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Socceroo Scott McDonald spurned a great chance to score a rare hat-trick overnight by missing a late penalty as Celtic eased past St Mirren 3-1 in the SPL.The out-of-favour Australian Socceroo had an eventful day, somehow ending up with his name only once on the referee's scorecard.
After putting an early volley over, McDonald made amends for the miss when he shot across his body and past St Mirren keeper Paul Gallacher on 38 minutes.
But the goal was given as an own goal by the referee, after McDonald's shot took a slight deflection off former Sydney FC trialist Chris Innes. It certainly seemed one for the dubious goals panel.
Georgios Samaras doubled Celtic's lead four minutes before Michael Higdon reduced the deficit just on half-time.
But McDonald sealed the result for the Hoops on 61 minutes and this time his goal wasn't in doubt.
The classy Aiden McGeady did well down the right to set up McDonald at the front post for a close-range finish past Gallacher.
And the Australian might have had another late on from the penalty spot after a confusing incident.
Innes blatantly handballed in the box and was given a yellow card by the referee, who mistakenly thought it was the defender's second booking prompting him to send him to stands.
But the ref realized his error and recalled Innes with McDonald eagerly waiting to take the spotkick.
And after all the confusion, McDonald saw his effort from the spot saved by Gallacher before the Saints stopper blocked the Aussie's follow-up shot.
Speaking after the game, McDonald rued the miss but claimed the two goals. "Someone told me that the first goal was an own goal and I gave him a strange look," he said. "It took a little nick off him but it was going in.
"The missed penalty will ruin my night even though it was a good performance. But the second save was very good. It is nice to get two goals, especially at Celtic Park.''
Celtic return to the summit of the Scottish Premier League after Rangers slipped up 1-0 at Aberdeen and the Aussie acknowledged the Old Firm were struggling for consistency this term.
"Consistency is the key in this league. There is none of that going on," McDonald admitted. "Ourselves and Rangers keeping giving each other a lifeline. It's us one week and them the next.
"One club is in turmoil one week and then it is the other. If we had had a good run in the league then by now we would be away from the rest.''
Elsewhere overnight, Brett Holman was another Aussie to find the back of the net, helping AZ Alkmaar claim a 2-0 win over VVV Venlo in the Dutch Eredivisie.
With his side leading 1-0, Holman ran onto a headed ball forward just after the break and produced a nice shot into the top right corner for his goal.
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Socceroo Harry Kewell's goalscoring run ground to a halt overnight as Galatasaray were beaten 1-0 by Bursaspor in a fiery clash in the Turkish Super Lig.
The 31-year-old Australian had scored 6 goals in his last 8 appearances in all competitions for Cimbom, but he couldn't break through as Bursaspor move above Galatasaray into second spot in the Super Lig table.
But Bursaspor were good value for their win with the majority of opportunities falling their way including first-half chances to ex-Perth Glory man Ivan Ergic, who hit the crossbar, and Volkan Sen, who smashed a shot into the side netting.
Twelve minutes into the second-half Volkan Sen broke the deadlock for Bursaspor with a well-timed volley which went in off the post past Cimbom stopper Leo Franco.
Galatasaray then went about rescuing a point from the contest with Kewell trying to work a neat one-two with Abdulkader Keita, but the Aussie's touch let him down in the box and Bursaspor keeper Dimitar Ivankov swooped.
The visitors couldn't muster any decent opportunities, although the game did finish with some controversy after Bursaspor's Ozan Ipek was sent off for a late challenge on Sabri Sarioglu, with sideline staff getting involved in a scuffle.
Galatasaray skipper Arda Turan then furiously expressed his frustration with the referee after the final whistle and received a yellow card for his protests, with Kewell having to intervene and restrain the Turkish international.
The weekend could get worse for Galatasaray, who could drop as low as fourth if champions Besiktas win at Michael Petkovic's Sivasspor on Sunday. Leaders Fenerbahce can extend their advantage when they host Kasimpasa on Sunday too.Click here to read the story on 442
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The Brisbane Lions’s decision to select Matt Maguire with the final pick of Thursday’s AFL Draft was great news for the likeable ex-Saint. But for Brisbane, it was yet another recycled player to join Michael Voss’s list as the Lions chase premiership glory by an unprecedented method.
Back in October’s trade week, Voss was extremely active luring north the likes of Brendan Fevola, Amon Buchanan, Brent Staker, Andrew Raines and Xavier Clarke. And with Maguire now joining those ‘recycled’ players at the GABBA, it makes for quite the list.
But it has occurred on the back of a revelation from Voss who was in attendance at this year’s AFL Grand Final.
Speaking after trade week, Voss revealed, “When I looked at the grand final I saw two very, very good football teams and immediately as a coach when you are sitting in the stands you think, ‘gee can we get there with the list that we have got’?
“Can we compete against these guys tomorrow if we had to? And honestly, at that particular time I didn’t think we could.
“Our plan coming into trade week was about trying to find the players who will help us get to that next level and I think we have accomplished that.”...continuedClick here to read the full story on The Roar
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As the weekend revs up, here is another guide to the essential viewing from Europe’s best football leagues over the next few days.This weekend's edition includes derbies from London, Liverpool and Genoa as well as Spain's El Clasico and the clash of the big two in Greece...continuedClick here to read the full story
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Rafa Benitez’s darkest chapter at Liverpool just got worse after the Reds were eliminated from this season’s Champions League, while Louis van Gaal’s Bayern live another day.
These two managers make for interesting reading, as the pair currently hold posts at two of the biggest clubs in Europe, where success is demanded and failure to deliver such expectations yields unprecedented amounts of pressure.
Indeed, following Fiorentina’s 1-0 win over Olympique Lyon on Tuesday, Liverpool were mathematically out of the running for the top two in Group E, and thus eliminated.
Liverpool boss Benitez has been under plenty of pressure with this elimination always likely after a slow start. But combine that with the Reds league woes and it’s clear the Spaniard is struggling for fans.
Van Gaal, similarly as a foreigner in a big European league, is under pressure in Bavaria.
The Dutchman hasn’t convinced since arriving in Germany, but his side’s 1-0 victory over Maccabi Haifa on Wednesday means they remain in the Champions League hunt...continuedClick here to read the full story on Sports Pundit
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Socceroos skipper Lucas Neill has admitted he’s got plenty of work to do to ensure he gets a regular game at new club Everton in the lead-up to the 2010 World Cup.
The 31-year-old Australian, who played a full game at right-back in Saturday's 3-0 loss at Old Trafford, has made six appearances (four starts) for Everton since joining as a free agent in September.
Neill hasn't nailed down his spot in the Toffees' side yet but told the Everton website: "It's always nice to play.
"I've just to keep working in training and when you get the chance to play you've got to try and put a good workload in.
"It's not up to me to decide if I've done enough to stay in for the next game but I hope I've put something in the manager's mind to keep getting picked."
The former West Ham man faces stiff competition to claim the right-back position on a regular basis with Tony Hibbert, Johnny Heitinga and currently injured captain Phil Neville all capable of playing the role.
"It's a friendly rivalry and kind of good for the manager because he's got the choice of various players to play in the positions," said Neill.
"Of course he doesn't have Johnny and I for European games, that's something which will come in January when hopefully we'll be knocking on the door for places in Europe and the League."
Neill was kept busy at Manchester United on the weekend with Patrice Evra and Ryan Giggs down the left, but the Aussie hopes his Everton side can now bounce back after Saturday's loss.
The Toffees are struggling down in 14th this season but can improve their league standing in a catch-up fixture at Hull City on Wednesday.
Neill added: "We move on now. We have to be positive. We created chances at the end of the game at Manchester United and we will have to create those chances at Hull.
"We've got to bounce back. That's what it's all about now. No-one expected us to win at United. We came and tried but it didn't happen.
"Now we move on and Hull away is definitely a game that we need to win and push ourselves up the table."
