by : Sam Cullen
“I always thought he (Krul) was capable of a mature performance. I knew he wouldn't have any nerves. He's strong and confident.” claims Magpies boss Glenn Roeder, wise after the event.
Newcastle’s progress from Group H is looking likely as they top the table on six points, three clear of Palermo and five clear of both Celta Vigo and Eintracht Frankfurt after the pair draw 1-1 in Spain.
Tottenham Hotspur fall behind to Club Brugge at White Hart Lane when Ibrahim Salou nets on 14 minutes, but within three minutes the north London club are level through Dimitar Berbatov. Robbie Keane edges Spurs in front on 63 minutes before Berbatov’s second seals the deal ten minutes later;
“I think the second half was our best of the season.” suggests Tottenham manager Martin Jol, who hasn’t really got a lot to compare it to.
Spurs’ win takes them to the top of Group B, three points clear of Dinamo Bucharest who beat Besiktas 2-1 in Romania. Dinamo have a game in hand on Spurs having not played a fortnight ago, as do Bayer Leverkusen. The Germans are inactive tonight, leaving them five points off the pace after drawing their opener with the Belgian side.
Blackburn Rovers can smell the last 32 after an emphatic looking but possibly slightly flattering 3-0 win over FC Basle at Ewood Park in Group E. The game is goalless until 15 minutes from time when Tugay fires the home side in front. A Francis Jeffers penalty ends any doubt a minute from time before Benni McCarthy adds a third moments later;
“We deserved the win, it was a really professional European performance.” suggests Rovers boss Mark Hughes.
Rovers are top of the group with two wins out of two, giving them a three-point cushion over AS Nancy who beat Wisla Krakow 2-1.
Rangers are not to be outdone, earning a 2-0 win over Maccabi Haifa at Ibrox which leaves them top of Group A. Nacho Novo opens the scoring after five minutes and after Kris Boyd has a penalty saved by Nir Davidovitch, Charlie Adam takes over spot-kick duties to score in the last minute;
“We have almost qualified and it's confirmation that we can be better in the championship.” offers Gers boss Paul Le Guen, whose mind may be elsewhere.
Statistically he’s not wrong on the first part of that assessment, as Rangers lead Group A by three points from the Israeli side. Partizan Belgrade and Livorno draw 1-1 to each pick up their first point of the campaign.
Group C is led by Dutch side AZ Alkmaar, who score five on the road at Grasshoppers, allowing only two in reply. Their 100% record leaves them three points clear of Braga who thump Slovan Liberec 4-0. Holders Sevilla are not in action and sit third in the table with a solitary point.
There’s a three-way tie for the lead in Group D, with Lens, Odense and Parma all having one win and three points. However only Odense have been involved in both rounds of matches so far, this time completing a 2-0 win over Herenveen. The group’s other game sees Lens start their bid by beating Osasuna 3-1 in France.
Belgian outfit Zulte-Waregem are the surprise leaders of Group F, maintaining their perfect start with a 3-1 home win over Sparta Prague. Yet Ajax breathe heavily down their necks after opening their quest for qualification with a 3-0 win over Austria Magna. Espanyol have the bye in this round, and also sit a still threatening three points behind the early leaders.
Group G is headed by Panathinaikos who earn a 1-0 win at Mlada Boleslav, their second in succession at this group stage. A 2-2 draw between Rapid Bucharest and Hapoel Tel Aviv seems to best serve the resting Paris St.Germain.
November 4 sees Manchester United’s good form continue with a 3-0 win over Portsmouth at Old Trafford. A Louis Saha penalty is followed up by goals from Cristano Ronaldo and Nemanja Vidic to put United three points clear at the top of the table.
Liverpool beat Reading 2-0 at Anfield thanks to a double strike from Dutchman Dirk Kuyt, while fellow Champions League chasers Bolton Wanderers are shot down 1-0 at home to Wigan Athletic. A Claus Jensen goal halts Everton’s progress at Craven Cottage, where Fulham take the spoils.
At the bottom Sheffield United earn a first away win of the season via Danny Webber’s winner against Newcastle United at St.James’ Park, while Charlton Athletic also gain maximum points by beating Manchester City 2-0. Watford are not to be outdone, beating inconsistent Middlesbrough by the same score.
It’s a good Guy Fawke’s day for Manchester United as both Chelsea and Arsenal lose.
There are all the usual playground antics which habitually accompany any loss by any of the Premiership’s big four as Chelsea are beaten by Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal go down by the only goal to an improving West Ham United.
To White Hart Lane first, where the Premiership champions take the lead through an unlikely source in Claude Makelele. The French midfielder expertly volleys in from the edge of the box on 15 minutes, only for Michael Dawson’s first ever Spurs goal to level the scores on 25. In between times, the first whiff of an excuse is offered to Jose Mourinho as Didier Drogba‘s goal is chalked off for what looks like the gentlest of pushes on Dawson.
Aaron Lennon puts the home side in front seven minutes after half-time, before John Terry is shown red by referee Graham Poll with less than 20 minutes left. The England captain picks up a second yellow card after some group hugging at a Chelsea corner, as the north London side hang on for their first league win over Chelsea in 16 years;
“I cannot find a reason for Terry's red card.” argues a mystified Mourinho;
“Mr Poll goes home and nobody can ask his reasons. Referees should have news conferences but they would be fake because they'd bring their excuses.” he adds, his own press conferences constantly a beacon of truth;
“Referees always have an excuse.” he concludes. There’s more but the diary is going to have to stop now because its hypocrisy meter has just exploded.
Spurs boss Martin Jol has a message for those who criticised his side’s previous performances against the big four;
“They said we'd never beaten a top side and that was a bit annoying but we did that. It was a great performance.” he gushes.
Over at Upton Park there are yet more embarrassing displays of how not to lose with dignity, as Marlon Harewood’s late goal gives West Ham United all three points at the expense of Arsenal.
