Enjoy the video that we made below!
Happy New Year!
Wednesday, 1 January 2014
Thank you for a fantastic 2013!
Dear readers, thank you for making 2013 a memorable one for all of us here at FootballMania.
Enjoy the video that we made below!
Happy New Year!
Enjoy the video that we made below!
Happy New Year!
Monday, 30 December 2013
Controversy as Chelsea hand Liverpool a 2-1 defeat
Controversy as Chelsea hand Liverpool a 2-1 defeat
Barclays Premier League: Chelsea 2-1 Liverpool
by editor Wong Yang and assistant editor Ervin Ang
Recovering from a loss at the Etihad Stadium against Manchester City in their last match, the Reds were determined to assert their fine form and snatch the three-points from their hosts for Sunday night, Chelsea. The London side entered the fixture with only two wins out of their last 13 Premier League face-offs against Liverpool. Two hours later, it hardly seemed possible that they could have such a poor record against Liverpool.
Mourinho's men had overcome being a goal down just after three minutes when Martin Skrtel tapped the ball home. Suarez's touch off Coutinho's free-kick eventually brought the ball to his feet and the Liverpool defender got an easy goal. The Chelsea fans were absolutely astounded while the Liverpool faithful erupted in ecstasy.
Their joy lasted only fourteen minutes, however, as Hazard levelled the score. Oscar's attempted pass to Willian from just outside the edge of the penalty box is blocked and the rebound presents Hazard with the opportunity to whip the ball in for the equaliser. The Belgian forward made no mistake by powering the ball to the top right-hand corner of Mignolet's goal.
The Blues could have equalised earlier if not for a fine save by Mignolet that prevented Lampard's classic 25-yard shot from making its way into the top-corner of the back of the net.
Liverpool nearly found themselves back in the lead after a beautiful link-up between Suarez, Henderson and Joe Allen led to Allen facing Cech at the near post but he took too long to position himself and Cahill made a heroic tackle to clear it from danger.
Chelsea's Ivanovic had to be substituted after a collision with Agger left his left leg in pain. Mourinho brought on Cole to replace him, instructing Azpilicueta to shift to right-back. The tactical change was actually beneficial for Chelsea as Azpilicueta, playing in his preferred position, caused all sorts of problems for Liverpool on the right, making runs and pushing the ball up the pitch quickly.
It was then Samuel Eto'o's turn to register his name on the scoresheet. Azpilicueta had received a creative chip from David Luiz and the right-back crossed to Oscar, who made a pass that squeezed past the Liverpool defenders to find Eto'o, who poked the ball in past Mignolet.
Four minutes before the half-time whistle, Raheem Sterling found some space down the right flank and he manages a cross which is deflected into the path of Joe Allen. Allen tries to curl the ball past Cech but the Chelsea custodian reacted quickly enough to parry it.
The teams came out from the dressing rooms without Frank Lampard, as Mourinho decided to replace the Englishman with John Obi Mikel. Liverpool's "hitting the woodwork" statistic increased as Sahko's header off Henderson's chip hits the bar.
Liverpool though they would be awarded a penalty when Terry appeared to bring Luis Suarez down in the penalty box as the challenged for the ball. Yet, referee Howard Webb thought other-wise, and called for play-on, to the frustration of the Liverpool players and fans.
Then, the second great controversy of the match surfaced after Eto'o foolishly tripped Suarez in the penalty area. Once again, Howard Webb decided that it was not a foul.
Controversies aside, Brendan Rodgers' made the questionable move of sending on first-team debutant Brad Smith to replace Joe Allen even when he had the more experienced Luis Alberto available. The Australian-born defender, playing what must have been the biggest match of his life, did not make much of a change to Liverpool's play. For Chelsea, Oscar's hunger for the ball was evident as he went down to challenge Brazil teammate Lucas and immediately got back up to claim possession of the ball in the 70th minute. He then fired a shot towards goal that went wide. Torres came on for Eto'o with just four minutes of normal time to be played, the former Red delivering a shot on target.
This result brings Chelsea up to 3rd position on the Premier League table, behind their London rivals and 2nd-placed City, trailing their Arsene Wenger's side by two points. Liverpool, on the other hand, drop to 5th, a position behind Merseyside neighbours Everton, who continue their recent solid performances under Roberto Martinez.
Rodgers' job just got more challenging.
assistant editor Ervin Ang's thoughts on
on Webb's first main controversial decision - "Suarez got into a tangle with Terry, who then muscled the ball off the Uruguayan to make an important clearance. For me, that wasn't a penalty because Terry simply stood his ground and Suarez just went down too easily."
on Webb's second main controversial decision - "Azpilicueta had come away with the ball after a tussle with Suarez, but Eto'o decided to stick a foot in and Suarez once again fell to the ground. Webb had a good view, called a play-on, which is just about right, because Azpilicueta already went away with the ball and Suarez had no chance of reaching it anyway. The Uruguayan just threw himself to the ground, appealing for a penalty"
Barclays Premier League: Chelsea 2-1 Liverpool
by editor Wong Yang and assistant editor Ervin Ang
Recovering from a loss at the Etihad Stadium against Manchester City in their last match, the Reds were determined to assert their fine form and snatch the three-points from their hosts for Sunday night, Chelsea. The London side entered the fixture with only two wins out of their last 13 Premier League face-offs against Liverpool. Two hours later, it hardly seemed possible that they could have such a poor record against Liverpool. Mourinho's men had overcome being a goal down just after three minutes when Martin Skrtel tapped the ball home. Suarez's touch off Coutinho's free-kick eventually brought the ball to his feet and the Liverpool defender got an easy goal. The Chelsea fans were absolutely astounded while the Liverpool faithful erupted in ecstasy.
Their joy lasted only fourteen minutes, however, as Hazard levelled the score. Oscar's attempted pass to Willian from just outside the edge of the penalty box is blocked and the rebound presents Hazard with the opportunity to whip the ball in for the equaliser. The Belgian forward made no mistake by powering the ball to the top right-hand corner of Mignolet's goal.
