The past week has borne some of the most exciting football action we have seen all season. Where do I even start? Kenyan Premier, English, Champions league...
KENYAN PREMIER LEAGUE:
On Friday night, I was having a chat with sports anchor, Mike Okinyi before I left work for the day, and he was talking of Gor Mahia leading the Tusker Kenyan Premier League and I thought... "These Gor guys are just too optimistic". I actually told him that. I hate to admit it, but it looks like Mike was right, even though that was a cheap goal(if it was in fact a goal). It probably wasn't but credit to Gor Mahia. You do not get such a goal if you do not create that chance. Credit also to Sserunkuma too The UG player has totally transformed Gor's season. Gor face Muhoroni. I think that will be an easy game for them with the talent they flaunt.
AFC Leopards are starting to realize that they might lose the title now, after some crazy weeks of poor form. It could be too late. Only time will tell though. It's two games to the end and anything can happen in football. Remember Arsenal lost to Birmingham in an FA Cup final, and Man United were thrashed 6-1 at home by the bitter rivals. Ingwe next face Mathare United. That will be a tough fixture. A must-win, and a tough fixture.
Tusker FC... they're still my most preferred title winners. Its sad they conceded that silly 'goal' against Gor Mahia. We demand goal-line technology in Kenya. Tusker play Western Stima this weekend. Very tough team, considering they hammered Ingwe earlier this season.
ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE:
We always like to come down hard on Liverpool fans because of their team's performances of late, but I can honestly say that this week, Liverpool played some great football. against Anzhi, they were composed and kept them out comfortably. Against Everton... they played even better football, created the scoring opportunities they haven't been getting lately, but they still lack one thing... LUCK.
Arsenal... they look to be taking Liverpool's place as the laughing stock of the premier league. Thing is they lost at home in the Champions league and played shit against QPR. And whats worse... they meet Manchester United next. At least they won their three points against QPR, so they won't feel bad if United beat them.
Manchester United.... faced by a worthy opponent, this team crumbles. But they are also extremely lucky. These are the kind to enter Safaricom's 'Bonyeza ushinde' and actually win the prize and use it to bribe the staff to pick them again in future. Am a United fan by the way...
We won our CL game against a stubborn Braga. They deserved to lose though. Nobody comes to OT and brandishes a City shirt just cause... That was only punishable by a painful winner. Against Chelsea... well, both red cards were deserved. We are in agreement, eh? Moving on...
Chelsea.... They were just a sad sacrifice in this war against Man United. They played some good football and exposed United on several occasions until their indiscipline side kicked in.... Hehe. These guys do not play like worthy champions of Europe. So unconvincing. By the way am inviting any opposing arguments on that issue. Only in the premier league do they play like prospective champions.
Let us just sit and wait for the weekend's fixtures for now. Especially the big match, Man United vs Arsenal. This fixture was always a big deal. Be it on a Sunday evening or Monday night fixture.... this fixture used to be watched as if the next day was a public holiday... people not caring whether they're working the next day.
Showing posts with label Man United. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Man United. Show all posts
Monday, 29 October 2012
Monday, 8 October 2012
WE REMIND OURSELVES
First of all I salute you all in the name of the beautiful game and all that makes it so. Ronaldo, Messi, Scholes, Xavi.... OK, let me stop. I might mention all of the Barca players. I am no Barca fan. Neither am I a hater, don't get me wrong. Today... WE REMIND OURSELVES.
Remember the days when AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia were relegation battle material? NO? Me neither. Kenyan football was only for the players then. Even Kenyan media didn't cover it. They still dont. But look at the attention they have gotten since they changed managements. Now every mashemeji derby is like a publlic holiday. Cops are extra, fans even more. Lets now wait and see if either of them will win the title and then we shall have something to reminisce. In the meantime, Tusker FC are giving them a run for their money. I remember when they were fifth, and AFC looked to have a solid grip on the lead. I thought they'd never make it. Turns out Coach Matano is really just what they needed.
EL CLASSICO: Remember the post about Ronaldo that I wrote? Here it is: great players win, good players affect games I cannot go into the details again you can read it for yourself. I can only say a few words about the Classico. Heated affair. Barca and their flair play were all over the pitch running things, AS USUAL. And boy were they passing the thing all around. Let me tell you, if Real Madrid can change their formation when they play Barcelona(and mind you they are only one of the few teams who can beat the latter), then that just places Barca at the top of the food chain.
One thing is a fact though; Real Madrid have one of, if not the best defenses, and attack force(ask City), in the world. Not many teams can keep Barca at bay like that, and still reserve the attacking threat that they had. They rode their luck although you could see they tried at least.
That said, the fluidity of Barca last night night.... You cannot be a hater, honestly. Although Cristiano, aka CR7, and Messi(insert your favorite nickname here)stole the show from the others, as usual. Whomever you pledge your loyalties to, CR7 or Messi, you are in a lucky generation. One that got to watch two great players do battle. Remind yourself of that fact. You will tell your kids
THE MILAN DERBY: This used to be a great contest. The days of Ronaldo(Brazilian), then later Ibrahimovic, Adriano, Dejan Stankovic, Ronaldinho, Gatusso, Inzaghi, Zanetti, Maldini(remember him?) and the likes. I personally focused on it more during the days of Maldini(AC Milan) and Adriano(Inter). I made Inter my team henceforth on Play Station(am a PES guy btw) and yes, I was also a force to reckon with, on 'loser-pays'. People feared me. Until Manchester City rose to glory. Thats beside the point. The Milan derby was played on the same day as the Classico(7th October 2012) just in case you've forgotten yesterday's date). That went unspoken of. Anyway, Walter Samuel scored the only goal, as Inter were red carded but held on for the three points. These guys in Italy just love to play it rough. Remember those days? When football was football? And no referees 'protected' the players? Yes, we all do.
