at the top of the table, but a win for Tottenham would boost Top Four chances. But Tottenham have trouble scoring, and Chelsea will probably be too good at home
KEY PLAYER: Eden Hazard
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to Chelsea
4-0 and 7 points clear on top! 8)
"We're gonna win the league, we're gonna win the league"
Too soon :s haha
^ I'm still being cautious of uttering those words.
Arsenal poised to make their move..... ;D
Cardiff beat Fulham 3-1 ... gonna be hard for Fulham to survive now; their nearest rival is Sunderland who are 3 points ahead but have 3 extra games in hand... I can't see them avoiding the drop
GAMEWEEK 30 PREVIEW
Hull City v Manchester City
City now remain in just one competition after crashing out of the Champions League and FA Cup. They'll look to bounce back but need to arrest their poor away form, against Hull who are generally good at home.
KEY PLAYER: Sergio Aguero
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Man City
Everton v Cardiff City
Another crunch game for Cardiff, but it should prove too tough a task against an Everton side that need every point they can get if they are to grab a Europa spot
KEY PLAYER: Leighton Baines
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Everton
Fulham v Newcastle United
Every game for Fulham is a crunch game now. A 3-1 loss to Cardiff leaves them in massive trouble, and if they go down badly against the Magpies at Craven Cottage, it could be curtains.
KEY PLAYER: Maarten Stelekenberg
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Newcastle
Southampton v Norwich
Southampton's run of favourable fixtures continues with a home game against Norwich, who have been in good form recently. But the Saints should be too good at home
KEY PLAYER: Adam Lallana
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Southampton
Stoke City v West Ham United
West Ham have won their last four games to find themselves sitting in the Top 10, after being in the relegation zone a month earlier! A trip to Stoke will test them and could potentially bring them back to earth. Both teams are defensively strong so could be a 0-0 draw.
KEY PLAYER: Peter Crouch
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 0-0 draw
Sunderland v Crystal Palace
Earlier this season these two clubs seemed certain to go down. But with new managers came renewed form and they are now looking like potentially surviving, but Sunderland still sit 2nd bottom. This is a massive six-pointer.
KEY PLAYER: Thomas Ince
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Sunderland
Swansea City v West Bromwich Albion
West Brom are out of the relegation zone only on goal difference, and a bad loss here could send them down. They are in desperate need of a win, whilst Swansea are fresh from a week off after their Europa League exit to Napoli, could also do with 3 points themselves.
KEY PLAYER: Wilfried Bony
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Swansea
Aston Villa v Chelsea
Samuel Eto'o looks set to lead the line for Chelsea after his recent form, in a game that Chelsea need to capitalise to cement their advantage at the top. They lead Man City by 9 points, though Man City have 3 games in hand.
KEY PLAYER: Samuel Eto'o
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Chelsea
Manchester United v Liverpool
David Moyes' men played very well against West Brom, and are showing glimpses that they can play good football. This will be a massive test, as will games against Olympiakos and Manchester City, both at OT, to see where they are at and whether Moyes is good enough. Fellaini's recent form has been a revelation, but they need more consistency against a very up-and-about Liverpool side.
KEY PLAYER: Marouane Fellaini
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Liverpool
Tottenham v Arsenal
The North London derby! What a game this always is. Tottenham have lost heavily against City and Liverpool, as well as last week's 4-0 drubbing to Chelsea, and will need to bounce back against an Arsenal side who need every point possible to challenge for the title. Massive game!
KEY PLAYER: Hugo Lloris
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
3-0 against United @ Old Trafford. I'll take that
4 points off top with a game spare. Loving it. City still 3 games in hand and a point behind.
YNWA!
FULHAM!!! The Great Escape 2.0 is fast approaching... ;)
Good old Chelsea, keeping the title race exciting 8)
Quote from: elephants on March 17, 2014, 12:16:50 PM
Good old Chelsea, keeping the title race exciting 8)
David Moyes did what he's done best for United today
One step forward, three steps back
Cmon everton. lets end this season on a high 8)
LFC grinded out another win... undefeated all year.
Come on you reds
COYB
6 points behind arsenal. 1 game in hand. playing them in 2 weeks. WE CAN GET CHAMPIONS LEAGUE CMON
3 left in the title hunt now.
Come on Liverpool!
Quote from: Keeper27 on March 27, 2014, 01:04:18 PM
LFC grinded out another win... undefeated all year
WOW did not realise that :o
this thread kinda died but
COYB
Brilliant 3-0 win over Arsenal meaning that top 4 is now in our own hands :D
Quote from: Tominator on March 28, 2014, 11:16:21 AM
Quote from: Keeper27 on March 27, 2014, 01:04:18 PM
LFC grinded out another win... undefeated all year
WOW did not realise that :o
still undefeated. even Bayern Lost.
grinded out another win against West Ham.
Title decider against Man City next up, @ Anfield. ;D
We will defeat City this week
Quote from: Noz on April 08, 2014, 02:09:05 PM
We will defeat City this week
bloody hope so, would make me relax a little.
Yaya is the main danger. But gerrard/Hendo could cover him.
Dzeko/Negredo are the main fwd problem. but im glad Sakho is back.
SAS and sterling will menace City's defence.
0-0 draw, Chelsea to win the league.
Arsenal too make a late charge..... 8)
Quote from: T Dog on April 08, 2014, 08:52:35 PM
Arsenal too make a late charge..... 8)
Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha
I reckon my lonesome vote on a beautiful team that wears red is going to become a reality 8)
Quote from: Noz on April 08, 2014, 09:29:26 PM
Quote from: T Dog on April 08, 2014, 08:52:35 PM
Arsenal too make a late charge..... 8)
Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha
Maybe unlikely..but mathematically possible?
Quote from: chrisuzz on April 09, 2014, 01:11:48 AM
I reckon my lonesome vote on a beautiful team that wears red is going to become a reality 8)
Can't believe we're this close! Never would've thought this at the start of the season.
Quote from: T Dog on April 08, 2014, 08:52:35 PM
Arsenal too make a late charge..... 8)
It's a bit early in the day to be so drunk T Dog, your sentence is a bit jumbled.
I know you were predicting a headline from the future but still...
"Arsenal make a charge too late"
;)
Forget the premier league, get around the champs league ;)
Quote from: T Dog on April 08, 2014, 08:52:35 PM
Arsenal too make a late charge..... 8)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-g8pMqiURxxE/UTOPt0aAMYI/AAAAAAAABm0/bOCDXAGbajk/s600/ARSENE.gif)
Wenger disagrees. ;D
LOVING HOW ALL THE MAN U FANS HAVE DISAPPEARED OFF THIS BOARD :D
Quote from: BoredSaint on April 09, 2014, 04:01:42 PM
LOVING HOW ALL THE MAN U FANS HAVE DISAPPEARED OFF THIS BOARD :D
Awful quiet without Jukes ain't it :P
Quote from: BoredSaint on April 09, 2014, 04:01:42 PM
LOVING HOW ALL THE MAN U FANS HAVE DISAPPEARED OFF THIS BOARD :D
I generally never post anyway ;)
Quote from: BoredSaint on April 09, 2014, 04:01:42 PM
LOVING HOW ALL THE MAN U FANS HAVE DISAPPEARED OFF THIS BOARD :D
There are enough MoyesOut, Football Genius, Fellaini, Mata and Rooneys sore toe jokes all over the net.
Quote from: My Chumps on April 09, 2014, 12:33:42 PM
Can't believe we're this close! Never would've thought this at the start of the season.
I expected top 4. Even 3rd. As the season went on though and we were winning games we normally lose and finishing top at Christmas add to that the massive improvements in a lot of players (hendo, flanno, sturridge, suarez, sterling, allen and coutinho) and not that many injuries (lucas, sakho, enrique). Yeah I started believing we could win it at Christmas.
PPffffttt...what would Wenger know.....Arsenal will explode ;D
Quote from: T Dog on April 09, 2014, 07:22:24 PM
PPffffttt...what would Wenger know.....Arsenal will explode ;D
Arsenal always seem to drop after Christmas.
Better news for Liverpool fans. The game against Chelsea falls in between their Champions League games.
What will Mourinho do? Rest players against us?
Quote from: Keeper27 on April 09, 2014, 07:32:21 PM
Quote from: T Dog on April 09, 2014, 07:22:24 PM
PPffffttt...what would Wenger know.....Arsenal will explode ;D
Arsenal always seem to drop after Christmas.
Better news for Liverpool fans. The game against Chelsea falls in between their Champions League games.
What will Mourinho do? Rest players against us?
Nup, they're all on 100k a week plus, they can tough it out.
ok ill admit it.. I come to this board only to look at keepers DP ;) ::) :-*
both of them... :o
Thought I'd pop in.
Haven't really posted in this board much this season nor have I followed world wide transfer news. I haven't followed the EPL as much this year as I have others but I have watched quite a few Liverpool games live. Kinda annoying how the one year we do well I haven't been following as much, but hey!
Anyway, massive game against City on Sunday night. Confident in Liverpool, but it'll be a tough match!
YNWA :)
Also, here's a great video of Kolo ;D
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=756864871012191&set=vb.118450714853613&type=2&theater
# MAKE US DREAM
watch this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bEEGIYPmaY) gave me chills.
Anfield is a f'n Forstress. C'mon you Reds.
(http://i62.tinypic.com/344wjzr.jpg)
(http://i59.tinypic.com/22dun5.jpg)
btw, win or lose Rodgers deserves Manager of the year. Suarez/Yaya tie for player of the year
sorry for the absence lads, Year 12 work beckoning has made it a bit difficult to give time to this thread!
GAMEWEEK 34 PREVIEW
Crystal Palace v Aston Villa
KEY PLAYER: Fabian Delph
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Palace ... a win there would almost guarantee survival
Fulham v Norwich City
KEY PLAYER: John Ruddy
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-2 draw... massive game in the relegation battle
Southampton v Cardiff City
KEY PLAYER: Adam Lallana
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Southampton
Stoke City v Newcastle
KEY PLAYER: Peter Crouch
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Stoke
Sunderland v Everton
KEY PLAYER: Seamus Coleman
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Everton
West Bromwich Albion v Tottenham Hotspur
KEY PLAYER: Christian Eriksen
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Tottenham
Liverpool v Manchester City
KEY PLAYER: Every single player in this game
TOMINATOR'S TIP: The game of the season.... massive call but I'm going 2-1 to Liverpool
Swansea City v Chelsea
KEY PLAYER: Wilfried Bony
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Chelsea
Arsenal v West Ham United
KEY PLAYER: Kevin Nolan
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Arsenal
Everton v Crystal Palace
KEY PLAYER: Julian Speroni
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Everton
Manchester City v Sunderland
KEY PLAYER: Edin Dzeko
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-0 to Manchester City
Tottenham already 2 goals down within the first 7 minutes :D
Quote from: Noz on April 13, 2014, 12:32:21 AM
Tottenham already 2 goals down within the first 7 minutes :D
Ended 3-3, what a game!!