A delighted Hammers manager Alan Pardew responds by jumping around, fist pumping like a very tame version of Mourinho at the Nou Camp, prompting the anger of Arsene Wenger. The pair then engage in a rather pathetic bout of shoving and eye-balling, with several players squaring up to each other in a half-threatening manner at the final whistle also;
“I apologise if I offended Arsene. It was nothing personal, I was celebrating the goal.” explains Pardew, whose offer of a handshake is rejected by the Arsenal boss;
“Nothing was said. Maybe he was angry at a couple of decisions and it was a physical game. We wanted to upset Arsenal, we wanted to win.” says the former Reading boss, who clearly has not consulted the new Premier League by-law dealing with rough tactics against teams who pass the ball about nicely.
Aston Villa get back on the winning trail with a 2-0 home win over Blackburn Rovers. Even this cannot escape controversy completely, as debate about the award of a penalty for handball against Andre Ooijer occupies the mind of Mark Hughes;
“We think the penalty is a poor decision from the referee and his assistant.” argues the possibly schizophrenic Rovers boss, as Gareth Barry‘s spot kick precedes Juan Pablo Angel‘s goal to seal the points for Villa;
“No we don’t we think it was fair enough.” chips in another voice in his head;
“Some people said it was a very soft penalty - I've seen them given.” counters Villa boss Martin O’Neill, whose probably seen most things, but never a rival manager having an argument with himself.
Sheffield Wednesday appoint a new manager on November 6, as Scunthorpe’s Brian Laws agrees a deal to take over at Hillsborough. The former Nottingham Forest full-back signs a deal taking him through to the end of the 2008/09 season in south Yorkshire;
“I'm very excited by the prospect of coming to Sheffield Wednesday, it's a huge club with huge tradition.” he states;
“The club couldn't have asked for a more hungry manager than myself.” he adds, having skipped both breakfast and lunch to finalise negotiations;
“The most important thing is that we all pull together. We have to be in the same boat, grab an oar and start pulling as hard as we can to get the club where it should be.” he concludes, swerving to avoid a dirty big iceberg.
Grimsby Town need a new boss after parting company with Graham Rodger. Rodger was in charge for just five months, but leaves with the Mariners third from bottom of League Two, having won only four times in the league this season;
“Unfortunately, injuries to Michael Reddy, Gary Cohen, Isaiah Rankin and recent signing Kevin James have made Graham's job especially difficult.” says a club statement;
“Graham has qualities this club needs - the shame of it is that this man deserved better.” it adds, almost apologising, but stopping short of changing its mind.
Assistant Stuart Watkiss is places in temporary charge and says;
“It's very sad for the club with Graham leaving because he was such an outstanding servant to Grimsby Town.”
Is there anybody at Grimsby Town who actually wanted Rodger to leave?
Southend United cause a sensation on November 7, knocking holders Manchester United out of the Carling Cup at Roots Hall.
Freddy Eastwood’s curling free-kick on 27 minutes is enough to account for a below strength but by no means experimental United side. In a classic smash and grab effort, Southend goalkeeper Darryl Flahavan repeatedly repels the raids of Cristiano Ronaldo to preserve the win;
“We wanted a good display but we just wanted to keep the score down.” says a shocked Southend boss Steve Tilson, revealing the extent of his ambitions pre-game;
“I knew it'd be a busy night.” offers Flahavan.
Meanwhile Sir Alex Ferguson is philosophical about having his 20th anniversary celebrations ruined by the Championship’s bottom club;
“It was a disappointing night but there is no need for a knee-jerk reaction, no mass sackings.” he declares, much to the relief of Darren Fletcher;
“It is a great reminder to everyone at the club that football can smack you in the face. In a way, it is great for me because I know tomorrow we can pull our togs on and start working again.” he adds, almost enjoying it by now.
Chesterfield’s giant-killing exploits come to an end. After knocking out Wolverhampton Wanderers, Manchester City and West Ham United in previous rounds, the Spireites finally meet their match in Charlton Athletic. Yet it takes a penalty shoot-out to remove Roy McFarland’s side after a thrilling 3-3 draw at Saltergate.
Colin Larkin opens the scoring for the home side, only for the first of two Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink goals to pull Charlton level. Caleb Folan restores Chesterfield’s advantage before Darren Bent comes off the bench to take the game into extra time. Hasselbaink’s second looks to have settled it but a late header from Wayne Allison forces spot-kicks. Addicks stopper Scott Carson saves from Derek Niven and Mark Allott in the shoot-out to send Ian Dowie’s men through to the last eight;
“Three Premiership teams haven't been able to beat us in 90 minutes and we're proud of that.” boasts McFarland, putting a Mourinho spin on the stats.
More penalty drama at Watford, where the Hornets bow out after a 2-2 draw with Newcastle United. Glenn Roeder is a man under pressure, and will have felt a little better after Antoine Sibierski’s third minute goal. Yet the home side strike back through Damien Francis and Danny Shittu, leaving the Toon within minutes of blowing another trophy opportunity.
Enter Scott Parker, who delicately chips over the advancing Richard Lee to earn his side a shot at penalties. Jordan Stewart is the unlucky man to miss from 12 yards, as Steve Harper pushes his effort aside to take the Magpies through;
“I didn't feel like a condemned man at 2-1 down, not at all. It never crossed my mind, the final whistle had not gone.” insists Roeder, screwing up a resignation letter;
“We didn't particularly play well.” shrugs Watford boss Aidy Boothroyd;
“But we got back in it and we should have won it. When you are 2-1 up with five minutes to go you expect it to be closed down.”
The all-League Two tie goes the way of Wycombe Wanderers, who edge out Notts County by Jermaine Easter’s second half goal;
“Wycombe have given us our hardest game in this competition so far, no disrespect to Crystal Palace, Middlesbrough and Southampton.” claims Notts County boss Steve Thompson, offering food for thought for Peter Taylor, Gareth Southgate and George Burley.
