Fern Mc Costigan: January 2014

Thursday, January 30, 2014

A Villainous Awakening in the Derby

In today’s match considered as the grand event for both of these squads- in this edition of the West Midlands Derby it was a show of force between the Villains and the Baggies.

An established match and rivalry that dates a good while- as many other contests played throughout the league- were this one had a certain importance for both crews in need to add points to their cause as well claim bragging rights.

After a change in the helm for the Baggies, their new skipper Pepe Mel was poised to earn for his chaps three golden points to continue their ascent to salvation.

On the home page, the Claret and Blue was determined to go for the glory as well give its faithful the joy and hope that they’re for real and will try for new endeavors in the remaining matches of this campaign.

It when Paul Lambert the Manager of the Lions was determined to win this edition of the Derby, in what was considered an exciting match not recommendable for those with poor health.

With a fantastic finish thanks to a penal well performed by the Villains Christian Benteke and what became the final and decisive score of a one of a kind and competed Derby not won by the Villa chaps since 2011.

At the end this match assures and gave the Villains some breathing room in their quest for salvation from the always infamous relegation positions- leaving them with 27 points and in command of the tenth position.

Still the league is not over yet and with upcoming matches and a not so easy schedule for the Claret and Blue, it’s when their man at the helm should became creative as well try to get a couple of players capable of pulling this squad out of the danger zones.

Good job done by Manager Lambert after getting a positive result in front of his club faithful and with a well-deserved win that lift his chap’s spirits into their next match.

At the end the Aston Villa squad has done its work, although its fan base demands more from the Villa- still their club hasn’t done a bad job in earning eight points out of eighteen in play.

Still this Villains are capable of mounting and attack that can really surprise the titans of this league as well consider their upcoming matches left in this campaign as a one of a kind challenge for their survival as well their quest for positioning into the European positions.

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Liverpool’s Madness at the Merseyside Derby

Whatever happened to the Toffee’s in this edition of the Merseyside Derby, after Everton’s Manager Roberto Martinez saw in disbelief the way his lads were victimized by Liverpool’s terrible trio.

A match were everything was at stake as well honor that always is disputed in the field in every season when these two colossus, always bring the best in both of them.

This was a match for both squads as important as these two are already embarked in the quest for the top and as every point counts- today’s loss for the Everton squad became a setback for their hopes into the league top position as well put them on sixth place.

With an all-around performance by its fab three headed by Daniel Sturridge, Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez, Anfield really gave its faithful a show worth for their money, after seeing its chaps beat a decimated and clueless visiting Blue squad.

For Manager Brendan Rodgers todays victory was a step in the right direction as well gives his chaps an injection of optimism in their hunt for the Barclays Premiership Shield.

Red hot is the word for this edition of the English Premier League, that has seen fight for the top position and the Liverpool squad is determined to conquer it whatever the price!

Still with several matches left in the campaign, the Anfield chaps are preparing for every match as it was their last as well playing their heart out in each one of them.

What is done is done and for now Skipper Rogers needs to focus for their next match as well hold their fourth place position as well try to make a move over Chelsea, Arsenal and the league leading Man City Citizens- to claim the pole position of EPL.

After a couple of back to back loses and a draw, the Reds really put on a hell of a show as well climb slowly but surely in the overall table by earning ten points out of eighteen in play.

In the Reds upcoming schedule many can say it looks somehow easy- but among those foes to face off at home are the Arsenal Gunners hungry to recover the top that suddenly was lost after their stumble against a reluctant Saint squad.

As I always said, there’s no easy foe as well in this edition of Premiership the odds can turn against anyone in every match played regardless of the position you are in the table- for the Reds they cannot to afford to lose any upcoming matches as well let go any of their points freely.

This off course if they want to aspire for the Barclays Premiership Shield and bring to the halls of Anfield this coveted prize that’s been so elusive for this Merseyside club, still Luck can be on their side.

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Linfield Couldn’t Capitalize on the League Table

With a match considered as an easy affair for the Blues, suddenly for the Windsor residents, things didn’t work as expected in what was an afternoon full of surprises and letdowns.

As the North Ireland Premier League is in its critical stages, so far the Blues are becoming somehow concern of their slim lead of five points from their closest foes in the Clintonville Reds.

After last campaign that the Blues opposites lifted the Danske Bank Premiership League trophy as champions- this campaign was one to take very seriously in their hopes of bringing back the coveted silverware to the halls of Windsor Park.

Still for the Blues Manager David Jeffrey it was a day of frustrations after seeing his lead that his lads put on the board in the early stages of the match, very well seeing an all-around effort from the visiting Ards.

