1. France: 79.5 million2. USA: 62.3 million3. China: 57.6 million4. Spain: 56,7 million5. Italy: 46.1 million6. Turkey: 29.3 million7. UK: 29.2 million8. Germany: 28.4 million9. Malaysia: 24.7 million10. Mexico: 23.4 million
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Buffalo Bills Extend Toronto Series, Kill Home-Field Advantage for 5 More Years
If the Buffalo Bills are going to put up their first winning record since 2002 any time in the next five years, they'll have to do it with one fewer home game than everyone else.
That is the implication of the renewed deal on the Toronto series, which slates the Bills to play one home game per year in the Rogers Centre.
"I think that Toronto series has turned into pretty much a joke," Bills center Eric Wood said on "Norton in the Morning" on 97 Rock back in December (via The Buffalo News).
"I think they started it hoping that we'd have a lot of fan support in Toronto. We have none. I mean, it's a crucial third down for them in the first quarter, and they're running just regular snap count, where I don't care if we have a half-filled Ralph Wilson Stadium, they don't do that."
It's understandable Wood would feel that way. A total of 40,770 fans came to the Rogers Centre, which seats 49,539, for this year's game, filling 82.3 percent of the seats. In 2012, the Bills average attendance at Ralph Wilson Stadium was around 87.8 percent of capacity.
Bills CEO Russ Brandon answered questions about the atmosphere at the Rogers Centre at his press conference there on Tuesday (via Joe Buscaglia of WGR 550 SportsRadio):
"We're not trying to replicate the experience of Ralph Wilson Stadium. There's 55 years of great tradition there. We're trying to build a new tradition here with one game a year, and have all these fans come back and experience one, two, maybe eight games, seven games, down at Ralph Wilson Stadium. And we have seen that over the last five years. We've seen double digit increases in fans coming from southern Ontario. Southern Ontario is now our number-two sister market when it comes to fans in Ralph Wilson Stadium on Sundays."
A double-digit increase doesn't seem like anything to boast about in a stadium that seats 73,967. The fact that Southern Ontario boasts the No. 2 attendance rate at the Ralph may also have a little something to do with its proximity to Western New York (112 miles and less than two hours from the Rogers Centre to Ralph Wilson Stadium).
Their lone win came in a 23-0 shutout over the Washington Redskins in 2011, a win which lifted the team to 5-2 on the season. We know the rest: the Bills went 1-8 down the stretch to finish the season a dismal 6-10.
If only they had played that home game at Ralph Wilson Stadium, who knows how well the season would have gone for them—probably not much better than it did, though.
Trying to grab fans from other areas because the local fans are becoming disenchanted is the kind of backwards thinking that leads a franchise, which has been in the dumps for over a decade, in the wrong direction.
Until that talent is found and/or maximized, the Bills will still be a below average team. Taking away one home game a year doesn't help get them any closer the goal of bucking that trend.
Erik Frenz is the AFC East lead blogger for Bleacher Report. Be sure to follow Erik on Twitter and "like" the AFC East blog on Facebook to keep up with all the updates. Unless otherwise specified, all quotes are obtained firsthand or via team press releases.
Tallying Up the Final Numbers on Donald Driver's Career
Green Bay Packers receiver Donald Driver announced on ESPN Radio's "Mike and Mike in the Morning" Thursday that he is retiring after 14 seasons.
"I'm going to officially put the cleats on the shelf. I'm going to walk away from the game," the four-time Pro Bowler said.
During his tenure in Titletown, Driver is among the best in franchise history. That's saying quite a bit when you consider the Packers have fielded receivers such as Don Hutson, Max McGee, Boyd Dowler, James Lofton and Sterling Sharpe.
Taken in Round 7 of the 1999 NFL draft, Driver panned out as one of the best gems in draft history. And his efficient numbers make a strong case for Canton, Ohio.
He amassed over 1,000 receiving yards in a season seven times, and Driver accomplished that four-digit milestone in six consecutive seasons (2004-2009).
Easily of one of the most consistent and reliable targets of his era, Driver did have the luxury of catching passes from Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers throughout his entire career.
Regardless of how effective a quarterback is, top-end passing numbers only occurs through dependable receivers such as Driver.
Coincidentally, his six straight years of 1,000-plus receiving yards also happened with at least 70 receptions in that span.
The more impressive aspect, though, is emerging as such in a cold-weather city that plays outside. Given that the NFL has evolved into a pass-happy phenomenon, relying on the passing game remains difficult barring rough weather conditions.
That's also not too surprising, because he was the No. 213 overall selection and coming from an NCAA division I-AA (now FCS) school in Alcorn State.
From 1999 through 2001, Driver only caught 37 passes for 520 yards and three touchdowns: Scored a fourth time on the ground.
Once 2002 kicked off, however, his impact astronomically increased. Finishing with 61 receiving touchdowns, Driver had eight seasons with at least four touchdowns, five of which were six-plus scores.
Include the vast array of receiving targets Green Bay provided to Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers and Driver's consistency sticks out.
Not to mention the Packers presented a solid ground game with guys like Ahman Green and Ryan Grant. So, the offense need not resort to a pass-first attack in comparison to the current approach.
The guy knew how to accumulate yards after the catch, make defenders miss in space, find the soft spot between underneath zones and move the chains on third down.
Driver constantly thwarted man coverage and his ability as a run-blocker helped set up the play-action. In turn, he could sell the run and break off routes to get open in short-yard situations and inside the red zone.
It's great for a receiver to haul in pass after pass. But it's moving the chains that significantly enhance one's impact. Driver recording a first down on 65.3 percent of his catches is unbelievable.
Regardless of the down-and-distance, forcing the defense to play another series really knocks the wind from an opponent's confidence. In short, this is what truly made Driver so effective each season.
It would be surprising if Donald Driver became a first-ballot Hall of Famer, especially with other receivers such as Cris Carter and Tim Brown not yet enshrined.
In time, though, it would not be surprising if Driver was strongly considered for Canton, Ohio. He was a complete player, helped with the transition of Aaron Rodgers into becoming elite and won a Super Bowl.
Driver was also selected to four Pro Bowl teams and finished as Green Bay's all-time leading receiver in yards and receptions—James Lofton finished with more for career, but not as many in Green Bay.
The Psychic Baseball problem featuring Manchester Unitedas Rooney, Welbeck and Hernandez
Early in the day this month, Manchester United strikers Wayne Rooney, Danny Welbeck and Javier Hernandez took part in bwinas aTelepathic Footballa problem, going up contrary to the 1999 Man Utdas reach coupling of Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole. The idea is easy a' do the present crop of United strikers have the near-telepathic knowledge of Yorke and Cole? Letas find out: I never thought Yorke and Cole had that great a partnership to be sincere (1999 was the peak but then almost anything went according to program for United that year), but I do have high hopes for Rooney and Welbeck for next time a' while Welbeck needs to work more on his target practice a' you must be able to strike Rooney from that distance companion. For to be able to gain 1 of 2 1999 treble-winning shirts signed by Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole, and to see the outtakes from the video, head to bwinas Facebook page.
Via: [Live Football] Nîmes Olympique - AC Le Havre - French Ligue 2
Can Robin van Persie stand the test of time?
Along with your average, top journey playeras job lasting little more than 15 years, clubs are stuck in a perennial state of recruitment, looking to establish the next tales of the game from the earliest possible age. With the news headlines that Chelsea have arranged a deal worth A1.7 million with their 17-year-old youth player, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, it seems clubsa obsession with the participants of tomorrow is only going to increase with every passing year, and with every new talent found. Maybe this is exactly what makes the endurance of vintage artists such as Ryan Giggs and Didier Drogba such a treat. No lover needs the end to come for his or her favorite of people, and there is something wonderful about seeing them still have a grand effect today, while they have done in so a number of days gone by. Robin van Persie, while nevertheless only 29, has revealed that he'd like to emulate the kind of Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs in playing on through until his late thirties at Manchester United. Basketball fans around the world may welcome the news headlines, not because they are fans of the membership, but because a player with the expertise such as the Dutchman should be permitted to continue to dazzle and excite people for provided that he could. Van Persie told the BBC: aYou have a number of clubs in Europe where older people will get it good, where they're valued. aYou used to possess that at Juventus and AC Milan, Manchester United today is a good example. Usually are not knows just how long I will remain at the club.a Van Persie speaks of promised lands, havens for older people to however turn out and pleasure, with no daily concern that the youth will drive them out, leaving them but a relic. Whilst not entirely common in the sport, there have been clubs who have adopted a plan for their over-30as, giving them contracts based on significantly more than just their general power, but on their important experience. Serie A has been known for offering this kind of setting, and van Persie says Juventus and Milan as formerly popular destinations. But times have changed significantly. When Milan met a vibrant small Arsenal part in the 2008 Champions League 2nd round, it was clear that Milan, and indeed the Italian league, was suffering underneath the weight of a warm nostalgia. Operating off the pure energy of the then 20-year-old Cesc Fabregas, Milan just couldnat cope, heading down 0-2 in the San Siro following a goalless first leg. It was nearly unhappy to see Theo Walcott, but a blur from the green grass for the aged Milan protection, leave the renowned Paulo Maldini for dead late on, before offering the cross that gave that crucial second purpose to the Gunners. It absolutely was an ideal example how an over-reliance on the previous abilities of the greats can cause issues. The Italian category has brought great steps in the past years, moving away from the slow moving, defensive style they had been criticised for. Leaving the aretirement homea best, and, with Juventus leading the way, Italian edges are now actually distributing the rest of Europe to a dazzling make of faster, far more incisive attacking football. The appropriately named aOld Ladya said farewell to even their most godlike of people, Alessandro Del Piero, in the summer a' a move that scared the Juve faithful, such was his standing at the club. Juve took the plunge, knowing that an over-reliance on people like the Italian could see them fall behind as the world discovers new skill. It was a determination that reduced, and they are flying high at the top of Serie A, and check out be real competitors for the Champions League this season. Still with players such as for example Andrea Pirlo and Gianluigi Buffon, they have found the right mixture of youth and knowledge. In the equally omnipresent Scholes, and the evergreen Ryan Giggs, Man Utd have found that stability, and the space to accommodate their old stars, while not relying so heavily upon them. A playeras position changes with age, as does his actual capacity. Giggs, for one, has carved out his own little niche as electricity main midfielder, a significant far cry from his days as a traveling winger for place and team. Van Persie has their own, malleable qualities that could fit what will be expected of him as time goes by. His perspective, touch and general reading of the overall game has usually been when compared with other Dutchman, Dennis Bergkamp. The Arsenal Legend played on until he was 37, and this was authorized by his calm fashion, and uncanny footballing brain. Clubs such as Chelsea have followed a aone year contracta policy for their players more than 30. Considering the present environment of teams preventing shift abattlesa for youth participants, Obi Mikel being a illustration for the Blues, it's perhaps not entirely unreasonable to organize for the expected, and home their aging stars on a quick term basis. It's but, vicious in some cases. There are many different types of older player; Rivaldo, as an example, has a different mind-set to, say,AFrank Lampard. The 40-year-old Brazilian, now enjoying mercenary, was last identified back in his home country with SAo Caetano after a brief spell in Angola. It is hard to keep up with the ramblina Rivaldo nowadays, although Frank Lampardas loyalties firmly rest in West London. Still scoring targets as he always has, there's a player who has received a rolling agreement. While Rivaldoas agreements will now be sweet and short, and have been for quite a while, participants such as Lampard and Romaas 36-year-old Francesco Totti, who is also looking at a to the national group, have the proper to be exempt from such limitations. A dedicated player, in a position to provide what's necessary for his membership, should stand the test of time. Stories of the game are so vital that you the youth participants who idolise them; and they in turn, are the potential of the game. The emotion, the personalities, and the love that players could earn from their devoted fans is what makes the game all that more specific. Even famous brands Rivaldo have a part to play, wherever and however he chooses to. He is a legend in their own right. Robin van Persieas commitment will certainly be appreciated by Sir Alex Ferguson and United, and with the assistance and security that the Manchester club provides, his talents will not only continue to please the group of fans, but immeasurably support the growth of the brand new era that, for some clubs, could threaten to produce him obsolete.
