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.
Showing posts with label josh dawkin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label josh dawkin. Show all posts
Saturday, 18 December 2010
Friday, 3 September 2010
Welsh Summer Transfers 2010 (Championship, H-N)
Hull City
Gary Speed was named as a contender to become Hull City’s new manager. He didn’t get the job.
Hull were said to be interested in signing Steve Morison from Millwall but Millwall weren’t interested.
Welsh players: None
Ipswich Town
Troy Brown signed a one-year contract extension with Ipswich.
Ben Thatcher is still a free agent after being released by Ipswich mid-season.
Welsh players: One (Troy Brown)
Leeds United
Arsenal's Sanchez Watt joined on loan again, this time for the whole season.
Welsh players: One (Sanchez Watt)
Leicester City
Brentford made a bid for Nicky Adams but he decided to stay and fight for his place instead. He fought for about two weeks before deciding to go to Brentford after all. The fee agreed was £175,000 but then there was a re-structure.
It was thought that Andy King would also attract interest from other clubs and I’m sure he did but Leicester kept hold of him.
Leicester were rumoured to be interested in Steve Morison and the rumour could well be true – why wouldn’t they be interested? But Steve didn’t want to go and there was no way Millwall were letting him.
Leicester made a late bid on transfer deadline day for Ashley Williams but Swansea rejected it.
Welsh players: One (Andy King)
Middlesbrough
It was thought that Middlesbrough might want to replace goalkeeper Danny Coyne but luckily for him they didn't.
Welsh players: Two and a half (Danny Coyne, Rhys Williams who decided to represent Australia)
Millwall
Millwall released striker Jason Price following their promotion to the Championship. Jason was strongly linked with Carlisle United (among, according to Jason, other clubs), with whom he spent time on loan last season and the rumours turned out to be true. Jason has now signed a one-year deal with Carlisle United.
Hull were said to be interested in signing Steve Morison but Millwall said no.
Welsh players: One (Steve Morison)
Norwich City
Norwich said there was room for everyone in the squad but that didn’t stop them from getting rid of three Welshmen. Rhoys Wiggins finally got his dream move to Bournemouth after the transfer ban was lifted. He spent the second half of last season on loan there and has now signed a two-year deal.
Norwich were all set to let David Stephens go to Lincoln City but the player had other ideas. He has now signed for Hibernian on a two-year deal. They’re in the Europa League you know.
Josh Dawkin signed a one-year professional contract with Norwich.
Owain Tudur Jones had an unsuccessful trial with Plymouth Argyle before returning to Yeovil Town on loan, where he will stay for one month – or until January if he can extend it. He was also linked to Swindon Town.
Norwich signed Andrew Crofts from Brighton & Hove Albion for an undisclosed fee, probably around £300,000.
Welsh players: Two (Andrew Crofts, Josh Dawkin) plus one out on loan (Owain Tudur Jones)
Nottingham Forest
Forest were said to be interested in signing Andy Dorman but he went to Crystal Palace instead.
Welsh players: Two (Chris Gunter, Robert Earnshaw)
Gary Speed was named as a contender to become Hull City’s new manager. He didn’t get the job.
Hull were said to be interested in signing Steve Morison from Millwall but Millwall weren’t interested.
Welsh players: None
Ipswich Town
Troy Brown signed a one-year contract extension with Ipswich.
Ben Thatcher is still a free agent after being released by Ipswich mid-season.
Welsh players: One (Troy Brown)
Leeds United
Arsenal's Sanchez Watt joined on loan again, this time for the whole season.
Welsh players: One (Sanchez Watt)
Leicester City
Brentford made a bid for Nicky Adams but he decided to stay and fight for his place instead. He fought for about two weeks before deciding to go to Brentford after all. The fee agreed was £175,000 but then there was a re-structure.
It was thought that Andy King would also attract interest from other clubs and I’m sure he did but Leicester kept hold of him.
Leicester were rumoured to be interested in Steve Morison and the rumour could well be true – why wouldn’t they be interested? But Steve didn’t want to go and there was no way Millwall were letting him.
Leicester made a late bid on transfer deadline day for Ashley Williams but Swansea rejected it.
Welsh players: One (Andy King)
Middlesbrough
It was thought that Middlesbrough might want to replace goalkeeper Danny Coyne but luckily for him they didn't.
Welsh players: Two and a half (Danny Coyne, Rhys Williams who decided to represent Australia)
Millwall
Millwall released striker Jason Price following their promotion to the Championship. Jason was strongly linked with Carlisle United (among, according to Jason, other clubs), with whom he spent time on loan last season and the rumours turned out to be true. Jason has now signed a one-year deal with Carlisle United.
Hull were said to be interested in signing Steve Morison but Millwall said no.
Welsh players: One (Steve Morison)
Norwich City
Norwich said there was room for everyone in the squad but that didn’t stop them from getting rid of three Welshmen. Rhoys Wiggins finally got his dream move to Bournemouth after the transfer ban was lifted. He spent the second half of last season on loan there and has now signed a two-year deal.
Norwich were all set to let David Stephens go to Lincoln City but the player had other ideas. He has now signed for Hibernian on a two-year deal. They’re in the Europa League you know.
Josh Dawkin signed a one-year professional contract with Norwich.
Owain Tudur Jones had an unsuccessful trial with Plymouth Argyle before returning to Yeovil Town on loan, where he will stay for one month – or until January if he can extend it. He was also linked to Swindon Town.
Norwich signed Andrew Crofts from Brighton & Hove Albion for an undisclosed fee, probably around £300,000.
Welsh players: Two (Andrew Crofts, Josh Dawkin) plus one out on loan (Owain Tudur Jones)
Nottingham Forest
Forest were said to be interested in signing Andy Dorman but he went to Crystal Palace instead.
Welsh players: Two (Chris Gunter, Robert Earnshaw)
Thursday, 26 August 2010
Carling Cup Results 24th August 2010 Part 1
Blackburn Rovers 3-1 Norwich City
Blackburn are a good side but they are slightly lacking in the goalscorer department. The answer? Sign a striker from a top four team. It worked last season with Chelsea’s Franco di Santo and so far the ploy looks set to reap still more dividends this season. Mame Biram Diouf didn’t even wait thirty minutes before he got onto the scoresheet and he went on to get a hat-trick. Exciting stuff if you’re a Blackburn fam but not so good if you want some Carling Cup giant-killing romance. Norwich did have a go at fighting back but as their goal came in the 90th minute, the referee’s whistle got in the way of any attempts to build on this comeback.
Jason Brown was nowhere to be seen for Blackburn. Mark Bunn played in goal and England star Frankie Fielding was on the bench. This sounds bad but I do kind of hope Jason’s injured. Because if he’s not injured, he’s being ignored.
Andrew Crofts was rested due to a slight knock but Norwich didn’t bring in Owain Tudur Jones or Josh Dawkin.
Bradford City 1-2 Preston North End (after extra time)
League Two Bradford managed to hold Preston to a draw in normal time but Preston got a winner in extra time which is just so unromantic. Although of course it’s Bradford, not Preston who are the former Premier League side.
Michael Flynn didn’t play for Bradford as he’s going to have a groin operation. I’m not sure why as it I heard he had a back injury.
Preston were without Paul Parry. I’m a bit worried about him. He’d just got back into the first team but then he’s missed the last two matches, even though he has appeared in a reserve match. Maybe he needs the reserve matches to help him get up to literal and figurative speed.
Craig Morgan did play for Preston though.
Brentford 2-1 Hull City
Yes, that’s more like it! I do actually like Hull and Brentford are technically a rival London team but this is what the Carling Cup’s all about. At least until Arsenal come into the competition. Hull took the lead in the 8th minute but Brentford got an equaliser fourteen minutes later before finding a late winner.
Nicky Adams was absent from Brentford’s squad. He’s not cup-tied so that’s not why.
Crewe Alexandra 0-1 Ipswich Town (after extra time)
Crewe struggled in their opening league games but a 7-0 victory over Barnet seemed to give them a bit of confidence. Ipswich have been on great form in the Championship this season but League Two Crewe took them to extra time.
Ipswich found a winner in the 101st minute but only though s stunning goal, the kind that more experienced keepers than Rhys Taylor couldn’t have stopped.
Troy Brown played his first ninety minutes – plus another thirty – for Ipswich.
Leeds United 1-2 Leicester City
Leeds led for much of this tie after taking the lead through the supersub that beat poor Millwall at the weekend. But Leicester equalised shortly after the hour mark before winning a penalty in the 89th minute. This penaty was scored – saving them from more penalties half an hour later.
Sanchez Watt came off the bench for Leeds after 72 minutes. I’m sure he was just being rested.
Leicester’s Andy King was also rested but at half-time they realised they just couldn’t do without him. Well I could have told them that. He made a big difference to Leicester’s attack and also playing his part in defence, clearing a Leeds shot off the line.