Indeed, a match considered a compromise in league and playing against the lowest seed in the overall table- the Ards and its blokes never looked back in every minute of the match as well in each score from the locals, they really counter attacked and hence their efforts for the draw.

In what was considered a goal feast, the visitors really capitalize on the local’s mishaps for the final score in the 85^th minute and hence the result that was considered as a win for the White and Blue squad.

For now this result is in the past for the Linfield squad and now, this skipper focus is on their next compromise against their archrivals the Clintonville Reds- on a match considered as another Belfast Derby for its importance!

In this Derby were the Reds versus the Blues, considered a duel to the death between these two titans in their quest of the NIFL shield.

For now on David Jeffrey and his lads need to add points to the Blues cause, if they want to stay in the league top and with a loss for the Blues, sadly means a compromise in their overall position in the table as well it can deflate their ambitions for the league top honors.

Sunday, January 26, 2014

A Serious Contender in the 2014 Portland Timbers

A contender is in the works at the Rose City, were its Timbers are looking like an all-around contender for this upcoming 2014 campaign of Major League Soccer.

After last season that saw in this squad much improvement in the Rose City lads- that gave them a nice record in what many saw a high level of competiveness in MLS.

Suddenly after last season the arrival of its Designated Player and grand performance from Diego Valeri- all of a sudden this club has turn its attention to a remote region of the world to reinforce its areas in need.

Indeed, is the land of silver Argentina that’s becoming the favorite spot for the Portland Timbers Manager and its front office to reinforce any aspect and position of this club’s resurgence in MLS.

Its why the Timbers are on the verge of making their club one of the most competitive in league play to really counter any challenge from MLS clubs and future tourneys, as well their newly incursion into CONCACHAMPIONS tourney.

This campaign Manager Caleb Porter and his front office think thanks are determined to bring an all-around spectacle to its faithful as well make Jeld- Weld Field a place to vibrate with emotion and make its Timbers an almighty squad.

As with the arrival of last season of Maxi Urruti alongside superman Diego Valeri- things looked somehow promising for the Timbers in its frontal attack- that’s why they brought another of his countrymen to reinforce the offensive attack in Gaston la Gata Fernandez to make a one two Andean attack.

Another highlight is the reinforcement of its defensive side and in the center was it matter the most for the Portland squad in the arrival of Norberto Papparato that somehow reminds me of his playing like another Argentine great defenders in Newcastle United Fabricio Colocinni and former International great Daniel Pasarella.

Not bad for a small market squad that has brought all the attention from the world of soccer in the US and abroad with it’s one of a kind followers that never ceased to support its beloved Green and White chaps- as well being an influence in injecting interest in the game throughout the league.

Still rumors never cease to come to the halls of Jen- Jeld Field, with the arrival of maybe its fifth Argentinian player in Racing de Avellaneda midfielder Agustin Pelletieri who can reinforce the defensive and offensive attack of the Rose City squad.

As other squads in big cities and markets want to attract its fan base with big names as well exorbitant contracts, the Portland Timbers silently and in a conservative way are building a squad that nobody will want to mess with.

The way this club has been reinforced by this Andean players, we will be calling it the Albicelestes of the Pacific Northwest, a nickname given to Argentina National team for its White and sky-blue uniform colors.

Very well the front office will see its new gladiators adapt to the Porter scheme and start writing into this club’s history a lot of golden moments as well bring the much coveted silverware of the MLS Cup and Supporters Shield and why not the CONCACAF Shield.

This is it! The year of the Portland Timbers rebirth as one of the top clubs of North American soccer as well its representative to face off against any rival in any league- a lesson to many out there in how geniuses at work can make an all-around contender in this and many seasons to come!

Hail Portland Timbers!

Saturday, January 25, 2014

A Dramatic Descent for the Swansea Squad

Michael Laudrup is one worried man at the helm of the Swans, after seeing its squad sudden decline in the table- that’s becoming somehow worrisome for its front office and follower’s at Liberty Stadium.

After a winless skid in their last compromises of league play, the Jacks are becoming embroiled in the always fatidic fight for their permanent stay in Premiership.

Even though their current position in the table is becoming somehow decadent- after their last six matches, were their performance only managed to gain one point out of eighteen in play- this is becoming a reason to worry for the Dane skipper.

Simply a slim lead of three points from the last squads currently on hold of the league cellar and prominent candidates for the Championship league- is raising red flags for the Swans faithful.

With glory days being in the past, after winning the League Cup known as the Capitol One Cup for sponsor reference- the Swans tasted some of Europe’s glory briefly and now their current debacle.

