What it means for us....
In South Africa the support for the English Premier League is largely split between Liverpool FC and Manchester United. In my town it gets a bit hectic, the Liverpool fans get hammered for our failure to win the league in the last 20 years.... we just hammer them back because they Man United, never liked much by anyone here.
So come this Sunday all fans will be wearing their respective team shirts and wait patiently for what will be our first 3 points of the season. In this fixture, form generally goes out the window and passion takes over...In front of our home crowd I have no doubt that we will truimph over out bitter rivals.
After four winless games so far we have made our worst start to a league season in over 100 years and no one is letting us forget it! The press and most betting companies are not giving us much hope either for a win on Sunday but I think we will prevail. WE ARE LIVERPOOL FOOTBALL CLUB.
We were desperately unlucky not to win at least 2 of our opening 4 games, we outplayed Man City and should've won that one, in our last game against Sunderland we were very unlucky not to win again. With over 60% possession and 23 shots on goal it is clear to see we have problems up front, we just not taking our chances in front of goal, we hit the bar twice and had numerous other chances to score. We are being very patient in our build up and the partnership of Allen and Gerrard in the middle of the park is going to get even stronger. Jonjo is looking hungry and makes excellent forward runs. Yes it will take time for us to click the way the manager wants but its going to come sooner rather than later.
The best way to really kick off the 'Rogers Revolution' will be to take 3 points off Man United !!!
Fergie is going to play 5 in midfield to counter our style and I think this is where we are going to win the game. We have the potential to win the midfield battle especially with the over lapping runs or Kelly/Enrique and Johnson. Rogers biggest concern will be whether to play Borini or bench him . In my opinion we should start with Reina, Johnson, Agger, Skrtle, Downing/Enrique (if fit), Allen, Shelvey, Sahin, Gerrard, Sterling, Suarez....Gerrard pushed up front to play alongside Suarez could prove a master stoke by Rogers. Gerrard is the type of player that would be perfect for Suarez to really take advantage off. Lets not forget Gerrard has a goal or 2 in him especially against Man United. Borinin, Assaidi, Yesil and Downing could all come on to change the game should we need.
This game is going to be huge and I think the script is written once again for a Liverpool win at Anfield...
We will walk tall in Fordsburg Square with out Warrior shirts and I knw we won't find any Man Utd fans to have fun with !!!!!
C'mon you REDS ...do it for the 96!!!
#YNWA
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Monday, September 3, 2012
Rogers left in Limbo by the Owners
Brendan Rogers was quoted three weeks ago "I'd be nuts to sell Carroll if theres no replacement for him and he needs 3 strikers"
Rogers was left in limbo last week as the owners sanctioned Carroll's move to West Ham on a season long loan. Rogers thought that he'd be getting a replasement in Clint Dempsey but the move never materialised. One wonders just how much FSG actually tried to get Dempsey when his move to Spurs was concluded in about an hour ! Refusing to spend 5 million pounds on a 29 year old who scored 17 goals last season....meanwhile the Mancs spend 24 million on a 29 year old in van Persie.
This left us very short up front with only Borini and Suarez as the recognised strikers. Yes Suarez is a striker but tends to create more than he scores. Borinin in my opinion is just not there yet, doesn't look like the 'goalscorer' that we need. Assaidi wasn't even on the bench while Yesil was bought as a future first team player.
For all our possession and good play yesterday against Arsenal we were left to rue missed chances again. Sahin was handed his home debut but failed to spark in a game that saw Joe Allen agani receive praise for his outstanding play. Gerrard looks a shadow of the player he once was, uncharacteristically giving the ball away far too many times. Its just not the same forcefull Gerrard that would carry the fight single handedly to any opposition. This I'm sure is a worry for any Liverpool fan. Our safe hands Pepe Reina also looked shakey early on in the season with two very bad mistakes in consecutive games, against Hearts and Arsenal.
Benitez once claimed that the he's got the best 'spine' in any team, Reina, Carra, Gerrard and Torres.
Torres jumped ship.....thank God Carra ain't playing ...
Ex Liverpool captains Phil Thompson and Jamie Redknapp urged Rogers to bring back Michael Owen, who is a free agent and make a move for Didier Drogba after being released by his Chinese club. While I'm sure the news of Drogba's arrival at Anfield will be welcomed I wonder about Owen's, the player who left us in 2004 to 'win trophies'. How would that go down with the Kop faithfull who have booed Owen every time he's returned to Anfield playing for Newcastle and Man Utd. Rogers says he will look at any player that can improve the team, I think he's just desperate and will take Owen back if the chance comes up.
Is it a case of the cup is half full or empty, We've done well in the transfer window brining in Joe Allen, Sahin, Assaidi, Yesil and Borini while letting Spearing, Adam, Carroll, Kuyt, Maxi and Bellamy leave. No replacements for Carroll, Kuyt and Bellamy could prove costly to an already shakey start to the Rogers Revolution.