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At first glance it’s tempting to agree with the chorus of criticism from the likes of AFL commentator Dwayne Russell and Herald Sun journo Craig Hutchison directed at Fremantle’s decision to recruit Essendon’s Adam McPhee.
McPhee is expected to join the Dockers on a three-year deal in the pre-season draft, becoming the fourth Essendon player to head to Freo since ex-Bombers man Mark Harvey took over as coach in 2007.
But at 27-years-old the 2004 All-Australian and Essendon Best & Fairest winner hasn’t been at his best in the last few years although he still remains a good AFL player.
And ironically McPhee actually began his AFL career at Fremantle before heading to Melbourne only to return west well into his twenties, much like Peter Bell and Heath Black have before.
Add to that with Freo’s inglorious recruitment history and the fact that they’re supposed to be following a youth policy right now, and it seems signing up McPhee is a bad call.
Earlier this week, Hutchison was scathing in his assessment of the move writing, “The hard, cold, brutal truth for Fremantle is that Gold Coast, now, is closer to a premiership than the flailing Dockers.
“And the three-year offer to Adam McPhee does little but remind us all just how bad the Dockers have been built.”
Basically, it seems the Dockers are making the same old mistakes again.
Indeed, jumping to that conclusion is easy to do because the Dockers have a history of dodgy recruiting policies and failing to follow through with plans.
But that assumption is based on history rather than what is happening now and Fremantle insist recruiting a 27-year-old like McPhee is part of their ‘youth policy’.
Fremantle assistant coach Chris Bond explained this week, “The plan was made in 2008 what we wanted to do. We got 14 new players last year in the national and rookie draft.
“We will take eight players in the national and rookie drafts this year. And we have said all along if there was a chance to get a player in the pre-season draft – and hopefully Adam McPhee falls our way – we are getting him for a free hit.”
There’s no doubt Fremantle have firmly promoted youth since that decision in 2008, with the club becoming the first since the Brisbane Lions in 2005 (who were re-building after their golden era) to have 11 debutants in one season.
And they enjoyed some good success with that policy in 2009, with debutants Stephen Hill, Nic Suban, Hayden Ballentyne and Greg Broughton all looking capable of enjoying long AFL careers.
And doing the sums on Bond’s previous quote, considering their turnover in the last two seasons, the Dockers could field a whole 22-man side of first or second-year players in 2010.
But blindly throwing youngsters into the pressure cooker of AFL footy isn’t ideal. For every success, there’s a failure, and exposing some of the strugglers to loss after loss can burn them for ever.
Indeed, there’s more to developing a good footballer than just blind faith and that’s where McPhee’s recruitment comes into it.
This is a very young side who could do with an experienced player or two.
We shouldn’t forget McPhee is a pretty good AFL player who will help the Dockers stay competitive whilst they blood the youngsters. Avoiding demoralizing, weekly losses is important for young sides.
And players like McPhee have a role to play in development by setting the standard and leading by example and with experienced types well and truly outnumbered nowadays at Fremantle, the recruit will be handy in this facet.
The Dockers will hope to replicate Hawthorn’s 2008 Premiership success after their concerted youth policy in the preceding years, but it shouldn’t be ignored that the Hawks struggled in 2009 when experienced players like Trent Croad and Shane Crawford were absent.
Hutchison does point out McPhee’s arrival will mean whenever he plays one youngster will have to miss out, but in a weak, youthful side such as the Dockers, opportunities will be fairly readily available anyway for the rookies.
Nevertheless it is easy to think the Dockers just never learn, but ignoring their inglorious past, there’s more to this story than meets the eye in the context of where they are and what they are losing (very little).
The Dockers have a fresh-faced youthful list right now and adding an experienced body like McPhee will help.
And while some critics believe McPhee won’t prove a hit at Freo, the Dockers know he is after all just a ‘free hit’.Click here to read the full story on The Roar
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Tatar upstarts Rubin Kazan have this weekend become one of the great footballing stories by becoming the first non-Moscow club to claim the Russian Premier League title in successive seasons.
Rubin drew 0-0 with Zenit St Petersburg on Saturday, while their closest rivals Spartak Moscow lost 3-2 to CSKA, to hand the title to the Kazan-club with one game to spare.
The little-known club, who were only promoted to the top flight in 2003, have produced a brilliant campaign on the back of last season’s surprise title victory.
BACK-TO-BACK JOY
The extent of their achievement is all the more clear considering at the start of the season few critics offered them any chance of retaining their title.
But Rubin kept most of the key members of their 2008 title winning squad together and under the guidance of Turkmen boss Kurban Berdiyev managed to keep the championship out of Moscow for another year.
Russian international and Rubin skipper Sergei Semak commented, “This title means much more for us than the first.
"We had to fight probably three times harder than last year. This time our main rivals were chasing us to the very end.Rubin's linchpin Semak could depart
"We also had to prove that last year's win was no fluke. We showed a great team spirit and comradeship."
RUBIN'S DANCING BOSS
Rubin’s manager Kurban Berdiyev was so overjoyed by his club’s victory he was seen on Russian TV dancing a restaurant.
And a joyous Berdiyev later laughed off his embarrassment, saying, “In my youth, after victories we would gather at a restaurant - not all of us drank, but everyone danced.
"When I learned that they had shown me on television, I nearly died of shame."
And while Rubin’s joy will go on for some time, a repeat of their success in 2010 looks unlucky with a player exodus expected to finally occur in the close-season.
PLAYER EXODUS ON THE CARDS?
Argentine striker Alejandro Dominguez, who contributed 16 goals this term, is all but certain to leave Russia with his family unsettled, while young sensations Aleksandr Bukharov and Alexander Ryazantsev along with club stalwart Semak could be lured away.
Rubin president Alexander Gusev revealed, "We have offers from Russian and foreign clubs for almost all of Rubin's leading players.
"Our main task is to keep the backbone of the team. It won't happen for everyone - Dominguez, most likely, will leave."
Indeed, repeating their unprecedented title success, and keeping the title out of Moscow again, could prove very difficult for Rubin. But history will now show, they’ve done it before.
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EUROROO WRAP: Harry Kewell has maintained his goalscoring form in the Turkish Super Lig with the opener in Galatasaray’s 1-1 draw with Manisaspor on Sunday.
Kewell had scored five goals in his last seven appearances in all competitions for Galatasaray coming into the match and he looked set to add to that record early.
The 31-year-old Australian had a chance to strike when he found time for himself on the left-side of the box, but opted to lob a nice cross for Shabani Nonda who saw his header saved at the near post.
Kewell then took on his next opportunity, firing a left-foot volley well over the crossbar.
But on 38 minutes, Kewell wound back the clock with a run reminiscent of his Leeds United days after he collected the ball in midfield, took on a defender and then worked a one-two with Nonda before a cool finish.
Galatasaray's day, though, was ruined late on when Josh Simpson equalized from a corner for the visitors.
The result means Cimbom miss the chance to overtake leaders Fenerbahce who lost 3-0 to champions Besiktas on Saturday. Galatasaray remain second two points behind Fener.
Elsewhere in the Turkish top flight, Socceroo Mile Jedinak played a full game as Antalyaspor drew 1-1 at strugglers Denizlispor, while James Troisi was a 72nd minute substitute in Kayserispor's 2-0 triumph over Diyarbakirspor and Bruce Djite wasn't involved as Genclerbirligi won 3-1 over Istanbul BB.
In Scotland's Premier League, out-of-favour Socceroo Scott McDonald drew a blank as Celtic surrendered their spot on top of the table after a 2-1 loss at Dundee United on Sunday.
McDonald, who was left out of Pim Verbeek's Australia squad earlier this month, failed to score for the Hoops as the Tangerines grabbed two late goals to win the clash.
The Australian did have a decent 37th minute opportunity after some brilliant work by Aiden McGeady, but McDonald missed the target from 12 yards.
Barry Robson won and converted a penalty for Celtic in the second-half before United hit back to claim the points through Jon Daly and Darren Dods late on.
