Kevin Pietersen is marmite. You either love him or you hate him, and right now, whilst the public have fond feelings for him, the ECB wish he didn't exist. It's not that they don't appreciate all he has done for the country, it's quite the opposite - he is making it extremely hard for the team to move on. Whilst they attempt to rebuild the team after that disastrous Ashes serious out in OZ, first through Moores (the ECB's booty call has now been sacked twice in a matter of years) and now Strauss, KP is always lingering in the back of people's minds.
Now though, the ECB will be cursing their luck - on the day they were due to tell him that his England career was over once and for all (despite seemingly being given false hope by chairman Graves) he goes and scores his career best, a wonderful 355 not out - albeit against a lacklustre Leicestershire attack without a win in 2 years and on a flat track as easy to bat on as it is to count to 3 (thank you MJ for the inspiration).
The lingering ended; he was now all anyone could talk about.
We can all sit and wonder what would have happened had he not scored that potentially career defining knock - it would go down as one of the great mysteries of the world, with big foot, or who ate all the pies? However, the point is, it did happen and the ECB had to deal with it. Andrew Strauss, himself a great servant to the countries' cricketing exploits, was left to tell KP the bad news... on his first day in the job! Unfortunate just doesn't cut it!
This wasn't the news KP or the public wanted to hear. They were all waiting for the fairytale ending: the brave knight (KP) returns to save the damsel in distress (English Cricket) from the terrifying dragon (aussies). It wasn't to be.
There was great uproar, none more so than the South African come Englishman himself - the next day he wrote a damning article in his Independent column saying how angry and disappointed he was; and how deceitful the ECB were!
So after all was said and done - though I suspect we will be hearing about it for years to come - the ECB lost the support of the average English cricket fan and tossed away one of the countries' great players without a hint of sentiment or grace. The biggest question now is, how do they win the fans back? It would look awful if the grounds started emptying and what has, and should, always be an English game, lost touch with its roots!
My suggestion is let your play do the talking - get back on the pitch and win some test matches!
There will now be even more pressure on some of the England players to perform, particularly those in the middle order such as Ali, Stokes or the stalwart of the game, Bell. I hope, for their sake and the games', that the performance start to pick up, otherwise I fear the sport may be abandoned by its own creators.
On a side note, I personally didn't think we should have recalled him. Our middle order is one of the team's strong points and they are all youngsters such as Root and Ballance. They are the England's future and he, sadly for many, is the past. Besides, one innings shouldn't change things - especially in the context! In the rest of his four innings for Surrey, he has scored a combined 112 runs... people seem to forget that.
Wednesday, 13 May 2015
Tuesday, 12 May 2015
Deflate gate - an unnecessary fuss or another embarrassment for an already notorious franchise?
When the news broke last season of cheating inside the New England Patriots organisation in a game vs the Indianapolis Colts, it was like a firework; big, attention grabbing, and gone in a flash. Most people assumed they had done it (not the first scandal associated with the team from Massachusetts) but also wondered what the big deal was with balls being ever so slightly deflated - every kid growing up would have played with a flat ball at one time or another and the effect on game quality is minimal, particularly with such minute changes. Then, after a week or so, when the Superbowl came and went, everyone seemed to forget about it and instead talked about the thrilling finish to the biggest American sports event of the year (and perhaps the worst play call in American sports history)!
And that brings us nicely on to this week, when the findings of the Wells report (an official investigation into the allegations) were made public. To briefly summarise the 243 PAGE report: "they probably did it, Brady would have known" (see NFL, all it needs is one sentence)!
The key concept here is that Brady would have known about the 'dastardly' plot. Now this may not seem so important if not for the detail that when the accusations were first made, Brady wholeheartedly and repeatedly denied any knowledge of it or indeed any wrongdoing. So this is where many people take issue - not the deflating of game balls, but the lies told by the organisation's star QB and the deceptive way he attempted to prevent any punishment falling his way.
It has since been announced that the franchise will have to pay a fine of $1 million as well as losing their first round draft pick this year and their fourth rounder the next year. This is on top of a 4 game suspension for talisman Brady.
But is the penalty really fair? Well, did they cheat? yes. Was it really that big a deal? No. But lying can't be tolerated, so although I believe the penalty on the franchise is harsh, I completely support the NFL's decision to penalise and suspend Brady. We do not want to teach supporters that cheating is right and that cheaters don't get punished and the only way to do this is by punishing the offenders.
