So, 4 days after the final, I finally get to review the final! It has been a shocking week at work, I know this is incredibly unfootball related, but isn't it amazing how quick you can go from liking your job, to absolutely hating it! Although to be fair, it's not the job, it's the lack of line management!! Anyway, soap box moment over!
I mentioned briefly on my iphone blog on Sunday just after Spain were crowned champions, how anyone can call this team boring is beyond me. Andres Iniesta during this tournament has outpassed the entire England team!! Mind you, it wasn't that difficult!
For all the alleged boring, or negative play, or however you term it as a team plays with no forward, on Sunday night, it all came to fruition with a stunning 4-0 win! You have to take your hat off to this era of Spanish football, as that is not only 3 major finals on a trot, but 3 WINS!! Absolute quality!
For me, Spain are the only team from Europe who could do something in the heat of the Brazil 2014 World Cup, and here is a scary fact, look at the ages of the Spanish team!!!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spain_national_football_team
Showing posts with label Euro 2012. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Euro 2012. Show all posts
Thursday, 5 July 2012
Sunday, 1 July 2012
Euro 2012 final!
Spain are the champions, and deservedly so! What a quality performance. Whoever says this is a boring team really needs a reality check! Anyway, I will report more tomorrow as this is coming from my iPhone! Great tournament!
Saturday, 30 June 2012
Euro 2012 Semi Finals
So, it's the day before the final, Italy Vs Spain. How did they get to the final? First up was Spain Portugal, and a match everyone was looking forward too! This game had everything from great passing to an utterly boring 2nd half!!
I missed the first half I was playing 5 a side, and it seems I missed the better half, as the 2nd half was tedious. Into extra time we went, and suddenly Spain upped a gear and the football was back on. Rui Patricio pulled off a great save from close range to keep Portugal in it and take the match to penalties!
Both teams missed their first pen, then both teams started to find the back of the net before we had the fun of the Nani and Bruno Alves penalty and whose turn was it?! I genuinely believe this was not a mistake, and that it was planned....just a little bit of gamesmanship in the hope Casillias would be put off. It didn't work, well it did for Nani, but Alves missed his, and Fabregas popped up to knock his penalty in off the post, and send Spain through to their 3rd consecutive major final!!
The two things which surprised me was the amount of defenders taking penalties, and cocky Mr Ronaldo who was desperate to take the pressure penalty and win the game for Portugal!! Get a grip Cristiano, take an early penalty and give your team confidence!!!
Next night, was Italy Germany, and as we all know, this ended up about one man - Balotelli!! He has fast becoming a player you can have a love hate relationship with! When he turns up, by god he turns up, and he did just that on Thursday night with possibly my goal of the tournament! There have been a few good hits, but this was sublime!
The Germans were not their typical self to be honest, but take nothing away from Italy, they deserve their place in the final! It's Italy for me on Sunday, afterall, the last time there was a football scandal in Italy, they won the World Cup!!
I missed the first half I was playing 5 a side, and it seems I missed the better half, as the 2nd half was tedious. Into extra time we went, and suddenly Spain upped a gear and the football was back on. Rui Patricio pulled off a great save from close range to keep Portugal in it and take the match to penalties!
Both teams missed their first pen, then both teams started to find the back of the net before we had the fun of the Nani and Bruno Alves penalty and whose turn was it?! I genuinely believe this was not a mistake, and that it was planned....just a little bit of gamesmanship in the hope Casillias would be put off. It didn't work, well it did for Nani, but Alves missed his, and Fabregas popped up to knock his penalty in off the post, and send Spain through to their 3rd consecutive major final!!
The two things which surprised me was the amount of defenders taking penalties, and cocky Mr Ronaldo who was desperate to take the pressure penalty and win the game for Portugal!! Get a grip Cristiano, take an early penalty and give your team confidence!!!
Next night, was Italy Germany, and as we all know, this ended up about one man - Balotelli!! He has fast becoming a player you can have a love hate relationship with! When he turns up, by god he turns up, and he did just that on Thursday night with possibly my goal of the tournament! There have been a few good hits, but this was sublime!
The Germans were not their typical self to be honest, but take nothing away from Italy, they deserve their place in the final! It's Italy for me on Sunday, afterall, the last time there was a football scandal in Italy, they won the World Cup!!
Monday, 25 June 2012
England Player Ratings Euro 2012
So, the tournament is over for England, so I have decided to rate how I thought the players did (just in case anyone is interested...lol)
Joe Hart - 7 - Had a couple of little wobbles, but on the whole he is a top keeper, and really has the potential to be world class, which he isn't far away from now! He most definitely has a presence in goal! The only problem with this position is the lack of backup and competition for Hart.
Glen Johnson - 7 - When Kyle Walker was ruled out, it was a shock that Johnson was picked over Micah Richards. We all know Johnson is a good wing back, and has the potential to be a good right midfielder, but as an out and out right back we are not sure! However, whilst I am not changing my mind about how I feel, I will say that he impressed me in this tournament, and for me, along with Terry, was arguable England's best defender.
Ashley Cole - 5 - I thought Cole had a poor tournament, and this was before his penalty miss (which has not played a part in his rating). I expected teams to attack Glen Johnson, thinking he was the weak link, but they didn't, they chose Cole! Cole just never seemed to get going, and I thought he was caught out of position far too often. Cole is much better then he has played this tournament, but I have no doubt he will carry on as England#s first choice left back.
John Terry - 7 - I am not a fan of Terry, but he has just gone about his job, doing nothing special, but being solid. For me, his performance in the first half against Ukraine was exceptional, but he has to take some responsibility for the mad 20 mins vs Sweden. He does lack pace, but you know with Terry he will give his all for England.
Joleon Lescott - 7 - Again nothing special, and won't let you down, and much like Jagielka and Cahill, he will always do well when filling in, but I get the feeling that is all he is doing - filling in for someone! Scored his 1st International goal against France!
Scott Parker - 6 - Solid again, and will always do you a job, but due to the lack of central midfielders, he wasn't able to rest! Consequently, the more the tournament went on, the more knackered he became! Again for me, he seems to be another player who is filling in a place! Maybe for someone like Wilshere once he is fit.