The Blues could have equalised earlier if not for a fine save by Mignolet that prevented Lampard's classic 25-yard shot from making its way into the top-corner of the back of the net.
Liverpool nearly found themselves back in the lead after a beautiful link-up between Suarez, Henderson and Joe Allen led to Allen facing Cech at the near post but he took too long to position himself and Cahill made a heroic tackle to clear it from danger.
Chelsea's Ivanovic had to be substituted after a collision with Agger left his left leg in pain. Mourinho brought on Cole to replace him, instructing Azpilicueta to shift to right-back. The tactical change was actually beneficial for Chelsea as Azpilicueta, playing in his preferred position, caused all sorts of problems for Liverpool on the right, making runs and pushing the ball up the pitch quickly.
It was then Samuel Eto'o's turn to register his name on the scoresheet. Azpilicueta had received a creative chip from David Luiz and the right-back crossed to Oscar, who made a pass that squeezed past the Liverpool defenders to find Eto'o, who poked the ball in past Mignolet.
Four minutes before the half-time whistle, Raheem Sterling found some space down the right flank and he manages a cross which is deflected into the path of Joe Allen. Allen tries to curl the ball past Cech but the Chelsea custodian reacted quickly enough to parry it.
The teams came out from the dressing rooms without Frank Lampard, as Mourinho decided to replace the Englishman with John Obi Mikel. Liverpool's "hitting the woodwork" statistic increased as Sahko's header off Henderson's chip hits the bar.
Liverpool though they would be awarded a penalty when Terry appeared to bring Luis Suarez down in the penalty box as the challenged for the ball. Yet, referee Howard Webb thought other-wise, and called for play-on, to the frustration of the Liverpool players and fans.
Then, the second great controversy of the match surfaced after Eto'o foolishly tripped Suarez in the penalty area. Once again, Howard Webb decided that it was not a foul.
Controversies aside, Brendan Rodgers' made the questionable move of sending on first-team debutant Brad Smith to replace Joe Allen even when he had the more experienced Luis Alberto available. The Australian-born defender, playing what must have been the biggest match of his life, did not make much of a change to Liverpool's play. For Chelsea, Oscar's hunger for the ball was evident as he went down to challenge Brazil teammate Lucas and immediately got back up to claim possession of the ball in the 70th minute. He then fired a shot towards goal that went wide. Torres came on for Eto'o with just four minutes of normal time to be played, the former Red delivering a shot on target.
This result brings Chelsea up to 3rd position on the Premier League table, behind their London rivals and 2nd-placed City, trailing their Arsene Wenger's side by two points. Liverpool, on the other hand, drop to 5th, a position behind Merseyside neighbours Everton, who continue their recent solid performances under Roberto Martinez.
Rodgers' job just got more challenging.
assistant editor Ervin Ang's thoughts on
on Webb's first main controversial decision - "Suarez got into a tangle with Terry, who then muscled the ball off the Uruguayan to make an important clearance. For me, that wasn't a penalty because Terry simply stood his ground and Suarez just went down too easily."
on Webb's second main controversial decision - "Azpilicueta had come away with the ball after a tussle with Suarez, but Eto'o decided to stick a foot in and Suarez once again fell to the ground. Webb had a good view, called a play-on, which is just about right, because Azpilicueta already went away with the ball and Suarez had no chance of reaching it anyway. The Uruguayan just threw himself to the ground, appealing for a penalty"
Man of the Match: Hazard
editor Wong Yang's thoughts on
on Webb's decisions - "At the end of the day, the referee makes the final call and the players and the fans have to accept them. But Webb did make some decisions that clearly went against Liverpool's interests even though they had done nothing wrong.
on Liverpool moving forward and Chelsea's play - "Now that it's all over, it's time for Liverpool to think about where they went wrong. Chelsea deserve credit for the superb pressing that really frustrated the Liverpool players. The pressing made it difficult for them to feed Suarez the ball ad that was really the priority for them, and any other team that faces a player like Suarez."
Man of the Match: Oscar
Tuesday, 17 December 2013
Gerard Deulofeu: What does he bring to Everton?
Gerard Deulofeu: What does he bring to Everton?
by assistant editor Ervin Ang (@DieHardCFCFan on twitter) feedback/comments much appreciated
by assistant editor Ervin Ang (@DieHardCFCFan on twitter) feedback/comments much appreciated
In the year 2003, at the tender age of nine, Gerard Deulofeu joined Barcelona’s famed youth academy. The 19 year-old Barca starlet found first team opportunities limited at the start of his career with The Catalans and was forced to move to Barcelona’s B team in the Segunda Division - which is one division below the La Liga - for the 2012/13 season.
And Deulofeu did not disappoint, notching 18 goals in just 25 appearances, becoming FC Barcelona B’s top scorer by a massive seven goal margin.
For Deulofeu, along with Rafinha and Liverpool’s Luis Alberto, they were dubbed the “Holy Trinity”.
However, this wasn’t enough for the Barca B side, who eventually finished in a dismal ninth place after a poor run of results towards the end of the season. However, Deulofeu played a key role for Barcelona’s B team, whose crucial goals they certainly couldn’t do without.
And Deulofeu did not disappoint, notching 18 goals in just 25 appearances, becoming FC Barcelona B’s top scorer by a massive seven goal margin.
For Deulofeu, along with Rafinha and Liverpool’s Luis Alberto, they were dubbed the “Holy Trinity”.
However, this wasn’t enough for the Barca B side, who eventually finished in a dismal ninth place after a poor run of results towards the end of the season. However, Deulofeu played a key role for Barcelona’s B team, whose crucial goals they certainly couldn’t do without.
As the 2012/13 season concluded, Deulofeu was promptly rewarded with his brilliant performances with a promotion to Barcelona’s first team.
However, the excitement the Barca fans had of seeing the talented young Spanish starlet don their club colours were quelled almost immediately when Everton announced the loan signing of Deulofeu from Barcelona on a season long deal in the summer transfer window of 2013.
The step up from Spain’s second division to England’s competitive top flight is massively steep and many respected pundits have questioned his ability to shine in arguably the best league on this planet.
