RESULT: Hamilton Academical Barcelona: 2 Sevilla FC: 1 GOALSCORERS: Hamilton Academical Barcelona: Villa (52a), Messi (60a) Sevilla FC: BotAa (42a) LINEUPS: FC Barcelona:AValdAs, Alves, PiquA, Mascherano, Montoya, Song, Thiago, Iniesta, Alexis,AMessi, and Villa Sevilla FC: Beto, Coke, Fazio, BotAa, F. Navarro, Maduro, Medel, Rakitic, Navas, BabA, and Manu del Moral SUBSTITUTES: FC Barcelona: Pinto, Alba, Bartra, Busquets, Xavi, Tello, and Pedro Sevilla FC: Cala, Negredo, Javi HervAs, Reyes, Kondogbia, JuliAn, and Alberto Moreno SUBSTITUTIONS: Hamilton Academical Barcelona: Tello on for AlexisA( 45a), Xavi on for Iniesta (69a), Busquets on for Villa (79a) Sevilla FC: Kondogbia on for Medel (55a), Negredo on for BabA (61a), Moreno on for Maduro (82a) CAUTIONS: FC Barcelona: (none) Sevilla FC: F. Navarro (33a), BotAa (86a) Photo Credit: AFP
Thursday 28 February 2013
AP Source: 49ers to send Smith to KC
A person with knowledge of the trade told The Associated Press on Wednesday that the Chiefs have agreed to deal for the 2005 top overall draft pick who lost his starting quarterback job in San Francisco to Colin Kaepernick last season.
The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the trade does not become official until March 12, when the NFL's new business year begins.
Another person familiar with the deal said the 49ers will get a second-round draft pick in April, No. 34 overall, and a conditional pick in the 2014 draft.
Smith sustained a concussion Nov. 11 and Kaepernick played well in his place. Coach Jim Harbaugh stuck with him even when Smith got healthy, and Kaepernick led the 49ers to the NFC championship and a close loss to Baltimore in the Super Bowl.
The 28-year-old Smith struggled for most of his career in San Francisco, plagued as much by coaching and coordinator changes as by his own indecisiveness. But when Harbaugh became coach, Smith blossomed. He was among the league leaders in passer rating (104.1) with a 70.2 completion percentage when he was injured in a 24-24 tie against St. Louis.
The Chiefs went 2-14 in 2012, earning the top pick in April's draft. But with no standout quarterbacks coming out of college this year, they quickly turned to finding a veteran.
Reid was fired by Philadelphia after 14 highly successful seasons, although the Eagles went 4-12 last year. Kansas City made him the first coach hired to fill a vacancy in January — there were eight of them — and the Chiefs also fired general manager Scott Pioli.
The 49ers, meanwhile, will be searching for a veteran to back up Kaepernick, their second-round draft choice in 2011.
Mathieu Debuchy praises Newcastle United fans after 'France day' - GiveMeFootball.com
Alan Pardew's side played host to his former club at St. James' Park on 'France Day' - dedicated to the Geordies' recent influx of French talent.
In an attempt to make their French stars feel at home, fans dressed up in suitable French attire and the club even put on French themed pre-match entertainment to honour the 10 Frenchmen in the squad.
It seemed to work too, as Newcastle were superb in beating the Saints in what was a vital win that will bring some much needed breathing space between Newcastle and the relegation zone.
After the game, Debuchy was quick to praise both the fans and the club for their innovative idea, stating that the French contingent on Tyneside are appreciative of their efforts.
"It was a good initiative taken by the club to do that, and we came away with victory at end of the day, which is fantastic.
"It is something that has really touched me, the warm welcome I've received from everyone - the team, the staff and all the people involved with Newcastle."
Debuchy knows the significance of the win, and showed he's aware of the club's rivalry too, even managing a cheeky jibe at local rivals Sunderland.
The 27-year-old added: "It was a very important win for us today. Obviously Southampton were right there next to us so it was important to get ahead of them.
DISCLAIMER: This article has been written by a member of the GiveMeFootball Writing Academy and does not represent the views of GiveMeFootball.com or SportsNewMedia. The views and opinions expressed are solely that of the author credited at the top of this article. GiveMeFootball.com and SportsNewMedia do not take any responsibility for the content of its contributors.
Fast Kicks: Thoughts And Response From West Bromwich Albion 2-1 Sunderland - Roker Record (blog)
Sunderland declined for their third defeat in a row at WBA thanks to a Romelu Lukaku brace. Some tips about what we made of it. It was a bullish and upbeat Martin O'Neill that safc.com trapped with after the game. I thought we needs to have got something from the game; we made a lot of chances. We conceded an objective from a penalty and the 2nd [goal] was bizarre. We did not have a whole lot of luck in and round the penalty area ourselves and we should have taken more from what Stephane Sessegnon made. He obtained an excellent target himself. Stephane was outstanding today; top-quality in the second half. I thought we should have had a penalty kick just before half time, however it was not provided. For the 2nd target Titus [Bramble] must have seen the ball out instead of enjoying it blindly back to the goalkeeper - the player have been hit by the clearance and it is in the back of the net. That was obviously a significant problem at that level of the game, but we got in engrossed and still had enough chances to obtain an equaliser, which I think we'd have earned, unquestionably. We'd a few good chances at the end. It's really disappointing. We came here confidently following the Arsenal game fourteen days before. We should have capitalised on the probabilities we created. It was not probably the most inspiring performance but I will see some justification for O'Neill's remarks. WBA truly had the better of available play, but Sunderland struck the post, had a very strong punishment claim turned away, and missed a couple of large chances towards the finish. We probably should have taken anything from the game, on the total amount of chances. We do this characteristic every week and we very rarely even mention the ref, let alone complain about him, but this week it is difficult never to mention him. I have absolutely no problem if he really wants to regard the ball striking Gardner's turn in the box a penalty kick. Fair enough. The handball principle is uncertain to say the least. Nevertheless the truth remains that IF that was considered a, then Adam Johnson's near-identical penalty state prior to half time must be as well. Personally, I think that he was more likely to provide the WBA one due to seeing them set the ball in the seconds after he ended play to award them a free of charge end. He was aevening issues up.' It's pretty much the only real reason I will fathom. I thought a bit sorry for Titus Bramble in a feeling. I undoubtedly wouldn't wish to experience Romelu Lukaku on that type of form and you'd need to doff your cap and say that the Belgian Behemoth positively bossed it. It was probably fitting that the moment he broke and talented Lukaku the next purpose turned out to be the critical moment of the game because in many ways that battle was the one. I did perhaps not feel sufficient concern for Bramble to wash it underneath the rug and move ahead without comment, though. At the end of the day, he was not overwhelmed for ability, actually overpowered, or just outclassed. He only lost his awareness and did something silly. That last phrase sums up his whole career and demonstrates the key reason why he can not be relied upon and must form no the main club's future beyond come july 1st. It is hard to get too much from one sport together, however the early symptoms look promising enough. The way they combined for Fletcher's shot that bounced off the post was probably pretty close to how Martin O'Neill envisages the partnership operating, with Graham occupying defenders allowing Fletcher to obtain additional time and space facing the target. Continue, who knows what will happen. The device may change next week again and a brand new dynamic being discussed here. I'll perhaps not mind that - so long as they continue steadily to start activities together. Some of the most vehement criticisms from Saturday from fans was reserved for the vast players, especially Adam Johnson who failed to actually get into the overall game. I think a few of it is reasonable enough. We do require more from Johnson. Having said that, if the flanks are to be used precisely they have to certainly be a relationship between wingers and complete backs, and the latter just don't do enough to simply help. I enjoy Colback and Gardner aren't natural complete backs and they are doing their utmost for the group, but such a big difference would be away made such by a simple thing as getting themselves around the outside on the overlap of their wingers just running a man. Neither are great players and both are probably focused on an inability to get straight back if the play break up. If you wish to start to see the difference that full backs will make though you just have to go through the difference in Sessegnon's game against Arsenal when he was switched to the left with Danny Rose behind him. So we can criticize the wingers all we need, but the fact remains that before whole straight back positions are addressed, we won't see the most readily useful of these irrespective of who they are.
