Tag Futebol

Shamrock Rovers away it is then and a small but hardy gang of Lilywhites will be braving airports various and venturing towards a destination the natives call… Tallaghtfornia.

Dublin has considerable charms but these have been tarnished somewhat by the phenomenal financial drain of the city even to a visitor attempting to keep to the most modest of budgets. 

I used to live there and am a frequent visitor to this day, so there’s no malice from me just based upon a long weekend that went wrong. It’s horrifically expensive across the board.

You’re all adults and getting to the stadium is your own business – but on taxis – should you step into one, make sure that you know where you are going. A considerable percentage of city center taxi men are, shall we say, not Irish. So if you know the postcode of your destination, I’d humbly suggest you have it to hand for the old Sat Nav.

Pre and post the game you may wish to seek out something to eat and drink. I would recommend Zaytoon which has branches both in Lr Camden St and Parliament St. Rotten for vegetarians I’m afraid, but super reliable high class Persian kebabs fare. Not cheap, but bloody nice and you can sit down in decent surroundings.

Temple Bar is rubbish. If you haven’t experienced it and wish to enjoy it’s many splendid ‘things’ then I shan’t even attempt to coax you round. Good luck, God bless.

Not too far across town however is Dawson Street where Cafe En Seine and Samsara lay in wait. These two gems are not only nice buildings to be in but actually populated by decent local types. There’s a pair of really good food options in this road too.

For Pizza, Milano is essentially Pizza Express by another moniker and if you want something very very nice indeed, then look no further than Fire at The Mansion House which more or less is opposite the bars previously listed.

If you need use of an Internet cafe, their are a good few as one would expect in a city center, the arguably most central is Global on O’Connell Street. 

Aside from make sure that you wear clean pants in case you get case run over, I think that’s it. Hopefully it’s of some small use. Of course, it would be better if readers were to add their own thoughts.

BIOYSRC!

Courtesy of Harry-Hotspur.com

Relegation-threatened Blackpool need points desperately and there is no better time to get them than in their clash with Stoke City on Saturday.Ian Holloway’s men are hovering above the English Premier League relegation zone in 17th by means of goal difference ahead of Wigan, but finish the season with trips to Manchester United and Tottenham and also host Europe-bound Bolton after their clash at Bloomfield Road on the weekend.

The tough run-in to the end of the season means it is three points on Saturday or bust for Holloway and his plucky Blackpool outfit, which rode their momentum through the English Premier League playoffs last term.

The form guide does not make pleasant reading for Seasiders fans, as their side has secured just eight points from a possible 51 since the New Year.

Stoke, meanwhile, are not short of confidence with an FA Cup final to look forward to and are coming off a 3-0 dismantling of Wolves on Tuesday.

Tony Pulis will almost certainly be missing Matthew Etherington for Saturday’s clash after the winger limped from the field with a hamstring injury in their win over Wolves. He is in doubt for their Wembley date with Manchester City.

Other omissions for Stoke include strike duo Ricardo Fuller and Mamady Sidibe (both Achilles), while Danny Higginbotham is a long-term absentee with an ACL injury.

Australia international David Carney continues his spell on the sidelines for Blackpool with a shoulder injury, while scarcely used defender Chris Basham will miss as he continues his recovery from a broken leg.

Blackpool won the reverse fixture 1-0 at the Britannia Stadium in December, with frontman DJ Campbell scoring the winner shortly after half-time.

Arsenal winger Theo Walcott has been ruled out for up to six weeks with the ankle injury picked up while on England duty.

The 21-year-old was stretchered off during England's 3-1 Euro 2012 qualifying victory over Switzerland in Basel on Tuesday night after taking a blow to his ankle.

Walcott was injured in the build-up to Wayne Rooney's opening goal and scans have now revealed the extent of the damage.

"The tackle looked quite bad," manager Arsene Wenger told the club's official website.

"When you see how it turned his ankle I thought it would be three or four days or it would be four to six weeks. Unfortunately it will be four to six weeks.

"We had some good news about the scan because at some stage we were scared it could be worse.

"But overall it is a question of patience and rehabilitation."

Walcott had been in sparkling form during the opening weeks of the new season after scoring four goals in three appearances.

He now joins fellow ankle injury victim Robin van Persie on the sidelines after the Netherlands striker was ruled out for a similar length of time last week.

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However, Wenger has revealed some timely good news following confirmation that Samir Nasri has recovered quicker than expected from knee surgery and the France midfielder could be involved when Bolton Wanderers visit the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

"If needed I will integrate him in the squad for Bolton but for sure he will be back for our first Champions League game against Braga," added Wenger.Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email

A goal from keeper Tim Howard wasn’t enough for Everton as Bolton came from behind to edge closer to safety with a confidence boosting win at Goodison Park.