Link: [Live Football] Al - Nasr - Al Gharafa - AFC Asian Champions League
La Liga: Celta Vigo 2-2 FC Barcelona: Match Review - Barca Blaugranes (blog)
A recap of Barcelona's 2-2 draw with Celta Vigo. I suppose the FIFA Virus was going to catch up to us at some stage...
FC Barcelona were held to a surprise 2-2 draw at the Balaidos tonight, as a late header from Borja Oubiña secured a point for Abel Resino's Celta Vigo. The hosts had a goal disallowed before they eventually took the lead on 38 minutes through Natxo Insa. Barcelona hit back through Cristian Tello, and even took the lead themselves in the second-half courtesy of another goal from Lionel Messi. However, they had performed poorly throughout the match and a point was about as much as they deserved.
The Blaugrana fielded a "weakened" starting XI, as Marc Bartra, Martin Montoya, Alex Song, Thiago Alcântara and Cristian Tello were all handed starts. However, they were joined by Alexis Sánchez, Cesc Fàbregas, Dani Alves, Gerard Piqué; oh and an Argentine striker named Lionel Messi. Even after rotating the squad, Barcelona must have been confident ahead of tonight's match against Celta Vigo; would they be able to secure the three points and temporarily extend their lead at the top of La Liga?
Barcelona started slowly; without Sergio Busquets, Xavi Hernández and Andrés Iniesta, the Blaugrana were struggling to keep possession, and even with the likes of Thiago and Fàbregas in midfield, Barça were also struggling to create chances. Celta Vigo on the other hand were pressing intelligently – not wasting their energy by needlessly chasing the ball all over the field, but exerting pressure at the right time to retrieve possession. If it wasn't for the linesman's flag, Celta would have taken the lead too – Augusto Fernandez applied the finish only to see his effort correctly ruled out.
Not likely; the mistakes continued and Celta capitalised – first forcing a double-save out of Jose Manuel Pinto and then (deservedly) taking the lead on 38 minutes through Natxo Insa. Atrocious defending from Gerard Piqué created space for Fabian Orellana; cutting inside from the right-hand side of the Barcelona penalty area, the Chilean scuffed his shot and the ball rather fortuitously fell to Natxo Insa who finished past Jose Pinto to put Celta 1-0 up. Sure, there was an element of luck involved in the goal, but Celta deserved that lucky break; Barcelona hadn't turned up.
Fortunately, Celta were not ahead for long; Cristian Tello levelled the scores on the stroke of half-time with a superb finish after yet another assist from Lionel Messi. Not content with his record-breaking tally of goals, Messi has now provided 17 assists for his teammates – the second-highest total on the Barcelona roster – while Tello has now notched six goals this season, just one less than Pedro who has played a staggering 1724 minutes more than his compatriot...
Jordi Roura resisted the urge to make a change at the interval, although the temptation to introduce David Villa or Andrés Iniesta must have been high. At present, Barcelona just weren't getting the job done. By his own high standards, Lionel Messi was having a quiet game, as was Alexis Sánchez; while Cesc Fabreagas was completely anonymous – periodically resurfacing to argue with the referee. Surely a change was imminent, or were Barça content to grab a single point against relegation-threatened opposition?
He may have had to wait until after the hour-mark, but Andrés Iniesta did enter the field of play in the second-half, replacing Thiago in the centre of midfield on 65 minutes and he was soon joined by David Villa who replaced Alexis Sánchez. Celta responded with a change of their own – former Bayern Munich midfielder Danijel Pranjic was taken off for Enrique de Lucas – and the match appeared to heading for a draw. Bartra couldn't capitalise on Cesc Fàbregas' corner and Barcelona had registered just two shots on target in the entire match.
Luckily for them, they still had Lionel Messi. The Argentine had scored in his last eighteen La Liga appearances (a world record) and if he could score tonight, it would complete the "cycle". Initially, it looked as though he had set Cristian Tello up for a shot at goal with another exceptional through ball, but Tello knew the angle was too tight for a shot at goal, so he sent the ball into the area and Messi was on hand to tap the ball into the back of the net – it may have taken 73 minutes, but Barça were finally ahead. Messi's streak would continue and the three points were secure – weren't they?
Celta weren't prepared to give up without a fight – unlike Barcelona, they need to fight tooth and nail from here on in just to secure their place in the division, and ultimately that was enough to win a share of the spoils. Barcelona clearly had one eye on Paris Saint-Germain and as a result, the motivation wasn't really there; another defensive mistake was made and this time it was Borja Oubiña who took advantage. With less than five minutes left to play, Celta had clawed their way back into the tie and earned themselves a valuable point in the fight for survival.
Next up, Barcelona travel to France to take on PSG, before hosting Real Mallorca at the Camp Nou. Until then, Visca el Barça!
Link: [Live Football] Bayern Munich - Juventus - UEFA Champions League
Saturday, March 30, 2013
West Bromwich Albion: Steve Clarke says club will address the situation of ... - Birmingham Mail
West Bromwich Albion will speak to Gabriel Tamas this summer about the possibility of extending his stay at The Hawthorns.
The 29-year-old has just three months left on his current deal, although Albion have a 12-month option in their favour. Boss Steve Clarke confirmed Albion would speak to the Romania international this summer, also giving an update on where the club were regarding new deals for Shane Long and Gareth McAuley.
"But there are no talks at moment. We have talks ongoing with one or two players but you can't speak to everyone at the same time.
"We're still talking regarding Gareth and Shane. Richard (Garlick, Albion's sporting and technical director) has been ill but I know he went to Ireland to speak to one of Shane's advisors recently."
Despite his limited number of appearances – he has played 76 games in a three year period for the club – Tamas recently stated he planned to play well into his 30s.
Clarke is determined to point out that he will not tolerate any free-wheeling between now and the end of the season.
Man City 4-0 Newcastle: Match report, pictures and video highlights ...
The champions had skipper Vincent Kompany and midfield powerhouse Yaya Toure back in their line-up and looked much more like their old selves.
Both will claim a goal — although Toure's was credited as an own goal by James Perch — as four strikes in the space of 28 minutes blew away a disappointing Newcastle.
And for those 28 minutes either side of half-time it was hard to believe City are a massive 15 points behind leaders United and preparing to hand back their trophy in the next few weeks.
City boss Mancini was critical of Kompany for making his comeback after two months out with a calf injury while on international duty with Belgium, but acknowledged how crucial his captain is.
"Now we have eight Premier League games and an FA Cup semi-final so it's important to have good form from our players.
"Vinny is important. We played without him for 60 days and it was very costly for us, like when we lost Yaya for one month for the African Nations Cup.
This game took a while to warm up. A depleted Toon no doubt had one eye on Thursday's Europa League trip to Benfica, while City were subdued after seeing United disappear further over the horizon in the early kick-off.
And City could have been punished for their sleepy start as Papiss Cisse's back-post volley from Vurnon Anita's cross forced Joe Hart to save with his legs. It served as a wake-up call for the outgoing champs as Samir Nasri produced some smart wing play and Edin Dzeko's shot was blocked by Rob Elliot in the Toon goal.
The rebound dropped perfectly for Gareth Barry but the England midfielder blazed high over the bar with the goal at his mercy.
City had a bit of momentum and Carlos Tevez flashed a free-kick just wide, while Edin Dzeko's header was also narrowly off target.
