I'm aware the Final Series is in full swing, but meh. Here's Round 27 from the league.
Adelaide United 1-1 Melbourne Heart
Both sides were taking it nice and easy in this match, as Eli Babalj's goal cancelled out what could be Sergio Van Dijk's last Adelaide strike. Both teams looked like they were taking a breather, and why wouldn't they? Adelaide had nothing to play for, and Melbourne were already in the Finals. It was more of a chance to chalk up some goals. But no. 1-1. Hardly changed the table. Really not much to talk about to be honest. Colosimo bundled down Daniel Mullen to give Van Dijk a penalty which he coolly slotted in. Other than that, not much to report, sorry folks.
Perth Glory 4-2 Melbourne Victory
If the Adelaide match was dull, this was the complete opposite. Shane Smeltz scored an incredible 4 goals, in the 22nd, 47th, 62nd and 65th minutes to twice bring back Perth from behind against a stubborn and determined Victory side. Carlos Hernandez gave the visitors and unexpected lead 21 minutes into the match before Smeltz was like "NO" and headed home a minute later. Mark Milligan was like "YES" as he knocked in Victory's second just before half time. Smeltz was like "OHHH HELL NO" as he equalised 2 minutes later. Noticing a trend? However, that trend ends there, as Smeltz went on to score a further two goals to show the class that has eluded him due to his injury problems this year. Perth are in the finals, Victory got some 'splainin' to do.
Wellington Phoenix 1-2 Central Coast Mariners
Central Coast won the A-League basically. They bossed the match, and when Leo Bertos' goal came in, few would have dreamt that they could get another and give Brisbane a chance. And it'd didn't happen. John Sutton and Bernie Ibini-Isei scored either side of half time to seal the Mariners 2nd A-League title.
Sydney FC 3-2 Newcastle Jets
Newcastle have been brutally robbed of a Finals place by Sydney. I really can't stress how gutted I am for the Jets. They've tried so hard this season, but it was to be Sydney's chance for glory. In a must win game for the Blues, the talismanic Bruno Cazarine scored after 10 minutes. Bridges levelled for the away side 15 minutes later to give them hope. Two quickfire goals from Joel Chianese put the home side back in the drivers seat, and the Jets spent the rest of the match slugging it out to try and produce something magnificent. Wheelhouse made the score 3-2 with about quarter of an hour left of the match to set up a tense finale, with Newcastle throwing everything at Sydney, but they held out and are into the finals. Unlucky, Jets.
Gold Coast United 1-2 Brisbane Roar
What an emotional day. It could be the final game Gold Coast ever play unless their license is sold on to a new owner - and there are investors talking about it - but with their future in doubt, it was time to celebrate what they've brought to the game. And what better way to do that than by having one of your products score against your arch rivals? Daniel Bowles scored just before half an hour to give United a sense of pride in their team. With the title already decided, Brisbane had little to play for, but this was a derby match, and they wanted to end the regular season on a high. They came to win. And of course they did. Second half goals from Fitzgerald and Lambadaridis sealed the Gold Coast's fate and consigned them to the wooden spoon in what may turn out to be their final season. Poor Brisbane. They could have won the title had it not been for that wretched streak of form in December. But hey, they play the Mariners in the Major Final next week and will look to avenge themselves.
Hold on for the finals.
Saturday, 31 March 2012
Sunday, 25 March 2012
A-League: Final matches (Live Text)
(Please refresh the page every few minutes for new entries. All times GMT+1)
6.00am - It's time for bed. 6am. I'm so tired. Well done to the Mariners, commiserations to Brisbane, and good luck Sydney and Newcastle. Good night, y'all.
5.55am - GAME OVER. CENTRAL COAST ARE THE A-LEAGUE CHAMPIONS
5.53am - Central Coast are 2 minutes away from being crowned champions if they can just hold on.
5.49am - Still going, they're really going for it, these Kiwis.
5.46am - I don't believe this, Phoenix are attacking...watch this space...
GOAL: Someone (WP) Wellington Phoenix 1-2 Central Coast Mariners
This isn't over yet. I didn't catch who, but that was one hell of a free kick. Ryan stood no chance in his goal. 10 minutes to play.
5.39am - Wellington string some attacks together, each time getting straight to the keeper.
5.34am - Kwasnik on, Sutton off. One of the Wellington playersis down with what looks like cramp.
5.33am - Should have been 3. Head at close range bounces slow and high towards the top corner, not sure how it didnt go in, great defence.
5.31am - Mariners almost teasing the Kiwis now. Passing the ball around at ease, Phoenix posing no real threat.
5.29am - Central Coast have a chance to bury it once and for all. (Dont ask me the names, I can't see on my PC , it hates me right now) Someone passed it off to someone else who tried to whip it into the box, but it was cleared
5.25am - They're just all over the Phoenix now. It's going to take some inspired coaching by Herbert to pull this back round. Graham Arnold must be rubbing his hands together with glee.
5.20am - This game has been turned on its head. Mariners are on the attack, Wellington are desparately defending. Corners and everything.
GOAL: Ibini (CCM) Wellington Phoenix 0-2 Central Coast Mariners
Ibini gets a goal. Central Coast have this wrapped up. Phoenix won't be celebrating today.
GOAL: Sutton (CCM) Wellington Phoenix 0-1 Central Coast Mariners
Oh they do not deserve this. Mistake in the Wellington box allows Sutton to somehow steer the ball home. Brisbane...it's out of your hands. And there's half time.
4.49am - The keepers haven't had to do much, but Central Coast's is proving dependable. When called upon, he's always been there to collect.
4.47am - Just a couple of minutes left of the first half now. Both sides seem to be taking a breather. I can't see Phoenix getting 3 today, sorry lads.
4.44am - Bozanic whips in a free kick to the Wellington box. Nothing comes of it, though. Surprisingly littleresistance coming from the Mariners side.
4.41am - Interesting to see what Graham Arnold says at Half Time. As it stands, a Brisbane win would see them snatch the title from under the nose of the Mariners.
4.39am - Shots still fizzing around the place, all in the direction of the Central Coast goal though.
4.36am - Mega annoyed with my slow laptop right now. Grr. No sign of goals yet.
4.34am - New Zealand's U23's are winning against Fiji's in an Olympic qualifier, btw
4.31am - Handball claims dismissed by the referee. Clearly ball to hand by a Central Coast palyer.
4.28am - Free kick...over from Manny Muscat. Pressure still being piled on by Phoenix, nothing major from the Mariners yet.
4.25am - Both teams committing people forward. Strategy for Wellington thus far? Get the ball to Bertos and let him whip it in, see what we can do. Mariners trying a steady build up play.
4.24am - Phoenix really starting to apply pressure now. Zwaanswijk the hero for the Mariners this time.
4.22am - Pedj Bojic reads Bertos' cross. He's having trouble getting service to Greenacre today.
4.21am - 15 minutes of game time gone, to give you an idea. This must be the fullest I've ever seen the Westpac stadium.
4.19am - Just saw we have views from Australia and New Zealand. Hello guys! :D
4.18am - This game's like a basketball game. End to end stuff.
4.14am - I think that was Sutton...he just skied it over the Wellington bar, that was miles away.
4.12am - Corner to Mariners. Well cleared by the Phoenix lines, they try to counter attack, but it comes to nothing
4.08am - Nothing much happening. Probes from both ends.
4.06am - Kick off.
3.54am - 6 minutes. Ooga Booga.
3.51am - 9 minutes to kickoff. EXCITEMENT.
3.40am - Overall Head-To-Head Record
Played 14; Wellington Phoenix FC 5, Central Coast Mariners FC 7, Drawn 2
Head-To-Head at this venue
Played 8; Wellington Phoenix FC 3, Central Coast Mariners FC 3, Drawn 2
Still even for the most part.
3.34am - Last 5 Matches Head-to-Head
Central Coast Mariners FC, 2-0, Bluetongue Stadium, 18 Feb 2012
Central Coast Mariners FC, 2-1, Westpac Stadium, 4 Nov 2011
Central Coast Mariners FC, 1-0, Bluetongue Stadium, 9 Jan 2011
Central Coast Mariners FC, 3-0, Westpac Stadium, 13 Nov 2010
Wellington Phoenix FC, 2-0, Westpac Stadium, 22 Aug 2010
I guess if anything, history is on the Mariners side. However, they've only played one of the last 5 away from home. Potential sticking point? They lost that one match.
3.28am - Sorry for a lack of activity here guys, not much happening right now!
3.22am - Quick note about Gold Coast United. Today could be their last ever match unless investors are moved in quickly. I hope it isn't. Although a potentially title-deciding derby day isn't a bad way to go out.
3.17am - Just been handed the teamsheets.
Wellington: Paston Muscat Durante Sigmund Lochhead Brown Lia Bertos Sanchez Greenacre Ifill
Subs: Warner(GK), Ward Pavlovic Smith.
CCM: Ryan (Gk), Rose, Wilkinson (C), Zwaanswijk, Bojic, Hutchinson, Bozanic, McGlinchey, Rogic, Sutton, Ibini
Subs: Pasfield (Gk), Kwasnik, Hearfield, Amini
3.11am - Wow. I just found out about this Zombie experience thing. You go to an abandoned shopping center, get given airsoft guns and have to fight your wayhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif through hordes of the undead. Wow. Check. This. Shit. Out.
Also, I didn't get paid for that. I'm not that lucky.
3.04am - Central Coast need to win this. They are two points ahead of Roar, having surrendered an 11 point lead they held earlier in the season. A win will put them out of reach, but a draw will leave them 3 points ahead. Roar have a superior goal difference. If Central Coast draw or lose, Brisbane can win their derby with Gold Coast and win the title in the same match. Tense, no? If that's not enough to whet your appetite, Wellington sit 4th. They're 3 points behind Perth Glory, and are 2 goals worse off. Due to Glory's higher goals scored tally, Phoenix need to win by 3 goals if they're to guarentee themselves a home match up until the preliminary final. High stakes, I know.
3.01am - So let's have a look at our first match shall we?
2.58am - I'm not sure anyone will, but hey, worth a try! If you want to get in contact, by all means tweet us @firstflightfoot (the missing y is because the name was too long). Your tweet will appear on the right of this page. While you're here, like us on facebook too!
2.56am - The clocks went forward here in England today, I'm missing an hour of sleep. Not happy.
2.53am - Alright guys! Dukey here bringing you another FFF Live Text. It's the final day of the regular season in the Hyundai A-League, and boy do we have some crackers for you today. Central Coast Mariners will look to seal the Premier's Plate against a Wellington side with an eye on the finals. Sydney and Newcastle will battle it out for the final...finals...place available, with Sydney needing a win if they're to avoid a boring post-season. If the Mariners fail to win, Brisbane will look to take their chance and must beat Gold Coast to have any chance retaining the plate and of winning the first back to back title of the league. Fascinating stuff.
6.00am - It's time for bed. 6am. I'm so tired. Well done to the Mariners, commiserations to Brisbane, and good luck Sydney and Newcastle. Good night, y'all.
5.55am - GAME OVER. CENTRAL COAST ARE THE A-LEAGUE CHAMPIONS
5.53am - Central Coast are 2 minutes away from being crowned champions if they can just hold on.
5.49am - Still going, they're really going for it, these Kiwis.
5.46am - I don't believe this, Phoenix are attacking...watch this space...
GOAL: Someone (WP) Wellington Phoenix 1-2 Central Coast Mariners
This isn't over yet. I didn't catch who, but that was one hell of a free kick. Ryan stood no chance in his goal. 10 minutes to play.
5.39am - Wellington string some attacks together, each time getting straight to the keeper.
5.34am - Kwasnik on, Sutton off. One of the Wellington playersis down with what looks like cramp.
5.33am - Should have been 3. Head at close range bounces slow and high towards the top corner, not sure how it didnt go in, great defence.
5.31am - Mariners almost teasing the Kiwis now. Passing the ball around at ease, Phoenix posing no real threat.
5.29am - Central Coast have a chance to bury it once and for all. (Dont ask me the names, I can't see on my PC , it hates me right now) Someone passed it off to someone else who tried to whip it into the box, but it was cleared
5.25am - They're just all over the Phoenix now. It's going to take some inspired coaching by Herbert to pull this back round. Graham Arnold must be rubbing his hands together with glee.
5.20am - This game has been turned on its head. Mariners are on the attack, Wellington are desparately defending. Corners and everything.
GOAL: Ibini (CCM) Wellington Phoenix 0-2 Central Coast Mariners
Ibini gets a goal. Central Coast have this wrapped up. Phoenix won't be celebrating today.
GOAL: Sutton (CCM) Wellington Phoenix 0-1 Central Coast Mariners
Oh they do not deserve this. Mistake in the Wellington box allows Sutton to somehow steer the ball home. Brisbane...it's out of your hands. And there's half time.
4.49am - The keepers haven't had to do much, but Central Coast's is proving dependable. When called upon, he's always been there to collect.
4.47am - Just a couple of minutes left of the first half now. Both sides seem to be taking a breather. I can't see Phoenix getting 3 today, sorry lads.
4.44am - Bozanic whips in a free kick to the Wellington box. Nothing comes of it, though. Surprisingly littleresistance coming from the Mariners side.
4.41am - Interesting to see what Graham Arnold says at Half Time. As it stands, a Brisbane win would see them snatch the title from under the nose of the Mariners.
4.39am - Shots still fizzing around the place, all in the direction of the Central Coast goal though.
4.36am - Mega annoyed with my slow laptop right now. Grr. No sign of goals yet.