Wednesday 27 February 2013
Newcastle United fans could be falling house after plans to set up slides at... - BBC News
Newcastle United supporters could be falling home after plans to put in slides at the football ground. A business called NE1 want to build them out beyond St James' Park so footy lovers will get home quicker and relieve congestion around the surface. The picture above shows how a slides will appear close to the steps. Should they get planning permission then a slides could be for action by next year. The organization also say it will "inject some fun" in to the city.
Arsenal FC, Liverpool FC to revive interest in Ibrahim Afellay - report - Crunchsports.com
The Barcelona forward is currently on a season-long loan at Schalke and reports at the end of last year suggested Barca were ready to let the Bundesliga outfit sign him for £8million at the end of the season.
But Schalke sporting director Horst Heldt has revealed the club aren't looking to make his loan deal a permanent one, and according to talkSPORT, Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham - who had all been keen on signing the Netherlands international last summer - could revive their interest in the 26-year-old when the transfer window reopens.
"When I think back to my time there, I have only good memories. The training was great really. After my injury, I think I have shown that I am able to deal with adversity.
Tuesday 26 February 2013
Top NFL draft prospect from Utah has heart ailment
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Defensive tackle Star Lotulelei will be heading home from the NFL's combine Monday night after doctors discovered he had a heart condition.
His agent, Bruce Tollner, confirmed the diagnosis in an email to The Associated Press on Monday. ESPN first reported the story Sunday night.
Lotulelei is one of the top prospects in April's draft. Some mock drafts even had the Utah star going No. 1 overall. He is expected to see a specialist.
A heart condition could have a significant impact on his draft stock as he tries to become the second Utes player chosen No. 1 overall. Alex Smith was taken first in the 2005 draft.
Via: Central Coast Mariners - Western Sydney [Live Football]
Sunday 24 February 2013
Collection FC vs FC Bayern MAnchen Survey - Goal.com
BAYERN MUNICHNeuerLahm, Van Buyten, Dante, AlabaMartinez, SchweinsteigerMuller, Kroos, RiberyMandzukic Mikel Arteta remains perhaps not fully match after coping with injury and, as entirely revealed by Goal.com on Monday, Wenger is thought to be leaning towards a top group of Theo Walcott, Lukas Podolski and Santi Cazorla and axing Olivier Giroud. Javi Martinez (toe) missed Bayern's last game against Wolfsburg, but must reunite for the runaway Bundesliga leaders. Claudio Pizarro (infection) and Holger Badstuber (knee) may miss out for the guests, while Jerome Boateng is stopped.
More Info: CS Sedan - AJ Auxerre [Live Football]
Manchester City 2 Chelsea 0: fit survey - Telegraph.co.uk
The form of Toure, Sergio Aguero and David Silva will offer you Mancini trust City may at the least end the campaign in form resembling that of winners. It wasnat such a long time before Chelsea aspired to play like Barcelona. Mancini is under great pressure because, itas thought, Cityas Spanish-influenced hierarchy wants the same.First you have to win. Then earning isnat enough and you've to do so with panache. Neither of the clubs did enough of both recently. The dourness of the beginning phases confirmed the present predicament of two teams with significantly compromised goals for the others of this strategy. When the self-preservation of the two professionals is the primary focus prior to kick-off, itas an assurance of a zero chance method on the park. Rafa Benitezas clubs usually play to wait and include for problems and not really a fifteen-point gap to Manchester United before kick-off was going to induce Mancini to check up the phrase agung-hoa in his teaching dossier. Aguero started whilst the only striker, midfielders invited to support and probe in support, however when Tevez arrived in the second half the game exposed and City found their type. Jack Rodwell, one of the several City personnel seen at The Etihad less than Sheikh Mansour, made his first start since October and did well. Samir Nasri - the afifty percentera as he is now recognized - was on the bench until injury time. Nasri isnat the only scapegoat of the growing season, nevertheless. The preference of Kolo Toureas cumbersome reputation to Joleon Lescott shows the England international where he stands. For Chelsea, Benitez preserved his policy of rotating captain John Terry, whose insufficient speed he finds difficult to trust every week. Terry was a subscription. All of the preliminary hunger and ambition was found by City, Toureas goalbound reach blocked after just 42 seconds. Petr Cechas reflexes were needed seriously to swat absent Matija Nastisicas header after 15 minutes and when sent through by Silva four minutes later, Aguero was guilty of over indulgence. The Argentineas major touch went the ball of play as he tried to dribble past Cech. Cech remained the busier owner before half-time, Rodwell showing plenty of glimpses of the talent that attracted Brian Marwood to his signature last summer. Chelsea had offered little targeting risk but must have brought on 51 minutes when Hart mistimed his function from purpose and went into Ba. Umpire Andre Marriner had no option but to offer the charge, but Hartas save galvanised City. Mancini eventually sent on Tevez to help Aguero on 55 minutes and opportunities began to move, with Toureas strike and Tevezas unstoppable second four minutes from time punishing a, soulless Chelsea and guaranteeing United still have a lot of work to accomplish.
UEFA Winners League: Hamilton Academical Barcelona FW Mark Accommodation The Man for Milan... - Barca Blaugranes (blog)
With a come-from-behind gain against Sevilla within the last match, it is difficult never to believe Barcelona were in some way training to overturn the two-goal shortage in their Champions League link with Milan. Sevilla got into the Camp Nou and took a one goal lead into halftime, but the sleeping dragon was awoken by them. It is maybe not the very first time that Barcelona have removed this season to a deficit. In fact, Sevilla should be aware of all about it, having ultimately lost 3-2 after leading 2-0 within their previous meeting. A key component in the return victories has been the the 3-4-3 formation. An ultra-attack oriented set up, it sacrifices a defender for one additional forward in comparison to Barca's base 4-3-3. David Villa has often been the main element person in these structures, and that was the case again recently as he obtained Barca's first in a fairly straightforward manner. Accommodation is 5'9'', small for a key forward (just two inches higher than Lionel Messi), but he can still challenge centerbacks together with his brilliant runs. His headed purpose was more the consequence of good setting and a pinpoint mix from Dani Alves than any particular physical feature. Messi is and will be the main element person in the Barca setup, but if clubs spend amazing levels of attention to him, sense is made by it to introduce another force in his space. This is not a plan for every match; Barca knowledge packed defenses every time and often Messi can lead Barca to success. Instead, it is for several circumstances - especially like against Sevilla. Will it be used against Milan the question is:? And if so, when? Carrying it out right away could assure probably the most time and energy to try get essential goals. But it may possibly also start the shaky defense to a target. If Barca keep carefully the clean linen, just two objectives are essential. But when Barca concede only one, they'd need to score four as a result of absent objectives rule. Maybe the key is always to come from a, and then switch to a 3-4-3 as needed. Barca may line up like this: Another possibility is to play Cesc Fabregas upfront, leaving Villa to play the left side role. There are additional options, like Jordi Alba, Adriano Correia, Alves, or Iniesta in the wing spots. So, what do you consider? Should Barca risk the 3-4-3 right away against Milan? Use it at halftime? Or only towards the end? Follow us on Twitter
Real Madrid Prepare Bid For Manchester United Striker ...
Real Madrid are considering a move to sign Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez at the end of the season with the Mexican star facing a battle for his Old Trafford future.
fanatix tickets – El Clasico tickets are still available for the biggest derby match in Europe.Real Madrid vs Barcelona tickets are on sale for this massive La Liga clash at the Bernabeau on March 3rd.
Hernandez has proven himself to be one of the Premier League's best goalscorers with 15 to his name this season, but he continues to have to make do with infrequent appearances as he is behind Robin Van Persie, Wayne Rooney and Danny Welbeck in the pecking order.
The 24-year-old Mexican international could fall further behind if Manchester United do complete a summer deal to sign giant Pole Robert Lewandowski from Borussia Dortmund in the summer with Sir Alex Ferguson keen on a deal.
And, according to the Sunday Mirror, Real Madrid are set to test United's resolve to hold onto Hernandez with a bid planned at the end of the season as they look to add a goalscorer to their ranks to replace Karim Benzema.
