NewsOftheBlues

MCFC v Arsenal (1600 GMT)

2010-10-24T16:52:00.002+01:00

25/10/2010 City of Manchester Stadium Att: 47393

Man City: Hart, Richards, Boyata, Kompany, Boateng, Silva, Toure Yaya, De Jong, Barry, Milner, Tevez.
Subs: Given, Bridge, Adebayor, Adam Johnson, Lescott, Vieira, Balotelli.
Arsenal: Fabianski, Sagna, Djourou, Squillaci, Clichy, Nasri, Fabregas, Song, Denilson, Arshavin, Chamakh.
Subs: Szczesny, Koscielny, Rosicky, Walcott, Eboue, Gibbs, Bendtner.
Referee: Mark Clattenburg (Tyne & Wear)

I will be away for 8 weeks, doing some military stuffs (it's compulsory) and this will be last match post for me before I join Air Force.

City's ceremony prior to this match was wonderful thing to do for our legend Malcolm Allison, who past away last week. He was one of most successful manager for Manchester City and he won League Cup, FA Cup, Division One title and European Winners Cup. We will all miss him.

City started with Boyata due to Kolo's lengthy injury continues. Otherwise, it was full-strength squad for the Blues. After much needed rest, Carlito replaces hat-trick hero Adebayor and Yaya Toure came back with full fitness.

For Arsenal, Djourou kept his place in front of Koscielny. Otherwise, it was full-strength Arsenal team.

City could've scored in the first minute, when Tevez out-muscles Djourou to win the ball and cross it to Silva. Silva's clever flick, however, was well held by Fabianski.

Then the disaster struck. Boyata was sent off, as he tripped Chamakh just outside of the City penalty box and because he was the last man, Mark Clattenberg had no choice but send him off.

However, his sent off did not turn off City's attacking mentality. In 17th minute, City almost benefited from Arsenal defense's indecisiveness as Silva and Tevez wrestled with them. Tevez's eventual shot was too weak to challenge Fabianski but City looked more likely to score then the opponent.

Minutes later though, Arsenal found their way to score as Nasri and Arshavin pulled a beautiful 1-2 passes to break City's barrier. Barry's pace let him down, as he failed to track back Nasri. 0-1 Arsenal

It could've been 2-0 before the break, when Kompany unnecessarily fouled Fabregas in City's penalty box. Luckily, Hart was on form today and he was able to save Fabregas' penalty for City to stay alive.

0-1 HT

Bad news came during the second half. Yaya looked to have a knock and was forced to replace with Wayne Bridge during the interval. Ten minutes after the start of second half, Tevez looked to have a injury as well and this diminished City's overall quality on the field.

In the 66th minute, it was substitute Bridge made fatal error inside penalty box, which led to Arsenal's 2nd goal of the match. Excellent strike by Alex Song but it could've been dealt better by former England fullback.

City seemed ragged after the second goal and after series of goal scoring opportunity by Arsenal, they finally scored and it was Bendtner who finished off City's worst defeat of the season so far.

Overall, City looked okay even without Boyata but there were too much talents in the Arsenal squad to miss out the chance to win this game. Certainly 48 hours did not look enough for City players to prepare for this game, as they seemed very tired time to time. I just wish Tevez and Yaya's injury aren't too serious.

City v Liverpool (2000 GMT)

2010-08-23T21:58:00.004+01:00

24/08/2010 Venue: City of Manchester Stadium Att: 47,087

Starting Line up

Man City: Hart, Richards, Toure, Kompany, Lescott, De Jong, Toure Yaya, Barry, Milner, Adam Johnson, Tevez. Subs: Given, Zabaleta, Wright-Phillips, Adebayor, Silva, Vieira, Jo.

Liverpool: Reina, Johnson, Skrtel, Carragher, Agger, Jovanovic, Gerrard, Lucas, Kuyt, Torres, Ngog. Subs: Jones, Aurelio, Pacheco, Kyrgiakos, Maxi, Babel, Poulsen.

Referee: Phil Dowd (Staffordshire)

It was many worries that City play against Liverpool, as they drew 5 times against them in 7 encounters. Especially after a poor performance against Spurs last weekend, I really did not expect today's comprehensive performance.

City, as starting line above shows, were without Balotelli, due to his foot injury and Kolarov and Boateng, who still to make his debut, missing due to ankle and foot injuries. Liverpool were unchanged, apart from Mascherano, who is speculated to move away from the Kops.

Match

It was the performance I never expected. Throughout the game, City were more creative and willing to get the ball. Right from the start, City dominated and, on 13th minutes, Gareth Barry scored after clever works from Adam Johnson and James Milner in the right wing, which made the goal possible.

Despite some efforts from Liverpool, they continued to struggle to dominate. After some tremendous midfield display from our 3 "defensive midfielders" Liverpool weren't able to challenge Joe Hart during the 1st half. Complete turnaround from Spurs match.

City continued to break in the second half and after absorbing Liverpool's possession, it was Tevez, who scored from the corner, which was initially headed towards the net by Micah Richards. 2-0 and it seemed Liverpool were done at City of Manchester Stadium.

Not quite though. After 2nd goal, Liverpool moved with more urgency and they almost found back of the net via their talisman Steven Gerrard, David N'gog and Fernando Torres but their shot put away by either the post or Hart's brilliance. City's defense held Liverpool at bay, whereas our attack came up once against through tip-toeing feet of Johnson, who earned the penalty via Skrtel's clumsiness. Tevez converted it and it was game over from that point. Sheikh Mansour. Did you enjoy that?

3-0
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Spurs v MCFC (1245 GMT)

2010-08-14T12:09:00.008+01:00

14/08/2010 Venue: White Hart Lane Att: 35928

Starting Line up
Tottenham: Gomes, Corluka, Dawson, King, Assou-Ekotto, Lennon, Modric, Huddlestone, Bale, Crouch, Defoe. Subs: Cudicini, Kaboul, Pavlyuchenko, Keane, Palacios, Giovani, Bassong.
Man City: Hart, Richards, Toure, Kompany, Kolarov, Wright-Phillips, Toure Yaya, De Jong, Barry, Silva, Tevez. Subs: Given, Zabaleta, Adebayor, Adam Johnson, Lescott, Vieira, Jo.
Referee: Andre Marriner (W Midlands)

Quite a crucial match for Manchester City at the start of season. It was just a few months ago that they were lost out in Champions League qualifying spots by Tottenham Hotspur. In the past seasons, City looked vulnerable against Spurs side in general and especially at away match, City were unable to beat Spurs since 2003.

As expected, there were three débutantes from City (Silva, Kolarov and Y. Toure) and it was only Jerome Boateng who missed the match due to injury. The most surprising inclusion in the starting line-up was Joe Hart, who had an excellent loan spell with Birmingham City. As poor form of Shay Given continued from January onwards, I guess Roberto Mancini had to give Hart a try. Two other things that which came a shock to me was three defensive midfielders and playing SWP instead of Adam Johnson.

Match

First half was completely dominated by Spurs and City was lucky to finish the half without conceding a single goal. After possessing the ball from the start of the match, Jermaine Defoe came close to score after receiving pass from Aaron Lennon but it was turned away by Hart and it was only the start of Hart's brilliance. Between 11th minute and 32th minute, Hart had to make six excellent saves to keep City in the game.

So what was wrong with City? Personally, Micah Richards was the villain, as he showed too much space to flying Gareth Bale. Also, squad as a whole did not do any pressing when Spurs were in possession throughout the first half.

Second half was slightly better and City should've scored in the opening minute when SWP had clear chance in front of keeper but he squandered it badly. After that, there were some glimpse of hopes on goals from either side (Roman Pavlyuchenko in particular) but none of them overcome Hart.

Arabian Job: Season 3

2010-08-14T09:13:00.003+01:00

So here it is people. Just a few hours away from the kick off and I am sitting in my room, enjoying the sound of rainfall.

1245 kick off was never my favourite when I was in England because it meant I had to wake up 9 o'clock in the weekend to prepare myself for the match. But this does not bother me anymore, as I am in 8 hours ahead from England.

City finally got who they want and I am not sure what Mario will bring into the squad that is struggling to blend at the moment. Never doubt his ability though. Once everything settles, i.e. after transfer deadline and submitting 25 men squad list, I am sure he will show what he got.

Four players set to make a debut today (Kolarov, Silva, Boateng and Y.Toure) and they all expect to play pivotal role for the team. Especially, Kolarov and Boateng will strengthen City's poor full back position.

Expected line-up: Given, Boateng, K.Toure, Kompany, Kolarov, Y.Toure, Barry, Silva, Johnson, Tevez and Adebayor

P.S. It will be 400th appearances for Gareth Barry, if he makes appearance today. Many congratulation on his achievement.

Friendly Just Friendly...

2010-07-25T01:30:00.004+01:00

Rant

Finally... My laptop is fixed and I just hope this thing can keep up until I start my National Service in Korea.

Seems nothing much happened when I was away for 2 weeks.... NOT! I certainly did not expect Joe Cole to move to Liverpool and I am still amazed Arsenal still did not let Cesc Fabregas go to his beloved club Barcelona (Well it is long away til the end of the summer transfer window).

So what about City? As usual, they have been the most active team in the Premier League, as they signed most players in the market so far and with a month to go, they are still linked with top prospects, such as Mario Balotelli or Fernando Torres or even Didier Drogba.Those rumours are still to be materialised but I'm sure there will be another big signing before the end of August.

Friendly against Sporting Lisbon

Well.... prior to this match, I didn't expect much from City players, as they didn't bring out their best option or new signings. What I found out after this match is that City's management team got a lot of work to do between now and the end of august, as they have so many fringe players to get rid of. I would not be surprised to see last night's team, apart from Patrick Vieira, Adam Johnson and Joe Hart, be sold to other club within a month time.

Manchester City 0 Sporting Lisbon 2

CITY: Hart, Richards, Kompany, Lescott (Onuoha 46mins), Cunningham (Bridge 45); Ireland (Boyata 64), Vieira (Tchuimeni-Nimely 64), Zabaleta, A.Johnson, Jo (Tutte 74), Bellamy (Guidetti 74). Subs not used: Taylor.

LISBON: Ferreira, Carrico, Polga, Fabiano, Mendes (Santos 87), Ribeiro, Saleiro, Djalo, Postiga (Veloso 79), Pereira, Vukcevic (Valdes 74). Subs: Patricio, Sinama-Pongolle, Liedson, Coelho.

REFEREE: Kevin Stott (USA)

Goals: Sporting - Djalo (23mins and 39mins)

Bookings: Sporting - Carrico (43 mins)

NGA v SKO (1930 GMT)

2010-06-22T19:13:00.004+01:00

22/06/2010 Venue: Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban Att: 61874

Starting Line up

Nigeria: Vincent Enyeama (Y); Chidi Odiah, Danny Shittu, Joseph Yobo (Echiejile, 46), Rabiu Afolabi, Kalu Uche, Dickson Etuhu, Yussuf Ayila (Y), Yakubu Aiyegbeni (Obinna, 70), Chinedu Obasi, Nwankwo Kanu (Martins, 57).

South Korea: Jung Sung-ryong; Cha Doo-ri, Lee Young-pyo, Cho Yong-hyung, Lee Jung-soo, Kim Jung-woo, Ki Sung-yong (Kim Jae-sung, 86), Park Ji-sung, Lee Chung-yong, Park Chu-young (Kim Dong-jin, 90+3), Yeom Ki-hun (Kim Nam-il, 63).

Referee: Olegario Benquerenca (Portugal)

After getting smashed by Argentina, their manager Huh Jung-moo was under scrutiny playing Oh Beum-Seok over Cha Du-ri and they were correct to say so as most of Argentina's attack broke from right-flank. He changed it back to Cha prior to Nigeria match, acknowledging his performance was below par. Other than that change, he putted same side for this match

Nigeria were unlucky to face the exit. Having played well for half an hour against Greece, they fall apart after Sani Kaita stupidly sent off by being petulant. Defeat against Greece put them in difficult circumstance to qualify to next round but it seemed possible against defensively vulnerable Korean side.

Game started brightly from both side as they couldn't just rely on Argentina to beat Greece. Within first minute, South Korea had half-chance but Lee Chung-yong couldn't direct the ball towards the goal. Early chance gone begging.

Later on Nigeria took the charge in midfield and began to out-muscled them in the area. Eventually, their possession was paid off with goal on 12th minute, when Uche converts Odiah's fine cross. 1-0 Nigeria and pressure was on to South Korean side.

Nigeria continued to charge to get more goal in case of goal difference but their defensive lapse let them down yet against when they needlessly gave out free-kick, which was headed and kicked in by South Korean defender, Lee Jung-soo. 1-1 and all to play for in the second half.

Second half began exactly how Korean wanted it. They were awarded a free kick yet again, which was within right-foot of Park Chu-young's range. He curled it round the keeper. Enyeama wrong stepped and ball went in. Advantage South Korea.

But the lead didn't last long, when their veteran midfielder Kim Nam-il foolishly gave away a penalty by hacking Chinedu Obasi directly in front of referee's eye. It was moment for Yakubu to redeem himself, after missing a sitter just moments ago and he slotted in with ease.

Later on the match, it was all Nigeria as South Korea tried to lock the game down by playing 4-5-1 but they almost got caught out by Victor Obinna with fierce shot from range and Obafemi Martins with dangerous run into the box. Fortunately, none of them gone in and successfully went through to second round. FT: 2-2

FRA v RSA (1500 GMT)

2010-06-22T14:49:00.007+01:00

22/06/2010 Venue: Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein Ref: Oscar Ruiz (COL) Att: 39415

Starting Line up
France: 1-Hugo Lloris; 2-Bacary Sagna, 5-William Gallas, 17-Sebastien Squillaci, 22-Gael Clichy; 18-Alou Diarra (Govou, 82), 19-Abou Diaby (Y), 8-Yoan Gourcuff (R), 7-Franck Ribery; 11-Andre-Pierre Gignac (Malouda, 46), 9-Djibril Cisse (Henry, 55).
South Africa: 1-Moeneeb Josephs; 5-Anele Ngcongoa (Gaxa, 55), 20-Bongani Khumalo, 4-Aaron Mokoena, 3-Tsepo Masilela, 6-MacBeth Sibaya, 23-Thanduyise Khuboni (Modise, 78), 10-Steven Pienaar, 8-Siphiwe Tshabalala, 9-Katlego Mphela, 17-Bernard Parker (Nomvethe, 68).

France were in total disarray prior to crunch game against South Africa. Anelka sent back to France, players on strike and rift between squad and French FA meant they weren't ready to play any sort of match, even it was the team that well below in FIFA ranking. South Africa, on the other hand, had their pride on stake, after losing against Uruguay and fired up to play against this dispirited side.

At the start of match, France were much more brighter side. With Yoann Gourcuff in correction position, they seemed to move ball rather well, considering not training before the match. But the deadlock broke, when French defence collapsed once again and it was Bongani Khumalo with header that put Bafana Bafana ahead. France's night then went bad to worse as Gourcuff was harshly sent off by using his arm. Replay showed no malice.

Minutes later, in came second goal. French defence was all over the place and Katlego Mphela benefited from it. 2-0 and it was Au Revoir to their twelve years of wonderful era of so-called Art Soccer. Franck Ribery had late chance to put one back before the interval but his shot was far too high. HT: 2-0

After knowing Mexico was losing against Uruguay, South Africa started the second half with more attack-minded and it almost got paid when Mphela found himself unmarked in French penalty box but his shot only hit top of bar. Since then, South Africa seemed to lose their concentration and introduction of Florent Malouda in the second half livened up France a bit and it was him who ended their dream of qualifying in 70th minute when he scored in front of empty net. Although South Africa continued to work hard to find another goal, in the end they lacked quality to find another one. Sad ending for the host nation. FT: 2-1

MEX v URU (1500 GMT)

2010-06-22T14:49:00.006+01:00

22/06/2010 Venue: Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg Ref: Viktor Kassai (HUN) Att: 33425

Starting Line up
Mexico: 1-Oscar Perez; 5-Ricardo Osorio, 15-Hector Moreno (Castro, 57 (Y)), 2-Francisco Rodriguez, 3-Carlos Salcido, 18-Andres Guardado (Barrera, 46), 4-Rafael Marquez, 6-Gerardo Torrado, 17-Giovani Dos Santos, 9-Guillermo Franco, 10-Cuauhtemoc Blanco (Hernandez, 63 (Y)).
Uruguay: 1-Fernando Muslera; 2-Diego Lugano, 6-Mauricio Victorino, 4-Jorge Fucile (Y), 16-Maximiliano Pereira, 15-Diego Perez, 17-Egidio Arevalo, 7-Edinson Cavani, 11-Alvaro Pereira (Scotti, 76), 9-Luis Suarez (A. Fernandez, 85), 10-Diego Forlan.

Having known draw will send both side through to the second round, I really could not careless about this match and considering how poor South Africa were against Uruguay, Mexican's qualification to next round seemed to be guaranteed, certainly starting 37 year-old veteran Cuauhtemoc Blanco shows their attitude towards this match.

However, the match was quite entertaining as they played some thrilling attacking football. With Luis Suarez and Diego Forlan continuously threatened Mexican defence, Mexico also pressured Uruguayan defence with Andres Guardado and Giovani Dos Santos. The closest Mexican came to score was in 23rd minute when Guardado took a shot from 40 yard out. Unfortunately his effort only found top of bar and game went on with no in particular in possession. Just before the half time, however, Uruguay had their golden chance, when Edinson Cavani's cross found Luis Suarez in the box. No Mexican defenders marked him and Suarez's header found back of Mexican net. 1-0 and it was the end of the first half. HT: 0-1

Second half, Mexico became more urgent, as they heard the news of South Africa leading France by 2-0. However, Mexico were somewhat less organised than last match against France and with continuous misplacing pass and wrong shot-selection, they struggled to break Uruguayan defence. Even when the chance came to Francisco Rodriguez, his head couldn't direct the ball to their net. Fortunately, France scored in the second half and it meant Mexico didn't need to risk to attack and after meaningless contest, it was Uruguay that finished first in the group, avoiding probable Group B winner Argentina. FT: 0-1

Mexico 0-1 Uruguay

Perry | MySpace Video

ESP v HON (1930 GMT)

2010-06-21T20:21:00.005+01:00

21/06/2010 Venue: Ellis Park, Johannesburg Ref: Yuichi Nishimura (JPN) Att: 54386

Starting Line up
Spain: 1-Iker Casillas; 15-Sergio Ramos (Arbeloa, 76), 3-Gerard Pique, 5-Carles Puyol, 11-Joan Capdevila; 22-Jesus Navas, 14-Xabi Alonso, 8-Xavi (Fabregas, 65), 16-Sergio Busquets; 9-Fernando Torres (Mata, 70), 7-David Villa.
Honduras: 18-Noel Valladares; 23-Sergio Mendoza, 2-Osman Chavez, 3-Maynor Figueroa, 21-Emilio Izaguirre (Y); 19-Danilo Turcios (Y) (Nunez, 63), 8-Wilson Palacios, 20-Amado Guevara, 13-Roger Espinoza (Welcome, 45); 15-Walter Martinez; 11-David Suazo.(J, Palacios, 84)

It was a big shock to me when Spain lost against Switzerland last week. Well, not they lost the match but how they lost the match really surprised me. With no Torres inside the box, they tried stupidly tried crosses that wouldn't be headed by any Spanish player and when they realised that didn't work, they seemed to be no alternative plan. This is focused on one thing: was the last match just a blip? Or are they choking in a major tournament once again?

