Middlesbrough’s Danny Coyne and Stephen McManus visited Teeside Hospice to help with the refurbishment and meet the guests and staff. There will be collection buckets for the hospice at Middlesbrough’s match against Bristol City tomorrow.
Kenny Jackett says Steve Morison can’t get Millwall promoted on his own – the other strikers have got to help.
Blackburn Rovers say they have not made an approach for Steve. Blackburn must be mad then but I think they’re quite right to leave him where he is.
Paul Parry says Preston North End will continue to climb the Championship table. And they probably will if Paul’s tendonitis allows him to get a good run in the team. He scored twice for Preston’s reserves in a 3-0 victory over Tranmere Rovers
Simon Church says his winning goal for Reading against Burnley wasn’t a fluke – he meant it!
Hal Robson-Kanu says the Reading players never doubted that they could beat Burnley. How right they were. Hal hopes he will continue to make an impact for Reading.
Reading striker Jake Taylor has had knee surgery and will be out for a few weeks.
Gary Speed says Sheffield United never get penalties. Except against West Bromwich Albion which is great when they’re in the same division as you but not so good when they’re up competing for a Champions’ League place. Sheffield Utd’s last penalty at home was so long ago, David Cotterill was there to score it.
Ashley Williams will equal a club record if he starts tomorrow. He will make his 106th start for the club, thus equalling the record currently held by Andy Legg and Gilbert Beech (who might also be Welsh, Google isn’t being helpful and I’m in a hurry) for biggest number of successive starts by an outfield player. The overall record is held by goalkeeper Roger Freestone. Let’s hope Ashley doesn’t get concussion again. He can’t remember last week’s match against Leicester City at all. This is South Wales suggests Ashley’s next target is to equal Freestone’s record – but I’d have thought his next aim should be making sure he breaks the outfield record in the match after this one.
Joe Allen says the derby against Cardiff City is a big match but for now the players are focused on Crystal Palace.
This my blog about the Wales football (soccer) team and the Welsh (or even slightly Welsh) footballers.
Don't take it too seriously. I don't really hate the English and I know the Welsh players can be a bit naughty now and then.
I'm loyal and biased but I am a football fan.
Saturday, 30 October 2010
Welsh Player News 29th October (Championship, Part 1)
Cardiff City have won all their matches featuring Craig Bellamy this season, a record which he hopes will continue against his former club Norwich City.
Cardiff City defender Kevin McNaughton admits it won’t be easy to hold onto his right back spot with Adam Matthews around.
Cardiff City’s Jonathan Meades is in the middle of a relegation battle on loan at FK Moss. The Norwegian season ends in November. He was harshly sent off for two booksable offences on his debut but was still named Man of the Match.
Nathaniel Jarvis is back at Cardiff City after Southend United decided not to extend his loan spell. Nathaniel was at Southend for seven matches and came off the bench in all of them. He didn’t actually score which is something a lot of people hold against you if you’re a striker but he can’t have been too bad if they kept bringing him off the bench. And it looks as though manager Paul Sturrock did consider keeping him for longer, it wasn’t just ‘no, you’re crap, piss off’.
Andy Dorman believes Crystal Palace will get out of trouble.
Robbie Savage would rather buy Gareth Bale than Wayne Rooney. See, I told you it wasn’t just me. Robbie shouldn’t make fun of Gareth’s ears though.
Actually, Robbie would probably rather buy himself than Wayne Rooney. (Me too. You know why.) And if Robbie’s right, I want Rhyl to get really rich and buy loads of players.
Robbie is hilariously unimpressed with most of Manchester United’s players and he isn’t a Wagner fan either. I can’t blame him, that Ring Cycle gives me a headache.*
Gareth Roberts will fight to win back his place in Derby County’s starting line-up.
Ipswich Town manager Roy Keane thought Troy Brown did well against Watford but he was dropped to the bench for the following game. Troy has just been called up to the Wales under-21 squad for the first time for the match against Austria in Newport..
Andy King believes new manager Sven-Goran Eriksson will help Leicester City up the table.
*(I know who he means really.)
Cardiff City defender Kevin McNaughton admits it won’t be easy to hold onto his right back spot with Adam Matthews around.
Cardiff City’s Jonathan Meades is in the middle of a relegation battle on loan at FK Moss. The Norwegian season ends in November. He was harshly sent off for two booksable offences on his debut but was still named Man of the Match.
Nathaniel Jarvis is back at Cardiff City after Southend United decided not to extend his loan spell. Nathaniel was at Southend for seven matches and came off the bench in all of them. He didn’t actually score which is something a lot of people hold against you if you’re a striker but he can’t have been too bad if they kept bringing him off the bench. And it looks as though manager Paul Sturrock did consider keeping him for longer, it wasn’t just ‘no, you’re crap, piss off’.
Andy Dorman believes Crystal Palace will get out of trouble.
Robbie Savage would rather buy Gareth Bale than Wayne Rooney. See, I told you it wasn’t just me. Robbie shouldn’t make fun of Gareth’s ears though.
Actually, Robbie would probably rather buy himself than Wayne Rooney. (Me too. You know why.) And if Robbie’s right, I want Rhyl to get really rich and buy loads of players.
Robbie is hilariously unimpressed with most of Manchester United’s players and he isn’t a Wagner fan either. I can’t blame him, that Ring Cycle gives me a headache.*
Gareth Roberts will fight to win back his place in Derby County’s starting line-up.
Ipswich Town manager Roy Keane thought Troy Brown did well against Watford but he was dropped to the bench for the following game. Troy has just been called up to the Wales under-21 squad for the first time for the match against Austria in Newport..
Andy King believes new manager Sven-Goran Eriksson will help Leicester City up the table.
*(I know who he means really.)
Welsh Player News 29th October (Premier League)
Aaron Ramsey should be in full training by the end of next week but if Brian Flynn has any plans to select him for the under-21s, Arsene Wenger will have something to say about it.
Wrexham and Wales under-21 goalkeeper Chris Maxwell has spent two days training with Everton and it probably isn’t just out of the kindness of their hearts. They probably are at least vaguely interested in signing him. But Dean Saunders says it’s nothing to get overly excited about.
Wigan Athletic manaeer Roberto Martinez feels Mark Hughes is doing a good job for Fulham. Mark says he will strengthen his squad in January.
Ryan Giggs could be playing in Dubai next season and earning £20,000 a week. And all his old friends could be going with him.
Owen Hargreaves has had another setback. Poor Owen, you don't want to see that happening to anyone even if they did choose England. Brysiwch wella, Owen.
Wrexham and Wales under-21 goalkeeper Chris Maxwell has spent two days training with Everton and it probably isn’t just out of the kindness of their hearts. They probably are at least vaguely interested in signing him. But Dean Saunders says it’s nothing to get overly excited about.
Wigan Athletic manaeer Roberto Martinez feels Mark Hughes is doing a good job for Fulham. Mark says he will strengthen his squad in January.
Ryan Giggs could be playing in Dubai next season and earning £20,000 a week. And all his old friends could be going with him.
Owen Hargreaves has had another setback. Poor Owen, you don't want to see that happening to anyone even if they did choose England. Brysiwch wella, Owen.
Championship Fixtures 30th October 2010 (Part 4)
Reading v Doncaster Rovers
Both teams are tied (with a number of other teams) on 19 points. A win could put them into the play-off places. Reading’s Welsh strikers won’t remember the last time Doncaster beat Reading – it was quite a few years before they were born.
Simon Church came off the bench to score Reading’s winning goal in a 4-0 victory over Burnley and he might have won himself a place in the starting line-up. Hopefully it won’t be at the expense of Hal Robson-Kanu.
John Oster (who faces one of his former sides) and Brian Stock will both hope to keep their places in Doncaster’s starting line-up.
Scunthorpe United v Leeds United
Leeds are only four points from the play-offs. Not a disaster. A few good wins and they’ll be right back up there again. As far as the good wins are concerned, Scunthorpe might be a good place to start. They’ve only won once at home. And Scunthorpe haven’t beaten Leeds for 48 years.
Sanchez Watt is expected to miss out again for Leeds due to his knee injury. The Yorkshire Post seems to think Jason Brown will start. I’d love it if they were right but he didn’t play in the last match.
Sheffield United v Coventry City
Coventry are in the top six but they haven’t won back-to-back games this season. As they won their last game, maybe Sheffield United will get the three points Gary Speed really needs.
Sheffield United’s Ched Evans could return from his recurring groin injury
Coventry striker Freddy Eastwood is back in training but he won’t be able to play.
Both teams are tied (with a number of other teams) on 19 points. A win could put them into the play-off places. Reading’s Welsh strikers won’t remember the last time Doncaster beat Reading – it was quite a few years before they were born.
Simon Church came off the bench to score Reading’s winning goal in a 4-0 victory over Burnley and he might have won himself a place in the starting line-up. Hopefully it won’t be at the expense of Hal Robson-Kanu.
John Oster (who faces one of his former sides) and Brian Stock will both hope to keep their places in Doncaster’s starting line-up.
Scunthorpe United v Leeds United
Leeds are only four points from the play-offs. Not a disaster. A few good wins and they’ll be right back up there again. As far as the good wins are concerned, Scunthorpe might be a good place to start. They’ve only won once at home. And Scunthorpe haven’t beaten Leeds for 48 years.
Sanchez Watt is expected to miss out again for Leeds due to his knee injury. The Yorkshire Post seems to think Jason Brown will start. I’d love it if they were right but he didn’t play in the last match.
Sheffield United v Coventry City
Coventry are in the top six but they haven’t won back-to-back games this season. As they won their last game, maybe Sheffield United will get the three points Gary Speed really needs.
Sheffield United’s Ched Evans could return from his recurring groin injury
Coventry striker Freddy Eastwood is back in training but he won’t be able to play.
Championship Fixtures 30th October 2010 (Part 3)
Middlesbrough v Bristol City
Tony Mowbray is Middlesbrough’s new manager. His recent achievements include finishing bottom of the Premier League with West Bromwich Albion and ensuring that Rangers didn’t have much competition to win the Scottish Premier League title. Which would have been great if he’d been managing Rangers but unfortunately he was managing Celtic. But that’s not to say he’s not a good manager and maybe he’s the person to show Middlesbrough that they’re actually a pretty good team. Boro are hoping for a second win in seven games.
Bristol City will be hoping their very creditable draw against Queen’s Park Rangers is a sign of good things to come.
Danny Coyne could start for Middbesbrough but I’m not sure he will. Despite the poor results, goalkeeping hasn’t really been Middlesbrough’s problem. Rhys Williams is still out with an injured pelvis.
Brett Pitman scored two goals for Bristol City’s reserves in a 3-2 win against Reading Manager Keith Millen was there to see him in action so maybe he did enough to get into the starting eleven against Middlesbrough.
Lewin Nyatanga could make his 150th career start but I’m not sure he will. He has apparently recovered from his knee injury but he so far hasn’t been ready to play in the first team and there has been talk of sending him out on loan.
Christian Ribeiro is still suffering from groin and hip problems and won’t play. Sam Vokes isn’t ready to return from a hamstring injury.
Portsmouth v Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest are still unbeaten at home but their away form isn’t the best and Portsmouth have been doing quite well lately – they’ve won their previous three league games. Forest have won their previous two.
Chris Gunter should start for Forest, perhaps at left back again. Robert Earnshaw was back in Forest’s squad for the victory over Ipswich but he is still struggling with his niggle.
Tony Mowbray is Middlesbrough’s new manager. His recent achievements include finishing bottom of the Premier League with West Bromwich Albion and ensuring that Rangers didn’t have much competition to win the Scottish Premier League title. Which would have been great if he’d been managing Rangers but unfortunately he was managing Celtic. But that’s not to say he’s not a good manager and maybe he’s the person to show Middlesbrough that they’re actually a pretty good team. Boro are hoping for a second win in seven games.
Bristol City will be hoping their very creditable draw against Queen’s Park Rangers is a sign of good things to come.
Danny Coyne could start for Middbesbrough but I’m not sure he will. Despite the poor results, goalkeeping hasn’t really been Middlesbrough’s problem. Rhys Williams is still out with an injured pelvis.
Brett Pitman scored two goals for Bristol City’s reserves in a 3-2 win against Reading Manager Keith Millen was there to see him in action so maybe he did enough to get into the starting eleven against Middlesbrough.
Lewin Nyatanga could make his 150th career start but I’m not sure he will. He has apparently recovered from his knee injury but he so far hasn’t been ready to play in the first team and there has been talk of sending him out on loan.
Christian Ribeiro is still suffering from groin and hip problems and won’t play. Sam Vokes isn’t ready to return from a hamstring injury.
Portsmouth v Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest are still unbeaten at home but their away form isn’t the best and Portsmouth have been doing quite well lately – they’ve won their previous three league games. Forest have won their previous two.
Chris Gunter should start for Forest, perhaps at left back again. Robert Earnshaw was back in Forest’s squad for the victory over Ipswich but he is still struggling with his niggle.
Championship Fixtures 30th October 2010 (Part 2)
Derby County v Watford
Watford take their excellent away record to Pride Park.Derby’s five-match unbeaten run came to an end against Millwall but if they win this, they will at least have won four consecutive home matches.
Robbie Savage will hope to start again for Derby Gareth Roberts made his comeback from a calf injury very late in the defeat to Millwall but he might not be ready to start. Even if he is ready, Derby were in a very good run until they encountered Millwall.
Jonathan Bond could be on the bench for Watford after returning from international duty with the under-19s.
Ipswich Town v Millwall
Ipswich’s unbeaten record has long gone and they’ve lost four of their last five matches. Millwall find themselves just two points away from the play-offs but they’ve only won once at Portman Road in the last six years.
Troy Brown should be in Ipswich’s squad somewhere.
Steve Morison will start for Millwall.
Leicester City v Preston North End
Only a win will ensure these two teams don’t slip back into the bottom three – and they can’t both have one. But with Middlesbrough and Crystal Palace both struggling, the chances are they’ll be all right. This time.
Andy King will probably keep his place in Leicester’s starting line-up – if he does, it will be his 100th start for Leicester, the day after his 22nd birthday. Landmark starts often seem to end up as birthday presents. It happened to Robbie Savage a few weeks ago.
Paul Parry could start after scoring twice for Preston’s reserves. Craig Morgan could be anywhere for all I know.
Watford take their excellent away record to Pride Park.Derby’s five-match unbeaten run came to an end against Millwall but if they win this, they will at least have won four consecutive home matches.
