View Full Version : Footie 2014/2015 season
Stratmangler
10-08-2014, 12:26
Interesting start to the season North of the border :eyebrows:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/scotland/28731459
Interesting start to the season North of the border :eyebrows:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/scotland/28731459
now that is what i call route one!
Stratmangler
10-08-2014, 17:04
Well done Arsenal for the win today at Wembley.
Well done Arsenal for the win today at Wembley.
Thanks!:cool: Please may it continue all season!:rolleyes:
Stratmangler
10-08-2014, 18:04
Thanks!:cool: Please may it continue all season!:rolleyes:
Don't get carried away!
It was only a friendly(ish) game :eyebrows:
chris@panteg
11-08-2014, 11:17
Don't get carried away!
It was only a friendly(ish) game :eyebrows:
I won't get carried away , good start though but some players missing from both teams ,roll on next Saturday , just don't want anymore 6 or 5 goals conceded like last season , we'll see.
Stratmangler
11-08-2014, 11:30
I won't get carried away , good start though but some players missing from both teams ,roll on next Saturday , just don't want anymore 6 or 5 goals conceded like last season , we'll see.
All three of the goals were decent.
The telling bit for me was the shot of the City players in the stand wearing suits.
I know Arsenal were down on players too.
Next weekend will be a different story .....
DanJennings
16-08-2014, 09:43
I'm amazed we (Villa) managed to pull off the signing of a genuine prospect, Carlos Sanchez... I never thought we'd get him.
Our season could go either way, we essentially have a lot of 'new' players that are coming back into the fold from loans (Bent, Hutton), injuries (Kozak, Benteke), exile (N'Zogbia) etc, and some new signings (Cole, Richardson, Senderos, Sanchez), so it really depends on them!
Fingers crossed!
I'm a bit gutted we let Albrighton and Lowton go though, we should have hung on to them, and I'm a bit sore over Jolean Lescott going to West Brom, we should definitely have signed him up.
http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag89/Jrb1961/imagejpg1_zpsb6b3b5b8.jpg (http://s1300.photobucket.com/user/Jrb1961/media/imagejpg1_zpsb6b3b5b8.jpg.html)
Stratmangler
16-08-2014, 11:40
http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag89/Jrb1961/imagejpg1_zpsb6b3b5b8.jpg (http://s1300.photobucket.com/user/Jrb1961/media/imagejpg1_zpsb6b3b5b8.jpg.html)
Welcome to The Premier League.
Enjoy the ride :cool:
And don't forget the mighty Clarets, we're back as-well!
This is how we started last time. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VsofICqbG8
chris@panteg
16-08-2014, 13:14
So its started , anyone doing the dreamteam , makes it a bit more interesting .
chris@panteg
16-08-2014, 13:17
The Swans just gone 2-1 against utd , sounds familiar ,still time though .
chris@panteg
16-08-2014, 13:51
Not a good start for Van Gaal ,he's got some changes to make , I suspect in the next few weeks .
The migthy swans spread their wings :gig:
COYS YJB
Granted a not very impressive United team
chris@panteg
16-08-2014, 13:59
The migthy swans spread their wings :gig:
COYS YJB
Granted a not very impressive United team
Yes, the welsh in me is very pleased for them ,the welshies in the valleys will be singing + an appointment with the Reverend James tonight .
Stratmangler
16-08-2014, 15:01
And don't forget the mighty Clarets, we're back as-well!
Yours is one of the 2 games I'm really interested in - can you hurt Chelsea while they still have players not fully ready for the season because of the World Cup?
News from the swamp cheered me up no end - well done Swansea!!! :cool:
chris@panteg
16-08-2014, 15:30
Just found a post that made me chuckle .
Congratulations to Swansea , its so difficult to win a game at Old Trafford ...... Not even Manchester Utd can win there... lol
Stratmangler
16-08-2014, 16:09
Nice one Chris :D
I have no doubt that Van Gaal will sort things out before much longer, but it's nice for him to have a reality check right at the start of his reign!
If he can get his team to gel then they'll do more than well, and the lack of European football is something that will go in their favour at the business end of the season.
Yours is one of the 2 games I'm really interested in - can you hurt Chelsea while they still have players not fully ready for the season because of the World Cup?
: Yes, I noticed Mourinho had got that excuse in early. The mind games have started already trying to make us feel complacent! Let's hope it's throwing down. They won't fancy a rainy Monday night in Burnley. We always have a chance, certainly we are better set up than last time. Dyche will have his team prepared without a doubt.
Stratmangler
16-08-2014, 18:04
They won't fancy a rainy Monday night in Burnley
I'm not all that taken with Burnley on a sunny Summer's day, not that there's many of them :lol:
Having been to Turf Moor on a couple of occasions I know that in the depths of winter the ground is your best weapon against visiting teams - that low side doesn't protect the pitch very well from the wind and rain.
I hope you can go the distance this time and avoid the drop at the end of the season.
And of course, I hope you pull off the occasional shock result, especially when City benefit from it :D
chris@panteg
16-08-2014, 18:43
Nice one Chris :D
I have no doubt that Van Gaal will sort things out before much longer, but it's nice for him to have a reality check right at the start of his reign!
If he can get his team to gel then they'll do more than well, and the lack of European football is something that will go in their favour at the business end of the season.
I think so too Chris, a few players will have to go I suspect.
Well, Celtic won 6-1 against Dundee Utd, so I'm well happy... However, I'll be even happier if they beat Maribor in midweek and then progress to the Champions League group stages!
Marco.
Stratmangler
16-08-2014, 19:04
Well, Celtic won 6-1 against Dundee Utd, so I'm well happy... However, I'll be even happier if they beat Maribor in midweek and then progress to the Champions League group stages!
Marco.
I thought you might be pleased with that win Marco.
That was a lucky break you got in the Champions League - if your opponents had actually had their player properly registered at the start of the qualification legs you'd have been stuffed.
Still, it's an ill wind that blows no good ....
Indeed, Chris - however, we'll take all the luck that's going! :)
Thing is, it's bloody ridiculous that a team of Celtic's calibre has to play THREE qualifying games before reaching the group stages of the competition (especially against fitter teams that are already well into their domestic season)! :rolleyes:
Marco.
Stratmangler
16-08-2014, 19:23
Thing is, it's bloody ridiculous that a team of Celtic's calibre has to play THREE qualifying games before reaching the group stages of the competition (especially against fitter teams that are already well into their domestic season)! :rolleyes:
Marco.
I agree with you, but UEFA have changed the way qualification works, and the placings take national standings very much into account http://spfl.co.uk/spfl/europe-201415/
Yeah, but it's all bollocks... Would that happen if Celtic were playing in the English Premiership (where a team of their stature belongs), and finishing, say, third in the league? ;)
Marco.
Stratmangler
16-08-2014, 19:56
Yeah, but it's all bollocks... Would that happen if Celtic were playing in the English Premiership (where a team of their stature belongs), and finishing, say, third in the league? ;)
Marco.
Agreed!
It's all bollocks!
And as you well know, under the current qualification requirements there are four places for the EPL, three of them direcly into the group stage and the fourth requiring that a qualification tie be played, so if you did play in the EPL and finished third you'd have a direct route into The Champions League.
Exactly my point! :)
Marco.
Stratmangler
17-08-2014, 21:34
I'm very pleased with the way City played today - they showed determination and a real desire to win the game.
Silva's first half goal was excellent, and Aguero's goal late in the second half showed just how sharp and persistent he is - I truly believe we have yet to see the best from this goalscoring maestro, and we've already had plenty of great moments from him over the last couple of seasons.
All we need now is a home win at Turf Moor tomorrow, and I'll be very pleased with the way the games have gone this week ;)
I can barely wait for next Monday night, when we play host to Liverpool.
chris@panteg
18-08-2014, 08:39
I'm very pleased with the way City played today - they showed determination and a real desire to win the game.
Silva's first half goal was excellent, and Aguero's goal late in the second half showed just how sharp and persistent he is - I truly believe we have yet to see the best from this goalscoring maestro, and we've already had plenty of great moments from him over the last couple of seasons.
All we need now is a home win at Turf Moor tomorrow, and I'll be very pleased with the way the games have gone this week ;)
I can barely wait for next Monday night, when we play host to Liverpool.
Well Chris ,so far City have looked the most convincing of the top teams , Arsenal were sloppy and out of sorts but I'm certain they can and will put it together , Liverpool looked a little ragged in the 2nd half but held it together and Sturridge and Sterling will be the big hitters ,no doubt.
I think Chelsea will win tonight , be interesting to see how they perform , I'm expecting Costa to score and make an impact but we'll see ?
Its funny now I'm doing this dreamteam thing , I'm hoping Chelsea will win and have a clean sheet ,Hazard to be star man .
Looking forward to the game with Liverpool ,should be a cracker Chris .
"All we need now is a home win at Turf Moor tomorrow, and I'll be very pleased with the way the games have gone this week ;)"
it dont look like that is gonna happen! 1-3 at half time.
hopefully we can "park the bus" (not something we are good at) against City next week.
we will struggle without another striker this season.
the title would be nice (still a bit of a pipe dream), but i would be really happy with CL qualification again.
that is what we need consistently.
