tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20495082893200519102024-03-13T16:33:31.656+00:00The Last Word - Sports Blog (Sean Simara) A refreshed look of my sports blog. Yes not much live sports happening around the world for the minute, but it will get back to normal soon!
The Last Word.
You can also now follow on Twitter @Sean_FootyMad
#EPL #EFL #Football #NFL #NBA #Rugby #WWE #England #Euros #WorldCup #UCL #UELSean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.comBlogger183125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-69830765833146290842020-04-29T12:24:00.001+01:002020-04-29T12:24:09.045+01:00Tottenham 0-2 Liverpool (2019) <span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On to the 2019 Champions League Final now as Liverpool returned after their heartbreak of last year and they faced Tottenham. An all English final for the first time since 2008. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Both these sides came through some unforgettable semi-finals. Liverpool turned around a 3-0 deficit against Barcelona. While Tottenham came through a hell of a tie against Ajax. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Coming into the match Spurs were left worrying about the fitness of Harry Kane. Kane came into the game struggling but declared himself fit for the match after missing the semi-final. For Liverpool, no real major injury concerns. It was the start that Liverpool fans could only dream of. After only 20 seconds Moussa Sissoko was penalised for 'handball' from a cross by Sadio Mane which seemed to hit his chest. His arm was out in an unnatural position and after a VAR check the penalty was given. It was down to Mo Salah who was so cruelly taken off injured last year to give Liverpool the lead, which the Egyptian did. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With scoring so early it did give Spurs time to come back, but if there is any team in Europe you don't want to give a lead it was this Liverpool side. They were probably the best side in Europe and were desperate to win something for themselves and Jurgen Klopp, who was yet to win anything for Liverpool so far. In fact, in the opposite dugout Mauricio Pochettino also had not won anything for Spurs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The first half was tame. Spurs could not really create anything, and Kane was struggling to get into the match. Liverpool had chances with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson who were the most explosive and dangerous full backs in all of Europe. In the second half Spurs got better. They could not get any worse to be fair. Dele Alli had a chance which he scooped into Allison arms. Chances fell to Son Heung-min, Lucas Moura and Christian Eriksen but they could not find the back of the net. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the end though it was the hero of the semi-final for Liverpool Divock Origi who got the goal to send them through against Barcelona. The Belgian came on as a sub and his left foot strike found the bottom corner riffling past Hugo Lloris in goal. This sealed a pretty easy win for Liverpool who were never out of control of the game. This was Liverpool’s 6th success of the trophy. They are the most successful English team in this competition, and this was Klopp's first major honour at Anfield. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Watch the last Champions League Final for a while <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VzNx27VAXw" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
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Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-12344562044107403772020-04-29T12:19:00.000+01:002020-04-29T12:19:10.219+01:00Real Madrid 3-1 Liverpool (2018)<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A hell of a game this one and one that would be remembered for years to come. It was Liverpool’s turn to try and topple Real Madrid as they faced up in Kiev, Ukraine. This match had some outstanding goals, controversy, drama and some hilarious mistakes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Liverpool were looking for their 6th European Cup while Madrid were hoping to make it 3 in a row. Both teams came out of the blocks very fast creating a lot of chances. The major moment of the first half though came around the 25-minute mark. Remember Sergio Ramos and his shithouse antics in Cardiff last year? Well here he got himself into a tangle with Mo Salah which sadly saw the Egyptian star forced off with an injury. I thought it was a fair challenge and Ramos landed on Salah’s arm by accident while rolling up on his shoulder with his full body weight. These things happen in the game.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The first half did in fact end 0-0 but it was in the second is where all the entertainment came. Madrid took the lead through Karim Benzema but it came via a horrific mistake by Loris Karius the Liverpool keeper. He tried to roll the ball out to a teammate but with Benzema close and his quick thinking threw out his right foot and managed to direct the ball into an empty net. At this point and with such a mistake I think Karius focus had gone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Liverpool did make it 1-1 a few minutes later as Sadio Mane flicked in a Dejan Lovren header from a corner kick. With the reds level and back in the game it was game on. Zidane decided to bring on Gareth Bale from the bench a few minutes later the Welshman scored what is described in the football community as a ‘worldie’. Bale scored an outrageous bicycle kick which was unstoppable and probably the best goal scored in the final in the last decade. His night got even better as he found the net again. Bale’s 40-yard effort went through the keepers flapping hands and into the net. At this point his career at Liverpool was practically over. </span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Madrid fans (who were outnumbered in the stadium) exploded with joy. As the Liverpool players fell to their knees and hanged their heads. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As Madrid celebrated their 13th European Cup, the blame was focused onto the keeper who had a shocker. The Liverpool fans also blamed Ramos for injuring Salah and Karius suffered a concussion during the game which was why he made these mistakes. This was also blamed on Ramos. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Meanwhile Madrid added more to their ever-growing history. Cristiano Ronaldo became the only player to win 5 Champions Leagues. Bale was the first sub to net twice in a final. Zidane was of course the first to win 3 Champions Leagues in a row in this era and matched Carlo Ancelotti’s record. At this point Klopp had lost 6 of 7 major finals he had found himself in. Not the best of records for the German.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Watch the horror night for Liverpool again <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CG1B6rxlZ-8" target="_blank">here</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next an all English affair in Spain </span>Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-76269028451394256152020-04-26T10:53:00.000+01:002020-04-26T11:09:31.536+01:00Juventus 1-4 Real Madrid (2017)<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff now for another sensational final as Juventus faced the tough task against defending champions Real Madrid. Los Blancos were looking to become the first team to retain the cup under the Champions League era.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Juventus headed into the final hoping to finally get their hands on the trophy since 1996. The Old Lady were also looking to lock down their own treble. Juventus had a much-changed team since their last appearance in the final against Barcelona 2 years ago. Real Madrid were pretty much the same team as they were last year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />The closed roof of the Millennium made a cracking atmosphere and Juventus started the game much stronger and were unlucky not to take the lead early doors through a couple of strikes from Gonazlo Hugain.<br /><br />The break-through did finally come from Madrid’s talisman Cristiano Ronaldo. His sweeping right foot effort nicked off Leonardo Bonucci into the bottom corner. Juventus were the better side in the first half and their hard work finally paid off. They produced one of the best goals in Champions League finals history. Mario Mandzukic chested the ball down then hooked it over his shoulder with his right foot over Navas in goal. A truly great goal and probably the best goal of the last decade… while for now it was. With the Italian side back in the game was it finally time for them to end the long drought?<br /><br />In the second half this Madrid side showed why their champions and took full control of the game. Just after the hour a man who hardly ever scores long distance effort somehow found the corner as Casemiro gave them the lead again. It was a quick fire double blow handed out by the Spanish team as Ronaldo acted fast and grabbed his second of the game as he tucked away a cross at the front post. This was a tough place to come back from and the night did not get any easier for Juventus. <br /><br />When you look up Sergio Ramos you see a leader, a winner, a proper player, and a legend. You also find one of the most controversial and what can only be defined as <i>‘Shithouse’ </i>players to ever play the game. We saw classic Ramos here who won a tackle (fairly) near the touchline on Juan Cuarado who then slightly pushes the Spaniard in the back. Ramos then dived to the floor started rolling around holding his ankle. With Marcelo his teammate and fellow master of the dark arts protesting to the ref that his friend had be shot, their plan worked as Cuarado picked up his second yellow card. Real Madrid found a fourth goal via Marco Asensio late on. <br /><br />So, this was Madrid’s 12th win of the competition. The first side to retain the cup in this era. Ronaldo’s 4th win of this competition and became the first player to score in 3 Champions League finals. I hope your keeping up. This was Zidane’s second victory as a head coach of Madrid and Ramos managed to pick himself up off the ground and lift the cup for his team in the end.<br /><br />You can watch Ramos at work <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOCJdR8yJdw" target="_blank">here</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next a classic in Kiev.</span></div>