Robbie Savage will hope to start again for Derby Gareth Roberts made his comeback from a calf injury very late in the defeat to Millwall but he might not be ready to start. Even if he is ready, Derby were in a very good run until they encountered Millwall.
Jonathan Bond could be on the bench for Watford after returning from international duty with the under-19s.
Ipswich Town v Millwall
Ipswich’s unbeaten record has long gone and they’ve lost four of their last five matches. Millwall find themselves just two points away from the play-offs but they’ve only won once at Portman Road in the last six years.
Troy Brown should be in Ipswich’s squad somewhere.
Steve Morison will start for Millwall.
Leicester City v Preston North End
Only a win will ensure these two teams don’t slip back into the bottom three – and they can’t both have one. But with Middlesbrough and Crystal Palace both struggling, the chances are they’ll be all right. This time.
Andy King will probably keep his place in Leicester’s starting line-up – if he does, it will be his 100th start for Leicester, the day after his 22nd birthday. Landmark starts often seem to end up as birthday presents. It happened to Robbie Savage a few weeks ago.
Paul Parry could start after scoring twice for Preston’s reserves. Craig Morgan could be anywhere for all I know.
Championship Fixtures 30th October 2010 (Part 1)
Cardiff City v Norwich City
Cardiff will remain in the top two whether they win or lose – and they could even go top if Burnley get their first league win of the season against Queen’s Park Rangers. But first they play Norwich City and the newly-promoted side are looking like promotion contenders themselves. Cardiff are unbeaten at home and are on a run of four consecutive wins.
With Craig Bellamy in the team, Cardiff have so far always won. His knee problems have severely restricted but he is expected to face Norwich, one of his former sides. Adam Matthews is back from international duty with the Wales under-19 squad but he might not go straight back into the squad if Dave Jones is still annoyed about that own goal, which could have happened to anyone.
Jason Koumas and Aaron Wildig (who technically isn't Welsh but he wants to be) should both be on the bench at least. Nathaniel Jarvis has returned to Cardiff after hia loan spell at Southend United came to an end but unless Cardiff have a few more injury problems (like they haven’t got enough already) I dount he’ll get into the squad.
Andrew Crofts should start for Norwich.
Crystal Palace v Swansea City
Swansea remain unbeaten at home but they now seem to have got the hang of this away-win business and are currently unbeaten in five which could be bad news for Crystal Palace. If Palace lose, it will be their worst start to a season for ten years.
Andy Dorman will hope to start for Palace again after scoring his first goal for them against Preston North End. Let’s overlook the small fact that Palace didn’t actually win. Lewis Price will probably be on the bench.
Ashley Williams will return to Swansea’s starting line-up after recovering from concussion – and will equal a Swansea record in the process as he starts his 106th successive league game. Neil Taylor, Joe Allen and David Cotterill will be on the bench if they don’t start.
Cardiff will remain in the top two whether they win or lose – and they could even go top if Burnley get their first league win of the season against Queen’s Park Rangers. But first they play Norwich City and the newly-promoted side are looking like promotion contenders themselves. Cardiff are unbeaten at home and are on a run of four consecutive wins.
With Craig Bellamy in the team, Cardiff have so far always won. His knee problems have severely restricted but he is expected to face Norwich, one of his former sides. Adam Matthews is back from international duty with the Wales under-19 squad but he might not go straight back into the squad if Dave Jones is still annoyed about that own goal, which could have happened to anyone.
Jason Koumas and Aaron Wildig (who technically isn't Welsh but he wants to be) should both be on the bench at least. Nathaniel Jarvis has returned to Cardiff after hia loan spell at Southend United came to an end but unless Cardiff have a few more injury problems (like they haven’t got enough already) I dount he’ll get into the squad.
Andrew Crofts should start for Norwich.
Crystal Palace v Swansea City
Swansea remain unbeaten at home but they now seem to have got the hang of this away-win business and are currently unbeaten in five which could be bad news for Crystal Palace. If Palace lose, it will be their worst start to a season for ten years.
Andy Dorman will hope to start for Palace again after scoring his first goal for them against Preston North End. Let’s overlook the small fact that Palace didn’t actually win. Lewis Price will probably be on the bench.
Ashley Williams will return to Swansea’s starting line-up after recovering from concussion – and will equal a Swansea record in the process as he starts his 106th successive league game. Neil Taylor, Joe Allen and David Cotterill will be on the bench if they don’t start.
Friday, 29 October 2010
Premier League Fixtures 30th October 2010
Arsenal v West Ham United
Arsenal’s win over Manchester City last week moved them to second in the table, if only on goal difference. A home match against bottom club West Ham (who are yet to win away) should be the ideal way of keeping up the pressure on leaders Chelsea West Ham have done better of late but this is still their worst ever start to a season.
Aaron Ramsey is set to make his long-awaited comeback just a few days after this match but he’s unlikely to play in the first team for another month.
Danny Gabbidon will hope to return to West Ham’s starting line-up after being rested for their Carling Cup win over Stoke City. Jack Collison is still out with a knee injury.
Everton v Stoke City
Stoke have only one away win this season and Everton have only one home win. A win for Everton would lift them into the top ten, at least until Aston Villa’s match on Sunday. Stoke have not beaten Everton since Danny Collins was two.
Ryan Shawcross will keep his place in defence for Stoke and Danny Collins could be ready to return from a knee injury.
Fulham v Wigan Athletic
Fulham are looking for only their second win of the season against Wigan, who are now a point ahead of them and unbeaten away. Fulham and Mark Hughes haven’t been together for long but both have won only three of their last twenty Premier League games. Wigan are hoping to extend their unbeaten run to five matches.
Simon Davies will hope his long-term ankle injury will allow him to play a part in this match.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Manchester City
Wolves will be ready to pounce if Manchester City have lost any confidence as a reault of being beaten 3-0 by Arsenal last weekend. One thing Manchester City definitely have lost star striker Carlos Tevez but they aren’t exactly short in the attacking department.
Wayne Hennessey acquitted himself well for Wolves in the Carling Cup but he ended up on the losing side – and even if they hadn’t, I wouldn’t expect him to start this match. David Jones however is likely to keep his place and Dave Edwards might return to the starting line-up alongside him.
Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham travel to Old Trafford in the hope of ending Manchester United’s unbeaten record. The last time they won there, Gareth Bale was only five months old. Now he’s 21 and Man Utd are probably really hoping he doesn’t play. Their wish might just be granted, if Harrry Redknapp considers Inter Milan to be more important.
Ryan Giggs (hamstring), Owen Hargreaves (knee) and Michael Owen (depends on which paper you read but Alex Ferguson says it’s hia hamstring) are all expected to be absent for this match. Micharl is expected to be out for up to five weeks but Ryan should return to full training on Monday.
Tottenham’s top scorer Gareth Bale spent a few days recharging his batteries in Wales but with another match against Inter Milen just days away, he could be rested for this match.
Arsenal’s win over Manchester City last week moved them to second in the table, if only on goal difference. A home match against bottom club West Ham (who are yet to win away) should be the ideal way of keeping up the pressure on leaders Chelsea West Ham have done better of late but this is still their worst ever start to a season.
Aaron Ramsey is set to make his long-awaited comeback just a few days after this match but he’s unlikely to play in the first team for another month.
Danny Gabbidon will hope to return to West Ham’s starting line-up after being rested for their Carling Cup win over Stoke City. Jack Collison is still out with a knee injury.
Everton v Stoke City
Stoke have only one away win this season and Everton have only one home win. A win for Everton would lift them into the top ten, at least until Aston Villa’s match on Sunday. Stoke have not beaten Everton since Danny Collins was two.
Ryan Shawcross will keep his place in defence for Stoke and Danny Collins could be ready to return from a knee injury.
Fulham v Wigan Athletic
Fulham are looking for only their second win of the season against Wigan, who are now a point ahead of them and unbeaten away. Fulham and Mark Hughes haven’t been together for long but both have won only three of their last twenty Premier League games. Wigan are hoping to extend their unbeaten run to five matches.
Simon Davies will hope his long-term ankle injury will allow him to play a part in this match.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Manchester City
Wolves will be ready to pounce if Manchester City have lost any confidence as a reault of being beaten 3-0 by Arsenal last weekend. One thing Manchester City definitely have lost star striker Carlos Tevez but they aren’t exactly short in the attacking department.
Wayne Hennessey acquitted himself well for Wolves in the Carling Cup but he ended up on the losing side – and even if they hadn’t, I wouldn’t expect him to start this match. David Jones however is likely to keep his place and Dave Edwards might return to the starting line-up alongside him.
Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham travel to Old Trafford in the hope of ending Manchester United’s unbeaten record. The last time they won there, Gareth Bale was only five months old. Now he’s 21 and Man Utd are probably really hoping he doesn’t play. Their wish might just be granted, if Harrry Redknapp considers Inter Milan to be more important.
Ryan Giggs (hamstring), Owen Hargreaves (knee) and Michael Owen (depends on which paper you read but Alex Ferguson says it’s hia hamstring) are all expected to be absent for this match. Micharl is expected to be out for up to five weeks but Ryan should return to full training on Monday.
Tottenham’s top scorer Gareth Bale spent a few days recharging his batteries in Wales but with another match against Inter Milen just days away, he could be rested for this match.
Carling Cup Results 26th October 2010
Ipswich Town 3-1 Northampton Town
Ipswich would be forgiven for feeling slightly worried about Northampton after what they did to Liverpool. And it was Northampton who took the lead. Although Ipswich did manage to bring the score back to 2-1 by half-time, there was still a chance Northampton would score an equaliser… and Northampton only beat Liverpool on penalties. Luckily for Ipswich, the winner came finally (in the 88th minute, after 44 minutes of stress), Ipswich were back to winning ways and Northampton were able to turn their attention back to winning games in League Two, which might be a lot less romantic than giant-killings but it probably is more important.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich.
Paul Parry was on the bench for Northampton.
Leicester City 1-4 West Bromwich Albion
The score makes it look worse than it actually was although Leicester’s only goal wasn’t scored by one of their own players but by a West Brom half-time substitute. Leicester were on equal terms for nine minutes and remained in the game, at 2-1, for some seventeen minutes after that. (It might not seem like much but nine minutes can seem like forever in football.)
Andy King played the first 57 minutes for Leicester, at which point he was replaced by last year’s top scorer.
Boaz Myhill got a rare start in goal for West Brom and can’t really be blamed if his team-mates suddenly decided to start scoring against him. It would have been the last thing he was expecting.
Manchester United 3-2 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wolves came so close to taking this match to extra time, with the club joint-bottom In the Premier League table taking on the club in joint-second at Old Trafford. True, Manchester United made eleven changes but that included Bébé and substitute Javier Hernandez, both of whom scored. A weakend side? I’m not sure.
Wolves were fined for making eleven changes in a Cup match last season so they compromised by making only seven changes. Perhaps with a full-strength team, Wolves could have won it but the players who haven’t been starting can sometimes be all the hungrier, and we all know what hungry wolves are like. And what is full-strength anyway? Your eleven best players and the eleven players with the biggest chance of beating Manchester United won’t always be the same team. West Brom were unlucky in that Man Utd were far from weakened in the striking department. I wonder if this Bébé has any Welsh blood.
Wayne Hennessey started for Wolves and acquitted himself well although he was unfortunately in the wrong place when the winning goal deflected in off his body. David Jones got ninety minutes and was one of the four players who started at the weekend but Dave Edwards was dropped to the bench.
Wigan Athletic 2-0 Swansea City
Roberto Martinez returned to Swansea City – but as the manager of their opponents, Wigan. It’s fair to say the Swansea fans were very aware of his presence and let him know of it in a less than friendly manner. Swansea could have taken the lead after 9 minutes but their goal was ruled out for offside (wrongly I think but it’s hard to be 100% sure, even with the benefit of a pause button) and it was Wigan who took the lead some forty minutes later. Wigan didn’t make sure of the win until the third minute of stoppage time, and even then it came from the penalty spot.
David Cotterill was restored to Swansea’s starting line-up and Joe Allen was an unused substitute but a number of players were rested, including Neil Taylor and loads of others I haven’t noticed because of my Cardiff roots. Ashley Williams wasn’t rested except probably in the literal sense as he had concussion.
Ipswich would be forgiven for feeling slightly worried about Northampton after what they did to Liverpool. And it was Northampton who took the lead. Although Ipswich did manage to bring the score back to 2-1 by half-time, there was still a chance Northampton would score an equaliser… and Northampton only beat Liverpool on penalties. Luckily for Ipswich, the winner came finally (in the 88th minute, after 44 minutes of stress), Ipswich were back to winning ways and Northampton were able to turn their attention back to winning games in League Two, which might be a lot less romantic than giant-killings but it probably is more important.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich.
Paul Parry was on the bench for Northampton.
Leicester City 1-4 West Bromwich Albion
The score makes it look worse than it actually was although Leicester’s only goal wasn’t scored by one of their own players but by a West Brom half-time substitute. Leicester were on equal terms for nine minutes and remained in the game, at 2-1, for some seventeen minutes after that. (It might not seem like much but nine minutes can seem like forever in football.)
Andy King played the first 57 minutes for Leicester, at which point he was replaced by last year’s top scorer.
Boaz Myhill got a rare start in goal for West Brom and can’t really be blamed if his team-mates suddenly decided to start scoring against him. It would have been the last thing he was expecting.
Manchester United 3-2 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wolves came so close to taking this match to extra time, with the club joint-bottom In the Premier League table taking on the club in joint-second at Old Trafford. True, Manchester United made eleven changes but that included Bébé and substitute Javier Hernandez, both of whom scored. A weakend side? I’m not sure.
Wolves were fined for making eleven changes in a Cup match last season so they compromised by making only seven changes. Perhaps with a full-strength team, Wolves could have won it but the players who haven’t been starting can sometimes be all the hungrier, and we all know what hungry wolves are like. And what is full-strength anyway? Your eleven best players and the eleven players with the biggest chance of beating Manchester United won’t always be the same team. West Brom were unlucky in that Man Utd were far from weakened in the striking department. I wonder if this Bébé has any Welsh blood.
Wayne Hennessey started for Wolves and acquitted himself well although he was unfortunately in the wrong place when the winning goal deflected in off his body. David Jones got ninety minutes and was one of the four players who started at the weekend but Dave Edwards was dropped to the bench.