For now Manager Laudrup needs to focus on the club future as well try to rescue his Jacks from the abyss- they’re embroiled and fight for their salvation and permanent stay for another campaign in the EPL.

Unfortunately the league calendar can be a sort of tricky or coincidental after the Swans losing streak was to blame in its matches with clubs of the caliber of Manu, Chelsea, Man City, Tottenham and Everton.

Still nothing is lost and this campaign is far from over as the Jacks next compromises with squads considered as modest, but cannot be trusted as easy as in this league- as they say, there’s no such thing as an easy foe.

That can be the light at the end of the tunnel as the Swans are already on the radar of the football experts of being considered as serious candidates for descending Premiership.

At the end the Jacks and its Manager need to really focus in the upcoming matches and really be serious about each point in play as well unite this club players that suddenly are apart and its becoming a sort of distraction.

Hope mounts as well their participation on internal Cup play, were the Swans can display certain looseness as well confidence after their last season feat, time will tell as well for Manager Laudrup’s destinies at the end of this campaign.

Friday, January 24, 2014

How Determined Is Anfield for the Premiership Shield

Anfield is becoming a madhouse after displaying an all-around performance for its Reds, which so far have given to its followers a reason to dream of a possible shield of a season.

Indeed, the Liverpool squad is poised to go for the Premiership shield and bring it to the halls of Merseyside- something not experienced since the departure and tenure of Spaniard Rafael Benitez.

Something not won for a good while, especially a shield from the Barclays Premiership that can really turn things around in Liverpool!

When it was the middle of league play the Liverpool squad occupied first place momentarily, after a sudden slide from current league leaders Arsenal Gunners.

Still the club hasn’t seen a certain determination at the time they face one of those so called league titans, after losing a couple of matches back top back- as in the Citizens and Blues.

Liverpool showed a certain weakness and lack of determination when playing some of these squads; it’s when the Reds Manager Brendan Rogers needs to start getting some creativeness in it initial eleven as well motivate his lads to go all the way.

In their last matches played, the Reds have nested ten points with a couple of losses and a draw to their cause as well having a sort of an easy schedule ahead in this second half.

At the end this Merseyside squad , really needs to take advantage of the winter market window to reinforce its weak spots as well its bench to really be a competitive entity after all- the Gunners hold in first isn’t a sure thing that Manager Brendan Rogers is aware.

An sooner than later the top position in this edition of Premiership can be open to the best bidder as well this campaign many of us followers of the best soccer league in the world, the level of competiveness is shown in squads like the Reds fighting for position.

For now Brendan Rogers will have to play with intelligence in its initial eleven as well motivate his squad as this were their last match of this campaign and play without any pressures or inhibitions whoever they face.

By mentioning about this season in how the English Premier League has shown a certain level of competiveness among squads in Arsenal, Chelsea, Everton, Man City and Liverpool- anything can happen and at the finish of this 2013-2014 campaign for sure we will see a new champion.

The Reds now need to focus in this weekend match in what were familiar with the Merseyside Derby against their bitter rival the Everton Toffees, that promises to be a one of a kind match as well the winner will have bragging rights in the overall table position.

Thursday, January 23, 2014

Big Names Aren’t the Solution at Old Trafford

The Red Devils troubled campaign is reflected on this squad need of attention to its troubled midfield, either in its attacking or defensive side.

In need of some miracle or turnaround for this club odd campaign, its current skipper David Moyes is doing an overall search for the missing link to its initial eleven.

One that’s currently under the eye of the team medic for its growing number of players in the disabled list as well lack of a playmaker that could turn things around at Old Trafford into a contender.

After all the name of Juan Mata the Spaniard that currently is on United archrival’s Chelsea Blues, the rumors of going to Manchester are becoming a sound reality every day.

If we mentioned the list made by the Scotsman for this club to see a change for the better, you could not believe your eyes from every club in England, France, Germany, Africa and Spain- being in this club shopping if not wish list.

At the end the arrival of big names to Old Trafford won’t solve this man’s desperate quest to turn things around and salvage his club campaign with a European position.

If I say the solution is not in these big names, is because of its immediate adaptability to Moyes scheme and its teammates alongside the return of these club top players in Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie and newly DL man Michael Carrick.

Still the question is on the air, after many successful campaigns under their belt, the Manchester United Red Devils are desperate for urgent results in a positive of ways.

After Mata arrival if this deal is consumed, many others are on the verge of joining one of the top clubs in the world currently on a slump as well in need of help!