Some neat build-up play by Silva and Toure saw Clichy freed down the left and his low cross was turned in by Tevez, who just got his toe there ahead of Jonas Gutierrez.
It was a seventh goal in six matches for the Argentinian, whose season is really gathering pace. Newcastle were breached again in first-half injury time as Nasri showed some dazzling footwork to dance into the box.
He laid it off to Silva and the Spaniard manoeuvred the ball on to his left foot before blasting a low shot past Elliot.
The visitors started the second half brightly and threatened to get back into it but City's third was just around the corner.
Barry tried his luck from 20 yards and Kompany stuck out a leg to cleverly backheel it in from 12 yards with a finish a centre-forward would be proud of — if he meant it, that is.
Toure was also in the news during the international break, with his agent claiming he will leave at the end of the season after contract talks stalled.
He lined up a shot from a narrow angle, which took a flick off Perch to deceive Elliot, who could only help the ball into the roof of the net.
With their job done, City eased off and the end of the game was notable only for a frosty stand-off between Kompany and Mancini when the skipper was given a rest after 73 minutes.
When Newcastle beat Stoke on March 10, Alan Pardew suggested they had done enough to preserve top-flight football at St James' Park.
You have to admire his confidence. Now they lie three points above the drop zone — and two teams below them, Wigan and Aston Villa, have a game in hand.
Via: [Live Football] Sporting Braga - Sporting Lisbon - Portuguese Liga Sagres
The players that could leave Manchester City this summer - Goal.com
Zabaleta has stood in as captain in the absence of Vincent Kompany - a privilege that has previously been bestowed upon Richards - and has already made two more league appearances than he did in the entirety of last season.
That has led to reports linking Richards with Arsenal. City have two options here: they can either retain Maicon as a deputy to Zabaleta and attempt to recoup some cash by selling Richards, or revert to the rotation system that worked so well in 2011-12.
The latter seems more likely for a variety of reasons - Richards is a better player than Maicon (and home-grown) and Mancini asks a lot of his full-backs, as evidenced by the continued time-sharing of Aleksandar Kolarov and Gael Clichy on the left - but it is a situation to monitor over the summer and beyond.
More Info: [Live Football] FC Nordsjaelland - FC Midtjylland
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Dwight Howard Vs. Mark Lee: Who Ya Got?
Throughout the Golden State Warriorsa victory over the Los Angeles Lakers yesterday evening, Dwight Howard and David Lee experienced a bit of a tiff. There was an elbow and a Howard bloody lip and three (!) stitches, and then post-game huffing and vows of gentle mannered revenge. Friendship is only a matter of time. This is nothing new for Lee, who is somewhat of a prickly instigator herself a' he found myself in it with Roy Hibbert and also not-so-accidentally decked LeBron early in the day this year. None of it actually came to a name or significant fisticuffs a' the NBA is just a non-contact league, in the end a and so we thought wead preview the struggle that wonat be: Dwight Howard vs. David Lee. Mark Lee Height: 6-9Weight: 240Reach: White basketball fansSpecial Power: DefenseCatch Phrase: aYou canat have it both waysaCoaches Fired: 0Finishing Move: The Peopleas (Infectious) ElbowPhotos With Snooki: 1! Dwight Howard Height: 6-11Weight: 265Reach: NoneSpecial Power: Free throwsCatch Phrase: aYour mother hate me, too. She loved me last night!aCoaches fired: 1!Finishing move: Kiss of deathPhotos with Snooki: 0 So, who ya got? Photo via
Via: [Live Football] Chamois Niortais - Gazelec Ajaccio - French Ligue 2
Yaya Toure speaks on Manchester City potential - Express.co.uk
Yaya Toure has spoken out about his exchange speculation at Manchester City Ivory Coast star Toure has been connected with a summer starting to Real Madrid, PSG or Chelsea after his consultant exposed he was set to leave Manchester City after talks dragged on for half a year. While the Citizens were reported to be unmoved by the condition, speculation has since enhanced that the 29-year-old may contact time on his City spell and also get out his contract at the end of the period. But after Ivory Coast defeated Gambia 3-0 in some Sort Of Cup Qualifier, Toure outlined his future amid rumours he was in advanced talks to join PSG. His time was used by toure on international duty with Ivory Coast to discuss his future I will fight to ensure that we finished the season in good circumstances and I am for as soon as a City person Yaya Toure "No, I did maybe not check out PSG," Toure told Sport-Ivoire. "You know that with the approach of the move screen, there are a lot of things that are said in the papers. "We are professional and up to now I have perhaps not given any contract with any team. I am for as soon as a City player and I will fight to ensure that we finished the season in good conditions. The former Barcelona star - younger brother of City opponent Kolo - did hint at his have a problem with the club's negotiators over a new package, that is considered to be fundamental to him staying at EastlandsA"In a club you can find players and administrators," Toure continued, philosophically. "We are like soldiers and we execute what employers say." "The most significant thing for me personally is to continue steadily to have fun and to entertain the public." Toure in tied to Manchester City until 2015, but is reportedly high on the plan of both Real Madrid and PSG.
Via: [Live Football] Stade Lavallois - Le Mans - French Ligue 2
Kompany poised for City return - ESPN.co.uk
Vincent Kompany is eventually set to produce his Manchester City comeback after doing 90 minutes in Belgium's 1-0 victory over Macedonia. The Town chief had not played for exactly two months since limping down in the FA Cup next round conquer Stoke on January 26 and experienced several setbacks in his bid to go back following a leg injury. But he played the whole game as Belgium won their World Cup qualifier, courtesy of a goal from Chelsea's Eden Hazard, to stay the top of team. Now Kompany probably will simply take his invest the Town support when Newcastle visit the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. And there could be a double injury increase for boss Roberto Mancini if Sergio Aguero recovers from the leg problem to play. The striker hasn't taken the subject in March and missed his country's internationals against Venezuela and Bolivia but is back education. Yaya Toure, who missed the defeat at Everton with a migraine, should really be able to start against Newcastle.
Manchester City outcast Joleon Lescott estimates to fix England relationship - Express.co.uk
Inked Manchester City opponent Joleon Lescott wants to become an England standard again The defender openly admits that a matter of weeks before he'd have regarded himself as a shoe-in for the World Cup in Brazil a' providing England qualify. Now he takes his prospects are less specific. aIf youad asked me that a year ago then Iad have explained, aYeah, fairly gooda. But you donat know. Then I believe Iall be there,a if I could play more regularly at club level he said. aTowards the finish of the summer season, Iall address that. However for now, Iam entirely centered on England and what England have to do.a If Lescott is to strengthen his hand, it's clear something will have to give at Manchester City in the summertime. Joleon Lescott wants to be playing regularly at Manchester City after being phased out Down the back of last year, winning the league and going to the Euros and then not playing frequently at City, anything sometimes happens in baseball. Nothing is taken by me for granted Joleon Lescott Both Roberto Mancini, who has forced the centre-half onto the periphery in 2010 in yet another battle with his English contingent, leaves or Lescott will need to move ahead to reinvigorate his stalled career. Mancinias sudden doubt of a player key to Cityas name success last season looks severe, yet it is no less perplexing than his treatment by England coach Roy Hodgson. Lescott perhaps eschewed any right to being shown respect when successfully going on strike at Everton, the membership that shaped him into an international, to force through his A24million move to City last year. Still, from being a mainstay in Englandas defence with John Terry at Euro 2012 never to being contained in the original team for a World Cup qualifying double that continues against Montenegro here tomorrow presents some fall from grace. Jordan Dawson, who was simply in and then out through damage, hasn't played for England for two years and Hodgsonas reasoning that Lescott hasn't played enough baseball doesn't stand up to serious inspection. Lescott has made 10 shows for City in 2013, the exact same number Chris Smalling has made for Manchester United. In terms of minutes, it's 613 versus 630 a' hardly the kind of disparity to justify Hodgsonas claims. Alternatively, it would appear that Smalling, who was picked from the obscurity of Maidstone United by Hodgson in 2008 while he was in charge of Fulham and then offered for A10m to United within 18 months, occupies a higher devote the manageras thinking. Lescott may wish to play a role in England's next fit tomorrow against Montenegro aI donat think the boss owes such a thing special,a to me said Lescott. aMaybe the Euros may have counted for something in the first area of the year when I was playing more frequently. aI tend not to live onto it. Iam continue and here. aOff the back of last year, winning the league and going to the Euros and then maybe not playing regularly at City, anything could happen in football. I just take nothing for granted. aI appreciate what I really do. Itas not just a struggle to get right up in the mornings and go to teaching. aHe [Hodgson] said Chris had performed within the last game against Brazil and did well. I understood his decision and respectable it.a Hearing that he wouldn't maintain the team, Lescott designed to take his spouse, Debbie, to Paris for a few days. aShe said, shock wonat manage to go since youall get called upa a' Iall have to get her to select the lottery numbers next week.a And therefore from planning on being at the Champs Elysees to rather taking on San Marino, where he used the captainas armband for the last 25 minutes of the 8-0 win, a chance scrapes for Lescott to bring back faith in his characteristics. Aware of the doubts surrounding Englandas centre-half options will be lined up alongside Smalling tomorrow acutely by him, but additionally comfortable in what he will bring. Asked if the standard of the protection has fallen with losing of Rio Ferdinand and Terry, Lescott said: aYeah obviously. Terry and Ferdinand played almost all their jobs at top clubs and, with no disrespect to the clubs Iave played for, that hasnat been the case with me, and also Chris. aIt may not be as powerful as it was but that doesnat mean it canat be as important going forward.a
Tom Cleverley: Manchester United great Paul Scholes still inspires us England ... - Metro
Scholes, 38, called time on his international career after Euro 2004, tired of being shunted onto the left wing by Sven-Goran Eriksson.
Yet Scholes' influence remains strong, with seven Manchester United players in Roy Hodgson's squad for tomorrow's vital World Cup clash with Montenegro.