4.34am - New Zealand's U23's are winning against Fiji's in an Olympic qualifier, btw
4.31am - Handball claims dismissed by the referee. Clearly ball to hand by a Central Coast palyer.
4.28am - Free kick...over from Manny Muscat. Pressure still being piled on by Phoenix, nothing major from the Mariners yet.
4.25am - Both teams committing people forward. Strategy for Wellington thus far? Get the ball to Bertos and let him whip it in, see what we can do. Mariners trying a steady build up play.
4.24am - Phoenix really starting to apply pressure now. Zwaanswijk the hero for the Mariners this time.
4.22am - Pedj Bojic reads Bertos' cross. He's having trouble getting service to Greenacre today.
4.21am - 15 minutes of game time gone, to give you an idea. This must be the fullest I've ever seen the Westpac stadium.
4.19am - Just saw we have views from Australia and New Zealand. Hello guys! :D
4.18am - This game's like a basketball game. End to end stuff.
4.14am - I think that was Sutton...he just skied it over the Wellington bar, that was miles away.
4.12am - Corner to Mariners. Well cleared by the Phoenix lines, they try to counter attack, but it comes to nothing
4.08am - Nothing much happening. Probes from both ends.
4.06am - Kick off.
3.54am - 6 minutes. Ooga Booga.
3.51am - 9 minutes to kickoff. EXCITEMENT.
3.40am - Overall Head-To-Head Record
Played 14; Wellington Phoenix FC 5, Central Coast Mariners FC 7, Drawn 2
Head-To-Head at this venue
Played 8; Wellington Phoenix FC 3, Central Coast Mariners FC 3, Drawn 2
Still even for the most part.
3.34am - Last 5 Matches Head-to-Head
Central Coast Mariners FC, 2-0, Bluetongue Stadium, 18 Feb 2012
Central Coast Mariners FC, 2-1, Westpac Stadium, 4 Nov 2011
Central Coast Mariners FC, 1-0, Bluetongue Stadium, 9 Jan 2011
Central Coast Mariners FC, 3-0, Westpac Stadium, 13 Nov 2010
Wellington Phoenix FC, 2-0, Westpac Stadium, 22 Aug 2010
I guess if anything, history is on the Mariners side. However, they've only played one of the last 5 away from home. Potential sticking point? They lost that one match.
3.28am - Sorry for a lack of activity here guys, not much happening right now!
3.22am - Quick note about Gold Coast United. Today could be their last ever match unless investors are moved in quickly. I hope it isn't. Although a potentially title-deciding derby day isn't a bad way to go out.
3.17am - Just been handed the teamsheets.
Wellington: Paston Muscat Durante Sigmund Lochhead Brown Lia Bertos Sanchez Greenacre Ifill
Subs: Warner(GK), Ward Pavlovic Smith.
CCM: Ryan (Gk), Rose, Wilkinson (C), Zwaanswijk, Bojic, Hutchinson, Bozanic, McGlinchey, Rogic, Sutton, Ibini
Subs: Pasfield (Gk), Kwasnik, Hearfield, Amini
3.11am - Wow. I just found out about this Zombie experience thing. You go to an abandoned shopping center, get given airsoft guns and have to fight your wayhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif through hordes of the undead. Wow. Check. This. Shit. Out.
Also, I didn't get paid for that. I'm not that lucky.
3.04am - Central Coast need to win this. They are two points ahead of Roar, having surrendered an 11 point lead they held earlier in the season. A win will put them out of reach, but a draw will leave them 3 points ahead. Roar have a superior goal difference. If Central Coast draw or lose, Brisbane can win their derby with Gold Coast and win the title in the same match. Tense, no? If that's not enough to whet your appetite, Wellington sit 4th. They're 3 points behind Perth Glory, and are 2 goals worse off. Due to Glory's higher goals scored tally, Phoenix need to win by 3 goals if they're to guarentee themselves a home match up until the preliminary final. High stakes, I know.
3.01am - So let's have a look at our first match shall we?
2.58am - I'm not sure anyone will, but hey, worth a try! If you want to get in contact, by all means tweet us @firstflightfoot (the missing y is because the name was too long). Your tweet will appear on the right of this page. While you're here, like us on facebook too!
2.56am - The clocks went forward here in England today, I'm missing an hour of sleep. Not happy.
2.53am - Alright guys! Dukey here bringing you another FFF Live Text. It's the final day of the regular season in the Hyundai A-League, and boy do we have some crackers for you today. Central Coast Mariners will look to seal the Premier's Plate against a Wellington side with an eye on the finals. Sydney and Newcastle will battle it out for the final...finals...place available, with Sydney needing a win if they're to avoid a boring post-season. If the Mariners fail to win, Brisbane will look to take their chance and must beat Gold Coast to have any chance retaining the plate and of winning the first back to back title of the league. Fascinating stuff.
Wednesday, 21 March 2012
A-League: Penultimate Weekend
No time for details, you'll get a live text for each of the final weekends' games though. :) I'll give you the scores and a quick comment.
Melbourne Victory 3-0 Wellington Phoenix
Melbourne chose the wrong time to find their form, Wellington chose the wrong time to lose it. They didn't look like a finals winning side. Perhaps they're trying to save energy now they know their place is secure. But going into the final week, they know they're guarenteed a third or fourth place finish.
Central Coast Mariners 1-0 Adelaide United
Central Coast need a win in their next game to guarentee the Premier plate. Adelaide need a draw to guarentee their evasion of the wooden spoon. While Mariners didn't particularly look like a title winning side, grinding out results is the hallmark of champions.
Newcastle Jets 1-2 Brisbane Roar
Brisbane need to win to have any chance of taking the plate. If Mariners draw, Roar's goal difference will be enough to put them in first - they just need to win. It could be the first time a team has retained the A-League title. Jets need to draw with Sydney next week to stay in the finals places.
Melbourne Heart 2-2 Sydney FC
Heart are in the finals. No matter what the result of the Jets - Sydney game is, there is no possible way that both sides will be able to overtake them. Sydney have to beat Jets. They'll have to throw everything at them, only a win will do.
Gold Coast United 3-0 Perth Glory
Gold Coast...*sigh* I hope they're around next season. They're so unpredictable. Get new investors. Perth...They're in the finals, but they have the same problem as Melbourne. They need to get back to winning ways and fast if they're going to challenge for the championship.
Melbourne Victory 3-0 Wellington Phoenix
Melbourne chose the wrong time to find their form, Wellington chose the wrong time to lose it. They didn't look like a finals winning side. Perhaps they're trying to save energy now they know their place is secure. But going into the final week, they know they're guarenteed a third or fourth place finish.
Central Coast Mariners 1-0 Adelaide United
Central Coast need a win in their next game to guarentee the Premier plate. Adelaide need a draw to guarentee their evasion of the wooden spoon. While Mariners didn't particularly look like a title winning side, grinding out results is the hallmark of champions.
Newcastle Jets 1-2 Brisbane Roar
Brisbane need to win to have any chance of taking the plate. If Mariners draw, Roar's goal difference will be enough to put them in first - they just need to win. It could be the first time a team has retained the A-League title. Jets need to draw with Sydney next week to stay in the finals places.
Melbourne Heart 2-2 Sydney FC
Heart are in the finals. No matter what the result of the Jets - Sydney game is, there is no possible way that both sides will be able to overtake them. Sydney have to beat Jets. They'll have to throw everything at them, only a win will do.
Gold Coast United 3-0 Perth Glory
Gold Coast...*sigh* I hope they're around next season. They're so unpredictable. Get new investors. Perth...They're in the finals, but they have the same problem as Melbourne. They need to get back to winning ways and fast if they're going to challenge for the championship.
Wednesday, 14 March 2012
A-League: Run-in Preview
Well here we are. Tomorrow kicks off the penultimate round of A-League regular season matches. It is now that some teams can start preparations for the finals. For others, it is a time to blood their youngsters, while there are still a few teams involved in the scrap for the title or to actually get a finals place. Let's have a gander (I'm learning the lingo!) at the current standings.
Central Coast Mariners - 45 Points
Brisbane Roar FC - 43 Points
Perth Glory FC - 40 Points
Wellington Phoenix FC - 40 Points
Melbourne Heart FC - 35 Points
Newcastle Jets FC - 35 Points
Sydney FC - 34 Points
Melbourne Victory FC - 26 Points
Adelaide United FC - 24 Points
Gold Coast United FC - 18 Points
Now let's have a look at a breakdown. Ohhh yeeeeah.
Central Coast Mariners
Position - 1st
Highest Possible Finish - 1st
Lowest Possible Finish - 4th
Last 5 Matches - LDLDW
Final Matches - Adelaide United, Wellington Phoenix
Prediction
Central Coast started the season slowly, picking up points quietly while Brisbane took all the plaudits. As soon as Roar began to stutter, the Mariners were right in there to take their spot. However, recently there form has been a shambles, their win against Phoenix in February being their most recent victory. They face a stubborn Adelaide who, though only playing for pride, managed to hold rivals Brisbane to a draw last time out. They will then face Phoenix, who have their own title ambitions. While a draw will all but end Perth and Phoenix's challenge, it will let in Roar who have a superior goal difference. I think it will most likely be a Central Coast premiership win, but the finals will be a different story. My final prediction is that the Mariners will finish First.
Brisbane Roar
Position - 2nd
Highest Possible Finish - 1st
Lowest Possible Finish - 4th
Last 5 Matches - DDWWW
Final Matches - Newcastle Jets, Gold Coast United
Prediction
The golden boys of Australian sport fell apart mid-season, and that has cost them. Even if they managed to get one or two points rather than those losses, they would quite likely be in the lead right now. There is no point dwelling on what-ifs, and they have gone about the business of catching up with the Mariners and fending off advances from Perth, Wellington and Heart. They'll be playing a Jets team who are going to be desparate for points to guarentee their finals place, whereas the challenge from Gold Coast...is a hard one to call. It's a derby match, so anything is possible, but Gold Coast are wounded from months of turbulence. However, they did manage to draw 3-3 with the Mariners. I really can't call the match. But I think that Brisbane will most likely finish Second, though I do hope they manage to draw level with the Mariners this weekend and give us a cracker of a final matchday.
Perth Glory
Position - 3rd
Highest Possible Finish - 1st
Lowest Possible Finish - 5th
Last 5 Matches - WWLWL
Final Matches - Gold Coast United, Melbourne Victory
Prediction
These guys really went on one hell of a run, didn't they? It's a shame they petered out, I genuinely thought they would be the dark horse of the competition. They still are, don't get me wrong. Gold Coast, no disrespect intended, are very beatable, as are a struggling Melbourne Victory. Yes, a first A-League title will require other results to go their way (namely Central Coast and Brisbane both need to lose). A Central Coast draw would leave them in a position in which they could potentially catch up, but an inferior goal difference means they would need some convincing victories to have a chance. While Perth are in essentially the same position as Phoenix (up to the same Goal Difference), in view of their considerably easier game against Gold Coast, I think Perth will most likely finish...Third.
Wellington Phoenix
Position - 4th
Highest Possible Finish - 1st
Lowest Possible Finish - 5th
Last 5 Matches - DWWLL
Final Matches - Melbourne Victory, Central Coast Mariners
Prediction
I like Phoenix. They came from the ashes of the Knightz, and this season they've really blossomed. Against all expectation, they've surprised us time and again, and it's just a shame they couldn't keep up their good run. While they can technically win the league, I really wouldn't count on it. Too many other results have to go their way to make it happen. They are more likely to be the spoilers. If they can hold the Mariners to a draw, it will allow Brisbane to jump in and retain their title. But for my money, they have a much better chance of winning the finals. They just need to decide whether to give it all for these last two games, or just try and save their energy. With this in mind, I wouldn't be surprised to see them finish Fourth.
Melbourne Heart
Position - 5th
Highest Possible Finish - 3rd
Lowest Possible Finish - 7th
Last 5 Matches - DDWWL
Final Matches - Sydney FC, Adelaide United
Prediction
Heart had their own run of form...I'm starting to notice a trend...Anyway, Eli Babalj and Fred have been fantastic for them. They have single-handedly dragged Heart kicking and screaming to their finals place. However, it's not over yet. Sydney FC, who are only 1 point behind, are up next. This is going to be their deciding match for the season. It's all or nothing. They have to win it to guarentee them a spot. Adelaide shouldn't be too much of a trouble, but that doesn't mean they're through yet. I think they'll manage to at least draw with Sydney and Adelaide, and I think they'll finish Fifth. This table really doesn't look like it will shift.
Newcastle Jets
Position - 6th
Highest Possible Finish - 3rd
Lowest Possible Finish - 7th
Last 5 Matches - DWWLW
Final Matches - Brisbane Roar, Sydney FC
Prediction
After all the stick I gave the Jets at the beginning of the season, they've really turned it around. They're finally starting to play like a team, which will serve them well if they make the playoffs. However, I don't think they will. I think Brisbane will beat them, and the Sydney match will most likely be a Sydney victory. Funny, Sydney - Newcastle was the first A-League match I ever watched. It'll be an important one this time. I don't think they'll make it, though. Next season, expect to see a more determined side. They'll finish Seventh
Sydney FC
Position - 7th
Highest Possible Finish - 3rd
Lowest Possible Finish - 7th
Last 5 Matches - WDLWW
Final Matches - Melbourne Heart, Newcastle Jets
Prediction
What a season they've had. Disappointment, mainly. They were expected to do well, but Brett Emerton, while playing well on his own, has failed to ignite a spark in the rest of the side, and they're now scrambling for a finals spot. They play both of the teams ahead of them, that's what makes this so juicy. I don't know which of them they'll beat, but I'm sure they'll get at least 3 points from these two games. I have a feeling they'll beat Newcastle, and perhaps draw with Melbourne. So based on this, I reckon they'll finish Sixth. Not good enough for their fans, but it'll at least give them a chance in the finals.