Only one thing can come out of tis deals as many players of United’s old guard are on the way out as new ones are to make a grand entry into the Theater of Dreams to see if miracles can happen in this majestic field and return to its faithful the lost glories of campaigns past.

Moyes needs to do something not to critique its players but give them the lost confidence and sense of security lost at the beginning of this campaign; a big name is not the solution- as my doubts are if he can turn things around in a campaign already lost.

Houghton’s Canaries Golden Moment

A golden moment as well light at the end of the tunnel was this past weekend for the lads of Norwich City after taming a surprised Hull squad and giving its faithful a reason to smile.

With a win as well three points considered of gold along a performance out of this world given by the Yellows in the field for a well-deserved win.

For Chris Houghton current Manager of the Canaries, a win is a win as well giving him some breathing room in preparation for their next league match against a not so easy foe in the Magpies of Newcastle United.

Still this win can mean a certain way to escape the always feared and hated relegation positions after being there for a while in the last months.

Currently the Citizens are seating pretty into twelve places with 23 points and away by five points from the danger zone- with several matches to play in Premiership.

After last season feats as well excellent playing in Premiership, many of its faithful thought that it was going to be a repeat of last campaign achievements and possibly fought for a European position- unfortunately things haven’t work that way for Skipper Houghton.

At the end, the Yellows win in last Saturday’s match against a determined and riled up Tiger squad- that was showing off new players, that little they could do for the feline cause and had to swallow the loss as visitors at Carrow Road.

Houghton really gamble in this match with a 4-4-2 formation that worked wonders for him- opposing to its visiting nemesis in Bruce’s nonsense formation of 3-5-2 with little it’s midfield and frontal attack did the whole afternoon to the residents of Carrow Road and hence the results.

This win came thanks to a late score form Ryan Bennett in the 86^th on an spectacular header as Steve Bruce the visiting skipper saw with disbelief how the locals got away with the win as well cut their high hopes into a low one.

Golden moment indeed, especially when this club didn’t get a win in its last six matches as well giving a new momentum to this deflated squad in need of a much needed incentive, for now the Yellows are on the brink of salvation along with the challenge of keeping away the relegation positions.

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Redemption is the Name at Saint Mary’s

This is a year of surprises at Saint Mary’s, after its beloved Saints really have put on a show of skills and determination to impress its Premiership sides.

Without any further review the Saints really started hot at the beginning of this campaign were they shared their luck among the elite as well caresses for a while the European positions.

After all their Manager Mauricio Pochetino really injected a lot of optimism to his lads as well motivated them to maintain the squad firm at the maximum circuit of Premiership.

Still every good start must have a certain degree of sudden stoppage, after injuries and pressure the Saints lads have sudden fallen in the table, but with no danger of being near the zones of relegation.

With a comfortable ninth position in the overall table, the Saints are within the European position with 31 points that can make up a sudden ascent in any of the top six squads at the top, sudden carelessness during the league competition.

It’s when the club went into another regressive setback when the rumor of their skipper resignation was to come around the league end in summer, which only proved to be a simple rumor as well assurance of the Andean after the departure of a controversial figure from the front office.

As many of us remembered when this squad made it to EPL in 2012 accompanied, really put on an effort at the end of the 2012-2013 campaign- remaining in Premiership and seeing their ascent partners in the Reading Royals descent and return to Championship League.

For now Manager Pochetino needs to reinforce a few areas after its two notable player’s absence as well take advantage of the winter market to add some key orchestrators to push this squad into the top positions.

In their upcoming league compromises that include two of the league most notable squads in the league leading Arsenal Gunners and hardened Liverpool Reds- the Saints can really play a role of spoilers to this two so called league giants, luck is on your side Saints!

At the end we can see more of the Saints sudden resurgence and excellent campaign they’ve giving their faithful in this edition of Premiership- after all with seven points earned out of eighteen, Southampton is really making a comeback into the winning columns.

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Craven Cottage on the Brink of Disaster

René Meulensteen is one man trying to level a disaster in the works at Craven Cottage, after taking the helm of the clueless Cottagers at midseason.

Still after being the ideal man by the Lilywhite’s helm- this season is looking like a sure down pour of frustrations as well make it to the always infamous relegation zone positions- which separate the Whites by just one point.

As this campaign progresses for the Cottagers things surely don’t look in a positive way, as their upcoming schedule that include the likes of Chelsea, Liverpool, Manu and Southhampton.

By now many can tell the Whites to kiss this campaign goodbye as well make plans into their next compromises for next season in the Championship League.

