14 March 2009, the scoreboard at Old Trafford read Manchester Utd 1-4 Liverpool. It was unthinkable. Many Utd fans and even well known football punters said it was merely a bad day at the office and Utd have too much class to crumble. They would prove their quality by bouncing straight back with a convincing performance at Fulham's Craven Cottage, a ground they never lost at for the last 45 years or so.
Utd fans were in for a shock. Their team hardly showed up before a Danny Murphy penalty put them 1-0 down. Utd never recovered from losing Scholes so early on and were lucky to go into halftime trailing by just the one goal. Utd came out fighting in the second half but could not crack a resiliant Fulham defence and an equally good Shwarzer. The pressure started to show and after conceding a second goal in the 88th minute it looked like most of the fireworks had passed. Up stepped Rooney and after hurling the ball back at the referee he saw red for a second yellow. Utd looked a beaten team.
The weekend got even better for LFC when Chelsea lost 1-0 at White Hart Lane to a Modric goal early in the second half. Spurs fought hard for the 3 points after much criticised goalkeeper Gomes made a series of stunning saves. A weekend this good could only be capped by a Liverpool win. Many fans feared that our inconsistency would once again come back to haunt us with a tricky tie against Aston Villa. How wrong they would be. LFC ended up winning the game 5-0 and closing the gap to just 1 point from Man Utd albeit with a game in hand.
Liverpool started the game with a frantic pace and pushed Villa back with some stunning approach play and opened the scoring after just 8 minutes from a well taken shot by Kuyt after Alonso's initial header from a Gerrad free kick came back off the cross bar. Villa started coming back into the game and gave LFC a scare or two. Carew's header from a well placed Milner cross brought a fabulous one handed save from Reina. Soon after the mini Villa revival they found themselves 2-0 down. Reina was the architech of the goal as he pumped the ball up field with pin point accuracy and picked out Riera who smashed a stunning volley past the helpless Friedle. LFC put the game beyond Villa with a third goal before halftime after Riera went on a run into the box looking to take on Reo-Cocker and was brought down. Gerrard did the honours and sent Friedle the wrong way.
Early in the second half Gerrard had the opportunity to extend the lead after Kuyt was brought down on the edge of the box. He calmly stroked the ball into the net to make if 4-0. Liverpool were coasting and Rafa decided to rest both Alonso and Arbeloa who were returning from injuries. On came Rafa's favourite, Lucas and a welcomed return for Agger. Torres latched on a through ball and rounded Friedle only to be up ended and the American saw red for his troubles. Gerrard slotted the ball into the back of the net and once again sent the keeper the wrong way thus completing a stunning set piece hat-trick.
The title race is definetly back on and for once it might look like Utd are the ones who succumb to the pressures of leading the pack into the business end of the season. Fergie should be worried.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Utd Routed At Old Trafford
Well done BOYS.... Great victory today!!!!
After a tense start from Liverpool we recovered and went on to record probably our most emphatic wins against Man Utd and all this began after we went 1-0.
We were very unlucky to concede a penalty soon after we were just starting a grow into the game. The players never dropped their heads and fought back and soon after were level. It was another well crafted goal from Torres who disspossed Vidic and ran on to slot the ball past the onrushing Van Der Sar. We started to boss the game and after some slick passing between Torres and Gerrard ,Evra brought Gerrard down..Penalty! Gerrard Scored, 2-1 at the break.
Utd came out the stronger after halftime and were looking for the equaliser but we held on. Gerrard wasted a great chance to extend the lead but he skied his shot when it looked easier to hit the target. Soon after Gerrard was brought down by Vidic just outside the box. Vidic saw red and up stepped Aurelio to hit the back of the net with a stunning swerving free-kick that left Va Der Sar rooted to his line. The rout was completed in injury time when Dossena latched on to a clearance from Reina to lob the ball over Van Der Sar who could only watch the ball sail over his head.
Pure ectacy for every player and fan alike as this capped one of the most thrilling weeks in recent times.Now lets go on and win the title!!!
After a tense start from Liverpool we recovered and went on to record probably our most emphatic wins against Man Utd and all this began after we went 1-0.
We were very unlucky to concede a penalty soon after we were just starting a grow into the game. The players never dropped their heads and fought back and soon after were level. It was another well crafted goal from Torres who disspossed Vidic and ran on to slot the ball past the onrushing Van Der Sar. We started to boss the game and after some slick passing between Torres and Gerrard ,Evra brought Gerrard down..Penalty! Gerrard Scored, 2-1 at the break.
Utd came out the stronger after halftime and were looking for the equaliser but we held on. Gerrard wasted a great chance to extend the lead but he skied his shot when it looked easier to hit the target. Soon after Gerrard was brought down by Vidic just outside the box. Vidic saw red and up stepped Aurelio to hit the back of the net with a stunning swerving free-kick that left Va Der Sar rooted to his line. The rout was completed in injury time when Dossena latched on to a clearance from Reina to lob the ball over Van Der Sar who could only watch the ball sail over his head.