Wigan Athletic 2-0 Swansea City
Roberto Martinez returned to Swansea City – but as the manager of their opponents, Wigan. It’s fair to say the Swansea fans were very aware of his presence and let him know of it in a less than friendly manner. Swansea could have taken the lead after 9 minutes but their goal was ruled out for offside (wrongly I think but it’s hard to be 100% sure, even with the benefit of a pause button) and it was Wigan who took the lead some forty minutes later. Wigan didn’t make sure of the win until the third minute of stoppage time, and even then it came from the penalty spot.
David Cotterill was restored to Swansea’s starting line-up and Joe Allen was an unused substitute but a number of players were rested, including Neil Taylor and loads of others I haven’t noticed because of my Cardiff roots. Ashley Williams wasn’t rested except probably in the literal sense as he had concussion.
Thursday, 28 October 2010
Championship Result 25th October 2010
Leeds United 0-4 Cardiff City
Cardiff moved joint-top of the Championship – six points clear of their rivals, Swansea City, who are in third – after beating Leeds United. It was Cardiff’s fourth consecutive victory – and their biggest ever at Elland Road. A few weeks ago, Leeds were looking like promotion contenders while Cardiff were stuttering and there is, of course, a very long way to go. But such a comprehensive win can only give Cardiff more confidence
Craig Bellamy didn’t score any of Cardiff’s goals but he was very much involved, getting the assist for the fourth goal as well as playing a big part in the third. Craig was Man of the Match and he says he’s feeling much fitter and stronger, despite featuring in more games than he would have done if he’d stayed at Manchester City (that Roberto Mancini is a strange man).
Darcy Blake, Jason Koumas and Aaron Wildig had to be content with places on the bench but perhaps it’s better to keep them fresh before Craig’s knee gives out again. These are three great players but it’s fair to say Cardiff managed okay without them on this occasion.
I wonder if a change in goalkeeper was part of the reason for Leeds’ struggles. Jason Brown, who really hasn’t done that badly for Leeds, was dropped to the bench in favour of some guy with a famous dad (no let’s be honest, it’s the very talented Kasper Schmeichel, who probably has a bigger future than Jason. But I didn’t say that). Sanchez Watt was given the chance to rest an ankle injury that saw him depart both his previous games in the first half.
Cardiff moved joint-top of the Championship – six points clear of their rivals, Swansea City, who are in third – after beating Leeds United. It was Cardiff’s fourth consecutive victory – and their biggest ever at Elland Road. A few weeks ago, Leeds were looking like promotion contenders while Cardiff were stuttering and there is, of course, a very long way to go. But such a comprehensive win can only give Cardiff more confidence
Craig Bellamy didn’t score any of Cardiff’s goals but he was very much involved, getting the assist for the fourth goal as well as playing a big part in the third. Craig was Man of the Match and he says he’s feeling much fitter and stronger, despite featuring in more games than he would have done if he’d stayed at Manchester City (that Roberto Mancini is a strange man).
Darcy Blake, Jason Koumas and Aaron Wildig had to be content with places on the bench but perhaps it’s better to keep them fresh before Craig’s knee gives out again. These are three great players but it’s fair to say Cardiff managed okay without them on this occasion.
I wonder if a change in goalkeeper was part of the reason for Leeds’ struggles. Jason Brown, who really hasn’t done that badly for Leeds, was dropped to the bench in favour of some guy with a famous dad (no let’s be honest, it’s the very talented Kasper Schmeichel, who probably has a bigger future than Jason. But I didn’t say that). Sanchez Watt was given the chance to rest an ankle injury that saw him depart both his previous games in the first half.
Welsh Player News 28th October 2010 (Part 1)
Aaron Ramsey is expected to play in a behind-closed-doors friendly in early November and could be a substitute for the first team by December but he’s unlikely to start until January. (link includes picture of Aaron’s injury)
James Collins believes Aston Villa are a match for any Premier League side. He’s also happy to see some of last year’s fringe players playing a part this season.
Blackpool are understandably keen to extend David Vaughan’s contract but Ian Holloway thinks the club could lose him next summer.
Simon Davies doesn’t want Mark Schwarzer to leave Fulham for Arsenal. But either way, they might not be playing in the same team many more times. Simon is expecting to become a bit-part player for Fulham over the next couple of seasons before retiring in 2013. But ideally, he’ll score in another Europa League final first.
Shocking news from Old Trafford. Ryan Giggs is mortal. Apparently.
Michael Owen could retire from football if Manchester United let him go at the end of the season. He’s not interested in playing for any other teams and he’s happy Wayne Rooney is staying, even though he’s just one striker blocking his route to the first team. Michael is certainly not expected to play for the next few weeks as he has a hamstring injury. Three goals in six appearances isn’t bad though. I bet lots of strikers would love to score three goals in six games.
Sir Alex Ferguson says he made a big mistake letting Ryan Shawcross leave Manchester United. He would have played if he’d stayed. Ryan just wants to play for England. Shame.
Gareth Bale is set to be the richest Welsh player in history. He could also be by far the most expensive. All the top clubs want to buy him and his hat-trick can only encourage the other clubs to lure him away from my least favourite half of North London. And writer Michael Colvin believes Gareth will go.
For the moment, Gareth is happy where he is and Harry Redknapp says he’s not after Ashley Young because he’s got Gareth so he obviously doesn’t want to sell him.. They’re not that stupid. The Guardian describes Gareth as a talent to give British football hope. Or Welsh football maybe.
Chelsea, Manchester United, Inter Milan and AC Milan all want to sign Gareth.
Phil Neville enjoyed getting the better of a very tired Gareth when Tottenham played Everton last weekend. It’s the most impressive thing he’s done for a long time. No, I actually think Phil Neville is the best English right back at the moment. He wouldn’t get into the Wales team though.
Boaz Myhill hasn’t had a lot of first-team action since joining West Bromwich Albion from Hull City – but you won’t catch him moaning about it. (I wish he hadn’t mentioned beating Arsenal though. But who can blame him, it’s not something that happens to many clubs.)
Former Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Matt Murray feels Mick McCarthy did a good thing in making Marcus Hahnemann first choice keeper instead of Wayne Hennessey. And he might have a point.
James Collins believes Aston Villa are a match for any Premier League side. He’s also happy to see some of last year’s fringe players playing a part this season.
Blackpool are understandably keen to extend David Vaughan’s contract but Ian Holloway thinks the club could lose him next summer.
Simon Davies doesn’t want Mark Schwarzer to leave Fulham for Arsenal. But either way, they might not be playing in the same team many more times. Simon is expecting to become a bit-part player for Fulham over the next couple of seasons before retiring in 2013. But ideally, he’ll score in another Europa League final first.
Shocking news from Old Trafford. Ryan Giggs is mortal. Apparently.
Michael Owen could retire from football if Manchester United let him go at the end of the season. He’s not interested in playing for any other teams and he’s happy Wayne Rooney is staying, even though he’s just one striker blocking his route to the first team. Michael is certainly not expected to play for the next few weeks as he has a hamstring injury. Three goals in six appearances isn’t bad though. I bet lots of strikers would love to score three goals in six games.
Sir Alex Ferguson says he made a big mistake letting Ryan Shawcross leave Manchester United. He would have played if he’d stayed. Ryan just wants to play for England. Shame.
Gareth Bale is set to be the richest Welsh player in history. He could also be by far the most expensive. All the top clubs want to buy him and his hat-trick can only encourage the other clubs to lure him away from my least favourite half of North London. And writer Michael Colvin believes Gareth will go.
For the moment, Gareth is happy where he is and Harry Redknapp says he’s not after Ashley Young because he’s got Gareth so he obviously doesn’t want to sell him.. They’re not that stupid. The Guardian describes Gareth as a talent to give British football hope. Or Welsh football maybe.
Chelsea, Manchester United, Inter Milan and AC Milan all want to sign Gareth.
Phil Neville enjoyed getting the better of a very tired Gareth when Tottenham played Everton last weekend. It’s the most impressive thing he’s done for a long time. No, I actually think Phil Neville is the best English right back at the moment. He wouldn’t get into the Wales team though.
Boaz Myhill hasn’t had a lot of first-team action since joining West Bromwich Albion from Hull City – but you won’t catch him moaning about it. (I wish he hadn’t mentioned beating Arsenal though. But who can blame him, it’s not something that happens to many clubs.)
Former Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Matt Murray feels Mick McCarthy did a good thing in making Marcus Hahnemann first choice keeper instead of Wayne Hennessey. And he might have a point.
League Two Results 23rd October 2010 (Part 2)
Crewe Alexandra 3-1 Aldershot Town
Rhys Taylor played in goal for Crewe.
Darren Jones was in defence for Aldershot with Aaron Morris on the bench.
Hereford United 1-1 Accrington Stanley
Ryan Green, Tony James and Ryan Valentine played in defence for Hereford. Stuart Fleetwood came off the bench after 72 minutes. Last time Stuart came on as a substitute, he’d scored two goals by the 70th minute and Hereford came back to win. He came on a bit too late this time.
Lincoln City 0-0 Stockport County
Anthony Pulis played the full match for loan side Stockport County – against last season’s loan side Lincoln City. Owain fon Williams was on the bench.
Oxford United 3-1 Northampton Town
Paul Walker was on the bench for Northampton.
Rotherham United 3-4 Wycombe Wanderers
Mark Bradley started for Rotherham
Rhys Taylor played in goal for Crewe.
Darren Jones was in defence for Aldershot with Aaron Morris on the bench.
Hereford United 1-1 Accrington Stanley
Ryan Green, Tony James and Ryan Valentine played in defence for Hereford. Stuart Fleetwood came off the bench after 72 minutes. Last time Stuart came on as a substitute, he’d scored two goals by the 70th minute and Hereford came back to win. He came on a bit too late this time.
Lincoln City 0-0 Stockport County
Anthony Pulis played the full match for loan side Stockport County – against last season’s loan side Lincoln City. Owain fon Williams was on the bench.
Oxford United 3-1 Northampton Town
Paul Walker was on the bench for Northampton.
Rotherham United 3-4 Wycombe Wanderers
Mark Bradley started for Rotherham
League Two Results 23rd October 2010 (Part 1)
Barnet 1-0 Macclesfield Town
Barnet were without new signing Grant Basey, who has an ankle injury.
Sam Wedgbury was on the bench for Macclesfield.
Burton Albion 3-0 Bradford City
New loan signing Jason Price got his first start for Bradford.
Bury 1-0 Southend United
Peter Gilbert played the full match for Southend. Nathaniel Jarvis made another late substitute appearance.
Cheltenham Town 0-0 Port Vale
Josh Low played the full match for Cheltenham.
Gareth Owen was in defence for Port Vale.
Chesterfield 4-3 Shrewsbury Town
Shrewsbury came back from 4-0 down and almost got a draw.
Craig Davies scored twice and it was a good thing he did. The first time he scored, he got a yellow card for unsporting behaviour. I’m not sure exactly what he did but it’s a good thing he didn’t repeat it.
Barnet were without new signing Grant Basey, who has an ankle injury.
Sam Wedgbury was on the bench for Macclesfield.
Burton Albion 3-0 Bradford City
New loan signing Jason Price got his first start for Bradford.
Bury 1-0 Southend United
Peter Gilbert played the full match for Southend. Nathaniel Jarvis made another late substitute appearance.
Cheltenham Town 0-0 Port Vale
Josh Low played the full match for Cheltenham.
Gareth Owen was in defence for Port Vale.
Chesterfield 4-3 Shrewsbury Town
Shrewsbury came back from 4-0 down and almost got a draw.
Craig Davies scored twice and it was a good thing he did. The first time he scored, he got a yellow card for unsporting behaviour. I’m not sure exactly what he did but it’s a good thing he didn’t repeat it.
League One Results 23rd October 2010 (Part 2)
Hartlepool United 2-2 Bristol Rovers
Byron Anthony made up for an own goal in his last match by getting a last-minute equaliser for Bristol Rovers. Ben Swallow made his first substitute appearance of the season while Eliot Richards stayed on the bench.
Milton Keynes Dons 1-0 Exeter City
Jermaine Easter was on the bench but he got to make an appearance after 72 minutes.
Richard Duffy and Rob Edwards both started for Exeter but Daniel Nardiello’s hamstring is playing up again and he missed the match.
Plymouth Argyle 2-1 Huddersfield Town
Plymouth were without their captain Carl Fletcher, who has a dead leg.
Rochdale 3-2 Dagenham & Redbridge
Nicky Adams got the assist for Rochdale’s second goal – he’s now played twice for Rochdale and got two assists. It looks like he’s settling in well. Matt Done was on the bench.
Tony Roberts was in goal for Dag & Red.
Sheffield Wednesday 1-1 Bournemouth
Rhoys Wiggins played the full match for Bournemouth. Joe Partington was on the bench.
Byron Anthony made up for an own goal in his last match by getting a last-minute equaliser for Bristol Rovers. Ben Swallow made his first substitute appearance of the season while Eliot Richards stayed on the bench.
Milton Keynes Dons 1-0 Exeter City
Jermaine Easter was on the bench but he got to make an appearance after 72 minutes.
Richard Duffy and Rob Edwards both started for Exeter but Daniel Nardiello’s hamstring is playing up again and he missed the match.
Plymouth Argyle 2-1 Huddersfield Town
Plymouth were without their captain Carl Fletcher, who has a dead leg.
Rochdale 3-2 Dagenham & Redbridge
Nicky Adams got the assist for Rochdale’s second goal – he’s now played twice for Rochdale and got two assists. It looks like he’s settling in well. Matt Done was on the bench.
Tony Roberts was in goal for Dag & Red.
Sheffield Wednesday 1-1 Bournemouth
Rhoys Wiggins played the full match for Bournemouth. Joe Partington was on the bench.
League One Results 23rd October 2010 (Part 1)
Brentford 2-1 Peterborough United
Brentford climbed out of the bottom three with an excellent win over third-placed Peterborough.
Arron Davies played 58 minutes for Peterborough
Brighton 2-0 Yeovil Town
Owain Tudur Jones and Gavin Williams played the full match for Yeovil but they weren’t able to do anything much against League One’s top club. Nathan Jones and Rhys Baggridge were both on the bench but Shaun MacDonald missed out due to illness.
Colchester United 2-1 Notts County
Colchester’s Lee Beevers returned from a hand injury inn the 93rd minute. Lloyd James was on the bench.
Ben Davies played the full match for Notts County.
Brentford climbed out of the bottom three with an excellent win over third-placed Peterborough.
