Norwich City v Leyton Orient
Norwich had a few problems with Droylsden in the last round, needing a replay and extra time in order to beat them 8-2. They’ll be hoping Orient are a lot less trouble.
If Norwich rest players, Andrew Crofts could be one of them. Owain Tudur Jones is cup-tied, having already played for Yeovil in the FA Cup.
Preston North End v Nottingham Forest
Here’s the second of the two all-Championship ties. Preston are looking like a team who could be in League One next season while Forest have crept up on the play-offs and now look like contenders. But anything can happen in the FA Cup.
Craig Morgan and Paul Parry could start for Preston but they might be saved for more important games. No disrespect to the FA Cup but they have more chance of surviving relegation than winning the Cup and surviving is probably something they quite want to do.
If Forest do plan on giving star players such as Chris Gunter a rest, this might be a good time. Robert Earnshaw was rested in Forest’s last match so maybe he was being saved for the FA Cup. He did score a hat-trick two matches ago. Aaron Ramsey has returned to Arsenal after Arsene Wenger refused a request to extend his loan. The chances are, he wouldn’t have let them cup-tie Aaron either.
Reading v West Bromwich Albion
These two clubs were probably hoping not to see each other for a couple of season after playing four times last season.
Simon Church is expected to start for Reading. Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor might also get the chance to feature.
Boaz Myhill will start in goal for West Brom/
Sheffield United v Aston Villa
Sheffield United and Aston Villa have something in common. Not only are they both playing in this match, they are both have one point from their last four matches.
Ched Evans should play for Sheffield United. They might not be winning but that isn’t stopping him from scoring.
James Collins will probably play for Villa unless they are going to sell him and don’t want him cup-tied. The other James Collins has signed for Shrewsbury Town but he’s not Welsh.
Showing posts with label jake taylor. Show all posts
Showing posts with label jake taylor. Show all posts
Saturday, 8 January 2011
Friday, 7 January 2011
Welsh Players Christmas-New Year matches 2010-11 (Championship, Part 3)
Millwall
Steve Morison has been attracting the attention of Premier League clubs which can only mean one thing – he has been playing brilliantly for Millwall despite a recent goal drought. Poor Steve missed out on the New Year’s Day game with flu and judging him from his performance a couple of days later, it wasn’t the sort of flu footballers get sometimes when they’re in talks with a new club. Let’s hope he’s feeling better for Millwall’s FA Cup match against Birmingham City.
Portsmouth A 1-1 (played all)
Leicester H 2-0 (G1 12, played all)
Palace H 3-0 (out, flu)
Derby A 0-0 (starts, off 71)
Norwich City
Norwich were predicted to struggle and to be fair, they are struggling to get into the automatic promotion places. It’s been an excellent season so far and part of the reason for that is Andrew Crofts.
Coventry A 1-2 (out, illness)
Sheff Utd H 4-2 (played all)
QPR H 1-0 (played all)
Boro A 1-1 (played all)
When Owain Tudur Jones returned from a loan spell at Yeovil Town, I wasn’t sure how many chances he’d have at Norwich and was very happy to see him on the bench for the very next game. Not only that, he came off the bench too. Since then, he’s always been a substitute except for his most recent match, where he got his first Norwich start of the season (he did get substituted at half-time but that’s not necessarily a very bad thing).
Coventry A 1-2 (bench)
Sheff Utd H 4-2 (bench)
QPR H 1-0 (bench)
Boro A 1-1 (starts, off 46)
Josh Dawkin has made one appearance on Norwich’s bench this season and it wasn’t at Christmas but let’s hope his next appearance isn’t too far away.
Nottingham Forest
Chris Gunter kept his place in Forest’s starting line-up as they pushed slowly up towards the right end of the table and (briefly) into the play-off places.
Palace H 3-0 (played all)
Derby H 5-2 (played all)
Barnsley A 2-2 (wins pen 68, played all)
Ipswich A 0-1 (played all)
Robert Earnshaw started most matches over the Christmas period and got a hat-trick in the process. Three goals in three games doesn’t really seem like a reason to drop a player to the bench but that’s what happened.
Palace H 3-0 (played all)
Derby H 5-2 (G2 24, G4 53, G5 94, Y 94, played all)
Barnsley A 2-2 (starts, off 75)
Ipswich A 0-1 (bench)
Preston North End
Craig Morgan has been in and out of Preston’s squad and in and out of the starting line-up as they desperately try to save themselves from relegation.
Boro H 1-3 (played all)
Derby H 1-2 (bench)
Palace A 0-0 (played all)
Paul Parry has always been in the squad but his knee problems have prevented him from starting many games. Now if Paul refused to come out of retirement for Wales for injury reasons, I would have no cause for complaint. (Not that I necessarily have cause the other times.)
Boro H 1-3 (bench, on 85)
Derby H 1-2 (starts, off 71)
Palace A 0-0 (bench)
Reading
Simon Church was back on the bench over Christmas but his one goal was rewarded with one start in the very next match. But he couldn’t get two in two (how many strikers do that?) so he was back on the bench again against Burnley.
Derby A 1-2 (bench, on 65)
Bristol C H 4-1 (bench)
Hull A 1-1 (bench, on 58, G1 82)
Swansea A 1-0 (played all)
Burnley H 1-1 (bench, on 72)
Hal Robson-Kanu has had a similar problem to Simon although he did get an assist.
Derby A 1-2 (bench, on 76)
Bristol C H 4-1 (bench, on 80, A4 89)
Hull A 1-1 (bench)
Swansea A 1-0 (starts, off 71)
Burnley H 1-1 (bench, on 67)
Jake Taylor made his long-awaited return following knee surgery but he’s only been on the bench once so let’s hope he hasn’t had a relapse.
Derby A 1-2 (unselected)
Bristol C H 4-1 (unselected)
Hull A 1-1 (unselected)
Swansea A 1-0 (bench)
Burnley H 1-1 (unselected)
Sheffield United
Ched Evans got four goals in four games, helping to get some much-needed wins against form teams. He can even score penalties, always a useful trait in a Welshman.
Swansea H 1-0 (starts, G1 44, off 93)
Hull H 2-3 (G1 62, G2 73, played all)
Norwich A 4-2 (played all)
Burnley A 4-2 (G2 pen 47. played all)
Doncaster H 2-2 (played all)
Steve Morison has been attracting the attention of Premier League clubs which can only mean one thing – he has been playing brilliantly for Millwall despite a recent goal drought. Poor Steve missed out on the New Year’s Day game with flu and judging him from his performance a couple of days later, it wasn’t the sort of flu footballers get sometimes when they’re in talks with a new club. Let’s hope he’s feeling better for Millwall’s FA Cup match against Birmingham City.
Portsmouth A 1-1 (played all)
Leicester H 2-0 (G1 12, played all)
Palace H 3-0 (out, flu)
Derby A 0-0 (starts, off 71)
Norwich City
Norwich were predicted to struggle and to be fair, they are struggling to get into the automatic promotion places. It’s been an excellent season so far and part of the reason for that is Andrew Crofts.
Coventry A 1-2 (out, illness)
Sheff Utd H 4-2 (played all)
QPR H 1-0 (played all)
Boro A 1-1 (played all)
When Owain Tudur Jones returned from a loan spell at Yeovil Town, I wasn’t sure how many chances he’d have at Norwich and was very happy to see him on the bench for the very next game. Not only that, he came off the bench too. Since then, he’s always been a substitute except for his most recent match, where he got his first Norwich start of the season (he did get substituted at half-time but that’s not necessarily a very bad thing).
Coventry A 1-2 (bench)
Sheff Utd H 4-2 (bench)
QPR H 1-0 (bench)
Boro A 1-1 (starts, off 46)
Josh Dawkin has made one appearance on Norwich’s bench this season and it wasn’t at Christmas but let’s hope his next appearance isn’t too far away.
Nottingham Forest
Chris Gunter kept his place in Forest’s starting line-up as they pushed slowly up towards the right end of the table and (briefly) into the play-off places.