C'mon you reds
STERLINGGGGGGGGG
Quote from: Tominator on April 13, 2014, 12:15:16 AM
sorry for the absence lads, Year 12 work beckoning has made it a bit difficult to give time to this thread!
What subjects you doing this year? :)
LIVERPOOOOOOLLLLLL
We remain undefeated!
Sterling my friend you are a plain out legend.
WE DID IT
Onya Pool, hilarious how many Liverpool fans have come out of the woodwork tonight. Going all "I've supported Liverpool for years".
Not talking about FF, in real life haha
Liverpool just making it more hilarious for the rest of us when they choke.
What a game last night. What.a.game.
Made the 8AM start this morning manageable. 4 games to go. 4 more cup finals.
#makeusdream #ynwa #4cupfinals
Arsenal....go go go
Two games left in the Championship.
Leicester have secured promotion. ;D
My boys Brighton and Hove have Blackpool and Yeovil to play (should win both) and are currently only sitting a goal outside the playoffs (Reading are +13, Brighton are +12... and Ipswich also on 64 points on +8).
Burnley also looking likely to get promoted.
Derby, QPR, Wigan and Reading currently in the playoff positions.
Getting intense.
even on loan Borini does Liverpool proud and takes valuable points from Chelsea.
Norwich vs Liverpool tonight.
come on you reds.
YNWA
Thats it for our title hopes. flowerin' joke.
Hoping Pool get up now, would be pretty special to see. Their supporters have endured enough recently haha
2 nil up in the first 12 minutes.
Sterling please have my babies. My girlfriend wouldn't mind!
Sterling is a gem !!!!
What can I say?
5 points clear. Undefeated since January.
Suarez reached 30 goals despite missing games at the start of the year and still games to go.
Definitely should be Footballer of the year.
Sterling is a future freak. Young Footballer of the year locked in.
Rodgers manager of the year locked in.
Gerrard finally gets the league title.
What a great year for the reds.
Oh btw it was great to see Moyes lose to Everton.
Icing on the cake.
Can't believe I'm saying this.
But yeah, credit where credit is due.
Congrats Liverpool.
Pooooool
UCL next year 8)
Also big shoutout to the Silent Assassin Borini, doing wonders for Liverpool :P
Quote from: Master Q on April 21, 2014, 12:15:22 PM
Also big shoutout to the Silent Assassin Borini, doing wonders for Liverpool :P
Hahaha, excellent point!
Great win. A nervous last 10 minutes but still a good performance! Title is definitely ours to lose now. It's not over though, we lose to Chelsea and drop points somewhere else and it's all square again.
CMON EVERTON
Heres hoping for an Arsenal choke or a random Man City choke lel
David Moyes to be sacked (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/manchester-united/10777985/David-Moyes-will-be-sacked-as-Manchester-United-manager-after-losing-support-of-the-clubs-Glazer-family-owners.html) :'(
i wonder who they'll bring in?? Klopp??
http://www.hasmoyesbeensacked.com/
Soon! :P
I wouldn't be surprised to see Man Utd play hard for Klopp.
will he leave Dortmund that's the main question??
Read the most craziest thing.
Since Moyes joined United 8 months ago
- The club has lost $300m in the stock market.
- Spent 68m in transfer fees
- When fired United will pay out $42m for Moyes contract
- Signed an under performing Rooney to a $24m a year contract
- lost up to $50m in champions leaague revenue.
Good job moyes. Lol
Manchester United have officially fired David Moyes effective immediately. Ryan Giggs to take over in the interim
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/manchester-united/10777985/David-Moyes-will-be-sacked-as-Manchester-United-manager-after-losing-support-of-the-clubs-Glazer-family-owners.html
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152130792377746&set=a.411767862745.195597.7724542745&type=1&theater
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2036631-david-moyes-sacked-by-manchester-united-latest-details-and-reaction
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11667/9277829/david-moyes-sacked-as-manchester-united-manager
http://www.hasmoyesbeensacked.com/
most accurate ;)
Quote from: chrisuzz on April 23, 2014, 01:14:16 AM
http://www.hasmoyesbeensacked.com/
most accurate ;)
Best.
Arsenal poised and set for top 4 finish ;D
Arsenal are currently 1 point ahead of Everton but are trailing by 2 goals on goal difference.
Arsenal final 3 matches
Newcastle (Home)
West Brom (Home)
Norwich (Away)
Everton's final 3 matches
Southampton (Away)
Manchester City (Home)
Hull City (Away)
Think Arsenal will hold on to 4th spot
Everton @ Everton should be good. Lol
Quote from: Keeper27 on April 24, 2014, 12:46:53 PM
Everton @ Everton should be good. Lol
Haha whoops fixed. :P
Thanks Southampton. :)
Crystal Palace have avoided relegation in style! 5 wins on the trot now! Next challenge is Man City at home, they'd love to make it 6. Only team in better form is Liverpool who's won all of their last 6.
Edit: or should I be saying thanks Everton. Two own goals they scored to let Southampton beat them 2-0!!
Quote from: PowerBug on April 27, 2014, 09:53:19 AMOnly team in better form is Liverpool who's won all of their last 6.
undefeated since January.
Quote from: PowerBug on April 27, 2014, 09:53:19 AMTwo own goals they scored to let Southampton beat them 2-0!!
cant believe they played so poorly. i knew a few players were out but c'mon that was crap.
Reckon Mourinho will play a weaker team tonight. Champions League should be at the forefront imo.
Quote from: elephants on April 27, 2014, 02:42:22 PM
Reckon Mourinho will play a weaker team tonight. Champions League should be at the forefront imo.
he's been saying all week that he will play a weakened side.
injuries to Cech/Terry has boosted liverpool's chances.
Quote from: Keeper27 on April 27, 2014, 03:56:34 PM
Quote from: elephants on April 27, 2014, 02:42:22 PM
Reckon Mourinho will play a weaker team tonight. Champions League should be at the forefront imo.
he's been saying all week that he will play a weakened side.
injuries to Cech/Terry has boosted liverpool's chances.
Hazard also ruled out, i'm pretty sure. (Along with Ramires too).
Liverpool to win 3-1
I reckon we'll draw 2-2 to be honest. It'll put pressure on us to win our last two games, but it may still be enough.
Liverpool 2-1
Quote from: Noz on April 27, 2014, 06:12:33 PM
Liverpool to win 3-1
Sadly Liverpool to lose 3 - 1... :(
Stevie G oh no
Oh flower...
Baaaaaaaaaa!
Big 45 coming up!
Bring Sturridge on!
0 2 late!
Was gonna chuck the $50 i was gonna win on Port straight into Chelsea @ $5 - Except had Port 1-39 and the pricks won by 40.
2-0! :o
could be set for another epic finish in the premier league!
liverpool better hope their neighbours can take some points off city next week
Quote from: BoredSaint on April 28, 2014, 10:14:58 AM
liverpool better hope their neighbours can take some points off city next week
a draw would be nice.
Probably the worst Chelsea win I have seen in my lifetime.
Ugly football from the red, just tried to win corners in the first half and once they went up, they parked the bus. We aren't as strong as Man City attacking against deep defenses, and that's where we struggle, especially when Suarez is not having the best game.
only thing I can say Chelsea look good parking the bus, But I hate those flogs soo much
One of the best performances this season. Was a masterclass. People always look down on defensive displays.
Arsenal still poised...
To do what exactly T Dog?
Haha so much bitterness from the Scousers ;D Rodgers and you lot were simply out-coached by Mourinho. In the same way Mourinho was out-coached by Sam Allardyce earlier in the season.
(http://i.imgur.com/dR9pog3.png)
#schooled
If being outcoached is picking up the ball and inspecting it as a coach, then I don't know what to say.
Refer to my DP Chelsea fans.
"Masterclass". Ha. Had a good chuckle.
Quote from: Master Q on April 28, 2014, 10:21:18 PM
If being outcoached is picking up the ball and inspecting it as a coach, then I don't know what to say.
Refer to my DP Chelsea fans.
"Masterclass". Ha. Had a good chuckle.
Awww, poor Liverpudlian. :'( #Icry4u
Looks like you want another Stevie G meme? Ok. Awoops!
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BmPYKxZCYAASImz.png)
Just a little mad that WCE lost over the weekend. I understand mate. Can't imagine how you'll feel when Chelsea lose in the CL :'(
IF Chelsea lose, I'll probably feel similar to how you felt when your Carlton lost to MELBOURNE. No?
Hush now, this is getting stupid.
Quote from: Honey Badger on April 28, 2014, 09:26:13 PM
To do what exactly T Dog?
Just poised...thats all....poised... 8)
For 4th spot.. 8)
Quote from: elephants on April 29, 2014, 01:55:28 AM
Hush now, this is getting stupid.
... Getting stupid? ::)
Eh, wouldn't be too happy Mr. Chelsea, not like your side is winning the league.
Quote from: PowerBug on April 29, 2014, 07:48:03 PM
Eh, wouldn't be too happy Mr. Chelsea, not like your side is winning the league.
Champions League > Premier League my friend. Far more excited about that!
Quote from: My Chumps on April 29, 2014, 08:18:22 PM
Quote from: elephants on April 29, 2014, 07:47:40 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on April 29, 2014, 07:42:09 PM
Quote from: elephants on April 29, 2014, 01:55:28 AM
Hush now, this is getting stupid.
... Getting stupid? ::)
Takes two to tango mofo ::)
Wasn't just directed at you.
You Liverpudlians have a habit of sticking together, can never be too sure ;)
FA Cup > Champions League. Right? Right? :( Who agrees with me? :'(
That reminded me PB, I am looking forward to Hull winning a trophy this year :D
:( Surely they won't do it?
Lallana looks like he will come to Liverpool next season...
Quote from: Master Q on April 29, 2014, 10:34:54 PM
Lallana looks like he will come to Liverpool next season...
He plays a similar role as Coutinho.
Does he take it off him?
Quote from: Keeper27 on April 30, 2014, 06:40:48 AM
Quote from: Master Q on April 29, 2014, 10:34:54 PM
Lallana looks like he will come to Liverpool next season...
He plays a similar role as Coutinho.
Does he take it off him?