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Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-86701241471235819862020-04-26T10:52:00.003+01:002020-04-26T11:08:59.108+01:00Real Madrid 1-1 Atletico Madrid (Real Madrid win 5-3 on penalties - 2016)<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A repeat of the 2014 final now as Real Madrid faced city rivals Atletico. This time the setting was the San Siro in Milan. Zinedine Zidane was now the head coach of Real Madrid taking over the side in early January 2016, with pretty much the Champions League the only hope of success. This game was not as open as their encounter two years ago, but it still had its drama.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Real took the league through fan favourite and one of my favourite players ever Sergio Ramos. The captain managed to get a touch on Gareth Bale’s flick on which saw it just go past Jan Oblak in goal. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Atletico had the perfect chance to level it up from the spot but their star Frenchman Antoine Griezmann’s penalty smashed off the bar and bounced out. Chances in this were few and far between with an excellent display in goal for Atletico by Oblak. With just over 10 minutes left on the clock Atletico finally found the net. A cross from Juanfran on the right-hand side was smashed in by the substitute Yannick Carrasco. A well-deserved goal which lead us to extra time. Atletico learnt from two years ago when Real pulled away made sure chances were limited in extra time. With both teams cancelling each other out, it went to a penalty shootout.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Both teams were at 100% before Juanfran saw his penalty cruelly come back off the foot of the post. So, it was down to Cristiano Ronaldo to seal the win for Real Madrid which of course he did do. The greatest goal scorer in Madrid’s history sent Oblak the wrong way and won Real another European Cup and Ronnie collected his third winners medal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Catch the highlights of the game <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_sMr1kEcxZk" target="_blank">here</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Off to Cardiff next and its another final featuring Real Madrid.</span><br />
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Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-48794103529072244712020-04-21T11:06:00.001+01:002020-04-21T11:12:53.778+01:00Juventus 1-3 Barcelona (2015) <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Off to Berlin now for this year’s final between Juventus and Barcelona. Both sides here chasing their own treble for the season after wrapping up their domestic leagues and cups. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Could Barcelona get any better from the Pep era? Well yes, they sort of did. They added Luis Suarez to the mix the summer of 2014 boosting their fire power to untouchable heights. ‘MSN’ Messi, Suarez and Neymar racked up a remarkable 122 goals that season.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Coming into this game Barcelona were the heavy favourites but Juventus had a cracking team themselves. A midfield four of Andrea Pirlo, Paul Pogba, Claudio Marchisio & Arturo Vidal had talent and creation. The pair up front was Carlos Tevez and Alvaro Morata who can get goals on their day. This should have been quite a game and maybe a little more even.<br /><br />Well to the match and Juventus plan to keep it tight at the back was blown out of the water as Ivan Rakitic scored after only 4 minutes. This brought Juventus out on the attack and played into the Barcelona’s hands which gave us another end to end game. The Old Lady eventually leveled it up via a goal from Morata. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Barcelona retook the lead through Suarez and Juventus were unlucky not to equalise again with Ter Stegen in goal making a few questionable decisions. Neymar though finally put the Turin side out of their misery with the fourth. This was Barcelona’s 5th European Cup and secured their second treble. This was also Luis Enrique’s first season as head coach of Barcelona, and it was quite a successful one keeping up their brilliant winning mentality.</span></div>
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<img alt="Champions League Final 2015: Post-Match Reaction from Juventus vs ..." height="213" src="https://img.bleacherreport.net/img/images/photos/003/428/260/hi-res-4cbf0a3650297795ad3afd1aed3b55ec_crop_north.jpg?1433626826&w=3072&h=2048" width="320" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Re watch the 2015 final <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JX00F1iZlsQ" target="_blank">here</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's a repeat of the 2014 final next as Real Madrid face Atletico Madrid.</span></div>
Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-17281255084276677692020-04-21T10:50:00.001+01:002020-04-21T10:50:20.095+01:00Real Madrid 1-1 Atletico Madrid - Real Madrid win 4-1 AET (2014)<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What a game this was and one of my favourites looking back. The stage was set as Real Madrid took on city rivals Atletico Madrid in the capital of Portugal, Lisbon for the 2014 Champions League Final. Real Madrid were on the hunt for ‘La Decima’ (their 10th European Cup) and Atletico looking for their very first. Atletico came into the game having recently won La Liga. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This game had it all from start to finish, with some of the best on show they all turned up for the main event. You might have forgotten main man for Atletico Diego Costa was forced off early with an injury, could things have been different if he were fully fit? It all added to the drama of a great game. Atletico took the lead with a trademark set piece goal Diego Simeone’s side were well know for. Real Madrid keeper Iker Casillas was caught in no man’s land and Diego Godin’s looping header caught him out. What we saw next was some sensational defending from Atletico putting everything on the line as Real went ultra-attacking mode. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A lot of their chances fell to Gareth Bale on the night, but finally through a corner in injury time whipped in by Luka Modric, up leaped Sergio Ramos as his header found the bottom corner out of reach for a desperate Thibaut Coutois. Que scenes for one half of Madrid as their fans and players went crazy. A cruel blow for Atletico who played great on the night. The momentum swung towards Los Blancos in extra time which was driven by Di Maria, Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo. They all found that little bit extra and showed their class. La Decima was wrapped up with goals from Bale, Marcelo and a penalty tucked away by Ronaldo. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Carlo Ancelotti picked up his third European Cup success as a manager, as for Real Madrid well you will see them a hell of a lot over the next few years.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Re-watch this classic <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DG8BTsvBUoo" target="_blank">here</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next up Barcelona look to make history again.</span>Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-29667300637967814762020-04-14T14:49:00.003+01:002020-04-17T08:55:15.605+01:00Borussia Dortmund 1-2 Bayern Munich (2013)<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The first ever all German final at the home of football Wembley Stadium saw Borussia Dortmund face Bayern Munich in <i>Der Klassiker</i> which is the German Classico. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In their respective semi-finals they took out Barcelona and Real Madrid, so this was sure to be a cracker and yes our boy Arjen Robben played a massive role here again. In a very open game both sides had chances, but the breakthrough came after the hour via Mario Mandzukic who scored for Bayern. Dortmund leveled it up via the spot with a penalty from Ilkay Gundogan. A familiar face in English football now as he’s at Manchester City. (Side note Dante should have got a second yellow & been sent off for Bayern for giving away the penalty) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The chances still came at both ends during the second half and just as extra time loomed up stepped our familiar face. After fluffing his lines last year Robben found the net with only 2 minutes remaining rolling in his one on one with his famous left foot. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wembley exploded with noise as this was Bayern’s 5th European Cup and they went on to complete the treble winning the DFB-Pokal (German Cup) after already winning the Bundesliga. For Dortmund this was the last European final they have featured into date, but for their manager at the time Jurgen Klopp he does pop up again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Watch <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcrBZH75GSI" target="_blank">here</a> as Robben finally gets it right.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next up is a classic and a Madrid derby in Portugal.