Palace H 3-0 (played all)
Derby H 5-2 (played all)
Barnsley A 2-2 (wins pen 68, played all)
Ipswich A 0-1 (played all)
Robert Earnshaw started most matches over the Christmas period and got a hat-trick in the process. Three goals in three games doesn’t really seem like a reason to drop a player to the bench but that’s what happened.
Palace H 3-0 (played all)
Derby H 5-2 (G2 24, G4 53, G5 94, Y 94, played all)
Barnsley A 2-2 (starts, off 75)
Ipswich A 0-1 (bench)
Preston North End
Craig Morgan has been in and out of Preston’s squad and in and out of the starting line-up as they desperately try to save themselves from relegation.
Boro H 1-3 (played all)
Derby H 1-2 (bench)
Palace A 0-0 (played all)
Paul Parry has always been in the squad but his knee problems have prevented him from starting many games. Now if Paul refused to come out of retirement for Wales for injury reasons, I would have no cause for complaint. (Not that I necessarily have cause the other times.)
Boro H 1-3 (bench, on 85)
Derby H 1-2 (starts, off 71)
Palace A 0-0 (bench)
Reading
Simon Church was back on the bench over Christmas but his one goal was rewarded with one start in the very next match. But he couldn’t get two in two (how many strikers do that?) so he was back on the bench again against Burnley.
Derby A 1-2 (bench, on 65)
Bristol C H 4-1 (bench)
Hull A 1-1 (bench, on 58, G1 82)
Swansea A 1-0 (played all)
Burnley H 1-1 (bench, on 72)
Hal Robson-Kanu has had a similar problem to Simon although he did get an assist.
Derby A 1-2 (bench, on 76)
Bristol C H 4-1 (bench, on 80, A4 89)
Hull A 1-1 (bench)
Swansea A 1-0 (starts, off 71)
Burnley H 1-1 (bench, on 67)
Jake Taylor made his long-awaited return following knee surgery but he’s only been on the bench once so let’s hope he hasn’t had a relapse.
Derby A 1-2 (unselected)
Bristol C H 4-1 (unselected)
Hull A 1-1 (unselected)
Swansea A 1-0 (bench)
Burnley H 1-1 (unselected)
Sheffield United
Ched Evans got four goals in four games, helping to get some much-needed wins against form teams. He can even score penalties, always a useful trait in a Welshman.
Swansea H 1-0 (starts, G1 44, off 93)
Hull H 2-3 (G1 62, G2 73, played all)
Norwich A 4-2 (played all)
Burnley A 4-2 (G2 pen 47. played all)
Doncaster H 2-2 (played all)
Saturday, 18 December 2010
Championship Fixtures (and Postponements) 18th December 2010 (Part 1)
Cardiff City P-P Burnley
South Wales is inches deep in snow and it’s just not safe for visitors.
So Cardiff’s star English striker Jay Bothroyd should recover in time for the next fixture, Craig Bellamy can rest his knee, Jason Koumas can make sure his toe is properly better and the players can recover from their latest epidemic.
Craig has been talking about Feyenoord… and even Feyenoord aren’t happy.
Dave Jones says Cardiff have to deliver on Saturday. And what happens? Snow happens.
Jonathan Meades won’t be able to play for Cardiff until the transfer window opens as he’s been playing for FK Moss. But when the transfer window does open, he’ll be ready to stake his claim.
Coventry City v Norwich City
Coventry are unbeaten in four while Norwich ended a long unbeaten run last week. History would sem to favour Coventry – Norwich have only beaten them once away in the last fifty years. The present would also seem to favour Coventry. They haven’t conceded for nearly 400 minutes. The last team to score against them were Crystal Palace, which probably served as a kick up the backside, as well as a kick into the back of the net.
Freddy Eastwood will be hoping Coventry’s failure to score against Reading last weekend will give him the chance to start.
Andrew Crofts should start for Norwich and a succession of injuries could mean Owain Tudur Jones gets to play again, as long as he’s recovered from being bashed about by Fakenham Town in the Norwich Senior Cup. Norwich City won 3-0 and Josh Dawkin also played 90 minutes.
Derby County v Reading
Derby have lost their last three matches and they’re now three points away from the play-offs – although if they win and Norwich lose, they’ll be back in the top six. And considering Derby’s home form (if you ignore their last home match) and considering Reading are without a win in six (although the last five were draws), they must be in with a good chance of a win.
Reading’s Jem Karacan wants to silence Robbie Savage. Good luck with that. Robbie is expected to play after recovering from an ankle injury but Gareth Roberts, who was substituted after forty minutes of Derby’s defeat to Bristol City, will be out for two or three weeks with a calf injury which must be so annoying when he’s finally broken back into the first team after his last injury.
Simon Church and Hal Robson-Kanu seem to be Reading’s first-choice substitutes at the moment but Reading have drawn their last five and failed to score in their last two so they’re obviously in need of a couple of goalscorers. Hal scored just a few days ago in a reserve match which is quite an achievement considering most reserve matches are being cancelled at the moment. Also in the team was Jake Taylor, who managed 60 minutes after recovering from knee surgery. He’s not ready for the first team yet but he’ll be back in full training soon.
South Wales is inches deep in snow and it’s just not safe for visitors.
So Cardiff’s star English striker Jay Bothroyd should recover in time for the next fixture, Craig Bellamy can rest his knee, Jason Koumas can make sure his toe is properly better and the players can recover from their latest epidemic.
Craig has been talking about Feyenoord… and even Feyenoord aren’t happy.
Dave Jones says Cardiff have to deliver on Saturday. And what happens? Snow happens.
Jonathan Meades won’t be able to play for Cardiff until the transfer window opens as he’s been playing for FK Moss. But when the transfer window does open, he’ll be ready to stake his claim.
Coventry City v Norwich City
Coventry are unbeaten in four while Norwich ended a long unbeaten run last week. History would sem to favour Coventry – Norwich have only beaten them once away in the last fifty years. The present would also seem to favour Coventry. They haven’t conceded for nearly 400 minutes. The last team to score against them were Crystal Palace, which probably served as a kick up the backside, as well as a kick into the back of the net.
Freddy Eastwood will be hoping Coventry’s failure to score against Reading last weekend will give him the chance to start.
Andrew Crofts should start for Norwich and a succession of injuries could mean Owain Tudur Jones gets to play again, as long as he’s recovered from being bashed about by Fakenham Town in the Norwich Senior Cup. Norwich City won 3-0 and Josh Dawkin also played 90 minutes.
Derby County v Reading
Derby have lost their last three matches and they’re now three points away from the play-offs – although if they win and Norwich lose, they’ll be back in the top six. And considering Derby’s home form (if you ignore their last home match) and considering Reading are without a win in six (although the last five were draws), they must be in with a good chance of a win.
Reading’s Jem Karacan wants to silence Robbie Savage. Good luck with that. Robbie is expected to play after recovering from an ankle injury but Gareth Roberts, who was substituted after forty minutes of Derby’s defeat to Bristol City, will be out for two or three weeks with a calf injury which must be so annoying when he’s finally broken back into the first team after his last injury.
Simon Church and Hal Robson-Kanu seem to be Reading’s first-choice substitutes at the moment but Reading have drawn their last five and failed to score in their last two so they’re obviously in need of a couple of goalscorers. Hal scored just a few days ago in a reserve match which is quite an achievement considering most reserve matches are being cancelled at the moment. Also in the team was Jake Taylor, who managed 60 minutes after recovering from knee surgery. He’s not ready for the first team yet but he’ll be back in full training soon.
Saturday, 20 November 2010
Championship Fixtures/News 20th November 2010 (Part 3)
Norwich City v Leeds United
It must be nice being Norwich. They haven’t won for four matches and they’re still only outside the play-offs on goal difference. It can’t be that bad being Leeds either.
