2:45pm. Available live in the US on espn2.
Chelsea leads 1-0 on aggregate.
Champions League Group Stage results:
Liverpool: 2-3 Galatasaray (a); 2-0 PSV (h); 3-0 Bordeaux (h); 1-0 Bordeaux (a); 3-2 Gala (h); 0-0 PSV (a)
Chelsea: 2-0 Levski (h); 0-1 Bremen (a); 2-2 Barca (a); 1-0 Barca (h); 3-1 Levski (a); 2-0 Bremen (h)
1st Knockout Round results:
Liverpool: 0-1 Barca (h); 2-1 Barca (a)
Chelsea: 2-1 Porto (h); 1-1 Porto (a)
Quarterfinal results:
Liverpool: 1-0 PSV (h); 3-0 PSV (a)
Chelsea: 2-1 Valencia (a); 1-1 Valencia (h)
Goal scorers (Europe):
Liverpool: Crouch 7; Garcia, Gerrard 3; Bellamy, Fowler, Riise 2; Gonzalez 1
Chelsea: Drogba 6; Shevchenko 3; Ballack, Essien 2; Joe Cole, Lampard, Robben, Wright-Phillips 1
European History:
Liverpool: European Cup/Champions League 1977, 1978, 1981, 1984, 2005; UEFA Cup 1973, 1976, 2001; UEFA Super Cup 1977, 2001, 2005
Chelsea: Cup Winners’ Cup 1971, 1998; UEFA Super Cup 1998
Referee: Mejuto González (SPA)
You may remember him from the Champions League Final in 2005. More ammunition for Mourinho's moans, but mind you, I still think Gattuso should have been sent off.
My guess of a lineup:
Reina
Finnan Carragher Agger Arbeloa
Pennant Gerrard Mascherano Riise
Kuyt Crouch
Keep it bloody simple.
Half the fun of these things is trying to out-think the opposition, Rafa and myself. Not this time. Straight forward, and probably the best eleven.
Pennant and Crouch are two of the most in-form players. Kuyt also on in an advanced role, because it’s essential to have two strikers on the pitch in search of the goal(s).
Gerrard in the center. I would have thought him paired with Alonso, as that pairing has the most experience in games like this and in my opinion, they are the two best midfielders at the club, but Xabi played on Saturday and hasn’t looked up to snuff for a couple of games now. Hopefully, Mascherano will be there to sit in the holding role, allowing Gerrard free license in his favored position.
Riise has a knack for scoring big goals from the wing, and I don’t really like the idea of him in defense, with Chelsea always likely to be on the counter attack and Riise even more susceptible to players (especially Drogba) running at him when Liverpool’s stretched than Agger was last Wednesday.
Finnan hopefully back in defense, with Arbeloa on the other side, as had been desired last time. Carra, Agger, and Reina write themselves.
For Chelsea, Essien is back from suspension, but both Carvalho and Ballack will miss out due to injury.
Let’s twat these bastards.
30 April 2007
29 April 2007
Allardyce resigns from Bolton with immediate effect
Stunning news on the front page of BBC Sport. Bolton boss Sam Allardyce has quit with 2 games left in the season, the day after an excellent draw at Stamford Bridge saw Bolton move one step closer to UEFA Cup qualification.
I am flabbergasted. Completely baffled by this turn of events, and Bolton fans have to be utterly gobsmacked. With European qualification not yet secured, I'm amazed he's stepped down now, but the rationale that the new manager will need time to settle and get match-day experience makes some sort of sense. Bolton's final two games will be at West Ham and against Aston Villa.
Part of me wants to be pleased, because Allardyce's Bolton teams are perpetually a thorn in Liverpool's side, but you have to respect the job he's done over the past 7 or so years, turning a club that had bounced in and out of the Premiership after an extended period in the lower leagues into a top 10 side every season. That's an outstanding accomplishment, especially in this day and age where money rules all.
The BBC article speculates that Sam's got his eye on Stuart Pearce's job at City, but with Pearce narrowly steering his side away from relegation, I'd be surprised if he got the sack, even with Allardyce available.
What I had been hoping, if the English national team's results say along the same vein, would be that Allardyce replace McClaren if it came to that, as has been suggested at times and despite the overwhelming fan opposition to him when McClaren was named manager. His strong-willed personality and take no nonsense approach could be a tonic for a side that seemingly lets the inmates run the asylum. The next England match is against Estonia in June, and it's the only match (not counting the friendly against Brazil that will christen Wembley) until September.
In the meantime, I firmly hope former Liverpool great and current Bolton assistant Sammy Lee gets the job. He certainly deserves it, Sammy is top class.
Strange day this is.
I am flabbergasted. Completely baffled by this turn of events, and Bolton fans have to be utterly gobsmacked. With European qualification not yet secured, I'm amazed he's stepped down now, but the rationale that the new manager will need time to settle and get match-day experience makes some sort of sense. Bolton's final two games will be at West Ham and against Aston Villa.
Part of me wants to be pleased, because Allardyce's Bolton teams are perpetually a thorn in Liverpool's side, but you have to respect the job he's done over the past 7 or so years, turning a club that had bounced in and out of the Premiership after an extended period in the lower leagues into a top 10 side every season. That's an outstanding accomplishment, especially in this day and age where money rules all.
The BBC article speculates that Sam's got his eye on Stuart Pearce's job at City, but with Pearce narrowly steering his side away from relegation, I'd be surprised if he got the sack, even with Allardyce available.
What I had been hoping, if the English national team's results say along the same vein, would be that Allardyce replace McClaren if it came to that, as has been suggested at times and despite the overwhelming fan opposition to him when McClaren was named manager. His strong-willed personality and take no nonsense approach could be a tonic for a side that seemingly lets the inmates run the asylum. The next England match is against Estonia in June, and it's the only match (not counting the friendly against Brazil that will christen Wembley) until September.