Steven Gerrard - 7 - Along with Johnson and Terry, they are the 3 players who came close to getting an 8! He did put in some quality crosses, and had 3 assists, but some of his passing was poor for a player of his standards. Again, due to the lack of central midfielders, we were unable to rest him from time to time, and it showed at times.
Ashley Young - 5 - I had him down as my potential player of the tournament for England, but after the France game, he just disappeared, and on the whole was disappointing. He never really got himself into any of the games to have an effect.
James Milner - 3 - for effort!! Sorry, but I am tired of people talking about him being a workhorse. Yes he is, but I would be a workhorse if I played for England! He offered nothing, end of!!
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain - 6 - one for the future! After France, he didn't really play that much, but whilst he wasn't outstanding Vs France, he didn't disappoint, and he definitely seems to have a future with England. Only scored a 6 due to lack of playing time.
Theo Walcott - 7 - Not so sure he wants a supersub tag, or wants to be an impact player, but that is definitely the way he is going! He can drive you mad, as he is consistently inconsistent!! How long can we talk about his potential though? Still, if he is going to be an impact player, he is worth having!!!
Andy Carroll - 7 - I think he has contributed well, and did everything asked of him to suggest Roy will give him more opportunities. Scored with a quality header.
Danny Welbeck - 7 - Again, did everything asked of him, although was slightly surprising that he was more subdued when playing with his club team mate Rooney. Scored with a lovely flick Vs Sweden.
Wayne Rooney - 5 - Yes he scored Vs Ukraine, but he wasn't match fit, so was it a gamble worth taking? Was always going to be a hard decision on whether or not to leave him out, and I suppose with his talent, it was a risk worth taking, it just didn't work out.
Jordan Henderson and Jermain Defoe were the only other players to play, but can't really mark them as they only played minutes!!
Joe Hart - 7 - Had a couple of little wobbles, but on the whole he is a top keeper, and really has the potential to be world class, which he isn't far away from now! He most definitely has a presence in goal! The only problem with this position is the lack of backup and competition for Hart.
Glen Johnson - 7 - When Kyle Walker was ruled out, it was a shock that Johnson was picked over Micah Richards. We all know Johnson is a good wing back, and has the potential to be a good right midfielder, but as an out and out right back we are not sure! However, whilst I am not changing my mind about how I feel, I will say that he impressed me in this tournament, and for me, along with Terry, was arguable England's best defender.
Ashley Cole - 5 - I thought Cole had a poor tournament, and this was before his penalty miss (which has not played a part in his rating). I expected teams to attack Glen Johnson, thinking he was the weak link, but they didn't, they chose Cole! Cole just never seemed to get going, and I thought he was caught out of position far too often. Cole is much better then he has played this tournament, but I have no doubt he will carry on as England#s first choice left back.
John Terry - 7 - I am not a fan of Terry, but he has just gone about his job, doing nothing special, but being solid. For me, his performance in the first half against Ukraine was exceptional, but he has to take some responsibility for the mad 20 mins vs Sweden. He does lack pace, but you know with Terry he will give his all for England.
Joleon Lescott - 7 - Again nothing special, and won't let you down, and much like Jagielka and Cahill, he will always do well when filling in, but I get the feeling that is all he is doing - filling in for someone! Scored his 1st International goal against France!
Scott Parker - 6 - Solid again, and will always do you a job, but due to the lack of central midfielders, he wasn't able to rest! Consequently, the more the tournament went on, the more knackered he became! Again for me, he seems to be another player who is filling in a place! Maybe for someone like Wilshere once he is fit.
Steven Gerrard - 7 - Along with Johnson and Terry, they are the 3 players who came close to getting an 8! He did put in some quality crosses, and had 3 assists, but some of his passing was poor for a player of his standards. Again, due to the lack of central midfielders, we were unable to rest him from time to time, and it showed at times.
Ashley Young - 5 - I had him down as my potential player of the tournament for England, but after the France game, he just disappeared, and on the whole was disappointing. He never really got himself into any of the games to have an effect.
James Milner - 3 - for effort!! Sorry, but I am tired of people talking about him being a workhorse. Yes he is, but I would be a workhorse if I played for England! He offered nothing, end of!!
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain - 6 - one for the future! After France, he didn't really play that much, but whilst he wasn't outstanding Vs France, he didn't disappoint, and he definitely seems to have a future with England. Only scored a 6 due to lack of playing time.
Theo Walcott - 7 - Not so sure he wants a supersub tag, or wants to be an impact player, but that is definitely the way he is going! He can drive you mad, as he is consistently inconsistent!! How long can we talk about his potential though? Still, if he is going to be an impact player, he is worth having!!!
Andy Carroll - 7 - I think he has contributed well, and did everything asked of him to suggest Roy will give him more opportunities. Scored with a quality header.
Danny Welbeck - 7 - Again, did everything asked of him, although was slightly surprising that he was more subdued when playing with his club team mate Rooney. Scored with a lovely flick Vs Sweden.
Wayne Rooney - 5 - Yes he scored Vs Ukraine, but he wasn't match fit, so was it a gamble worth taking? Was always going to be a hard decision on whether or not to leave him out, and I suppose with his talent, it was a risk worth taking, it just didn't work out.
Jordan Henderson and Jermain Defoe were the only other players to play, but can't really mark them as they only played minutes!!
Euro 2012 QFs
The family have been passed on to my parents, ans the house is now nice and quiet again!! So, I am now taking the taking the opportunity to catch up on my Euro 2012 review. We now know the Semi Final line up. We had already discussed Portugal progressing, and they are due to meet Spain.
Spain beat France 2-0 in a game that didn't really meet up to expectations! I was looking forward to this one, but with the news that the French squad were arguing with themselves (no shock there!!), you wondered which France would turn up! It was the defensive, lets sit back for 90mins France, as with Spain again ignoring their attackers in preference for 86 midfielders, the game was destined to be slow paced! At one point, I even forgot Franck Ribery was playing he was that anonymous! Xabi Alonso helped himselves to 2 goals to help set up a tie with neighbours Portugal and one mr attitude Cristiano Ronaldo, who is just finding his form!