Howard scored from inside his own penalty area just after the hour to break the deadlock following a goalless first half on a wet and windy night on Merseyside. It wasn’t enough though as Owen Coyle’s side fought back to claim a priceless victory with captain Gary Cahill scoring the winner 12 minutes from time  on what could be his last game for the club after David N’Gog had levelled. The fighting spirit displayed by the Trotters will have given hope to supporters that the club can pull themselves away from danger after moving to within a point of fourth bottom QPR. Defeat will sting hard for David Moyes though as his side missed the chance to move into the top half throwing away their lead and a four-match unbeaten run that had seen them pull away from the danger over the festive period.

With Landon Donavan back at Goodison Park on a two-month loan deal from LA Galaxy to bolster Toffees’ attack they made the brighter start as the wind and rain made conditions treacherous in the first half. The American was involved almost immediately teeing up Denis Stracqualursi who fired wide of Adam Bogdan’s post before Leighton Baines crossed for Louis Saha to fire wide. The visitors also had a few sniffs at goal in a surprisingly bright opening forty five minutes with Phil Jagielka headed just over his own cross bar following Chris Eagles’ floated delivery. The Everton skipper then went close at the other end but was denied by a smart save from Bogdan after connected with Leon Osman’s cross before Donavan had a penalty shout turned down by referee Phil Dowd after tangling with Sam Ricketts in the penalty area. N’Gog then had the Trotters’ best chance of the half firing straight at Howard after being played in by Nigel Re0-Coker as both teams hurried down the tunnel at half time to escape the blustery weather.

The second period saw both sides create early opportunities with Jack Rodwell firing just wide for Everton before Mark Davies was denied by Howard at the other end after ghosting past Sylvain Distin and Johnny Heitinga. The American saved smartly from N’Gog’s curler from the edge of the area before stunning everyone inside Goodison Park by breaking the deadlock. His long clearance bounced 30-yards from goal and with a little boost from the wind sailed over the head of Bogdan and into the net. Going behind usually signals the beginning of the end for Coyle’s side but on this occasion they refused to lie down and accept their fate drawing level on 67 minutes through N’Gog. The Frenchman had failed to score in over three months but did brilliantly to take Reo-Coker’s pass under control before fixing the far corner with an accurate strike. He then had a penalty shout turned down after Baines appeared to block the former his s effort with an arm before Cahill swept home the winner to put Bolton in with a firm chance of beating the drop.

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Arsenal fans booed their team off the field after being held to a frustrating 0-0 draw with Blackburn at the Emirates on Saturday.The Gunners missed a series of chances and even when Rovers had Steven N’Zonzi harshly sent off in the 75th minute they could not find a way past a well-organised Blackburn defence.

The draw leaves Arsenal seven points behind Premier League leaders Manchester United, who won 4-2 at West Ham earlier in the day.

Even the return of captain Cesc Fabregas from injury as a second-half substitute could not inspire Arsenal to victory.

They at least started quickly and certainly had chances to take the lead in the first half with Jack Wilshere missing a wonderful opportunity when he inexplicably side-footed wide following a one-two with Samir Nasri in the 30th minute.

Livewire winger Theo Walcott, back from injury, also went close with an early effort that was smothered by goalkeeper Paul Robinson but the longer the game went without a goal the more Rovers came into it.

They almost took the lead when goalkeeper Manuel Almunia embarrassingly allowed a tame Marin Olsson shot to slip through his grasp – and the Spaniard was mighty relieved to see the ball roll narrowly wide.

The Arsenal keeper also made a terrible hash of dealing with a long Robinson clearance, allowing N’Zonzi a header that bobbled past the post. And perhaps if N’Zonzi had not collided with his own team-mate Christopher Samba as he jumped, Almunia’s error could have been more costly.

In the second half the home side became increasingly frustrated as Blackburn’s defence kept them at bay. But when N’Zonzi was sent off for a two-footed challenge on Laurent Koscielny, Arsenal gained new impetus.

Substitute Marouane Chamakh should have put them ahead in the 80th minute when Robin van Persie’s clever back-heel and Wilshere?s cut-back gave him a wonderful chance from 10 yards – but his effort was blocked.

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Then in the final minute, Nicklas Bendtner’s header from a corner struck Michel Salgado on the line as Arsenal’s frustration was complete.

The result leaves Manchester United firmly in control in the title race, now seven points clear although Arsenal do have a game in hand.