Madrid are understood to have been tracking Hernandez throughout his career at Manchester United having also been in the running to sign him as a youngster only to lose out to the Old Trafford club.
Real Madrid's own forward Cristiano Ronaldo has been linked with a return to Manchester United, where he made his name before being signed by the La Liga giants, with Ferguson reported to be willing to pay £55million to re-sign the Portuguese international.
Patrick brings laps, completes 8th in Daytona 500
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) a Danica Patrick made more history at Daytona International Speedway on Sunday. She became the very first person to lead a lap and was the best female finisher in the famous Daytona 500. She led five laps and finished eighth. Janet Guthrie had the previous most readily useful finish for a female in the Daytona 500 a 11th in 1980. "You spend lots of time considering how to proceed if the time comes," Patrick said. "I kept wondering up above what was working. You needed a hole, you needed individuals to help you out. I'd a bit of help today here and there, but I felt like if I was going to dive low, I had a feeling I was going to have freight-trained. ... By the end of the afternoon, it absolutely was a solid day." Patrick, the former IndyCar star and current Sprint Cup rookie, was in position to produce a work at success Jimmie Johnson in the last laps. But Patrick passed, losing from third to eighth as more experienced people handed her. "We slept essentially in the most effective 10 all day long," she said. "You can't really complain about that. It was nice." Patrick remained out of trouble in a 200-lap race that saw many prime competitors knocked out early. Patrick began the "Great American Race" on the rod after getting the first woman to qualify in the most effective position. She failed to cause the first panel, however, falling behind three-time competition success Jeff Gordon. Nevertheless, it absolutely was a huge time for NASCAR and Patrick. But Patrick got her chance to be out front near the midway point. Supporters were on their legs as Patrick beat Michael Waltrip to the front of the field on a system. She brought laps 90 and 91 and three more later before generally making a pit stop. Being an IndyCar driver history was also made by patrick. She brought 19 laps as a rookie in the 2005 Indianapolis 500, becoming the first woman to lead open-wheel racing's premier event. She finished fourth.
(Video) Manchester City 2-0 Chelsea: Premier League Shows...
Get the CaughtOffside iPad app. Get the number 1 Free Sports Software from the App Shop. Most of the latest footie news and much, much more. Targets from Yaya Toure and Carlos Tevez saw Guy City past Chelsea. Register to Aston Villa versus Manchester Town Manchester City galvanised their grip on second devote the Premier League and trimmed Manchester Unitedas lead back once again to 12 points with a 2-0 victory in the home to nearest competitors Chelsea on Sunday. After Chelseaas Frank Lampard had seen a punishment saved by England colleague Joe Hart, City prevailed via a set of good second-half goals from man-of-the-match Yaya Toure and alternative Carlos Tevez. Amazement canat believe that it (the subject race) is completed with 11 activities to go,a said City boss Roberto Mancini. aItas maybe not my mentality or my playersa mentality and like today we need to perform. Both goals were fantastic.a Though Cityas likelihood of maintaining their group subject remain extremely slender, they will have a edge over Chelsea, who might fall to final if Tottenham Hotspur overcome West Ham United on Monday. Both Mancini and his Chelsea version Rafael Benitez flooded their sides with midfielders at the Etihad Stadium, while Benitez elected to leave John Terry and Fernando Torres on the table. Town implemented Sergio Aguero as a lone striker and while he had to plough a lone furrow, it absolutely was the hosts who dominated the first half. Visiting goalkeeper Petr Cech had to tip a from Matija Nastasic within the bar, while Gary Cahill did well to block a volley from Pablo Zabaleta. Town approved a start to Jack Rodwell and the midfielder threatened twice shortly before half-time, stretching Cech with first a 25-yard drive and then a header from the resulting part. Chelsea were gifted a way to start the score early in the second half when Hart was adjudged to possess fouled Demba Ba, nevertheless the England goalkeeper redeemed himself with an exceptional save from Lampardas spot-kick. A shot was dinked by aguero onto the top of the net before Cityas venture eventually told in the second. Toure obtained a move from David Silva and deftly evaded the efforts of four visiting defenders before creating a go around Cech that nestled in the bottom-right corner. The encounter was settled by tevez however you like in the 85th second, gathering the ball 22 yards from target and arrowing a shot to the top-left corner.
Via: Shakhtar Donetsk - FC Metalurh Zaporizhya [Live Football]
Utah soccer instructor charged with sexual abuse of woman on his staff...
Bob Dale Green. Courtesy picture. Crime A Guy accused of abusing player for 36 months, starting when she was 13. A Bountiful man has been charged by prosecutors with allegedly sexually abusing a lady who played on his soccer team for three years, when she was 13 years old starting. Steven Dale Green was charged with 14 matters, each regarding some type of sexual abuse, on Friday in 2nd District Court. Most of the expenses are first-degree felonies and hold a possible life sentence. Pictures According to a cause affidavit, Green, 41, allegedly began making love with a 13-year-old person on his team in 2008. Green was a friend of the girlas family, and nearly all of the encounters occurred at Greenas house, happening "almost every day" until 2011, when the woman was 17, in line with the affidavit. Police arrested Green a week ago at the South Davis Recreation Center, in accordance with arrest records. Plentiful Assistant Police Chief Ed Biehler explained Green was at the center to work out, and he did not feel Green worked as a coach for the center, which hosts youth soccer leagues in the spring. Green was arranged in to the Davis County jail. Detectives believe Green may still be a coach, nevertheless they were uncertain in what team or group he may be associated, Biehler said last week. Since Green refused to answer investigatorsa concerns factual statements about Greenas position as an instructor were scarce. mmcfall@sltrib.com Copyright 2013 The Salt Lake Tribune. All rights reserved. This material may possibly not be revealed, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Saturday 23 February 2013
Roberto Mancini in Manchester United jibe | The Sun |Sport|Football
And he points to December's Manchester derby when United nicked a 3-2 win through Robin van Persie's injury-time goal.
Poulter, Mahan on collision course at Match Play
MARANA, Ariz. (AP) a The stars are gone from the Match Play Championship. Still remaining are Ian Poulter and Hunter Mahan, the very best in match play throughout the last couple of years. Poulter added to his status as one challenging buyer Saturday when he beat Steve Stricker with one large putt after yet another, raising his report in match play to 19-3-2 during the last four years. Mahan outlasted U.S. Available winner Webb Simpson in 18 holes, leaving him two matches far from joining Padraig Harrington as the only repeat winners of the World Golf Championship. Mahan moved 151 pockets at Dove Mountain without following. They meet in the semifinals Sunday morning. Matt Kuchar had no difficulty against Robert Garrigus. He plays in the semifinal against Jason Day, who beat Graeme McDowell.
More Info: AS Monaco - RC Lens [Live Football]
Iker healing from injury wants with winning a title this season
Iker Casillas says his recovery from the broken bone in his hand is certainly going better than expected and he could possibly be right back between your Real Madrid articles the moment late March.
Casillas' finger was broken by a random end from his team-mate Alvaro Arbeloa throughout Madrid's Copa del Rey quarter-final game at the Mestalla on January 23.
It had been feared he would face 90 days on the sidelines, and the team moved quickly to sign Diego Lopez for 3.5 million from Sevilla to play in their likely season-defining games against Barcelona in the Copa and Manchester United in the Champions League.
The Madrid club captain told reporters on Thursday evening, at the opening of a new club store at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, that the initial schedule had only been a worst-case scenario.
"I am feeling really positive," Casillas said. "The doctor gave me the worst-case scenario, he said 90 days it might get. But when the splint was removed yesterday, I was told I had four weeks left. Now I'm doing active exercises to obtain freedom and energy in the finger."
Casillas said he had been spending so much time at Madrid's Valdebebas training service to get straight back playing the moment possible.
"Until now I have perhaps not had much energy in it, but I'm receiving it back little by little," he said. "We are in the halfway point of the injury. I've still got per month to go. I will need to work more and experience more to get right back the mobility of before. I am looking forward to returning. It's worse being off the pitch than on it."
The event was also joined by Casillas' team-mates including Arbeloa, Xabi Alonso, Karim Benzema, Angel Di Maria, Jose Callejon, Nacho and Kaka, while coach Jose Mourinho was missing.