In the meantime, I firmly hope former Liverpool great and current Bolton assistant Sammy Lee gets the job. He certainly deserves it, Sammy is top class.
Strange day this is.
28 April 2007
Liverpool 1-2 Portsmouth
As a fan, I hate seeing any Liverpool loss, but Rafa Benitez is a very pragmatic man, and this result isn’t entirely unexpected, even if it is unwelcome.
Given the game on Tuesday, the squad wasn’t that much of a surprise, although a start for Emiliano Insua and Bellamy relegated to the right wing for the first hour was a bit shocking. However, for the first half an hour or so, the game went pretty much as expected. Liverpool had more possession and Fowler had the ball in the net after 12 minutes, but it was rightfully ruled offside, and for the most part, Liverpool was unable to maintain any fluency with all the changes in the side.
After 27 minutes though, the game was turned on its head. Benjani was released over the top thanks to Paletta out of line with the offside trap, he got between Paletta and Dudek, chipped the ball over the keeper, and slotted it in the net. Less than five minutes later, the offside trap was again blown (this time it looked to be Hyypia), and Kranjcar, who came on for an injured Matty Taylor, gave Dudek no chance. 32 minutes in, and the reserves looked to be in trouble. Right before the stroke of halftime, Zenden hit the bar with a beautiful dipping volley, but that was all of Liverpool’s first half response.
However, the team came out better in the second half, cemented more possession, and looked marginally more flowing. On 59 minutes, with the increased pressure starting to pay dividends, Liverpool pulled one back through a Hyypia header from a Fowler corner. After the goal, Bellamy, who had been fairly anonymous on the right, came through the middle, and Liverpool looked more threatening.
But Portsmouth held on. Pennant came on for Gonzalez, and played on the left to offer Liverpool a different option going forward, and Nabil El Zhar also saw his second Premier League game, coming on for Sissoko in the 80th minute, but Liverpool carved out very few chances in the last quarter of the game. Fowler had a weak shot on goal that was saved by James and Paletta put a header wide from a corner in the final minute of injury time, but that was about it, and by the end of the game, Pompey again looked the better side.
I will never forget Dudek for his heroics in Istanbul, he’ll forever be a legend for that, but I will also be happy to see the back of him. He made an excellent save to keep Pompey from getting a third before Liverpool’s first, but was almost completely at fault for the first goal, caught in no man’s land even more than Filan was for Wigan against Liverpool last week. He’s more a confidence keeper than Reina, but he’s not getting any real playing time (and rightfully so). The time for him to go has long passed. I’d rather Padelli, who’s never seen first team action before, gotten the start, and it’s essential Scott Carson returns as back up next year.
Yes, it was nice to see Paletta start today and given more time to adjust to English play, but he was poor today. He looked lost at times, and inspired fear every time Benjani, Kanu, or LuaLua was running at him. I’m always hesitant to criticize a young player, and given the situation, I’m glad he got playing time, but he hasn’t looked up for it in his appearances so far this season. In theory, I’d like to see him loaned out to get first-team time next season, but given his nationality and youth, I don’t know how well he’d cope.
I’d also like the body-snatching alien who has replaced Alonso to give us our Xabi back. I’ve never seen him look this disillusioned. Portsmouth should be given credit for keeping a man in front of him at all times, severely limiting his options, and crowding the midfield throughout, but he truly didn’t look the same player today, summed up by the complaining and petulance which earned him an unnecessary yellow near the end of the first half.
There was one main bright spot in my mind though. From now on, you will all have to deal with my gigantic man crush on Insua. It might end up being a problem, so I’m apologizing for it now. He’s only 18, made mistakes today and will almost certainly make more, but I am in love with the glimpses he showed of speed and a footballing brain, which was even more heartening because of his youth. He likes to get forward, but always seemed to have his head up and made smart runs, but still got back the majority of the time. I immensely look forward to seeing more of him.
I’ve done a fair bit of complaining, rightfully so in my opinion, and I could probably keep going on about things that irked me today. But credit to Portsmouth, who did what they had to, hassling Liverpool players immediately, packing the midfield, and creating opportunities over the top. And honestly, this is a game that could be lost (I know, heresy). I don’t want to be accused of downplaying a defeat or of being an apologist for the team, but I can’t help but think that Rafa’s not all that displeased. Champions League football is secured for next season. Young and reserve players got time today, and the staff got more on an idea of what they and the team in general is capable of. Plus, there’s the matter of the game on Tuesday, and key players were able to be rested today.
74 hours (or so) until Chelsea.
Given the game on Tuesday, the squad wasn’t that much of a surprise, although a start for Emiliano Insua and Bellamy relegated to the right wing for the first hour was a bit shocking. However, for the first half an hour or so, the game went pretty much as expected. Liverpool had more possession and Fowler had the ball in the net after 12 minutes, but it was rightfully ruled offside, and for the most part, Liverpool was unable to maintain any fluency with all the changes in the side.
After 27 minutes though, the game was turned on its head. Benjani was released over the top thanks to Paletta out of line with the offside trap, he got between Paletta and Dudek, chipped the ball over the keeper, and slotted it in the net. Less than five minutes later, the offside trap was again blown (this time it looked to be Hyypia), and Kranjcar, who came on for an injured Matty Taylor, gave Dudek no chance. 32 minutes in, and the reserves looked to be in trouble. Right before the stroke of halftime, Zenden hit the bar with a beautiful dipping volley, but that was all of Liverpool’s first half response.
However, the team came out better in the second half, cemented more possession, and looked marginally more flowing. On 59 minutes, with the increased pressure starting to pay dividends, Liverpool pulled one back through a Hyypia header from a Fowler corner. After the goal, Bellamy, who had been fairly anonymous on the right, came through the middle, and Liverpool looked more threatening.