Germany progressed easily, as expected to the Semi Final, with an exhibition of football as they beat Greece 4-2. Lahm scored a cracker to give the Germans the lead, but Greece somehow fought back to 1-1. Still, it never seemed like Germany would lose, and it wasn't a case of when they were going to score, but how many. Greece couldn't have complained if it has finished 6 or 7-1. I was impressed with Reus up front, who took the 4th goal well, after a good save from the Greek Keeper.
And onto last night!!! I knew it would be difficult, and have to say, barring an outrageous strike from De Rossi which hit the post after just 3 mins, I was pleased with how England started the game. At times the Italian defence looked on edge, however, as we all expected, Italy played themselves into the game, and once they took control, it seemed only a matter of time before they would score. You can't argue with out defending, it was stubborn and we refused to give in, but our attacking play and poor passing was just so poor.
The game went into extra time, and we were just hoping, we could shock the Italians, as we all knew in our heart of heart we were out if it went to pens. With just mins to go, the Italians, who had missed a number of sitters, finally scored, but it was rightly ruled out for offside!
And, so onto pens!! Italy missed their first one, and yes I got excited, but I still knew there was a twist!! Penalties for England have now became a psychological problem!! 2-1 down on pens, up stepped Mr Pirlo, to score probably the best penalty I have seen! Not just because it was cheeky and outrageous, but because of the pressure involved, score at the time etc!! Ashley Young was the first to miss, and fair play, he put his foot through the ball, as you would hope players do, he just just didn't keep it down! Next to miss was Ashley Cole! Buffon had done his homework, and easily side Cole's side-footed effort. You knew the Italians wouldn't miss their final effort, and they didn't as they went through 4-2.
I know the players are gutted, and I wasn't happy, but I was prepared to go out!! Also, some of the players reactions led me to believe that it is a psychological problem now! I don't expect players to be angry or burst into tears, but there was a sense of resignation with some of them, almost like they expected it to go that way!
So, Italy go on to play Germany, and Germany will be pleased as this was the only tie to go into extra time, and Germany have had 2 days extra rest!
Spain beat France 2-0 in a game that didn't really meet up to expectations! I was looking forward to this one, but with the news that the French squad were arguing with themselves (no shock there!!), you wondered which France would turn up! It was the defensive, lets sit back for 90mins France, as with Spain again ignoring their attackers in preference for 86 midfielders, the game was destined to be slow paced! At one point, I even forgot Franck Ribery was playing he was that anonymous! Xabi Alonso helped himselves to 2 goals to help set up a tie with neighbours Portugal and one mr attitude Cristiano Ronaldo, who is just finding his form!
Germany progressed easily, as expected to the Semi Final, with an exhibition of football as they beat Greece 4-2. Lahm scored a cracker to give the Germans the lead, but Greece somehow fought back to 1-1. Still, it never seemed like Germany would lose, and it wasn't a case of when they were going to score, but how many. Greece couldn't have complained if it has finished 6 or 7-1. I was impressed with Reus up front, who took the 4th goal well, after a good save from the Greek Keeper.
And onto last night!!! I knew it would be difficult, and have to say, barring an outrageous strike from De Rossi which hit the post after just 3 mins, I was pleased with how England started the game. At times the Italian defence looked on edge, however, as we all expected, Italy played themselves into the game, and once they took control, it seemed only a matter of time before they would score. You can't argue with out defending, it was stubborn and we refused to give in, but our attacking play and poor passing was just so poor.
The game went into extra time, and we were just hoping, we could shock the Italians, as we all knew in our heart of heart we were out if it went to pens. With just mins to go, the Italians, who had missed a number of sitters, finally scored, but it was rightly ruled out for offside!
And, so onto pens!! Italy missed their first one, and yes I got excited, but I still knew there was a twist!! Penalties for England have now became a psychological problem!! 2-1 down on pens, up stepped Mr Pirlo, to score probably the best penalty I have seen! Not just because it was cheeky and outrageous, but because of the pressure involved, score at the time etc!! Ashley Young was the first to miss, and fair play, he put his foot through the ball, as you would hope players do, he just just didn't keep it down! Next to miss was Ashley Cole! Buffon had done his homework, and easily side Cole's side-footed effort. You knew the Italians wouldn't miss their final effort, and they didn't as they went through 4-2.
I know the players are gutted, and I wasn't happy, but I was prepared to go out!! Also, some of the players reactions led me to believe that it is a psychological problem now! I don't expect players to be angry or burst into tears, but there was a sense of resignation with some of them, almost like they expected it to go that way!
So, Italy go on to play Germany, and Germany will be pleased as this was the only tie to go into extra time, and Germany have had 2 days extra rest!
Sunday, 24 June 2012
Euro 2012 catch up
Well, due to having family over from the states, I have been unable to do my regular Euro 2012 coverage! So far, Germany, Portugal and Spain are through to the semis! It's the big one tonight with the winners of England Italy fighting for the right to play Germany! I am sat out in the garden getting a few mins piece of quiet as I type this on my iPhone!
Last night of the family being here, so will be back on the blog case tomorrow!
Last night of the family being here, so will be back on the blog case tomorrow!
Thursday, 21 June 2012
Euro 2012 QF
It's day like this I don't appreciate over time at work, not that I have any choice, I had to work! Adult enrolment, so at least it was busy and time passed quickly. I basically missed the first half by the time I got home! Tea was served up by my fab wife, but then instead of watching football, I had to go into full scale cleaning mode as my sister and family are visiting tomorrow, having travelled over from America! The game was in the background as I kept popping back in to check out what was happening!
I was more intrigued by the after match interviews, first of all Ronaldo was full of self importance, and then Klinsmann was full of self confidence when asked on how Germany would do! And then it dawned on me, it wasn't arrogant by either Ronaldo or Klinsmann, rather it just shows the difference between good and genius/class! Whereas, our players are interviewed and they sit there happy to have got out of the group and talk about the achievement of finishing top, German players have obviously come to the tournament thinking of nothing else but taking the trophy home!!