The result leaves Celtic second in the SPL, one point behind rivals Rangers who defeated Danny Invincibile's Kilmarnock 3-0 on Saturday.
Elsewhere in the SPL, James Wesolowski and Trent McClenahan played full games as Hamilton Accies lost at struggling Falkirk 2-0.
In Italy's Serie A, Mark Bresciano started and played 87 minutes of the Sicilian derby between Palermo and Catania which ended 1-1.
In Germany's Bundesliga, Dario Vidosic was a lively 63rd minute substitute as FC Nurnberg won 3-2 at champions VfL Wolfsburg. Matt Spiranovic wasn't involved.
In the Dutch Eredivisie, Brett Holman put in a full shift for AZ Alkmaar as they grabbed a trio of late goals to win 4-2 at Roda JC. The result helps AZ up to sixth.
Elsewhere, David Carney and Nikita Rukavytsya's FC Twente maintained their unbeaten record and top spot with a late 1-0 triumph over Vitesse Arnhem. Carney was an 84th minute sub.
In Greece's Super League, ex-Australia youth international Apostolos Giannou squeezed a shot past AEK stopper Diego Saja for a late winner on his Kavala debut as they defeated the Athens giants 2-1.
Giannou had come on as a 79th minute substitute before scoring just over five minutes later. Meanwhile, Zeljko Kalac didn't play for Kavala.
In Russia's Premier League, Luke Wilkshire wasn't involved as Dinamo Moscow lost 2-0 to crosstown rivals Lokomotiv. The result leaves Dinamo eighth with one game to play in the Russian season.
In Denmark's Superliga, goalkeeper Nathan Coe was an unused sub again as battling Randers lost 2-0 at his former club FC Kobenhavn.
In Croatia's Prva HNL, Josip Skoko played a full game as Hajduk Split thumped Croatia Sesvete 6-0, while Dan Georgievski also put in a full shift as NK Medimurje lost 1-0 at NK Sibenik.
In Japan's J.League, Socceroos hitman Joshua Kennedy returned from his back injury to lead the line for Nagoya Grampus but drew a blank as they played out a 0-0 with Sanfrecce Hiroshima.
In Korea's K-League playoffs, Sasa Ognenovski was at the heart of the drama as Seongnam Ilhwa won through past Incheon United on penalties.
Late in the first-half, Ognenovski was dramatically sent off for stomping on Incheon's Kim Min-Su leaving Seongnam to play out the match with 10-men, before being reduced to nine in extra-time and the match had ended 0-0 after 90 minutes.
It ended 1-1 after 120 minutes, before Seongnam won out on penalties. For Incheon, Jade North wasn't in their matchday squad.
In Europe's second tier leagues, Carl Valeri was once again left out of the Grosseto side which drew 2-2 with Salernitana. Valeri remains in dispute with his club over his contract which is set to expire next European summer.
In Greece's Beta Ethniki, Nathan Burns' AO Kerkyra maintained their position at the top of the table with a 1-0 win at Kalamata. Burns started the game but was replaced on 52 minutes.
In Scotland's Division One, a mistake by ex-Melbourne Victory man Simon Storey led to Morton grabbing a crucial goal in their 4-2 win over Airdrie United.
Storey played a full game for Airdrie, while his Aussie teammate Frankie Lagana started and played 72 minutes, with Erik Paartalu putting in a full shift for Morton.
Elsewhere in Scotland's second tier, Ryan McGowan played a full game as Ayr United drew 0-0 at Raith Rovers.
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UKROOS WRAP: Socceroos pair Tim Cahill and Lucas Neill had a tough time at Old Trafford as Everton succumbed to champions Manchester United 3-0 in the Premier League.
Cahill, playing as one of Everton's few attackers, had little to work with, while right-back Neill was given plenty of problems by Patrice Evra all evening.
Cahill was booked early in the contest and after picking up a knock late in the contest was replaced on 83 minutes as the Toffees slumped to an emphatic defeat.
Elsewhere in the Premier League over the weekend, Vince Grella made his return from injury for Blackburn as a late sub, while Brett Emerton played a full game as Rovers won 2-0 against Lancashire rivals Bolton.
Emerton had plenty of joy running down the right-wing for Blackburn and almost got his name on the scoresheet late in the contest with a left-foot effort which brought out a fine save from Bolton's Jussi Jaaskelainen.
Meanwhile, Mark Schwarzer was beaten by a cool Lee Bowyer finish but had little else to do as Fulham lost 1-0 at Birmingham City on Saturday.
Richard Garcia started and played almost an hour before being replaced as Hull City drew 3-3 with West Ham United. Garcia worked hard but having just returned from injury he needed a rest.
In England's Championship, potential Socceroos number two Brad Jones continues to impress new Middlesbrough boss Gordon Strachan after a good showing in Boro's 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest.
Jones made several excellent saves in the second-half as Forest put the pressure on Boro. Also for Middlesbrough, Rhys Williams played a full game reverting to his natural right-back role.
After the game, Strachan complimented his Aussie pair, saying: "In the second-half they had to defend and they defended well and Brad (Jones) also did well.
"I thought Rhys Williams played well and the defence played well. Rhys is a good right-back and he'll be very pleased with his performance today. I thought he was excellent."
Elsewhere in England's second tier, Shane Lowry played a full game in the heart of defence for Plymouth as they conceded a devastating 94th minute goal to lose 1-0 at Leicester City.
Meanwhile, Adam Federici put in a full shift in goals for Reading as they finally claimed a home win, beating Blackpool 2-1 at the Madejski Stadium, while Nick Carle was an unused sub as Crystal Palace drew 1-1 at Coventry.
In England's League One, Neil Kilkenny marked his return to the Leeds United starting side in the league with a goal as the Whites won 3-0 at Brighton.
Kilkenny has been used mostly as a sub at Leeds this campaign after an injury interrupted pre-season but some recent good showings in cup matches prompted United boss Simon Grayson to offer him a start down in Brighton.
And the Beijing Olyroo didn't disappoint, providing a wonderful 80-yard ball for Jermaine Beckford's goal which made it 2-0 just before the break, before Kilkenny got himself in on the act.
Late in the contest, Kilkenny did well to convert a cross from 12 yards to seal the result. Fellow Aussie Patrick Kisnorbo played a full game for Leeds and missed a good chance to score in the second-half with a free header.
Elsewhere in the English third tier, Aussie goalkeepers Jamie Young and Michael Theoklitos were unused subs as Wycombe won 2-0 at Millwall and Norwich drew 2-2 at Southampton respectively.
In England's League Two, former Joeys defender Shane Cansdell-Sherriff played a full game as Shrewsbury Town scored late to rescue a 1-1 draw with Bury. The result keeps the Shrews in the playoff spots in 7th.
Also in the English fourth tier, Daniel Leach played a full game as Barnet drew 0-0 with Port Vale, while Scott Guyett remains on the sidelines for leaders Bournemouth who won 2-1 at Macclesfield.
In the Blue Square Premier League, James Meredith put in a full shift for York City as they won 1-0 at AFC Wimbledon to boost their promotion hopes as they move to fifth.
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Plymouth Argyle boss Paul Sturrock has indicated he wants to extend Socceroo Shane Lowry’s loan deal from Aston Villa.
The 20-year-old Perth-born defender, who has been part of the last two Socceroos camps, has impressed at Argyle since joining on loan from Villa in September.
But with his three-month stint at Home Park set to expire on December 17, Sturrock has revealed he wants to keep the young Aussie.
Sturrock said: "We have a difficult time coming up. We have a lot of players going back at the end of December. "I am very hopeful that some of the ones already here, will continue here."
Lowry, along with Manchester United youngster David Gray and Welshman Darcy Blake, all arrived at Plymouth on loan earlier this season and helped Argyle move out of the drop zone after a slow start to the season.