Melbourne Victory
Position - 8th
Highest Possible Finish - 8th
Lowest Possible Finish - 9th
Last 5 Matches - LLDLW
Final Matches - Wellington Phoenix, Perth Glory
Prediction
Well, well, well. I guess now we're getting onto the Also-rans. Actually, that's a bit cruel, but they have completely failed this season. Has the Harry Kewell experiment failed? No. He has played well towards the end of the season, it's just down to whether he will still be there next season, or if he'll move elsewhere in the A-League, or even abroad. Either way, I feel Magilton needs to go. Yes, he inherited a poorly constructed squad, but he just hasn't been able to galvanise them. They'll lose to Phoenix and Glory, but since Adelaide most likely won't pick up the 2 point deficit, they'll finish Eighth.
Adelaide United
Position - 9th
Highest Possible Finish - 8th
Lowest Possible Finish - 10th
Last 5 Matches - DLLLW
Final Matches - Central Coast Mariners, Melbourne Heart
Prediction
Adelaide...they changed bosses, and had a rejuvenation, but despite playing well, they just couldn't get the victories. As much as it pains me to say it, I can't see them picking up the points to overtake the Victory. Both the teams they'll be playing have something to play for (Premiership and finals). As long as they can hold onto Sergio Van Dijk, they should be OK next season. But they'll finish Ninth this time.
Gold Coast United
Position - 10th
Highest Possible Finish - 9th
Lowest Possible Finish - 10th
Last 5 Matches - DLDDL
Final Matches - Perth Glory, Brisbane Roar
Prediction
Tenth. It pains me to say it. Gold Coast have so many talented youngsters like Mitch Cooper and Ben Halloran, and they'll find new clubs easy. I just...I can't see GCU being around next year. Clive Palmer, while he has spoken some sense, has ruined the club. They have failed to engage with the community, and while there are some investors interested, I don't think we'll see much action at Skilled Park next season. More likely to see a Western Sydney or Canberra side. Shame.
Central Coast Mariners - 45 Points
Brisbane Roar FC - 43 Points
Perth Glory FC - 40 Points
Wellington Phoenix FC - 40 Points
Melbourne Heart FC - 35 Points
Newcastle Jets FC - 35 Points
Sydney FC - 34 Points
Melbourne Victory FC - 26 Points
Adelaide United FC - 24 Points
Gold Coast United FC - 18 Points
Now let's have a look at a breakdown. Ohhh yeeeeah.
Central Coast Mariners
Position - 1st
Highest Possible Finish - 1st
Lowest Possible Finish - 4th
Last 5 Matches - LDLDW
Final Matches - Adelaide United, Wellington Phoenix
Prediction
Central Coast started the season slowly, picking up points quietly while Brisbane took all the plaudits. As soon as Roar began to stutter, the Mariners were right in there to take their spot. However, recently there form has been a shambles, their win against Phoenix in February being their most recent victory. They face a stubborn Adelaide who, though only playing for pride, managed to hold rivals Brisbane to a draw last time out. They will then face Phoenix, who have their own title ambitions. While a draw will all but end Perth and Phoenix's challenge, it will let in Roar who have a superior goal difference. I think it will most likely be a Central Coast premiership win, but the finals will be a different story. My final prediction is that the Mariners will finish First.
Brisbane Roar
Position - 2nd
Highest Possible Finish - 1st
Lowest Possible Finish - 4th
Last 5 Matches - DDWWW
Final Matches - Newcastle Jets, Gold Coast United
Prediction
The golden boys of Australian sport fell apart mid-season, and that has cost them. Even if they managed to get one or two points rather than those losses, they would quite likely be in the lead right now. There is no point dwelling on what-ifs, and they have gone about the business of catching up with the Mariners and fending off advances from Perth, Wellington and Heart. They'll be playing a Jets team who are going to be desparate for points to guarentee their finals place, whereas the challenge from Gold Coast...is a hard one to call. It's a derby match, so anything is possible, but Gold Coast are wounded from months of turbulence. However, they did manage to draw 3-3 with the Mariners. I really can't call the match. But I think that Brisbane will most likely finish Second, though I do hope they manage to draw level with the Mariners this weekend and give us a cracker of a final matchday.
Perth Glory
Position - 3rd
Highest Possible Finish - 1st
Lowest Possible Finish - 5th
Last 5 Matches - WWLWL
Final Matches - Gold Coast United, Melbourne Victory
Prediction
These guys really went on one hell of a run, didn't they? It's a shame they petered out, I genuinely thought they would be the dark horse of the competition. They still are, don't get me wrong. Gold Coast, no disrespect intended, are very beatable, as are a struggling Melbourne Victory. Yes, a first A-League title will require other results to go their way (namely Central Coast and Brisbane both need to lose). A Central Coast draw would leave them in a position in which they could potentially catch up, but an inferior goal difference means they would need some convincing victories to have a chance. While Perth are in essentially the same position as Phoenix (up to the same Goal Difference), in view of their considerably easier game against Gold Coast, I think Perth will most likely finish...Third.
Wellington Phoenix
Position - 4th
Highest Possible Finish - 1st
Lowest Possible Finish - 5th
Last 5 Matches - DWWLL
Final Matches - Melbourne Victory, Central Coast Mariners
Prediction
I like Phoenix. They came from the ashes of the Knightz, and this season they've really blossomed. Against all expectation, they've surprised us time and again, and it's just a shame they couldn't keep up their good run. While they can technically win the league, I really wouldn't count on it. Too many other results have to go their way to make it happen. They are more likely to be the spoilers. If they can hold the Mariners to a draw, it will allow Brisbane to jump in and retain their title. But for my money, they have a much better chance of winning the finals. They just need to decide whether to give it all for these last two games, or just try and save their energy. With this in mind, I wouldn't be surprised to see them finish Fourth.
Melbourne Heart
Position - 5th
Highest Possible Finish - 3rd
Lowest Possible Finish - 7th
Last 5 Matches - DDWWL
Final Matches - Sydney FC, Adelaide United
Prediction
Heart had their own run of form...I'm starting to notice a trend...Anyway, Eli Babalj and Fred have been fantastic for them. They have single-handedly dragged Heart kicking and screaming to their finals place. However, it's not over yet. Sydney FC, who are only 1 point behind, are up next. This is going to be their deciding match for the season. It's all or nothing. They have to win it to guarentee them a spot. Adelaide shouldn't be too much of a trouble, but that doesn't mean they're through yet. I think they'll manage to at least draw with Sydney and Adelaide, and I think they'll finish Fifth. This table really doesn't look like it will shift.
Newcastle Jets
Position - 6th
Highest Possible Finish - 3rd
Lowest Possible Finish - 7th
Last 5 Matches - DWWLW
Final Matches - Brisbane Roar, Sydney FC
Prediction
After all the stick I gave the Jets at the beginning of the season, they've really turned it around. They're finally starting to play like a team, which will serve them well if they make the playoffs. However, I don't think they will. I think Brisbane will beat them, and the Sydney match will most likely be a Sydney victory. Funny, Sydney - Newcastle was the first A-League match I ever watched. It'll be an important one this time. I don't think they'll make it, though. Next season, expect to see a more determined side. They'll finish Seventh
Sydney FC
Position - 7th
Highest Possible Finish - 3rd
Lowest Possible Finish - 7th
Last 5 Matches - WDLWW
Final Matches - Melbourne Heart, Newcastle Jets
Prediction
What a season they've had. Disappointment, mainly. They were expected to do well, but Brett Emerton, while playing well on his own, has failed to ignite a spark in the rest of the side, and they're now scrambling for a finals spot. They play both of the teams ahead of them, that's what makes this so juicy. I don't know which of them they'll beat, but I'm sure they'll get at least 3 points from these two games. I have a feeling they'll beat Newcastle, and perhaps draw with Melbourne. So based on this, I reckon they'll finish Sixth. Not good enough for their fans, but it'll at least give them a chance in the finals.
Melbourne Victory
Position - 8th
Highest Possible Finish - 8th
Lowest Possible Finish - 9th
Last 5 Matches - LLDLW
Final Matches - Wellington Phoenix, Perth Glory
Prediction
Well, well, well. I guess now we're getting onto the Also-rans. Actually, that's a bit cruel, but they have completely failed this season. Has the Harry Kewell experiment failed? No. He has played well towards the end of the season, it's just down to whether he will still be there next season, or if he'll move elsewhere in the A-League, or even abroad. Either way, I feel Magilton needs to go. Yes, he inherited a poorly constructed squad, but he just hasn't been able to galvanise them. They'll lose to Phoenix and Glory, but since Adelaide most likely won't pick up the 2 point deficit, they'll finish Eighth.
Adelaide United
Position - 9th
Highest Possible Finish - 8th
Lowest Possible Finish - 10th
Last 5 Matches - DLLLW
Final Matches - Central Coast Mariners, Melbourne Heart
Prediction
Adelaide...they changed bosses, and had a rejuvenation, but despite playing well, they just couldn't get the victories. As much as it pains me to say it, I can't see them picking up the points to overtake the Victory. Both the teams they'll be playing have something to play for (Premiership and finals). As long as they can hold onto Sergio Van Dijk, they should be OK next season. But they'll finish Ninth this time.
Gold Coast United
Position - 10th
Highest Possible Finish - 9th
Lowest Possible Finish - 10th
Last 5 Matches - DLDDL
Final Matches - Perth Glory, Brisbane Roar
Prediction
Tenth. It pains me to say it. Gold Coast have so many talented youngsters like Mitch Cooper and Ben Halloran, and they'll find new clubs easy. I just...I can't see GCU being around next year. Clive Palmer, while he has spoken some sense, has ruined the club. They have failed to engage with the community, and while there are some investors interested, I don't think we'll see much action at Skilled Park next season. More likely to see a Western Sydney or Canberra side. Shame.
Sorry for the lack of activity!
Sorry guys! This must be the longest amount of time we haven't posted...in months. Well that's going to change. I'll give you the A-League results now, and from now on, I'll try and do live texts for each A-League match, and we might have a crack at doing the Premier League aswell. Who knows!
In fact, with only two games remaining in the regular season, I'll do a quick preview of the final two matches, and each team's chances. :)
In fact, with only two games remaining in the regular season, I'll do a quick preview of the final two matches, and each team's chances. :)
Saturday, 10 March 2012
Premier League: Live Text
Please refresh this page every couple of minutes to get the latest text. Get involved! Tweet us at @Dukey42
Full Time: Everton 1-0 Tottenham
Everton's run of giant killings continues, as they add Spurs to their list of big names defeated this season. This was a fantastic game. Saha is getting a heroes welcome back to Goodison. Tottenham's hopes must surely be over now. At least they'll have Champions League football next season. Great game.
7.26pm - They're all at it now! Ball's pumped back into the Everton box. Caught by Howard. That's got to be it, surely.
7.25pm - One more minute to play. 10 year celebrations for David Moyes reach fever pitch. Tim Howard is booked for time wasting.
7.24pm - Everton defending like lions. Tottenham must have had 5 or 6 chances there before Defoe skies it.
7.23pm - Van der Vaart has a smash, Tottenham in the ascendancy. Friedel is up for a corner. Saha manages to hit the ball lightly, it bounces off the post, and Howard clears off the line. Tottenham's premier league title challenge is all but over.
7.20pm - Not very smart play here. Osman and Bale have a tussle after a bit of contact in a tackle. Bale pushes Osman away. Surprised there was no caution there. 5 minutes of added time to come.
7.19pm - Going into the last few minutes and Tottenham are pushing. A few new legs on the pitch seems to have rejuvenated them. Can they salvage anything?
7.15pm - Stracqualursi was signed for his goal scoring record for Tigre, on loan at least. For his parent club he scored 21 goals in 35 games. Highly respectable. However, in the Premier League he has scored 1 goal in 13 matches. Poor.
7.12pm - Tottenham have a better head to head record in terms of wins, points and goals than any other club in the premier league. Proving hard enough for them today. Jagielka comes on for Coleman. Good to see him back from an England perspective.
7.11pm - A Bale cross ends in a Ledley King header which goes harmlessly wide.
7.10pm - Heitinga becomes the first Evertonian in the book.
7.08pm - Oh bugger. I hoped this wouldn't happen. Jelavic is coming off for...Stracq...*waits to see his shirt*...Stracqualursi. Phwoar.
7.07pm - Go..Never mind. Offside. Jack Rodwell goes to clear a dangerous cross, the ball slips back to...someone, didn't catch who, but he chests the ball forwards to Defoe, who smashes into the top corner, but is in an offside position.
7.06pm - Everton are a really underrated side. Yes, they usually come 7th or so in the league, but they have some quality in the side. Individually, they aren't that good, but together, they're better than the sum of their parts. Moyes is one hell of a manager.
7.04pm - Holy...I did NOT expect this. Bill Kenwright is a tank!
7.02pm - Did...did the commentator just say Everton Chairman Bill Kenwright was in Coronation street in the 60's? *Checks*
7.01pm - Loswt connection to my internet for a second there, sorry! Doesn't look like much happened at any rate. Everton still going for a second.
6.55pm - Drenthe is coming off for Jack Rodwell
6.54pm - Tottenham get a free kick on the edge of the area. Kaboul takes...and it's miles high.
6.51pm - Assou-Ekotto picks up the match's first yellow card
6.49pm - The game is dull again. Sad face. Defoe nearly worms his way through.
6.45pm - Adebayor is coming off for Louis Saha, the ex-Evertonian will have to try and pull his team back into this.