'It is more watch and learn with Scholesy rather than speaking to him,' Cleverley said. 'He is one of the best in the world at keeping the ball – and has been for many years.
'A big part of Scholesy's game is hurting teams as well. You need that in your game at this level. He is a great person and a great example for me to have around.'
Link: FC Ingolstadt 04 - MSV Duisburg - German 2. Bundesliga
Liverpool Open Talks Over True Madrid Midfielder - Statement - IBTimes.co.uk
Liverpool have reportedlyAopened relaxed talksAwith Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso's agent and are considering a move to bring the player back once again to Anfield in the summer. Xabi Alonso The Daily Star reports that the ball player has rejected an extension on his present deal, which expires in 2014, Aand is available to make a come back to Liverpool, a club where he spent five months before joining Real Madrid last year. Nevertheless, the deal depends on Liverpool's ability to provide Spaniard a lucrative deal, much better than the A80,000 per week salary plus bonuses he's currently generating at Madrid. The membership are supposedly prepared to increase his pay so that you can tell him to keep at Madrid, but the player has his heart set on moving ship at the end of the period. Alonso is a widely revered figure across Merseyside, with the person playing an essential part in aiding Liverpool win the Champions League in his first period at the club. AThe Reds are anticipated to face opposition from the kind of AMLS area Manhattan Project Galaxy and Russian team Anzhi Makhachkala who are also enthusiastic about obtaining the player's services. A move to either of the two groups will assure a huge pay increase and a chance to get off the vigours of top flight baseball. However,A a return to Anfield is extremely much on the cards, with the person recentlyAstatingAin an interview he is still a fan and is still "really attached" to the membership and their supporters. Moreover, a proceed to the bucks rich leagues will probably risk his odds of visiting the FIFA World Cup, planned in Brazil next year. Sturridge on Brendan Rodgers Liverpool January signing Daniel Sturridge has confirmed Brendan Rodgers for giving a chance to him to shine with Liverpool. The striker has got himself back in contention in the England team for the qualifiers and had an immediate effect with the Reds, score five goals in seven performances. Brendan Rodgers "I am very grateful - very grateful to the director for giving me the opportunity. I was at Man City before Chelsea and everything was fine there, in equity. I didn't have any problems, everything worked out, but I thought we would leave because I did not feel it absolutely was the best place for me to help expand my career. " "I shifted to Chelsea and had success. We won awards and I've medals however in terms of my own individual dreams, I didn't reach finish them. Ideally here, now I am at a that believes in me with a manager who believes in me, I can give the fans something to laugh about," heAtoldALiverpool Echo.
City ahead in race for Falcao? - Manchester City
Top of the pile is Atletico Madrid striker Radamel Falcao, who is set to snub Chelsea leaving City in pole position for his signature – according to the Sunday People.
The paper's Simon Mullock writes: "The Blues boss Roberto Mancini is a long-term admirer of the Atletico Madrid front-man and will not want a repeat of last summer when he missed out on a host of top targets.
"Now his hopes of bringing £50million-rated Falcao to the Etihad have been boosted by reports in Spain claiming that the 27-year-old has told his club that he isn't open to a move to Chelsea.
"They lost out to Chelsea last summer in the race to sign Eden Hazard and, with Carlos Tevez and Edin Dzeko set to follow Mario Balotelli out of the club, the search for striking reinforcements has already started.
"Napoli's Edinson Cavani is also high on Mancini's wanted list, with Real Madrid's Gonzalo Higuain and Robert Lewandowski of Borussia Dortmund also being viewed as possibilities."
"Lescott, 31 in August, has been eyeing a return to Goodison Park despite his acrimonious £24m departure in 2009," writes Steve Bates.
"And that's alerted Toon boss Alan Pardew and Villa manager Paul Lambert. Everton remain Lescott's top choice and if Moyes stays he could still get his wish."
Finally, City and England no.1 Joe Hart has been warning against complacency ahead of the Three Lions' encounter with Montenegro on Tuesday.
Talksport's website reports: "Roy Hodgson's side may find themselves either five points behind or a point clear depending on the result of Tuesday's match, and the Manchester City keeper insists England will not take their foot off the gas as they look to secure their trip to Brazil next summer.
"'Tuesday is big, an exciting game for us. We are getting closer to the World Cup finals," Hart said following England's 8-0 victory over San Marino.
"'We've got to perform. Maybe we could be accused of taking our foot off the pedal as we let a 2-0 advantage slip away against them last time when we needed just a point.
"'That is not going to be the case this time. We've got a job on our hands in an intimidating arena, but we've definitely got the capabilities.'"
Ezequiel Garay to Manchester United: The Whispers, the Ball Player, the Benefits - Bleacher Statement
Last Friday Portuguese store Record revealed that Manchester United had awon the racea to sign Benfica and Argentina defense Ezequiel Garay. aEzequiel Garay may play at Manchester United next season,a browse the record. aThe English club have won the race for the Benfica centre-back, overcoming competition from Barcelona.a The story was guaranteed by Barcelona-based El Mundo Deportivo, who claimed United had consented to spend the 26-year-oldas a20 million buyout charge. aUnited have previously agreed everything with the defender, who'll leave [Benfica] in the summer,a they noted. The story was found by the Daily Express before finding its way onto countless English baseball internet sites, nearly all of which only re-packaged the Express consideration without acknowledging Record and El Mundo Deportivo. All that said, transfer gossip only morphs from rumour to reality upon the introduction of a person, and if last summeras Lucas Moura tale taught us anything, itas that even the techniques that seem most likely to happen could be suddenly derailed. Most football clubs are fiercely protective of this type of data, and while a lot of it may be believablea'even truea'it is generally centered on intelligent guesswork and secondary sources. Bear that at heart regarding Garay. What we do know is this: early last month Garay employed Portuguese super-agent Jorge Mendes to restore his previous representatives, with whom he separated in January. Mendes, 47, matters the kind of Jose Mourinho, Pepe and Angel Di Maria among his clients and has formerly orchestrated big-money moves to Manchester Uniteda'most significantly those of Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani from Sporting Lisbon and Anderson from Porto. It suggested a transfer was imminent, specially provided a war between United and Barcelona that had raged for weeks when he was retained by Garay. Garay confronts United's John Rooney.Clive Mason/Getty Images Coincidentally, United hunt Martin Fergusona'brother to membership manager Sir Alex Fergusona'was in Portugal to watch Garay in a match against Beira-Mar (as reported by Portugalas Abola) the exact same weekend Mendes came into the picture, and United scouts were again in attendance on March 17 as Garay obtained in Benficaas 4-0 conquer Vitoria Guimaraes (Daily Mail). They had previously watched the player in a mid-January experience against Porto and had been to Benficaas matches against Sporting Lisbon and Olhanense early in the day in the summer season (Daily Mail). They also happened to take in a February friendly between Argentina and Sweden in which Garay began (O Jogo). On Monday Garay ignored the United rumours, showing Record he was only concentrating on Benfica and Argentina. But with the Lisbon leaders engaged in a name battle with Porto he was never going to turn out and confirm a story that already has lots of evidence supporting it. The gamer At 26, this indicates Ezequiel Garay is finally willing to make the jump Real Madrid estimated head make if they signed him for a10 million from Racing Santander in August 2009. When his seven goals served the Cantabria side to a good 10th-place finish in La Liga, previously an gold medalist for Argentina, he'd caught everyoneas attention with a season for Racing in 2006-07 and satisfied at the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Canada. While a group of injuries, a merry-go-round and an already-installed pecking order in the centre of security combined to refuse a good chance to him, he was never able to repeat that sort of variety in the Spanish capital. He wasnat a similar fate to be suffered by the first Madrid player, and he wonat function as last. In 2011 he joined Benfica for a5.5 million and helped the Lisbon area to the league cup these spring, enjoying a career-high 37 fits in all competitionsa'a number heas on-pace to surpass in 2010. At 6-foot-4, Garay can be an intimidating physical presence, but itas his capabilities and instincts on he that is made by the ball this type of sought-after defender. There's a specific beauty to his movement, and his first pass out of the defensive third is usually very useful. The benefits Thereas grounds Garay is being recognized since the normal substitute to Rio Ferdinand at Manchester United. Garay scores against Celtic. Ferdinand, in his prime, was among the best on earth at taking the ball from the third to the assault, whether by an accurate first cross or a natural function up-field. He also provided his attacking teammates a store from a large positiona'something Garay does regularly. At Benfica Garay has mixed effectively with the Brazilian Luisao, who's more of a stay-at-home defense. The thinking is head also work nicely in combination with United captain Nemajna Vidic, and even when the 34-year-old Ferdinand and 31-year-old Vidic continued to see playing time, chances are age and injury could control the minutes of one or more of them next season, as has happened in all the last two campaigns. So far as the economic benefits are involved, Sir Alex Ferguson is well known to keep from possible deals that require third partiesa'something that could be a problem with Garay. When Madrid offered the player to Benfica they preserved a 50 percent sell-on fee, therefore theyare due if this shift undergoes to get a10 million. The complication arises with an organization named Benfica Stars Funda'a third party that bought 10 per cent of Garayas rights in 2011 for a1.175 million. Benfica Stars Fund is essentially an investment company which allows people unrelated to the club it self to purchase a pursuit in its resources. They skimmed 20 % from Angel di Mariaas move to Real Madrid and reaped a quarter of Benficaas earnings from David Luiza purchase to Chelsea. Their current holdings contain highly-rated Portugal striker Nelson Oliveira, Paraguay forward Oscar Cardozo, Brazilian playmaker Bruno Cesar and Garay. Possibility of Ezequiel Garay going to Manchester United this summer: 8/10.