Arron Davies played 58 minutes for Peterborough
Brighton 2-0 Yeovil Town
Owain Tudur Jones and Gavin Williams played the full match for Yeovil but they weren’t able to do anything much against League One’s top club. Nathan Jones and Rhys Baggridge were both on the bench but Shaun MacDonald missed out due to illness.
Colchester United 2-1 Notts County
Colchester’s Lee Beevers returned from a hand injury inn the 93rd minute. Lloyd James was on the bench.
Ben Davies played the full match for Notts County.
Championship Results 23rd October 2010 (Part 2)
Preston North End 4-3 Crystal Palace
Preston probably got a bit worried when Palace started fighting back. They’re probably still having nightmares about Burnley and Preston know it’s possible to fight back from 4-1 down and win – they did it against Leeds United. But it was okay this time. Preston held on for the win.
Paul Parry was on the bench for Preston. Craig Morgan wasn’t there but I don’t know why.
Andy Dorman scored his first goal for Crystal Palace. Lewis Price was on the bench.
Swansea 2-0 Leicester City
Ashley Williams and Joe Allen both started for Swansea. Neil Taylor and David Cotterill were unused substitutes.
Andy King started for Leicester.
Preston probably got a bit worried when Palace started fighting back. They’re probably still having nightmares about Burnley and Preston know it’s possible to fight back from 4-1 down and win – they did it against Leeds United. But it was okay this time. Preston held on for the win.
Paul Parry was on the bench for Preston. Craig Morgan wasn’t there but I don’t know why.
Andy Dorman scored his first goal for Crystal Palace. Lewis Price was on the bench.
Swansea 2-0 Leicester City
Ashley Williams and Joe Allen both started for Swansea. Neil Taylor and David Cotterill were unused substitutes.
Andy King started for Leicester.
Championship Results 23rd October 2010 (Part 1)
Burnley 0-4 Reading
Hal Robson-Kanu played the full match and got the assist for the third goal.
Simon Church came off the bench and scored the winner.
Doncaster Rovers 2-0 Sheffield United
John Oster and Brian Stock both started for Doncaster.
Ched Evans has had a recurrence of the groin injury that kept him out of the Wales matches so he didn’t play.
Millwall 2-0 Derby County
Steve Morison scored the first goal and set up the second for Millwall.
Robbie Savage played for just over an hour for Derby. Gareth Roberts finally made his return from a calf injury in the 86th minute.
Norwich City 1-0 Middlesbrough
Andrew Crofts played the full match for Norwich.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Middlesbrough.
Nottingham Forest 2-0 Ipswich Town
Chris Gunter played in defence for Forest.
Robert Earnshaw was back in the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury but he stayed on the bench.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich.
Hal Robson-Kanu played the full match and got the assist for the third goal.
Simon Church came off the bench and scored the winner.
Doncaster Rovers 2-0 Sheffield United
John Oster and Brian Stock both started for Doncaster.
Ched Evans has had a recurrence of the groin injury that kept him out of the Wales matches so he didn’t play.
Millwall 2-0 Derby County
Steve Morison scored the first goal and set up the second for Millwall.
Robbie Savage played for just over an hour for Derby. Gareth Roberts finally made his return from a calf injury in the 86th minute.
Norwich City 1-0 Middlesbrough
Andrew Crofts played the full match for Norwich.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Middlesbrough.
Nottingham Forest 2-0 Ipswich Town
Chris Gunter played in defence for Forest.
Robert Earnshaw was back in the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury but he stayed on the bench.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich.
Championship Result 22nd October 2010
Bristol City 1-1 Queen’s Park Rangers
The top side took on the bottom side… and neither of them won. But I’m sure Bristol City will be happy to take a point against QPR.
Brett Pitman was on the bench for Bristol City but the other Welshmen are all injured. Christian Ribeiro is the latest to succumb – he has back and hip problems again.
The top side took on the bottom side… and neither of them won. But I’m sure Bristol City will be happy to take a point against QPR.
Brett Pitman was on the bench for Bristol City but the other Welshmen are all injured. Christian Ribeiro is the latest to succumb – he has back and hip problems again.
Premier League Results 23rd October 2010
Birmingham City 2-0 Blackpool
Neal Eardley played the full match as Blackpool lost 2-0 away at Birmingham. He also got a yellow card.
David Vaughan played the full match.
Chelsea 2-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wolves failed to get back to winning ways against Chelsea but what were the chances of that?
David Jones and Dave Edwards played the complete match for Wolves. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench.
Sunderland 1-0 Aston Villa
James Collins played the full match for Aston Villa.
Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 Everton
Gareth Bale was understandably tired after his exertions in Milan but I understand he still collected the Man of the Match champagne. Any more of those and he’ll have to take up drinking.
West Bromwich Albion 2-1 Fulham
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom.
Simon Davies didn’t feature for Fulham in this match.
West Ham United 1-2 Newcastle United
Danny Gabbidon played the full match for West Ham.
Wigan Athletic 1-1 Bolton Wanderers
Sam Ricketts was on the bench for Bolton.
Neal Eardley played the full match as Blackpool lost 2-0 away at Birmingham. He also got a yellow card.
David Vaughan played the full match.
Chelsea 2-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wolves failed to get back to winning ways against Chelsea but what were the chances of that?
David Jones and Dave Edwards played the complete match for Wolves. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench.
Sunderland 1-0 Aston Villa
James Collins played the full match for Aston Villa.
Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 Everton
Gareth Bale was understandably tired after his exertions in Milan but I understand he still collected the Man of the Match champagne. Any more of those and he’ll have to take up drinking.
West Bromwich Albion 2-1 Fulham
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom.
Simon Davies didn’t feature for Fulham in this match.
West Ham United 1-2 Newcastle United
Danny Gabbidon played the full match for West Ham.
Wigan Athletic 1-1 Bolton Wanderers
Sam Ricketts was on the bench for Bolton.
Wednesday, 20 October 2010
Champions' League Fixtures 20th October 2010
Inter Milan v Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham visit the European Cup holders in the San Siro. Nice easy job then.
I’m not sure if the Tottenham fans want Gareth Bale to play well or badly. The bette he plays, the more likely Inter Milan are to bid for him.
Manchester United v Bursaspor
The Wayne Rooney issue is so well-publicised, I found out about it from my football-hating mum. Man Utd must push these concerns aside in order to claim the win everyone will except of them.
They’ll be without Ryan Giggs, who has aggravated his hamstring, and Owen Hargreaves, who can’t make his latest comeback from his knee problem because he’s hurt his calf. Michael Owen has an injury problem that seems to be different in every paper but whatever it is, he won’t play in this match.
Tottenham visit the European Cup holders in the San Siro. Nice easy job then.
I’m not sure if the Tottenham fans want Gareth Bale to play well or badly. The bette he plays, the more likely Inter Milan are to bid for him.
Manchester United v Bursaspor
The Wayne Rooney issue is so well-publicised, I found out about it from my football-hating mum. Man Utd must push these concerns aside in order to claim the win everyone will except of them.
They’ll be without Ryan Giggs, who has aggravated his hamstring, and Owen Hargreaves, who can’t make his latest comeback from his knee problem because he’s hurt his calf. Michael Owen has an injury problem that seems to be different in every paper but whatever it is, he won’t play in this match.
Premier League Results 17th October 2010
Blackpool 2-3 Manchester City
It’s a measure of how well Blackpool have done that manager Ian Holloway was disappointed they didn’t win. And Manchester City aren’t just any old team. They are second in the league and they probably don’t have many players who didn’t cost more than Blackpool’s entire squad. Blackpool matched their opponents and had a goal controversially disallowed, whilst two of Manchester City’s goals shouldn’t have stood. Even so, Manchester City needed a moment of genius in order to win it and unluckily for Blackpool, David Silva provided it. Let’s hope Blackpool are still here next season for a rematch at Bloomfield Road. Going on their performances so far, they are more than deserving of it.
David Vaughan and Neal Eardley were both in Blackpool’s starting line-up and played their part in keeping Blackpool in the game but Rob Edwards wasn’t in the squad at all.
It’s a measure of how well Blackpool have done that manager Ian Holloway was disappointed they didn’t win. And Manchester City aren’t just any old team. They are second in the league and they probably don’t have many players who didn’t cost more than Blackpool’s entire squad. Blackpool matched their opponents and had a goal controversially disallowed, whilst two of Manchester City’s goals shouldn’t have stood. Even so, Manchester City needed a moment of genius in order to win it and unluckily for Blackpool, David Silva provided it. Let’s hope Blackpool are still here next season for a rematch at Bloomfield Road. Going on their performances so far, they are more than deserving of it.
David Vaughan and Neal Eardley were both in Blackpool’s starting line-up and played their part in keeping Blackpool in the game but Rob Edwards wasn’t in the squad at all.
Welsh Player News 16th October 2010 (League One, League Two, Scotland)
League One
Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale was impressed with the performance of his 37 year old assistant manager Rob Edwards when he made his third start of the season against his former side Carlisle United. Rob’s defensive partner Billy Jones also had some good words to say about Rob and Vital Exeter City agrees that Rob has still got it.
Daniel Nardiello had a feeling Exeter could beat Carlisle – it’s just a shame he stayed on the bench and missed the whole thing. But as he says, it just shows how strong Exeter are up front.
League Two
Chesterfield striker Craig Davies has been nominated for the PFA Fans’ League Two Player of the Month award.
Stuart Fleetwood says Hereford United need to stop making so many errors. He can’t come off the bench and inspire a fightback every week. But other than that, he was delighted with the 4-3 victory over Northampton Town.
Rhys Day was thrilled to get an ovation from Mansfield Town supporters when he returned to his former club on loan from Oxford United. He also hinted that the move could become permanent. He nearly marked his debut with a goal but unfortunately Mansfield could only draw when home side Darlington scored a late equaliser.
Gareth Owen says that in order to end their winless run, the Port Vale players must stick together. But maybe the fans’ expectations are just a tiny bit too high.
Scotland
Joe Ledley was delighted when Celtic won their eighth successive game of the season against Dundee United.
Rhys Weston speaks of his personal devastation following the likely demise of his club Dundee.
Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale was impressed with the performance of his 37 year old assistant manager Rob Edwards when he made his third start of the season against his former side Carlisle United. Rob’s defensive partner Billy Jones also had some good words to say about Rob and Vital Exeter City agrees that Rob has still got it.
Daniel Nardiello had a feeling Exeter could beat Carlisle – it’s just a shame he stayed on the bench and missed the whole thing. But as he says, it just shows how strong Exeter are up front.
League Two
Chesterfield striker Craig Davies has been nominated for the PFA Fans’ League Two Player of the Month award.
Stuart Fleetwood says Hereford United need to stop making so many errors. He can’t come off the bench and inspire a fightback every week. But other than that, he was delighted with the 4-3 victory over Northampton Town.
Rhys Day was thrilled to get an ovation from Mansfield Town supporters when he returned to his former club on loan from Oxford United. He also hinted that the move could become permanent. He nearly marked his debut with a goal but unfortunately Mansfield could only draw when home side Darlington scored a late equaliser.
Gareth Owen says that in order to end their winless run, the Port Vale players must stick together. But maybe the fans’ expectations are just a tiny bit too high.
Scotland
Joe Ledley was delighted when Celtic won their eighth successive game of the season against Dundee United.
Rhys Weston speaks of his personal devastation following the likely demise of his club Dundee.
League Two Results 16th October 2010 (Part 2)
Port Vale 0-0 Gillingham
Port Vale won’t be very happy after playing a third consecutive game without a win but they’re probably still happier than Gillingham. While a point at the home of the former league leaders is actually pretty good, equalling a club record for number of games without defeat is slightly less good. Especially when the number of winless games is 33.
Gareth Owen helped Port Vale to their clean sheet, by both earning the Man of the Match award and supported his central defence partner Ritchie Sutton through his first league start.
Shrewsbury Town 2-0 Lincoln City
Shrewsbury won for the first time in six matches but the run can’t have been as bad as it sounded. Shrewsbury are 5th in the table, four points from the top of the table and unbeaten at home.
Tom Bradshaw was on the bench for Shrewsbury.
Southend United 0-2 Crewe Alexandra
Crewe’s run of five consecutive draws came to an end – and luckily their unbeaten run didn’t end with it. This was Crewe’s first away win of the season.
Peter Gilbert was dropped to Southend’s bench and Crewe took full advantage. Nathaniel Jarvis came off the bench late on and tried to help but he couldn’t get past Crewe goalkeeper Rhys Taylor. The good news is that Wales have a great goalkeeper waiting in the wings. The bad news? He plays for Chelsea.
Stockport County 2-1 Barnet
Stockport won at home for the first time since February. Admittedly it wasn’t against the best team in the league – Barnet have only one point from away games this season - but Stockport got the same number of points as they’d have got if they’d been playing Chesterfield.
Loanee Anthony Pulis again showed he’s not as bad as people think when he got the assist for the winning goal. Owain fon Williams was on the bench for Stockport.
Barnet loanee Grant Basey missed out with an ankle injury.
Wycombe Wanderers 1-2 Chesterfield
Chesterfield move to the top of the table after beating Wycombe although part of the credit must go to Gillingham, who held Port Vale to a draw.
Craig Davies scored both Chesterfield’s goals. Robert Page was back on the bench.
Port Vale won’t be very happy after playing a third consecutive game without a win but they’re probably still happier than Gillingham. While a point at the home of the former league leaders is actually pretty good, equalling a club record for number of games without defeat is slightly less good. Especially when the number of winless games is 33.
Gareth Owen helped Port Vale to their clean sheet, by both earning the Man of the Match award and supported his central defence partner Ritchie Sutton through his first league start.
Shrewsbury Town 2-0 Lincoln City
Shrewsbury won for the first time in six matches but the run can’t have been as bad as it sounded. Shrewsbury are 5th in the table, four points from the top of the table and unbeaten at home.
Tom Bradshaw was on the bench for Shrewsbury.
Southend United 0-2 Crewe Alexandra
Crewe’s run of five consecutive draws came to an end – and luckily their unbeaten run didn’t end with it. This was Crewe’s first away win of the season.
Peter Gilbert was dropped to Southend’s bench and Crewe took full advantage. Nathaniel Jarvis came off the bench late on and tried to help but he couldn’t get past Crewe goalkeeper Rhys Taylor. The good news is that Wales have a great goalkeeper waiting in the wings. The bad news? He plays for Chelsea.