So kudos to the NFL, for once you have managed to save face for the sport in a situation that was never going to be unanimously supported by the sporting world. I can only hope this kind of farce is never repeated!
One last point; who does Brady return to the field against... that's right, the Colts...
And that brings us nicely on to this week, when the findings of the Wells report (an official investigation into the allegations) were made public. To briefly summarise the 243 PAGE report: "they probably did it, Brady would have known" (see NFL, all it needs is one sentence)!
The key concept here is that Brady would have known about the 'dastardly' plot. Now this may not seem so important if not for the detail that when the accusations were first made, Brady wholeheartedly and repeatedly denied any knowledge of it or indeed any wrongdoing. So this is where many people take issue - not the deflating of game balls, but the lies told by the organisation's star QB and the deceptive way he attempted to prevent any punishment falling his way.
It has since been announced that the franchise will have to pay a fine of $1 million as well as losing their first round draft pick this year and their fourth rounder the next year. This is on top of a 4 game suspension for talisman Brady.
But is the penalty really fair? Well, did they cheat? yes. Was it really that big a deal? No. But lying can't be tolerated, so although I believe the penalty on the franchise is harsh, I completely support the NFL's decision to penalise and suspend Brady. We do not want to teach supporters that cheating is right and that cheaters don't get punished and the only way to do this is by punishing the offenders.
So kudos to the NFL, for once you have managed to save face for the sport in a situation that was never going to be unanimously supported by the sporting world. I can only hope this kind of farce is never repeated!
One last point; who does Brady return to the field against... that's right, the Colts...
Friday, 13 September 2013
Fantasy Friday
After a week's international break, the Premier league is back and ready to excite us all again this weekend.
This week I do not have time for 6 players so I will just name 1 Possible success:
1. Michael Carrick (Man Utd V C Palace)
Despite signing Fellaini on the last day of the window, it will be his central Midfield partner that I recommend. Carrick will be influential this week spraying through balls past the weak defense of Palace and onto the strikers. I would be very surprised if he didn't get an assist. Furthermore, he is likely to get a point for a clean sheet as Utd will be confident of keeping a clean sheet at Old Traffford.
Thanks for reading and good luck!
This week I do not have time for 6 players so I will just name 1 Possible success:
1. Michael Carrick (Man Utd V C Palace)
Despite signing Fellaini on the last day of the window, it will be his central Midfield partner that I recommend. Carrick will be influential this week spraying through balls past the weak defense of Palace and onto the strikers. I would be very surprised if he didn't get an assist. Furthermore, he is likely to get a point for a clean sheet as Utd will be confident of keeping a clean sheet at Old Traffford.
Thanks for reading and good luck!
Wednesday, 4 September 2013
Weekend review - Arsenal beat Spurs, Liverpool beat Utd, Transfer window closes with big signings
This weekend was full of excitement for many reasons, not least because it was transfer deadline day. There was also a T20 against Australia and the continuation of the US open in tennis. So here is my recap of the sporting weekend:
Football:
Aside from fans' favourite day of the year, there was also two bitter rival matches between Arsenal and Spurs and also Liverpool and Man U. In the north London derby, a first half goal from Olivier Giroud was enough for the resilient Gunners to see off Tottenham. During the game, Flamini came on for his second debut at the Emirates and Spurs summer signing Capoue went of injured with a ankle problem. He is expected to miss a month of action. The reds started brighter and were duly rewarded when Rosicky played through Walcott, who timed his run to perfection before putting in a low cross which the French striker flicked in after getting ahead of his marker. However, in the second half, Spurs put Arsenal under the cos and aside from one great tackle from Lloris to deny Walcott, it was generally one way traffic. However, the reds held on after a fantastic save from Szczesny to parry a deflected Defoe shot away before the follow up was blockd on the line by none other than Giroud. It was a dogged display from the gunners and they will be ecstatic to have held off their bitter rivals.
The other rivalry on display on Sunday was Liverpool V Utd and the home side came out on top against former Everton manager Moyes' side thanks to an early Daniel Sturridge header. The striker had won a corner which was headed towards goal by agger before the Englishman stooped to flick the ball in. From then on it was end to end stuff as RVP squandered a few good chances to level. As expected the last few minutes was all Utd but they couldn't find a way through and the roar that greeted the full time whistle suggested how happy the fans were as Liverpool start with 3 wins out of 3 to top the table.