Lowry's hopes of making the Australian World Cup squad probably rely on him getting regular game-time, something which is unlikely back at Champions League-chasing Villa.
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Time for a new section on Sports Pundit, where we'll preview some of the biggest must-see football games around Europe due to take place over the weekend.
Rubin Kazan v Zenit St Petersburg
Russian Premier League
Saturday, midday (CET)
The significance of this clash is victory for hosts Rubin means they claim a second successive Russian title. With two games to play in the season, Rubin leads second-placed Spartak Moscow by 4 points and the Muscovites have a difficult match against CSKA too.
But Zenit, the 2007 champions, will be no pushover. Curiously Rubin’s prolific ex-Zenit forward Alejandro Dominguez can’t play in this fixture due to a contractual agreement. And Rubin skipper Sergei Semak will be looking to put behind a poor week, following Russia’s loss to Slovenia.
Liverpool v Manchester City
English Premier League
Saturday, 1.45pm (CET)
Big-spending sixth-placed Manchester City go to out-of-form 7th-placed Liverpool in the EPL on Saturday. Realistically, this could be a crucial clash for the fourth UEFA Champions League spot.
And Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is feeling the pressure too with his side struggling domestically and in the current ECL, with early elimination likely. So Steven Gerrard returning to fitness will be a boost for the Spaniard but he’ll be worried to see his shaky defence come up against a lively City forward-line including pacy pair Shaun Wright-Phillips and Carlos Tevez.
Dynamo Kiev v Shakhtar Donetsk
Ukrainian Premier League
Saturday, 2pm (CET)
Dynamo Kiev’s Halloween stumble last time out to Karpaty Lviv means Saturday’s heavyweight clash with rivals Shakhtar takes on added importance. Shakhtar can close to within a point of the leaders Dynamo with victory in Kiev.
Three weeks ago, Shakhtar defeated Dynamo 2-0 in a cup match in Donetsk with Darijo Srna important for the victors. Milos Ninkovic has been impressive this term for Dynamo, but the stage is set for Andriy Shevchenko to really mark his return to Ukraine.
Besiktas v Fenerbahce
Turkish Super Lig
Saturday, 7pm (CET)
Turkish champions Besiktas host this big Istanbul derby against Super Lig leaders Fenerbahce. Besiktas started the season slowly but have won their last 6 Super Lig matches and Bahce will know their rivals are coming.
The worry for Fenerbahce is they’ve only claimed one point from their last two away league matches. But they did beat their other local rivals, Galatasaray, recently with Brazilian Alex the inspiration.
Sports Pundit’s Game of the Weekend
Bayern Munich v Bayer Leverkusen
German Bundesliga
Sunday, 3.30pm (CET)
Struggling German giants FC Bayern host undefeated Bundesliga leaders Leverkusen in a massive match on Sunday. Bayern need to get their season back on track, while Leverkusen can prove their credentials as genuine title contenders.
Bayern boss Louis van Gaal is under plenty of pressure with his side languishing in eighth. And to make matters worse, there have been rifts between the Dutch boss and some of his players, the most public involving disgruntled Italian Luca Toni. The only good news is Arjen Robben is fit again.
Van Gaal, though, doesn’t seem to have the total support of his board with president Franz Beckenbauer saying, "I cannot say things are great if we are eighth in the league. Van Gaal must learn to have more confidence in people and to delegate responsibility."
Juup Heynckes’ Leverkusen, on the other hand, are flying three points clear at the top of the table although they had drawn 3 league matches in a row before they won 4-0 against Frankfurt in their last outing. Toni Kroos, on loan at Leverkusen from Bayern, will have a point to prove, while Stefan Kiessling’s good form promises goals.
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as seen on au.fourfourtwo.comInjured Young Socceroo Oliver Bozanic has had his loan deal at Cheltenham cancelled and will now return to Championship club Reading.The 20-year-old left-winger, who was in the Australia squad for August's Ireland match, sustained a knee injury later that month whilst playing with Cheltenham.
Subsequently Bozanic missed out on selection for the Young Socceroos at the under-20 World Cup in Egypt.
And with Bozanic still struggling to make a full recovery from the injury, the League Two club have decided to cancel the loan which was to run until January.
"Oliver did very well for us while he was here and I'd like to thank both him and Reading, " acting Cheltenham boss John Schofield said.
"I hope Oliver is back to full fitness before much longer and we wish him all the best for the future."
Bozanic has been back at the Madejski Stadium receiving treatment and rehab recently, although when he will return to action remains uncertain.
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In the wake of Saturday’s 2-1 win in Oman many Australian football fans have argued the Socceroos need a defensive re-think but the problem is there’s a dearth of options. But that’s why this week’s news that promising centre-back Matthew Spiranovic is keen on a January move is music to my ears.
The argument is an Australian backline of veterans Scott Chipperfield, Craig Moore and Lucas Neill will be exposed for a lack of pace by quality sides at the 2010 World Cup, after the Omanis got plenty of joy in that department last weekend.
So Spiranovic, a talented 21-year-old FC Nurnberg central defender, could just be Australia’s answer in waiting.
Spiranovic is tall, agile, cool on the ball and possesses football smarts beyond his years. His problem, though, is he needs regular football.
After a bad run of injuries, he’s fallen down the pecking order at Nurnberg and despite being fit for most of this season, he’s made just one Bundesliga appearance. In turn, a lack of game-time means Aussie boss Pim Verbeek isn’t too keen on offering him a call-up.
But the good news came when Nurnberg sport director Martin Bader revealed earlier this week the Geelong-born lad had spoken to him about his desire to go to the 2010 World Cup and how that means he needs to play.
And encouragingly Bader added, “We have much interest in seeing that the youngster gets to play, wherever that may be.”
Indeed, a loan deal in the January transfer window looks likely for Spiranovic, although the whereabouts of his next destination is unknown at this stage, but it will be crucial.
Spiranovic needs to make a wise decision and find the right club because making the wrong move could see him miss out on the personal glory of going to South Africa and deny the Socceroos a decent defensive solution.
And Spiranovic only needs to look as far as international teammates Michael Beauchamp, Jade North or Chris Coyne to realize a bad career move can cost you.
Less than six months ago all three of the above where part of the Verbeek’s plans, playing in crucial matches during Super June.
But how quickly things have changed, as all three missed selection for the Socceroos most recent get-together and seem to have fallen out of favour with the Dutchman.
Sure, it’s easy with the benefit of hindsight, but you could argue Beauchamp and Coyne would still be in the Socceroos squad had they stayed put in Aalborg and Colchester respectively. It wasn’t as if the pair weren’t playing, it was just they weren’t playing as much as they’d hoped.
Instead, desperately pining for a different set of circumstances, they opted for moves which have clearly hurt their World Cup hopes.
Beauchamp, who left Denmark for cashed-up UAE club Al-Jazira in late-September, tells a curious tale.
Not a lot has been heard of Beauchamp since his move to the Middle East, but interestingly last weekend while the Socceroos were off in nearby Oman claiming a crucial three points towards Asian Cup qualification, Beauchamp was not far away in the UAE making his starting debut for Al-Jazira.
That’s right, almost two months after signing with Al-Jazira, Beauchamp was getting only his first start. And it was in the Etisalat Cup, which is a tournament Al-Jazira boss Abel Braga has been criticized by the locals for not taking seriously.
The ex-Central Coast man has had his injury niggles since heading to the Middle East but he has been fit enough lately to play some reserves football. But UAE reserves footy is hardly Socceroos form.
Beauchamp is probably on some pretty nice money at Al-Jazira but his hopes of representing Australia in South Africa next year are quickly going down the drain. It’s been a bad move in that respect.
Indeed, for the first time the Socceroos have basically had a full 12 months to prepare for a World Cup. In the past we’d be part of these final midweek World Cup playoffs, but this experience has been different.
Plenty of players have made moves recently with the World Cup at the forefront of their thoughts.