</span>Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-75486661714017574032020-04-14T14:43:00.001+01:002020-04-17T09:15:06.475+01:00Bayern Munich 1-1 Chelsea - Chelsea win 4-3 on penalties (2012)<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">From the feedback so far on the blog for some reason Bayern Munich v Chelsea is the one a lot want to read and reflect on. I can't think why. Well the German side back in the final on their home patch surely it’s the perfect time for them to lift the Champions League again? Well football is not that easy and can be cruel. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Roberto Di Matteo was named caretaker manager of Chelsea in March 2012 until the end of that season after the sacking of Andre Villas-Boas. What came in the few months after will forever be remembered in Chelsea’s history. Leading up to the final ‘leader’ John Terry was suspended after getting sent off in the semi-final against Barcelona. This was literally set up for Munich to win. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Looking back at this game I remembered the surprise selection of Ryan Bertrand in the starting line up and Arjen Robben missing a lot of chances for Bayern, boy did he miss a lot. Chelsea pretty much defended for most the game (in particular though Ashley Cole was outstanding) creating the odd chance. Bayern after missing loads of opportunities finally broke through late in the game via a back-post header from Thomas Muller. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The drama didn’t stop there at the Allianz Arena as Didier Drogba scored an 88th minute equaliser with another header. Drogba was for me the big game player for Chelsea netting 9 goals in 9 finals for the blues. So on to extra time and Robben continued to miss chance after chance. He then had the golden opportunity to put Bayern back in the lead from the penalty spot. The penalty was given away by Drogba but saved by Petr Cech in goal. Literally Bayern how are you going to blow this? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So on to a penalty shoot-out. It was fitting that Drogba was in fact the man to put away the winning penalty and seal Chelsea’s first European Cup success. This also made Chelsea the first and still the only London club with a European Cup. Drogba left the club that summer a legend (he did return in 2014 for one season) but he put his mark on Chelsea’s greatest night in history. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some say their history only started when Roman Abramovich came in 2003, and Terry changing into his kit to join in with the celebrations was a much talked about topic for years to come. However, that’s an argument for another day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Chelsea also won the FA Cup that season beating Liverpool 2-1 and yes Drogba scored the winner in that too. It was a short spell for </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Di Matteo lasting only 8 months but a pretty successful one nonetheless. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can refresh your memory of the final <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXoEIxBijZ4" target="_blank">here</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A return to Wembley next in an all-German affair. </span><br />
<br />Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-64152245126923174802020-04-09T11:24:00.000+01:002020-04-09T15:11:20.601+01:00Barcelona 3-1 Manchester United (2011)<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A footballing lesson was handed out in 2011 at Wembley Stadium as Barcelona took on Manchester United. Barcelona at the peak of their powers under Pep Guardiola dominated the game from start to finish proving they were one of the greatest sides ever assembled. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Looking back at this game and the starting line ups it wasn’t a bad United team, with a back four including Ferdinand, Vidic & Evra. Rooney as number 10 and Hernandez up top. However, Barcelona with the midfield trio of Iniesta, Xavi & Busquets (the best midfield trio in the world) and someone called Messi up front, simply tore United apart.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A few half chances at the start for United but the Catalan side created chance after chance and finally broke through with a Pedro strike sending Van der Sar the wrong way. Rooney did grab an equaliser for United but the class difference between the two sides grew in the second half and Messi & Co extended the lead with a couple of stunning goals. Messi’s goal came in the blink of an eye, put him on his left foot you know how it ends. The Barcelona third was a curling shot from David Villa from the edge of the D which went top bins. A well-deserved win which wrapped up Barcelona’s 4th European Cup success. This was also the last time Pep won the Champions League, it’s been a very long time for Fraudiola, sorry Guardiola lifting this one.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can refresh your memory of the final <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZDi8IpffEo" target="_blank">here</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next up it’s a trip to Germany in 2012, can Bayern win it in their own back yard?</span>Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-28244166430005653762020-04-09T10:36:00.000+01:002020-04-09T15:10:43.116+01:00Bayern Munich 0-2 Inter Milan (2010)<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To kick off my throwback review of Champions League finals the first brings us to Bayern Munich v Inter Milan in 2010 at the Santiago Bernabéu in Spain. It was the completion of a historic treble for Inter Milan as they also landed Serie A and the Coppa Italia that season. This was also Jose Mourinho's second Champions League victory.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The game was remembered for a display of master class finishing from Diego Milito who netted both goals for Inter. The second all his own work, taking on Van Buyten before slotting his right foot strike pass Butt in goal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In true Mourinho fashion the Inter tactics were pretty much what many football fans of that time expected of him, soak up the pressure and hit on the counterattack. Robben pulled the strings for Bayern but he couldn't quite find the net, a very similar performance from him appears in a few years’ time which I will get to. For the German side this was a breakthrough season of one Thomas Muller, one of the modern day greats of the game, who if you didn't know is still scoring a load of goals for The Bavarians to this day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Inter forward line consisted of some star players of that time including Samuel Eto’o and Wesley Sneijder. Focusing on Sneijder that season or calendar year he was one of the finest players of that time. This was his only Champions League success, however 2010 saw the Dutchman collect UEFA Champions League top assist, UEFA Club midfielder of the year, selected in the 2010 World Cup Dream Team, a World Cup runners up medal, UEFA team of the year, and 4th in the Ballon D'Or. He was linked to Manchester United every summer transfer window but never played in the Premier League. Someone who did play in the Premier League in this side and was surprisingly OK in a awful QPR side was Julio Cesar who ended up at Loftus Road in 2012. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can refresh your memory of the final <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ahQNqglBJI&list=PLxL4Lcp6PPgLC8lQ_WmTKFQ_EDcEAVfgH" target="_blank">here</a> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Look out for my 2011 final review next.</span>Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-77931817922660962112019-07-31T22:59:00.001+01:002020-04-08T12:01:52.943+01:00Football League 2019/20 Predictions <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Championship </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1. Fulham</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3. Bristol City</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4. Leeds</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">5. WBA</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">6. Blackburn Rovers</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">7. Nottingham Forest</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">8. Preston</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Relegated </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Reading</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Birmingham </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Charlton </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1. Peterborough </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2. Ipswich</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3. Sunderland</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4. Portsmouth </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">5. Doncaster </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">6. Bristol Rovers</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">7. Burton</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">8. MK Dons</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Relegated</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Bury</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Bolton</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tranmere</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Southend</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>League Two</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1. Mansfield</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">2. Northampton </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">3. Scunthorpe United</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">4. Newport</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">5. Salford</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">6. Colchester United</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">7. Bradford</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">8 Walsall</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Relegated</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Macclesfield</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Crawley</span></div>
