Jo'berg here we come! - World Cup 2010 [Archive]

Marco

11-09-2009, 19:03

LOL, Dan! There are a few but for some reason we rarely talk about it :scratch:

It's generally the case I've found that hi-fi nerds hate football (and most sport in general) ;)

Villa? Cool. Well, as a Celtic fan I know Martin O'Neil quite well!

What are your prospects for the season and what's happened to Petrov - is he still part of the equation? I'd love to see him come back to Celtic as it doesn't seem to have worked out at Villa.

I'll be supporting Italy in the World Cup.

Marco.

DanJennings

12-09-2009, 09:17

petrov's still here, and you can't have him! :ner: He's our new captain!

Our prospects? well we've lost two of our best players, Barry and Laursen, to Man City and retirement respectively, but we've got some promising youngsters, and some interesting new signings, including mr NVA himself.
quite strong start for us, lost to wigan, but beat Liverpool at Anfield, and beat Fulham... but it's the all important derby tomorrow, fingers crossed.
I can't see us breaking into the top four this year, especially with Man City spending stupid money (260 million? something like that) but you never know I suppose. As long as we finish above Birmingham in the top third, I'm happy.

What about Celtic? is it still a two horse race up there?

What do you think about that joinup with the premier league they're always talking about?

Alex_UK

12-09-2009, 10:27

My Martin O'Neil connection is that sadly I am a Norwich City supporter... not good times to be a Canary fan ("where are yaaaa, let's be 'avin' ya!" before anyone else starts... ;)

DanJennings

12-09-2009, 10:35

does Delia Smith still own your club? I've always thought that was bizarre

Alex_UK

12-09-2009, 10:41

Yes - somehow she's clinging on! Good pies at games though! ;)

Marco

12-09-2009, 10:54

Hi Dan,

Sadly, it's always a two-horse race up here! And yes, I'd love to see the Old Firm in the Premiership, for a whole host of reasons :)

I thought Petrov was struggling down there, so I'm glad for your sake that he's obviously upped his game. Maloney is doing very well for us. He should never have left in the first place...

Beating Liverpool at Anfield was a good one for you. My mate is a Liverpool fan - great team on their day, but domestically very inconsistent. I'd love to see them win the Premiership again, as I was a big fan of them in their heyday of the 70s and early 80s, but it'll never happen if they keep losing their home games. They're always a big threat in Europe, though.

Alex,

Norwich City, eh? So you're a 'real' supporter - none of this following big 'poncy' teams! LOL. The 'Delia debacle' was one of the funniest things I've ever seen in football :lol:

So who's playing who today?

We're at home to Dundee Utd. It'll be a tough match, but we should win.

Marco.

Alex_UK

12-09-2009, 11:02

The Dizzy heights awat at MK Dons for us, but not until Monday night!

DanJennings

12-09-2009, 11:12

not playing today, but we've got Birmingham City tomorrow...
quietly confident, but you never know with derbies

snapper

12-09-2009, 11:17

We're at home to Inverness CT today.

I predict a 3-1 defeat.

Marco

12-09-2009, 11:20

And David's a Morton fan for his sins! ;)

Good luck mate. I predict they will win 2-1 :)

Marco.

snapper

12-09-2009, 12:08

I doubt it,but hope I you're right.

Marco

12-09-2009, 18:29

Pish, 3-0... You were closer than I was mate :(

We drew 1-1, but the huns drew 0-0, so we got away with it!

Marco.

Alex_UK

12-09-2009, 19:15

Don't play 'til Monday - but at least the Tractor Boys got thumped 3-1 by Middlesborough - It's been tough being a Norwich fan living in Ipswich, but results like that (and only 2 points from the season) make me smile, especially with Roy Keane now in, and a rich benefactor throwing loads of money at them... :)

snapper

12-09-2009, 19:32

Pish, 3-0... You were closer than I was mate :(

We're the strongest team in the league,bottom,holding everyone else up.

:lolsign:

We drew 1-1, but the huns drew 0-0, so we got away with it!

Marco.

I watched the huns game and thought they were lucky.Motherwell had a penalty saved by McGregor in the 86th minute.

:steam:

Marco

12-09-2009, 20:03

Typical - the jammy bastarts... :wanker:

Lookin' forward tae yer wee swally the morra night?

Marco.

DanJennings

13-09-2009, 14:44

chuffed!
After a torrid game, local lad and lifelong villa fan Gabriel Agbonlahor, pops in the winner over Birmingham with five minutes to spare. Only 1-0, but that'll certainly do.

Marco

14-09-2009, 21:01

Nice one, Dan :)

Alex, how did Norwich get on this evening?

Marco.

Alex_UK

14-09-2009, 21:21

We got Don(e) over - took the lead in the first minute, (17 seconds!) they equalised at 57 minutes, we gave away a penalty at 77 - game over! Never did like Paul Ince... But, as we all know - It's a marathon, not a sprint! (or, insert favourite cliche of your own!) ;)

Marco

14-09-2009, 21:26

Nightmare - get a shirt on Delia and punt her up front.... That would defo frighten the opposition to death! :lol:

Bet she'd be a riot in the communal bath afterwards, too :eyebrows:

Marco.

Alex_UK

14-09-2009, 22:09

she'd be a riot in the communal bath afterwards

Now that would be a nightmare!

I'm used to seeing us lose these days, but not yet ready to see Delia "up front" - she'd make a good post though, if there's not enough jumpers! :lol:

DanJennings

19-09-2009, 17:35

YERRRRS! another good win for us today, comfortable 2-0 win over Pompey at home.

Alex_UK

19-09-2009, 18:18

Good result Dan.

2 2 draw with Charlton - I'll take that. Celtic v Hearts tomorrow for Marco.

Stratmangler

19-09-2009, 19:17

The game of the weekend has yet to be played, when a team with Manchester in the name take on the only team in Manchester.

Come on you Citizens !!!!!

Chris:)

DanJennings

20-09-2009, 02:52

yeah, I'll be watching.... and so help me supreme being that doesn't exist, I'll be supporting Manchester United for the first time in my life....

dirty rich manc player stealers.....

DanJennings

21-09-2009, 10:41

did anyone see the match?
I'm not complaining, but another instance of Old Trafford time, or 'Keep playing until Man United win' time.... I'm amazed no one has pulled them on this.... It was approaching 7 minutes of added time, ridiculous

Alex_UK

21-09-2009, 19:50

Was a very exciting game, though, as a neutral.

93rd minute winner for Marco too - must be "Celtic Park" time North of the border... ;)

Stratmangler

21-09-2009, 20:06

another instance of Old Trafford time, or 'Keep playing until Man United win' time.... I'm amazed no one has pulled them on this.... It was approaching 7 minutes of added time, ridiculous

Tell me about it !

I thought we'd managed to steal a point, despite the shambles laughingly called the City defence.

Ah well .....

Chris;)

Stratmangler

21-09-2009, 20:30

Found this (http://www.weebls-stuff.com/toons/footy/) the other day - says it all really !

Chris:)

Alex_UK

21-09-2009, 21:52

Found this (http://www.weebls-stuff.com/toons/footy/) the other day - says it all really !

Chris:)

Nothing to do with football - but the original http://www.badgerbadgerbadger.com/ - is a great pick-me-up at work when heads are down and you need a laugh!

Marco

21-09-2009, 22:25

Was a very exciting game, though, as a neutral.

93rd minute winner for Marco too - must be "Celtic Park" time North of the border... ;)

Didn't I lurve it, too - we're top of the table now! :cool:

I think the first Old Firm game will be very interesting...

So if you guys were to support one team from the Old Firm, who would it be - Rangers or Celtic?

It's ok, your future membership of AoS does not rest on you selecting the 'correct' answer! :eyebrows: ;)

Marco.

Alex_UK

21-09-2009, 23:03

Oh dear, here I go...

"Follow follow, we will follow Rangers" - for no other reason than one of my oldest buddies from my school days is a Scot and a Rangers fan, and he used to get me totally trolleyed, and teach me the songs! But I prefer the Celtic frocks! ;)

Marco

21-09-2009, 23:28

Right, get into my little cupboard immediately whereupon I shall perform some 'corrective' surgery on your brain :chainsaw:

I promise that it won't hurt...........................too much! :eyebrows:

Marco.

DanJennings

22-09-2009, 02:36

Didn't I lurve it, too - we're top of the table now! :cool:

I think the first Old Firm game will be very interesting...

So if you guys were to support one team from the Old Firm, who would it be - Rangers or Celtic?

It's ok, your future membership of AoS does not rest on you selecting the 'correct' answer! :eyebrows: ;)

Marco.

I'd have to say Celtic, purely for the O Neill connection, and the fact that all the blues fans round here seem to like rangers. (and wasn't the blues manager
once a rangers manager? not sure)

Marco

22-09-2009, 07:21

Yo, Dan, yoo is da man! :barrel:

Alex will be suitably 'fixed' after his corrective surgery... ;)

Marco.

DanJennings

23-09-2009, 21:58

Another win for villa, fairly comfortable, even though only one goal
Villa 1 0 Cardiff

Alex_UK

23-09-2009, 22:10

I did spot that, nice one Dan! I do have a bit of a soft spot for the Villa, one of my suppliers had a box there, but been a few years since I went - and then it's not really about the footie, poncing around having nibbles and talking shop. Well done, though!

DanJennings

23-09-2009, 22:31

Stratmangler

23-09-2009, 23:23

yah, I'm chuffed with our start to the season.... our best for years, especially with that win over Liverpool away... But then again, you know football, it always goes wrong around March doesn't it?
And we've got Manchester City in a week and a half (ulp!) I'll be doing naked cartwheels and whooping with joy if we win that one...