6.44pm - Defoe gets another chance, but it's straight at the keeper.
6.39pm - Distin is Everton's hero. He manages to clear after a good Modric ball into the box is nearly smashed by Defoe
6.37pm - Spurs nearly score with their first attack. Defoe makes a bursting run straight at the goal, and it's at a good height for Howard to punch it away.
6.36pm - And here we go with the second half.
6.31pm - Tottenham don't look comfortable with the way they've been asked to play. With Lennon out, Modric has been pushed out onto the wing, but he's not looked as sharp as when he's been paired with Parker. Spurs are lacking pace, and it wouldn't surprise me to see Rafael van der Vaart get dropped into the action soon.
6.19pm - Half Time. Rather entertaining game to be fair.
6.15pm - Tottenham just seem to have no attacking threat at the moment.
6.14pm - From this camera position, you can really clearly hear David Moyes shouting. "Go to Ossie! Go to Ossie!"
6.13pm - The game has really quietened down again.
6.09pm - Drenthe's contract is up at the end of the season with Madrid, wouldn't be surprised to see him sign for Everton, he seems a good fit.
6.07pm - The players take a while lining it up. Jelavic looks set to take it, though Drenthe is also getting himself ready. Jelavic takes it, and it curls to the top corner, but Friedel is equal to it.
6.06pm - Everton have a free kick on the edge of the box.
6.04pm - Sandro and Scott Parker are essentially the same person.
6.03pm - Scottish...Saltair? In the sky. The white cross thing with blue sky. Looked quite cool actually. Maybe it's a sign for Everton.
6.02pm - Bale smashes the corner just round the post again. Very close. Nearly top corner, it was actually a really good free kick. Spurs still trailing.
6.01pm - Scott Parker makes an absolute meal out of a Tim Cahill...it has to be just a little tug. Went down far too easy for an England captain.
5.59pm - Gareth Bale highlights a lack of pressure on the Tottenham players when in possession by smashing a shot from halfway inside Everton's half. Just wide, but enough to panic Tim Howard.
5.57pm - Tottenham are going to pieces. Scott Parker makes a rare mistake to let Leon Osman through again. However, his cross does not get to anyone until it is on the other side of the box. Everton maintain possession, and after a few passes, Drenthe worms his way through the defence and lashes a powerful shot straight at Friedel.
5.55pm - Goal: Everton 1-0 Tottenham (Jelavic)
Leon Osman shows some great skill to dance past Younes Kaboul and lay off Jelavic. The Croatian places a shot into the right hand side of the goal, Friedel gets a hand to it, but can't keep it out.
5.54pm - Jelavic goes close, with only a quick thinking reflex from the Tottenham keeper..who's name totally escapes me...Brad Friedel! keeping the Blues out.
5.52pm - Coleman has a nice little run with a turn at the end to flick onto his stronger left foot, shoots and bounces straight back. Adebayor has a momentary break, but Neville is back to cover. Everton controlling this match so far.
5.44pm - David Moyes of course is celebrating 10 years at Goodison park. And what a ten years it's been. A champions league appearance and near-constant top-10 finishes on a shoestring budget. It's players like Cahill and Neville that show his management style. He knows how to get the best out of his team. I can definitely see him taking the Manchester United job some day. Harry Redknapp is in his 3rd seated position, looking very jumpy.
5.49pm - OK, I'm going to level with you. Nothing much is happening, but it's still an entertaining game. Nothing of note to shout about, but there's still a fair few through balls here and there. Defoe gets in the box and there are calls for a penalty, but Heitinga made a fantastic challenge! Out for a corner.
5.43pm - Also, while i wait for stuff to happen. Enjoy this bunny.
(\ /)
(-.-)
(> <)o
5.42pm - For anyone wanting to know basic cell division, here's a diagram.
o > 0 > 8 > oo
5.41pm - I can hear David Moyes shouting "Come on Roy, step up! STEP UP ROY!". Not much happening right now, entertaining though
5.39pm - Isn't it weird that i can say...for example...Man United 1-0 Tottenham, yet I can say 1-0 Man United and it means the same thing? Ah, football.
5.37pm - A nice lively start. Drenthe showing a good technical knowledge, and a rebounded shot to Chris Coleman turns into yet another deflected shot from Coleman himself.
5.35pm - OK, Everton and Tottenham, show us what you've got.
5.12pm - Guardiola: "Let everyone know: We've won so much because we’ve been better than the rest" Thought you might enjoy that :)
5.07pm - I need food. I'm hungry. I need a shower. I'm smelly. Bleh. 23 minutes to go.
5.01pm - I know I haven't actually posted these full time reports yet, Manny is just finishing his, bear with me :)
4.58pm - Just had a minor panic attack thinking there was no stream - forgot the match was at 5.30, not 5.
4.55pm - Manny is leaving me to go to a party while I do the Tottenham - Everton game, coming up soon!
4.54pm - Full Time: Chelsea 1-0 Stoke City
Great game in the end. Stoke kept on pressing, but to no avail. Chelsea will be happy with a valuable 3 points and clean sheet, and Roberto Di Matteo will sleep well.
Wolves 0-2 Blackburn
Misery for Wolves as they are sunk by 2 Junior Hoillett goals. Steve Kean will be happy with his side's stubborn performance, while for Wolves, their inability to finish was again on show.
Full Time: Aston Villa 1-0 Fulham
This match was not as entertaining as the other we saw today. There was a lot of back and forth play with chances being missed left and right for 91 minutes. Until the substitute Weimann ended scoring after hitting the keeper with a divimg header and then kneeing the ball in In the last minute of stoppage to give Villa win in dramatic Fashion.
Full Time: Sunderland 1-0 Liverpool
A very exciting game until the very last minute with sunderland fighting it out to beat Liverpool with a goal early into the second half thanks to an amazing shot by campbell that hit off the post to go onto the feet of number 52 to hit it over Reina. Liverpool had many chances to score but werent able to do anything with Suarez nor Kuyt being able to score. The game was fought until the very last minute but we Liverpool didnt have the finishing this game.
4.53pm - Liverpool Miss an amazing chance after neither Caroll nor Kuyt can score
4.53pm - Goal: Aston Villa 1-0 Fulham
Villa scores in the last minute of the game to put them in the lead 1-0 Weimann scored.
4.52pm - One minute left of added time at Chelsea, and Manny has some news for us.
4.51pm - Full Time: Wolves 0-2 Blackburn Rovers
4.50pm - I've been copying and pasting what Manny tells me. He wrote "Four more nubutes". I laughed.Wolves have a great chance , Sturridge is through but a great tackle from Huth keeps him out, He turns it all around and shoots, corner. Things are happening very fast. 3 minutes left at Villa Park. Jose Henrique Skies one to the stands when it could have been a good goal.
4.49pm - Four more minutes will be played in Sunderland
4.48pm - Gerrard has rocket blocked by a Sunderland defender probably saving the win as of now. 3 minutes of added time at Wolves, fans are pouring out of the Molyneux stadium. Villa change Petrov comes out for Gardner
4.47pm - ...off the post! Great free kick! Bounces back out to...someone on the wing, but the ball comes back in to an offside Sturridge, though he did slot it in.
4.47pm - Chelsea have a free kick on the edge of the box. Juan Mata to take. Or maybe Lampard...
4.46pm - Liverpool cant do anything from the corner but they keep pressing.
4.45pm - Stoke trying desparately for a goal now. Chelsea on the back foot. Stoke really have nothing to lose. Liverpool have a very good attack pressing and they will get a cornerfor their efforts
4.44pm - Matt Jarvis, Wolves' biggest threat so far in this game, gets the ball to the byline and Milijas head's wide. So close there. Liverpool are Running out of chances and this might an embarrassing loss for them.
4.43pm - Cameron Jerome has a fantastic chance for Stoke. He had one defender ahead of him, lots of space, and shoots. Just wide of the post. Best chance of the game for Stoke so far.
4.42pm - Sunderland have a man injured and are gonna bring in Wickman (Number 52 apparently was injured, the goalscorer supposedly, so that would be Larsson. Manny's stream doesn't show him).
4.41pm - Skrtel gives away a dangerous Free Kick to Sunderland. Barry Bannan comes on for Chris Herd for Villa.
4.40pm - Villa have gotten some close chances but still neither Villa nor Fulham has had a decent chance of scoring.
4.39pm - I wonder how much different this CHelsea match would be had Ricardo Fuller not been sent off. They need an extra man at the front now more than ever.
4.38pm - Sunderland waste a good chance to score the second after a horrible through pass. Wilkinson tries to chip Petr Cech, who was off his line. That would have been a hell of a goal, and would have easily gone in if it had been...a couple of feet to the right. Ebanks-Blake jogs on. Top scorer in the Championship in Wolves' promotion season, he's really failed to shine in the Premier League thus far.
4.37pm - Stoke are playing a very high line at the moment, really pressing for a goal. Very dangerous though, one mistake and...Ouch, Shotton takes a head to the face.
4.36pm - Villa get a corner after good action on the right wing
4.35pm - Gerrard is giving Liverpool more options than just going to Suarez. Fulham get a shot in that just goees a bit wide but a very good effort
4.34pm - Stoke have some fancy play in the Chelsea box. Shotton launches in his long throws but David Luiz collects to clear.
4.33pm - Frazier Campbell comes off for..."Number 15", if that helps. Chelsea have a scare as Jones smashes a shot across the face of goal. Wolves nearly get one too as Fletcher heads just wide. They just gave Robinson his first job of the day. Sunderland are being very defensive with Liverpool getting closer to a goal.
4.32pm - David Dunn comes on for Gamst-Pedersen. Chris Herd gets a yellow card. The second yellow for Villa today.
4.31pm - Villa after a corner get two shots but nothing of them with blocks from the Fulham Defense.
4.30pm - Liverpool with these changes seem to have a stronger attack helpping Suarez but they still havent been able to score. Blackburn are starting to dominate now. The Wolves players seem resigned to their fate. N'Zogbia is coming off for Weimann.
4.29pm - Aston Villa can get a strong attack going again and have not had as many chances as Fulham this half to get in front.
4.28pm - Goal: Chelsea 1-0 Stoke City (Drogba)
Vintage Chelsea. Drogba hasn't looked that sharp in a while. Great first touch. Knocks the ball round Begovic and taps in. Great goal, heartbreak for Stoke.
4.27pm - Drogba hit the post! Daaaang! Sturridge has just come on. Stoke still holding strong. No football for Torres today. Gerrard is coming for Craig Bellamy, and Andy Carroll is coming on for Charlie Adam.
4.26pm - Goal: Wolves 0-2 Blackburn (Hoillett)
Hoillett gets his second, burying a strong effort into the bottom corner. Finally stuff is happening as...
4.25pm - Bryan? I assume he means Bryan Ruiz, is on for Fulham. He didn't say who for though.
4.24pm - Chelsea have a corner, which is cleared. Ashley Cole picks up the ball and tries a Terry, but he's just smashed it way over. Villa's Petrov gets a yellow card after a hard sliding challenge.
4.23pm - Liverpool have a free kick that goes into the box with a ground cross which is easliy hit away. WE. NEED. MORE. GOALS.
4.22pm - I feel the same about Chelsea. They're really pushing now. lots of posession, especially on the wings, they keep getting the ball in space and having long range shots, but the Stoke defenders are somehow keeping them in this. Blackburn have a free kick on the wing that is just headed away easily.
4.21pm - Manny is telling me that he feels Liverpool will score soon.
4.20pm - Aston Villa have a Shot that just hits the bar and goes out of play.
4.19pm - John Terry has a strikers finish! Just wide of the post but he has a great smash at the ball with some space. Luis Suarez misses with a horrible volley making it go really wide left. Fulham has been attacking a lot more this half with some close shots and crosses in the Villa Area
4.16pm - Liverpool seem to have Andy Carroll warming up for a possible change now that they are in the need of a goal
4.15pm - Yellow card for....a Blackburn player, the Camera didn't give me a good look at who it was.
4.14pm - Goal: Sunderland 1-0 Liverpool (Larsson)
Sunderland score a good Goal by a rebund of the post twice and Larsson hitting in it over reina for a stunning goal.
4.13pm - Manny: "Sunderland, SCORE! Liverpool...You stay as your are". That's the most entertaining thing I've heard today. The football's been dull.
4.12pm - Typical that we'd choose to do our first Live Text on the day where there are no goals. *Sigh*. Stoke nearly scored as I said that. Sunderland miss with a horrible shot going to high up and into the stands
4.11pm - Attack after attack coming at the Stoke defence. Chelsea aren't being challenged at all on the wings. They just have nobody in the box to get the final touch to guide it in.
4.10pm - Diao gets subbed off for Palacios, with Wilson coming off for Upson. Tactical changes, strange to make them only 5 minutes after half time though. Fulham with a near miss after the cross is hit away by a Villa player
4.09pm - Lampard nearly gets a goal. He smashes it at Begovic, who fumbles. Luckily he regains his composure fast enought to collect before Drogba gets in. Sunderland nearly scored with a cross that came off their defender but Reina Holds on to it perfectly.
4.08pm - Blackburn have a throw for Pedersen, who is going to Delap it into th...or he's going to do it short. OK, that was anti-climactic. Wolves standing strong now.
4.07pm - Liverpool seem to have started on the right being quite aggresive and quick with their attacks.
4.06pm - Juan Mata gets a free kick on the right wing, but the ball is straight to Begovic.
4.05pm - OK, Fine, Mea culpa, Chelsea made a sub I didn't see too. My bad. I think it was David Luiz on for someone, but I could be wrong.