Rogers was left in limbo last week as the owners sanctioned Carroll's move to West Ham on a season long loan. Rogers thought that he'd be getting a replasement in Clint Dempsey but the move never materialised. One wonders just how much FSG actually tried to get Dempsey when his move to Spurs was concluded in about an hour ! Refusing to spend 5 million pounds on a 29 year old who scored 17 goals last season....meanwhile the Mancs spend 24 million on a 29 year old in van Persie.
This left us very short up front with only Borini and Suarez as the recognised strikers. Yes Suarez is a striker but tends to create more than he scores. Borinin in my opinion is just not there yet, doesn't look like the 'goalscorer' that we need. Assaidi wasn't even on the bench while Yesil was bought as a future first team player.
For all our possession and good play yesterday against Arsenal we were left to rue missed chances again. Sahin was handed his home debut but failed to spark in a game that saw Joe Allen agani receive praise for his outstanding play. Gerrard looks a shadow of the player he once was, uncharacteristically giving the ball away far too many times. Its just not the same forcefull Gerrard that would carry the fight single handedly to any opposition. This I'm sure is a worry for any Liverpool fan. Our safe hands Pepe Reina also looked shakey early on in the season with two very bad mistakes in consecutive games, against Hearts and Arsenal.
Benitez once claimed that the he's got the best 'spine' in any team, Reina, Carra, Gerrard and Torres.
Torres jumped ship.....thank God Carra ain't playing ...
Ex Liverpool captains Phil Thompson and Jamie Redknapp urged Rogers to bring back Michael Owen, who is a free agent and make a move for Didier Drogba after being released by his Chinese club. While I'm sure the news of Drogba's arrival at Anfield will be welcomed I wonder about Owen's, the player who left us in 2004 to 'win trophies'. How would that go down with the Kop faithfull who have booed Owen every time he's returned to Anfield playing for Newcastle and Man Utd. Rogers says he will look at any player that can improve the team, I think he's just desperate and will take Owen back if the chance comes up.
Is it a case of the cup is half full or empty, We've done well in the transfer window brining in Joe Allen, Sahin, Assaidi, Yesil and Borini while letting Spearing, Adam, Carroll, Kuyt, Maxi and Bellamy leave. No replacements for Carroll, Kuyt and Bellamy could prove costly to an already shakey start to the Rogers Revolution.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
An Apology to Lucas.....KOP Hero
Its been 3 years since I last wrote on this blog and after reading older posts I really felt the need to apologise to a Kop hero....Lucas Leiva.
Back in 2009 when Rafa insisted on playing Mascherano, Alonso AND Lucas many(including me!) questioned Lucas inclusion. Why 3 'holding' midfielders...why Lucas!!!
While I knew Lucas was a class player I questioned his inclusion into an already steady midfield and was frustrated because we could obviously use an extra attacking player instead of another defensive one.
Barely a season later and I was made to eat my words and admitted it to every Liverpool fan I knew.
With Alonso moving on to Real Madrid and Masherano following soon after to Barcelona, Lucas was left to hold the midfield and boy did he step up. He soon established himself as the number one midfielder and our most productive player with the exception of the ever present Captain Stevie. He became a Kop hero...
No one was more excited to see Lucas come on as a sub on the recent American tour than me. Lucas was back to stabilise our fragile midfield that hurt so much under King Kenny when he got injured last season against Chelsea. Liverpool FC looked to step up a gear last season after Kenny was signed on as permanent manager but that progress was soon halted when Lucas got injured against Chelsea in the League Cup. With that our league form dipped, we just could'nt match other teams in midfield. Even the great Stevie G commented that Lucas was the form player when he got injured and it hurt the team. No one really stood out as an adequate replacement for Lucas in midfield and the team suffered. Yes we outplayed a lot of teams and suffered terrible luck in front of goal but for me the key to our miserable season was the loss of Lucas.
The Rogers Revolution started decently with some stella performances in the States and the inclusion of Lucas was a great sight once again. In the opening day of the season against West Brom we lost but we were never outplayed in that game, 3-0 was a flattering score line. Although Lucas was tiring in midfield I felt that his substitution was a major factor in us conceding 2 goals late on. It allowed West Brom to have a better share of the midfield. Lucas just covers so much ground and breaks ups much of the opposition plays.
We will once again lose the services of Lucas who was injured early on against Manchester City.... at least this time it wont be for the whole season. I'm really looking forward to enjoying your contribution on the field in his new Rogers system.
We need you to be back soon and stronger in our push for the Champions League places and hopefully we can shut a few doubters up and even challenge for that elusive League Title.
C'mon Lucas ....The Kop Hero from Sunny Brasil....
Back in 2009 when Rafa insisted on playing Mascherano, Alonso AND Lucas many(including me!) questioned Lucas inclusion. Why 3 'holding' midfielders...why Lucas!!!
While I knew Lucas was a class player I questioned his inclusion into an already steady midfield and was frustrated because we could obviously use an extra attacking player instead of another defensive one.