There were also wins for City against Hull, Stoke, Norwich, Swansea and Palace as well as a draw between Cardiff and Everton.
On to Transfer Deadlin Day!:
After Bale signed for Real on a world record fee on Sunday, it was now on to the actual deadline day itself, early in the day, Liverpool were the big movers, signing Centre backs Sakho and Ilori as well as getting winger Moses on loan from Chelsea. However, the biggest signing of the day came from an unlikely source as Arsenal confirmed the capture of Real playmaker Mesut Ozil for 42.4m. The gunners also brought in keeper Viviano on loan from Palermo. Other big mover were Palace, who signed Bannan, Guedioura, Jerome and Marriappa; Stoke, who signed Arnautovic and Ireland; and West Brom, who bought Amalfitano, Anichebe, Camp and Sessegnon. Another big move was confirmed by Utd who brought in big man Fellaini from Everton for a whopping 27.5m sparking 3 late moves by the merseysiders who acquired McCarthy, Barry and Lukaku. Other big moves include Odemwingie to Cardiff, Assou Ekotto and Kranjcar to QPR, Shotton (Mr long throw 2) to Wigan on loan, Kozak to Villa, Dossena and Borini to Sunderland and finally, Gedo to Hull. Meanwhile, in Europe, Kaka returned to former club AC Milan.
F1:
Despite there not being a race this week, there was a big update in the world of car racing as it was confirmed that Daniel Ricciardo would replace fellow Aussie Webber at Red Bull next year after the veteran retires at the end of this year. The Torro Rosso driver will now be alongside three time world Champion Seb Vettel at the reigning Constructor's championship winners, Red Bull.
Cricket:
England beat Australia in the second T20 between the sides thanks to a tremendous 94 from opener Alex Hales. The Aussies won the toss and put England in who got off to a flyer thanks to Hales and Lumb (43). After Lumb was out Wright (30) and Morgan (20) gave useful contributions before the innings tailed off to end on 195-5. The only positive for Australia was that Fawad Ahmed picke up his first three wickets for the national side. In the Australian innings, only Warner put up real resistance in an innings of 53 before the rest of the team subsided without a real fight to end on 168 and fall 27 runs short. Dernbach bowled superbly for figures of 3-23 but unsurprisingly Hales was man of the match. In the CCD1, it was a key week as 2nd played first and came away with a win to take the title race tight to the line. Durham now trail Yorkshire by only 1.5 points heading into the final 3 games. Meanwhile Surrey are bottom with Derbyshire taking the other relegation spot. However Somerset are only 15 runs ahead so it should go right down to the wire.
Tennis:
The US open continued but Dan Evans dream run didn't as he was beaten by Spaniard Tommy Robredo - remember that name, it's important - in 4 sets in round three. The 3rd best British player put on a good show but was narrowly beaten by the veteran. However, it wasn't all bad as Murray continues into the quarters to face Stan Wawrinka after beating Istomin in 4 sets. The Swiss player beat 5th seed Berdych in round four. Nadal and Djokovic are also through to the quarters after masterful performances to beat Kohlschreiber (in 4 sets) and Granollers (6-3 6-0 6-0!) respectively. However, Swiss favourite Federer, the seventh seed for once, is out after losing in straight sets to none other than Tommy Robredo! The multiple grand slam winner was outplayed completely as his title hopes were eliminated with aplomb. In the women's draw, Serena Williams faces Chinese 5th seed Li Na in the semis after beating Spaniard Suarez Navarro 6-0 6-0 (double bagel). The other semi is between either second seed Azarenka or Hantuchova and Vinci or Pennetta.
Thank you for reading these features and please continue to do so weekly!
P.S there will be no Fantasy Friday this week for religious reasons
Football:
Aside from fans' favourite day of the year, there was also two bitter rival matches between Arsenal and Spurs and also Liverpool and Man U. In the north London derby, a first half goal from Olivier Giroud was enough for the resilient Gunners to see off Tottenham. During the game, Flamini came on for his second debut at the Emirates and Spurs summer signing Capoue went of injured with a ankle problem. He is expected to miss a month of action. The reds started brighter and were duly rewarded when Rosicky played through Walcott, who timed his run to perfection before putting in a low cross which the French striker flicked in after getting ahead of his marker. However, in the second half, Spurs put Arsenal under the cos and aside from one great tackle from Lloris to deny Walcott, it was generally one way traffic. However, the reds held on after a fantastic save from Szczesny to parry a deflected Defoe shot away before the follow up was blockd on the line by none other than Giroud. It was a dogged display from the gunners and they will be ecstatic to have held off their bitter rivals.