May I remind England of the day we beat the Germans 5-1, it was a great day, but it was only qualification, and possibly the worst German team ever in qualifying went to the World Cup, grouped together, and won the World Cup!!
The only positive to winning our group was qualifying for the Quarter Finals, it's now the hard work starts!!
My family are over for the weekend, so it's time to teach my American brother in law about football, and that's exactly what it is, football, it will never be soccer!!
Tuesday, 19 June 2012
Euro 2012 Day Twelve
Well, thank god that is over!! I am incredibly pleased that England are through, but that had to be the worst game of the 3!! The game could have been over at half time if we were playing a decent attacking side!! Fair play to the Ukraine though, they pushed us all the way!
We'll ignore the first half, as we were poor, and the only highlight was a negative one, a sitter missed by the rusty Rooney! 2mins into the 2nd half, and England took the lead through a Rooney header from 6 inches! This is where I definitely become a member of the goalkeeper's union! Don't get me wrong, the Ukrainian keeper is not great, and the first deflection from Gerrard's cross made no difference, but the little knick from the boot of the defender definitely made a difference! Once you weight goes one way, it's incredibly difficult to adjust! Still, I don't care as England scored, and ultimately won!!
So, the Ukraine attacked and we just knew goal line technology would rear it's ugly head at this tournament, and for once we benefited from the decision to ignore the ball crossing the line, although have the 78th linesman stood 7 yards away missed it is anyone's guess!!
So, we have avoided the Spanish, and got the Italians!! Part of me would have preferred Spain, no matter how good they are, as at least you know what you are getting! The Italians are just unpredictable!! Oh, and I am not one of these idiots who saw a poor Spanish performance last night and think's they are there for the taking!! Sorry, 1 poor performance in 4 yrs doesn't make them easy pickings!!
In the other game, Sweden caused a little bit of a shock, beating France 2-0, the first goal being my goal of the tournament - an excellent volley from the highly overrated Ibrahimovic!
So, the Quarter Final line up is
Germany Vs Greece
Spain Vs France
Czech Rep Vs Portugal
England Vs Italy
So, it's a night off tomorrow before the Quarters start, the family are over at the weekend from America, and so my brother in law is going to have a match to experience!! Plus, a few beers to go with it!! Bob on!!
We'll ignore the first half, as we were poor, and the only highlight was a negative one, a sitter missed by the rusty Rooney! 2mins into the 2nd half, and England took the lead through a Rooney header from 6 inches! This is where I definitely become a member of the goalkeeper's union! Don't get me wrong, the Ukrainian keeper is not great, and the first deflection from Gerrard's cross made no difference, but the little knick from the boot of the defender definitely made a difference! Once you weight goes one way, it's incredibly difficult to adjust! Still, I don't care as England scored, and ultimately won!!
So, the Ukraine attacked and we just knew goal line technology would rear it's ugly head at this tournament, and for once we benefited from the decision to ignore the ball crossing the line, although have the 78th linesman stood 7 yards away missed it is anyone's guess!!
So, we have avoided the Spanish, and got the Italians!! Part of me would have preferred Spain, no matter how good they are, as at least you know what you are getting! The Italians are just unpredictable!! Oh, and I am not one of these idiots who saw a poor Spanish performance last night and think's they are there for the taking!! Sorry, 1 poor performance in 4 yrs doesn't make them easy pickings!!
In the other game, Sweden caused a little bit of a shock, beating France 2-0, the first goal being my goal of the tournament - an excellent volley from the highly overrated Ibrahimovic!
So, the Quarter Final line up is
Germany Vs Greece
Spain Vs France
Czech Rep Vs Portugal
England Vs Italy
So, it's a night off tomorrow before the Quarters start, the family are over at the weekend from America, and so my brother in law is going to have a match to experience!! Plus, a few beers to go with it!! Bob on!!
Euro 2012 Day Eleven
Well, hoping England don't make a pigs ear of it against the Ukraine, and Sweden don't cause a shock against France, then it is looking like Spain in the Quarters! Croatia can count themselves very unlucky to be going out, as not only did they play well last night, they have had a decent tournament. Only a world class save from Casillias kept them out! I am sure people will say it was an easy save, but it was point blank, and he still had to save it!!
As for the winning goal, I still believe it was offside, but that's maybe as I am old school!! Jesus Navas was a yard off as Fabregas played the ball through to Iniesta, but whilst Iniesta wasnt offside, and although Navas wasn't offside from Iniesta pass, the defence ran out to play him off on the original pass, so for me he becomes very active in the play!
The offside rule is very grey! If you're off, you're off, simple as. As far as I am concerned any player on the pitch is active in play, and so can be interfering with play!!
Shay Given will be one of the few players who is desperately glad the tournament is over, as he made another mistake which led to a goal. It's such a shame, as he is a top top keeper. Ireland finished pointless and scored just one goal as they were beaten 2-0 by Italy, with the attitude king Balotelli scoring a lovely volley.
So, should Trappatoni keep his job? For me, his team selections and substitutions have left a lot to be desired, and I would change things, but the FAI have done what the English FA are famed for and handed out a 2 year contract before the tournament is finished!!
So, it's the final group games tonight, and the quater final line up will be all sorted!
As for the winning goal, I still believe it was offside, but that's maybe as I am old school!! Jesus Navas was a yard off as Fabregas played the ball through to Iniesta, but whilst Iniesta wasnt offside, and although Navas wasn't offside from Iniesta pass, the defence ran out to play him off on the original pass, so for me he becomes very active in the play!
The offside rule is very grey! If you're off, you're off, simple as. As far as I am concerned any player on the pitch is active in play, and so can be interfering with play!!
Shay Given will be one of the few players who is desperately glad the tournament is over, as he made another mistake which led to a goal. It's such a shame, as he is a top top keeper. Ireland finished pointless and scored just one goal as they were beaten 2-0 by Italy, with the attitude king Balotelli scoring a lovely volley.