We all knew how game will be played before the kick off: Spain will dominate the possession and Honduras will aim counter attack. Question is whether Spain could benefit from majority of possession. When the first half started, however, they looked different from last game, as Spain had more purpose and desire on attack and their passes were much more meaningful and direct than before. Within seven minute, they could've broken the deadlock by Villa's long range effort. Although his effort only hit the bar, I could sense that goal will come eventually and it was 17th minute when Villa single-handedly score by dodging three Honduras defenders. 1-0 and game was well and truly over. Spain continued to dominate and with Torres and Villa constantly threatening, Honduras could not get a player up front and that's how the first half ended. HT: 1-0

Second half wasn't much different, as Spain continue to dominate in possession. Although Honduras tried to change the game by introducing George Welcome, they couldn't do any attacking with limited amount of possession. Spain yet again scored and it was Villa once again and this time, it was a curler from outside the Honduras penalty box. Later on, Villa could've hat-trick by scoring penalty, given by challenge on Jesus Navas, but he failed to convert it, failing to close the gap on Raul's goal scoring record of 44 goals. The match continued with Spanish Tika Taka and without any Honduras attacking threats, the game finished in disappointing manner. FT 2-0

Spain 1-0 Honduras

Simão | MySpace Video

Spain 2-0 Honduras

Simão | MySpace Video

CHI v SUI (1500 GMT)

2010-06-21T14:39:00.006+01:00

21/06/2010 Venue: Nelson Mandela Stadium, Port Elizabeth Ref: Khalil Al Ghamdi (KSA) Att: 34872

Starting Line up
Chile: Claudio Bravo, Waldo Ponce (Y), Mauricio Isla, Carlos Carmona (Y), Alexis Sanchez, Arturo Vidal (Gonzalez, 46), Humberto Suazo (Y) (Valdivia, 46 (Y)), Matias Fernandez (Y) (Paredes, 64), Jean Beausejour, Gary Medel (Y), Gonzalo Jara.

Switzerland: Diego Benaglio; Stephan Lichtsteiner, Stephane Grichting, Steve Von Bergen, Reto Ziegler; Valon Behrami (R), Gokhan Inler (Y), Benjamin Huggel, Gelson Fernandes (Bunjaku, 77); Alexander Frei (Barnetta, 42 (Y)), Blaise Nkufo (Y) (Derdiyok, 68).

With Chile's first win in 48 years at the World Cup the moral was high amongst their player. The win came from their developing youth talent such as Alexis Sanchez, who finished third in Under-20 World Cup in 2007. They face another surprising package, Switzerland, who beat the tournament favourite Spain in their first match. Both sides were in ascendency before this clash and I expected much great match from both sides.

Sadly, it wasn't so. While Chile continuously threatening both wing of Switzerland, they were waiting for their moment to counter. The match itself was exciting and end-to-end stuff. Problem was whistle-loving referee. From the very beginning of match, he lashed out cautions in numerous occasion, resulting four yellow cards and one red. But send off was fully justified, as Behrami slung his arm twice against opposition. After Behrami got sent off, match tilted towards Chile but after some half chances, they couldn't convert any of them into a goal. HT: 0-0

Trend of booking continued as players became more reckless on tackling and challenge. Apart from bookings, Chile actually put decent performance in second half. Sanchez and Valvidia with good chances in early second half made sure Switzerland to get pushed back. Eventually, their work was awarded, as head of Mark Gonzalez, with help of Valdivia's cross found back of Swiss net. Switzerland came close though in the last minute but Eren Derdiyok side-footed effort went wide - their only meaningful shot of match. Nine bookings and one sending off. Thanks ref! FT 1-0

Chile v Switzerland

Henry | MySpace Video

POR v PRK (1230 GMT)

2010-06-21T12:00:00.011+01:00

21/06/2010 Venue: Green Point Stadium, Cape Town Ref: Pablo Pozo (CHI) Att: 63644

Starting Line up

Portugal: Eduardo, Bruno Alves, Miguel Brito, Ricardo Carvalho, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pedro Mendes (Y), Hugo Almeida (Y) (Liedson, 77), Simao Sabrosa (Duda, 74), Raul Meireles (Veloso, 70), Tiago, Fabio Coentrao.

North Korea: Ri Myong-guk, Cha Jong-hyok (Nam Song-Chol, 75), Pak Nam-chol (K-I Kim, 58), Ri Kwang-chon, Ji Yun-nam, Hong Yong-jo (Y), Mun In-guk (Kim Yong-jun, 58), Pak Chol-jin (Y), Ri Jun-il, An Yong-hak, Jong Tae-se

This match looked so one-sided by just looking at the FIFA ranking. Portugal are in third in the ranking, whereas North Korea are sitting on 105th. But after their heroic first half against Brazil, they proved their odds wrong and made concern Portugal on their opponent, especially after their lacklustre performance against Ivory Coast.

Match started in high tempo, as North Korea seemed more attacking minded then last match against Brazil. However, it was Portugal, who threatened to score first. Little lapse of concentration in North Korea defence let Ricardo Carvalho for free header near 6 yard box, which only found the post. This didn't deter North Koreans to go forward though, as Cha Jong-hyok's thunderous drive from 30 yards scared Portuguese side momentarily. Unfortunately, North Korean defence didn't pay off, as moment of magic from Portugal broke well-drilled North Korean defence. Raul Meireles finish their move. Since first goal went in, North Korea seemed to lose their way to play the game and with not many chances falling for Portugal, first half came to end. HT: 1-0

Second half began with Portugal charging front. Tiago's shot inside first minute of second half was only a warning to incoming goals near future. They began to rip North Korean defence wide open from 53rd minute, they managed to score three goals within seven minutes, Simao, Almeida and Tiago the scorers. Blistering pace from Ronaldo sat Tiago's goal and almost scored for himself too but his shot only found top of the bar. North Korea tried to hit back after several substitutions. But this was no use as Portugal scored three more, without much effort put into it. Liedson, Ronaldo and Tiago were the scorers and special goal for Ronaldo as he ended his two years international goal drought. Deserved win by Portugal in the end. FT 7-0

Portugal 7-0 North Korea (Highlights)

Ricardo | MySpace Video

BRA v CIV (1930 GMT)

2010-06-20T18:55:00.011+01:00

20/06/2010 Venue: Soccer City, Johannesburg Ref: Stephane Lannoy (FRA) Att: 84455

Starting Line up
Brazil: 1-Julio Cesar; 2-Maicon, 3-Lucio, 4-Juan, 6-Michel Bastos, 5-Felipe Melo, 8-Gilberto Silva, 7-Elano (Alves, 69), 10-Kaka (2Y), 11-Robinho, 9-Luis Fabiano.
Ivory Coast: 1-Boubacar Barry; 21-Emmanuel Eboue (Romaric, 72), 4-Kolo Toure, 20-Guy Demel, 17-Siaka Tiene (Y), 5-Didier Zokora, 19-Yaya Toure, 9-Cheik Tiote (Y), 8-Salomon Kalou (Keita, 68 Y), 11-Didier Drogba, 15-Aruna Dindane (Gervinho, 54).

Brazil's first victory was not easy as expected. After drawing first half against North Korea, some expected a shocking result is on the way. However, as Zonal Marking pointed out the goals were coming slowly but surely to Brazil. 2-1 was not bad result against counter-attacking team like North Korea and with Robinho starting to player as we expected to play, they were only getting stronger day by day.

World Cup in Africa did not give much help to African teams so far. Recording only a single win out of 11 matches, it made me question their World Cup preparation. Ivory Coast were no exception. Although they were without Drogba, I expected more than 0-0 from the team with full of talented players, like Dindane and Toure brothers. Pressure on Sven!

The match started brightly as Brazil broke in to Ivory Coast's territory a few minute after kick-off but Robinho could not neither target nor his man on the flank. From that point onwards, literally nothing happened. Many misplaced passes and bad ball control dominated opening 25 minutes of the match.

But suddenly, a goal. All of a sudden, Brazil pressed on and with through-ball of Kaka, Luis Fabiano blasted past Ivory Coast keeper, Boubacar Barry. 1-0 and I thought the match will open up but how wrong was I.

After conceding goal, Sven and his players continue to play in dull fashion. No reaction from Ivory Coast and with Brazil in possession, Ivory couldn't do much. Only valid effort came from Emmanuel Eboue but his shot was off the target HT: 1-0

2nd Half began well for Brazil and within 5 minutes, they scored another goal, courtesy of two Fabiano's handball. However, introduction of Gervinho from Ivory Coast made the match more tasty, as the Elephants put some pressure on Brazilian defence. Did they score? Nope. It was Brazil once again with Kaka and Elano's brilliance. Ivory Coast eventually hit back though and it was Drogba with guiding header but it was too little too late from Ivory Coast and Drogba.

In latter stage of match, things got ugly as Kaka and Kader Keita continue to shove each other in several occasion. Eventually, in the 90th minute, Kaka was sent off but debating point still remains as Keita acted, like Rivaldo in 2002, to get Kaka to red-carded. FT 3-1

Brazil 3-1 Ivory Coast (Highlights)

Simão | MySpace Video

ITA v NZL (1500 GMT)

2010-06-20T14:42:00.009+01:00

20/6/2010 Venue: Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit Ref: Carlos Batres (GUA) Att: 38229

Starting Line up

Italy: 12-Federico Marchetti 19-Gianluca Zambrotta, 5-Fabio Cannavaro, 4-Giorgio Chiellini, 3-Domenico Criscito, 22-Riccardo Montolivo, 6-Daniele De Rossi, 15-Claudio Marchisio (Pazzini, 61), 9-Vincenzo Iaquinta, 7-Simone Pepe (Camoranesi, 46), 11-Alberto Gilardino (Di Natale, 46).

New Zealand: 1-Mark Paston; 4-Winston Reid, 6-Ryan Nelsen, 5-Ivan Vicelich (Christie, 80), 19-Tommy Smith, 3-Tony Lochhead, 11-Leo Bertos, 7-Simon Elliot, 10-Chris Killen (Barron, 90+2), 14-Rory Fallon (Wood, 62), 9-Shane Smeltz.

After indifferent performance against Paraguay, Italian became more pessimistic over their World Cup campaign. To make the matter worse, Buffon became latest member of World Cup injury list, which made Italian defence even more disorganised.

Following their heroic performance against Slovakia, New Zealanders' team moral could not have been higher. With no major injury before this match, they were ready to do all again, just like last game and against unsettled Italian side, they have every chance to get a point again.

Match started with Italian domination. With De Rossi, Montolivo and Marchisio in the central midfield, New Zealand had no chance of matching against them. However, in the seventh minute, miracle occurred as Shane Smeltz from Gold Coast United scored against reigning world champion. Although it was offside (inconclusive whether Winston Reid touched it or not) but it was goal that shocked the world and woken up the Italians to attack. From that goal onwards, New Zealand half was bombarded by Italian players and as pressure piling on New Zealand defence, more desperate they got.

After Montolivo hitting the post, eventually, in the 29th minute, penalty was given by shirt pulling. After several delay, Iaquinta scored and Italy was relieved over defeat. They continued to press until the end of half but by some desperate New Zealand defences, the score was level until half time whistle. HT 1-1

In comes second half. Unlike before, Italy were quick to change their tactic, as New Zealand were not much of threat at attacking end. Converting their formation to 4-3-3 certainly stretched Kiwi's defence and during entire second half, Italy had most of possession.

But, as this year's Champions League final showed, possession meant nothing but mere statistic. With great goalkeeping from Mark Paston and Ryan Nelson, it seemed New Zealand defence was invincible. New Zealand, in fact, could've got winning goal when Chris Wood, Kiwi's substitute, took a shot inside Italian penalty box. Fortunately, it went wide to keep minimal Italian dignity intact. Fantastic achievement from a country without a professional league! FT: 1-1

Italy v New Zealand

Henry | MySpace Video

SVK v PAR (1230 GMT)

2010-06-20T11:31:00.006+01:00

20/6/2010 Venue: Free State Stadium Ref: Eddy Maillet Att: 26633

Starting Line up
Slovakia: 1-Jan Mucha; 2-Peter Pekarik, 3-Martin Skrtel, 16-Jan Durica, 6-Zdeno Strba, 7-Vladimir Weiss, 8-Jan Kozak, 21-Kornel Salata (Stoch, 83), 17-Marek Hamsik, 11-Robert Vittek, 9-Stanislav Sestak (Holosko, 70).
Paraguay: 1-Justo Villar, 6-Carlos Bonet, 21-Antolin Alcaraz, 14-Paulo Da Silva, 3-Claudio Morel, 13-Enrique Vera (Barreto, 87), 15-Victor Caceres, 16-Cristian Riveros, 9-Roque Santa Cruz, 18-Nelson Valdez (Torres, 68), 19-Lucas Barrios (Cardozo, 82).

Paraguay had excellent match against current world champion, Italy and could've beat them if it wasn't De Rossi's tap in. However, throughout the game, Paraguay showed their full potential of their own ability, proving their qualification was not a fluke.

Slovakia, on the other hand, had a shocking start. Until the injury time against New Zealand, they thought, they snatched their victory by Vittek's goal. Instead, it was their promising player, Winston Reid's header, denying Slovakia's first win at World Cup final. Missed opportunity and they are facing a lot harder opponent to record their first victory at this stage today.

With Roque Santa Cruz back in the squad, Paraguay looked more threatening than sloppy Slovakian side and, after various chances from Paraguay, in 27th minute, with Barrios' excellent pass, Vera slotted in to make 0-1. Slovakia fought back in set-piece but Salata's header put the ball over the bar. Paraguay almost had second when Slovakia was dispossessed in their territory but Santa Cruz's was well-saved by Mucha. HT: 0-1

Unfortunately, Slovakia did not wake in the second half. Besides the game, they were never able to press Paraguayan midfield and became far too exposed on both flanks. Several chances to cross went badly wrong and with better Paraguay pressing, they stood no chance.

After several chances gone begging for Paraguay, in 85th minute, Riveros eventually converted one of their numerous chances to make it 0-2 and Slovakia couldn't do anyhing to fight back. No desire and willingness from key player, like Hamsik, cost Slovakia the game dearly and they will face World Champion Italy next. FT: 0-2

Slovakia 0-2 Paraguay (Highlights)

Simão | MySpace Video

NED v JPN (1230 GMT)

2010-06-19T12:23:00.010+01:00

Venue Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban Ref. H. Baldassi Att: 62010

Starting Line up

Netherlands: 1-Maarten Stekelenburg; 2-Gregory van der Wiel, 3-John Heitinga, 4-Joris Mathijsen, 5-Giovanni van Bronckhorst; 7-Dirk Kuyt, 6-Mark van Bommel, 10-Wesley Sneijder (Afellay, 82), 8-Nigel de Jong, 23-Rafael van der Vaart (Elia, 72); 9-Robin van Persie (87, Huntelaar).

Japan: 21-Eiji Kawashima; 2-Yuki Abe, 22-Yuji Nakazawa, 4-Tulio, 3-Yuichi Komano; 5-Yuto Nagatomo, 16-Yoshito Okubo (Tamada, 77), 7-Yasuhito Endo, 17-Makoto Hasebe (Okazaki, 77), 8-Daisuke Matsui (Nakamura, 64); 18-Keisuke Honda.

After their unimaginative victory against Denmark, Dutch media demanded more from Dutch team. Although win was win, they were not much sign of convincing performance to deserve the win. But team against Japan, who never lost before in their international career, made many critics thought the match was already in the bag.

However, as many superior European teams experienced before, it was not so. During one of most boring first half, no one in Dutch team dared to step up to shoot and as a result they only recorded one shot on target in the first half. 70:30 possession but it looked like Spain versus Switzerland or England v Algeria all over again with Dutch ending up with no goal. Dire first half, a lot of rooms of improvement.

In second half, things slightly improved, as Netherlands went forward with more purpose. After series of attack, they managed to score with Sneijder's thunderous shot outside the box. Keeper saw it but it was another Jabulani moment as the ball bent in last minute.

Japan did not give up and with three changes after conceding goal, they certainly became more lively and threatened Dutch penalty box. The chance eventually to their substitute, Okazaki, but he blazed the ball over the bar.

Too defensive tactic from Japanese team, but they could have embarrassed Dutch if it wasn't another Jabulani effect. Dutch got to hope that Robben's fitness gets better for knock-out stage, as they can not just rely on their luck. FT: NED 1 JPN 0

Netherlands 1-0 Japan (Highlights)

Ricardo | MySpace Video

GER v AUS (1930 GMT) (Moses Mabhida Stadium)

2010-06-13T23:58:00.004+01:00

Starting Line-up

GER: Neuer, Friedrich, Holger Badstuber, Lahm, Mertesacker, Khedira, Scheweinsteiger, Ozil, Podolski, Klose, Muller

AUS: Schwarzer, Neill, Moore, Emerton, Chipperfield, Cahill, Culina, Wilkshire, Grella, Valeri Garcia

Germany is a typical nation that guaranteed to succeed in the World Cup Finals and their track record certainly proves my claim - triple champions, runners-up in four occasions, and three times in third. No matter what kind of team they put on, we will see typical German style of football, which are tactically disciplined and ability to create game-breaking moment.

Australia had a lot expectation to meet up after their success in the World Cup 2006. However, much has changed in Australian side, as they did not have their talisman, Mark Viduka and most importantly, Guus Hiddink, who pulled this altogether, moved back to Europe to manage club and national teams. Also, Pim Verbeek wasn't a good choice either as he didn't have any experience in the World Cup Final as a manager.

First Half

Australia had golden opportunity to shock the world with a goal, after Cahill's header set Garcia free in the six yard box but Hull player only could find Lahm's body on the line. From that point onwards, Germany began to dominate and the goal was scored on the 8th minute, when Podolski smashed the ball past Schwarzer. Australia were two down when Lahm's cross met the head of Klose, who is now challenging the goal scoring record of Ronaldo in the World Cup. Australia had some half chances throughout the match but it was dealt well by German defenders.