Moving on to the the juicier stuff. Giroud broke his Prem duck. yaaay! Hooray for Arsenal guys. Remember when Tottenham had gone winless against Manchester United at OT? Well, gone are those days. My friend told me to make sure I blogged it. Damn, that was a... different game. Tottenham really wifed us in the first half. 62% possession, 2 goals up. That was a tough reality.
And Chelsea are having a great season. They are now not dependent on wingers, they have play-makers all over their mid(Mata, Oscar, Hazard) and engines in the names of Mikel and Ramires. But they have always been strong in midfield. And QPR... Remember the days they had a team, now they have a new full team and subs... and they're still rooted at the bottom of the EPL table. I think what they need now is a new manager. All in favour of having Mark Hughes sacked say AYE!!... sorry i forgot this is not Parliament and am not the Speaker.
Do you remember the days when the Prem was graced by players like Dirk Kuyt, Fabrice Muamba, Ole Gunaar Solskaer and the likes? Kuyt, leave alone Gerrard, carried Liverpool on his back. Look where they are now without the man. Mwamba... he helped his team a lot. Sad he wasnt around to help them survive. Neither will he be there to help them back up into the Prem. Manchester United still remains the team to beat on the other hand. They've had no shortage of attackers. Though they will need a powerful man to take up the role of Scholes. Just like Barca will struggle to replace Xavi, another great player.
DID YOU KNOW:
Sir Alex Ferguson took up the management of Manchester United at a time when they were in the relegation zone?
Well, now you know.
Our 'Know KPL Teams' blog just took a step closer. My friend @MikeOkinyi, yes, THE one and only Mike Okinyi, Citizen TV sports anchor, has agreed to do a guest post for us. Thanks in advance Mike, that'll be awesome.
Also, our new website will be online hopefully.... next week. Its about time, eh? We would want that 'Know KPL teams and their managers'
Lets talk football another time, good people.
Remember the days when AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia were relegation battle material? NO? Me neither. Kenyan football was only for the players then. Even Kenyan media didn't cover it. They still dont. But look at the attention they have gotten since they changed managements. Now every mashemeji derby is like a publlic holiday. Cops are extra, fans even more. Lets now wait and see if either of them will win the title and then we shall have something to reminisce. In the meantime, Tusker FC are giving them a run for their money. I remember when they were fifth, and AFC looked to have a solid grip on the lead. I thought they'd never make it. Turns out Coach Matano is really just what they needed.
EL CLASSICO: Remember the post about Ronaldo that I wrote? Here it is: great players win, good players affect games I cannot go into the details again you can read it for yourself. I can only say a few words about the Classico. Heated affair. Barca and their flair play were all over the pitch running things, AS USUAL. And boy were they passing the thing all around. Let me tell you, if Real Madrid can change their formation when they play Barcelona(and mind you they are only one of the few teams who can beat the latter), then that just places Barca at the top of the food chain.
One thing is a fact though; Real Madrid have one of, if not the best defenses, and attack force(ask City), in the world. Not many teams can keep Barca at bay like that, and still reserve the attacking threat that they had. They rode their luck although you could see they tried at least.
That said, the fluidity of Barca last night night.... You cannot be a hater, honestly. Although Cristiano, aka CR7, and Messi(insert your favorite nickname here)stole the show from the others, as usual. Whomever you pledge your loyalties to, CR7 or Messi, you are in a lucky generation. One that got to watch two great players do battle. Remind yourself of that fact. You will tell your kids
THE MILAN DERBY: This used to be a great contest. The days of Ronaldo(Brazilian), then later Ibrahimovic, Adriano, Dejan Stankovic, Ronaldinho, Gatusso, Inzaghi, Zanetti, Maldini(remember him?) and the likes. I personally focused on it more during the days of Maldini(AC Milan) and Adriano(Inter). I made Inter my team henceforth on Play Station(am a PES guy btw) and yes, I was also a force to reckon with, on 'loser-pays'. People feared me. Until Manchester City rose to glory. Thats beside the point. The Milan derby was played on the same day as the Classico(7th October 2012) just in case you've forgotten yesterday's date). That went unspoken of. Anyway, Walter Samuel scored the only goal, as Inter were red carded but held on for the three points. These guys in Italy just love to play it rough. Remember those days? When football was football? And no referees 'protected' the players? Yes, we all do.
Moving on to the the juicier stuff. Giroud broke his Prem duck. yaaay! Hooray for Arsenal guys. Remember when Tottenham had gone winless against Manchester United at OT? Well, gone are those days. My friend told me to make sure I blogged it. Damn, that was a... different game. Tottenham really wifed us in the first half. 62% possession, 2 goals up. That was a tough reality.
And Chelsea are having a great season. They are now not dependent on wingers, they have play-makers all over their mid(Mata, Oscar, Hazard) and engines in the names of Mikel and Ramires. But they have always been strong in midfield. And QPR... Remember the days they had a team, now they have a new full team and subs... and they're still rooted at the bottom of the EPL table. I think what they need now is a new manager. All in favour of having Mark Hughes sacked say AYE!!... sorry i forgot this is not Parliament and am not the Speaker.
Do you remember the days when the Prem was graced by players like Dirk Kuyt, Fabrice Muamba, Ole Gunaar Solskaer and the likes? Kuyt, leave alone Gerrard, carried Liverpool on his back. Look where they are now without the man. Mwamba... he helped his team a lot. Sad he wasnt around to help them survive. Neither will he be there to help them back up into the Prem. Manchester United still remains the team to beat on the other hand. They've had no shortage of attackers. Though they will need a powerful man to take up the role of Scholes. Just like Barca will struggle to replace Xavi, another great player.