A shock in Scotland too, where holders Celtic are dumped out of the CIS Insurance cup on penalties by Falkirk at Celtic Park. A goalless 90 minutes precedes Maciej Zurawski’s extra-time opener, but within a minute Anthony Stokes levels matters. On to penalties, where Evander Sno misses the crucial kick to send the visitors through to the semi-finals;
“We are suffering, which you have to after a defeat. It's our first hiccup for a while.” suggests Bhoys’ boss Gordon Strachan, ignoring last week’s Champions League shellacking by Benfica.
Also in the last four are Kilmarnock after winning by the odd goal in five against Motherwell at Rugby Park. Frazer Wright nets the first before giving away a penalty, converted by Richie Foran. Wright scores again to put the home side back in front, but Motherwell again equalise through David Clarkson. It is left to Danny Invincible to curl home the winner 19 minutes from time.
Somebody had to give Aston Villa a good old larruping at some stage, and who better than those moneybags enemies of football Chelsea?
Jose Mourinho’s side breeze past Villa 4-0 in the Carling Cup fourth round tie at Stamford Bridge on November 8, with Frank Lampard, Andriy Shevchenko, Michael Essien and Didier Drogba on the mark. Villa owner Randy Lerner had laid on 95 coaches to ensure a healthy away following, so perhaps the fans should have known better than to expect to get something for nothing;
“We put out a strong side because we've always respected the Carling Cup.” offers Chelsea assistant boss Steve Clarke, having a dig at nobody in particular;
“We were well beaten. We have much work to do and we know that.” admits Villa boss Martin O’Neill.
Arsenal’s visit to Everton is the night’s other all-Premiership affair, and it is a scratch Gunners side which prevails after Emmanuel Adebayor’s header five minutes from time. Evertonians will no doubt point to James McFadden’s 18th minute dismissal for dissent as mitigation, but manager David Moyes adroitly avoids the subject;
“I couldn't have asked for anything more from them (the Everton players) and the gut-wrenching thing is to lose to such a soft goal with five minutes to go.” he comments.
Arsene Wenger continues his media silence having been charged by the FA following his touchline bust-up with Alan Pardew at the weekend;
“I think it was a great performance with a young team and we knew that it would be a hard game.” states Arsenal substitute goalkeeper Mart Poom in fluent manager-speak;
“And I am happy that I managed to keep a clean sheet.” he adds, after making his Gunners debut in place of the injured Manuel Almunia.
It is Port Vale who come closest to providing a Carling Cup shock, taking Tottenham Hotspur into extra-time before finally going down 3-1. Vale take the lead through Leon Constantine on 64 minutes, but Tom Huddlestone’s equaliser forces the extra period. Huddlestone’s second and another goal from Jermain Defoe take Spurs into the last eight;
“Spurs got that lifeline at the right time.” suggests Port Vale manager Martin Foyle as opposite number Martin Jol phones a friend, asks the audience and takes his 50-50;
“All the ingredients were there for an upset. They were organised with a good goalkeeper, they give you the initiative and that is not easy.” observes Jol, who makes 10 changes from the side which beat Chelsea on Sunday (November 5).
Birmingham City welcome Liverpool to St.Andrews with memories of their 7-0 FA Cup thrashing against the Reds earlier this year still fresh in the memory. Mercifully there isn’t anything like a repeat, with Rafa Benitez’s side only going through courtesy of Daniel Agger’s goal just before half-time. Craig Bellamy misses a second half penalty and another sitter moments later, but the home side rarely threaten to pull themselves level;
“I changed some players, there were some young boys out there but we were good against a difficult team.” suggests Rafa, who makes nine changes to his weekend selection. More changes are afoot for Sunday’s Premiership clash at Arsenal (November 12) as midfield anchor Momo Sissoko is carried off the field with a dislocated shoulder;
“We feel it is serious. We cross our fingers now and wait.” laments Benitez;
“Really we need all the players in our squad, especially Momo Sissoko because he gives us a lot of energy.” he adds, although Steven Gerrard might disagree.
Anything Celtic can do, Rangers can do better. Including the masterminding of a spectacular failure. Following the Bhoys’ CIS Insurance Cup defeat at home to Falkirk last night (November 7) the Gers outdo their city rivals by losing 2-0 to St.Johnstone at Ibrox. A double from Steven Milne does for Paul Le Guen’s side, and sends the division one leaders through to the last four;
“I apologise to our supporters because our performance was so poor.” says a sheepish Le Guen afterwards;
“The final hour was terrible from us and I expect so much better from the players here at Rangers.”
Hibernian take the spoils in the other quarter final played this Wednesday, an Edinburgh derby with Hearts. Rob Jones’ 32nd minute effort is enough to send John Collins’ new charges through to the semi-finals.
The Premiership’s top two march on, with both Manchester United and Chelsea winning on November 11. United edge past Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park with a Louis Saha goal, while Chelsea thump Watford 4-0 at Stamford Bridge. Didier Drogba nabs a hat-trick for the Blues, and there’s even one for Andriy Shevchenko.
Bolton’s rocky patch continues as they blow a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 at Sheffield United, while Chris Sutton’s first goal for Aston Villa gives them victory at Everton. Andy Cole scores against his former club to earn Portsmouth a 1-1 draw at home to Fulham, and Massimo Maccarone returns from the wilderness to fire the winner for Middlesbrough against West Ham United at the Riverside.
Manchester City can’t find a way past Newcastle United in a goalless stalemate, while Wigan Athletic’s 3-2 win over Charlton Athletic is set to have significant implications for the Addicks.
Stan Boardman, Jimmy Tarbuck, Echo and the Bunnymen, The BBC, Stephen Orford, your boys took one hell of a beating.
Liverpool are embarrassingly gubbed 3-0 at Arsenal on November 12, with salt rubbed liberally into the wounds in the shape of some unusual goalscorers. Previously about as likely to score as Sir Cliff Richard, all of Mathieu Flamini, Kolo Toure and William Gallas are on the mark in the Gunners victory;
“We killed off the game and we needed to be strong against a good Liverpool side.” says Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, although he must be quite thankful that a good Liverpool side failed to turn up;
“Liverpool played well.” he adds, stretching things more than a little;
“But the first goal was very important.”
Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez chooses to keep Steven Gerrard on the wing despite the absence of Momo Sissoko, with Bolo Zenden given the esteemed role of negative influence in central midfield. Yet the Spaniard refuses to accept that this tactical calamity is in any way responsible for his team’s loss;
“Steven was playing in the middle for part of the second half and we didn't create many chances.” argues Benitez defiantly, his stubbornness a glowing example of his admirable pig-headed reluctance to stare facts in the face;
“We need to improve as a team and not think about one or two players.” he concludes, although the diary cannot help but think about Peter Crouch at times like these.
On a great day for Gooners they also have the pleasure of seeing Tottenham spontaneously combust at Reading. Robbie Keane’s penalty had earned Spurs a deserved first-half lead before Nicky Shorey, Steve Sidwell and Kevin Doyle all score to stun Martin Jol’s men;
“It's frustrating, you get a bit angry as well because you can do all the hard work and prepare yourself well.” blasts Jol, in no doubt as to who is to blame;
“At half-time we wanted to put it right but you need personality and character.” he adds, damningly.
Reading boss Steve Coppell is not ready to pop open any champagne just yet;
“It's all about where we finish at the end, that's the be-all and end-all of our season.” he insists;
“I don't want the highlight of our year to be September, October, November.”
How does December or January suit, then?;
“The bottom line remains that if we retain our status in this division, it will be a far better achievement than gaining promotion last season.” suggests the former Crystal Palace manager.
Loyal, sensible Charlton Athletic suffer a bout of schizophrenia on November 13, dismissing manager Iain Dowie after just 15 games in charge.
The former Crystal Palace boss finds himself out of the job that he is being sued for accepting as the Addicks lie bottom of the Premiership. Just two league games have been won under Dowie, and though the club are in the last eight of the Carling Cup it is not enough to save him;
“The Addicks announced on Monday night that head coach Iain Dowie has left Charlton.” reads a short club statement;
“The club will issue a further statement on Tuesday morning.” they promise.
Former Charlton manager Alan Curbishley is immediately linked with a sensational return to the job he quit in the summer, and so indulges in a hasty slice of bud nipping;
“I left Charlton for a new challenge. Going back would not be good for me or for the club.” insists Curbishley.
Trouble at Hearts too, where after a 1-1 draw with Falkirk speculation mounts that Steven Pressley has been stripped of the club captaincy. The Scottish international is left out of the team for the match, in which Falkirk’s Russell Latapy scores late on to cancel out Andrius Velicka’s opener;
“I have spoken to Steven and he wished the boys all the best for the game.” reveals Hearts goalkeeper Craig Gordon;
“He still wanted us to get the result and do the best we could for everyone here.”
The silence surrounding Iain Dowie’s departure from Charlton Athletic breaks as promised on November 14;
“We had to consider if we believed our current situation would improve and we reluctantly came to the conclusion that it would not.” reveals chairman Richard Murray;
“It is vital everyone works as a team in this situation. Unfortunately, I have to say that hasn't been the case.” he adds, revealing that Dowie was dismissed after a review of the club’s management structure;
“The results of this review have, we believe, left us with little option but to act in the manner we have.” concludes Murray.
Les Reed is appointed as an apparently permanent successor, with Mark Robson operating as his assistant. Yet further coaching recruitment seems imminent;
“We are probably looking for a third person to come in and help them.” states chief executive Peter Varney.
Wales are in action with an international friendly against Liechtenstein at Wrexham. Two goals from Jason Koumas and further efforts from Craig Bellamy and Chris Llewellyn secure a 4-0 win;
“We can be pleased. We scored four goals which is always pleasing and they were good quality goals as well.” offers Welsh boss John Toshack;
“Three local lads came on and our first half in particular I was pleased with.”
A late Rafael van der Vaart goal denies England a victory over Holland in Amsterdam as the November 15 friendly ends 1-1.
Steve McClaren confuses everyone once more by deploying a 4-3-3 formation from the outset, leaving Andy Johnson to continue his own personal tradition of playing out wide against the Dutch. Only when Johnson reverts to a more central role does Joe Cole find the space on the right side to cross for Wayne Rooney to open the scoring on 37 minutes.
Yet England can’t hang on, as Arjen Robben’s long throw is missed by almost every English defender, allowing van der Vaart to smash past a line-dwelling Paul Robinson;
“We're so disappointed not to have won the game. We had enough chances and should have.” remarks McClaren;
“But it was a performance of character.”
Character? Does anyone else think they have seen this interview somewhere before?
More interestingly, Manchester City defender Micah Richards makes his debut at right-back, and the 18 year-old earns praise from his national manager;
“Micah had an excellent debut and gave a mature performance and has great potential for the future.”
More serious business for the Republic of Ireland to attend to, as they play a Euro 2008 qualifier against San Marino in Group D. In the last game to be played at Lansdowne Road before its re-development Robbie Keane grabs a hat-trick in a 5-0 win. Andy Reid will claim the first after his free-kick is deflected into the net, while Kevin Doyle scores his first international goal;
“We were a bit sloppy at times but overall did a professional job and that was all we could do.” offers Ireland boss Steve Staunton, satisfied enough.
Even more pleasing for the former Liverpool and Aston Villa defender is Germany’s inability to beat Cyprus in Nicosia. Michael Ballack opens the scoring but Yiannis Okkas’s volley ensures a share of the spoils. Germany still sit top of the group on 10 points, level now with the Czech Republic, with Ireland six points adrift on 4.
Finland top Group A after beating Armenia by a solitary goal. Mika Nurmela’s 10th minute header is enough to take the Finns to 11 points from five games, one point clear of Serbia and Poland. The Poles beat Belgium 1-0 thanks to Radoslaw Matusiak‘s goal. Portugal move on to seven points as they beat Kazakhstan 3-0 with Cristiano Ronaldo among the scorers.