Mmmmm..... that was a bit of an eye opener. Welcome to the Premier League. But first, Burnley's new DIGITAL season card system worked flawlessly, of course there will be those who want a return to the old ANALOGUE system of tearing your ticket out of your book and handing over to the man at the turnstile, but you cannot stop the onward march of technology! Well I suppose when you put a £6million team against a £190 million team there is going to be trouble, looking at the class of Chelsea you can see why they cost what they do. I thought we stood off a little to much and perhaps should have been more in their faces, as per the usual underdog way. An enjoyable night non the less, and the way we were still working at the end, I think, bodes well for the rest of the season.
Stratmangler
19-08-2014, 08:31
Mmmmm..... that was a bit of an eye opener. Welcome to the Premier League. But first, Burnley's new DIGITAL season card system worked flawlessly, of course there will be those who want a return to the old ANALOGUE system of tearing your ticket out of your book and handing over to the man at the turnstile, but you cannot stop the onward march of technology! Well I suppose when you put a £6million team against a £190 million team there is going to be trouble, looking at the class of Chelsea you can see why they cost what they do. I thought we stood off a little to much and perhaps should have been more in their faces, as per the usual underdog way. An enjoyable night non the less, and the way we were still working at the end, I think, bodes well for the rest of the season.
We've had the card reader technology since we moved to our current location, and it's proved to be a fantastic system.
The beauty of it is when you buy tickets in addition to the access you get for league games - you go online, select tickets, pay, and it's automatically added to your game access list.
There's no sitting around waiting for tickets to drop through your letterbox.
The only negative is that you have to look after your card (you should always know where your card is) - I spotted a dropped card on one of the spirals at The Etihad. Being the good Cityzen that I am I picked it up and made my way to one of the stewards on the way to my usual seat, and there I met the young man who'd dropped the card. He was panicking a bit, as his Dad had let him use the card as he couldn't make the game.
Grateful wasn't in it, but I hope he learned a valuable lesson that day.
I didn't get to watch much of the game last night, but from what I did see Burnley have much to be optimistic about.
Play like that against the teams around you and you have a good chance of remaining in the top flight in 37 game's time.
The only negative is that you have to look after your card (you should always know where your card is)
Funnily enough my dad who is now 80 has looked after mine and my sisters season ticket books since we were kids. He still does even though I'm now 52 and my sister is 49! It is convenient for buying cup tickets etc. and has become something of an amusing tradition, and one he takes with a little pride. Last night there was an awkward moment when I think he was unsure whether we were going to hand over our new cards. We both automatically handed them over to which he gruffed and said ' Oh I'm looking after these am I', like it was an imposition! Still he uses cash cards etc. less and doesn't get shit faced so they should be safer!
Stratmangler
26-08-2014, 22:17
I am shocked to find out that MK Dons have hammered Manyoo 4-0 :eek:
Dia Maria will be wondering what he's done.:lol:
Stratmangler
26-08-2014, 23:29
Dia Maria will be wondering what he's done.:lol:
He must have wondered where the Sky Blue shirts were when he turned up for his medical :eyebrows:
DanJennings
29-08-2014, 18:33
I'm off to Villa Park this Sunday to see us play Hull City.
After that we have the following fixtures consecutively:
Liverpool Away
Arsenal Home
Chelsea Away
Man City Home
Everton Away
:eek:
I can't think of any worse fixtures than that! Can't see us getting any points at all.
We played well today and might have had all three points but we'll take one. United not playing as a team yet. Di Maria cost more than we have ever spent on transfers if you add them all up. Trippier nutmegged him and then Rooney in quick succession, full blown nutmegs too where you collect the ball on the other side. Man of the match Arfield not in the Scotland squad, I don't know what he has to do.
I'm off to Villa Park this Sunday to see us play Hull City.
After that we have the following fixtures consecutively:
Liverpool Away
Arsenal Home
Chelsea Away
Man City Home
Everton Away
:eek:
I can't think of any worse fixtures than that! Can't see us getting any points at all.
our defense is still very suspect. you may get a nice surprise.
wow did not see that stoke result coming. "its a funny o'l game"
chris@panteg
30-08-2014, 17:12
Yeah, stunning result for Stoke, Costa must be the buy of the summer so far, 3 goals in three games.
Yeah, stunning result for Stoke, Costa must be the buy of the summer so far, 3 goals in three games.
good job Chelsea did not have him last season, else we would have finished third.
StanleyB
30-08-2014, 17:48
2009: Shock, horror. Mark Hughes win game at ManCity and gets sacked.
2014: Shock, horror. Mark Hughes win game at ManCity and gets mobbed by Stoke fans.
2009: Shock, horror. Mark Hughes win game at ManCity and gets sacked.
2014: Shock, horror. Mark Hughes win game at ManCity and gets mobbed by Stoke fans.
HaHa
it is a funny o'l game, Stan
everton chelsea will be a "must watch" tonight on motd
Stratmangler
30-08-2014, 18:30
It was a frustrating time at The Etihad this afternoon.
Stoke's gameplan was to stop us from playing and go home with a point.
They went one better than that, and scored - I wouldn't mind, but the player that scored took the ball from the edge of the Stoke box and ran with it a full 70 yards and tucked it under Hart in a one on one with the keeper :doh:
All credit to Stoke.
On the flip side Lee Mason was not kind to us with his appalling decision that ended up with Touré being booked for diving.
It was a stonewall penalty, and the linesman was in prime position to see it all, so why did he not do his job and assist the referee?
It was a frustrating time at The Etihad this afternoon.
Stoke's gameplan was to stop us from playing and go home with a point.
They went one better than that, and scored - I wouldn't mind, but the player that scored took the ball from the edge of the Stoke box and ran with it a full 70 yards and tucked it under Hart in a one on one with the keeper :doh:
All credit to Stoke.
On the flip side Lee Mason was not kind to us with his appalling decision that ended up with Touré being booked for diving.
It was a stonewall penalty, and the linesman was in prime position to see it all, so why did he not do his job and assist the referee?
gives the rest of us hope, though!;)
DanJennings
31-08-2014, 09:49
our defense is still very suspect. you may get a nice surprise.
Nah, we don't have players capable of scoring goals at the moment.... I'm expecting nil nil again today... Still going though!
DanJennings
01-09-2014, 17:34
Nah, we don't have players capable of scoring goals at the moment.... I'm expecting nil nil again today... Still going though!
Thankfully, I was wrong. Great game, great atmosphere down there too.
Now just got to keep fingers crossed that no-one nicks Ron Vlaar from us in the next 4 and a half hours
Stratmangler
05-09-2014, 08:34
Good bit of business for Celtic, signing John Guidetti for a season on loan.
The lad is a very good player and a decent goalscoring record (ask Feyenoord), but he can't get a regular team place at City (one of the problems youngsters have, with the likes of Aguero, Dzeko and Jovetic around these parts).
I think he'll do well :cool:
Yeah, I was pleased about the loan deal, Chris. Celtic are definitely in a transitional period at the moment, with a new (very young and ambitious) manager, who is in the process of building a new team, so some patience is needed with fans before things start to click properly.
Sadly, the above meant that the Champions League was a bridge too far this season, but I’m hopeful that we can have a decent run this year in the Europa League :)
Marco.
I also have high hopes for this young chap: http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29039994
Marco.
Stratmangler
05-09-2014, 09:26
The Europa League is a very tough competition - we've had some fantastic games against teams in the competition.
Having the Champons League dropouts makes the competition tougher too - there are plenty of seriously good sides that don't make it to the later stages of CL.
The Europa League is a worthy competition to win, and it's a shame that is doesn't get the recognition it deserves!
Stratmangler
05-09-2014, 09:31
I also have high hopes for this young chap: http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29039994
Marco.
He's an exciting player!
Why do you say that, then?
Incidentally, I do agree! :)
Marco.
Stratmangler
05-09-2014, 10:07
Why do you say that, then?
Incidentally, I do agree! :)
Marco.
Which bit?
The Europa League thing stands up for itself. I have very fond memories of the night PSV Hamburg came to ours - the place was on fire!
There have been quite a few other teams and games of note, but the Hamburg one was special.
The bit about Scepovic - his goalscoring record stands for itself. A look on Youtube shows you that his goalscoring and improvisational skills are good, and he knows here the back of the net is.
I think you've got a lot of new firepower (along with Guidetti), and they should both do well for you.
It was the last bit I was referring to, hoping you could add some valuable insight (which you’ve done), as up until now I’d never heard of him. Yup, I’d agree that he’s an exciting prospect, along with Guidetti :)
I also agree about the Europa League, which is vastly underrated and should get far more credibility than it does. Quite frankly, a lot of the teams in it would probably do very well in the CL, even though they haven’t qualified.
Marco.
the international breaks bore the flaming pants off me, just like a Woy press conference.
DanJennings
13-09-2014, 18:28
Liverpool 0 1 Villa!!
:D:cool::hifive:
10 points from 4 games and 2nd in the league, what is going on?!
Stratmangler
13-09-2014, 19:36
Liverpool 0 1 Villa!!
:D:cool::hifive:
10 points from 4 games and 2nd in the league, what is going on?!
Enjoy it while it lasts!
Tough one for us today at Arsenal, so a point from that one is welcome :cool:
Enjoy it while it lasts!
Tough one for us today at Arsenal, so a point from that one is welcome :cool:
x2
i did ;)
Rather impressed by Everton, quite a good all-round game. Curious thing about their goalkeeper - he seems to be in the right place at the right time all the time. Is he lucky or just have a good instinct?