DID YOU KNOW:
Sir Alex Ferguson took up the management of Manchester United at a time when they were in the relegation zone?
Well, now you know.
Our 'Know KPL Teams' blog just took a step closer. My friend @MikeOkinyi, yes, THE one and only Mike Okinyi, Citizen TV sports anchor, has agreed to do a guest post for us. Thanks in advance Mike, that'll be awesome.
Also, our new website will be online hopefully.... next week. Its about time, eh? We would want that 'Know KPL teams and their managers'
Lets talk football another time, good people.
Wednesday, 26 September 2012
Footie wrap: KPL, La liga, EPL
I will soon run out of catchy headers for my posts one of these fine days. I can see it coming. It shall be a very sad eventuality but that's not why we are here. And yes... I know. The website is still not up yet. We ran into slight problems but rest assured, its coming. We will be putting up the link very soon. Lets talk football then.
I start with the Tusker Kenyan Premier League. In the last few days we have seen huge transformations on the league table. AFC were leading the pack on friday. By Saturday evening, bitter rivals and victors in the Mashemeji Derby, Gor Mahia were at the helm. Come Monday evening, Coach Matano's charges... Tusker FC, took the lead. They now sit 2 points ahead of 2nd placed Gor, and 3 points ahead of recently-dethroned AFC. i was arguing with a friend the other day. He kept telling me Tusker would eventually lead, but I just couldn't see them doing it. Well, if that was a money bet, I would have lost. I hope y'all have been following the happenings.
Moving on... new Harambee Stars head coach Henri Michel has started with a very attention-calling move. refusing to enter the Stars in the CECAFA tournament, saying that it is a useless cup. I would love to agree with him BUT there's the slight issue of the Harambee Stars being weaklings in other tournaments. so, the organizers of CECAFA have told Michel to show what he can do. I would like for him to do that too... considering his high salary. Apparently the ninja earns 750k, gets house and transport allowance etc. Living like an MP
EPL... Explosive Premier League weekend that was, eh? Arsenal managed a point against our noisy neighbours (no, I do NOT live in Manchester). Manchester United claimed a rare win at Anfield, after being 'married' by the Kopites for a while, and Chelsea beat Stoke... after recovering from a loss against Atletico. Just goes to show that thay they are more accustomed to playing shitty opponents like themselves, and not fancy playing opponents like Atletico... and Arsenal(wacheni niwabambe juu tu mlicheza poa). Great weekend that was.... I didnt watch any of the games. Am still looking for a good excuse for that.
My fantasy team. Cech, Ivanovic and Fellaini played well. But I just dont understand why Yaya wont earn good points. Also... I pick Rangel and Dyer, and then Rangel doesn't even play and Dyer gets red carded. Ain't that a female dog
La Liga.... Cristiano Ronaldo and Leo Messi keep running things. Even on boring occasions when Real are held to draws Cristiano shows he still is a force to reckon with. Case in pot... the champion's league game where he scored the decider minutes to time. It was hard to see Manchester City losing 2 consecutive games though. So I guess that's why Arsenal struggled to get that point. I know you're gonna ask why am talking about Manchester City in the La Liga paragraph... well, am sure you also asked how vectors in high school maths would eventually help you in life, but did that make your teacher stop teaching Mole Concept? Say it with me... NO, IT DIDN'T!
France... Ibrahimovic scores freely, and Oliech leads Ligue 2 in the assists chart. Also... M'vila is out of form. Aren't glad you didn't buy the nigga, Arsenal guys? Hmm?
I start with the Tusker Kenyan Premier League. In the last few days we have seen huge transformations on the league table. AFC were leading the pack on friday. By Saturday evening, bitter rivals and victors in the Mashemeji Derby, Gor Mahia were at the helm. Come Monday evening, Coach Matano's charges... Tusker FC, took the lead. They now sit 2 points ahead of 2nd placed Gor, and 3 points ahead of recently-dethroned AFC. i was arguing with a friend the other day. He kept telling me Tusker would eventually lead, but I just couldn't see them doing it. Well, if that was a money bet, I would have lost. I hope y'all have been following the happenings.
Moving on... new Harambee Stars head coach Henri Michel has started with a very attention-calling move. refusing to enter the Stars in the CECAFA tournament, saying that it is a useless cup. I would love to agree with him BUT there's the slight issue of the Harambee Stars being weaklings in other tournaments. so, the organizers of CECAFA have told Michel to show what he can do. I would like for him to do that too... considering his high salary. Apparently the ninja earns 750k, gets house and transport allowance etc. Living like an MP
EPL... Explosive Premier League weekend that was, eh? Arsenal managed a point against our noisy neighbours (no, I do NOT live in Manchester). Manchester United claimed a rare win at Anfield, after being 'married' by the Kopites for a while, and Chelsea beat Stoke... after recovering from a loss against Atletico. Just goes to show that thay they are more accustomed to playing shitty opponents like themselves, and not fancy playing opponents like Atletico... and Arsenal(wacheni niwabambe juu tu mlicheza poa). Great weekend that was.... I didnt watch any of the games. Am still looking for a good excuse for that.