So, should Trappatoni keep his job? For me, his team selections and substitutions have left a lot to be desired, and I would change things, but the FAI have done what the English FA are famed for and handed out a 2 year contract before the tournament is finished!!
So, it's the final group games tonight, and the quater final line up will be all sorted!
Monday, 18 June 2012
Euro 2012 Day Ten
Quite easy to review this one, as due to playing 2 games of 5 a side, I missed the games! All, I can say is, I was wrong about my prediction for Holland, and by all accounts, they never looked like scoring a 2nd!
Germany won the other game 2-1, not so sure Antonio Cassano is happy about a Bender scoring...lol
Germany won the other game 2-1, not so sure Antonio Cassano is happy about a Bender scoring...lol
Sunday, 17 June 2012
Euro 2012 Day Eight AND Nine!!
Hello, well I thought I best catch up on my Euro 2012 coverage!! First up on Friday night was France Ukraine, and we had a first when the players were taken off after just 4 mins when the heavens opened and lighting came just a little bit too near to the stadium. They were off for a good hour or so, which gave me time to have tea, and get down to the pub with my mate to get a seat for the big one!! Ukraine held on for a while, and Shevchenko seems to have found some form, but it wasn't to be and France ran out 2-0 winners.
So, onto the big one! Managed to get down to the pub for 6pm, and managed to get the last seats in the pub!! It's was one of those games where the result was much better than the performance. Both teams had their chances, but England took the lead when Gerrard swung in a ball, and to be fair to Carroll, he finished with a quality header. It stayed that way until half time, when the pundits put the mockers on us by calling Sweden a distinctly average side!!
So, onto the 2nd half, and Olaf Mellberg (didn't even realise he was still playing club football), turned the game on it's head in the space of 5 mins!! Things weren't looking good, until the introduction of Theo Walcott! What an impression he made, scoring with a lovely strike from the edge of the area, however, I am not sure where the keeper was going!! Still, it was a cue for beer to be thrown about in the pub, as I found out!! Walcott then went on to set up the winner, crossing the ball for Welbeck to finish with a beautiful back heel.
So, the general consensus from the pub, was that it was a poor performance, great result, and if we finish runners up, then we are going out, as we will likely to be facing Spain!! Oh well, at least Rooney is back, though he isn't the only change I would make! Milner has to be dropped, he doesn't offer anything!
So, onto day nine, this is when it became a proper football tournament. We went into the final games of Russia Vs Greece, and Czech Rep Vs Poland, and all 4 could still win the group or come runners up!! At the start of the tournament, I said the Czechs could be dark horses, but then they got beat 4-1 in their opening game, so I changed my mind!!! How wrong I was! With 15mins to go, it was still all up for grabs, but in the end, the Czechs won the group after beating hosts Poland 1-0, and they were joined by Greece, who gave us the biggest shock in the tournament so far, by beating Russia 1-0! Karagounis scored the winner, which was nice for him, after he missed a penalty in an earlier group game, so he must be feeling a lot better now!!
It's group B next up, and I have a funny feeling we might be seeing Holland in the next round as well!!
So, onto the big one! Managed to get down to the pub for 6pm, and managed to get the last seats in the pub!! It's was one of those games where the result was much better than the performance. Both teams had their chances, but England took the lead when Gerrard swung in a ball, and to be fair to Carroll, he finished with a quality header. It stayed that way until half time, when the pundits put the mockers on us by calling Sweden a distinctly average side!!
So, onto the 2nd half, and Olaf Mellberg (didn't even realise he was still playing club football), turned the game on it's head in the space of 5 mins!! Things weren't looking good, until the introduction of Theo Walcott! What an impression he made, scoring with a lovely strike from the edge of the area, however, I am not sure where the keeper was going!! Still, it was a cue for beer to be thrown about in the pub, as I found out!! Walcott then went on to set up the winner, crossing the ball for Welbeck to finish with a beautiful back heel.
So, the general consensus from the pub, was that it was a poor performance, great result, and if we finish runners up, then we are going out, as we will likely to be facing Spain!! Oh well, at least Rooney is back, though he isn't the only change I would make! Milner has to be dropped, he doesn't offer anything!
So, onto day nine, this is when it became a proper football tournament. We went into the final games of Russia Vs Greece, and Czech Rep Vs Poland, and all 4 could still win the group or come runners up!! At the start of the tournament, I said the Czechs could be dark horses, but then they got beat 4-1 in their opening game, so I changed my mind!!! How wrong I was! With 15mins to go, it was still all up for grabs, but in the end, the Czechs won the group after beating hosts Poland 1-0, and they were joined by Greece, who gave us the biggest shock in the tournament so far, by beating Russia 1-0! Karagounis scored the winner, which was nice for him, after he missed a penalty in an earlier group game, so he must be feeling a lot better now!!
It's group B next up, and I have a funny feeling we might be seeing Holland in the next round as well!!
Friday, 15 June 2012
Euro 2012 Day Eight
Hello! Very short one today! Day eight coverage will be covered on Day Nine, as I will be watching the games in the pub, and am expected to be fairly merry by the time I have stumbled home - regardless of the result!!
Thursday, 14 June 2012
Euro 2012 Day Seven
Well it's a short one for me today, I missed the Italy Croatia match as I was spending my time in Aldi and Morrisons!! I would have saved those delights for tomorrow, but as England are playing, I will need to be in the pub early to get a seat!! Still, if I thought Jelavic was half decent, then I like his strike partner just as much!!
Onto Ireland!! well, I am guessing they are hoping they could leave tonight, as in go home!! As much as Ireland were poor, Spain were equally excellent!! It could have been much more! Shay Given, who I rate highly didn't have the best of games, with regards to 2 of the goals, but he did make a stunning save from some Spanish lad!!
I will leave the blog there tonight, because it is actually quite depressing watching the Irish faces in the crowd!! Although, fair play to them for singing and enjoying themselves as much as they can!