However, the excitement the Barca fans had of seeing the talented young Spanish starlet don their club colours were quelled almost immediately when Everton announced the loan signing of Deulofeu from Barcelona on a season long deal in the summer transfer window of 2013.
The step up from Spain’s second division to England’s competitive top flight is massively steep and many respected pundits have questioned his ability to shine in arguably the best league on this planet.
Fast forward to the 2013/14 Premier League season, and many will ask the same question. What exactly has Deulofeu brought to Everton? Since bringing Gerard to Goodison Park, Everton manager Roberto Martinez has been using him sparingly, with Deulofeu featuring in only nine of Everton’s opening 13 games, all but one of them coming in substitute appearances, the rare 10-15 minutes cameo opportunities.
And this has hurt Everton financially too. Everton pay the baulk of his wages, estimated at 1.5m euros, but they have to pay a higher percentage of that figure when the player does not play.
Barcelona are so keen to see Deulofeu getting more minutes on the pitch that they have inserted a clause in his loan deal to Everton seeing the Merseyside club pay more money every time he fails to feature.
And this has hurt Everton financially too. Everton pay the baulk of his wages, estimated at 1.5m euros, but they have to pay a higher percentage of that figure when the player does not play.
Barcelona are so keen to see Deulofeu getting more minutes on the pitch that they have inserted a clause in his loan deal to Everton seeing the Merseyside club pay more money every time he fails to feature.
On November 30th 2013, Deulofeu was finally handed his first ever Barclays Premier League start for Everton, and it came in a home game against Stoke City.
Many avid football fans couldn’t wait to see him grace the grass of the Premier League and Deulofeu delivered when he was called upon. He scored a spectacular goal to open the scoring for the Toffees and rounded it off with an assist to teammate Bryan Oviedo for Everton's 3rd goal of the afternoon.
It was a game that Everton truly dominated which ended in a comfortable 4-0 victory for the home side. Deulofeu had 4 shots on goal during the game, all of which were on target, completing 5/10 of his take-ons in his first 90 minutes on the pitch, with the whole Stoke team only managing eight take-ons combined, only three more than Deulofeu himself.
However, it wasn’t a completely faultless performance from the Spaniard, who only completed 1/12 crosses and had a dismal pass accuracy of just 83%, misplacing four passes.
Nevertheless, Deulofeu’s overall work rate was fantastic as he earned 87 points in Squawka’s performance score for his stunning display. Deulofeu has certainly repayed the faith Roberto Martinez bestowed on him and we can definitely expect more of these brilliant performances to come from him.
It was a game that Everton truly dominated which ended in a comfortable 4-0 victory for the home side. Deulofeu had 4 shots on goal during the game, all of which were on target, completing 5/10 of his take-ons in his first 90 minutes on the pitch, with the whole Stoke team only managing eight take-ons combined, only three more than Deulofeu himself.
However, it wasn’t a completely faultless performance from the Spaniard, who only completed 1/12 crosses and had a dismal pass accuracy of just 83%, misplacing four passes.
Nevertheless, Deulofeu’s overall work rate was fantastic as he earned 87 points in Squawka’s performance score for his stunning display. Deulofeu has certainly repayed the faith Roberto Martinez bestowed on him and we can definitely expect more of these brilliant performances to come from him.
"He is one of the most talented footballers in Spanish football," said Martinez following Deulofeu’s stunning performance against Stoke. "You can see why we worked so hard to attract him to the club."
"We always knew it would take a little bit of time for him to get used to the physicality of the British league. He showed in the last two performances he is getting ready, that he wants to help the team, and I was very pleased in the manner that he did that."
"We always knew it would take a little bit of time for him to get used to the physicality of the British league. He showed in the last two performances he is getting ready, that he wants to help the team, and I was very pleased in the manner that he did that."
And in that respect, Martinez is most probably right. What Deulofeu brings to the Everton side is his drive, purpose and energy with Gerard posing as a constant threat to any of his opponents. Deulofeu was beset with a skilled set of feet, with dribbling being one of his fortes.
Deulofeu has admirable composure with the ball, with the ability to strike fear into his opposition whenever the ball falls to his delicate feet. He also has the confidence to make daring runs and is never afraid of taking on a defender, with his mind only focused on getting the ball past him.
Deulofeu provides the youthful spark that Everton desperately need with him linking up with players like Lukaku, and creating the chances for the strikers to convert. And although occasionally he makes that stray pass to lose possession, Deulofeu makes it up with his unbelievable work rate, doing all he can to help his team and win back possession.
Deulofeu has admirable composure with the ball, with the ability to strike fear into his opposition whenever the ball falls to his delicate feet. He also has the confidence to make daring runs and is never afraid of taking on a defender, with his mind only focused on getting the ball past him.
Deulofeu provides the youthful spark that Everton desperately need with him linking up with players like Lukaku, and creating the chances for the strikers to convert. And although occasionally he makes that stray pass to lose possession, Deulofeu makes it up with his unbelievable work rate, doing all he can to help his team and win back possession.
Despite strong competition from established players for places with veterans like Steven Pienaar and Leon Osman, Deulofeu provides an extremely strong alternative to Martinez, especially with a hectic December schedule coming up for Everton.
In addition, Deulofeu can also be utilised as a super sub when necessary. He even managed to displace the reliable Kevin Mirallas, who started every game for Everton prior to this, to earn his first Everton start against Stoke.
In addition, Deulofeu can also be utilised as a super sub when necessary. He even managed to displace the reliable Kevin Mirallas, who started every game for Everton prior to this, to earn his first Everton start against Stoke.
And for sure, Deulofeu is not quite yet the finished article. This extremely talented young Spanish winger certainly has bags of potential and could possibly break into the Barcelona squad in the near future.
Deulofeu has only shown glimpses of his talent, which no one can doubt for sure, and there is definitely more to come from this exciting winger. He may not be a well-known player yet, but with his tremendous talent, Deulofeu can perhaps become a world class player of the European game in the years to come.
Deulofeu has only shown glimpses of his talent, which no one can doubt for sure, and there is definitely more to come from this exciting winger. He may not be a well-known player yet, but with his tremendous talent, Deulofeu can perhaps become a world class player of the European game in the years to come.
