Monthly Archives: March 2013

Chelsea: The Lukaku Predicament

  By O-Posts Team | March 17, 2022 - 18:45 | , ,
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Around this time last year, many Chelsea fans were scratching their heads thinking “why pay 20 odd million pounds for a player who is sitting on the bench” in reference to Romelu Lukaku. Now, many of the same Chelsea fans are desperate for him to return.

Lukaku’s loan move to West Bromwich Albion has worked out better than most people imagined it would, especially with the presence of proven Premier League strikers like Peter Odemwingie as well as the experienced and cultured Markus Rosenberg. However, despite not starting particularly many games at first, Lukaku’s superb substitute appearances swiftly put him in West Brom’s starting eleven on a regular basis. Currently, the Belgian striker sits on 13 goals in the Premier League and is one of the league’s most feared strikers.

What makes this whole Lukaku saga so interesting is the fact that neither 50 million pound man Fernando Torres, nor January signing Demba Ba look anywhere near as deadly right now as Lukaku does. Torres has had yet another disappointing and highly unconvincing situation despite a decent start, while Ba has only shown flashes of the form that led to his January move to the West London club. Theoretically, Lukaku should walk straight into the Chelsea team when he returns this summer, although there are some doubts about that.

After all, many feel Chelsea managers feel they often have to play Torres in order to satisfy notoriously hard to please Roman Abramovich (see Roberto Di Matteo). Rafael Benitez has generally gone with Torres in most of the games Chelsea have played, although in some of the bigger games such as the one away to Manchester City on February 24th, he went with Ba. So far, I’d class the signing of Ba as unsuccessful.

Despite a superb debut away to Southampton in the FA cup in which he scored twice, he has been largely unimpressive, and hasn’t looked truly into the game at times. The same problem exists and has existed for over two years now with Fernando Torres;  just not being part of the game.

When Chelsea signed Ba, I thought things would be different. After all, Ba was full of confidence after a superb first half of the season at Newcastle, and there was no reason why he would need any time to develop. Chelsea’s 4-2-3-1 formation with Oscar/Moses, Hazard and Mata has a very similar setup to the one employed by Newcastle with the likes of Hatem Ben Arfa, Yohan Cabaye and Sylvain Marveaux to switch around and create.

But for some reason, Ba hasn’t found himself in many good positions. When he is in said positions he generally takes the chances, but in terms of getting them, it’s not really happening for him.

So will Lukaku be any different? I have some doubts. Lukaku is a powerful target man, who is magnificent in the air, but Chelsea’s trio do not tend to put in a great deal of crosses. Lukaku’s footwork is still top notch, but not as good as his aerial ability. In order to get the absolute most out of Lukaku, Chelsea will probably have to slightly alter their style. However, all of Chelsea’s creative players do have excellent technical ability and I see no reason why they can’t adapt.

The real issue is whether the Chelsea manager at the time will be entirely comfortable with having a then 20 year old striker leading the line while Torres sits on the bench, as I can’t see the Chelsea number nine leaving just yet.

If I were Chelsea, here’s what I would do: sell Torres, keep Ba, buy a young, bright talent such as Jackson Martinez or Léo Baptistão from Rayo Vallecano. Falcao would be too expensive and is in his prime, and I think Chelsea need a younger player. Having Lukaku as well as one of these live wire, young players would set Chelsea up perfectly for the future, and would lead to a few games for the highly rated Islam Feruz who is currently impressing immensely in the Chelsea youth team.

Bringing Lukaku back and selling Torres is definitely a risk. But to be honest, I think anyone that genuinely expects Torres to return is, essentially, kidding themselves. The presence of Torres has done little other than divide the club’s fans, and his time is up for me.

So, please Mr. Abramovich and the Chelsea manager appointed from this coming August:  Give Lukaku a chance, as I’m sure you’ve noticed, he has all the ability in the world to become Chelsea’s main man.

 

Written by Joshua Sodergren

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Aston Villa: The Villans make late surge to keep the Lambert plan alive

  By O-Posts Team | March 17, 2022 - 17:51 | , ,
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On March 1st, Aston Villa announced their accounts for 2011/2012 which gave a firm insight into their decline from successive sixth place finishes under Martin O’Neil to relegation candidates under Alex McLeish and now Paul Lambert.

Under O’Neil, the wage bill climbed to £71 million, accounting for 85% of the club’s annual turnover and, having spent £120 million on transfers over the Irishman’s four-year reign, the club posted at fourth highest, behind only Manchester City, Chelsea and Stoke.