Handy side Everton and Martinez knows his onions too, I like that they are never intimidated by a big game :)
Stratmangler
20-09-2014, 08:26
Is he lucky or just have a good instinct?
He's got an early warning system hidden his beard! :)
Stratmangler
20-09-2014, 08:27
He's got an early warning system hidden his beard! :)
He is a good keeper too! :)
2 down after 7 mins.
looks like we are getting hammered!!
He's got an early warning system hidden his beard! :)
Thats it! It must be something like those radar detectors in cars.
2 down after 7 mins.
looks like we are getting hammered!!
Oh dear, but for me it is a consolation when Winston Reid scores, at least in the opponent's goal - that distinction unfortunately has to be made. Great the Hammers coming to NZ though.
StanleyB
21-09-2014, 14:44
A good day at the office for Leicester City against a mediocre team. 8 goals game would have been a thriller for the fans.
Stratmangler
21-09-2014, 20:22
It was a hell of a game at the Etihad today - tremendous play from both sides.
The score doesn't tell the full story in any shape or form.
awkwardbydesign
22-09-2014, 18:16
It was a hell of a game at the Etihad today - tremendous play from both sides.
The score doesn't tell the full story in any shape or form.
Milner for England! Oh, hang on......
I do think he is worth a more regular start, he never lets us down, he showed he has more skill than many think, and he played with distinction in 3 different positions in the one match. What's not to like? (OK, he's not that good looking, but still!)
Stratmangler
22-09-2014, 19:34
Milner for England! Oh, hang on......
I do think he is worth a more regular start, he never lets us down, he showed he has more skill than many think, and he played with distinction in 3 different positions in the one match. What's not to like? (OK, he's not that good looking, but still!)
You've just hit the nail on the head.
He's one player you never have to worry about, and he always puts a shift in for the team.
Yesterdays game was excellent, a proper battle.
I can't think of a single City player who didn't play well, and it's not often I can say that.
If it had ended 0-0 it would still have been brilliant!
..... and the Saints 'meltdown' continues .........:lolsign:
StanleyB
01-10-2014, 13:05
Are the salaries paid to the Man City players justified? The game last night was shocking in its conclusion, given the outlay made on getting players with big reputations.
More power to Soton , they sold half a team for great money and have come out a better side. Similar can be said about the Baggies, and expect both sides to do well
Stratmangler
01-10-2014, 20:52
Are the salaries paid to the Man City players justified? The game last night was shocking in its conclusion, given the outlay made on getting players with big reputations.
City played really well for the first 5 minutes and the final 10 minutes.
What happened for the big bit in the middle ..... :doh:
Roma were not particularly good, but they played better than City for a huge chunk of the game.
Maicon, a player who was so good at City that I cannot actually remember him doing anything decent on the pitch had a stormer of a game.
The result was a fair one, but in defence of Joe Hart he did slip and fall flat on his face rushing out to intercept the ball that was put over him - that he got up so quickly and continue to try and close the ball down is to his credit.
Had he not slipped he might have got to the ball in time.
Note to Joe - wear boots with long enough studs to stop you slipping!!!
City looked flat for most of the match, and that I am disappointed with the way they played for much of it :rolleyes:
That was a nightmare, Chris, but hey-ho… Totti looked bloody good though for 38! :eek:
Marco.
Stratmangler
01-10-2014, 21:18
We have a huge hill to climb in order to qualify for the knockout round.
We showed the spirit to do it against Bayern, and almost pulled a point out of the game.
Where did that fight go?
Still, never say never!
It's not too late yet!! :eek:
StanleyB
01-10-2014, 21:38
The result was a fair one, but in defence of Joe Hart he did slip and fall flat on his face rushing out to intercept the ball that was put over him - that he got up so quickly and continue to try and close the ball down is to his credit.
Had he not slipped he might have got to the ball in time.
I can't blame Hart on this occasion. It was a defence error as far as I could see. Hart was left to pick up the pieces, but the end result was one that could have befallen any goal keeper.
Danny Welbeck is turning out to be the bargain transfer of the season. His £16M price tag is now looking like an act of generosity. At this rate, Arsenal looks like being able to field more than 50% of the English team. This is starting to look like the biggest strategic mistake Van Gaale has made in his short spell in charge of Man U.
Stratmangler
01-10-2014, 21:47
I can see Wellbeck really hurting his former club in the not too distant!
22nd of November at The Emirates in fact!
I'll be watching that one for a giggle :eyebrows:
Wellbeck never got a decent run in the utd side at his best position thus never scored enough. I said at time it was a mistake, but The Gunners won't be complaining
Stratmangler
02-10-2014, 22:02
I see that another one of our youngsters has gone out on loan http://web.orange.co.uk/article/sports/hiwula_signs_for_yeovil
I wonder how long it's going to be until these players start breaking through to our first team :scratch:
Hiwula is an excellent player, and a prodigious goalscorer.
Decent win for us (Celtic) last night in the Europa League against Dynamo Zagreb, as we’ve now got 4 points out of the first two games (unlucky not to have six, as we should’ve won in Salzburg), so hopefully we can build on that and qualify from the group :)
Marco.
Chuffed with our point on Saturday. Earned with a 96 minute peach of a freekick and off the bottom of the table to boot. Now where is that Leicester fan and his giant crest......
Stratmangler
06-10-2014, 17:09
I was pleased with the patience City showed at Villa Park.
The goals when they came were top drawer.
Looking forward to seeing Spurs at ours in a couple of weeks :)
I can see Wellbeck really hurting his former club in the not too distant!
22nd of November at The Emirates in fact!
I'll be watching that one for a giggle :eyebrows:
i wish we had bought him instead of (super) mario.
what a grumpy looking bugger he is
Stratmangler
11-10-2014, 23:09
i wish we had bought him instead of (super) mario.
what a grumpy looking bugger he is
Mario can do great things.
He did some great things for City.
I've never seen a player go from nothing to action to nothing so quickly before.
He can be audacious in front of goal - the "why only me?" goal at The Swamp; the shouldered goal against Norwich; the over shoulder goal against Villa - the list goes on ....
The one thing he doesn't respond well to is folk demanding that he performs in certain ways.
Give him space and time and he'll give plenty back.
Pressurise him to perform and you'll get nothing!
If he's looking grumpy then you can guarantee that he's getting flack from within the club.
I like Mario a lot, but I'm equally glad that he's not our problem any more :eyebrows:
Burnley versus West Ham. Very disappointed yesterday. What I call a huff and puff game. You play well, dominate for long periods but are ultimately killed off by class. In this case, class finishing, where we could not convert any of our many chances, we hit the bar twice! I've been to loads of games like this in the past, usually cup ties against higher league opposition, unfortunately for us at the moment we're doing the same against teams in our own division. I'm sure goals are going to come soon. I'm still hopeful.
very surprised to see city struggling in the champions league.
they do have 3 games to turn it around though.
BM beating roma would be a help to.
luckily, due to work commitment, i will miss my team getting hammered by Real tomorrow.
we are sh1t this season compared to last.
i see roma are 5 down at half time.
that should give city fans a lift!!
DanJennings
25-10-2014, 16:56
I don't often like to gloat but....
Amazing! :carrot:
Birmingham 0 - 8 Bournemouth! (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29669693)
StanleyB
25-10-2014, 17:14
I don't often like to gloat but....
Amazing! :carrot:
Birmingham 0 - 8 Bournemouth! (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29669693)
No manager, club in debt, the chairman is in jail..., an 8-0 thrashing at home. What next?
No manager, club in debt, the chairman is in jail..., an 8-0 thrashing at home. What next?
a buyout by rich arabs?
Stratmangler
27-10-2014, 00:21
a buyout by rich arabs?
That doesn't automatically guarantee success!
It does bring financial stability, or at least it did in City's case.
If a rich Arab does buy then I hope they have an eye towards the future - our first team has already moved into the new Academy/training complex. I believe that the academy are doing so this coming week, and the U21s will be in there shortly too.
That is the way forward!
Well done West Ham for yesterday's victory.
Considering how little of of the overall play you had you put up a ballsy display.
Stratmangler
02-11-2014, 21:56
I'm more than a little pleased with today's win over our crosstown rivals.
It was a decent game too - both goalkeepers earned their wages this week.
Can't say as I was too impressed with the standard of refereeing though - there were two stonewall penalties in our favour not given.
Our abysmal performance midweek against Newcastle has almost (but will never quite) been forgotten.
Newcastle put out a poor side and were no great shakes on the pitch. We managed to make them look good :doh:
The worrying and lasting thing from that game was Silva being on the receiving end of an atrocious tackle that went completely unpunished by the referee.
Silva is now out of action for the next few weeks as a result, and we sure a hell missed him today.
CSKA on Wednesday - can't wait!
Oldpinkman
04-11-2014, 22:19
First time this season I've been brave enough, or not wrist-slashingly depressed enough to post on this thread. Not good at the bernabau, but less awful. Defence looked better sorted. Midfield has not been the problem. Toure made a real case. Mignolet picked up confidence and made friends. Oh for a striker. Just one from bale, Ronaldo, isco or benzama playing for the reds would have made the team look completely different. Or suarez. Better.