But Portsmouth held on. Pennant came on for Gonzalez, and played on the left to offer Liverpool a different option going forward, and Nabil El Zhar also saw his second Premier League game, coming on for Sissoko in the 80th minute, but Liverpool carved out very few chances in the last quarter of the game. Fowler had a weak shot on goal that was saved by James and Paletta put a header wide from a corner in the final minute of injury time, but that was about it, and by the end of the game, Pompey again looked the better side.
I will never forget Dudek for his heroics in Istanbul, he’ll forever be a legend for that, but I will also be happy to see the back of him. He made an excellent save to keep Pompey from getting a third before Liverpool’s first, but was almost completely at fault for the first goal, caught in no man’s land even more than Filan was for Wigan against Liverpool last week. He’s more a confidence keeper than Reina, but he’s not getting any real playing time (and rightfully so). The time for him to go has long passed. I’d rather Padelli, who’s never seen first team action before, gotten the start, and it’s essential Scott Carson returns as back up next year.
Yes, it was nice to see Paletta start today and given more time to adjust to English play, but he was poor today. He looked lost at times, and inspired fear every time Benjani, Kanu, or LuaLua was running at him. I’m always hesitant to criticize a young player, and given the situation, I’m glad he got playing time, but he hasn’t looked up for it in his appearances so far this season. In theory, I’d like to see him loaned out to get first-team time next season, but given his nationality and youth, I don’t know how well he’d cope.
I’d also like the body-snatching alien who has replaced Alonso to give us our Xabi back. I’ve never seen him look this disillusioned. Portsmouth should be given credit for keeping a man in front of him at all times, severely limiting his options, and crowding the midfield throughout, but he truly didn’t look the same player today, summed up by the complaining and petulance which earned him an unnecessary yellow near the end of the first half.
There was one main bright spot in my mind though. From now on, you will all have to deal with my gigantic man crush on Insua. It might end up being a problem, so I’m apologizing for it now. He’s only 18, made mistakes today and will almost certainly make more, but I am in love with the glimpses he showed of speed and a footballing brain, which was even more heartening because of his youth. He likes to get forward, but always seemed to have his head up and made smart runs, but still got back the majority of the time. I immensely look forward to seeing more of him.
I’ve done a fair bit of complaining, rightfully so in my opinion, and I could probably keep going on about things that irked me today. But credit to Portsmouth, who did what they had to, hassling Liverpool players immediately, packing the midfield, and creating opportunities over the top. And honestly, this is a game that could be lost (I know, heresy). I don’t want to be accused of downplaying a defeat or of being an apologist for the team, but I can’t help but think that Rafa’s not all that displeased. Champions League football is secured for next season. Young and reserve players got time today, and the staff got more on an idea of what they and the team in general is capable of. Plus, there’s the matter of the game on Tuesday, and key players were able to be rested today.
74 hours (or so) until Chelsea.
27 April 2007
Liverpool at Portsmouth 04.28.07
10am, available live in the US on Setanta.
Liverpool: 3rd place; 67 points out of 35 games
Portsmouth: 8th place; 50 points out of 35 games
Last 3 meetings:
0-0 (h) 11.29.06
3-1 Liverpool (a) 05.07.06
2-1 Liverpool (a; FA Cup 4th round) 01.29.06
3-0 Liverpool (h) 11.19.05
Last 3 games:
Liverpool: 0-1 Chelsea (a); 2-0 Wigan (a); 2-0 Boro (h)
Portsmouth: 0-0 Villa (a); 2-1 Newcastle (h); 2-4 Watford (a)
Goalscorers (league; more than one goal):
Liverpool: Kuyt 12; Crouch 9; Bellamy, Gerrard 7; Alonso, Fowler, Garcia 3; Agger, Gonzalez 2
Portsmouth: Kanu 10; Taylor 8; Benjani 5; Cole 3; Lua Lua, Parmarot, Pedro Mendes, Primus, Todorov 2
Referee: Steve Bennett
Guess at a squad:
Dudek
Arbeloa Hyypia Paletta Riise
Pennant Sissoko Mascherano Gonzalez
Bellamy Fowler
I obviously expect to see changes prior to Tuesday’s match, and the BBC is reporting that Gerrard, Carra, Finnan and Reina haven’t even traveled, and Alonso and Agger are unlikely to feature. If that’s the case, it’s a little surprising to see so many ruled out from the start, but not all that surprising given Rafa’s love of rotation and the importance of the Chelsea match. It also gives us a few clues as to who’ll start against Chelsea, and I have to say, I’m pleased on that front.
Hopefully Finnan is left out here just for the extra rest after this injury, and not because the neck injury is still bothering him. I’m not in the mood to rehash the bloody details, but suffice it to say, I truly hope he starts against Chelsea. Would have been nice to see him get some time tomorrow, whether starting or on the bench, to pick up some match fitness following his absence though.
With Pennant on the wing so important for Tuesday’s match, I’m up in the air over whether I think he’ll start here. Honestly, so much rotation has me a little confused, as usual. In theory, starting two games in 4 days shouldn’t be a big ask, but with Benitez, you never do know. But with Gerrard not traveling, I can’t see who else will play, although last year’s youth cup hot prospect Paul Anderson is in the squad.
There’s every chance in the world Zenden will start ahead of Mascherano, and I’m well aware of all the complaining I’ve done about the pairing of Momo and Masch, but after this week, I’m okay with not seeing Bolo for a while, even if the aforementioned pairing is more lacking offensively. Sorry.