Alonso told reporters that he didn't know yet whether he would get over his groin problem over time for next Tuesday's Copa semi-final second leg at Barcelona's Camp Nou.
"I am in the healing stage," the midfielder said. "I am trying to get better the moment possible, to get rid of the discomfort and reunite in top form. When I'll get ready a lot of people ask. I desire to be able to play against Barca, but I do not have a solution right now."
Former Liverpool player Alonso stated that, with the tie balanced at 1-1, whoever obtained first in the Champions League last 16 reunite game at Manchester United on March 5 would be favourites to progress.
"They can have the help of these fans," he said. "It is going to be a concern. The side that results first will be favourites. Old Trafford is a great ground and it is the type of match all of us want to play. The tie is quite open."
Di Maria said that it could suit Madrid to be playing overseas in both of the forthcoming, possibly season-defining, activities.
"Things are getting well and develop to carry on this way," he said. "We know that we have to have huge matches in both competitions and that it'll maybe not be easy. Perhaps playing away is going to be in our favour since we do well when things are against us. We have had this week to work with the easiest way to approach the games. I hope everything goes well."
Benzema, who remains question for Saturday evening's La Liga sport at Deportivo La Coruna, said he was not worried about his recent bad form facing target.
"I hope than I've so far that I score more goals, however the important thing is the squad and to win the future matches," he explained. "We need to come together to win. We have a great group and we are all in good form."
Ricardo Kaka executed terrific in the match against Deportivo
"From the very first moment of the 2nd half we found a big change of attitude. We did not win because of the substitutions, which were made in the twelfth second of the second half, but because of the change we made. It absolutely was the attitude of all of the players that started the recovery.
"It is true that honestly he [Kaka] is playing well. He is helped by his state of mind and this is very important to the staff, that he's another alternative and that he is playing well. That's always positive.
Kaka's performance also received the reward of assistant mentor Aitor Karanka, who was simply pleased about the reaction of the group after going behind to a Riki hit on 35 minutes.
"We knew that Deportivo weren't playing well and saw us being an chance to change their fortunes. However in the 2nd half we increased our play, we scored two goals and we were able to just take the three things home with us."
Before Blaugrana surrounded out Sevilla down the road Saturday morning, the gain moved Real to within 13 points of league leaders Barcelona. Despite the border remaining exactly the same, Kaka feels victory over Depor can enhance Real's likelihood of claiming silverware this term.
"I am much better. What we've nearby is fascinating and it's the decisive area of the year and if the boss wants me to play I'll be there to simply help in these matches."
"The group is playing well and things are becoming better for me personally too. In basketball every thing changes quickly and I am pleased to help the team win.
"[It was] a significant victory in an exceedingly difficult match. In the first half we were a little anxious and a few mistakes were made by us. In the second half we improved and we won three points that are important for us and for what is ahead over the next several weeks," Kaka told the club's officers website.
Real came from behind at the Riazor, with Kaka scoring the equaliser before Gonzalo Higuain obtained an 88th-minute winner for the guests. After putting up with a spell with minimal sport time, Kaka now thinks as they check out hold their La Liga and Champions League hopes alive he is able to help his team.
Kaka has expressed joy at his new change in fortunes, whilst the playmaker starred in Real Madrid's 2-1 comeback win over Deportivo Manhattan project Coruna.
Ricardo Kaka played well in the match against La Coruna
"From the initial second of the next half we saw a change of attitude. We did not get because of the substitutions, that have been made in the minute of the 2nd half, but because of the change we made. It had been the attitude of all players that sparked the comeback.
"It holds true that actually he [Kaka] is playing well. He is helped by his state of mind and this is essential for the team, that he is playing well and that he's another alternative. That is always good.
Kaka's performance also received the reward of assistant mentor Aitor Karanka, who was simply pleased with the result of the team after planning behind to a Riki attack on 35 minutes.
"We knew that Deportivo were not playing well and saw us being an chance to change their fortunes. But in the second half we increased our play, we scored two goals and we could get the three items house with us."
The gain moved Real to within 13 points of group leaders Barcelona, before Blaugrana edged out Sevilla afterwards Saturday night. Regardless of the profit remaining the exact same, Kaka feels victory over Depor may boost Real's chances of claiming silverware this phrase.
"I am much better. What we have nearby is exciting and it is the major part of the period and if the director wants me to play I will be there to greatly help in these matches."
"The team is playing well and things are getting better for me personally too. In basketball everything changes rapidly and I'm pleased to support the team win.
"[It was] an important success in an exceedingly difficult match. In the initial half we were only a little nervous and a few mistakes were made by us. In the second half we improved and we won three points that are essential for us and for what's ahead over the next few weeks," Kaka told the club's officials site.
True originated in behind at the Riazor, with Kaka rating the equaliser before an 88th-minute winner was scored by Gonzalo Higuain for the guests. After suffering a spell with minimal sport time, Kaka now thinks he can help his team while they check out keep their Manhunter Liga and Champions League hopes alive.
Kaka has expressed pleasure at his recent change in fortunes, since the playmaker starred in Real Madrid's 2-1 comeback victory over Deportivo Manhattan project Coruna.
How can you make an indestructible soccer ball? You begin with Crocs...
Baseball could be the activity of the masses. Itas in the same way easily performed in modern temples to the game like Arsenalas Emirates London, where the knockout phases of the magical Champions League started this week, as it is on the hardscrabble streets of Marseille, France, where tales like Zinedine Zidane first learned to kick a ball. In The Us, kiddies playing youth football are less likely to get involved with gangs or drugs. In poverty-stricken nations like Somalia and Haiti, it may provide them with a target that saves lives. All you have to is a ball. Interestingly, this isnat often as simple it appears. An average soccer ball is truly only sewn-together leather full of air, and they arenat just tough. The puncture makes the entire thing useless; a defect made all the more difficult when the major use of the thing (being kicked as hard as possible) occurs on the shredded areas of the third world. The ball is so tough, it was tossed in to a lionas bedroom and appeared structurally perfecta Thatas why a company named One World FutbolAhas set out to create an indestructible baseball a' something that is in an easier way said than done. As it happens, making something that doesnat need to actually be filled but still retains the performance characteristics of a ball filled with air is really a high tech task. And just a couple of years ago, it may have now been impossible. aHad I attacked the theory in a06 when I first had the vision for an ultra-durable ball, it's prone to not need happened,a One Digital Trends are told by World Futbol co-founder Tim Jahnigen. aEven when we finally got started in a08, we were told that it absolutely was very unlikely that wead have a feasible baseball in terms of roundness and quality.a Years earlier in the day, Jahnigen had met the pioneers of Crocs, the gone-viral footwear known for its vivid colors, extreme convenience, and lighter-than-air quality. Mind even examined an earlier model of the shoe. Crocs, which had recently increased in conventional recognition to the fear of fashionistas every where, are made out of an exclusive foam glue known because of its durability. But simply because they had a potential substance didnat suggest One World Futbol had a ball. Jahnigen explains that, originally, none of the organizations then trying out the modern material could supply the technical expertise to fulfill their visiona'creating something that wasn't only round but could imitate the features of a genuine soccer ball. One World Futbol secured financial support from the artist Sting, and Jahnigen began playing with an organization called PopFoamAto produce a soccer ball out of similar content a an vinyl acetate (EVA) blend compounded with microcellular agents. Turning the asuper cool, NASA-worthya compound they'd resulted in a round ball that resembled a aclassica ball needed CAD engineering, tweaking the chemistry of the compound, and developing all method of proprietary processes that One World Futbol now contains as trade secrets. Over three and a years of prototyping and field testing in places like Haiti and Iraq, they turned out five iterations of the ball and Jahnigen feels he and his group have finally realized what they set out to accomplish. aThe result is a rubber-like substance that is lighter, stronger, more flexible, resistant to tearing and abrasion and is completely inert, non-toxic to work well with. Yet unlike rubber, it is resistant to sun, water and chemicals,a Jahnigen says. aThe experience and performance of the One World