Blackburn are a good side but they are slightly lacking in the goalscorer department. The answer? Sign a striker from a top four team. It worked last season with Chelsea’s Franco di Santo and so far the ploy looks set to reap still more dividends this season. Mame Biram Diouf didn’t even wait thirty minutes before he got onto the scoresheet and he went on to get a hat-trick. Exciting stuff if you’re a Blackburn fam but not so good if you want some Carling Cup giant-killing romance. Norwich did have a go at fighting back but as their goal came in the 90th minute, the referee’s whistle got in the way of any attempts to build on this comeback.
Jason Brown was nowhere to be seen for Blackburn. Mark Bunn played in goal and England star Frankie Fielding was on the bench. This sounds bad but I do kind of hope Jason’s injured. Because if he’s not injured, he’s being ignored.
Andrew Crofts was rested due to a slight knock but Norwich didn’t bring in Owain Tudur Jones or Josh Dawkin.
Bradford City 1-2 Preston North End (after extra time)
League Two Bradford managed to hold Preston to a draw in normal time but Preston got a winner in extra time which is just so unromantic. Although of course it’s Bradford, not Preston who are the former Premier League side.
Michael Flynn didn’t play for Bradford as he’s going to have a groin operation. I’m not sure why as it I heard he had a back injury.
Preston were without Paul Parry. I’m a bit worried about him. He’d just got back into the first team but then he’s missed the last two matches, even though he has appeared in a reserve match. Maybe he needs the reserve matches to help him get up to literal and figurative speed.
Craig Morgan did play for Preston though.
Brentford 2-1 Hull City
Yes, that’s more like it! I do actually like Hull and Brentford are technically a rival London team but this is what the Carling Cup’s all about. At least until Arsenal come into the competition. Hull took the lead in the 8th minute but Brentford got an equaliser fourteen minutes later before finding a late winner.
Nicky Adams was absent from Brentford’s squad. He’s not cup-tied so that’s not why.
Crewe Alexandra 0-1 Ipswich Town (after extra time)
Crewe struggled in their opening league games but a 7-0 victory over Barnet seemed to give them a bit of confidence. Ipswich have been on great form in the Championship this season but League Two Crewe took them to extra time.
Ipswich found a winner in the 101st minute but only though s stunning goal, the kind that more experienced keepers than Rhys Taylor couldn’t have stopped.
Troy Brown played his first ninety minutes – plus another thirty – for Ipswich.
Leeds United 1-2 Leicester City
Leeds led for much of this tie after taking the lead through the supersub that beat poor Millwall at the weekend. But Leicester equalised shortly after the hour mark before winning a penalty in the 89th minute. This penaty was scored – saving them from more penalties half an hour later.
Sanchez Watt came off the bench for Leeds after 72 minutes. I’m sure he was just being rested.
Leicester’s Andy King was also rested but at half-time they realised they just couldn’t do without him. Well I could have told them that. He made a big difference to Leicester’s attack and also playing his part in defence, clearing a Leeds shot off the line.
Monday, 23 August 2010
Carling Cup Fixtures 24th August 2010 Part 1
Blackburn Rovers v Norwich City
Norwich are on a winning run at the moment but Blackburn’s own run came to an end last weekend.
It is thought that Blackburn will rest first-choice keeper Paul Robinson but Jason Brown is not one of the suggested alternatives. Maybe he’s injured.
Norwich are probably less likely than Blackburn to bring in their fringe players but Owain Tudur Jones is really good and deserves a chance. It would be really nice to see Josh Dawkin too, hint hint.
Bradford City v Preston North End
Preston have finally got their first points in the Premier League but a match against League Two Bradford City should be easy, shouldn’t it? Or maybe not. Just ask Bristol City.
Michael Flynn is going to have a groin operation tomorrow so he won’t be playing for Bradford for a while.
Craig Morgan should be in defence for Preston and Paul Parry might also be in contention after playing with the reserves on Friday instead of Preston’s league match on Saturday.
Brentford v Hull City
Brentford aren’t having a great league season so far but beating Hull should help cheer them up. The last team to giant-kill Hull were Blackpool. They won’t be doing that this season.
Brentford’s new signing Nicky Adams will be hoping for more than a cameo role this time.
Crewe Alexandra v Ipswich Town
Crewe will be on a high after winning their last match 7-0… and they didn’t exactly struggle against Derby County in the first round of the Carling Cup.
Crewe goalkeeper Rhys Taylor is on loan from Chelsea but they probably aren’t that worried about him getting cup-tied so he might be able to play.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich at the end after recovering from an ankle injury but maybe he’ll get to play this time.
Leyton Orient v West Bromwich Albion
The last time West Brom were in the Premier League, they were knocked out of the Carling Cup by League One Hartlepool United. Orient are also in League One.
Goalkeeper Boaz Myhill is expected to make his West Brom debut in this match.
Millwall v Middlesbrough
Both these clubs reached landmark Cup finals in 2004. Millwall got to the FA Cup final where they not unreasonably lost to Manchester United. Middlesbrough won their first major piece of silverware, the Carling Cup. Will 2010 be the new 2004?
Steve Morison ia expected to keep his place up front for Millwall.
Danny Coyne might possibly get the chance to start for Middlesbrough but don’t be surprised if he’s on the bench. Rhys Williams is definitely out with his dodgy pelvis.
Norwich are on a winning run at the moment but Blackburn’s own run came to an end last weekend.
It is thought that Blackburn will rest first-choice keeper Paul Robinson but Jason Brown is not one of the suggested alternatives. Maybe he’s injured.
Norwich are probably less likely than Blackburn to bring in their fringe players but Owain Tudur Jones is really good and deserves a chance. It would be really nice to see Josh Dawkin too, hint hint.
Bradford City v Preston North End
Preston have finally got their first points in the Premier League but a match against League Two Bradford City should be easy, shouldn’t it? Or maybe not. Just ask Bristol City.
Michael Flynn is going to have a groin operation tomorrow so he won’t be playing for Bradford for a while.
Craig Morgan should be in defence for Preston and Paul Parry might also be in contention after playing with the reserves on Friday instead of Preston’s league match on Saturday.
Brentford v Hull City
Brentford aren’t having a great league season so far but beating Hull should help cheer them up. The last team to giant-kill Hull were Blackpool. They won’t be doing that this season.
Brentford’s new signing Nicky Adams will be hoping for more than a cameo role this time.
Crewe Alexandra v Ipswich Town
Crewe will be on a high after winning their last match 7-0… and they didn’t exactly struggle against Derby County in the first round of the Carling Cup.
Crewe goalkeeper Rhys Taylor is on loan from Chelsea but they probably aren’t that worried about him getting cup-tied so he might be able to play.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich at the end after recovering from an ankle injury but maybe he’ll get to play this time.
Leyton Orient v West Bromwich Albion
The last time West Brom were in the Premier League, they were knocked out of the Carling Cup by League One Hartlepool United. Orient are also in League One.
Goalkeeper Boaz Myhill is expected to make his West Brom debut in this match.
Millwall v Middlesbrough
Both these clubs reached landmark Cup finals in 2004. Millwall got to the FA Cup final where they not unreasonably lost to Manchester United. Middlesbrough won their first major piece of silverware, the Carling Cup. Will 2010 be the new 2004?
Steve Morison ia expected to keep his place up front for Millwall.
Danny Coyne might possibly get the chance to start for Middlesbrough but don’t be surprised if he’s on the bench. Rhys Williams is definitely out with his dodgy pelvis.
Friday, 20 August 2010
Championship Fixtures 21st August 2010 Part 3
Hull City v Watford
Hull had an excellent start to the new season before coming back down to earth again after last week’s encounter against Millwall. Watford are unbeaten but conceded two very late goals against Coventry City last week.
Jonathan Bond will again be Watford’s substitute goalkeeper.
Norwich City v Swansea City
Last year’s League One Champions face the team who just missed out on the play-offs. Both lost their opening game before winning their second.
Andrew Crofts will be in midfield for Norwich and an appearance on the bench isn’t impossible for Josh Dawkin but Owain Tudur Jones is likely to be ignored again.
Ashley Williams will start in defence for Swansea and David Cotterill will also hope for a start after scoring in his last two games – once for Swansea and once for Wales – but he knows this game won’t be easy. David Cornell should be on the bench, while Joe Allen might be given the chance to show John Toshack he was wrong to leave him out of the Wales squad. Neil Taylor and Jazz Richards could also be in the squad.
http://www.swansea.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=209925
Hull had an excellent start to the new season before coming back down to earth again after last week’s encounter against Millwall. Watford are unbeaten but conceded two very late goals against Coventry City last week.
Jonathan Bond will again be Watford’s substitute goalkeeper.
Norwich City v Swansea City
Last year’s League One Champions face the team who just missed out on the play-offs. Both lost their opening game before winning their second.
Andrew Crofts will be in midfield for Norwich and an appearance on the bench isn’t impossible for Josh Dawkin but Owain Tudur Jones is likely to be ignored again.