There have been some success stories like Mile Jedinak, Patrick Kisnorbo and Shane Lowry, while others who haven’t made the decision to move have stagnated like Bruce Djite.
And Carl Valeri is another who may need to make a move in January, due to a contract row with Italian Serie B club Grosseto which has seen him dropped until a resolution is reached.
Indeed, returning to the news on Spiranovic, this is a big decision for the young lad.
If he gets it right (and god forbid, stays injury free!) he could be partnering Lucas Neill in the heart of the Socceroos defence in South Africa next year.
He’s just got to get the right advice, make the right decision, and then, of course, play some good footy. Clearly that’s easier said than done.
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Port Adelaide Football Club’s announcement yesterday of adopting their ‘Back In Black’ guernsey permanently for 2010 and beyond was greeted with plenty of applause from Power fans down at Alberton. And rightfully so. It’s a great move!
The Power will wear the predominantly black strip with a white and teal V (which they wore twice in 2009, after a 7-year-old came up with the design) in at least 18 home and away matches in 2010, with a white version to be their clash uniform.
It means Port will say goodbye to their home strip which they’ve worn since they joined the AFL back in 1997 and which they sported when they won the 2004 AFL Premiership, although it has been noted the guernsey may still be used on ‘special occasions’.
Nevertheless, Port’s previous jumper was one of the more random and bizarre looking strips seen in the AFL devoid of any local attachment, while the incoming guernsey is simple yet iconic.
Wednesday’s unveiling at Port Adelaide’s Alberton training facility proved the change was a popular one too, with hundreds of happy fans in attendance cheering on the decision.
Indeed, Port Adelaide Chief Executive Mark Haysman acknowledged the change in guernsey had been instigated by unprecedented feedback from the club’s supporters and members after the strip was used in Round 16 and 17 last season.
In this day and age, Haysman’s admission is certainly pleasing to hear.
Just last week, the Brisbane Lions revealed their new strip for 2010, which saw the iconic Fitzroy lion removed in favour of a more modern and marketable look. It hardly pleased Brisbane’s old Fitzroy legion.
Port, on the other hand, followed popular opinion and while there’s no doubt Power management will expect the well-liked new strip to sell well with the fans, Haysman made an interesting comment about the guernsey which suggests making a buck wasn’t their only consideration.
Haysman revealed, “This is the jumper we envisage wearing forever.
“Something just feels instinctively ‘Port Adelaide’ about this jumper, which has really been embraced by the playing group and coaching staff since they first saw it last season.
“Some people have also observed the guernsey resembles the SA State jumper in Port Adelaide colours. Given the iconic place of our club in the history and fabric of South Australia, that’s a very nice coincidence.”
Indeed, the jumper does have an iconic look about it which is ideal for the Power who’ve struggled to win over locals and Port Adelaide Magpies fans.
But Haysman’s statement that he wants to see Port Adelaide wear the uniform forever is quite the revelation.
Perhaps it is PR talk, but the comment suggests Port management genuinely value the guernsey as an icon of what the club is about, rather than a money-making, merchandise-selling tool.
And with the members and supporters basically ushering in the change of kit, Haysman’s statement reiterates his support of the fans’ opinion.
At the end of the day, though, a different guernsey won’t get players to perform better but it might just restore some pride and passion from those who keep the club alive and that’s important for a team like Port, still battling to find their identity.
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Irish-based Australian goalkeeper Chris O'Connor dramatically scored a late goal but it wasn't enough to save Bray Wanderers from relegation after a 2-2 draw with Sporting Fingal.
Wanderers had previously lost the first-leg of their FAI Premier Division promotion/relegation playoff tie 2-0 in Fingal before the return match in Bray.
With the scores poised at 1-1 with Bray behind on aggregate going into injury-time, Brisbane-born O'Connor moved forward before heading in Gary McCabe's 91st minute corner.
The goal seemed to offer Bray a late lifeline before O'Connor went from hero to villain straight from the kick-off when he was dispossessed trying to get the ball moving and allowed Fingal to grab the sealer.
The result means 24-year-old O'Connor, who narrowly missed selection to be part of the Olyroos squad at Beijing in 2008, drops to Ireland's Division One with Bray.
O'Connor, who joined Bray as a teenager from Queensland club Rochedale Rovers, had helped Wanderers gain promotion in 2004 before their five-year reign in the top flight came to an end this week.
Other Aussie keepers who have scored include Mark Bosnich, Michael Petkovic and Adam Federici.
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Finally, the final six spots at the 2010 FIFA World Cup will be decided this Wednesday, with playoff matches occurring around the world.
In Africa there will be a one-off playoff, while in Europe the four ties head for the return-leg along with the CONCACAF/CONMEBOL tie. Here’s the preview.
Algeria v Egypt, Omdurman, 6.30pm (CET)
The anticipation and tension is rife ahead of the decisive CAF playoff between North African rivals Egypt and Algeria after finishing level in all respects in their qualifying group.
And with the playoff to be played in the neutral territory of Sudan, security has had to be tightened with an influx of Egyptian and Algerian fans. It’s a worry considering these nations’ history.
African journalist Ifticen Ahmed warned, “The game has become so enormous... Honestly, it will degenerate if they (the supporters of both teams) meet in the stadium or on the street."
Indeed, despite the build-up, we should focus on the game itself and Egypt, having defeated Algeria 2-0 in Cairo on the weekend, could be the favourites but the Algerians have had a good campaign up until then. It makes for an enthralling finale.
Prediction; Egypt to qualify
Ukraine (0) v Greece (0), Donetsk, 7pm (CET)After a nil-all draw in Athens, this tie remains evenly balanced although with the benefit of home ground advantage, and on the back of a decent showing on the road, Ukraine should be favourites.
Greece boss Otto Rehhagel admitted after the first-leg, “The result leaves everything open. Ukraine were impressive in their passing game and their attacking players were very good.”
Ukraine manager Alexei Mikhailichenko said, "Both teams have an equal chance of going through although we do have a slight advantage because of the fact that we will be playing at home in the deciding game.”
Prediction; Ukraine to qualify
Slovenia (1) v Russia (2), Maribor, 8.45pm (CET)
Saturday’s 2-1 victory for Russia in Moscow was greeted with headlines in the local press claiming "It was not enough!" Indeed, Slovenia’s late away goal could prove crucial but Russia boss Guus Hiddink isn’t getting caught up in the negativity.
Hiddink said, “We did not lose the first match, we won it! And there's no room for panic.
"I know that a very tough battle is waiting for us in Slovenia but we gave another proof that we can upset any opposing team regardless of how many goals they allowed in their qualifying group or how dangerous in general they are."
Slovenia skipper Robert Koren said, “Playing on grass and in front of our passionate fans will give us a distinct advantage. I think it will be a totally different match from the one we played in Moscow."
Prediction; Russia to qualify
Bosnia-Herzegovina (0) v Portugal (1), Zenica, 8.45pm (CET)
Portugal failed to impress in Lisbon on the weekend, while Bosnia missed their chances to claim the advantage in the tie after hitting the woodwork on 3 occasions. Both sides know this tie is tight and there’s plenty of work to be done.
Portuguese boss Carlos Queiroz, who will again be without injured Cristiano Ronaldo, ambitiously stated, "It's going to be close. We'll suffer till the final whistle. We'll have to be utterly determined and inspired. We can't just sit back and wait, we have to take control. We're going to Bosnia to win."
Bosnia boss Miroslav Blazevic, who has skipper Emir Spahic unavailable, acknowledged after the first-leg, "I think we could have, and should have, come away with more than we did.”
Blazevic may rue those misses, but he’ll be reassured by the knowledge Bosnia did score plenty of goals in the earlier qualifiers. And he’s promised ‘a new plan to surprise the Portuguese team’.Prediction; Bosnia to qualify
France (1) v Republic of Ireland (0), Paris, 9pm (CET)
The first-leg between these two in Dublin proved a fiery encounter with plenty of bad blood spilling over. And the second-leg promises more with Ireland facing an uphill battle against Les Bleus.