Group E is England’s section, and McClaren’s side find themselves down in third after victories for Croatia and Russia. Slaven Bilic’s side have 10 points as they go to Israel and win 4-3 in a wild one, while Russia’s 2-0 win in Macedonia takes them up to second place on eight points. All of England, Israel and Macedonia have seven points.
Two Wayne Rooney goals help Manchester United come from behind to beat Sheffield United on November 18. Former Red Devil Keith Gillespie nods the Blades in front before Rooney’s brace keeps United on top of the Premiership pile. Hot in pursuit are Chelsea, for whom Geremi scores the only goal against West Ham United at Stamford Bridge.
Arsenal are un-backable with most bookmakers to beat Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium, yet still fail to do so after Kieron Dyer earns the Magpies a draw. The former Ipswich man is prised away from the treatment table to put the Toon in front, before Thierry Henry salvages a point for the Gunners.
Liverpool’s away day misery continues as they are held 0-0 at Middlesbrough. Everton fare better, beating slumping Bolton by virtue of Mikel Arteta’s long-range effort. A last-minute Lomana Lua Lua penalty edges Portsmouth past Watford 2-1 at Fratton Park.
Manchester City were bound to score some goals at some point, and their 3-1 win over Fulham includes Bernado Corrardi’s first two goals for the club. Les Reed’s first game in charge of Charlton Athletic is a disaster, as Reading win 2-0 at the Madejski Stadium.
Not a winner in sight in the Premiership on Sunday, November 19 as both games end level.
Much of the focus is on Ewood Park where Tottenham Hotspur are the visitors. Turkish midfielder Tugay has an eventful afternoon, first volleying Blackburn in front on 23 minutes in sublime style, before being sent off on the hour in conceding the penalty from which Spurs equalise.
Hossam Ghaly is adjudged to have been felled by Tugay, allowing Jermain Defoe to convert from the spot. Later, Tottenham striker Mido looks to have handled in his own penalty area but calls for a penalty are waved away by referee Phil Dowd;
“I'll be honest, I'm incensed by both decisions - to give the penalty and send Tugay off and then not to give a penalty against Mido.” blasts Rovers boss Mark Hughes;
“Mido has clearly handled the ball - and he admitted as much afterwards.” claims Hughes, adding;
“That is three or four times that referees have not done their job for us this season and it is costing us because, had we been playing on an even wicket, I think we would have won comfortably.”
Ghaly receives a red card of his own in injury time for leading with the arm in a challenge with Michael Gray. Strangely, Martin Jol is asked to leave the touchline but not officially sent off for his rather vociferous protests;
“I told the referee he was totally wrong, so he sent me into the stands. It was all a bit ridiculous and I hope he re-thinks both mine and Ghaly's red card.” says Jol, clearly as confused about his fate as everyone else;
“It was an emotional game but I think the referee was emotional at the end, because I wasn't.” he suggests, stomping around and wiping away the odd tear.
Earlier in the day Aston Villa’s visit to Wigan Athletic is an altogether quieter affair. A couple of smart Thomas Sorensen saves aside, the blank score sheet is rarely threatened as both sides continue their steady progress;
“We were terrific. In the first half that's as well as we have played in the Premiership.” beams a ridiculously pleased Wigan boss Paul Jewell;
“They were miles better than us in the first half, but after half-time we came into it more and looked more dangerous.” offers Villa manager Martin O’Neill, whose side have still only suffered one Premiership defeat this season and lie fifth in the table.
West Ham United move ever closer to the completion of a much talked about take-over on November 20. It is Iceland FA president Eggert Magnusson and not Iranian businessman Kia Joorabchian who looks set to become the new owner, with a fee of around £85million all but agreed;
“I fully appreciate the personal responsibility that will come with becoming chairman of West Ham and pledge to the staff, the players and the fans that I am here to serve and to do all that I can to deliver genuine success on and off the field.” he promises.
On moving the club into the new Olympic Stadium in Stratford after the 2012 games Magnusson keeps an open mind;
“In terms of the club's location we are buying what we see, which is West Ham at Upton Park. But if there is an opportunity to discuss a long-term move to the Olympic Stadium I would explore that. I recognise there will also need to be an athletics legacy from the London 2012 Olympics.” he says, before dismissing claims that manager Alan Pardew is for the high jump;
“We can now end the uncertainty of recent weeks and move forward into the next phase of development of this great club, with Alan Pardew leading our efforts on the pitch.”
Celtic cause more than a slight stir by on November 21 beating Manchester United in Champions League Group F. Even more shockingly, they guarantee their place in the knockout stages of the competition for the first time since the inception of the league format.
Shunsuke Nakamura’s 81st minute free-kick proves the difference on the scoreboard in a match dominated by the English side. Louis Saha has two chances to equalise after Nakamura’s effort, stalling in anticipation for an offside flag for the first before seeing his dubiously awarded spot-kick parried away by Artur Boruc;
“I can't believe it, I will have to double check in the morning just to make sure.” says an incredulous Bhoys manager Gordon Strachan, presumably talking about the result and subsequent qualification rather than the referee’s decision to award the decisive free-kick;
“I am in shock.” admits Sir Alex Ferguson, who must have seen a replay also;
“Historically, we have always had to do things the hard way at this football club. It looks like we will have to do it the hard way again.” he adds, looking forward to the prospect of having to avoid defeat at home to Benfica on Matchday Six to reach the last 16. Benfica? Matchday Six? We’ve seen that before somewhere.
It’s a straight fight between those two to qualify now after the Portuguese ended the hopes of FC Copenhagen with a 3-1 win in Lisbon.