Futbol and a typical inflatable streetball are essentially the same.a The only huge difference? You can get a car on the One World Futbol a' an act Jahnigen is famous to desperately demonstrate a' and it will regain its original appearance, straight away ready for another round of kickabout. The ball is really sturdy, it had been tossed in to a lionas bedroom and emerged structurally excellent, save for some teeth marks. Jahnigen feels usually The One World Futbol must last at least 30 years, if not forever. Inside our own subject screening, the blue indestructible basketball performed ingeniously. It has a difficult plastic feel but remains soft enough to comfortably kick around with bare legs. Provided its resources and insufficient air, the ball doesnat bounce quite like a ball, but thinking about the variety of ground the ball is supposed to be performed on, a standard bounce is insignificant. It wonat be mistaken for the real leather deal, but nor does it prove annoying in the circulation of a casino game. The idea isnat perfect; at $17 each, the balls are expensive. Unicef bought 5,200 to distribute to schools in Africa this past year, but told the Newest York TimesAthat, when compared with $2.50 they devote to old-fashioned balls, usually The One World Futbol is cost prohibitive. And shipping a ball that wonat deflate has proved vexing. aWeare not discussing retail appearance here,a says Jahnigen. aWeare getting about what is necessary for these almost indestructible balls to arrive undamaged after days in steel containers on the water and perhaps months on a dock somewhere with central temperatures growing as high as 180 degrees.a Such troubles have limited the potential scope of the project to date, however the program got a huge increase last May when Chevrolet agreed to buy 1.5 million balls over four years. An order of that degree gets the potential to bring the cost of manufacturing down, which might ultimately minimize the purchase price problems of organizations like Unicef. After all, manufacturing processes and proprietary compounds are impressive, but One World Futbol wonat have done such a thing until their ball is where it belongs: on the feet of poor children all within the world. DT
Friday 22 February 2013
Can its soccer field be got by Ursuline Academy finally? |Town Hallway Blog
Ursuline Academy includes a record of great baseball. What they donat have a brief history of is a great football field. The famous Catholic women college on Walnut Hill Lane is set Thursday to test, once again, to get the town and its neighbors to consent to the building of a lighted baseball industry at the southwest corner of Walnut Hill and Inwood Road. The schoolas first effort, in 2001, was refused in a 13-2 vote after neighbors complained about light pollution, noise and traffic that might come from soccer games and training. Several question Ursuline requires a industry. Their athletes in football, lacrosse and other field sports must scramble for training and game house far from their school. But building a field that pays neighborsa problems has proved difficult. On Thursday, the school will endeavour again to strike that stability when it goes before the City Plan Commission with an application that's a notably different, scaled-down version of what was suggested in the past. And city staff is recommending acceptance of the area under fairly strict conditions. A photometric study was required by the city to measure how light will spill over from the subject. In addition, it required a study and a traffic management program. Usurlineas strategy calls for a complete of eight lights atop 45 foot poles. A 4 foot six inch will be also put up by the school retaining wall that will be topped with a 20 foot net. The master plan for Ursuline is more limited than that of other popular private schools nearby. In a briefing for the plan commission, team explained that is because Ursuline has amore evident residential adjacencya and because its demand employs the college was a part of one of the cityas planned development areas. Itas uncertain how much resistance will appear to fight Ursuline. In 2001, opponents were vehement. Ursulineas request notes, however, that the school has made efforts to attain out to its neighbors hoping to getting them to consider the plan. However many opposition is assured, this indicates. Council member Ann Margolin, who probably will have final say on the matter, indicated she is getting input from opponents and advocates. Margolin wouldn't indicate how she's hovering on the issue. aI remain open until it concerns the council,a she said and will continue steadily to listen to all sides of the problem. Jump to learn the zoning case papers. Ursuline Zoning Situation by . Bookmark the .
Link: Ceahlaul Piatra Neamt - Pandurii Targu Jiu [Live Football]
Real Madrid Send Zindedine Zidane to Search Tottenham Winger...
Have the CaughtOffside iPad application. Get the # 1 Free Activities App from the Application Shop. All of the latest footie news and much, much more. White Hart Lane star on Bernabeu radar. Sign in to Deportivo La Coruna versus Real Madrid Real Madrid have given former French global a watching brief to Zinedine Zidane whilst the Manhunter Liga leaders continue to monitor Tottenham winger Gareth Bale. fanatix tickets a El Clasico tickets are still available for the biggest derby match in Europe.Real Madrid compared to Barcelona tickets are on sale for this huge La Liga clash at the Bernabeau on March 3rd. French resource TuttoMercato report that Zidane, who now works as an instructor at Real Madrid, was in attendance at Stade Gerland last night as Tottenham overcame Lyon in their Europa League last 32 tie. The 23 year old Welsh global is perhaps one of the most desired people in Europe right now and Tottenham might find it difficult to keep hold of the former Southampton man, particularly if Andre Villa-Boasas area fail to secure a Champions League cabin for next period. The interest from Real Madrid will certainly interest Bale and the proven fact that a player of Zidaneas position has been given the work of looking the Tottenham opponent might help the Spanish part win any potential race to sign the wide-attacker. Bale has obtained 16 targets to date this year and provided six assists in most contests.
Chelsea Vs Sparta Prague Preview: Europa Group Team Media...
Get the CaughtOffside iPad software. Obtain the no 1 Free Sports App from the Software Shop. Most of the latest footie news and much, much more. Stamford Bridge side turn to ease in to the last 16 after their gain away in Prague. Check in to Chelsea compared to Sparta Prague Critique Last seasonas Champions the four English groups to League champions Chelsea headline vying for a berth in the last 16 of the Europa League on Thursday, as several high-profile titles stare at the exit door. Chelsea go into the 2nd leg of these tie with Sparta Prague at Stamford Bridge holding a 1-0 advantage thanks to Oscaras late hit yesterday in the Czech capital. Amazement still have to concentrate to be sure we get the right outcome but weare in a great position now so we have to follow along with it through,a mentioned midfielder Frank Lampard. Despite the ignominy of becoming the initial Champions League winners to bow out at the party point, Lampard, who is only three objectives afraid of Bobby Tamblingas team record tally of 202, insisted more European success was still firmly on Chelseaas radar. aIf itas hard (to focus on the Europa League after falling from the Champions League) then wead better change that rapidly because weare in this competition today so we have to get our attitude right. aThe Europa League is just a wonderful opposition to get and try, so thatas what we've to do.a Team Information Joe Lampard will have to wait for his 200th Chelsea purpose having been rested for the Europa League game with Sparta Prague. Lampard, 34, has moved on to 199 goals a' three in short supply of Bobby Tamblingas team report of 202 a' with a run of five goals from six matches. But Benitez is keeping the veteran new for Sundayas ending up in Manchester City. aHe wonat be in the group. We've to control it only a little bit,a Benitez said. aIf they can score a lot of goals it'll be fantastic for him and will be fantastic for us. aEverybody knows that he is close. I'm sure they will make an effort to help if they've an opportunity. They can go and things such as this but the main point is heas doing well, score goals.a, when we have a punishment Chelsea have a lead over Sparta from last weekas round of 32 first leg. The Blues have made no go on to extend Lampardas keep at Stamford Bridge beyond his current agreement, which expires in the summertime. Benitez feels there are parallels between Lampard and Steven Gerrard, who the Spaniard caused throughout his time as Liverpool boss. He added: aIn terms of choice to score goals and their time engaging in the field is really good, thatas their similarity. aBoth are bad midfielders who can score every sport. They can just take fines, free-kicks and can still score in open play. They're two great players.a Benitez is adamant there is plenty more work to accomplish to secure an area within the last 16, although his team have an edge entering the household leg. He said: aThe form of the patterns, movement and team were great and we were referring to that before. We know it will perhaps not be a simple game.a Serbian defense Branislav Ivanovic may also be rested for the overall game, while striker Demba Ba is cup-tied. Believed Line-Ups Chelsea: Cech; Azpilicueta, Cahill, Terry, Cole; Mikel, Ramires; Moses, Oscar, Hazard; Torres. Sparta: Vaclik; Zapotocny, Svejdik, Holek, Hybs; Husbauer, Vacha, Matejovsky, Kadlec, Lafata; Krejci. Best Bet Chelsea to get 5-0 at 25/1: Chelsea compared to Sparta Prague Betting
Eredivisie: Ajax reject Alderweireld bid - ClubCall.com
Reports in Holland claim that Ajax have rejected a bid from Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala for defender Toby Alderweireld.