4.04pm - Wolves begin with intent, as do Stoke. Fullham begin the second half with a substitution. Unfortunately, Manny didn't see who it was. Fullham gets a Free Kick but its to high for any player to get that.
Half Time Re-cap
Chelsea 0-0 Stoke City
A very dull match so far punctuated by that sending off of Ricardo Fuller. Stoke are standing strong though, and Asmir Begovic is their hero. Let's see if they can hold on, and if Chelsea will soon bring on Sturridge/Torres to try and grab that elusive goal.
Wolves 0-1 Blackburn
Also quite dull. Feels like a basketball match, real end to end stuff, just very poor finishing from most of the players. Hoillett's goal, separates the sides, but the score doesn't really truly show how even this game is. I got this screen grab for you, hope you like it :).
Sunderland 0-0 Liverpool
It has been an entertaining game to watch. We saw Sunderland the first 25 minutes dominating the match with a lot of strong attacks but then liverpool, with the help of Luis Suarez, started to get many aggresive and strong attacks just the finishing has been off for both teams.
Aston Villa 0-0 Fulham
This is a game were we saw quite some interesting things happen. We also saw a lot of blood after Ireland and the Fullham Player jumped and got hit by Ireland's elbow to make him leave the game for a few moments. We see that Villa have completely dominated the attack and possession which it makes it still surprising that they havent scored yet.
3.48pm - Half time whiltles ring out around the Premier League and Football League. Time to give my hands a rest. Diao recieves some treatment just before Chelsea-Stoke HT. Sunderland vs. Liverpool go into Half time still tied 0-0 we've seen good attacks by Liverpool and Sunderland throughout the first half.
3.47pm - Don't expect much more from my Chelsea stream til half time. It doesn't look like anything is going to happen at any rate. Luis Suarez gets a close chance but Brilliant Keeping by sunderland keeps the game 0-0.
3.46pm - Adam Gets a Cross in but its saved easily by the Sunderland GK. Liverpool Get a corner and it is saved by the man on the near post odf the corner. Liverpool seem much more aggresive and are near to scoring a goal.
3.45pm - GOAL: Wolves 0-1 Blackburn (Hoillett)
Hoillett is in a great position from a corner. THe ball bounces off Bassong, and he slides in to smash home the first goal of the afternoon. Steve Kean jumps for joy.
Elsewhere, Sunderland player Gets a yellow card after a horrible sliding tackle getting none of the ball.
3.44pm - My Chelsea stream has frozen again! OK, Lampard's shot....hit the keeper. Fine. I need a new stream, this is frustrating. Good shot though, found space and whipped it round.
3.43pm - Aston Villa Corner has been cleared away by the Fullham GK.
3.42pm - My Chelsea stream is getting really glitchy! Noooo! But Ivanovic blasts a shot at Begovic from just inside the box. The Stoke keeper is single handedly keeping his side in this. The stream is back to normal. Phew.
3.41pm - Sunderland havent gotten a good chance in most have been shots quite far wide.
3.40pm - Sunderland gets a possible penalty taken away from them getting some fans and players angry. No goals in the four matches being played at the moment. Quite depressing really.
3.39pm - Mereiles comes off...before half time...for Juan Mata. Yakubu slides in on the end of a Hoillett cross but the ball is just wide of the post.
3.38pm - Sunderland Corner after a nice attack gets them back in Liverpool's side. The cross has been quite off and they miss another close chance
3.37pm - I feel so bad for Kenwyne Jones. He's having serious trouble up front on his own. The Fullham player has returned into the match after been hit near the eye by and elbow. Villas attacks havent been as powerful nor dangerous as in the beggining of the match. Begovic JUST gets onto a ball that was looping over his head into the net. Wilson and Walthers are doing ABSOLUTELY nothing to help their keeper right now. Ivanovic's header nearly dropped in.
3.36pm - Chelsea really exploiting the flanks. Lots of crosses into the box, but Drogba is having some serious trouble getting on the end of the balls from Kalou. Positional sense from Stoke is non-existent at the moment.
3.35pm - Liverpool have been close to scoring in the last 5 minutes about 3 chances now Sunderland seems a bit scared with these close chances. Suarez has been the one leading this Attack being close to scoring himself as well
3.34pm - Just a reminder, you can tweet us @Dukey42 :) Any interesting tweets will be posted here.
3.33pm - John Terry gets on the end of an outswinging corner, the ball ricochets off the floor and back off the crossbar. Terry looks gutted. Davis gives the ball away to Blackburn, who give it straight back. How gentlemanly.
3.32pm - Liverpool have been on the attack for some time its been dangerous with some near crosses beibg dangerous for the Sunderland. Kuyt shoots but it is taken in safely by the Sunderland Goalie.
3.31pm - Raul Mereiles has a beautiful chance to blast it from the edge of the area. Lots of space, lots of time, but he blasts it wide. Gamst-Pedersen picks up a yellow card for a tackle from behind on Davis.
3.30pm - Aston villa man jumps for a header and elbows a Fullham player near the eye making him bleed he is out in the sidelines getting cleaned up to come back into the game hopefully.
3.29pm - Nothing of note happening in the Wolves-Blackburn match. End to end stuff really. Chelsea are looking at over an hour playing against 10 men, that'll be wearing on the Stoke players' legs. Fullham on the attack havent been able to get a good attack in which has ment they are very defensive thtroughout the first 27 minutes
3.28pm - Sunderland nearly gave a goal away by passing it back to goalie and Suarez rushing in nearly gets to it. Sorry, I still can't get over that red card. That's going to be so frustrating for Pulis. His side have been holding Chelsea at bay, now their main strike threat has disappeared.
3.27pm - Red card for Stoke! Ricardo Fuller is an idiot. He jumped over a sliding Ivanovic, and decides to turn around and stamp on his groin. Deserved red card. Tony Pulis will not be happy.
3.26pm - Wolves defence have definitely earned their salary this week. Standing strong against so many Blackburn attacks. Their final ball is still failing them though. O'Hara just can't get on the end of a long ball.
3.25pm - Chelsea really seem to be sitting back at the moment. No disrespect to Stoke, but this is a game they should really be pressing down. John Terry is on the deck, looking a bit worried about his ankle. Free kick given to Villa but nothing comes from it.
3.24pm - ...he whips it in and it bounces straight of a Stoke head. Walthers is making a driving run down the center and Stoke start a new attack, before Chelsea seem to scare them off it. Aston Villa with a horrible strike give another chance away thanks to horrible finishing.
3.23pm - Luis Suarez Had a good run But wasnt able to get a shot in a corner has been awarded But is missed barely By liverpool. Free kick on the edge of the box for Lampard...
3.22pm - Wolves are pressing, lots of threat about their attacks, just failing to get the final ball into a player in the middle.
3.20pm - Corner for Aston Villa isnt good but Villa have been on the attack for quite some time now just have not finished 3 perfect chances Fullham Goalie and Defense have been very good
3.19pm - Walthers misses a glorious chance to open the scoring for Stoke, but blasts it straight at Ivanovic. If he could use his left foot rather than just his right, he'd have a goal there. Sunderland with a perfect chance to score cant get the crooss in again and they miss another opportunity . Liverpool arent looking like a top form team they have been very defensive and havent attacked as much as Sunderland.
3.17pm - Aston Villa have had a good amount of scorng chances but they havent been able to finish.
3.16pm - Diao picks up a yellow for a reckless challenge. Blackburn making darting runs into the box, but the Wolves defence are just managing to keep up.
3.15pm - Liverpool are on a Dangerous attack but it is easily cleared by the Sunderland defense.
3.14pm - I don't know about Manny, but the two matches I'm watching are quite dull so far. And as I say that Yakubu nearly scores for Blackburn with a cheeky overhead kick. If he'd got a bit more power on that, there is no way the keeper was keeping that out. Lampard delivers a free kick high into the Stoke box but Begovic is there to clear.
3.13pm - Wolves make a great run down the left, and I think it's Jarvis who has the chance to put the ball in for his team, but slips on the cross and the ball goes sailing over the box. Corner given to sunderland but not good enough with a weak header straight to Pepe Reina. Sunderland misses the perfect opportunity with a horrible cross missing all the sunderland player
3.11pm - Asmir Begovic made a fantastic stop to deny...someone. He's looking really good at the moment. Sunderland have been attacking a lot from the start of the game and have been dominating on the ball.
3.10pm - Free kick given to sunderland and header puts it out of reach of Pepe Reina
3.09pm - Ok, we have our technical problems all sorted now, you'll actually get things coming from the two of us now :) Remember to tweet @Dukey42!
3.08pm - Aston Villa corner was hit out of the box but a shot came back quickly and was saved by Fullham
3.05pm - Nothing much happening in the games yet.
3.00pm - Four matches have now kicked off in the premier league. I'll be covering Chelsea-Stoke and Wolves-Blackburn, while Manny will be covering the Aston Villa-Fulham and Sunderland-Liverpool matches.
2.15pm - From 3pm GMT, I'll be hosting a live text commentary for the 5 Premier League matches that are to be played after Bolton vs QPR is finished. If you wish to get in contact with me during the the commentary, please feel free to tweet me @Dukey42. I'll post any interesting tweets on here for everyone to see.
Full Time: Everton 1-0 Tottenham
Everton's run of giant killings continues, as they add Spurs to their list of big names defeated this season. This was a fantastic game. Saha is getting a heroes welcome back to Goodison. Tottenham's hopes must surely be over now. At least they'll have Champions League football next season. Great game.
7.26pm - They're all at it now! Ball's pumped back into the Everton box. Caught by Howard. That's got to be it, surely.
7.25pm - One more minute to play. 10 year celebrations for David Moyes reach fever pitch. Tim Howard is booked for time wasting.
7.24pm - Everton defending like lions. Tottenham must have had 5 or 6 chances there before Defoe skies it.
7.23pm - Van der Vaart has a smash, Tottenham in the ascendancy. Friedel is up for a corner. Saha manages to hit the ball lightly, it bounces off the post, and Howard clears off the line. Tottenham's premier league title challenge is all but over.
7.20pm - Not very smart play here. Osman and Bale have a tussle after a bit of contact in a tackle. Bale pushes Osman away. Surprised there was no caution there. 5 minutes of added time to come.
7.19pm - Going into the last few minutes and Tottenham are pushing. A few new legs on the pitch seems to have rejuvenated them. Can they salvage anything?
7.15pm - Stracqualursi was signed for his goal scoring record for Tigre, on loan at least. For his parent club he scored 21 goals in 35 games. Highly respectable. However, in the Premier League he has scored 1 goal in 13 matches. Poor.
7.12pm - Tottenham have a better head to head record in terms of wins, points and goals than any other club in the premier league. Proving hard enough for them today. Jagielka comes on for Coleman. Good to see him back from an England perspective.
7.11pm - A Bale cross ends in a Ledley King header which goes harmlessly wide.
7.10pm - Heitinga becomes the first Evertonian in the book.
7.08pm - Oh bugger. I hoped this wouldn't happen. Jelavic is coming off for...Stracq...*waits to see his shirt*...Stracqualursi. Phwoar.
7.07pm - Go..Never mind. Offside. Jack Rodwell goes to clear a dangerous cross, the ball slips back to...someone, didn't catch who, but he chests the ball forwards to Defoe, who smashes into the top corner, but is in an offside position.
7.06pm - Everton are a really underrated side. Yes, they usually come 7th or so in the league, but they have some quality in the side. Individually, they aren't that good, but together, they're better than the sum of their parts. Moyes is one hell of a manager.
7.04pm - Holy...I did NOT expect this. Bill Kenwright is a tank!
7.02pm - Did...did the commentator just say Everton Chairman Bill Kenwright was in Coronation street in the 60's? *Checks*
7.01pm - Loswt connection to my internet for a second there, sorry! Doesn't look like much happened at any rate. Everton still going for a second.
6.55pm - Drenthe is coming off for Jack Rodwell
6.54pm - Tottenham get a free kick on the edge of the area. Kaboul takes...and it's miles high.
6.51pm - Assou-Ekotto picks up the match's first yellow card
6.49pm - The game is dull again. Sad face. Defoe nearly worms his way through.
6.45pm - Adebayor is coming off for Louis Saha, the ex-Evertonian will have to try and pull his team back into this.
6.44pm - Defoe gets another chance, but it's straight at the keeper.
6.39pm - Distin is Everton's hero. He manages to clear after a good Modric ball into the box is nearly smashed by Defoe
6.37pm - Spurs nearly score with their first attack. Defoe makes a bursting run straight at the goal, and it's at a good height for Howard to punch it away.
6.36pm - And here we go with the second half.
6.31pm - Tottenham don't look comfortable with the way they've been asked to play. With Lennon out, Modric has been pushed out onto the wing, but he's not looked as sharp as when he's been paired with Parker. Spurs are lacking pace, and it wouldn't surprise me to see Rafael van der Vaart get dropped into the action soon.
6.19pm - Half Time. Rather entertaining game to be fair.
6.15pm - Tottenham just seem to have no attacking threat at the moment.
6.14pm - From this camera position, you can really clearly hear David Moyes shouting. "Go to Ossie! Go to Ossie!"
6.13pm - The game has really quietened down again.
6.09pm - Drenthe's contract is up at the end of the season with Madrid, wouldn't be surprised to see him sign for Everton, he seems a good fit.
6.07pm - The players take a while lining it up. Jelavic looks set to take it, though Drenthe is also getting himself ready. Jelavic takes it, and it curls to the top corner, but Friedel is equal to it.
6.06pm - Everton have a free kick on the edge of the box.
6.04pm - Sandro and Scott Parker are essentially the same person.