This was one of the matches in my Online Football Manager game last night. Leeds won about 6-2 (I’m managing Cardiff and I’ve just signed Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey, I bet Dave Jones wishes he could do things like that) but somehow I don’t think either of these teams will score six.
Andrew Crofts will be in midfield for Norwich. They’re actually having a few problems in midfield which can only increase Josh Dawkin’s chances of being on the bench.
Jason Brown won’t be on Leeds’ bench because he’s gone back to Blackburn – and been loaned out almost immediately to Leyton Orient which must be a bit of a come-down. Sanchez Watt could be ready to return after playing in a reserve fixture.
Queen’s Park Rangers v Preston North End
One of these teams has not lost in the Championship this season. The other has only won one of their last eight matches. If Preston win, it will practically be a giant-killing. But it’s also likely you’re asleep and you dreamed the whole thing.
Craig Morgan and Paul Parry will both hope to stay in Preston’s starting line-up.
Sheffield United v Crystal Palace
Gary Speed hopes Sheffield United can push up the table and end the season in a play-off place.
Sheffield United did quite well the last time they beat a London side. They beat Millwall – and theoretically, Palace should be easier to beat. They’ve only won one away game this season.
Ched Evans started for Sheffield United last week but couldn’t find the net.
Andy Dorman could be out of the squad again as manager George Burley reveals he is struggling to adapt to life in the Championship.
Lewis Price should be on the bench.
Watford v Reading
Everyone goes on about Watford’s away form, including me but it probably isn’t that good at the moment. They only have four points from the last six matches and even if they are all away points that probably doesn’t quite count as good away form although it’s not bad.
Simon Church says playing on the wing for Reading wasn't as bad as he expected – and he might do just that against Watford. Hal Robson-Kanu will also hope for a start.
Jake Taylor is still out following a knee operation.
It must be nice being Norwich. They haven’t won for four matches and they’re still only outside the play-offs on goal difference. It can’t be that bad being Leeds either.
This was one of the matches in my Online Football Manager game last night. Leeds won about 6-2 (I’m managing Cardiff and I’ve just signed Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey, I bet Dave Jones wishes he could do things like that) but somehow I don’t think either of these teams will score six.
Andrew Crofts will be in midfield for Norwich. They’re actually having a few problems in midfield which can only increase Josh Dawkin’s chances of being on the bench.
Jason Brown won’t be on Leeds’ bench because he’s gone back to Blackburn – and been loaned out almost immediately to Leyton Orient which must be a bit of a come-down. Sanchez Watt could be ready to return after playing in a reserve fixture.
Queen’s Park Rangers v Preston North End
One of these teams has not lost in the Championship this season. The other has only won one of their last eight matches. If Preston win, it will practically be a giant-killing. But it’s also likely you’re asleep and you dreamed the whole thing.
Craig Morgan and Paul Parry will both hope to stay in Preston’s starting line-up.
Sheffield United v Crystal Palace
Gary Speed hopes Sheffield United can push up the table and end the season in a play-off place.
Sheffield United did quite well the last time they beat a London side. They beat Millwall – and theoretically, Palace should be easier to beat. They’ve only won one away game this season.
Ched Evans started for Sheffield United last week but couldn’t find the net.
Andy Dorman could be out of the squad again as manager George Burley reveals he is struggling to adapt to life in the Championship.
Lewis Price should be on the bench.
Watford v Reading
Everyone goes on about Watford’s away form, including me but it probably isn’t that good at the moment. They only have four points from the last six matches and even if they are all away points that probably doesn’t quite count as good away form although it’s not bad.
Simon Church says playing on the wing for Reading wasn't as bad as he expected – and he might do just that against Watford. Hal Robson-Kanu will also hope for a start.
Jake Taylor is still out following a knee operation.
Tuesday, 16 November 2010
Wales v Austria Under-21 match Squad Updates
Wales v AustriaFour players have withdrawn from the under-21 friendly between Wales and Austria.
Tom Bradshaw (Shrewsbury Town) still hasn’t recovered from the last time he played for Wales. He has an ankle injury but he should return to full training next week.
Jake Taylor (Reading) is recovering from knee surgery
Joe Allen (Swansea City) has a dead leg.
Adam Matthews (Cardiff City) has also withdrawn but I don’t know why.
Robert Ogleby (Heart of Midlothian), Elliott Chamberlain (Leicester City), James Bloom (Falkirk) and Tom Bender (Colchester United) have been called up to replace them – though Elliott and James weren’t on the original stand-by list.
Squad
Goalkeepers: Rhys Taylor (Crewe Alexandra, on loan from Chelsea), David Cornell (Swansea City)
Defenders: Daniel Alfei (Swansea City), Tom Bender (Colchester), James Bloom (Falkirk), Ashley Richards (Swansea City), Paul Dummett (Newcastle United), Troy Brown (Ipswich Town), David Stephens (Hibernian)
Midfielders: Elliott Chamberlain (Leicester City), Nathan Craig (Everton), Lee Lucas (Swansea City), Billy Bodin (Swindon Town), Joe Partington (AFC Bournemouth), Jonathan Williams (Crystal Palace)
Forwards: Ryan Doble (Southampton), Robert Ogleby (Hearts), Casey Thomas (Swansea City)
Stand-By Players: Jonathan Bond (Watford), Joe Walsh (Swansea City), Jonathan Meades (FK Moss, on loan from Cardiff City)
Tom Bradshaw (Shrewsbury Town) still hasn’t recovered from the last time he played for Wales. He has an ankle injury but he should return to full training next week.
Jake Taylor (Reading) is recovering from knee surgery
Joe Allen (Swansea City) has a dead leg.
Adam Matthews (Cardiff City) has also withdrawn but I don’t know why.
Robert Ogleby (Heart of Midlothian), Elliott Chamberlain (Leicester City), James Bloom (Falkirk) and Tom Bender (Colchester United) have been called up to replace them – though Elliott and James weren’t on the original stand-by list.
Squad
Goalkeepers: Rhys Taylor (Crewe Alexandra, on loan from Chelsea), David Cornell (Swansea City)
Defenders: Daniel Alfei (Swansea City), Tom Bender (Colchester), James Bloom (Falkirk), Ashley Richards (Swansea City), Paul Dummett (Newcastle United), Troy Brown (Ipswich Town), David Stephens (Hibernian)
Midfielders: Elliott Chamberlain (Leicester City), Nathan Craig (Everton), Lee Lucas (Swansea City), Billy Bodin (Swindon Town), Joe Partington (AFC Bournemouth), Jonathan Williams (Crystal Palace)
Forwards: Ryan Doble (Southampton), Robert Ogleby (Hearts), Casey Thomas (Swansea City)
Stand-By Players: Jonathan Bond (Watford), Joe Walsh (Swansea City), Jonathan Meades (FK Moss, on loan from Cardiff City)
Saturday, 30 October 2010
Welsh Player News 29th October (Championship, Part 2)
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.
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.
Sunday, 3 October 2010
Championship Results 2nd October 2010 Part 2
Ipswich Town 2-1 Leeds United
When I saw Leeds’ line-up yesterday, I thought the rumours about Jason Brown making his first appearance for Leeds must have been wrong. But no – although Jason started on the bench, he did come on after 62 minutes and he let in exactly the same number of goals as the player he replaced.
Sanchez Watt came off the bench ten minutes after Jason and set up Leeds’ goal.
Troy Brown was also a late substitute but he was playing for Ipswich, not Leeds.
Leicester City 3-1 Scunthorpe United
Leicester claimed their second win of the season over Scunthorpe and moved up two places in the league. You’ll never guess who their new manager’s going to be. What, you already know? Actually I’m not surprised. As one of Leicester’s representatives said, it was one of the world’s worst-kept secrets.
Andy King could have scored in the first minute but not many players are ready to score at that time in the match.
Middlesbrough 2-2 Portsmouth
When Portsmouth came to the Riverside, Middlesbrough probably thought they might actually win this one. And when they left the field 2-0 up at half-time, it looked as though the match could only go one way.