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Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-77259014075206173282018-02-03T09:24:00.005+00:002018-02-03T09:24:57.625+00:00 Super Bowl LII Preview <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Super Bowl weekend is upon us once again as the New England Patriots face off against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LII.<br /><br /></span><div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">One team seem to always get there while the other is a breath of fresh air. For that reason the 'neutral' fans will be cheering on The Eagles probably because they just simple don't want to see a smug Tom Brady winning a 6th Lombardi Trophy.<br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Patriots with Bill and Tom pretty much done what was expected with a record of 13-3 in the regular season. They saw off the Tennessee Titans and Jacksonville Jaguars in the post season, which included an impressive 4th quarter come-back against the Jags. The dynasty between Bilichick and Brady didn't really have anything more to prove, but there's no doubt they would want to add another ring to the collection.<br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Philadelphia Eagle are slightly different and are searching for their first Super Bowl victory. They flew through the NFC East and had a regular season record of 13-3. Eagles then saw off Atlanta Falcons and the Minnesota Vikings in the Vikings stadium. That is actually the venue where the Super Bowl will be played. Eagles will be without star QB Carson Wentz who got injured in the Falcons game. Nick Foles stepped in and done well, but can he perform the biggest upset on the biggest stage?<br /><br /><br />The Eagles' last faced the Pats in the Super Bowl in 2005 where the Pats of course won 24-21. So can Foles put enough on the score board and beat the NFL 'GOAT'. Eagles can't waste possession. Having the ball 5-6 minutes but coming away with no score or only field goals won't be good enough. No matter how much points you do score we have seen Brady and the Pats turn around some very tight situations in the past. You also have to admit New England do get a hell of a lot of help from the refs. Another reason fans hate them and want to see Eagles win. For Philadelphia this is a city desperate for success. The face base are something special, you may have seen them wearing animal masks and running into posts chasing after trains on social media. It's a fairy-tale story that most would want to see a happy ending. <br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I will be cheering for Philadelphia, rather see someone new lifting it for once. However betting against Bill and Tom in this game is something you really can't do, not in this game. I would not be shocked if the Eagles are leading going in to the fourth quarter, but with too much time left on the clock 'Number 12' does it again. <br /><br /><span style="color: lime;">New England Patriots 37 - 30 Philadelphia Eagles<br /><br />MVP - Danny Amendola (New England Patriots) </span></span><br />
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Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-73798448568562207492018-01-04T16:02:00.003+00:002018-01-04T16:02:46.659+00:00NFL WILD CARD ROUND PICKS<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here's my picks for the NFL Wild Card Weekend.</span><br />
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tennessee Titans at Kansas City Chiefs</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The first wild card match up of the weekend. I will roll with Alex Smith and the home team. Chiefs are just the better football team and should take this one.</span><br />
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tennessee Titans 21</span><br />
<span style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kansas City Chiefs 30</span><br />
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Buffalo Bills at Jacksonville Jaguars</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">If the Bills' Running Back LeSean McCoy pulls the Bills win. He is currently day to day off the back of a ankle injury. Jaguars do have a mean defence though and love to get at the Quarter-Back. A tight one but I'm going with Buffalo who are in their first play off for a very very long time.</span><br />
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Buffalo Bills 21</span><br />
<span style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Jacksonville Jaguars 20</span><br />
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Atlanta Falcons at LA Rams </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Atlanta were the butt of all jokes for their Super Bowl collapse, the steps to redemption I feel will fall at the first play off hurdle. The LA Rams are young and exciting ad I expect them to progress here.</span><br />
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Atlanta Falcons 27</span><br />
<span style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">LA Rams 37</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">Carolina Panthers at New Orleans Saints</span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The closet game to call over the wild card weekend will likely come down to the Panthers Line Backers and the Saints Running Backs. A close one and even could go to over time. I am going with Cam Newton just to get the win. </span><br />
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Carolina Panthers 36</span><br />
<span style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">New Orleans Saints 30</span><br />
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<br />Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-47751604174575553052017-10-24T15:38:00.000+01:002017-10-24T15:38:33.841+01:00My Fifa Team of the Year 2017 and a non La Liga Team <div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Only a few changes they have it pretty much right. There's a clear La Liga love in though so I also have a non La Liga side thrown in. </span></div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">WINNING TEAM</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Buffon (ITA/Juventus)<br /><br />Defenders: Dani Alves (BRA/Juventus/Paris Saint-Germain), Leonardo Bonucci (ITA/Juventus/AC Milan), Sergio Ramos (ESP/Real Madrid), Marcelo (BRA/Real Madrid)<br /><br />Midfielders: Andres Iniesta (ESP/Barcelona), Toni Kroos (GER/Real Madrid), Luka Modric (CRO/Real Madrid)<br /><br />Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (POR/Real Madrid), Lionel Messi (ARG/Barcelona), Neymar (BRA/FC Barcelona/Paris Saint-Germain)</span><div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">MY TEAM </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Buffon (ITA/Juventus)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Defenders: Dani Alves (BRA/Juventus/Paris Saint-Germain), Leonardo Bonucci (ITA/Juventus/AC Milan), Sergio Ramos (ESP/Real Madrid), Marcelo (BRA/Real Madrid)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Midfielders: N'Golo Kante (FRA / Chelsea) Isco (SPA/Real Madrid), Luka Modric (CRO/Real Madrid)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo (POR/Real Madrid), Lionel Messi (ARG/Barcelona), Kylian Mbappe (FRA/Monaco/Paris Saint-Germain)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">MY NON LA LIGA TEAM </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Buffon (ITA/Juventus)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Defenders: Dani Alves (BRA/Juventus/Paris Saint-Germain), Leonardo Bonucci (ITA/Juventus/AC Milan), Philipp Lahm (GER/Bayern Munich), Giorgio Chiellini (ITA/Juventus)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Midfielders: N'Golo Kante (FRA / Chelsea) Marco Verratti (ITA/Paris Saint-Germain), Paul Pogba (FRA/Manchester United)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Forwards: Kylian Mbappe (FRA/Monaco/Paris Saint-Germain), Harry Kane (ENG/Tottenham), Paulo Dybala (ARG/Juventus)</span></div>
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Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-46499558054366962602017-10-02T19:57:00.000+01:002017-10-02T19:57:24.310+01:00World Class Strikers' <div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The debate of he's a world class striker rumbles on across Europe. What makes a world class striker? Winning titles, doing it for your country? Dragging your team single handed through a tournament? There's many factors that all play a role. I have made a list of the top 4 strikers / forwards across the top 5 leagues in Europe. Some rouge wingers might slip in but picking just 4 is head enough. Ranking them World Class - WC. Knocking on the door of world class - KOD. Quality Player - QP. And last in Harry Redknapp style Top Top Player - TTP.</span></div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">England</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Harry Kane - KOD</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sergio Aguero - KOD</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Romelu Lukaku - QP</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Alexis Sanchez - KOD</span></div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Spain</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lionel Messi - WC</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cristiano Ronaldo - WC</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Antoine Griezmann - KOD</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gareth Bale - KOD</span></div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">France</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Radamel Falcao - KOD</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Edinson Cavani - QP</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kylian M'Bappe - QP</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Neymar - KOD</span></div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Italy</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Paulo Dybala - KOD</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dries Mertens - QP</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mauro Icardi - TTP</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gonzalo Higuain - QP</span></div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Germany</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Robert Lewandowski - KOD</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pierre Emerick Aubameyang - QP</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Timo Werner - TTP</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thomas Muller - KOD</span></div>