You have to love Roy Keane's honesty though, even if he does sound slightly bitter....lol
Onto Ireland!! well, I am guessing they are hoping they could leave tonight, as in go home!! As much as Ireland were poor, Spain were equally excellent!! It could have been much more! Shay Given, who I rate highly didn't have the best of games, with regards to 2 of the goals, but he did make a stunning save from some Spanish lad!!
I will leave the blog there tonight, because it is actually quite depressing watching the Irish faces in the crowd!! Although, fair play to them for singing and enjoying themselves as much as they can!
You have to love Roy Keane's honesty though, even if he does sound slightly bitter....lol
Wednesday, 13 June 2012
Euro 2012 Day Six
First up today was Portugal and Denmark. I think it fair to say that one Cristiano Ronaldo was rescued big time! Don't think I have ever seen him have such a poor game. It was tough on Denmark, who came back superbly from 2-0 down, with 2 goals for Bendtnar!! Seriously, that's 2 for Bendtnar!!
Next up were Holland who really needed a win against their rivals Germany. Gomez has finally arrived in an international tournament, as he scored 2 lovely goals. Even though he scored, Van Persie is again proving that International football isn't as easy as he thought! He is really struggling to take his club form to the internationals! Anyway, Holland were beat 2-1, they have 0 pts, and yet I have a sneaky feeling they will qualify!!
Well, Ireland, Spain, Italy and Croatia are tomorrow's entertainment! What a good tournament its turning out to be!!
Next up were Holland who really needed a win against their rivals Germany. Gomez has finally arrived in an international tournament, as he scored 2 lovely goals. Even though he scored, Van Persie is again proving that International football isn't as easy as he thought! He is really struggling to take his club form to the internationals! Anyway, Holland were beat 2-1, they have 0 pts, and yet I have a sneaky feeling they will qualify!!
Well, Ireland, Spain, Italy and Croatia are tomorrow's entertainment! What a good tournament its turning out to be!!
Tuesday, 12 June 2012
Euro 2012 Day Five
Well it was the start the the 2nd round of group matches, first up were the Czech Rep and Greece. I will be catching up with the start of this game as I missed quite a bit!! I was away on exciting training for work, so missed the 1st half as I was travelling back on a train! I got into the car to travel home via the shops and in laws, so I was listening the the game on the radio! I managed to get to my in laws just in time to watch the replay of one Mr Cech handing Gekas his easiest chance ever! Barring, that and obviously the first few mins when the Czech scored, I didn't seem to miss much.
Second up were joint hosts Poland, and 'friends' Russia! There were violent scenes outside the ground beforehand, I have seen some clips on Eurosport! However, on the radio, the prize knob that is Adrian Durham, on TalkSport, was making such a story of it, you would have sworn it was a repeat of World War two! What went on was shocking and disgraceful, and something does need to happen, however as they are foreign teams, you know damn well it will get swept under the carpet, if this was England, we would be banned from football for years!!
Onto the game, Russia started well. Dzagoev, who is surely going to be snapped up by someone, scored for Russia, it looked like a good flick with his head, but the replay showed it came off his shoulder. To be fair, his run, and the ball in from Arshavin deserved a goal. Poland played themselves back into the game, and not even going to try and spell his name, but the Polish captain scored what is so far goal of the tournament, an absolute stunner. From then on, it look like Poland would sneak a win, but it wasn't to be. So, all 4 teams can still qualify in the last group game!!
Just found out my mate had a 4 match accumulator riding on the game! a £5 bet, returning £110 if Russia won! Oops, gutted!!
Second up were joint hosts Poland, and 'friends' Russia! There were violent scenes outside the ground beforehand, I have seen some clips on Eurosport! However, on the radio, the prize knob that is Adrian Durham, on TalkSport, was making such a story of it, you would have sworn it was a repeat of World War two! What went on was shocking and disgraceful, and something does need to happen, however as they are foreign teams, you know damn well it will get swept under the carpet, if this was England, we would be banned from football for years!!
Onto the game, Russia started well. Dzagoev, who is surely going to be snapped up by someone, scored for Russia, it looked like a good flick with his head, but the replay showed it came off his shoulder. To be fair, his run, and the ball in from Arshavin deserved a goal. Poland played themselves back into the game, and not even going to try and spell his name, but the Polish captain scored what is so far goal of the tournament, an absolute stunner. From then on, it look like Poland would sneak a win, but it wasn't to be. So, all 4 teams can still qualify in the last group game!!
Just found out my mate had a 4 match accumulator riding on the game! a £5 bet, returning £110 if Russia won! Oops, gutted!!
Monday, 11 June 2012
Euro 2012 Day four
And so to the most important match day!! England were up against France. We started well, and things looked promising, and whilst it wasn't a spectacle, I would definitely have settled for a point before the game. To be honest, once France got a strangle hold of the game, they out passed and out shot us, and we hung onto the point.
England took the lead through Lescott, who scored a great header from close range, from a superb Gerrard free kick. The lead lasted all of 9 mins as Nasri equalised. Many people will question Joe Hart, but as a keeper, I thought it was a terrific finish. Hart was definitely unsighted as the ball was hit, and it was hit with power.
At times in the 2nd half, it did almost seem like it was only going to be a matter of time before France scored, as the stats prove, with France having 15 shots on target to England's 1!! The only other noticeable acts of the 2nd half, were the poor refereeing decisions! How on earth France didn't get a yellow card is beyond me!! Anyway, for anyone interested, I have done my player ratings -
Joe Hart - 7 - Started nervously a fluffed a corner, was NOT at fault for the goal, and also made some good stretching saves, including a point blank save from Diarra.
Glen Johnson - 7 - Was worried when I saw he was facing Ribery, but to be fair to him, he coped well enough.
John Terry - 7 - Nothing special, just typically John Terry, solid!
Joleon Lescott - 8 - Solid partnership with Terry, deserves an 8, if not just for the header!
Ashley Cole - 6 - I thought France would attack down Glen Johnson's wing, but they didn't, they chose to attack Cole, especially the french right back, and have to say, they got past him a bit too much for my liking.