And it did go one way but not the way I expected. Portsmouth scored two in the second half to gain a share of the points.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Middlesbrough.
Millwall 1-1 Burnley
I don’t think I will tell you how long ago Millwall last won. I’m just not sure I can count back that far. It is quite a high number.Burnley took the lead in the 22nd minute with Millwall equalising four minutes later
Steve Morison forced a good save frm the Burnley goalkeeper, as well as providing the assist for the goal.
Preston North End 1-1 Reading
Craig Morgan was back on the bench despite helping Preston to beat Leeds United 6-4 midweek. Paul Parry wasn’t in the squad.
Simon Church was back in the starting line-up after being a supersub for Reading last week but Hal Robson-Kanu missed out, presumably because he hadn’t recovered from the knock, without which Simon probably wouldn’t have been a supersub at all. Jake Taylor was on the bench.
When I saw Leeds’ line-up yesterday, I thought the rumours about Jason Brown making his first appearance for Leeds must have been wrong. But no – although Jason started on the bench, he did come on after 62 minutes and he let in exactly the same number of goals as the player he replaced.
Sanchez Watt came off the bench ten minutes after Jason and set up Leeds’ goal.
Troy Brown was also a late substitute but he was playing for Ipswich, not Leeds.
Leicester City 3-1 Scunthorpe United
Leicester claimed their second win of the season over Scunthorpe and moved up two places in the league. You’ll never guess who their new manager’s going to be. What, you already know? Actually I’m not surprised. As one of Leicester’s representatives said, it was one of the world’s worst-kept secrets.
Andy King could have scored in the first minute but not many players are ready to score at that time in the match.
Middlesbrough 2-2 Portsmouth
When Portsmouth came to the Riverside, Middlesbrough probably thought they might actually win this one. And when they left the field 2-0 up at half-time, it looked as though the match could only go one way.
And it did go one way but not the way I expected. Portsmouth scored two in the second half to gain a share of the points.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Middlesbrough.
Millwall 1-1 Burnley
I don’t think I will tell you how long ago Millwall last won. I’m just not sure I can count back that far. It is quite a high number.Burnley took the lead in the 22nd minute with Millwall equalising four minutes later
Steve Morison forced a good save frm the Burnley goalkeeper, as well as providing the assist for the goal.
Preston North End 1-1 Reading
Craig Morgan was back on the bench despite helping Preston to beat Leeds United 6-4 midweek. Paul Parry wasn’t in the squad.
Simon Church was back in the starting line-up after being a supersub for Reading last week but Hal Robson-Kanu missed out, presumably because he hadn’t recovered from the knock, without which Simon probably wouldn’t have been a supersub at all. Jake Taylor was on the bench.
Thursday, 30 September 2010
Championship Results 28th September 2010 Part 3
Queen’s Park Rangers 0-0 Millwall
QPR dropped points at home for the first time this season as Millwall gained an excellent away home at the home of the league leaders. QPR dominated but Millwall goalkeeper David Forde was in fine form.
Steve Morison played alone up front for Millwall which is not his favourite position but he still caused QPR all sorts of trouble. Unfortunately when he was through on goal, he forgot to take the ball with him but maybe he’ll remember next time.
Reading 1-0 Ipswich Town
Ipswich slipped out of the top six after losing their first away game of the season.
Hal Robson-Kanu got his first league start of the season after some impressive performances from the bench. Simon Church was the player to be dropped at once but he got his own taste of supersubdom when Hal injured himself. Simon came off the bench to replace him and scored a goal two minutes later or twenty seconds later, according to the Daily Mail - later with his first touch. Jake Taylor was on the bench.
Troy Brown played the full match in defence for Ipswich.
Watford 2-3 Swansea City
Swansea got their first away points off the season but not before Watford gavethem a bit of a scare by fighting back from 2-0 down.
Ashley Williams played in midfield for Swansea and was joined in the starting line-up by Neil Taylor and Joe Allen. Joe had a particularly good game, claiming the assist for Swansea’s second goal with a fine pass. It was hoped that David Cotterill would return from a groin injury but he didn’t.
QPR dropped points at home for the first time this season as Millwall gained an excellent away home at the home of the league leaders. QPR dominated but Millwall goalkeeper David Forde was in fine form.
Steve Morison played alone up front for Millwall which is not his favourite position but he still caused QPR all sorts of trouble. Unfortunately when he was through on goal, he forgot to take the ball with him but maybe he’ll remember next time.
Reading 1-0 Ipswich Town
Ipswich slipped out of the top six after losing their first away game of the season.
Hal Robson-Kanu got his first league start of the season after some impressive performances from the bench. Simon Church was the player to be dropped at once but he got his own taste of supersubdom when Hal injured himself. Simon came off the bench to replace him and scored a goal two minutes later or twenty seconds later, according to the Daily Mail - later with his first touch. Jake Taylor was on the bench.
Troy Brown played the full match in defence for Ipswich.
Watford 2-3 Swansea City
Swansea got their first away points off the season but not before Watford gavethem a bit of a scare by fighting back from 2-0 down.
Ashley Williams played in midfield for Swansea and was joined in the starting line-up by Neil Taylor and Joe Allen. Joe had a particularly good game, claiming the assist for Swansea’s second goal with a fine pass. It was hoped that David Cotterill would return from a groin injury but he didn’t.
Tuesday, 28 September 2010
Championship Fixtures 28th September 2010 Part 3
Queen’s Park Rangers v Millwall
Both teams started the season as the Championships’s pace-setters but while QPR are six points clear at the top of the table, unbeaten in the league and with a 100% record at home, Millwall have dropped to 12th and are without a win in their last five matches. Millwall haven’t beaten QPR since 1989, when both clubs were in the top division.
Millwall manager Kenny Jackett has previously worked as QPR’s assistant manager.
Steve Morison should start up front for Millwall.
Reading v Ipswich Town
Reading are only a point outside the play-offs but they now face Ipswich Town, who are in fourth place and unbeaten away this season.
Hal Robson-Kanu came off the bench to score his second of the season for Reading (or his third if you include the penalty in the shoot-out against giant-killers Northampton). While this might not sound like much, he has only been on the pitch twice. It would be great to see him start for Reading, alongside Simon Church, who is expected to keep his place in the starting line-up. Jake Taylor could also be in the squad.
Troy Brown might be on the bench for Ipswich.
Watford v Swansea City
Watford are up in third place after three consecutive league victories. Swansea might not be feeling overly positive – while they do have a 100% record at home, they have a 0% record away.
David Cotterill is a doubt for Swansea due to a groin injury but Ashley Williams, Neil Taylor and Joe Allen all look likely to start. Jazz Richards could be on the bench.
Both teams started the season as the Championships’s pace-setters but while QPR are six points clear at the top of the table, unbeaten in the league and with a 100% record at home, Millwall have dropped to 12th and are without a win in their last five matches. Millwall haven’t beaten QPR since 1989, when both clubs were in the top division.
Millwall manager Kenny Jackett has previously worked as QPR’s assistant manager.
Steve Morison should start up front for Millwall.
Reading v Ipswich Town
Reading are only a point outside the play-offs but they now face Ipswich Town, who are in fourth place and unbeaten away this season.
Hal Robson-Kanu came off the bench to score his second of the season for Reading (or his third if you include the penalty in the shoot-out against giant-killers Northampton). While this might not sound like much, he has only been on the pitch twice. It would be great to see him start for Reading, alongside Simon Church, who is expected to keep his place in the starting line-up. Jake Taylor could also be in the squad.
Troy Brown might be on the bench for Ipswich.
Watford v Swansea City
Watford are up in third place after three consecutive league victories. Swansea might not be feeling overly positive – while they do have a 100% record at home, they have a 0% record away.
David Cotterill is a doubt for Swansea due to a groin injury but Ashley Williams, Neil Taylor and Joe Allen all look likely to start. Jazz Richards could be on the bench.