Stratmangler
05-11-2014, 22:48
The sooner we get knocked out of CL football the better - I'd love to be able to say that refereeing decisions cost us the game tonight, but I cannot!
The refereeing was very poor, but without going into a post match rant all I'll say is we looked laboured and slow, lacking vision and desire.
Playing like we did tonight we'd have a hard job beating Barnsley :doh:
The sooner we get knocked out of CL football the better - I'd love to be able to say that refereeing decisions cost us the game tonight, but I cannot!
The refereeing was very poor, but without going into a post match rant all I'll say is we looked laboured and slow, lacking vision and desire.
If it is any comfort Rugby is worse! There are more rules, there are more players, the sight of the ball is obscured more often, and above all many rules are open to interpretation. :confused:
In order to watch without pulling (whats left of) my hair out I have trained myself to be satisfied if the ref is just consistent.
No manager, club in debt, the chairman is in jail..., an 8-0 thrashing at home. What next?
The players getting filmed having a gangbang?
Chelsea -v- Liverpool: Phew, what a game! Azpilicueta -v- Coutinho WOW! The real difference was in the midfield. Chelsea have dumped their dinosaur (Lampard) but some blockage is preventing Liverpool doing the same (Gerard). That and the absence of Sturridge made the difference. I enjoy Liverpool's style but unless the mids get the ball to the strikers they will not challenge the top flight. Contrast Chelsea: Ramirez ran them ragged and then Willian came on for more of the same.
Stratmangler
30-11-2014, 23:27
Well what a week that was....
Swansea were a tough proposition last week, and City were pretty flat at the start of the game.
I think we turned a corner during the game, and started to look more like the team that won the title last season.
Bayern Munich were a handful for much of the game, and them having a man sent off early helped City to gradually grind them down.
An unbelievable performance from Aguero - two goals in five minutes as the game drew to it's conclusion.
Dare I dream?
The Roma game will be tough, of that there's no doubt.
Today at Southampton The Premier League Champions turned up.
'Nuff said!
Away to Sunderland on Wednesday - C'mon City!!!
An unbelievable performance from Aguero
What is even more unbelievable is that he only had three shots on goal !!! When was the last time, if ever, that someone scored a hat trick against Bayern?
Also big credit to Kompany and company who held their own against a potent strikeforce.
What City need to do is to take a long (and I mean l o n g) hard look at that free kick that resulted in a goal against them. It really does need to be analysed, not just to understand what went wrong but to ensure that similar things don't happen again.
Stratmangler
01-12-2014, 01:09
What is even more unbelievable is that he only had three shots on goal !!! When was the last time, if ever, that someone scored a hat trick against Bayern?
Also big credit to Kompany and company who held their own against a potent strikeforce.
What City need to do is to take a long (and I mean l o n g) hard look at that free kick that resulted in a goal against them. It really does need to be analysed, not just to understand what went wrong but to ensure that similar things don't happen again.
I fully agree!
Stratmangler
01-12-2014, 01:29
I was impressed with Forster today - it ain't many 'keepers go one on one with Aguero and come out on top!
Sergio couldn't believe it .....
To be fair Southampton provided excellent opposition, but failed to capitalise on numerical superiority following Mangala's 2nd yellow card and subsequent dismissal - 2 of our goals came while they were trying to score and get a grip on the game.
They couldn't manage it against 9 men either, when Vinnie Kompany left the field early with a hamstring pull.
And finally, why was such an important match refereed so poorly?
Mike Jones made some atrocious decisions, and the Referees Association need to take action against him.
There's the little matter of a stonewall penalty, an incorrect booking (Aguero), and an offside being given when advantage should have been played.
Mike Jones should feel embarassed about his "performance"!
Stratmangler
05-12-2014, 23:09
Well done Blithe Spartans http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/30241290
I wonder where the 3rd round draw takes you the first weekend in the New Year :cool:
Stratmangler
31-12-2014, 22:43
It's been an interesting month for me.
My one man team has done remarkably well, considering his absence from the field.
I admit that last game it looked like fatigue from a too busy schedule was as much to blame for letting our opponents back into the game as anything else. Well done Burnley :clap:
Tonight I'm delighted to confirm the rumours about Frank Lampard.
He's staying 'til the end of the season!!!
Hopefully he'll be retiring from English football with a medal or two .... or three - you can't blame me for dreaming :yay:
Looking forward to tomorrow's match - it's on BT Sport 1 at 3pm if anyone's interested.
Is no-one bothering with this thread now, folks?
Chris - have you lost your footy mojo? Come on, let’s get this thread back on track! :)
Man YOO for the title!! There, that should do it!! ;)
Marco.
West Brom rule. :eyebrows:
Celtic FC rule, ya bass! :eyebrows:
CELTIC 2 HUNS 0….. ;)
Marco.
I'm a Baggie and proud. :)
Gotcha - not support any Scottish teams? I seen you as a bit of a ‘Jam Tart’ :eyebrows:
Marco.
Where i came from it was sheep and rugby. if you could combine your loves then youve scored.:eyebrows:
http://resources2.news.com.au/images/2009/10/18/1225788/076954-sheep-rugby.jpg
Gotcha - not support any Scottish teams? I seen you as a bit of a ‘Jam Tart’
Marco.
Just a tart :eek:
Stratmangler
02-02-2015, 22:35
It has been a funny old season so far - 15 games to go and 10 points between 1st and 3rd places.
It's not over by any means.
I was very disappointed with the last 2 home performances from our first team - the defeats to Arsenal and Middlesbrough bookending a week out fair weather training in the Middle East. In both games a number of our players seemed to have their mind focussed elsewhere.
The match against Chelsea was a fair result, although Chelsea were more interested in not losing the game than they were in trying to win it.
Sergio looks to be slowly regaining the form he had before his injury in the Everton game, so things are looking up.
I'm looking forward to the return of Yaya Touré next week, and also the first glimpse of Wilfried Bony in a City shirt.
I've been spending a fair old chunk of time over at the City Football Academy Stadium, seeing the U18s and the U21s playing. In fact I was there tonight watching our U21s v Leicester City U21s.
Leicester won 2-3 tonight, outmuscling our U21s in the second half, whereas they barely had a touch of the ball in the first half.
It was bloody cold out there tonight - the temperature was around about 1-2°C. I was warm enough where my coat and fleece covered, but my legs were frozen - I might have to get some long johns :eyebrows:
It has been a funny old season so far - 15 games to go and 10 points between 1st and 3rd places.
It's not over by any means.
I was very disappointed with the last 2 home performances from our first team - the defeats to Arsenal and Middlesbrough bookending a week out fair weather training in the Middle East. In both games a number of our players seemed to have their mind focussed elsewhere.
The match against Chelsea was a fair result, although Chelsea were more interested in not losing the game than they were in trying to win it.
Sergio looks to be slowly regaining the form he had before his injury in the Everton game, so things are looking up.
I'm looking forward to the return of Yaya Touré next week, and also the first glimpse of Wilfried Bony in a City shirt.
I've been spending a fair old chunk of time over at the City Football Academy Stadium, seeing the U18s and the U21s playing. In fact I was there tonight watching our U21s v Leicester City U21s.
Leicester won 2-3 tonight, outmuscling our U21s in the second half, whereas they barely had a touch of the ball in the first half.
It was bloody cold out there tonight - the temperature was around about 1-2°C. I was warm enough where my coat and fleece covered, but my legs were frozen - I might have to get some long johns :eyebrows:
Sheep wool is the answer
Where i came from it was sheep and rugby. if you could combine your loves then youve scored.:eyebrows:
Scored with the sheep? :rolleyes: You must be a Kiwi at heart!
StanleyB
03-02-2015, 22:25
Poyet does it again! This guy must be a reincarnation of Houdini. Whatever he said to his players at half time, it turned out to have been clearly understood.
Stratmangler
03-02-2015, 23:06
Manyoo have managed to get lower league opposition yet again in the FA Cup!
After the scare they had at Cambridge, and the subsequent win at The Swamp Manyoo now have to go to Deepdale.
C'mon Preston - do it for Tom :)
Manyoo have managed to get lower league opposition yet again in the FA Cup!
After the scare they had at Cambridge, and the subsequent win at The Swamp Manyoo now have to go to Deepdale.
C'mon Preston - do it for Tom :)
That'll be a battle royale :eyebrows:
Manyoo have managed to get lower league opposition yet again in the FA Cup!
After the scare they had at Cambridge, and the subsequent win at The Swamp Manyoo now have to go to Deepdale.
C'mon Preston - do it for Tom :)
Lol - you're just saying that 'cos your lot were knocked out by Middlesbrough - and at home, too! :eek: ;)
If Man Utd are to win a trophy this year, then it has to be the FA Cup, especially as most of the 'big guns' are now out of the competition. Therefore, I fully expect them to beat Preston and go on to win the trophy! :)
Marco.
Stratmangler
04-02-2015, 09:40
Lol - you're just saying that 'cos your lot were knocked out by Middlesbrough - and at home, too! :eek: ;)
No I'm not!
I am not a Salford Rangers supporter in any shape or form - I would genuinely prefer to see Preston North End take a step closer to Wembley by beating their opposition in the next round.
And if Preston play with the grit and desire they're capable of then Salford Rangers will have a very tough game ahead of them.
Am I pissed off by City getting knocked out by Middlesbrough?
You bet your bottom dollar I am!