Monday, 9 December 2013
Should Tom Cleverley be in the England squad?
Should Tom Cleverley be in the England squad?
by assistant editor Ervin Ang (@DieHardCFCFan on Twitter)
feedback/comments much appreciated
As a result, Cleverley was farmed out on loan to various Championship clubs including Leicester City and Watford, and most notably, Wigan Athletic in the Premier League, where he made his breakthrough. Since then, Cleverley has been propelled to prominence by a process of elimination; Scholes's two retirements and Darren Fletcher's chronic bowel complaint.
by assistant editor Ervin Ang (@DieHardCFCFan on Twitter)
feedback/comments much appreciated
It was a humble beginning to the game for Manchester United’s young midfield maestro, Tom Cleverley.
Despite joining the famed youth academy of Manchester United at the tender age of 11, Cleverley never found it easy to make his mark. He found first team opportunities limited with harsh competition from established players, with the likes of Paul Scholes, Darren Fletcher and Michael Carrick bossing United’s midfield.
And indeed, Tom Cleverley did not disappoint. Although plagued by an injury spell early last season, whenever he played, Tom made the most of his chances, and put in fantastic after spectacular performances in his holding midfield role. Tom had benefitted hugely from Sir Alex Ferguson's eagerness to promote from within and his astonishing reluctance to spend in center midfield.
However, since breaking into the first-team at the Theatre of Dreams, the midfielder has come in for huge criticism. Cleverley’s fitness and strength has been criticised, as he tires badly in the second half of games, leading many to believe that his progress has stalled.
As many may like to call Cleverley “the most overrated English footballer” or “not fit to don the United jersey”, perhaps he is unfairly treated. When Tom plays, he works non-stop. He doesn’t pull of the stunning runs, but his passing keeps United ticking. He keeps it moving fast and has a similar mindset as Carrick as he knows how to make the best pass to retain possession and get out of tight spaces. He may not be the Lampard-esque goalscoring midfielder that the fans crave, but the 24-year-old has been the engine of United’s midfield and the heartbeat of their every move.
As such, Cleverley has been lavished with praised from respected managers in Sir Alex Ferguson and Roy Hodgson. The England manager was quoted saying: “Tom’s come into a team alongside the likes of Lampard and Gerrard and didn’t look at all out of place. I suppose you would call him an attacking midfield player, but he’s an attacking midfielder in the same way as Cesc Fabregas. He’s quite capable of coming back into a central midfield role and quite capable, even, of coming back to win the ball when necessary.” Hodgson went on to start Cleverley in all seven internationals since England’s demise in Euro 2012.
However, Cleverley’s lack of goal returns has seen him criticised by many pundits and fans, leading to him denounced as a flop for England and that he doesn’t deserve to play for England. However, what Cleverley adds to the England side is his tenacity and passing.
Dubbed as the next Paul Scholes by the minority, Cleverley works tirelessly for every ball and never stops to rest. He is able to maintain that high-tempo play for England. He also has a spectacular vision for the game and is able to thread that decisive ball through the opposition’s defence, finding an onrushing attacker or winger to bury the ball into the net.
He has a special sixth sense of where his teammates are. Cleverley ticks all the boxes to be a complete central midfielder, and would be absolutely vital to England’s 2014 World Cup hopes, adding much needed support, pace and defensive stability to the preferred pivot of Lampard and Gerrard. And yes, he plays the occasional loose ball and makes the inevitable mistakes, but Cleverley is not quite yet the finished product. He is only 24 and hasn’t reached the peak of his game yet. I believe with faith and good guidance under Hodgson, Cleverley can be moulded into the Paul Scholes type of player for England. He certainly has all the potential and attributes to be a midfield maestro.
Despite strong competition from England’s established central midfielders, Cleverley will certainly provide a strong alternative to the likes of Lampard, Gerrard, Wilshere and compatriot, Michael Carrick. And certainly, Tom Cleverley deserves to be in the England squad. Overrated? Maybe not. There is still much more that we have yet to see from this promising young midfielder. In the near future, Cleverley will perhaps prove his critics wrong, and become one of the midfield gems of England.
Sunday, 1 September 2013
LIVE Commentary: Liverpool v Manchester United
The English "El Clasico"
Liverpool 1 - 0 Manchester United (FULL-TIME)
LIVE Commentary brought to you by FootballMania
(refresh every two minutes)
with editor Wong Yang, assistant editors Ervin Ang, Bryan Ng and Oliver Gui
FULL-TIME - It is yet another 1-0 win for Liverpool with a sole goal from Sturridge, who celebrates his 24th birthday today. Highly-anticipated match-up somewhat lived up to its expectations, with occasional good football from both sides. Liverpool defended well and stayed compact to prevent United from playing through them, but they should have done better on the offensive side in the second half, unlike United, who came out from the break with high energy and dominated possession. Cleverley did pretty well for United, while Liverpool have Johnson, Enrique and Skrtel, and definitely Mignolet to credit for allowing them to heave a sigh of relief at the full-time whistle. Thanks for reading our LIVE commentary, it was Wong Yang, Ervin Ang, Bryan Ng and Oliver GuI here with you tonight, and we hope you enjoyed this English "El Clasico".
(Skrtel announced as the Man of the Match)
90+4min - Alberto to take a corner. Oh, the heck with it. FULL TIME whistle.
90+4min - United on the attack! Enrique says "No" and puts the counter-attack to an end for his team to advance this time.
90+3min - Another free-kick to Liverpool leaves Moyes infuriated.
90+2min - Sterling wins a free-kick for Liverpool as "You'll Never Walk Alone" sounds loudly.
90+1min - It's all or nothing now for United. Liverpool fans just praying that their team can cling on to this slender lead for just another three to four minutes.
90min - Five minutes of stoppage time.
90min - Van Persie's free-kick is headed away by Enrique!
88min - It is really "all about keeping itt now" for Liverpool. Upon clearance, Henderson speeds away from his half and into offense mode.
86min - Van Persie squanders a chance as he attempts to get the ball to the near post! Great pass from Hernandez, Van Persie just couldn't get anything nicely off from that acute angle.