Ashley Williams will start in defence for Swansea and David Cotterill will also hope for a start after scoring in his last two games – once for Swansea and once for Wales – but he knows this game won’t be easy. David Cornell should be on the bench, while Joe Allen might be given the chance to show John Toshack he was wrong to leave him out of the Wales squad. Neil Taylor and Jazz Richards could also be in the squad.
http://www.swansea.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=209925
Monday, 16 August 2010
Championship Results 14th August 2010 Part 2
Ipswich Town 1-1 Burnley
Ipswich were were unlucky to be denied a second consecutive win when Burnley defender Clarke Carlisle showed he can use his head for something other than words and number games. Ipswich had themselves taken the lead with a late goal but ten-man Burnley weren’t giving up that easily.
Following a start in the Carling Cup, Ispwich defender Troy Brown wasn’t in the squad due to an ankle injury.
Leicester City 0-0 Middlesbrough
Not long ago, this was a Premier League fixture. Now, it’s a fixture between two promotion contenders – even though the Championship table suggests otherwise. Neither side got the ball in the net but you can’t say they didn’t try.
Andy King played 74 minutes for Leicester following his goal-scoring exploits for Wales and did manage to get the ball into the net but it was ruled out for offside. Nicky Adams was again not in the side. Maybe he should just bite the bullet and got to Brentford.
Middlesbrough goalkeeper Brad Jones wasn’t in Middlesbrough’s squad, even though he’s apparently not going to Liverpool. This should have given Danny Coyne another chance between the sticks but instead he was left on the bench while young keeper Jason Steele took centre stage. Rhys Williams is out with a pelvis injury.
Millwall 4-0 Hull City
A great result for Millwall, who move to the top of the table. I’m delighted for Millwall, who have thoroughly deserved their six points and two big wins but my dad hasn’t forgotten that time they were top of the League at Christmas and then got relegated.
Steve Morison scored Millwall’s first and third goal but Karl Henry has probably grabbed the headlines with not one but four assists. If he keeps that up I won’t the the only person who pronounces his surname like Thierry’s.
But a quick note for the commentator: Steve did not score a goal for Wales. I wish he had but he didn’t. But don’t worry, I get things wrong every day.
Portsmouth 1-1 Reading
Portsmouth took the lead in the 8th minute and eight-six minutes later, it looked like they might take all three points. But Reading got a late equaliser but the result could have been different if either team had taken their chances.
Reading had the sense to give Simon Church a start this time but unfortunately he’d missed Wales’ match with a groin injury and was unable to get the ball in the back of the net. Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor were both unused Reading substitutes.
Scunthorpe United 0-1 Norwich City
Norwich waited until stoppage time to back from their first-day defeat with a win - which gets them three whole points even though they were only playing Scunthorpe.
Andrew Crofts nearly scored again for Norwich but there was no place in the squad for Josh Dawkin. Owain Tudur Jones was also missing. He is presumably back with Norwich after his trial at Plymouth Argyle came to nothing.
Sheffield United 0-3 Queen’s Park Rangers
This defeat left Sheffield United one place above the drop zone and without a manager. Queen’s Park Rangers looked good but they too down the league by virtue of beginning with the letter Q.
Ched Evans was able to start for Sheffield United despite missing the Wales match with an ankle injury but he was substituted soon after the hour mark. Ched should have won a penalty but the referee obviously wasn’t looking properly.
Ipswich were were unlucky to be denied a second consecutive win when Burnley defender Clarke Carlisle showed he can use his head for something other than words and number games. Ipswich had themselves taken the lead with a late goal but ten-man Burnley weren’t giving up that easily.
Following a start in the Carling Cup, Ispwich defender Troy Brown wasn’t in the squad due to an ankle injury.
Leicester City 0-0 Middlesbrough
Not long ago, this was a Premier League fixture. Now, it’s a fixture between two promotion contenders – even though the Championship table suggests otherwise. Neither side got the ball in the net but you can’t say they didn’t try.
Andy King played 74 minutes for Leicester following his goal-scoring exploits for Wales and did manage to get the ball into the net but it was ruled out for offside. Nicky Adams was again not in the side. Maybe he should just bite the bullet and got to Brentford.
Middlesbrough goalkeeper Brad Jones wasn’t in Middlesbrough’s squad, even though he’s apparently not going to Liverpool. This should have given Danny Coyne another chance between the sticks but instead he was left on the bench while young keeper Jason Steele took centre stage. Rhys Williams is out with a pelvis injury.
Millwall 4-0 Hull City
A great result for Millwall, who move to the top of the table. I’m delighted for Millwall, who have thoroughly deserved their six points and two big wins but my dad hasn’t forgotten that time they were top of the League at Christmas and then got relegated.
Steve Morison scored Millwall’s first and third goal but Karl Henry has probably grabbed the headlines with not one but four assists. If he keeps that up I won’t the the only person who pronounces his surname like Thierry’s.
But a quick note for the commentator: Steve did not score a goal for Wales. I wish he had but he didn’t. But don’t worry, I get things wrong every day.
Portsmouth 1-1 Reading
Portsmouth took the lead in the 8th minute and eight-six minutes later, it looked like they might take all three points. But Reading got a late equaliser but the result could have been different if either team had taken their chances.
Reading had the sense to give Simon Church a start this time but unfortunately he’d missed Wales’ match with a groin injury and was unable to get the ball in the back of the net. Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor were both unused Reading substitutes.
Scunthorpe United 0-1 Norwich City
Norwich waited until stoppage time to back from their first-day defeat with a win - which gets them three whole points even though they were only playing Scunthorpe.
Andrew Crofts nearly scored again for Norwich but there was no place in the squad for Josh Dawkin. Owain Tudur Jones was also missing. He is presumably back with Norwich after his trial at Plymouth Argyle came to nothing.
Sheffield United 0-3 Queen’s Park Rangers
This defeat left Sheffield United one place above the drop zone and without a manager. Queen’s Park Rangers looked good but they too down the league by virtue of beginning with the letter Q.
Ched Evans was able to start for Sheffield United despite missing the Wales match with an ankle injury but he was substituted soon after the hour mark. Ched should have won a penalty but the referee obviously wasn’t looking properly.
Sunday, 8 August 2010
Championship Result 6th August 2010
Norwich City 2-3 Watford
It’s started! The Championship opened with Watford beating Norwich City away. With Watford predicted by many to go down and Norwich thought to be in with a chance of the play-offs, this result could be a bit of a surprise. But then again, Norwich lost their opening game of last season as well. Colchester United beat them 7-1. And that didn’t exactly ruin the season for Norwich.
Andrew Crofts marked his Norwich debut with a 52nd minute goal which brought the game back to 2-1. He also got the assist for Norwich’s second goal in the 91st minute but unfortunately Watford had scored again by then so they were still a goal behind.
There was no place in the squad for Josh Dawkin, who recently signed his first professional contract with Norwich.
Owain Tudur Jones also missed out but as he’s on trial with Plymouth Argyle, it probably seemed a bit pointless to go all the way back to Norwich and more than likely not get on the bench. Let’s hope that Owain is soon playing every week for a new club.
Jonathan Bond is another who has just signed his first professional contract but in his case it was a contract with Watford. He wasn’t on the bench but I’m sure he would have been if Watford had decided to put two goalkeepers on the bench instead of one.
It’s started! The Championship opened with Watford beating Norwich City away. With Watford predicted by many to go down and Norwich thought to be in with a chance of the play-offs, this result could be a bit of a surprise. But then again, Norwich lost their opening game of last season as well. Colchester United beat them 7-1. And that didn’t exactly ruin the season for Norwich.
Andrew Crofts marked his Norwich debut with a 52nd minute goal which brought the game back to 2-1. He also got the assist for Norwich’s second goal in the 91st minute but unfortunately Watford had scored again by then so they were still a goal behind.
There was no place in the squad for Josh Dawkin, who recently signed his first professional contract with Norwich.
Owain Tudur Jones also missed out but as he’s on trial with Plymouth Argyle, it probably seemed a bit pointless to go all the way back to Norwich and more than likely not get on the bench. Let’s hope that Owain is soon playing every week for a new club.
Jonathan Bond is another who has just signed his first professional contract but in his case it was a contract with Watford. He wasn’t on the bench but I’m sure he would have been if Watford had decided to put two goalkeepers on the bench instead of one.
Friday, 30 July 2010
Welsh Player news (Championship) Part 2
Hull City are said to be making a move for Millwall’s Steve Morison. Steve scored Millwall’s goal when they lost 2-1 to his former side Stevenage.
Norwich City’a Academy boss Ricky Martin is delighted that Josh Dawkin is a standby for the Wales under-21 team.
Swansea City manager Brian McDermott wasn’t exactly thrilled when his team were trailing 1-0 at half-time. Luckily Hal Robson-Kanu managed to help out with a goal
Brian McDermott thinks Jake Taylor could end up like Nicky Shorey but I kind of hope he’ll be better than that.
Ched Evans got the only goal as his team Sheffield United beat Notts County 1-0 away.
Joe Allen is a doubt for Swansea’s first game of the season as he is recvering from a shoulder operation.