I was at the games both ends of that week, and all I could see was "we've got a week off in the sunshine" stamped all over both of them.
So I wish Middlesbrough all the best, and continued success in the competition.
If Man Utd are to win a trophy this year, then it has to be the cup, especially as most of the 'big guns' are now out of the competition. Therefore, I fully expect them to beat Preston and go on to win the trophy! :)
Marco.
On balance the odds are stacked in Salford Rangers favour, as were ours against Middlesbrough.
The FA Cup is notorious for upsets, and I'm hopeful for Preston North End :eyebrows:
Salford Rangers? Lol! :D
Well, I quite like SR, as they're my third favourite team (after Celtic and Liverpool), so I'd like to see them back to where they belong (genuine challengers for every trophy),
ASAP :)
Btw, could you give Guidetti a kick up the arse for me? His goal scoring exploits for Celtic have rather dried up of late!
Marco.
Stratmangler
04-02-2015, 10:56
Salford Rangers? Lol! :D
Well, I quite like SR, as they're my third favourite team (after Celtic and Liverpool), so I'd like to see them back to where they belong (genuine challengers for every trophy),
ASAP :)
Btw, could you give Guidetti a kick up the arse for me? His goal scoring exploits for Celtic have rather dried up of late!
Marco.
It's ironic that the sporting press are only just starting to blather on about Taggart's part in Salford Rovers success - I realised that a good few years before he retired that he was the linchpin, and that without him at the helm they'd struggle.
I thought he'd turn his toes up before any retirement considerations to be honest.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/31123323
As for young Guidetti - he'll sort himself out soon I'm sure. I also think he might be up for grabs at the end of the season (I'm not certain, but his contract with City must be drawing to a close sometime soon).
How's Jason Denayer getting on?
Jason's doing very well, actually - a superb defender indeed! Reads the game superbly well :)
The Dutch/Belgian combination of him and Virgil van Dijk, who is arguably one of the best central defenders Celtic has ever had (reminds me rather of Paul Elliott, before his terrible injury), is a formidable one. We don't concede many goals. Our midfield is also excellent, with Brown and Johansen forming a similarly formidable partnership there.
I just wish we were as strong at the other end of the pitch! We haven't yet successfully replaced Gary Hooper. The upcoming game in the Europa League against Inter Milan will be a tough test indeed, and will show whether or not we are ready next year for a decent crack at the Champions League!
Marco.
Stratmangler
04-02-2015, 11:40
Jason always impressed me when I saw him playing for EDS (http://www.mcfc.co.uk/elite-development-squad).
Your problem at the other end of the field is a story I've seen far too often when teams come to play at The Etihad.
I believe you too frequently find the opposition parking the bus, intent on hitting you on the counter should the opportunity arise.
It's very, very difficult to create something when there's next to no space to play into because there are 10 well drilled outfield defenders in front of you.
Patience is key, and hopefully you grind the opposition down and exploit a half chance when they appear.
It doesn't always go that way, sadly :(
Nice one, the EDS thing is interesting! Hope Celtic can hold onto both Denayer and van Dijk for at least another season. The latter, however, at some point soon is destined for the Premiership, where I think he will do very well indeed.
I know exactly what you mean about 'parking the bus'. We get that in almost every game, so are well used to it.
Don't get me wrong, there's plenty of creativity in the team, to open up packed defences. However, we need a striker who's able to get 25-30 goals a season (and has the class to shine in Europe), which traditionally all Celtic teams have had (as we're an attacking side). The current one is still an attacking side, but without a major goal scorer!
Hopefully that situation will be rectified soon :)
Marco.
StanleyB
04-02-2015, 19:05
Bolton to win tonight.
Close, but no cigar! ;)
And my two favourite English teams go marching on......
Marco.
P.S Feel sorry for Neil Lennon, though.
Stratmangler
06-02-2015, 12:47
There's no match on for my son's team tomorrow morning, so we're off to see EDS playing Liverpool U21s (http://www.mcfc.co.uk/Fixtures/EDS/2014-2015/February/City-EDS-v-Liverpool-u21s-Barclays-u21-Premier-League).
I try to get to see the EDS and Academy teams as often as possible.
Should be a good match.
Then we cross the bridge (http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2014/12/08/23DF7E8700000578-2862372-The_CFA_is_linked_to_the_club_s_Etihad_Stadium_by_ a_long_bridge_-a-82_1418035858765.jpg) across to the Etihad Stadium and hang around for a while, because at 3.00pm Manchester City are playing Hull City in a Premier League fixture.
And the Celts go marching on (in the Scottish Cup):
Dundee 0 Celtic 2
:cool:
Marco.
And the Celts go marching on (in the Scottish Cup):
Dundee 0 Celtic 2
:cool:
Marco.
Who?..;)
The best team in Scotland (and also one of the best in Britain), dat's who, baby! :eyebrows:
Marco.
Stratmangler
11-02-2015, 22:09
Well I can't say as I was particularly pleased with City's performance against Hull - we were lucky to pull back in injury time and save at least one of the 3 points on offer.
Well done to Hull - we looked hopeless for most of the game.
Tonight's win against Stoke was a big game in a number of ways.
First of all welcome back Sergio Aguero. You have been missed.
More important was a City team performance where confidence grew as the game went on.
With 42 points up for grabs between now and the end of the season it will be a fascinating run in.
Baggies win too..:eyebrows:
Stratmangler
11-02-2015, 22:52
Baggies win too..:eyebrows:
Aye, although they're only 9 points clear of BoTL Leicester City :)
Baggies win too..:eyebrows:
As did the CELTS! :cool:
Partick Thistle 0 Celtic 3
Three points clear now, with a game in hand........
Marco.
Stratmangler
11-02-2015, 23:18
As did the CELTS! :cool:
Partick Thistle 0 Celtic 3
Three points clear now, with a game in hand........
Marco.
Good position to be in :cool:
I saw a SPL side playing last nite in Manchester at MCFA http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/feb/11/new-york-city-fc-mls-st-mirren
It was a decent game too!
It was great to see David Villa in action - you miss a lot by not attending games, and Villa is a proven winner.
His skills on the ball were a pleasure to behold, and it was fitting that the first goal his team scored was ably put away by him.
On a more pragmatic level, NYCFC have a large number of USA born and bred players, and they're no slouches. Tony Taylor's goal was largely self made following a one on one with the St Mirren Keeper.
DanJennings
13-02-2015, 19:27
Ain't been on here for a while, but finally a bit of good news....
LAMBERT HAS GONE! :carrot:
Only about 2 years too late....
We're going to struggle to stay up this season whoever we get as a replacement.
I'm with this lad: six-year-old-aston-villa-fan-s-letter (https://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/blogs/world-of-sport/jose-mourinho-s-response-to-six-year-old-aston-villa-fan-s-letter-121029543.html)
Baggies thumped W Ham 4.0 in cup...great performance all round Browny getting 2...thats 4 in 3 for him after doing nowt all season... pullis is a god.
Nice one, Grant! :)
The Celts also go marching on in the SPL (now six points clear at the top, until Aberdeen play tomorrow):
St Johnstone 1 Celtic 2
Now for Inter Milan, at Celtic Park, on Thursday.....! :eek:
Marco.
I see that Marco...needed an own goal:eyebrows: ah well tic may not be playing great but milan are playing terrible especially away so id fancy a home win.
No own goal, dude... We were 2-0 up, through Griffiths and Johansen, then they pulled one back. Also, Celtic are playing very well at the moment, having won eight in a row (still in all available competitions), and conceded our first goal today in 13 and a half hours of football! :)
So, bring on Milan - but it'll be a tough game!
Marco.
Stratmangler
14-02-2015, 16:55
Give Roberto a wave from me :)
Stratmangler
16-02-2015, 21:50
I felt that Rooney was interfering with play for Salford Rovers equaliser, stood offside of play and within the sticks. It's possible to not touch the ball and play an active part in the game.
I've no complaints with Fellaini's goal, although there was a suspicion of a foul, and Rooney's penalty win was a dive.
Preston were valiant in opposition, and done over by a couple of dodgy decisions.
I felt that Rooney was interfering with play for Salford Rovers equaliser, stood offside of play and within the sticks. It's possible to not touch the ball and play an active part in the game.
I've no complaints with Fellaini's goal, although there was a suspicion of a foul, and Rooney's penalty win was a dive.
Preston were valiant in opposition, and done over by a couple of dodgy decisions.
nice neutral report that :D
Stratmangler
16-02-2015, 22:11
nice neutral report that :D
I try my best :D
Indeed, and the net result is that Salford Rovers march onwards, towards winning the cup (as predicted).... ;)
Marco.
Indeed, and the net result is that Salford Rovers march onwards, towards winning the cup (as predicted).... ;)
Marco.
Arsenal next though... if they win that then they'll have a good chance
Stratmangler
16-02-2015, 22:25
Arsenal next though... if they win that then they'll have a good chance
You got there before me ;)
Unfortunately for Arsenal it's being played at The Swamp .....
Hey, if you're gonna win trophies, then you have to beat the better teams! ;)
Marco.
Its a wide open trophy this year. there is not a side that you'd be confident of winning it tbh. Baggies have as good a chance as they'll ever have to grab some glory.
Stratmangler
16-02-2015, 22:56
Hey, if you're gonna win trophies, then you have to beat the better teams! ;)
Marco.