Stockport County 2-1 Barnet
Stockport won at home for the first time since February. Admittedly it wasn’t against the best team in the league – Barnet have only one point from away games this season - but Stockport got the same number of points as they’d have got if they’d been playing Chesterfield.
Loanee Anthony Pulis again showed he’s not as bad as people think when he got the assist for the winning goal. Owain fon Williams was on the bench for Stockport.
Barnet loanee Grant Basey missed out with an ankle injury.
Wycombe Wanderers 1-2 Chesterfield
Chesterfield move to the top of the table after beating Wycombe although part of the credit must go to Gillingham, who held Port Vale to a draw.
Craig Davies scored both Chesterfield’s goals. Robert Page was back on the bench.
League Two Results 16th October 2010 (Part 1)
Accrington Stanley 2-3 Rotherham United
Accrington’s unbeaten home record ended with a stoppage-time goal from Rotherham.
Mark Bradley wasn’t very impressed with his first start for Rotherham so let’s hope this one met with his approval.
Aldershot Town 2-1 Morecambe
Both sides will have been disappointed with their start to the season after being in the play-offs last season but whilst Morecambe are still uncomfortably close to the bottom of the table, Aldershot’s win puts them in seventh place, very much in the play-off race. And even Morecambe are only five points away.
Darren Jones played well for Aldershot but Aaron Morris didn’t. It’s impossible to play well when the manager leaves you on the bench.
Bradford City 3-1 Cheltenham Town
It looked like Bradford were getting back to their own selves when they went 1-0 down after seven minutes. However, the good thing about early goals is that there’s plenty of time to turn things around and struggling Bradford scored three times to beat play-off hopefuls Cheltenham.
Jason Price made a good start to life at Bradford City. The striker, who has just joined from Carlisle United on loan, only came off the bench at half-time but he knew his team-mates well enough to provide the assist for the second goal. (It would have been even better if he’d actually scored the second goal, not to mention the third, but you can’t have everything.)
Josh Low scored Cheltenham’s goal but things went downhill for him after that.
Macclesfield Town 3-2 Oxford United
Oxford were leading 2-0 at the break but the ‘few words’ from Macclesfield manager Gary Simpson certainly had the desired effect as Oxford’s unbeaten away record came to an end.
Sam Wedgbury was a late substitute for Macclesfield.
Oxford were without Rhys Day, who has joined Mansfield Town on loan.
Northampton Town 3-4 Hereford United
Hereford did what Liverpool couldn’t when they beat Northampton 3-4. It’s particularly impressive considering Hereford let Northampton have a three-goal start:
But then Stuart Fleetwood came off the bench for Hereford and scored two goals. Two more duly followed and Hereford took all three points.
Paul Walker was on the bench for Northampton.
Ryan Green, Ryan Valentine and Tony James played in defence for Hereford and kept a clean sheet in the second half. Ryan G managed to get a Northampton player sent off when his prone figure somehow incited his opponent to throw the ball of them while Ryan V did his bit to prevent Northampton’s opening goal from coming a lot sooner than it did.
Accrington’s unbeaten home record ended with a stoppage-time goal from Rotherham.
Mark Bradley wasn’t very impressed with his first start for Rotherham so let’s hope this one met with his approval.
Aldershot Town 2-1 Morecambe
Both sides will have been disappointed with their start to the season after being in the play-offs last season but whilst Morecambe are still uncomfortably close to the bottom of the table, Aldershot’s win puts them in seventh place, very much in the play-off race. And even Morecambe are only five points away.
Darren Jones played well for Aldershot but Aaron Morris didn’t. It’s impossible to play well when the manager leaves you on the bench.
Bradford City 3-1 Cheltenham Town
It looked like Bradford were getting back to their own selves when they went 1-0 down after seven minutes. However, the good thing about early goals is that there’s plenty of time to turn things around and struggling Bradford scored three times to beat play-off hopefuls Cheltenham.
Jason Price made a good start to life at Bradford City. The striker, who has just joined from Carlisle United on loan, only came off the bench at half-time but he knew his team-mates well enough to provide the assist for the second goal. (It would have been even better if he’d actually scored the second goal, not to mention the third, but you can’t have everything.)
Josh Low scored Cheltenham’s goal but things went downhill for him after that.
Macclesfield Town 3-2 Oxford United
Oxford were leading 2-0 at the break but the ‘few words’ from Macclesfield manager Gary Simpson certainly had the desired effect as Oxford’s unbeaten away record came to an end.
Sam Wedgbury was a late substitute for Macclesfield.
Oxford were without Rhys Day, who has joined Mansfield Town on loan.
Northampton Town 3-4 Hereford United
Hereford did what Liverpool couldn’t when they beat Northampton 3-4. It’s particularly impressive considering Hereford let Northampton have a three-goal start:
But then Stuart Fleetwood came off the bench for Hereford and scored two goals. Two more duly followed and Hereford took all three points.
Paul Walker was on the bench for Northampton.
Ryan Green, Ryan Valentine and Tony James played in defence for Hereford and kept a clean sheet in the second half. Ryan G managed to get a Northampton player sent off when his prone figure somehow incited his opponent to throw the ball of them while Ryan V did his bit to prevent Northampton’s opening goal from coming a lot sooner than it did.
League One Results 16th October 2010 (Part 2)
Exeter City 2-1 Carlisle United
Exeter extended their unbeaten run to six games with victory over Carlisle, who are now only ahead of them on goal difference.
Rob Edwards was outstanding in the starting line-up for Exeter but even so, Carlisle could have scored another without the intervention of Richard Duffy. Daniel Nardiello was on the bench but only because Exeter are being careful with him. And it worked, as far as I know, Daniel didn’t pick up the smallest niggle during this game. Not even a splinter from sitting on the bench.
Notts County 2-0 Plymouth Argyle
Notts County played the third of the three promoted sides and for the second time, they came away with three points.
After two whole matches without a goal or an assist, something was bound to happen. And it did: Ben Davies got an assist which helped Notts County to a deserved win over Plymouth.
Carl Fletcher played the full match for Plymouth.
Oldham Athletic 0-0 Colchester United
Oldham are unbeaten at home, Colchester aere unbeaten away. It was a bit predictable really. Colchester looked the stronger side at the start of the match but Oldham took control in the second half and looked the most likely to score. And they would have done if Colchester’s goalkeeper hadn’t been on such good form.
Joe Jacobson was absent from Oldham’s squad again but I don’t think he’s injured as he is featuring in reserve games.
Lloyd James was a half-time substitute for Colchester. This is only the second league match he’s appeared in this season. Not what I expected, I thought he’d be banging them in every three games and make Southampton look stupid for releasing him. But it’s not that easy when you play for a team that’s actually good.
Peterborough United 5-4 Swindon Town
When Peterborough went 3-0 up, it seemed obvious that they would win the game. When Swindon brought it back to 3-3, it became clear anything could happen. Unfortunately for Swindon, my first instincts were correct and Peterborough’s winning goal was scored by a Swindon player. Heartbreaking but both teams showed great spirit, Swindon by fighting back and Peterborough for not collapsing completely when Swindon drew level. Let’s not think about what they showed in other parts of the game.
Arron Davies started for Peterborough.
Billy Bodin wasn’t in Swindon’s squad.
Yeovil Town 0-2 Sheffield Wednesday
The fact that these two teams are in the same division will be little consolation for Yeovil, who looked the stronger team for much of the game.
A stamp on Gavin Williams could have seen Sheffield Wednesday go down to ten men but in the end it wasn’t even a yellow. Gavin’s ankle injury continued to trouble him but he completed the match and was a great attacking threat for Yeovil, who didn’t deserve to lose, especially not by two goals. Shaun MacDonald and Owain Tudur Jones also played the full match.
Exeter extended their unbeaten run to six games with victory over Carlisle, who are now only ahead of them on goal difference.
Rob Edwards was outstanding in the starting line-up for Exeter but even so, Carlisle could have scored another without the intervention of Richard Duffy. Daniel Nardiello was on the bench but only because Exeter are being careful with him. And it worked, as far as I know, Daniel didn’t pick up the smallest niggle during this game. Not even a splinter from sitting on the bench.
Notts County 2-0 Plymouth Argyle
Notts County played the third of the three promoted sides and for the second time, they came away with three points.
After two whole matches without a goal or an assist, something was bound to happen. And it did: Ben Davies got an assist which helped Notts County to a deserved win over Plymouth.
Carl Fletcher played the full match for Plymouth.
Oldham Athletic 0-0 Colchester United
Oldham are unbeaten at home, Colchester aere unbeaten away. It was a bit predictable really. Colchester looked the stronger side at the start of the match but Oldham took control in the second half and looked the most likely to score. And they would have done if Colchester’s goalkeeper hadn’t been on such good form.
Joe Jacobson was absent from Oldham’s squad again but I don’t think he’s injured as he is featuring in reserve games.
Lloyd James was a half-time substitute for Colchester. This is only the second league match he’s appeared in this season. Not what I expected, I thought he’d be banging them in every three games and make Southampton look stupid for releasing him. But it’s not that easy when you play for a team that’s actually good.
Peterborough United 5-4 Swindon Town
When Peterborough went 3-0 up, it seemed obvious that they would win the game. When Swindon brought it back to 3-3, it became clear anything could happen. Unfortunately for Swindon, my first instincts were correct and Peterborough’s winning goal was scored by a Swindon player. Heartbreaking but both teams showed great spirit, Swindon by fighting back and Peterborough for not collapsing completely when Swindon drew level. Let’s not think about what they showed in other parts of the game.
Arron Davies started for Peterborough.
Billy Bodin wasn’t in Swindon’s squad.
Yeovil Town 0-2 Sheffield Wednesday
The fact that these two teams are in the same division will be little consolation for Yeovil, who looked the stronger team for much of the game.
A stamp on Gavin Williams could have seen Sheffield Wednesday go down to ten men but in the end it wasn’t even a yellow. Gavin’s ankle injury continued to trouble him but he completed the match and was a great attacking threat for Yeovil, who didn’t deserve to lose, especially not by two goals. Shaun MacDonald and Owain Tudur Jones also played the full match.
League One Results 16th October 2010 (Part 1)
Bournemouth 3-2 Milton Keynes Dons
The Football League’s two youngest managers met in what would be described as a promotion battle if the season were just a little bit older. Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe came out on top. Bournemouth continue their unbeaten home record.
Rhoys Wiggins was on the receiving end of the red-carded Angelo Balanta.s temper and MK Dons manager Karl Robinson believes Rhoys should have been off too. I think he kind of maybe had a point as Rhoys did raise his hand which could be construed as an attempt to strike his opponent – but it looked more like an ‘oh go away you silly boy’ gesture than an attempt to hit him and at least Rhoys didn’t push anyone. And there is something to be said for not sending them both to the dressing room together.
Joe Partington stayed out of trouble on the bench.
Jermaine Easter started for MK Dons but that elusive league goal just wouldn’t come.
Bristol Rovers 2-1 Rochdale
Bristol Rovers beating Rochdale might not sound like much but when you remember they’re at opposite ends of the same division, with Bristol Rovers the lower of the two, then it becomes a much better result.
Byron Anthony and Nicky Adams proved to be a good team, with Nicky’s pass headed into the net by Byron. What a shame they weren’t actually on the same side. But other than that moment it was a great performance from both players, with Byron the stand-out player for Bristol Rovers (and mostly for good reasons) and Nicky making an immediate impression on his second debut for Rochdale..
Matt Done was a late substitute for Rochdale although he still had time to hit the post but Bristol Rovers’ subs Ben Swallow and Eliot Richards stayed on the bench.
Dagenham & Redbridge 1-1 Walsall
Dagenham & Redbridge were the stronger side in the second half and looked the more likely to snatch all three points. But they didn’t so both teams were in the relegation zone when the matches drew to a close.
Tony Roberts played in goal for Dagenham & Redbridge.
Sean Geddes was missing from Walsall’s squad for the second consecutive match. I hope he hasn’t gone on loan somewhere without telling me.
The Football League’s two youngest managers met in what would be described as a promotion battle if the season were just a little bit older. Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe came out on top. Bournemouth continue their unbeaten home record.
Rhoys Wiggins was on the receiving end of the red-carded Angelo Balanta.s temper and MK Dons manager Karl Robinson believes Rhoys should have been off too. I think he kind of maybe had a point as Rhoys did raise his hand which could be construed as an attempt to strike his opponent – but it looked more like an ‘oh go away you silly boy’ gesture than an attempt to hit him and at least Rhoys didn’t push anyone. And there is something to be said for not sending them both to the dressing room together.
Joe Partington stayed out of trouble on the bench.
Jermaine Easter started for MK Dons but that elusive league goal just wouldn’t come.
Bristol Rovers 2-1 Rochdale
Bristol Rovers beating Rochdale might not sound like much but when you remember they’re at opposite ends of the same division, with Bristol Rovers the lower of the two, then it becomes a much better result.
Byron Anthony and Nicky Adams proved to be a good team, with Nicky’s pass headed into the net by Byron. What a shame they weren’t actually on the same side. But other than that moment it was a great performance from both players, with Byron the stand-out player for Bristol Rovers (and mostly for good reasons) and Nicky making an immediate impression on his second debut for Rochdale..
Matt Done was a late substitute for Rochdale although he still had time to hit the post but Bristol Rovers’ subs Ben Swallow and Eliot Richards stayed on the bench.
Dagenham & Redbridge 1-1 Walsall
Dagenham & Redbridge were the stronger side in the second half and looked the more likely to snatch all three points. But they didn’t so both teams were in the relegation zone when the matches drew to a close.
Tony Roberts played in goal for Dagenham & Redbridge.
Sean Geddes was missing from Walsall’s squad for the second consecutive match. I hope he hasn’t gone on loan somewhere without telling me.
Tuesday, 19 October 2010
Under-19 squad for UEFA qualifiers mini-tournament
Brian Flynn’s under-19 squad for the UEFA qualifiers mini-tournament in South Wales is as follows.
Goalkeepers: Jonathan Bond (Watford), Daniel Ward (Wrexham)
Defenders: Daniel Alfei (Swansea City), Tom Bender (Colchester United), Aaron Holloway (Bristol City), Max Penk (Wrexham), Joe Walsh (Swansea City), Adam Matthews (Cardiff City)
Midfielders: Billy Bodin (Swindon Town), Josh Dawkin (Norwich City), Kieron Freeman (Nottingham Forest), Reece Jones (AFC Wimbledon), Lee Lucas (Cardiff City), Jonathan Williams (Crystal Palace)
Strikers: Tom Bradshaw (Shrewsbury Town), Kayelden Brown (West Bromwich Albion), Elliott Chamberlain (Leicester City), Ibrahim Farah (Cardiff City)
Ibrahin Farah has been called up to replace Richard Peniket (Fulham), who withdrew from the original squad.