My fantasy team. Cech, Ivanovic and Fellaini played well. But I just dont understand why Yaya wont earn good points. Also... I pick Rangel and Dyer, and then Rangel doesn't even play and Dyer gets red carded. Ain't that a female dog
La Liga.... Cristiano Ronaldo and Leo Messi keep running things. Even on boring occasions when Real are held to draws Cristiano shows he still is a force to reckon with. Case in pot... the champion's league game where he scored the decider minutes to time. It was hard to see Manchester City losing 2 consecutive games though. So I guess that's why Arsenal struggled to get that point. I know you're gonna ask why am talking about Manchester City in the La Liga paragraph... well, am sure you also asked how vectors in high school maths would eventually help you in life, but did that make your teacher stop teaching Mole Concept? Say it with me... NO, IT DIDN'T!
France... Ibrahimovic scores freely, and Oliech leads Ligue 2 in the assists chart. Also... M'vila is out of form. Aren't glad you didn't buy the nigga, Arsenal guys? Hmm?
Sunday, 16 September 2012
THE Football Ground up
Ground up, you ask why. Because we are doing an all round, from the grassroots(Kenya) to the cream of the crop(E.P.L) analysis.... or so I like to think of all the footballing action around us.Also, it shall be in no particular order.
The return of the prem. So recently European leagues took a break for the International fixtures for two weeks. Excruciatingly boring two weeks if you ask me. Premier league action resumed though, and boy was it everything we expected it to be! From Arsenal's demolition of premier league newboys Southampton, to Manchester's Wrath on Wigan, I think we all agree that it was way better than the international break. Even Chelsea and Liverpool fans with their draws will agree to it. Arsenal have rediscovered their form. Chelsea haven't recovered from the beating they received from Atletico. Liverpool... *whispers a prayer for them* I hope they don't get relegated. Manchester City... champions have to be respected even when they falter. Period
Further, apart from being the first weekend the EPL resumed, it was also a milestone in some way here and there. Lets just focus on United this once. 500 HOME games under Fergie. 700, 600 and 400 for Scholes, Giggs and Rio respectively. Narrow it down a little and we focus on Scholes. Ginger genius. Midfield Maestro. Genius. Call him what you may, but we all agree he is good. I dug up a little on him. turns out he always marks that hundred mark in a special way. On his 200th game, he scored an own goal. Must have been hard on him. But he has mostly positives in his career that am sure he doesnt even remember that one.
Scored two on his debut and one in every other hundredth game, apart from his 600th appearance. But he doesn't score too often so his goalscoring is clearly just a plus. His passing is what makes this tiny man a big gap when he lacks from the United line-up. And for that he has won everything there is to win with Manchester United. It is sad that he ended his England career so soon though. Here are a few words, by BBC Sports, in praise of this passmaster who we will all miss when eventually he does call time on his career.
Scholes was at the heart of United's revival, pulling the strings with his laser-guided passing and well-oiled repertoire of feints and flicks.
Perhaps we should have expected it, given he had found the net on his debut and his 100th game, then - after an own goal on his 200th - strikes on his 300th, 400th and 500th appearances for the club.
This was a landmark day for United. Scholes was making his 700th appearance in a United shirt and Rio Ferdinand his 400th, while Ryan Giggs took to the field for his 600th Premier League match. It was also Ferguson's 500th home league match - he had won 355 of the previous 499 (drawing 95 and losing 49). Ferguson is harnessing the past to shape the future. Tom Cleverley and others are being given the chance to learn from a man Zinedine Zidane, no less, described as "undoubtedly the greatest midfielder of his generation"
That's that. I dont think anything I would add would say it better than the facts presented above.But I can remind you of greater footballing action that is coming back... in the name of UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE!!!
Lets talk Tusker Premier League. That's the new tag on our Kenyan Premier League. An achievement on the part of Kenyan football. I always thought the entry of Supersport and Goal.com into Kenyan football would help this game. And with those, am sure Kenyan football will continue to make noticeable steps in progress. Hopefully all that money will be put to good use though. Otherwise we will remain where we are... under-achieving football nation. I was drinking with some friends who were former AFC Leopards players(didn't know until the other day) the other day, and according to them, no matter how good your season was as a player, if you didn't give the national team coach at the time a kickback, then you dont get to play for the Kenya team.
Away from the grim news that is our reality, Gor Mahia look like worthy contenders for the KPL title. They have the Mourinho mentality(If we can't win, we can't lose either). Must be their new coach, Mr Logarusic. Credit to him. They weren't exactly relegation material but were not title winning material either. Was watching Supersport 9(kwa wenyewe of course, juu me bado sufferer) the other day, they had KPL coverage... Am talking comprehensive coverage, like the one they do before a premier league match. Good stuff really. Point is, that man Logarusic has really turned Gor Mahia's football for sure; from the training drills, discipline issues down to the football itself. You never really know what could happen in football but I think Gor are looking like likely champions this season. Lets wait and see if the others... Tusker FC under Coach Matano(very strict man by the way), AFC Leopards and Ulinzi will step their games up. If they do so, then ladies and gentlemen, we will have a contest the magnitude almost of the EPL last season.
I think we need a 'Know Kenyan football' article. So that we all can at least know teams in the KPL and their managers at least, if not the players. But, I think Supersport 9 is a good start.
Also, we(@kevin_seth and @arthurnyoiks) have set up an account on twirra, @TweepsFC since we are also planning to launch our own website twitterfc.com to do basically what we are doing here. So, we look forward to gaining your support. Peace
The return of the prem. So recently European leagues took a break for the International fixtures for two weeks. Excruciatingly boring two weeks if you ask me. Premier league action resumed though, and boy was it everything we expected it to be! From Arsenal's demolition of premier league newboys Southampton, to Manchester's Wrath on Wigan, I think we all agree that it was way better than the international break. Even Chelsea and Liverpool fans with their draws will agree to it. Arsenal have rediscovered their form. Chelsea haven't recovered from the beating they received from Atletico. Liverpool... *whispers a prayer for them* I hope they don't get relegated. Manchester City... champions have to be respected even when they falter. Period
Further, apart from being the first weekend the EPL resumed, it was also a milestone in some way here and there. Lets just focus on United this once. 500 HOME games under Fergie. 700, 600 and 400 for Scholes, Giggs and Rio respectively. Narrow it down a little and we focus on Scholes. Ginger genius. Midfield Maestro. Genius. Call him what you may, but we all agree he is good. I dug up a little on him. turns out he always marks that hundred mark in a special way. On his 200th game, he scored an own goal. Must have been hard on him. But he has mostly positives in his career that am sure he doesnt even remember that one.