Not quite true.
If you're gonna win trophies then you have to beat the team in front of you.
The only exception is winning the title, but that's quite a protracted affair, and it's possible to hit a bad patch or two (or three) and still win in the end.
Stratmangler
18-02-2015, 09:44
I'm surprised that this hasn't been hushed up http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/31515155
It's a pity Shrek felt the need to do it in the first place, and that he didn't have the decency to tell the referee that the Preston keeper hadn't touched him :eyebrows:
Does anyone know if the Celtic vs. Inter Milan game, in the Europa League, is being shown by Sky Sports tomorrow night, and if so, which channel and at what time? :)
Marco.
Stratmangler
18-02-2015, 10:31
It's on BT Sports1.
Churz, dude! :thumbsup:
One for you to watch, maybe (unless City are in action somewhere)? :)
Marco.
StanleyB
18-02-2015, 10:43
I'm surprised that this hasn't been hushed up http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/31515155
It's a pity Shrek felt the need to do it in the first place, and that he didn't have the decency to tell the referee that the Preston keeper hadn't touched him :eyebrows:
Wasn't Mourinho slapped with a fine by the FA for bringing the game into disrepute when he commented on the refereeing of ManU games?
Stratmangler
19-02-2015, 22:58
Celtic 3: Inter 3
It was a great watch for the neutral - it was end to end stuff for a good chunk of the game.
Inter displayed great skill and organisation, and Celtic showed grit and determination, and a refusal to give up until the last.
All 6 goals showed up both sides' defensive frailties, and for me the goal of the match was John Guidetti's very late equaliser.
It should be an interesting return fixture :cool:
Glad you enjoyed the game, Chris :)
I agree with your comments, however the “defensive frailties” of Celtic only reveal themselves at that level, as they’ve gone (strolled through) all of their matches in Scotland, and in the process hardly conceding a goal….
The point being here, is that the defence simply isn’t being tested properly in the SPL! :rolleyes:
That brings up the age-old mantra about Celtic simply not being able to fulfil the potential of the huge (world famous) club that they are, whilst languishing in the backwater that is the SPL.
They should be playing in the English Premiership, alongside the likes of Cardiff and Swansea (if they let Welsh teams in, why not Scottish?), reaping the rewards of not only the many tens of millions of pounds they’d get just for being in the Premiership, but gaining valuable experience by being exposed, week in week out, to a much higher standard of football - and then, you’d see what they’d be capable of doing in Europe.
As for the Milan game, it was an interesting and highly entertaining one to watch, but probably more for neutrals, than for fans of either Celtic or Inter. I agree that JG’s goal was a peach (it’s about time he scored! ;)), which in terms of the tie could be crucial, but my gut says that the more crucial goal could turn out to be the one we conceded just before half time, after a howler by Craig Gordon….
Had we won 3-2, rather than drawn 3-3, that would’ve given us more of a chance in the second leg, and for me, it’s Inter’s tie to lose now. However, as you often say, ‘it’s not over until it’s over’.
Marco.
Celtic 4 Hamilton 0
I’ll settle for that result on Thursday against Inter! :eyebrows:
[No chance].
Marco.
Stratmangler
22-02-2015, 22:06
Celtic 4 Hamilton 0I’ll settle for that result on Thursday against Inter! :eyebrows:
I'll bet you would too!
As you've said it's unlikely - it will be a stern test of your side's ability and determination.
Good luck for Thursday :cool:
Our result against Newcastle yesterday sounds fantastic, but in truth Newcastle United were utter shite! Joe Hart only had one save to make during the whole game.
So the victory was good, but as warm up for the Barcelona game on Tuesday it left much to be desired.
Yes City looked sharp and played well, and they played ruthlessly, but Barca will be a much tougher side to beat. We can do it, but it won't be the walk in the park yesterday's game was :eyebrows:
I see Citee lost 1-2 to barca, but Joe Hart saved blushes with a last minute pen save to keep the tie just about alive. Gonna be tough over in Spain though. 2 goal from Suarez answered by Aguero. Messi missed the pen.
Stratmangler
25-02-2015, 09:23
Barcelona were phenomenal in the first half - they could easily have been 4 up by half time.
City didn't show enough urgency, didn't press them hard enough and gave them way too much time on the ball. You can't play 4-4-2 against a team like Barcelona unless you push them for every ball and give them no space.
Suarez' 2 goals were well taken, so there's no complaint from me.
Second half and City came out and played like they meant it, and came close to scoring on a number of occasions.
Aguero's goal was world class!
Clichy's second booking and subsequent red basically killed the game for City.
The penalty at the death, Messi's spot kick being saved by Joe Hart and Messi heading the rebound wide of the post was Boy's Own stuff.
So it's City 1 - Barcelona 2.
Advantage Barcelona, return leg at their place.
It ain't over 'til the Fat Lass warbles .....
StanleyB
26-02-2015, 21:58
I wonder if Liverpool will have recovered by Saturday to face ManCity. That was a terrible game from them today.
Celtic go out of Europe to Inter after losing 1-0 to a late goal and having a player sent off in 36 mins. Considering it was a pretty decent performance and will give them some confidence for next season I guess. The 3=3 draw at home was always going to make it an uphill battle.
Good effort though
Stratmangler
27-02-2015, 07:50
I wonder if Liverpool will have recovered by Saturday to face ManCity. That was a terrible game from them today.
Were they holding back with the fixture on Sunday looming large on the horizon?
StanleyB
27-02-2015, 08:32
Good question. But if that was the intention then Brendan still has a lot to learn. ManCity can field their reserve team and still walk away with a win on Saturday based on the Liverpool performance yesterday.
Stratmangler
27-02-2015, 09:35
Some CCTV footage from Charlton Athletic
gGELzwSkVIc
Well, after a shockingly biased (towards Inter Milan) referee all but put us out of the Europa League, it’s back to business as usual in the SPL, and onwards towards the treble...
Celtic 4 Aberdeen 0
That’s us six points clear now, with a game in hand :)
The upcoming triple-header against Dundee Utd, in both cup competitions and the league, however, will be a real tester!
Marco.
Baggies won at home again 1 to 0 and up to a heady 13th. Pullis has set his cap now. very defensive away and go for a borefest draw then a bit more of an attacking formation at home and its working...so far.
as for refs and bias....well i guess it can happen in both directions mate. never saw game but no one complains when it goes for them;). still looks like the leagues won so another chance at champs league...anything else is a bonus .
Stratmangler
02-03-2015, 11:52
Liverpool 2: Man City 1
Once again Liverpool added to their tally of unbeaten games against City at Anfield - it's 14 now :doh:
I've no complaints about the result - I lost count of the number of times Coutinho shot from the edge of the box, and he should have been better marked.
Aguero hit the post, set up the goal scored by Dzeko, and also put one just inches wide - Silva missed one by not much too, so City had their chances.
Ignore the rubbish being spouted by the press about the title race being sorted - it ain't over by a long way yet!
Roll on the next one.
Leicester City visit The Etihad on Wednesday evening.
I see Dave MacKay has died aged 80. Fabulous player was Dave and tough as teak. RIP Dave, you gave me may years of enjoyment
Bluesboy65
04-03-2015, 19:54
Happy chappy today after last nights 3 points against WBA,been a long time coming,VTID.😁
Hi Ian,
Whilst I’m excited for you, could you please post this in the football thread, elsewhere in this section of the forum? Ta! :)
Marco.
Merged.... and you got lucky Ian:eyebrows:
Celtic had a small stumble towards the title losing 1 to 0 v St Johnstone at home. its their first loss in 9 games but remain 6 points clear...surprised Marco didnt report this:eyebrows:
mind you i forgot to mention Baggies horribilus v city rivals A Villa. a thouroughly bad performance in general and by goallie Ben Foster in particular. an improvement is needed and perhaps resting Foster.
Celtic had a small stumble towards the title losing 1 to 0 v St Johnstone at home. its their first loss in 9 games but remain 6 points clear...surprised Marco didnt report this:eyebrows:
Lol... Been too busy tube-rolling with some superb new valves that have arrived for the Croft!
Yes, another one of those strange 0-1 home defeats, which we've had a couple of this season. It seems to stem from when teams come to Parkhead and sit with 10 men behind the ball, we have nearly all the possession and do everything but score, then the opposition get a break and do precisely that.
It's something that'll have to be looked at - anyway, onward and upwards! Hope the Baggies continue to do well! :)
Marco.
just heard that the Rebels have won in a landslide vote at Ibrox. all resolutions passed with 85% plus...
UP THE REBELLION :D
Lol - the huns are in tatters, and it looks like Hearts and Hibs will be the ones winning promotion to the SPL… Not sure ‘Rangers’ could hack it another season away from the top flight without going bust once and for all.
Sad days, though, compared to where they once were, and I say that as a die-hard Celt!
Marco.
Lol - the huns are in tatters, and it looks like Hearts and Hibs will be the ones winning promotion to the SPL… Not sure ‘Rangers’ could hack it another season away from the top flight without going bust once and for all.
Sad days, though, compared to where they once were, and I say that as a die-hard Celt!
Marco.
Well I guess this will give them a fighting chance of rebuilding instead of just being a cash cow for unscrupulous and dodgy businessmen ....good luck to them...they'll need it. Not so sure re not getting promotion. I'd fancy them over Hibs tbh.