Fixtures:
20.11.10 – Wales v Turkey
22.10.10 – Wales v Iceland
25.10.10 – Wales v Kazakhstan
Goalkeepers: Jonathan Bond (Watford), Daniel Ward (Wrexham)
Defenders: Daniel Alfei (Swansea City), Tom Bender (Colchester United), Aaron Holloway (Bristol City), Max Penk (Wrexham), Joe Walsh (Swansea City), Adam Matthews (Cardiff City)
Midfielders: Billy Bodin (Swindon Town), Josh Dawkin (Norwich City), Kieron Freeman (Nottingham Forest), Reece Jones (AFC Wimbledon), Lee Lucas (Cardiff City), Jonathan Williams (Crystal Palace)
Strikers: Tom Bradshaw (Shrewsbury Town), Kayelden Brown (West Bromwich Albion), Elliott Chamberlain (Leicester City), Ibrahim Farah (Cardiff City)
Ibrahin Farah has been called up to replace Richard Peniket (Fulham), who withdrew from the original squad.
Fixtures:
20.11.10 – Wales v Turkey
22.10.10 – Wales v Iceland
25.10.10 – Wales v Kazakhstan
Welsh Player News 19th October 2010 (Championship)
Cardiff City manager Dave Jones has admitted Craig Bellamy could have played against Bristol City but he was saving him for Coventry City.
Robbie Savage feels being dropped from Derby County’s starting line-up was just what he needed.
Reading striker Simon Church has told Bristol City to watch out.
Robbie Savage feels being dropped from Derby County’s starting line-up was just what he needed.
Reading striker Simon Church has told Bristol City to watch out.
Championship Fixtures 19th October 2010 (Part 3)
Nottingham Forest v Middlesbrough
Both these teams were supposed to be challenging for promotion. The only good news is that it’s probably still possible. Nottingham Forest, amazingly, have an unbeaten home record to defend while Middlesbrough are desperate to add to their solitary away point.
Forest’s Robert Earnshaw still isn’t ready to return from a hamstring injury but Chris Gunter should play.
It’s hard to know who will start for managerless Middlesbrough but I’d like to think Danny Coyne is in with a chance although Jason Steele undoubtedly has a great future in goal. Rhys Williams is out with a pelvic injury.
Preston North End v Scunthorpe United
Preston fans were probably all hopeful after their dramatic 6-4 victory over Leeds and a not half bad draw against Reading. Then Derby came along and spoiled the party. But can Preston get things going again against Scunthorpe?
Craig Morgan will hope to keep his place in central defence for Preston after returning to the starting line-up for the defeat to Derby. Paul Parry might be in with a chance of starting due to the suspension of winger Keith Treacy.
Swansea City v Queen’s Park Rangers
Swansea are storming up the league, unbeaten at home, the gap between them and Cardiff City becoming scarily smaller by the day. But if any team is going to stop them in their tracks, that team is unbeaten QPR, who are unbeaten everywhere.
Joe Allen has recovered from the groin injury that ruled him out of Swansea’s weekend match. Ashley Williams should also start with Neil Taylor and David Cotterill on the bench at the very least.
Watford v Ipswich Town
Play-off contenders Watford and Ipswich (if there is such a thing at this stage of the season) are both hoping to bounce back from weekend defeats.
Young goalkeeper Jonathan Bond is away with Wales so presumably he won’t be on the bench for Watford.
Ipswich manager Roy Keane said the young players, including Troy Brown, would get their chances this season. I think it’s time to give Troy another chance, don’t you, Roy? He could be the answer to all the defensive problems Ipswich have had recently.
Both these teams were supposed to be challenging for promotion. The only good news is that it’s probably still possible. Nottingham Forest, amazingly, have an unbeaten home record to defend while Middlesbrough are desperate to add to their solitary away point.
Forest’s Robert Earnshaw still isn’t ready to return from a hamstring injury but Chris Gunter should play.
It’s hard to know who will start for managerless Middlesbrough but I’d like to think Danny Coyne is in with a chance although Jason Steele undoubtedly has a great future in goal. Rhys Williams is out with a pelvic injury.
Preston North End v Scunthorpe United
Preston fans were probably all hopeful after their dramatic 6-4 victory over Leeds and a not half bad draw against Reading. Then Derby came along and spoiled the party. But can Preston get things going again against Scunthorpe?
Craig Morgan will hope to keep his place in central defence for Preston after returning to the starting line-up for the defeat to Derby. Paul Parry might be in with a chance of starting due to the suspension of winger Keith Treacy.
Swansea City v Queen’s Park Rangers
Swansea are storming up the league, unbeaten at home, the gap between them and Cardiff City becoming scarily smaller by the day. But if any team is going to stop them in their tracks, that team is unbeaten QPR, who are unbeaten everywhere.
Joe Allen has recovered from the groin injury that ruled him out of Swansea’s weekend match. Ashley Williams should also start with Neil Taylor and David Cotterill on the bench at the very least.
Watford v Ipswich Town
Play-off contenders Watford and Ipswich (if there is such a thing at this stage of the season) are both hoping to bounce back from weekend defeats.
Young goalkeeper Jonathan Bond is away with Wales so presumably he won’t be on the bench for Watford.
Ipswich manager Roy Keane said the young players, including Troy Brown, would get their chances this season. I think it’s time to give Troy another chance, don’t you, Roy? He could be the answer to all the defensive problems Ipswich have had recently.
Championship Fixtures 19th October 2010 (Part 2)
Doncaster Rovers v Derby County
Doncaster have won the last four meetings between these clubs. They aim to make it five out of five… and continue their unbeaten home record while they’re at it. But Derby are unbeaten in their last five matches so they’re probably quite good.
John Oster should start for Doncaster but captain Brian Stock could start on the bench for the seventh successive match.
Robbe Savage is likely to start for Derby but Gareth Roberts, who joined Derby from Doncaster this summer, might struggle to get back into the starting line-up, despite being on great form before his injury.
Hull City v Sheffield United
Hull are unbeaten at home which is just what Sheffield United need when they’re struggling for points and they’ve only won once away this season.
Ched Evans will hope to be back in the starting line-up to face Hull.
Leeds United v Leicester City
Leicester are unbeaten in their last five league matches against Leeds but there’s no doubt which team has been on better form this season – and it isn’t Leicester. Leicester are stil searching for their first away win of the season.
Sanchez Watt left the field with an injury during Leeds’ win over Middlesbrough at the weekend and is a doubt for this match. Jason Brown should keep his place in goal.
Andy King should start for Leicester after scoring his fifth goal of the season at the weekend.
Millwall v Portsmouth
Millwall got back to winning ways against Crystal Palace but now they face a side they’d probably rather have faced three weeks ago when they were still rubbish. Portsmouth are yet to win away this season.
Steve Morison should start in attack for Millwall.
Norwich City v Crystal Palace
Norwich take on struggling Crystal Palace just days after becoming only the second team to take points off Queen’s Park Rangers at home. As for the first side to take points off QPR, they spent last weekend beating Palace. Palace are without a win in six matches – and the only wins they have managed have come at home.
Andrew Crofts should keep his place in Norwich’s midfield as he continues his excellent start to the season. You wouldn’t have guessed he was playing for Brighton & Hove Albion last season.
Andy Dorman will hope for a third consecutive start for Palace. And maybe Lewis Price will get the chance to start for Palace for the first time.
Doncaster have won the last four meetings between these clubs. They aim to make it five out of five… and continue their unbeaten home record while they’re at it. But Derby are unbeaten in their last five matches so they’re probably quite good.
John Oster should start for Doncaster but captain Brian Stock could start on the bench for the seventh successive match.
Robbe Savage is likely to start for Derby but Gareth Roberts, who joined Derby from Doncaster this summer, might struggle to get back into the starting line-up, despite being on great form before his injury.
Hull City v Sheffield United
Hull are unbeaten at home which is just what Sheffield United need when they’re struggling for points and they’ve only won once away this season.
Ched Evans will hope to be back in the starting line-up to face Hull.
Leeds United v Leicester City
Leicester are unbeaten in their last five league matches against Leeds but there’s no doubt which team has been on better form this season – and it isn’t Leicester. Leicester are stil searching for their first away win of the season.
Sanchez Watt left the field with an injury during Leeds’ win over Middlesbrough at the weekend and is a doubt for this match. Jason Brown should keep his place in goal.
Andy King should start for Leicester after scoring his fifth goal of the season at the weekend.
Millwall v Portsmouth
Millwall got back to winning ways against Crystal Palace but now they face a side they’d probably rather have faced three weeks ago when they were still rubbish. Portsmouth are yet to win away this season.
Steve Morison should start in attack for Millwall.
Norwich City v Crystal Palace
Norwich take on struggling Crystal Palace just days after becoming only the second team to take points off Queen’s Park Rangers at home. As for the first side to take points off QPR, they spent last weekend beating Palace. Palace are without a win in six matches – and the only wins they have managed have come at home.
Andrew Crofts should keep his place in Norwich’s midfield as he continues his excellent start to the season. You wouldn’t have guessed he was playing for Brighton & Hove Albion last season.
Andy Dorman will hope for a third consecutive start for Palace. And maybe Lewis Price will get the chance to start for Palace for the first time.
Championship Fixtures 19th October 2010 (Part 1)
Bristol City v Reading
Bristol City haven’t beaten Reading at home for ten years and for most of those ten years, they were probably better than they are now. Now, they can’t even win at home. Reading will fancy their chances.
Christian Ribeiro and Brett Pitman are both fit but they’ll probably be on the bench. Bristol City’s other Welsh players are all injured although Sam Vokes (hamstring) is back in training and Lewin Nyatanga (knee) has been featuring in reserve matches.
Hal Robson-Kanu could start again for Reading with Simon Church on the bench. But it might be the other way round.
Coventry City v Cardiff City
Cardiff remain unbeaten at home but they’ve lost twice away and now they face a team with a pretty solid home record.
Coventry will be without Freddy Eastwood, who is recovering from knee surgery.
Craig Bellamy will return to Cardiff’s squad to face his former side. Jason Koumas and Aaron Wildig are most likely to be on the bench but Darcy Blake is back from suspension and should go straight back into the team. Adam Matthews is away with the Wales under-19s.
Bristol City haven’t beaten Reading at home for ten years and for most of those ten years, they were probably better than they are now. Now, they can’t even win at home. Reading will fancy their chances.
Christian Ribeiro and Brett Pitman are both fit but they’ll probably be on the bench. Bristol City’s other Welsh players are all injured although Sam Vokes (hamstring) is back in training and Lewin Nyatanga (knee) has been featuring in reserve matches.
Hal Robson-Kanu could start again for Reading with Simon Church on the bench. But it might be the other way round.
Coventry City v Cardiff City
Cardiff remain unbeaten at home but they’ve lost twice away and now they face a team with a pretty solid home record.
Coventry will be without Freddy Eastwood, who is recovering from knee surgery.
Craig Bellamy will return to Cardiff’s squad to face his former side. Jason Koumas and Aaron Wildig are most likely to be on the bench but Darcy Blake is back from suspension and should go straight back into the team. Adam Matthews is away with the Wales under-19s.
Welsh Player News 16th October 2010 (Championship)
Bristol City manager Keith Millen says Sam Vokes, who is now back in full training, still has a role to play for the club.
Coventry striker Freddy Eastwood has been linked with a move to Lincoln City but I’m not sure how out of favour he is. No more out of favour than most injured players.
Robbie Savage is hoping to inspire others young players who have been told they’re not good enough. Robbie has just made his his 600th career appearance. Derby County coach Gary Crosby thinks Robbie only had an average performance but he still has plenty of good words to say about him.
Kenny Jackett is delighted with Millwall’s win over Crystal Palace.
Andrew Crofts talks about saving the day for Norwich City.
Robbie Savage and Andy King are among the players nominated for the PFA Fans’ Championship Player of the Month.
Swansea City’s Ashley Williams says going away with Wales was one of the toughest times of his career – and not just because of the result.
Coventry striker Freddy Eastwood has been linked with a move to Lincoln City but I’m not sure how out of favour he is. No more out of favour than most injured players.
Robbie Savage is hoping to inspire others young players who have been told they’re not good enough. Robbie has just made his his 600th career appearance. Derby County coach Gary Crosby thinks Robbie only had an average performance but he still has plenty of good words to say about him.
Kenny Jackett is delighted with Millwall’s win over Crystal Palace.
Andrew Crofts talks about saving the day for Norwich City.
Robbie Savage and Andy King are among the players nominated for the PFA Fans’ Championship Player of the Month.
Swansea City’s Ashley Williams says going away with Wales was one of the toughest times of his career – and not just because of the result.
Championship Results 16th October 2010 (Part 3)
Reading 0-1 Swansea City
Swansea are up to fourth in the Championship after winning their second consecutive away match. It took them a while to find their first away win but now they can’t stop – although hopefully they will stop before they play Cardiff away.
Hal Robson-Kanu was able to start for Reading despite the hamstring injury that kept him out of Wales’ match against Switzerland. Simon Church came off the bench ten minutes after Hal was replaced.
David Cotterill started the match on the bench for Swansea but an injury led to his introduction after 20 minutes. Fifteen minutes later, the ball was in the back of the Reading net and a great pass from David reached Scott Sinclair, who scored his ninth goal in ten games. Any chance Sinclair could be suspended when Swansea play Cardiff away?
Ashley Williams was the only other Welshman to feature but Neil Taylor was on the bench.
Scunthorpe United 1-3 Doncaster Rovers
Scunthorpe were unable to add to their one home win this season but Doncaster had few problems in doubling their tally of away victories.
John Oster got the assist for Doncaster’s first goal with a great pass. When John left the field, Brian Stock was the player who replaced him.
Sheffield United 3-3 Burnley
Burnley probably thought they’d finally got their first away win of the season when Jay Rodriguez put them 4-3 up in the 90th minute. But Gary Speed’s Sheffield United equalised four minutes later to share the points.
Ched Evans came off the Sheffield United bench after 69 minutes. I’m not sure the bench is really the place for your joint top scorer but he has had a groin injury.