We're in a strange situation. Our best XI have proved they're good enough to win the PL, but we're going to have a lot of spare funds after fairing so well this season, and players from other clubs will be wanting to join on due to our Champions League qualification.
Maybe a bit of depth in up front in positions such as Coutinho's won't hurt, but I don't want us to end up buying players just because they're available only to have them end up wasting away on the bench.
Definitely need to sure up that back 4 though. Easily the worst defence from the top 3 clubs. Sakho's got room for improvement but Skrtel's not good enough to be starting. I don't know why he's playing in front of Agger. Johnson may as well be a winger; shows very little on the defensive end. Where's Martin Kelly gone? He was set to be a jet of a RB. At least Flannegan should retain his spot, for his age he's been fantastic so far this year.
Quote from: My Chumps on April 30, 2014, 10:54:57 AMSkrtel's not good enough to be starting. I don't know why he's playing in front of Agger. Johnson may as well be a winger
sure Skrtel makes mistakes but he has been our most solid defender besides Sakho.
also he's scored something like 7 goals. whats to hate??
Agger should be on the way out, im dirty that Chelsea bought kurt zouma coz he couldve been a great long term thing.
Johnson is such a big waste of money. He's got HUGE wages and cant defend for sh!t.
we need Luke Shaw, and yes we need depth but like you said we need players who can fill spots or do better.
Lucas is another we need to get rid of, when he's on the pitch he's been great, but too injury prone.
FWD depth, coz Aspas/Alberto arent up to scratch.
Quote from: Keeper27 on April 30, 2014, 11:04:17 AM
Quote from: My Chumps on April 30, 2014, 10:54:57 AMSkrtel's not good enough to be starting. I don't know why he's playing in front of Agger. Johnson may as well be a winger
sure Skrtel makes mistakes but he has been our most solid defender besides Sakho.
also he's scored something like 7 goals. whats to hate??
Agger should be on the way out, im dirty that Chelsea bought kurt zouma coz he couldve been a great long term thing.
Johnson is such a big waste of money. He's got HUGE wages and cant defend for sh!t.
we need Luke Shaw, and yes we need depth but like you said we need players who can fill spots or do better.
Lucas is another we need to get rid of, when he's on the pitch he's been great, but too injury prone.
FWD depth, coz Aspas/Alberto arent up to scratch.
Skrtel makes waaaaaay too many mistakes to be the starting CB in a Premier League winning team. The dude was non-existent in that second half against City a few weeks ago when we really needed him. We should be playing our CB to defend, not score.
Borini comes back for some forward depth. He's been killing it for Sunderland, won their best young player of the year award IIRC. Can play on the wing too. Suso could also come back from loan, and he's been playing alright.
So between Suarez, Sturridge, Sterling, Borini, Suso, Coutinho and maybe Lallana, we should be a-okay for forward depth IMO.
Luke Shaw would be an excellent addition.
Excited to see Suso back. Been reading some great things about him.
We still need to fix the DM situation.
Gerrard has done great with Lucas out and it's nice to see Lucas back but we need a less fragile DM with amazing passing.
Yes Suso coming back will be a great addition he is a terrific young player. I also heard reports that we will be looking at options for a replacement for Mignolet.
Quote from: Noz on April 30, 2014, 02:33:16 PM
Yes Suso coming back will be a great addition he is a terrific young player. I also heard reports that we will be looking at options for a replacement for Mignolet.
wouldnt say replacement, more like back up. Marshall seems a popular name thats going around.
I was gonna say replacing him would be tough/harsh.
Quote from: elephants on April 30, 2014, 03:18:02 PM
I was gonna say replacing him would be tough/harsh.
they were looking @ Valdes, but i dont think he'll wanna be a bench sitter
Quote from: My Chumps on April 30, 2014, 10:54:57 AM
Quote from: Keeper27 on April 30, 2014, 06:40:48 AM
Quote from: Master Q on April 29, 2014, 10:34:54 PM
Lallana looks like he will come to Liverpool next season...
He plays a similar role as Coutinho.
Does he take it off him?
We're in a strange situation. Our best XI have proved they're good enough to win the PL, but we're going to have a lot of spare funds after fairing so well this season, and players from other clubs will be wanting to join on due to our Champions League qualification.
Maybe a bit of depth in up front in positions such as Coutinho's won't hurt, but I don't want us to end up buying players just because they're available only to have them end up wasting away on the bench.
Definitely need to sure up that back 4 though. Easily the worst defence from the top 3 clubs. Sakho's got room for improvement but Skrtel's not good enough to be starting. I don't know why he's playing in front of Agger. Johnson may as well be a winger; shows very little on the defensive end. Where's Martin Kelly gone? He was set to be a jet of a RB. At least Flannegan should retain his spot, for his age he's been fantastic so far this year.
It's not that strange and we aren't buying players because we have the funds.
Liverpool aren't close to being able to field PL and CL sides. Look at City and Chelsea.
Suarez, Sturridge, Borini, Sterling and Suso are really our only front 3 options. Aspas is gone like the wind and Coutinho is more suited to LCM or RCM role. Lallana is perfect as he can play both. I then think we need one more striker who can hold his own in at least the PL, can't rely on just Suarez and Sturridge.
Think the midfield is fine, might need one more even with Lallana. I do agree we need another CB though. Flanagan = star
Tello seems the most likely to join as Barca only want 8m, Tello can play as a striker and also a winger but more suited to the striker position. Agger seems close to leaving as Napoli are going to make a huge play for him.
If Agger does leave it pretty much flowers up our entire defensive unit.
Also linked to Luke Shaw and if we do get him imagine Shaw and Flanagan as our fullbacks in a couple years time. :D
I'd like the Tello move.
Reportedly worth 15, so if we can get him @ 8 we're laughing.
Agger going wouldn't be as big as a loss as you think.
Missed a lot of games at the start of the year due to being out of form.
Loic Remy is a fwd option I think that would fit our style of play.
Hasn't got the chances due to the quality of players he played with @ QPR/Newcastle
I think we should make a serious play for Reus.
Looking forward to what van Gaal will do with United :)
Quote from: MTTY on April 30, 2014, 07:44:31 PM
I think we should make a serious play for Reus.
Couldn't agree more!
Quote from: Noz on April 30, 2014, 07:50:39 PM
Quote from: MTTY on April 30, 2014, 07:44:31 PM
I think we should make a serious play for Reus.
Couldn't agree more!
Ideally i'd like:
Marco Reus
Adam Lallana
Luke Shaw
Micah Richards
Will Hughes
Christian Tello
and a gun CB.
I cannot contain my excitement at seeing Kurt Zouma in blue next season 8)
Quote from: elephants on April 30, 2014, 08:37:33 PM
I cannot contain my excitement at seeing Kurt Zouma in blue next season 8)
>:( sell him to us. We'll give you Johnson.
You can add him to the list of overpriced wingbacks that sit the bench :P
Quote from: Keeper27 on April 30, 2014, 09:03:56 PM
Quote from: elephants on April 30, 2014, 08:37:33 PM
I cannot contain my excitement at seeing Kurt Zouma in blue next season 8)
>:( sell him to us. We'll give you Johnson.
You can add him to the list of overpriced wingbacks that sit the bench :P
Haha tempting buuut I'll have to pass sorry mate ;) you've got this bloke named Sturridge I wouldnt mind returned. Want to be able to wear my Chelsea Sturridge 23 kit again! :P
So do Everton want to see their bitter rivals win the league? Or fight hard to try and get that CL spot even though its almost impossible.. DECISIONS DECISIONS
Barcelona offer Christian Tello & Cash $$$ for Daniel Agger.
yes please.
Quote from: elephants on April 30, 2014, 09:30:54 PM
Quote from: Keeper27 on April 30, 2014, 09:03:56 PM
Quote from: elephants on April 30, 2014, 08:37:33 PM
I cannot contain my excitement at seeing Kurt Zouma in blue next season 8)
>:( sell him to us. We'll give you Johnson.
You can add him to the list of overpriced wingbacks that sit the bench :P
Haha tempting buuut I'll have to pass sorry mate ;) you've got this bloke named Sturridge I wouldnt mind returned. Want to be able to wear my Chelsea Sturridge 23 kit again! :P
LOL, uh nuh :P
Everton v City is the crucial game!! Cannot wait for it!! I'm tipping 2-1 to City though I would love to see Everton get a point or three
The other pivotal game is Liverpool at Crystal Palace - it's not easy to get points at Selhurst Park and I can see Palace snatching a draw
Ohh yeahhh. Greatest EPL choke of all time.
nek minnit, Liverpool win 9-0 and title race is back on
I'm more interested in the relegation and promotion battles than the title race now.
Go Seagulls! 8)
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 04, 2014, 06:26:01 AM
Ohh yeahhh. Greatest EPL choke of all time.
What a ridiculous statement.
Quote from: PowerBug on May 04, 2014, 06:58:18 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on May 04, 2014, 06:20:31 PM
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 04, 2014, 06:26:01 AM
Ohh yeahhh. Greatest EPL choke of all time.
What a ridiculous statement.
Who was it even directed at?
Liverpool.
Today I Learnt any team who is ever on top and doesn't win is a choke.
So Port Adelaide choked in the AFL last year because they headed the ladder after Rd 1 and finished 7th? #AmIRightQ hahaha
Yeah you understand ;)
Being 3 points clear when your run in is as good as Liverpool's is a fantastic choke.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 05, 2014, 05:17:04 AM
Being 3 points clear when your run in is as good as Liverpool's is a fantastic choke.
you got no idea mate.
Liverpool had to play 2 of the top 3 teams in their last 5 games of the season.
City in their last 6 of the season only played 1 team in the top 10, the rest were in the bottom 10.
Also its hard to get a point away @ Crystal Palace, just ask Chelsea.
lol @ you.
After the City game, they have 3/4 games at home. They played a reserve Chelsea and couldn't score. Conceded 2 vs a relegated (pretty much) Norwich and have Palace, who have scored what, 25/30 goals and have conceded 50 or so. They were absolutely clueless vs Chelsea.
The run like god is over for Suarez and so is Liverpool. Having the most Pens given, most own goals, most deflected goals and most unforced errors against and still lose the title. Lol @ them. The last time United have 3 out of the 4 of those, they won the title by 11 points. Jon Obi Mikel has more goals and assists that are from open play than Steven Gerrard in the last 2 seasons. lol @ him.
(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hBBV4pfqX-E/U1_LBssa3qI/AAAAAAAAGKY/MvSqdIOkScQ/s1600/BPL-GW36-3.png)
facts.
Wowee, Andrew is one agitated Manure supporter.