Scored two on his debut and one in every other hundredth game, apart from his 600th appearance. But he doesn't score too often so his goalscoring is clearly just a plus. His passing is what makes this tiny man a big gap when he lacks from the United line-up. And for that he has won everything there is to win with Manchester United. It is sad that he ended his England career so soon though. Here are a few words, by BBC Sports, in praise of this passmaster who we will all miss when eventually he does call time on his career.
Scholes was at the heart of United's revival, pulling the strings with his laser-guided passing and well-oiled repertoire of feints and flicks.
Perhaps we should have expected it, given he had found the net on his debut and his 100th game, then - after an own goal on his 200th - strikes on his 300th, 400th and 500th appearances for the club.
This was a landmark day for United. Scholes was making his 700th appearance in a United shirt and Rio Ferdinand his 400th, while Ryan Giggs took to the field for his 600th Premier League match. It was also Ferguson's 500th home league match - he had won 355 of the previous 499 (drawing 95 and losing 49). Ferguson is harnessing the past to shape the future. Tom Cleverley and others are being given the chance to learn from a man Zinedine Zidane, no less, described as "undoubtedly the greatest midfielder of his generation"
That's that. I dont think anything I would add would say it better than the facts presented above.But I can remind you of greater footballing action that is coming back... in the name of UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE!!!
Lets talk Tusker Premier League. That's the new tag on our Kenyan Premier League. An achievement on the part of Kenyan football. I always thought the entry of Supersport and Goal.com into Kenyan football would help this game. And with those, am sure Kenyan football will continue to make noticeable steps in progress. Hopefully all that money will be put to good use though. Otherwise we will remain where we are... under-achieving football nation. I was drinking with some friends who were former AFC Leopards players(didn't know until the other day) the other day, and according to them, no matter how good your season was as a player, if you didn't give the national team coach at the time a kickback, then you dont get to play for the Kenya team.
Away from the grim news that is our reality, Gor Mahia look like worthy contenders for the KPL title. They have the Mourinho mentality(If we can't win, we can't lose either). Must be their new coach, Mr Logarusic. Credit to him. They weren't exactly relegation material but were not title winning material either. Was watching Supersport 9(kwa wenyewe of course, juu me bado sufferer) the other day, they had KPL coverage... Am talking comprehensive coverage, like the one they do before a premier league match. Good stuff really. Point is, that man Logarusic has really turned Gor Mahia's football for sure; from the training drills, discipline issues down to the football itself. You never really know what could happen in football but I think Gor are looking like likely champions this season. Lets wait and see if the others... Tusker FC under Coach Matano(very strict man by the way), AFC Leopards and Ulinzi will step their games up. If they do so, then ladies and gentlemen, we will have a contest the magnitude almost of the EPL last season.
I think we need a 'Know Kenyan football' article. So that we all can at least know teams in the KPL and their managers at least, if not the players. But, I think Supersport 9 is a good start.
Also, we(@kevin_seth and @arthurnyoiks) have set up an account on twirra, @TweepsFC since we are also planning to launch our own website twitterfc.com to do basically what we are doing here. So, we look forward to gaining your support. Peace
Wednesday, 29 August 2012
WORLD PEACE... SOCCER AT LAST
Am really looking forward to see who the Manchester pair will draw. I hope City draw Barca or Real. Am still bitter that they pipped us to the title last season, and that Mancini did that 'yap yap' sign language at Fergie. Somebody needs to put them back in their old place. They seem comfy in their new place though, I acknowledge ... almost at the top of the league having won 2 out of 2 games, and 3 out of 3 if you choose to include the Shield. They have conceded 6 goals in the process though, which is a good thing. It shows they're not invincible(I like to console myself on behalf of Man United)
Arsenal still haven't found their rhythm back with their new signings, after selling two of their greatest assets. Now, if Walcott and Vermaelen left, that team would be no different from Swansea, full of unknown talent. Liverpool, they continued where they left off last season. Playing well in their big games, and playing SHIT in the other games.
Chelsea. One word... Champions. Them boys are playing like they are being coached by Brendan Rodgers. Whats more... the drought is over for Torres. We are all happy for him, eh? Even those of us on a dry spell, eh? NO? I didnt think so.
Real Madrid and Barca renewed their rivalry. Real got lucky, that game could have ended with a higher score in favour of the Catalans. In the league... they only have one point, Barca 6. I dont think I need to tell you what happens when Barca establishes a gap between your team and them. And Messi is again continuing with his characteristic brilliant from. They definitely haven't started well. Neither have PSG, with all their signings(Ibra, T Silva and Lavezzi). They haven't won a game in three that they've played till now.
Signing of the summer.... Hazard, Van Persie, Kagawa or Song? I will let you chose. I know we all weren't happy about Hazard joining Chelsea(that's water under the bridge now) and neither we the Arsenal fans when RVP joined United. Here are some comments from twitter that day:
Rvp,1 good season & he's gone,it's like kibaki vying for U.S Presidency coz of thika superhighway
KPL.... John Baraza continues to lead the scorers with 17 goals. I thought Allan Wanga could make it to top scorer this season. I was actually betting on it but it seems he never fully recovered from that injury when he came back. He has 6 goals. AFC Leopards top the league with 44 points. At the bottom, Oserian and Rangers FC with 19 and 20 points respectively.