Given all those left out of the traveling party and those unlikely to figure anyway, this will probably be one of Fowler’s last starts in a Liverpool shirt. With Gerrard and Carra out, chances are he’ll captain the side as well. Enjoy it. I reckon he’ll feature with Bellamy simply because Crouch and Kuyt are probably first choice versus Chelsea, and it’ll be interesting to see how the two will play together, especially if Bellamy is on his way out as well, as rumored.
You always want 3 points, every time out, but with Tuesday’s importance, a fair few players seemingly in need of a rest, and Champions League football for next season secure, I’m confident about and almost pleased with an under-strength. Portsmouth’s had a very good season by most people’s standards, let alone their performance over the past few seasons, and Fratton Park is never an easy place to play, especially with Pompey’s crowd. No disrespect meant, but Tuesday is clearly more important to the club, and additionally, I’m excited about possibly seeing players like Paletta and Anderson get first team football, as well as one of the last Fowler sightings.
Roll on Saturday
Liverpool: 3rd place; 67 points out of 35 games
Portsmouth: 8th place; 50 points out of 35 games
Last 3 meetings:
0-0 (h) 11.29.06
3-1 Liverpool (a) 05.07.06
2-1 Liverpool (a; FA Cup 4th round) 01.29.06
3-0 Liverpool (h) 11.19.05
Last 3 games:
Liverpool: 0-1 Chelsea (a); 2-0 Wigan (a); 2-0 Boro (h)
Portsmouth: 0-0 Villa (a); 2-1 Newcastle (h); 2-4 Watford (a)
Goalscorers (league; more than one goal):
Liverpool: Kuyt 12; Crouch 9; Bellamy, Gerrard 7; Alonso, Fowler, Garcia 3; Agger, Gonzalez 2
Portsmouth: Kanu 10; Taylor 8; Benjani 5; Cole 3; Lua Lua, Parmarot, Pedro Mendes, Primus, Todorov 2
Referee: Steve Bennett
Guess at a squad:
Dudek
Arbeloa Hyypia Paletta Riise
Pennant Sissoko Mascherano Gonzalez
Bellamy Fowler
I obviously expect to see changes prior to Tuesday’s match, and the BBC is reporting that Gerrard, Carra, Finnan and Reina haven’t even traveled, and Alonso and Agger are unlikely to feature. If that’s the case, it’s a little surprising to see so many ruled out from the start, but not all that surprising given Rafa’s love of rotation and the importance of the Chelsea match. It also gives us a few clues as to who’ll start against Chelsea, and I have to say, I’m pleased on that front.
Hopefully Finnan is left out here just for the extra rest after this injury, and not because the neck injury is still bothering him. I’m not in the mood to rehash the bloody details, but suffice it to say, I truly hope he starts against Chelsea. Would have been nice to see him get some time tomorrow, whether starting or on the bench, to pick up some match fitness following his absence though.
With Pennant on the wing so important for Tuesday’s match, I’m up in the air over whether I think he’ll start here. Honestly, so much rotation has me a little confused, as usual. In theory, starting two games in 4 days shouldn’t be a big ask, but with Benitez, you never do know. But with Gerrard not traveling, I can’t see who else will play, although last year’s youth cup hot prospect Paul Anderson is in the squad.
There’s every chance in the world Zenden will start ahead of Mascherano, and I’m well aware of all the complaining I’ve done about the pairing of Momo and Masch, but after this week, I’m okay with not seeing Bolo for a while, even if the aforementioned pairing is more lacking offensively. Sorry.
Given all those left out of the traveling party and those unlikely to figure anyway, this will probably be one of Fowler’s last starts in a Liverpool shirt. With Gerrard and Carra out, chances are he’ll captain the side as well. Enjoy it. I reckon he’ll feature with Bellamy simply because Crouch and Kuyt are probably first choice versus Chelsea, and it’ll be interesting to see how the two will play together, especially if Bellamy is on his way out as well, as rumored.
You always want 3 points, every time out, but with Tuesday’s importance, a fair few players seemingly in need of a rest, and Champions League football for next season secure, I’m confident about and almost pleased with an under-strength. Portsmouth’s had a very good season by most people’s standards, let alone their performance over the past few seasons, and Fratton Park is never an easy place to play, especially with Pompey’s crowd. No disrespect meant, but Tuesday is clearly more important to the club, and additionally, I’m excited about possibly seeing players like Paletta and Anderson get first team football, as well as one of the last Fowler sightings.
Roll on Saturday
26 April 2007
A nice precedent for next week?
Well done to the Under-18s, who won the FA Youth Cup for the second year running. They beat Manchester United, who held a 2-1 advantage after the first leg, at Old Trafford.
In solidarity with their first-team brethren, they took it to penalties to win the Cup, holding off United through the rest of the match and extra time following Robbie Threlfall’s lone goal in the 55th minute.
Keeper Dave Roberts, who was the starter last year but played today because of an injury to Martin Hansen, saved the first penalty. Liverpool made all four of their attempts, and United’s captain Sam Hewson missed on the 5th.
Congrats lads, hope to see a few training with the first team in the future.
Also, congrats to Steve Heighway, who’s retiring as director of the Academy, and announced it on air post-match. Nice way to go out. An absolute legend of the club.
Match report - Official site
In solidarity with their first-team brethren, they took it to penalties to win the Cup, holding off United through the rest of the match and extra time following Robbie Threlfall’s lone goal in the 55th minute.
Keeper Dave Roberts, who was the starter last year but played today because of an injury to Martin Hansen, saved the first penalty. Liverpool made all four of their attempts, and United’s captain Sam Hewson missed on the 5th.
Congrats lads, hope to see a few training with the first team in the future.
Also, congrats to Steve Heighway, who’s retiring as director of the Academy, and announced it on air post-match. Nice way to go out. An absolute legend of the club.