Been a rough season hey buddy? :-\
lol @ you Andrew
Andrew Ya Mad?
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 05, 2014, 09:36:19 AM
Jon Obi Mikel has more goals and assists that are from open play than Steven Gerrard in the last 2 seasons.
Wow. I know you're tryna be a troll and get a rise outta me but c'mon at least try and make it plausible.
Mikel is a bench replacement and you compare him to one of the most complete midfielders to ever play the game?
Captain fantastic himself, who's won nearly everything a captain can win (except the league).
13 goals, 10 from penalties, 10 assists.
He's a beast.
Deserves a league title. But to achieve what we have with a limited budget compared to United, City, Chelsea, Spurs, Arsenal I think we've done well.
Even Rodgers himself thought we are overachieving, we only expected to break top 4 not fight for the title.
Come next year with a few more smart buys and an even more hungry team we'll kill it again.
I hope we get some of the names thats been mentioned in rumors.
Tello, Shaw, llalana, papadoupolos, maybe even kroos ;D
YNWA
Playing 42 games this season compared to City 52 and Chelsea 57 makes a huge difference.
Not even mad though
13>0
QuoteBut to achieve what we have with a limited budget compared to United, City, Chelsea, Spurs, Arsenal I think we've done well.
Just had to lol. Carroll 35m, Downing 20m, Henderson 15/20m (depending on what source), Suarez 25m, Sturridge 15m ( again pending on what you look at), Mignolet 8m, Aspas 7m etc etc. This is not a limited budget. You broke the British record for god sake. You have spent more than United, Spurs and Arsenal in recent seasons. Yet your depth is the worst in league. The run good of injuries and everything else has made the boom for liverpool so huge.
Carroll was a rushed buy from Dalglish, Rodgers has gotten rid of all the players that Dalglish brought in that he doesnt want in the squad.
Under Rodgers he doesnt really have much to play with.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 06, 2014, 03:25:12 AMYou have spent more than United, Spurs and Arsenal in recent seasons.
http://www.transfermarkt.co.uksince Rodgers took over he's had to clean up the sh!t mess that Dalglish left behind.
Excluding arsenal (known tight arses) he's spent the least out of the "BIG" clubs. Thats what i meant by limited.
Chelsea 13/14 -
Oh so now it only counts if it under Rodgers.
He doesn't have that much to play with... lol.
100m in 2 seasons. "He doesnt have that much to play with"
Hey look, another deflected goal.
dunno what happened to me post, didnt show all the transfers.
City 13/14 - 102.080 M, 12/13 - 54.516 M
United 13/14 - 69.414 M, 12/13 - 67.276 M
Arsenal 13/14 - 45.540 M, 12/13 - 46.640 M
Chelsea - 13/14 - 112.772 M, 12/13 - 101.376 M
Tottenham 13/14 - 107.250 M, 12/13 - 64.460 M
Liverpool 13/14 - 48.268 M, 12/13 - 55.088 M
its ok mate, we'll see you in Europe next year, oh wait LOL you wont be there.
Rebuild time mate, United are gonna struggle next year and so on...
paying 300K/Week for an under performing Rooney.
since august he's only scored 7 times against "big" matches and internationals.
went missing against Arsenal, Sociadad, Leverkuesen, Liverpool, Chelsea, Bayern..
you'd expect more from a bloke thats getting paid as much as Messi/CR7
and you wanna laugh at Carroll/Downing mate LOL, what about spending 28.5M on Fellaini?? or 40M on an under performing Mata??
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 06, 2014, 06:29:02 AMHey look, another deflected goal.
its ok mate, always gonna be hard to get points @ Palace.
it aint over yet, title can be won on the last day.
but you already know all about that...
just a small reminder mate.
(http://i1273.photobucket.com/albums/y416/DannyXI/kun-aguero-goal-vs-qpr-o_zps2352d49b.gif)
at least I know what it feels like to have a title ripped from under us...
13>0
United still make almost double then Liverpool. Lol @ these Liverpool people.
Full boom mode activated.
Also, you really don't know how to make an argument do you? You love them goal post shifts.
also
LOLOLOLOLOL
even more chokes
(http://i58.tinypic.com/292031j.jpg)
Da flower Liverpool
what a comeback from Palace! But Liverpool's defence has been their achilles heel all season and it really came back to bite them today. Gotta feel for them though, but full credit to Palace my oh my they've turned things around; the title is City's unless they have a catastrophe now!
Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham Lets go Villa Lets go West Ham
gotta love these man UTD fans, cant gloat about their team so try and bring others down
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/t1.0-9/q71/s720x720/10269514_239498446241939_1937527423892301736_n.jpg)
Its been so epic. Liverpool Choke > Man utd fail.
Wrong way around mate.
We expected to break top 4 not win the league.
So we're still on point.
You muppets on the other hand went from league champions to missing out on Europe with the same team.
LMFAO. Thats an epic fail.
Love seeing all Man United fans get so dirty.
For a while there I didn't hear a peep from you knobs.
We lose 1 game and draw another and you're all out in force like you've won the Champions League.
Embarrassing.
Moyes tho. Nothing to do with the actual club.
Not embarrasing just laughing at a club that show the WIL to lose.
lol on the still on point. With 4 games to, 5 points clear. To lose from here is hilarious. Doesn't matter what your target was.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 07, 2014, 11:05:55 AMMoyes tho. Nothing to do with the actual club.
cant blame the manager for everything, the players gotta take the blame.
no love for the club, no heart, threatening to leave.
same players and you dropped so far, that is embarrassing.
thats a laugh, Fergie's Dynasty destroyed not only by Moyes but by the players too.
Not sure if watches football or just reads goal.com and espn.
Great comeback buddy.
Redirection is a great way not to admit the other bloke is right.
Have a good day mate.
That's the complete opposite of what I said. I challenged your actual viewing of football since I think you have no idea what you are talking about when it comes to tactical analysis, due to your conclusion of what happened this season @ Man Utd.
I know moyes takes a lot of the blame.
Playing defensive football and playing players out of position.
But the players have to take blame to.
(http://bachelorburnbook.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/loud-noises.jpg)
Quote from: Keeper27 on May 07, 2014, 11:49:13 AM
I know moyes takes a lot of the blame.
Playing defensive football and playing players out of position.
But the players have to take blame to.
What he was doing wasn't even defensive football. It was a bunch of nonsense that made zero sense. He actually had quality on the field, yet he played a style which relegation teams do. At the end of the day, its the managers responsibility to take control of the players and the style of play, ideas, tactics that he wants to get across. If he lost the dressing room, that's his own fault. The way we played vs Liverpool, City, Chelsea, Olympiakos and every home game was atrocious.
;D
What I love the most Keeper is back when we were "average" Man Utd Fans always shot us down for bringing up the past. Now we're on top and they keep bringing up their history ::)
Quote from: Master Q on May 07, 2014, 05:37:44 PM
What I love the most Keeper is back when we were "average" Man Utd Fans always shot us down for bringing up the past. Now we're on top and they keep bringing up their history ::)
Thats why you gotta love Chelsea fans, we'll never bring up history!
Oh yeah. liverpool bring up history for the past 25 years. We bring up the last 5 years and apparently all we do is bring up history. Never gets old.
13>0
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 08, 2014, 10:33:38 AM13>0
You keep typing that like English Football has been around for only 22 years.
It's taken your mob 22 years to finally catch up and surpass us.
And now it looks like a down hill slide for you guys.
I could do the same thing and say 5>3
I think European Champions trumps English Title.
What now?
(http://www.sportingintelligence.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Most-trophies.jpg)
Enough said.
Wait, whos talking about history now? Jesus Christ. That hypocrisy.
I also love how it counts the two minor trophies in England and Europe. Sorry that we don't ever go to the sewers and win minor titles against garbage teams.
I only take in recent years because thats what is going on now. The rules have changed a shower tonne since the old english league. The old Liverpool team exploited the flower out of the pass back rule and since thats been gone, so has Liverpool's success.
Liverpool from 2004 is 1 FA Cup, 1 CL, 1 CL Final and 2 Semi Finals.
United from 2004 is 5 PL, 1 FA Cup, 1 CL, 2 CL Finals, 6 Semi Finals. This makes Liverpool look decent too. Take it down to 5 years and its 0. Zilch. Nothing.
Bring back Derby..... 8)
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 08, 2014, 11:38:35 AM
Wait, whos talking about history now? Jesus Christ. That hypocrisy.
I also love how it counts the two minor trophies in England and Europe. Sorry that we don't ever go to the sewers and win minor titles against garbage teams.
I only take in recent years because thats what is going on now. The rules have changed a shower tonne since the old english league. The old Liverpool team exploited the flower out of the pass back rule and since thats been gone, so has Liverpool's success.
Liverpool from 2004 is 1 FA Cup, 1 CL, 1 CL Final and 2 Semi Finals.
United from 2004 is 5 PL, 1 FA Cup, 1 CL, 2 CL Finals, 6 Semi Finals. This makes Liverpool look decent too. Take it down to 5 years and its 0. Zilch. Nothing.
How about we all stop talking about history.
Team/ 2013-14 EPL Titles / 2013-14 UEFA CL titles / 2013-14 Europa League titles / 2013-14 English Cup titles/ Total
Liverpool/ 0 / 0 / 0 / 0/ 0
Manchester United/ 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 / 0 There. Now stop bagging on teams when they've won the same amount of trophies (that's if you want to bring up the whole, don't talk about history argument).
The only English teams that can possibly bag others, without bringing up any history at all (previous years), is Manchester City, possibly Liverpool- as they are the only other mathematical chance of winning the EPL this year, Arsenal or Hull City (TBD).
Now, based on that, fact is this. Liverpool were better than Manchester United in 2013/14. Liverpool will finish 1st, 2nd or 3rd. Manchester United will finish 6th or 7th. Liverpool beat Manchester United both times in the Premier League, while United managed a win in the Cup. Two wins is better than one win (in case anyone didn't realise).
In no way is this post bagging either team, but it is simply stating facts and not history (before the current season). I don't care what excuses Manchester United or their supporters have for their season, whether it was Moyes' tactics, losing the players in the dressing room or their players fault. In any case it does not matter.
I do not care why Liverpool lost the title (still to be decided), and do not care why they lost or drew to the teams we did. Whether it was Gerrard's slip, Rogers' tactics, the players nerves. It doesn't matter.
Liverpool were better than Manchester United this season. Liverpool had a chance at winning the title (still do) till the very last game. Manchester United were completely out of the title race. Liverpool beat Manchester United in 2013/14.....