85min - Liverpool pressing hard now.
83min - It's during this period of time that time seems to pass so quickly for the team that is trailing, and so slowly for the team that is leading.
82min - Luis Alberto, from Sevilla, comes on for Coutinho.
81min - Shot on goal by Hernandez. He made a good attempt but went straight into the hands of the alert Mignolet.
81min - Cleverley makes a well-timed pass for Valecia who chases it down the right-flank but Enrique does well to kick it out to disrupt United's momentum.
80min - Ten minutes left for United to chase for that goal.
78min - Johnson probably still hurting from that clash with Erva earlier, and is replaced by Wisdom. He has done really well along with Enrique to prevent United from getting their equaliser. Yet another England player Roy Hodgson will have to worry about.
77min - Liverpool's new goalkeeper makes a stunning save to stop a stinging shot by Nani. Mignolet continues to impress the Liverpool fans.
74min - Hard knock between Erva and Johnson.
74min - No clear chance in the last ten minutes, sadly, so the match is certainly not as entertaining now as it was at the very start of the match.
73min - Giggs is subbed off and Hernandez takes his place. 69min - Valencia goes off temporarily for treatment after getting accidentally poked in the eye by Sterling.
71min - De Gea hooks a dangerous pass from his captain Vidic. It's a "phew" from Moyes.
67min - Giggs header from Nani's corner well held by Mignolet.
67min - Sturridge paces on the left flank and tries to get the ball by Gerrard but it is no good. Nani with the ball thanks to a clever Cleverley pass tackled out for a United corner by Johnson.
65min - Nani tries to get a kick in but he is denied by his marker, but the rebound falls to Valencia. Nothing came out of it though.
64min - Yet another misfired pass in this game. It's Enrique who overestimates how much he has to put into his pass to Sterling on the left.
62min - Substitution by United - Nani replaces Young. Poor corner-kicks by Young in both the firrst and second half.
62min - The flag is up, for Sturridge is caught offside.
61min - Lucas decides to pass to teammate Coutinho but he took too long to decide and United recovers in time to stop the break.
61min - United clearly dominating this second half.
60min - Aspas comes off the pitch and Sterling runs on the replace him.
59min - Young is now the one to be booked with a yellow. He had tugged Henderson by the arm.
57min - Welback looks like he dived just in the box! Some may feel that it was a push from Aspas and Lucas. but replays suggest that it was a dirty dive. Boos from the Anfield faithful.
55min - Now it's United on the counter-attack. Great energy.
55min - Daniel Sturridge leads the Liverpool counter-attack but his ball is snatched away.
54min - Agger takes the free-kick in his half and Henderson is there to make a floating header which United clears away easily.
51min - United is the team that has found itself more on the offensive now. They have certainly come out of the changing rooms more aggressive and hungry. Moyes's Magic, maybe?
50min - Young makes an attempt on goal after Agger jumped to make a poor header but it just can't get past the stubborn home side's defence.
49min - Ashley Young sends yet another deep corner in after Van Persie's shot was denied by Skrtel.
48min - No, just a warning from the referee. Gerrard's set-piece headed just over the bar by Aspas.
47min - Michael Carrick may just get a red card for his challenge on Aspas!
47min - Young makes a deep corner and none of his teammates can reach it.
46min - Evra drills a low cross from the far left and it is deflected away by Skrtel.
45min - The second half is now underway.
45min - Players coming back out onto the pitch now.
HALF-TIME: Liverpool had gotten off to a good start and looked fierce in attack with reliable full-backs Johnson and Enrique playing good defence. Liverpool's first goal was really thanks to Agger, who won space from Ferdinand who was caught unaware of his man's movementsUnited, and Sturridge did well for his goal. United found it challenging to advance in the first part of the first half, but did create a few opportunities here and there towards the second part. However, they could not do enough to trouble the Liverpool back line enough. Quality football from both teams as time continued. United have to be careful to manage their frustration now or Marriner may get a chance to show a red.
45+2min - Skrtel seemeed to be in a struggle with Van Persie. Hoping to get him sent off, Gerrard and Skrtel rush to Marriner's side, but time is up and the whistle is blown, but Marriner calls both captains Gerrard and Vidic for a chat before they head back into the tunnel.
45+1min - Two minutes of added time announced.
45min - Valencia speeds down the right and passes it to Young who sends a useless ball that hovers over the penalty area before going out of bounds.
44min - Welbeck plays it to Giggs, but the veteran Giggs makes a very mediocre pass back to the younger player.
42min - Lucas tries to find Sturridge but thankfully for United, Ferdinand blocks it.
40min - Now, Carrick is booked for pulling Aspas. Young had gotten a cross in but there was too much height in his cross and Agger headed it away.
38min - Van Persie is the third to receive a yellow today! He lunged at Agger. The Dutchman had found himself free on the right with a brillant move but Lucas stole the ball from him.
37min - Early substitution - Valencia replaces Jones, who suffers with a twisted ankle.
35min - Coutinho steps up to take the free-kick in place of Gerrard. It is too high a shot, no threat at all for it goes harmlessly over the bar.
34min - Aspas argues with the referee and picks up a yellow as well.
33min - Cleverley is booked with a yellow card for his late challenge on Coutinho.
32min - Cleverley passes to Jones, who whips in a cross from the right but Mignolet rushes out to catch it.
32min - Ashley Young to take a throw-in.
30min - Van Persie down the left and gets a corner in, but Enrique chests it and plays it out of danger.
27min - Gerrard makes a good free-kick attempt, curls the ball towards the left but Mignolet leans to his right and saves it well.
25min - Liverpool is on the break, and Johnson tussles with Carrick, referee gives a free-kick to the home side.
23min - Skrtel sends a long ball for Henderson but he fails to get there
22min - Welback attempts a back-heel to Cleverley but Enrique denies it, cleared.
20min - There is that high tempo we expect from meetings between these two teams
19min - Giggs slides in on Coutinho, no card though.
17min - Skrtel moves up and passes to Sturridge who turns beautifully, but Vidic is alert and makes a good tackle.