In the case of Manager Meulensteen, there’s some optimism as well desire to fight for a miracle and try to salvage their mediocre if not demeaning season.

With a winter market in its peak, the current Cottagers Skipper is hopeful that the Fulham front office can pick a couple of players capable of turning things around at Craven Cottage.

Preparing for their next compromise at the Budweiser FA Cup, the Whites fifth round position really gives them hope for trying to get a possible piece of silverware to their halls- that can translate into a lift of their spirit with European position as well be an injection of optimism for the lads.

As many of us and recently mentioned in some of my pieces, about this edition of Premiership being so competitive as well contagious for many squads- the Cottager’s can get into the bandwagon and try to bring some positive notes of its faithful and renew their presentation for the next campaign in the EPL.

Everything is possible with the ideal philosophy this club initial eleven plays under and very well is composed in the winter market along the return of some of its key injured players that can really save this traditional club campaign.

So far the return of Clint Dempsey to Craven Cottage via a loan from American League Seattle Sounders, it’s a step in the right direction that will lift this club anemic state into a possible contender for its salvation, time will be this club best ally!

A Point of Gold at the Hawthorns

The Merseyside blokes of Everton thought that today’s match was going to be an easy affair as well earn three points of gold that would catapult them to third position in the overall table.

Unfortunately things didn’t worked as planned for the visiting Toffees Manager Roberto Martinez as he saw his lads efforts going in vain with a simple tie that brought a point of gold to a modest and weak West Ham Baggies side.

As the Throstles newly appointed skipper Pepe Mel really couldn’t believe as well hide his joy over today’s feat, being caught saying “It Was a Beautiful End”.

Today’s match meant a lot for both squad s as well we can say it was a duel for both squads Spanish Managers, as the visiting side was hungry for a win as well move his squad to sole possession of third place ahead of their Merseyside side rivals Liverpool’s Reds.

At the end this match proved the visiting side skipper wrong as well showed him that there’s no such thing as an easy foe and never underestimate it- as of today’s late minute score it really proved the Albion’s intentions as pure spoilers!

Still the visiting Everton squad after showing off another potential run for the European positions, they displayed a very conservative formation of 4-2-3-1 with a sole attacker in Lukaku and a very defensive game to insure the victory.

In the home chaps Mel’s side displayed a very open formation with a 4-4-2 with Matej Vydra and controversial Nicolas Anelka in the frontal attack.

At the end it was a defender in Uruguayan Diego Lugano that score the equalizer and turned the Hawthorns into a madhouse and give his newly appointed Manager appoint of gold as well made a move in the table to thirteenth place with 22 points.

So far it looks like this season it’s a competitive one as well no squad as modest as it looks and plays like it, wants to be fighting for its life and survival in this edition of Premiership.

Very well the lads of West Broom Albion and its new Manager in Spaniard Pepe Mel, are looking somehow determined in salvaging their campaign for the club sake as well give its followers a reason to enjoy this edition of Premiership.

Saturday, January 18, 2014

Tony Pulis Sudden Turnaround of his Eagles

After its return to the ranks of Premiership, Crystal Palace knew about the upcoming challenges it had ahead of them as well try its best to maintain them.

Something that looked somehow difficult but not impossible, as it looked like this club really needed to honor its nickname of Eagles in order to soar above many teams considered not so easy.

Fighting against adversity and odd results has been this club story all season long- but at Selhurst Park its think tanks really put on their best effort to try to salvage a season that looked in a way lost as well doom- still persistence has its price as well rewards.

Suddenly this club is now fighting for its survival as well bringing back a long lasting reputation and pride for its followers.

For Tony Pulis becoming the Manager of a troubled squad wasn’t something to envy as well complement after seeing this squad submerged in the last positions of trouble or better known as relegation.

Unfortunately their schedule hasn’t been one of kind for them, still with nine points earned out of eighteen in play with a couple of wins including today’s- the Eagles are becoming somehow serious in their quest for salvation.

As we are aware that in this campaign of Premiership, many of us are looking into three stages of this league- including the top six squads trying to get their share of the first spot as well the European positions.

In the middle squads that are trying to pull ahead as well maintain themselves in the safe zones and lastly the one in the bottom three that every week we are seeing new residents and some of those before them making a run into the salvation zone.

At the end the Crystal Palace lads really put on a show in front of their faithful at Selhurst Park to get a most coveted win as well three points of gold in their quest of redeeming themselves in this second half of league play.

Coming to EPL the Crystal Place squad really showed its mettle as well determination in its return, very well now is the time to start focusing in their salvation if not redemption in what’s left of league play.