Welcome to sports rivalry where we laugh at each others downfalls? Its sports 101. No idea what your point is, if there is any.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 08, 2014, 01:03:21 PM
Welcome to sports rivalry where we laugh at each others downfalls? Its sports 101. No idea what your point is, if there is any.
Point is why bother bagging on other teams? Especially if you're team's in a worse position than the other.
Its a sports rivalry. See what the thread title is. It has banter in it. If you can't handle banter gtfo.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 08, 2014, 01:26:19 PM
Its a sports rivalry. See what the thread title is. It has banter in it. If you can't handle banter gtfo.
I can. I just fail to see the reason why you'd want to if your team was sitting in 7th place.
Because the biggest positive out of this season is Liverpool choking the title. They haven't won it for 25 years. Same reason I want hull to win vs Arsenal, so they stay trophy-less for as long as possible. So by your own logic, when Liverpool beat Man Utd in those fixtures a few years back when Man Utd were domming the league, Liverpool supporters should stay quiet due to them being 30 points behind us? Of course not. They are going to rip into Man utd for being shower cows and Man utd fans will rip into them saying they finished 7th and we get to lift the trophy.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 08, 2014, 01:57:46 PM
Because the biggest positive out of this season is Liverpool choking the title. They haven't won it for 25 years. Same reason I want hull to win vs Arsenal, so they stay trophy-less for as long as possible. So by your own logic, when Liverpool beat Man Utd in those fixtures a few years back when Man Utd were domming the league, Liverpool supporters should stay quiet due to them being 30 points behind us? Of course not. They are going to rip into Man utd for being shower cows and Man utd fans will rip into them saying they finished 7th and we get to lift the trophy.
1. I'd say the biggest positive is that the league's become far better and equal. More teams are competitive. That may just be me though, seeing as i'll sacrifice the humiliation of rival teams for the greater cause.
2 & 3. I'm pretty sure I just said we should stop talking about history. You also gave it to a Pool supporter for bringing it up.
I for one remained quiet throughout our previous poor seasons, and have ignored Manchester United's fall this season, despite being a Liverpool supporter. I decided to be the bigger person about it and just support my team either way. Yes, I will engage in banter when Liverpool comes up against another team, but aside from that I only praise my team when they are playing well (as they are this season), rather than dish it out to teams under performing.
One thing talking about 3 seasons ago, but talking about 30 years ago is completely different.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 08, 2014, 02:16:24 PM
One thing talking about 3 seasons ago, but talking about 30 years ago is completely different.
History: "the
whole series of past events connected with a particular person or thing"
If you think there is no difference between 1-5 or even 10 seasons ago compared to talking 25+ seasons ago, when the league is completely different in almost every way, then lol you.
Wait why are you quoting me bro? That was 10 minutes ago, thought you said you don't talk about history? Don't know why Tommy does reviews then, who cares about history!!!
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 08, 2014, 02:22:03 PM
If you think there is no difference between 1-5 or even 10 seasons ago compared to talking 25+ seasons ago, when the league is completely different in almost every way, then lol you.
Wait why are you quoting me bro? That was 10 minutes ago, thought you said you don't talk about history? Don't know why Tommy does reviews then, who cares about history!!!
I think i'll leave it at that. I've proven my point, you'll probably wonder what point that is.
You've literally done nothing.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 08, 2014, 02:53:35 PM
You've literally done nothing.
Much like Uniteds season
Such smart, very zing.
Getting ripped to shreds here Andrew.
Quote from: Master Q on May 08, 2014, 06:12:43 PM
Getting ripped to shreds here Andrew.
Not in his eyes. ;)
I just want to know where keeper always finds his DPs
Quote from: chrisuzz on May 08, 2014, 09:49:49 PM
I just want to know where keeper always finds his DPs
Keeper manages to get the best out of the internet unlike Moyes did with his players.
Whats a bigger choke though?
Liverpool missing out on winning the league when 4th place would have been a pass-mark for their season?
Or Man United finishing 6th/7th when they believed they were title favourites?
Mmmm, its pretty damn obvious to me.
LOL ;D can't go wrong with a little Ashley Benson.
We defo need to get rid of Johnson, been saying it for ages.
Doesn't do enough defensively. Rumor is Ashley Ca$hley Cole is an option for our wingback problem.
Not happy about that. Even at his age he'll probably want big wages too like he does @ Chelsea.
Kidding himself.
Personally I'd like to see a new CB (agger going to Barcelona or Napoli, Papa)
Young box to box mid as a long term replacement for Gerrard (Pogba, Gundogan, Verratti, Goretzka)
Attacking mid (tello, preferably Rues)
But I trust in Rodgers. He'll bring in quality.
YNWA.
Btw lets go Hammers. Downing cross to Carroll header to win the game. ;D
Quote from: elephants on May 08, 2014, 10:46:46 PM
Whats a bigger choke though?
Liverpool missing out on winning the league when 4th place would have been a pass-mark for their season?
Or Man United finishing 6th/7th when they believed they were title favourites?
Mmmm, its pretty damn obvious to me.
We were never title favourites.
Also...
You say Box to Box midfielder and then name 1 B2B, 2 Number 6's and 1 versatile central midfielder.
You say Attacking Mid and name 2 wing forwards.....
Yeah mate, coz players are stuck in their positions all their life.
Gerrard's a B2B but what position has he played most of the year?
A deeper role. A number 6 role.
(http://glampinkdalina.com/wp-content/uploads/BigGaspGif.gif)
Shocking I know. A player not playing in his position. GTFO of here.
Scandalous.
A little versatility doesn't hurt mate. and im sure those blokes can play that position.
Rues is an attacking mid. LOL
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 09, 2014, 03:28:00 AMWe were never title favourites.
of course you were, you just won the league.
i remember seeing the odds and laughed coz you were favorites, even with a new manager.
i thought with the players you had you'd still make top 4, didnt think you'd drop so far.
you were faves, city next, chelsea 3rd, arsenal 4th
Quote from: Keeper27 on May 09, 2014, 08:18:25 AM
Yeah mate, coz players are stuck in their positions all their life.
Gerrard's a B2B but what position has he played most of the year?
A deeper role. A number 6 role.
(http://glampinkdalina.com/wp-content/uploads/BigGaspGif.gif)
Shocking I know. A player not playing in his position. GTFO of here.
Scandalous.
A little versatility doesn't hurt mate. and im sure those blokes can play that position.
Rues is an attacking mid. LOL
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 09, 2014, 03:28:00 AMWe were never title favourites.
of course you were, you just won the league.
i remember seeing the odds and laughed coz you were favorites, even with a new manager.
i thought with the players you had you'd still make top 4, didnt think you'd drop so far.
you were faves, city next, chelsea 3rd, arsenal 4th
Again, this isn't FIFA 14. Just because you can play them there, doesn't mean thats what type of player they are. Gundogan is plain and simple a number 6. Pogba is the only true box to box player you listed. Veratti isn't even close to a box to box. The guy is like 5ft tall and has no physicality at all. Gerrard playing as a number 6 has failed too btw. I can explain in detail if you would like. Lucas is by far the better player at that role.
Both Reus and Tello are wing forwards. Giving them the title of attacking midfielder is such a simplistic way to look at it. It's like saying Ronaldo is an attacking midfielder, since him and Reus play in almost the exact same position. However I shouldn't of expected anything else from you.
As soon as SAF retired we were never title favourites. Every betting side had us at 3rd fav. I also believed we would get top 4, but the Moyes factor was too heavy.
LOL @ the FIFA 14 line, was gonna use that on you.
Goretzka isnt just a number 6 mate, he's scored goals too.
thats the job of a B2B mid. score goals, play/defend deep.
Vidal, plays the same role and he's one of the best B2B.
score goals, play/defend deep.
same shower.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 09, 2014, 08:30:26 AMGerrard playing as a number 6 has failed too btw. Lucas is by far the better player at that role.
coz thats his natural position you knob. ??? ??
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 09, 2014, 08:30:26 AMI can explain in detail if you would like.
gerrard defends just as much as Lucas, and he goes on the attack a WHOLE lot more, and starts moves that lead to attacking options, and scored more goals.
how is he better?? isnt that the job of a number 6??
stop talking crap mate. you're starting look like like an idiot
Brighton and Hove lost the first leg at home to Derby because of Kuszczak own goal. :(
Quote from: Keeper27 on May 09, 2014, 12:45:10 PM
LOL @ the FIFA 14 line, was gonna use that on you.
Goretzka isnt just a number 6 mate, he's scored goals too.
thats the job of a B2B mid. score goals, play/defend deep.
Vidal, plays the same role and he's one of the best B2B.
score goals, play/defend deep.
same shower.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 09, 2014, 08:30:26 AMGerrard playing as a number 6 has failed too btw. Lucas is by far the better player at that role.
coz thats his natural position you knob. ??? ??
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 09, 2014, 08:30:26 AMI can explain in detail if you would like.
gerrard defends just as much as Lucas, and he goes on the attack a WHOLE lot more, and starts moves that lead to attacking options, and scored more goals.
how is he better?? isnt that the job of a number 6??
stop talking crap mate. you're starting look like like an idiot
Ok here we go.
So first off I never said Goretzka was a 6. I said Pogba was a b2b, veratti and gundogan a number 6. So by the process of elimination and some common sense, that leaves Goretzka as the versatile central mid.
You have no idea what a number 6 is do you? Pirlo, xavi, Gundogan, Carrick, Lucas etc. These are number 6's. So well done for not knowing basic football positions.
Gerrard has done awful in his new role because of the lack defensive cover he leaves which causes so mich space. Last 20 or so games you have kept 2 clean sheets. This is all to do with Gerrard and the 2 cbs not communicating. Getrard is also a pretty showerty passer and doesnt have legs to run anymore.
Its just hilarous that you can come up with this shower qhen my 5 year old nephew knows basic positions.
Alright mate, my mistake. I thought you were referring to Goretzka.
And yes Gundogan is a B2B too. He scores goals too. Shame he's been injured.
I do know what a number 6 is. I explained it with Vidal.
Anyways. Gerrard a showerty passer?? LOL.
C'mon I know you hate Liverpool but don't talk crap without facts.
Gerrard this year was the leader in key passes and was the leader in key passes thats led to goals.
Hazard is the leader now but Gerrard is still up there. So please tell me how he's a showerty passer?
he outshines your club legends like Scholes and Giggs.
He's got more assists than both them blokes and that makes him a showerty passer?
Higher pass completion and more key passes.
More goals than Scholes and only 3 behind giggs who's played 200 more league games than Gerrard.
You'd think giggs being a winger most of his career he'd have more goals.