HT: 2-0

MOTM in the First Half: Mesut Ozil - he ran the show in the midfield by picking his pass and position well.

Second Half

Australia tried to liven things up by putting in Holman for Grella and it nearly paid off by penalty kick as Friedrich was seemed to handle the ball. Unfortunately, referee did not see it as his sight was blocked by so many players in the box.

Then the disaster happened: Cahill was sent-off after going in hard and late on Schweinsteiger. From this point onwards, party time for Germany. Two goals were scored before the second half ended, Muller and Cacau, and they became a nation of scoring 4+goals in their opening match in three consecutive terms.

FT: 4-0

MOTM in the Second Half: Mesut Ozil - Never nervous. Kept the midfield ticking. Excellent debut at a World Cup.

Germany v Australia

Mike | MySpace Video

SRB v GHA (1500 GMT) (Loftus Versfeld Stadium)

2010-06-13T14:51:00.009+01:00

Starting Line-up

SRB: Stojkovic, Kolarov, Vidic, Ivanovic, Lukovic, Stankovic, Milijas, Jovanovic, Krasic, Pantelic, Zigic

GHA: Kingson, Sarpei, Pantsil, Mensah, Vorsah, Annan, Ayew, Boateng, Gyan, Tagoe, Asamoah

Serbia, technically, is débutante of World Cup. After several political melee in the Balkan, Serbia became independent state, which was part of Yugoslavia decade ago. Despite this political dispute, their national team was kept in tact. In fact, during their qualifying round, they finished above France and it seemed they could reach beyond 2nd round of the World Cup, when they got Australia and Ghana in their group. However, after their poor performance in friendlies almost put fans into riot and their expectation has been lowered ever since.

Ghana, on the other hand, had problem of their own. After Michael Essien, African's best midfield player, got seriously injured during the the African Cup of Nations, Milovan Rajevac was forced to use his young under-20 squad players, who just won their first World Youth Cup and without Essien and Appiah, Ghana was able to reach final, which was lost against Egypt. Without Essien and Appiah this time, therefore, was not much of problem for the Black Stars, as they showed they had alternative plans.

1st half

Fair even half as neither of team had clear chance in the opening period due to their inaccuracy in their final delivery.

But the chance eventually came and it was Kwadwo Asamoah with shot on target, which was well blocked by Brum's new signing Nikol Zigic.

It was Ghana once again putted pressure on unsettled Serbia. This time it was Ayew's cross, which was trying to find Gyan in the box but it was bit high for him to head it in.

It was end to end stuff and the better quality of football, after watching Algeria playing against Slovenia but at the end of half, it stayed goalless.

HT: 0-0

1st Half MOTM: Asamoah Gyan: I thought he had been excellent upfront and made Vidic to struggle to play against him.

2nd Half

For starting 5 minutes, they could not cross the ball properly. Besides that, it was Ghana starting to control the game and on 53 mins with Tagoe's excellent cross, the ball seemed to be destined to go in by Annan's head but this was given as offside. The opportunity kept coming for Ghana and this time, it was Gyan with header, which clipped outside of post. Ghana's pressure got stronger, when Serbia defender, Lukovic was sent off by clumsy challenge. But after the sent off, Serbia began to up their tempo and almost got them a goal, when Krasic had a shot in the penalty box, only to be saved by Kingson.

Then idiotic penalty. It happened when Kuzmanovic stupidly put his arm up while the ball was travelling in the air. Incidentally, it hit his hand and it was caught by referee's eyes. Gyan stepped up and he converted. Later in the half, Gyan chance to wrap the game up, but this time his shot found inside of the post.

FT: 0-1

2nd Half MOTM: Prince Tagoe - He has been so active and accurate with his passing and crossing to worry Stojkovic.

Serbia v Ghana

Mike | MySpace Video

ALG v SVN (1230 GMT) (Peter Mokaba Stadium)

2010-06-13T13:17:00.009+01:00

Starting Line up

ALG: Chaouchi, Bougherra, Belhadj, Yahia, Halliche, Lacen, Ziani, Yebda, Kadir, Djebbour, Matmour

SVN: Handanovic, Brecko, Suler, Cesar, Jokic, Koren, Kirm, Radosavljevic, Birsa, Novakovic, Dedic

The least interesting match so far. Not much of information about this nation. After an absence of 24 years, the Desert Foxes are just happy to play in the World Cup. They even pushed high school examination forward so that students and teachers could come and watch the match. Prior to the match, there were some doubt on whether Belhadj could play in their clash against Slovenia as he was sent off in the Africa Cup of Nation. Luckily, the decision was reversed and him and Chaouchi became available for their opener.

Slovenia is considered as football minnow in European football. With population of 2 million,

they've only been to the World Cup final once, which ended in disarray. It took a miracle for them to qualify as they overturn their 2-1 loss in 1st leg against Russia by winning 1-0 at home. Player to look for was former WBA midfield player, Robert Koren, who is central part of Slovenian side.

1st Half

Open match from the start but it lacked quality from both side. Touches were too heavy, passes were wayward and both team lacked flair to score in the game. Apart from free-kick of Belhadj and shot from Birsa at the end of first half, the match was not worth to watch. Very defensive and boring half.

HT: 0-0

MOTM in the 1st half: Nadir Belhadj - he showed a lot enthusiasm down the flank and gave hard time against Brecko.

2nd Half

Yet again, play didn't improve immediately as they kept their defensive stance firm. However, Slovenia showed more willingness of going forward and after sending off of Ghezzal, the match went to Slovenia's way. Eventually, on 79th minute, Koren's speculative shot found the back of the net with Chaouchi's help and this was the winning goal.

Another Robert Green moment? It was far worse than that.

FT 0-1

MOTM in the 2nd half: Robert Koren: Simply for the goal and his slightly better midfield display.

Algeria 0-1 Slovenia

Simão | MySpace Video

ENG v USA (1930 GMT) (Royal Bafokeng Stadium)

2010-06-12T20:14:00.008+01:00

Starting Line-up

ENG: Green, G. Johnson, A.Cole, Terry, King, Gerrard, Lennon, Lampard, Milner, Rooney and Heskey

USA: Howard, Bocanegra, Onyewu, Cherundolo, DeMerit, Bradley, Dempsey, Clark, Donovan, Altidore, Robert Findley

England waited for a long time for this (especially me!). Since England failed to qualify for Euro 2008, they were forced to hire another foreign manager after sacking of Steve McClaren and Fabio Capello done well as England manager recording only one lost in competitive games.

USA, on the other hand were on shaky state. With their commanding defender Oguchi Onyewu not 100% fit, their defence look shaky and statistic of conceding goals in ten consecutive occasion at this stage, did not help them to boost their moral prior to the match.and manager since then. England lost just once under Capello's tenure and this gave them a lot of confidence prior to World Cup.

First Half

England sticking Heskey meant they were going to send the ball to him and hope he can keep

hold of it to lay it off to second player moving inside the box. And this worked as Heskey's through ball created Gerrard's goal. However, soon after the goal, Altidore threatened England twice with his head. Although they were off the target, it showed that England defence lacked organisation. England had a good chance though, when Glen Johnson crossed excellent ball inside the box. Unfortunately, it was tipped away by Howard.

Then the disaster. Carson's blunder against Croatia repeated once again, when Dempsey had

speculative shot 25 yards away from the goal, Green blundered and palmed it back of his own

goal. In comparison to Carson, at least he had a reason of playing in poor pitch, but Green's case, he didn't have any excuse for this. Pitch was in perfect condition and he didn't put his body

behind it. Awful goalkeeping and one for Capello to consider before Algeria match.

HT 1-1

MOTM in the 1st half: Glen Johnson: Operating lively on the right side and gave trouble time on USA defence.

2nd Half

England began to dominate possession in 2nd half and it was Lennon's through ball that handed Heskey one on one chance against Howard but it was saved quite comfortably by Howard, which made Heskey's goal ratio even poorer. Soon after another attacking from England came through and this time, it was corner. Lampard's great delivery made USA defence to struggle to deal with it but yet again Johnson misfired it. Moment later, USA was on the counter attack but Altidore's shot was saved by the post. Then it was all England once again. However, with numerous aimless crossing from both wingers and full-backs made hard for England forwards to capitalise from it.

FT 1-1

MOTM in the 2nd half: Tim Howard: Exceptional in organising defence.

ARG v NIG (1500 GMT) (Ellis Park)

2010-06-12T15:46:00.007+01:00

Starting Line-up

ARG: Romero, Demichelis, Heinze, Samuel, Di Maria, Veron, Mascherano, Gutierrez, Higuain, Tevez, Messi

NIG: Enyeama, Yobo, Taiwo, Shittu, Odiah, Kaita, Haruna, Etuhu, Yakubu, Obinna, Obina Ogbuke

It was come back for the Maradona after his drug test failure in 1986. But as a manager he did not have much joy of managing his homeland, as they struggled to qualify in their region. He added more woes when he didn't include Esteban Cambiasso and Javier Zanetti in his provisional squad for the world cup. They didnt have any friendly matches like other nations apart from Canada back in May, which made many home fans to concern about their team work before the start of this match.

Lagerback didn't have much time for this World Cup as he was appointed 3 months ago. To make matter worse, the team got kicked out of the hotel they booked and he could not get his players early enough to get them trained under his system. Can they turn their luck around?

1st Half

Game started with overwhelming noise of Vuvuzela and it was Argentina dominating against Nigeria. They pressurised Nigerian defence from the start and created numerous chances and it finally got paid on 7th minute, when corner kick was converted by Heinze's head.

Nigeria started play well though and two chances fell on Obinna. But he failed to score from them. Messi made two fantastic shots in midway of 1st half but it was denied by Enyeama. Since then, the game became more pedestrian pace and Argentina was happier side in 1st half.

HT: 1-0

MOTM of the 1st half: Lionel Messi: Created sitter for Higuain at the start for the match and attempted two purposeful shot, which were unfortunately saved by Enyeama.

2nd Half

It was end to end stuff in 2nd half. Argentina was first to have a chance at 48th minute, when Veron sent wicket ball inside the box, which Messi failed to make a contact. On 64th minute, it was Messi again with opportunity from Argentina's counter attack but he put the shot wide. Introduction of Odemwingie injected more pace for Nigerian team and they came close to equalise as toe-poke from Taye Taiwo sent the ball inch wide from Romero's post. Nigerian never gave up and on 82nd min, Uche had a great chance to equalise but the shot was over the bar. Disappointing result for the Super Eagles.

FT: 1-0

MOTM of 2nd half: Taye Taiwo: was extremely busy on the left flank and defended well throughout the match.

Argentina 1-0 Nigeria

Simão | MySpace Video

SKO v GRE (1230 GMT)

2010-06-12T13:15:00.006+01:00

Starting Line-up

SKO: Jung, Cho, Lee, Lee, Cha, Kim, Park, Ki, Lee, Yeom

GRE: Tzorvas, Seitaridis, Papadopuplos, Vyntra, Torosidis, Karagounis, Katsouranis, Samaras, Charisteas, Gekas

Despite not winning under domestic manager, Korea's moral was high as they had good pre-World Cup matches. With their captain Jisung Park fully fit, they were roaring to go against Greece side, who didn't have particularly good records in friendlies.

First Half

Greece started with slow tempo and they looked sluggish when Korea played their ball forwards. It did not take them long to score when Korea's central defender Jungsoo Lee, converted free kick from near corner spot.

Korea kept their pressure up and minutes later it was Chungyong Lee who had chance to score in Greek penalty box. But it was well defended by Greek central defence, although there was suspicion of penalty.

Match continued to be in Korean's favour and when their central midfielder Jisung Park delivered excellent through pass to Chuyoung Park, he seemed to be destined to score. Unfortunately, it was saved by left feet of Greek goalkeeper.

Greece had their moment right before the half time when Torosidis crossed excellent ball into the Korean penalty box but Gekas, their qualifying leading scorer, could not make contact with the ball.

HT: 1-0

MOTM of 1st Half: Chungyong Lee - He has been constant threat against Greek fullback.

Second Half

Korea kept up the pace when the match got restarted and in 53rd minute, poor first touch from Vyntra allowed Jisung Park to sneak in and score.

Rehhagel made changes to turn the tides but it fell short and with Gekas failed to score their best opportunity on 80th minute, the game was certainly over. First victory for Korea under domestic manager but it was rather poor game in the end.

FT: 2-0

MOTM of 2nd Half: Jisung Park - He ignited in 2nd half and scored 2nd goal to settle Koreans' nerve back home.

Overview

High tempo was the key in this match. Greek defence was very poor against young Korean midfield, who were constant threat to them. Their forwards lacked composure and efforts to go through against fairly well organised Korean defence. Euro 2004 winner? yes they were, but it is past. They got to move on and bring new manager in.

World Cup Match Report RSA v MEX (KO 1500)

2010-06-11T17:36:00.003+01:00

Line up

RSA: Khune, Gaxa, Mokoena, Thwala, Khumalo, Tshabalala, Pienaar, Modise, Letsholonyane, Dikgacoi, Katlego Mphela Subs: Joseph, Walters, Masilela, Ngcongca, Booth, Siyabonga Sangweni, Sibaya, Davids, Moriri, Thanduyise Khunboni, Parker, Nomvethe

MEX: Perez, Rodriguez, Salcido, Marquez, Osorio, Aguilar, Juarez, Torrado, Franco, Vela, Giovani Subs: Ochoa, Michel, Moreno, Magallon, Torres, Barrera, Castro, Guardado, Blanco, Hernandez, Bautista, Alberto Medina.

Long-waited World Cup 2010 got under way at Soccer CIty Stadium. Mexico, with good record in Pre-World Cup friendlies, started with fluid 5-2-3 with attacking minded wing back willing to bombing down the both of flanks of South Africa.

Host nation, South Africa had good run in the friendlies too, beating Denmark in their final friendly match got them really hyped for the opening match. They started with 4-2-3-1, with Mphela on lone forward.

1st Half
With blasting noise of vuvuzela, match got under way and Mexico was dominant from the start. Within 2 minutes, in fact, they had excellent chance of scoring when South African Keeper, Kuhne, was unable to catch Aguilar's cross. It was, however, blazed away by Dos Santos. The game continued in Mexican's way and they had several chances to score, but they couldn't convert any of them. 31st minute's chance in particular, was easy chance for Franco to score but it was brilliantly saved by Khune. In late 1st half, RSA eventually saw a chance of scoring, created by Musisela's cross but Mphela couldn't convert it with his head.

End of 1st half 0-0

MOTM in the 1st half Giovani Dos Santos: he constantly challenged South African defence and created chances for Mexico.

2nd Half

The game restarted with Mexico in possession once again, but the tide started to turn as South Africa began to work as team and in 54th minute, with excellent counter attacking football, they were a goal up against Mexico. Mexico suddenly panicked and felt frustrated as they didn't have much room to manoeuvre like 1st half. However, defensive lapse occurred when Guardado whipped an fabulous ball into the box and it was sitter for Marquez to score. 1-1 and it seemed the match was heading to draw. But instead, South Africa had excellent chance created by Khune but Mphela failed to score as ball hit the post. Unlucky South Africa.

Final Score 1-1

MOTM in 2nd half Tshabalala for his energetic run and excellent strike.

Robinho to Beskitas? and other news

2010-06-10T15:03:00.009+01:00

Robinho interested in Turkish giant Besiktas

It is now understood that Robinho's future may lie away from CoMs. After

several rumours of him used as part of Ibrahimovic deal, media now suggests that Turkish giant Besiktas are interested in signing City's Samba star.

Robinho, currently in Santos as a loan deal, playing well, scoring 16 goals in 18 appearances and he constantly expressed himself that his future doesn't lie in Premier League. Whether this is true or not, it emphasizes the fact that his relationship with Manchester City is now over.

£32.5million signing played well in his first season but his inconsistency in away matches and constant injury problem made Mark Hughes to abandon his Samba star and Bellamy took over his position since the start of 09-10 season.

He seemed to regained his place when Mancini became the manager but it was short-lived after disappointing performances.

*It is now reported that he still consider City is an option for him. Maybe I am fooled around by media.

Tevez is top target - Benitez

The most ridiculous report so far. Various media suggested that Rafa Benitez would like to bring Carlito to San Siro. Another media garbage? Well, they have to pay substantial amount to get his service!

Miscellaneous

-Krasic was closely related to City recently. But it appears to be Inter is likely destination for him.

-Silva getting closer to City? Apparently, talks between City and Silva's representative making progress. Surely, it's just a rumour?

-Vidic for £40mil? As Vidic's future became uncertain, media started to speculate his next move would be City.

Vieira sets to stay and other news

2010-06-09T18:53:00.005+01:00

http://tiny.cc/k2gwx <- BBC confirms that Vieira sets to stay one more year. Good news for City?

Personally yes. He is not the player he used to be and we all know that. But, he is still a useful role player who can give something outside the game, such as being a mentor to young players. He also showed that he still has the skill and physicality to play some matches in the Premier League. Match against Villa is a good example that he hasn't lost touch just yet. Overall, good decision made by Mancini.

Edison Cavani (Palermo, Striker)

Cavani became the latest player to be linked with City. The Uruguayan, who started his football at Danubio, Montevideo, moved to Palermo in 2007. He didn't do particularly well, due to Amauri's exceptional season with Palermo. But he blossomed in 2008-09 season, netting 14 goals and 4 assists. He managed to maintain his performance in 09-10 season, scoring 13 goals for Palermo. Here is video of him, scoring against mighty(?) Inter:

Petrov to Everton?

In fact several clubs, including Aston Villa and West Ham, want his service, according to Clubcall.

Probability of signing him? Well, I still think he got pace to play in the Premier League. Might not be against top team like Chelsea, Man Utd or Arsenal, but could be effective against club in lower half of the league. Injury prone? Yes! But he is free so it is a risk worth taking. Especially, Villa and Everton need good cover for their wingers, I think, there is possibility of him going to those clubs.

Three Players Released - Benjani, Petrov and Sylvinho

2010-06-08T20:19:00.005+01:00

As expected (or not), trio of veteran(?) players are released from the team today.

Benjani - 23 apps, 4 goals (Initial fee: £3.87 mil)

Benjani began his City career in strange fashion. Oversleeping at the airport made him miss the medical, almost collapsing the move to City. But luckily, the transfer went through on 5th of February, after EPL's investigation. He became instant hero after scoring in the derby, finishing the season 3 goals in 13 games for City. Unfortunately, acquisition of Carlos Tevez, Emmanuel Adebayor and Roque Santa Cruz pushed him away from first team squad. He was loaned away to Sunderland but didn't get much chance, made only 1 start and 7 subs appearances without scoring any goal.