15min - United starting to pressure the Liverpool defence.
15min - Giggs sends in a corner but it is deflected away by Gerrard.
14min - Welbeck & Van Persie fail to adjust their feet quickly enough as ball flashes across the Liverpool 6-yard box.
12min - Welback surges forward but Liverpool captain Gerrard stops him just as he is outside the penalty area with a well-timed tackle.
11min - Ashley Young's corner eventually falls to the feet of Van Persie but he's not in the right spot.
10min - Evra is the subject of jeers from the Anfield crowd.
9min - Welbeck's shot is saved comfortably by Mignolet.
8min - It's a frantic start to the game!
7min - Daniel Sturridge has now scored 11 goals in his last nine appearances in all competitions for Liverpool.
6min - Coutinho avoids Cleverley and sends a low shot. Well-struck, but wide.
4min - Free-kick to United. Giggs to take it, Van Persie tries a bicycle kick but its wide.
2min - Early corner. STURRIDGE SCORES! Agger's header came off Sturridge and the ball
goes past a helpless De Gea. Daniel Sturridge scores today on his 24th birthday
2min - Sturridge! Agger's header came off Sturridge for the ball to past a helpless De Geea!
1min- Giggs sends a ball in, Mignolet picks up.
1min - The match is underway
0min - The singing of Liverpool's "You'll Never Walk Alone" has ended.
0min- Match beginning in one minute!
Preview
From 8.30pm (Singapore time) onwards, follow us here at FootballMania for the latest action on the encounter between Liverpool and long-time rivals Manchester United at Anfield! Nearly our whole editing team - editor Wong Yang, assistant editors Oliver Gui, Ervin Ang and Bryan Ng - will be covering the match for you.
Football, from OUR PERSPECTIVE
Liverpool 1 - 0 Manchester United (FULL-TIME)
LIVE Commentary brought to you by FootballMania
(refresh every two minutes)
with editor Wong Yang, assistant editors Ervin Ang, Bryan Ng and Oliver Gui
 |
| Credits: Sky Sports |
FULL-TIME - It is yet another 1-0 win for Liverpool with a sole goal from Sturridge, who celebrates his 24th birthday today. Highly-anticipated match-up somewhat lived up to its expectations, with occasional good football from both sides. Liverpool defended well and stayed compact to prevent United from playing through them, but they should have done better on the offensive side in the second half, unlike United, who came out from the break with high energy and dominated possession. Cleverley did pretty well for United, while Liverpool have Johnson, Enrique and Skrtel, and definitely Mignolet to credit for allowing them to heave a sigh of relief at the full-time whistle. Thanks for reading our LIVE commentary, it was Wong Yang, Ervin Ang, Bryan Ng and Oliver GuI here with you tonight, and we hope you enjoyed this English "El Clasico".
(Skrtel announced as the Man of the Match)
90+4min - Alberto to take a corner. Oh, the heck with it. FULL TIME whistle.
90+4min - United on the attack! Enrique says "No" and puts the counter-attack to an end for his team to advance this time.
90+3min - Another free-kick to Liverpool leaves Moyes infuriated.
90+2min - Sterling wins a free-kick for Liverpool as "You'll Never Walk Alone" sounds loudly.
90+1min - It's all or nothing now for United. Liverpool fans just praying that their team can cling on to this slender lead for just another three to four minutes.
90min - Five minutes of stoppage time.
90min - Van Persie's free-kick is headed away by Enrique!
88min - It is really "all about keeping itt now" for Liverpool. Upon clearance, Henderson speeds away from his half and into offense mode.
86min - Van Persie squanders a chance as he attempts to get the ball to the near post! Great pass from Hernandez, Van Persie just couldn't get anything nicely off from that acute angle.
85min - Liverpool pressing hard now.
83min - It's during this period of time that time seems to pass so quickly for the team that is trailing, and so slowly for the team that is leading.
82min - Luis Alberto, from Sevilla, comes on for Coutinho.
81min - Shot on goal by Hernandez. He made a good attempt but went straight into the hands of the alert Mignolet.
81min - Cleverley makes a well-timed pass for Valecia who chases it down the right-flank but Enrique does well to kick it out to disrupt United's momentum.
80min - Ten minutes left for United to chase for that goal.
78min - Johnson probably still hurting from that clash with Erva earlier, and is replaced by Wisdom. He has done really well along with Enrique to prevent United from getting their equaliser. Yet another England player Roy Hodgson will have to worry about.
77min - Liverpool's new goalkeeper makes a stunning save to stop a stinging shot by Nani. Mignolet continues to impress the Liverpool fans.
74min - Hard knock between Erva and Johnson.
74min - No clear chance in the last ten minutes, sadly, so the match is certainly not as entertaining now as it was at the very start of the match.
73min - Giggs is subbed off and Hernandez takes his place. 69min - Valencia goes off temporarily for treatment after getting accidentally poked in the eye by Sterling.
71min - De Gea hooks a dangerous pass from his captain Vidic. It's a "phew" from Moyes.
67min - Giggs header from Nani's corner well held by Mignolet.
67min - Sturridge paces on the left flank and tries to get the ball by Gerrard but it is no good. Nani with the ball thanks to a clever Cleverley pass tackled out for a United corner by Johnson.
65min - Nani tries to get a kick in but he is denied by his marker, but the rebound falls to Valencia. Nothing came out of it though.
64min - Yet another misfired pass in this game. It's Enrique who overestimates how much he has to put into his pass to Sterling on the left.
62min - Substitution by United - Nani replaces Young. Poor corner-kicks by Young in both the firrst and second half.
62min - The flag is up, for Sturridge is caught offside.
61min - Lucas decides to pass to teammate Coutinho but he took too long to decide and United recovers in time to stop the break.
61min - United clearly dominating this second half.
60min - Aspas comes off the pitch and Sterling runs on the replace him.
59min - Young is now the one to be booked with a yellow. He had tugged Henderson by the arm.
57min - Welback looks like he dived just in the box! Some may feel that it was a push from Aspas and Lucas. but replays suggest that it was a dirty dive. Boos from the Anfield faithful.