Last but not least in other news, Harambee Stars have a new manager. Frenchman Henri Michel is the man charged with running the affairs of the national team. I hope he gets full co-operation from the people who run the football around here though. It is also good news that Manchester United, partnering with Airtel are sponsoring sports clinic in .KE right now. It shows at least they believe that Kenya has talent elsewhere, apart from only what we are forced to see.
That said, I wish to remind you all about the Soccer Tweet Up on Saturday 8th September. It is a free event, so all are welcome to attend
Wednesday, 15 August 2012
Of Premier transformations
The battle for the Top 4 hots up this time... with Liverpool having signed a midfielder(Joe Allen) and a striker(Fabio Borini). If you recall they lacked someone to lead the team the middle in the absence of Gerrard and a striker as they were too dependent on Suarez. I think their fortunes will probably change for the better now though I don't see them winning the EPL.
Tottenham Hotspur look like they strengthened their midfield even more. Looks like they realized having to depend on the injury-prone Huddlestone can prove frustrating. And they also signed Vertonghen for centre back following Ledley King's retirement due to frustrations in his injury-plagued career.
Chelsea... they are clearly phasing out their old guard. I honestly dont see Di Matteo winning it with these youngsters, just yet at least. They are yet to gel, and the old guard(Lamps, Drogba Terry et al) used to deliver anyway. That is where AVB also went wrong.You cannot phase out experience all at once for energy and flair
Arsenal.... After their beloved captain came out and said that the club had no ambition, they went out and signed Giroud (French Top Scorer and League winner), Podolski (FC Cologne's top scorer in a poor season) and Santi Cazorla. In my opinion... they are all average. Take the French Ligue 1 for instance, its not that strong a league is it? Podolski... he may be different, yes, but he couldn't save his former team from sinking. Cazorla... if he really is THAT good, why haven't Barca signed him? See where am going with this? But then again, it is Wenger's tradition to 'build' stars for other teams. I do believe they will flourish, though not this season. Top 3 maximum. I also enjoyed watching Diaby playing during their pre-seasons. He always looks very sure on the ball. Hopefully he can take over from Song, if his injuries dont come back to haunt him again... seeing as Wenger has made him a star for Barca.
Manchester United... Signed Kagawa(great midfield talent this one), Powell(I think he is a striker) and that other random striker guy... Henriquez. Really? Do we really need a striker? Either Fergie is growing too old for the game(which I doubt) OR... a formation change is about to take place. And an attacking one for that matter. But the problem with that is that it could be unfair to some players.
Take 4-3-3 for instance. Scholes definitely starts, eh? Him and Carrick. Then Kagawa, since he has flare. What happens to Fletcher, Anderson and Cleverly and Ashley Young? But I can see why he hasn't signed any other midfielders. The team is obviously full of depth if Sir Alex plays 4-3-3.
Striking... assuming Valencia and Nani are promoted forward to supply for Rooney/Van Persie or whoever... what happens to Bebe, Macheda, Welbeck, Berbatov, Nick Powell? And if Valencia and Nani are not promoted forward, then that leaves them in a very tricky place since they are wingers and not central midfielders.
Lets talk about injuries... They really had them exposed last season. Influential captain Nemanja Vidic is now back. So are Anderson, Cleverly and Fletcher. Imminent returns of Jones, Smalling and the probable rise of a home-grown left back who could eventually be Patrice Evra's long term replacement, going by the name Blackette, are a sign that there could be better things to come.
The Red Devils look stronger, but I dont think City will make it any easy for them.
They could reclaim the title... if Manchester City's stars falter along the way
Champions, Manchester City. I write about them last because they are champions, and they are definitely NOT least. First of all, they may not have signed any big players just yet BUT... that also comes as a hidden advantage. See, they wont have to wait for their team to gel, they just have to pick up from where they left last season.. and it looks like they are already up to the task. case in point, their strong pre-season games. Tevez is back.. with a vengeance. He scores, he assists, he runs the game. I don't need to remind you of the lethal combo they form... together with Balotelli, Aguero, Yaya, Nasri and Silva. They signed Jack Rodwell from Everton the other day. I dont see him coming above De Jong or Andy Johnson in the pecking order just yet. They are arguably the best with their stars on form.
On the other end of the table, I see Swansea struggling after selling two of their midfield dynamos, Sigurdsson and Joe Allen. I also foresee QPR and one of the new entrants struggling...
Thursday, 26 July 2012
GREAT CAPTAINS: HOME AND AWAY
The upcoming
premier league season will be bigger, better and much more
interesting than last season, at least I think so. Yes, I know, we
witnessed a new winner after a very long time, and yes, the premier
league was won on the last day having gone all the way down to the
wire, but I still think the battle-lines are already being defined.
From the imminent departure of captain Robin Van Perfect(for Man United), to the
signings of Kagawa & Hazard, to the awarding of a six-year
contract to Vincent Kompany. Lets not forget the other potentially
big deals coming up... Modric, Baines et al.
 |
| Influential Captain Kompany |
Lets talk about
captains though. They're important. They're influential. They lead by
example. Everybody knows that right? Remember when Vidic got
injured? See what happened to United... they conceded and kept
conceding and lost the title to City eventually. Think Barca...
Puyol got injured, Barca lost the title to Real Madrid. Look at
Manchester City... Kompany got appointed captain, and the boy
has led that team to their first title since 1968. I think we are now
on the same page.