The cash-rich club are in the market for a new central defender, having seen Christopher Samba head to Queens Park Rangers in the January transfer window.The Russian transfer window closes at the end of February and boss Guus Hiddink is on the look-out for a new stopper, with the Belgian international said to be top of his wish-list.The 23-year-old has also been linked with a number of Premier League clubs, with Arsenal, Tottenham and Newcastle United said to be interested and it remains to be seen whether the talented youngster would be willing to play in the Russian league.But Ajax are unwilling to let him go at this stage of the season anyway and it appears that there could be a bidding war for the Antwerp-born star in the summer.
Simon Mignolet watched by Manchester United and Arsenal - The Sun
Manchester United and Arsenal are both keeping tabs on the Sunderland keeper, who has enjoyed 12 months of superb form.
He will receive the North-East Football Writers' Association's Player of the Year this weekend, beating Newcastle duo Hatem Ben Arfa and shotstopper Tim Krul into second and third.
Mignolet, 24, has emerged as one of the best young keepers in the Premier League and is battling to be Belgium's No 1 with Chelsea's on-loan Atletico Madrid ace Thibaut Courtois.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is understood to be in the market for a keeper and Mignolet produced a series of stunning stops in the Gunners' 1-0 win at the Stadium of Light this month.
AC Milan vs. FC Barcelona - San Bernardino County Sun
AC Milan forward Mario Balotelli, right, celebrates with his teammate Riccardo Montolivo, second from right, Mattia De Sciglio, second left, and Bojan Krkic, of Spain, after scoring during the Serie A soccer match between AC Milan and Parma at the San Siro stadium in Milan, Italy, Friday, Feb. 15, 2013. (AP Photo/Antonio Calanni)
Milan had an awful start to the season and, lying 15th in the Serie A after eight matches, seemed to be heading for a relegation fight rather than a title battle.
Barcelona poses Milan's sternest test yet. It commands a healthy double-digit lead in the Spanish league and is well on course to recover the domestic title. That means it can devote all its attention to Europe's top competition as it searches for its fourth title in eight seasons.
FC Barcelona's Lionel Messi from Argentina, in action during a Spanish La Liga soccer match against Granada at Los Carmenes stadium in Granada, Spain, Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013. (AP Photo/Daniel Tejedor)
It will be the fifth time the two teams meet in the Champions League at San Siro and Milan has only won one of those encounters, in the group stage in the 2004-05 season.
It is the fifth time the two sides have met in two seasons. After a draw and a win for Barcelona in the group stages last year, Massimiliano Allegri's team held the Spanish side to an entertaining goalless draw at San Siro in the first leg of the quarterfinal before succumbing 3-1 at the Camp Nou.
"We know they're the strongest team in the world at the moment and we know what difficulties we're going to face," Allegri said. "Against big teams like Milan, Real Madrid, they dominate possession, they have an average of 65 percent possession, we have to try to be good and limit that statistic. We have to be good when we have the ball because Barca defensively will concede something."
Milan is still waiting on the fitness of top scorer Stephan El Shaarawy, who has been the club's most prolific and active player this season with more than 2,000 minutes of game time yielding 17 goals.
El Shaarawy came off in the draw against Cagliari with a knee injury but is back in training and Milan is hopeful the 20-year-old Italian will be fit to start.
"El Shaarawy is back in the group, training," Allegri said. "I'll decide after practice what's the best formation to start with. If he's fine, he'll start."
It will be special for Milan striker Bojan Krkic, who progressed through the ranks at Barcelona, scoring 41 goals in 163 appearances.
Mario Balotelli, who has netted four goals in three matches since his tumultuous Manchester City career ended last month, will not be eligible to play because he has already represented his former club in the competition.
Xavi Hernandez is ready to play after being sidelined for the last two weeks with a left calf injury. Striker David Villa, however, did not make the squad after spending last week in and out of the hospital with a painful case of kidney stones. Defender Adriano will also miss the game with a right leg injury.
"He is a key player for the team, because of what he brings and has to offer, goals, because he is decisive," Barcelona striker Pedro Rodriguez said. "If he isn't there, you notice it. But I don't think we suffer from a dependence on Messi.
"This is a very strong team and while some players stand out, you have to recognize that Messi has gone beyond any other player. He is a key player with a great ambition, someone who wants to do better each day that goes by. We are dealing with numbers that you couldn't imagine."
Roura will be on the sideline with coach Tito Vilanova receiving treatment in New York after having a second tumor in two years removed from his neck in December. Without Vilanova, Barcelona has avoided a major dip in form.
Reus ready for Borussia reunion | Bundesliga - EatSleepSport
Dortmund star Marco Reus has admitted he is looking forward to Sunday's "special" reunion with old club Borussia Moenchengladbach.
The 23-year-old left Borussia Park last summer and joined Dortmund, where he has played a key role in their progress this season and has caught the eye alongside the likes of Robert Lewandowski and Mario Goetze.
"Gladbach will always be something special for me," he told Bild. "With Gladbach, I became part of the national team, played my first Bundesliga match and scored my first Bundesliga goal. I will never forget them, and I am very grateful towards the entire club."
More Info: Juventus - Siena AC [Live Football]
Thursday 21 February 2013
Bundesliga: Matchday 23 Preview February 22-24
Freiburg - Bundesliga Matchday 23 kicks off with the Friday evening opener between SC Freiburg and Eintracht Frankfurt. Three points separate the two sides, occupying spot four and five. FC Bayern currently holds a 15 point lead over the remainder of the pack. With FC Bayern leading head and heel over the top of its closest contenders by 15 points, all eyes will be on Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen in their quest for second and third place. Bayern hosts Bremen on Saturday in an attempt to continue their post Christmas run to add three more points to their balance sheet. In 22 starts, the Bayern side has only been defeated once, won 18 and recorded three draws. The weeks since the winter break have been brutal, with five match days, the international week, UEFA League and Champions League competitions this week, followed by the DFB Pokal next week, the three top clubs, Bayern, Dortmund and Leverkusen, have to take strategical considerations into account. Bayern, with a strong bench has some options and Dortmund demonstrated that they are not a push over either after defeating the Gunners in London. Freiburg and Frankfurt will be battling for fourth and fifth spots on Friday and that match could go either way. On Saturday Munich hosts Bremen and Munich will attempt to maintain its top spot monopoly or hope to build on it. Statistically that match should go to Bayern. Stuttgart will host Nuernberg, a difficult match for the Schwaben. This match will be two days after today's Euro League match. The matchday on Saturday continues with Hannover hosting Hamburg. These two clubs are separated by four points and Hannover will attempt to make hay despite its contest today in the Euro League. Augsburg hosts Hoffenheim in a match up of relegation zone clubs. Augsburg is potent at home and Hoffenheim will have a difficult task to maintain its one point lead over the Bavarians. Stuttgart hosts the Franken from Nuernberg and although this match should go to Stuttgart, Nuernberg has a tough side, with plenty of work ethic. With Stuttgart's away match in the Euro League today, Nuernberg could take one if not all three points. Mainz 05, a strong home side, will be hosting Wolfsburg. The factory team will be in action next week against Kickers Offenbach in the DFB Cup quarter final and this will influence the strategy for this match. Mainz has the advantage and should take the points in this contest. On Sunday two matches remain when Gladbach hosts Dortmund and tail light Greuther Fuerth meets Leverkusen. Despite Dortmund's upcoming DFB Cup game against