James Milner - 5 - Sorry, I just don't see what he offers the team, yes he is a workhorse, but there is no flair, no touch of quality. Would probably be my own change for the Sweden game.
Steven Gerrard - 6 - Great ball for the free kick, but gave the ball away far too much for someone og Gerrard's quality.
Scott Parker - 7 - Goes about his game quietly. Solid as ever, and threw himself into a great block towards the end.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain - 7 - Did nothing spectacular, but didn't let us down either. Definitely deserves a chance vs Sweden.
Ashley Young - 6 - Disappointing, never really got into the game.
Danny Welbeck - 7 - Again, nothing special, tried to put himself about. Not given enough support.
Subs - Jermain Defoe, Jordan Henderson and Theo Walcott - none of them had any time to make an impact, it was just more worrying seeing Henderson make an appearance.
Well, Friday will be a fun game now with Sweden needing to win! It's always difficult watching a game straight after watching your own team get a half decent result. The first half of Sweden Ukraine was hard work to watch. Thank god, the 2nd half livened up! Step forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic with a tap in! Fair enough, he has scored, but can someone tell me why people rave about him, and how he has commanded such big transfer fees?! His only other contribution was to put a great thru ball in for former Bolton forward Johan Elmander in the final mintue! It should have been 2-2, it wasn't.
The Ukraine will be sleeping happy tonight, as will veteran Andrej Shevchenko!! 2 goals, both good headers, though the defender went walkabout on the line for the 2nd.
It's the start of the 2nd round of group games tomorrow, and just 5 days into the tournament, it could end for the Czech Republic!
See you tomorrow
England took the lead through Lescott, who scored a great header from close range, from a superb Gerrard free kick. The lead lasted all of 9 mins as Nasri equalised. Many people will question Joe Hart, but as a keeper, I thought it was a terrific finish. Hart was definitely unsighted as the ball was hit, and it was hit with power.
At times in the 2nd half, it did almost seem like it was only going to be a matter of time before France scored, as the stats prove, with France having 15 shots on target to England's 1!! The only other noticeable acts of the 2nd half, were the poor refereeing decisions! How on earth France didn't get a yellow card is beyond me!! Anyway, for anyone interested, I have done my player ratings -
Joe Hart - 7 - Started nervously a fluffed a corner, was NOT at fault for the goal, and also made some good stretching saves, including a point blank save from Diarra.
Glen Johnson - 7 - Was worried when I saw he was facing Ribery, but to be fair to him, he coped well enough.
John Terry - 7 - Nothing special, just typically John Terry, solid!
Joleon Lescott - 8 - Solid partnership with Terry, deserves an 8, if not just for the header!
Ashley Cole - 6 - I thought France would attack down Glen Johnson's wing, but they didn't, they chose to attack Cole, especially the french right back, and have to say, they got past him a bit too much for my liking.
James Milner - 5 - Sorry, I just don't see what he offers the team, yes he is a workhorse, but there is no flair, no touch of quality. Would probably be my own change for the Sweden game.
Steven Gerrard - 6 - Great ball for the free kick, but gave the ball away far too much for someone og Gerrard's quality.
Scott Parker - 7 - Goes about his game quietly. Solid as ever, and threw himself into a great block towards the end.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain - 7 - Did nothing spectacular, but didn't let us down either. Definitely deserves a chance vs Sweden.
Ashley Young - 6 - Disappointing, never really got into the game.
Danny Welbeck - 7 - Again, nothing special, tried to put himself about. Not given enough support.
Subs - Jermain Defoe, Jordan Henderson and Theo Walcott - none of them had any time to make an impact, it was just more worrying seeing Henderson make an appearance.
Well, Friday will be a fun game now with Sweden needing to win! It's always difficult watching a game straight after watching your own team get a half decent result. The first half of Sweden Ukraine was hard work to watch. Thank god, the 2nd half livened up! Step forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic with a tap in! Fair enough, he has scored, but can someone tell me why people rave about him, and how he has commanded such big transfer fees?! His only other contribution was to put a great thru ball in for former Bolton forward Johan Elmander in the final mintue! It should have been 2-2, it wasn't.
The Ukraine will be sleeping happy tonight, as will veteran Andrej Shevchenko!! 2 goals, both good headers, though the defender went walkabout on the line for the 2nd.
It's the start of the 2nd round of group games tomorrow, and just 5 days into the tournament, it could end for the Czech Republic!
See you tomorrow
Sunday, 10 June 2012
Euro 2012 Day Three
Well the 3rd day has given us a couple of decent game. First up was Spain Italy, I have to say I wasn't looking forward to this as much as I should have. No doubt they are 2 decent sides, but both are technical masters, and so part of me was expecting a slow build up to attacking moves.
Fair play to Italy, it's probably the most attacking I have seen them play, and to start with, they really tried to take the game to the Spanish. As for the Spanish, you have to be gutted if you're a Spanish attacker, as they decided to play with 6 midfielders!! Yes, they are decent, and can score, but they are midfielders!! As for Balotelli, he really does have the potential to be quality, but he really does believe his own hype!! How much time do you need to take a shot?? Well, Di Natale showed him how to do it!
Next up were the Irish and Croatians! Not a bad game at all, Croatia were just technically better, and the Irish didn't give up, but it wasn't to be. They gave away a sloppy first goal, and as much as I want Ireland to qualify, it was nice to see Jelavic score. Ireland did equalise, before Jelly scored, with a lovely set piece, but it was all over when the unlucky Shay Given nodded one into the net after it rebounded. Ireland tried to get back into it, and did have a definite penalty turned down!! Keith Andrews was also guilty of missing a couple of late chances.
So, all in all, 2 decent games! Let the fun begin tomorrow at 5pm!!
Fair play to Italy, it's probably the most attacking I have seen them play, and to start with, they really tried to take the game to the Spanish. As for the Spanish, you have to be gutted if you're a Spanish attacker, as they decided to play with 6 midfielders!! Yes, they are decent, and can score, but they are midfielders!! As for Balotelli, he really does have the potential to be quality, but he really does believe his own hype!! How much time do you need to take a shot?? Well, Di Natale showed him how to do it!