Chairman Randy Lerner, who had grown a reputation as one of the more generous of the Premier League’s ownership gentry, turned to frugality in order to prevent the club’s finances spiralling out of control.

O’Neill was dispensed with, Stewart Downing and Ashley Young were both sold for a combined £35 million and the club’s losses for the year 2011/2012 were reduced from £54 million to £18 million. The wage bill was also cut by £13.8 million as the American severely downsized in order to safeguard the long-term future of the club.

Part of that has included the managerial transition from O’Neil to Paul Lambert via the short term reigns of Gerard Houllier and Gary Mcallister and then Alex McLeish. Lambert, who had achieved a double promotion and Premier League consolidation with little other than a shrewd knowledge of the lower leagues and an eye for a bargain, was the perfect fit as Lerner strived to eradicate the reckless days of spending £6 million on Fabian Delph.

Delph has struggled since his big money move as a 19 year old back in 2009, but he still remains at Villa Park as part of Lambert’s new generation alongside 21 year old Matthew Lowton and 22 year old Ashley Westwood, signed in the summer from Sheffield United and Crewe Alexandra respectively.

Joe Bennett, a 21 year old left-back, was signed from Middlesborough to join the likes of Ciaran Clark, Nathan Baker, Barry Bannan and Marc Albrighton, all under the age of 23, as Villa chose to build again with an emphasis on youth rather than the established star (Downing, Bent) that would have put a strain on the wage-bill.

Lerner did back Lambert enough for him to fork out £7 million for Belgian Christian Benteke, a striker, fitting the bill, at the age of 22, as ambitious young player built for the future. His 17 goals this season have been a revelation, with none more important than the winner he netted in Saturday’s hugely important victory over QPR.

Villa moved six points clear of the relegation zone with that 3-2 win to greatly allay fears that a drop into the Championship would dismantle Lambert’s long-term vision before it had barely begun.

The transition from the ill-fated year-long reign of Alex McLeish, in which Villa scarcely avoided relegation, has been a very shaky process. 56 goals have been shipped, the worst tally in the league, as Lambert has seen his team’s inexperience exploited enough for them to be mired in relegation trouble throughout the season.

Elimination in the FA Cup to Millwall of the Championship and in the League Cup to Bradford City have provided an embarrassing side-track to a poor campaign in which Lerner’s patience with Lambert has already been tested.

The potential of Westwood, Benteke, Lowton and co. together with Lambert’s appreciation for measured spending has seen Lerner refuse to buckle and resort to a managerial change for the third time in three years.

Sensible spending and continuity is now the key at Villa Park and that approach is close to reaping short-term reward as the Villa ship, immersed in choppy waters throughout the season, steers towards safety.

Ashley Westwood, the centre-midfield playmaker, has become integral to Lambert’s set-up despite having never previously consistently played higher than tier four with Crewe Alexandra. He has made 20 appearances and registered an average passing percentage of 85%.

Against QPR, having attempted 74 passes, he completed 99% of them. Despite the lack of experience alongside of him, his partnerships have been formed with Delph and Bannan as Stiliyan Petrov remains sidelined with his fight against leukaemia, he has grown into a cultured Premier League midfielder.

Such is his improvement, and the vibrant performances of Lowton, Benteke and Andreas Wiemann, that bodes well for the future. Lambert’s faith in youth has been immovable throughout, trusting them instead of the elder statesmen of Charles N’Zogbia and Darren Bent, starting a combined total of just 16 games so far this season, is now beginning to pay-off with the utmost vindication to Lerner and his now restricted spending plan which saw fit to appoint Lambert in the first place.

Westwood.... holding his ground in the top tier of English football.

Westwood…. holding his ground in the top tier of English football.

Lambert’s long-term vision which has been tasked with turning around Villa’s poor performances on the pitch under Alex McLeish together with continuing to maintain a stringent eye on Villa’s previously obscene spending plan looks like it could have earned itself a second year.

It is no less than the Villa hierarchy deserve for, while so many other clubs delve into unmanageable amounts of debt as they battle to compete a the very top, refusing to abandon with their rebuilding process.

Benteke’s winner over QPR could have been a pivotal moment in a bright future on and off the pitch.