Monday, 27 September 2010
Championship Results 25th September 2010 Part 4
Reading 3-0 Barnsley
Reading are up and running now and even a draw in their next game could be enough to see them move into the play-offs. Reading were the better side from the start but a red card just after the hour mark should have given Barnsley the advantage.
It didn’t. It had far more of a positive effect on Reading, who went ahead in the 78th minute before scoring twice in stoppage time.
Simon Church started for Reading but he wasn’t quite able to find the back of the net – unlike Hal Robson-Kanu, who replaced him and got the winner. Jake Taylor was an unused substitute.
Watford 3-1 Middlesbrough
Watford are up to third after winning their fourth consecutive league game and they fully deserved it after another strong performance. As for Middlesbrough’s league position, they’d probably prefer it if I didn’t mention it. Suffice to say, it’s quite a lot lower than Watford’s. They were probably hoping they’d turned the corner after beating Burnley and Reading – hardly the weakest teams in the division – in their first two games – but Watford soon proved them wrong.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Middlesbrough.
Reading are up and running now and even a draw in their next game could be enough to see them move into the play-offs. Reading were the better side from the start but a red card just after the hour mark should have given Barnsley the advantage.
It didn’t. It had far more of a positive effect on Reading, who went ahead in the 78th minute before scoring twice in stoppage time.
Simon Church started for Reading but he wasn’t quite able to find the back of the net – unlike Hal Robson-Kanu, who replaced him and got the winner. Jake Taylor was an unused substitute.
Watford 3-1 Middlesbrough
Watford are up to third after winning their fourth consecutive league game and they fully deserved it after another strong performance. As for Middlesbrough’s league position, they’d probably prefer it if I didn’t mention it. Suffice to say, it’s quite a lot lower than Watford’s. They were probably hoping they’d turned the corner after beating Burnley and Reading – hardly the weakest teams in the division – in their first two games – but Watford soon proved them wrong.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Middlesbrough.
Saturday, 25 September 2010
Championship Fixtures 25th September 2010 Part 4
Reading v Barnsley
Reading haven’t lost to Barnsley since 1997, which was probably the season in which the Tykes were promoted so they were probably especially good that year. And speaking of being especially good, Reading aren’t. Although they have improved a lot recently. Barnsley are doing slightly better than Reading but they haven’t won away yet.
BBC Sport says Hal Robson-Kanu, Jake Taylor and some non-Welsh guy (Michail Antonio) are fighting it out to start for Reading so I don’t know what that says about Simon Church. But let’s assume they didn’t mention him because they were sure a striker as good as him would be starting.
Scunthorpe United v Ipswich Town
Scunthorpe have been surprisingly good this season but facing Ipswich – whose only defeat was by Qureeen’s Park Rangers, who are so good they don’t really count – won’t be easy.
Troy Brown will probably be on the bench for Ipswich.
Watford v Middlesbrough
Watford are doing so well, I couldn’t find them in the table because I wasn’t looking high enough. Middlesbrough I found far more easily. If Watford are hoping to improve on their last result, they are sure to be disappointed and Boro actually have a bit of an unbeaten run going.
Danny Coyne will be on the bench for Middlesbrough. Rhys Williams has a long-term pelvis injury.
Reading haven’t lost to Barnsley since 1997, which was probably the season in which the Tykes were promoted so they were probably especially good that year. And speaking of being especially good, Reading aren’t. Although they have improved a lot recently. Barnsley are doing slightly better than Reading but they haven’t won away yet.
BBC Sport says Hal Robson-Kanu, Jake Taylor and some non-Welsh guy (Michail Antonio) are fighting it out to start for Reading so I don’t know what that says about Simon Church. But let’s assume they didn’t mention him because they were sure a striker as good as him would be starting.
Scunthorpe United v Ipswich Town
Scunthorpe have been surprisingly good this season but facing Ipswich – whose only defeat was by Qureeen’s Park Rangers, who are so good they don’t really count – won’t be easy.
Troy Brown will probably be on the bench for Ipswich.
Watford v Middlesbrough
Watford are doing so well, I couldn’t find them in the table because I wasn’t looking high enough. Middlesbrough I found far more easily. If Watford are hoping to improve on their last result, they are sure to be disappointed and Boro actually have a bit of an unbeaten run going.
Danny Coyne will be on the bench for Middlesbrough. Rhys Williams has a long-term pelvis injury.
Wednesday, 15 September 2010
Championship Results 11th September 2010 Part 3
Queen’s Park Rangers 3-0 Middlesbrough
Top of the table QPR comprehensively beat the team who were expected to be top of the table, but who had won only one game in the league this season.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Middlesbrough but Rhys Williams was out with a pelvic injury.
Reading 3-0 Crystal Palace
Reading beat Palace 3-0 but they needed two penalties in order to do it. Palace continue to struggle but they’ll have been comforted by the news that their next match was against Portsmouth.
Simon Church came off the bench after 89 minutes which was a bit late for him to show off his goalscoring prowess really. Hal Robson-Kanu was on the bench but Jake Taylor wasn’t.
Palace’s Andy Dorman was substituted at half-time. Lewis Price was an unusued substitute… but perhaps he won’t be unused for very much longer.
Scunthorpe United 0-2 Bristol City
Stop the press. Bristol City win a match! True, it’s only against Scunthorpe but you get just the same number of points as you do when you beat Queen’s Park Rangers. Not that QPR have lost a match this season so they might have changed it for all we know but I would guess they haven’t.
Bristol City’s Brett Pitman was, to my knowledge, the only even vaguely Welsh player to feature in this match. Christian Ribeiro did get into the matchday squad but he stayed on the bench. And as all Bristol City’s other Welsh players are either injured or on loan to Yeovil Town, getting two in the squad was actually pretty good.
Watford 2-2 Doncaster Rovers
A stoppage-time winner for Doncaster denied Watford their first home win of the season. Both Watford’s goals came from the same substitute – I bet Doncaster were glad he hadn’t played from the start.
John Oster and captain Brian Stock are probably both slightly short of fitness. John made only his second appearance since a knee operation while Brian missed out on Wales’ defeat to Montenegro with a back injury. Both were substituted after 79 minutes but (obviously!) not before John had provided the assist for Doncaster’s first goal.
Top of the table QPR comprehensively beat the team who were expected to be top of the table, but who had won only one game in the league this season.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Middlesbrough but Rhys Williams was out with a pelvic injury.
Reading 3-0 Crystal Palace
Reading beat Palace 3-0 but they needed two penalties in order to do it. Palace continue to struggle but they’ll have been comforted by the news that their next match was against Portsmouth.
Simon Church came off the bench after 89 minutes which was a bit late for him to show off his goalscoring prowess really. Hal Robson-Kanu was on the bench but Jake Taylor wasn’t.
Palace’s Andy Dorman was substituted at half-time. Lewis Price was an unusued substitute… but perhaps he won’t be unused for very much longer.
Scunthorpe United 0-2 Bristol City
Stop the press. Bristol City win a match! True, it’s only against Scunthorpe but you get just the same number of points as you do when you beat Queen’s Park Rangers. Not that QPR have lost a match this season so they might have changed it for all we know but I would guess they haven’t.
Bristol City’s Brett Pitman was, to my knowledge, the only even vaguely Welsh player to feature in this match. Christian Ribeiro did get into the matchday squad but he stayed on the bench. And as all Bristol City’s other Welsh players are either injured or on loan to Yeovil Town, getting two in the squad was actually pretty good.
Watford 2-2 Doncaster Rovers
A stoppage-time winner for Doncaster denied Watford their first home win of the season. Both Watford’s goals came from the same substitute – I bet Doncaster were glad he hadn’t played from the start.
John Oster and captain Brian Stock are probably both slightly short of fitness. John made only his second appearance since a knee operation while Brian missed out on Wales’ defeat to Montenegro with a back injury. Both were substituted after 79 minutes but (obviously!) not before John had provided the assist for Doncaster’s first goal.