Just focus on next season mate.
Better hope Van Gaal brings in some quality and fixes up that shambles of a midfield you got.
Gundogan is set peice taker which leads to his inflated scorepoints. He is purely a 6.
Key passes doesnt exclude set peices. Gerrard is the corner and free kick taker for the majority whicj leads to higher stats in those regions.
Vidal isnt even close to a 6. Vidal is an 8.i think you are confused. Have a look at some zonal marking. They jabe some great articles.
Vidal plays a deeper role than pogba/marchisio right?
Think he's got most tackles won.
That's why he can be considered a 6.
Pirlo is the 6. Vidal and pogba are both the 8s. It just shows how elite vidal is by have sick numbers.
GAMEWEEK 38 PREVIEW
So the final week of the EPL season is upon us, and what a season its been. Dramatic right to the end - will there be another twist tonight? Will City win the title or will they succumb on the final day and break Liverpool's 24 year drought?
10 games all on at the same time - this is the final day of the season.
Cardiff City v Chelsea
Cardiff have already been relegated whilst Chelsea have sewn up a 3rd-place finish. Could be a lacklustre game but Cardiff will wanna play well in front of their fans before going down to the Championship.
KEY PLAYER: Gary Cahill
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-0 to Chelsea
Fulham v Crystal Palace
Fulham have also been relegated, whilst Crystal Palace have had an amazing recovery since the likely Manager of the Year, Tony Pulis, took over mid-season.
KEY PLAYER: Jason Puncheon
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Hull City v Everton
The Toffees have had a great year under Martinez and cemented Europa League qualification, while Hull are in 16th but with a win could finish as high as 12th
KEY PLAYER: Nikica Jelavic (against his former club)
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Everton
Norwich City v Arsenal
Norwich are the third club to be relegated and will finish their PL-run at home to Arsenal, who want a win to finish off their disappointing second-half to the season
KEY PLAYER: Lukas Podolski
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 2-1 to Arsenal
Southampton v Manchester United
Is this the last game for Shaw and Lallana in Southampton colours? Could they be playing for United next season? Should be another good one, with United looking to end a bad season with 3 points
KEY PLAYER: Adam Lallana
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Sunderland v Swansea
Sunderland have had a remarkable turnaround after sitting 7 points clear of safety with 6 games to go, but they are now safe. Swansea have struggled too this year, but this game will probably have a nothing-to-play-for, mid-table feel to it.
KEY PLAYER: Connor Wickham
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-1 draw
Tottenham v Aston Villa
What will be Tim Sherwood's last game in charge, and a bad loss may see it as Paul Lambert's too.
KEY PLAYER: Fabian Delph
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 1-0 to Tottenham
West Bromwich Albion v Stoke City
WBA just avoided relegation whilst a win for Stoke will see them earn a Top 10 finish
KEY PLAYER: Asmir Begovic
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 0-0 draw
Liverpool v Newcastle
After Liverpool got Istanbulled by Palace last week, their title bid is - most likely - over. They need to win (and have City lose) to win the title, but should take 3 points at the adoring Anfield and with Newcastle's form grinding to a halt the day they sold Yohan Cabaye
KEY PLAYER: Steven Gerrard
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 4-1 to Liverpool
Manchester City v West Ham United
It could be a couple of ex-Liverpool players who could win the title for Liverpool, Andy Carroll and Stuart Downing. A huge game for City - will there be another "Aguero" moment like 2011/12 against QPR? I don't think it'll come to that, as City will most likely put the game to bed before injury time. But this is the Premier League, so who knows.
KEY PLAYER: Yaya Toure
TOMINATOR'S TIP: 3-1 and the 2013/14 title to Manchester City
Congrats to City, well deserved.
a bit shattered we didnt win it this year after looking so promising after New Years.
But there are plenty to look forward too, we reach our target, we made the Champions League.
i think final 16/quarters is a realistic target next year.
Next year the league will be ours ;)
(http://www.sportingkicks.co.uk/assets/images/products/large/50321861d213e.jpg)
Arsenal poised to take the title next season. You heard it hear 1st.... ;D
Good season but if Liverpool couldnt win this year I doubt they can come close next season. They ran like god with a tonne of less games.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 12, 2014, 12:23:45 PM
Good season but if Liverpool couldnt win this year I doubt they can come close next season. They ran like god with a tonne of less games.
Definitely need some new signings. AT LEAST one new centre back and a new right back. Borini coming back should help, but we'd also like another forward option such as Lallana which looks likely. Should see improvement or at least maintenance out of most of the squad; Flannagan, Henderson, Coutinho, Sturridge, Borini, Allen, Sterling are all still young.
I think we can go close again in what will most likely be Gerrards next season. He must feel pretty flowering awful right now to be honest :(
Still, a very respectable season. Pretty proud of the lads, and BR.
Quote from: My Chumps on May 12, 2014, 01:08:22 PMHe must feel pretty flowering awful right now to be honest :(
yeah that "slip" might have cost us the league but TBH its stupid stuff like losing 3-1 to Hull, Drawing against Villa/Palace @ Home, it's little f*ck ups like this that cost titles.
we'll learn from it. The boys are Hungry, coming so close will make the guys want it more, it is realistic that we can win it.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 12, 2014, 12:23:45 PM
Good season but if Liverpool couldnt win this year I doubt they can come close next season. They ran like god with a tonne of less games.
LOL, ok mate, and where is your mob gonna fit in all this?? Top 4?? i think not.
United only played an extra 11 games. i'm sure we can handle an extra 11 games with more players coming in.
Doubt United will be top 6 again next year, Evra/Vidic leaving to Inter, Rio/Giggs are finished, your midfield is garbage.
Make a bet they will get top 6? Will happily bet amywhere from 100 to 5k on evens for them to get top 6. Liverpool dont have the depth. United obv have work but with a decent manager top 6 is easy top 4 is achievable. While challenging seems like a long way ofd after this season its almost a given they will be closer to 2nd then 6th.
Liverpool ran way above ev this season but you also should feel embarrased that you let the title go aftee it was pretty much handed to you with 4 games to go.
If anyone should feel embarrassed its Man United fans...
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 12, 2014, 03:52:31 PM
Make a bet they will get top 6? Will happily bet amywhere from 100 to 5k on evens for them to get top 6. Liverpool dont have the depth. United obv have work but with a decent manager top 6 is easy top 4 is achievable. While challenging seems like a long way ofd after this season its almost a given they will be closer to 2nd then 6th.
LOL you're right, missing top 6 was a bit of a dig.. Max 5th @ best, even though every year Arsenal dont have enough in their Tank to keep going after Christmas and Everton has mediocre players they both will finish above you. well maybe not everton, Martinez with a few new players will do ok next year and might push you back to 6th/7th.
C'mon lets be honest, "challenging seems like a long way ofd" Challenging should be the last thing on your mind. Rebuilding is what you need.
sure you have some decent players in Rooney, RVP (softcock), Mata, Kagawa, and a few underrated players in Evans/Jones/Carrick who do their job, its players like Cleverly, Nani/Valencia/Young that really bring you down. Anderson coming back, geez just adding to the pile of dog crap, Arent you glad that you might actually get rid of Nani/Valencia??
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 12, 2014, 03:52:31 PMLiverpool ran way above ev this season
i know, Rodgers knew too.. i've said it before champ.
breaking into the top 4 was our goal this year. anything else is a bonus you muppet.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 12, 2014, 03:52:31 PMyou also should feel embarrased that you let the title go aftee it was pretty much handed to you with 4 games to go.
LOL, as i said before "TBH its stupid stuff like losing 3-1 to Hull, Drawing against Villa/Palace @ Home, it's little f*ck ups like this that cost titles" it wasnt just the Chelsea game. Games against Chelsea/City/Arsenal you expect a hard game and sometimes you get no points, its games against the lower teams like Man United you should put away.
but thats the way with the premier league, its a much more stronger/even competition than any other of the main leagues i reckon.
10 measly points separated 13th and 20th.
Everton for the league next season.. I CALLED IT FIRST
::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::)
Bah who even cares about the premier league. Barca vs Ateltico for the La Liga title next weekend! Go Atleti!
Quote from: Honey Badger on May 12, 2014, 05:43:26 PM
Bah who even cares about the premier league. Barca vs Ateltico for the La Liga title next weekend! Go Atleti!
Haha how about Real Madrid decision to rest some of their players because they thought they couldn't win the league turns out if they had of won they could of entered the last week as favourites to take it out.
Quote from: Noz on May 12, 2014, 05:57:59 PM
Quote from: Honey Badger on May 12, 2014, 05:43:26 PM
Bah who even cares about the premier league. Barca vs Ateltico for the La Liga title next weekend! Go Atleti!
Haha how about Real Madrid decision to rest some of their players because they thought they couldn't win the league turns out if they had of won they could of entered the last week as favourites to take it out.
Don't know if they would be the favourites as it wouldn't change what Atleti need to do. A draw for Atletl would give them the title even if Madrid had won last night and won next week.
Quote from: Honey Badger on May 12, 2014, 06:05:55 PM
Quote from: Noz on May 12, 2014, 05:57:59 PM
Quote from: Honey Badger on May 12, 2014, 05:43:26 PM
Bah who even cares about the premier league. Barca vs Ateltico for the La Liga title next weekend! Go Atleti!
Haha how about Real Madrid decision to rest some of their players because they thought they couldn't win the league turns out if they had of won they could of entered the last week as favourites to take it out.
Don't know if they would be the favourites as it wouldn't change what Atleti need to do. A draw for Atletl would give them the title even if Madrid had won last night and won next week.
Madrid would of been on 87 points and if Barca and Atletico drew and Madrid had of won then both Atletico and Madrid would be both on 90 points and Madrid would of won the title due to their goal difference.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 12, 2014, 03:52:31 PM
Make a bet they will get top 6? Will happily bet amywhere from 100 to 5k on evens for them to get top 6. Liverpool dont have the depth. United obv have work but with a decent manager top 6 is easy top 4 is achievable. While challenging seems like a long way ofd after this season its almost a given they will be closer to 2nd then 6th.
Liverpool ran way above ev this season but you also should feel embarrased that you let the title go aftee it was pretty much handed to you with 4 games to go.
$60m transfer kitty should fix that. Can't say the same for United's 'rebuild' however. No Champions League (to attract players) and no funds coming in from being in any European competition.
It's exactly where Liverpool were, and it will be similar for United. They'll have players reject their approaches for a Champions League team.