Matty Collins has been on trial at Wycombe Wanderers but manager Gary Waddock has decided not to sign him. Matty played for Wycombe at the weekend when they beat Hayes & Yeading 3-1. That’s not a bad result you know when you’re playing against two teams. Matty is going back to Swansea though so it looks like he hasn’t been released.
David Cotterill scored for Swansea as hey beat Haaglandia 4-1 away.
Goalkeeper Jonathan Bond has signed a three-year professional contract with Watford.
Norwich City’a Academy boss Ricky Martin is delighted that Josh Dawkin is a standby for the Wales under-21 team.
Swansea City manager Brian McDermott wasn’t exactly thrilled when his team were trailing 1-0 at half-time. Luckily Hal Robson-Kanu managed to help out with a goal
Brian McDermott thinks Jake Taylor could end up like Nicky Shorey but I kind of hope he’ll be better than that.
Ched Evans got the only goal as his team Sheffield United beat Notts County 1-0 away.
Joe Allen is a doubt for Swansea’s first game of the season as he is recvering from a shoulder operation.
Matty Collins has been on trial at Wycombe Wanderers but manager Gary Waddock has decided not to sign him. Matty played for Wycombe at the weekend when they beat Hayes & Yeading 3-1. That’s not a bad result you know when you’re playing against two teams. Matty is going back to Swansea though so it looks like he hasn’t been released.
David Cotterill scored for Swansea as hey beat Haaglandia 4-1 away.
Goalkeeper Jonathan Bond has signed a three-year professional contract with Watford.
Monday, 19 July 2010
Pre-season Friendlies (Part Five)
NAC Breda 0-1 Plymouth Argyle
Carl Fletcher played in defence as Plymouth beat a top-level Dutch side.
NK Inter Zaprešić 0-2 Reading
Simon Church set up the first goal as Reading got another win on their pre-season tour and managed to be caught offside 35 times. Striker Jake Taylor played at right back and can’t have done a bad job. He and Hal Robson-Kanu were both substitutes.
North Ferriby 1-5 Bradford City
Michael Flynn missed out on Bradford’s win due to a groin injury. Trialist Matt Tipton played but although he doesn’t seem to have scored any of the goals, manager Peter Taylor said afterwards that he’d done well.
Norwich United 0-3 Norwich City XI
Owain Tudur Jones played 90 minutes for Norwich City XI so it wasn’t exactly a weak side. Owain scored the opening goal in the 7th minute. Josh Dawkin also played the full match but there was no place for Rhoys Wiggins.
Oxford City 0-3 Milton Keynes Dons
Jermaine Easter hit the crossbar for MK Dons but it didn’t quite go into the net. He played well though.
Carl Fletcher played in defence as Plymouth beat a top-level Dutch side.
NK Inter Zaprešić 0-2 Reading
Simon Church set up the first goal as Reading got another win on their pre-season tour and managed to be caught offside 35 times. Striker Jake Taylor played at right back and can’t have done a bad job. He and Hal Robson-Kanu were both substitutes.
North Ferriby 1-5 Bradford City
Michael Flynn missed out on Bradford’s win due to a groin injury. Trialist Matt Tipton played but although he doesn’t seem to have scored any of the goals, manager Peter Taylor said afterwards that he’d done well.
Norwich United 0-3 Norwich City XI
Owain Tudur Jones played 90 minutes for Norwich City XI so it wasn’t exactly a weak side. Owain scored the opening goal in the 7th minute. Josh Dawkin also played the full match but there was no place for Rhoys Wiggins.
Oxford City 0-3 Milton Keynes Dons
Jermaine Easter hit the crossbar for MK Dons but it didn’t quite go into the net. He played well though.
Tuesday, 29 June 2010
Welsh Player News (and rumours) 29th June ( Championship Part 1)
Bristol City’s James Wilson (knee) won’t be ready to return for pre-season training on 1st July. Christian Ribeiro (back) is a doubt but Lewin Nyatanga and Gavin Williams seem fine.
It looks like Cardiff City’s cunning plans have been foiled. Roberto Mancini wants to keep Craig Bellamy at Manchester City – and he wants to stay.
England’s incompetence has been keeping Robbie Savage awake at night. It’s a good thing Wales are such a great team or he’d never sleep at all.
John Oster has now officially signed a new two-year contract at Doncaster Rovers.
Middlesbrough are already back in training. Danny Coyne is presumably there but Rhys Williams wasn’t as he’s still having trouble with his pelvis.
Josh Dawkin signed a one-year professional contract with Norwich City. I thought he’d done it already but anyway he has now.
It looks like Cardiff City’s cunning plans have been foiled. Roberto Mancini wants to keep Craig Bellamy at Manchester City – and he wants to stay.
England’s incompetence has been keeping Robbie Savage awake at night. It’s a good thing Wales are such a great team or he’d never sleep at all.
John Oster has now officially signed a new two-year contract at Doncaster Rovers.
Middlesbrough are already back in training. Danny Coyne is presumably there but Rhys Williams wasn’t as he’s still having trouble with his pelvis.
Josh Dawkin signed a one-year professional contract with Norwich City. I thought he’d done it already but anyway he has now.
Monday, 10 May 2010
League One Results 8th May Part 2
Leeds United 2-1 Bristol Rovers
Ten-man Leeds beat Bristol Rovers to win promotion to the Championship – and not before time! A few months ago, they were about twelve points clear and looked certain to go up but in the end it was only clinched on the last day of the season.
Bristol Rovers have beaten a few of the top sides and might have fancied their chances against Leeds, especially once Max Gradel went mad and got sent off. Sadly for them, it wasn’t to be but they’ve still got themselves a top-half finish.
Sanchez Watt was on the bench for Leeds, coming on to celebrate promotion two minutes from the end.
Byron Anthony kept his place in Bristol Rovers’ starting line-up. Ben Swallow was dropped to the bench but manager Nick Higgs feels his progress has been one of the positives of Exeter’s season.
Norwich City 0-2 Carlisle United
This match didn’t make any different to Norwich – they were already promoted and already Champions. But I’m sure they’d still have liked to celebrate with a win. Unfortunately for them, all three points went to Carlisle, who scored both goals in the first seven minutes. Unusually, both teams substituted their goalkeepers in this match.
Jason Price might have got the assist for Carlisle’s first goal but he insists he definitely scored Carlisle’s second goal with his hair, helping a brilliant free kick from Ian Harte into the net. Jason, who is on loan from Millwall, was substituted in the 64th minute. I hope he got some nice big applause. Jason didn’t travel back to Carlisle with his team-mates. Instead, he went home to parent club Millwall, whose season isn’t yet over.
Norwich left out Owain Tudur Jones, Josh Dawkin and Rhoys Wiggins, who returned from his loan to Bournemouth last week.
Oldham Athletic 0-2 Charlton Athletic
In other circumstances, a win could have given Charlton automatic promotion but Leeds United, Millwall and Swindon refused to co-operate. Oldham finished 15th, which looks pretty good considering their recent problems but they’re actually only two points above relegated Gillingham.
The two Athletic clubs were without their Welsh under-21 internationals, Joe Jacobson (groin) and Grant Basey (ankle).
Southampton 3-1 Southend United
Relegated Southend could have finished 22nd but their defeat to Southampton and Wycombe Wanderers’ win over Gillingham meant they finished 23rd. Southampton finished 73rd. Without their points deduction, they’d have finished 5th with Huddersfield Town missing out on the play-offs.
Southampton’s Lloyd James was dropped to the bench. Is he injured or not? Ryan Doble recovered from a hip injury in time for this game but wasn’t in the squad. Neither was Anthony Pulis but that wasn’t really a surprise.
Ten-man Leeds beat Bristol Rovers to win promotion to the Championship – and not before time! A few months ago, they were about twelve points clear and looked certain to go up but in the end it was only clinched on the last day of the season.
Bristol Rovers have beaten a few of the top sides and might have fancied their chances against Leeds, especially once Max Gradel went mad and got sent off. Sadly for them, it wasn’t to be but they’ve still got themselves a top-half finish.
Sanchez Watt was on the bench for Leeds, coming on to celebrate promotion two minutes from the end.
Byron Anthony kept his place in Bristol Rovers’ starting line-up. Ben Swallow was dropped to the bench but manager Nick Higgs feels his progress has been one of the positives of Exeter’s season.
Norwich City 0-2 Carlisle United
This match didn’t make any different to Norwich – they were already promoted and already Champions. But I’m sure they’d still have liked to celebrate with a win. Unfortunately for them, all three points went to Carlisle, who scored both goals in the first seven minutes. Unusually, both teams substituted their goalkeepers in this match.
Jason Price might have got the assist for Carlisle’s first goal but he insists he definitely scored Carlisle’s second goal with his hair, helping a brilliant free kick from Ian Harte into the net. Jason, who is on loan from Millwall, was substituted in the 64th minute. I hope he got some nice big applause. Jason didn’t travel back to Carlisle with his team-mates. Instead, he went home to parent club Millwall, whose season isn’t yet over.