Munich this should be easy pickings for the defending champion. Newcomer Greuther Fuerth has only won two games in 22 starts and Leverkusen should easily hold the upper end in this contest. . Champion's League The first leg of the round of 16 Champions League concluded yesterday with Schalke 04 edging a 1-1 draw against Galatasaray and Bayern Muenchen recorded a 3-1 win against the Gunners, while Dortmund played 2-2 against Shaktar Dontesk last week. All three teams are in a good starting position for the second leg to be played next month. Euro League Today Leverkusen, VFB Stuttgart, Hannover 96 and Gladbach will attempt to get through to the round of 16 in the Euro League. Only Hannover has home pitch advantage, but needs to overcome a 3-1 deficit from its first leg result against FC Anzi. Leverkusen lost its home match in the first leg and has to overcome a 1-0 deficit in Lisbon. Stuttgart's 1-1 first leg home game result against Genk is not insurmountable. Gladbach has a more difficult task since Lazio scored three away goals in the first leg. All four German teams will be challenged in today's matches. DFB Pokal (German FA Cup) Another consideration in this weekend's encounters is next week's DFB Pokal (German FA Cup) quarter finals. Six of the eight clubs are in the top flight and next Wednesday sees the giants take to the pitch. Bayern Muenchen will be hosting Borussia Dortmund in the quarter finals. Last year Bayern won no trophies and Juergen Klopp's Borussia defeated Bayern and won the DFB Pokal. Will Dortmund be a cup spoiler for Bayern again? This upcoming match will influence the starting eleven in this weekend's competition. Back to Matchday 23 There are many considerations leading up to this weekend's games. The venues will be filled and the battle for Euro League spots will continue for the majority of the field. Whether or not the top three can increase the gap from the rest of the field remains to be seen. The relegation zone and this year's league champion are all but decided, but the battle at the bottom will be for the 16th spot and the last chance relegation spot to play against the second leagues third side. While Bayern, remains on the top, Dortmund and Leverkusen still have some faint hope to get to the top, but that hope is dwindling. Perhaps either team has to settle for second spot and a Champions League berth for next year. There is little doubt that both Jupp Heynckes and Juergen Klopp are focused on next week's DFB Cup quarter final. Friday February 22 SC Freiburg vs Eintracht Frankfurt Saturday February 23 FC Bayern vs Werder Bremen VfB Stuttgart vs 1.FC Nuernberg FC Augsburg vs 1899 Hoffenheim Hannover 96 vs Hamburger SV FSV Mainz 05 vs VfL Wolfsburg Schalke 04 vs Fortuna Düsseldorf Sunday February 24 M'gladbach vs Borussia Dortmund Greuther Fuerth vs Bayer Leverkusen Posn----Team-----------GP---W---D---L---GF/GA--Pts 1---------FC Bayern------- 22---18---3---1-----57:7-----57 2---------Dortmund--------22---12---6---4-----50:26----42 3---------Leverkusen------22---12---5---5-----43:30----41 4---------Frankfurt----------22---11---4---7-----38:34 ---37 5---------Freiburg-----------22-----9---7---6-----29:22----34 6---------Hamburg----------22---10----4---8-----27:27----34 7---------Mainz---------------22-----9----5---8-----30:27----32 8-------- Hannover----------22-----9----3--10-----41:41----30 9---------Schalke-------------22-----8----6---8-----35:37----30 10-------M'gladbach--------22-----7-----9---6-----31:33----30 11-------Bremen-------------22-----8-----4--10----38:41----28 12-------Stuttgart------------22-----8-----4--10----24:39----28 13-------Düsseldorf---------22-----7-----6----9----27:29----27 14-------Nürnberg-----------22-----6-----8----8----22:29----26 15-------Wolfsburg----------22-----7-----5---10----22:32----26 16-------Hoffenheim---------22-----4-----4---14----26:46----16 17--------Augsburg----------22-----2-----9---11----18:35----15 18--------Greuther Fürth---22-----2-----6---14----13:36----12
Wednesday 20 February 2013
Strategy v Bayern Munich a' player ratings|Arseblog News a' the...
A second defeat in four days, this time around at the hands of an excellent Bayern Munich ensemble, doesnat make for amusing reading. Here are the ball player reviews after still another frustrating evening at the Emirates. Wojciech Szczesny: 4/10 a Picked up where he left off against Blackburn, teeing up Thomas Muller beach volleyball model for Bayernas minute. Appears increasingly nervous with the ball at his feet. Bacary Sagna: 5/10 a Battled hard, but needed an outlet before him to maximise attacking intention. Left revealed at the trunk working with Mandzukic for the visitorsa next. Johnson Vermaelen: 4/10 a' Out of position and apparently out of his level. Distracted by an earlier booking he got an effective rollicking from Wilshere for backing off Muller in the initial half. Not served by careless midfield it was telling that most three objectives stemmed from action on his side. Laurent Koscielny: 5/10 a' Unnecessarily quick approval led to Bayernas first target and nowhere to be seen when Muller won second from inside six-yard box. More responsibility to be taken by needs for pressing forward when given basketball by Szczesny. Per Mertesacker: 3/10 a' Didnat track Van Buyten for second and provided work around by Mandzukic who came close to scoring a third along with his mind before half-time. Didnat enjoy being shut down quickly by Bayern strike which took toll on passing quality. Mikel Arteta: 5/10 a' Found a scheduling putting himself in regards to a bit, but his devotion to being truly a defensive midfielder means he takes no risks when driving. Therefore much sideways distribution suggestions at Denilsification. Jack Wilshere: 7/10 a' Itas finding similar pinpointing him as the most readily useful of a poor bunch, but which was again the case. Led the cost after half-time and always ready to undertake a guy before pushing forward. Aaron Ramsey: 6/10 a' Shunted in to a wider position after his promising stint in Artetaas part he gave it his all but doesnat have the pace to provide a fighting threat on the flanks. Driving for the most part was nice and easy. Santi Cazorla: 4/10 a' More or less confidential all sport. Went searching for the ball in key positions making Sagna needing to pound up and down the best by himself. Turned to left in last a quarter-hour but let Lahm race past him endless in develop to Bayernas killer third. Theo Walcott: 5/10 a Arsenal needed his speed on the wings but resorted to using him as a target guy which expectedly didnat work. Dante seemed to learn lessons from recent England-Brazil pleasant to nullify his risk. Lukas Podolski: 4/10 a' Got a target but did alongside nothing on the left-wing. Seldom troubled Lahm, seldom went trying to find the ball and should have been learning the remainder of London. And Updatedaand listed here are the substitute ratings. Olivier Giroud: 5/10 - Had an opportunity to equalise along with his first hint but shot directly at Neuer. Small company after that. Tomas Rosicky: 6/10 - Quick to show defence in to attack his influence was quickly dampened by Bayernas third which killed beat of the game.
Eredivisie wrap: PSV hit back at home - Soccerway
PSV consolidated their place on top of the Eredivisie table with a hard-fought 2-1 win over FC Utrecht at Philips Stadion on Saturday.
And Dick Advocaat's men got off to the worst possible start with Utrecht forward Jacob Mulenga putting the away side ahead after just 10 minutes.
However, Dries Mertens drew PSV level with half an hour played and they didn't look back from there, piling on the pressure as they searched for the lead.
The home side eventually hit the front through Georginio Wijnaldum after 65 minutes and were able to stay strong at the back to seal the vital win.
PSV now move six points clear of Ajax, Twente and Feyenoord at the top of the table with 10 matches left to play while Utrecht drop to sixth place.
Elsewhere, Twente missed the chance to move to outright second after being held to a shock 1-1 draw by bottom club Willem II.
Steve McClaren's side appeared to be heading for victory after a Douglas goal on the stroke of half-time put them 1-0 ahead but Willem refused to be denied with substitute Ricardo Ippel popping up in stoppage time to steal a dramatic point.
Twente are now level with Ajax and Feyenoord in third with both sides still to play this round while Willem move to within five points of safety.
In the day's other games, AZ Alkmaar played out a draw 2-2 with Roda JC while NAC Breda and Heracles also couldn't be separated as they drew 1-1.
Bundesliga 2013, Week 22 critique and fixtures: Battle for second...