Swansea are up to fourth in the Championship after winning their second consecutive away match. It took them a while to find their first away win but now they can’t stop – although hopefully they will stop before they play Cardiff away.
Hal Robson-Kanu was able to start for Reading despite the hamstring injury that kept him out of Wales’ match against Switzerland. Simon Church came off the bench ten minutes after Hal was replaced.
David Cotterill started the match on the bench for Swansea but an injury led to his introduction after 20 minutes. Fifteen minutes later, the ball was in the back of the Reading net and a great pass from David reached Scott Sinclair, who scored his ninth goal in ten games. Any chance Sinclair could be suspended when Swansea play Cardiff away?
Ashley Williams was the only other Welshman to feature but Neil Taylor was on the bench.
Scunthorpe United 1-3 Doncaster Rovers
Scunthorpe were unable to add to their one home win this season but Doncaster had few problems in doubling their tally of away victories.
John Oster got the assist for Doncaster’s first goal with a great pass. When John left the field, Brian Stock was the player who replaced him.
Sheffield United 3-3 Burnley
Burnley probably thought they’d finally got their first away win of the season when Jay Rodriguez put them 4-3 up in the 90th minute. But Gary Speed’s Sheffield United equalised four minutes later to share the points.
Ched Evans came off the Sheffield United bench after 69 minutes. I’m not sure the bench is really the place for your joint top scorer but he has had a groin injury.
Championship Results 16th October 2010 (Part 2)
Derby County 3-0 Preston North End
Preston were unbeaten in their last three and are steadily improving but Derby were unbeaten in four and had improved even more.
Derby’s final goal, a penalty, was scored by Robbie Savage, in his 600th career appearance. He had a great game. I hope you were watching, Brian Flynn. Congratulations, Robbie, and Happy 26th Birthday for yesterday. Yes, that’s right, Brian, he’s only 26. Easily young enough to play for Wales. And Wales do need a good penalty taker…
Gareth Roberts has recovered from his calf injury but he was only on the bench for Derby.
Craig Morgan played the full match for Preston with Paul Parry coming off the bench in the 79th minute
Ipswich Town 1-2 Coventry City
Coventry are behind Ipswich only on goal difference after beating them at Portman Road for the first time since 1994.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich.
Coventry were without the injured Freddy Eastwood.
Leicester City 1-1 Hull City
Sven Goran-Eriksson didn’t help Leicester to the win they needed but at least he can say he’s unbeaten.
Andy King put Leicester ahead after just three minutes.
Middlesbrough 1-2 Leeds United
This result proved the final straw for Middlesbrough manager Gordon Strachan, who allegedly tore up his contract and walked out earlier today. He should know better at his age. Boro are now just two points above the relegation zone.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Middlesbrough but maybe not for much longer.
Jason Brown played in goal for Leeds and I’d like to say he was brilliant but unfortunately Boro didn’t give him much to do.
Sanchez Watt got an assist for Leeds for the second consecutive game.
Portsmouth 3-2 Watford
Watford lost an away match for the first time this season as Portsmouth continued their rise up the Championship table. Watford were 2-1 ahead in the 69th minute but there were two more goals to come and unfortunately none of them were scored by Watford.
Jonathan Bond was on the bench for Watford.
Queen’s Park Rangers 0-0 Norwich City
Norwich are doing well but until this match, only one team had taken points off QPR at Loftus Road. And now it’s two – although they are still yet to concede a goal. Norwich could have grabbed all three when they were awarded a penalty but Wes Hoolahan, who has been excellent for Norwich this season, shot wide.
Only a last-ditch clearance from Andrew Crofts prevented QPR from getting all three points. Again.
Preston were unbeaten in their last three and are steadily improving but Derby were unbeaten in four and had improved even more.
Derby’s final goal, a penalty, was scored by Robbie Savage, in his 600th career appearance. He had a great game. I hope you were watching, Brian Flynn. Congratulations, Robbie, and Happy 26th Birthday for yesterday. Yes, that’s right, Brian, he’s only 26. Easily young enough to play for Wales. And Wales do need a good penalty taker…
Gareth Roberts has recovered from his calf injury but he was only on the bench for Derby.
Craig Morgan played the full match for Preston with Paul Parry coming off the bench in the 79th minute
Ipswich Town 1-2 Coventry City
Coventry are behind Ipswich only on goal difference after beating them at Portman Road for the first time since 1994.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich.
Coventry were without the injured Freddy Eastwood.
Leicester City 1-1 Hull City
Sven Goran-Eriksson didn’t help Leicester to the win they needed but at least he can say he’s unbeaten.
Andy King put Leicester ahead after just three minutes.
Middlesbrough 1-2 Leeds United
This result proved the final straw for Middlesbrough manager Gordon Strachan, who allegedly tore up his contract and walked out earlier today. He should know better at his age. Boro are now just two points above the relegation zone.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Middlesbrough but maybe not for much longer.
Jason Brown played in goal for Leeds and I’d like to say he was brilliant but unfortunately Boro didn’t give him much to do.
Sanchez Watt got an assist for Leeds for the second consecutive game.
Portsmouth 3-2 Watford
Watford lost an away match for the first time this season as Portsmouth continued their rise up the Championship table. Watford were 2-1 ahead in the 69th minute but there were two more goals to come and unfortunately none of them were scored by Watford.
Jonathan Bond was on the bench for Watford.
Queen’s Park Rangers 0-0 Norwich City
Norwich are doing well but until this match, only one team had taken points off QPR at Loftus Road. And now it’s two – although they are still yet to concede a goal. Norwich could have grabbed all three when they were awarded a penalty but Wes Hoolahan, who has been excellent for Norwich this season, shot wide.
Only a last-ditch clearance from Andrew Crofts prevented QPR from getting all three points. Again.
Championship Results 16th October 2010 (Part 1)
Barnsley 3-1 Nottingham Forest
Forest had plenty of chances but failed to win for a third consecutive match as Barnsley climb above them in the table.
Chris Gunter played in defence for Forest.
Cardiff City 3-2 Bristol City
These two sides aren’t even in the same country and they’re almost as far from each other in the league table as you can get but they have a bit of a rivalry all the same. So Cardiff going 2-0 down to Bristol City is a bit of a disaster. Except, of course, when Cardiff come back to win 3-2.
Craig Bellamy’s knees weren’t up to playing so Cardiff’s starting line-up was without a single Welshman for the first time this season. Darcy Blake would have started if he hadn’t been suspended but he was so he didn’t. Adam Matthews was back in the squad and shared the bench with Jason Koumas and Aaron Wildig but only Jason got to play.
Bristol City also started without a Welshman. Christian Ribeiro and Brett Pitman were both on the bench (although Brett came on in the 89th minute) but the others are still injured or on loan or both.
Crystal Palace 0-1 Millwall
Millwall fans aren’t overly keen on Leeds United and they probably don’t think much of Queen’s Park Rangers either but if they could only beat one team this season, they’d almost certainly choose Crystal Palace.
Andy Dorman started for Palace with Lewis Price on the bench.
Steve Morison got the assist for Millwall’s goal and probably should have scored too but he got away with it.
Forest had plenty of chances but failed to win for a third consecutive match as Barnsley climb above them in the table.
Chris Gunter played in defence for Forest.
Cardiff City 3-2 Bristol City
These two sides aren’t even in the same country and they’re almost as far from each other in the league table as you can get but they have a bit of a rivalry all the same. So Cardiff going 2-0 down to Bristol City is a bit of a disaster. Except, of course, when Cardiff come back to win 3-2.
Craig Bellamy’s knees weren’t up to playing so Cardiff’s starting line-up was without a single Welshman for the first time this season. Darcy Blake would have started if he hadn’t been suspended but he was so he didn’t. Adam Matthews was back in the squad and shared the bench with Jason Koumas and Aaron Wildig but only Jason got to play.
Bristol City also started without a Welshman. Christian Ribeiro and Brett Pitman were both on the bench (although Brett came on in the 89th minute) but the others are still injured or on loan or both.
Crystal Palace 0-1 Millwall
Millwall fans aren’t overly keen on Leeds United and they probably don’t think much of Queen’s Park Rangers either but if they could only beat one team this season, they’d almost certainly choose Crystal Palace.
Andy Dorman started for Palace with Lewis Price on the bench.
Steve Morison got the assist for Millwall’s goal and probably should have scored too but he got away with it.
Welsh Player News 16th October 2010 (Premier League)
James Collins says his Aston Villa team-mate Ashley Young is not a cheat.
Should Fabio Capello have called up Michael Owen? I would have done. But not for the matches against Wales.
Stoke City defender Ryan Shawcross has been linked with Liverpool but he’s not going to get carried away. These days, it’s hardly a compliment.
Tony Pulis is far from impressed with Danny Murphy, accusing him of trying to boost his media career. The fact Murphy left the field during Fulham’s match against Tottenham with a groin injury might suggest Tony is not alone in feeling this way.
Danny Gabbidon (West Ham United) and Anton Ferdinand (Sunderland) have invested in a male grooming spa.
Mick McCarthy says he doesn’t want Wayne Hennessey going anywhere on loan. He’s told Wayne he’s not far away from getting back into the team… but he would say that, wouldn’t he?
Should Fabio Capello have called up Michael Owen? I would have done. But not for the matches against Wales.
Stoke City defender Ryan Shawcross has been linked with Liverpool but he’s not going to get carried away. These days, it’s hardly a compliment.
Tony Pulis is far from impressed with Danny Murphy, accusing him of trying to boost his media career. The fact Murphy left the field during Fulham’s match against Tottenham with a groin injury might suggest Tony is not alone in feeling this way.
Danny Gabbidon (West Ham United) and Anton Ferdinand (Sunderland) have invested in a male grooming spa.
Mick McCarthy says he doesn’t want Wayne Hennessey going anywhere on loan. He’s told Wayne he’s not far away from getting back into the team… but he would say that, wouldn’t he?
Premier League Results 16th October 2010 Part 2
Manchester United 2-2 West Bromwich Albion
I thought West Brom would go straight back down again this year but for now they’re looking like Champions’ League material. And why not? Bolton are an established Premier League side now, Birmingham look like they could be around for a while too so why not West Brom? It didn’t look likely when Man Utd went 2-0 up after 25 minutes but West Brom manager Roberto di Matteo had never lost at Old Trafford before this match and he wasn’t about to start now.
Ryan Giggs started for Man Utd for the first time since suffering a hamstring injury but he went of after 42 minutes when his hamstring started playing up again. He could be out for even longer this time. Michael Owen missed out with a calf injury. Or a groin injury.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-1 West Ham United
I find Mick McCarthy unlikeable and I really like Danny Murphy. But I have to say, McCarthy’s response to Murphy’s comments on Wolves’ playing style did make me smile. A lot. And I’d love to see McCarthy and Murphy on Match of the Day together. It could be interesting.
Dave Edwards and David Jones both started for Wolves and it was a move from David that led to Wolves’ goal. Both Davids came close to scoring. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench.
Danny Gabbidon kept his place in West Ham’s starting line-up.
I thought West Brom would go straight back down again this year but for now they’re looking like Champions’ League material. And why not? Bolton are an established Premier League side now, Birmingham look like they could be around for a while too so why not West Brom? It didn’t look likely when Man Utd went 2-0 up after 25 minutes but West Brom manager Roberto di Matteo had never lost at Old Trafford before this match and he wasn’t about to start now.
Ryan Giggs started for Man Utd for the first time since suffering a hamstring injury but he went of after 42 minutes when his hamstring started playing up again. He could be out for even longer this time. Michael Owen missed out with a calf injury. Or a groin injury.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench for West Brom.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-1 West Ham United
I find Mick McCarthy unlikeable and I really like Danny Murphy. But I have to say, McCarthy’s response to Murphy’s comments on Wolves’ playing style did make me smile. A lot. And I’d love to see McCarthy and Murphy on Match of the Day together. It could be interesting.
Dave Edwards and David Jones both started for Wolves and it was a move from David that led to Wolves’ goal. Both Davids came close to scoring. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench.
Danny Gabbidon kept his place in West Ham’s starting line-up.
Premier League Results 16th October 2010 Part 1
Arsenal 2-1 Birmingham City
It wasn’t Arsenal’s best or most beautiful performance but they got the three points against a team whom they’ve often struggled to deal with. True, Arsenal’s penalty was debatable, not a dive as such, it seemed like a genuine but premeditated trip, if that makes sense. And there was a bit of simulation with the rolling over and over and over but other than that, Marouane Chamakh is a great buy and I wish he was Welsh.
Aaron Ramsey didn’t play for Arsenal – but it won’t be long now.
Aston Villa 0-0 Chelsea
Chelsea have only won once at Villa Park in the last twelve years – and considering the last twelve years include three title wins for Chelsea, and no seasons where Aston Villa finished above Chelsea (the last instance of this was in the 1996-97 season), maybe some Chelsea fans will consider this a pretty good point.
James Collins was Man of the Match, at least according to Sky Sports (and you won’t find me disagreeing). James was strong in defence and was just one Villa player who came very close to winning the match.
Bolton Wanderers 2-1 Stoke City
As stoppage time began, the score was 1-1 and that would have been a fair result. Bolton’s supersub Ivan Klasnic popped up in the 92nd minute to take all three points. But that wasn’t the end, at least not quite yet. There was still time for Klasnic to receive not one but two yellow cards before the match ended.
Sam Ricketts was on the bench for Bolton.
Danny Collins came close to a debut goal for Stoke. He and captain Ryan Shawcross didn’t deserve to be on the losing side.
Fulham 1-2 Tottenham Hotspur
There was more than a hint of offside about one of Tottenham’s goals and even the referee saw it. But after consultation with his linesman, who agreed with him, the referee changed his mind.
The rules are inconclusive but William Gallas did attempt to play the ball. He didn’t touch it but it looks as though he meant to and you could say he was attempting to interfere in active play. If you attempt to hit another player and fail, you receive the same punishment as you do when you actually make the connection. Gallas was attempting to commit an offence.
However, the definition of ‘interfering with play’ means playing or touching the ball. It doesn’t say anything about unsuccessful attempts to play the ball.
Alternatively, Gallas’ move towards the ball could be seen as interfering with an opponent (Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer). Interfering with an opponent includes making a movement that deceives or distracts the opponent – and Gallas’ movement almost certainly did deceive Schwarzer in the sense of making him think he was going to play the ball (Schwarzer can’t rely on the officials’ seeing the offence and disallowing the goal) and it did distract him from Tom Huddlestone’s shot in the sense that he kept an eye on the offside player instead of moving towards the path of the ball.