Pure ectacy for every player and fan alike as this capped one of the most thrilling weeks in recent times.Now lets go on and win the title!!!
Monday, March 9, 2009
Anfield Welcomes Real Madrid
We have entered the week that could define Liverpools season and also the fate of Rafa Benitez. Liverpool welcome the mighty Real Madrid to Anfield tonight and travel to Old Trafford on Saturday in what could be a crucial game for both Liverpool and Manchester Utd's title aspirations. While many people already say its over I still believe that if we get the 3 points at old Trafford the title race could go down to the wire.
Taking a 1 goal lead into the 2nd leg of the Champions League Knockout stage, Real Madrid still have everything to play for. By no means is this tie over. Madrid have the experience and class to snatch the victory out of Liverpools grasp but Rafa's boys will no doubt be up for the fight. In todays press conference Rafa says that he will give Torres every chance of playing against Madrid and would wait until the absolute last minute to make a decision. Gerrard should lead Liverpool out at Anfield in what would be his 100th European appearance for the club. Rafa still has problems with the right back slot as Arbeloa is still missing and after Skrtles dismal performance at right back against Middlebrough he might have to deploy Mascherano who gave a good account of himself against Sunderland in mid-week. Benayoun is out of the clash after a bizzare training ground collission caused him to tear his hamstring so Kuyt should be re-called at right half and Reira on the left with Stevie G playing just behind Torres. This formation has worked well for Rafa in the past and could be the key to beating Madrid.
Whatever team Rafa starts with we just have to attack Madrid from the first whistle and who knows what could happen with out "12th" man "The Kop" in full flight Madrid could just get caught cold. This could work in our favour on what should be a very special European night at Anfield.
Taking a 1 goal lead into the 2nd leg of the Champions League Knockout stage, Real Madrid still have everything to play for. By no means is this tie over. Madrid have the experience and class to snatch the victory out of Liverpools grasp but Rafa's boys will no doubt be up for the fight. In todays press conference Rafa says that he will give Torres every chance of playing against Madrid and would wait until the absolute last minute to make a decision. Gerrard should lead Liverpool out at Anfield in what would be his 100th European appearance for the club. Rafa still has problems with the right back slot as Arbeloa is still missing and after Skrtles dismal performance at right back against Middlebrough he might have to deploy Mascherano who gave a good account of himself against Sunderland in mid-week. Benayoun is out of the clash after a bizzare training ground collission caused him to tear his hamstring so Kuyt should be re-called at right half and Reira on the left with Stevie G playing just behind Torres. This formation has worked well for Rafa in the past and could be the key to beating Madrid.
Whatever team Rafa starts with we just have to attack Madrid from the first whistle and who knows what could happen with out "12th" man "The Kop" in full flight Madrid could just get caught cold. This could work in our favour on what should be a very special European night at Anfield.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Rafa Must Go
After watching our dismall performance against Middlesborogh I can't help but feel that the Americans should call time on Rafa's tenure at Anfield.Once again his rotation policy killed us and to make matters worst our only two match winners are injured.Torres will be sidelined for up to 2 more games and Gerrard's injury is sill unclear.
While Rafa still hasn't signed his new contract I think the Americans should withdraw the offer and let him go in the summer and he should take his underachieving players with him. I was pleased to see that we were linked with Mourinho but I would rather bring in Rijkaard. I would like to see us play good football while winning trophies and I think his fresh approach and attacking instict would go down well with LFC fans all over.Just look at what he did with Barca, they played some of the most attractive football in the world at the time while winning La Liga and the Champions League.
Rafa once again stuttered in the league and since his public outburts against Fergie we have only won 2 league games and have sinced been passed by a resurgent Chelsea who are now 2nd. He made everything about himself and the team sufferred for it. Confidence is at an all time low and the way we played on Saturday is a huge worry with big games against Man U, Real Madrid and Villa all coming up in the next few weeks.Our season could be wrecked from a title pushing position to our customary 4th in the table.
While Rafa still hasn't signed his new contract I think the Americans should withdraw the offer and let him go in the summer and he should take his underachieving players with him. I was pleased to see that we were linked with Mourinho but I would rather bring in Rijkaard. I would like to see us play good football while winning trophies and I think his fresh approach and attacking instict would go down well with LFC fans all over.Just look at what he did with Barca, they played some of the most attractive football in the world at the time while winning La Liga and the Champions League.