The other rivalry on display on Sunday was Liverpool V Utd and the home side came out on top against former Everton manager Moyes' side thanks to an early Daniel Sturridge header. The striker had won a corner which was headed towards goal by agger before the Englishman stooped to flick the ball in. From then on it was end to end stuff as RVP squandered a few good chances to level. As expected the last few minutes was all Utd but they couldn't find a way through and the roar that greeted the full time whistle suggested how happy the fans were as Liverpool start with 3 wins out of 3 to top the table.
There were also wins for City against Hull, Stoke, Norwich, Swansea and Palace as well as a draw between Cardiff and Everton.
On to Transfer Deadlin Day!:
After Bale signed for Real on a world record fee on Sunday, it was now on to the actual deadline day itself, early in the day, Liverpool were the big movers, signing Centre backs Sakho and Ilori as well as getting winger Moses on loan from Chelsea. However, the biggest signing of the day came from an unlikely source as Arsenal confirmed the capture of Real playmaker Mesut Ozil for 42.4m. The gunners also brought in keeper Viviano on loan from Palermo. Other big mover were Palace, who signed Bannan, Guedioura, Jerome and Marriappa; Stoke, who signed Arnautovic and Ireland; and West Brom, who bought Amalfitano, Anichebe, Camp and Sessegnon. Another big move was confirmed by Utd who brought in big man Fellaini from Everton for a whopping 27.5m sparking 3 late moves by the merseysiders who acquired McCarthy, Barry and Lukaku. Other big moves include Odemwingie to Cardiff, Assou Ekotto and Kranjcar to QPR, Shotton (Mr long throw 2) to Wigan on loan, Kozak to Villa, Dossena and Borini to Sunderland and finally, Gedo to Hull. Meanwhile, in Europe, Kaka returned to former club AC Milan.
F1:
Despite there not being a race this week, there was a big update in the world of car racing as it was confirmed that Daniel Ricciardo would replace fellow Aussie Webber at Red Bull next year after the veteran retires at the end of this year. The Torro Rosso driver will now be alongside three time world Champion Seb Vettel at the reigning Constructor's championship winners, Red Bull.
Cricket:
England beat Australia in the second T20 between the sides thanks to a tremendous 94 from opener Alex Hales. The Aussies won the toss and put England in who got off to a flyer thanks to Hales and Lumb (43). After Lumb was out Wright (30) and Morgan (20) gave useful contributions before the innings tailed off to end on 195-5. The only positive for Australia was that Fawad Ahmed picke up his first three wickets for the national side. In the Australian innings, only Warner put up real resistance in an innings of 53 before the rest of the team subsided without a real fight to end on 168 and fall 27 runs short. Dernbach bowled superbly for figures of 3-23 but unsurprisingly Hales was man of the match. In the CCD1, it was a key week as 2nd played first and came away with a win to take the title race tight to the line. Durham now trail Yorkshire by only 1.5 points heading into the final 3 games. Meanwhile Surrey are bottom with Derbyshire taking the other relegation spot. However Somerset are only 15 runs ahead so it should go right down to the wire.
Tennis:
The US open continued but Dan Evans dream run didn't as he was beaten by Spaniard Tommy Robredo - remember that name, it's important - in 4 sets in round three. The 3rd best British player put on a good show but was narrowly beaten by the veteran. However, it wasn't all bad as Murray continues into the quarters to face Stan Wawrinka after beating Istomin in 4 sets. The Swiss player beat 5th seed Berdych in round four. Nadal and Djokovic are also through to the quarters after masterful performances to beat Kohlschreiber (in 4 sets) and Granollers (6-3 6-0 6-0!) respectively. However, Swiss favourite Federer, the seventh seed for once, is out after losing in straight sets to none other than Tommy Robredo! The multiple grand slam winner was outplayed completely as his title hopes were eliminated with aplomb. In the women's draw, Serena Williams faces Chinese 5th seed Li Na in the semis after beating Spaniard Suarez Navarro 6-0 6-0 (double bagel). The other semi is between either second seed Azarenka or Hantuchova and Vinci or Pennetta.