Jeter resigned to starting season on disabled list
Mar 26 (Reuters) - Leading money winners on the 2013 PGATour on Monday (U.S. unless stated): 1. Tiger Woods $3,787,600 2. Brandt Snedeker $2,859,920 3. Matt Kuchar $2,154,500 4. Steve Stricker $1,820,000 5. Phil Mickelson $1,650,260 6. Hunter Mahan $1,553,965 7. John Merrick $1,343,514 8. Dustin Johnson $1,330,507 9. Russell Henley $1,313,280 10. Kevin Streelman $1,310,343 11. Keegan Bradley $1,274,593 12. Charles Howell III $1,256,373 13. Michael Thompson $1,254,669 14. Brian Gay $1,171,721 15. Justin Rose $1,155,550 16. Jason Day $1,115,565 17. Chris Kirk $1,097,053 18. ...
Which Barcelona and Real Madrid Players Would Start at Bayern Munich? - Bleacher Report
Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness ruffled some feathers last week when he placed his team's individual players roughly on par with those from Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Hoeness' quotes have been drastically edited in most English sources, many of which have implied that he would not take Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo at Bayern.
When asked which players from Barcelona and Real Madrid he felt would be welcome improvements to the Bayern team, he singled out Andres Iniesta and Jordi Alba. Hoeness added: "I think there are only one or two Barca and Real players who would start for Bayern - [Cristiano] Ronaldo and [Lionel] Messi excluded."
Inexplicably, the bit on Messi and Ronaldo has been omitted from many English-language media sources. It is commonly found in the German media.
It should also be highlighted that Hoeness commented on which players he would welcome to Bayern that would fit into the team, not who is "better" or "worse" than players in the German giants' squad. To distinguish the difference, consider Xavi.
He may be better than some of Bayern's midfielders right now, but at 33 years of age, he will only decline between now and his looming retirement. Age overrides his value as a temporary improvement: his gradual decline and nearing retirement makes him unattractive as a transfer option for top clubs like Bayern. This would explain Hoeness' preference for Iniesta, a younger player of similarly stellar class.
Having set the record straight on what Hoeness did and did not say, his quotes remain very interesting and are worth scrutiny. Are Alba and Iniesta the only two players from Barcelona or Real Madrid who would be a distinct step up for Bayern? And would they themselves indeed be marked improvements?
Starting with the goalkeeper position, neither Victor Valdes nor Iker Casillas is a significant improvement upon Manuel Neuer. Both in their 30s, the Spanish stoppers are approaching the natural physical decline. And although Casillas is world-class, so is Neuer. The debate as to which is the better goalkeeper is irrelevant: The simple reality is that both are great and there would be no reason for Bayern to risk bringing Casillas to a new league and culture.
At right-back, Bayern have their captain and a world-class talent in Philipp Lahm. Alvaro Arbeloa is the weakest player in the Real Madrid starting lineup, and would be suitable to Bayern only as a backup. Dani Alves is half the player he was in 2009; he's followed in the footsteps of compatriots Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Kaka in beginning his decline prematurely.
In central defense, Bayern's best pair consists of Dante and Holger Badstuber, with Jerome Boateng on the bench. Barca's best are Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique; Javier Mascherano is a displaced holding midfielder. Real Madrid have Sergio Ramos, Pepe and Raphael Varane. Puyol, on account of his turning 35 next month, is is often injured and nearing the end of an illustrious career. He will be sorely missed at Barca when he retires, but could do little for another top club.
As Pepe has proven time and time again in big games for club and country, his lack of ball skills make him a poor candidate against pressing teams—the very type Bayern play on a regular basis in the Bundesliga.
Pique and Ramos, along with Pepe, all are extremely susceptible to being yellow carded. Whereas the likes of Thiago Silva and Mats Hummels—truly great defenders—will only be booked once or twice in a season, they average approximately the same number of dismissals. Pique has been yellow carded 73 times and been dismissed on seven occasions in 315 appearances in his career. Ramos' bookings tally at a staggering 152 yellow and 16 red cards in 456 career outings.
Dante (56 yellows, five reds in 252 appearances) and Badstuber (44 yellows and two reds in 279 appearances) play more cleanly and have operated in some of the best defenses in Bundesliga history (Bayern have conceded just 36 goals since the beginning of the 2011-12 season). Again, there isn't much of an improvement—if any—by adding Pique and/or Ramos, so there would be no point in risking bringing either to a new league and culture.
Varane is a different story. Bayern wanted to sign him from Lens in 2011, and he's the type of player that Breno was supposed to be. Still a month away from his 20th birthday, Varane has performed brilliantly against Barcelona, and Real Madrid's record of goals conceded with him and an aging Ricardo Carvalho in defense is substantially better than with Ramos and Pepe. Hoeness made a mistake in not singling out Varane as a player who would be a good signing for Bayern.
Looking to the left-backs, Bayern have a gem in David Alaba. One can argue whether he, Jordi Alba, Fabio Coentrao or Marcelo is the best, but there is no denying that the Austrian—who still is just 20 years old—has the most room for growth compared to the others, who are all 24 or older.
Alaba put on virtuoso displays for Bayern in the Champions League against Real Madrid a year ago and is rapidly becoming one of the world's best left-backs. Critically, he is equally competent in attack and defense. In this regard, Hoeness is dead wrong: Bayern have no need for Jordi Alba.
In central midfield, Bayern's best are Bastian Schweinsteiger, Javi Martinez and Toni Kroos. Barca have Xavi, whose years as previously mentioned make him a poor candidate, as well as Sergio Busquets and Andres Iniesta. Real have Xabi Alonso—who at 31 can also be discounted as an unnecessary player—as well as Sami Khedira and Mesut Ozil.
Schweinsteiger, Bayern's vice-captain, is a lock. He's incredibly versatile and although sometimes inconsistent, he takes his club to the next level. Martinez is similar in style and attributes to Busquets; although the latter is more established on a high level, the former is not far behind in terms of his ability to do the simple things. Similarly, Khedira may be at a higher level than Martinez, but the attributes he offers are not exactly the most vital characteristics upon which one can build a team.
For all his abundant quality, Toni Kroos is a step behind Mesut Ozil and Andres Iniesta. Hoeness was absolutely right to single out Iniesta as a player who could improve Bayern substantially. The midfielder is very versatile and extremely reliable in big games. And as his 29th birthday approaches, he still has a few years before his decline begins. The only downside to integrating Iniesta into the Bayern team is that it would require a formation switch from 4-2-3-1 to 4-3-3.
Mesut Ozil would not require such a change; he could play as the central playmaker in Bayern's current 4-2-3-1 setup. And he would most certainly be an improvement over Kroos. The ex-Bremen man's talent goes to waste at Real Madrid, where he plays second fiddle to Cristiano Ronaldo. Whenever he runs out for Germany, Ozil is the center of all attacking play—and there, he looks like the best playmaker in the world. He'd have a similar role at Bayern, and could be expected to deliver on a similar level.
On the wings, Bayern have Franck Ribery and Thomas Müller. Hoeness' evaluation excluded Cristiano Ronaldo, so Real Madrid's comparison is Angel di Maria. Barcelona have Pedro Rodriguez and Alexis Sanchez or an out-of-position David Villa or Cesc Fabregas.
Despite being younger than both, Müller has scored more goals and given more assists than Pedro and Alexis in domestic league play, and has contributed to more goals in the Champions League. The German scored in the Champions League final and was top scorer at the 2010 World Cup. He's exactly the kind of player a coach ought never to consider replacing.
Ribery has been a goal machine for Bayern since moving to Munich in 2007, but as he approaches his 30th birthday, he is indeed running short of time. Villa is no older and would be an ill-suited replacement, while Fabregas is not truly a winger by nature.
Di Maria is perhaps the most suitable replacement, but his individualism would make him a poor fit at Bayern. He would likely play only as backup to Ribery and Muller at Bayern, who would be wiser to look elsewhere for a replacement for the Frenchman as he grows older.
Ribery will eventually need to be replaced, but there are options more qualified than Di Maria.Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images
The final position is that of center forward, where Barcelona have only Messi, who was excluded from Hoeness' analysis. Real Madrid have Karim Benzema and Gonzalo Higuain, while Bayern have Mario Gomez and Mario Mandzukic.
While Benzema is an excellent striker with the ability to score some stunning goals, his strike rate is rather low for a striker on such a gifted team as Real Madrid. A record of eight goals in 22 appearances in La Liga this season does not exactly inspire confidence, and since moving to Spain he's scored a good but modest 52 times in 116 games. Higuain has found the target 102 times in 181 Primera matches.
Gomez has a better strike rate (134 goals in 231 games) in domestic play, and scored 20 times in the Champions League in the two years preceding an injury-blighted 2012-13. The ex-Stuttgart man may have his faults, but neither Benzema nor Higuain has done enough to prove himself as a decisive step up.
In conclusion, Hoeness has a valid point in that Barcelona and Real Madrid's players are not exactly a step up from those in Bayern's squad, but his individual assessments are questionable. Jordi Alba would be an unnecessary luxury for Bayern, who would greatly benefit not only from the addition of Iniesta, but from the signings of Mesut Ozil and (albeit to a much lesser extent) Angel di Maria.
Regardless, Hoeness' speculations came from the land of fantasy; Bayern will sign neither Alba nor Iniesta. But his bold claims may soon be put to the test in the Champions League: If Bayern are to claim Europe's most coveted trophy, they may face both Real Madrid and Barcelona along the way.