We made pretty heavy going against Fulham - it was nearly all one way for the first half, yet Fulham were leading at the interval. It took until 10 minutes from the end of extra time before Toure put the winner away.

Just think Dan, in a week and a half we should have Adebayor back and Santa Cruz fit too. Looking forward to the game from this end too.

Has that big Irish centre half put one in his own net yet ? He scored a couple of crackers last season ;)

Chris:)

DanJennings

24-09-2009, 08:50

We made pretty heavy going against Fulham - it was nearly all one way for the first half, yet Fulham were leading at the interval. It took until 10 minutes from the end of extra time before Toure put the winner away.

Just think Dan, in a week and a half we should have Adebayor back and Santa Cruz fit too. Looking forward to the game from this end too.

Has that big Irish centre half put one in his own net yet ? He scored a couple of crackers last season ;)

Chris:)

To be honest, I've been shocked how good our defence has been... Our best defender Laursen, retired through injury last season, putting the nail in our coffin as far as champions league hopes went, Bouma has been injured FOREVER, Luke Young is out getting over the tragic death of his brother...

So that leaves Carlos Cuellar, and considering the rest of our back four have played 2 or 3 games for us, I'm amazed that no one has scored a goal past us at all!
The big irish centre half you mention, Richard Dunn, has been great for us, so far, and there's even talk going round that we might make him captain! He even made my amplifier! ;):lol:

I bet you're well chuffed with the amount of money spent on your club, but I must admit, I'm still pretty sore about the Gareth Barry situation, and regarding next week, I'm petrified of Adebayor and Tevez

Marco

24-09-2009, 09:25

Hi Dan,

Our best defender Laursen, retired through injury last season...

That's not Ulrik Laursen (ex-Celtic) you're referring to, is it?

Carlos Cuellar? LOL. So that's where the Rangers duds end up! :lol:

Glad you're having a good season so far - long may it continue! We beat Falkirk 4-0 in the Cup and we're currently top of the league, so that'll do :)

Marco.

DanJennings

24-09-2009, 10:49

Hi Dan,

That's not Ulrik Laursen (ex-Celtic) you're referring to, is it?

Carlos Cuellar? LOL. So that's where the Rangers duds end up! :lol:

Glad you're having a good season so far - long may it continue! We beat Falkirk 4-0 in the Cup and we're currently top of the league, so that'll do :)

Marco.

Nah, it was Martin Laursen, a Danish villa hero, he was our captain, and as Gareth Barry was our vice captain, we were in turmoil for a while there...

Carlos Cuellar was Rangers? oh well, learn something new every day... He's been good for us, and I spotted him in Tesco about 6 months ago, I was well chuffed... Didn't fancy going up to him though, not sure how good his english is for a start

Stratmangler

24-09-2009, 13:16

I bet you're well chuffed with the amount of money spent on your club, but I must admit, I'm still pretty sore about the Gareth Barry situation, and regarding next week, I'm petrified of Adebayor and Tevez

I am chuffed about the club owner's investment - it's been a long time coming. Don't forget that the last honours the club picked up were in 1976.

I wondered if the Barry situation was what prompted your first response to my mentioning MCFC.
Let's face it, you had 1 season more out of him than he wanted to give (remember his reaction to the overtures he received from Liverpool). All credit to Martin O'Neill for the way he dealt with the situation at that time. However, this time round there will have been other considerations, such as length of time remaining on Barry's contract etc. Villa will have wanted to get as much as possible for him, and AFAIK there are no monies outstanding from the transfer.

He has proved himself with City too - scored a cracker last night from a corner.

Richard Dunne was a good Captain at City - just lost his head a few times last season and got sent off a couple of times. And scored a couple of killer goals at the wrong end of the pitch. I hope he does well at Villa, and manages to avoid both scenarios.

I'm looking forward to seeing Adebayor back on the field. Tevez is still regaining fitness, so who knows how good he'll be when fully fit. And Santa Cruz should be ready to play again sometime soon.

Chris:)

DanJennings

26-09-2009, 17:04

gah! I knew the winning streak was too good to be true....
Really disappointing 2-1 defeat to Blackburn

Stratmangler

26-09-2009, 17:13

Tough luck mate - Ewood Park is always a tough place to visit.

Have you seen who your lot have been drawn against in the next round of the Carling Cup (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_5583849,00.html) ?

Chris:)

DanJennings

26-09-2009, 17:54

I hadn't, cheers for that.
Sunderland eh? could be worse!

Alex_UK

26-09-2009, 18:51

Now its my lot to bring it back in stoppage time 1 - 1 - equaliser at 90+7 ! (We must have borrowed that ref!)

And Ipswich just lost 0 - 4 to Newcastle (who were my Grandad's side!) so I'm even happier - all that money invested, Roy Keane paraded in as the manager to get them back into the Prem, and no win in 9... ;)

Marco will be happy - 4 points clear, with rangers only drawing...

Hard luck Dan, but of course its a marathon not a sprint!

DanJennings

26-09-2009, 18:54

Now its my lot to bring it back in stoppage time 1 - 1 - equaliser at 90+7 ! (We must have borrowed that ref!)

je-heeezus

Stratmangler

26-09-2009, 19:31

The ref at last weekends' Manchester derby has refereed the Fulham/Arsenal game today, and I believe that he again ran over the indicated additional time by quite a bit.

At least he's being consistant.

West Ham on Monday for us. Santa Cruz has been passed fit to play as well.

Chris:)

Alex_UK

26-09-2009, 19:37

Big fan of Roque Santa Cruz - good buy for you - good luck for Monday!

Stratmangler

26-09-2009, 19:55

Be nice to see Roque in a sky blue shirt at last.

I was beginning to think that he was one of these creatures from mythology - spoken about often but rarely, if ever, seen.

Last season we had the cult of Glauber Berti. "Glauber who ?" you might ask.
Glauber Berti (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gl%C3%A1uber) was on the bench for the vast majority of games, yet never made it onto the field. Except for the last game of the season. Mark Hughes sent Berti on with eight minutes left to play. Berti had a hero's welcome from the City faithful. Then a hero's farewell, 'cos his contract ran out at the end of the season and he became a free agent.

Football, eh ? It's a game of 2 halves !

Chris:lolsign:

Alex_UK

26-09-2009, 20:08

Football, eh ? It's a game of 2 halves !

That's just not true, I sink at least 5 pints whenever I go to a game! ;)

DaveK

26-09-2009, 22:02

Hi Guys,
Just looked into the recent posts on this thread (perhaps we should ask 'management to re-title it?). I guess I'm going to lose more friends than I make with this post but here goes.
In my formative years (10 to 12) I went to live in Manchester (Flixton) with my cousin, auntie and uncle (long story). Uncle was a devout follower of City so cousin and I, naturally, took to following United, and it stuck. I am still with them and even own one of their (old) shares. Just in passing, my auntie was a District Nurse and Davyhulme was in her 'patch'. After Munich, 6 or 7 years after I returned home, she was very busy doing her bit, 24/7, for the widows and children of the victims as many of the team lived there, well before they could afford the likes of Alderley Edge.
So, you have a ManU supporter in your midst. However I do hava a lot of respect for Mark Hughes and, if you like long shots, he would be my tip to take over at Old Trafford, post Fergie - that should provoke some discussion!! :lol: .

Alex_UK

26-09-2009, 22:42

I guess I'm going to lose more friends than I make with this post but here goes

That's it. I can't talk to you any more. :lol:

In all seriousness, I've never understood why anyone could take it so serious as to fall out with anyone, it's only a game - it's even less important than hi-fi! ;)

Regardless of geography, I know several chaps who are similar age to you Dave who became ManU fans after Munich, so it must have been an emotonal experience to witness, let alone be involved with "on the ground". Besides, people only ridicule teams that do well out of jealousy - we're never so critical of our own teams when they do well, are we?!

DaveK

26-09-2009, 23:33

In all seriousness, I've never understood why anyone could take it so serious as to fall out with anyone, it's only a game - it's even less important than hi-fi! ;) Whoaaa, steady on, I wouldn't go so far as to say that!! :lol:

Regardless of geography, I know several chaps who are similar age to you Dave who became ManU fans after Munich, so it must have been an emotonal experience to witness, let alone be involved with "on the ground".
I'd just got home from night school, aka Tech., and didn't hear the news until I walked in through the door. I'm not ashamed to say that I wept, 17, going on 18, and blubbered like a baby. I had seen them all play many times as all my mates were Wednesday fans and we went to most Wednesday home games and quite a few away games. The world is unlikely to see the likes of Duncan Edwards, in particular, ever again, though Besty was a similar, but different, talent.
Don't get me going on this subject - I'd best get me jim-jams and go to bed.
Cheers,

Stratmangler

29-09-2009, 11:51

It's good to see City managed to put West Ham away last night. Tevez is improving game on game. I'm also really pleased that Martin Petrov is still with the club - with his speed and skill he is always a threat to opposition.

Santa Cruz and Michael Johnson made appearances last night which was also good to see.

Next up it's Villa (next Monday), and Adebayor is eligable to play too, assuming that the FA don't punish him for his goal celebration during the Arsenal game.

Chris:)

Alex_UK

29-09-2009, 21:38

4 - 0 to the Canaries (OK, Leyton Orient, but still...) Ipswich only got a point after squandering a 2 goal lead - a good night all round!

Stratmangler

05-10-2009, 21:37

Just got back from the pub, watching the Villa v City match.
Excellent game - Dunney's goal was superb, as was Bellamy's - overall I think that 1-1 was a very fair result for both sides.