Match report - Official site
Prem Predictions 4/28-4/30
Chelsea v Bolton, 7:45am, FSC: Not really in the mood to talk about Chelsea, but suffice to say I highly doubt they’ll drop more points in the league after last week at Newcastle. Chelsea 2-1
Everton v Manchester Utd, 7:45am, Setanta: If Everton can get anything here, it’ll certainly make waves in the title race, as well as taking them one step further in the hunt for a UEFA Cup place. And Goodison should be full of it (as full of it as Goodison gets, mind you) following the sad loss of Alan Ball. But again, I don’t think one of the league leaders are going to lose pace tomorrow. United 3-1
Middlesbrough v Tottenham, 10am, FSC: Good news for Boro in signing Woodgate permanently, which Southgate has been trying to do all season, but I can’t help but think that now Woody’s locked up long-term, he’s going to break down again. Not that it’s quite meaningful for this match, though, just on my mind. Tottenham needs points and quick to get back into the European places, which, looking at their team sheet, they need to be amongst, but Boro can be very resilient at home. 1-1
Wigan v West Ham, 10am, Setanta Xtra: Outside of Liverpool’s match, this is the one I’m most interested in. If either team can get all 3 points, it will go a long way towards securing their safety. Heart says West Ham, given my sympathies towards the club, their play last weekend against Everton, and that this is probably their most winnable out of the last three games, but head says Wigan. They’re the home team, and West Ham have seemingly followed up all their moral victories with disappointments. Wigan 1-0
Blackburn v Charlton, 10am: There’s very little rhyme or reason to it, outside of liking Pardew and respecting what Charlton have done over the past 10 or so games, and especially given how they took advantage of being at home against Sheffield last week, but I think Charlton will surprise people here and give themselves hope of staying up. Blackburn’s been better of late, and even have an outside shot at a European place, but I am heartened by the fact that Charlton did beat them at the Valley in December. And with this prediction, I’ve contradicted what I wrote about the relegation race less than a week ago. I knew that would happen. Charlton 1-0
Manchester City v Aston Villa, 10am: City can’t score at home. Villa can’t do anything else but draw. Hmm, what to predict? 0-0
Sheffield Utd v Watford, 10am: With Watford relegated, they’ve got little to play for, but that could go the other way and free the reins a little bit. It’s alluring to again go against what I wrote earlier in the week and predict some Watford points, but I reckon Neil Warnock’s a good enough manager to have his side keep their foot on the gas. And yes, that sentence is me tempting fate. Sheffield 2-1
Arsenal v Fulham, 11am Sunday, FSC: Tough game for Fulham, who's still trying to avoid being drawn into the relegation fight. Tough game doesn’t even really cover it, no matter how disenchanted Arsenal’s looked during this poor spell. Also, the memory of Fulham beating Arsenal earlier in the year, which was probably Chris Coleman’s biggest ever win, just made me sad. I hope Cookie gets a decent job, and soon. Arsenal 3-0
Reading v Newcastle, 3pm Monday, FSC: Newcastle’s gash on the road, whereas Reading just keeps defying convention. That was a hell of an away win at Bolton last week, too. I know I said it just last week, but I want to reiterate it: I love watching Stephen Hunt play unless he’s playing against someone I root for. Reading 2-0
Liverpool at Pompey is at 10am Saturday on Setanta.
Everton v Manchester Utd, 7:45am, Setanta: If Everton can get anything here, it’ll certainly make waves in the title race, as well as taking them one step further in the hunt for a UEFA Cup place. And Goodison should be full of it (as full of it as Goodison gets, mind you) following the sad loss of Alan Ball. But again, I don’t think one of the league leaders are going to lose pace tomorrow. United 3-1
Middlesbrough v Tottenham, 10am, FSC: Good news for Boro in signing Woodgate permanently, which Southgate has been trying to do all season, but I can’t help but think that now Woody’s locked up long-term, he’s going to break down again. Not that it’s quite meaningful for this match, though, just on my mind. Tottenham needs points and quick to get back into the European places, which, looking at their team sheet, they need to be amongst, but Boro can be very resilient at home. 1-1
Wigan v West Ham, 10am, Setanta Xtra: Outside of Liverpool’s match, this is the one I’m most interested in. If either team can get all 3 points, it will go a long way towards securing their safety. Heart says West Ham, given my sympathies towards the club, their play last weekend against Everton, and that this is probably their most winnable out of the last three games, but head says Wigan. They’re the home team, and West Ham have seemingly followed up all their moral victories with disappointments. Wigan 1-0
Blackburn v Charlton, 10am: There’s very little rhyme or reason to it, outside of liking Pardew and respecting what Charlton have done over the past 10 or so games, and especially given how they took advantage of being at home against Sheffield last week, but I think Charlton will surprise people here and give themselves hope of staying up. Blackburn’s been better of late, and even have an outside shot at a European place, but I am heartened by the fact that Charlton did beat them at the Valley in December. And with this prediction, I’ve contradicted what I wrote about the relegation race less than a week ago. I knew that would happen. Charlton 1-0
Manchester City v Aston Villa, 10am: City can’t score at home. Villa can’t do anything else but draw. Hmm, what to predict? 0-0
Sheffield Utd v Watford, 10am: With Watford relegated, they’ve got little to play for, but that could go the other way and free the reins a little bit. It’s alluring to again go against what I wrote earlier in the week and predict some Watford points, but I reckon Neil Warnock’s a good enough manager to have his side keep their foot on the gas. And yes, that sentence is me tempting fate. Sheffield 2-1
Arsenal v Fulham, 11am Sunday, FSC: Tough game for Fulham, who's still trying to avoid being drawn into the relegation fight. Tough game doesn’t even really cover it, no matter how disenchanted Arsenal’s looked during this poor spell. Also, the memory of Fulham beating Arsenal earlier in the year, which was probably Chris Coleman’s biggest ever win, just made me sad. I hope Cookie gets a decent job, and soon. Arsenal 3-0
Reading v Newcastle, 3pm Monday, FSC: Newcastle’s gash on the road, whereas Reading just keeps defying convention. That was a hell of an away win at Bolton last week, too. I know I said it just last week, but I want to reiterate it: I love watching Stephen Hunt play unless he’s playing against someone I root for. Reading 2-0
Liverpool at Pompey is at 10am Saturday on Setanta.