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

The Hammers Answer Their Critics with a Key Win

A must win in every match is the goal for troubled Hammer’s Manager Sam Allardyce, after his club is submerged in one of its worst losing streaks in their history.

After their last win as a visiting side over a modest and trying to rebuild its lines in Cardiff City, the Academy of Football was really determined to silence its critic’s in support of its troubled skipper.

With a convincing 2-0 win at Cardiff City venue, it became a shoot of optimism for Sam Allardyce chaps after encountering odd results and with only five points earned out of eighteen, the Irons were hungry for a well-deserved win!

For many in the Irons fan base aren’t comfortable to see their squad in the bottom of the table and fighting for its permanency as well see with a certain irony how Manager Allardyce who lead the Academy of Football back to Premiership- now he can be responsible for its relegation.

In their return next week to Boleyn Grounds in front of their vociferous supporters, the Irons are poised to face a winless Newcastle United squad, that after a three game skid- suddenly some hope opens the doors to take advantage of the situation for the Hammers.

Looking for a shield at this moments will be out of the context for the Hammers, but their salvation won’t be an issue to further discuss as many in the winter market are already making the necessary moves to reinforce its lines- it’s when the Academy of Football really needs to reinforce its weak spots.

The Welsh feat for now was a mission accomplished feat, as suddenly things are starting to looks clear at the end of the tunnel- but don’t count your chickens before they hatch- as a resurgent Magpie squad as well a visit at cross town rival Chelsea at Stamford Bridge doesn’t looks a bit promising.

It’s why the Football Academy really needs to focus on its upcoming matches if they want to continue their stay in the EPL big theater as well try to salvage their campaign for their sake and return to its club old glory days.

Monday, January 13, 2014

Man City Making a Point in Premiership

Manchester City is really poised for the Barclay’s Premiership Shield after putting a series of performances worth of a championship squad.

This time the Citizens are really determined to bring the shield back to Etihad Stadium halls as well stop that image as the other Manchester squad and come out of the shadows from its cross town rival the Red Devils.

It’s why the Sky Blues Manager in Manuel Pellegrini is showing the fruits of its labor by really putting an impressive six game stand, were they really taken advantage of its rival’s weak side by earning eighteen points in play.

As well make the Arsenal Gunners life impossible atop the league lead with just one point in advantage for the north Londoners over this Merseyside squad.

With upcoming matches against the Chelsea Blues, Tottenham Lilywhites as the top sides- then matches against modest ones in Cardiff City, Sunderland and Norwich City- which it can translate to be the icing in the cake in their quest to League glory.

Still that doesn’t mean that any of these squad’s matches will be an easy affair for the Citizens, but a challenge as many of those modest ones can really turn up to be an all-around challenge for the Manchester chaps.

Their latest victim in the Newcastle Geordies, as a visiting side the Sky Blues really put on a show of dominance at St. James Stadium to finalize with a 2-0 win- being Dzeko and Negredo the finishers of the feast!

Nothing is won yet after all the Citizens are competing side to side with the Chelsea Blues, Liverpool Reds, Everton Toffees for the top position held currently by the Arsenal Gunners- who are only ahead by one point.

A one of a kind campaign this is, after seeing the EPL top tiers really competing for the league top honors as well for the always coveted Barclay’s Premiership Shield.

This is it! those are the words at Etihad Stadium top men as well its first year Manager in this experienced Andean chap- whose really is determined to give the Citizens followers many satisfactions and silverware in years to come under his tenure.

In Style, Sherwood’s rallying his Tottenham Chaps

Tim Sherwood’s philosophy is credited for suddenly turning things around at White Hart Lane as well injecting a certain type of enthusiasm lost under its predecessor.

A new era is going on this North London club at the middle of this season- in the EPL that in this campaign is showing a certain level of competiveness from several clubs aiming for the league top positions if not the Championship.

After assembling a contender for then departed Skipper Villa Boas, the Hotspurs really were looking like an overall contender as well earned a couple of silverware to its halls with the squad assembled.

Not only the FA and Capitol One Cup formerly called Carling, but the Barclays Premiership trophy always coveted by all of its eighteen squads is in their aims.

Still this club is showing a big improvement in the table as well in its points that have put them on the brink of the European positions, for its new Manager the buck doesn’t stop here as he wants it all and prove that he will be this club future man at the helm.

Although big names were in the headlines for the Lilywhites to level its almost disastrous campaign, this chap is already doing the unthinkable of turning his club from hapless to a sudden contender.