Rafa once again stuttered in the league and since his public outburts against Fergie we have only won 2 league games and have sinced been passed by a resurgent Chelsea who are now 2nd. He made everything about himself and the team sufferred for it. Confidence is at an all time low and the way we played on Saturday is a huge worry with big games against Man U, Real Madrid and Villa all coming up in the next few weeks.Our season could be wrecked from a title pushing position to our customary 4th in the table.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Utd Go 7 Points Clear
Utd opened up a 7 point gap after we stumbled to our 10th draw of the season. Without Stevie G and Alonso in midfield we just lacked imagination and drive. Lucas once again was given a starting role in midfield alongside Mascherano but failed to impress. One really has to wonder about Rafa's vision in selling Sissoko and replacing him with Lucas.
I for one hope that Rafa doesn't sign the new and improved contract thats on offer. We should cut our losses and get rid of him at the end of the season.There are a number of players that should follow him out of Anfield namely Lucas, Dossena, Babel, Ngog, Benoyoun, Voronin, Deggen, El Zhar, Pennant & Aurelio. These are players that have never lived up to expectations.
In the league this season Rafa's tactics were questioned. I know he is the one that got us to the top but in recent weeks he seemed to have no clue. Decisions that are ultimatley made by him came into question, team selection, subs, timing of subs and negative tactics. These are decisions that could well end our title push.
Next up for LFC is an exciting trip to the Bernabeau and I bet my life on it you'll see a totally different Liverpool. Their hunger and drive for success would be greater and you can just hear everyone saying what a great manger he is but don't be fooled as its back to normal next Saturday with a visit to the Riverside sporting a team consisting of wholesale changes.
I for one hope that Rafa doesn't sign the new and improved contract thats on offer. We should cut our losses and get rid of him at the end of the season.There are a number of players that should follow him out of Anfield namely Lucas, Dossena, Babel, Ngog, Benoyoun, Voronin, Deggen, El Zhar, Pennant & Aurelio. These are players that have never lived up to expectations.
In the league this season Rafa's tactics were questioned. I know he is the one that got us to the top but in recent weeks he seemed to have no clue. Decisions that are ultimatley made by him came into question, team selection, subs, timing of subs and negative tactics. These are decisions that could well end our title push.
Next up for LFC is an exciting trip to the Bernabeau and I bet my life on it you'll see a totally different Liverpool. Their hunger and drive for success would be greater and you can just hear everyone saying what a great manger he is but don't be fooled as its back to normal next Saturday with a visit to the Riverside sporting a team consisting of wholesale changes.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Torres Gets Rafa Out Of Jail
Fernando Torres came off the bench to score a dramatic injury time winner against Portsmouth at the weekend. Rafa left him, Alonso, Kuyt and Riera on the bench and started with a "weakened" 11. Eyebrows were raised when Rafa went with a very unconventional starting line-up. 5 at the back and Aurelio in the centre of the park! What was he thinking? Why did he change the formation of the team?
Aurelio was holding his own in midfield and even added some flair to it but we were lacking Alonso's ability and craftmanship to split defences and create something out of nothing and duly did that once he was introduced.
Babbel looks like a broken man on the field. He no longer seems to have the ability to run at defences. His confidence is gone thanks to Rafa's inability to find his best position on the field. Is it as a winger or a striker, no one seems to know let alone Rafa. And what about the selection of Ngog to lead the line. He showed some good touches in pre-season games but nothing of late warrants a start. Rafa would have done better keeping Keane.Thank God Lucas was suspended for the game otherwise Mascherano might have also joined the "dream" team on the bench!
Ok Rafa got the 3 points with resting key players and using them sparingly at the end but I just hope he knows what hes doing in the run in to the championship. With Gerrard out for up to 3 weeks he cannot gamble with his team selection. He need all his "big" players to come to the party and overhaul the points deficit to the mancs and bring home our 19th Championship.
Aurelio was holding his own in midfield and even added some flair to it but we were lacking Alonso's ability and craftmanship to split defences and create something out of nothing and duly did that once he was introduced.
Babbel looks like a broken man on the field. He no longer seems to have the ability to run at defences. His confidence is gone thanks to Rafa's inability to find his best position on the field. Is it as a winger or a striker, no one seems to know let alone Rafa. And what about the selection of Ngog to lead the line. He showed some good touches in pre-season games but nothing of late warrants a start. Rafa would have done better keeping Keane.Thank God Lucas was suspended for the game otherwise Mascherano might have also joined the "dream" team on the bench!
Ok Rafa got the 3 points with resting key players and using them sparingly at the end but I just hope he knows what hes doing in the run in to the championship. With Gerrard out for up to 3 weeks he cannot gamble with his team selection. He need all his "big" players to come to the party and overhaul the points deficit to the mancs and bring home our 19th Championship.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Keane Returns To Spurs
While Rafa claims that Keane was never a player that he wanted many supporters felt that he was given a raw deal. When Keane arrived in the summer it was hailed as something of a coup and many believed that with his intelligence, a partnership with Torres would flourish.Even the great Kenny Dalglish commented on the importance of a signing like Keane and Rafa got credit for persuading "Mr" Spurs to join his Rafalution.