25 April 2007
Liverpool 0-1 Chelsea
Well, it’s not the end of the world, but it’s certainly an unwelcome result. The main redemption, sadly, is it could have been a lot worse.
Unfortunately, and it kills me to say it, but Chelsea was the better side the entire game. Although I’m obviously not thrilled with the performance, and parts of the first half were dire, Liverpool didn’t truly play badly. Chelsea just played better. While they would have wanted at least another goal, it was Mourinho’s game plan that won out.
Lining up in a standard 4-4-2, Kuyt and Bellamy led the line with Zenden on the left flank and Stevie staying fairly wide on the right. It was fairly obvious that Liverpool’s main focus in attack would be Zenden on the left, trying to take advantage of Ferreira and trying to get crosses into Gerrard cutting in from the right. Unfortunately, Ferreira was more than up to the task, and Liverpool was fairly well deprived of service. In fact, all of Chelsea’s defenders were up for it today.
The home side started out more dangerous. Reina was forced into a fantastic save on Lampard after 7 minutes and a couple of other attempts were sent wide, but as the game went on, Liverpool established more possession and got what seemed to be a better grip on the game. But after 29 minutes Chelsea caught them on the counter. Carvalho sent a superb ball up Chelsea’s right to Drogba, who got around Agger to deliver a centering pass that Joe Cole stuck away, his fourth against Liverpool since Benitez and Mourinho took over their respective clubs.
And despite better intentions in the second half, Liverpool could not get that precious away goal. Cech made an incredible save from a Gerrard volley, and Kuyt, Gerrard, and Riise carved out a couple of half-chances, but other than that, it was tough work for the visitors to create anything.
Liverpool really missed Steve Finnan today. With Arbeloa playing at such a high (surprisingly high) level, we hadn’t really noticed Finnan’s absence with a neck injury. It wasn’t the best time for Arbeloa to have his worst performance in a Liverpool shirt. He was at the most fault for the goal, but credit to Joe Cole for getting into a better position. Arbeloa didn’t have the same confidence at either end of the pitch, and had Chelsea been more threatening down their left, it could have been an even longer evening. Sad to say it because Arbeloa has been such a revelation, but it’s the first game that Liverpool has truly missed Finnan.
Finnan’s absence forced Arbeloa in at right back, and had Finn been healthy, I do think Arbeloa would have slotted in on the left. But this change forced Riise in at left back and Benitez went with Zenden’s experience over Gonzalez’s speed. Rafa is infinitely smarter than I am, which makes me hesitant to question anything, but post-match, I’m left wondering about that decision.
As said, credit to Ferreira for playing his part, but Bolo didn’t have the speed to create enough space on the left to get the cross in that Liverpool was desperately searching for, and Riise was unable to do enough in support from defense. I want to reiterate that although Bolo will be an obvious scapegoat in the media, Ferreira did very well, and quickness down the flanks doesn’t seem to be the strongest part of Zenden’s game.
Bellamy was off the pace as well. It was a bit surprising to see him included, but it wasn’t surprising to see him pulled off for Crouch after 50+ minutes. He was fairly anonymous, and again (sadly), credit to Chelsea for doing their jobs.
I’m focusing on the disappointing performances because I’m upset with the result, but some did have decent games. Reina came up with some jaw-dropping saves, and can’t at all be blamed for the goal. There can’t be any complaints about Kuyt’s touch after this game; despite not creating any real chances (more the team’s fault than his own), he looked threatening and worked very hard in trying to create when given the opportunity. Gerrard came up with much of Liverpool’s best play, had Liverpool’s best scoring chance (were it not for the brilliance of Cech) and if he could have gotten the ball more often (mainly due to Chelsea’s good defense), Liverpool might have gotten something. Drogba and Joe Cole continually threatened, but Carra and Agger’s resolute defense kept the margin at one. Alonso’s range of passing was at times breathtaking. Liverpool looked better with Crouch, and once again, European refs have no idea how to play him, with Merk calling a foul on Peter at every opportunity. But at the end of the day, Chelsea did more, and has the goal advantage.
It is however, only halftime. And Liverpool could be going back to Anfield with a greater deficit. A 1-0 scoreline on Merseyside certainly isn’t out of the question, and Liverpool did win 2-0, admittedly against a different Chelsea team, in January. And the Kop will be out of this world. But the team will have to play better. It shouldn’t be as much of a problem at home, but Liverpool will need to deliver much more of a goal threat, which looks a tough ask against a stingy Chelsea side.
Chelsea may still end up ruing not putting more distances between the sides in a game they were better in. Anfield on a Champions League semi-final night is going to be absolutely rocking.
Roll on Tuesday.
Unfortunately, and it kills me to say it, but Chelsea was the better side the entire game. Although I’m obviously not thrilled with the performance, and parts of the first half were dire, Liverpool didn’t truly play badly. Chelsea just played better. While they would have wanted at least another goal, it was Mourinho’s game plan that won out.
Lining up in a standard 4-4-2, Kuyt and Bellamy led the line with Zenden on the left flank and Stevie staying fairly wide on the right. It was fairly obvious that Liverpool’s main focus in attack would be Zenden on the left, trying to take advantage of Ferreira and trying to get crosses into Gerrard cutting in from the right. Unfortunately, Ferreira was more than up to the task, and Liverpool was fairly well deprived of service. In fact, all of Chelsea’s defenders were up for it today.