 

Written by Adam Gray

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Premier League Betting Preview: This Weekend’s Top 5 Bets

  By O-Posts Team | March 16, 2022 - 17:00 | , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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This weekend we’re back to a full complement of Premier League fixtures as there is no FA Cup action to contend with, and it could be a pivotal weekend for both ends of the table as Manchester City would have had a tricky fixture away to Europe-chasing wounded animals Everton earlier in the day in the lunchtime match, while in the evening clash champions-elect Manchester United take on the relegation-threatened and managerless Reading, with the Royals fully knowing the task ahead of them in light of the crucial six-pointer between fellow basement dwellers Aston Villa and QPR in the pick of the 3pm games.

The first tip comes from the Liberty Stadium however, where the newly-crowned Capital One Cup winners look a tad over-priced to claim their third successive league victory over Arsenal today.  I would suggest the quoted match odds represent an over-reaction of sorts to the Gunners’ admittedly impressive yet ultimately fruitless 2-0 midweek win at Bayern Munich, coupled with an away win being seen as necessary to maintain real hope amongst Arsene Wenger’s men of trips to opposition of Bayern’s ilk next season.

The Swans will not be easy pickings by any stretch however, and Michael Laudrup has been keen to stress there remains lots to play for despite safety assured and a cup win under their belt.  Besides, having the pressure off should only encourage even more champagne football from Michu, De Guzman and the like.

Next up, I see no reason why Luis Suarez cannot continue his impressive goalscoring form at a notoriously porous Southampton at St. Mary this afternoon, while former Saints boss Harry Redknapp will be as pumped for a QPR win today at Aston Villa as he was for his current team to beat his old employers a couple of weeks ago.  Redknapp always gets dogs abuse at Villa Park and he’ll use the home fans’ bile as an incentive to rile his players to extend their recent purple patch.  Expect the Hoops to come away from Birmingham this evening with at least a point.

Redknapp’s old protegè from the South Coast and more recently North London was unavailable for Tottenham’s torturous yet ultimately successful trip to the San Siro on Thursday, but Gareth Bale will return from his European ban to give his team-mates a badly-needed boost after successive bashings by Liverpool and Inter Milan.

Spurs looked out on their feet, in particular at the back, towards the end of Thursday’s Europa League marathon and a significantly fresher Fulham have the quality in Bryan Ruiz and former Lilywhite Dimitar Berbatov to capitalise on a tired defence and find the net.  A well-rested Bale may have the last laugh, however.

 

PREMIER LEAGUE TOP FIVE BETS

1) Swansea to beat Arsenal 23/10 PINNACLEBET
2) Southampton vs. Liverpool Suarez Anytime Goalscorer Evens BOYLESPORTS
3) QPR +0.5 Handicap vs. Aston Villa 4/6 Ladbrokes
4) Tottenham vs. Fulham Both Teams to Score 17/20 BetVictor
5) Tottenham vs. Fulham Gareth Bale Last Goalscorer 3/1 EVERYWHERE!

 

Written by Emelie Okeke

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The Premier League’s Most Passionate Fans and Supporters

  By O-Posts Team | March 16, 2022 - 14:15 | , , , , , , ,
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Football is a sport with some of the most passionate fans in the world. Unlike most other sports, football has the ability to change people, and can turn even the most quiet and pleasant person into a loud, aggressive fan who will do anything for their team to win.

It has by far one of the biggest followings in the world, and whether they’re watching from the side of the pitch or from their living rooms, every football fan can get carried away.

In no particular order, here are some of the teams with the most passionate and dedicated fans.

 

Manchester United

Many people might accuse Manchester United fans of being “glory supporters”, as if you’re going to pick a team to support, you might as well pick the team that’s always winning.

However, Manchester United is one of the most supported teams in the world, and is the third most popular team on Facebook. Even when the Red Devils have suffered in a match, the fans stay loyal and cheer them on even louder, come rain or shine.

Manchester United also receives a lot of attention from those who are not fans, with the “I Hate Man United” Facebook page having attracted just over 388,000 fans. It seems that fan or not, everyone has something to say about this team.

 

Chelsea

Chelsea fans are some of the most enthusiastic fans around, with a wide following of people of every age. Whether their team has won or lost, the Chelsea fans will provide their players with unconditional support, surrounding them in a sea of blue flags and cheering them on loudly at every game.

 

 

Swansea City

Being the only Welsh team to have played in the Premier League, Swansea City have made their fans proud. Although they have experienced a mixture of encouraging highs and disappointing lows, their fans have always remained loyal to them.