Norwich left out Owain Tudur Jones, Josh Dawkin and Rhoys Wiggins, who returned from his loan to Bournemouth last week.
Oldham Athletic 0-2 Charlton Athletic
In other circumstances, a win could have given Charlton automatic promotion but Leeds United, Millwall and Swindon refused to co-operate. Oldham finished 15th, which looks pretty good considering their recent problems but they’re actually only two points above relegated Gillingham.
The two Athletic clubs were without their Welsh under-21 internationals, Joe Jacobson (groin) and Grant Basey (ankle).
Southampton 3-1 Southend United
Relegated Southend could have finished 22nd but their defeat to Southampton and Wycombe Wanderers’ win over Gillingham meant they finished 23rd. Southampton finished 73rd. Without their points deduction, they’d have finished 5th with Huddersfield Town missing out on the play-offs.
Southampton’s Lloyd James was dropped to the bench. Is he injured or not? Ryan Doble recovered from a hip injury in time for this game but wasn’t in the squad. Neither was Anthony Pulis but that wasn’t really a surprise.
Saturday, 1 May 2010
Wales v Northern Ireland (under-19 friendly)
I meant to post the squad ages ago but I'm useless so I didn't. The match was played on Wednesday but the result isn't on the FA Wales site yet. So I don't know what the result was but I'm sure Wales won ;)
WALES v NORTHERN IRELAND
The revised squad for the unofficial Under 19 friendly against Northern Ireland at Lileshall on Wednesday has been named.
Revised Wales squad:
Connor Roberts (Everton), Joseph Perry (Cheltenham Town), Daniel Alfei (Swansea City), Alex Evans (Cardiff City), Joe Walsh (Swansea City), Tom Bender (Colchester United), Jake Maceneaney (Burnley), Aynsley Mcdonald (Rushden & Diamonds), Jonathan Evans (Accrington Stanley), Lee Lucas (Swansea City), Jon Meades (Cardiff City), Jay Gibbs (Tranmere Rovers), Billy Bodin (Swindon Town), Kieron Freeman (Nottingham Forest), Josh Dawkin (Norwich City), Jonathan Williams (Crystal Palace), Kayelden Brown (West Bromwich Albion), Shane Williams (Unattached).
Stand by players:
Jonathan Bond (Watford), Daniel Ward (Wrexham), Max Penk (Wrexham), Emyr Huws (Manchester City), Thomas Lopes Da Silva (Swansea City). James Loveridge (Swansea City), Richard Peniket (Fulham).
WALES v NORTHERN IRELAND
The revised squad for the unofficial Under 19 friendly against Northern Ireland at Lileshall on Wednesday has been named.
Revised Wales squad:
Connor Roberts (Everton), Joseph Perry (Cheltenham Town), Daniel Alfei (Swansea City), Alex Evans (Cardiff City), Joe Walsh (Swansea City), Tom Bender (Colchester United), Jake Maceneaney (Burnley), Aynsley Mcdonald (Rushden & Diamonds), Jonathan Evans (Accrington Stanley), Lee Lucas (Swansea City), Jon Meades (Cardiff City), Jay Gibbs (Tranmere Rovers), Billy Bodin (Swindon Town), Kieron Freeman (Nottingham Forest), Josh Dawkin (Norwich City), Jonathan Williams (Crystal Palace), Kayelden Brown (West Bromwich Albion), Shane Williams (Unattached).
Stand by players:
Jonathan Bond (Watford), Daniel Ward (Wrexham), Max Penk (Wrexham), Emyr Huws (Manchester City), Thomas Lopes Da Silva (Swansea City). James Loveridge (Swansea City), Richard Peniket (Fulham).
Monday, 26 April 2010
League One Results 24th April Part 2
Leeds United 4-1 Milton Keynes Dons
Leeds remained in the automatic promotion race after thrasing MK Dons 4-1. But let’s not forget MK Dons had three players sent off although only one was sent off in the first half and the third didn’t go until the 90th minute.
Sanchez Watt got his first start for Leeds and celebrated by setting up the opening goal. He was also pretty unlucky not to get on the scoresheet himself.
Jermaine Easter passed a fitness test on his thigh played the full match for Milton Keynes Dons.
Norwich City 2-0 Gillingham
Congratulations to Norwich, who are now the League One Champions, They were bottom after the first game but look at them now.
And they did almost all of it without their Welsh players. Rhoys Wiggins was sent out on loan to Bournemouth (where he’s helped them to promotion), Owain Tudur Jones was sent on loan to Yeovil Town, then ignored when he came back, and Josh Dawkin (who is pretty young) never got further than the bench.
Oldham Athletic 2-2 Southend United
A couple of months ago, Southend weren’t particularly looking like relegation candidates but they’ve somehow ended up relegated – not to mention two points behind ‘dead and buried’ Wycombe Wanderers.
Oldham will not be joining them in League Two. A point was enough to save them.
Joe Jacobson didn’t play for Oldham as he’s still recovering from a groin operation.
Southampton 3-2 Carlisle United
Southampton did their best to keep their play-off hopes alive but the teams currently in the play-offs weren’t having it and Huddersfield Town’s win means that Southampton can’t catch them. Without their points deduction, they’d be in the race for automatic promotion.
Carlisle can still finish in the top half if they want to.
Lloyd James was omitted from Southampton’s squad – which was probably sensible considering he only lasted seventeen minutes last week. I hope Southampton look after him and get him properly better for next season.
Jason Price had a fitness test on his hamstring injury. He was only fit enough for Carlisle’s bench but he came on after 62 minutes and Carlisle did get a goal about half an hour later.
Stockport County 0-6 Huddersfield Town
Huddersfield’s win – if ‘win’ doesn’t seem like too much of an understatement – ensures that they’ll be in the play-offs. Stockport don’t have a lot to play for but it’s a shame they let in six whole goals.
Owain fon Williams was in goal for Stockport. But at least a result like this means I get to see a lot of him on The Football League Show. And I’m sure he kept the score down more than you’d think.
Walsall 3-1 Hartlepool United
This win puts Walsall up into the top half of the table. Hartlepool’s goal difference means they’re realistically safe – but they won’t be if they have three points deducted for fielding an ineligible player.
Rhys Weston returned to Walsall’s starting line-up but Mark Bradley stayed on the bench. Mark has had a knee problem but he might not have played anyway.
Leeds remained in the automatic promotion race after thrasing MK Dons 4-1. But let’s not forget MK Dons had three players sent off although only one was sent off in the first half and the third didn’t go until the 90th minute.
Sanchez Watt got his first start for Leeds and celebrated by setting up the opening goal. He was also pretty unlucky not to get on the scoresheet himself.
Jermaine Easter passed a fitness test on his thigh played the full match for Milton Keynes Dons.
Norwich City 2-0 Gillingham
Congratulations to Norwich, who are now the League One Champions, They were bottom after the first game but look at them now.
And they did almost all of it without their Welsh players. Rhoys Wiggins was sent out on loan to Bournemouth (where he’s helped them to promotion), Owain Tudur Jones was sent on loan to Yeovil Town, then ignored when he came back, and Josh Dawkin (who is pretty young) never got further than the bench.
Oldham Athletic 2-2 Southend United
A couple of months ago, Southend weren’t particularly looking like relegation candidates but they’ve somehow ended up relegated – not to mention two points behind ‘dead and buried’ Wycombe Wanderers.
Oldham will not be joining them in League Two. A point was enough to save them.
Joe Jacobson didn’t play for Oldham as he’s still recovering from a groin operation.
Southampton 3-2 Carlisle United
Southampton did their best to keep their play-off hopes alive but the teams currently in the play-offs weren’t having it and Huddersfield Town’s win means that Southampton can’t catch them. Without their points deduction, they’d be in the race for automatic promotion.
Carlisle can still finish in the top half if they want to.
Lloyd James was omitted from Southampton’s squad – which was probably sensible considering he only lasted seventeen minutes last week. I hope Southampton look after him and get him properly better for next season.
Jason Price had a fitness test on his hamstring injury. He was only fit enough for Carlisle’s bench but he came on after 62 minutes and Carlisle did get a goal about half an hour later.
Stockport County 0-6 Huddersfield Town
Huddersfield’s win – if ‘win’ doesn’t seem like too much of an understatement – ensures that they’ll be in the play-offs. Stockport don’t have a lot to play for but it’s a shame they let in six whole goals.
Owain fon Williams was in goal for Stockport. But at least a result like this means I get to see a lot of him on The Football League Show. And I’m sure he kept the score down more than you’d think.
Walsall 3-1 Hartlepool United
This win puts Walsall up into the top half of the table. Hartlepool’s goal difference means they’re realistically safe – but they won’t be if they have three points deducted for fielding an ineligible player.
Rhys Weston returned to Walsall’s starting line-up but Mark Bradley stayed on the bench. Mark has had a knee problem but he might not have played anyway.