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Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-65212657510388004482017-09-07T19:24:00.002+01:002017-09-07T19:24:24.054+01:00NFL Picks<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Some </span><span style="color: lime; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">NFL</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> picks and a very early Super Bowl prediction:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: orange;">AFC EAST</span> - New England Patriots</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: orange;">AFC SOUTH</span> - Houston Texans</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: orange;">AFC NORTH</span> - Pittsburgh Steelers</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: orange;">AFC WEST</span> - Oakland Raiders </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">NFC SOUTH</span> - Atlanta Falcons </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">NFC EAST</span> - NY Giants</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">NFC WEST</span> - Arizona Cardinals </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">NFC NORTH</span> - Green Bay Packers</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">SUPERBOWL WINNERS</span> - Pittsburgh Steelers </span><br />
<br />Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-52338908120694571052017-08-08T10:50:00.000+01:002017-08-11T09:48:34.762+01:00Premier League 2017/18 Preview <span style="color: cyan; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: cyan; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">1. Manchester United</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Well if ever there was a manager who gets it right in the second season its Jose. Now he did land United 2 cups and Champions League football which was the aim last season. The league form was pretty dire and must improve should improve and I think will improve. I pick them just to pip City as they actually have some players who will defend. It’s looking like United will be very physical and most of the squad is around 6ft tall. They will bully their way to the league title it might be glamorous all the time, but they will.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man – <span style="color: cyan;">Romelu Lukaku</span> filling Zlatan’s big boots now, we know he can do it in the Premier League. However against the big teams does he go missing? We will see this season, the Belgian will also be tested in the Champions League. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="color: cyan;">2. Manchester City</span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pep went out and spent over £100m on full backs, yes just full backs. Going forward City are the best in the league Sterling, Sane, De Bruyne, Jesus. I mean Aguero might not even be his number 1 striker! However you do need to defend at times. So with Mendy & Walker bombing forward yes they have the pace to get back but an injury to Kompany (which will happen) there still suspect at the back and it will cost them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man- <span style="color: cyan;">Fernandinho</span>, like I said someone has to win the ball back and stop the opposition. His defensive mind is needed in this team. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: cyan;">3. Chelsea </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Unexpected Champions last year, Chelsea were solid very solid. However this season could be different having sent what seems all their younger players out on loan again, the squad is light. Chelsea have European football now so they have to sign a few more squad players. You know though they will still be up there Conti was class last year on the side lines so Chelsea should slot into third.<br /><br />Key Man – <span style="color: cyan;">Eden Hazard</span> has one of his high seasons last time when he’s in the mood simple unstoppable. <br /><br /><span style="color: cyan;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: cyan;">4. Liverpool</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's very tough to split the next 3. Liverpool going forward their quality, at the back it’s not as good. I like Mane they missed him when he got injured. Adding Mo Salah brings more goals. Klopp did address the left back situation and sign Andrew Robertson a centre half is needed. Klopp does need a plan B though Liverpool can’t be so good against the top sides and so rubbish against the bottom ones. Plan B is needed, the fire power will get them top 4 again but not title challengers. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />Key Man - <span style="color: cyan;">Sadio Mane</span> like I said pace, goals and quality I’m a fan.</span><br />
<span style="color: cyan;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">5. Arsenal</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Arsenal landed Lacazette, but is he miles better than Giroud? At the minute Sanchez is still there and Ozil is expecting a new contract. It’s vital they keep Sanchez, if he goes you do worry for Arsenal. All bets are off if he goes. The 3 at the back Wenger stumbled across at the end of last season he will keep with. Europa League for the Arsenal is something new, Wenger needs to get the balance right and avoid the late February annual collapse. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man – <span style="color: red;">Laurent <span style="color: red;">Koscielny</span></span> with 3 back the back they really need him to have a good season. He is their best defender and will have his work cut out. He needs to not go missing when it really counts though. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="color: red;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">6. Tottenham</span> <br /><br />Now Spurs have opted for the ‘stick to what we have’ in the summer window not bringing in anyone as of writing. Also playing at Wembley where let’s face it they have been rubbish. The sooner they get to grips with their new surrounds the better. They do need to win something I’m not having being the best team in the league but not winning anything! Come on Spurs even a League Cup will do.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man – <span style="color: red;">Harry Kane</span> 20 plus Premier League goals 3 seasons in a row. Now has emerged as a real talent for club and country.<br /><br /><span style="color: red;">7. Everton</span> <br /><br />Ronald Koeman has splashed the cash and is putting his own stamp on this squad. He has brought in a new spine of the team, and of course the return of Wayne Rooney to Everton. Rooney’s experience and winning trophies mentality is exactly what Everton need. Where he fits in to the starting 11 will have to be questioned. The new side will need time to gel but for me 7th is where they will land.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man - <span style="color: red;">Sandro Ramirez</span> the youngster comes from Malaga after netting 14 goals in La Liga. Everton will look to share the goals around this season without Lukaku but he will be the main man.<br /><br /><span style="color: red;">8. Leicester City </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Whether it was snakes in the squad or just really bad form, Leicester did not look like Champions. Craig Shakespeare is either a really good coach or the players just liked him. They were so off last year I think they can fair a lot better this season. No Champions League distractions now too so a top 10 finish for me. Mahrez looks like he is out the door so they do need to replace him.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man – I like the look of <span style="color: red;">Harry Maguire</span> who they brought from Hull. He stood out in a poor side a good season could see him in the England set up as there’s not that much quality centre backs around. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="color: red;">9. Southampton</span> <br /><br />Finished 8th last season and a League Cup final appearance pretty good yes? Well clearly not for some. The fans where bored out of their minds at St Mary’s and Puel’s gone and Maurcio Pellegrino has stepped in. He had one season at Alaves which caught the eye. They do have a Virgil van Dijk type hole to deal with.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man – <span style="color: red;">Charlie Austin</span>, just keep him fit. Was Saints top scorer in all competitions even though he was out for what seemed a decade. Austin can and does score goals, but keeping him fit all year is the toughest task.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">10. West Ham</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Inconsistent, that’s pretty much West Ham. This year they do have a striker picking up Hernandez in the summer. They were linked to around 8 so one had to land. Their second year at the London Stadium they should do better. The Payet saga last year rocked them a more stable ship should see them finish mid table. It’s a big season for Joe Hart who has his doubters after a pretty dismal time in Italy. The owners do need to keep off the twitter though.