Chidge is joined by Dr Mart, Ross fresh from his trip to the US of A and Chris fresh from making his debut on Sky News last week. They discuss the 6-0 tonking of West Brom, give out their match awards and chew the fat over the latest Chelsea news.

It’s good to see Chelsea picking up where they left off last season and indeed good to see the Chelsea FanCast crew picking up where they left off last season – by drinking themselves silly all day as first day of the season excitement well and truly got to them!!

Inspite of being woefully short of both match fitness and sharpness, the Boys in Blue made very short work of Robbie Di Matteo’s West Brom and dished out a bit of a 6-0 tonking. Oh it’s good to be back!! Drogba gets a hat-trick to take him above Jimmy Greaves in the all-time Chelsea scoring table, and Malouda, Anelka and Cole all put in good performances. Unsurprisingly they figure in the FanCast’s Man of the Match and Guinness awards. But what or whom will get the Celery and Chant of the Match awards…

Turning to the latest Chelsea news, we all have a laugh at Joe Cole seeing Red and Bruce Buck taking the mick out of them; applaud Malouda for being one of the people; find out why our very own Blues Brother Chris Norman was on Sky News and Chidge and Dr Mart have a major rant about the appalling lack of food in the Gate 17 bar.

All that plus some old skool songs in “We’re out to show the World the way to sing”, Dr Mart answering questions on football coverage on TV; why he tried to assassinate Clifford Cravello using Guinness and Vindaloo; one man went to mow and the Chelsea squad. And finally, Chidge reads out the best posts from the website and facebook group in “You’re on CFFC” and some news on new items for the show and the website this season.

The Chelsea Football FanCast: It’s like we were never away!

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Robin Van Persie’s sensational volley proved to be the match winner for Arsenal as they left it late against Everton at the Emirates Stadium on their 125th birthday.

The Dutchman was on hand to power home his 33rd goal of 2011 to break Everton’s resolve after they soaked up 70 minutes of pressure from the home side. Van Persie is now only three away from matching Alan Shearer’s record of 36 in a calendar year and it was a strike worthy of winning any game. It was the Gunners’ seventh victory in their last eight games and moved them above Chelsea and into the top four for the first time this season. Arsene Wenger’s side should have been home and dry long before their talisman struck with Aaron Ramsey, Gervinho and Theo Walcott all guilty of wasting chances. Everton, who haven’t won in North London since 1996,  had an opportunity to snatch a point late on in the game struggled in front of goal once again as they slipped to a second consecutive defeat.

Winning at the Emirates was always going to be a tough task for David Moyes and his players but they did well to frustrate the hosts for over 70 minutes before Van Persie’s divine intervention. The Merseyside’s did well too stifle Arsenal’s fluid passing and movement although the Gunners still managed to create a number of chances. Ramsey had two chances in the first half seeing his effort blocked by Tony Hibbert before curling one wide of Tim Howards post. The American keeper had to be at his best to deny Gervinho with his legs before keeping Walcott’s effort out with a superb one-handed stop as the home side failed to take advantage of their supremacy. It was a similar story in the second half with Moyes bolstering his defence by sending Sylvain Distin on at half time in an effort to ensure his side left the capital with a point.

Despite not creating much in the opening forty five minutes the Toffee’s almost snatched the lead just after the break with Phil Neville firing onto the roof of the Arsenal net before Thomas Vermaelen’s intervention denied Tim Cahill from meeting Leighton Baines’ deep cross. It proved to be a vital piece of defending as the Gunners finally broke the deadlock with 20 minutes remaining as Van Persie guided Alex Song’s searching long pass across Howard’s goal and in off the post. It was a goal fitting of the occasion and he could have doubled his tally only to head over before a late rally from the visitors saw youngster Connor McAleny drive a shot inches wide.

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England manager Fabio Capello has warned Liverpool striker Andy Carroll to watch his drinking.The Italian boss said he was wary of any potential mishaps Carroll, an England squad member, might have while socialising, and the impact that would have on the former Newcastle striker’s perception in the public as a national representative.

“He needs to be careful at every moment because when you play with the England national team you are the focus of the fans, the newspapers, the photographers, the people that live around him,” Capello said ahead of his side’s friendly with Ghana on Tuesday.

The England boss said he told Carroll he could continue to drink in social situations, but to significantly decrease his intake or risk his national team spot.

“Not only Andy likes to drink beer. He needs to improve, to drink less. I spoke with him, in private. He’s young – his behaviour is important,” Capello said.