6.03pm - Scottish...Saltair? In the sky. The white cross thing with blue sky. Looked quite cool actually. Maybe it's a sign for Everton.
6.02pm - Bale smashes the corner just round the post again. Very close. Nearly top corner, it was actually a really good free kick. Spurs still trailing.
6.01pm - Scott Parker makes an absolute meal out of a Tim Cahill...it has to be just a little tug. Went down far too easy for an England captain.
5.59pm - Gareth Bale highlights a lack of pressure on the Tottenham players when in possession by smashing a shot from halfway inside Everton's half. Just wide, but enough to panic Tim Howard.
5.57pm - Tottenham are going to pieces. Scott Parker makes a rare mistake to let Leon Osman through again. However, his cross does not get to anyone until it is on the other side of the box. Everton maintain possession, and after a few passes, Drenthe worms his way through the defence and lashes a powerful shot straight at Friedel.
5.55pm - Goal: Everton 1-0 Tottenham (Jelavic)
Leon Osman shows some great skill to dance past Younes Kaboul and lay off Jelavic. The Croatian places a shot into the right hand side of the goal, Friedel gets a hand to it, but can't keep it out.
5.54pm - Jelavic goes close, with only a quick thinking reflex from the Tottenham keeper..who's name totally escapes me...Brad Friedel! keeping the Blues out.
5.52pm - Coleman has a nice little run with a turn at the end to flick onto his stronger left foot, shoots and bounces straight back. Adebayor has a momentary break, but Neville is back to cover. Everton controlling this match so far.
5.44pm - David Moyes of course is celebrating 10 years at Goodison park. And what a ten years it's been. A champions league appearance and near-constant top-10 finishes on a shoestring budget. It's players like Cahill and Neville that show his management style. He knows how to get the best out of his team. I can definitely see him taking the Manchester United job some day. Harry Redknapp is in his 3rd seated position, looking very jumpy.
5.49pm - OK, I'm going to level with you. Nothing much is happening, but it's still an entertaining game. Nothing of note to shout about, but there's still a fair few through balls here and there. Defoe gets in the box and there are calls for a penalty, but Heitinga made a fantastic challenge! Out for a corner.
5.43pm - Also, while i wait for stuff to happen. Enjoy this bunny.
(\ /)
(-.-)
(> <)o
5.42pm - For anyone wanting to know basic cell division, here's a diagram.
o > 0 > 8 > oo
5.41pm - I can hear David Moyes shouting "Come on Roy, step up! STEP UP ROY!". Not much happening right now, entertaining though
5.39pm - Isn't it weird that i can say...for example...Man United 1-0 Tottenham, yet I can say 1-0 Man United and it means the same thing? Ah, football.
5.37pm - A nice lively start. Drenthe showing a good technical knowledge, and a rebounded shot to Chris Coleman turns into yet another deflected shot from Coleman himself.
5.35pm - OK, Everton and Tottenham, show us what you've got.
5.12pm - Guardiola: "Let everyone know: We've won so much because we’ve been better than the rest" Thought you might enjoy that :)
5.07pm - I need food. I'm hungry. I need a shower. I'm smelly. Bleh. 23 minutes to go.
5.01pm - I know I haven't actually posted these full time reports yet, Manny is just finishing his, bear with me :)
4.58pm - Just had a minor panic attack thinking there was no stream - forgot the match was at 5.30, not 5.
4.55pm - Manny is leaving me to go to a party while I do the Tottenham - Everton game, coming up soon!
4.54pm - Full Time: Chelsea 1-0 Stoke City
Great game in the end. Stoke kept on pressing, but to no avail. Chelsea will be happy with a valuable 3 points and clean sheet, and Roberto Di Matteo will sleep well.
Wolves 0-2 Blackburn
Misery for Wolves as they are sunk by 2 Junior Hoillett goals. Steve Kean will be happy with his side's stubborn performance, while for Wolves, their inability to finish was again on show.
Full Time: Aston Villa 1-0 Fulham
This match was not as entertaining as the other we saw today. There was a lot of back and forth play with chances being missed left and right for 91 minutes. Until the substitute Weimann ended scoring after hitting the keeper with a divimg header and then kneeing the ball in In the last minute of stoppage to give Villa win in dramatic Fashion.
Full Time: Sunderland 1-0 Liverpool
A very exciting game until the very last minute with sunderland fighting it out to beat Liverpool with a goal early into the second half thanks to an amazing shot by campbell that hit off the post to go onto the feet of number 52 to hit it over Reina. Liverpool had many chances to score but werent able to do anything with Suarez nor Kuyt being able to score. The game was fought until the very last minute but we Liverpool didnt have the finishing this game.
4.53pm - Liverpool Miss an amazing chance after neither Caroll nor Kuyt can score
4.53pm - Goal: Aston Villa 1-0 Fulham
Villa scores in the last minute of the game to put them in the lead 1-0 Weimann scored.
4.52pm - One minute left of added time at Chelsea, and Manny has some news for us.
4.51pm - Full Time: Wolves 0-2 Blackburn Rovers
4.50pm - I've been copying and pasting what Manny tells me. He wrote "Four more nubutes". I laughed.Wolves have a great chance , Sturridge is through but a great tackle from Huth keeps him out, He turns it all around and shoots, corner. Things are happening very fast. 3 minutes left at Villa Park. Jose Henrique Skies one to the stands when it could have been a good goal.
4.49pm - Four more minutes will be played in Sunderland
4.48pm - Gerrard has rocket blocked by a Sunderland defender probably saving the win as of now. 3 minutes of added time at Wolves, fans are pouring out of the Molyneux stadium. Villa change Petrov comes out for Gardner
4.47pm - ...off the post! Great free kick! Bounces back out to...someone on the wing, but the ball comes back in to an offside Sturridge, though he did slot it in.
4.47pm - Chelsea have a free kick on the edge of the box. Juan Mata to take. Or maybe Lampard...
4.46pm - Liverpool cant do anything from the corner but they keep pressing.
4.45pm - Stoke trying desparately for a goal now. Chelsea on the back foot. Stoke really have nothing to lose. Liverpool have a very good attack pressing and they will get a cornerfor their efforts
4.44pm - Matt Jarvis, Wolves' biggest threat so far in this game, gets the ball to the byline and Milijas head's wide. So close there. Liverpool are Running out of chances and this might an embarrassing loss for them.
4.43pm - Cameron Jerome has a fantastic chance for Stoke. He had one defender ahead of him, lots of space, and shoots. Just wide of the post. Best chance of the game for Stoke so far.
4.42pm - Sunderland have a man injured and are gonna bring in Wickman (Number 52 apparently was injured, the goalscorer supposedly, so that would be Larsson. Manny's stream doesn't show him).
4.41pm - Skrtel gives away a dangerous Free Kick to Sunderland. Barry Bannan comes on for Chris Herd for Villa.
4.40pm - Villa have gotten some close chances but still neither Villa nor Fulham has had a decent chance of scoring.
4.39pm - I wonder how much different this CHelsea match would be had Ricardo Fuller not been sent off. They need an extra man at the front now more than ever.
4.38pm - Sunderland waste a good chance to score the second after a horrible through pass. Wilkinson tries to chip Petr Cech, who was off his line. That would have been a hell of a goal, and would have easily gone in if it had been...a couple of feet to the right. Ebanks-Blake jogs on. Top scorer in the Championship in Wolves' promotion season, he's really failed to shine in the Premier League thus far.
4.37pm - Stoke are playing a very high line at the moment, really pressing for a goal. Very dangerous though, one mistake and...Ouch, Shotton takes a head to the face.
4.36pm - Villa get a corner after good action on the right wing
4.35pm - Gerrard is giving Liverpool more options than just going to Suarez. Fulham get a shot in that just goees a bit wide but a very good effort
4.34pm - Stoke have some fancy play in the Chelsea box. Shotton launches in his long throws but David Luiz collects to clear.
4.33pm - Frazier Campbell comes off for..."Number 15", if that helps. Chelsea have a scare as Jones smashes a shot across the face of goal. Wolves nearly get one too as Fletcher heads just wide. They just gave Robinson his first job of the day. Sunderland are being very defensive with Liverpool getting closer to a goal.
4.32pm - David Dunn comes on for Gamst-Pedersen. Chris Herd gets a yellow card. The second yellow for Villa today.
4.31pm - Villa after a corner get two shots but nothing of them with blocks from the Fulham Defense.
4.30pm - Liverpool with these changes seem to have a stronger attack helpping Suarez but they still havent been able to score. Blackburn are starting to dominate now. The Wolves players seem resigned to their fate. N'Zogbia is coming off for Weimann.
4.29pm - Aston Villa can get a strong attack going again and have not had as many chances as Fulham this half to get in front.
4.28pm - Goal: Chelsea 1-0 Stoke City (Drogba)
Vintage Chelsea. Drogba hasn't looked that sharp in a while. Great first touch. Knocks the ball round Begovic and taps in. Great goal, heartbreak for Stoke.
4.27pm - Drogba hit the post! Daaaang! Sturridge has just come on. Stoke still holding strong. No football for Torres today. Gerrard is coming for Craig Bellamy, and Andy Carroll is coming on for Charlie Adam.
4.26pm - Goal: Wolves 0-2 Blackburn (Hoillett)
Hoillett gets his second, burying a strong effort into the bottom corner. Finally stuff is happening as...
4.25pm - Bryan? I assume he means Bryan Ruiz, is on for Fulham. He didn't say who for though.
4.24pm - Chelsea have a corner, which is cleared. Ashley Cole picks up the ball and tries a Terry, but he's just smashed it way over. Villa's Petrov gets a yellow card after a hard sliding challenge.
4.23pm - Liverpool have a free kick that goes into the box with a ground cross which is easliy hit away. WE. NEED. MORE. GOALS.
4.22pm - I feel the same about Chelsea. They're really pushing now. lots of posession, especially on the wings, they keep getting the ball in space and having long range shots, but the Stoke defenders are somehow keeping them in this. Blackburn have a free kick on the wing that is just headed away easily.
4.21pm - Manny is telling me that he feels Liverpool will score soon.
4.20pm - Aston Villa have a Shot that just hits the bar and goes out of play.
4.19pm - John Terry has a strikers finish! Just wide of the post but he has a great smash at the ball with some space. Luis Suarez misses with a horrible volley making it go really wide left. Fulham has been attacking a lot more this half with some close shots and crosses in the Villa Area
4.16pm - Liverpool seem to have Andy Carroll warming up for a possible change now that they are in the need of a goal
4.15pm - Yellow card for....a Blackburn player, the Camera didn't give me a good look at who it was.
4.14pm - Goal: Sunderland 1-0 Liverpool (Larsson)
Sunderland score a good Goal by a rebund of the post twice and Larsson hitting in it over reina for a stunning goal.
4.13pm - Manny: "Sunderland, SCORE! Liverpool...You stay as your are". That's the most entertaining thing I've heard today. The football's been dull.
4.12pm - Typical that we'd choose to do our first Live Text on the day where there are no goals. *Sigh*. Stoke nearly scored as I said that. Sunderland miss with a horrible shot going to high up and into the stands
4.11pm - Attack after attack coming at the Stoke defence. Chelsea aren't being challenged at all on the wings. They just have nobody in the box to get the final touch to guide it in.
4.10pm - Diao gets subbed off for Palacios, with Wilson coming off for Upson. Tactical changes, strange to make them only 5 minutes after half time though. Fulham with a near miss after the cross is hit away by a Villa player
4.09pm - Lampard nearly gets a goal. He smashes it at Begovic, who fumbles. Luckily he regains his composure fast enought to collect before Drogba gets in. Sunderland nearly scored with a cross that came off their defender but Reina Holds on to it perfectly.
4.08pm - Blackburn have a throw for Pedersen, who is going to Delap it into th...or he's going to do it short. OK, that was anti-climactic. Wolves standing strong now.
4.07pm - Liverpool seem to have started on the right being quite aggresive and quick with their attacks.
4.06pm - Juan Mata gets a free kick on the right wing, but the ball is straight to Begovic.
4.05pm - OK, Fine, Mea culpa, Chelsea made a sub I didn't see too. My bad. I think it was David Luiz on for someone, but I could be wrong.
4.04pm - Wolves begin with intent, as do Stoke. Fullham begin the second half with a substitution. Unfortunately, Manny didn't see who it was. Fullham gets a Free Kick but its to high for any player to get that.
Half Time Re-cap
Chelsea 0-0 Stoke City
A very dull match so far punctuated by that sending off of Ricardo Fuller. Stoke are standing strong though, and Asmir Begovic is their hero. Let's see if they can hold on, and if Chelsea will soon bring on Sturridge/Torres to try and grab that elusive goal.
Wolves 0-1 Blackburn
Also quite dull. Feels like a basketball match, real end to end stuff, just very poor finishing from most of the players. Hoillett's goal, separates the sides, but the score doesn't really truly show how even this game is. I got this screen grab for you, hope you like it :).
Sunderland 0-0 Liverpool
It has been an entertaining game to watch. We saw Sunderland the first 25 minutes dominating the match with a lot of strong attacks but then liverpool, with the help of Luis Suarez, started to get many aggresive and strong attacks just the finishing has been off for both teams.
Aston Villa 0-0 Fulham
This is a game were we saw quite some interesting things happen. We also saw a lot of blood after Ireland and the Fullham Player jumped and got hit by Ireland's elbow to make him leave the game for a few moments. We see that Villa have completely dominated the attack and possession which it makes it still surprising that they havent scored yet.