Lets narrow it
down and talk about Kompany. The boy just signed a new six-year contract to keep him at City till he is 32. For a club(Manchester City)
to show that much faith in a player(the captain, the leader, the
Kompany), is reward enough for him being so influential. And
deliver he has. Remember how he got the captaincy? Let me run
that by you... Toure was made captain on signing for City from
Arsenal, and then he was involved in that doping saga, so he
was dropped as captain, upon which Tevez the prodigal son was
appoined. We all know his story, don't we? Yeah... so in his absence,
guess who was appointed? The Kompany. He's the only one player,
who was not signed by Mancini, who has been shown favour, and
still remains in the team. Think of Adebayor, Kolo Toure, Micah
Richards, Mwaruwari(remember him?), Wayne Bridge. Even De Jong saw
the better part of the bench for most of the second half of last
season. The City captain is confident that he and Kompany(get it?) can build on last season's win. And I wouldn't doubt him. I just don't think United, Chelsea and Arsenal will let them
Closer Home...
The Mashemeji Derby(GOR MAHIA vs AFC LEOPARDS) is around
the corner. This is a rivalry that goes all the way back to when our
grandfathers were still young men. It was a duel between Luo and
Luhya. It has since become the biggest match in Kenyan football,
since the tribal factor is gradually fading away, and the clubs are
signing players from various parts of East Africa. Every time these
two great rivals meet, it becomes a heated affair, as in every derby
worldwide, with each one wanting to come out with the upper hand. It
gets ugly at times. It has been suggested that extra security be
provided during duels between these two rivals as some fans take it
as the perfect time to wreak havoc.
 |
| The Mashemeji Derby |
And as such,
sometimes, it comes down to the captains of these teams. Remember the
last time these two great rivals met? I'll refresh your memory. Most
people in Kenya wanted Gor fans to be banned. Remember the clash at
the stadium when the Gor fans started hurling stones into the pitch?
It was the Gor captain who spoke to them amicably and they eventually
stopped the chaos. And for that... we should respect and honour all
responsible captains. Am sure our friend Carol Radull knows the guy
and will pass our regards, right Carol?
So, to all who
will be attending the Mashemeji derby, all the best. Enjoy the game.
Most of all, be safe. That said, I cannot wait for the EPL to resume.
The Supersport analysis is one of my favourite segments of soccer.
Also, do not forget about the August 4th soccer Tweet up at Saint George Primary, Hurlingham. Its a free event, just show up, play soccer, meet and socialize with other peeps. Thats all.
Enjoy yourselves. Lets talk more football another time, eh?
Thursday, 5 July 2012
SOCCER Lowdown Post-Euros
While we were away, a whole lot happened in the football eh? AVB joined Spurs, Alba ditched United for Barca and Van Persie revealed he wont be playing for Arsenal another season after his contract expires. Now that... if you chose to overlook Spain's Euro 2012 victory, is cause for heads turning. before we turn heads... I know, we have not spoken football in a while. But here we are again.
So Spain won the Euros, and in emphatic fashion. Haven't seen such a convincing win in a long time. Although Spain did thrash Ireland 4-0 in the group stage. I have to be honest, when that match started, I wasn't in support of Spain but... things change. I enjoyed that match. Although I also felt a little pity on the Italians. You don't get to the final if you're a nobody, so for them to be punished like that... Spain had to be on another level of performance... they always are. WE ALL AGREE.
Elsewhere, Armin Van Buuren, hehe, just kidding... Andre Villas Boas is now Spurs manager, replacing the sacked Redknapp. Here's my concern, If Redknapp was fired, even after his team had qualified for Europe, how will AVB cope, especially with his managerial rookie mistakes? Also... will he sell Redknapp's stars? He has already signed Gylfi and I think it would be interesting to see how the future of Bale, Modric, Van Der Vaart looks like.
Arsenal: The future doesn't look to bright, neither is it too bleek for them. They have Podolski and Giroud if their problem is a striker. But if they're talking about how fond they had grown of RVP, then that's a problem. See where am going with this? Well, wherever he ends up, City, United, Juventus, Barca or even if he chooses to remain at Arsenal, I hope Giroud and Podolski can get RVP's goals.
Elsewhere on the transfer market, European clubs have been on a roll signing new players. PSG have snapped up Lavezzi from Napoli(I've already tried him on PES2012 ), Lucio left Inter for Juve, AC Milan snapped released Nesta and Seedorf and got the services of some youngsters. Juventus look like a more serious prospect for next season. I also read that Inter is almost falling apart and that Diego Forlan will also be released.
In totally unrelated news... the SOCCER & SOCIAL soccer tweetup will be coming back again so keep your eyes out for the next one. Once I consult with some of the other guys, I will inform you football lovers.
So Spain won the Euros, and in emphatic fashion. Haven't seen such a convincing win in a long time. Although Spain did thrash Ireland 4-0 in the group stage. I have to be honest, when that match started, I wasn't in support of Spain but... things change. I enjoyed that match. Although I also felt a little pity on the Italians. You don't get to the final if you're a nobody, so for them to be punished like that... Spain had to be on another level of performance... they always are. WE ALL AGREE.
Elsewhere, Armin Van Buuren, hehe, just kidding... Andre Villas Boas is now Spurs manager, replacing the sacked Redknapp. Here's my concern, If Redknapp was fired, even after his team had qualified for Europe, how will AVB cope, especially with his managerial rookie mistakes? Also... will he sell Redknapp's stars? He has already signed Gylfi and I think it would be interesting to see how the future of Bale, Modric, Van Der Vaart looks like.