Let’s give credit to Tim Sherwood’s vision, after turning things around and putting order in what once was a much disorganized squad that suddenly is gaining back its respect and surprising many with wins over squads once considered invincible in Premiership.

In their recent win over a modest Crystal Pace the Lilywhites really showed off their intentions of going after the top as well make a statement that they’re back and running as the squad to beat as well by beating its other foes in the top will consolidate a campaign designed by its top think thanks as successful.

Very well patch up some of this club positions as for its recently departed star forward in Jermaine Defoe to America’s grand Major League Soccer.

As for its newly appointed Manager in Tim Sherwood is now or never in its aims to convince a very doubtful public as well front men as the man for the job as well bring back old glories past to White Hart Lane as its to endeavor.

Saturday, January 11, 2014

A Treble of a Performance

Adam Johnson couldn’t believe his eyes as well lucky star, after having a field day for his Black Cats that marked this club sudden emergence- with two wins in a row in less than a week’s time.

Everything started in the middle of the week with a resilient Sunderland eleven, which really fought for its honor and determined to erase their skid.

Ask their rivals in turn the almighty Manchester United Red Devils, who thought that their luck was going to change, as well get an easy win for their confused Manager in need of one urgently.

Things didn’t work that day at Old Trafford after a resilient Sunderland squad and it’s Uruguayan Manager Gus Poyet that never stopped motivating his chaps on the sidelines.

A resounding victory as visitors at the Theater of Dreams mean a shoot in the arm of optimism as well a way of making a case in what’s the remaining of a season that can really be salvaged!

With back to back wins in FA cup and today in league play, a squad submerged in the abyss and destined to relegation- all of a sudden they’re in the fight of their survival and continuance in their Premiership stay.

Still with seventeen points in the table and well two away from salvation, with upcoming matches against a surprising Southampton squad that in this week came out victorious- things won’t be as easy as it looks for Skipper Poyets lads, but not difficult.

A treble of a performance for Johnson meant a well-deserved victory to crown this chap hell of a game day and seal today’s victory at Craven Cottage as a feat like no other.

Although the Cottagers aren’t a rival to be scared of, still a win is a win and counts for the Stadium of Light residents well deserved victory and a chance to really display an ambitious football in their quest to salvation.

With several matches left, the deal is alive and kicking very well for its followers that never stopped in supporting its beloved Black Cats in hopes of a miracle- that all of a sudden are becoming a reality in this second half of league play.

Is something under the arm of Sunderland’s Andean Manager Gus Poyet as well what will the destiny be of this traditional club that makes the Tyne Wear Daly Derby vibrate with emotions, well done and hope to see many of this performance’s lads.

Thursday, January 9, 2014

A Serious Contender in the Works at Toronto

This season it really looks like the Toronto FC front office is determined in building a serious contender in its always struggling and setback ridden squad.

After this squad inception as the fourteenth squad in Major League Soccer as well the first squad from Canada to play in this league dynamic expansion program.

Still since its inception to MLS, this squad hasn’t been able to qualify for this league postseason, which is becoming a sort of embarrassment as its fellow Canadian squads being new in league play they already made their first playoff appearances.

Despite the TFC performances its faithful is still persistent in supporting its Reds whatever the results and campaign they offer.

A squad that has seen its share and parade of Managers as well being held to the always infamous cellar ridden positions, is when Tim Leiweke one of the TFC owners after his squad mediocre performance this 2013- is when he really said enough is enough!

As for its rookie Manager in Kiwi great Ryan Nelsen, who wants to turn things around BMO Field and start bringing other type of silverware aside the Amway Canadian Shields won in a four year sequence as well a minor trophy in the Trillium Cup and a semifinal appearance in the Concachampions.

It’s when its majority of TFC shareholders in the almighty Maple Leaf Entertainment owners of the NHL Toronto Maple Leaf’s and NBA’S Toronto Raptors, went into action.

With an owner determined this season to build a contender and look seriously in his endeavor, suddenly the TFC is on the brink as well the European winter markets competing alongside the likes of Manu, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Borussia Dortmund, Celtic Glasgow and many others.

In the reinforcement of its squad on eve of the upcoming 2014 MLS campaign that looks somehow contested if not hotly competed with its entire clubs reinforcing every position.

It’s where the TFC has announced after a longtime of negotiations with English Premiership side Tottenhams Hotspurs the purchase of its striker Jermaine Defoe to play at Exhibition Place as its top signing as well impact MLS with this chap arrival to MLS.

Very well the buck doesn’t stop for the Reds as another front in negotiating for another ace under the sleeve in Michael Bradley from Italian side AS Roma to make a one two punch line with newly returning player Dwayne De Rosario in the TFC midfield.