3.48pm - Half time whiltles ring out around the Premier League and Football League. Time to give my hands a rest. Diao recieves some treatment just before Chelsea-Stoke HT. Sunderland vs. Liverpool go into Half time still tied 0-0 we've seen good attacks by Liverpool and Sunderland throughout the first half.
3.47pm - Don't expect much more from my Chelsea stream til half time. It doesn't look like anything is going to happen at any rate. Luis Suarez gets a close chance but Brilliant Keeping by sunderland keeps the game 0-0.
3.46pm - Adam Gets a Cross in but its saved easily by the Sunderland GK. Liverpool Get a corner and it is saved by the man on the near post odf the corner. Liverpool seem much more aggresive and are near to scoring a goal.
3.45pm - GOAL: Wolves 0-1 Blackburn (Hoillett)
Hoillett is in a great position from a corner. THe ball bounces off Bassong, and he slides in to smash home the first goal of the afternoon. Steve Kean jumps for joy.
Elsewhere, Sunderland player Gets a yellow card after a horrible sliding tackle getting none of the ball.
3.44pm - My Chelsea stream has frozen again! OK, Lampard's shot....hit the keeper. Fine. I need a new stream, this is frustrating. Good shot though, found space and whipped it round.
3.43pm - Aston Villa Corner has been cleared away by the Fullham GK.
3.42pm - My Chelsea stream is getting really glitchy! Noooo! But Ivanovic blasts a shot at Begovic from just inside the box. The Stoke keeper is single handedly keeping his side in this. The stream is back to normal. Phew.
3.41pm - Sunderland havent gotten a good chance in most have been shots quite far wide.
3.40pm - Sunderland gets a possible penalty taken away from them getting some fans and players angry. No goals in the four matches being played at the moment. Quite depressing really.
3.39pm - Mereiles comes off...before half time...for Juan Mata. Yakubu slides in on the end of a Hoillett cross but the ball is just wide of the post.
3.38pm - Sunderland Corner after a nice attack gets them back in Liverpool's side. The cross has been quite off and they miss another close chance
3.37pm - I feel so bad for Kenwyne Jones. He's having serious trouble up front on his own. The Fullham player has returned into the match after been hit near the eye by and elbow. Villas attacks havent been as powerful nor dangerous as in the beggining of the match. Begovic JUST gets onto a ball that was looping over his head into the net. Wilson and Walthers are doing ABSOLUTELY nothing to help their keeper right now. Ivanovic's header nearly dropped in.
3.36pm - Chelsea really exploiting the flanks. Lots of crosses into the box, but Drogba is having some serious trouble getting on the end of the balls from Kalou. Positional sense from Stoke is non-existent at the moment.
3.35pm - Liverpool have been close to scoring in the last 5 minutes about 3 chances now Sunderland seems a bit scared with these close chances. Suarez has been the one leading this Attack being close to scoring himself as well
3.34pm - Just a reminder, you can tweet us @Dukey42 :) Any interesting tweets will be posted here.
3.33pm - John Terry gets on the end of an outswinging corner, the ball ricochets off the floor and back off the crossbar. Terry looks gutted. Davis gives the ball away to Blackburn, who give it straight back. How gentlemanly.
3.32pm - Liverpool have been on the attack for some time its been dangerous with some near crosses beibg dangerous for the Sunderland. Kuyt shoots but it is taken in safely by the Sunderland Goalie.
3.31pm - Raul Mereiles has a beautiful chance to blast it from the edge of the area. Lots of space, lots of time, but he blasts it wide. Gamst-Pedersen picks up a yellow card for a tackle from behind on Davis.
3.30pm - Aston villa man jumps for a header and elbows a Fullham player near the eye making him bleed he is out in the sidelines getting cleaned up to come back into the game hopefully.
3.29pm - Nothing of note happening in the Wolves-Blackburn match. End to end stuff really. Chelsea are looking at over an hour playing against 10 men, that'll be wearing on the Stoke players' legs. Fullham on the attack havent been able to get a good attack in which has ment they are very defensive thtroughout the first 27 minutes
3.28pm - Sunderland nearly gave a goal away by passing it back to goalie and Suarez rushing in nearly gets to it. Sorry, I still can't get over that red card. That's going to be so frustrating for Pulis. His side have been holding Chelsea at bay, now their main strike threat has disappeared.
3.27pm - Red card for Stoke! Ricardo Fuller is an idiot. He jumped over a sliding Ivanovic, and decides to turn around and stamp on his groin. Deserved red card. Tony Pulis will not be happy.
3.26pm - Wolves defence have definitely earned their salary this week. Standing strong against so many Blackburn attacks. Their final ball is still failing them though. O'Hara just can't get on the end of a long ball.
3.25pm - Chelsea really seem to be sitting back at the moment. No disrespect to Stoke, but this is a game they should really be pressing down. John Terry is on the deck, looking a bit worried about his ankle. Free kick given to Villa but nothing comes from it.
3.24pm - ...he whips it in and it bounces straight of a Stoke head. Walthers is making a driving run down the center and Stoke start a new attack, before Chelsea seem to scare them off it. Aston Villa with a horrible strike give another chance away thanks to horrible finishing.
3.23pm - Luis Suarez Had a good run But wasnt able to get a shot in a corner has been awarded But is missed barely By liverpool. Free kick on the edge of the box for Lampard...
3.22pm - Wolves are pressing, lots of threat about their attacks, just failing to get the final ball into a player in the middle.
3.20pm - Corner for Aston Villa isnt good but Villa have been on the attack for quite some time now just have not finished 3 perfect chances Fullham Goalie and Defense have been very good
3.19pm - Walthers misses a glorious chance to open the scoring for Stoke, but blasts it straight at Ivanovic. If he could use his left foot rather than just his right, he'd have a goal there. Sunderland with a perfect chance to score cant get the crooss in again and they miss another opportunity . Liverpool arent looking like a top form team they have been very defensive and havent attacked as much as Sunderland.
3.17pm - Aston Villa have had a good amount of scorng chances but they havent been able to finish.
3.16pm - Diao picks up a yellow for a reckless challenge. Blackburn making darting runs into the box, but the Wolves defence are just managing to keep up.
3.15pm - Liverpool are on a Dangerous attack but it is easily cleared by the Sunderland defense.
3.14pm - I don't know about Manny, but the two matches I'm watching are quite dull so far. And as I say that Yakubu nearly scores for Blackburn with a cheeky overhead kick. If he'd got a bit more power on that, there is no way the keeper was keeping that out. Lampard delivers a free kick high into the Stoke box but Begovic is there to clear.
3.13pm - Wolves make a great run down the left, and I think it's Jarvis who has the chance to put the ball in for his team, but slips on the cross and the ball goes sailing over the box. Corner given to sunderland but not good enough with a weak header straight to Pepe Reina. Sunderland misses the perfect opportunity with a horrible cross missing all the sunderland player
3.11pm - Asmir Begovic made a fantastic stop to deny...someone. He's looking really good at the moment. Sunderland have been attacking a lot from the start of the game and have been dominating on the ball.
3.10pm - Free kick given to sunderland and header puts it out of reach of Pepe Reina
3.09pm - Ok, we have our technical problems all sorted now, you'll actually get things coming from the two of us now :) Remember to tweet @Dukey42!
3.08pm - Aston Villa corner was hit out of the box but a shot came back quickly and was saved by Fullham
3.05pm - Nothing much happening in the games yet.
3.00pm - Four matches have now kicked off in the premier league. I'll be covering Chelsea-Stoke and Wolves-Blackburn, while Manny will be covering the Aston Villa-Fulham and Sunderland-Liverpool matches.
2.15pm - From 3pm GMT, I'll be hosting a live text commentary for the 5 Premier League matches that are to be played after Bolton vs QPR is finished. If you wish to get in contact with me during the the commentary, please feel free to tweet me @Dukey42. I'll post any interesting tweets on here for everyone to see.
Thursday, 8 March 2012
Gold Coast's A-League License Revoked
Gold Coast United have been effectively killed as the FFA has revoked their A-League license with immediate effect. Though a team will be funded and fielded by the FFA through the remaining four games of the season, it is highly doubtful that the embattled club will exist come the start of next season.
The decision comes after "3 clear breaches" of the FFA club policy by former owner Clive Palmer, the wealthiest man in Queensland. These include his famed outburst against the ruling body of Australian football, declaring them "corrupt".
Palmer tweeted shortly after the announcement "Our licence is being rekoved by Frank Lowy and FFA cohorts .. I will issue detailed response shortly.
"We intend to fight this ludicrous decision by incompetent FFA in the courts. Frank Lowy is an institution who now belongs in an institution."
However, Lowy gave hope to Gold Coast fans by saying "We would like to field a team next season". While this could be a cue for another investor to take over the club, it could also mean hurrying along plans for a Western Sydney side to join the league for next season.
However, they must be careful to take lessons from what Lowy described as Gold Coast's "spectacular failure". Low crowd averages have not helped the cause, and it seems that displaying "Freedom of Speech" on their shirts during their previous match against Melbourne Heart was the last straw.
They have a lot of talented youngsters at that side. It would be a shame to see it go. Let's hope they can find another investor.
Wednesday, 7 March 2012
Tianjin vs Central Coast: LIVE
Please refresh the page now and then. Live coverage of Tianiin vs Central Coast Mariners in the Asian Champions League.
That's all from me, I hope you enjoyed this, drop us some tweets, and some comments, and let us know you love us! :) Bye guys!
93 Minutes - And there's the final whistle. 0-0 here, but by no means a boring match. A good start for the Aussies, an away point in their first group match, and they already have half the point total they amassed in 2009, where they picked up just 2 points in their campaign.
92 Minutes - McBreen is off. Bit of time wasting here, Troy Hearfield is on for the final...20 seconds?
92 Minutes - Man, if he allowed that to roll onto his left foot, that was a goal, not sure why he took it so early with his right. 40 seconds left. Tianjin pressing.
91 Minutes - The homeside desparately trying to push for a goal, but being blocked at every turn. Rogic plays a neat little ball to BcBreen to Ibini-Isei who is in space...But he's fluffed it! Straight at the keeper. He should have done MUCH better there!
89 Minutes - Mariners keeping possession. 3 minutes of added time.
88 Minutes - Every time McBreen gets on the ball he loses it. Get him off now. Also, it turns out Zwaanswijk didn't actually touch the ball. Nowhere near it. The ball went off at an angle that looked like he'd touched it though. Tianjin will definitely use that as an excuse if they dont get the points here today.
87 Minutes - ...is cleared, and Tianjin Teda break, but Hui Jin Kang allows the ball to roll out. But Tianjin break again and he's pulled down by Zwaanswijk! Penalty cries from all around the pitch, but the referee says no. And it's a good call, the tackle was inch perfect.
86 Minutes - ...out for another Corner...which...
86 Minutes - Rogic needs to learn to use his right foot. He keeps getting in fantastic positions where he could whip in a ball, or play a neat little through ball to a player, but it's always on his right. Also, great play now from Bernie Ibini-Isei, and a corner....
85 Minutes - Zwaanswijk clears after yet another Tianjin cross. They're really going for it, both sides. Quite an entertaining game.
83 Minutes - McBreen has a crack at goal after the ball somehow wormed its way to him. Testing the goalkeeper, who was more than up to the challenge.
82 Minutes - I'm wondering why they took off their captain, Wang. Aside from providing me with a few laughs, he's also been their main man, a very good technical player. Also, Tianjin now have 7 fouls to Central Coast's 18. Foulers.
81 Minutes - Tianjin break after Josh Rose loses the ball in their half. Mao crosses in, but there's nobody in the box and Pedj Bojic is able to clear.
79 Minutes - Great ball in from...OK, I'm not even going to pretend to know what his name is, a winger for the Chinese side, but Wang...NO THEY JUST SUBBED HIM OFF!...Wang whipped the ball widlly over the bar. Mao Biao (what a name). Cao has taken the Captain's armband...maybe we should get someone watching the Chinese league, this is fantastic.
78 Minutes - If you're watching this, don't be afraid to comment! Or post to me on Twitter @Dukey42 or @Firstflightfoot :)
77 Minutes - Rogic, the sole left footer, is unfortunately caught on the right flank so despite a promising run, he is unable to get a cross off. It's all Mariners at the moment in these final 15 or so minutes.
76 Minutes - ...it's headed away. Mariners still pressing now, they usually seem to have 2 players in the gap in the middle, if they could just get the ball to one of them, they could quite easily get a goal. Bernie Ibini-Isei is coming on for Adam Kwasnik. Graham Arnold is obviously making sure Kwasnik isn't sent off, he's been conceding a fair few free kicks thus far.
75 Minutes - Oooh! Rogic is on the field! He's exciting. He's won a corner too. And....
74 Minutes - Yes, that meant my internet went bad and I couldn't see. But the score is still 0-0 and I don't see any one missing.
HT - 70 Minutes - Nothing of note has happened. Trust me.
44 Minutes - Free kick finally taken, thumped at the wall. Mariners counter, Mustafa Amini breaks down the left and back to Joshua Rose, but it's headed away by Gowan and cBreen, who tried to bulldoe his way through is stopped in his tracks. Mike McGlinchley is still pressing, but the ball is eventually cleared for a Tianjin counter. Chien and Wang, who both recieve massive roars, nearly sculpt a goal, but to no avail, the ball goes out for a corner which is cleared. And now it's Half Time. Time for something to eat!
42 Minutes - Maltese Hutchinson is given a warning over a high boot. A green laser pen is also being shone in the eyes of keeper Ryan. Slight delay while they try to find the culprit.
40 Minutes - Wang finds himself in some space and tries an audacious volley which flies just over the bar. He's quite technically gifted, this Wang.