Saturday, 17 April 2010
League One Fixtures 17th April Part 1
Bristol Rovers v Brentford
They’re out of the play-offs, they’re out of the relegation battle but they can still try to finish as high up the table as they can.
Rovers’ Byron Anthony has a sore hip flexor and is 50/50. Ben Swallow should be fit though.
Lewis Price might have thought his days on the bench were over when Brentford’s first-choice goalkeeper returned to full fitness but as Wojciech Szczesny is injured, he should be in the squad after all as long as it’s not breaking the loanee rules. And the way things are going, the kit man might have to get him an outfield player’s jersey (that’s Brentford manager Andy Scott’s joke, not mine unfortunately).
Carlisle United v Oldham Athletic
Carlisle will be hoping for a top table finish as Oldham attempt to inch further from the relegation zone. They are currently six points clear.
Jason Price missed Carlisle’s last match with a hamstring injury but he could return. Carlisle manager Greg Abbott has hinted he wants to keep Jason.
Joe Jacobson has had surgery on his pelvis and Oldham don’t want to rush him back so he could miss the rest of the season.
Charlton Athletic v Norwich City
Charlton are still in the automatic promotion race but if it doesn’t work out, they’d need a major collapse – and a great run from Colchester United – to miss out on the play-offs.
Norwich’s only win in April was against Stockport County and they lose to everyone.
Charlton are without the injured Grant Basey (ankle).
Norwich might want to bring in some fresh pairs of legs – Owain Tudur Jones and Josh Dawkin come instantly to (my) mind. Josh scored as the Norwich under-18s beat Charlton’s under-18s 3-2.
Gillingham v Leeds United
Leeds remain second after Millwall lost to Huddersfield Town on Friday. But their form of late has been patchy and Gillingham are relying on their home form to keep them up.
Sanchez Watt could finally get his first start for Leeds since joining on loan from Arsenal. But he probably won’t.
Hartlepool United v Colchester United
Hartlepool are seven points clear of the relegation zone and might consider themselves safe. Colchester meanwhile really need to win if they want to get back into the play-offs.
Thomas Bender could be on the bench for Colchester but I’ve got no idea what’s going on with Lee Beevers’ knee. Apparently Colchester manager Aidy Boothroyd has been trying to sell Lee.
Leyton Orient v Stockport County
If Leyton Orient can beat the top team – and they did just that a few days ago – they ought to be able to beat the bottom team. At the moment they’re only four points outside the relegation zone. Stockport are not only down, they can no longer catch 23rd-placed Wycombe Wanderers.
Owain fon Williams will be in goal for Stockport.
They’re out of the play-offs, they’re out of the relegation battle but they can still try to finish as high up the table as they can.
Rovers’ Byron Anthony has a sore hip flexor and is 50/50. Ben Swallow should be fit though.
Lewis Price might have thought his days on the bench were over when Brentford’s first-choice goalkeeper returned to full fitness but as Wojciech Szczesny is injured, he should be in the squad after all as long as it’s not breaking the loanee rules. And the way things are going, the kit man might have to get him an outfield player’s jersey (that’s Brentford manager Andy Scott’s joke, not mine unfortunately).
Carlisle United v Oldham Athletic
Carlisle will be hoping for a top table finish as Oldham attempt to inch further from the relegation zone. They are currently six points clear.
Jason Price missed Carlisle’s last match with a hamstring injury but he could return. Carlisle manager Greg Abbott has hinted he wants to keep Jason.
Joe Jacobson has had surgery on his pelvis and Oldham don’t want to rush him back so he could miss the rest of the season.
Charlton Athletic v Norwich City
Charlton are still in the automatic promotion race but if it doesn’t work out, they’d need a major collapse – and a great run from Colchester United – to miss out on the play-offs.
Norwich’s only win in April was against Stockport County and they lose to everyone.
Charlton are without the injured Grant Basey (ankle).
Norwich might want to bring in some fresh pairs of legs – Owain Tudur Jones and Josh Dawkin come instantly to (my) mind. Josh scored as the Norwich under-18s beat Charlton’s under-18s 3-2.
Gillingham v Leeds United
Leeds remain second after Millwall lost to Huddersfield Town on Friday. But their form of late has been patchy and Gillingham are relying on their home form to keep them up.
Sanchez Watt could finally get his first start for Leeds since joining on loan from Arsenal. But he probably won’t.
Hartlepool United v Colchester United
Hartlepool are seven points clear of the relegation zone and might consider themselves safe. Colchester meanwhile really need to win if they want to get back into the play-offs.
Thomas Bender could be on the bench for Colchester but I’ve got no idea what’s going on with Lee Beevers’ knee. Apparently Colchester manager Aidy Boothroyd has been trying to sell Lee.
Leyton Orient v Stockport County
If Leyton Orient can beat the top team – and they did just that a few days ago – they ought to be able to beat the bottom team. At the moment they’re only four points outside the relegation zone. Stockport are not only down, they can no longer catch 23rd-placed Wycombe Wanderers.
Owain fon Williams will be in goal for Stockport.
Friday, 16 April 2010
League One Results 13th April Part 2
Leyton Orient 2-1 Norwich City
Everyone said Leeds had it in the bag and look what happened to them. Now it’s Norwich’s turn to let it out of the bag (it’s just a shame they weren’t playing Sunderland really or this joke would actually have been funny). Orient’s win gives them a three-point cushion to sit on.
Norwich left Owain Tudur Jones and Josh Dawkin out again. Is that why they lost? Unfortunately, probably not.
Milton Keynes Dons 0-0 Oldham Athletic
Milton Keynes Dons continue to end their season with a whimper but at least they’re in a better position than Oldham, who could yet end their season with relegation. But they’re six points ahead and they’ll have 50 points if they win their game in hand.
Jermaine Easter played for MK Dons and he hit the post so he’s getting closer. Oldham are still without Joe Jacobson, possibly for the season and I’m delighted to announce that I finally know what’s wrong with him. He has a pelvic problem. I’m not surprised actually, the club were keeping so quiet about his injury it just had to be somewhere a bit naughty.
Southend United 2-2 Brentford
Southend are only five points from safety so they might stay up. And if they don’t, the Shrimpers will be able to play against the Shrimps (Morecambe) next season which should be great fun. We all know what Shrimpers do to Shrimps and it isn’t losing to them at football. Brentford remain in the top half of the table.
Brentford’s first-choice goalkeeper Nikki Bull has recovered from injury. He didn’t go back into the team but he did steal Lewis Price’s place on the bench. He might be back on the bench next time though because Wojciech Szczesny was substituted and if you’re a goalkeeper, that can only mean one thing.
Tranmere Rovers 0-3 Wycombe Wanderers
Wycombe are now just three points behind Tranmere, who are themselves just six points from safety. They must like Tranmere a lot if they want them to get relegated together. Unfortunately, after this result their feeling are unlikely to be reciprocated.
Ash Taylor got a shot on target for Tranmere.
Yeovil Town 1-1 Millwall
Yeovil got a valuable point that moves them seven points clear of the relegation zone. Millwall’s point was quite valuable too as they probably didn’t deserve it but Leeds’ win meant they replaced Millwall in the top two.
Gavin Williams got the assist for Yeovil’s goal with Shaun MacDonald also playing in midfield. Manager Terry Skiverton says Gavin was “on a different planet” which makes his assist even more impressive. Both Gavin and Shaun could have scored but I’m quite glad they didn’t in a way because I live with a Millwall supporter.
Neither Nathan Jones not Arron Davies were in Yeovil’s squad even though there was a free place on the bench.
Everyone said Leeds had it in the bag and look what happened to them. Now it’s Norwich’s turn to let it out of the bag (it’s just a shame they weren’t playing Sunderland really or this joke would actually have been funny). Orient’s win gives them a three-point cushion to sit on.
Norwich left Owain Tudur Jones and Josh Dawkin out again. Is that why they lost? Unfortunately, probably not.
Milton Keynes Dons 0-0 Oldham Athletic
Milton Keynes Dons continue to end their season with a whimper but at least they’re in a better position than Oldham, who could yet end their season with relegation. But they’re six points ahead and they’ll have 50 points if they win their game in hand.
Jermaine Easter played for MK Dons and he hit the post so he’s getting closer. Oldham are still without Joe Jacobson, possibly for the season and I’m delighted to announce that I finally know what’s wrong with him. He has a pelvic problem. I’m not surprised actually, the club were keeping so quiet about his injury it just had to be somewhere a bit naughty.
Southend United 2-2 Brentford
Southend are only five points from safety so they might stay up. And if they don’t, the Shrimpers will be able to play against the Shrimps (Morecambe) next season which should be great fun. We all know what Shrimpers do to Shrimps and it isn’t losing to them at football. Brentford remain in the top half of the table.
Brentford’s first-choice goalkeeper Nikki Bull has recovered from injury. He didn’t go back into the team but he did steal Lewis Price’s place on the bench. He might be back on the bench next time though because Wojciech Szczesny was substituted and if you’re a goalkeeper, that can only mean one thing.