Competitive indeed this squad will be and reach to the top as well exercise certain hegemony in its interstate rivals on the American side as well its Canadian counterparts in the I-99 archrivals the lads of the Montreal Impact and their west coast nemesis in the Vancouver Whitecaps.

For now Defoe and Bradley are making serious headlines in MLS circles and soccer faithful in the States as well Canada and creating a serious contender in the Toronto Reds as well a team to beat in the Eastern Division, good luck Toronto chaps!

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

Hail to St. Patrick’s Athletic FAI 2013 Champions

Ni neart go cur le chéile as it translates from Gaelic to English- as there’s no strength without unity, one that made this Dublin squad enjoy the fruits of their labor in the FAI League.

Since the arrival of second year Manager Liam Buckley, that so far his focus has turned this club into an all-around contender in league circles.

For this squad based on Richmond Stadium since the 1930’s a venue located on the outskirts of Dublin in a suburb called Inchicore.

After all we credit the resurgence of this club since Buckley took over the helm as well turned it in to a mad powerhouse by winning five matches in a row in league play as well making a stand in the European qualifiers after tying to its German side Hanover for the squad elimination in this competition.

Still this 2013 can be a year of the Pats after ending a FAI Cup drought of 52 years clinching it with style with a 2-0 win over archrival’s Sligo Rovers.

For the Saints this feat is like no other as well focus on defending champions and going after the always coveted Setanta Cup as well make a stand in the upcoming Dublin derbies against bitter foe in the Shamrock Rovers.

At the end Manager Liam Buckley will focus on extending its squad into more playing time and qualifying them into the European theaters as well bring as many shields to the halls of Richmond Park- with this squad all Irish it can be done!

Congratulations on winning the Airtricity FAI Shield Saint Patrick Saints, your effort was well seen in the field as well in the stands by your diehard followers and Shed End Invincibles.

Well Done Cumann Peile Lúthchleas Phádraig Naofa

- Saint Patrick Athletic F.C.

Crest Credit © Newtonheath Company Limited (a private company limited by shares) trading as St Patrick’s Athletic FC. Registered in Ireland

Thank you Portland Timbers and Green Army!

What a season our lads in Green gave to its one of kind followers here in the Rose City, as 2013 was indeed a grand year for the Portland Timbers!

This season marked the arrival of one of the most successful and respected Managers in the soccer collegiate circuit of the NCAA in the great Caleb Porter.

A man with an impressive resume and hungry for making this squad into a contender- it’s what many of us saw in a renovated and ambitious initial elevens put in the field by this great skipper.

With new hopes and renovated desires of assembling a winner- Portland’s front office really assembled a squad worth of overcome any of the challenges from any squads.

As last season Spice Boy Beckham didn’t participated anymore in Los Angeles, still his legacy was left by this Briton injected the enthusiasm and awakened the interest for soccer of a once apathetic American public.

Not in the Pacific Northwest as the Timbers Neighbors up in the Interstate 5, the Seattle Sounders in their debut season, they really started showing the Union how soccer was followed with attendance records in the MLS.

But not until the Portland Timbers arrived and made their debut along their Northwest foes in the Vancouver Whitecaps that really infused the energy and push for the beautiful sport in our nation.

Oh yes the Pacific Northwest has been a forerunner of soccer in the States as its three squads really have promoted the game and with no further review the Portland Timbers fans are among the tops in all of Major League Soccer fan base for its all-around spirit.

The great Portland Timbers Green Army assembled in the Northwest part of the stadium that never ceases to sing and jump for its great Green and white army playing their heart of in the field.

I do thank this group of enthusiastic followers that their only resource is to sing and jump in unison as well hearing chants that gave brought them with deserved honor the title of TIFO if the Year and for our own Caleb Porter taking the honors of Manager of the 2013 Campaign.

We can say those up north have given their share to American soccer, but it’s our own Portland Timbers and its Green Army that many fan bases in the eighteen squads in the league, seeing the enthusiasm of its elite supporters that transports you to any European or South American venue al Americana.

I just want to say thank you Portland Timbers, for your all around enthusiasm in the field and hence the results as Western Division Champions; for your great Timbers Green Army unmeasured support in every minute of play that really made the difference and vibrated the stands at Jen Weld.

Great job in all of the aspects as well applaud the great Portland Timbers Front Office, Manager, Players, staff and very well it’s top of the line fans and grand elite Timbers Green Army.

Portland Timbers We Salute You! If I Root I Root for the Timbers! Green and White till I die!