Saturday, 11 September 2010
Championship Fixtures 11th September 2010 Part 3
Reading v Crystal Palace
Both teams have won just one match this season. Reading struggled initially before finding their first win last week. Palace, on the other hand, started with a win before slipping down the table. To win, Palace need to score their first away goal of the season.
With Reading struggling for goals, maybe a change of striker would do the trick. Simon Church, Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor have spent most of the season so far sitting on the bench. If one of them gets his chance, it’s probably most likely to be Simon.
Andy Dorman and Lewis Price shared the bench last week but maybe Palace will bring Andy back and give Lewis a go in goal. They probably do need to change something (other than their results).
Scunthorpe United v Bristol City
Scunthorpe probably won’t be overburdened with wins this season – although to be fair to them, they’ve started the season well – so they’ve got to take three points wherever they can. And a match against winless Bristol City could be just the place to pick up points.
Bristol City will probably be without Lewin Nyatanga (knee), James Wilson (knee) and Sam Vokes (hamstring) while Christian Ribeiro, who is recovering from a shoulder injury, might not be sufficiently match-fit to play. With Lewin, James and Christian out, it’s no wonder Bristol City have the weakest defence in the league.
Gavin Williams has followed my advice and rejoined Yeovil Town on loan so he won’t play for Bristol City either but Brett Pitman is likely to start.
Watford v Doncaster Rovers
Watford are searching for their first home win of the season. If Doncaster win, this will be their best start to a league season for fifteen years.
Brian Stock missed Wales with a back injury but he’s fine now. John Oster seems to have suffered no adverse reactions following his comeback from knee surgery last weekend. I’d expect him to start again but perhaps not complete the match.
Both teams have won just one match this season. Reading struggled initially before finding their first win last week. Palace, on the other hand, started with a win before slipping down the table. To win, Palace need to score their first away goal of the season.
With Reading struggling for goals, maybe a change of striker would do the trick. Simon Church, Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor have spent most of the season so far sitting on the bench. If one of them gets his chance, it’s probably most likely to be Simon.
Andy Dorman and Lewis Price shared the bench last week but maybe Palace will bring Andy back and give Lewis a go in goal. They probably do need to change something (other than their results).
Scunthorpe United v Bristol City
Scunthorpe probably won’t be overburdened with wins this season – although to be fair to them, they’ve started the season well – so they’ve got to take three points wherever they can. And a match against winless Bristol City could be just the place to pick up points.
Bristol City will probably be without Lewin Nyatanga (knee), James Wilson (knee) and Sam Vokes (hamstring) while Christian Ribeiro, who is recovering from a shoulder injury, might not be sufficiently match-fit to play. With Lewin, James and Christian out, it’s no wonder Bristol City have the weakest defence in the league.
Gavin Williams has followed my advice and rejoined Yeovil Town on loan so he won’t play for Bristol City either but Brett Pitman is likely to start.
Watford v Doncaster Rovers
Watford are searching for their first home win of the season. If Doncaster win, this will be their best start to a league season for fifteen years.
Brian Stock missed Wales with a back injury but he’s fine now. John Oster seems to have suffered no adverse reactions following his comeback from knee surgery last weekend. I’d expect him to start again but perhaps not complete the match.
Tuesday, 31 August 2010
Transfer Deadline Day August 2010 - Welsh Players
I was very intrigued to hear that ‘Christian Bale’ was moving to Birmingham. I assumed they meant Gareth which sounded a bit unlikely (although any move that weakens Tottenham Hotspur can only be a good thing) but it turned out they meant former Arsenal man Alexander Hleb. They managed to get him too, despite interest from Liverpool, Tottenham and Benfica.
Mark Hughes was named as a contender to become manager of Aston Villa despite only arriving at Fulham five minutes ago (okay that might be a slight exaggeration). This one didn't happen... although the last time I checked, manager don't have to stick to transfer deadlines.
Swansea City received a bid from Leicester City for Ashley Williams but they told Leicester where to go. Former Swansea manager Paolo Sousa is now at Leicester so it was probably his idea.
Reading striker Gylfi Sigurdsson has made a shock move to the Bundesliga. No he’s not Welsh but striker team-mates Simon Church, Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor are and Sigurdsson was keeping them out of the team.
Danny Gabbidon was very excited to hear Ryan Babel might be joining him at West Ham. West Ham fans were probably equally excited to hear that Danny is on Twitter and is therefore unlikely to be heading anywhere in the next few hours. Always a worry on transfer deadline day.
Tony Pulis had a go at signing Jermaine Pennant (formerly of Arsenal, Liverpool and Birmingham and I think also Portsmouth) and his Welsh charm worked. Pennant is now an on-loan Stoke City player. For Tony's sake, let’s hope he’s grown up since his Arsenal days.
Mark Hughes was named as a contender to become manager of Aston Villa despite only arriving at Fulham five minutes ago (okay that might be a slight exaggeration). This one didn't happen... although the last time I checked, manager don't have to stick to transfer deadlines.
Swansea City received a bid from Leicester City for Ashley Williams but they told Leicester where to go. Former Swansea manager Paolo Sousa is now at Leicester so it was probably his idea.
Reading striker Gylfi Sigurdsson has made a shock move to the Bundesliga. No he’s not Welsh but striker team-mates Simon Church, Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor are and Sigurdsson was keeping them out of the team.
Danny Gabbidon was very excited to hear Ryan Babel might be joining him at West Ham. West Ham fans were probably equally excited to hear that Danny is on Twitter and is therefore unlikely to be heading anywhere in the next few hours. Always a worry on transfer deadline day.
Tony Pulis had a go at signing Jermaine Pennant (formerly of Arsenal, Liverpool and Birmingham and I think also Portsmouth) and his Welsh charm worked. Pennant is now an on-loan Stoke City player. For Tony's sake, let’s hope he’s grown up since his Arsenal days.
Championship Results 28th August 2010 Part 1
Barnsley 2-0 Middlesbrough
The Championship title-favourites lost at Barnsley… although if they carry on like this, I won’t be able to call them the title favourites anymore. It’s early days though and the team can afford to take a bit more time to gel.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Boro.
Derby County 2-2 Queen’s Park Rangers
Derby brought QPR’s 100% record to an end although they do remain unbeaten. Derby were actually very unlucky not to lose and were 2-0 up at the end of normal time.
Robbie Savage managed to get Adel Taarabt back into his pocket but maybe he should have put Jamie Mackie in his other pocket. Gareth Roberts played in defence for Derby.
Doncaster Rovers 3-1 Hull City
Doncaster move level on points with 5th-placed Burnley while Hull, whose manager missed the match due to being in hospital, are two points outside the relegation zone. Hull now haven’t won away for nearly eighteen months.
John Oster made his first appearance for Doncaster since knee surgery in the summer. He and Brian Stock both started but were substituted late on. Brian has since withdrawn from the Wales squad.
Ipswich Town 2-0 Bristol City
Ipswich continue their unbeaten run while Bristol City are having a run like Ipswich did last year – they have just two points from their four games so far. Ipswich will remind them this isn’t necessarily a complete disaster.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich.
Most of Bristol City’s Welsh players are either injured or coming back from injury. But there was no place in the squad for Gavin Williams either which meant the only Welshman on show was new signing Brett Pitman, who isn’t really Welsh yet anyway.
Leicester City 1-2 Reading
Both these teams were without a league win before kick-off and it did look as though this run might continue for both teams. But Reading grabbed an 86th minute goal and took the three points.
Leicester left Andy King on the bench but he came on after 63 minutes. Unfortunately his goal was disallowed.
Simon Church was a doubt for this match due to a neck injury but he came off the bench for Reading a minute earlier but there was no substitute appearance for Hal Robson-Kanu or Jake Taylor.
The Championship title-favourites lost at Barnsley… although if they carry on like this, I won’t be able to call them the title favourites anymore. It’s early days though and the team can afford to take a bit more time to gel.
Danny Coyne was on the bench for Boro.