Carroll, 22, was involved in several incidents at former club Newcastle and was arrested on two occasions, in September 2008 and December 2009. The latter stemmed from an assault charge, with Carroll granted bail under the conditions that he live with then-captain Kevin Nolan until his case was heard.

Carroll made his international debut in November against France, and is in line to start for Capello’s side when they face Ghana at Wembley.

Roberto Mancini has already managed to insert three new additions to his Manchester City side this summer. Jerome Boateng, David Silva and Yaya Toure have all been acquired so far, but has the scarf wearing Italian neglected the one area that really needs attention…the left-back position?

City fans will no doubt be glad to see Mancini obtaining such big stars as the Eastlands club prepare to match their ambitions this season, but surely they will need a more reputable left sided full back? City already have Wayne Bridge and Javier Garrido on their books, but none of them are intensely feared or renowned to be a big-name in the game. Mancini has perceptibly accepted that the area does need strengthening this summer and this is evident as the Italian has newly shown an interest in Serbian international Aleksandar Kolarov.

The Lazio defender has many admirers around Europe and has been heavily linked with a move away from the Serie A this summer. The City boss has identified the Serbian as the man to reinforce the back-line at the Eastland’s club for the upcoming season. However, City may face stiff competition from Real Madrid for the player’s signature, but do stand a good chance of fending off the Spanish Giants.

Kolarov featured in this summers World Cup finals in South Africa and was definitely one of Serbia’s better performers in the tournament. The 6’ 2’’ Serbian is an accomplished left-back by trade, but can also play left midfielder if required. The full-back is known for his bombing runs forward, strength and acquires a powerful shot as well. He has been with Lazio since 2007 where he has featured on a regular basis. Kolarov has managed to make 82 appearances so far for Lazio and has bagged 6 goals along the way as well.

The 24-year-old has recently refused a contract extension with Lazio, which almost certainly means that the Serbian is ready to make a move this summer. The Biancazzurri president Claudio Lotito is willing to let the player leave, but only for the right price:

“If it was down to me, I would not sell him. But if he wants to leave, he needs to bring an offer from a team that grants a fair economic solution.”

Earlier this week, reports surfaced in Italy that Real Madrid did table a £12 million bid for the services of Kolarov but were unsuccessful in their pursuit. Money certainly doesn’t seem to be an issue for City and Mancini these days, and the Light Blues are highly likely to turn their interest into a bid sooner rather than later, especially with Mancini expressing his admiration for the powerful player.

Roberto Mancini’s next signing should definitely be a left-sided defender, especially having looked at their current options in this position. Kolarov looks to be a good player, and because of his stature would make a good addition to the Manchester side as well as the Premier League. If Mancini does decide to obtain the Serbian’s services this summer, then it would surely be his smartest signing to date. However, is Kolarov the best left-back that City can attain this summer? It’s debatable that’s for sure.

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Click on image below to see the ITALIAN babes at the World Cup

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Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has stated that he hopes to return to football for the White Hart Lane outfit’s next fixture against Aston Villa, and is confident of being involved again earlier than predicted.

The Spurs boss underwent surgery to unblock two coronary arteries, and has missed his side’s games against Rubin Kazan in the Europa League and Fulham in the Premier League after the procedure.

Despite being advised to take an extended layoff of up to five weeks to recover, Redknapp has the game against Villa in his sights.

“In an ideal world I would like to be back for the game against Aston Villa next weekend but it would be unfair of me to say whether I will or won’t at this stage,” he told the Sunday Mirror.

“I’ll have to speak to the specialist this week, get his thoughts on it and take it from there.

“Obviously it’s extremely frustrating staying away and being stuck at home and, as much as I’m anxious to come back, it wouldn’t be fair to disrespect the specialist who is advising me.

“I’m fairly confident I will return earlier than they anticipated,” he stated.

Assistant manager Kevin Bond, Joe Jordan and Clive Allen have been in charge of the North London team in Redknapp’s absence, and there has been constant communication despite the fact that the sick trainer is supposed to be resting.

“I speak to them every day and things are ticking over in my absence.

“I’m fortunate there is an international break and most of the players won’t be returning until Thursday or Friday this week.

“It was just a precautionary measure to advise me to stay away from football.

“I think the specialist felt the stress of it all would not be conducive with my recovery from the operation. Knowing me as they do, I think they felt I probably wouldn’t help myself jumping up and down and kicking every ball on the sideline,” he concluded.

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Meanwhile, Redknapp’s health problems will not be boosted by the news that he will be required to attend court to answer allegations of tax evasion in the new year.

Both Redknapp and former Portsmouth owner Milan Mandaric will answer the charges in court on January 23rd 2012.

By Gareth McKnight

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