55min - Now it's United on the counter-attack. Great energy.
55min - Daniel Sturridge leads the Liverpool counter-attack but his ball is snatched away.
54min - Agger takes the free-kick in his half and Henderson is there to make a floating header which United clears away easily.
51min - United is the team that has found itself more on the offensive now. They have certainly come out of the changing rooms more aggressive and hungry. Moyes's Magic, maybe?
50min - Young makes an attempt on goal after Agger jumped to make a poor header but it just can't get past the stubborn home side's defence.
49min - Ashley Young sends yet another deep corner in after Van Persie's shot was denied by Skrtel.
48min - No, just a warning from the referee. Gerrard's set-piece headed just over the bar by Aspas.
47min - Michael Carrick may just get a red card for his challenge on Aspas!
47min - Young makes a deep corner and none of his teammates can reach it.
46min - Evra drills a low cross from the far left and it is deflected away by Skrtel.
45min - The second half is now underway.
45min - Players coming back out onto the pitch now.
HALF-TIME: Liverpool had gotten off to a good start and looked fierce in attack with reliable full-backs Johnson and Enrique playing good defence. Liverpool's first goal was really thanks to Agger, who won space from Ferdinand who was caught unaware of his man's movementsUnited, and Sturridge did well for his goal. United found it challenging to advance in the first part of the first half, but did create a few opportunities here and there towards the second part. However, they could not do enough to trouble the Liverpool back line enough. Quality football from both teams as time continued. United have to be careful to manage their frustration now or Marriner may get a chance to show a red.
45+2min - Skrtel seemeed to be in a struggle with Van Persie. Hoping to get him sent off, Gerrard and Skrtel rush to Marriner's side, but time is up and the whistle is blown, but Marriner calls both captains Gerrard and Vidic for a chat before they head back into the tunnel.
45+1min - Two minutes of added time announced.
45min - Valencia speeds down the right and passes it to Young who sends a useless ball that hovers over the penalty area before going out of bounds.
44min - Welbeck plays it to Giggs, but the veteran Giggs makes a very mediocre pass back to the younger player.
42min - Lucas tries to find Sturridge but thankfully for United, Ferdinand blocks it.
38min - Van Persie is the third to receive a yellow today! He lunged at Agger. The Dutchman had found himself free on the right with a brillant move but Lucas stole the ball from him.
37min - Early substitution - Valencia replaces Jones, who suffers with a twisted ankle.
35min - Coutinho steps up to take the free-kick in place of Gerrard. It is too high a shot, no threat at all for it goes harmlessly over the bar.
34min - Aspas argues with the referee and picks up a yellow as well.
33min - Cleverley is booked with a yellow card for his late challenge on Coutinho.
32min - Cleverley passes to Jones, who whips in a cross from the right but Mignolet rushes out to catch it.
32min - Ashley Young to take a throw-in.
30min - Van Persie down the left and gets a corner in, but Enrique chests it and plays it out of danger.
27min - Gerrard makes a good free-kick attempt, curls the ball towards the left but Mignolet leans to his right and saves it well.
25min - Liverpool is on the break, and Johnson tussles with Carrick, referee gives a free-kick to the home side.
23min - Skrtel sends a long ball for Henderson but he fails to get there
22min - Welback attempts a back-heel to Cleverley but Enrique denies it, cleared.
20min - There is that high tempo we expect from meetings between these two teams
19min - Giggs slides in on Coutinho, no card though.
17min - Skrtel moves up and passes to Sturridge who turns beautifully, but Vidic is alert and makes a good tackle.
15min - United starting to pressure the Liverpool defence.
15min - Giggs sends in a corner but it is deflected away by Gerrard.
14min - Welbeck & Van Persie fail to adjust their feet quickly enough as ball flashes across the Liverpool 6-yard box.
12min - Welback surges forward but Liverpool captain Gerrard stops him just as he is outside the penalty area with a well-timed tackle.
11min - Ashley Young's corner eventually falls to the feet of Van Persie but he's not in the right spot.
10min - Evra is the subject of jeers from the Anfield crowd.
9min - Welbeck's shot is saved comfortably by Mignolet.
8min - It's a frantic start to the game!
7min - Daniel Sturridge has now scored 11 goals in his last nine appearances in all competitions for Liverpool.
6min - Coutinho avoids Cleverley and sends a low shot. Well-struck, but wide.
4min - Free-kick to United. Giggs to take it, Van Persie tries a bicycle kick but its wide.
2min - Early corner. STURRIDGE SCORES! Agger's header came off Sturridge and the ball
goes past a helpless De Gea. Daniel Sturridge scores today on his 24th birthday
2min - Sturridge! Agger's header came off Sturridge for the ball to past a helpless De Geea!
1min- Giggs sends a ball in, Mignolet picks up.
1min - The match is underway
0min - The singing of Liverpool's "You'll Never Walk Alone" has ended.
0min- Match beginning in one minute!
Preview
From 8.30pm (Singapore time) onwards, follow us here at FootballMania for the latest action on the encounter between Liverpool and long-time rivals Manchester United at Anfield! Nearly our whole editing team - editor Wong Yang, assistant editors Oliver Gui, Ervin Ang and Bryan Ng - will be covering the match for you.
Football, from OUR PERSPECTIVE
Friday, 9 August 2013
It's National Day - reflection on our football
It's National Day - reflection on our football
We must take pride in the truth that much has happened for Singapore football in the past year, but the sports page writers have been missing the point.
by editor Wong Yang
We must take pride in the truth that much has happened for Singapore football in the past year. From jeering our National Team, to cheering from them, the solid transformation has been a dream come true. Our team are the AFF Suzuki Cup Champions, and our LionsXII are the title-holders of the Malaysian Super League. But I don't think that's the important thing. The sports page writers have been missing the point.
Over the past few years, the Lions have been criticised by their very own countrymen for their mediocre performance. Broken curfews, alcohol and smoking, and the issue of naturalized players that continued to plague the team made it seem that Singapore football had hit a dead end, and one with no way of return.