The Villa fans with the fake £50 notes were hilarious - they'll have been looking forward to waving them at Gareth Barry for at least a week !:lolsign:

Looking forward to the return fixture in Manchester.

Chris:)

DanJennings

06-10-2009, 04:50

DanJennings

18-10-2009, 12:32

wooooo! Villa beat Chelsea 2-1

Alex_UK

18-10-2009, 15:01

Must admit I was waiting for this post Dan! - well done the Villa!

(Leeds Monday night for my lot. Celtic only managed a 0-0 against Motherwell - Man City playing today next - have I missed anyone?)

snapper

18-10-2009, 15:46

- have I missed anyone?)

The Mighty Managerless Morton.:lolsign:

Hammered again yesterday,0-1 to Dumpdee.

:(

DanJennings

18-10-2009, 19:43

Must admit I was waiting for this post Dan! - well done the Villa!

indeed! the post was delayed by much celebrating :cool: (hic!)

Stratmangler

18-10-2009, 19:54

indeed! the post was delayed by much celebrating :cool: (hic!)

I second the congrats - well deserved victory.

Pleased to say that City came away with a point today from Wigan - it was a very tough game, with a few poor decisions by the ref.

Chris:)

DanJennings

24-10-2009, 16:31

poor performance by Villa today...
a really scrappy game against Wolves, I thought we'd managed it when Agbonlahor popped one in late in the second half, but Wolves came back and were deservedly awarded a penalty that they took full advantage of.
ended 1-1

Alex_UK

24-10-2009, 17:45

Hard luck Dan, but still a point!

Norwich won 1-0 so good news for me as they bounced back from the 90+ curse at Leeds on Monday... Celtic play tomorrow, and have the opportunity to go clear again as Rangers only managed a 1-1.

I don't think Man City will have an easy time tomorrow against Fulham who are also on a 4 match unbeaten run... although you did them in Carling cup last month... we'll see!

Marco

25-10-2009, 17:07

Well we got a 2-1 win away to Hamilton, so I'm happy that we're top of the league again :)

We'll see how long it lasts though... I'm not convinced that Mowbray is the man for the job, long-term, and Celtic's performances in Europe certainly suggest this.

They also seem to struggle beating a shit Rangers team (one of the worst in many years) - a legacy left over from the last year Gordon Strachan was in charge, which doesn't bode well for the future.

Celtic need to sign some quality players in a number of positions and replace Jan Venegoor up front, which hasn't happened yet, if they are to win the title back from Rangers this season. This is the No1 priority, so the sooner the distraction of Europe has ben removed the better - and that isn't far away!

I'm happy that you guys are getting decent results with your respective teams :cool:

Marco.

DanJennings

28-10-2009, 07:58

Marco

28-10-2009, 08:59

Nice one, Danny boy - penalty shootout wins are even more satisfying than straightforward wins within 90 minutes :)

Once your nerves have recovered from the stress, though... :eyebrows:

Marco.

Alex_UK

28-10-2009, 09:07

And "big up" to Suffolk side Lowestoft Town - through to the first round proper of the FA Cup for the first time since 1977 beating Gloucester City 4 - 2 in their replay last night - guess where they travel to in the next round? Wrexham!

Marco

28-10-2009, 09:09

Haha, Wrexham will get cuffed then 'cos they're more shee-ite than a town full of shee-ite muslims! :lol:

Marco.

Stratmangler

29-10-2009, 20:15

I've kept quiet about City for the last couple of games so as not to tempt fate.

That said, they let Fulham into the game on Sunday, and City managed to concede a two goal lead - bugger !

At least they didn't lose all of the points.

The game last night was an altogether different affair. I took my son (9 years old) to see the game, 'cos in recent history City have usually been knocked out by lower division opposition, and haven't been in the position to reach the quarter finals.

It was an excellent game. Scunthorpe United did their damnedest to upset the apple cart, but were outclassed by a very strong City lineup. At the final whistle it was 5 - 1 to City, so I'm pleased:)

We'll find out Saturday midday who we play next in the Carling Cup.

Sunday we're playing Birmingham City at St. Andrews.

Roll on Sunday:eyebrows:

Chris:)

Alex_UK

29-10-2009, 22:55

Well done Chris - good result, and Roque got his first for the club too. (I did say I didn't think you'd have an easy time with Fulham... you should get all 3 points on Sunday though, on paper...)

And let's not mention the result North of the border...

Stratmangler

30-10-2009, 00:35

you should get all 3 points on Sunday though, on paper...

There are no easy games in the premier league, just 20 teams capable of taking each other down on a good day.

In theory........

Plus, Birmingham City have a certain Joe Hart playing between the sticks. Joe Hart is there on loan. Normally a player on loan is contractually removed from the game (look at Jo, currently again on loan with Everton). Most outfield players are excluded from playing their contracted clubs, but does the same hold true for goalkeepers ? The likelihood of a keeper scoring against his own team is very, very slim. So Sunday may well present Joe Hart with the best opportunity he has to grab the attention of City management. We'll see........

We'll see what happens on Sunday.

Best goal last night was by Michael Johnson (welcome back Michael), closely followed by Scunthorpe's effort - superb passing and crossing move. Roque's goal was a difficult header - he was moving backwards at the time of contact and couldn't get any real power behind the ball.

Chris:)

Stratmangler

30-10-2009, 01:05

Villa through to the last 8 of the Carling cup after a goalless 120 minutes and 3-1 on penalties against Sunderland.
A wins a win as they say, and :respect: to our keeper, who solved 3 out of 4 penalties, and another one in normal time.... and he's our RESERVE!

Well done on the shootout victory !

I think it is ironic that we (City) signed Stuart Taylor from Villa as a stand in for Shay Given, whilst Joe Hart went out to Birmingham City on loan.

That said, at least Joe Hart is getting first team action where he is ATM.

Villa have two very capable keepers in Friedel and Guzan.

You never know, Saturday's draw could pair up City and Villa again - only time will tell.

Roll on Saturday......

Chris:)

DanJennings

30-10-2009, 12:01

You never know, Saturday's draw could pair up City and Villa again - only time will tell.

Chris:)

I bloody hope not! I'm hoping for Portsmouth!
Very strong last 8 this year isn't it?

Yeah, and watch out for Birmingham, they gave us a decent run for our money, but that might have been derby factor

Stratmangler

30-10-2009, 12:27

I bloody hope not! I'm hoping for Portsmouth!
Very strong last 8 this year isn't it?

Yeah, and watch out for Birmingham, they gave us a decent run for our money, but that might have been derby factor

This season's Carling Cup remaining group is very strong. As for Birmingham City, my thoughts remain unaltered.

There are no easy games in the premier league, just 20 teams capable of taking each other down on a good day.

Chris:)

Stratmangler

31-10-2009, 12:44

Just found out the fixtures for the next round of the Carling Cup. They are.....

Blackburn v Chelsea

MUFC v Tottenham

Portsmouth v Aston Villa

MCFC v Arsenal

Looks like you got your wish Dan. Portsmouth are a tougher side to play than their league position indicates.

Looks like we have another bad tempered fixture - good thing is our squad is almost back to full strength.

Chris:)

DanJennings

31-10-2009, 14:35

Portsmouth v Aston Villa

Looks like you got your wish Dan. Portsmouth are a tougher side to play than their league position indicates.

yeah, but best of a bad bunch.... (blackburn have already beaten us this season!)

haven't seen any Man city cup games yet, what sort of a squad are you putting out?

Stratmangler

31-10-2009, 15:29

yeah, but best of a bad bunch.... (blackburn have already beaten us this season!)

haven't seen any Man city cup games yet, what sort of a squad are you putting out?

Strongest possible, always. Wednesdays' game was no different.

I can't see the bad tempered response Arsenal or their supporters had last time the two sides met having any influence upon whether or not Adebayor plays either - I reckon he'll be in the starting lineup as long as he's not carrying an injury (he had a rest on Wednesday night).

Chris:)

Stratmangler

01-11-2009, 18:19

You weren't joking about Birmingham City being no pushover, Dan. We were lucky to come away with a point today, thanks in no small part to Shay Given stopping McFadden from converting a penalty kick. In fact Given pulled us out of the mire on more than one occasion.

Alex McLeish certainly knows how to motivate and organise his side.

Ah well, I'm hoping for an easier ride next week - we're at home to Burnley.

Chris:)

DanJennings

01-11-2009, 18:30

Ah well, I'm hoping for an easier ride next week - we're at home to Burnley.

Chris:)

They did beat Man United ;)

pretty average performance yesterday for the villa, 1-1 draw with Everton

not the most interesting game either, until the last 15-20 minutes when the shots starting flying and the referee couldn't keep his cards in his pocket...

Stratmangler

01-11-2009, 19:15

They did beat Man United ;)

Yep, but that was at Turf Moor.

They've not been so hot on their travels.

Can't discount any team TBH.

Chris:)

DanJennings

05-11-2009, 12:01

oh dear oh dear...
A poor performance by Villa, and we still should have won!
lost 2-1 to the Hammers
We deserved (and didn't get) 2 penalties, we got 1 penalty that we missed, we got a red card for Habib Beye that we didn't deserve, and lets not forget he was replacing Carlos Cuellar who also got a red card he didn't deserve...
A missed opportunity to ascend into the top 4...

Alex_UK

05-11-2009, 20:33

Did sound like you had a bit of a 'mare! Oh well, that's football! ;)

DanJennings

07-11-2009, 17:45

HOORAH! Villa take Bolton apart. 5-1

ouch! strat... just seen the results: looked like Burnley gave you a game!