But when things didn't go to plan with his partnership with Torres many doubted the signing. Keane couldn't capitalise from Torres's injury and failed to impress in his absence. He did manage to score two against WBA and a stunner against Arsenal in the league but was soon dropped from the starting 11 and was an unused sub for a few games and even dropped further behind an unimpressive Ngog.
After rejecting the new contract offered by the Americans because he did not have full control over transfers the truth came out about the Keane transfer. Rafa claimed that he never wanted Keane but it was Rick Parry that sanctioned the deal. Rafa only wanted Gareth Barry but Parry refused to pay the 18 Million Pounds demanded by Villa instead he did a deal worth 20 Mil with Spurs for Keane.
Keane was never given a fair chance by Rafa to completely settle in having scored just 7 goals in 28 starts in which he was subbed in 18 of those games. Subsequently he was sold back to Spurs for 16 Million Pounds ( as reported by Koptalk ) and with the extension of the transfer window due to the heavy snowfall around the UK , hopefully Rafa signs another striker to strengthen our push for the title. Javier Saviola was strongly linked with us and could prove to be a quality signing if he comes to Anfield.
Good Luck Keano...YNWA
But when things didn't go to plan with his partnership with Torres many doubted the signing. Keane couldn't capitalise from Torres's injury and failed to impress in his absence. He did manage to score two against WBA and a stunner against Arsenal in the league but was soon dropped from the starting 11 and was an unused sub for a few games and even dropped further behind an unimpressive Ngog.
After rejecting the new contract offered by the Americans because he did not have full control over transfers the truth came out about the Keane transfer. Rafa claimed that he never wanted Keane but it was Rick Parry that sanctioned the deal. Rafa only wanted Gareth Barry but Parry refused to pay the 18 Million Pounds demanded by Villa instead he did a deal worth 20 Mil with Spurs for Keane.
Keane was never given a fair chance by Rafa to completely settle in having scored just 7 goals in 28 starts in which he was subbed in 18 of those games. Subsequently he was sold back to Spurs for 16 Million Pounds ( as reported by Koptalk ) and with the extension of the transfer window due to the heavy snowfall around the UK , hopefully Rafa signs another striker to strengthen our push for the title. Javier Saviola was strongly linked with us and could prove to be a quality signing if he comes to Anfield.
Good Luck Keano...YNWA
Monday, January 26, 2009
Americans Out!
Its probably the most chanted slogan in the world and with no exception it echoes through the city of Liverpool. David Moores must be thinking just how did he allow Rick Parry convince him that it was a better choice to sell to the Americans instead of DIC. After 2 years of broken promises about transfers and the "new" stadium fans of LFC can't wait for them fo finally be sold.
The Americans can't hold on to the club for much longer and asked Merryl Lynch to find them a buyer but nobody seems interested at their asking price.The Royal Bank of Scotland will not give them another extension beyond July on the 350 Million Pounds that they borrowed to buy the club and every passing day that they can't sell the price goes down. Que Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the man that Parry didn't want to sell to. He has publicly stated that he is no longer interested in LFC but news coming out of Liverpool today clearly state that he is still very much interested and is prepared to bide his time and wait for the right price to buy.
There is no doubt that his riches will help propell LFC back to the top. Fans can say over and over again that money doesn't buy success but it does help. Look at what Chelsea achieved in the small space of time since Abromovich took over and Fergie was never denied funds season after season to out spend many teams in Europe and the new found riches at Man City will make them into a top 4 team provided they can get a "big" manager to pull in the stars.
Come May, Sheikh Maktoum could be buying the League Champs and who knows what his deep pockets could buy us..........fingers crossed!!!
The Americans can't hold on to the club for much longer and asked Merryl Lynch to find them a buyer but nobody seems interested at their asking price.The Royal Bank of Scotland will not give them another extension beyond July on the 350 Million Pounds that they borrowed to buy the club and every passing day that they can't sell the price goes down. Que Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the man that Parry didn't want to sell to. He has publicly stated that he is no longer interested in LFC but news coming out of Liverpool today clearly state that he is still very much interested and is prepared to bide his time and wait for the right price to buy.
There is no doubt that his riches will help propell LFC back to the top. Fans can say over and over again that money doesn't buy success but it does help. Look at what Chelsea achieved in the small space of time since Abromovich took over and Fergie was never denied funds season after season to out spend many teams in Europe and the new found riches at Man City will make them into a top 4 team provided they can get a "big" manager to pull in the stars.
Come May, Sheikh Maktoum could be buying the League Champs and who knows what his deep pockets could buy us..........fingers crossed!!!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
180th Merseyside Derby
Another 3 points dropped at home. While it wasn't a loss it certainly felt like one. After going ahead through another stunning Gerrard strike LFC failed to capitalise on their lead and Everton pegged them back with a typical Cahill header. It seems that Rafa is at times content to see out 1-0 leads when playing your normal attacking football is always the better option. Its happened before and I have to admit that under Rafa its going to happen again.