Ireland’s Italian boss Giovanni Trapattoni said, "It’s not finished yet. We're capable of scoring in France as well. I’ve spent my life in football and I’ve seen a lot of situations get turned around.”
Meanwhile, under-pressure French boss Raymond Domenech said, "I feel we are only halfway through. But I feel determined. There are 180 minutes and 90 minutes to go. The Irish played very well (in the first-leg) and we must be vigilant. Of course, I would prefer to be more than 1-0 up."
Domenech has had to fend off claims of a dispute between him and captain Thierry Henry, along with plenty of pressure from the public. A desperate Ireland side, too, will put the pressure on, with the first goal crucial in this match.
Prediction; France to qualify
Uruguay (1) v Costa Rica (0), Montevideo, midnight (CET)
Uruguay head into their return-leg against Costa Rica with the advantage, favouritism and the weight of home crowd expectation after their narrow win in San Jose on Saturday. The Ticos, who had squad member Froylan Ledezma controversially quit the talk midweek, face a massive task at the famous Centenario.
The South Americans, who failed to qualify for the 2006 World Cup in the playoffs, are determined to finish the job with Diego Lugano (the goalscorer in Costa Rica) stating, "It's been more than two years of a very hard elimination series, there are two days and 90 minutes to go.
"We can't let this opportunity escape us. On Wednesday we have to give the (Uruguayan) people happiness."
Costa Rica's stand-in trainer Marcelo Tulbovitch (with normal coach Rene Simoes suspended) said, "It's not written that we can't win (in Montevideo), we've already started to lift the lads' morale, we'll recover and get (to the match) in good shape. It's the world final.”
Prediction; Uruguay to qualifyClick here to read the story on Sports Pundit
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Australian defender Matthew Spiranovic could be set for a January loan move away from FC Nurnberg as he looks to boost his Socceroos squad World Cup hopes.
The promising 21-year-old centre back - who wasn't part of the Australia squad for Saturday's Asian Cup qualifier against Oman - has managed just one appearance for Nurnberg this season.
It is understood Spiranovic knows he needs regular gametime to win back his place in Pim Verbeek's squad ahead of the World Cup and believes a change of club is necessary.
FC Nurnberg sport director Martin Bader revealed: "Matthew wants to go to the 2010 World Cup, but he now needs to get the ball rolling."
Geelong-born Spiranovic, who was linked with Fulham in the European summer, is contracted with Nurnberg until 2011, so any move is likely to be a loan deal.
And encouragingly Bader added: "We have much interest in seeing that the youngster gets to play, wherever that may be."
Bader also admitted Spiranovic had ‘got a little behind' in his progress after an injury interrupted run which had seen him fall down the pecking order at Nurnberg.
The Bavarian club, who are known to be millions of dollars in debt, are believed to be happy to allow several fringe players to depart in the winter break including Peter Perchtold and Jaouhar Mnari.Click here to read the story on 442
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EUROROO WRAP: Former Adelaide United striker Nathan Burns has continued his fine form in Greece by scoring the winner in AO Kerkyra's 3-2 victory over Agrotikos Asteras.
Burns scored his fourth goal for second tier Kerkyra since joining them on loan from Greek Super League giants AEK Athens in late August.
The 21-year-old has impressed since arriving at Kerkyra, playing as an attacking midfielder on the left side of midfield.And midweek on the club's official website Burns was praised for his influence in helping the club climb to top spot in Beta Ethniki.
And Saturday's match proved the perfect example of Burns' influence as he headed in Dimitris Kontodimos' ball in the 77th minute to claim the winner for Kerkyra who had trailed by two goals early in the contest.
The result sees Kerkyra move four points clear of second-placed Ethnikos who play on Sunday.
Elsewhere with Aussies in Europe overnight, Erik Paartalu scored his second goal in three matches as Greenock Morton returned to form with a 5-0 thrashing of Raith Rovers in Scotland's Division One.
Paartalu netted the opener after a neat move which saw the Aussie produce a nice first-time finish from eight yards.
Elsewhere in Scotland's second tier, Young Socceroo Ryan McGowan played a full game as Ayr United claimed a 1-1 draw with Ross County, while Simon Storey put in a full shift and Frankie Lagana came off the bench as Airdrie lost 2-0 at Inverness Caley Thistle.
In England's League One, Brisbane-born goalkeeper Jamie Young had an unhappy return to the Wycombe first-team as the Chairboys were thumped 6-0 by Huddersfield.
Young has spent most of this season playing second fiddle to preferred stopper Scott Shearer, but was given a rare chance at Huddersfield.
Staying in League One, Michael Theoklitos was an unused sub as Norwich City continued their fine form defeating Gareth Edds' Tranmere 2-0.
In England's League Two, Shane Cansdell-Sherriff played a full game for Shrewsbury as they rescued a 1-1 draw with Torquay.
In England's Blue Square Premier League, James Meredith put in a full shift as York City grabbed another victory defeating Ebbsfleet 1-0.
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The time has come for the decisive ties for spots at 2010’s World Cup with a number of important clashes this Saturday night.
Indeed, this is the ideal time to preview the matches and assess who might get through to South Africa next year.AFC/OFC
New Zealand v Bahrain, Wellington
This is a second-leg clash which will decide the nation who claims a spot on the plane to South Africa next year. The first-leg in Bahrain ended 0-0, so it is wide open and 36,000 Kiwis know that as they quickly snapped up tickets to the sold-out event.
Bahrain, who stumbled in the 2006 World Cup intercontinental playoffs, remain confident with boss Milan Macala saying, “We had many chances in the first game and this will give us enough motivation. The players know their responsibilities well.”
The All-Whites have only made the World Cup once back in 1982 when their current coach Ricki Herbert was a player. And Herbert commented on Friday, "We're under no illusion as to what the task is going to be tomorrow night. But where we sit and what we've done during the week we also feel confident.''
Sports Pundit prediction; Bahrain to qualifyUEFA
(1st leg ties, 2nd leg to be played midweek)
Russia v Slovenia, Moscow
Since last month’s draw there have been big expectations on Guus Hiddink’s Russia to qualify for next year’s World Cup. Slovenia was seen as the easy draw but the Dutch maestro is having none of that talk and insists this tie will be tough.
Hiddink said, “I can only say one thing; there is no hint of us underestimating the Slovenians. We all know it will not be an easy game. The stakes are too high.”
Indeed, following Russia’s brilliant Euro 2008 campaign, many of the locals believe they can have a realistic tilt at the cup in 2010 and with stars like Andrei Arshavin, Yuri Zhirkov and Roman Pavlyuchenko, why not?
And despite Hiddink’s tactness, the Slovenians realize they’ve got a huge task with boss Matjaz Kek admitting, “You and I both know that Russia are the favourites. There is no secret that they are a side of great class.”
Sports Pundit prediction; Russia
Ireland v France, Dublin
There’s been plenty of tension between these two nations in the build-up to this epic tie. The Irish have been public about their dissatisfaction with FIFA’s seedings system for the draw. And now they’ve criticized the French who’ve had an indifferent qualifying campaign.
Irish defender Richard Dunne said about French boss Raymond Domenech, “Every time a tournament comes round, they [France] have all these world-class players and then a man who seems intent on messing them up."
Domenech is hardly popular back in his native land and there’s plenty of pressure on him and being without injured superstar Franck Ribery doesn’t help.
“I know my men are ready," said Domenech, “Any pressure is internal. If the players don't feel it inside then there's something wrong and they have no place here."
Sports Pundit prediction; France
Portugal v Bosnia, Lisbon
The pressure is firmly on hosts Portugal and their boss Carlos Queiroz ahead of the first-leg and without FIFA Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo and against up-and-coming Bosnia-Herzegovina, this could be a tricky tie.
Indeed, much of Queiroz’s focus this week has been on getting his side to play as a team despite Ronaldo’s absence.