Stratmangler

07-11-2009, 18:02

I'm not too happy Dan.

Burnley managed to go 2 up, City fought back and eventually were 3-2 up, then conceded another goal.

It's almost like the team's entire focus is on trying to win the Carling Cup, and league performances are suffering as a result.:doh:

Chris:(

Alex_UK

07-11-2009, 18:28

Almost embarrassing to crow about Norwich beating poor old Poulton, (0-7) - but at least we weren't on the rough end of a cup upset. Nice one Dan - hard luck Chris - and good luck Marco for tomorrow - bottom of the league Falkirk should be a breeze, but we all know it doesn't always work like that, does it?

DanJennings

07-11-2009, 18:32

7-0! that must've been fun to watch... Haven't seen a score like that for a while...

A couple of seasons ago we beat Derby 6-0, with Stilian Petrov getting a 45 yard goal, that was ace.

Themis

07-11-2009, 18:42

I was at Marseille-Zurich last Tuesday (6-1). Large scores are fun. :)

Stratmangler

07-11-2009, 19:01

7-0! that must've been fun to watch... Haven't seen a score like that for a while...

A couple of seasons ago we beat Derby 6-0, with Stilian Petrov getting a 45 yard goal, that was ace.

I have bad memories of City losing 8-1 to Middlesbrough a couple of seasons ago:doh:

It was when Sven was looking to be certain for the chop, and team morale seemed to hit an all time low.

I hope that the current City squad get their act together again soon.

Chris:)

Marco

10-11-2009, 21:24

and good luck Marco for tomorrow - bottom of the league Falkirk should be a breeze, but we all know it doesn't always work like that, does it?

No it doesn't - they bloody drew 3-3! :doh:

Arsebags.

Marco.

Alex_UK

10-11-2009, 22:50

I'm not commenting on this thread in the future before games - I seem to put the kybosh on you all!

Themis

18-11-2009, 23:11

I've just watched France-Ireland, it's a shame Ireland was not qualified ! :(

They really deserved it, I'm so disappointed... :wah:

Alex_UK

18-11-2009, 23:52

I've just watched France-Ireland, it's a shame Ireland was not qualified ! :(

They really deserved it, I'm so disappointed... :wah:

They woz robbed! Still, Greece made it! (I was in Zakynthos when they won the European Cup in 2004, which was great!)

Themis

18-11-2009, 23:59

Yes, Greece made it... my evening was not completely spoiled ! :)

Euro 2004, was the 13th labour of Heracles !!! I was in France, but the feast in Athens lasted all night long !

Marco

19-11-2009, 00:04

I liked it when Greece won the Euro Championships, for the sake of them being underdogs, but they didn't half play some right yawn-inducing, boring football!

Do the current team still play in a similar style? If so, I'll make sure I steer clear from watching their games in the World Cup... I can't stand defensive-minded teams.

Call me 'old-fashioned' but I like to be entertained when I watch football, and admire sides who do just that! ;)

Sorry Dimitri!

I'll be supporting Italy as usual, who of course aren't defensive-minded at all :lol:

Marco.

Themis

19-11-2009, 00:07

Do the current team still play in a similar style? If so, I'll make sure I steer clear from watching their games in the World Cup...
No, they don't play the same football anymore. No worries.

Marco

19-11-2009, 00:11

Nice one, because (for me) it was painful to watch... :)

Marco.

Themis

19-11-2009, 00:23

Nice one, because (for me) it was painful to watch... :)
.
It was a Zone Defense mutating into a Man-to-man defense under the midfielder line. It's a counter-attacking football classic, but players (let alone spectators) hate it, because it leaves no possibility for being individually brilliant.

A pain to watch, especially against teams based on individualities: they become completely invisible.

Your only chance against it : a brilliant collective football.

Marco

19-11-2009, 00:41

It was a Zone Defense mutating into a Man-to-man defense under the midfielder line. It's a counter-attacking football classic, but players (let alone spectators) hate it, because it leaves no possibility for being individually brilliant.

A pain to watch, especially against teams based on individualities: they become completely invisible.

I'm with you 100% on that, Dimitri! :)

No offence, but I was rooting for Portugal, who were a much more exciting, attack-minded side with real flair and individual talent, which is 'my bag'.

However, I know that Greece didn't have those sorts of 'tools' at their disposal, and so had to play to their strengths, which all credit to them, they did very well and got the ultimate reward for it!

Marco.

Stratmangler

19-11-2009, 00:43

Regarding the France v Ireland game - Thierry Henry is a cheat ! - I hope he can live with himself, 'cos I couldn't live with myself in the same circumstances.

Chris;)

Stratmangler

19-11-2009, 01:06

Why oh why can't all of the professional football organisations accept that they need to move with the times, and have officials working on CCTV and suchlike ?

Just bearing in mind the nonsense I've witnessed tonight - vive la France and whatnot !

The game should have gone to penalties !!!!!

Chris:(

Themis

19-11-2009, 09:10

I don't like Henry and last night's match only confirmed what I've always thought of him : an opportunist, lucky player.

Ireland should have been qualified : it was the best option for both teams.
For Ireland, it would have proven that the team can get good results with an organized team.
For France, it would have allowed to change the coach and give an electroshock to the players who are sitting on their individual laurels...

DanJennings

21-11-2009, 17:05

Ouch! Villa just scraped a draw at Burnley... 1-1

Stratmangler

21-11-2009, 17:16

Ouch! Villa just scraped a draw at Burnley... 1-1

Burnley's secret weapon is Turf Moor - the ground will make things difficult for visiting teams now that the weather is generally poorer.

I can't believe that we fell asleep after going 2-1 up against Liverpool.
At least we didn't lose, and it looks like Liverpool have thrown away any hopes they had of contending the title.

And Adebayour has started back on the goalscoring trail (first goal for City since the Arsenal game).

Talking of Arsenal, I'm very much looking forward to attending the Carling Cup game we're playing against them on 2nd December - should be a hotly contested game. The atmosphere should be good too - the game is almost sold out !

Chris:)

DanJennings

21-11-2009, 17:26

it looks like Liverpool have thrown away any hopes they had of contending the title.

You're not wrong!
What's going on?!!

Alex_UK

21-11-2009, 18:14

The mighty Canaries scraped a draw too: 2-2 at Southampton...

Alex_UK

21-11-2009, 18:15

Well done Sunderland though, turning over Arsenal (and Bent is in my fantasy team so happy days!)

Stratmangler

21-11-2009, 19:30

You're not wrong!
What's going on?!!

It's what happens when you're managed by a fat Spanish waiter !

Chris;)

DanJennings

21-11-2009, 19:34

It's what happens when you're managed by a fat Spanish waiter !

Chris;)

Not for much longer I wouldn't think

Stratmangler

21-11-2009, 19:41

Not for much longer I wouldn't think

The way things are going I'd be surprised if Benitez survives until Christmas.

How do you rate Liverpool's Champions League Chances ?

Chris:)

DanJennings

28-11-2009, 20:24

The way things are going I'd be surprised if Benitez survives until Christmas.

How do you rate Liverpool's Champions League Chances ?

Chris:)

D'you mean will they finish in the top 4?
well at this rate, who knows... with your lot, my lot, everton, and spurs, lots of competition.

talking of that, just watched Villa Tottenham... we played great in the first half, and then gave up a bit. We were pretty lucky to come away with a draw in the end... because we struggled to create proper chances 1-1

Stratmangler

28-11-2009, 20:45

D'you mean will they finish in the top 4?
well at this rate, who knows... with your lot, my lot, everton, and spurs, lots of competition.

talking of that, just watched Villa Tottenham... we played great in the first half, and then gave up a bit. We were pretty lucky to come away with a draw in the end... because we struggled to create proper chances 1-1

Yet again City failed to close the door after taking the lead. Haven't seen the match yet, but if a side is tough to break down, as Hull have been today, then if you get the lead you have to shut the other side down and keep the ball away from them. If they haven't got the ball then they can't play. It's simple. And it's not as though we haven't got players who can do that.

Last week we fell asleep immediately after taking the lead, and got punished for it.

I just hope to High Heaven that City play better on Wednesday night, 'cos if they don't Arsenal are going to have us for supper.

Chris:(

Marco

28-11-2009, 21:01

Well I'm a happy puppy this evening as the huns lost 1-0 to Aberdeen (wayyyy! :eyebrows:) and we beat St Mirren 3-1 to go top of the league again :)

We just need to get some bloody consistency!

Marco.

Stratmangler

28-11-2009, 21:45

We just need to get some bloody consistency!

If you mean winning consistency then I agree.

My side's consistantly getting score draws when they really need to consistantly get wins is bloody frustrating:doh:

Chris:(

Marco

28-11-2009, 21:55

Hi Chris,

Good point. Yes, winning consistency. It's what Celtic (and Old Firm) fans are used to! I guess we're definitely spoiled in that regard because the competition isn't as good in the SPL as it is in The Premiership.

You guys supporting the 'minor' (or at least traditionally less successful) Premiership teams I guess are the 'real' fans! :)

Marco.

Alex_UK

29-11-2009, 11:50

You guys supporting the 'minor' (or at least traditionally less successful) Premiership teams I guess are the 'real' fans!

Or, of course the mighty Canaries, now able to "concentrate on the league" after an early exit from the FA Cup - 3 - 1 to fellow League 1 team Carlisle... :(

Marco

29-11-2009, 11:56

Macca

29-11-2009, 12:00

Nah, you guys are just gluttons for punishment!! :lolsign:

Seriously though, respect for following a team not likely to win much - I dunno how you guys do it; it'd frustrate the hell out of me! :)

Marco.