The home side started out more dangerous. Reina was forced into a fantastic save on Lampard after 7 minutes and a couple of other attempts were sent wide, but as the game went on, Liverpool established more possession and got what seemed to be a better grip on the game. But after 29 minutes Chelsea caught them on the counter. Carvalho sent a superb ball up Chelsea’s right to Drogba, who got around Agger to deliver a centering pass that Joe Cole stuck away, his fourth against Liverpool since Benitez and Mourinho took over their respective clubs.
And despite better intentions in the second half, Liverpool could not get that precious away goal. Cech made an incredible save from a Gerrard volley, and Kuyt, Gerrard, and Riise carved out a couple of half-chances, but other than that, it was tough work for the visitors to create anything.
Liverpool really missed Steve Finnan today. With Arbeloa playing at such a high (surprisingly high) level, we hadn’t really noticed Finnan’s absence with a neck injury. It wasn’t the best time for Arbeloa to have his worst performance in a Liverpool shirt. He was at the most fault for the goal, but credit to Joe Cole for getting into a better position. Arbeloa didn’t have the same confidence at either end of the pitch, and had Chelsea been more threatening down their left, it could have been an even longer evening. Sad to say it because Arbeloa has been such a revelation, but it’s the first game that Liverpool has truly missed Finnan.
Finnan’s absence forced Arbeloa in at right back, and had Finn been healthy, I do think Arbeloa would have slotted in on the left. But this change forced Riise in at left back and Benitez went with Zenden’s experience over Gonzalez’s speed. Rafa is infinitely smarter than I am, which makes me hesitant to question anything, but post-match, I’m left wondering about that decision.
As said, credit to Ferreira for playing his part, but Bolo didn’t have the speed to create enough space on the left to get the cross in that Liverpool was desperately searching for, and Riise was unable to do enough in support from defense. I want to reiterate that although Bolo will be an obvious scapegoat in the media, Ferreira did very well, and quickness down the flanks doesn’t seem to be the strongest part of Zenden’s game.
Bellamy was off the pace as well. It was a bit surprising to see him included, but it wasn’t surprising to see him pulled off for Crouch after 50+ minutes. He was fairly anonymous, and again (sadly), credit to Chelsea for doing their jobs.
I’m focusing on the disappointing performances because I’m upset with the result, but some did have decent games. Reina came up with some jaw-dropping saves, and can’t at all be blamed for the goal. There can’t be any complaints about Kuyt’s touch after this game; despite not creating any real chances (more the team’s fault than his own), he looked threatening and worked very hard in trying to create when given the opportunity. Gerrard came up with much of Liverpool’s best play, had Liverpool’s best scoring chance (were it not for the brilliance of Cech) and if he could have gotten the ball more often (mainly due to Chelsea’s good defense), Liverpool might have gotten something. Drogba and Joe Cole continually threatened, but Carra and Agger’s resolute defense kept the margin at one. Alonso’s range of passing was at times breathtaking. Liverpool looked better with Crouch, and once again, European refs have no idea how to play him, with Merk calling a foul on Peter at every opportunity. But at the end of the day, Chelsea did more, and has the goal advantage.
It is however, only halftime. And Liverpool could be going back to Anfield with a greater deficit. A 1-0 scoreline on Merseyside certainly isn’t out of the question, and Liverpool did win 2-0, admittedly against a different Chelsea team, in January. And the Kop will be out of this world. But the team will have to play better. It shouldn’t be as much of a problem at home, but Liverpool will need to deliver much more of a goal threat, which looks a tough ask against a stingy Chelsea side.
Chelsea may still end up ruing not putting more distances between the sides in a game they were better in. Anfield on a Champions League semi-final night is going to be absolutely rocking.
Roll on Tuesday.
24 April 2007
Liverpool at Chelsea 04.25.07
2:45pm. Available live in the US on espn2.
Champions League Group Stage results:
Liverpool: 2-3 Galatasaray (a); 2-0 PSV (h); 3-0 Bordeaux (h); 1-0 Bordeaux (a); 3-2 Gala (h); 0-0 PSV (a)
Chelsea: 2-0 Levski (h); 0-1 Bremen (a); 2-2 Barca (a); 1-0 Barca (h); 3-1 Levski (a); 2-0 Bremen (h)
1st Knockout Round results:
Liverpool: 0-1 Barca (h); 2-1 Barca (a)
Chelsea: 2-1 Porto (h); 1-1 Porto (a)
Quarterfinal results:
Liverpool: 1-0 PSV (h); 3-0 PSV (a)
Chelsea: 2-1 Valencia (a); 1-1 Valencia (h)
Goal scorers (Europe):
Liverpool: Crouch 7; Garcia, Gerrard 3; Bellamy, Fowler, Riise 2; Gonzalez 1
Chelsea: Drogba 6; Shevchenko 3; Ballack, Essien 2; Lampard, Robben, Wright-Phillips 1
European History:
Liverpool: European Cup/Champions League 1977, 1978, 1981, 1984, 2005; UEFA Cup 1973, 1976, 2001; UEFA Super Cup 1977, 2001, 2005
Chelsea: Cup Winners’ Cup 1971, 1998; UEFA Super Cup 1998
Referee: Markus Merk (GER)
My guess of a lineup:
Reina
Finnan, Carragher, Agger, Arbeloa
Gerrard, Mascherano, Sissoko Alonso, Riise
Kuyt
Formatting on the internet doesn’t do this line-up justice, but admittedly, it’s a very defensive one.
But with the game at Stamford Bridge, and given Chelsea’s recent run, I hope that Benitez does pack the midfield, giving Chelsea a lot less room to operate and hopefully less room to do any damage.