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man – <span style="color: red;">Javier Hernandez</span> have West Ham found a reliable striker now? It’s been a long while since they had one.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">11. Bournemouth</span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">All things were good on the coast last year. A top 10 finish was something not many expected; this season once again should steer clear of any real trouble. Asmir Begovic has been brought in to sure things at the back. Nathan Ake signed for a whopping £20m from Chelsea too. I predict a comfy season for them again. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man - <span style="color: red;">Joshua King</span> should get into double figures for the season again. The arrival of Defoe can't be ignored too. <br /><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">12. West Brom</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Baggies have tried to address the lack of goals bringing in Jay Rodriguez from Southampton for £12m. Again W.B.A will be strong a set pieces as all, their defenders all seem to be centre backs. You know what you get with a Pulis side, physical and hard working.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man – <span style="color: red;">Matt Phillips</span> has grown in to an impressive Premier League winger. If he adds more goals to his game he should do well again this year.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">13. Stoke City </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">An under fire Mark Hughes might have a bit of a tricky season. A lack of fire power up top hampered them last season. Arnautovic has gone and only mayor signing so far is Kurt Zouma on loan. Stoke are never know for their classy football but the fans do expect a bit of excitement. Hughes shouldn’t take them down but don’t expect anything special. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man – <span style="color: red;">Jack Butland</span> has a great opportunity to claim the England number 1 spot this season. Now back and fully fit will be vital for Stoke. <br /> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">14. Crystal Palace </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A new manager in at Selhurst Park, in the form of Frank De Boer. He needs to find a style for Palace and stick with it. A talented group but last year just stayed up under Big Sam. To be fair most sides stay up with him. De Boer racked up 4 Eredivisie in 5 seasons at Ajax so he does come with good pedigree. Will we see ‘Total Football’ in South East London? We shall wait and see.<br /><br />Key Man – <span style="color: red;">Wilfred Zaha</span> had to hit the re-start button on his career, his return to Palace has made him one of the most talented wingers in the league. He will be a target for defenders this year as when Zaha is on it, Palace is on it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">15. Newcastle United</span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rafa Benitez has had to wheel and deal to get bodies in at Newcastle this summer. He’s not been backed as he thought he would financially, but he does have the fans support. The Geordies know Rafa could have walked away but he lead them to a title last season. This season will see less pressure as they won’t go into every game as the favourites. Newcastle will be fine this season, Rafa may moan quite a bit though.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man - <span style="color: red;">Matt Ritchie </span>raised eyebrows when he left Bournemouth to drop down a league with Newcastle. Shined last year, has Premier League quality and his goals will be key.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">16. Watford</span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Struggled last year with a real bomb in form saw them finish 17th. The club who love a head coach change, Mazzarri came in when Watford finished 13th the drop was clear and the fans were more than happy to see him depart. Marco Silva is next in the hot seat and bringing in Nathaniel Chalonbah and Will Hughes might be a sign Watford are going down a more British player route. Silva impressed at Hull last year and should have enough to keep Watford up, just. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man – <span style="color: red;">Troy Deeney</span> is their talisman and captain will be vital leading the line once again.<br /><br /><span style="color: red;">17. Swansea City</span> <br /><br />They flirted with relegation last season a side on the decline. Paul Clement at least stopped the bleeding and Swansea survived. This year will be touch and go once again. If Sigurdsson does stay I would have them a little higher than this. If the Iceland International does go Swansea can’t be caught short having £50m in the bank with only a few days of the transfer window to go. Tammy Abraham on loan looks like a shrewd bit of business.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man - <span style="color: red;">Alfie Mawson</span> could well be the perfect long term replacement to Ashley Williams.<br /><br /><span style="color: yellow;">18. Burnley</span> <br /><br />At home Burnley were super strong and would give anyone a game, away from home they just look hopeless. The loss of Michael Keane will be a big miss at the back. They have spent big on Jack Cork, and goals could come from Jon Walters in from Stoke. Hard working midfield will see Brady, Hendrick & Artfield. However for me, I think Burnley's time in the Premier League is up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <br /><br /><span style="color: yellow;">19. Brighton </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Newly promoted Brighton I think will have a tough time of it. With having a ground like The Amex it may work against them as clubs will be looking forward to playing in this new fancy stadium. Many away fans have already got Brighton away circled on the calendar. They have to try make home games uncomfortable for the opposition. I just don’t think they will have enough to stay up in the Premier League.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Man – <span style="color: yellow;">Lewis Dunk</span> one of the best ball playing defenders in the Championship last year. He should make the step up and if Brighton go down I expect another Premier League club to snap him up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: yellow;">20. Huddersfield Town </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A fairy-tale for the underdogs last season. David Wagner preformed miracles with Town and find themselves up with the big boys. He was best man for Jurgen Klopp at his wedding and called out a former Sky Sports pundit who tipped his side to go down. However this story won’t end so happy. They will enjoy this season however I think it will be one and done for them, just not enough quality at this level.<br /><br />Key Man – <span style="color: yellow;">Steve Mounie</span> the record signing from Montpellier netted 14 times in France if they have any chance of staying up he will need to hit the ground running.</span>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">By Sean Simara @Sean_Footymad </span>Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-35605190195091991042017-07-31T10:33:00.000+01:002017-08-04T11:18:23.494+01:00FOOTBALL LEAGUE 2017/18 PREVIEW <span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In what's known as the toughest league of the world to get out of, the Championship this season is looking like a real battle, to just survive never mind winning it. <br /><br />Here's my preview on what will once again be a bumpy ride of a season, The 46 game slog-fest starts on Friday night when Nottingham Forest face Millwall & Derby travel to newly relegated Sunderland. So who will live up to the pre season hype? Who will flatter to deceive? And who will be the shock team of the season? <br /><br />Middlesbrough have spent big, splashing out £9m on Martin Braithwaite from Toulose & Britt Assombalonga £15m from Forest. Gary Monk is in as new manager, surprising he left Leeds, but it's a unstable situation there. At The Riverside Boro' look the best bet to go straight back up at the first time of asking.<br /><br />Sunderland who also went down look like there in a bit of a mess and things could get even worse. There better players have all jumped ship. The big earners who have done nothing (Rodwell comes to mind) they can't shift, With off the field matters growing over The Stadium of Light and a disgruntle fan base, the Black Cats could well bomb through the Championship if there not too careful. The Chairman also wants too sell up. Hull City have brought in no one of great importance player wise for me. They have got in a new Russian face in Leonid Slutsky as manager. <br /><br />Also in with a chance this season, Derby they should do better this year with Gary Rowett. They have re-signed Tom Huddlestone which is good, but have lost Tom Ince and Will Hughes though. Fulham who just missed out in the play-offs I expect to be up there again. Also for me the likes of Norwich City should challenge a lot stronger this season. <br /><br />The surprise pack of the season could be Wolverhampton Wanderers.This summer they have landed Ruben Neves from FC Porto for a whopping £15 million, Diogo Jota from Atletico Madrid on loan and John Ruddy on a free. A new manager in the hot seat too, as Nuno Santo takes over at a very exciting time at Wolves. Elsewhere in the Midlands exciting times at St Andrews to. Harry Redknapp after keeping Birmingham in the Championship (just about) decided that he's back and ready for full time employment. He was up to his usual tricks being linked with Ashley Cole, Stewart Downing and Robbie Keane this summer. Classic Redknapp that, Birmingham fans it will not be