More Info: Central Coast Mariners - Melbourne Heart - Australian a-League
Gayle on Fulham radar - Clubcall
Fulham, Last updated: 12:52, March 26, 2013[[views]] Premiership, Fulham https://plus.google.com/115899669055204909525 Fulham have now been connected with a summer jump for Peterborough striker Dwight Gayle, who has impressed in the Championship in 2010. Gayle has hit 11 goals in 21 games for Posh so much this term and has been viewed by several Premier League scouts in current weeks.The 22-year-old was on loan at Dagenham and Redbridge for the first couple of months of the growing season, but came back to London Road after rating ten goals for the League Two side.His kind has been so great that he is now commanding an everyday beginning role for Posh and Fulham boss Martin Jol has been alerted to the youngster.Jol is on the look-out for growing English skill and is reportedly considering a summer offer for the forward who is appreciated by Peterborough at around A2million, although that can increase if he continues to impress. < Previous article Next article >
Link: Peñafiel - OS Belenenses Lisbon - Portuguese second League
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Florida Gulf Coast stars in Week 1 of NCAA tourney
Improbably, they're still playing, too — a tongue-wagging, heel-clicking, arm-flapping collection of no-names who turned the opening week of the NCAA tournament into their coming-out party.
It was impressive enough being the first No. 15 seed to advance to the round of 16. But the Eagles really grabbed everyone's attention with their running, dunking style and the unbridled joy they showed on the court. In a way, they were like the Harlem Globetrotters, charming the crowds while a pair of supposedly superior teams took on the role of the Washington Generals.
First, second-seeded Georgetown went down by 10 points. Then, seventh-seeded San Diego State fell by the same convincing margin.
"We're doing something special out here," said Sherwood Brown, who likes to stick out his tongue after every big shot. "We've been told that this is what college basketball is all about."
Now, Florida Gulf Coast (26-10) is off to Cowboys Stadium in suburban Dallas for the South Regional semifinals. And, in a most interesting twist, they'll face the flagship team from the Sunshine State, the No. 3-seeded Florida Gators (28-7).
"We're really blessed and we're really happy to be here right now," Brown said. "But we've still got a lot more games to play, hopefully, so we're going to go back home and get our heads back straight and get ready to play against the University of Florida."
The Eagles weren't the only surprise from the first week of the tournament. No. 13 seed La Salle made its first NCAA tournament appearance in 21 years one to remember, winning three times in five days to advance to a West Regional semifinal Thursday in Los Angeles against another upstart, ninth-seeded Wichita State (28-8).
After beating Boise State in a First Four game at Dayton, the Explorers (24-9) upset Kansas State and knocked off Mississippi, both of them two-point squeakers. Tyrone Garland banked home a scooping layup with 2 seconds left Sunday for a 76-74 victory over the Rebels, making this La Salle's deepest run in the tournament since they advanced to the championship game of a 24-team field in 1955.
"It just feels like AAU all over again," said Ramon Galloway, who led the Explorers with 24 points. "We play a game, go to sleep, wake up, play another game. We're pretty excited for the whole trip."
Garland dubbed his winning shot the "Southwest Philly Floater." For the small, private school, this is a chance to rekindle memories of its former glory, highlighted by a national title in 1954.
"We talked all week about the great La Salle tradition," coach John Giannini said. "When you come in, you want to bring that back. These guys are doing it right before our eyes."
Still, for all the excitement generated by a pair of major underdogs, the tournament is largely going according to form. Gonzaga is the only top seed to go down, knocked out by Wichita State. The other three No. 1s are still alive, as well as three No. 2s and three more from the third spot in the brackets.
Louisville has certainly lived up to being the top overall seed, winning its first two NCAA games by an average of 28.5 points. The Cardinals (31-5) will face 12th-seeded Oregon State (28-8) in the first semifinal of the Midwest Regional at Indianapolis. The other pits second-seeded Duke (29-5) against No. 3 Michigan State (27-8).
"We probably can't play any better," Louisville coach Rick Pitino said after an 82-56 dismantling of Colorado State. "Our guys were magnificent."
In the East Regional, for instance, the seedings held up completely but all four of the remaining teams struggled to get through the third round. No. 1 Indiana and No. 4 Syracuse pulled out six-point wins. No. 2 Miami knocked off Illinois by four. No. 3 Marquette edged Butler by two.
"That's what we've been doing all year," sophomore center Cody Zeller said. "We've been in a lot of close games throughout the Big Ten especially. We've got a mature group that, even though it wasn't going as well and we wouldn't get things going for a while, that's what winners do. You've got to survive and advance this time of year. We got some big plays down the stretch and we're lucky we're moving on."
In the semifinals Thursday at Washington, it's Indiana (29-6) vs. Syracuse (28-9) and Miami (29-6) vs. Marquette (25-8). For Hoosiers star Victor Oladipo, it's a chance to return home.
"I'm just glad that we're going. We want to be successful there," said Oladipo, who was born and raised in the suburbs of the nation's capital. "It's going to be fun playing in front of family and friends and all that, but it's a business trip. We're on a mission."
The remaining semis are top-seeded Kansas (31-5) taking on No. 4 Michigan (28-7) in the South, while second-seeded Ohio State (28-7) plays No. 6 Arizona (27-7) in the West.
No one is having more fun than Florida Gulf Coast, which isn't surprising when you consider the beach-side school in Fort Myers has been around less than two decades and only became eligible for the tournament last year after the transition from a lower division.
In the Eagles' first trip to the NCAAs, hardly anyone expected them to win one game, much less two. But they've been playing like they have nothing to lose, winning over the notoriously tough fans in Philadelphia with soaring dunks, wide smiles and silly antics.
Christophe Varidel, a native of Switzerland, clicked his heels on the way down the court after a big basket against San Diego State. As FGCU pulled away from the Aztecs, some of the bench players waddled around with their arms flapping, apparently trying to imitate the team mascot but looking more like chickens.
"They play with a swagger, and they have a right to do that," said San Diego State's Steve Fisher, who knows about players with attitude, having coached the Fab Five at Michigan. "You can have that look and feel, but you have to compete and play to earn your spurs, and they've done that."
Link: - Czech Gambrinus Liga
Feature: A work of art - ManUtd.com (web log)
26/03/2013 11:24, Report by Adam Marshall Artist Ben Mosley has discussed the task he's produced for the Manchester United Foundation after impressing Sir Alex Ferguson and David Gill together with his painting. The 31-year-old has undertaken two major tasks in association with the team, getting many 1000s of pounds for charity. 'The Rooney v Man City' describes Wayne Rooney's well-known overhead kick in the Manchester derby in 2011 while 'Legends' functions Denis Law, Denis Irwin and Peter Schmeichel and was decorated 'live' throughout a dinner in London where in fact the group were guests of honor. "Basically, I was doing some work for Gordon Taylor at the PFA and Iad completed a of Manchester United called aUnited Forevera," described Mosley to ManUtd.com.A "I thought Gordon might know somebody at United and he arranged a gathering for me and called up David Gill. [Chief operating officer] Michael Bolingbroke and David met that same afternoon and they were really good about any of it and viewed the painting. They said as they thought it wasnat quite recognisable since the membership the painting would have to be more specific to Manchester United. "So they asked me around Manchester to look at the first residence recreation of the season against Tottenham last season and said to can be found in and obtain a sense for the position and the environment. I had to disappear completely and focus on a that did United justice. "The painting I made a decision to do was based on the best time a' Wayne Rooneyas target against Manchester City. The reason why I represented it from a wide variety of angles was due to the scale of the goal. It was very stunning and I desired the person to become absorbed by it. "Iam 31 and I do believe itas been the very best target in my life time because of the moment and to do it in front of the many individuals in a
Get Bent! Christian Benteke CANNOT be sold to Manchester City says Aston ... - Mirror.co.uk
Champions fancy adding the big striker to their collection of ex-Villans - while Fiorentina picture him replacing Arsenal-target Jovetic
Now the Premier League champions fancy striker Benteke, who has bagged 13 league goals in a stunning debut season in English football - although they face competition from Italy's Fiorentina.
Villa manager Lambert has told officials at the club, including owner Randy Lerner, that they simply must not sell the 22-year-old Belgium front-man.
Lambert wants to build a team at the Brummies and sees Benteke, bought last summer for £8million from Genk in his Belgian homeland, as a vital cog in that emerging side.
If Villa - one place above the bottom three going into the weekend's matches - are relegated, they cannot expect to keep him, but Lambert is confident of beating the drop.
Fiorentina view Benteke as the perfect replacement for Stevan Jovetic, the Montenegro international who is Arsenal's No1 striker target this summer.
Both of the Milan clubs and Juventus are also in for Jovetic, who is likely to be valued at around the £20m mark by the Florence club.
Referee Dowd handed reins for Manchester United's Cup replay at Chelsea - Daily Mail
Referee Phil Dowd has been awarded Manchester United's FA Cup quarter-final replay against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Easter Monday.
Dowd has history with Sir Alex Ferguson after the United manager once famously questioned his fitness, but his only previous game this season involving the Old Trafford club was their FA Cup victory over West Ham.
Afterwards, a furious Sam Allardyce accused him of cowardice. The West Ham manager said: 'There's no doubt about the difference between Rafael's handball and Jordan Spence's.
'Spence plays for West Ham and the away team, while Rafael plays for the home side at Old Trafford. You see it time and time again at Old Trafford.
'He couldn't find the courage to give it unfortunately, and he then went down the other end and there was a very similar incident with Jordan Spence and it was given.
'That is a very big disappointment for me - the lack of consistency in that area. I think you have to have courage to play here and to referee here.
'But why are you a professional referee or player? To come to these places to do your job, and do it to the best of your ability.'
Dowd has taken charge of Chelsea twice this season at Stamford Bridge in games against Aston Villa and Newcastle and Chelsea have scored 10 and not conceded one.
Via: - Saudi League
Mourinho to Chelsea FC? Negredo to Arsenal FC? Begovic to Man Utd ... - Crunchsports.com
Daily Mirror: England players have been labelled "arrogant" in an astonishing attack by the man plotting their downfall tonight.
Daily Star: Montenegro boss Branko Brnovic last night told England: 'You're just a long-ball team and you don't scare us.'