Quote from: Keeper27 on May 12, 2014, 04:37:40 PM
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 12, 2014, 03:52:31 PM
Make a bet they will get top 6? Will happily bet amywhere from 100 to 5k on evens for them to get top 6. Liverpool dont have the depth. United obv have work but with a decent manager top 6 is easy top 4 is achievable. While challenging seems like a long way ofd after this season its almost a given they will be closer to 2nd then 6th.
LOL you're right, missing top 6 was a bit of a dig.. Max 5th @ best, even though every year Arsenal dont have enough in their Tank to keep going after Christmas and Everton has mediocre players they both will finish above you. well maybe not everton, Martinez with a few new players will do ok next year and might push you back to 6th/7th.
C'mon lets be honest, "challenging seems like a long way ofd" Challenging should be the last thing on your mind. Rebuilding is what you need.
sure you have some decent players in Rooney, RVP (softcock), Mata, Kagawa, and a few underrated players in Evans/Jones/Carrick who do their job, its players like Cleverly, Nani/Valencia/Young that really bring you down. Anderson coming back, geez just adding to the pile of dog crap, Arent you glad that you might actually get rid of Nani/Valencia??
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 12, 2014, 03:52:31 PMLiverpool ran way above ev this season
i know, Rodgers knew too.. i've said it before champ.
breaking into the top 4 was our goal this year. anything else is a bonus you muppet.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 12, 2014, 03:52:31 PMyou also should feel embarrased that you let the title go aftee it was pretty much handed to you with 4 games to go.
LOL, as i said before "TBH its stupid stuff like losing 3-1 to Hull, Drawing against Villa/Palace @ Home, it's little f*ck ups like this that cost titles" it wasnt just the Chelsea game. Games against Chelsea/City/Arsenal you expect a hard game and sometimes you get no points, its games against the lower teams like Man United you should put away.
but thats the way with the premier league, its a much more stronger/even competition than any other of the main leagues i reckon.
10 measly points separated 13th and 20th.
lol @ the Man Utd dig. 1st real title challenge in 20 odd years YUP WE ARE BIGGER THAN YOU NOW. Boom is in full.
Offer still stands. 100-5k top 5 @ evens. Everton don't have depth or the funds to compete in the EL+PL. United have the Liverpool luxury of having 45ish games next season. Everton are tactically wonderful but don't have the players, which will kill them vs the big teams and the lower teams who park the bus, with a full schedule. Liverpool need to hang on to Suarez + add key players + add depth. They have Lucas/Suarez as pretty much the only players that could start @ any top tier club. Sturridge maybe, but man he has turned into a sack of shower when he plays by himself. Can't lead the line in a single striker formation. They have a bunch of mediocre players on high wages which limits their growth. Talking about a rebuilding.....
Its funny how you say mention Rooney, RVP and Mata (they were the 3 best players in the league 2 seasons ago) as decent players. Moyes had 0 clue how to execute a functioning and fluid attack. LVG is a total voetball specialist. He loves the fluid attacking football. These players will shine. Yes we need a rebuild, but we are in a much better position than Liverpool ever will be. We have 3 elite players in their primes who won't move abroad any time soon, we have the best keeper in the EPL (untill Courtois makes his Chelsea his 100% destination), talented defender who is almost there in Jones, one of the brightest talents with Januzaj, Carrick and Valencia who are experienced enough to know what to do in situations. Midfield is awful with Carrick our only player who is actually any decent there, but we are a money making machine of a football club. We make 300m+every year. We also have a lot of dead wood that would be valuable at mid table clubs like Smalling, Young Welbeck etc. Liverpool on the other hand lost 118m last financial year and are looking to have another loss this year. We have the funds and the brand name to add key players+depth in every window, where Liverpool don't.
Going to say it again, next season for the first time in 25 years, Liverpool vs Manchester United will actually be significant to the table.
As for LIGA, lol @ RM. They had their chance to have already won the league.
And MTTY. See above. Its not just about depth anymore. Its about key players. They can't do both in the same window. Money talks bra. They will join even if no CL. United have the money to do so, other clubs don't.
Quote from: Noz on May 12, 2014, 06:22:44 PM
Quote from: Honey Badger on May 12, 2014, 06:05:55 PM
Quote from: Noz on May 12, 2014, 05:57:59 PM
Quote from: Honey Badger on May 12, 2014, 05:43:26 PM
Bah who even cares about the premier league. Barca vs Ateltico for the La Liga title next weekend! Go Atleti!
Haha how about Real Madrid decision to rest some of their players because they thought they couldn't win the league turns out if they had of won they could of entered the last week as favourites to take it out.
Don't know if they would be the favourites as it wouldn't change what Atleti need to do. A draw for Atletl would give them the title even if Madrid had won last night and won next week.
Madrid would of been on 87 points and if Barca and Atletico drew and Madrid had of won then both Atletico and Madrid would be both on 90 points and Madrid would of won the title due to their goal difference.
Positions on the table in La Liga aren't decided by goal difference when teams are equal on points. They go by the head to head results, and since Atletico has beaten Real, and had a draw they would be ahead if level on points.
And MTTY. See above. Its not just about depth anymore. Its about key players. They can't do both in the same window. Money talks bra. They will join even if no CL. United have the money to do so, other clubs don't.
[/quote]
Chelsea and City, i'd say, would both be able to pay more money for a player than United. They can offer CL too. What is to stop them from hijacking any of United's transfers if they are good players? Same thing happened to Liverpool, even with players like Salah.
Why can't they achieve both in a window?
Say we get (example only):
- Lallana
- Richards
- Hughes
- Tello/Shaqiri
- Reus
- Caulker
- A.Cole
There's the star power in Reus (to add to Suarez, Sturridge, Sterling). Lallana, Richards, Shaqiri/Tello, Cole and Caulker are all capable at Premier League and CL level. Hughes provides depth with the rest of them.
Would give us:
GK: Mignolet, Reina (probably gone, so will need a back-up)
DEF: Skrtel, Agger, Sahko, Caulker, Kelly, Richards
Fullbacks: Johnson, Cole, Flanagan, Richards, Kelly, Enrique
CM: Gerrard, Lucas, Allen, Henderson, Suso, Lallana, Hughes, Coutinho
Wingers: Shaqiri/Tello, Sterling, Suso, Lallana, Coutinho, Reus
Strikers: Suarez, Sturridge, Reus, Aspas, Borini
These are all affordable and would give us a very good squad. Add another good CM in (and probably a big name) and it'd be even better. This could be achieved through more transfer funds being trusted with Rogers or the sale of some players like Reina.
Quote from: MTTY on May 12, 2014, 08:09:22 PM
And MTTY. See above. Its not just about depth anymore. Its about key players. They can't do both in the same window. Money talks bra. They will join even if no CL. United have the money to do so, other clubs don't.
QuoteChelsea and City, i'd say, would both be able to pay more money for a player than United. They can offer CL too. What is to stop them from hijacking any of United's transfers if they are good players? Same thing happened to Liverpool, even with players like Salah.
Why can't they achieve both in a window?
Say we get (example only):
- Lallana
- Richards
- Hughes
- Tello/Shaqiri
- Reus
- Caulker
- A.Cole
There's the star power in Reus (to add to Suarez, Sturridge, Sterling). Lallana, Richards, Shaqiri/Tello, Cole and Caulker are all capable at Premier League and CL level. Hughes provides depth with the rest of them.
Would give us:
GK: Mignolet, Reina (probably gone, so will need a back-up)
DEF: Skrtel, Agger, Sahko, Caulker, Kelly, Richards
Fullbacks: Johnson, Cole, Flanagan, Richards, Kelly, Enrique
CM: Gerrard, Lucas, Allen, Henderson, Suso, Lallana, Hughes, Coutinho
Wingers: Shaqiri/Tello, Sterling, Suso, Lallana, Coutinho, Reus
Strikers: Suarez, Sturridge, Reus, Aspas, Borini
These are all affordable and would give us a very good squad. Add another good CM in (and probably a big name) and it'd be even better. This could be achieved through more transfer funds being trusted with Rogers or the sale of some players like Reina.
I was meaning other clubs can't thing in relation to clubs missing out on european football.
I realise thats an example but it is incredibly unrealistic.
Its like Man Utd fans saying
We can we league if we get
Messi
Ronaldo
Saurez
Kroos
Thiago Silva
Lahm
Lallana will cost 20m, Reus 35m+. Thats 55m right there. You also have to realise wages are a huge factor. Reus will demand 150+, Cole 100+, Shaqiri/Tello 80+. Richards is on 80+ @ City so he will demand around the same maybe a bit less. Liverpool have a huge wage bill already and are in the minus in terms of FPP and profit (althought their total income is very good, wages and transfers over the past few seasons have really cost them). For those players it will be around 80m and 600k worth of wages. Liverpool don't have that kind of spending power and I would assume they would love comply with the FPP.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 12, 2014, 08:21:04 PM
Quote from: MTTY on May 12, 2014, 08:09:22 PM
And MTTY. See above. Its not just about depth anymore. Its about key players. They can't do both in the same window. Money talks bra. They will join even if no CL. United have the money to do so, other clubs don't.
QuoteChelsea and City, i'd say, would both be able to pay more money for a player than United. They can offer CL too. What is to stop them from hijacking any of United's transfers if they are good players? Same thing happened to Liverpool, even with players like Salah.
Why can't they achieve both in a window?
Say we get (example only):
- Lallana
- Richards
- Hughes
- Tello/Shaqiri
- Reus
- Caulker
- A.Cole
There's the star power in Reus (to add to Suarez, Sturridge, Sterling). Lallana, Richards, Shaqiri/Tello, Cole and Caulker are all capable at Premier League and CL level. Hughes provides depth with the rest of them.
Would give us:
GK: Mignolet, Reina (probably gone, so will need a back-up)
DEF: Skrtel, Agger, Sahko, Caulker, Kelly, Richards
Fullbacks: Johnson, Cole, Flanagan, Richards, Kelly, Enrique
CM: Gerrard, Lucas, Allen, Henderson, Suso, Lallana, Hughes, Coutinho
Wingers: Shaqiri/Tello, Sterling, Suso, Lallana, Coutinho, Reus
Strikers: Suarez, Sturridge, Reus, Aspas, Borini
These are all affordable and would give us a very good squad. Add another good CM in (and probably a big name) and it'd be even better. This could be achieved through more transfer funds being trusted with Rogers or the sale of some players like Reina.
I was meaning other clubs can't thing in relation to clubs missing out on european football.
I realise thats an example but it is incredibly unrealistic.