Sylvinho - 10 apps, 1 goal (Free)

Sylvinho was signed to cover Wayne Bridge and he did that in most of the season, due to Bridge's injury. His highest point in City career, I think, was scoring a spectacular goal in FA cup tie against Scunthorpe.

Martin Petrov - 72 apps, 12 goals (£4.7 mil)

Petrov was brought in with Elano and Javi Garrido in 2007. Unknown quantity in the EPL, he had effective season in the first season (5 goals and 9 assists). However, his constant knee injury and signing of Robinho pushed him away from City's starting line up. He had mini-revival of his career in Oct 2009, securing City's player of the month. But his form dipped and he couldn't overcome his injury to keep his starting place over 09-10 season.

Thank you for your service at CoMs and I wish good luck to the trio for remainder of their career.

Latest Transfer Rumour: Tiberio Guarente

2010-05-19T15:23:00.004+01:00

Rumours going around as Tiberio Guarente becomes the newest City target for the next season. Playing for Atlanta, he plays as defensive midfielder for them. Here is Tiberio in action:

Although he lacks goals, he seemed to be decent at the cost of 3.5 million . As Patrick Vieira might be on the way out, it seems ideal signing for City

More information of Tiberio Guarente: Click

City 0:1 Spurs : Review.

2010-05-06T17:25:00.010+01:00

A disappointing, yet unsurprising result from last nights game, means City finally concede the Champions league place battle to spurs. They perhaps wanted and it more and needed it more than we did. They are a side more settled than ours and that showed. They deserve their position in the Champions league next season. As for City, well it's been a very good season on the pitch for us, despite all that has happened off it, Europa League next season does provide some motivation for players to join the club. We have made big steps this season.

Despite the long term progress, what really angered me after the match was the lack of quality City showed. In the words of Garry Cook 'they bottled it'. The team blows hot and cold several times through out the match, and that's simply not good enough. We had a great deal of possession in the 1st half, especially in the final third, yet it should of been Spurs who went in 2-0 up. That's really not good enough. The defensive issue, which haunted Hughes from Day one, simply has to be addressed in the summer, or we will always suffer. Ball retention is also a real issue. It was farcical at times how easy we gave it away.

I have mentioned over the past few weeks, the difference in City when they play with a high tempo and when we don't. We lacked the edge that saw us put 3 past Villa, and ended up mirroring our Derby performance, Spurs did play with a high tempo for most of the game. It wasn't until the forced substitution of Vieira that we actually tried getting balls into the box through the middle, instead of consistently spreading the ball wide and ultimately ending our attack with a poor final ball. Our full backs are not good enough to overlap. I see little point in them both bounding forward if they simply lose it when they get there. The less I say about Wayne Bridge the better!

The lack of chances on goal cost us, with the attacking threat on the pitch, that's quite a poor outcome. Spurs in attack looked more purposeful. Crouch was the main focal point of their play, it worked. His aerial ability was simply too much for Toure and Kompany. At set pieces we looked particularly weak, I have yet to see the disallowed goal, but in open play it looked all to easy for them to get their head on the ball.

Credit has to go to Martin Fulop for a top display making a couple of cracking saves. He did himself the world of good.

The West Ham match has become a bit of non-game now. Plans will now be afoot for the next season. What is clear is we need to sort out our defence. The several lapses in concentration this season has been our real downfall. We can now build on our already established squad and finish higher next season, under Mancini of course. The season has been a real success, we just missed on a Champions league spot, from finishing 10th the previous year. That's a Job well done!

City Vs Spurs Build Up.

2010-05-04T10:33:00.004+01:00

The race for 4th has become the biggest battle of the season. Neither the title or relegation spots have come down to one crunch match as tomorrows. Let's not forget if City win, it's not over, but if they lose it certainly is.

Last Saturday couldn't of gone better for the purest, City dismissing Villa bid for 4th with a 3-1 victory and Spurs maintaining their form against Bolton with a 1-0 win. Danny at Bitter and Blue has the best review of the current situation. But essentially were a point behind, but ahead in goals. We can't afford anything else but a win tomorrow, if we want to to keep it in our hands.

City performed well against Villa, defended well for most of the game, shielding our box and breaking quickly with tempo and purpose, something we lacked in previous non scoring games. We are almost certain to start with with Bellamy, Johnson, Tevez and Adebayor. Although i would be tempted to replace Johnson with SWP, after his brief cameo on Saturday he reminded me what he can do when on form. Johnson did play well last match, creator of two goals but struggles to last 90 mins physically.

The formation of the midfield will be dependant on Barry, if fit, will he feature? Vieira looked imperious against Villa, dictating play with his excellent passing, Mancini will use him again. De jong is as an ever present necessity and will no doubt start to limit the effectiveness of Palacios and Huddlestone. I can't see us going for 3 in the middle, I don't think we can afford to sacrifice our attacking threat.

A main focus of the pre match build up will be on the goalkeepers. Fulop didn't have the best start, he looked nervous, but grew in confidence handling the high ball well and good distribution. He wasn't helped at all by a very poor performance from Bridge and Toure. Spurs may be without Gomes, who suffered a groin strain, so may be forced to use Ben Alnwick and Jimmy Walker, two available 'reserve' keepers.

Finishing 4th would be the icing on a very good season. The final home game of the season, should be a great spectacle, both sets of fans will be in full voice. Regardless of Alan Hanson's views, City do deserve to be challenging for 4th as do Spurs. I just hope It's City who finish Primus inter pares.

(i didn't write a review after the villa game, due to illness.)

City make emergency loan request!

2010-04-26T14:59:00.007+01:00

With the disappointing outcome of City being without their two 1st team goalkeepers with Given's shoulder and Taylor's knee injury. City have been forced into calling up 3rd/4th choice reserve keeper Gunnar Nielsen into the 1st team, with the other reserve keeper David Gonzalez Giraldo is also injured. This leaves City without any other options other than to use Academy keeper as backup.

City have requested the FA to grant the club to approach other clubs to loan a keeper for the last three games of the season. An emergency loan isn't an unusual thing, all they need is permission from the Governing body. The loans can only be domestic, so we are not allowed to borrow from foreign clubs. It's unclear whether it will be granted.

Daniel Taylor has reported City's interest in signing Martin Fulop from Sunderland, a player at one point this season was ahead of Craig Gordan. This would be an obvious disappointment for Nielson, who is no doubt looking forward to his first premier league start. But i think it would a wise move to reassure our defence in the final run. Fulop has performed pretty well this season when called upon, and is likely to be more reliable than the unproven Faroe Islander. We wait and see if this move comes into fruition.

I have read, but haven't seen for myself, reports that David Gold former Birmingham owner on SSN. Apparently he suggested City were in the process of offering Birmingham compensation in return for the club terminating his loan contract. Due to loan rule restrictions City can not ask for Hart back, the move would have to be initiated by Birmingham and presumably have the authority of the FA. I don't know this legality of this matter, but I doubt it will happen. I think we only see Joe Hart next season!

Arsenal 0-0 Manchester city: Review.

2010-04-24T23:48:00.010+01:00

Reading most reports, people found today's game a real bore draw. I, on the other hand enjoyed watching City's defensive rigour and discipline. For 90 mins City limited Arsenal, stifled their attack and gave Given/ Nielsen very little work to do. I understand most will dispair at performances like this, But I prefer a 0-0 with top class defending rather than a 3-3 with poor defending.

Mancini sacrificed Adebayor who hadn't trained all week for an extra man in the midfield. In the 1st half, we set out to limit Arsenal playing. And generally our midfield looked good enough. Barry and De Jong continued their good form. It was real concious effort from the side to not let Arsenal build pressure. Bellamy worked especially hard in defence to aid Bridge/ Zabaleta.

It was no surprise, shortly after the break Adebayor would step into the fray. His introduction required a change of shape, removing the extra midfielder. This move allowed an isolated Tevez drop deep and get much more involved in the game. The added spice of Adebayors involvement raised the atmosphere in the ground and gave the game a better tempo. Still City didn't really do a great deal in the final third, barely bothering Fabianski. Our final ball, one again letting us down. Johnson didn't impress today, if it wasn't for the forced goalkeeper sub, it would of been likely he would of been replaced.

The defensive display was of real quality. Toure and Kompany put in their best partnership performance this season, a strong and confident performance, maintaining the concentration until the end of the game. Zabaleta also looked in form, playing both left and right. I didn't quite understand why Richards was selected ahead of Nedum, but yet again Richards let him self down through his lack of discipline.

The real negative aspect of the game came from a speculative shot from Diaby on the City goal. Given saved the shot with ease, but on hitting the ground, managed to dislocate his shoulder. Given has had a great deal of trouble with shoulder in the past, according to Dr Kevin Keegan and will now miss the end of the season. This is going to be quite damaging to our ambitions of finishing in 4th place. Gunnar Nielsen, our Faroe Islands keeper, signed by Hughes from Blackburn looks most likely to finish the season as our first choice. Ex-Arsenal keeper Stuart Taylor is still out with a knee injury. The only other option i can think of is David Gonzalez Giraldo, a Colombian keeper City signed on a free. He's 27 and has 2 caps for his country. I don't know what his situation is at the club, He was never officially declared signed by the club, but is apparently apart of our reserves. Who ever it is, they need to raise their game and perform to a high standard.

With Spurs losing to united, we missed an opportunity today to return to 4th, especially against a weak and deflated Arsenal, but a point is still valuable. We are only 1 point behind Spurs with a better Goal Average. There is only one way we can finish 4th, that's winning our last 3 games. We now have to look to attack teams with more purpose and tempo...

Derby Disappointment

2010-04-18T09:34:00.007+01:00

Yesterday was a terrible day for City in footballing terms. Apart from the obvious disappointment losing to United in the last minute, the hurt was compounded by Spurs beating an under performing Chelsea. City have not only lost their advantage for 4th spot, but slipped to 5th and 2 points behind Spurs. An all round terrible day. The race is not over of course, Spurs have to play United next and us, hopefully we can move on from the defeat and finish the season in impressive fashion.

Losing in the last minute was gut wrenching, but not surprising with our previous form. City didn't play badly, but we didn't play that well either. The lack of tempo in attack was frustrating. Considering how well we played in previous games, we lacked the same venom and edge. Bellamy and Johnson were not in full form, Bellamy struggles with his final ball for most of the game. Tevez and Adebayor worked hard , but couldn't find any inroads, the lack of concrete chance caused great frustration.

The midfield didn't function well, despite Barry and De Jong performing to a high standard. The loss of De Jong in the game, may well of cost us the game. The two midfielder's sat too deep allowing United a lot of time on the ball, and space to press forward. I thought it an odd tactic, as it allowed United to shoot from distance, with players like Scholes and Gibson, that's a strange risk to take.

The defence wasn't at it's best, Kolo Toure looking the most dominant and confident at the back, is stark contrast with Kompany who looked like a bag of nerves, making several silly mistakes. Bridge continues he spectacular ability in not being able to cross to a City shirt this season. I find it hard to believe that Terry once said he was the best crosser at Chelsea.

The negative impact of the substitutions can take some blame for the loss. SWP came on beat Evra twice but failed to deliver a quality final ball, and ultimately gave the ball away that led to the United goal. Ireland arrival in a position behind Tevez, i thought would be positive, but he continued to show the lack of interest and effort that has limited his chances this season. Ireland stood by in the box and watched Scholes run past him to take an easy unchallenged header. I wouldn't be surprised to see either player leave in the summer.

A bad result, yes, but our season is not over, i hope there will be more twist in the final four games for our sake! The City fans were brilliant yesterday, and the players performance didn't match our efforts. We are owed a performance at Arsenal.

Maicon goal- worth seeing!!!

2010-04-16T23:07:00.003+01:00

Just seen this on 'Dirty Tackle'

Inter Brazilian fullback Maicon with a brilliant goal, from the control to the finish. You just have to watch it!

Take a bow son!

Hopefully Tevez will hit one like that tomorrow!

Derby Day: City squad.

2010-04-15T23:23:00.005+01:00

Tomorrows 'local derby' against the Salford 11 has become a game of real importance. Spurs beating a hapless Arsenal has heightened the importance of maintaining our advantage in the fight for fourth place.

City have been replenished in the break between games. Zabaleta returns from suspension. Bridge, Ireland and Vieira all free from injury and ready to return to the side. So our bench will be much stronger than it was against Birmingham. Santa Cruz also had a good run out in the reserves to build some match sharpness.

An added bonus from last week was De Jong not picking up a suspension and now being 'unleashed' for the derby. Roberto Mancini has also escaped touchline suspension from the FA after his confrontation with Moyes, Which is good news of course.

I don't think we need to look into what squad the others will bring. All that is relevant is City are in top form. Adebayor hasn't featured against United this season and is looking formidable in front of goal along side Tevez. United are very beatable as proven already this season. We go into this game with just as potent an attack, if not more than it was at the start of the season. We are more sturdy at the back showing some real defensive rigour.

The line up is likely to be very similar to last match! Zabaleta or Bridge coming in for Garrido is probable. It will be interesting to see if he goes for just two in the middle, or brings Vieira/ Zabaleta into the middle to battle along side Barry and De Jong. I wouldn't favour this as it means Johnson or Bellamy miss out, something we should try to avoid on current form.

Lets keep the momentum going blues!

City to sign Boateng?

2010-04-13T10:19:00.010+01:00

Sky this morning have reported Jerome Boateng has agreed a deal to sign with City in the summer!

The 21-year-old Germany international has long been linked with a move to Eastlands and has reportedly agreed to the switch which will cost City approximately £11million.

The deal would represent the 1st bit of business from the 'Player Acquisition Group' involving Mancini, Marwood and chief scout Mike Rigg. Boateng has long been a reported target for City. It's not clear who has been the driving force behind this 'acquisition' but I fully support it. Young talented footballers, ready to take up a challenge of the premier league.

Boateng is a young German International defender who I presume is being signed to play right back, although he is a very versatile player. At 6 ft 3 he is a natural centre half, but does play full back and even Defensive mid. I believe he also equally adept with both feet. Boateng would be the third signing from Hamburg along side Kompany and De jong. ( get you FM scouts on it) He has recently developed from a regular u21 performer to a full international for Germany and is likely to go to the world cup. So signing him before hand may prove wise!

Boateng has apparently a release clause in his contract for around 11 million, which HSV have been trying to re-negotiate the contract. So the Deal isn't complete, with no confirmation between both clubs, but it looks as though we are in pole position to finalise the deal.

The transfer dealings this summer will be of great interest, as City will now have to build a squad of only 25 1st team registered players, according to next seasons premier league rules. Interestingly players under 21 do not have be registered in the 25 man squad, so we may see more young' developing' stars.

Not a great video, or interview, unless you speak German. Most Youtube clips dominated by his brother Pompey player Kevin-Prince.

Manchester City 5:1 Birmingham City: Review.

2010-04-11T23:49:00.010+01:00

Expectations have risen after the 1-6 thrashing at Turf moor, so there was a sense of disappointment around the ground today, when the game had reached the 7th minute, we were yet to score. Little did we know, we would finish to the game with 5 goals to our name.

Birmingham arrived at COMS after two very good draws Vs Arsenal and Liverpool and have become a side considered 'hard to beat'. After our last home win at Wigan, which was hard fought but not entirely convincing, I was expecting more of the same. Mancini set out pretty similar squad to that used at Burnley, with Garrido replacing the injured Sylvinho and a late swap with De Jong for Vieira who hurt is his knee in the warm up.

The game started is very much the manner expected, City with more possession but only creating the half chances. Adebayor and Tevez looked good, but couldn't create anything clear cut, an all too familiar format this season. The turning point came with Stumpy squat ref Phil Down who gave a somewhat soft penalty, triggering a manic goal rush before half time.

Tevez dispatched the 1st goal, a penalty with confidence and ease. The second came from a set piece, something City have really improved upon recently. Nedum Onouha managed to get good pace and power on a header past Taylor, but after seeing MOTD it may well be awarded to Tevez. Birmingham struck back with immediate effect, McFadden was allowed to 'jink' a ball across the box by Toure to Cam Jerome, who drifted back post with out challenge from Garrido. This was a disappointing lapse in concentration, we were not really under any pressure. City responded again, with a real poachers effort from Adebayor! The goal was very important in keeping the initiative with our side.

In the second half, Birmingham, as expected came out with more purpose and shape, creating a few half chances, but never really putting Given under any sustain pressure. Some nervous moments on the pitch, with city failing the keep hold of the ball in middle, was reflected by the atmosphere in the ground, we needed another goal to settle the nerves.

The goal wasn't expected to come from Onouha, who managed to score a somewhat comical but brilliant goal. Bouncing one pass off a Birmingham defender then laying on a pass, which only he was quick enough to reach and finishing with in style with a slick finish! The final goal fcame from a great individual run by Adebayor finishing in similar manner to what he did at Burnley. He looks in top form along side Tevez.

We continue to cement our claim for 4th spot, improving our goal difference, so we are now ahead of both Liverpool and Spurs. We are ahead in points, with Pool drawing at Fulham and Spurs facing Arsenal, we start our difficult run in with a real advantage. It's unclear the extent of Vieira injury today, but i did notice in his absence Tevez coming much deeper to collect the ball, and start attacks, bridging the gap between a defensive type midfield and the attack. Another positive from today is De Jong yellow card slate is wiped clean, so no suspension for him and Zabaleta will return from his suspension for the Derby. We go into the final 5 games in fine form, full of goals, Johnson, Bellamy, Tevez and Adebayor all looking sharp. We have a formidable attacking threat, so I say Bring on United!

(I believe that Tevez is now on 22 goals in the league this season, after he's now claiming two goals for today. That puts him 4 off the current leader: Wayne Rooney! Another minor battle in the final 5 games of the season to look forward too.)

Burnley 1:6 Manchester City: Review

2010-04-04T11:42:00.006+01:00

I have been saying for some time that the flood gates would open and City would batter a side. I didn't expect it to happen in 7 mins. It was a great start to the day already, with United losing at home to Chelsea and then Spurs being beaten by Sunderland, in a game where Darren Bent should of had 4 goals to his name. We are now in the strongest position in the battle for 4th. Narrowing goal difference, ahead on points. The 4th spot is ours to lose over 6 tough end of season games!

Who expected such a start? The Burnley defence were statue like with Johnson, Tevez, Bellamy and Adebayor bursting through gaps with little challenge. City started the match with verve and venom needed to secure the game quickly and in an assured manner. The result was brutal, 3 quick goals in 7 mins led to an exodus of disgusted Burnley fans. Two more goals on the 20th and 45th min finished the half 5-0 up. It may be ludicrous to suggest this be, we should be a little disappointed that it was only 5. With some poor final balls and and unlucky shot of the post from Tevez it could of easily been 7 or 8 goals! The team looked good, Vieira looks better suited to playing along side Barry and did himself the world of good after the Wigan game. He dominated a very pedestrian Burnley midfield, and his passing ability is of great value to the side.