Daily Mail: Steven Gerrard responded to Montenegro's dirty tricks by ordering England's senior players to keep their cool in tonight's World Cup qualifier or risk blowing their last chance of success.
Daily Express: Montenegro striker Mirko Vucinic believes the central defensive pairing of Joleon Lescott and Chris Smalling are England's weak point - and says they should not even be in the team.
Metro: Alvaro Negredo has invited offers from the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham and Everton, after once again expressing his desire to play in the Premier League.
Also: Speculation over Jose Mourinho's prospective return to Chelsea has been fuelled after Blues defender Branislav Ivanovic admitted it would be a 'pleasure' to work with the Real Madrid manager.
Daily Telegraph: England were accused on Monday of being arrogant, scared and simply a long-ball team as Branko Brnovic, the Montenegro coach, launched an extraordinary attack before Tuesday's pivotal World Cup qualifier and sparked an immediate response from Steven Gerrard, the captain.
The Times: Steven Gerrard dismissed claims by Montenegro of English arrogance and insisted that the home team have more to fear before their crucial World Cup qualifier in Podgorica tonight.
The Guardian: Montenegro coach, Branko Brnovic, believes his side will confront an England team running scared tonight.
The Independent: Steven Gerrard said last night that England had got Montenegro 'exactly where we want them' after manager Branko Brnovic produced a remarkable diatribe against Roy Hodgson's team before tonight's World Cup qualifier, accusing them of being scared and using long-ball tactics.
Link: CSD Macara - Universidad Catolica - Ecuador Division 1
Heat's Wade to miss his second consecutive game
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Miami coach Erik Spoelstra says that shooting guard Dwyane Wade will miss his second straight game with a sore right knee.
The Heat are seeking their 27th consecutive victory Monday night against the Orlando Magic. Guard Mike Miller will start again in his place.
Wade sat out Miami's victory against Charlotte on Sunday night. Spoelstra says that Wade is feeling "a lot better" but that they don't want to risk him aggravating the injury further.
Wade has appeared in 64 games this season and is second in scoring behind LeBron James, averaging 21.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game.
Link: - French Ligue 1
English: FC Barcelona - Rayo Vallecano 3:1 | Spielverlagerung
A few months ago, I watched the 0:5 defeat of Rayo Vallecano against Barcelona. Impressed by their (tactical) bravery, the high pressing and the nearly absurdly intense approach, I composed a little hymn of praise – which was harshly criticized. How could a team be any good if it lost that crushingly?
In the following weeks and months, Rayo displayed good performances, has the second most goal attempts in the Primera Division, ranks a third place in terms of possession, only outdone by Barca and Bielsa's Bilbao and temporarily reached a great third place, despite having one of, if not the smallest budget in the league.
After they lost relatively high against Barca again, at first I renounced a classic analysis. Instead, I chose something new; a pictorial team analysis rather than the familiar form of a match analysis. I hope it knows how to please.
Well, Barcelona pressed (as usual) relatively interesting. From time to time they stood in a 4-1-4-1-shape which switched into a 4-1-3-2, but more often formed a 4-4-1-1/4-4-2 or even a 4-3-3. The usual strong pressing which had become quite unusual in the last few weeks.
To avoid the pressing of the Catalans, Rayo turned to nearly absurd formations in their build up play. All midfielders played very flexible, the center backs sometimes dropped extremely deep and took a very wide position.
Also quite interesting were the passing patterns of the Vallecas. Repeatedly they stood very narrow in the middle, which seemed weak but was highly interesting. They played cutting passes in these areas, let them rebound and played back. Question was: Why is that?
The answer is here: Of course Barcelona tried to win the ball and the forwards pressed backwards and the defense line moved forwards. But due to the playing of Rayo they were pushed back. Barcelona lost 20 meter in 6 seconds.
But not only the Catalans pressed high. Rayo too did not leave any space to Barcelona. They shaped into a 4-4-1-1/4-4-2 where the deeper player orientated himself towards Busquets. The metronome of Barcelona was taken into their covering shadow or – as shown here – the responsibility to cover him passed to the defensive midfielder who moved forward. Quite possibly they were even more aggressive in their pressing than the host and top favorite.
With their style of playing, openings emerged, especially between the lines next to the forward moving defensive midfielders. They made up for this with horizontal compactness. On the other hand, this movement harmed the staggered arrangement in the width of the pitch. In this case, Adriano got the ball.
Due to the fact that the remaining defensive midfielder oriented himself towards the Barcelona player between the lines and they pressed the ball-carrying player on the wings in a bending movement, they created a pressing trap. Eventually the ball was passed from Fabregas to Alexis on the wings who lost the ball. This is no critic because he was systematically isolated.
This situative man-marking was frequently used by Rayo. This is especially obvious in this picture. The right wingback of the Madrilenians moved particularly far forward. And again, it is one of the defensive midfielders who marks Busquets.
The same goes for this situation. It is too bad that individual pressing movements cannot be displayed in frozen images. But one can imagine the motion of the forwards from this image.
After all there was not only situative man-marking. Occasionally Rayo changed the marking style, in particular after passes in certain spaces (primarily in the center where they were outnumbered). They switched to a zone-oriented zonal marking (there are more variations of zonal marking, which I discussed here) which increased the pressure in the center but opened the wings. In this situation Messi is pressed by three players. He simply passes the ball backwards and Barca dangerously changes the attacking side.
Another characteristic in the pressing of Rayo was the way they build up pressure when Barca was circulating the ball from crowded areas backwards into their area. Most opponents remain in their position or follow cautiously. But not Rayo. They let the highest player chase the ball in a way Olic does while the rest moved up.
Because he pressed the right centre-back first, the centre-back naturally passed to the left. Rayo's forward orientated himself towards the second center back and took the first in his covering shadow. The situation continues with a pass to the goal keeper.
The up-moving pressing forced Barca to pass to their goalkeeper instead of building up a new attack. To make sure this works as planned, the half-left (left defensive) midfielder sprints towards Pique.
Nevertheless Pique received the ball but was not able to turn around and had to play back to the goalkeeper. Busquets wanted to help Pinto but was also covered. A long, wide ball of the goal keeper followed which led to conceding of possession.
Rayo also showed counter pressing. In this exemplary scene they show why this can work very effectively against the Catalans. In this picture you can see Rayo's loss of possession.
Barcelona scored 88 goals already this season. Three of them after counter attacks. All three were scored in this game. Rayo simply did not act sufficiently intelligent enough to prevent these attacks, neither the safeguarding of their attacks nor in the defensive duels (although you have to admit that the 3-0 from Messi was hardly possible to stop without additional support).
The 2-0 was caused by a single player who stood to deep. This opened the opportunity for a pass behind the defensive line. Messi used this chance cold as ice.
Barcelona had the superior individuals, was better when in possession and in the creation of chances. Rayo too frequently chose to stick to long-range shots or made the wrong decisions in their offensive movement. A lot of attacks on the wings also caused problems after a loss of possession. Eventually the Catalans deserved the victory, but mainly thanks to the brilliant interaction of Messi and Villa their individual brilliance and some individual mistakes by the Vallecas. The underdog won the pressing battle but lost the battle over the result. Nevertheless they reached a convincing 47% of ball possession, 17 shots (8 on the goal, Barcelona managed to get 10) and forced the Catalans into a, for their standards, weak pass success percentage of 83%.
Serena Williams improvements to Key Biscayne semis
Mar 26 (Reuters) - Leading income winners on the 2013 PGATour on Monday (U.S. Until stated ): 1. Padraig Harrington $3,787,600 2. Brandt Snedeker $2,859,920 3. Matt Kuchar $2,154,500 4. Charlie Stricker $1,820,000 5. Phil Mickelson $1,650,260 6. Hunter Mahan $1,553,965 7. David Merrick $1,343,514 8. Dustin Johnson $1,330,507 9. Russell Henley $1,313,280 10. Kevin Streelman $1,310,343 11. Keegan Bradley $1,274,593 12. Charles Howell III $1,256,373 13. Michael Thompson $1,254,669 14. John Gay $1,171,721 15. Justin Rose $1,155,550 16. Jason Day $1,115,565 17. Bob Kirk $1,097,053 18. ...
Yaya Toure experiencing Manchester City showdown discussions over representative commitment requirements - Goal.com Singapore
Mar 25, 2013 8:00:00 PM The Ivorian's agent, Dimitri Seluk, established a of Saturday for the Premier League winners to open discussions over a new deal for his client at the Etihad Stadium Yaya Toure may experience showdown talks with Manchester City authorities when he returns from international responsibility. The Ivorian will undoubtedly be asked to explain his position at the club after his agent, Dimitri Seluk, set a of Saturday for the Premier League champions to recognize a brand new cope with his client. Toure is under contract until 2015 but Seluk expected that he would leave City at the end of the summer season because, he stated, he only felt appreciated by director Roberto Mancini. Txiki Begiristain and the rest of the City table are unlikely to be affected by Seluk's requirements and intend to begin discussing a brand new cope with the 29-year-old in the summer. Sergio Aguero, meanwhile, returned to training at Carrington on Monday after released by the Argentina national team as a result of leg injury. Alejandro Sabella took the chance to call the striker around his latest squad but elected not to risk fielding him in the World Cup 2014 qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia.