Things are looking a little rosier for Arsenal in Group G after their 3-1 home win over Hamburg. Yet the Gunners fall behind after just four minutes when Rafael van der Vaart produces a stunning long-range effort. Robin van Persie equalises on 52 minutes, but it is not until the last seven minutes that Arsene Wenger’s men get their noses in front through Emmanuel Eboue. Julio Baptista’s first goal for the club puts the ribbon on the prize two minutes from time;
“They scored a great goal and this time we couldn't do a lot about it.” reflects Wenger;
“We were 1-0 down at half-time but we hit the bar, we made a few changes and it worked out.”
Porto spring a surprise in Moscow, beating CSKA 2-0. All of which means that both Arsenal and Porto need only a draw from their meeting on Matchday Six to go through and send the Russians spinning into the UEFA Cup.
Having both already qualified for the knock-out stages before tonight Real Madrid and Lyon meet at the Bernabeu in Group E. The French side take a two-goal lead through John Carew and Florent Malouda, but are pegged back by goals from former Lyon man Mahamadou Diarra and Ruud van Nistelrooy. The former Manchester United striker has a late chance to win it, but suffers a distinctly Louis Saha moment as his penalty is pushed away by Gregory Coupet. The draw guarantees that Lyon qualify for the last 16 as group winners.
Steaua Bucharest secure the group’s UEFA Cup berth by virtue of a 1-1 home draw with Dynamo Kiev.
The surprises continue as AC Milan go down 1-0 in Greece to AEK Athens. Milan had already qualified ahead of the clash, but Julio Cesar’s goal remains a source of embarrassment. It also gives the Greeks a chance of qualifying after Lille draw 2-2 with Anderlecht at Lens. The Belgian side are eliminated, while Lille now need a win in Milan to guarantee their progression.
Conspiracy theorists get set for a field day as Chelsea inflict damage on Barcelona’s Champions League ambitions by losing at Werder Bremen in Group A on November 22.
Per Mertesacker heads the only goal of the game on 26 minutes, though Chelsea’s defeat does not stop them ensuring qualification for the last 16;
“I like to lose against my kids, not to lose against real opponents.” says Blues boss Jose Mourinho, dismissing any notion of skulduggery;
“I think we showed that we wanted to get something in every moment of the game. Nobody can say we didn't come here and play this seriously.” he insists;
“It was not a free-kick that led to the corner and their goal.”
Ah yes, we believe you now, Jose.
Barca’s continued defence of their title now depends entirely on their ability to beat the German side at the Nou Camp in their final group game. For now, they stay alive with a 2-0 win at Levski Sofia brought courtesy of goals from Ludovic Giuly and Andres Iniesta.
All matters are settled in Group C, where Liverpool guarantee top spot with a 2-0 victory over PSV Eindhoven at Anfield. Steven Gerrard breaks the deadlock on 65 minutes before Peter Crouch’s late header removes any lingering doubt. Manager Rafa Benitez is more concerned with injuries to Xabi Alonso and Mark Gonzalez, while Jermaine Pennant also hobbles off early;
“Xabi has a leg injury which could be serious, Gonzalez felt something, maybe the hamstring tear, which could be more serious.” reveals Benitez;
“I was really pleased to see Steve scoring again, it could be a boost for his confidence.” he adds, nose growing as he speaks.
The group’s UEFA Cup place is snatched by Bordeaux, who beat Galatasaray 3-1 in France. Alejandro Alonso, Lilian Laslandes and Julien Faubert are on target in the win, with former Fulham and West Brom midfielder Junichi Inamoto replying for the Turkish side.
Inter Milan made a slow start to their Champions League campaign but are now through to the knock-out stage. Their place is sealed after Hernan Crespo’s goal gives them victory over Sporting Lisbon, and a fighting chance of winning Group B.
That’s because earlier in the day Bayern Munich are involved in an entertaining 2-2 draw with Spartak Moscow. Maxym Kalinichenko’s free-kick gives the Russian side the lead before Claudio Pizarro’s brace puts Bayern back in command. Radoslav Kovac equalises 17 minutes from time.
The result leaves the Bavarians needing a point from the Matchday Six clash with Inter to secure the group leadership. Spartak still have faint UEFA Cup hopes, but must beat Sporting in their last game to stand any chance of prolonging their European season.
In Group D Roma are stumbling toward the qualification line, but still need a point after a 1-0 defeat at Shakhtar Donetsk. Ciprian Marica’s header keeps Shakhtar hopes alive, but they must beat Olympiakos in their final match and hope that Valencia see off the Italians.
Yet the Spanish side may be less inclined to perform at full tilt after securing the group leadership with a 2-0 win over the Greeks. Miguel Angulo and Fernando Morientes are on the mark for Valencia, ending Olympiakos hopes of reaching the last 16.
All four remaining British sides secure their place in the last 32 of the UEFA Cup this Thursday, November 23.
Following on from Jermain Defoe’s nibble at West Ham United’s Javier Mascherano recently, Dimitar Berbatov takes a hefty chunk out of the hand that used to feed him with the only goal for Tottenham Hotspur against Bayer Leverkusen in Germany.
Spurs manager Martin Jol thinks his side should have had more goals;
“We played as a team and played a bit better than them but you have to convert possibilities into goals. If Leverkusen had scored it would have been a disaster.” he remarks.
The stats don’t quite back that claim up, as Tottenham now hold a five-point buffer at the top of Group B. Club Brugge’s draw 1-1 with Dinamo Bucharest leaves the Romanians holding on to second place by two points from the Belgian outfit.
Newcastle United have to come from behind at home to Celta Vigo in Group H. Fabian Canobbio puts the La Liga side in front after just nine minutes, but Antoine Sibierski equalises before half-time. Steven Taylor is the unlikely hero, heading the winner four minutes from time;
“Considering we were a goal behind to a team that's just beaten Real Madrid and Deportivo last week, to come back and win the game just shows you the character and skill in the side.” claims Toon boss Glenn Roeder, adding;
“At times it wasn't pretty - I didn't think it would be.”
The Magpies lead the way in Group H, six points clear of nearest challengers Fenerbahce and Palermo. Those two clash in Turkey, with the home side running out convincing 3-0 winners.