 

The team is now becoming incredibly successful, and has the chance for more success in future, thanks to the constant support and encouragement from their passionate fans.

 

Liverpool

Liverpool is clearly not lacking in support, as when the team, are playing at home, their games receive one of the highest attendance rates in Europe, and when they’re playing overseas, which they have done time and time again, their fans follow and support them in all their games, encouraging them to perform well every time.

Not only are Liverpool fans dedicated to their team, but they are also strong believers in enjoying the sport without resorting to violence or hostility, as they showed in a game against Swansea when they gave the opposing team a moving standing ovation for a well played game.

 

Manchester City

What makes Manchester City fans so loyal is the fact that they are so often overshadowed by their neighbour and rival, Manchester United.

It’s not easy to stay positive when you’re never quite in the limelight, and often forgotten in favour of your enemy, but Manchester City fans manage to give their team the loyal support they need no matter what happens, and they were rewarded in 2011 when they beat Manchester United with a 6-1 win.

 

Although Manchester City has been spending a lot of money in the recent years, this money has clearly been put to good use, and most of the existing fans are long-timers.

 

West Ham

Fans of West Ham are as passionate as they come, and although their games do not see the same numbers as other clubs in the Premier League, the West Ham fans make up for it with unfaltering enthusiasm, cheering their team on through thick and thin.

 

Although West Ham fans are often known for their hooliganism and illegal activity, the majority of them are just there to have a good time and support their team, and they are one of the most loyal fan bases in the UK.

 

Newcastle United

Newcastle United is one of the most powerful clubs in Northern English football, and has one of the most devoted fan bases. And it’s not just the fans who encourage them with their support.

Owner of the club, Mike Ashley, is well known for ditching his director’s box and standing amongst the fans in his black and white clothes, showing his support for and pride in his players.

Newcastle has a rivalry with Sunderland which has been in existence for over 100 years, and if you happen to see the Tyne-Wear derby when the two teams meet, prepare to see the fans really let loose.

 

 

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Manchester United vs Reading: Match Preview

  By O-Posts Team | March 16, 2022 - 13:28 | , , ,
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The Royals come into this match on the back of 5 consecutive losses, which has grossly blighted all the good work they put in two months ago.

Their excellent recovery and ability to come from behind in more games than one saw dismissed manager, Brian McDermott named Manager of the Month of January and his last card, Adam Le Fondre pick up the player’s gong. Anton Zingarevich, youthful owner and CEO of Reading FC fired Brian McDermott after the Royals’ 2-1 loss at home to fellow relegation strugglers, Aston Villa.

It was the last straw for the Russian multi-millionaire who wouldn’t want a quick return to the lower division of English football. Reading’s poor run has seen them caught up by QPR who were 7 points adrift of safety four weeks ago. Both are now level on 23 points and this spells enormous danger. It is a situation the club and its supporters dreaded, but one they have to come to terms with and fight until the last game to ensure safety and a place among the big wigs next season.

Manchester United cannot afford to slip up at all in the title run in. Handing the title to noisy neighbours Manchester City last season still bites them till this day. That will serve as a timely reminder and motivation to go all out and hoist the 20th crown which they so badly crave.

After throwing away a 2-goal lead to Chelsea last Sunday in the F.A Cup Quarter-Final, they have surely given themselves more work to do in the coming months as they chase a domestic double. The pain of exiting the Champions League is still fresh and evident.

Sir Alex Ferguson will want nothing less than an outright win this evening when the Royals come to town. Perhaps more worrying is the form of main threat, Robin Van Persie. The Dutchman looks dazed and out of sorts at the moment. One goal in his last nine is testament to the fact that his killer instinct has largely waned.

Wayne Rooney and Chicharito scored v Chelsea last weekend and Danny Welbeck refuses to add to a paltry total of 2 goals scored all season. It is something that will give Sir Alex a headache coming into this game especially if we consider the drama that played out at the Madejski last November.

Michael Carrick continues to dominate in midfield and is expected to start this evening. The Englishman is in the form of his life and has been for much of the season. To crown it all, his assists ratio has stocked up in recent matches and all round play is a joy to watch. Carrick that is. Believe the hype. It is deserved.

Like Norwich, Reading have to be wary of the lustiness and hunger of Champions-elect, Manchester United. The 4-0 demolition of the Canaries was a clear statement of intent that a repeat of last season’s capitulation is only in the imagination of the deluded. The determination and unbridled quest to retain the EPL crown is one that has rarely been seen in any of Fergie’s assemblages.