What can be said about the second half? Rain, rain rain is the best way to put it. The pitch quickly turned from premier league to Sunday league with large puddles forming all over the pitch. Burnley came out with more fight and energy, helped by awful conditions, the game was less than exciting in the second half, But the players effort was what their fans deserved. City were inevitably first to score again with good header from Kompany. But Burnley also managed to get a goal back, with a nice finish from fletcher. This goal was perhaps a blessing, as it proved that goals still could be scored with the heavily saturated pitch. Despite the Burnley managements best efforts to press Mr Friend to cancel the game, Wiley, the most experienced ref was given a good enough excuse to let the game run it's course. I couldn't enjoy the second half at all, with the fear of abandonment, but only with City can you be 6-0 up and be nervous!

Credit to those Burnley fan's who stayed, they were in full voice and good humour as you have to be in these circumstances. As a city fan I can remember a drubbing from Arsenal where the fans reacted in a similar matter.

City now primed for the challenge for 4th spot. Four out of the next six games are at home, which is of great benefit to city. I don't fear Spurs, I think they will struggle in the run in, I feel the much discounted Liverpool have the easiest run and may sneak up the table! Our destiny is in the our hands, which is a good thing. We simply have to win more games than Spurs, Liverpool and Villa, or at least equal them!

Manchester City 3:0 Wigan: Match review.

2010-03-30T00:18:00.003+01:00

The only light at the end of a long, cold and miserable day was the promise of trip to COMS, where City were set to strike back after a disappointing loss last week. Sadly the performance didn’t quite match my deluded vision of what was meant to happen. City’s showing more than matched the dismal drizzling rain that lasted most of the night.

Mancini set out for a 442, dropping Barry, opting for De Jong and Vieira partnership. He also gave a swift return to Adebayor after his 4 game ban. Ireland failed to make the final squad, presumably through fitness, whilst, Richards, Bellamy dropped to the bench. The squad on paper really showed a lot of promise. Inevitably it didn’t deliver!

The first half lacked tempo and sharpness in all regard. Wigan pressed our defence with little success, although created some good chances for shots from outside of the box. City were much the same, chances were few and far between, mainly due to a lack of good service. Tevez created the best chance, cutting in from the left with a great individual effort. With SWP and Johnson on the wings, it should really be more productive. Johnson looked the more promising of the two, as per usual. SWP once again put a largely disappointing performance that will surly decrease his chances of going to South Africa with England! (He can go on holiday, obviously!) The half ended with some half hearted boos, I’m not a fan of this, but it was perhaps deserved, to serve a reminder that it simply wasn’t good enough.

Expectations were immediately raised at half time with the sign of Bellamy doing rigorous warm ups and being briefed by Mancini. He replaced SWP and allowed Johnson to switch to right wing where he has been the most dangerous. This move proved important giving City more purpose and aggression. The turning point in the game was the dismissal of Caldwell for a rash two footed challenge on Tevez. He was on the receiving end of a few suspect challenges during the game. I haven’t seen the replays of this, but from what I had seen live, it may have been a little harsh for a straight red. Referee Atwell had a pretty awful game along with his assistants.

Wigan went down to ten men and started to look the most promising side. The city defence looked lest than assured against Moreno and Rodallega who may feel unlucky not to of pulled ahead. But once again Carlos Tevez came to City’s rescue. A nice pass ironically from a pretty awful Vieira found both Tevez and Adebayor reaching the ball before the hapless Serbian goalie on loan from Sporting. Tevez was soon in the action again at 75 mins. A turn of pace from Garrido into the box, a flick from Kompany led to an easy finish from Tevez to make it two.

The final goal and the third for Tevez came in the 84^th min. A great run down the right, followed by a slick finish that the keeper had no chance of saving. City finally finished the game on a high, with a good tempo and energy and dominated the 10 man Wigan side.

A very good result in the end. I sensed a great deal of nervousness and pressure on the City players today. Fans were quick to get on players backs, which I find can be counter, productive, But you can’t really blame them. The performance wasn’t at all good enough. The midfield didn’t function well. De Jong was quite ineffective, although most of the focus will be on Vieira who didn’t put in a performance like his did at Fulham, but instead looked far off the pace, his only saving grace was his passing. He managed to create some very good chances, but we need to see a great deal more from him if he is going to keep Barry out of the side. Adebayor looked rusty, and was the brunt of some criticism, but he certainly didn’t lack effort, it looked like he tried too hard.

3-0 at home, clean sheet, and we were on TV. In the end it’s a good night, we are still very much in the fight for 4^th spot and move ahead of Liverpool in the table. We didn’t look like a team fighting for 4^th, but is it not a good sign winning when you don’t play well… a cliché too far?

Transfer Report from Goal.com

2010-03-26T11:23:00.007Z

http://www.goal.com/en/news/11/transfer-zone/2010/03/26/1850081/2009-10-transfer-report-card-how-good-were-manchester-citys

Goal.com produced 2009 summer transfer market grade report today, which I was about to upload. In general, I agree with their mark. Here are the grades they gave:

Gareth Barry: C
Carlos Tevez: A
Roque Santa Cruz: D
Emmanuel Adebayor: C+
Kolo Toure: B
Joleon Lescott: C
Sylvinho: B-
Patrick Vieira: D
Adam Johnson: B+

I agreed with Barry, RSC and Manu's grade. Barry seemed an excellent capture for City as he has been playing well for Villa and he would improve City's midfield, where they lacked past 2 years. However, he was not the player City expected to be. Slow, lack of creativity, narrow vision...... It looked as if he has been playing in old City fashion for quite some time. In general, his performance has been indifferent for me. Grade: C/D

RSC was a risky purchase, especially at the price of £25m. Ever since he started to play football in Europe, the series of injuries bothered him and this has been main factor that he wasn't rated high, despite his huge talent. He had one good season in Blackburn but that was about it. Shouldn't have bought him after all and I think it was the worst transfer deal Hughes had done during his regime. Grade: C/D

Adebayor lost his way in Arsenal under Wenger. His bad relationship with Benthner seemed as exit of Emirate stadium was imminent and, unexpectedly, City snatched him up. Result? Goals were coming until his exuberant goal ceremony against Arsenal. But after his suspension, he seemed a bit lost his form a bit and his problem with ankle stopped his goal coming, only 2 goals before the African Cup of Nations. Then accident in Africa forced him to have compassionate leave, which took a few weeks for him to make himself available to play for the team again. 3 goals in 3 games when he came back but since then no goal from him. Grade B/C

Tevez's arrival at Eastland was sensational. Everyone knew it was great signing, simply because he was from Utd and he was integral part of squad, who won EPL title last season. Although he had slow start, it didn't take him long to score his first goal for City and apart from his compassionate leave in February, he has been the most consistent threatening player in the squad. Grade A+

Toure was an odd signing. The player was clearly in downhill from his career but for some reasons, Hughes signed him to strengthen the troublesome defense. He started the season with captaincy and played well until the African Cup of Nations. After he came back with injury, he lost his form a bit and struggling to find his spot in the team sheet, as Kompany did excellent job while he was away. Captain Toure? Well City need better captain than him. Grade B/C

Lescott, at first, I thought he was one season wonder and with playing style, I expected him to struggle a bit: I was half right. He struggled a bit, as he did not have any pre-season training with Toure and he seemed unsettled time to time on the pitch. However, he got better and him and Kompany combination looked more solid than with Toure as his partner. He certainly has future in City shirt. Grade B

Sylvinho signed for experience by Hughes and he seemed to be doing good job of covering Bridge so far. Lack of pace and physical ability is covered by his vast experience of playing football. Grade C

January transfer market was quite odd for City. It was thought by many speculators that Mancini will buy big but it didn't turn out to be that way, signing just two players, Vieira and Johnson, both with relatively cheap price.

Vieira, signed early in the transfer market, was seemed as absurd signing. He was not Vieira, who played in Arsenal's unbeaten squad, but out of flavour and diminishing star, who is looking at the finishing line of his glorious career. Mancini had different view on him. He thought City lacked winning mentality and needed veteran midfielder to enhance their chance to get into 4th place in the league. Without any cost, other than extravagant wage, City got him for free and so far, he seemed to be getting better by each match. Grade C

AJ was a surprising signing for City. Playing well against City in the 3rd round of FA Cup, he seemed to catch Mancini's eyes and dramatically, on the last day, he was signed at the last minute of the winter transfer market. His home debut against Bolton, when he won penalty against Robinson, and away match against Sunderland proved that he is a rising young talent. City are lucky to sign him with relatively cheap price. Grade B/A

Manchester City 0:2 Everton: review.

2010-03-25T12:18:00.005Z

Last nights result strikes a blow in our ambition to finish fourth place, however it is far from over, Villa continue to drop points and Spurs have an incredibly hard run! The performance last night, didn't warrant a spot in the top 4, we simply didn't produce enough to deserve a win.

Mancini changed the winning side from the Fulham trip, dropping point man RSC and Vieira to the bench probably due to fitness and making a surprise move replacing left back Garrido with Zabaleta. Steven Ireland returned to the team after a prolonged absence in his favoured position behind the striker.

City started brightly dominated a large part of the 1st half. Ireland's passing was good, although he still lacked the energy and grit in the middle that won him the adoration of city fans last season. We had chances, but simply failed to capitalise on a good spell of possession. Our lack of finishing nearly cost us at Fulham and it certainly cost us last night! It's here, where i feel Spurs have an advantage, with Pavlyuchenko and Defoe , they have two players who would take advantage of the many chances we make in front of goal.

The game changed when Barry gave away a very contentious free kick outside the box. He appeared to win the ball fairly. Even if the free-kick was contentious, it still didn't excuse the defending. Cahill is brilliant in the air, yet was allowed to easily get his head to the ball. City finished the half in a disappointing manner, a lead Everton generally didn't deserve, but were allowed a chance on goal and took it!

City had to change shape with the withdrawal of Steven Ireland through injury, and we didn't look good. SWP came on the right, moving Johnson out left and Bellamy through the middle. It didn't work! Johnson was having some success on the right, being both footed he made life very difficult for Baines, but we didn't really utilise his ability on the left. RSC came on and gave us a focal point, but at that point, the midfield was simply non existent. Vieira's introduction came too late, we needed his ability to keep the ball and pass. I thought Barry was exceptionally poor.

City tried to pile on the pressure, with little result, good chances going amiss with poor finishing and no luck. It was inevitable that Everton would score a second on the break and that sealed city's fate, confirming City 1st loss at home since last Easter.

Once again we were undone by a side that came to disrupt and be overly physical. I thought Everton were pretty disgraceful in their conduct, using a tactic that is popular amongst lower level sides. Disruptive football, a lot of low grade fouls, time wasting, diving and arguing, this conduct highlighted by actions of their Manager who was more than happy to join in the time wasting charade. City lost momentum in the game because of this tactic, something that happened against Stoke as well. Everton are very similar to likes of Stoke and Blackburn, but with the ability to pay 15 million for one player. They were of course allowed to deploy this tactics with the aid of weak refereeing performance from Walton. His performance was deeply suspect, allowing Everton to get away with a great deal and not punishing players enough to limit them. City don't cope well with this pressure from these low-grade tactics and it's something other lower-level sides with be keen to implement when they face us.

An ultimately disappointing result and performance leaves a bitter taste after what appeared to be a turning point at Fulham. The Wigan performance will have to be of the highest calibre. Adebayor should be ready for a return, without much competition! To finish we an over used football cliché, 'it's a must win.'

Tactical Triumph for Mancini!

2010-03-23T15:02:00.005Z

Unfortunately I was not able to see the Fulham match on Sunday, hence the lack of match reports. But I did manage to catch the extended highlights of what appeared to be the most complete performance we have seen under Mancini! ( Although i wasn't too impressed with the MOTD coverage which showed the game to be much closer than it actually was!)

What i felt Mancini got right, was the inclusion of a revitalised Vieira over the ferocious De Jong. This move allowed the midfield to change focus. Neither players are 'defensive mids' as some would have you believe! Both clever players, lacking in pace, but able to create with good passing and general reading of the game! We didn't altogether dominate the middle, but we had the quality in possession to make the difference!

With two players on the wing, equally able to cut in or run the line, it makes City's offensive threat extremely hard to defend against. Opposition full backs through out the league will struggle to deal with a player who can take the ball both ways!

Another plus point would be RSC, who luckily only had cramp last match, and not another injury! TLDORC has some good analysis on RSC role in the game and interesting comparison with Adebayor (who is still banned!) Ade tends to drift out wide, and often leaves us without a target in the box, as Tevez sits deep and plays off him. So having service on the flanks becomes almost redundant. But RSC is a natural target man, and as shown with his goal, has the instinct, to be in box at the right time . He provides a real focal point for the attack, and has the ability beyond a lot of big target men, to play people in, or score himself!

Mancini has been juggling the side around, looking for a perfect formula, but he has been interrupted with injuries and suspensions. He has had to adapt quickly and often change things in game, something which he appears to do well. But I think this latest squad we will be one Mancini will use a great deal more of in the next few weeks. Starting with our revenge date Everton on Wednesday! It's balanced, good attacking threat but also solid, a promising sign in our battle for fourth spot!

How to solve a problem like Wright-Phillips?

2010-03-22T21:08:00.016Z

A Contract row between SWP and the City execs has been the focus of recent press reports. The perennial loudmouth Ian Wright, made high profile allegations in the Sun highlighting SWP thoughts and feelings on the matter. Sadly recent performances, including last night, show SWP to be a player vastly out of form and certainly not deserving a starting spot let alone a new contract.

Comeback Legend
On his return, SWP had been greeted by many city supporters with open arms, back when he made his comeback in 2008. City lacked in creative attacking options and former City winger, who was having a difficult time at Stamford Bridge, seemed to be perfect fit. In his first appearance, he scored 2 goals against Sunderland.

But when new signing came in in summer transfer window, an increase in competition saw SWP role diminish and as his niggling injuries continued, he seemed to lose his rhythm and ability to get past a defender. Although we have seen some bright patches from SWP, goals and assist wise, he hasn't looked in great form.

With the signing of promising winger Adam Johnson in the January Window, SWP has slipped down the pecking order. Johnson has shown better form, creativity and success going forward. It looks as though he will continue to stuggle to compete for a starting role, if last nights performance was anything to go by.

Uncertain Future
In the current system, Mancini likes to put wingers at the weaker side. This perhaps hasn't been very popular amongst blues, as players such as shaun and indeed petrov are not really able enough to do the job. But if the player is both footed, like Johnson, it's a great deal more productive. With Bellamy on the opposite flank, they can cut in on full backs, create and score goals.

Therefore, under this circumstance, Wright-Phillips should not be in the press asking for more money, but working his socks off to earn his spot back. There is a great deal at stake for SWP, his immediate future is about getting into Capello's World Cup squad, money quibbles with 2 years left on a current deal is simply a distraction we don't need. We need SWP on full form, for his goals and assists, it's time for him to really perform.

Blast From the Past: Paulo Wanchope

2010-03-17T15:40:00.009Z

Wanchope- the Rubber legged, Costa Rican Genius!

I have noticed someone else has done an article today, but i will post it anyway!

I was actually looking Joe Royle on Wikipedia, reviewing his City career and i noticed a cut away remark about him and his conflict with Wanchope. I had forgotten Royle put Wanchope, the then record City signing at 3.6 million, on the transfer list. Famously Royle labelled his attitude as 'bigger than the club.' Royle wasn't a fan of temperamental footballers (he wouldn't enjoy the current squad), he had already sacked former World Player of the Year, multi coloured boot clad striker George Weah after 7 games! Wanchopes City career was saved by the sacking of Joe Royle, after he failed to keep City in the top flight.

Along came King Kev, who acted instantly to reassure Paulo and keep him on side. Keegan, of course, no stranger to the extravagant player, after he managed the 'unpredictable' but 'brilliant' Faustino Asprilla at Newcastle. Although Wanchope struggled with injury's during Keegan's 1st season, he still scored 12 goals in 15 games in a glorious season that saw City promoted as Champions. I have fond memories of team with a striker line of Anelka, Goater and Wanchope! We were seeing the type of form that 1st made Paulo famous in England, the amazing goal he scored for Derby Vs United. He was unpredictable on the ball, ultimately impossible to defend against in such form. His second season under Keegan wasn't as success. He pretty much missed the season through injury, which was a shame, as city finished 9th that season and qualified for Europe through the Fair play league.

The following season wasn't a very good for City, Wanchope featured more prominently this season, although he couldn't stay fit through the whole thing. Despite 17 goals from Anelka, City were terrible in Europe and in the league finishing 16th. This would be Paulo's last season for the blues, before he set off for Sunny Malaga. He only lasted a season in Spain before heading to a series of clubs in Qatar, Argentina, Japan and finally finishing his career in the USA.

Paulo Wanchope is actually one of my favourite old city players, despite his limited City career. I remember his fantastic skill on the ball, the ability to dribble through players awkwardly and still retain possession. Adebayor is similar is some regard to Wanchope, both players of exciting ability and being widely unpredictable . A career plagued by injury and controversy, he finished prematurely ( he's only 33). But I will always remember the Costa Rican legend for his brilliance.

Here's an overly dramatic tribute to the man himself!

The Season So Far: A new writer at NotB

2010-03-17T12:19:00.007Z

Notes from the editor: I just want to welcome John to the site. Probably the only Korean season ticket holder at City! Here's a brief review of the season so far...

Early Season

City looked to have an excellent transfer period. The signing of Premier League proven players, like Adebayor, Toure, Barry and Lescott, showed intent, that City wanted to be strong enough to challenge the 'Big 4' and at least the top 6. A bright start with consecutive wins (inc. Barca friendly and cup matches) without conceding a goal seemed to prove that City were on the right track. After 9 games, 8 wins and one loss, City seemed to have turned a corner in their development, the success had some people even dreaming of winning Premier league trophy.

But then disaster struck: they recorded 7 consecutive draws. The joint most consecutive draws in the league’s history to date. The most damaging factor was the standard of opponents faced at home, minnows such as Burnley, Fulham and Hull, the result were simply not good enough . Yes, they were not defeats, but the performances were not good enough., surely every city fans will agree with that. The tactics were rigid, big signings didn't perform consistently and midfielders and defenders seemed not functioning. The defensive issue hadn't changed since Hughes took over, with vast investment, some improvement was needed! The result made the Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak and Garry Cook impatient and ultimately, the draw against Fulham forced them in to the process of recruiting a new manager.