The return of Torres was the only bonus on the night and after a slow start he started showing signs that he is now(hopefully) over his hamstring troubles. He went on a stunning run from his own half and should have put LFC ahead only for his shot to come off the post. He should have definetly got a penalty after being brought down by Jagielka.
Everton fought back well and got their reward after *&^@%!) careless tackle on Anichebe and Cahill duly scored from the resulting free kick.
Rafa must be kicking himself after surrendering the top spot in the table to MUFC on goal difference with a game in hand and with all the teams in the chasing pack winning over the week-end Rafa has to work his magic and turn LFC back on track and start winning once again.
Theres still a lot of football to be played and the 08/09 season could well have the most exciting finish to an EPL season with the likes of Chelsea,Arsenal and even Villa all seperated by just 6 points at the top.
Looks like this one might take a little longer to wrap up but I'm still confident that this title will end up at Anfield!
The return of Torres was the only bonus on the night and after a slow start he started showing signs that he is now(hopefully) over his hamstring troubles. He went on a stunning run from his own half and should have put LFC ahead only for his shot to come off the post. He should have definetly got a penalty after being brought down by Jagielka.
Everton fought back well and got their reward after *&^@%!) careless tackle on Anichebe and Cahill duly scored from the resulting free kick.
Rafa must be kicking himself after surrendering the top spot in the table to MUFC on goal difference with a game in hand and with all the teams in the chasing pack winning over the week-end Rafa has to work his magic and turn LFC back on track and start winning once again.
Theres still a lot of football to be played and the 08/09 season could well have the most exciting finish to an EPL season with the likes of Chelsea,Arsenal and even Villa all seperated by just 6 points at the top.
Looks like this one might take a little longer to wrap up but I'm still confident that this title will end up at Anfield!
Sunday, January 18, 2009
180th Merseyside Derby
As if the Merseyside derby isn't a big enough game in the city of Liverpool , tomorrows game at Anfield has added value...top of the league table. After MUFC won 1-0 thanks to a late strike by Berbatov against Bolton they went top of the table for the first time this season and we want our position back.
In the first game at Goodison Park Torres and Keane were magnificent upfront and I hope Rafa restores them both to the starting line-up. Torres has stated on the week-end that he is ready to start and I'm sure he would do well in a 4-3-1-2 formation playing alongside Keane with Gerrard in the hole behind them. Riera, Alonso & Kuyt should make up the rest of the midfield.The backline should remain the same.
Tomorrows game is a must win if we want to keep the pressure on the other contenders so Rafa should do the right thing and start his best 11 and get all 3 points.
In the first game at Goodison Park Torres and Keane were magnificent upfront and I hope Rafa restores them both to the starting line-up. Torres has stated on the week-end that he is ready to start and I'm sure he would do well in a 4-3-1-2 formation playing alongside Keane with Gerrard in the hole behind them. Riera, Alonso & Kuyt should make up the rest of the midfield.The backline should remain the same.
Tomorrows game is a must win if we want to keep the pressure on the other contenders so Rafa should do the right thing and start his best 11 and get all 3 points.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Did Rafa Get It Wrong?
Was his pre-meditated attack on Fergie signs that he DID succumb to the mind games?
Was the manner in which he attacked Fergie wrong?
I think the answer to both those questions is Yes!
I for one loved the way he finally exposed Fergie for the "mob" boss that he thinks he is but Rafa should not have had such a public outburst. He should have just kept his cool and waited for Fergie to crack first.
What was worst for Rafa is that the team did not back his statements by drawing against Stoke. They put in a terrible performance. It looked like the players themselves were affected by the mind games.
Rafa's starting 11 was questionable and so were his subs and the timing of them. Players like Lucas and Benayoun were left on for too long.
Why was Torres left on the bench for so long and why Keene was not even used? These are the problems that Rafa has to address soon if we are to win that elusive 19th title or dear I say it the Mancs might end up equalling our record.
United fans are already celebrating like they won the title but remember we already got the points on the board, those 2 games that you got in hand won't coun't for anything unless you get maximum points and even if you do you still have to play us! So relax boys it looks like this ones going down to the wire.
Was the manner in which he attacked Fergie wrong?
I think the answer to both those questions is Yes!
I for one loved the way he finally exposed Fergie for the "mob" boss that he thinks he is but Rafa should not have had such a public outburst. He should have just kept his cool and waited for Fergie to crack first.
What was worst for Rafa is that the team did not back his statements by drawing against Stoke. They put in a terrible performance. It looked like the players themselves were affected by the mind games.