Gallas was probably seeking to gain an advantage because he is well-positioned if a shot rebounds off the bar or posts or is parried by Schwarzer – although this only becomes an offence if there is a rebound and he does touch the ball and it’s possible Gallas moved towards the ball, realised he was offside and decided not to touch it.
As for active and inactive play, Gallas was undeniably active but these phrases are not mentioned in the Offside section of the Laws of the Game.
I would be on the side of disallowing the goal but that is only one possible interpretation of the rule. Even if I was 100% sure I was right, I wouldn’t blame the referee. I would blame the person who wrote the rules!
Gareth Bale was originally credited with an assist but a slight deflection caused the powers that be to change their minds. The BBC commentator thought his cross was poor but I think he meant it just as much as Tom Huddlestone meant his goal. Gareth also seemed to play a part in persuading the referee to allow the goal to stand. Maybe Mike Dean is a secret Wales fan.
Simon Davies could have got an assist – and a draw – for Fulham in his 300th league start.
It wasn’t Arsenal’s best or most beautiful performance but they got the three points against a team whom they’ve often struggled to deal with. True, Arsenal’s penalty was debatable, not a dive as such, it seemed like a genuine but premeditated trip, if that makes sense. And there was a bit of simulation with the rolling over and over and over but other than that, Marouane Chamakh is a great buy and I wish he was Welsh.
Aaron Ramsey didn’t play for Arsenal – but it won’t be long now.
Aston Villa 0-0 Chelsea
Chelsea have only won once at Villa Park in the last twelve years – and considering the last twelve years include three title wins for Chelsea, and no seasons where Aston Villa finished above Chelsea (the last instance of this was in the 1996-97 season), maybe some Chelsea fans will consider this a pretty good point.
James Collins was Man of the Match, at least according to Sky Sports (and you won’t find me disagreeing). James was strong in defence and was just one Villa player who came very close to winning the match.
Bolton Wanderers 2-1 Stoke City
As stoppage time began, the score was 1-1 and that would have been a fair result. Bolton’s supersub Ivan Klasnic popped up in the 92nd minute to take all three points. But that wasn’t the end, at least not quite yet. There was still time for Klasnic to receive not one but two yellow cards before the match ended.
Sam Ricketts was on the bench for Bolton.
Danny Collins came close to a debut goal for Stoke. He and captain Ryan Shawcross didn’t deserve to be on the losing side.
Fulham 1-2 Tottenham Hotspur
There was more than a hint of offside about one of Tottenham’s goals and even the referee saw it. But after consultation with his linesman, who agreed with him, the referee changed his mind.
The rules are inconclusive but William Gallas did attempt to play the ball. He didn’t touch it but it looks as though he meant to and you could say he was attempting to interfere in active play. If you attempt to hit another player and fail, you receive the same punishment as you do when you actually make the connection. Gallas was attempting to commit an offence.
However, the definition of ‘interfering with play’ means playing or touching the ball. It doesn’t say anything about unsuccessful attempts to play the ball.
Alternatively, Gallas’ move towards the ball could be seen as interfering with an opponent (Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer). Interfering with an opponent includes making a movement that deceives or distracts the opponent – and Gallas’ movement almost certainly did deceive Schwarzer in the sense of making him think he was going to play the ball (Schwarzer can’t rely on the officials’ seeing the offence and disallowing the goal) and it did distract him from Tom Huddlestone’s shot in the sense that he kept an eye on the offside player instead of moving towards the path of the ball.
Gallas was probably seeking to gain an advantage because he is well-positioned if a shot rebounds off the bar or posts or is parried by Schwarzer – although this only becomes an offence if there is a rebound and he does touch the ball and it’s possible Gallas moved towards the ball, realised he was offside and decided not to touch it.
As for active and inactive play, Gallas was undeniably active but these phrases are not mentioned in the Offside section of the Laws of the Game.
I would be on the side of disallowing the goal but that is only one possible interpretation of the rule. Even if I was 100% sure I was right, I wouldn’t blame the referee. I would blame the person who wrote the rules!
Gareth Bale was originally credited with an assist but a slight deflection caused the powers that be to change their minds. The BBC commentator thought his cross was poor but I think he meant it just as much as Tom Huddlestone meant his goal. Gareth also seemed to play a part in persuading the referee to allow the goal to stand. Maybe Mike Dean is a secret Wales fan.
Simon Davies could have got an assist – and a draw – for Fulham in his 300th league start.
Saturday, 16 October 2010
Welsh Player News 16th October 2010 (League Two)
Jason Price has joined Bradford City on loan from Carlisle United. Bradford were interested in signing Jason following his release from Millwall in the summer but Jason decided to sign for Carlisle as he’d just completed a successful loan spell there.
However, Jason suffered a muscle injury at Carlisle and, despite his absence, Carlisle had a great start to the season which means Jason has been unable to break into the team. Carlisle United manager says Jason is still part of his plans but he wanted him to go out and get some game time. Bradford manager Peter Taylor believes Jason will do very well at Bradford.
A scan has confirmed that Bradford City’s Michael Flynn probably needs another operation on his groin which would mean he won’t play until the New Year.
Oxford United defender Rhys Day has recovered from his knee injury and signed for former club Mansfield Town on a three-month loan.
Gareth Owen believes Port Vale can bounce back from their shock draw against Hereford United and a defeat to Oxford United.
Mark Bradley was disappointed with his performance in his first league start for Rotherham United. Some people are never happy. But in football, that's not always a bad thing.
Anthony Pulis was very happy to score his first senior goal with loan club Stockport County. He says he hopes there are more goals to come. He’s glad to have gone out on loan after having only very limted chances at Southampton – he joined the club two years ago but is yet to make his first-team debut.
However, Jason suffered a muscle injury at Carlisle and, despite his absence, Carlisle had a great start to the season which means Jason has been unable to break into the team. Carlisle United manager says Jason is still part of his plans but he wanted him to go out and get some game time. Bradford manager Peter Taylor believes Jason will do very well at Bradford.
A scan has confirmed that Bradford City’s Michael Flynn probably needs another operation on his groin which would mean he won’t play until the New Year.
Oxford United defender Rhys Day has recovered from his knee injury and signed for former club Mansfield Town on a three-month loan.
Gareth Owen believes Port Vale can bounce back from their shock draw against Hereford United and a defeat to Oxford United.
Mark Bradley was disappointed with his performance in his first league start for Rotherham United. Some people are never happy. But in football, that's not always a bad thing.
Anthony Pulis was very happy to score his first senior goal with loan club Stockport County. He says he hopes there are more goals to come. He’s glad to have gone out on loan after having only very limted chances at Southampton – he joined the club two years ago but is yet to make his first-team debut.
League Two Fixtures 16th October 2010 Part 2
Port Vale v Gillingham
If Gillingham don’t win this match, they’ll have equallsed a club record of 33 away games without a win.
Gareth Owen will be in defence for Port Vale but it’s likely to be a while before Lewis Haldane has played for Port Vale’s reserves but he’s not ready for the first team yet.
Shrewsbury Town v Lincoln City
Tom Bradshaw will be hoping to make another supersub appearance for Shrewsbury.
Southend United v Crewe Alexandra
Peter Gilbert should be in the starting line-up for Southend with Nathaniel Jarvis probably coming off the bench again.
Rhys Taylor will play in goal for Crewe.
Stockport County v Barnet
Anthony Pulis will be hoping for another start for Stockport after his goalscoring debut. Owain fon Williams will be on the bench.
Grant Basey has an ankle injury so he might not play for Barnet.
Wycombe Wanderers v Chesterfield
Craig Davies will be hoping to put the ball in the net again for Chesterfield – except this time ideally it won’t be disallowed. Robert Page might be on the bench but he might not.
If Gillingham don’t win this match, they’ll have equallsed a club record of 33 away games without a win.
Gareth Owen will be in defence for Port Vale but it’s likely to be a while before Lewis Haldane has played for Port Vale’s reserves but he’s not ready for the first team yet.
Shrewsbury Town v Lincoln City
Tom Bradshaw will be hoping to make another supersub appearance for Shrewsbury.
Southend United v Crewe Alexandra
Peter Gilbert should be in the starting line-up for Southend with Nathaniel Jarvis probably coming off the bench again.
Rhys Taylor will play in goal for Crewe.
Stockport County v Barnet
Anthony Pulis will be hoping for another start for Stockport after his goalscoring debut. Owain fon Williams will be on the bench.
Grant Basey has an ankle injury so he might not play for Barnet.
Wycombe Wanderers v Chesterfield
Craig Davies will be hoping to put the ball in the net again for Chesterfield – except this time ideally it won’t be disallowed. Robert Page might be on the bench but he might not.
League Two Fixtures 16th October 2010 Part 1
Accrington Stanley v Rotherham United
Mark Bradley will hope for a fourth consecutive start for Rotherham.
Aldershot Town v Morecambe
Darren Jones should keep his place in defence for Aldershot. Aaron Morris has a chance of returning to the starting line-up due to the suspension of team-mate Jamie Vincent.
As for Morecambe’s Darren Moss, I’ve heard nothing but rumours.
Bradford City v Cheltenham Town
Jason Price is likely to sit on the bench for his first match as a Bradford loanee but maybe he’ll get to come off the bench and score a winning goal. Michael Flynn (groin) probably won’t be fit enough to play for Bradford.
Josh Low should play in midfield for Cheltenham.
Macclesfield Town v Oxford United
Sam Wedgbury is probably more likely to be on the bench for Macclesfield.
Rhys Day won’t play for Oxford as he’s joined Mansfield Town on loan.
Northampton Town v Hereford United
Paul Walker will be on the bench for Northampton.
Ryan Green, Ryan Valentine and Tony James should make Hereford’s back four 75% Welsh. Assuming they play with four at the back. If I have made a mistake, perhaps one of the lovely people at Bulls News could let me know. Stuart Fleetwood should be ready to return from a back injury.
Mark Bradley will hope for a fourth consecutive start for Rotherham.
Aldershot Town v Morecambe
Darren Jones should keep his place in defence for Aldershot. Aaron Morris has a chance of returning to the starting line-up due to the suspension of team-mate Jamie Vincent.
As for Morecambe’s Darren Moss, I’ve heard nothing but rumours.
Bradford City v Cheltenham Town
Jason Price is likely to sit on the bench for his first match as a Bradford loanee but maybe he’ll get to come off the bench and score a winning goal. Michael Flynn (groin) probably won’t be fit enough to play for Bradford.
Josh Low should play in midfield for Cheltenham.
Macclesfield Town v Oxford United
Sam Wedgbury is probably more likely to be on the bench for Macclesfield.
Rhys Day won’t play for Oxford as he’s joined Mansfield Town on loan.
Northampton Town v Hereford United
Paul Walker will be on the bench for Northampton.
Ryan Green, Ryan Valentine and Tony James should make Hereford’s back four 75% Welsh. Assuming they play with four at the back. If I have made a mistake, perhaps one of the lovely people at Bulls News could let me know. Stuart Fleetwood should be ready to return from a back injury.
Welsh Player News 15th October 2010 (League One)
Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale says Daniel Nardiello should be fit for Saturday’s match against Carlisle United.
Rob Edwards is expected to play in defence for Exeter City against his former club Carlisle United. He says this will make his return to the starting line-up even more special.
Goalkeeper and General Manager Andy Marriott is the ambassador for Yeovil Town’ One Game One Community project, which promotes the fact that everyone is different... but we’re also all the same.
Ben Davies is concerned about his back and hamstring but he says it’s worse for two of his team-mates, who are also injured and haven’t been able to train. Notts County manager Craig Short is worried Ben might jump out of the transfer window. Probably not the best idea with his hamstring…
Oldham Athletic chairman Simon Corney says four transfer-listed players have refused moves to League Two or Blue Square Premier sides. He doesn’t name names but there are only five remaining transfer-listed players so there’s a very good chance Joe Jacobson is one of those who has refused a move. I thought Joe did well for Oldham up until his injury so I can’t really blame him if he does feel he should be playing in League One.
Brentford’s Nicky Adams has joined Rochdale on loan just two months after joining Brentford from Leicester City. The move will be made permanent in January. Poor Nicky but Rochdale are better than Brentford at the moment so maybe he’s not too disappointed. Nicky first played for Rochdale on loan from Leicester City in 2009. Nicky says the stop-start nature of his time at Brentford was disappointing but Brentford manager Andy Scott says the problem was that Nicky couldn’t settle in London and it was affecting him in matches and in training. Perhaps both are true. While Nicky did play well for Leyton Orient last year, that was a short-term move and he didn’t move to Orient on a permanent basis, even though they were interested.
Let's hope Nicky's time at Rochdale makes a nice birthday present for him - he is twenty-four today. Happy Birthday!
Rob Edwards is expected to play in defence for Exeter City against his former club Carlisle United. He says this will make his return to the starting line-up even more special.
Goalkeeper and General Manager Andy Marriott is the ambassador for Yeovil Town’ One Game One Community project, which promotes the fact that everyone is different... but we’re also all the same.
Ben Davies is concerned about his back and hamstring but he says it’s worse for two of his team-mates, who are also injured and haven’t been able to train. Notts County manager Craig Short is worried Ben might jump out of the transfer window. Probably not the best idea with his hamstring…
Oldham Athletic chairman Simon Corney says four transfer-listed players have refused moves to League Two or Blue Square Premier sides. He doesn’t name names but there are only five remaining transfer-listed players so there’s a very good chance Joe Jacobson is one of those who has refused a move. I thought Joe did well for Oldham up until his injury so I can’t really blame him if he does feel he should be playing in League One.
Brentford’s Nicky Adams has joined Rochdale on loan just two months after joining Brentford from Leicester City. The move will be made permanent in January. Poor Nicky but Rochdale are better than Brentford at the moment so maybe he’s not too disappointed. Nicky first played for Rochdale on loan from Leicester City in 2009. Nicky says the stop-start nature of his time at Brentford was disappointing but Brentford manager Andy Scott says the problem was that Nicky couldn’t settle in London and it was affecting him in matches and in training. Perhaps both are true. While Nicky did play well for Leyton Orient last year, that was a short-term move and he didn’t move to Orient on a permanent basis, even though they were interested.
Let's hope Nicky's time at Rochdale makes a nice birthday present for him - he is twenty-four today. Happy Birthday!