The first target for the executive was Guus Hiddink, excellent manager with great track-records. Unfortunately, he was tied with Chelsea owner, Roman Abramovich so they moved on to their second choice, Roberto Mancini. The Italian jumped at the opportunity after a years break from the game, despite knowing that he wasn't their first choice. After some internet rumblings, the 4-3 win against Sunderland spelt the end of the Mark Hughes era and Mancini immediately took the charge.

New Era

Roberto Mancini; although clearly not their first choice, he has great CV, certainly better than previous incumbent. Winning the Scudetto 3 times and several domestic cups, Mancini record isn't a fluke, he has a good knowledge of English football and the game in general. It seemed to be a good appointment for a City team that wasn't functioning. Mancini enjoyed a good start, and changed the emphasis of the side from ultra-attacking side, to a very defensive set up. However, after the ‘honeymoon’ period, the result seemed to be slipping away from him, especially after crashing out in Carling cup and FA cup in space of 3 weeks. The win against Chelsea alleviated Mancini from some pressures in the press, but the match against Sunderland showed City require more improvements to become dominant force this season and secure that 4th spot.

So, will City get their holy grail? Will City change their manager if they we don't secure 4th? Is Jose on the way? Will Robinho ever come back to City? (probably not!)

... only time will tell.

Sunderland 1-1 Manchester City: Match Review!

2010-03-14T22:19:00.005Z

It’s been a long and frustrating wait for City fans to play another games since the impressive victory at Stamford Bridge! So today’s performance was all too predictable anti-climax for the blues! The performance reflected in some regard, the Chelsea game. The 1st half was slow in tempo and manner, as we struggled to get to grips with the opposition, allowing them to score an easy goal! The Second half showing was far brighter and more exciting for the visiting fans, only the lack of quality finishing let down to side.

It was a terrible start to the game, Kenwyne Jones static in the box was able to connect a pretty much-uncontested header, which Given had no chance of saving. City were all over the place, Richards caught out of position several times, Kompany failing in several aerial battles with Jones summed a pretty unmotivated and lacklustre start for the Blues. An early change removing Wayne Bridge for Santa Cruz gave the team more shape, but the supply in the midfield was non-existent. Not a performance worthy of 4th spot let alone a new contract! Bellamy and Tevez looked out of sorts and without a clinical attack, we are pretty toothless.

The break couldn’t come soon enough, it gave time for Mancini to grip the side and send them in the right direction. We came out second half all guns blazing creating several chances. Yet we couldn’t beat an impressive Craig Gordon. For me the biggest disappointment was the quality of finishing and poor decision making. RSC looked like a striker who hasn’t played for a long time. Bellamy was, hard working as ever, but severely lacking quality in his final ball; he tends to blow hot and cold. As does Tevez, whom wastes allot chances and often scores the more difficult opportunities. This is a quality City do lack, and have done for years. We have some great attacking players, with flair and fantastic ability, but we dont have an instinct striker. Watching Spurs on Friday, they weren’t in full form, but when a half chance falls to Pavlyuchenko or Defoe, they tend to score! With City, i don’t know if we have that type of player. Adebayor has that ability, but haven’t found how to get the best out of him regularly!

Mancini made two changes that really worked. Vieira swapping for poor Micah Richards and Adam Johnson for a disappointing SWP. Vieira came into middle of the park and looked a little rusty, but quickly settled in, and was able to orchestrate the ball around creating several chances and holding the ball well. He looked fitter too. Perhaps the extended break was a blessing for him, as he didn’t look great when he was first rushed into action. Adam Johnson came on and gave that creativity we severely lacked and desired. Some good work down the right flank had ‘cletus Ferdinand’ in tatters, something SWP couldn’t really manage in the game. He of course then scored a brilliant goal to draw city level. Johnson a 'Mackem' himself, showed the under performing 'stars' how it's down! It was a great relief to get the draw in the end, but the second half performance warranted so much more.

It’s disappointing result today, as it was a chance to exercise our dominance in challenging for the 4th spot, instead we took our foot off the gas and have made life more difficult for us in future games. We can’t afford many more performances like this; the attitude has to change quickly. After the Chelsea win, with all the talk in the press from the players, the performance came somewhat as a surprise. We didn't look like a side motivated to challenge for 4th spot. It's difficult for the manager too, one match he think he's found the best side, only for the team to look completely lost in the next!

We must do better!

Fulham next ...

NewsOftheBlues returns!

2010-03-13T21:49:00.010Z

Well I decided to return to my blog, mainly through boredom. I stopped writing due to various issues, non city related, but I'm glad to be back.

A great deal has changed since I last posted, Mark Hughes has been dismissed from his post and replaced by Roberto Mancini! City have exited both cups, yet have firmly staked their claim as a real contender for the 4th place. Disappointing results with Stoke have been counter balanced with great win at Chelsea!

We have seen a stark contrast in style's between both managers. Hughes gung-ho approach eventually cost him his job, although very entertaining to see your side completely geared to attack, it didn't satisfy the needs of the club result wise. The inability to create a settled defence in the two season, with vast spending, cut short Hughes City career. So it was no surprise to see Mancini step and place the emphasis on defensive duties. We have looked better organised and we haven't seen a repeat of the 3-3 type performances against Burnley. Mancini has come under some pressure already from fans, I think it's completely unwarranted, but the issue stems from a difference in styles. The defensive approach, didn't sit easy with many fans. I feel the lack of action in the January window, had added to Mancini's problems. Losing a creative asset such as Robinho, who for all his flaws still finished our highest scorer last season. The arrival of Vieira on a free, was a signal of intent for Mancini, the type of player he felt necessary to correct the flaws in the squad. I have been of the opinion that selling Elano and not replacing him, left us very short in the middle of the park. I think with Mariga, as an energetic box to box player, or Gago as a deep lying play maker, it would of made the middle of the park function much more efficiently. Sadly we could not seal either deal in the window, with one consolation prize of young up and coming winger Adam Johnson, who looks an exciting prospect for City and England!

From what I have seen from Mancini, I am excited, Inter looked a far more enjoyable side to watch in his second season there. His transfer dealings were very impressive too. Reaching 4th this season is very important, I think with our current team, we should be able to achieve this, if key players, such as Tevez and Bellamy stay fit and keep in form!

The future is looking bright for City, along with recent announcement for development around the ground, It's a real statement from our owners that this club has to be take seriously! The club wants to compete with the best clubs on the highest level. These developments will go some to way to helping City profitability and the chance to be self sufficient as a business!

Just a brief review, to step back into the blogging world. If you didn't read before, welcome! I am also on twitter, feel free to follow!

Next up Sunderland Away!

Work in progress

2009-10-05T12:09:00.004+01:00

want to write for this blog, leave a message below.

Confident win from the blues: City 3:1 West ham.

2009-09-29T09:54:00.002+01:00

An enjoyable game overall last night, with strong performances through out the squad.

The defence looked allot more solid. Pablo Zabaleta really delivered in the right back role and will make it hard for Richards to get his place back. He won ball, passed well and was disciplined! Bridge was in good form last night also. He looked like the Bridge of old, at Southampton, skipping past players and having a pop at goal himself. Toure and Lescott looked more comfortable together, although again we conceded from a set piece. Carlton Cole was free from the start and was able to move where he pleased. We actually miss Adebayor at set pieces, he has been impressive on the post reaching headers and clearing the ball!

The midfield looked more functional with just Barry and De Jong. NDJ had another stormer, he was pretty much everywhere and was my Motm! Petrov looked like his old self, never one to get stuck in, but lighting quick and has a deadly left boot. He should really have scored a couple, but he should be pleased with his performance, he just creates another headache for Hughes! SWP didn't have the best of nights, not through lack of effort, but it was just one of those games where he failed to finish of a move or take on the last defender. I would like to see Hughes make more use of his subs, especially when we have a 2 goal buffer, we have a big squad and we should use it. Players like SWP, Tevez and Bellamy work very hard and sometimes a rest does them good!

Tevez was in top form against one of his former clubs! It was nice too see the warm welcome he received from their support! He could of really scored 6 goals , but did net 2 for his efforts. His work in providing the link between the middle and upfront will be vital this season, he's a very clever player!
Bellamy once again caused havoc for a poor West Ham defence and was unlucky not to get on the score sheet with a couple of extravagant efforts!

The most pleasing moment from the night is seeing the return of Michael Johnson and a debut for Roque Santa Cruz, who could of. perhaps should of had a debut goal! It will be a while for both to get full fitness, especially Jonno, but it adds more quality in depth to the squad!

West Ham, for me were really disappointing. Some brief moments in the second half, they mustered some decent attacking verve, but defensively they really are weak. It's something you wouldn't expect from a Italian manager. It's early days and they have had a tough start to the season, they are sure to improve. But it was obvious, the difference in ability and confidence on the pitch!

Another solid win at home. The next test is Villa away. I think that could be a tough game that we could really get something out of. Adebayor tribunal is on Thursday and hopefully he will escape with a ban. If not, I'm sure the club will launch some sort of legal battle for victimisation and he will be cleared to play against Villa!

Monday Madness. City take on the Hammers!

2009-09-27T23:23:00.004+01:00

Sorry, not been around for a bit, since the derby really. i was going to write after the cup tie, but it was too dull!

With a decent display in the derby despite missing key attacking players, City can count on a makeshift front force still producing the goods. Pretty impressive!

Well the news from the training ground is Johnson, RSC and Kompany are ready to take jump into the season. RSC looks the most likely to feature at some point tomorrow with City really lacking some height upfront! Johnson apparently needs a few games to get sharp and looked really rusty, which is understandable! But the odd cameo appearance on the bench will ease him back into the game!

The only worry is Stevie Ireland who took a worrying trip to hospital, he was cleared fit, but it's not a nice thing to read. He hasn't been great this season, and i thought it in the second half at Fulham we saw glimpses of the old Ireland!

The biggest project for Hughes at the moment is getting the defence to function better than it has been doing. Despite Givens best efforts, we shipped easy goals at United and at home to Arsenal! Toure and Lescott have to develop an understanding pretty quickly! Zabaleta should get the go ahead in front of Richards, hopefully he can cement his spot in the side!

West Ham are a good side, Zola has them well organised and skillful side. City tend to play better against these sides, being allowed more space and allowed to press forward and do what we do best! It should be a good game and i am confident of a win. 3-1

It Begins: United Vs City, Manchester/Salford Derby!

2009-09-19T20:49:00.008+01:00

Derby day is amongst us once again, Mark Hughes men have their toughest opponents this season, Arsenal obviously an easy win at 4-2! As usual the war of words has started between players, managers and between fans, I’ve already received a few ‘rag texts’ this week! I obviously really hope we win, so I don’t have to keep quiet for a few days after the game, I want to gloat!

It’s a tough task! United have a strong side, albeit without Ronaldo who they will certainly miss. Expect to see Granddad Giggs and Scholes feature at some pint, the ageing twosome are still performing relatively well this season! Hopefully Cletus the slack jawed defender will miss out through injury as they are certainly better team with him in it! Rooney (proven in the Nike advert to be half chimp!) is no doubt the man to watch out for, on form this season, he is sure to be the real threat already netting 5 goals this season!

I am expecting a scrappy game! Hughes knows how to play united, proving an all too difficult opponent at his times at Blackburn. Without star man Adebayor who is actually suspended believe it or not. We need to take a solid approach towards the game to suit the squad available. Taggart slated Hughes for Blackburns methods at the Swamp, but i expect some of that grit tomorrow. With De jong, Bellamy, Tevez, we have the right work ethic to compete and cause problems. De jong and Barry will be key in controlling the middle! As United will certainly be physical!
Taggart and Hughes don’t particularly get on anyway, the press battle between the two has been some what entertaining! The ‘Tevez’ poster is still grinding the gears of Taggart with him outrageously slating City as ‘Cocky’! Oh well!

At the moment City have more injury problems than Michael Owen. But according to the helpful daily training reports on Bluemoon, Tevez HAS trained three days in a row, and I have sneaking suspicion he will play! RSCrock has also started full training, although lacking in fitness, may have a surprise spot on the bench! The defence as norm, the midfield will likely feature Ireland, Barry and De Jong. Ireland really must improve on his season form, providing the link between striker and midfield and show his ability! Without Adebayor we lack that edge up front, but Bellamy did have a fine game Vs Arsenal and should prove a nuisance for the United Defence. A fit Tevez would be a Brucy bonus! I hope Hughes will give Petrov the go ahead, he looked good the other week and has real class, he too has pace which always give defenders a headache! We still have a pretty decent side, we could have the beating of United. Mind you, we won with Vassell and Benjani so anything is possible! Bad knees Benjy could be another one in line for a spot in the squad, although I’m not sure if he is fully fit!

Expect a scrappy game, probably not a great one either. Few goals, if at all! Is a draw on the cards? It wouldn’t be a shocker if it were too happen, but fingers crossed City will come out on top tomorrow 1-0 with a goal from Lescott!

Also, may i say happy Eid, Eid Mubarak: to our Owners for tomorrow!

+ check out TLDORC recent interview on a rag site, yes he's been fraternising with the enemy, but it's a good read!

Life Sentence for Adebayor!

2009-09-14T11:24:00.003+01:00

Patrick Barclay from the times has finally come up with a fair opinion on the matter, not the vast over reaction in the public hanging of Adebayor! We know the Fa will buckle under any media pressure ban him more than needed!

At the end of a beautiful yet bestial weekend that epitomised what is right and wrong with elite English football, we could not celebrate the glorious exuberance of matches such as those won by the Manchester clubs without acrimoniously debating side issues featured on television, notably the dismissal at White Hart Lane of Paul Scholes, which Sir Alex Ferguson and others deemed harsh, and the continued presence of Emmanuel Adebayor on the City of Manchester Stadium pitch after his boot drew blood from the face of an outraged Robin van Persie.

In some quarters of the moral maze, this was not the worst of Adebayor’s afternoon and the apology he made in front of the cameras concerned his expression of joy and relief after scoring a crucial goal for City against Arsenal. That he ran, ignoring missiles, to face the visiting fans who had spent most of the previous season at the Emirates Stadium abusing him was stupid and undignified, no doubt, but I thought this a relatively trivial matter.

Fans lose their right to be offended when they go on the offensive. If they cannot take it — these miserable products of a sick society who consider a player’s family fair game for the vilest insults and yet, because of their numbers, are allowed to continue to serve as football’s audience — they should not give it. Adebayor did say sorry and the implication that he will take care not to repeat an offence for which he was rightly shown a yellow card by Mark Clattenburg should be the end of the matter.

The Van Persie incident was different. The Dutchman accused his erstwhile colleague of a “mindless and malicious stamp” that might have endangered an eye and Clattenburg, when he is shown the video, is expected to confirm that he would have shown Adebayor a red card had he discerned it. This, under the FA’s simplistic disciplinary rules, renders Adebayor liable to a three-match suspension. Thus the same punishment would be applied as if Van Persie had merely had his shirt tugged while running through on goal.

But the rights and wrongs are a lot more complicated than that. Check the video again and you will see that the challenge by Van Persie that preceded Adebayor’s dig was itself a red-card candidate. As was the potentially leg-breaking assault, masquerading as a tackle, for which Scholes was shown his first yellow card against Tottenham Hotspur.

Van Persie is also culpable for shouting profenities at the city fans after he scored, but that hasnt been deemed worthwhile to print in the media! Lets not forget this is the same RVP who kicked FC Thun player in the face, or elbowed Keiran Richardson without punishment or vilification in the press!

Hughes has come out also in defence of Adebayor.

“Emmanuel Adebayor sustained a tremendous amount of personal abuse from the kick-off but strongly maintains that there was no malice intended in the challenge on Robin Van Persie and apologised to him when he hugged him on leaving the field of play at the end of the game.

“The referee had a great view of the challenge from Ade and the one that preceeded it by Van Persie and deemed at the time that neither were worthy of either a yellow or red card.

RVP press statement was a pre meditated move to put Adebayor in the dock, it was in far too much detail for a man who was facing the ground when the incident took place! Adebayor will get a deserved ban, but i hope Arsenal will be punished and RVP for their part in spoiling what was a great victory for a weakened city side!

City crush Arsene's whingers!

2009-09-13T10:33:00.006+01:00

Great result, odd game, full of goals, controversy and hypocrisy!

City started poorly in both Half's but generally defended well until we went 4 up! Richards and Bridge looked very impressive! Lescott despite having a Dunne moment played pretty well making some top well timed tackles. Kolo once again the best at the back!

Nigel De Jong at last got a chance to shine this season. He is a top class player and provides the necessary grit that we haven't yet had this season. The ball winning skills of him and Barry should be treasured by Hughes! Steven Ireland was again anonymous, coasting through the game leaving us 1 short in the middle! When he was finally removed, City finally found it's best shape!

Bellamy had a stunner and should of been MOTM! He lacks the final ball to be really effective on the left as a winger, but his work rate and effort made him undroppable! As soon as he shifted through the centre, we looked better organised and balanced! Everyone has mentioned Robinho struggling to get in the team, well i think Ireland will struggle, he has yet to perform this season.

Arsene Whinger once again relies on stats to finish another game in a ungracious manner, despite Arsenal not troubling Given at all in the 1st half! Perhaps he should of set his team to go out and win instead of getting one over Adebayor. Ade was marked with about 4 players on average and victim to the continued barrage of low grade fouls that Whinger claimed United are guilty for, but never Arsenal. I thought their fans were also disgraceful, their conduct towards their own players has always been poor. Deeply unpleasant taunts on Adeabyor all game, it was quite amusing at the time to see him sprint the pitch. The reaction from the away fans was simply out of order. When Robin Van Persie scored and ran to city fans screaming 'F*ck Off' i didn't notice anything been thrown at it him, will he get punished for that?

He probably did stamp on Van persie who took him out with a reckless and malicious tackle. I thought it odd that he saw so much of the incident with his head pointed towards the ground! I expect the witch hunt to go on for sometime, and perhaps Ade won't get away with it like Rooney or Ronaldo! Clattenburg was stood in front of the challenge, so expect the Fa to ignore it's own laws and have another trial by TV. Van persie has shown himself to be classes hypocrite, with a provocative press release and his conduct on the pitch with the fans and Adebayor! Not a great way to end a great victory, we don't really want to lose Ade for a few games either. hopefully RSC and tevez will be back soon! City gave a strong performance and took our chances well! Great confidence boost for the united game!

Manchester City Vs Arsenal: Preview

2009-09-12T10:36:00.004+01:00

Quick preview of today's game:

Today's game will be the hardest test to date this season, with city recording all their wins with the lower achieving sides of the league! Disappointing news coming from the international break, Tevez and robinho both unavailable through injury although robbie might make the bench! Having read reports from training this week, it appears Hughes will pick a midfield trio of De Jong, Ireland and Barry supporting the wings with Bellamy and SWP and of course fronted by ex Arsenal Adebayor! Not ideal, being without our strongest line up for the biggest task of the season so far, but we should still present a quality side!