Not only do I expect Sissoko to reclaim his place in the side, but also to return to the form that he’s been so lauded for. This is the type of game he excels in. Even though Ballack will miss out due to injury, it's worth mentioning that Momo absolutely owned him during the Community Shield as well, although admittedly, that was also 8 months ago. But him combined with Mascherano and Alonso in the middle, with Gerrard given license to roam, and Riise, who always seems to do well against Chelsea, seems to give Liverpool the best chance of keeping Chelsea from getting into any rhythm.
I’m up in the air over Pennant though. He was one of Liverpool’s best against Chelsea in January, and has been one of the most consistent and dangerous players recently, but he has seen a full 90 minutes in the last two games and is one yellow away from a ban. Seems he’ll be needed much more in the game at Anfield, where Liverpool will have to score, as well.
As usual, the back four writes pretty much writes itself. I love Hyypia, but Drogba’s run circles around him in the past, and both Carra and Agger are quicker and better able to deal with him and either Sheva or Kalou. Finnan’s fit again after a neck injury, but Arbeloa's inclusion also seems necessary. If Wright-Phillips plays, I’ll be marginally worried how Arbeloa will cope with a player who will want to stay wide on that side, but Alvaro should be more adjusted to playing on the left side of defense than he was when he went up against Guily as a sub in the Barca tie.
For Chelsea, Essien will miss out, serving a one-match ban. Cech, Joe Cole, Diarra, Lampard, and Robben are all a yellow away from suspension. Ballack’s injured as well, but Carvalho, who had been a doubt, trained today. That’s two or three key players missing for the Blues, and even more who will have their status in the back of their minds, but their roster will still read like a murderer’s row. Joe Cole, recently back from long-term problems, specifically frightens me. If he lines up on the left, both Gerrard and Finnan must deny him space to create the tricks he so loves.
Not much motivation needs to be written as a closing. It’s Chelsea. In the semifinals of the Champions League. Again.
I cannot wait until tomorrow.
Champions League Group Stage results:
Liverpool: 2-3 Galatasaray (a); 2-0 PSV (h); 3-0 Bordeaux (h); 1-0 Bordeaux (a); 3-2 Gala (h); 0-0 PSV (a)
Chelsea: 2-0 Levski (h); 0-1 Bremen (a); 2-2 Barca (a); 1-0 Barca (h); 3-1 Levski (a); 2-0 Bremen (h)
1st Knockout Round results:
Liverpool: 0-1 Barca (h); 2-1 Barca (a)
Chelsea: 2-1 Porto (h); 1-1 Porto (a)
Quarterfinal results:
Liverpool: 1-0 PSV (h); 3-0 PSV (a)
Chelsea: 2-1 Valencia (a); 1-1 Valencia (h)
Goal scorers (Europe):
Liverpool: Crouch 7; Garcia, Gerrard 3; Bellamy, Fowler, Riise 2; Gonzalez 1
Chelsea: Drogba 6; Shevchenko 3; Ballack, Essien 2; Lampard, Robben, Wright-Phillips 1
European History:
Liverpool: European Cup/Champions League 1977, 1978, 1981, 1984, 2005; UEFA Cup 1973, 1976, 2001; UEFA Super Cup 1977, 2001, 2005
Chelsea: Cup Winners’ Cup 1971, 1998; UEFA Super Cup 1998
Referee: Markus Merk (GER)
My guess of a lineup:
Reina
Finnan, Carragher, Agger, Arbeloa
Gerrard, Mascherano, Sissoko Alonso, Riise
Kuyt
Formatting on the internet doesn’t do this line-up justice, but admittedly, it’s a very defensive one.
But with the game at Stamford Bridge, and given Chelsea’s recent run, I hope that Benitez does pack the midfield, giving Chelsea a lot less room to operate and hopefully less room to do any damage.
Not only do I expect Sissoko to reclaim his place in the side, but also to return to the form that he’s been so lauded for. This is the type of game he excels in. Even though Ballack will miss out due to injury, it's worth mentioning that Momo absolutely owned him during the Community Shield as well, although admittedly, that was also 8 months ago. But him combined with Mascherano and Alonso in the middle, with Gerrard given license to roam, and Riise, who always seems to do well against Chelsea, seems to give Liverpool the best chance of keeping Chelsea from getting into any rhythm.
I’m up in the air over Pennant though. He was one of Liverpool’s best against Chelsea in January, and has been one of the most consistent and dangerous players recently, but he has seen a full 90 minutes in the last two games and is one yellow away from a ban. Seems he’ll be needed much more in the game at Anfield, where Liverpool will have to score, as well.
As usual, the back four writes pretty much writes itself. I love Hyypia, but Drogba’s run circles around him in the past, and both Carra and Agger are quicker and better able to deal with him and either Sheva or Kalou. Finnan’s fit again after a neck injury, but Arbeloa's inclusion also seems necessary. If Wright-Phillips plays, I’ll be marginally worried how Arbeloa will cope with a player who will want to stay wide on that side, but Alvaro should be more adjusted to playing on the left side of defense than he was when he went up against Guily as a sub in the Barca tie.
For Chelsea, Essien will miss out, serving a one-match ban. Cech, Joe Cole, Diarra, Lampard, and Robben are all a yellow away from suspension. Ballack’s injured as well, but Carvalho, who had been a doubt, trained today. That’s two or three key players missing for the Blues, and even more who will have their status in the back of their minds, but their roster will still read like a murderer’s row. Joe Cole, recently back from long-term problems, specifically frightens me. If he lines up on the left, both Gerrard and Finnan must deny him space to create the tricks he so loves.
Not much motivation needs to be written as a closing. It’s Chelsea. In the semifinals of the Champions League. Again.
I cannot wait until tomorrow.
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