And Queiroz told the press this week, "We have great players, individual and collective options. We have to focus our talents, virtues on the responsibility that lies ahead and get a good result in both parts of this play-off.''Dzeko is a Bosnian goalscoring machine
Bosnian midfielder Emir Spahic also commented, “We would be satisfied with a score draw on Saturday. Let's say 1-1 would be okay.'' With guns like Edin Dzeko and Zvjezdan Misimovic, you just never know.
Sports Pundit prediction; Bosnia
Greece v Ukraine, Athens
In perhaps the hardest to predict of the European ties, Euro 2004 champions Greece take on 2006 World Cup quarter-finalists Ukraine. Otto Rehhagel, who guided Greece to that triumph is still in charge and he insists his side need to be at their best here.
The 71-year-old German said, “They have to go out on the pitch, show their skills and play beyond their limits. We don't have the luxury of being able to call on all of our players as we have some key men missing such as [Giourkas] Seitaridis and [Vasilis] Torosidis. But I have confidence in all my squad.”
Despite those absentees, Greece will enjoy renewing Panathinaikos pair Kostas Katsouranis and Giorgos Karagounis’ partnership in midfield, while Theofanis Gekas (who scored 10 goals in qualifying) is available too.
Ukraine boss Alexei Mikhailichenko said "We are going to Greece with the target of winning; for us there is no difference between home and away matches. I believe both teams have a 50-50 chance of qualifying.” Revitalized legend Andriy Shevchenko will be crucial.
Sports Pundit prediction; Greece CONMEBOL/CONCACAF
(1st leg ties, 2nd leg to be played midweek)
Costa Rica v Uruguay, San Jose
Rather than injuries or pre-match banter, the talking point in this clash is the artificial surface in Saprissa which will apparently give the hosts a big advantage.
Costa Rica boss Rene Simoes commented, "It's a surface I don't like but my players are very used to it and that turns it into an advantage for us. With that, I see the tie much more levelled.''
Uruguay qualified in 2002 via the playoffs but failed in the same route in 2006 and boss Oscar Tabarez will be hoping for a repeat of the former.
Tabarez insists the pitch isn’t an issue, "The synthetic grass is nothing but one other issue for this duel. For us, the biggest concern is to reach the game in the best shape, have very clear what we plan to do in the field and how to stop the good things our rivals have.''
Sports Pundit prediction; Uruguay
CAF
The situation in Africa is slightly different to the rest, with the groups still open. Ghana and the Ivory Coast have already qualified via Group D and E respectively but 3 spots remain open in Groups A, B and C.
Group A
Cameroon simply need to win in Morocco to claim a spot in South Africa. If they fail in Fes, Gabon can leapfrog them with victory in Togo. But Morocco have had a few key players pull out of their game with injury and you’d fancy Paul Le Guen’s Cameroon.
Sports Pundit prediction; Cameroon
Group B
Tunisia travel to Mozambique knowing victory will book them their spot in next year’s World Cup. Second-placed Nigeria must win in Kenya and hope the Tunisians slip up in Maputo.
Sports Pundit prediction; Tunisia
Group C
In one of the best matches today, Egypt host group leaders Algeria in Cairo for the right to a spot in the World Cup. An Egypt win by 3 goals or more will see them qualify for South Africa, while Algeria enjoy quite a nice advantage although it will be tense against the African champions.
Sports Pundit prediction; AlgeriaClick here to read the story on Sports Pundit
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As my colleague Mike Tuckerman wrote earlier this week, Australia’s Asian Cup qualifier in Muscat on Saturday could be a banana skin for the Socceroos and there’s no doubt experienced Oman boss Claude Le Roy will be greasing up his side in the hope of an Aussie slip-up.
Le Roy is quite the unforgettable type and he certainly made an impression on Australians last month when Oman came to play the Socceroos in Melbourne.
The 61-year-old Frenchman’s physical appearance alone sparked much debate about his cartoon alter-ego, while some of his comments garnered a fair bit of discussion too.
He began the trip lamenting the fact out of their Asian Cup qualifying group, only his Omani side had to face the Socceroos at full-strength. And they had to do it twice!
And then came the actual match where Oman went down 1-0, despite enjoying the better of the first-half chances and having a stonewall penalty waved away late in the game.
Le Roy clearly wasn’t happy at the post-match conference, where not only did he express his frustration at the result, he also revealed Gary Moretti’s now infamous half-time slur whilst labeling Tim Cahill and Harry Kewell as ‘assistant referees’.
It is fair to say Le Roy didn’t have the best of trips to Australia last month and it would be easy to believe he’d be keen for some form of retribution this weekend.
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The AFL’s expansion to 18 teams means the talent pool will become more diluted and clubs are reacting to this by seeking new ways to find players. It presents a new challenge for footy clubs and it’s interesting to observe their different methods.
When the Gold Coast and West Sydney clubs do arrive on the AFL scene in 2011 and 2012 respectively, they’ll be allowed squad lists of 44-50 players each along with nine rookies, meaning the league will suddenly need over a hundred extra players.
It’s obvious this will stretch the pool of Aussie Rules talent available and its already been said this year’s draft is thin on talent as a result of concessions given to the newboys.
This fact didn’t seem to be lost on clubs at Trade Week last month, which was an unusually busy period with plenty of movement between teams.
Ross Lyon, who took St Kilda to the Grand Final this year, has had plenty of success with recycling players (there were seven players in the Grand Final team who started their AFL careers elsewhere) and perhaps some clubs are keen to follow that example.
But offering footballers a second chance is just one method which clubs are opting for as they brace for the arrival of the two new clubs.
Collingwood perhaps have made the biggest splash this week by signing an American former professional basketballer by the name of Seamus McNamara...continuedClick here to read the full story on The Roar
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Nine-time Spanish champions Atletico Madrid are struggling in La Liga this season with just 7 points from 10 games to sit in the drop zone sparking fears of another relegation like they suffered in 1999-2000.
Atletico’s early season struggles have already seen manager Abel Resino sacked and replaced by former Getafe, Valencia and Benfica boss Quique Sanchez Flores.
Quique took over in late October and while the results have improved slightly, the worries still remain.
But Quique insists Atletico fans have nothing to fear and believes this side can turn it right around, stating upon his appointment on October 23; "I believe in this club and the aim is to see to it that moral returns.
"Atletico must qualify for the Champions League by the end of the season."
It was an ambitious statement from the new boss of a team languishing down the wrong end of the table with only the one league win to that point.
Make no mistake, this is a side struggling all over the pitch despite enjoying the services of several big names. Forlan fired Atletico into the ECL last year.
And we shouldn’t forget this is the team which has qualified for the UEFA Champions League in the last two seasons – no easy feat in Spain. There’s no doubt there is quality at the Vicente Calderon...continued
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Australia midfielder Neil Kilkenny pushed for a regular starting spot at Leeds United after scoring in their 3-1 win over Grimsby in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.The 23-year-old Aussie, who has been used mostly as a substitute at Leeds this season, was offered a rare start against Grimsby and he began well with an early shot blocked.
Later in the half, Max Gradel went on a lively run before teeing up Kilkenny who lashed a crisp shot just wide of the target from distance.
And on 40 minutes Gradel forced the opener for Leeds when his effort when deflected into his own net by Grimsby defender Olly Lancashire.
Five minutes later Kilkenny worked a neat give-and-go with Jermaine Beckford before the Beijing Olyroo tucked it away with a nice finish into the far corner.
Beckford grabbed Leeds' third ten minutes into the second-half before Peter Sweeney replied with a consolation goal for the Mariners.
The result sees Leeds move closer to a date at Wembley, as they go into the Northern section semi-finals.
Elsewhere in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy, Michael Theoklitos wasn't part of the Norwich City side which edged past Swindon Town on penalties, while Aaron Downes' Chesterfield crashed out 3-1 against Carlisle United.