Its like Man Utd fans saying
We can we league if we get
Messi
Ronaldo
Saurez
Kroos
Thiago Silva
Lahm
Lallana will cost 20m, Reus 35m+. Thats 55m right there. You also have to realise wages are a huge factor. Reus will demand 150+, Cole 100+, Shaqiri/Tello 80+. Richards is on 80+ @ City so he will demand around the same maybe a bit less. Liverpool have a huge wage bill already and are in the minus in terms of FPP and profit (althought their total income is very good, wages and transfers over the past few seasons have really cost them). For those players it will be around 80m and 600k worth of wages. Liverpool don't have that kind of spending power and I would assume they would love comply with the FPP.
Not that unrealistic. If Lallana urges Southampton to transfer him, then it'll be a lower price (possibly 13-15m). Reus will definitely be the expensive one, as you've said. He could be tempted to come over, just as Lewandowski and Gotze were. I realise he is a lot more loyal, but I still believe we could get him. However Tello, Richards and Cole (free) can all come at bargain prices in their current situations. Hughes and Caulker are the same, as in they will be cheaper than what they are actually worth.
Could definitely get all of them (Tello over Shaqiri) for 60-70m, so it's achievable there. On wages Tello and Richards are both looking to play football at a senior level consistently. I'm sure we could get them on fair wages. Hughes and Caulker both young up and comers, so won't need to pay them big money right now. Reus I agree will be on huge wages (if we were to pry him away from Borussia).
Take into account that we lose the wages of Moses, Cissokho and probably Reina next season. That has to be a fair amount of wage right there.
Southampton are in a really good situation though. He has a long time on his contract like Shaw/Schneider/Rodriguez and can demand big bucks. 20m is the figure throwing up it could be a little lower but I guarantee it won't be less than 15m. Lewa and Goetze took the big bucks. Lewa 180 and Goetze 170. 200k or so euro. Its fine for them wanting to play football but Richards hasn't started regularly for like 5-6 seasons now. If he was that keen on playing football he would've left. he would rather earn the big bucks. He would not want to drop his wages. Hughes isn't that great, (Shelvey was a stand out too remember) obv has a bucket load of potential. Derby can also leverage too.
We will see after the world cup, but I just don't see them doing everything in one window since king kenny flowered a lot of shower up with his transfers. Its a 2-3 summer window job imo. At the same time continuing top 4 with the same sort of squad when United don't have a brain dead manager. I'm just really looking forward to next season already when we have a possible 5 horse title race. And then 4-5 going for 1 position.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 12, 2014, 08:42:10 PM
Southampton are in a really good situation though. He has a long time on his contract like Shaw/Schneider/Rodriguez and can demand big bucks. 20m is the figure throwing up it could be a little lower but I guarantee it won't be less than 15m. Lewa and Goetze took the big bucks. Lewa 180 and Goetze 170. 200k or so euro. Its fine for them wanting to play football but Richards hasn't started regularly for like 5-6 seasons now. If he was that keen on playing football he would've left. he would rather earn the big bucks. He would not want to drop his wages. Hughes isn't that great, (Shelvey was a stand out too remember) obv has a bucket load of potential. Derby can also leverage too.
We will see after the world cup, but I just don't see them doing everything in one window since king kenny flowered a lot of shower up with his transfers. Its a 2-3 summer window job imo. At the same time continuing top 4 with the same sort of squad when United don't have a brain dead manager. I'm just really looking forward to next season already when we have a possible 5 horse title race. And then 4-5 going for 1 position.
All valid points.
I'm looking forward to the competition becoming even closer. I actually think Tottenham could pull it together if they get De Boer as manager. Would love Southampton to keep their players and continue to improve, to the point where they are challenging for top 5-6. Wouldn't mind Everton getting Lukaku and Deulofeu full time either.
Yeah fo sho. No idea why they never used Lamela. Kid is gun
Also, the only way I can see Liverpool doing what you said is by selling Suarez, which I think is a real possibility. Holding on to Suarez and doing that I think is nearly impossible.
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 12, 2014, 08:49:02 PM
Yeah fo sho. No idea why they never used Lamela. Kid is gun
Also, the only way I can see Liverpool doing what you said is by selling Suarez, which I think is a real possibility. Holding on to Suarez and doing that I think is nearly impossible.
Exactly! Although he played earlier correct? Just had form issues? He and Eriksen could make a pretty impressive combo.
Not too sure about that. Possibly no Reus without selling Suarez. I'd rather Suarez though, even though a lot of his goals were against bottom sides. Still reckon we need Suarez more than someone like Reus.
I also rate Suarez pretty highly as one of the best players in the world. He'd be in my top 5.
This was going to be Suarez's last season at Liverpool.... until they did what they did. He is too goo to not play in Europe, and that's what he can do now at Liverpool, I can see him staying for another season. :)
LOL United have the largest debt of any EPL club. Over 340 in debt.
Also with the poor form of the club wiping $250m off United's overall stock value in a little over six months.
We have 60m in the kitty that could be bumped up with the possible sale of Reina/agger.
Suarez has an 82m release clause but I don't think he'll go.
I've read that Real want Suarez but won't pay over 60, but will throw in a player.
Hope he doesn't leave.
Every business is generally in debt. United make more than enough to not only repay servicing fee's on loans, interests and the initial debt amount, but to pay the CEO's a very generous amounts while buying players and paying them 150k plus is something that only United and Real Madrid can do. You do realise that the stock exchange only has 10% of the club on it? The stock exchange has close to 0 impact on the overall club profits. United is still the richest club in the world.
Suarez is the clear 3rd best player in the world atm.
I have read reports that Barca are willing to give cash + Tello in order to get Agger so if that happens thats already a win.
Quote from: Noz on May 12, 2014, 10:39:49 PM
I have read reports that Barca are willing to give cash + Tello in order to get Agger so if that happens thats already a win.
Agreed
Diego Costa to Chelsea for 32 mill. Surely Lukaku's going to get sold then?
Need transfer thread :P
FA Cup final this weekend, surely Arsenal can break their trophy drought...? Another chance for a trophy won't come along this easy for a while yet
FA Cup, Atleti vs Barca and DFB all on at same time. Sad times.
Quote from: My Chumps on May 13, 2014, 01:19:17 PM
Need transfer thread :P
Thread made - http://forum.fanfooty.com.au/index.php/topic,95177.0.html
Pulis rightly named EPL Manager of the Year.
Quote from: NigeyS on May 13, 2014, 02:23:03 PM
Pulis rightly named EPL Manager of the Year.
Martinez can consider himself pretty stiff.
Not really. Palace were the worst side till pulis came in. Bookies had them at 1.10 and some even paid out on them being relegated. Fantastic job done by him.
Quote from: My Chumps on May 13, 2014, 05:49:34 PM
Quote from: NigeyS on May 13, 2014, 02:23:03 PM
Pulis rightly named EPL Manager of the Year.
Martinez can consider himself pretty stiff.
as an everton fan I agree Martinez was stiff but you can't look past Pulis. He guided a club who had probably the worst list in the EPL to midtable.
I just mean most other years to do what Martinez has done would easily bag him MOTY.
Quote from: My Chumps on May 13, 2014, 08:31:36 PM
I just mean most other years to do what Martinez has done would easily bag him MOTY.
What has he done? Got a team that finished 6th the season before to finish 5th this year. Not really a legendary achievement in my mind.
Tactically he did an amazing job. However pullis acheievment is miles better.
Quote from: Honey Badger on May 13, 2014, 11:28:13 PM
Quote from: My Chumps on May 13, 2014, 08:31:36 PM
I just mean most other years to do what Martinez has done would easily bag him MOTY.
What has he done? Got a team that finished 6th the season before to finish 5th this year. Not really a legendary achievement in my mind.
he got a team with almost no transfer budget to finish on 72 points. Any other year that would have been top 4.
So now that my beloved Fulham has gone to less green pastures, it seems I need a team to be vaguely interested in for next season... hmmmm who to go for...
Some very good players to steal from Fulham...
Quote from: Andrew3747 on May 15, 2014, 12:30:27 AM
Some very good players to steal from Fulham...
...really? :P
As long as you steer clear of our youth, I'll be happy :)
Mitrogolouuuuuuuuuuuuu
Quote from: stew42 on May 15, 2014, 12:27:56 AM
So now that my beloved Fulham has gone to less green pastures, it seems I need a team to be vaguely interested in for next season... hmmmm who to go for...
Arsenal obviously Stew. Poised and set to take the big prize next season. :D
Quote from: stew42 on May 15, 2014, 12:27:56 AM
So now that my beloved Fulham has gone to less green pastures, it seems I need a team to be vaguely interested in for next season... hmmmm who to go for...
Jump on the Southampton bandwagon or may go for somebody like Swansea or Palace.
Just don't pick Arsenal or Man United. :P
Quote from: NigeyS on May 16, 2014, 05:54:41 PM
Quote from: stew42 on May 15, 2014, 12:27:56 AM
So now that my beloved Fulham has gone to less green pastures, it seems I need a team to be vaguely interested in for next season... hmmmm who to go for...
Jump on the Southampton bandwagon or may go for somebody like Swansea or Palace.
yeah you can join me as a Swans fan 8)
I was thinking of either Everton, Palace or Southampton...
Quote from: stew42 on May 17, 2014, 01:35:57 AM
I was thinking Southampton
I like your thinking stewart. ;)
Quote from: stew42 on May 17, 2014, 01:35:57 AM
I was thinking of either Everton, Palace or Southampton...
and obviously Arsenal...of course... ;D
Time to shine Arsenal, time to shine... :)
Arsenal did very well! 2-0 down to Hull, win the FA Cup 3-2 in Extra Time! And yes, Aaron Ramsey scored the winner.
Finally the "trophy drought" jibes are over
You had one job Hull City, you had one job. :P
Oh that was tough to watch. Kieran Gibbs I love you, what a header off the line to stop us from going 3-0 down after 12 minutes.
Louis Van Gaal is the new manager of Manchester United.
well that's a wrap on the PL season I guess, so I'd like to take this opportunity to say thanks for making this thread such a popular one.
It's been a pleasure doing the previews and reviews, even though schoolwork commitments have detracted from the time I've been able to give to doing them in the second half of the year. To get over 7500+ views and 750+ replies on a thread I've made is way more than I ever expected!!
It's been a great season and it's been great to get all excited about it on here with you all
Thanks for your inputs into this thread!! Can't wait for the 2014/15 Season! :)
Onya Tomma, thoroughly enjoyed coming here to check a few predictions on the Saturday nights I was staying in, awesome to see 8)
Great work Big Tom....ended up ranked 44,202..a massive improvement from 563,028 last season. 8)
You're a champ Tom!!
And bloody QPR got promoted. ::)