Cancer survivor, Eamonn Dolan is no stranger to adversity. Cheating death is the greatest battle you can ever win and he has achieved that once. What then is the prospect of beating the drop? A small fry compared to the cancerous situation he made past. He seems to be the right man to lead the Royals to a 9-game survival fight which starts at the Theatre of Dreams this evening.

The Irishman who took over the reins (in caretaker capacity) from the bald Brian, faces a daunting task today in Manchester. Only one team in domestic football has managed to topple the red army at home all season. Spurs did the unthinkable five months ago. Reading can if all things work in their favour and everything goes against Manchester United including a heavy thunderstorm.

Adam Le Fondre could not do much when both teams met 26 days ago in the F.A Cup. He poses a huge threat when he is on song. Eamonn can rely on him to deliver the goods.

Wayne Rooney has been under the spotlight since SAF dropped him for the all important match v Real Madrid. He however came back last Sunday to score his 196th goal and go within 53 of Sir Bobby Charlton’s all time scoring record for the Red Devils.

Rumours that he is leaving have been undermined by Sir Bobby and Sir Alex. The latter has authoritatively affirmed that his star contributor is staying put and a new contract will be discussed when the time is right. The seemingly concerned and disillusioned Wayne can turn the Royals inside out just to pass on a message to SAF and the coaching staff that he hasn’t lost it.

Probable Lineups

MANCHESTER UNITED: DDG, Rafa/Smalling, Vidic, Evans, Evra, Carrick, Anderson/Scholes, Young, Giggs, Wazza (Rooney), RVP

READING: Taylor, Kelly, Pearce, Mariappa, Harte, Leigertwood, Akpan, McAnuff, McCleary, Robson-Kanu, LE FONDRE

 
Robin Van Persie is again expected to lead the line despite his poor record in front of goal since January. His strike partner is most assuredly Wayne Rooney. Paul Scholes hasn’t played for a long time and should be in contention for a place in the starting eleven.

The other positions virtually pick themselves except Fergie decides to rest either Rafa or Evra who he described as worn out after playing regularly for the last two or three months. He might also rest Rio Ferdinand, who was surprisingly (not for football reasons) selected by Roy Hodgson for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers, and bring back captain Nemanja Vidic into the starting 11.

Antonio Valencia has been a disappointment in the last 12 weeks. Giggs in his place will not be a shock. It might be 1001 appearances for the Welsh evergreen legend.

For Reading, Nigeria’s Hope Akpan has been excellent for them despite their many losses. Adam Le Fondre might be chosen ahead of Pavel and co to lead the line with Robson-Kanu and the MACs (McCleary and McAnuff) supporting him.

The Royals need something more than supernatural to emerge victorious today. Hopefully for them, it won’t be the belting others have received when they visit.

 

Written by Ohiskaka Eboreime

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The Worst Cars Driven By A Footballer

  By O-Posts Team | March 15, 2022 - 21:59 | , , , , , , ,
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Whether it’s a promotional stunt, a bit of Public Relations work or if the money and fame has simply went to their head, numerous footballers from all corners of the world have been spotted in what can only be called train wrecks on wheels.

Today, however, we’re going to look away from the expensive and flashy cars, bought by footballers who are as useless as their cars as ugly, and focus on the (cheap and nasty) footballer-owned cars that make us wonder why they would ever want to be seen driving in them.

 

Daniel Sturridge - Hyundai Santa Fe 2012

Now before we start, we’d like to say that in no way is the Santa Fe a bad or shameful car. However, we would expect a budding superstar like Daniel Sturridge, who has just completed a big-money move to local team Liverpool FC, to drive something a little flashier or sportier.

Sturridge became a Team Hyundai Ambassador earlier this year by supporting Hyundai’s activity around UEFA EURO 2012 and, due to this, it’s no surprise that the footballer was given the car as a ‘goodwill’ gift.

Daniel himself has confessed that the Santa Fe has a ‘special place in his heart’ after his mum used to own the older model whilst driving him around to his football games.

I think that it will soon have a ‘special place’ in the back of his garage, covered in a dusty sheet and only taken out when he decides to donate his ‘favourite car’ to a charity of his choice.

 

Wayne Rooney – Ford Ka

Now we can truly get to the ‘turd on wheels’ vehicles.