Tranmere Rovers 0-3 Wycombe Wanderers
Wycombe are now just three points behind Tranmere, who are themselves just six points from safety. They must like Tranmere a lot if they want them to get relegated together. Unfortunately, after this result their feeling are unlikely to be reciprocated.
Ash Taylor got a shot on target for Tranmere.
Yeovil Town 1-1 Millwall
Yeovil got a valuable point that moves them seven points clear of the relegation zone. Millwall’s point was quite valuable too as they probably didn’t deserve it but Leeds’ win meant they replaced Millwall in the top two.
Gavin Williams got the assist for Yeovil’s goal with Shaun MacDonald also playing in midfield. Manager Terry Skiverton says Gavin was “on a different planet” which makes his assist even more impressive. Both Gavin and Shaun could have scored but I’m quite glad they didn’t in a way because I live with a Millwall supporter.
Neither Nathan Jones not Arron Davies were in Yeovil’s squad even though there was a free place on the bench.
Tuesday, 13 April 2010
League One Fixtures 13th April Part 2
Huddersfield Town v Walsall
Huddersfield need to win to be sure of staying in the play-off places – and even that won’t be enough if they win 1-0 and Colchester United win 5-0. Walsall have won their last two games – but they weren’t exactly against two of the best sides in the League.
Rhys Weston will probably miss out again due to a hamstring injury. Mark Bradley will be on the bench.
Leyton Orient v Norwich City
Leyton Orient are just one point clear of safety. Norwich won’t win promotion this time but a win could put them twelve points ahead of Leeds.
Norwich have a number of injury problems so maybe Owain Tudur Jones and Josh Dawkin will get into the squad. Or is that just wishful thinking?
Milton Keynes Dons v Oldham Athletic
MK Dons are ten points from the play-offs with only fifteen points to play for – they could do it but they won’t. Oldham are five points from the relegation zone.
Jermaine Easter will be hoping for a start and a goal for MK Dons – he hasn’t scored in the last three games after a good, if not quite prolific spell of goals and assists.
Joe Jacobson probably won’t be fit for Oldham.
Southend United v Brentford
Southend remain in the bottom four, four points from safety so they’ll really want to win against a Brentford side who have beaten play-off hopefuls Huddersfield Town recently but also only managed to draw against strugglers Exeter City and Oldham Athletic.
Lewis Price will probably be on the bench for Brentford but he might not as Brentford have more than five loanees.
Tranmere Rovers v Wycombe Wanderers
Tranmere might not be deep in trouble but they’ve definitely got their feet wet. A win over Wycombe, who are in deep trouble – seven points adrift - would lift them out of the relegation zone.
Ash Taylor will probably play for Tranmere.
Yeovil Town v Millwall
Yeovil are seven points clear of trouble at the moment. Usually when that happens they start losing again, which would be great news for Millwall, who will be hoping to remain in second place. Only a win will guarantee it.
Gavin Williams has impressed for Yeovil since joining on loan from Bristol City. Maybe the red card wasn’t quite so impressive but the three goals and three assists have been very welcome. But Terry Skiverton likes to say Gavin has scored ‘four goals in three games’. Technically one was an own goal and it’s only three games if you ignore the three games when he was suspended but I like Skiverton’s thinking. So let’s call it four goals and two assists.
Gavin’s loan has now been extended until the end of the season and I’ll be very surprised if he doesn’t start. Either way he’s brilliant and Bristol City were mad to loan him out.
Shaun MacDonald is likely to be in the starting line-up too but Arron Davies could be out of the squad again as he is one of at least six loanees. Poor Arron, he was so happy when he managed to find a loophole in the League rules… but even the biggest loopholes have a catch. Nathan Jones could also be in Yeovil’s squad.
Millwall’s Jason Price is on loan at Carlisle United. They face Leeds United this week so Millwall will be hoping Jason can beat them and give them some breathing space. But Jason’s hamstring injury could prevent him from playing.
Huddersfield need to win to be sure of staying in the play-off places – and even that won’t be enough if they win 1-0 and Colchester United win 5-0. Walsall have won their last two games – but they weren’t exactly against two of the best sides in the League.
Rhys Weston will probably miss out again due to a hamstring injury. Mark Bradley will be on the bench.
Leyton Orient v Norwich City
Leyton Orient are just one point clear of safety. Norwich won’t win promotion this time but a win could put them twelve points ahead of Leeds.
Norwich have a number of injury problems so maybe Owain Tudur Jones and Josh Dawkin will get into the squad. Or is that just wishful thinking?
Milton Keynes Dons v Oldham Athletic
MK Dons are ten points from the play-offs with only fifteen points to play for – they could do it but they won’t. Oldham are five points from the relegation zone.
Jermaine Easter will be hoping for a start and a goal for MK Dons – he hasn’t scored in the last three games after a good, if not quite prolific spell of goals and assists.
Joe Jacobson probably won’t be fit for Oldham.
Southend United v Brentford
Southend remain in the bottom four, four points from safety so they’ll really want to win against a Brentford side who have beaten play-off hopefuls Huddersfield Town recently but also only managed to draw against strugglers Exeter City and Oldham Athletic.
Lewis Price will probably be on the bench for Brentford but he might not as Brentford have more than five loanees.
Tranmere Rovers v Wycombe Wanderers
Tranmere might not be deep in trouble but they’ve definitely got their feet wet. A win over Wycombe, who are in deep trouble – seven points adrift - would lift them out of the relegation zone.
Ash Taylor will probably play for Tranmere.
Yeovil Town v Millwall
Yeovil are seven points clear of trouble at the moment. Usually when that happens they start losing again, which would be great news for Millwall, who will be hoping to remain in second place. Only a win will guarantee it.
Gavin Williams has impressed for Yeovil since joining on loan from Bristol City. Maybe the red card wasn’t quite so impressive but the three goals and three assists have been very welcome. But Terry Skiverton likes to say Gavin has scored ‘four goals in three games’. Technically one was an own goal and it’s only three games if you ignore the three games when he was suspended but I like Skiverton’s thinking. So let’s call it four goals and two assists.
Gavin’s loan has now been extended until the end of the season and I’ll be very surprised if he doesn’t start. Either way he’s brilliant and Bristol City were mad to loan him out.
Shaun MacDonald is likely to be in the starting line-up too but Arron Davies could be out of the squad again as he is one of at least six loanees. Poor Arron, he was so happy when he managed to find a loophole in the League rules… but even the biggest loopholes have a catch. Nathan Jones could also be in Yeovil’s squad.
Millwall’s Jason Price is on loan at Carlisle United. They face Leeds United this week so Millwall will be hoping Jason can beat them and give them some breathing space. But Jason’s hamstring injury could prevent him from playing.
Monday, 5 April 2010
League One Fixtures 5th April Part 2
Hartlepool United v Brighton & Hove Albion
Hartlepool are just two points outside the relegation zone. Brighton were there once but now they’re only three points away from the top half of the table.
Brighton captain Andrew Crofts has been a key figure for Brighton as they’ve pulled away from danger. He really has. Ask the manager if you don’t trust me.
Norwich City v Stockport County
The top side face the bottom side. A home win looks like the only possible result but Norwich have a suspended goalkeeper and will be forced to field a youngster (when I say youngster he’s only six months younger than me but for a goalkeeper, he’s young).
And Stockport’s goalkeeper Owain fon Williams actually isn’t all that bad.
I would love Owain Tudur Jones and Josh Dawkin to get into Norwich’s squad but I don’t think they will, even though both have been doing well in the reserves. I wonder if either of them can play in goal.
Southampton v Leyton Orient
Southampton continue to have a go at getting to the play-offs (Leeds did it with a points deduction but they didn’t get through and still haven’t), while Leyton Orient face life without their Welsh former manager Geraint Williams.
Lloyd James is likely to be in Southampton’s squad but if it’s true he’s going to need an operation, he probably won’t start. But he still seems to get picked ahead of Anthony Pulis.
Swindon Town v Tranmere Rovers
Swindon are in second place but need a win to ensure they stay there. They face Tranmere, who are fighting for the lives, as the saying goes. And they’re currently winning the battle.
Billy Bodin was probably only on Swindon’s bench recently to cover injuries but I’m sure it won’t be the last time he’s in the squad.
Tranmere also have a young Welshman in their ranks: Ash Taylor has been one of their best players this season.
Walsall v Wycombe Wanderers
Wycombe look like they’re down and there’s still a small chance Walsall could join them.
Rhys Weston will probably start for Walsall with Mark Bradley on the bench.
Hartlepool are just two points outside the relegation zone. Brighton were there once but now they’re only three points away from the top half of the table.
Brighton captain Andrew Crofts has been a key figure for Brighton as they’ve pulled away from danger. He really has. Ask the manager if you don’t trust me.
Norwich City v Stockport County
The top side face the bottom side. A home win looks like the only possible result but Norwich have a suspended goalkeeper and will be forced to field a youngster (when I say youngster he’s only six months younger than me but for a goalkeeper, he’s young).