Bluesboy65
08-03-2015, 13:57
Two wins in a week!And well deserved as well,Up the Villa��
Man U's chances of siller has gone as they've been knocked out of FA Cup buy Arsenal 2-1.... All in all, even though a lot of cash was spent it has really just papered over the cracks of a very "past their sell by date " squad. Van Gaal's record is not an awful lot better than Moyes tbh, but hopefully he will buy some more talent next year.
StanleyB
09-03-2015, 22:54
Van Gaal's record is not an awful lot better than Moyes tbh, but hopefully he will buy some more talent next year.
He sold Welbeck and bought Falcao. Robin van Persie must have some sore legs from kicking himself with his decision to leave Arsenal and join ManU.
He sold Welbeck and bought Falcao. Robin van Persie must have some sore legs from kicking himself with his decision to leave Arsenal and join ManU.
Not sure originally that it was not the right decision for him. Man u have had problems since Alex's last couple of seasons tbh. No money was spent and the squad got older and poorer. Glaziers fault mostly but I dont think Fergie wanted to leave a great side in the making either ;)
Wellbeck ime was a good player, and a good age who was repeatedly played out of position.
It will be interesting for me to see which of the 2 sides become dominant over the next few years.
Fantastic evening at the Turf. I hope you beat Chealski to the title, but we need the points Stratmangler. Up the Clarets!
Stratmangler
15-03-2015, 10:53
Fantastic evening at the Turf. I hope you beat Chealski to the title, but we need the points Stratmangler. Up the Clarets!
Your goal was a cracker!
You managed to defend and stop us scoring.
You have a tough run in - all the best :cool:
Looks like the title will be back in the capital now though after that shock result. a bit of a coupon buster and maybe a manager buster too.
Stratmangler
15-03-2015, 12:13
Looks like the title will be back in the capital now though after that shock result. a bit of a coupon buster and maybe a manager buster too.
It ain't over yet by quite a bit - Chelsea have quite a tough fixture list ahead of them, so anything can happen!
I'm keeping the faith - looking logically at what happened last season there was no way the title should have come our way, yet City have the Gold Badges on their sleeves :eyebrows:
It's over when it's over .....
Scottish League Cup Final:
Dundee Utd 0 Celtic 2
:yay: :yay: Ya dancer!!
First cup won, now for the other one and the title, on our way to the treble…….. SING UP:
"Hail Hail, the Celts are here,
What the hell do we care,
What the hell do we care,
Hail Hail, the Celts are here,
What the hell do we care now..
For it's a grand old team to play for,
For it's a grand old team to see,
And if you know the history,
It's enough to make your heart go,
GO-OH-OH-OH!
We don't care what the animals say,
What the hell do we care,
For all we know,
Is that there's going to be a show,
And the Glasgow Celtic will be there.”
:yay: :yesbruv: :cool: :cool:
Marco.
first leg eh! well done and sure the league was never in doubt so just the cup. who do you play?
We’ve got a Scottish Cup replay against (Dundee Utd, again) midweek [the last game at Tannadice ended in a 1-1 draw], so if we win that, then we’re through to the next round of the Scottish Cup, against Caley Thistle. Then we play Dundee Utd, yet again, at the weekend, in the league. Both games are at Celtic Park.
I think we’ll eventually win the league, so a double this year is the minimum, but the Scottish Cup replay will be a tricky one (in order to keep the treble alive), as after yesterday, Utd will be out for revenge and to protect the only chance of them winning a trophy this season.
Marco.
Dont think Utd have won in Glasgow against you for donkeys years so that should be a gimmie..after all Celtic salted the field by buying their best 2 players in January;)
ps that was a good move
Well, we ended up winning the Cup replay 4-0, and we beat them again, 3-0 today in the League! :yay:
That's us five points clear now at the top, with a game in hand......
How'd the Baggies, do? :)
Marco.
Got gubbed by Citee 3-0.....not unexpected tbh although they have not been playing that well by their standards, it was inevitable score tbh. Villa lost too so not lost any ground there.
DanJennings
21-03-2015, 17:30
Villa lost too so not lost any ground there.
87th minute goal. That was a sore one. I'd say a draw would have been a fair result but it is what it is. A few tough matches on the way now.
Shame for you guys. That's footy, I s'pose....
Marco.
I see The Hearts have won the Championship at first ask and will be back in the top division(whatever its called these days);) The have been impressive all season and never really had a blip in form. First side to be promoted so a big well done to all involved and Robby Nielson in particular.
Indeed, Hearts are back to where they belong. Let's hope that Hibs make it up too, at the expense of Rangers... They can wait until next season! ;)
In all honesty, it's been a much poorer league this season without the Edinburgh sides, and also 'The Huns', since they went bust... The SPL will be much better when all three are back, and that will hopefully give Celtic some real competition!
Marco.
Indeed, Hearts are back to where they belong. Let's hope that Hibs make it up too, at the expense of Rangers... They can wait until next season! ;)
In all honesty, it's been a much poorer league this season without the Edinburgh sides, and also 'The Huns', since they went bust... The SPL will be much better when all three are back, and that will hopefully give Celtic some real competition!
Marco.
Indeed it will likely be a playoff between the 2 and then winner v the 2nd bottom of the top league. Was always gonna be 2 from 3 to go up. I see McCall has started to get the Rangers playing a bit better if reports are anything to go by and were apparently the better side at Easter road. I have/had some friends who were Badgers fans so it will be interesting as to who goes up.
Irrelevant as to competition though; none of the 3 have finances to come close to Celtic and due to the way things are now in Scottish footy, they probably never will.
Irrelevant as to competition though; none of the 3 have finances to come close to Celtic and due to the way things are now in Scottish footy, they probably never will.
Possibly, although Rangers may get some multi-million pound investment from somewhere, *if* they gain promotion to the SPL. Then, it would be a different ball game. Personally, I would welcome that, as it would force Celtic to up the ante to ensure that they stay on top, which would improve the team overall, and then give them a much better chance in the Champions League.
It's great that it's looking likely we'll win the treble this year, but for a club like Celtic, that's not where it's really at. We want to be regularly getting to the last 16 of the CL - and if the draw is favourable, perhaps further! We won't do that without being pushed by teams more in domestic matches.
As for Hearts and Hibs, I was all for the merger that Wallace Mercer wanted to happen in the 80s. A combined Hearts and Hibs, such as an 'Edinburgh Utd' would offer Celtic a serious challenge. Basically, there are too many 'wee diddy teams' in Scotland with no money, scraping by for their existence, and playing in front of crowds you'd get more fans at during some junior games!
It's all bollocks. The whole of senior Scottish football needs a shake-up, and a BIG reality check.....
:exactly:
Marco.
Agreed
....The whole of senior Scottish football needs a shake-up, and a BIG reality check.....
I see Scotland beat N Irn 1-0. By the stats they had most of the game too. Wee Gord is still doing the bizz.
Oh dear, Chris will be in mourning after today's result against Salford Rangers..... :o
Who'd have thunk it that at this stage of the season Utd would be four points above City? :eek: Still a few games to go, though!
Marco.
Stratmangler
12-04-2015, 20:26
It's not the best of results for us I have to admit :(
On the plus side Sergio looks to be back in form and we need him to remain so for the remainder of the season in order to cling on to a Champions League spot.
In mourning?
Nah! You can't win 'em all, and we've come out on top in the previous 4 league meetings.
They had to win sooner or later, and we've been shockingly poor over the last couple of months.
West Ham for us next Sunday .....
That's the right attitude to have, Chris. It's not a situation, however, I suspect you'd have predicted at the beginning of the season... Being serious, do you believe that you have the right manager to take City to where they NEED to be, given the money they've spent?
For me, Pellegrini's record at City is nothing to shout about... When will Champions League success come? And next season, you'll have a near-fully resurgent Utd to contend with in the league (Van Gaal has them playing effectively to his 'system' now), as well as a buoyant Arsenal, and of course Chelsea.
Is Pellegrini the man to produce the necessary goods? I have my serious doubts, and one would suspect that next season will be his last if he doesn't win the title back and get City (at the very minimum) to the semi-finals of the CL.
Marco.
I'm not so sure he will make next season... If I was the Sheik, he'd be gone.
Ditto.
For me, he's had long enough to try and bring the success a club like City must now achieve. Chris may have different ideas, though.
Marco.
Stratmangler
12-04-2015, 21:32
Pellegrini will be gone at the end of the season!
Ah, okies... Any idea of his replacement?
I'd go for someone younger and keener. Not sure who the up and coming 'bright young stars' in the managerial scene are at the moment. It should be someone also with the necessary experience (say in their late 40s/early 50s), already proven as having done the biz in a top league, but now ready for the 'step up' to a huge club with massive spending power.
Do you have anyone in mind? :)
Marco.
Stratmangler
13-04-2015, 06:14
I had a little bird whisper something in my ear yesterday, and this was in the morning, before the the game.
I'm going to sit on it for now ;)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/32566809
CHAMPIONE, CHAMPIONE - OLE OLE OLE.... :yay: :yay: :yay: CHAMPIONE, CHAMPIONE - OLE OLE OLE!!!! :cool: :cool:
YA FUKKIN DANCER - RONNIE WINS US THE DOUBLE!!!! :yay: :yay: :champagne: :mex: :mex: :champagne: :champagne: :champagne:
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/538/YGgEGU.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/901/ufwwc4.jpg
Marco.