Blackburn Rovers earn a hard-fought 0-0 draw with Feyenoord in Rotterdam to open up a three-point lead in Group E;
“We dictated the first 30 minutes, possibly let them back in it for 10 or 15 minutes either side of the break, but I always felt we were in control.” suggests Blackburn boss Mark Hughes, significantly playing down the number of chances created by the home side.
French side AS Nancy are leading the chase behind Rovers after they draw 2-2 with FC Basle in Switzerland.
Hopes of an all-Glasgow UEFA Cup final at Hampden Park were dashed by Celtic’s Champions League victory over Manchester United on Tuesday (November 21), but Rangers keep hopes alive of some kind of home presence with progression from Group A. The Gers draw 2-2 with Auxerre in France, leaving them top of the section.
Paul Le Guen’s side twice come from behind, first when Nacho Novo cancels out Ireneusz Jelen’s effort, and again when Kris Boyd replies to Daniel Niculae’s goal;
“I feel we are improving and it is a great feeling as we are getting through this difficult period.” observes Le Guen.
Maccabi Haifa are second in Group A after a single goal victory over Partizan Belgrade.
Holders Sevilla are not yet guaranteed qualification from Group C, that despite beating Portuguese side Braga 2-0. The group leadership is held by the inactive AZ Alkmaar, who are two points clear of both Sevilla and Slovan Liberec, who thrash Grasshoppers 4-1.
Parma are cruising at the top of Group D after coming from behind to beat Herenveen 2-1. The Italians have a perfect six points from two games, and hold a two-point advantage over both Lens and Odense, who draw 1-1.
In Group F Espanyol hammer Belgian side Zulte-Waregem 6-2 to leave both on six points at the top of the table. Ajax miss the chance to make it a three-way tie as they are held to a goalless draw by Sparta in Prague.
Hapoel Tel Aviv close the gap on Group G leaders Panathinaikos to two points with a 4-2 victory over Paris St.Germain. The French side are rooted to the bottom of the section having gained just a single point from two outings. Rapid Bucharest are still in contention, a point behind Hapoel and three behind Panathinaikos after a 1-1 draw with struggling Mlada Boleslav.
Bolton Wanderers wake from their recent slumber in some style, seeing off Arsenal 3-1 at the Reebok on November 25. Former Gunner Nicolas Anelka scores twice as Arsenal’s fading title hopes all but disappear.
Liverpool are similarly cast adrift, but continue their good home form with a 1-0 win over Manchester City, with Steven Gerrard notching his first league goal of the season. Reading continue to impress in their debut Premiership season, Kevin Doyle’s goal edging them past Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Aston Villa remain unbeaten at home after drawing 1-1 with Middlesbrough, while West Ham United earn a crucial three points by winning 1-0 at Sheffield United. Charlton Athletic and Everton share the points at The Valley after a 1-1 draw.
It’s as you were in the Premiership as Manchester United and Chelsea draw 1-1 at Old Trafford on November 26.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s side miss the chance to go six points clear at the top of the table when Louis Saha’s opening goal is cancelled out by Ricardo Carvalho;
“United lost a big, big chance to open up six-point lead.” gloats Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, bullish as ever;
“We're not top like we want to be but three points is just one weekend. It's a better result for us than them. We showed our power in the second half and that we are not sleeping.” he concludes, although the diary nodded off hours ago.
In retaliation, Sir Alex points out that the table doesn‘t tell fibs;
“The most important thing is that we have proved we deserve to be in top place in the league.” he insists.
Earlier, Portsmouth also fail to make significant progress in the standings, going down 1-0 at Newcastle United. Pompey could have reclaimed third place with a win, but come up short at St.James’ Park. Obafemi Martins is unfortunate to see his first half effort wrongly ruled out for offside before Antoine Sibierski settles matters on 69 minutes;
“To be honest, I could see a 0-0 draw coming.” says Pompey manager Harry Redknapp, showing his failings as a tipster;
“But look at their squad - you would not have said at the start of the season they would be where they are and we would be fourth with our squad.” he cries, characteristically scrapping around for reasonable excuses;
“We have played well in the past and not picked up points.” observes Newcastle manager Glenn Roeder, possibly referring to the Kevin Keegan era.
Wigan Athletic’s recent good run grinds to a halt at Tottenham. Henri Camara puts Latics in front on 25 minutes but two goals in two minutes just before the break swing the match Spurs’ way. Jermain Defoe and Dimitar Berbatov are mostly responsible for the turnaround, before Aaron Lennon wraps up the win in the last minute;
“We have the most points of the teams in the Uefa Cup, are in the Carling Cup quarter-finals and had a good win today. We can be pretty satisfied.” beams a smug Spurs manager Martin Jol;
“I felt they had run out of ideas but then they got two goals in a minute or so which completely changed the complexion.” explains Wigan boss Paul Jewell, displaying Redknapp-like perception.
It’s not difficult to see why Watford and Sheffield United find themselves in the lower reaches of the Premiership on the evidence of their November 28 clash at Vicarage Road.
The Blades emerge with a 1-0 win, although Danny Webber’s 88th minute winner should be ruled out for offside. Yet on the balance of the banality on show, United deserve the three points having created the better of the chances. Striker Christian Nade is particularly guilty of some spectacular incompetence, while Rob Hulse also contrives to hit the post from a couple of yards out;
“It was the biggest game of the season - we had said before if you want to stay in the Premiership you have to win, make no mistake about that.” says United boss Neil Warnock, by whose logic Watford can now prepare for a return to the Championship;
“It was hard work but I thought we were magnificent.” he adds, summing up the thoughts of myself and the Mrs at having successfully viewed the whole 90 minutes.
“We didn't play our way.” comments Watford manager Aidy Boothroyd, which will come as a relief to anyone planning to watch Hornets games in the future;
“If we lie down now then we've got a problem but I'm sure we'll bounce back.” he concludes.
The gap between the Premiership’s top two and the rest widens further still as both Manchester United and Chelsea win on November 29.