Not as frustrating as supporting a team (Liverpool) that used to win everything and now...I confess to being an armchair fan, the framed aerial photo of Anfield on my living room wall is strictly for show! (And to wind up any visiting Stokies):lol:

Marco

29-11-2009, 12:04

Macca

29-11-2009, 12:14

Liverpool's time will come again, Martin, and sooner rather than later, trust me... ;)

Hey, you've had some decent Champions League success though under Rafa - something (at the moment) my team, Celtic, could only dream about! :)

Marco.

Istanbul is Past Glories now. And we struggled for that! Someone cracked a joke to me the other day:

The big clubs all have their own TV stations now - Chelsea have CFC TV, Man Utd have MUTV and Liverpool have the History Channel...

Marco

29-11-2009, 12:22

Istanbul is Past Glories now...

LOL... What's Lisbon then for Celtic? That was 42 years ago!! :lol:

Pop us on the 'Ancient History Channel'.

Marco.

Macca

29-11-2009, 12:25

LOL... What's Lisbon then for Celtic? That was 42 years ago!! :lol:

File us in the 'ancient history' section.

Marco.

Yes but you get to take turns with the Old Firm at winning the Scottish Premier!

Marco

29-11-2009, 12:41

Yes, and also the Scottish cups... *But* those are mere hors d'œuvres compared to the 'grand banquet' of the Champions League...

I'd trade a couple of league titles, any day, for your win in Istanbul! And not forgetting, too, you were also runners up a few times in the competition after that (or near to it), were you not? :)

I'd definitely forego one of the cups (or even both) in Scotland for Celtic to have had the type of Champions League run that Liverpool have enjoyed over the last few years... The amount of money Celtic would've earned would have transformed the whole team.

Sadly that's not likely to happen unless they join the Premiership (and that now seems as likely as finding a hard-on in a nunnery).

Marco.

Stratmangler

01-12-2009, 22:00

Well done Villa - through to the semi's of the Carling Cup.

That other team with Manchester in the name are through too. To be expected really.

Tomorrow night looks to be a tough game for City - we're playing Arsenal (again) - hope the weather's a bit better 'cos I'll be there with my son. Here's hoping for a result (for City).

Looks grim for Blackburn - they're hosting Chelsea.

Chris:)

Alex_UK

01-12-2009, 23:29

Southend 0 - Norwich 3 - And the "mighty" Canaries go 3rd in League One... maybe there is some hope for us yet! Would be great if we could bounce straight back up, but no counting chickens yet!

Stratmangler

02-12-2009, 23:15

YYYEEEEEESSSSSSS !!!!!!!

Just got back in from CoMs, where we've beaten Arsenal 3-0 in the Carling Cup.

All 3 goals in the 2nd half, scored by Tevez, Wright-Phillips and Weiss respectively.

Well done Blackburn who beat Chelsea 4-3 on penalties. They go on to play Villa over two legs.

Which leaves us with the other team with Manchester in the name - should be an interesting semi-final. It also means that there will be at least 4 Manchester derby matches by the end of the season, assuming that we don't meet in the FA cup.

We host Chelsea this Saturday - should be a good game.

Chris:)

Marco

02-12-2009, 23:21

Nice one, Chris - that's a superb result! :cool:

Marco.

Stratmangler

02-12-2009, 23:37

Nice one, Chris - that's a superb result! :cool:

Marco.

Aye, it's a good result.
I would rather have had Blackburn or Villa to play in the next leg though.

Chris;)

Marco

02-12-2009, 23:40

Aye, it's a big 'ask', as they say......but anything can happen in Cup games! ;)

Marco.

Stratmangler

05-12-2009, 20:12

I'm still pinching myself - City have beaten Chelsea 2-1.

I had a feeling that City would toughen up mentally following that superb victory over Arsenal mid-week , but today has been better than I could have wished for.

Could this be the turning point for our season ? I both hope and think so.

Chris:)

Alex_UK

05-12-2009, 20:16

Chris (Stratmangler) - v.happy
DanJennings - v.happy
Macca - well, a point is better than nothing...
Marco - v.happy
Me - v.happy

A good days football all round I'd say!

Marco

05-12-2009, 21:06

Way hey, lads, good day all round! :cool:

For me though, the result of the day is the City result against Chelsea - that one's a bit tasty!!

Well done, Chris :mex:

Marco.

Themis

10-12-2009, 21:46

Liege Standard fans are not happy, but, being an Olympiakos fan, I'm glad we've beaten the gunners (ok, the 2nd team, actually). ;)

Alex_UK

11-12-2009, 18:11

Ah, nice one Dimitri (and another team for us to keep an eye on!)

DanJennings

11-12-2009, 18:49

sigh, I am dreading tomorrow...
Manchester United at Old Trafford
a fixture Villa have only won once in my lifetime, and that was when I was 5 months old!

Alex_UK

11-12-2009, 21:30

records are there to be broken! fingers crossed!

Marco

12-12-2009, 16:49

Well, lads, a hard-fought 3-2 away victory for us at Motherwell will do! It's always a tricky fixture for Celtic, and keeps the huns at bay for another week ;)

Marco.

Alex_UK

12-12-2009, 18:01

Nice one Celtic - bit gutted Norwich couldn't win away to Yeovil (3-3) but stay 3rd though - at least it wasn't a loss! 3-3 draw for Chris's Man City too...

Villa just taken the lead at Old Trafford... fingers crossed for you Dan...

Alex_UK

12-12-2009, 19:30

records are there to be broken! fingers crossed!

Ahem - I am skill! ;) Villa are skiller, though - another great scalp! Nice one Dan!

DanJennings

12-12-2009, 19:30

VILLA WIN! VILLA WIN! VILLA WIN!
YERRRRRRRRRRRRRS!
Time for some beers!
:cool:
:mex:

Stratmangler

12-12-2009, 19:49

Nice one Villa - I take my hat off to any side that can take points off United.:clap::clap::clap:

I won't know until later exactly what happened to us over at Bolton - I'm just pleased that we didn't lose the game. I'll catch the game on Football First over on Sky Sports 1 - I like the interactive match selection there !

Chris:)

DanJennings

19-12-2009, 17:11

Stratmangler

19-12-2009, 17:18

Villa scrape through to a third win in 8 days :)
a nervy 1-0 win against Stoke, but they all count!
3rd place.... 2 points behind united, can't quite believe it. Will look forward to seeing what happened in the United game though, losing 3-0 to Fulham, madness.

Well done Villa.
Well done Fulham.

City beat Sunderland 4-3, and I'm quite taken aback and saddened by the rumours of Mark Hughes imminent departure. An announcement expected from Eastlands this evening.

Chris:(

DanJennings

19-12-2009, 17:30

How come Chris?

that's a real shame for you, he was great for your lot IMO

Stratmangler

19-12-2009, 17:40

I can't work out where he's gone wrong TBH.

Alright, there's frustration at the lack of wins in the league this season, and let's face it, we've had control of quite a few games and let the other side into the game to end up with a draw, but other than that I'm baffled.

I think it's folly to get rid of him considering that he's only had 18 months in the job.

The side is almost completely different to the side last season.

The blame for the lack of wins this season lies with the players just as much as the manager.

Just who can step in and turn things around at the drop of a hat ? I can't think of anyone !

Chris:(

Alex_UK

19-12-2009, 18:29

Norwich stay 3rd, with a 3-0 over Huddersfield, and only 4 points off the automatic promotion place after Charlton drew 4 -4 with Millwall.

Pressure's on Celtic tomorrow - Rangers go top with a 6-1 against Motherwell...

Stratmangler

19-12-2009, 20:16

It's been confirmed - Hughes has been axed, and his replacement is Roberto Mancini. So we now have a manager with absolutely no experience in Premier League Football.

I just hope that our season doesn't collapse completely.

Chris:(

Alex_UK

19-12-2009, 21:53

Hughes has been axed

Unbelievable - Interesting definition of failure; according to the BBC website, "City currently lie sixth in the Premier League, having lost only twice in the league all season, and are through to the semi-finals of the Carling Cup" - I would have thought that wasn't bad, actually!?

No offence to you personally Chris but I for one won't be upset if your season does collapse when owners start effing about like this, it just demonstrates all that is wrong in football these days...

Stratmangler

19-12-2009, 22:37

Unbelievable - Interesting definition of failure; according to the BBC website, "City currently lie sixth in the Premier League, having lost only twice in the league all season, and are through to the semi-finals of the Carling Cup" - I would have thought that wasn't bad, actually!?

No offence to you personally Chris but I for one won't be upset if your season does collapse when owners start effing about like this, it just demonstrates all that is wrong in football these days...

No offence taken ;)

If I were to bump into Mark Hughes on the street I would shake his hand firmly and thank him for leaving my team in a better state than he found it in.

I honestly thought that this season might be the first in many a year when a trophy might be won for the cabinet.

And I sincerely doubt it now !

I feel disgusted about the shoddy manner in which the club owners have acted. So much for being the wealthiest football club in the world, eh !!

Thank you Mark Hughes, for all your efforts over the last 18 months. Thank you for giving City fans the prospect of a semi final place in the UEFA Cup last season - the Hamburg game at home was superb, we came so close to getting the tie.....

Arsenal in the Carling Cup was a fantastic game - we still live in hope of defeating "them across town" to get to Wembley - thank you.

Macca

19-12-2009, 23:58

No offence taken ;)

If I were to bump into Mark Hughes on the street I would shake his hand firmly and thank him for leaving my team in a better state than he found it in.

I honestly thought that this season might be the first in many a year when a trophy might be won for the cabinet.