Rafa's starting 11 was questionable and so were his subs and the timing of them. Players like Lucas and Benayoun were left on for too long.
Why was Torres left on the bench for so long and why Keene was not even used? These are the problems that Rafa has to address soon if we are to win that elusive 19th title or dear I say it the Mancs might end up equalling our record.
United fans are already celebrating like they won the title but remember we already got the points on the board, those 2 games that you got in hand won't coun't for anything unless you get maximum points and even if you do you still have to play us! So relax boys it looks like this ones going down to the wire.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Arise Sir Rafael Benitez!
Hes only been in the hot seat at Anfield for 5 years now and with the Champions League and FA Cup already in the trophy cabinet Rafa has worked hard with the players and backroom staff to win the Premier League Title but even if he fails and gets the sack he will still go down in LFC history as one of the most memorable managers we ever had especially after hes stunning attack on Alex Ferguson.
Rafa took a stunning swipe against the fiery Scot in his pre-match conference this afternoon.
Below is the transcript in full:
Rafa Benitez took an amazing but truthful swipe at Sir Alex Ferguson during his pre-match press conference today.Here's the transcript in full:"I was surprised by what has been said, but maybe they (Manchester United) are nervous because we are at the top of the table."But I want to talk about facts. I want to be clear, I do not want to play mind games too early, although they seem to want to start."But I have seen some facts. On November 1, they played Hull and Mr Ferguson had a two-match touchline ban and a £10,000 fine after confronting Mike Dean, the referee, for improper conduct."We started the Respect campaign, and that was when (Javier) Mascherano was sent off (last season) at Old Trafford."The referee (Steve Bennett) was the referee when they played against Wigan - he could not see the handball against Wigan by Rio Ferdinand, he did not give a penalty. They won the game and they won the title in this game."I think it will be the same referee who will be in charge of their game in hand this season (against Wigan)."During the Respect campaign - and this is a fact - Mr Ferguson was charged by the FA for improper conduct after comments made about Martin Atkinson and Keith Hackett."He was not punished. He is the only manager in the league that cannot be punished for these things."Then he was talking about the fixtures. Two years ago we were playing a lot of early kick-offs away on Saturdays when United were playing on Sundays. And we didn't say anything."Now he is complaining about everything, that everybody is against United. But the second half of the season will see them playing at home against all the teams at the top of the table, it is a fantastic advantage."But at Christmas, United played on the 29th and the rest of the teams played on the 28th. We were away against Newcastle two days after playing Bolton. They were playing about 40 hours later, they were not complaining then."And about his behaviour with referees. The Southampton manager he knows how Mr Ferguson works and how he works, he was very clear. I am not playing mind games, just facts."If he wants to talk about fixtures, and have a level playing field as you say in England. There are two options if we don't want more problems with fixtures."One is the same as in Spain, the draw for the first part of the league is known, everyone knows which weekend. In the second-half everyone plays the opposite, so you all know."Sky and Setanta have the right to choose their games and it will be the same for everyone. So Mr Ferguson will not be complaining about fixtures and a campaign against United."Or there is another option. That Mr Ferguson organises the fixtures in his office and sends it to us and everyone will know and cannot complain. That is simple."We know what happens every time we go to Old Trafford and the United staff. They are always going man to man with the referees, especially at half-time when they walk close to the referees and they are talking and talking."All managers need to know is that only Mr Ferguson can talk about the fixtures, can talk about referees and nothing happens."We need to know that I am taking about facts, not my impression. There are things that everyone can see every single week."Are they under pressure? Maybe they were not thinking that we would be at the top of the table in January. But we are at the top of the table and they are nervous."I am not telling the authorities what to do. But I have been here for five years and know how things are going on. I will be watching United's game with Chelsea."The result does not matter to us, if we win at Stoke that result does not matter."I was surprised United wanted to start the mind games too early, maybe it is because we are top of the table. But I only wanted to explain our position."It is a massive difference to play early on a Saturday, say, after a European match in midweek."But they will play the second half of the season with home matches against the other top teams, and that is a massive advantage to them."They cannot complain about the fixtures after they were playing on 29 December while the rest played on the 28th."I have decided that I had a lot of information and I have been watching every single week what has been going on. Then they started talking about us, but every single week we know they will be talking."But we want to stay at the top and maybe they will talk about us right to the end."To hear someone talking when he has problems with referees every single week, and now complaining about the fixtures and complaining about everything, I think that is not fair."You can see every single week how they put (referees) under pressure, we know this. We have seen it before. We have seen players sent off at Old Trafford and we do not see our opponents sent off."It is part of the game. But to complain and to always have an advantage is not fair."We had a meeting in Manchester with managers and FA about the Respect campaign. And I was very clear, forget the campaign because Mr Ferguson was killing the referees, killing Mr Atkinson, killing Mr Hackett."But he is not punished. How can you talk about the respect campaign and criticise the referee every single week?"You can analyse the facts and come to your own decision and ideas."There is still no news about my contract, my agent has not received any documents so he is a little bit disappointed. But we will see."I would rather not talk too much about this, though, when we have an important game ahead."