Next up were the Irish and Croatians! Not a bad game at all, Croatia were just technically better, and the Irish didn't give up, but it wasn't to be. They gave away a sloppy first goal, and as much as I want Ireland to qualify, it was nice to see Jelavic score. Ireland did equalise, before Jelly scored, with a lovely set piece, but it was all over when the unlucky Shay Given nodded one into the net after it rebounded. Ireland tried to get back into it, and did have a definite penalty turned down!! Keith Andrews was also guilty of missing a couple of late chances.
So, all in all, 2 decent games! Let the fun begin tomorrow at 5pm!!
Saturday, 9 June 2012
Beeb Commentators
Sorry, I know we are only 2 games in, but as the Beeb have had 3 games, I need to make comment - how poor are the beeb commentators?!
Jonathan Pearce - the most annoying commentator of all!! Bugger off back to Robot Wars!! Has a voice for radio, and why? Cos I can imagine as you listen to the radio, and can't see the action, he makes it sound exciting, but as I am watching the game you numpty, trying to make something exciting or controversial is just annoying when we can all see it!!
Martin Keown - Jesus, if you need to get your kids to sleep, get Martin to read them a bedtime story!! How unenthusiastic does he sound?! Oh and it's step over, not leg overs...lol
Mark Lawrenson - Just poor, he thinks he is all knowing, but it's just like listening to your history teacher!!
I will leave the rest of the pundits until another day!!!
Euro 2012 Day Two
Well day 2 has come and gone, and already I am loving the tournament!! First up was Holland Denmark. Now obviously, the Lord Heitinga plays for Holland, so I looking forward to watching him, plus I have backed Holland for overall success at the bookies!!
Well, it's a result we never exepected, and for all the play and shots Holland had, as I sit and write this after the 2nd game of the day, if Holland were still playing now they would still not have scored!!
Van Persie is turning into a bit of an international enigma! For all you older readers, who remembers John Barnes? The lad could certainly play at club level, but could never turn it on for England, and lived his life on one goal scored in Brazil!! Van Persie is turning into that player, good for club, poor for country. In the last World Cup, Holland finally played as a team, but today, it look liked a team of individuals again!! Let's hope they sort it out for their next game!!!
As for the 2nd game, Germany vs Portugal, well at one point, I was going to turn over and watch the paint drying channel!! Nothing was happening, and the only decent thing was a great tackle by Boateng on Ronaldo as he was about to score! It was a typical German performance though, solid and organised, capped off with, to be fair, a great header from Gomez! The game finally kicked into life, and the last 20mins were worth watching, it's a shame, we had to watch the 70mins before that to get to it!! Portugal had their chances, but why wait until Germany score until you start playing?!
Well, tomorrow brings Spain and Italy, and the Irish will be taking on Jelavic and his mates from Croatia! Sandwiched in between that is a 5 a side game!!
See you tomorrow
Well, it's a result we never exepected, and for all the play and shots Holland had, as I sit and write this after the 2nd game of the day, if Holland were still playing now they would still not have scored!!
Van Persie is turning into a bit of an international enigma! For all you older readers, who remembers John Barnes? The lad could certainly play at club level, but could never turn it on for England, and lived his life on one goal scored in Brazil!! Van Persie is turning into that player, good for club, poor for country. In the last World Cup, Holland finally played as a team, but today, it look liked a team of individuals again!! Let's hope they sort it out for their next game!!!
As for the 2nd game, Germany vs Portugal, well at one point, I was going to turn over and watch the paint drying channel!! Nothing was happening, and the only decent thing was a great tackle by Boateng on Ronaldo as he was about to score! It was a typical German performance though, solid and organised, capped off with, to be fair, a great header from Gomez! The game finally kicked into life, and the last 20mins were worth watching, it's a shame, we had to watch the 70mins before that to get to it!! Portugal had their chances, but why wait until Germany score until you start playing?!
Well, tomorrow brings Spain and Italy, and the Irish will be taking on Jelavic and his mates from Croatia! Sandwiched in between that is a 5 a side game!!
See you tomorrow
Friday, 8 June 2012
Euro 2012 Day One
Well, that's Day 1 over and done with!! Didn't start to great, had to pick the good wife up from work, and had to pop to Debenhams!! I knew we would miss the first 10 mins or so, as I knew the "I'll just be 2 mins", is the obligatory 15mins! How mistaken I was, as 45 mins later, I managed to get home for the 2nd half of Poland Greece, and thank god I did, what a quality 2nd half!! So, all in all, 2 goals, 1 missed pen, 2 sending offs! Welcome to the tournament!!
On the subject of the pen, is this where people differ in opinions? I am a keeper and I thought it was a great save, whereas my mates, who play outfield, thought it was a poor pen!!
Onto the 2nd game of the night, well the Czech Rep started brightly, and I had them down as a dark horse!! Sadly, that ended after 15mins and Russia went onto dominate and do wonders for their goal difference in just their 1st game! I had 1-1 at the bookies...lol
I have changed my mind, Russia are mostly definitely the dark horses!!!
So, it's a good night for me, but before I go, 2 transfer rumours to leave you with! Arshavin to my beloved blues!! Not sure how I feel about that, will sleep on it...lol...and Rob Green to Southampton....interesting!!!
On the subject of the pen, is this where people differ in opinions? I am a keeper and I thought it was a great save, whereas my mates, who play outfield, thought it was a poor pen!!
Onto the 2nd game of the night, well the Czech Rep started brightly, and I had them down as a dark horse!! Sadly, that ended after 15mins and Russia went onto dominate and do wonders for their goal difference in just their 1st game! I had 1-1 at the bookies...lol
I have changed my mind, Russia are mostly definitely the dark horses!!!
So, it's a good night for me, but before I go, 2 transfer rumours to leave you with! Arshavin to my beloved blues!! Not sure how I feel about that, will sleep on it...lol...and Rob Green to Southampton....interesting!!!
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