And I sincerely doubt it now !

I feel disgusted about the shoddy manner in which the club owners have acted. So much for being the wealthiest football club in the world, eh !!

Thank you Mark Hughes, for all your efforts over the last 18 months. Thank you for giving City fans the prospect of a semi final place in the UEFA Cup last season - the Hamburg game at home was superb, we came so close to getting the tie.....

Arsenal in the Carling Cup was a fantastic game - we still live in hope of defeating "them across town" to get to Wembley - thank you.

When was the last time a manager was sacked on the day his team won?

alb

20-12-2009, 13:29

When was the last time a manager was sacked on the day his team won?

Dunno, but it's not likely to happen in Liverpools case.:rolleyes:

Macca

20-12-2009, 13:50

Dunno, but it's not likely to happen in Liverpools case.:rolleyes:

Funny!:(

I was up there yesterday - 'They've got a lot of trouble on that ship' as the bloke says in Under Siege

DanJennings

31-12-2009, 15:24

*sigh*

it's been a rough christmas for Villa

Stratmangler

02-01-2010, 17:32

*sigh*

it's been a rough christmas for Villa

You've done alright today against Blackburn in't FA Cup. That should raise a few smiles around your way - a sign of things to come in the Carling Cup maybe ?

Believe it or not City are suffering quite a few player injury problems at the moment, so Mancini has his work cut out pulling a decent side together.
Despite this we've beaten Middlesbrough and go through to the next round.

I hope it warms up a bit before Wednesday - I'm off to CoMs with my son to see City take on United.

COME ON YOU CITIZENS !

Chris:)

DanJennings

02-01-2010, 17:49

yep, from the text commentary it seems like we did pretty well. Oh well, a good sign, because we're playing them twice more in the next 3 weeks!

Yep, Man City - Villa league cup final would be nice eh?

who've you got injured? anything serious?

I've just heard that Milner has a worrying foot injury. NOT GOOD

Stratmangler

02-01-2010, 19:10

Don't underestimate Blackburn's capabilities - they knocked Chelsea out of the competition.

We've got Bridge out, Richards limped off today, Touré is out in Africa, Wright-Phillips is crocked, so is Ireland, Adebayour is out in Africa, Lescott is out. Oh, Robinho is also injured, but it's not his type of weather to play football in.
I suppose things could be a lot worse:doh:

We'll see what happens on Wednesday - United have their fair share of injury worries too.

Chris:)

Stratmangler

03-01-2010, 14:57

United are out of the FA cup.

YYYEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!

WELL DONE LEEDS - you deserved the victory.

:mex::mex::mex::mex:

Chris:)

DanJennings

03-01-2010, 18:31

two (hopefully) easy draws
Villa - Brighton And Hove
Scunthorpe - Man City

Stratmangler

03-01-2010, 20:25

two (hopefully) easy draws
Villa - Brighton And Hove
Scunthorpe - Man City

I can't believe that we've got Scunthorpe again - this time at their place. Fingers crossed we can get another result - we managed 5-1 in the Carling Cup.

Brighton is a fair old trek - they gave Man U a fright in '83, when they drew 2-2 at the first final. Man U won the second match 4-0.
I do not have an encyclopaedic memory for the FA cup, but an old school mate of mine played in both matches.

Anyway, best of luck matey - the FA cup competition is littered with shock results and stories of giant slaying are legend, as you well know;)

Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you Leeds United - you've really made my day !

Chris:)

Alex_UK

03-01-2010, 22:29

Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you Leeds United - you've really made my day !

Everyone's day, I suspect, unless you are a Man U fan... bless! ;)

Alex_UK

03-01-2010, 22:30

And the "mighty" Canaries claimed 2nd behind Leeds in League One...

Stratmangler

03-01-2010, 22:55

And the "mighty" Canaries claimed 2nd behind Leeds in League One...

Keep it up and they'll be back in the Championship. Fingers crossed. Same for Leeds - they'll get back up to the Premiership before too much longer.

Chris:)

Stratmangler

13-01-2010, 22:31

LIVERPOOL ARE OUT OF THE F.A. CUP !!!!

Liverpool 1 - Reading 2 after 30 minutes extra time.

Well done Reading !

Liverpool were pretty dire and struggled throughout the game - I think that their season is pretty well over, 'cos if they play as well in the Europa League they're gonna get dumped out of that competition too.

Chris:)

Alex_UK

13-01-2010, 23:38

No sympathy for Liverpool, but I suspect Raffa will end up carrying the can, which would be unfair IMO... but isn't it often unfair! (Mark Hughes...)

Stratmangler

13-01-2010, 23:59

No sympathy for Liverpool, but I suspect Raffa will end up carrying the can, which would be unfair IMO... but isn't it often unfair! (Mark Hughes...)

Rumour is that a certain team from Merseyside might possibly be thinking of giving a certain Welsh Gentleman a phone call in the not too distant future.

They are just whispers though.

Chris:)

DanJennings

14-01-2010, 11:22

Rumour is that a certain team from Merseyside might possibly be thinking of giving a certain Welsh Gentleman a phone call in the not too distant future.

They are just whispers though.

Chris:)

I can definitely believe that...

Stratmangler

14-01-2010, 19:29

Just waiting now for kick-off in the Blackburn v Aston Villa game.
We did our best to soften them up for you on Monday night Dan - just keep an eye on Pederson - our defence blinked at the wrong time and he managed to score.

Chris:)

DanJennings

14-01-2010, 22:00

that'll do.... a 1-0 win :)
should have had at least one penalty, or even three!

Stratmangler

14-01-2010, 22:18

should have had at least one penalty, or even three!

There's no telling what you'll get with Clattenburg as ref - the guy certainly makes some odd decisions.

If you remember, he booked Craig Bellamy twice in the Bolton v City game. The first booking was because Bellamy was giving it verbal over a throw in decision, which is fair enough. The first booking went unnoticed by nearly everyone in the ground.
The second booking was for diving - bloody cheek of it. I've not seen Bellamy dive in any game yet, but Clattenburg decided that a dive had taken place so 2nd booked Bellamy, which meant automatic dismissal.

Anyway, back to tonight.
Well done Villa - you should win the second leg at Villa Park.

Chris;)

DanJennings

15-01-2010, 14:08

There's no telling what you'll get with Clattenburg as ref - the guy certainly makes some odd decisions.

If you remember, he booked Craig Bellamy twice in the Bolton v City game. The first booking was because Bellamy was giving it verbal over a throw in decision, which is fair enough. The first booking went unnoticed by nearly everyone in the ground.
The second booking was for diving - bloody cheek of it. I've not seen Bellamy dive in any game yet, but Clattenburg decided that a dive had taken place so 2nd booked Bellamy, which meant automatic dismissal.

Anyway, back to tonight.
Well done Villa - you should win the second leg at Villa Park.

Chris;)

Yeah, I remember that game, very strange.

I don't like Bellamy one bit, but one thing he isn't is a diver. Same with Agbonlahor last night, especially since he's bulked up a bit, and yet he got booked as well!

DanJennings

17-01-2010, 16:08

Stratmangler

17-01-2010, 20:50

A disappointing no score draw for Villa today, at home to West Ham

quite a few chances, and West Ham came worryingly close near the end of the match...

Villa looked lethargic, and I just hope we're not going to get a repeat of last seasons slump.
fingers crossed for Wednesday too.

Count your blessings - City were truly awful yesterday.
I'm tempted to think that their minds were on the game this coming Tuesday rather than concentrate on the task in hand.

Chris;)

DanJennings

18-01-2010, 11:45

when are your semi final legs on? I'd quite like to watch them

Stratmangler

18-01-2010, 12:04

when are your semi final legs on? I'd quite like to watch them

Tomorrow night BBC1 and Wednesday week Sky Sports 1/SSHD 1.

Chris:)

DanJennings

18-01-2010, 13:03

sound, will look forward to those, cheers.

DanJennings

20-01-2010, 10:39

Good result for City last night, close game though

Stratmangler

20-01-2010, 11:41

Good result for City last night, close game though

I was at the game last night.

Just prior to the start of the game the team of 1970 was named and presented to the crowd - the 1969/1970 season was the last time City faced United in a League Cup Semi Final - it brought a lump to my throat, seeing my boyhood footballing heroes on the pitch.

I was gutted by the first goal - scored by the player City never offered a contract to when his apprenticeship came to its end (Giggs).

We were lucky to get the penalty decision - it looked like it was a penalty from where I was in the ground, but later TV analysis (when I got home) proved it to be a poor one on the ref's part. Sometimes you get 'em, sometimes you don't. Everton had a penalty awarded last Saturday for a similar reason, and that started well outside of the box (Richards had a grip on Pienaar [I think it was] and never let go). The call on last night's penalty was very tight -it was for the 2nd contact and was up on the line of the box.

I thought the ball was going to pull the net off the frame of the goal, it was struck with such power and venom.

The second goal took the roof off - 4th corner in a row and poor defending by United.

Both goals started the singing "Fergie, Fergie - sign him up", referring to twice goalscorer Tevez, which was hilarious and good fun too (it's always good to taunt Ferguson in particular, 'cos he gets really irritated by it all).

We have finish the job next week over at the swamp, which will be no mean task. Roll on next Wednesday.

The results 40 years ago were City 2 - United 1, and United 2 - City 2, in that order. I wonder if we can do it again ?

Chris:)

PS - Best of luck against Blackburn tonight.

DanJennings

20-01-2010, 13:28

cheers, we'll need it.

Alex_UK

20-01-2010, 21:52

Yep, pure luck! ;)

Nice one, Dan - enjoy!

And well done Chris, too.