Arsenal: The future doesn't look to bright, neither is it too bleek for them. They have Podolski and Giroud if their problem is a striker. But if they're talking about how fond they had grown of RVP, then that's a problem. See where am going with this? Well, wherever he ends up, City, United, Juventus, Barca or even if he chooses to remain at Arsenal, I hope Giroud and Podolski can get RVP's goals.
Elsewhere on the transfer market, European clubs have been on a roll signing new players. PSG have snapped up Lavezzi from Napoli(I've already tried him on PES2012 ), Lucio left Inter for Juve, AC Milan snapped released Nesta and Seedorf and got the services of some youngsters. Juventus look like a more serious prospect for next season. I also read that Inter is almost falling apart and that Diego Forlan will also be released.
In totally unrelated news... the SOCCER & SOCIAL soccer tweetup will be coming back again so keep your eyes out for the next one. Once I consult with some of the other guys, I will inform you football lovers.
Wednesday, 2 May 2012
EPL REVIEW, A FAN'S VIEW
It has been a freak season this, eh?
First it was Manchester United suffering an injury crisis we only wish on Arsenal, and which led to United getting whooped 6-1, at home... by their noisy neighbours. I was majorly hurt by that one, being a United fan. Then played second fiddle to our noisy neighbours for a few months. Bookies(I used to assume these are guys who read books so much) said the Manchester derby would decide the potential winner. I didn't believe it but now I think I do. The bragging rights are entirely with the blue side of Manchester now. We played shit, we paid for it. Simple. It'll be interesting to see how the league plays out from here on.
Then it was Arsenal with their injuries. Jesus, this team... and the random inconsistencies. And some classy own goals. Koscielny takes this award if it ever is coined. Then it was the 8-2 demolition by Man United.
Then came Newcastle. This team I'd say, for a team that got promoted, is doing really well. They are now challenging for Chelsea and Tottenham's - and what used to be Liverpool's place a while back - place in the league.
Tottenham recently started stamping their authority(mostly on Arsenal and bottom half teams) in the Premier League.But their form had dipped since February, I think, owing to the whole Redknapp leaving to manage England. Shocker! Roy Hodgson landed that position. That's another thing right?
Now West Brom will be looking for a manager next season. Tottenham may also be. I think Redknapp let himself get carried away with the England job speculations, that he may be feel bad for letting his team down. So I personally think he might move on elsewhere. That creates a lot of speculation about his star players... Bale and Modric. They could also leave, don't you think?
Chelsea and Liverpool have been average. I can't discuss average, that's a waste of your valuable time. But I will do just that and remind you of the racism charges that faced the two average clubs. Funny how Suarez was dealt with immediately and yet JT's case was postponed till after the Euros. Leaves a lot to be answered, eh? That aside, Liverpool have done well to save their season and look likely to seal a double having already won the Carling Cup. They have to beat Chelsea though.
Wigan... I have no words for them. They lag behind the whole season and then out of nowhere beat United, Arsenal and Newcastle. Clearly remaining in the Premier League is a priority. Wolves are already out, and two other teams are going to join them down in the Championship. someone has got to go. I personally think Blackburn should go. They have been riding a crisis wave for a long time now
Still lots of footballing action coming up in the next few weeks. Euro, Olympics, and the pre-season and transfer gossip. Not forgetting our very own Kenyan Premier League. We certainly will be talking up on that. Lets talk some more football some other time
First it was Manchester United suffering an injury crisis we only wish on Arsenal, and which led to United getting whooped 6-1, at home... by their noisy neighbours. I was majorly hurt by that one, being a United fan. Then played second fiddle to our noisy neighbours for a few months. Bookies(I used to assume these are guys who read books so much) said the Manchester derby would decide the potential winner. I didn't believe it but now I think I do. The bragging rights are entirely with the blue side of Manchester now. We played shit, we paid for it. Simple. It'll be interesting to see how the league plays out from here on.
Then it was Arsenal with their injuries. Jesus, this team... and the random inconsistencies. And some classy own goals. Koscielny takes this award if it ever is coined. Then it was the 8-2 demolition by Man United.
Then came Newcastle. This team I'd say, for a team that got promoted, is doing really well. They are now challenging for Chelsea and Tottenham's - and what used to be Liverpool's place a while back - place in the league.
Tottenham recently started stamping their authority(mostly on Arsenal and bottom half teams) in the Premier League.But their form had dipped since February, I think, owing to the whole Redknapp leaving to manage England. Shocker! Roy Hodgson landed that position. That's another thing right?
Now West Brom will be looking for a manager next season. Tottenham may also be. I think Redknapp let himself get carried away with the England job speculations, that he may be feel bad for letting his team down. So I personally think he might move on elsewhere. That creates a lot of speculation about his star players... Bale and Modric. They could also leave, don't you think?
Chelsea and Liverpool have been average. I can't discuss average, that's a waste of your valuable time. But I will do just that and remind you of the racism charges that faced the two average clubs. Funny how Suarez was dealt with immediately and yet JT's case was postponed till after the Euros. Leaves a lot to be answered, eh? That aside, Liverpool have done well to save their season and look likely to seal a double having already won the Carling Cup. They have to beat Chelsea though.
Wigan... I have no words for them. They lag behind the whole season and then out of nowhere beat United, Arsenal and Newcastle. Clearly remaining in the Premier League is a priority. Wolves are already out, and two other teams are going to join them down in the Championship. someone has got to go. I personally think Blackburn should go. They have been riding a crisis wave for a long time now
Still lots of footballing action coming up in the next few weeks. Euro, Olympics, and the pre-season and transfer gossip. Not forgetting our very own Kenyan Premier League. We certainly will be talking up on that. Lets talk some more football some other time
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