Thank you for reading these features and please continue to do so weekly!
P.S there will be no Fantasy Friday this week for religious reasons
Friday, 30 August 2013
Fantasy Friday 3
It's that time of the week again - last minute scrambles to make transfers, pick your team and select the captain. Yet again, I will give my opinion on must have players you are unlikely to have in your team (so not the big name players) and 'no ways'. However, this week is also one of the biggest for the premier league table as Man U and Liverpool clash, not to mention the north london derby (COYG!!!). So, here goes;
Possible Successes:
1. Dimitar Berbatov (Fulham V Newcastle):
Berbatov provided the assist for Bent's goal last week and will be looking to follow it up with another good points score this week. Meanwhile, Newcastle's defense has seemed weak and were lucky not to concede against Morecambe in midweek. Therefore, this could be a great chance for the Bulgarian to notch some goals as he is partnered by Bent upfront, which should take some pressure off him.
2. Emanuele Giaccherini (Sunderland V Crystal Palace):
Fresh from his debut goal for Sunderland last week, the little Italian maestro could end up with two in two as his side face promoted Palace. This could be a great chance for him to strut his stuff and show the gap in class between internationals and championship players as many of Holloway's side will be. Expect Giaccherini to at least boss the midfield - and probably end up with something to show for it.
3. Ricky Van Wolfswinkel (Norwich V Southampton):
Van Wolfswinkel has settled in to English football nicely and the tall Dutch striker will have a great chance to add to his goal two weeks ago. He faces a Saints side who do not have the greatest centre backs in the world, particularly when up against a tall player notorious for his headed goals (as already demonstrated). He also holds the ball up well and could provide chances for his teammates to score, allowing him to generate an assist. In addition, it should be even better for him as expert crosser, Robert Snodgrass returns from injury to whip in those killer balls, right onto his forehead. Be very expectant if he is in your team.
Possible Failures:
1. Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool V Man Utd):
Yet again Sturridge makes this part of the feature as he faces a side who managed to keep a rampant Chelsea attack at bay last week. Also, his side will not have as much possession as usual resulting in less chances coming his way, meaning that even though Sturridge is one of the more clinical strikers in the league, he would have to do very well to come away from this clash with a goal or an assist.
2. Hugo Lloris (Spurs V Arsenal):
Lloris is one of the few goalies to have not conceded this term as of yet, even though he has played two extra games in the Europa league. That is an exceptional feat, but all things must come to an end and as we know from past experiences, there are always plenty of goals between these two bitter rivals. Plus, this time he will have to confront an in form French man by the name of Olivier.
3. Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal V Spurs):
If you were one of the poor people who, like me, bought into the performances of Koscielny last year and put him in your team for the start of the season - I pity you. He has been red carded, missed a game and now comes back in to the side for the derby where, as i have already mentioned, there are sure to be goals for both sides. In addition, Spurs have their own in-form striker in Soldado and mixed with their new signings are a forced to be reckoned with this year (however, hopefully they'll take time to gel).
Those are my picks for this week, yet again good luck and this week (more importantly than other weeks) COYG!!!
Possible Successes:
1. Dimitar Berbatov (Fulham V Newcastle):
Berbatov provided the assist for Bent's goal last week and will be looking to follow it up with another good points score this week. Meanwhile, Newcastle's defense has seemed weak and were lucky not to concede against Morecambe in midweek. Therefore, this could be a great chance for the Bulgarian to notch some goals as he is partnered by Bent upfront, which should take some pressure off him.
2. Emanuele Giaccherini (Sunderland V Crystal Palace):
Fresh from his debut goal for Sunderland last week, the little Italian maestro could end up with two in two as his side face promoted Palace. This could be a great chance for him to strut his stuff and show the gap in class between internationals and championship players as many of Holloway's side will be. Expect Giaccherini to at least boss the midfield - and probably end up with something to show for it.
3. Ricky Van Wolfswinkel (Norwich V Southampton):
Van Wolfswinkel has settled in to English football nicely and the tall Dutch striker will have a great chance to add to his goal two weeks ago. He faces a Saints side who do not have the greatest centre backs in the world, particularly when up against a tall player notorious for his headed goals (as already demonstrated). He also holds the ball up well and could provide chances for his teammates to score, allowing him to generate an assist. In addition, it should be even better for him as expert crosser, Robert Snodgrass returns from injury to whip in those killer balls, right onto his forehead. Be very expectant if he is in your team.