38 Minutes - Former York, Scunthorpe and St Johnstone man McBreen is really struggling in midfield for Mariners. His link up play hasn't been good enough and he hasn't been holding the ball up well either.
37 Minutes - Great route one ball from Chien over to Dutchman Ars, but the Tianjin man was just offside
36 Minutes - One of these Tianjin players, Wi Li, apparently played for Everton, one match in 2002 but was sold after the World Cup in Japan/Korea that year.
35 Minutes - In case you're wondering, Tianjin have 4 fouls to Mariners 7. Wow.
34 Minutes - Bozanic, Kwasnik and Amini are looking quite dangerous up front. I shouldn't be giggling every time the commentator says Ars or Wang.
30 Minutes - Ball rolled into Ars and droped for Chien who had Tianjin's first real chance of the game. But Ryan stayed strong and the ball bounced off his knee. Good keeping from the Olyroo.
27 Minutes - The whistle had already gone for a handball, but that didn't stop Bozanic smashing a thunderous shot against the crossbar. First real time the keeper has been tested and he was nowhere near it.
25 Minutes - Amini tries a cross but it can't get through to Kwasnik in the middle again. Central Coast definitely picking up pace.
22 Minutes - Wilkinson finds Kwasnik in the box with a decent cross, but the Aussie just can't get the space to get the shot off.
21 Minutes - The game has quietened down a tad now. Crowd is keping it alive though.
18 Minutes - Tianjin are genuinely giving the Mariners a tough time now, some mazy runs down the left, but Ryan is standing strong and not letting anything through.
16 Minutes - Central Coast applying pressure now, long throw in into the box is cleared though.
12 Minutes - Mariners - specifically Kwasnik - seem to be conceding a lot of fouls at the moment. They need to calm down.
10 Minutes - The commentator said "dangerous Wang". Don't expect much typing in the next few minutes, I'm in stitches.
8 Minutes - Wang fires high after a brilliant cross from Liwe on the wing. First moment of panic for the Mariners, but goalkeeper Ryan is untroubled.
6 Minutes - An interception in midfield sets through Central Coast, but Liwe of Tianjin has taken some studs to the ankle and the ball is hurried out of play.
5 Minutes - This seems a very open game so far, both sides playing it around the park trying to find a weak point in their opponents to exploit. The Chinese side are looking quite shaky at the back
3 Minutes - Central Coast have their next attack quickly cut out, and a Tianjin counter attack is stopped only iside the penalty area by Zwaanswijk.
1 Minute - Central Coast have their first meaningful attack, Bozanic fires high from quite far out. Not too sure whether he genuinely thought he could make it.
0 Minutes - The game has kicked off
That's all from me, I hope you enjoyed this, drop us some tweets, and some comments, and let us know you love us! :) Bye guys!
93 Minutes - And there's the final whistle. 0-0 here, but by no means a boring match. A good start for the Aussies, an away point in their first group match, and they already have half the point total they amassed in 2009, where they picked up just 2 points in their campaign.
92 Minutes - McBreen is off. Bit of time wasting here, Troy Hearfield is on for the final...20 seconds?
92 Minutes - Man, if he allowed that to roll onto his left foot, that was a goal, not sure why he took it so early with his right. 40 seconds left. Tianjin pressing.
91 Minutes - The homeside desparately trying to push for a goal, but being blocked at every turn. Rogic plays a neat little ball to BcBreen to Ibini-Isei who is in space...But he's fluffed it! Straight at the keeper. He should have done MUCH better there!
89 Minutes - Mariners keeping possession. 3 minutes of added time.
88 Minutes - Every time McBreen gets on the ball he loses it. Get him off now. Also, it turns out Zwaanswijk didn't actually touch the ball. Nowhere near it. The ball went off at an angle that looked like he'd touched it though. Tianjin will definitely use that as an excuse if they dont get the points here today.
87 Minutes - ...is cleared, and Tianjin Teda break, but Hui Jin Kang allows the ball to roll out. But Tianjin break again and he's pulled down by Zwaanswijk! Penalty cries from all around the pitch, but the referee says no. And it's a good call, the tackle was inch perfect.
86 Minutes - ...out for another Corner...which...
86 Minutes - Rogic needs to learn to use his right foot. He keeps getting in fantastic positions where he could whip in a ball, or play a neat little through ball to a player, but it's always on his right. Also, great play now from Bernie Ibini-Isei, and a corner....
85 Minutes - Zwaanswijk clears after yet another Tianjin cross. They're really going for it, both sides. Quite an entertaining game.
83 Minutes - McBreen has a crack at goal after the ball somehow wormed its way to him. Testing the goalkeeper, who was more than up to the challenge.
82 Minutes - I'm wondering why they took off their captain, Wang. Aside from providing me with a few laughs, he's also been their main man, a very good technical player. Also, Tianjin now have 7 fouls to Central Coast's 18. Foulers.
81 Minutes - Tianjin break after Josh Rose loses the ball in their half. Mao crosses in, but there's nobody in the box and Pedj Bojic is able to clear.
79 Minutes - Great ball in from...OK, I'm not even going to pretend to know what his name is, a winger for the Chinese side, but Wang...NO THEY JUST SUBBED HIM OFF!...Wang whipped the ball widlly over the bar. Mao Biao (what a name). Cao has taken the Captain's armband...maybe we should get someone watching the Chinese league, this is fantastic.
78 Minutes - If you're watching this, don't be afraid to comment! Or post to me on Twitter @Dukey42 or @Firstflightfoot :)
77 Minutes - Rogic, the sole left footer, is unfortunately caught on the right flank so despite a promising run, he is unable to get a cross off. It's all Mariners at the moment in these final 15 or so minutes.
76 Minutes - ...it's headed away. Mariners still pressing now, they usually seem to have 2 players in the gap in the middle, if they could just get the ball to one of them, they could quite easily get a goal. Bernie Ibini-Isei is coming on for Adam Kwasnik. Graham Arnold is obviously making sure Kwasnik isn't sent off, he's been conceding a fair few free kicks thus far.
75 Minutes - Oooh! Rogic is on the field! He's exciting. He's won a corner too. And....
74 Minutes - Yes, that meant my internet went bad and I couldn't see. But the score is still 0-0 and I don't see any one missing.
HT - 70 Minutes - Nothing of note has happened. Trust me.
44 Minutes - Free kick finally taken, thumped at the wall. Mariners counter, Mustafa Amini breaks down the left and back to Joshua Rose, but it's headed away by Gowan and cBreen, who tried to bulldoe his way through is stopped in his tracks. Mike McGlinchley is still pressing, but the ball is eventually cleared for a Tianjin counter. Chien and Wang, who both recieve massive roars, nearly sculpt a goal, but to no avail, the ball goes out for a corner which is cleared. And now it's Half Time. Time for something to eat!
42 Minutes - Maltese Hutchinson is given a warning over a high boot. A green laser pen is also being shone in the eyes of keeper Ryan. Slight delay while they try to find the culprit.
40 Minutes - Wang finds himself in some space and tries an audacious volley which flies just over the bar. He's quite technically gifted, this Wang.
38 Minutes - Former York, Scunthorpe and St Johnstone man McBreen is really struggling in midfield for Mariners. His link up play hasn't been good enough and he hasn't been holding the ball up well either.
37 Minutes - Great route one ball from Chien over to Dutchman Ars, but the Tianjin man was just offside
36 Minutes - One of these Tianjin players, Wi Li, apparently played for Everton, one match in 2002 but was sold after the World Cup in Japan/Korea that year.
35 Minutes - In case you're wondering, Tianjin have 4 fouls to Mariners 7. Wow.
34 Minutes - Bozanic, Kwasnik and Amini are looking quite dangerous up front. I shouldn't be giggling every time the commentator says Ars or Wang.
30 Minutes - Ball rolled into Ars and droped for Chien who had Tianjin's first real chance of the game. But Ryan stayed strong and the ball bounced off his knee. Good keeping from the Olyroo.
27 Minutes - The whistle had already gone for a handball, but that didn't stop Bozanic smashing a thunderous shot against the crossbar. First real time the keeper has been tested and he was nowhere near it.
25 Minutes - Amini tries a cross but it can't get through to Kwasnik in the middle again. Central Coast definitely picking up pace.
22 Minutes - Wilkinson finds Kwasnik in the box with a decent cross, but the Aussie just can't get the space to get the shot off.
21 Minutes - The game has quietened down a tad now. Crowd is keping it alive though.
18 Minutes - Tianjin are genuinely giving the Mariners a tough time now, some mazy runs down the left, but Ryan is standing strong and not letting anything through.
16 Minutes - Central Coast applying pressure now, long throw in into the box is cleared though.
12 Minutes - Mariners - specifically Kwasnik - seem to be conceding a lot of fouls at the moment. They need to calm down.
10 Minutes - The commentator said "dangerous Wang". Don't expect much typing in the next few minutes, I'm in stitches.
8 Minutes - Wang fires high after a brilliant cross from Liwe on the wing. First moment of panic for the Mariners, but goalkeeper Ryan is untroubled.
6 Minutes - An interception in midfield sets through Central Coast, but Liwe of Tianjin has taken some studs to the ankle and the ball is hurried out of play.
5 Minutes - This seems a very open game so far, both sides playing it around the park trying to find a weak point in their opponents to exploit. The Chinese side are looking quite shaky at the back
3 Minutes - Central Coast have their next attack quickly cut out, and a Tianjin counter attack is stopped only iside the penalty area by Zwaanswijk.
1 Minute - Central Coast have their first meaningful attack, Bozanic fires high from quite far out. Not too sure whether he genuinely thought he could make it.
0 Minutes - The game has kicked off
Asian Champions League: Round 1
Alright guys, so the ACL has kicked off, and this season I'm going to be following the Australian clubs on their way round. Including (later) my first attempt at a live text. Let's see how this goes. First off, results from yesterday.
(AUS) Brisbane Roar 0 - 2 FC Tokyo (JAP)
(UZB) Bunyodkor 1 - 2 Adelaide United (AUS)
Tonight's match (Tianjin vs Central Coast) is the one I'll live text, as long as I have time. That kicks off at 12:00pm GMT (11pm AEDT)
(AUS) Brisbane Roar 0 - 2 FC Tokyo (JAP)
(UZB) Bunyodkor 1 - 2 Adelaide United (AUS)
Tonight's match (Tianjin vs Central Coast) is the one I'll live text, as long as I have time. That kicks off at 12:00pm GMT (11pm AEDT)
A-League Review: 5th March 2012
Sorry guys, I haven't had time to make you a flashy video this week :( But next week's will be the best ever! Watch this space :) Here are the results anyway.
Adelaide United 0 - 2 Perth Glory
Brisbane Roar 1 - 1 Melbourne Heart
Melbourne Victory 1 - 3 Newcastle Jets
Central Coast Mariners 1 - 1 Sydney FC
Wellington Phoenix 2 - 0 Gold Coast United
Adelaide United 0 - 2 Perth Glory
Brisbane Roar 1 - 1 Melbourne Heart
Melbourne Victory 1 - 3 Newcastle Jets
Central Coast Mariners 1 - 1 Sydney FC
Wellington Phoenix 2 - 0 Gold Coast United
Monday, 5 March 2012
Rangers Players Can't Agree Cuts
As administrators discuss talks to cut the rangers players wages, they have failed on day 1. Talks will resume tomorrow.
Some players did say they would play without any pay right up until the end of the season. Administrators brushed away that option and now players will have to scrap hundreds, maybe even thousands of pounds out of there weekly wage. Shame man city players can't do that with there millions every 2 games!
Rangers need to raise a miminum of 1 million pound a month before the end of the season just so they can stay a float of any more point deductions or even liquidation!
Theres talks of Portsmouth and Rangers to have a friendly match to raise money for both administration clubs! I can see this helping both clubs even experience for them young pompey and rangers lads! No club deserves to be going out of business!
Tell Us Your Views?
Don't be afraid to tell us your views on whats going on in the football world!
Tweet the crew! We will list all those that have twitter!
@Firstflightfoot
Joe Cleverly: @JoeDCleverly
Peter Duke: @Dukey42
Manny Gomez: @Mannydamanster
We look forward to hearing from you guys!
Chelsea Sack Villas-Boas
I'm sure most of you all know that Chelsea have sacked there manager Andre Villas-Boas. The sacking came after a humiliating defeat againest West Bromich Albion at the hawthorns on saturday (3rd march 2012). Of course Jose Mourinho is the favourate to become the next Chelsea manager, but Roberto Di Matteo has been put in temporery charge until the end of the season. Personally i think after this season Di Matteo will remain in charge but then Mourinho will leave madrid and return to his beloved Chelsea.
Chelsea have won only three of there last 12 games. A record that Di Matteo will want to break at tomorrow nights FA cup replay with Birmingham City (6th march 2012) after there 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge.
The favourates (according to www.paddypower.com ) are
Jose Mourinho 9/4
Rafa Benitez 5/2
Pep Gaurdiola 5/1
Roberto Di Matteo 7/1
Fabio Capello 9/1
David Moyes 12/1
Sunday, 4 March 2012
Premier League Review (3/4th march)
Saturday 3rd March
Liverpool 1 - 2 Arsenal
Blackburn 1 - 1 Aston Villa
Manchester City 2 - 0 Bolton Wanderers
QPR 1 - 1 Everton
Stoke 1 - 0 Norwich
West Brom 1 - 0 Chelsea
Wigan 0 - 2 Swansea City
Sunday 4th March
Newcastle 1 - 1 Sunderland
Fulham 5 - 0 Wolves
Tottenham 1 - 3 Manchester United
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