And Stockport’s goalkeeper Owain fon Williams actually isn’t all that bad.
I would love Owain Tudur Jones and Josh Dawkin to get into Norwich’s squad but I don’t think they will, even though both have been doing well in the reserves. I wonder if either of them can play in goal.
Southampton v Leyton Orient
Southampton continue to have a go at getting to the play-offs (Leeds did it with a points deduction but they didn’t get through and still haven’t), while Leyton Orient face life without their Welsh former manager Geraint Williams.
Lloyd James is likely to be in Southampton’s squad but if it’s true he’s going to need an operation, he probably won’t start. But he still seems to get picked ahead of Anthony Pulis.
Swindon Town v Tranmere Rovers
Swindon are in second place but need a win to ensure they stay there. They face Tranmere, who are fighting for the lives, as the saying goes. And they’re currently winning the battle.
Billy Bodin was probably only on Swindon’s bench recently to cover injuries but I’m sure it won’t be the last time he’s in the squad.
Tranmere also have a young Welshman in their ranks: Ash Taylor has been one of their best players this season.
Walsall v Wycombe Wanderers
Wycombe look like they’re down and there’s still a small chance Walsall could join them.
Rhys Weston will probably start for Walsall with Mark Bradley on the bench.
Sunday, 4 April 2010
League One Results 2nd April
Carlisle United 3-1 Bristol Rovers
Carlisle bounced back from their Johnstone’s Paint Trophy Final defeat with victory over Bristol Rovers, who still have a chance of the play-offs but not a very big one.
Jason Price scored Carlisle’s second goal, before winning the penalty to put them 3-1 ahead, thus reducing Bristol Rovers’ chances of sneaking into the play-offs and knocking out Jason’s parent club Millwall.
Rovers’ Byron Anthony served the first game of a two-match suspension after picking up his tenth booking but Ben Swallow made an appearance from the bench after 72 minutes. He hasn’t played for the first team for over a month (if I’ve got my spreadsheet right) so it was good to see him.
Exeter City 2-0 Colchester United
Exeter gave themselves a chance of survival, moving four points clear of danger although they’re certainly not safe yet. Colchester found themselves out of the play-off zone twenty-four hours later when Huddersfield Town moved ahead of them on goal difference.
Richard Duffy and Rob Edwards both started for Exeter but Rob worryingly left the field after 27 minutes with a hamstring injury. It proved an inspired substitution, even if it happened for all the wrong reasons. Stuart Fleetwood came off the bench to replace Rob and put Exeter ahead six minutes later. Richard also had a part to play in the match – his goal-line clearance stopped Colchester from opening the scoring.
Andy Marriott stayed on the bench for Exeter. He also won the penalty which led to the second goal.
Lee Beevers was still missing for Colchester with a knee injury but they had loanee Thomas Bender on the bench.
Millwall 1-1 Brentford
A point was enough to put Millwall into the top two – but with rivals Leeds United and Swindon Town due to play one another the following day, Millwall’s position in the automatic promotion places was never going to last. Brentford will probably be happier with the point than Millwall.
Lewis Price was on the bench for Brentford.
Tranmere Rovers 3-1 Norwich City
Tranmere remain in trouble but anyone who can beat runaway leaders Norwich City 3-1 is surely in with a good chance of surviving.
Ash Taylor played the full match for Tranmere and came very close to adding to the goal tally but there was no place in Norwich’s squad for Owain Tudur Jones or Josh Dawkin. Maybe next time.
Carlisle bounced back from their Johnstone’s Paint Trophy Final defeat with victory over Bristol Rovers, who still have a chance of the play-offs but not a very big one.
Jason Price scored Carlisle’s second goal, before winning the penalty to put them 3-1 ahead, thus reducing Bristol Rovers’ chances of sneaking into the play-offs and knocking out Jason’s parent club Millwall.
Rovers’ Byron Anthony served the first game of a two-match suspension after picking up his tenth booking but Ben Swallow made an appearance from the bench after 72 minutes. He hasn’t played for the first team for over a month (if I’ve got my spreadsheet right) so it was good to see him.
Exeter City 2-0 Colchester United
Exeter gave themselves a chance of survival, moving four points clear of danger although they’re certainly not safe yet. Colchester found themselves out of the play-off zone twenty-four hours later when Huddersfield Town moved ahead of them on goal difference.
Richard Duffy and Rob Edwards both started for Exeter but Rob worryingly left the field after 27 minutes with a hamstring injury. It proved an inspired substitution, even if it happened for all the wrong reasons. Stuart Fleetwood came off the bench to replace Rob and put Exeter ahead six minutes later. Richard also had a part to play in the match – his goal-line clearance stopped Colchester from opening the scoring.
Andy Marriott stayed on the bench for Exeter. He also won the penalty which led to the second goal.
Lee Beevers was still missing for Colchester with a knee injury but they had loanee Thomas Bender on the bench.
Millwall 1-1 Brentford
A point was enough to put Millwall into the top two – but with rivals Leeds United and Swindon Town due to play one another the following day, Millwall’s position in the automatic promotion places was never going to last. Brentford will probably be happier with the point than Millwall.
Lewis Price was on the bench for Brentford.
Tranmere Rovers 3-1 Norwich City
Tranmere remain in trouble but anyone who can beat runaway leaders Norwich City 3-1 is surely in with a good chance of surviving.
Ash Taylor played the full match for Tranmere and came very close to adding to the goal tally but there was no place in Norwich’s squad for Owain Tudur Jones or Josh Dawkin. Maybe next time.
Friday, 2 April 2010
League One Fixtures 2nd April Part 2
Millwall v Brentford
A draw for Millwall will put them up into second place although Leeds United will catch them if they win or draw tomorrow. But if Millwall win 3-0 and Leeds only win 1-0, then Leeds will be behind on goal difference.
Kenny Jackett seems to have a lot of Millwall’s key players back but they probably won’t be scoring past Lewis Price, who will be on the bench unless Brentford need some of their other loanees in the squad.
Tranmere Rovers v Norwich City
Tranmere aim to climb out of the relegation zone… with victory over runaway leaders Norwich City. Good luck with that.
Ash Taylor should play for Tranmere but Norwich will probably ignore Owain Tudur Jones and Josh Dawkin, who has recently been offered his first professional contract by Norwich.
Tuesday, 23 February 2010
League One Fixtures 23rd February Part 2
MK Dons v Millwall
MK Dons striker Jermaine Easter is facing one of his former clubs in this play-off clash. Jermaine got an assist last week and he would have got a goal too if it had actually been allocated to him.
Norwich City v Southend United
Arsenal loanee Sanchez Watt should start for Southend. Norwich might put Josh Dawkin on the bench again but I wouldn’t expect him to play.
Swindon Town v Stockport County
Stockport are on a winning run again and goalkeeper Owain fon Williams will be doing all he can to ensure it stays that way. Meanwhile, his manager, team-mates and fans will probably be hoping he isn’t called up for the Wales friendly.
Tranmere Rovers v Huddersfield Town
There’s no news about Tranmere’s star midfielder/defender Ash Taylor but the BBC Sport site says that other than the players they mentioned (of whom Ash isn’t one), Tranmere have no other injury worries.
Walsall v Yeovil Town
Rhys Weston is almost certain not to play for Walsall but Mark Bradley will probably be on the bench at least. Arron Davies, Shaun MacDonald and Owain Tudur Jones are all likely to be included in Yeovil’s midfield. I’m not sure about defender Nathan Jones.
Wycombe Wanderers v Southampton
I hope Lloyd James will at least be in Southampton’s squad if he’s fit and if not, I hope he’s better soon. Not that I especially want Wycombe to go down, I just want to know where this talented young Welshman has gone.
MK Dons striker Jermaine Easter is facing one of his former clubs in this play-off clash. Jermaine got an assist last week and he would have got a goal too if it had actually been allocated to him.
Norwich City v Southend United
Arsenal loanee Sanchez Watt should start for Southend. Norwich might put Josh Dawkin on the bench again but I wouldn’t expect him to play.
Swindon Town v Stockport County
Stockport are on a winning run again and goalkeeper Owain fon Williams will be doing all he can to ensure it stays that way. Meanwhile, his manager, team-mates and fans will probably be hoping he isn’t called up for the Wales friendly.
Tranmere Rovers v Huddersfield Town
There’s no news about Tranmere’s star midfielder/defender Ash Taylor but the BBC Sport site says that other than the players they mentioned (of whom Ash isn’t one), Tranmere have no other injury worries.
Walsall v Yeovil Town
Rhys Weston is almost certain not to play for Walsall but Mark Bradley will probably be on the bench at least. Arron Davies, Shaun MacDonald and Owain Tudur Jones are all likely to be included in Yeovil’s midfield. I’m not sure about defender Nathan Jones.
Wycombe Wanderers v Southampton
I hope Lloyd James will at least be in Southampton’s squad if he’s fit and if not, I hope he’s better soon. Not that I especially want Wycombe to go down, I just want to know where this talented young Welshman has gone.
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