Possible Failures:
1. Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool V Man Utd):
Yet again Sturridge makes this part of the feature as he faces a side who managed to keep a rampant Chelsea attack at bay last week. Also, his side will not have as much possession as usual resulting in less chances coming his way, meaning that even though Sturridge is one of the more clinical strikers in the league, he would have to do very well to come away from this clash with a goal or an assist.
2. Hugo Lloris (Spurs V Arsenal):
Lloris is one of the few goalies to have not conceded this term as of yet, even though he has played two extra games in the Europa league. That is an exceptional feat, but all things must come to an end and as we know from past experiences, there are always plenty of goals between these two bitter rivals. Plus, this time he will have to confront an in form French man by the name of Olivier.
3. Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal V Spurs):
If you were one of the poor people who, like me, bought into the performances of Koscielny last year and put him in your team for the start of the season - I pity you. He has been red carded, missed a game and now comes back in to the side for the derby where, as i have already mentioned, there are sure to be goals for both sides. In addition, Spurs have their own in-form striker in Soldado and mixed with their new signings are a forced to be reckoned with this year (however, hopefully they'll take time to gel).
Those are my picks for this week, yet again good luck and this week (more importantly than other weeks) COYG!!!
Wednesday, 28 August 2013
Weekend review - Arsenal end crisis for now, Vettel pulls away
As promised (though a day late), here is my first ever weekend review of sport - a feature that will be continued every week on either a Tuesday or a Wednesday.
Football:
Firstly, it was a good weekend for Arsenal football club. Despite not signing anyone, the gunners registered their first win of the Premier league season over Fulham and ensured they will once again play in the champions league after a convincing 5-0 aggregate win over Turkish side Fenerbahce. Fans will hope that with the attraction of Champions league football assured, some of the world's better players will be lured to the Emirates stadium.
However, the game of the weekend between champions Utd and Mourinho's Chelsea did not live up to its billing, resulting in a rather lame goalless draw that sees both sides drop valuable points very early into the season.
This weekend was also one filled with shock results as newly promoted sides Cardiff and Hull both won, over Man City and Norwich respectively. They were even more accomplished feats as Cardiff went a goal down and Hull had to play the majority of the game with ten men after Sagbo was sent off for an off the ball challenge.
There were also wins for Spurs, Stoke and Liverpool as the reds and Tottenham continued their winning starts to the season.
F1:
Seb Vettel extended his lead in the drivers championships with a win in the Belgian grand prix at Spa. He led the Ferrari of Alonso and Hamilton's Mercedes over the line in a tense and exciting race, though the winner was never really in doubt. After overtaking Hamilton on the first lap, Vettel led the whole way to the finish and his nearest rival is now Alonso, who started exceedingly well to jump from mid-grid to 3rd instantly before overtaking Hamilton halfway through the race. There was also a strong performance from Button to register one of Maclaren's best performances of the season, whilst fellow Brit Di Resta crashed out. Also, Raikkonen, Vettel's previous closest rival, retired from the race to end his astonishing run of race finishes in the points - spanning 34 races!
Cricket:
The ashes finished with a thrilling draw as England's chase was cut short by bad light with only 21 runs and 4 overs remaining. It was set up by an attacking declaration from Michael Clarke in order to try to generate the first Australian win, but it so nearly backfired as the light saved Australia's blushes from a 4-0 series defeat.
In the Women's ashes, England need just one more win from the remaining two T20s to take the Ashes as they hold an 8-4 lead in the series (2 points for a win).
Tennis:
The US Open got underway on Monday and their were wins for Nadal, Williams and Djokovic over Monday and Tuesday. There were also victories for Britain's Dan Evans, against the 11th seed in straight sets, and Laura Robson. However, Heather Watson lost in three sets to the in-form Halep. Andy Murray begins his title defense tonight.
Overall it was a thrilling weekend of sporting action and this coming week now brings the close of the transfer window, the US open and the T20s between England and Australia for both the Women and Men.
Football:
Firstly, it was a good weekend for Arsenal football club. Despite not signing anyone, the gunners registered their first win of the Premier league season over Fulham and ensured they will once again play in the champions league after a convincing 5-0 aggregate win over Turkish side Fenerbahce. Fans will hope that with the attraction of Champions league football assured, some of the world's better players will be lured to the Emirates stadium.