Why True Madrid Might Be Established For Another La Liga Miss If Jose Mourinho Leaves - Bleacher Record
A glance in to the history books shows that Real Madrid have gained 32 times; to La Liga Barcelona just 21. This season the Catalan club look set to hit a different one off of Madrid's fine cause by clinching their next name in the final five yearsa'their 2nd in 36 months because the birth of Jose Mourinho in Spain. But for the Portuguese coach it would quite possibly have been five in the last five periods by the end of the recent campaign, but would Mourinho's exit let Los Blancosa'who have forfeited the category in favor of glass success this yeara'another shot at the title? History suggests no. It implies that Mourinho's management is dependant on winning in the short term. Efficient, but dancing and focused on immediate objectives, the aftermath of his departures have not always proved easy. He has built groups of people within their prime to topple abilities previously thought untouchable and to get trophies locally and in Europe. He is extremely successful at making items quickly during brief periods in charge of clubs. Shaun Botterill/Getty Pictures Of late he left Inter Milan on a wave of success. The Italian team had won the league, the glass and the Champions League once the self proclaimed "Special One" announced he was leaving to take a chance at Josep Guardiola and Barcelona with Madrid. The times of year that have adopted have not been anywhere near as successful for Inter. Straight away after the 50-year-old's leave they relinquished their title with their town rivals AC Milan, whilst the season after that they completed sixth in Serie Aa'it's meaning whether you describe that as decrease or a rebuilding period. Chelsea was slightly different, given that he left in the first stages of a fourth in Londona'and maybe not at the conclusion of one as his careful planning could have preferred. Titles had been won two by him in his three full seasons, though, having the better of Sir Alex Ferguson, Rafael Benitez and Arsene Wenger. The season he left the Stamford Bridge membership, they didn't land the subject and the following season they actually slipped down seriously to next in the Premier League behind Benitez's Liverpool. Alex Livesey/Getty Photos Actually Porto, that are frequently a for the Portuguese title, did not clinch their domestic tournament a after winning the Champions League and a year after losing Jose Mourinho. They finished 2nd to Benfica, but were quicker to straighten themselves than Inter and Chelsea and have since won six of the eight available group games. Numerous reasons may be offered for why teams experience a drop after Mourinho. One explanation is that Mourinho builds teams for the now, with no eye on the long run. Still another being that his methods ware people down and, by the full time he leaves, they are emotionally exhausted and physically. An even more simple description will be that it will take inward managers time to develop their mark on a brand new team, to find their feet and to implicate their ideas. The stark reality is, most likely the three of the may mix must Mourinho and Madrid portion this summer and Barcelonaa'buoyed by a healthier Tito Vilanovaa'would be powerful favorites for Manhunter Liga come August.
Duke vs. Michigan State: Key Players to Watch in Sweet 16 Showdown
Tom Izzo and Mike Krzyzewski have stolen some of the pregame headlines, but when Duke and Michigan State square off Friday, the outcome will be decided by the players on the court.
Both coaches have a history of tournament success. Two of the most influential figures in modern college basketball, Izzo and Krzyzewski continue to build powerful programs with some marquee players.
Regardless of the outcome, this game will be one of the best matchups to watch in the Sweet 16 and the following players will have a major impact on which team advances in the Big Dance.
Senior guard Seth Curry is the unquestioned leader of the Blue Devils' backcourt. Deep tournament runs start and end with experience at the guard positions and Duke certainly has a good one in Curry.
The 6'2" sharpshooter led the Blue Devils in scoring this season with 17.3 points per game on 42.6 percent shooting from behind the arc. He's capable of scoring in bunches and Duke's chances of beating Michigan State begin with a good performance from Curry.
Averaging 21.5 points per game in the tournament, Curry has pulled his weight, especially with forwards Mason Plumlee and Ryan Kelly in foul trouble Sunday against Creighton.
If the big men can stay on the court, he won't have to carry the Blue Devils at the offensive end, but that will be a big question mark against a physical Michigan State frontcourt.
Duke's second-leading scorer this season, the 6'10" Plumlee picked up the slack in the Blue Devils' frontcourt with Kelly on the shelf. With his running mate back in action, Plumlee has flourished due to several mismatches in the paint.
In the second round against Albany, Plumlee posted 23 points and eight rebounds in an impressive effort at both ends of the floor. Paired with Curry's 26 points, the Great Danes didn't have an answer to Duke's balanced attack.
Michigan State isn't Albany. The Spartans play a physical game in the paint, led by a couple of bruising big men, and they match up well with Plumlee and Kelly.
Guard play may be the deciding factor in this contest, but Duke has to set the tone below the hoop. If Plumlee can't bang with Michigan State's big men, it will be a long day for the Blue Devils.
Senior center Derrick Nix didn't steal the headlines in the regular season, but he's had a solid year for the Spartans. Averaging 10 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, the 6'9", 270-pound big man has contributed enough at the offensive end to match his physical presence on defense.
Nix has hit another gear in the tournament, though. In Michigan State's first two contests, Nix has averaged 18 points and 11.5 per game, including a 23-point, 15-rebound performance against Valparaiso in the second round.
The center has played tremendously in the tournament and he'll be the key to a Michigan State win on Friday. Neutralizing Duke's pair of talented forwards will come down to a physical performance from both he and Adreian Payne.
Freshman guard Gary Harris hasn't wilted under the bright lights of the Big Dance. The Spartans' second-leading scorer has averaged 16.5 points per game in the tournament, including a 23-point effort against Memphis in the third round.
With plenty of length (6'4") and a deadly three-point stroke (41.9 percent in the regular season), Harris will be instrumental at both ends of the floor. Michigan State will have to keep pace with an explosive Duke offense, but it will also have to defend some excellent three-point shooters.
There isn't a facet of this matchup that won't provide an interesting storyline and tremendously entertaining game. These teams match up extremely well and each squad's key players will have to step up to ensure a victory on Friday.
Arsenal & Manchester City chase the 'new Jack Wilshere' - GiveMeFootball.com
Arsenal and Manchester City are planning a summer transfer tussle for the signature of Aston Villa's highly-rated midfielder Danny Crowley, reports the Daily Mirror.
The 15-year-old England youth international - already dubbed the new Jack Wilshere - has been earning rave reviews at Villa Park this season, after a series of scintillating performances for the Premier League club's development side, and has attracted attention from a number of rival suitors.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has been credited with an interest in bringing Crowley to the Emirates Stadium, as he looks to snap up another promising young talent, with a view to nurturing the player and helping to bring him through to the first-team.
However, Arsenal will face competition from the reigning Premier League champions, as Roberto Mancini also considers an attempt to lure the player to the Etihad Stadium.
Manchester City will fancy their chances of tempting the academy star up north, where one of Crowley's old Aston Villa mentors is now part of the recruitment staff.
Villa chiefs will hope to tie the talented teenager down to a permanent contract when he's old enough to do so, in the hope to ward off unwanted enquiries from Arsenal and Manchester City.
But, failure to do so could result in the Midlands club losing Crowley for next to nothing, with a small compensation fee all that they'll get for overseeing his development.
Asmir Begovic comfortable with Man Utd interest|Sunlight|Sport|Football
The Bosnian keeper has been mooted as an Old Trafford No1 with Alex Ferguson attempting to stay patient with novice Spaniard David De Gea. Stoke have previously moved to secure their goalkeeping options long-term, with Jack Butland set to reach at the Britannia in the summertime after signing from Birmingham in January. Begovic, 25, is fully conscious he is on Fergusonas radar but claims his activities will stayed unafected by the eye. He said: aIam not under more pressure because United are seeing me. aIam glad that they do since that means Iam doing some thing great. aIt gives me more determination to do better and better. aIam pleased that the large groups are interested in me but as I have said often a Iam content at Stoke City because they gave me a chance do perform in Premier League. aWe will see what'll happen in the summer. In basketball you can never know 100 per cent.a
5 Defining Moments of the 2012-13 Season For - Arsenal World
5 Defining Moments of the 2012-13 Season For Arsenal. The fate of many clubs could well be decided on the last day of the period, as the English Premier League draws to its conclusion. While the title will be going back once again to Old Trafford, the struggle for the remaining three Champions League areas is gaining speed, with seven points covering four teams. For Arsenal, an exit from the Champions League could be director and disastrous, Arsene Wenger was quick to accept that reality. ?Qualifying for the Champions League is enormous for us. You want to be there and I don?t imagine anything else.? Like previous months, Arsenal has fought with inconsistent tasks. Their failure to begin or end activities has seen the Gunners fall several points this year. Whatever the result, the Gunners can look back once again to 5 defining moments of the growing season. 2. QPR (Home; 27-10-2012 ): Following a violent couple of weeks for the Gunners, a gain against QPR was just what the physician ordered. What needs to have been a cushty win contrary to the category strugglers was any such thing but simple. The goal from Arteta, that could have been considered offside, was enough to secure success and three points for the Gunners. Outcome 1-0; Points 3. 3. Fulham (Home; 10-11-2012 ): After starting the overall game in emphatic manner, the Gunners found themselves with a two goal pillow after only 23 minutes. But, they lost the initiative and with the overall game hanging in the total amount, were awarded a punishment. Arteta did not change the ability (saved effectively by Schwarzer) and Arsenal was given an enormous strike. Two points slipped which could still come back to haunt them. Effect 3-3; Points 1. 4. Liverpool (Home; 30-09-2013 ): With still another bad start to the game the Gunners found themselves with a hill to climb and claw back a two goal shortage. Nevertheless, inside a period of three minutes, objectives from Giroud and Walcott drew the Gunners level. Many odds were squandered as the game ended in a stalemate. A point obtained or two dropped will simply be identified at the end of the growing season. Outcome 2-2; Points 1. 5. Sunderland (Away 09-02-2013 ): Playing Sunderland away is never a straightforward task, however the Gunners found themselves in the lead. Jenkinson?s careless tackles found him earning red, making Arsenal in a spot of trouble. For more than 30 minutes the Gunners defended valiantly and, top notch saves from Szczesny ensured all three things for Arsenal. Result 1-0; Points 1. With eight games to go in 2010, the Gunners have to play each game such as a cup final and no adversary should really be taken lightly. Concluding in a Champions League position, would help the manager, anticipate just one more season fighting with Europe?s elite. Failure might be damaging for the membership. Source: DSG
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