Derby County 2-2 Queen’s Park Rangers
Derby brought QPR’s 100% record to an end although they do remain unbeaten. Derby were actually very unlucky not to lose and were 2-0 up at the end of normal time.
Robbie Savage managed to get Adel Taarabt back into his pocket but maybe he should have put Jamie Mackie in his other pocket. Gareth Roberts played in defence for Derby.
Doncaster Rovers 3-1 Hull City
Doncaster move level on points with 5th-placed Burnley while Hull, whose manager missed the match due to being in hospital, are two points outside the relegation zone. Hull now haven’t won away for nearly eighteen months.
John Oster made his first appearance for Doncaster since knee surgery in the summer. He and Brian Stock both started but were substituted late on. Brian has since withdrawn from the Wales squad.
Ipswich Town 2-0 Bristol City
Ipswich continue their unbeaten run while Bristol City are having a run like Ipswich did last year – they have just two points from their four games so far. Ipswich will remind them this isn’t necessarily a complete disaster.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich.
Most of Bristol City’s Welsh players are either injured or coming back from injury. But there was no place in the squad for Gavin Williams either which meant the only Welshman on show was new signing Brett Pitman, who isn’t really Welsh yet anyway.
Leicester City 1-2 Reading
Both these teams were without a league win before kick-off and it did look as though this run might continue for both teams. But Reading grabbed an 86th minute goal and took the three points.
Leicester left Andy King on the bench but he came on after 63 minutes. Unfortunately his goal was disallowed.
Simon Church was a doubt for this match due to a neck injury but he came off the bench for Reading a minute earlier but there was no substitute appearance for Hal Robson-Kanu or Jake Taylor.
Friday, 27 August 2010
Championship Fixtures 28th August 2010 Part 2
Leicester City v Reading
Leicester are still searching for their first win of the season but they did manage to knock Leeds United out of the Carling Cup so things can’t be too hopeless. Reading have twice as many points as Leicester – two.
Andy King helped inspire Leicester’s fightback against Leeds so he should be back in the starting line-up.
Simon Church won’t play for Reading after picking up a neck injury. Hal Robson-Kanu, who scored not only a shoot-out penalty but also his first goal for Reading, could be in contention. Jake Taylor is another option.
Millwall v Coventry City
Millwall aim to get back to winning ways after old rivals Leeds United took all three points last weekend. Coventry haven’t beaten Millwall at home since 1955.
Steve Morison should keep his place in Millwall’s team. Fellow striker Freddy Eastwood scored two for Coventry on the first day of the season but none since then.
Nottingham Forest v Norwich City
Nottingham Forest, who finished third last season, are still looking for their first win of the new season. If they lose this match, they’ll have equalled last season’s poor start. But maybe they can also equal last season’s third-placed finish.
Chris Gunter serves the second match of his three-match suspension. Rob Earnshaw could be in Forest’s starting line-up to face his former club.
Andrew Crofts should be in Norwich’s starting line-up after recovering from a an ankle problem but Owain Tudur Jones won’t play as he has gone back to Yeovil Town on loan.
Leicester are still searching for their first win of the season but they did manage to knock Leeds United out of the Carling Cup so things can’t be too hopeless. Reading have twice as many points as Leicester – two.
Andy King helped inspire Leicester’s fightback against Leeds so he should be back in the starting line-up.
Simon Church won’t play for Reading after picking up a neck injury. Hal Robson-Kanu, who scored not only a shoot-out penalty but also his first goal for Reading, could be in contention. Jake Taylor is another option.
Millwall v Coventry City
Millwall aim to get back to winning ways after old rivals Leeds United took all three points last weekend. Coventry haven’t beaten Millwall at home since 1955.
Steve Morison should keep his place in Millwall’s team. Fellow striker Freddy Eastwood scored two for Coventry on the first day of the season but none since then.
Nottingham Forest v Norwich City
Nottingham Forest, who finished third last season, are still looking for their first win of the new season. If they lose this match, they’ll have equalled last season’s poor start. But maybe they can also equal last season’s third-placed finish.
Chris Gunter serves the second match of his three-match suspension. Rob Earnshaw could be in Forest’s starting line-up to face his former club.
Andrew Crofts should be in Norwich’s starting line-up after recovering from a an ankle problem but Owain Tudur Jones won’t play as he has gone back to Yeovil Town on loan.
Thursday, 26 August 2010
Carling Cup Results 24th August 2010 Part 3
Peterborough United 2-1 Cardiff City
This was one giant-killing I didn’t want to see. True, Cardiff left out Craig Bellamy, without whom they are admittedly considerably weaker, but it still wasn’t nice to see. And manager Dave Jones said the result wouldn’t have been different f Craig had played. Cardiff took the lead just after the half-hour mark but Peterborough scored a couple of really good goals to go through to the next round.
Arron Davies came close to scoring two goals for Peterborough. He played ninety minutes but he didn’t play the full match. Work that one out.
Craig was probably just rested but Jason Koumas made his first start for Cardiff, or rather his first start in this loan spell. He had a great first half and he got the assist for the first goal. He was understandably quieter in the second half but he completed his first ninety minutes for ages and ages.
Darcy Blake was still out with an ankle problem but Adam Matthews kept his place in the starting line-up and did well in the first half especially. Aaron Wildig wasn’t expected to be fit enough to return to the squad but he was an 84th minute substitute. Nathaniel Jarvis was on the bench.
Portsmouth 1-1 Crystal Palace (Portsmouth win 4-3 on penalties)
Portsmouth looked set to win this in ninety minutes but they messed it up for themselves when they accidentally put the ball in the wrong net. Their problems with putting the ball in the net continued. Portsmouth were unable to find a winner in extra time and they were just lucky Palace couldn’t find one either. Then came the shoot-out. Portsmouth won 4-3 but Palace (I think¬) won 4-3 on misses.
Andy Dorman started for Crystal Palace but he was substituted and therefore missed the penalty drama. Lewis Price was on the bench.
Reading 3-3 Northampton Town, Northampton win 4-2 on penalties
Welsh players don’t have the best reputation when it comes to penalties. And England think they’ve got it bad. Reading were the team to open the scoring but the League Two side got an equaliser just two minutes later. When Welshman Hal Robson-Kanu put Reading back into the lead in the 62nd minutes - his first for the club - the same thing happened, only quicker. Two minutes later, Northampton had levelled the score. This took the match into extra time and Reading really thought they’d done it. They scored and in the 4th minute of stoppage time, there had been no reply from Northampton. The reply came a minute later. Except it wasn’t so much a reply as an own goal.
And so to the penalties. By this stage, Reading had all three of their Welsh strikers on the field. Hal and Simon Church had played the full match whilst Jake Taylor came on in the 50th minute. Having already scored one goal that night, Hal was perhaps a little more confident than the other two. At any rate, of the three of them, this was the only goal that went in. Simon went for power rather than placement in the first penalty and it backfired. Probably not literally though. Jake’s penalty went wide. But I still love them and I’m sure they’ll get a lot of sympathy from their Welsh team-mates.
Paul Walker was on the bench for Northampton.
This was one giant-killing I didn’t want to see. True, Cardiff left out Craig Bellamy, without whom they are admittedly considerably weaker, but it still wasn’t nice to see. And manager Dave Jones said the result wouldn’t have been different f Craig had played. Cardiff took the lead just after the half-hour mark but Peterborough scored a couple of really good goals to go through to the next round.
Arron Davies came close to scoring two goals for Peterborough. He played ninety minutes but he didn’t play the full match. Work that one out.
Craig was probably just rested but Jason Koumas made his first start for Cardiff, or rather his first start in this loan spell. He had a great first half and he got the assist for the first goal. He was understandably quieter in the second half but he completed his first ninety minutes for ages and ages.
Darcy Blake was still out with an ankle problem but Adam Matthews kept his place in the starting line-up and did well in the first half especially. Aaron Wildig wasn’t expected to be fit enough to return to the squad but he was an 84th minute substitute. Nathaniel Jarvis was on the bench.