If turning up to your teams football ground in Nike tracksuit bottoms, Nike baggy t-shirt and, you guessed it, a Nike cap aren’t enough to make a seventeen-year-old lad look like he’s about to start a fire, then driving to said ground in an old-looking Ford Ka certainly is.

Not even a private license plate could turn this car into a polished turd, with the registration plate reading: ‘R00 N1’ adding to how bad the sight of Wayne Rooney and the Ford Ka actually was.

Then again, maybe Wayne thinks that’s how his name is actually spelt.

 

David James – Reliant Robin (of shame)

Way, way back when Portsmouth FC actually had the money to buy a meal deal at their local supermarket, then-manager Tony Adams used to force the player who he thought performed worst in training to drive a battered, old Reliant Robin to next-day’s training session.

Believe it or not, the player who ended up at the wheel most days was England’s very own ‘Calamity James’.

Over the years, however, the Pompey players chipped in on so-called ‘modifications’ for the three-wheeled eye-sore; finally culminating in a mutated, five-wheeled, A-team-themed abomination.

Some say that David James still rides his Reliant Robin around the streets to this day…

 

Thomas Vermaelen – Nissan Figaro

The Belgian rock may be able to drive an Arsenal attack from the back, but he certainly doesn’t know how to drive a decent car.

After penning a new contract in 2011, Vermaelen’s team-mate Robin Van Persie (who is regularly seen driving such cars as a Ferrari and a Cadillac Escalade) took to social networking site Twitter to congratulate his friend on his new contract, whilst also taking a light-hearted dig at the Belgian’s retro motor – telling him to finally upgrade after he’s earned a pay rise.

Only 20,000 units of the Nissan Figaro were produced, and we can see why. Although now considered to be a cult classic with owners in the UK and Ireland, we can be forgiven for agreeing with RVP and suggesting that Thomas buy a car more fitting to his stature in the football world.

‘I’ll be back’, said the Verminator, but hopefully not in this car.

 

Shay Given – Piaggio Ape

After being seen in this car, Irish living legend Shay Given lost his reputation quicker than he lost his Manchester City place to Joe Hart.

First produced in 1948, and still looking like it is from that era, the Piaggio Ape represents the bottom of the barrel when it comes to cars that footballers have been seen driving in. One can only hope that Shay drove this car to the nearest empty field and set it alight afterwards.

Not much else can be said really, for the car must be actually seen to understand how bad it actually looks – and you’ll never see Shay Given in the same light again.

 

This article was written by Glenn Doyle from MotorTorque, who produce automotive and motoring news and reviews in the UK, with buyer’s guides, research, analysis, galleries and videos.

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Arsenal: Top Four Finish Still Alive For The Gunners

  By O-Posts Team | March 15, 2022 - 19:18 | , ,
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On Wednesday, Arsenal were the last English team to be knocked out of the UEFA Champions League despite beating Bayern 2-0 at the Allianz Arena. But, despite their efforts, they were unfortunately knocked out by the away goal rule.

Barely 5 minutes into the match, Arsenal were ahead through the big Frenchman Olivier Giroud after pace man Theo Walcott stirred in a curvy cross to the box which Giroud calmly converted into the back of the net. From then on, it was end to end stuff from both sides, although Bayern enjoyed most of the possession and chances against a well drilled and organized Arsenal defense.

Bayern, without creative mid-fielder Bastian Schweinsteiger and top striker Mario Gomez left on the bench, had to rely on the brilliance of winger Arjen Robben. He had his moments in the game, but personally I believe if he had made some decent crosses into the box instead of selfishly going for glory every time, it surely would have been a different ball game.

Captain Thomas Vermaelen was dropped to the bench, an obvious message from Wenger passing a to his skipper that being the captain doesn’t guarantee you a place in the squad. Koscielny was brought in to replace him. And without doubt, the partnership of Mertesacker and Koscielny in the heart of the defense in Munich has been Arsenal’s best defensive display all season.

Drilled, hungry and ready for battle - we witnessed a different Arsenal side. The forwards were tracking back to help with the defense along with the mid-fielders. On the night, the Arsenal team were brilliant and I still find it hard to fault where this team got it wrong. Maybe if the lines-man didn’t rule Theo offside, Bayern would have had one of the most miserable Champions League nights ever.

They finally got a second courtesy of a decent header by Koscielny, but it was little too late to get a decisive result as Bayern maintained possession for the rest of the game to book a place in the quarter final.