The defence with be under most scrutiny today being the weakest link in the side so far this season, despite not conceding! Given has been impressive this season and will hope to have a little more support from a more settled and skilled back line! We have to expect big performance from Lescott today along side Toure as we cant afford to have any defensive slip up against quality team like Arsenal!

Two ex gooners will have something to prove today after being sold by Wenger! The much maligned Adebayor left Arsenal( despite a fantastic scoring record) the fans got on his back and he felt it time to leave! He's scored a goal a game so far this season and will hopefully continue today. Toure spent around 7 years at Arsenal and moved to City for a fresh start. He has been most impressive this season and we need him to establish a strong partnership with lescott very quickly! With both players having something to prove, it goes for arsenal as well. Wenger will want to justify his decision to sell two top class players and not replace them.

The game should be entertaining at least! City like to press forward and attack at home, I am happier with De Jong and Barry sitting back as it allows Ireland to play his best game! Ireland will gave to be on top form today to combat Fabregas who unfortunately returns to the Arsenal side! I can't really judge today's game, but it certainly will be difficult for us. A draw would represent a decent result at this stage of the season! But we could quite easily lose this if we are not sharp!

Fink Tank Predictor:

Renne jump on the Fifa Bandwagon!

2009-09-08T09:32:00.006+01:00

It's been all go this week on English football, Platini will be rubbing his hands together. It's coincidental it's three French clubs that have caused trouble for the premier league! City have apparantly been reported by Renne over the deal to sign defender Jérémy Hélan ( who looks a very good player!)

Manchester City were drawn into the threat of a transfer window ban last night, as the French club Rennes declared that their signing of the prodigious young defender Jérémy Hélan had been unlawful and presented a more clear-cut case for reprisals from Fifa than Chelsea's move for Gaël Kakuta.

Hélan, now 17, who captained the French Under-16 side a year before Kakuta and is another product of the nation's famed INF Clairefontaine academy, was a player Manchester United wanted to buy in 2008 before the French club dug in their heels over his departure. City then moved in, to the indignation of the Ligue 1 side, who insist that Hélan's pre-contract agreement, which he signed as a 13-year-old, tied both the player and the club to a contract if he represented France at youth level.

Chelsea have been severely punished for their deal with Gaël Kakuta, Lens had made a complaint at the time of the deal, which has only come to fruition now. But why has it then, taken Renne 6/7 months to complain or indeed Le harve with United, it suggests to me at least that these teams are jumping on the recent media to gain more income! Or perhaps we truely are at fault!

It was then that City moved in – without any contact according to Dreossi, who insisted yesterday that the ITC provided by the French football federation for the player was delivered in error. The player arrived at City in February.

This in particular bothers me and may be a potential flaw in the Lens complaint with Chelsea as well. City, it states received the international trade certificate (ITC) which suggest the deal was cleared correctly! If it was in fact delivered in error, can the blame be put on city, but instead surely on the French football federation and Renne!

I don't know enough to comment sufficiently, i can only speculate. But i think allot more will come of this int he coming weeks, more complaints from French clubs and legal challenges. I think the chelsea deal will also be reopened if they present a legal case, which they should do! It all looks a bit of a mess! I'd prefer it if we didn't have a transfer ban!

City have denied offering inducements to player this morning on BBC radio Manchester!

City told BBC Radio Manchester that no inducements were offered to Helan to break a contract with Rennes and that the transfer was totally legal.

What is the value of Garry Cook to city?

2009-09-06T21:00:00.007+01:00

Cook has become some what an enigma at city, often vocal in his opinions on club matters (good and bad). He has become the main man in terms of City’s development on the ground! He has a fondness for marketing jargon ….buzz words. But with his recent bad press, what value does he actually have to the club?

Cook spent 12 years working for Nike in mostly the USA before taking his role as chief exec under Thaksin replacing the bean counter Alastair Macintosh! In January 08 he was made ‘President’ of the Nike Jordan brand, one of Nike biggest brands, it’s an extremely impressive role! Cooks ability is in Marketing, spreading Brands in the global market! This is what he brings to the club. He has great pedigree in the business and that should stand the club in good stead. Cook already attracted another marketing manager from Nike, ex Arsenal winger Brian Marwood along with David Pullen the marking manager who has a glittering CV in TV, Magazine brand growth and Chris Kay from Fallon (one of the top ad agencies around). So the majority of the City exec team are from marketing/ad background that has to reflect in the policies of the club!

Much or Cook’s rhetoric reflect his background (obviously), But does this translate well into football. Recent comments from Richard Dunne have exposed the lack of leadership at the top and perhaps reflects the evolution of the club if it is to become a Global brand!

"All he wants is big-money players,

He doesn't understand the core loyalty of the club and where it begins.

For him, I was probably a bit of a nuisance. I found out things that were going on behind my back and I wouldn't speak to him. Every time I came around he probably felt a bit uncomfortable.

It just needed people to be honest with me. I was getting phone calls from people saying Garry Cook was trying to sell me behind my back, two months after me going to him and saying if he has any problems to come and deal with me.

I'm disappointed with people who say one thing and then do the other. I'm not a baby, I'm not going to cry if the club want to sell me, but just don't do it behind my back."

These are worrying remarks from Dunne as it doesn’t reflect well on the club or Cook who in the words of Michael Jordan

“demonstrates tremendous leadership in the global marketplace”

Those comments don’t reflect what has transpired at the club. Cook has long seen Dunne a part of the old city. He has discussed in length ending the ‘typical city’ mindset from players and fans and saw Dunne as a part of that! In China he gave some indication of desire for change,

“No disrespect, Richard Dunne doesn’t roll off the tongue in Beijing.”

Dunne isn’t marketable player, he doesn’t have a global image that the club can use to sell itself. The club pursuit of household names or ‘marquee signings’ is the key to the clubs image progress. Cook would argue there is no room for sentimentality and he acted on behalf of the club to help it grow. City is a brand that he is in charge of spreading globally to boost our income and success, the players are simply a commodity in Cooks game plan! The treatment of Dunne shows Cook is taking an aggressive policy in managing the club, ruthless but he would argue necessary approach if we are reach our aims quickly as possible! However it should have been dealt with in a more respectful manner, Cook and the club have come under some degree of scrutiny over transfer policy and actions like this represent a lack cohesion and respect from executive! Cook insistence on retaining the traditions of the club have been neglected in this instance! The club cannot not afford to be too ruthless, there has to be some balance, this deal could have been dealt with far more diplomatically, which is a weakness for Cook. Last season Kaka deal ended in Cook blaming the Milan elite of wasting City’s time. I thought this to be an ill advised move especially for a marketing man! Diplomacy and respect are needed in a business where people are the commodity, it reflects well on the club and it’s dealings!

Cook talks a good talk and has the right acumen and skill to drive to club to a position where the owner want us to be in! He will feel he has take whatever steps that are necessary to achieve this, if that means stepping on a few toes on the way to the top, then so be it! It’s not the most pleasing of policy’s and something we don’t want to hear about in the press. Hopefully this is an aberration and the club gets it act together and makes sure it doesn’t happen again. Cook is the man to lead us forward, as he is running the club on a day to day basis. What he has brought to the club already looks impressive! The development of the ground, club website and shop, Umbro deal and the aggressive marketing campaign ie the infamous 'WELCOME TO MANCHESTER' poster with Carlos Tevez! It's all very impressive and hopefully more is to come, with the academy's abroad, more lucrative pre season tours, and more developments of club facilities.

City should be in good hands and if Cook is good at his job, Dunne type incidents won’t happen again!

England Duty

2009-09-05T11:40:00.006+01:00

This season City are well represented in the England side. Lescott, Barry, SWP and of course Bridge(almost forgot) are in the squad to face Slovenia today! This a very good showing from City and we should be looking to add more. I would hope Micah Richards has a significantly better season and recaptures the form than initially got him into the England squad. Also Nedum Onouha, arguably the better defender of the two is also eligible for England. It's unclear yet if he will bide his time or join his country of birth Nigeria. But as U21 captain he impressed highly at international level, i hope he chooses England because he is still young and can take advantage of an ageing senior squad back line!

As for today's game, Bridge is almost certain to be on the Bench as a replacement for Cashley! But there is a good chance that Lescott could be in line to start with Terry as Cletus Ferdinand is still injured, although he does have competition from Upson!

Barry has become a regular in the England side providing the right compliment to either Lampard or Gerrard who have, so far failed to be a productive force together! Swp could also be in line for a start, with his only competition coming from Aaron Lennon. So City could well be well represented in the starting line up tonight!

City this season have a real strong English core, which i think will be vital in providing the right atmosphere and mindset in a international squad. It's good to see city players holding prominent roles in the England side!

The likes of Tevez and Robinho will be battling it out (vs each other) during the international break. Bellamy has been recalled as captain to Wales. Martin Petrov and Shay Given are all involved in International fixtures!

Cheers Dunney!

2009-09-02T23:00:00.004+01:00

Richard Dunne has finally had his deal to join Aston villa confirmed!
TLDORC gives a pretty good summation of Dunnes city career and how the club has developed, perhaps beyond Dunne, it was a good time for him to move on! I won't repeat what has been written, but I'm sure there will be plenty of Dunne article on forums and blogs alike!

He has been a loyal servant to the club and has been a rock during some difficult periods in the clubs history. We have seen a decline in Dunne's form and reliability in the past two seasons. Clearly Hughes noticed and reinforced with two premier league heavyweights. There was little chance of him competing with Toure and lescott of even Onouha who excelled last season while those around him failed to impress. City are challenging at a different level this season and simply didn't fit the new model!

We will next see Dunne in a Villa shirt which will be an odd site, i hope he gets the reception he deserves as a genuine City legend. A new start for him may refresh his career, but hopefully not enough to stop City putting a few past him.

Cheers Dunney!

Has the deal been Dunne?

2009-09-01T16:55:00.004+01:00

As the transfer window finally shuts. Richard Dunne's future still remains in the balance! It still appears to be a disagreement over a loyalty payment to Dunne on leaving the club. He has agreed personal terms and passed a medical at villa, but there has yet to be any confirmation! Sky can not confirm anything as of yet!

City again are involved in another after the window deal, hopefully it wont last as long as the Benjani saga!

Petrov has remained at the club, which is very pleasing, Hughes made the right choice keeping him. It keeps quality in depth that city will need this season!

EDIT:

Andy Burton the transfer man on Sky sports news believes the Dunne deal has been completed in time, but it yet to be confirmed!

No Bentley Deal

2009-09-01T14:08:00.005+01:00

Brian Swanson from Sky Sports News has reported the Club have officially stated Bentley will not be joining the club in this window on either a loan or permanent deal. We have finished our transfer deals for the window!

With little news on Petrov as well, i would hope Hughes would hang on to him at least until January. Although there are some reports he is already in London!

Benjani has been linked with Sven's Notts county on a loan, which would be a great move for them, he should score for fun at that level!

Tal Ben Haim Leaves the Club!

2009-09-01T00:26:00.007+01:00

So Ben Haim, one of Hughes 1st signings at the club has departed ways after what can only be described as one disappointing season. He spent half of the last term away on loan at Sunderland but did little to impress. Having said that, it doesn't make him a bad player, his form at Bolton brought him to chelsea on a Bosman under Mourinho! With the likely hood of 1st team football at Pompey and their physical nature as witnessed on Sunday should suit his style of play! Hughes has used him a fair bit during the pre season, perhaps to put him in the shop window, as city fans have been expecting him to leave for some time.

Who's next?
Benjani's proposed move to Hull seems to have collapsed, Sky suggest personal terms, but perhaps Hull despite their lack of luck in the transfer market, are not willing to gamble on a player who's knee's are at crumbling point! I would expect one or two premier league sides (pompey) to be in for the experienced striker before tomorrows deadline!

Petrov is still very much linked with move to join 'arry' at Spurs! He hasn't featured once this season after an outburst during international duty. Hughes has preferred the skill lacking bellamy rather than petrov as a robinho replacement! I wouldn't sell to rival like spurs this season, why reinforce their squad and leaving us without a team member who can cross!(although it appears just one decent cross in 90 mins seems to be enough to earn the managers praise.)

So would Bentley be involved in the deal? Bentley the spurs flop, who promises allot but often delivers very little. They call him 'Becks' at spurs. I presume it's down to his inability to take any on, rather than his passing, which isn't near good enough to be compared with Beckham's! Bentley obviously peaked under Hughes while at Blackburn, so Hughes might be tempted to reunite with another of his former players! He can at least take a decent corner! He 'apparently' ( so my lawyers told me to say) enjoys the 'big time' fancies himself as the next best thing, Hughes can obviously control him and take him down a peg or two! He has decent passing ability and adds an all be it over rated set piece specialist!

Dunne's deal still remains in the balance! It's not clear what the hold up is, although some press report his asking for a bonus to compensate missing his ten year testimonial. Hopefully this untrue, the modern premier league player doesn't need a testimonial therefore doesn't need a bonus for service despite how long they have been at the club. It would be a major move for Dunne, relocating his family, there is a lot to take into account. There is still a strong chance he will remain at least until the January window!

So departures are certainly going to be more likely than arrivals. There are no solid rumours flying around about big last min deals, so all we can do it wait it out!

Portsmouth 0:1 Manchester City: Good form continues...

2009-08-31T00:59:00.004+01:00

Another Away wins equalling last season’s dismal record already! An obvious difficult tie today disregarding our previous Fratton park form, Pompey had strengthened their squad quickly before the game and was an unknown quantity.

City took the game in their stride and outcome somewhat mirrored the efforts Vs Wolves. Dominating the 1st half and scoring yet again from what i had come to regard as rare, set piece! Adebayor is looking the World class striker that we have desired, 3 goals in 3 has made him an instant hit!

Hughes made one change to the squad today, resting Robinho for a more workman like performance from Bellamy. Hughes was impressed with Bellamy i was less so, one decent cross in the game was about all he could muster, his final ball was generally poor and one dimensional in terms ability in taking on players (it’s simply pace), he also offered very little defensively. We didnt look more solid with him on, or a better attacking side. I was surprised (well maybe not!) either Petrov or Robinho didnt replace him to achieve that elusive 2nd goal!

Once again Steven Ireland failed to get to grips with his new role, started his passing game poorly but improved. Yet he is still not fulfilling the needs of the side in the middle, positional sense and effectiveness! We didnt even see him surge forward often today, something he is so good at, i find it really disappointing that we not getting the best out of him. If Elano had performed like that last season, he certainly would have been dropped and slated on fan sites and forums! It’s time to change things around and either use Steven to his best ability or swap with De Jong!

Portsmouth looked pretty toothless upfront today, arguably best attacking options were sat on the bench. In 90 mins they only really challenged Given once with a poor hit from ex-Preston striker David Nugent! Michael Brown claimed they deserved a draw, which i simply can’t agree with considering how limited they were in the final third. Brown was lucky to stay on the pitch, he must of committed of 7 fouls without getting booked, he perhaps should of been followed off the pitch by Richard Hughes who also seemed to deem this a chance to kick City stars off the park. The refereeing in general was very poor today, some really bizarre decision not least the Micah Richards goal which clearly wasn’t off side, with Barry in no way interfering with play. If only Fifa would allow the most effective form of refereeing with goal line technology. Goals are more valuable than ever in the modern game with the amount of cash available. Ignoring what essentially would make the game fairer simply doesn’t make sense to me!

But overall we looked pretty good, Lescott had an OK debut a couple or errors but looked decent along side the ever present Toure. Tevez worked extremely hard and will hopefully have more time to work with Robinho as they could prove very exciting. Barry was once again the midfield core and our season will revolve around him! The international break hopefully won’t upset our good start to the season as City now have Arsenal and then United, two really tough games that will give us a real good gage at the level of squad development into a top side! I thought both sides looked very beatable on Saturday and hopefully we will take full advantage!

Portsmouth Vs Manchester City:

2009-08-30T09:43:00.008+01:00

Toady's game will be the unveiling of City's third kit from umbro! It should also be a day where City equal last season away win record! Hughes likely to field the same side that feature in the cup tie midweek, with pitch time being vital for the side to gel as quickly as possible!

Portsmouth have been poor this season and have seen a mass Exodus of quality players leave the club. But the arrival of new owner the Peter Kay Esq Dr sulaiman Al Fahim ( he isn't a Dr either.) Pompey have had an influx of 5 players including ex-blue Michael Brown! So they will be a rather unknown quantity today. City should not fear today game, in previous season we have struggled at fratton Park. This season has seen city already banish some daemons and hopefully we will have the strength and character to really put this game to bed.

Hughes has spoken about our striking ability, we are ready to really punish a side. With both Tevez and Adebayor already registering their scoring accounts, we need Robinho to find some confidence in front of goal. Robinho has been under some unfair criticism this season ( a very small minority), but last match vs Palace, he played with a great work rate and was unlucky not to score. He is a very unselfish player and is great holding on to the ball and bringing it forward, something some fans take for granted.

My biggest worry is the strength of the midfield. With Ireland playing a more refrained deeper role in the middle, his game is restricted to something he isn't suited too. In the Palace game we saw the best and worst from Ireland, most of the game he struggled to match Palace physically. But as soon as he breaks ranks and burst forward, he's completely different player, and that's the Ireland we want to see.

Fink Tank:

So The odds suggest City are either set for a draw or a win, which is indeed pleasing. I am holding out for a few goals today. 3-0!

Dunne in Talks with Villa

2009-08-28T13:23:00.007+01:00

'RICHARD Dunne is poised to complete his £6m move to Aston Villa.

The Blues' longest-serving player and captain was at Villa Park on Thursday night completing a deal which ends his nine-year stay at City.'

We have to wait and see what happens in the next 24h as i have read mix reports from City and Villa about how far this deal has developed! It was inevitable he was set to leave after the arrival of Lescott, but it Will certainly a sad day when he leaves as he is a genuine City hero!

Ex city star and defensive partner of Dunne, Sylvain Distin has moved clubs today from Pompey to Everton, which is obviously the dunnsters former club!

More to follow!

Crystal Palace 0:2 Manchester City: Cup result at last!

2009-08-28T13:02:00.004+01:00

City have put last season poor cup run behind them with a good win at an impressive young Crystal Palace side. The game was hard thought and it was city's superior finishing quality that eventually won us the game!

Crystal Palace played the game from start to finish at a high tempo, and playing decent football too. The well known youngster Victor Moses gave a disappointing Micah Richards a very hard time! Clyne also looked impressive going forward but was stretched a few time by a hard working Robinho!