boring. Staying in the Midlands and over to the biggest club there Aston Villa. All eyes were on them this summer as they brought in Mr Popular John Terry. Pressure will be on Steve Bruce to finish a lot higher then 13th. He is banking on experience bringing in Chris Samba (remember him) Glenn Whelan and Ahmed Elmonhamady. Scott Hogan and Jonathan Kodija up top, Grealish should have a bigger role to play this year too. Aston Villa are looking in very good shape. <br /><br />Again there's a strong Yorkshire contingent in the Championship this year, for me Sheffield Wednesday should do the best. <br /><br />Down in London I mentioned Fulham already, as for QPR there looking in solid danger this season. Rangers only just about survived last term and that was because the teams behind them just ran out of games to catch them. Only one new face through the door so far, Josh Scowen from Barnsley. In a team that struggled so badly last season they struggled to score and let them in at the back for fun. So the team needed investment, help and new faces. However QPR are not spending like they once did. The feel good factor could wear off with Holloway very quick if QPR have a bad start. Millwall up form League 1 will be near the bottom half for most of the season but I don't think they will go down. Brentford much like Fulham easy on the eye and play good football. They should finish around mid table once again. <br /><br />Its easy to say the promoted clubs will struggle but Sheffield United and Bolton should have just about enough to survive. The likes of Ipswich Town and Barnsley could struggle this season, and get caught in a bit of a mess this season due to just a lack of investment. You have seen the amount of cash some clubs are spending even if the Championship its big numbers. Reading were punching above their weight last season, this year I can't see them as high. So for me I will go for:</span></div>
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<span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">Championship</span> <br />Winners - Aston Villa<br />Promoted - Wolverhampton Wanderers, Middlesbrough <br />Relegation - Burton, Ipswich, Barnsley (I can't write QPR) <br /><br /><span style="color: lime;">League One</span> </span></div>
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<span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Winners Wigan<br />Promotion Portsmouth, Bradford<br />Relegation - Blackpool, Walsall, Gillingham, Plymouth <br /><br /><span style="color: lime;">League Two</span> </span></div>
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<span style="color: #cccccc; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Winners - Coventry<br />Promotion -Luton, Swindon, Wycombe<br />Relegation - Morecambe and Newport</span></div>
Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-77462650838856693782017-07-25T10:26:00.002+01:002017-07-25T10:27:32.898+01:00Transfer Tuesday Part 4 <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What's the latest? Here we go....<br /><br /><span style="color: lime;">Neymar</span> on his way to PSG? a deal that is just mega money as PSG look to trigger his release clause. But is he really going off to Paris? He wants a Ballon D'or its a Brazil thing. You can't win it when your not the best player at in your team so maybe. However FIFA don't give the award for PSG players. We shall wait and see on that one. <br /><br /><span style="color: lime;">Virgil Van Dijk</span> is on 'Van Strike' as he has been training on his own and wants out. What does training on his own mean? Kicking a ball against at wall at Southampton's training ground? No players talking to him?<br /><br /><span style="color: lime;">Naby Keita</span> looks like he will be staying at RB Leipzig as Liverpool have had 3 bids rejected. He did nearly cripple a team mate in training this week. <br /><br />West Ham finally landed some players, the signing of <span style="color: lime;">Javier Hernandez</span> 'Chicharito' is a good bit of business a proven scorer and for so cheap in today's market. <br /><br />Over at Man City Pep got rid of all his full backs this summer, this week <span style="color: lime;">Benjamin Mendy</span> and Danilo rolled in to go along with Walker.<br /><br /><span style="color: lime;">Sanchez</span> is back in London now so his transfer saga should come to an end soon. I can still see him leaving no matter what Wenger says.<br /><br />West Brom are in search of a centre back after making a bid for <span style="color: lime;">Ben Gibson</span> at Middlesbrough and keeping an eye out on Chris Smalling who will fall down the pecking order at United next season. <br /><br />By <span style="color: lime;">@Sean_Footymad</span></span> Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-16218207991162191432017-07-18T11:36:00.000+01:002017-07-18T11:36:39.884+01:00Transfer Tuesday - Part 3 <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here's the latest from the past week.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">Kyle Walker</span> is now the most expensive defender in football as he sets off to Man City. Now to me Spurs always make good business for the books. Berbatov, Modric, Bale etc Levy is no fool. But if Tottenham really want to challenge again making themselves weaker & City stronger may not be the best way of going about things.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">'Sanchez Saga Latest'</span>: He's making comments about playing 'Champions League' football, he may have to force a move out the club himself if he really wants to go. Bayern have said their no interested.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">At West Ham it looks like <span style="color: lime;">Joe Hart</span> will be their marquee signing after passing his medical. For me he is done and West Ham may come to regret this move. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Chelsea's hunt for a new forward may bring the to the door of <span style="color: lime;">Sergio Aguero</span>. You would think no way City would sell to a rival and a player who has done so much for them. It would be really REALLY annoying if they land him.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Man United making progress with <span style="color: lime;">Perisic </span>but the Morata deal soon changed so they could quite easily swoop for someone else if the deal drags.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In the Championship, <span style="color: lime;">Birmingham City</span> have been 'Redknapped', as he has been linked to Robbie Keane, Ashley Cole and Stewart Downing. Boro have splashed out £15m on <span style="color: lime;">Assombalonga</span>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In Italy all things are a go at <span style="color: lime;">AC Milan</span>. They have been on a summer recruitment drive bringing in some quality players, Bonucci, Andre Silva, Calhanglu & Ricardo Rodriquez to name but a few.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Follow for more transfer news through the summer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">@Sean_Footymad </span>Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-2195448488434869772017-07-11T12:47:00.001+01:002017-07-11T12:47:54.081+01:00Transfer Tuesday <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The biggest deal of the week has come as a bit of a shock as Man United ended there interest in <span style="color: lime;">Morata</span> and focused their attention to <span style="color: lime;">Lukaku</span> who they have landed, from under the nose of Chelsea. So United have replaced the goals they have lost in Zlatan in a big way. Stormzy will be happy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Chelsea could now turn to Morata or <span style="color: lime;">Llorente</span> who are now looking a little light up top. Costa looks like he has defiantly played his last game at Chelsea. <span style="color: lime;">Tiemoue Bakayoko</span>, should be through the door next week to go with <span style="color: lime;">Antonio Rudiger</span> who they signed from Roma, in what has to be the worst 'new player social media video' ever.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">Rooney</span> has returned home to Everton with his PJs and all. He will have a massive point to prove to all his doubters.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">Liverpool and Tottenham</span> have been kind of quiet, they don't want to get left behind with so many getting stronger. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Elsewhere some other notable news, West Ham this week were linked to <span style="color: lime;">Javier Hernandez and Marko Arnautovic.</span> Some other signings worth a mention <span style="color: lime;">Will Hughes</span> to Watford, he's finally got out of Derby. Along with <span style="color: lime;">Tom Ince</span> to Huddersfield who have gone about their business nicely with 8 new faces so far.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">Harry Maguire</span> from Hull to Leicester City is also a good bit of business.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">@Sean_Footymad </span></span>Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-76058557668744050112017-07-04T17:02:00.000+01:002017-07-04T17:05:35.200+01:00Transfer Tuesday<div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> new feature this summer looking at some of the latest transfer gossip and deals with my take on them. <br /><br /><span style="color: lime;">Alexandre Lacazette</span> to Arsenal looks likely, some big clubs have been sniffing around him for a few summers. Now he's fallen behind <span style="color: lime;">Olivier Giroud</span> in the French pecking order, so a bit of a down grade. Probably means <span style="color: lime;">Sanchez</span> gone then too? <br /><br />Sanchez to Bayern Munich? Arsenal have said they won't let him go to another English club...yeah OK 'R.V.P' Man City he could easily end up there. City also have the most expensive deal for a English club so far, bringing in <span style="color: lime;">Bernardo Silva</span> from Monaco. Pep you may want to buy some defenders though now. <br /><br />Everton have done a bunch of business, there going to get the cash back with the sale of <span style="color: lime;">Romelu Lukaku</span> which looks like a return to Chelsea. Sandro Ramirez looks good, <span style="color: lime;">Michael Keane & Jordan Pickford</span> is a nice little English pairing. Imagine if they had the England Captain on loan hey?<br /><br />Man United apart from <span style="color: lime;">Victor Lindelof</span> it's all gone quiet over there. Alvero Morata apparently cut his honeymoon short to finalise the deal, but that went down well with the new Mrs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="color: lime;">Tammy Abraham</span> has gone to Swansea on a season long loan. He said the night life in Newcastle is too dangerous for a man his age. Tammy must have Geordie Shore on series link.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">John Terry</span> has gone Aston Villa, he will be given a kind welcome at all Championship grounds around England.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">West Ham linked to everyone under the sun.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">By @Sean_Footymad</span> </span> </div>
Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-81944395178966823282017-05-26T14:56:00.000+01:002017-05-26T14:56:01.698+01:00FA CUP FINAL PREVIEW
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;">Arsenal</span> will be looking to become the 13 time FA Cup winners this weekend as they take on London rivals Chelsea at Wembley Stadium. There third final in four years, the Gunners will be seeking some joy on what has been a difficult season.<br /><br /> Standing in their way, <span style="color: #6fa8dc;">Chelsea</span> who are hunting down a double, which they last did (this double League & FA Cup) in 2010. Both teams have great records at the 'new' Wembley & will be quite comfy in their surroundings. For Arsenal they will be without Laurent Koscielny & Gabriel at the back. Which is a shame for the neutral as they don’t like Diego Costa could have made fun viewing. Chelsea should really be at full strength.<br /> <br />No top four for <span style="color: red;">Arsenal</span> is a huge blow, Champions League qualification is what they lived on, and for a team who is fragile most of the time a defeat against Chelsea could have severe repercussions. <br /><br />Arsene Wenger’s position has never been under such threat, the toxic atmosphere through the season has grown and grown. This at times had made some funny You Tube videos through the season from a certain fan channel. Maybe sometimes the negativity has even spread to the pitch, so a FA Cup victory could either buy Wenger some time or send him off into the sunset.<br /> <br />Chelsea though will come into the match full of confidence, a Premier League title in Antonio Conte’s first season he could land an impressive double. After last week’s cheesy, cringe worthy, sickening or well deserved John Terry send off (depends if you like Chelsea or not really) focus will be locked in again, back to the serious stuff now. Chelsea are the favourites and rightly so. They steamed through the league campaign. For Arsenal its huge this game could it be Wenger and even Alexis Sanchez’s last game. An Arsenal win could paper over what has been a forgettable season. It’s the same for Chelsea with Costa, he could end up in China this summer so a farewell for him too.<br /> <br />I don’t think Arsenal will have enough to stop this Chelsea side. There strong and powerful in all areas. I can see lots of goals in this one,<span style="color: #6fa8dc;"> so an extra time victory for Chelsea</span> is what I will go for.<br /> <br />What that means for Wenger God only knows, what it means for Chelsea is simply the Blues back on top of English football, and you know the clubs in Manchester are watching. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">By Sean Simara @Sean_Footymad </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span> </span>Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-49644671878686006742017-05-17T12:58:00.000+01:002017-05-17T12:58:50.695+01:00A Quick Look...<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A quick look back at how my Premier League picks went. I had Chelsea as the Champions, Antonio Conte's first season in English football could even land him a double. Chelsea were like a machine and just stormed there way to the title. As for the rest of the top 4 I had the Manchester clubs, only City though will be playing Champions League via league qualification though. Arsenal shockingly didn't make top 4! Fan TV on Thursday nights it seems for next season. </span><span style="font-size: large;">For the drop the only one I got correct was Hull City, how could I not pick Sunderland! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In the Championship, Newcastle winning the league was pretty easy to call. Even though they made hard work of it. Going against Brighton was a bit of an own goal. Sheffield Wednesday going up is still on the cards via the play-offs. To go down I got Rotherham United right. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">For League One, Scunthorpe United got to the play-offs along with Millwall. The Lions are the ones with a chance of promotion this weekend as the face Bradford City at Wembley Stadium. Swindon Town were the only team I got right going down in League One.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">League Two was slightly better as Doncaster Rovers & Plymouth are going up. For the drop Newport survived by the skin of their teeth on the last day of the season.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">By Sean Simara @Sean_Footymad </span>Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2049508289320051910.post-16185640460244460112017-01-14T11:49:00.000+00:002017-01-14T11:49:03.121+00:00NFL Divisional Games Preview <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<![endif]--><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After a long and gruelling season we're down to the final 8 in the NFL. This weekend it's the Divisional Games, so after the bumps and bruises, touchdowns and interception through the year I look at who will be the winners and losers this weekend. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><span style="color: lime;">Seattle Seahawks @ Atlanta Falcons </span><br /><br />First up will be Matt Ryan's Atlanta Falcons against the Seattle Seahawks. Ryan has had an MVP like season at the Falcons, they ended on 11-5. He rattled in 38 TDs, 7 interceptions and threw for just under 5000 yards. This saw Atlanta win the NFC South. Seattle Seahawks saw off the Detroit Lions with ease in their wildcard game. However The Seahawks have not been quite like the Seahawks this year for me. My pick in this is the Falcons at home. There rested up and will have two many tools for Seattle to deal with. Devonta Freeman, Julio Jones and Matt Ryan should have a field day, Falcons win. <br /><span style="color: lime;"><br />Houston Texans @ New England Patriots </span><br /> <br /> Tom Brady's ban at the start of the season didn't affect the Patriots, not one bit. They ended on 14-2, had a 7 game winning streak at the end of the season. They really are a professional set up. The Texans have done well to get this far, the Super Bowl may be in their home state but I think this is the end of the road for them. I predict Brady to be ruthless and take the Patriots to another Championship game. Brady looks on course to make an example out of the NFL who made an example out of him.<br /> <span style="color: lime;"><br /> Pittsburgh Steelers @ Kansas City Chiefs </span><br /><br /> The Arrowhead Stadium is a tough place to go one of the hardest in the league. The Chiefs ended on 12-4, for me this could come down to trust and if the big players show up. The Steelers big three of Ben Roethlisberger, Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown if they show up the game is over. However the Steelers do have a tendency to let you down on the road when it matters the most. This will be a tight one and it could come down to the home crowd, they have such an impact the red is right on top of you. But I'm going to trust the Pittsburgh Steelers here, they have the better players and should be victorious.<br /> <span style="color: lime;"> <br /> Green Bay Packers @ Dallas Cowboys </span><br /> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The best game of the weekend and the one I think all NFL fans will be glued to is this. The Dallas Cowboys had a sensational season 13-3 mainly down to their two rookies Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott. The two tore up the league and everything that stood in their way. Prescott kept Romo on the sidelines there was no reason to bring him in and there is no reason now. The Cowboys defence also had a great year all is going so well. <br /><br />The stage is set in a packed Jerry's World, 'America's Team' have home field advantage so can they get to the promise land once again? The only problem and quite a major problem is Aaron Rodgers who is once again on a MVP type season. He got 40 TDs this year along with another Hail Mary last weekend as he took apart a very good New York Giants defence. The Packers are on form and on fire with a 6 game winning streak. They will miss Jordy Nelson who fractured his ribs, but under the comfort of the Cowboys Stadium no cold, no rain, no snow can Rodgers break Cowboy's hearts? I think if anyone can its him, Dallas will be one and done and the Green Bay Packers move on. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">By Sean Simara </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">@Sean_Footymad </span></span>Sean_FootyMadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01957943539283802540noreply@blogger.com0