P.S Well done too, to GREENOCK MORTON! :thumbsup:
Congrats...although was never really not gonna happen league wise. Still its gotta still be won
Cheers, mate. Aberdeen did push us hard though, so well done to them!
Marco.
Just heard that the PA system at Celtic Park is knackered- plenty of bass but no treble. It's been that way for quite some time I believe...
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/32566809
CHAMPIONE, CHAMPIONE - OLE OLE OLE.... :yay: :yay: :yay: CHAMPIONE, CHAMPIONE - OLE OLE OLE!!!! :cool: :cool:
YA FUKKIN DANCER - RONNIE WINS US THE DOUBLE!!!!
Marco.
P.S Well done too, to GREENOCK MORTON! :thumbsup:
Just heard that the PA system at Celtic Park is knackered- plenty of bass but no treble. It's been that way for quite some time I believe...
:lolsign:
Marco.
city relegate qpr..... 6 to 0...
Surprised you haven't celebrated this one, Granty: http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/32686137
A comprehensive and well deserved win, even though it meant nothing! :)
Marco.
Lol yes it was a big win although it didn't move us up the table it's still nice to hump the champs .
Nice 5-0 win for us at home on the day we collected the SPL trophy, and in the end deservedly winning the league by 17 points......
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/540/PkM8Hb.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/908/6uOtwu.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/913/XAIIMZ.jpg
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/537/ENROnJ.jpg
:champagne: :yay: :champagne: :yay:
:clap: :clap: :clap:
Four in a row! Roll on the next six....
Well done to Ronnie and the boys. Here's to next season and a proper run in the Champions League!!
Marco.
www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/32895057
I see half of fifa have been arrested yet Blatter escapes....nice timing too just befire the elections lol
fifa is one of the biggest jokes around and one of the main reasons i have little to do with footy now
Football is as corrupt as politics; in fact in many ways they're intertwined! It's rife, man... Corruption, she is everywhere!
Marco.
DanJennings
30-05-2015, 18:28
Gutted.
Villa absolutely outclassed today. Well done Arsenal
I had to stifle a little giggle.... :eyebrows:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/32863247
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/661/ExBrlX.jpg
Typical huns though, and their inherent hooligan element! :nono:
Not good enough - and so they miss out on getting back to the 'big time'. If they can't beat Motherwell, however, what chance have they got of usurping Celtic?
Marco.
lol. dont gloat Marco ;) Disgraceful but it was mostly caused by 1 man as far as I read, and he was for the offski anyways. ...but, yes indicipline at Rangers runs through the club and into the support, and its not acceptable. Glad I have nowt to do with footy now apart from an interest in the Baggies, and Huddersfield; both good homey, friendly clubs on the whole.
I cant remember the last game I saw on telly but it must be a while ago(several years) and now I dont miss it one bit. not for everyone but it it gives me more time to enjoy other, peaceful pursuits:lol:
Oh and congrats to Inverness for winning the cup...just found out :cool:
Gloat?
TBH, I want them up with us ASAP (so we can cuff them royally and regularly, lol), but seriously, ONLY if they can ever become the team that they once were, and realistically challenge us for the title! Sadly, those days seem further away now than ever....
Yes, well done to Inverness - even though we should've been in the final, but missed out in the semi-final, courtesy of a blind 'mason in the black'! ;)
Marco.
Gloat?
TBH, I want them up with us ASAP (so we can cuff them royally and regularly, lol), but seriously, ONLY if they can ever become the team that they once were, and realistically challenge us for the title! Sadly, those days seem further away now than ever....
Yes, well done to Inverness - even though we should've been in the final, but missed out in the semi-final, courtesy of a blind 'mason in the black'! ;)
Marco.
Yes, I doubt they will ever be real challengers again. Not good for Celtic or Scottish football financially, certainly in short term...long term, who knows. Celtic will be hard pressed to lose the league though, and although its nice to win, win, the excitement goes pretty quickly and as the skill factor reduces the crowds do too. can become a vicious circle alas, so hope the authorities have a plan b....
Stratmangler
02-06-2015, 11:57
Celtic have just signed Boyata - he's a decent player.
He should do well for you.
Cheers, Chris. If he's in the same league as Denayer, then it'll be a great signing! Talking of the latter, it'll be interesting to see if he can get a regular place in the City team next season :)
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/661/HLh9lz.jpg
Marco.
Stratmangler
02-06-2015, 19:47
Boyata is gonna scare the SPL opposition shitless :eek:
He's another from the same mould as Denayer, but he's got greater strength (he is a few older than Denayer, so he's going to be), and he's quick too, and good at reading the game.
You've got a goodun coming :cool:
We'll see how Jason shapes up in pre season - he's one of a number of youngsters that look extremely promising.
Sounds good, Chris. Denayer is quality. Even in Europe he showed what he was capable of. I think he's well capable of holding his own in the Premiership. We just need to sign a top-quality striker now, so we can try and safely negotiate the CL qualifiers!
As we've discussed before, it's ridiculous that Celtic have to go through those...
Marco.
I see Mr corruption has resigned just after being re-elected lol.....I hope lots of those guys do some time as they have helped destroy the beautiful game.
WALES 1 Belgium 0
Gawn the taffies!! :sheep: :sheep:
Hopefully we can get some good Celt presence into France next year, with both Scotland and Wales qualifying for the Euro Championships! :yay:
Marco.
Scotland have their best chance for many moons, but our self destructive nature may well come into play
Indeed, and that also applies to Wales. Both sides have a history of achieving greatness against the 'big boys', then on the next outing, being royally humped by some no-mark diddy team!! :doh:
Marco.
I see Cellic have had a bid accepted for another Utd player.. striker Nadir Ciftci will join the 2 celtic bought in january from the same source...a touch of the Jock Stein theory ....if youve got you oppositions best players the they dont.
What you tjink of him Marco? not heard much about him but seems to be utds top scorer
How pathetic is this: This is a grown man behaving like a acne-faced brat in front of the school principal. https://youtu.be/ygB7P7rg8u4
Two of my three favourite players (Hazard and Azc.. spelling) in the league are in Chelsea but this twerp is really turning me off the team.
I see Cellic have had a bid accepted for another Utd player.. striker Nadir Ciftci will join the 2 celtic bought in january from the same source...a touch of the Jock Stein theory ....if youve got you oppositions best players the they dont.
What you tjink of him Marco? not heard much about him but seems to be utds top scorer
Don't know anything about this, Grant, and there's no mention of it on the Celtic website. Got any links? :)
Marco.
Don't know anything about this, Grant, and there's no mention of it on the Celtic website. Got any links? :)
Marco.
www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/33422964
1.5 mil apparently
Lol, yes, I know all about Ciftci - he's been playing for us for quite a while. I thought when you said, utd, you meant Man Utd! :)
He's quite good, but not getting enough games. The problem is the board need to start giving Delia enough money to replace 'like for like' in the transfer market.
You can't sell/lose two truly top-class international defenders, such as Van Dijk and Denayer, and replace them with albeit decent, but certainly not players in the same class, in Boyata and Simunovic. However, if they can play enough together I think they'll develop into a decent partnership, but they're not in the Van Dijk/Denayer league.
We need to be spending £5-6m on players (which I consider is within our means), not £1-2m. You don't get Mercedes quality with a Ford budget!
It's the same with strikers. We STILL haven't successfully replaced Gary Hooper, or for that matter, Victor Wanyama. Griffiths is a great striker, for Scottish football, but lacks the class needed to damage teams in Europe. I had to laugh recently when someone was comparing him with Henrik Larsson! :doh:
The bottom line is, you cannot possibly make progress in Europe by downgrading the quality of players in your squad, or hope to build a strong and settled defence with so much (enforced) chopping and changing. Only when those issues are successfully addressed, will Celtic regain making some decent progress in Europe.
Marco.
Sorry..no. Mot following footy much at all these days closely anyways... Keep an eye on top sides and any new young talent that i may want to pick up. Youve gotta speculate to accumulate. My richest club has about 750mil worth of talent and cash now and they aint a giant of world footy;)
Sorry, could you repeat that please, in English? ;)
Marco.
My richest club has about 750mil worth of talent and cash now and they aint a giant of world footy;)
It's that bit I'm attempting to decipher... :scratch:
Marco.
Ah my soccer manager... It was my Boca jnrs side. Won league for first time after 20 odd tries plus equ of champions league too... Been a hard slog to build them up from very little. Thats what celtic could do in a euro league environment. Bocas ground is anout same size
Ah, I see what you're on about now. I had no idea before what you meant by "my richest club"... Yes, I see where you're coming from.
The biggest problem with Celtic is that they are a big fish much in need of a larger pond!
Marco.
A Euro or world league will come sometime. It has to eventually and may be sooner with all the scandal re Fifa and possibly Uefa too; who knows. I think a whole new system is badly needed. with the right games you could have 60k at every match which would boost coffers along with the tv cash. dont see the English league happening any time soon
A Euro/world league would be fab and just the kind of thing Celtic need. Essentially, they need more of a challenge regularly, in a football sense, and the ability to earn more money to buy better players!
Marco.
Oldpinkman
21-11-2015, 20:32
It's like watching Liverpool always used to be. Long may it last
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