So the point is - the tables have been turned, and in a way, it's thanks to fans. The Jalan Besar stadium can hit full attendance, and there has never been such a large TV audience tuning in to a Lions or a LionsXII game. To be honest, I've never been quite so excited to cover a Lions match either. Perhaps it's because seeing Singaporeans pumped up, I'm pumped up myself. Waves of red and white frenzy, wild pom-poms and Singapore flags ever so magnificent brought life to our home ground. Status updates from our leaders, and netizens sending words of encouragement to the team, online Singapore was just as fanatic. We've got fans behind the team.
However, the irony is that it could be these very fans that came down hard on the Lions' failures before their recent success, and only a few loyal supporters that stood with the team through the rough days. If the Lions suddenly trip and fall, who knows? The crowds at the Jalan Besar may vanish, the critics will reappear and we may be back to the pre-AFF Suzuki Cup glory days.
In order to prevent such a nightmare from reoccurring, we've got to do more. What to do is up to the team and the Football Association of Singapore. But what we as fans can do is to remind one another that we have to continue to stand behind the team, even when they suffer from a sudden fall. As former national coach Raddy Avramovic said in his farewell letter to Singaporeans, "Cheer them on now that they are champions, but also be there for them when they are down because that will be when they need you the most."
Many Stories, One Singapore. Whether those stories are of jubilation or devastation, something that is constant in these stories is our unity as a nation, and that the pre-game Majulah Singapura will always be sang with gusto, because football in Singapore isn't just about the football.
Happy National Day.
We must take pride in the truth that much has happened for Singapore football in the past year, but the sports page writers have been missing the point.
by editor Wong Yang
We must take pride in the truth that much has happened for Singapore football in the past year. From jeering our National Team, to cheering from them, the solid transformation has been a dream come true. Our team are the AFF Suzuki Cup Champions, and our LionsXII are the title-holders of the Malaysian Super League. But I don't think that's the important thing. The sports page writers have been missing the point.
 |
| The LionsXII will be featured in tonight's National Day Parade |
 |
| The Lions thanking the fans at the Jalan Besar Stadium (Photo: FAS) |
So the point is - the tables have been turned, and in a way, it's thanks to fans. The Jalan Besar stadium can hit full attendance, and there has never been such a large TV audience tuning in to a Lions or a LionsXII game. To be honest, I've never been quite so excited to cover a Lions match either. Perhaps it's because seeing Singaporeans pumped up, I'm pumped up myself. Waves of red and white frenzy, wild pom-poms and Singapore flags ever so magnificent brought life to our home ground. Status updates from our leaders, and netizens sending words of encouragement to the team, online Singapore was just as fanatic. We've got fans behind the team.
However, the irony is that it could be these very fans that came down hard on the Lions' failures before their recent success, and only a few loyal supporters that stood with the team through the rough days. If the Lions suddenly trip and fall, who knows? The crowds at the Jalan Besar may vanish, the critics will reappear and we may be back to the pre-AFF Suzuki Cup glory days.
In order to prevent such a nightmare from reoccurring, we've got to do more. What to do is up to the team and the Football Association of Singapore. But what we as fans can do is to remind one another that we have to continue to stand behind the team, even when they suffer from a sudden fall. As former national coach Raddy Avramovic said in his farewell letter to Singaporeans, "Cheer them on now that they are champions, but also be there for them when they are down because that will be when they need you the most."
 |
| National Day Parade Preview show |
Many Stories, One Singapore. Whether those stories are of jubilation or devastation, something that is constant in these stories is our unity as a nation, and that the pre-game Majulah Singapura will always be sang with gusto, because football in Singapore isn't just about the football.
Happy National Day.
Tuesday, 6 August 2013
Loyalty in football - lost in time
Loyalty in football - lost in time
Money has killed the value of loyalty in the game, and it explains why we see fewer Steven Gerrards, Ryan Giggs, and Francesco Tottis.
by editor Wong Yang
Money has killed the value of loyalty in the game, and it explains why we see fewer Steven Gerrards, Ryan Giggs, and Francesco Tottis.
by editor Wong Yang
On Saturday, Liverpool fans around the world paid tribute to their faithful skipper Steven Gerrard. The Liverpudian has served the Merseyside club professionally for 15 years, and was thanked for his services with his testimonial match and dinner on Saturday. As fans of other clubs looked on, the question was - do we have more of such players in our own teams?
In today's football world, fame and fortune mean everything for most players. They receive big money to fill their big pockets, and will ply their trade for whoever pays them the most, because dollar signs tempt, and the allure of power can be so great that a player will leave the club that had brought him up and developed his potential as a youth player. Lucrative wages can make a player say "Yes" faster than Zlatan Ibrahimović can switch clubs.
Now then, where are the role models of loyalty? Though it is true that we can name a few players who, without a doubt, are dedicated to the club they belong to, the reality is that these players are of a dying breed. In the money-driven football world of this globalised era, money buys temporary loyalty. Although you cannot buy a Jamie Carragher- A grade loyalty, you can ensure that the player is on your side, that is, for now. But there is only one Gerrard, one Giggs, and one Puyol. The "stay loyal to your club" group gets smaller by day, as more money is pumped into this mad machine of materialism.
Players play with dollar signs in their eyes, coins in their ears and cheques in their heads. The world we live in explains why deciding if a player can be considered a legend or not may no longer depend on how much of his heart is with the club, but solely on his skill.
To make matters worse, the loyalty of fans is bought in a different way too. "How many big-name players do you have in your club?" and "did you win anything this year?" are now the hot questions. Fans these days may rally behind the club during its glory days, but scamper away once success is no longer as close as it once was. It is the reason why my presumption that the definition of "fan" would assert that the fan is loyal is wrong.
We must realise that loyalty has to be bred, not bought. It is bred when a person feels a sense of belonging to his home, and some may argue that it ventures outside football. As he becomes an increasingly committed fan, his "home" is his home team's stadium, and it is by interacting with other fans that he gets that "sense of belonging".
Loyalty takes time to be developed, but its effects are tremendous. Just look at Stevie G and the Anfield crowd chanting his name, or the Barcelona supporters singing their anthem before the game.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)