Portsmouth 1-1 Crystal Palace (Portsmouth win 4-3 on penalties)
Portsmouth looked set to win this in ninety minutes but they messed it up for themselves when they accidentally put the ball in the wrong net. Their problems with putting the ball in the net continued. Portsmouth were unable to find a winner in extra time and they were just lucky Palace couldn’t find one either. Then came the shoot-out. Portsmouth won 4-3 but Palace (I think¬) won 4-3 on misses.
Andy Dorman started for Crystal Palace but he was substituted and therefore missed the penalty drama. Lewis Price was on the bench.
Reading 3-3 Northampton Town, Northampton win 4-2 on penalties
Welsh players don’t have the best reputation when it comes to penalties. And England think they’ve got it bad. Reading were the team to open the scoring but the League Two side got an equaliser just two minutes later. When Welshman Hal Robson-Kanu put Reading back into the lead in the 62nd minutes - his first for the club - the same thing happened, only quicker. Two minutes later, Northampton had levelled the score. This took the match into extra time and Reading really thought they’d done it. They scored and in the 4th minute of stoppage time, there had been no reply from Northampton. The reply came a minute later. Except it wasn’t so much a reply as an own goal.
And so to the penalties. By this stage, Reading had all three of their Welsh strikers on the field. Hal and Simon Church had played the full match whilst Jake Taylor came on in the 50th minute. Having already scored one goal that night, Hal was perhaps a little more confident than the other two. At any rate, of the three of them, this was the only goal that went in. Simon went for power rather than placement in the first penalty and it backfired. Probably not literally though. Jake’s penalty went wide. But I still love them and I’m sure they’ll get a lot of sympathy from their Welsh team-mates.
Paul Walker was on the bench for Northampton.
Monday, 23 August 2010
Carling Cup Fixtures 24th August 2010 Part 3
Portsmouth v Crystal Palace
Portsmouth won the FA Cup not so very long ago. Now even the Carling Cup looks beyond their grasp.
Andy Dorman should keep his place in Crystal Palace’s starting line-up. Lewis Price will be hoping a spot of goalkeeper-rotation might be in order.
Reading v Northampton
Reading had a great run in the FA Cup last season so maybe they could do the same.
Simon Church, Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor could play a part in this match after staying on the bench at the weekend.
I don’t think Northampton will be bringing in their reserve keeper. A match against Reading probably wouldn’t be the best introduction for 18 year old Paul Walker. Although who knows?
Southampton v Bolton Wanderers
Southampton haven’t won any games in the league this season while Bolton are unbeaten. This looks like a possible Cupset but maybe I’m being too romantic although that’s not something I’m usually accused of.
If Southampton choose to rest some players, Ryan Doble and Anthony Pulis could get into the squad.
Sam Ricketts will be hoping for a chance to impress for Bolton after being left on the bench for the opening two Premier League matches.
Stoke City v Shrewsbury Town
Shrewsbury are unbeaten this campaign while Stoke haven’t got any points at all. But Stoke are still three divisions ahead of Shrewsbury.
Danny Collins was back in the starting line-up alongside new captain Ryan Shawcross for Stoke’s last Premier League game. But manager Tony Pulis might not pick his strongest players.
Tom Bradshaw will be hoping for more than an appearance on the bench for Shrewsbury.
Portsmouth won the FA Cup not so very long ago. Now even the Carling Cup looks beyond their grasp.
Andy Dorman should keep his place in Crystal Palace’s starting line-up. Lewis Price will be hoping a spot of goalkeeper-rotation might be in order.
Reading v Northampton
Reading had a great run in the FA Cup last season so maybe they could do the same.
Simon Church, Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor could play a part in this match after staying on the bench at the weekend.
I don’t think Northampton will be bringing in their reserve keeper. A match against Reading probably wouldn’t be the best introduction for 18 year old Paul Walker. Although who knows?
Southampton v Bolton Wanderers
Southampton haven’t won any games in the league this season while Bolton are unbeaten. This looks like a possible Cupset but maybe I’m being too romantic although that’s not something I’m usually accused of.
If Southampton choose to rest some players, Ryan Doble and Anthony Pulis could get into the squad.
Sam Ricketts will be hoping for a chance to impress for Bolton after being left on the bench for the opening two Premier League matches.
Stoke City v Shrewsbury Town
Shrewsbury are unbeaten this campaign while Stoke haven’t got any points at all. But Stoke are still three divisions ahead of Shrewsbury.
Danny Collins was back in the starting line-up alongside new captain Ryan Shawcross for Stoke’s last Premier League game. But manager Tony Pulis might not pick his strongest players.
Tom Bradshaw will be hoping for more than an appearance on the bench for Shrewsbury.
Sunday, 22 August 2010
Championship Results 21st August 2010 Part 3
Preston 1-0 Portsmouth
Preston had no points at all before this month but luckily they were playing Portsmouth so they were able to get three of them.
Craig Morgan helped Preston to get their first clean sheet but Paul Parry wasn’t in the squad after playing for Preston’s reserves the night before. Unfortunately they lost 1-0 to Accrington Stanley’s reserves although Paul nearly scored.
Reading 1-1 Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest are still without a win but at least the fans know they can take their gilt-edged chances.
Robert Earnshaw had a good game for Forest and was the player to profit when Reading keeper Adam Federici (who otherwise had a good game) messed up a kick which rebounded from a team-mate before dropping nicely for Rob to score his first of the season.
Simon Church, Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor were all on the bench for Reading but their manager chose not to call on them and they didn’t win the game.
Forest were without Chris Gunter, who was suspended.
Preston had no points at all before this month but luckily they were playing Portsmouth so they were able to get three of them.
Craig Morgan helped Preston to get their first clean sheet but Paul Parry wasn’t in the squad after playing for Preston’s reserves the night before. Unfortunately they lost 1-0 to Accrington Stanley’s reserves although Paul nearly scored.
Reading 1-1 Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest are still without a win but at least the fans know they can take their gilt-edged chances.
Robert Earnshaw had a good game for Forest and was the player to profit when Reading keeper Adam Federici (who otherwise had a good game) messed up a kick which rebounded from a team-mate before dropping nicely for Rob to score his first of the season.
Simon Church, Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor were all on the bench for Reading but their manager chose not to call on them and they didn’t win the game.
Forest were without Chris Gunter, who was suspended.
Friday, 20 August 2010
Championship Fixtures 21st August 2010 Part 4
Preston North End v Portsmouth
Preston are rock bottom of the Championship but with Portsmouth just a point ahead and only out of the relegation places on goal difference, Preston certainly have a chance.
Craig Morgan should make his 200th career league start for Preston in this match. Team-mate Paul Parry is on his way back from a knee injury and will probably start sooner or later.
Reading v Nottingham Forest
Reading and Forest were expected to do well this season – and maybe one of them will start doing well in this match.
It’s hard to know which strikers will play for Reading, there are so many of them. But I’d like to put in a good word for Simon Church. Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor might both be on the bench.
Forest will be without right back Chris Gunter, who has a three-match ban for violent conduct after playing footsie with Leeds United’s Sanchez Watt. Robert Earnshaw, like the Reading strikers, has lots of competition for a place in the side so he might be on the bench.
Preston are rock bottom of the Championship but with Portsmouth just a point ahead and only out of the relegation places on goal difference, Preston certainly have a chance.
Craig Morgan should make his 200th career league start for Preston in this match. Team-mate Paul Parry is on his way back from a knee injury and will probably start sooner or later.
Reading v Nottingham Forest
Reading and Forest were expected to do well this season – and maybe one of them will start doing well in this match.
It’s hard to know which strikers will play for Reading, there are so many of them. But I’d like to put in a good word for Simon Church. Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor might both be on the bench.
Forest will be without right back Chris Gunter, who has a three-match ban for violent conduct after playing footsie with Leeds United’s Sanchez Watt. Robert Earnshaw, like the Reading strikers, has lots of competition for a place in the side so he might be on the bench.
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