The work rate of Welshman Aaron Ramsey didn’t go unnoticed. Carl Jenkinson and Gibbs put on beastly showings, and Rosicky was one of the best players of the night. Having a player like Rosicky in your team is like having a security dog, ready to attack (bite) at any slightest chance. His ability to track back and help with the defense along with his clear vision for the deadly pass, that reminds me of one Cesc Fabregas, was Arsenal’s catalyst to a brilliant display.

This sort of performance is what the Arsenal fans pay to watch this team, and it is the duty of the manager to maintain this mouth-watering display in the English Premier League for Arsenal’s race for a top 4 finish.

Only time will tell with a crunch tie fixture against Swansea next on Saturday. A win should be a stepping stone for Arsenal. They can only continue to fight and hope other results go their way.

 

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Special Feature: The 5 Most Shocking Football Disasters Ever

  By O-Posts Team | March 14, 2022 - 18:18 | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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Live football is enjoyed all around the world, and as much is done as possible to keep these events safe. Unfortunately, disaster can strike, and over the years there have been a few tragic disasters that have led to fans being seriously injured or even killed.

These events and the people lost are still strongly remembered by everyone in the football world. In no particular order, here is a countdown of 5 of the most shocking disasters to have struck.

 

1.            Hillsborough, Sheffield, 1989

Memorial

The match was a semi final cup tie against Nottingham Forest. Perhaps the most high profile disaster, this saw 96 Liverpool fans die in a horrific crush at the start of the game. This notorious disaster is thought to have occurred due to poor crowd management with too many fans entering in the same pens.

 

2.            Burnden Park, Bolton, 1946

After a football game

This disaster is another crowd management issue which saw roughly 85,000 fans try to get into the stadium to see Bolton v Stoke in the FA Cup. This was over capacity and the resulting crush caused two metal barriers to break, subsequently killing 33 fans and injuring a further 400 people.

 

3.            Valley Parade, Bradford, 1985

Flag in a stadium

A wooden stand structure in the Bradford Stadium was set alight when a fan supposedly dropped a match or lit cigarette. A fire started below the stand when the rubbish beneath caught fire. Extinguishers could not be found and the fire brigade was called but, terribly, 56 fans were killed and a further 265 suffered wounds.

 

4.            Estadio Nacional, Lima, 1964


After a football game

This may be the worst recorded stadium disaster in history. A disallowed goal saw an angered fan chase the referee and take him down, which is said to have upset other supporters that then retaliated. It caused 300 people to die amongst stampedes, crushes and an ensuing battle between police and football supporters.

 

5.            Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow, 1971

Black and white photo

When a fan tried to leave towards the end of an Old Firm match and accidentally fell down a stand, there was a domino effect. This caused multiple fans to fall as a result, causing a crush and build up of bodies. 66 people were killed and 200 more were injured.

These tragic events are still remembered strongly by everyone in the football community as well as in history. Now as much is done as possible to ensure that similar tragedies do not happen again and full support is given to those left behind.

 

Featured images:
  •  License: Creative Commons image source
  •  License: Creative Commons image source
  •  License: Creative Commons image source
  •  License: Creative Commons image source
  •  License: Creative Commons image source

 

John Greenberg has been writing about sport since his interest started when he was 15 years old. He likes to write about current affairs but also like to go back to the past and write about various things, including the safety of the football crowds.

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Arsenal: Can Benik Afobe overcome his injury woes to fulfill his potential?

  By O-Posts Team | March 14, 2022 - 16:29 | , ,
Comments Off on Arsenal: Can Benik Afobe overcome his injury woes to fulfill his potential?

20 year-old Benik Afobe has shown plenty of promise while at Arsenal. He is a well rounded footballer and has always been known for his clinical finishing, whether that is on the floor or in the air. He is also versatile and is well able to play on either wing where he uses his pace and power to be direct and drive at defences.

He signed his first professional contract in 2010 on the back of a strong season for the U-18 squad in which he scored 21 goals in 24 appearances. He then enjoyed a successful loan spell at Huddersfield where he 8 goals and provided 8 assists in all competitions. But he couldn’t push on after that as he struggled with injuries for the first half of the 2011-12 season.

After recovering from those injuries, he joined Reading on loan in January 2012. Unfortunately he only managed to make 3 appearances for the Royals up until the end of the season. This season was supposed to be a new start for Afobe.