Happy days!

DanJennings

21-01-2010, 10:56

Villa Off To WEMBLEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WHAT a game that was.... one of the strangest and most exciting games I've seen for years, lets hope the Manchester second leg will be half as good as that.
How often do you see a team score 4 away goals and still lose?
Our first goal was a bit dubious, but I'll happily accept it in return for the 2 or 3 penalties we should have had last week.
Blackburn's last two goals were sensational, but thankfully not enough.
Thank god for Milner, who has quickly become our best player...
Rare goals (these days) for Heskey and Ashley Young....
all in all, LOVELY!

Stratmangler

21-01-2010, 12:21

Congratulations on getting through to the final.

I was still feeling tired from Tuesday night, and dozed off with Blackburn 2 goals in the lead.

I couldn't believe the score line line when I woke up.

I'm saying nothing about the final until after next Wednesday nights' game.

Chris;)

Stratmangler

27-01-2010, 23:58

DanJennings

28-01-2010, 20:08

I'm immensely proud of my team tonight.
I'm extremely annoyed at the scum who call themselves football supporters, yet throw coins and bottles at opposition players - I hope GMP have all of the slimy tosspots on CCTV, because prosecution is what these scumbags deserve.

disgraceful, even though it was Bellamy ;)

Best of luck at Wembley Villa - at least you'll be out of range from missiles from the crowd.

We'll need it, if that performance is anything to go by.... still we held the gunners to a draw....

Blackburn 3x in January
Man U 2x in February

At least we still have the FA Cup to go at (which is more than United can say).

You never know, there might be a Villa - City final!

Stratmangler

28-01-2010, 20:16

You never know, there might be a Villa - City final!

Aye, that it could be. Depends a lot on how the draws go.

Chris:)

DanJennings

19-02-2010, 20:10

This thread needs resurrecting. :)

Incredibly important week for Villa, starting sunday.

sunday: premier league Burnley, to stay in the running for top 4

wednesday: FA Cup - replay against Crystal Palace, for a quarter final place

sunday: Carling Cup - final...

why all these important matches in 8 days?!!? oh well, fingers crossed

Alex_UK

19-02-2010, 21:49

Good luck Dan (well, Villa really!)

All going to plan for my boys so far, but topping League 1 not as auspicious as your aspirations!

Stratmangler

19-02-2010, 22:21

We need to beat Liverpool on Sunday to keep 4th spot.
We need to beat Stoke on Wednesday to get through to Chelsea in the FA Cup.
We go to Chelsea next Saturday.

City seem to have lost the plot since losing the 2nd leg of the Carling Cup semi-final.

I hope Villa can stuff Salford United on Sunday week.

The remainder of our season is......................

24 February 2010 19:45 A Stoke City FA Cup

27 February 2010 12:45 A Chelsea Barclays Premier League

06 March 2010 12:45 H Tottenham Hotspur Barclays Premier League

14 March 2010 16:00 A Sunderland Barclays Premier League

20 March 2010 15:00 A Fulham Barclays Premier League

29 March 2010 20:00 H Wigan Athletic Barclays Premier League

03 April 2010 15:00 A Burnley Barclays Premier League

10 April 2010 15:00 H Birmingham City Barclays Premier League

17 April 2010 15:00 H Manchester United Barclays Premier League

24 April 2010 15:00 A Arsenal Barclays Premier League

01 May 2010 15:00 H Aston Villa Barclays Premier League

09 May 2010 15:00 A West Ham United Barclays Premier League

Chris:rolleyes:

DanJennings

20-02-2010, 12:14

some tough games there Chris, especially 1st May ;)
I hope you do us a favour a thrash Small Heath on 10th of April

DanJennings

21-02-2010, 16:51

Thank gawd, Villa get the right result against Burnley... a 5-2 drubbing after a worrying first half

Stratmangler

21-02-2010, 19:17

City drew with Liverpool 0-0.

Tottenham have sneaked into 4th place.

Chris:rolleyes:

DanJennings

25-02-2010, 08:04

Stratmangler

25-02-2010, 20:41

So far so good! Villa are into the FA cup quarters... after beating Crystal Palace 3-1
a deserved win, even though the first goal came from an extremely dubious corner, and the other 2 came from second half penalties

unlucky about your FA Cup exit Chris, I haven't seen the highlights, but judging by the number of cards it must've been a rowdy game!

Saw the highlights (ha !!!!) on ITV last night. Stoke were Stoke, and proving to be tough to crack.
Things were pretty even by all accounts, up until Adebayor got sent off following a Stoke player feigning death or summat after being held off away from the ball. Talk about a poor refereeing decision - it was a yellow card offence at worst.
Anyway, it was 1 - 1 at full time, Stoke pushed home their man advantage and scored twice in the first period of extra time. City never managed to reply to get back in the game.

I'd just like to wish Villa the very best for Sunday afternoon - don't give your opposition time to settle, and keep hold of the ball - don't give it away cheaply.

Chris:)

Alex_UK

25-02-2010, 21:25

Unlucky Chris... bit of a scalp for Stoke, I guess, although they've surprised me how well they've done this year, 34 points by now should see them stay in the Premiership, which is no mean feat these days (as my team proved not so many years ago...) C'est la vie - City are definitely in a far better place than they have been for a long while, and rewards will no doubt come.

Good luck Dan, will be rooting for you! (been to a few Villa games over the years, one of our suppliers has (used to have?) a box - corporate hospitality never the same as being amongst the fans, but always a great atmosphere), plus I am a big fan of Martin O'Neil, after we trained him for you! ;)

Stratmangler

25-02-2010, 21:53

I'm a City supporter - disappointment is my middle name.
Doesn't stop me suspending belief and hoping that the dream comes true.

We've got a hell of a job on our hands to achieve 4th in the league, and in all honesty I doubt whether we can do it. We don't seem to have got over the disappointment of being kicked out of the Carling Cup.
And that inability to learn from it and move on is what is causing us problems now.

I live in the hope that City win all of their remaining games this season - if we do then 4th spot is ours.
I just don't think that it's going to happen.

Chris;)

Stratmangler

27-02-2010, 14:50

Well I'll be buggered !
City have only managed to turn the game completely on Chelsea and we've beaten them 4 goals to 2.

YYYYYEEEESSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:mex:

All of a sudden life doesn't seem so bad after all.

Chris:):):):):)

Alex_UK

27-02-2010, 15:06

I wondered how long you'd be able to contain yourself before posting! Well done City!

DanJennings

28-02-2010, 17:43

Arse.

Stratmangler

28-02-2010, 18:31

Vidic should have been sent off !

Chris:rolleyes:

DanJennings

28-02-2010, 22:00

yup

Alex_UK

28-02-2010, 23:25

Unlucky Dan/Villa :(

DanJennings

07-03-2010, 15:42

Whew! good comeback from villa....
2-0 down at Reading at half time, pulled back to 4-2, thanks to Ashley Young and a John Carew hat trick

back to Wembley we go

DanJennings

07-03-2010, 15:43

has anyone been watching these quarter finals? good games, apart from the fulham-spurs snoozer

The Vinyl Adventure

07-03-2010, 16:00

I watched it today dan (belive it or not) as hannah is a Reading fan, it's been an interesting afternoon of ups and downs!

DanJennings

07-03-2010, 18:16

bloody hell, I thought you detested football....
unlucky Hannah, oh well. in consolation, Villa probably won't get past the next round, because they've just drawn Chelsea in the next round.

The Vinyl Adventure

07-03-2010, 18:46

To be fair, I don't pay to much atention to the screen when it's on but it was at least vaguly interesting today, what with most of my mates being villa fans apart from hannah being a Reading one... I decided it was best to be on hannah's side today, she gets a bit grumpy if Reading loose

DanJennings

07-03-2010, 18:49

oh dear, I bet she wasn't in the best of moods then. especially since we got her hopes up by playing shockingly in the first half

The Vinyl Adventure

07-03-2010, 18:55

Yeh she keeps on saying things like penaltys don't count for anything and the Reading were the better side... All stuff that means fuck all to me... She wasn't saying that about penalties when they built Liverpool a few weeks back .. How odd ;)

Stratmangler

12-03-2010, 00:13

...... Villa probably won't get past the next round, because they've just drawn Chelsea in the next round.

Press 'em hard, don't give 'em space and don't give 'em time on the ball and Chelsea can be beaten.
C'mon now - their goalkeeper has Hilarious on his shirt to describe the howlers that he makes 'cos he doesn't regularly get a game. I just hope for Villa's sake that Cech doesn't return before the semi-final.
And the longer Chelsea can be stopped from scoring, the greater the likelihood of one or more of their players getting sent off for making rash challenges out of frustration.

Take it to them - you've got nothing to lose, and the chance of a tilt at a trophy to win.

DanJennings

17-03-2010, 08:36

Good win for Villa last night 2-1 away to an impressive Wigan at the top of their game.

over the next few weeks I'm going to try not to get my hopes up, and will try not to mention the phrase 'top 4'

Stratmangler

17-03-2010, 13:11

If the game at Sunderland is anything to go off then City won't be making 4th spot either.
Lower in the league opposition seem to be taking City on as if it were a cup final every game.
I have much respect for the Sunderland goalkeeper - despite the almighty battering his side got in the 2nd half he managed to keep all attempts on goal out and keep his side ahead until the dying minutes of the game.

I see Chelsea got beaten last night:)
I also noted that Inter Milan's game plan was rather like I described in my last post.
I am not surprised that a Chelsea player (Drogba) was sent off for lashing out at an opponent in frustration either. There is a distinct pattern of misbehaviour amongst the Chelsea players when things are not going their way.