Long Live Sir Rafael Benitez!!!
Rafa took a stunning swipe against the fiery Scot in his pre-match conference this afternoon.
Below is the transcript in full:
Rafa Benitez took an amazing but truthful swipe at Sir Alex Ferguson during his pre-match press conference today.Here's the transcript in full:"I was surprised by what has been said, but maybe they (Manchester United) are nervous because we are at the top of the table."But I want to talk about facts. I want to be clear, I do not want to play mind games too early, although they seem to want to start."But I have seen some facts. On November 1, they played Hull and Mr Ferguson had a two-match touchline ban and a £10,000 fine after confronting Mike Dean, the referee, for improper conduct."We started the Respect campaign, and that was when (Javier) Mascherano was sent off (last season) at Old Trafford."The referee (Steve Bennett) was the referee when they played against Wigan - he could not see the handball against Wigan by Rio Ferdinand, he did not give a penalty. They won the game and they won the title in this game."I think it will be the same referee who will be in charge of their game in hand this season (against Wigan)."During the Respect campaign - and this is a fact - Mr Ferguson was charged by the FA for improper conduct after comments made about Martin Atkinson and Keith Hackett."He was not punished. He is the only manager in the league that cannot be punished for these things."Then he was talking about the fixtures. Two years ago we were playing a lot of early kick-offs away on Saturdays when United were playing on Sundays. And we didn't say anything."Now he is complaining about everything, that everybody is against United. But the second half of the season will see them playing at home against all the teams at the top of the table, it is a fantastic advantage."But at Christmas, United played on the 29th and the rest of the teams played on the 28th. We were away against Newcastle two days after playing Bolton. They were playing about 40 hours later, they were not complaining then."And about his behaviour with referees. The Southampton manager he knows how Mr Ferguson works and how he works, he was very clear. I am not playing mind games, just facts."If he wants to talk about fixtures, and have a level playing field as you say in England. There are two options if we don't want more problems with fixtures."One is the same as in Spain, the draw for the first part of the league is known, everyone knows which weekend. In the second-half everyone plays the opposite, so you all know."Sky and Setanta have the right to choose their games and it will be the same for everyone. So Mr Ferguson will not be complaining about fixtures and a campaign against United."Or there is another option. That Mr Ferguson organises the fixtures in his office and sends it to us and everyone will know and cannot complain. That is simple."We know what happens every time we go to Old Trafford and the United staff. They are always going man to man with the referees, especially at half-time when they walk close to the referees and they are talking and talking."All managers need to know is that only Mr Ferguson can talk about the fixtures, can talk about referees and nothing happens."We need to know that I am taking about facts, not my impression. There are things that everyone can see every single week."Are they under pressure? Maybe they were not thinking that we would be at the top of the table in January. But we are at the top of the table and they are nervous."I am not telling the authorities what to do. But I have been here for five years and know how things are going on. I will be watching United's game with Chelsea."The result does not matter to us, if we win at Stoke that result does not matter."I was surprised United wanted to start the mind games too early, maybe it is because we are top of the table. But I only wanted to explain our position."It is a massive difference to play early on a Saturday, say, after a European match in midweek."But they will play the second half of the season with home matches against the other top teams, and that is a massive advantage to them."They cannot complain about the fixtures after they were playing on 29 December while the rest played on the 28th."I have decided that I had a lot of information and I have been watching every single week what has been going on. Then they started talking about us, but every single week we know they will be talking."But we want to stay at the top and maybe they will talk about us right to the end."To hear someone talking when he has problems with referees every single week, and now complaining about the fixtures and complaining about everything, I think that is not fair."You can see every single week how they put (referees) under pressure, we know this. We have seen it before. We have seen players sent off at Old Trafford and we do not see our opponents sent off."It is part of the game. But to complain and to always have an advantage is not fair."We had a meeting in Manchester with managers and FA about the Respect campaign. And I was very clear, forget the campaign because Mr Ferguson was killing the referees, killing Mr Atkinson, killing Mr Hackett."But he is not punished. How can you talk about the respect campaign and criticise the referee every single week?"You can analyse the facts and come to your own decision and ideas."There is still no news about my contract, my agent has not received any documents so he is a little bit disappointed. But we will see."I would rather not talk too much about this, though, when we have an important game ahead."
Long Live Sir Rafael Benitez!!!