While Bayern Munich have the concept all but covered up, Eintracht Frankfurt and Borussia Dortmund face one another in a match with second put on the point. After several weeks of remarkable action in the Champions League and Europa League, the Bundesliga disappointed this week with three draws and three failures. League play this weekend to returns with an enormous fight for second position going on between Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt. Elsewhere, Bayern look to help keep cruising at Wolfsburg, Mainz host Schalke that are still trying to regroup, and Werder Bremen look to carry on their ability against Freiburg Wolfsburg compared to Bayern Munich - 20:30 CET / 2:30 PM ETI could go on a lengthy explanation on why Bayern Munich can come away from the Volkswagen Arena with a victory on Friday evening, however it isn't actually necessary. Simply put: Bayern are playing better than everyone. They've won all four matches since returning from winter months break outscoring competitors 11-0. Oh, yes, they are unbeaten within their last a dozen. They have also been playing out of their head away from the Allianz. They've eight wins and one pull, and they have outscored their opponents 25-1. WHAT? I really do not like your odds, Wolfsburg.Prediction: Wolfsburg 0 - 3 Bayern Munich Werder Bremen compared to Freiburg - 15:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETFreiburg have already been one of the shock sides of the year and are still sitting in fifth invest the Bundesliga table. If you had to guess the team with by far the 2nd best defense in the Bundesliga, you might not guess Freiburg. Well, you'd be wrong. Pavel Krmas and Diagne Fallou have anchored a protection that's just bested by Bayern now in the summer season. They've only helped 20 objectives to date, and the couple have been a good wall facing goalkeeper Oliver Baumann. Werder Bremen are the way down in 11th position, but only three points divides the two sides. They've been very up and down in 2010 with nine wins, four draws, and nine losses. Would they put things together and get a massive win over a hardcore opponent?Prediction: Werder Bremen 1 - 0 Freiburg Bayer Leverkusen compared to Augsburg - 15:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETAfter a good first half the summer season where they were simply the only area that can still see Bayern Munich in the table, Bayer Leverkusen have hit a snags since returning for the wintertime break with draws against Freiburg and Borussia MAnchengladbach and a to Borussia Dortmund. In the Europa League midweek, they certainly were totally bad against Benfica. They have began to collapse a bit defensively, and Augsburg is an excellent opposition to be coming in and generate only a little confidence in your team. Because the winter break, Augsburg are undefeated. The issue is just one of the four matches has been a win. They require the things. They are one mention of the relegation playoff spot and seven points from escaping relegation completely.Prediction: Bayer Leverkusen 2 - 0 Augsburg Fortuna DAsseldorf versus Greuther FArth - 15:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETOof, this match is actually a little raw to view. Fortuna DAsseldorf are sitting in 15th place, while Greuther FArth are propping up the bottom of the table. While both of FArth's wins this year have come abroad, DAsseldorf must manage them in this match. It will be considered a grind.Prediction: Fortuna DAsseldorf 1 - 0 Greuther FArth Mainz versus Schalke - 15:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETWhile sitting back and contemplating what's going on at Schalke, I believe I finally thought it out. The team that we found through early November was abducted by aliens and changed by a of awful, awful, awful participants. No? That is maybe not right? Uh oh, they are in big trouble. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar is anticipated to skip another match for the membership, and there are several rumors that Jens Keller is considering likely to a strikerless development. Mainz are in sixth invest the table thanks to a remarkable defense. Can they hold this Schalke side from rating? Yeah, they sure could. Will they? I've no reasons why I'm taking them, but I think Schalke somehow... Somehow... Get this one.Prediction: Mainz 0 - 1 Schalke Hamburg vs Borussia MAnchengladbach - 15:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETHamburg took all six points from Borussia Dortmund this year with 3-2 victory at the Volksparkstadion and a stunning 4-1 smashing at the Westfalenstadion last week-end. They followed up the initial match with a 2-2 sketch at Gladbach. They can definitely repeat. Hamburg are enjoying effectively with Artjoms Rudnevs and Heung-Min Son with twenty and nine targets respectively. Borussia MAnchengladbach's games since returning from winter months break with one win, one reduction, and two draws. Couple that with their midweek 3-3 pull with Lazio, and you see they are not just rating goals but conceding them as well.Prediction: Hamburg 2 - 2 Borussia MAnchengladbach Borussia Dortmund vs Eintracht Frankfurt - 18:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETFar and away the choice for "Match of the Weekend", Eintracht Frankfurt travel to the Westfalenstadion to battle Borussia Dortmund. The hosts are in second place and the guests in fourth place, but they are only divided by two factors. BVB had a difficult match midweek in the Champions group away to Shakhtar Donetsk. Both teams have a tendency for high scoring matches this year, so that it should really be a Borussia Dortmund 2 - 3 Eintracht Frankfurt NArnberg versus Hannover - 15:30 CET / 9:30 AM ETNArnberg look like they are too much away to be frustrated by relegation, but they're not playing well enough to challenge for a European place. They've performed ok considering that the winter break and obtain the added advantage of Hannover coming of a European League game. Spain was unkind to Hannover, as they were given a reduction at the hands of Anzhi Makhachkala Thursday. They have been really battling defensively in 2010, but NArnberg don't really have the participants to provide them a lot of issues Sunday.Prediction: NArnberg 1 - 1 Hannover Hoffenheim compared to Stuttgart - 17:30 CET / their last five Bundesliga matches have been lost by 11:30 AM ETStuttgart with a combined score of 14-3. Seriously. They're down in 14th position, and it leaves you wondering so how Bruno Labbadia features a job. The group is listless, and some thing must occur to change things. Yep, I'd this team finishing 2nd in the Bundesliga this year. Oof. Which was a mistake. Hoffenheim are in the relegation playoff place, but they just have a stage lead over 17th place Augsburg. It is time for Hoffenheim to start if they want to remain in the Bundesliga.Prediction: Hoffenheim 2 - 2 Stuttgart shaping up
Manchester United vs. Reading: Final report 2-1, hosts advance to...
Reading set up a at Old Trafford in the fifth round of the FA Cup, but a somewhat below-par Manchester United staff were still too powerful for the readers, who were sent 2-1. The match started just about as one could have predicted, with Manchester United well at the top. Javier Hernandez and Danny Welbeck both not exactly got on the scoresheet in the purpose only for both strikers to possess their pictures plugged by Adrian Mariappa before Antonio Valencia headed above. But despite the beginning spell looking like the prelude to a thorough United success, the tide turned just a little after a collision between Noel Hunt and Nemanja Vidic, which found both temporarily taken off the subject for therapy and the former leaking blood all over herself for many of the rest of the fit. Reading could assert themselves and managed to difficulty David delaware Gea many times through set pieces. The hosts weren't looking especially bold, nevertheless they still came very near taking the lead when Adam Federici parried Tom Cleverley's long-range drive directly into the path of an Ashley Young, who was simply offered an easy finish into a more or less unguarded web. In the place of getting it, he shot straight at the goalkeeper, who was simply able to hide his work vast. There is bad news on the harm top for United as well. Phil Jones went in late and off-balance on an attempted handle of Jobi McAnuff, and ended up jarring his foot so defectively that the right back was pushed off the message, changed by Nani as Valencia slipped back into the defence. Nani made a sudden impact, piling a volley off the base of Federici's far article within a few minutes of his introduction. Better was in the future, but it would take before the 2nd half to do so. Soon after the hour mark, Valencia had been able to find Nani in the box whilst the Reading support went missing, and his effort was dispatched by the winger past Federici to offer an essential lead to United. Even though visitors responded effectively, with Adam le Fondre making p Gea in to a excellent stop following a twisting photo, Chicharito would increase United's tally simple minutes afterwards. Now, Nani turned service, cooking in a corner from the best with the Mexican got a head to, making Federici with no opportunity. Again, Reading appeared for an answer and this time around they first got it. Chris Smalling managed to intercept a dangerous looking pass designed for le Fondre, but he did not excel enough when he tried to knock the distribution to safety. Instead, he merely presented control to home was slotted by McAnuff, who coolly from close range to create it 2-1 in the moment. The readers flooded forward in search of the equaliser, leaving the past twenty minutes of match incredibly available. United had their chances to ensure it is 3-1, but ultimately didn't need to concern yourself with losing them -- although their defending left rather a lot to be desired. After four minutes of somewhat-panicked damage time, Reading were beaten, and now a potential quarterfinal date with Chelsea awaits.