United cruise past Everton 3-0 at Old Trafford, with goals from Cristiano Ronaldo, Patrice Evra’s first for the club and John O’Shea. Ronaldo is deployed in a more central attacking role in a much changed line-up from the weekend draw with Chelsea;
“I had to make changes because we have got an important Champions League game against Benfica coming up and we couldn't afford injuries and players coming out of the cold to play.” explains Sir Alex, who even finds room for Kieran Richardson in the first 11;
“There was no shame in how we played and they (the players) can leave here with their heads high. We don't feel 3-0 was a fair reflection of the game.” insists Everton boss David Moyes.
First half injury time has all but expired by the time Michael Ballack heads the only goal for Chelsea at Bolton Wanderers. From then on it is safety first for Jose Mourinho’s side, with the home side threatening sparingly in the second half;
“We were magnificent in the first half and a 1-0 scoreline was the minimum reward we deserved for our efforts.” claims Jose, while opposite number Sam Allardyce sees things slightly differently;
“They are very good at set pieces and that's the difference in terms of the result.” he offers.
Arsenal suffer another defeat on the road, this time going down 2-1 at Fulham. The Gunners are two down inside the first 20 minutes with Brian McBride and Tomasz Radzinski on the mark. Robin van Persie pulls one back before half-time, but Arsene Wenger’s side slip 16 points behind the leaders nonetheless;
“Of course we are down and disappointed, but it's part of your job to cope with that - if you want to play at the top level, sometimes it doesn't got your way.” comments Wenger.
In the chase for the top four Liverpool can’t capitalise fully on Arsenal’s misfortune, only managing a goalless draw with Portsmouth at Anfield. The point earned by Harry Redknapp’s side is enough to see them cling on to third place;
“You cannot say anything to the players as they tried everything but they (Portsmouth) broke up the game all the time.” whinges Red Rafa. Ah, bless.
A surprise result also at Villa Park where Aston Villa lose at home for the first time this season. Former Villain Darius Vassell really is the bad guy, setting Manchester City on their way to a 3-1 win with the opening goal. Joey Barton doubles the advantage before Gavin McCann gets Villa on the board. Yet Sylvain Distin wrecks home hopes, morphing into Franz Beckenbauer to add a spectacular third late on.
Revealing the secret of his success City boss Stuart Pearce puts it all down to sheer boredom;
“I have been getting fed up with questions about our away form and I think the media have also got bored with asking me the same question.” he says.
The UEFA Cup makes a mysterious Wednesday appearance also, with teams from Groups A to D in action. Maccabi Haifa secure qualification for the knock-out stages from Group A after a 1- 1 draw with Livorno. Auxerre’s 4-1 win over Partizan Belgrade lifts them above the Italian side with one game remaining.
Dinamo Bucharest join Tottenham Hotspur as qualifiers from Group B with a 2-1 win over Bayer Leverkusen. Besiktas’ 2-1 win over Club Brugge sends the Belgians out and leaves the final qualification berth between the Turks and Leverkusen.
AZ Alkmaar still lead Group C, but are joined on seven points by holders Sevilla. AZ can only draw 2-2 at home to Slovan Liberec, while Sevilla thrash Grasshoppers 4-0 in Switzerland. A win for Braga in the last round of matches will see them claim the third qualification slot at the expense of Liberec.
Group D belongs to Parma after they beat Lens 2-1, leaving the French club in a three-way tie for second place with Osasuna and Odense. Those two meet in Spain, with Osasuna earning a 3-1 victory.
By Stephen Orford
4 December 2006
Alan Pardew has been sacked as manager of West Ham.
The sentence above was frequently expected by Hammers fans for much of the first 18 months of Pardew’s reign, as the former Reading boss was far from popular at Upton Park as the club stumbled in its attempts to return to the Premiership.
Of course, as we all know, circumstances changed following the clubs promotion back to the top tier of English football and only six months previously it seemed as if Pardew had a bright future ahead of him in East London.
Pardew’s managerial career began in late 1999, when he succeeded the unsuccessful and free spending Tommy Burns as manager of Reading, having previously been a coach there for 2 years.
He quickly began turning around the club that had a new stadium but without an equally impressive team to match. The side almost reached the then Division One when Walsall defeated them in the 2001 2nd division play off final.
The team, led by the goals of Jamie Cureton, quickly bounced back and secured automatic promotion the next season by finishing 2nd, despite topping the table for most of the campaign.
It was in 2002/03 where Pardew really made his name, as Reading had an inspired season back in the second tier of English football.
Finishing 4th, the side was one of the most exciting prospects in the league as they instantly made the transition to Championship football, Pardew also made some astute signings such as the ever dependable American goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann.
The former Crystal Palace player really hit the headlines in the autumn of 2003, as he attempted to leave Berkshire and join West Ham. Reading chairman John Madjeski refused to accept his resignation and the matter looked set to go to the courts before an agreement was reached.
Initially it looked as if Pardew had made the wrong move, as he seemed unable to lift an inconsistent West Ham back into the Championship. To make matters worse, the fans never really took to him and there were frequent calls for him to be sacked.
Of course all this changed with the upturn in form at the tail end of the 2004/05 season which saw their somewhat surprising return to the Premiership, especially taking into consideration the side’s indifferent form throughout that season.
Last season couldn’t have gone better for Pardew as the Hammers took to the Premiership like they’d never been away, a 10th place league finish was matched by their appearance in the best FA Cup final for years, a tie they were only minutes from winning.
This season may have begun brightly enough for Pardew, but the boat was apparently irrevocably rocked with the infamous arrival of the two Argentine superstars at the end of August.
Form and morale seemed to slip almost immediately and despite brief respites(including the victory over Arsenal), Pardew seemed a man under serious pressure.
There are some things you just don’t see coming in football, and at the start of the summer, Pardew's dismissal before Christmas would have certainly been one of them!
Sam Cullen
11 December 2006