Monday, January 5, 2009
FA Cup 4th Round Draw
Liverpool v Everton
Man United v Tottenham
Hull/Newcastle v Millwall/Crewe
Sunderland v Blyth/Blackburn
Hartlepool v West Ham
Leyton Orient/Sheff Utd v Charlton/Norwich
Cardiff v Arsenal
Portsmouth/Bristol City v Histon/Swansea
Chelsea/Southend v Ipswich
Cheltenham/Doncaster v Aston Villa
West Brom/Peterborough v QPR/Burnley
Torquay v Coventry
Kettering Town v Fulham
Watford v Leicester/Crystal Palace
Derby County v Nottingham Forest
Birmingham City/Wolves v Middlesbrough.
The tie will be played over the weekend of January 24/25
Man United v Tottenham
Hull/Newcastle v Millwall/Crewe
Sunderland v Blyth/Blackburn
Hartlepool v West Ham
Leyton Orient/Sheff Utd v Charlton/Norwich
Cardiff v Arsenal
Portsmouth/Bristol City v Histon/Swansea
Chelsea/Southend v Ipswich
Cheltenham/Doncaster v Aston Villa
West Brom/Peterborough v QPR/Burnley
Torquay v Coventry
Kettering Town v Fulham
Watford v Leicester/Crystal Palace
Derby County v Nottingham Forest
Birmingham City/Wolves v Middlesbrough.
The tie will be played over the weekend of January 24/25
Thursday, January 1, 2009
2008.....A GREAT YEAR FOR LFC
While 2008 finished with mixed emotions for LFC fans after ending the year as table toppers and the "bar brawl" involving Kop idol Steven Gerrard, you have to admit it was quite an astonishing year.
This time last year we were out of the title race and fighting to secure 4th spot in the table. The backroom boiler was smouldering with news of the growing split between key members in the board. Rafa was in line to get the sack and be replaced by Jurgen Klinsmann after reports emerged that the Americans had held meetings with Klinsmann about taking over the reigns at Anfield.The natives grew restless and the Americans quickly became hate figures as they tried to disrupt a "way of life" for most LFC fans from Liverpool and all around the world.
Meanwile back at Melwood Rafa was only concerntrating on the games ahead and his players. In Gerrad and Torres he had match-winners and a back five including Reina, probably one of the best organised units in league. In the centre of midfield Alonso and Mascherano were a match for any. On the right of midfield Rafa had the "Energiser Bunny" Dirk Kuyt. This mans work-rate is secend to none and proved a match-winner in our assault in the Champoins League. Babel/Benayoun/Riise were all deployed at some point down the left flank. The team had a good run in the league and secured Champions League qualification for another season. Torres finished a reamarkable debut season with 33 goals in total and even surpassed van Nistelrooy total of 23 league goals to become the highest scoring foreigner in his debut season.
The 08/09 season will prove to be one of the most important for any LFC fan as we desperately try to win that elusive 19th league title with Man Utd hot on their heels to equal our record of 18 league titles.
After thrashing Newcastle 5-1 at St James Park Steven Gerrard said that this was the best LFC team that he played in and with the eminent return of Fernando Torres to our line-up there is no doubt that this will be our best chance of ending our long overdue wait for the title to return to Anfield.
By contrast we head into 2009 as league leaders by 3 clear points and no doubt Rafa will strenghten the team in the January transfer window as we head into the homestretch of the season ready for a title fight.
This time last year we were out of the title race and fighting to secure 4th spot in the table. The backroom boiler was smouldering with news of the growing split between key members in the board. Rafa was in line to get the sack and be replaced by Jurgen Klinsmann after reports emerged that the Americans had held meetings with Klinsmann about taking over the reigns at Anfield.The natives grew restless and the Americans quickly became hate figures as they tried to disrupt a "way of life" for most LFC fans from Liverpool and all around the world.
Meanwile back at Melwood Rafa was only concerntrating on the games ahead and his players. In Gerrad and Torres he had match-winners and a back five including Reina, probably one of the best organised units in league. In the centre of midfield Alonso and Mascherano were a match for any. On the right of midfield Rafa had the "Energiser Bunny" Dirk Kuyt. This mans work-rate is secend to none and proved a match-winner in our assault in the Champoins League. Babel/Benayoun/Riise were all deployed at some point down the left flank. The team had a good run in the league and secured Champions League qualification for another season. Torres finished a reamarkable debut season with 33 goals in total and even surpassed van Nistelrooy total of 23 league goals to become the highest scoring foreigner in his debut season.
The 08/09 season will prove to be one of the most important for any LFC fan as we desperately try to win that elusive 19th league title with Man Utd hot on their heels to equal our record of 18 league titles.
After thrashing Newcastle 5-1 at St James Park Steven Gerrard said that this was the best LFC team that he played in and with the eminent return of Fernando Torres to our line-up there is no doubt that this will be our best chance of ending our long overdue wait for the title to return to Anfield.
By contrast we head into 2009 as league leaders by 3 clear points and no doubt Rafa will strenghten the team in the January transfer window as we head into the homestretch of the season ready for a title fight.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