However, the game of the weekend between champions Utd and Mourinho's Chelsea did not live up to its billing, resulting in a rather lame goalless draw that sees both sides drop valuable points very early into the season.
This weekend was also one filled with shock results as newly promoted sides Cardiff and Hull both won, over Man City and Norwich respectively. They were even more accomplished feats as Cardiff went a goal down and Hull had to play the majority of the game with ten men after Sagbo was sent off for an off the ball challenge.
There were also wins for Spurs, Stoke and Liverpool as the reds and Tottenham continued their winning starts to the season.
F1:
Seb Vettel extended his lead in the drivers championships with a win in the Belgian grand prix at Spa. He led the Ferrari of Alonso and Hamilton's Mercedes over the line in a tense and exciting race, though the winner was never really in doubt. After overtaking Hamilton on the first lap, Vettel led the whole way to the finish and his nearest rival is now Alonso, who started exceedingly well to jump from mid-grid to 3rd instantly before overtaking Hamilton halfway through the race. There was also a strong performance from Button to register one of Maclaren's best performances of the season, whilst fellow Brit Di Resta crashed out. Also, Raikkonen, Vettel's previous closest rival, retired from the race to end his astonishing run of race finishes in the points - spanning 34 races!
Cricket:
The ashes finished with a thrilling draw as England's chase was cut short by bad light with only 21 runs and 4 overs remaining. It was set up by an attacking declaration from Michael Clarke in order to try to generate the first Australian win, but it so nearly backfired as the light saved Australia's blushes from a 4-0 series defeat.
In the Women's ashes, England need just one more win from the remaining two T20s to take the Ashes as they hold an 8-4 lead in the series (2 points for a win).
Tennis:
The US Open got underway on Monday and their were wins for Nadal, Williams and Djokovic over Monday and Tuesday. There were also victories for Britain's Dan Evans, against the 11th seed in straight sets, and Laura Robson. However, Heather Watson lost in three sets to the in-form Halep. Andy Murray begins his title defense tonight.
Overall it was a thrilling weekend of sporting action and this coming week now brings the close of the transfer window, the US open and the T20s between England and Australia for both the Women and Men.
Friday, 23 August 2013
Fantasy Friday 2
Last week's results were full of surprises as Norwich drew with Everton and Villa beat Arsenal. This week, however, sees the first of many big games this season as champions Man U host Mourinho's Chelsea in what promises to be a close encounter. Alongside supporting your real team this week though, it is also time for the last minute transfers and adaptations to your fantasy team as you hope to leapfrog friends in multiple online leagues. As last week (but hopefully more accurately) I will list players who I think will or will not perform this week.
Possible Successes:
1. Joleon Lescott (Man City V Cardiff):
This week does not have many expected one sided games apart from this one, so if possible you should have multiple City players in your team. It is likely that City will keep a clean sheet so the whole defense should get a lot of points but Lescott is the cheapest of the lot at 5.5m and with captain Kompany out injured for a month, he is guaranteed his spot in the side for at least 4 weeks - and in that time City play Hull and Stoke, two sides with weaker frontlines.
2. Ricky Van Wolfswinkel (Norwich V Hull):
The Striker, bought this year from Sporting Lisbon, started his canaries career with a goal last week and could back that up with more against promoted side Hull who conceded two against Chelsea (though it could have been many more). He will lead the line and act as a target man for through balls and crosses, allowing him to have many chances at goal. Furthermore, next week Norwich host Southampton who, though they have bought well, have one of the weaker defenses in the league.
3. Olivier Giroud (Arsenal V Fulham):
Giroud's goal last week was perhaps the only positive for Arsenal against Villa, and he followed that up with another in midweek, continuing his astonishing run of form that has quietened (if not stopped completely) the doubters who want Arsenal to sign another striker. This run started in preseason and is yet to end, giving hope to gunners fans that the French man could finally reach expectations. This week Arsenal play Fulham who, though are not bad, are one of the teams Arsenal will hope to beat convincingly - especially if they want to keep up with north London rivals Tottenham in the race for the Champions league.