In the Blue Square Premier League, Aussie defender James Meredith played a full game as York City defeated Chester City 3-2 to move into sixth spot.
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A week ago, everyone was talking up a two-horse title race between Sydney and Melbourne in the A-League. Yet after the weekend’s results, which saw the top two lose, that idea has been flipped upside down. But we’ve heard this before and that’s the beauty of the A-League, it’s predictably unpredictable.
Indeed, it seems every second week there’s a new title favourite in the A-League with results consistently perplexing the average fan.
Gold Coast United and Perth Glory have had good runs near the top, ushering in hype as title candidates, while the likes of Wellington and North Queensland have had periods of fine form.
It was only a fortnight ago that Wellington (who were bottom at the time) thumped Gold Coast (who were top at the time) 6-0.
I recall switching on the coverage late in that contest to find that lopsided score line, much to my surprise and disbelief, and initially thought it must have been a Fox Sports typo.
Or maybe my eyesight?
Indeed, form or media hype seem to equate to little when the next game comes around, with the weekend’s Round 14 fixtures highlighting that point to a tee.
There had been speculation during the week that Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory were ready to surge away from the pack, but the Sky Blues’ 1-0 loss on the Gold Coast and Melbourne’s 4-0 hammering from the Mariners rubbished thoughts of a two-horse race.
At least for now.
Perhaps we should’ve been wiser than to begin hyping up a two-horse race when the A-League has consistently proved unpredictable in the past.
And the reality is that this is the beauty of the A-League.
The competition is not going to replicate a product such as the English Premier League or the Spanish La Liga in terms of quality and standard.
But as a form of entertainment, the A-League continually succeeds in keeping the viewer on edge thanks to its sheer unpredictability.
I am a Blackburn fan in the Premier League and recently tuned into the box to watch Rovers journey off for a trio of rather difficult away trips at Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United.
In all three contests I went into the game expecting my boys to get thumped and they duly didn’t fail my expectations: 6-2 at Arsenal, 5-0 at Chelsea and a relatively pleasant 2-0 at Old Trafford.
Yet despite the predictable results, I still watched the games (although I did ‘fortunately’ dose off at half-time in the Chelsea game with the score 1-0 at the break).
But the A-League isn’t as privileged as the English Premier League with its market and passionate fanbase.
The point I’m trying to make is that the A-League offers something which the much revered Premier League can’t and Australian football fans shouldn’t forget that.
The way the league is run, with equalizing strategies like the salary cap, enables this unpredictability to occur for the greater good as a way to attract fans.
There are some who believe removing the salary cap altogether would be good for the A-League as it would allow clubs to spend more on better players, thus improving the overall quality.
But that move would benefit only the clubs willing and capable of spending on their playing list.
And while a few more quality players may grace our shores, it may not be a good trade-off with the decreased unpredictability in the league which would accompany it, especially when the FFA are trying to expand the code nationally rather than in isolated pockets.
Indeed, a lopsided A-League with dominant clubs predictably knocking off the smaller teams would be very difficult to sell in the Australian sporting market which traditionally loves the ‘underdog’.
And that’s the beauty of the A-League, that the ‘underdog’ can get up on any given day.
We should treasure that rare delight in this day and age where the examples of European football show us exactly what we need to protect. Click here to read the full story on The Roar
as seen on au.fourfourtwo.com
Socceroo Scott Chipperfield helped FC Basel close to within four points of Swiss leaders Young Boys with the opening goal in a 4-1 win over Neuchatel Xamax overnight.
The 33-year-old Australian warmed up for the Socceroos' Asian Cup qualifier in Oman next weekend in ideal fashion, scoring his fifth goal of the season after 40 minutes.
Valentin Stocker drove forward before passing to Chipperfield who collected the ball well and slid in a tidy shot for the opener.
After the break, Neuchatel (who would have leapfrogged FCB into second with a victory here) replied courtesy of a Brown Ideye header from a corner on 55 minutes.
But Basel struck almost immediately after winning a penalty for handball, with Alexander Frei scoring from the spot.
Both sides were reduced to ten men before Xherdan Shaqiri scored Basel's third with Marco Streller hitting a fourth after some exceptional skill.
The result sees Young Boys, who lost 3-1 at FC Sion on Sunday, lose their substantial buffer on Basel who are within four points of the Bern club whilst FCB have opened up a five-point gap on third-placed Xamax.Click here to read the full story on 442
as seen on Sports Pundit
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Chelsea claimed a significant advantage in the English Premier League title race on Sunday after defeating Manchester United 1-0 to extend the Blues lead to five points at the top.
Captain John Terry scored the decisive goal in the 76th minute after a resolute performance down back alongside the impressive Ricardo Carvalho to cap a man-of-the-match game from the big defender.
And the victory gives Chelsea a major boost ahead of the international break, with the Londoners taking box seat in the title race.
Carlo Ancelotti’s men, who have won every game at Stamford Bridge under the Italian, are certainly looking title favourites too.
While last season, when Chelsea finished third some 7 points behind the Red Devils, the Blues dropped 18 points at home, this campaign has been dramatically different with no points dropped at the fortress that is becoming Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea actually haven’t conceded a goal at Stamford Bridge in all competitions this season since the opening day 2-1 victory over Hull City.The Chelsea skipper grabbed the crucial winner
And Ancelotti appears to have his side firing with Didier Drogba a fine example of a player flourishing under the Italian as he is enjoying arguably the best form of his career.
The 1-0 victory over United wasn’t a classic, but for Chelsea the tactics taken by the visitors said plenty about where these two clubs are at.
The Red Devils packed the midfield to try and prevent Chelsea expressing themselves. United’s tactic left Wayne Rooney to fight a difficult lone battle up front and while he battled manfully, ultimately his efforts proved fruitless.
It suggested the visitors would be happy to leave London with a draw, which is definitely not the norm for the champions.
Nevertheless, Ancelotti isn’t getting carried away despite the numerous positives, stating; "We have to continue because during the season there will be other strong matches like this.
“It's important we've started the season very well, we have 30 points from 12 games.
"But the season is very long and we know that. We have to stay focused for the next matches."The in-form Ivorian will head off for Africa in January
Indeed, there will be a tricky spell for Chelsea after the turn of the year when several stars, including Michael Essien and Drogba, head off for the African Cup of Nations.
Some good news for the Blues is the fact their transfer ban has been lifted and their fixture list during the African tournament is kind on them.
But there’s no doubt United will typically launch another assault on the title.
Rooney, as mentioned previously, fought hard on Sunday in a role he wasn’t totally comfortable with yet he caused plenty of trouble for Chelsea with a second-half missed chance a major moment in the match.
But Rooney’s inspired form this season, in the wake of Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure to Real Madrid, suggests the Red Devils have a man capable of guiding them to the title.
Nevertheless, Ronaldo’s direct replacement in midfield, Luis Antonio Valencia, has proved a good addition but far from the Portuguese’s quality and a change like that leaves a lot for other players to shoulder.
Valencia was presented with arguably United’s best chance to equalize late in Sunday’s contest, but the Ecuadorian screwed his effort wide, symbolizing the Red Devils need for cutting edge.How will Ferguson replace Ronaldo's goals?
Ryan Giggs has been sensational this season but he struggled against Chelsea and that’s a concern for Sir Alex Ferguson.
But the Scottish boss seems to be more concerned with the referees, with several rants directed at the officials already this season, suggesting plenty of frustration at the Old Trafford camp.
Indeed, some of the body language and protesting late in Sunday’s game by United’s players and coaches hinted at worrying signs for a club who need to focus with a challenger ready to rival them this season.
But no title is ever won in early November and there’s plenty of hurdles to come, although Sunday’s victory for Chelsea puts them a step or two ahead of their rivals from Manchester and that’s a handy advantage.Click here to read the full story on Sports Pundit
Socceroo Scott McDonald spurned a great chance to score a rare hat-trick overnight by missing a late penalty as Celtic eased past St Mirren 3-1 in the SPL.
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