Barely a season later and I was made to eat my words and admitted it to every Liverpool fan I knew.
With Alonso moving on to Real Madrid and Masherano following soon after to Barcelona, Lucas was left to hold the midfield and boy did he step up. He soon established himself as the number one midfielder and our most productive player with the exception of the ever present Captain Stevie. He became a Kop hero...
No one was more excited to see Lucas come on as a sub on the recent American tour than me. Lucas was back to stabilise our fragile midfield that hurt so much under King Kenny when he got injured last season against Chelsea. Liverpool FC looked to step up a gear last season after Kenny was signed on as permanent manager but that progress was soon halted when Lucas got injured against Chelsea in the League Cup. With that our league form dipped, we just could'nt match other teams in midfield. Even the great Stevie G commented that Lucas was the form player when he got injured and it hurt the team. No one really stood out as an adequate replacement for Lucas in midfield and the team suffered. Yes we outplayed a lot of teams and suffered terrible luck in front of goal but for me the key to our miserable season was the loss of Lucas.
The Rogers Revolution started decently with some stella performances in the States and the inclusion of Lucas was a great sight once again. In the opening day of the season against West Brom we lost but we were never outplayed in that game, 3-0 was a flattering score line. Although Lucas was tiring in midfield I felt that his substitution was a major factor in us conceding 2 goals late on. It allowed West Brom to have a better share of the midfield. Lucas just covers so much ground and breaks ups much of the opposition plays.
We will once again lose the services of Lucas who was injured early on against Manchester City.... at least this time it wont be for the whole season. I'm really looking forward to enjoying your contribution on the field in his new Rogers system.
We need you to be back soon and stronger in our push for the Champions League places and hopefully we can shut a few doubters up and even challenge for that elusive League Title.
C'mon Lucas ....The Kop Hero from Sunny Brasil....
Monday, August 27, 2012
The Rogers Revolution
Is the Rogers Revolution really taking shape?
From the view of a Liverpool FC addict I can safely say it is....
Pushing on from last seasons ups and downs one can really see a change in the philosophy at Liverpool. Rodgers has a system in place that I think will work well with the players available to him, he's added Joe Allen who already looks like a polished midfielder, no disrepect to Swansea but Liverpool is more than just a club and we boast a midfield to match any in the Premier League. Allen has not only fitted in but has been our best performer since the league started, breaking down opposition play and also passing accuracy. Nuri Sahin has also been added and I can't wait to see him and how Rogers will shuffle the team around to accomodate him. He is exactly the type of player that we needed in the midfield. In my opinion he should be sitting just behind Suarez.
We were hard done by with two unfortunate mistakes against Man City, it was a case of 3 dropped points for Liverpool FC, who fought hard against the Champions. Raheem Sterling showed that he can play at this level, hes may runs and final ball into the box will no doubt be a good reason to bench Downing. He worked his socks off back tracking and im sure we're gonna be seeing more of this talented 17 year old.
One major concern for me is up front, while Borinin works hard the final product is still lacking, I trust Rogers judgment on him and having worked with him before knows his capabilities. With the future of Carroll still in doubt it remains to be seen if we will indeed add another striker.
Players like Spearing, Henderson, Adam, Downing, Carroll need to be moved on and suitable replacements need to be brought in, players that can fit in and play the 'Rogers' style must be brought in before the transfer window closes.
I'm really excited to see where Rogers can actually take the team once his philosophy is really understood on the field.
YNWA
From the view of a Liverpool FC addict I can safely say it is....
Pushing on from last seasons ups and downs one can really see a change in the philosophy at Liverpool. Rodgers has a system in place that I think will work well with the players available to him, he's added Joe Allen who already looks like a polished midfielder, no disrepect to Swansea but Liverpool is more than just a club and we boast a midfield to match any in the Premier League. Allen has not only fitted in but has been our best performer since the league started, breaking down opposition play and also passing accuracy. Nuri Sahin has also been added and I can't wait to see him and how Rogers will shuffle the team around to accomodate him. He is exactly the type of player that we needed in the midfield. In my opinion he should be sitting just behind Suarez.
We were hard done by with two unfortunate mistakes against Man City, it was a case of 3 dropped points for Liverpool FC, who fought hard against the Champions. Raheem Sterling showed that he can play at this level, hes may runs and final ball into the box will no doubt be a good reason to bench Downing. He worked his socks off back tracking and im sure we're gonna be seeing more of this talented 17 year old.
One major concern for me is up front, while Borinin works hard the final product is still lacking, I trust Rogers judgment on him and having worked with him before knows his capabilities. With the future of Carroll still in doubt it remains to be seen if we will indeed add another striker.
Players like Spearing, Henderson, Adam, Downing, Carroll need to be moved on and suitable replacements need to be brought in, players that can fit in and play the 'Rogers' style must be brought in before the transfer window closes.
I'm really excited to see where Rogers can actually take the team once his philosophy is really understood on the field.
YNWA
Monday, March 23, 2009
The Fight Goes On
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.
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.
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.
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