Possible Failures:
1. Branislav Ivanovic (Chelsea V Man Utd):
Despite scoring a monster 15 points last week and avoiding a ban or fine for the disputed challenge on Benteke that should have seen him sent off, Ivanovic will still be facing the champions at Old Trafford, and rarely do Utd not score at home, particularly with RVP on prolific form. He will also be under the watch of many fans adding heaps of pressure to his shoulders and will be playing a more defensive role than usual as Chelsea hope to keep Man U at bay and get the three points they need.
2. Simon Mignolet (Liverpool V Aston Villa):
After saving a penalty last week and ending with 15 points, Mignolet is the most owned keeper, but this week he faces a free-scoring Villa who scored three against Arsenal and one (should have been two) against Chelsea. Again, Villa will be led by a three man attack including young star Benteke, ex-England international Agbonlahor and Austrian Weimann who all work well together and will be expected to at least generate the chances to be taken that could result in a couple of goals against the reds and Mignolet.
3. Brede Hangeland (Fulham V Arsenal):
Arsenal looked in great touch in Europe scoring three and creating much more. They will also be looking to bounce back from a shocking defeat on the opening day and looking to register their first points of the season, and with on-form Giroud leading the line, and the cottagers missing starting keeper Stekelenburg through injury it would be assumed that they will score many goals this week, which isn't good for people with Fulham star Hangeland who will lose out on points this week.
So yet again, Good luck with your team!
P.S this week I will be starting another weekly installment on Tuesday where I recap the weekends sporting action, including the football and the Belgium GP
Possible Successes:
1. Joleon Lescott (Man City V Cardiff):
This week does not have many expected one sided games apart from this one, so if possible you should have multiple City players in your team. It is likely that City will keep a clean sheet so the whole defense should get a lot of points but Lescott is the cheapest of the lot at 5.5m and with captain Kompany out injured for a month, he is guaranteed his spot in the side for at least 4 weeks - and in that time City play Hull and Stoke, two sides with weaker frontlines.
2. Ricky Van Wolfswinkel (Norwich V Hull):
The Striker, bought this year from Sporting Lisbon, started his canaries career with a goal last week and could back that up with more against promoted side Hull who conceded two against Chelsea (though it could have been many more). He will lead the line and act as a target man for through balls and crosses, allowing him to have many chances at goal. Furthermore, next week Norwich host Southampton who, though they have bought well, have one of the weaker defenses in the league.
3. Olivier Giroud (Arsenal V Fulham):
Giroud's goal last week was perhaps the only positive for Arsenal against Villa, and he followed that up with another in midweek, continuing his astonishing run of form that has quietened (if not stopped completely) the doubters who want Arsenal to sign another striker. This run started in preseason and is yet to end, giving hope to gunners fans that the French man could finally reach expectations. This week Arsenal play Fulham who, though are not bad, are one of the teams Arsenal will hope to beat convincingly - especially if they want to keep up with north London rivals Tottenham in the race for the Champions league.
Possible Failures:
1. Branislav Ivanovic (Chelsea V Man Utd):
Despite scoring a monster 15 points last week and avoiding a ban or fine for the disputed challenge on Benteke that should have seen him sent off, Ivanovic will still be facing the champions at Old Trafford, and rarely do Utd not score at home, particularly with RVP on prolific form. He will also be under the watch of many fans adding heaps of pressure to his shoulders and will be playing a more defensive role than usual as Chelsea hope to keep Man U at bay and get the three points they need.
2. Simon Mignolet (Liverpool V Aston Villa):
After saving a penalty last week and ending with 15 points, Mignolet is the most owned keeper, but this week he faces a free-scoring Villa who scored three against Arsenal and one (should have been two) against Chelsea. Again, Villa will be led by a three man attack including young star Benteke, ex-England international Agbonlahor and Austrian Weimann who all work well together and will be expected to at least generate the chances to be taken that could result in a couple of goals against the reds and Mignolet.
3. Brede Hangeland (Fulham V Arsenal):
Arsenal looked in great touch in Europe scoring three and creating much more. They will also be looking to bounce back from a shocking defeat on the opening day and looking to register their first points of the season, and with on-form Giroud leading the line, and the cottagers missing starting keeper Stekelenburg through injury it would be assumed that they will score many goals this week, which isn't good for people with Fulham star Hangeland who will lose out on points this week.
So yet again, Good luck with your team!
P.S this week I will be starting another weekly installment on Tuesday where I recap the weekends sporting action, including the football and the Belgium GP
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