City worked hard but didn't go through all the gears. Hughes was right to pick a full side, it's a new side that needs to play together. It's not much more effort with City not being in European competition! Joleon Lescott look decent in his debut although looked like he had never played with team before (obviously), but his ability on the ball is impressive! I look forward to him developing a partnership with Toure who continues to impress.

It was great to see Tevez get on the score sheet, i just didn't expect it to be a head! SWP finished well to put us in rhe links well with Adebayor!

The biggest worry for the side is in the middle of park. The main culprit is Steven Ireland. When Ireland was able to press forward and attack he was impressive, but sat deep in the middle he is simply a passenger, physically not good enough to do the role. We simply are not solid enough in the middle. If we look at spurs the form side at the start of the season, Huddlestone partners Palacios allowing the flair players around them to do their business, but with both player being capable of going forward as well as defending. I would like to see De jong take the role for the time being.

Hopefully we have a good cup run this season, possibly win something! Portsmouth next, another TV game so hopefully we can impress with some good football again. Our breaking ability with Tevez, Robinho and Adebayor is very impressive!

Lescott Is a Blue ( city blue)!

2009-08-25T23:56:00.003+01:00

I had given up for the night, but the Deal has been confirmed on the OS!

From Mark Hughes:

"I am absolutely delighted to welcome Joleon to Manchester City. He is an England international who has proved his Premier League ability during his time at Everton," said the Blues boss.

"In bringing Joleon to the Club I feel we have recruited a defender of the very highest quality. He can play in a number of defensive positions, and I’m positive he will make a significant impact for us."

I looks like the papers did get it right, some one obviously sneaked an early sms out to a Journo!

Joleon has also broken his silence and expressed his delight at signing for city

Lescott said:

"I'm over the moon to get the move completed, and I'm looking forward to training with the lads as I've not trained for a few days.

"I know some of the lads already - I'm close friends with Shaun, we've played against each other since we were 16 or 17. The way this club is moving on, I'm really looking forward to being a part of that."

He will be unveiled tomorrow at a scheduled press conference for 11. presumably with Sylvinho who trained with the squad today!

Lescott Deal Done?

2009-08-25T20:14:00.005+01:00

We await the announcement from the OS tonight, but the Telegraph have shot head and have been 1st to claim that the deal is finally complete after 24 hour legal discussion over payments.

City had hoped to unveil Lescott officially at a press conference on Tuesday afternoon, but talks relating to fees owed as a result of negotiations resulted in the planned unveiling being shelved.

Manager Mark Hughes is now due to hold a press conference on Wednesday lunchtime, however, alongside Lescott and free transfer signing Sylvinho.

I will be keeping an eye out for the SSN yellow bulletin bar for confirmation!

Allot has been discussed and written about with the transfer deal, but the deal being finalised will come as relief for City, so we can get on with our business! I have been reading all day that City have over paid for Lescott, but i disagree. The fee is indeed large, but his value to the club is very high! Having a left sided centre back is of vast importance, we never replaced Distin! He is a top quality player, who can play numerous roles, grab a goal and hopefully form a great partnership with Kolo. City fans could become blasé over the fee's paid for players with our wealth, but we have needed to take these expensive strides to establish our selves as a threat in the league! The club have had to find a balance in terms of fee we are willing to pay, knowing that it is certainly going to be over the odds. Were paying these fee's now will basically be cost effective if we our to be successful. The lescott deal is steep, but certainly worth it!

We've Got Sylvinho!

2009-08-24T16:51:00.004+01:00

Hughes has snatched up ex Arsenal and Barcelona left back Sylvinho! I am very pleased with this signing, he was extremely impressive in last season Champions League final and will provide a great back up for Wayne Bridge! A well seasoned left back who has experience at the top level and importantly in the premier league! With the Lescott deal set to be complete any time today, City should now have a complete back line. Next step will be the departures!

Garrido is obviously one player who looks to be on his way out! Hughes decided to use Zabaleta at left back than rather pick him vs Barcelona! He will probably head back to Spain. Tal Ben Haim is another who should be on his way out, spent half of last season on loan, i wouldn't be too surprised if Blackburn make a move for him! And of course Richard Dunne, the legendary city centre back will now be marginalised by the imminent arrival of lescott, he has already stated his desire for 1st football before the World cup. He is sure to have a few suitors in the league.

(image from mcfc.co.uk)

Lescott all but signed!

2009-08-22T23:48:00.005+01:00

Announcements today suggest Joleon Lescott is ready to sign in the next 24 hours, presumable as the FA office opens after the weekend, we can assume the deal is all but done.

The deal will come as an obvious blow to Moyes ambition this season, he already has a small squad, but he is now able to reinforce with several players, due to the over inflated fee they will receive for Joleon! There is some rumour that Everton are to complain about an illegal approach from city, but i see this as mostly hot air, it was Everton in fact who 1st published the bid on their Website!

This is a major coup for Hughes and at an important time. Two games into the season, city has generally started well, but there is still a key flaw at the back and perhaps in the midfield. Richard Dunne was less than impressive Vs Wolves and will struggle to get into the side with the arrival of Lescott. There is also great competition for places form Onouha who was arguably the best of the batch last season and the returning Vincent Kompany who is capable of playing both in midfield and centre back. Dunne will want to play 1st team football, which will become increasingly unlikely at city, so is he set to leave the club?

With Lescott set the be the 7th major signing of the season do city have any thing else lined up to surprise the fans like last season with Robinho!

‘And then there are the ones that got away, who did not fall under the spell of City’s wealth. Xabi Alonso was not interested, preferring Real Madrid (City will pursue a passing central midfielder once they land Lescott)’

Guillem Balague made a passing comment on his blog that Hughes was chasing Xabi Alonso who eventually joined Real Madrid from Liverpool, but he is still interested in signing a passing midfielder. Perhaps Hughes 1st signing from abroad this transfer window could be a top quality midfielder!
Today press reports have linked the club with ageing Argentine star Juan Román Riquelme, but i can’t see that happening. Also linked are Real Madrid winger Arjen Robben, along with two other Dutch stars Vander Vaart and Sneijder. All three would do nicely! With only ten days left in the window competition for top player will be at an all time high, with Big clubs concealing their deal from City for as late as possible. The fear being City could financially trump any club, like we did with the Robinho deal!

What is clear is City are moving in the right direction, Hughes has brought premier league experience with seasoned pros who are at the top of their game! Lescott would be a great addition, the fee is high, but of course less than what united paid for Ferdinand! The addition of a left-sided centre back is the biggest blessing; we failed to replace Sylvan Distin in that regard! We will be a better and more balances side for it!

Manchester City 1:0 Wolves: Two in two!

2009-08-22T23:09:00.004+01:00

Another win to kick start our season.

Today gave city fans a clear view of where the team stands at the moment in terms of quality. The two half's could not have been more different. Improvements are still needed in the side, but their is also great promise from the side, hopefully with more games and fitness we will see something special this season.

The 1st half could really have finished with City being 4-0, Wolves could not have complained. Efforts from Robinho, Adebayor should have put the game beyond Wolves. The 1st goal was again nicely worked. Great skill on the wing from Robinho, vision from tevez and top class finishing from Adebayor. Gareth Barry impressed, often cleaning up the free ball, aiding City in dominating the half. The flair and ability in our attack should excite city fans, as we look extremely good going forward, hopefully finishing will improve next time!

The Second half saw Wolves make two changes, and start the game with more energy and verve then we had seen in the 1st. Kevin Doyle provided a quality target man that they will need this season. Despite Wolves possession and opportunities, they rarely challenged the city goal, given only forced to make one top save, the cross bar providing the other save. City's defending was poor. i found Dunne in particular to be very unimpressive and distinctly lacking in leadership! Richards positioning towards the end of the game didn't make sense, all too often we were left empty on the right, with even Adebayor having to track back and make tackles. Wayne Bridge has improved greatly this season, he is looking fitter!

The midfield caused worry for me today. It was simply non existent in the second half, Hughes decided to move SWP into the centre leaving the right completely open. Despite some decent touches in the second half, i thought Ireland was very poor, he is not suited to the deeper role, he simply doesn't have the physical presence to impose himself. Hughes should of used De jong allot earlier and removed ireland not Robinho, who was causing problems on the brake late in the game!

The win is of course pleasing, Wolves are well organised, they come to play football, which suits city and allowed us the freedom in the 1st half. It's early days for city, but the signs are promising, the defence should hopefully we stronger with the imminent arrival of Joleon Lescott. I personally would be looking for another midfielder, but who knows if Hughes is still the the market after Lescott!

Two in two, lets hope it can continue!

Manchester City Vs Wolverhampton Wanderers: Sell Out!

2009-08-21T23:05:00.009+01:00

The 1st home game of the season is hours away, i would be more excited if it wasn't for Sultanagate, but I'll cope! The other pies are meant to be pretty good.

After our good start at Blackburn, this is a great chance to kick off our Home form. Wolves are obviously a new side to the premier league this season and should be their for the beating. Mick McCarthy an ex-blue (before i was born) has already dismissed City's chances of top 4 season, but then who hasn't! It's something the team have to get used too, every opposing manager will seek to build pressure on city in the build up to games. Mick has tasted the premier league before, but also tasted failure with Sunderland, so expect his side to be well organsised and full of effort! They perhaps lack quality in depth, but they will be buoyed by their 1st win of the season midweek.

After the confidence boosting win at the Camp Nou on Wednesday, expect to see a city side in full spirit backed by a sell out crowd (despite the balti pies). Tevez has declared he is ready to play, so hopefully he can partner Adebayor if both are fit, Bellamy likely to be the fall guy!

Is Hughes likely to field the same tactic that he used away from home? With the squad available, he has numerous options open to him. Hughes has to get used to squad rotation. Martin Petrov staked his claim on Wednesday, Nigel De Jong has yet to feature after an impressive international appearance for Holland. It's going to be interesting to see who eventually fall into our best 11.

Fink Tank Predictor

The prediction for tomorrow is 3-0 to city, very confident! As with the Blackburn game, i am going against the Fink tank as city's new side changes the whole balance, previous form can be ignored.

(pic from MCFC.co.uk/)

Barcelona Friendly and other news...

2009-08-19T19:45:00.004+01:00

With City not featuring in European cup competitions this season, one extra game, especially of this calibre is not too much of a worry! Playing the European Champions provides city with a good early season test, and also a chance for Hughes to try some squad rotation. There is little to report on tonight's game, but rather a chance to enjoy a game with no pressure and see how quickly the squad can gel. Hughes is likely to give Mcgivern and Weiss and other fringe players a run out and perhaps brief cameos from star performers.

The game is free to watch from the MCFC site tonight, It kicks off at 9pm UK time!

Enjoy!

Today's news...

Premier League
The Premier League transfer window has been extended to close at 5pm on Tuesday 1st September, due to the Bank holiday at the end of August, this obviously great news for Everton and any other team trying to conceal their targets from City.

Lescott's bad attitude!

Yes it finally happened, Moyes has used Jolean as the scape goat for Everton poor start. Sky sports earlier today reported Lescott was not training with the Everton 1st team, with Everton refusing to comment on the matter. Moyes has now confirmed he is being left out of their Europa League tie with Sigma Olomouc.

Joleon's attitude has not been right these past days, he has disappointed me and he has disappointed his team-mates. He is not in the right frame of mind,

He wasn't (right) before Saturday's game and he told me that. But I took the risk and chose to play him. But now the time is right to leave him alone until things are sorted, and hopefully that will be after the deadline.

Despite this, he was one of Evertons better players in the Arsenal tie! This is yet another twist in Moyes bitter feud with city and now his own player(for now!) Moyes has branded city as disgraceful and now slammed his defender for his attitude, who fault is it next?

Pride comes before a fall: Moyes!

2009-08-16T12:34:00.006+01:00

David Moyes recently blasted the 'disgraceful' bullying tactics of Mark Hughes over the desire to sign Lescott from Everton. It's a bizarre complaint from a manager who has done himself or his team no favours with this arrogant stance. Moyes has made it all about himself,

I make the decisions, they have not talked to me and the player has been consistently told he is not for sale.

I'm not sure the board will agree with him. His complaint being Hughes didn't ring him up over the transfer deal,but instead got in touch with the powers that be in the Everton hierarchy, as in modern football, managers don't do the negotiating it's done by professional at the club ie, Garry Cook and co...Hughes has stated this in public, city went through the right channels making a bid for Lescott which we and any one else are in their right to do, it's now clear the player wants to leave Everton. It was in fact Everton who made the deal public on their website, so it astounds me where Moyes feels it right to label the clubs dealings as 'disgraceful' or 'lacking in respect.' There has been no tapping up, no underhand dealing, City simply approached Everton for a player during the 'Transfer Window.'

£20 million is roughly what is on the table for Everton if they cash in on Jolean, who is only worth about half of that. It simply doesn't present good business for Everton if Moyes digs his heels in to simply get one over city, while retaining a unhappy player in the squad that upsets the morale and balance of side. He could use that cash wisely to reinforce before the window close with several players. Yesterdays result with come as a huge psychological blow for Everton, we can only speculate if recent events influenced the side, but it's surely not worth keeping a player who does not want to be there.

Roberto Martinez came with a measured response to the exit of Lee Cattermole from Wigan

The fee is a good one, it is far more than the club paid for him last year and the third highest in Wigan's history.

The speculation about Lee has refused to go away over the last few weeks and this has been very unsettling for him and for our players.

It became clear over the past days having spoken to Lee that he wanted to leave and it is very disruptive to the group when a player is clearly unhappy,

Moyes could learn a thing or two from Martinez....

Blackburn Rovers 0:2 Manchester City: Good start.

2009-08-16T11:01:00.006+01:00

A very satisfactory start to the new season. The bonus of an away win at Ewood park, which is never an easy ground to visit. It wasn't the best performance from city, but winning 2-0 with a performance like this is big step for city, we would of lost in the same situation last season.

A fantastic start to the game with Adebayor starting finishing a fine move with top class finishing. He was extremely impressive today. His ability to hold of the ball, his movement and passing just shows a player of a completely higher calibre to what we have been used to upfront.

City switched off after the 1st goal, with some less than convincing 1st half displays from the left hand side of defence. Bridge, Dunne and Barry all made errors in the 1st half. Yet on the right Toure and Richards started strongly and were impressive through out the game.

The second half brought through a vast improvement. Bridge started to like himself of old, tackling was better, but his confidence taking on players and going forward was very impressive. Dunne started to dominate the defence, coping better the with physical and aerial threat from the Blackburn side. Shay Given made three top class saves that kept Blackburn out of the game.

Attacking wise, Swp played very well, he was very level headed holding on to the ball waiting for Adebayor in the 1st goal, he had a fine game taking on Warnock.
Robinho had a neat games, some good shooting, we can take for granted his ability to run froward and retain possession.

Bellamy provided the catalyst in the second half, the midfield was not as effective as it should of been, but with his work rate and pace, winning ball and breaking forward encouraged others to raise their game.

It was good to see Tevez take part, he certainly looks the part and nearly got himself on the score sheet. I would like to see him play with Robinho because they should compliment each other in their style. Hughes must also get used to squad rotation. I hoped he would give Petrov a run out yesterday to show he was still in the managers plans.

Steven Ireland was the least impressive yesterday. His midfield presence was almost not existent for most of the game. The middle was generally ineffective the 1st half, with Barry vastly improving in the second half, we were more combative.
Ireland did take his goal well, he kept a cool head and finished confidently, but not the best start from superman! Gareth Barry showed how to win and retain ball in the middle, he improved as the game went on. He will be a key part in our progress this season.

A good start and to settle the nerves. It eases the pressure in the press. Our next target is to sign Lescott and irritate the arrogant Moyes.

(image from MCFC.co.uk)

Blackburn Rovers Vs Manchester City: It Begins....

2009-08-15T10:03:00.006+01:00

This is where it starts. City's new look squad is ready to start the new era at Ewood park, not an easy place to start. Big Sam sides are very physical with David Dunn already warning about kicking us off the park, which is no surprise with Blackburn's brand of football ( even under Hughes!) City will need to show their quality and be up to the physical challenge, Nigel De Jong has to be in the side for today!

The aim today is to start well with an away win, which came such a problem for us last season. It's very important that we get over the mental barrier that hindered our progress. I mentioned earlier about growth in experience and leadership qualities in the side that will hopefully give the side more character. City never came from behind to win a game last season, hopefully we will see a new spirit in the side.

Team News: Despite the obvious injuries to Johnson and Santa Cruz, we should only be sweating on Adebayor's fitness, but i feel he will be fit. Tevez, barry and toure all set to start. What i can't predict is what formation will Hughes go for. Having missed most of the close season i can simply guess at what he will do. Does he go two upfront or use the same tactic from last season? Who partners Toure at the back?..

FinkTank Predictor!

Obviously with our previous form away from home, the odds are against us, but i am personally predicting the a win for City today. 0-2

anyone have 2 tickets spare? thought not!

New Season: blog return!

2009-08-14T21:08:00.008+01:00

The season is about to start tomorrow, i have to returned to restart my blog for a very exciting new premier league campaign.

I have been out of the country for most of the summer, so have managed to avoid the hysteria surrounding city's spending. I was in and around South Africa during the Vodacom challenge and wasn't too impressed with city's defensive displays. Our pursuit of Lescott is extremely necessary to stiffen a leaking back line.

I have been impressed with our transfer signing so far. Hughes has gone for Premier league experienced players with the ability and experience of top level sides. There are risks of course, player don't always settle well at new clubs, Robbie Keane is a prime example of that last season, but hopefully we can settle the squad quickly! I won't go through each signing because it's been done by everyone and repeated everyday on Sky sports news when they have nothing new coming in!

Our general aim this season is to finish as high as possible ( like every other season), but of course with new expectation from the owners, management, and squad. We have players that have tasted success at the highest levels and have the desire to continue decorating their careers, so it must translate to how city perform this season. The pressure is enormous on Hughes, the press and opposing managers want to see city fail. Most pundits have sat on the bench and predicted city finishing top 6, this is of course the absolute minimum. We now have a squad with calibre to challenge a champions league spot this season.

We must start well this season, an away win at Blackburn settles the nerves and dismisses the demons from last seasons woeful away record. It's a chance to see what Hughes has planned for this season, tactics wise and personnel wise. It's also a test of character, we lacked leadership and drive last season. Having influential, spirited players up and down the pitch does a team wonders. The top teams like Chelsea have a wealth of experience and strong leadership in their squad which gives them an edge. We are very much an unknown quantity at the moment, with a generally disappointing friendly run in, it's difficult to predict where the squad is in terms of development. We simply can't afford for the team not to gel quickly, Blackburn will be a real test that i hope were ready for!

Can't wait...