I'm pretty sure that Martin O'Neill may well draw similar conclusions, and come up with an effective game plan when Villa play Chelsea in the FA cup semi-final. I hope so.

DanJennings

17-03-2010, 13:31

Stratmangler

19-03-2010, 11:27

Did anyone catch the Fulham v Juventus game last night ?
Fulham were superb - I'm hoping that they can't play as effectively on Sunday, 'cos City are going to have a tough time otherwise.

DanJennings

22-03-2010, 18:56

Did anyone catch the Fulham v Juventus game last night ?
Fulham were superb - I'm hoping that they can't play as effectively on Sunday, 'cos City are going to have a tough time otherwise.

They didn't did they....
Man City and Tottenham didn't do Villa any favours this weekend anyway...
We didn't play badly against Wolves, but we lacked a creative spark, and not good news, because we have Sunderland on wednesday (winnable) and Chelsea on sunday (probably not)

DanJennings

27-03-2010, 18:01

7-1! Oh good god! :brickwall:

Stratmangler

27-03-2010, 18:19

7-1! Oh good god! :brickwall:

Saw the scores earlier Dan - what happened ?
Hang on - I think Abramovich happened - there was something in the papers about him telling the players and staff what he thought about their efforts not being good enough.

DanJennings

27-03-2010, 18:22

we were pretty good until half time.... we were still strong at the start of the 2nd half, despite being 2-1 down, and then Malouda scored, and we fell apart, it was like our defence gave up. we hardly looked like scoring at all after that.

DanJennings

27-03-2010, 18:23

I'm still a bit shell shocked to be honest..... that last Lampard goal was a bit of a kick in the bollocks

Stratmangler

27-03-2010, 18:34

Got to admit that the scoreline is a shocker.

Put's my disbelief and disappointment at last Wednesday's non result against Everton into perspective.

City have now squandered the 2 games in hand that they had and really need to win every game from now until the end of the season to stand any real chance of clinching 4th spot.
It's going to make for an interesting run out to the season.

DanJennings

27-03-2010, 18:40

City have now squandered the 2 games in hand that they had and really need to win every game from now until the end of the season to stand any real chance of clinching 4th spot.

Snap.

Stratmangler

05-04-2010, 18:38

A big welcome back to the Premier League for Newcastle United.
They're now untouchable at the top of the Championship after Forest failed to beat Cardiff.

I've held off posting about the Burnley v City game, as I didn't wish to appear to come across as crowing about the result.
Burnley were lucky - City could have been 0-7 up at half time (a shot from Adam Johnson was deflected by Jensen, and the ball struck the post - Tevez also had a shot rebound from the right side post), and the rain in the 2nd half more or less stopped both sides from playing the ball on the ground.
Burnley are going to join Portsmouth in going down to the Championship.
Miracles excepted, that is !

Alex_UK

05-04-2010, 22:08

I did think you were a little quiet on the Burnley game! Well done, good result.

Very pleased the Magpies bounced straight back (they were my Grandfather's team, he was a Geordie and up until this year, the Premiership team I follow in the absence of my own team being there!) They gave me a Championship team to support this season, whilst we do our best to follow their lead from the division below... No Fat Lady singing yet, so just got to hold our nerve... (Which we didn't manage at Tranmere, but did today, thank goodness, though a 2-1 win from top of the table vs bottom of the table isn't exactly a comprehensive victory...)

Stratmangler

05-04-2010, 23:29

I'd been thinking about the Burnley game on a couple of occasions during the week, and wondering how tough an opposition they might be, bearing in mind that City are with the chasing pack for 4th slot and a Champions League place next season.

I couldn't believe my eyes when the first goal went in - followed by the second, then the third. To be 3 goals up in 6 minutes was unbelievable.

Still, that was last Saturday, City have 6 tough games ahead - Birmingham City next Sunday (they've really impressed me this season), and United the Saturday after. The United game takes on greater signficance following their defeat to Chelsea this weekend gone. They need the points and so do we.
Plus they've beaten us twice out of the 3 games we've had this season. There's a score or two to settle - it could be one of the big battles of the season.

It ain't over until the final whistle, and this season's been the tightest and strangest for a good while.

I'm really pleased that Newcastle are back up - it's been strange them not being on the fixture list.

DanJennings

06-04-2010, 07:04

you were surprised by Burnley? Not me...
I've watched a fair few of their games, and ever since Coyle left, so did the hunger and the home wins... I wouldn't be surprised if they failed to pick up a single point before the end of the season.
short of some surprises, Villa are pretty much out of the race for 4th, as are Liverpool, so good luck.
I reckon Chelsea will nick the title this year, and after our hammering last week, and the result against United, they deserve it.

DanJennings

06-04-2010, 07:05

Stratmangler

11-04-2010, 20:15

Tough luck yesterday against Chelsea Dan.

I took my son to see the Manchester City v Birmingham City game today.
On the way into the stadium we were both pleased to hear the result of the Blackburn Rovers/Rags game - there's an allegation that the Rags are not a one man team, but now that he's injured (Shrek) things aren't going so well for them.

Prior to kick-off at our game, City legend Bert Trautmann was presented with an award.
Bert was City keeper from the late 1940's to the early 1960's.
He was the first German player to play in an FA Cup final at Wembley.
He also famously played on until the end of the 1956 FA Cup final against Birmingham City with a broken neck. City won that game 3-1.

Todays game was well contested by Birmingham, but ultimately I felt that the scoreline of 5-1 was not too flattering of City's performance.
City were convincing in their victory - indeed it was 80 or so minutes into the game before any Manchester City players were substituted, and even then I felt that the substitutions only took place to give a Wright-Phillips, Santa Cruz and Cunnngham some precious match time.

I can scarcely wait for next Saturday when we take on the Rags at CoMS - bring it on.

Congratultions too to Portsmouth - who'd have thought you'd make the FA Cup final with all of the troubles and financial meltdown of this season.
Go on and take down Chelsea for all of us whose team can't be there.

Alex_UK

11-04-2010, 21:54

Good result Chris, (Birmingham are a team I don't like for silly historical reasons, so good to see them get their butt kicked!) Funny that since this thread has been proliferated mainly by you Dan and I I find myself keeping a special lookout for both team's scores, and am happy to see them both do well! (Until the mighty Canaries return to the Premiership of course! ;))

MU certainly seem to be faltering without golden Boy. but you can never rule them out - until you beat them next week of course! :)

Stratmangler

16-04-2010, 15:21

Just to remind everyone interested - Sky Sports 1 - 12.45pm kickoff - Manchester City v Manchester United.
Both sides need the points, that plus there's no love lost.

I can hardly wait !!!

DanJennings

16-04-2010, 18:01

yup, I'll be watching that one.... should be a good un.

Stratmangler

16-04-2010, 18:58

Traditionally it's City fans who have a sense of foreboding before a derby match - I honestly think that for the first time in a long time it's United supporters who are doing the worrying.

It might just be the most hotly contested game this season.

Stratmangler

17-04-2010, 13:50

Ah well, that was that !

Yet again United score in the dying seconds of the game.
They looked like they were wobbling towards the end of the second half, but they just don't give up.

To be fair United had most of the play in the first half and for the start of the second.

City have to put this behind them and play hard for that 4th spot - we've got Arsenal at the Emirates next week, so here's hoping !

Alex_UK

17-04-2010, 16:23

Unlucky Chris. Good result for Marco's boys... looked a tough game from the scores.

But more importantly for me the Canaries beat Charlton, and all the other results go our way -

PROMOTED BACK TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP AT THE FIRST ATTEMPT WITH 3 GAMES TO SPARE - COME ON YOU YELLOWS!

GET IN THERE!

:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

Stratmangler

17-04-2010, 16:55

Nice one Alex !
It's always good to see a club bounce back. Next season won't be as hard for you as a new club in the division would find it.
Do you think Leeds are going to follow you up ?

I'm hoping Chelsea do us a favour and beat Spurs - Spurs are 1-0 up at the moment, but there's plenty of game time left yet.

Stratmangler

17-04-2010, 18:34

In future I'm not going to make comment whilst a game is in progress - Spurs have beaten Chelsea 2-1 and not only is 4th slot under serious threat but the title is wide open again.

Funny old game football !

Alex_UK

17-04-2010, 18:56

Thanks Chris - you always dare to hope... but being a Norwich fan you get disappointed more than most usually! Still, if we can keep some of our star players (notably Grant Holt (24 league goals this season) and Chris Martin - 16) then we should stand a good chance next year with Paul Lambert at the helm...

Not sure about Leeds getting the 2nd automatic spot - their recent form has been poor, maybe too much of a wobble with Millwall only a point behind... I think Sswindon will do it, despite only drawing today.

Anyway, who cares, WE'RE GOING BACK UP! :)

Stratmangler

01-05-2010, 15:54

One down, two to go.

DanJennings

01-05-2010, 16:00

I hate football

Stratmangler

01-05-2010, 17:28

Tough luck matey !
I reckon Wednesday's game will be a tough one - we're playing Tottenham.
For us it could still go down to the wire on the last game.

Looking on the bright side, all seven top teams are looking to get some kind of European action next season.
The Europa League is a worthy trophy to pursue.

Stratmangler

06-05-2010, 10:03

Last night was a disappointment.
To be honest it was a tough game.
Well done Tottenham.

We still need to win on Sunday to guarantee 5th position on the table.
It's also the highest City have climbed in the league tables since the late 1970's.
For the first time in a long time we've qualified for European competition on merit alone. So we get the consolation prize (as do Villa and, luckily for them Liverpool) - the Europa League beckons.