With Robin van Persie gone, many believed Benik would be given a chance to showcase his talents during Arsenal’s pre-season tour. However this didn’t materialise and on 3 August 2021 he joined Bolton on a season-long loan.

While at Bolton he made 20 appearances, but only managed to score 2 goals. So in January, Bolton decided to end his deal and he returned to Arsenal.

Millwall then took him on loan where he initially impressed, earning a MOM award in the 2-1 win away Middlesborough. Sadly, this spell was again disrupted by injury when he sustained a tear in his anterior cruciate ligament which ruled him out for the remainder of the season and he has returned back to Arsenal.

 

So what does this mean for Benik Afobe’s Arsenal career?

Well there is no doubting he has talent having shown it at club and international level. With his pace, power and versatility, he would be a useful player to have in any squad.

A full pre-season is key for the Arsenal staff to check up on his development and for him to get some vital minutes under his belt. I then expect him to be sent out on loan to a mid/lower Championship side where he can get regular game time and attain vital first team experience.

Let’s hope Benik can get over his injury problems so he can develop into a good footballer and with some luck, be a regular at Arsenal.

 

Written by Charlie Smith

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PSG: A Guide To Their Legendary Home - Parc Des Princes

  By O-Posts Team | March 14, 2022 - 12:40 | , ,
Comments Off on PSG: A Guide To Their Legendary Home - Parc Des Princes

Paris attractions have tempted visitors to the city for decades. More recent additions to an already very long list of ancient monuments and other Parisian attractions are the likes Disney World and the Parc de Prince stadium.

The stadium was built to replace the old Vélodrome built in 1897 which stood on this impressive site till the Parc was built. Today, major football (such as Paris st Germain home games) and rugby matches take place at the Parc and then there are the concerts!

George Pompidou, the then president, opened the Parc des Prince on 4th June 1972 with the first match ever to be played on these hallowed grounds being the Coupe de France final, a match played between SC Bastia and Olympique de Marseille – which the latter won. The stadium was filled to capacity – the whole 48,527 seats.

Parc de Prince - Paris

 

A Stadium That Won Awards

The Architecture was considered very Avant garde winning both the building and the architect many prizes. Roger Taillibert was the Architect; the 50 concrete columns supporting the roof were his brainchild and the reason why so many architectural awards were won.

 

Getting to the Parc

Getting to the Parc by Metro is easily done – the stop to get out at is the Porte de Saint-Cloud station from line 9 – the stadium is just a five minute walk from there. From central Paris, line 9 goes through the city centre – on the north bank.

By bus from the centre of Paris, there’s a choice of three, the 22, 62 and 72 which go to Porte de Saint-Cloud. The actual address of the Parc des Princes is 24, Rue du Commandant Guilbaud, 75781 Paris.

 

Where to Stay & Where Eat

The neighbourhood around the Parc has a typical Parisian ambiance with many bars and brasseries on most of the street corners – as per usual, the food served is very good.

Hotel wise there are many in the vicinity of the Parc. However, it might not be a good idea to stay too close because of the inevitable noise from the stadium. However, with two metro lines close by, it is easy to get into the centre of town without any effort or trouble.

Full capacity at the Parc

 

How to purchase Tickets

You can buy tickets for PSG games by going online or you can call the stadium directly. Another method is at the stadium itself from any of the PSG service points. The cost of a ticket can range from anything between €20.00 to €100.00.

 

Conclusion

Organised tours around the Parc last around an hour and includes being taken through the dressing rooms, players’ tunnel where many a famous sportsman has tread. Visitors also get to see the VIP boxes and admire the fabulous cups and shields in the trophy room. For air travel it’s important to do some flight comparison checks to make sure you get the best deals.

Tours are organised three times a week, on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. They start at 3pm, 4pm and 5pm although occasionally there’s a guided tour organised for 6pm.

Tours take place every day during the school holidays except Sundays. However, there are no tours on match days or the day before. The great thing is you don’t have to pre-book but it is possible. You can book tickets at the PSG shop on the Champs- Élysées or you can opt to do this at the stadium.

The cost of a guided tour around the Parc des Princes is €10.00. It’s a great way to get a real feel of the place which is pretty impressive to say the least – especially when the stadium’s empty.

 

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  •  License: Creative Commons image source
  •  License: Creative Commons image source

 

Written by Nathan Griffiths who is a sports enthusiast and loves travelling to Paris.

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